Gear Review: Vasque Rift Hiking Boots

It's kind of amazing what a great sole can do. Take Vasque's Rift hiking boots for example: besides the gorgeous color combo (chocolate brown and sky blue, you steal my heart), they have Vibram soles. Vibram soles, ladies! That means they stick, grip, stay put, don't slide—however you want to say it, they provide the best traction out there for an approach shoe.

The other parts of the shoe are pretty darn reliable, too. The leather upper isn't totally waterproof, but it more than protects socks in wetter conditions, and it's pliable enough that you won't need to spend weeks breaking them in. Did I mention the color combo? Oh yeah, but it's worth talking about again...these babies look good with everything.

These shoes are my new go-to for regular hikes and climbing approaches that are too tough for my FiveFingers. Try the sticky grip for yourself at vasque.com.

Ed Picks: Little Luxuries

Photo by Dirtbag Darling

I enjoy the little things in life: the sunscreen that smells like vacation, the bikini bottoms that make my butt look good, the camera that listens when I talk to it. Yep, that's why this month my Editor's Picks aren't dirtbagging necessities, they're just the little luxuries that make me smile. All the info on where you can get them after the jump:

Get Gear: Artist Claire Oring X Billabong Collection

This article originally appeared on GrindTV.com. 

Artist collaborations are nothing new, but this one's a doozy: Billabong's teamed up with Los Angeles-native Claire Oring for a summer collection of tops, tees and swimwear featuring hand-drawn illustrations by Oring (who also shot the lookbook) and modeled by team rider/artist/singer Lindsay Perry (who also designed graphics for the lookbook). It's talent overload up in here, so instead of grilling the girls on their work for the collection I let them do the talking for me. Here, Claire and Lindsay dish on their favorite pieces from the collection and their creative process:

Lindsay Perry: I love your style of work. Where do you usually begin with a piece?

Claire Oring: I start with lots of messy graphite scribbles testing out different compositions. I try all sorts of things and then combine my favorite parts of each one into one design.

LP: You're also a great photographer. How do you get ideas for your shoots?

CO: I love being swept away by a story, especially a story that's solely visual so you have to connect the dots yourself by finding clues from what's in front of you. I often draw inspiration from mythology and folklore and wonder how I can make it my own. Your two collages for the lookbook are incredible. Where they planned or an experiment?

LP: Funny you ask. A lot of times I start with one idea and by the time I'm finished, it's completely different. What inspired me with those two pieces was the overall vibe of your photos. The colors were soft and almost muted, so I wanted something that would accent the designs and feel of the location. The lighthouse was big inspiration as well. I've always been into collage making, and this was the most intricate piece I've made with that concept. What was your favorite piece from this collection?

CO: I love the one-piece sit because I think it's so cool that a Polaroid is now a swimsuit. Also, my mermaid skeleton illustration. What's yours?

LP: Definitely the one-piece bikini. I love the print and cut. As for the tees, I love the V-neck tee with the floral heart on it—delicate and simple.

CO: Does art influence your personal style?

LP: I definitely think so. I'm braver with my fashion because of it—I like to mix things up. I love fringe, fur coats, and high-tops. Do you think living in LA has an impact on your style?

CO: Yes! I'm such a proud Californian. I grew up in Manhattan Beach, and I loved growing up in a laidback beach town with one of the most culturally relevant cities in the world a short drive away. I love the trend-setting vibe of this city. Another bonus of LA is all the nature surrounding it. Nature is an important ingredient in my world so I appreciate its availability.

Thanks girls! Shop the line here.

Get Gear: Roxy and Designer Diane Von Furstenberg Launch New Swimwear Collection

Photo courtesy of Roxy.

If you need proof surf has officially infiltrated fashion, look no further than Roxy's new collaboration with world-renowned fashion designer Diane Von Furstenberg. The surf brand (which has been have quite a prolific year with the launch of its first outdoor fitness line earlier this winter) teamed up with the designer for their spring and summer swimwear collection. Borrowing the same bright and graphic influences used in her own collections, Von Furstenberg designed the Roxy line to include bathing suits, cover-ups, boardshorts, rashguards, beach bags, and even a few custom surfboards.

