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We’ve made it. We’re finally through the dark depths of winter and into the early weeks of spring, which means longer days, warmer weather, and, best of all, sunnier skies. In other words, it’s high time you traded your boots for some water shoes and your pants for a pair of trunks. Because although summer may still be some months out, before you know it, we’ll be in prime beach season, and the last thing you want is to be caught outside sweating through your shirt.
That being said, just because you’re dressing for an ocean-front excursion doesn’t mean that you have to skimp on style in the process. On the contrary, when armed with the right gear, it’s more than possible to stay comfortable while also looking the part. Below we’ve rounded up a selection of some surf-ready essentials — including everything from versatile Vans slip-ons to lightweight long-sleeved rash guards to retro-inspired skateboards — in order to make sure that you have everything you need to catch some rays and hang ten.
Vans Trek Slip-On
If flip-flops and sandals just won’t cut it, Vans’ Trek Slip-Ons are the shoes for you. Made from a single piece of injected rubber, these bad boys are drainable, breathable, and completely collapsible, making packing them for quick trips to the beach a breeze. And because of their oversized reverse waffle outsole, rest assured — you’ve got plenty of grip, no matter what you have planned.
Vans Work From Home Packable Hat
Whenever you’re heading out for a day in the sun, it’s never a bad idea to bring a hat. This packable five-panel is easy to stash in the event the conditions suddenly change. Made from 100% polyester, it even comes with a quick-release buckle for easy adjustment.
Patagonia RØ Long-Sleeved Top
And, by the same token, you can’t go wrong with a quality rash guard — especially if you’re the type to skimp on your sunscreen. Patagonia’s RØ Long-Sleeved Top does just the ticket, combining a fast-drying and stretchable recycled polyester construction with some built-in 50+ UPF sun protection. As you’d expect from the Ventura-based brand — this one is nothing less than Fair Trade Certified sewn.
Vans Ever Ride Hybrid 18″ Short
When your tired old trunks have seen better days and you’re ready to upgrade your summer weather wardrobe, these Ever Ride Hybrid board shorts from Vans should be at the top of your list. Crafted using 100% polyester for comfortable 2-way stretch fit, they’re even understated enough to be worn out on the town. Good thing too — they come with more than enough pockets to keep your essentials in order.
Vans Commuter Tote Bag
After shoes, we’d argue that a backpack is the next most important piece of gear for a successful outdoor excursion. This Vans Commuter Tote Bag has all your carry needs covered, boasting a rugged Cordura construction, a 22-liter capacity, an internal mesh pouch, and even a set of stretchy water bottle sleeves.
Alba Optics Solo Sunglasses
Between rocks, sand, and seawater, the beach can be pretty unkind to your sunglasses in the event they take a tumble. Rather than taking your chances and playing the odds, grab this pair of shades from Alba Optics. In addition to a sweet retro silhouette, they also come with a flexible frame and some scratch-resistant polycarbonate lenses. In other words, they’re as tough as they come.
BANZAI Skateboard Series #01
Just because the waves are flat doesn’t mean that you have to write your beach day off as a bust. On the contrary, when armed with this compact and quick-handling cruiser from Banzai, you’ll be able to surf the sidewalk to your heart’s content. Oh, and if you’re one for presentation, be sure to peep the packaging; it’s a class act.
Breitling Superocean Heritage 57 Outerknown
If your passion for aquatic exploration knows no bounds, this Breitling x Outerknown collab watch makes for quite the horological haute piece. Inspired by the original Superocean diver from 1957, it comes with an exclusive brown dial, an automatic Caliber 10 movement, as well as 100m of water resistance. And because Outerknown had a hand in its design, the NATO strap is made from regenerated ECONYL nylon.
