A Backpack That Twill Take You Where You Want to Go
This is a carry-all fit for the changing seasons. Available in a forest friendly “otter green” color, this Rugged Twill Rucksack from Filson is made of industrial strength fabric from Great Britain that has been dyed with a natural, plant-based solution, giving it the smart look of an English equestrian satchel. The comfortable leather shoulder straps, grab handle, and reinforcing bands were vegetable tanned over several weeks to enhance the supple feel, allowing them to conform over time to the shape of the wearer. The rucksack is also lightly waxed and features a large storm flap and heavy-gauge zipper to keep out the Northwest damp. Measuring 18.5- by 15- by 6-inches, the twill rucksack is big enough to carry all of your essentials for a day out on the water. $595 // filson.com
Show Kids How ‘Working Boats’ Work
Anyone who’s ever been enthralled by the drawings of Richard Scarry—who showed generations of children how the modern world worked through his schematic cartoons—will love this colorful children’s book, Working Boats: A Look Inside Ten Amazing Watercraft, that focuses on the inner mechanics of different kinds of boats. The detailed cross-section and close-up illustrations by Bellingham-based fisherman and artist Thomas Crestodina show kids what really goes on inside fishing vessels, Coast Guard rescue boats, scientific research ships, and even those iconic WSDOT car ferries. The book also provides practical details on using safety equipment, the many jobs that maritime crews perform, what keeps the engines running, and how radar and sonar systems work. $20 // sasquatchbooks.com
Crack the Nautical Code with Flag Pillows
Here’s a fun way to appreciate maritime culture and modern décor all wrapped up in one. Custom-sewn from indoor/outdoor Sunbrella fabric, each of these 14- by 18-inch pillows is emblazoned with a signal flag design as well as the corresponding NATO phonetic code for each letter. The cozy pillows from Nautical Luxuries can be used anywhere as maritime accents in your boat’s salon or in your den at home, and they are durable enough for outdoor use, with water-repellent, fade-resistant canvas to protect it from excess moisture and sun damage. A zippered compartment allows easy access for care of the poly-fill inside. $67 each // nauticalluxuries.com
Careful Coastal Cruisers Carry Coasters
These one-of-a-kind keepsakes will be the talk of the salon at your next soirée. Handcrafted in Maine, this set of four nautical-themed wooden coasters from Uncommon Goods will help keep your vessel safe from unwanted beverage condensation and spice up your décor with some iconic symbols of sea travel. The 4-inch-wide coasters feature a ship’s wheel, a knotted rope, an anchor, and a compass rose, all in raised relief atop a cork base and stained in various marine colors. $36 for a set of four // uncommongoods.com
Stay Dry in the March Wet with a MicroGravity Jacket
Early spring always gets us in the mood for the coming boating season, but until we get there, we still have to dress for the end of the winter rainy season. This new MicroGravity rain jacket from Outdoor Research is just the thing needed for soaking March squalls. No matter how wet and windy the weather is, the stretchable 3L membrane in this jacket keeps water out while allowing excess heat to escape. With its helmet compatible Halo-Hood, internal front storm flap, and elastic drawstring hems and cuffs, you’ll be sure to stop leaks from creeping in and will stay warm and toasty. Available in black, light blue, red, and yellow. $249 // outdoorresearch.com
Let SealSkinz Give You a Warm Hand
No one likes cold hands but avoiding them is not always possible when you’re pulling halyards on a rainy spring morning. To give your digits a little extra warmth, these low-profile, waterproof gloves from SealSkinz can at least keep them dry in any kind of wet weather. Made with hydrophilic Fusion Control technology, including a wool liner and Lycra outer shell, the two-tone black and gray gloves provide ideal protection against blistering, numbness, and chafing. The breathability of the fabric helps reduce overheating and allows you to maintain your dexterity, a full range of motion, and a tight grip. $85 // sealskinzusa.com