DVF, photo courtesy of Roxy.

"The one thing my mother taught me was fear is not an option," said Von Furstenberg in an interview for Roxy.com. "You should follow your heart like you ride a wave."

Designed for "women who want to be the woman they want to be," pieces like the printed green '70s halter bikini top and lowrider side-tie bikini bottoms offer distinct style without compromising the snug fit Roxy usually delivers its surf-devoted fan base. After all, Von Furstenberg knows that "the surfer girl wants to surf!"

Shop the collection now at roxy.com!

The Look: Climbing Rope Bracelet Arm Party

Photo by Erin Yamagata

This is a guest post by Darling Ambassador Lizbeth Hernandez.

Being fashionable isn't something some have and others lack—it's about finding what works for you. I'm in awe of how some women can always rock the latest trends and styles, but then I realize it's all about being confident, stepping out of your comfort zone and not caring what others think. You don't need to own expensive jackets or heels to look good...work with what you have already!

One of my favorite on-going trends involves stacks of bracelets and cuffs, and has been dumbed the "Arm Party." But if silver and gold aren't really your thing (who has time for them when you're hopping between shoreline and summit?), opt for an assortment of unique bands that are more personal. In fact, the Arm Party trend is a perfect one for Dirtbag Darlings, since we're always finding handmade friendship bracelets on our travels or making knots in our climbing rope. Take a piece of your outdoor life with you when you head into the city for a night out with these climbing-inspired bracelets. Get creative and keep on stacking.

Our way: Handcrafted Anchor rope bracelet: Dowling Brothers, $11.95, esty.com; Maine rope bracelet: Splendid Maine, $25, etsy.com. 

Fashion Editor Lizbeth tries out the arm party trend with some outdoor-inspired additions. Photo by Erin Yamagata. 

Have a fashion-related question for Liz? Tweet us @dirtbagdarling!

Get Gear: Roxy Outdoor Fitness

All photos by Dirtbag Darling

If you associate Roxy with surf and sand, you're not wrong—but don't count the brand out for your next on-land adventure. The beloved surf gear and apparel brand recently launched Roxy Outdoor Fitness, their first outdoor apparel collection...and it's awesome. Offering everything from water shoes to sports bras to windbreakers, there's something for almost any type of excursion you have planned (and it's all cute...obviously).

As a style-minded lady who loves a good romp through the woods, I can attest firsthand to how difficult it is to find that elusive blend of cute and functional, but Roxy seems to have cracked the code. The designers obviously did their research in the field, offering items like the Atmosphere jacket—a super light-weight, water-repelling shell that packs down into its own little package to—and the Momentum bag, a neoprene backpack ideal for short day hikes and beach trips.

Get Gear: Consurfvation Tees

Photo by Dirtbag Darling

Whenever I'm near the ocean, I pretty much live in soft T-shirts, bikinis and baseball caps. I've amassed quite the collection of surf-inspired tees, but my latest obsession is Consurfvation. First of all, the story behind this line of do-good tees is so inspiring: Founder Robert Lipton was injured during a diving accident in 1992 and became a C-7 quadriplegic, but he didn't let that stop him! Instead he learned graphic design, which eventually let to the creation of Consurfvation. Remembering his love for the ocean, Liption donates a portion of all sales to a list of ocean-minded beneficiaries including Project Save Our Surf, Waves 4 Water, LA Waterkeeper, 5 Gyres and Gulf of Mexico Foundation.

These tees are incredibly soft, really cute and roll up small for tight suitcases and beach bags. Get one for yourself before your next beach trip!

On The Mountain Cards

Photos of cards courtesy of On the Mountain.

On the Mountain sells cards made from photographs the founder's father took during his younger years. True dirtbag quality, made cool again. Pick some up here.

Get Gear: One Snow Jacket Three Ways

Photo by Lizbeth Hernandez. Jacket by Burton; leggings by Nike; socks by Stance, shoes by Nike.

'Tis the season for winter sports and new gear, but if you’re like most Dirtbag Darlings you’re sure to notice the lack of funds that tends to result.If most of your money is spent on gear instead of new clothes, relax. It's still possible to make your investments versatile and fashionable! Take the snowboarding jacket, for example:

Photo by Lizbeth Hernandez. Beanie by Forever21; sweater, vintage; jeans by RVCA; shoes by Converse; sunglasses by Ray-ban.

Since the Anorak has become a staple for most, why not substitute it with a solid-colored snow jacket? Over a dress, paired with a sweater and skinny jeans or even with shorts and a T-shirt, it looks right at home for a casual hangout. Pair with leggings for a chilly hike, and of course, it's always appropriate for the mountains. 

Photo by Lizbeth Hernandez. Board by Forum; bindings by Burton; boots by Burton.

Have a style question for our Fashion Editor Lizbeth? Ask us on Twitter @dirtbagdarling or in the comments below and we'll answer!

Stocking Stuffers: Mountain Pillows

Photo courtesy of Mountain Pillows

There are gifts that make you smile. Then there are gifts that make you smile so hard you feel like your face is going to fall off. Such said gift is a handmade bundle of love from Mountain Pillows.

Sewn by designer and adventurer Simone Drucker, each pillow is hand-signed and dated by the Venice, CA dweller (hey, my old stomping ground!) and looks like patchwork perfection for more rustic abodes.

Goal 1: Buy a house. Goal 2: Fill it with awesome pillows.

"I was inspired by rock-climbing trips I've taken this year, mostly in the Sierras and in the Bishop/Mammoth area," says Drucker. "The first pillow I made was a gift for my boyfriend, who is an obsessive climber. Everyone loved the design so much, I was encouraged to start a collection."

Simone Drucker.

If you have any doubts about what to get the gear-lover in your life, ditch REI and head to Drucker's website esty.com/shop/mountainpillows or  www.mountainpillows.com. Oh, and send me one while you're at it!

Get Pretty: Action Wipes Are Little Portable Showers!

Photo by Dirtbag Darling

When you're a self-proclaimed "dirtbag," you know to prepare to spend your days covered in trail dust and your nights cuddled up next to some foul-smelling trail buddies. And believe it or not, it's fun.

Then there are those nights when my sleeping bag suddenly feels like a incubator for grime and bacteria and no amount of deodorant can cover up the stench coming off my feet. Attractive, right?

I was recently introduced to Action Wipes, a line of body wipes designed especially for dirtbaggers. They're the first wipes made with 100 percent natural ingredients and a washable fabric (both of these are crucial criteria for the Dirtbag Darling stamp of approval). There are NO harsh chemicals or drying agents to worry about because each wipe is infused with coconut oil, sugar cane and pure essential oils of tea tree and eucalyptus (so you only have to worry about hungry koalas).

Mmmm dirt.

I had the chance to try a few samples out and I have to say—I'm impressed. The towels are big enough to get your whole body and gentle enough to use on your face. Just start rubbing the towel over your whole body and a nice sudsing action starts. My first thought was "Oh yuck, now I have to dry myself off with something." But a few seconds later, I was dry and the sticky sensation was gone. My skin felt clean and softer than before. I was really worried about the smell as it was a little too strong for me, but just like the suds, the scent was gone pretty quickly. Even if it had stuck around, any smell is better than dry sweat.

These babies get my stamp of approval—they come in individually wrapped packs and you can stock up at actionwipes.com!

Get Gear: Sirena Sealegs™ Ladies Fishing Shorts

Courtesy of Sirena Water Wear

I had my introduction to fishing last year with a few big fishing trips including jaunts to the Florida Keys and off the coast of New Jersey where we caught a huge bigeye tuna. I'm still not sure where I stand on fishing—I can't say I love watching a fish flop around, but I'm at least proud of myself for baiting my own hooks and catching a few keepers.

And little did I know just how specific the fishing wardrobe can be. It gets really hot. It gets really cold. The sun is really harsh. The fish are stinky. There's blood and chum involved.

That's why I was stoked to find Sirena Water Wear and their new line of tough fishing shorts made for women: SeaLegs™ Ladies Fishing Shorts. These are the real deal: quick drying technology paired with old school tailoring and a comfortable boyfriend fit. There's a security pocket for keys, a pocket for your phone, expert darts for flattering shape and durability, and they come in four really cute colors (I love Hana Sunset!).

I'm really lucky to say I'll have a chance to test them out next time I'm invited fishing, so I'll let you know how they stand up! But if you're chomping at the bit for a pair, you can buy them via PayPal now at sirenawaterwear.com.

Get Gear: O'Neill 365 Workout Apparel

Photos courtesy of O'Neill

When the face of your activewear brand is a 12-time Olympic medalist, you know they're doing something right. Such can be said for O'Neill 365, the workout apparel branch of the surf and snow wear giant, which nabbed swimmer Natalie Coughlin as its collaborating athlete.

The line is "inspired by and designed for active females who demand both style and performance from workout apparel." So let's examine...

The innovation is there—take the Keen LS Layer shirt, for example. It's got odor resistance treated fabric and wicking technology that pulls moisture away from your skin. It has a lightweight, long sleeve fit with well placed darts and seams, and a upper back design I've yet to see from another retailer. All of these details are important—nay, crucial—for outdoor hikes during the fall and winter. You need a tough shirt that keeps you warm, dry and stank-free underneath warmer layers. Your base is your bodyguard as I like to put it.

I'm also in love with their multi-colored Endurance bra and Aleez wrap, both of which are made with style and technology in mind. Plus, their sweet colors and shapes just make me happy.

I can't say for sure if the O'Neill line is a tried and true favorite, but I'm hoping to purchase a few pieces soon. Until then, I'd say this line is a safe bet for any outdoorsy Darlings out there in need of some activewear basics.

Have you tried out O'Neill 365 yet? What did you think? Let me know @dirtbagdarling on Twitter and Instagram!

The Look: The Casual Hiking Outfit

Photo by Lizbeth Hernandez

Can a Dirtbag Darling be both fashionable, functional and on-trend without having to tote a Proenza Schouler PS1 bag crammed with hiking gear? The answer is YES! Whoever said an outdoorsy lady couldn't be stylish was utterly misinformed about a female's ability to multitask. I'll be proving, as DD's Fashion Editor, that you can be outdoorsy and adventure seeking while simultaneously staying fashionable and comfortable.

Since fall has graced us with its presence, I decided to take inspiration from some of my favorite fall 2012 runway looks. I loved how Juicy Couture paired fun, colored, printed skinny jeans with great sweaters and blazers. I also loved the prints at Kenzo and how T by Alexander created a polished and work-friendly look by pairing a knit sweater, a sports bra-esque blouse and skinnies.

 By picking and choosing elements of each fashionable outfit, you can totally translate trends into comfy wearable outdoors outfits. Nike has some great printed running leggings that are reminiscent of the fun pants at Juicy Couture. I decided to pair the leggings with a knit sweater and a fun, tribal-print anorak jacket, a fun alternative to the usual T-shirt and fleece.

Photo by Lizbeth Hernandez

As my work here at DD continues, I'll show you ways to be a little more creative in your outdoor style, while paying attention to the versatility of clothing before you make a new purchase.

What outfit do you want me to style for you? Tweet us at @DirtbagDarling!

-Lizbeth, Fashion Editor 

Get Gear: Sew 'N Sing Board Bags

Female surfers are a tough breed—wipeouts, coral reefs, sharks and heavy boards mean learning to surf is not for the faint of heart. But even the toughest lady still wants to slip her board into something cuter than a black vinyl bag at the end of a session to prevent dings and dust. To the rescue comes Sew 'N Sing, a line of handmade board bags made from vintage and found fabrics that speak the female surfer's stylish side with floral patterns, classic stripes and muted colors.

Read more on the Free People blog today!

Dirtbag Darling friends and uber-talented filmmakers Fran Derham and Clare Plueckhahn of CosWeCan reached out to share some stills from their shoot with Alana Blanchard for Rip Curl (see the behind-the-scenes video here). The Alana's Closet collection and the Mirage Bikini are some of the best bikinis I've ever tried on—seriously! The fit is perfect, the material feels like silk, and everything stays put, even if the waves are knocking you off your board. If you don't have one, save up and get one for next surf season. I'm dying to get myself the Tiki Goddess bottoms and Mirage Solid Revo Bra top in black!


The collection is available now at RipCurl.com and at Rip Curl stores and stockists. 

Oh, and stay tuned for more from these amazing filmmakers right here!

Get Gear: Lorna Jane Workout Apparel

Me in my Lorna Jane leggings at the top of Little El Cap in Virginia!

Don't get me wrong, I love my Colombia/North Face/Patagonia/Mountain Hardware/EMS/REI gear, but sometimes I just need a little color when I'm packing for a weekend warrior trip. That's where my obsession with Lorna Jane comes in.

I need the Work for Chocolate T-shirt...it's true!

LJ is an Australian active apparel company founded by a fitness guru who just wanted cuter workout gear. Now the brand, created on the principle "Move. Nourish. Believe," offers a wide range of sweat-wicking form-fitting goodness including tanks, tees, jackets, pants, shorts, yoga mats, motivational bracelets and more. I personally own a few items and can confirm they fit well, are made from the best materials, resist sweat and moisture and make your butt look out-of-this-world by providing support in all the right places.

Done!

The brand also offers up an entire lifestyle experience with their blog MoveNourishBelieve.com, which serves up a giant dish of inspiration and motivation to get active and eat right. The visuals are as bright and full of life as the clothing!

This is Lorna behind the scenes on a LJ shoot.

The woman behind it all is cute as a button with toned arms to spare, with a (almost) rags to riches story that proves hard work pays off, in the gym and out. Check it out, you won't be disappointed!

Gear Shop: Roxy

Courtesy of Roxy

There are a few brands I've held in high-esteem since I was a teenager, and Roxy continues to impress. Instead of falling into the memory banks of my closet as a brand for young girls, Roxy has stayed an integral part of my active-life wardrobe, even in my mid-20s.

I think it has to do with Roxy's unique ability to blend trends with actual performance. Their hiking boots and backpacks look cute (plaid lining, bright red laces) but instead of fraying at the seams after a few seasons of travel like you might expect, they hold up. And get compliments. Lots and lots of compliments.

Courtesy of Roxy.

So I'm sticking to my guns as a Roxy lover and spreading the word wherever I can: If you're itching for some plaid, a new wetsuit or some comfortable jeans, rethink Roxy.

Courtesy of Roxy

What other brands do you love that maybe I wrote off when I hit college-age? I want to give them another try! Let me know @DirtbagDarling on Twitter and Instagram and on Facebook. Thanks!

Gear Shop: OluKai

Phot: OluKai.com

Hawaii is one of my all-time favorite places (duh, everyone probably says that, right?). The landscape is so varied and rugged, the people are so faithful to their home and family, and the adventure options for an outdoor lover are just endless. So it's a no brainer that I'm a big fan of OluKai Footwear, a company with values and design principles based in the tight-knit community and island-swelling lifestyle of Polynesian culture.

They make footwear for someone wants to explore the beach and the jungle in the same day, even designing the soles of their shoes to mimic the way bare feet feel on wet sand. Each shoe is made with contoured footbeds for comfort and durability, so you can kayak out to your own little island and still be able to scramble around on the rocks when you get there.

Photo: Olukai.com

I just wish I could go back in time and gift myself a pair before I had actually gone to Hawaii! Next time...

Get Gear: Made By Dawn Swimwear

Photo of my bum by Esther Choi.

Let me say this first: I'm really happy with my body because it's deceivingly strong (seriously guys!). I can lift heavy, run far and climb high without too much trouble. But I've also been called scrawny more than once and fact of the matter is, it's hard to find a bathing suit that doesn't hang off of me like a trash bag.

Enter Made By Dawn, a line of figure-hugging bathing suits for smaller girls. She recently sent me her Shell Picker bikini as a thank you and I'm in love! It fits well, doesn't budge and—get this—has little pockets for collecting shells at the beach! If you're a smaller girl, do yourself a favor and get yourself a Made By Dawn swimsuit. 

See? Pockets!