Go take a hike
Are you getting into the swing of spring? Wake up
from that long winter nap with some new outdoors gear. Whether you spend
your weekends actually hitting the trails, or just want to look like you
do, the Net's sportiest sites are as good as "real" stores, with Internet
extras to boot.
Find a bargain at the Woolrich Internet
Outlet, with closeouts on classic outdoor wear. Amateur shutterbugs,
there's a monthly photo contest
for you.
Stock up on basics like turtlenecks at Eddie Bauer, then plan your next trip.
Eddie Bauer Travel sells guided adventure-travel packages to India,
Austria, Peru and the American Pacific Northwest, among other exotic
locales.
Trail hounds and fishing fanatics can replace those worn out wool socks and
Union suit at L.L. Bean, where you can
order items securely online. Its U.S. "Park Search" gives you great info
on where to go for camping and day trips.
The Intelligent Order Blank at Land's
End allows you to order online using your browser, and offers an
overstocks page with special deals for web customers.
If you love woolens, you'll get the warm fuzzies at Pendleton Woolen Mills. Order one
of three ways (online, fax or phone), then enter a monthly drawing to win
one of their famous blankets.
Eastern Mountain Sports sells
rugged wear for everything from hiking to wall climbing to getting in and
out of the Cherokee. The site is a work-in-progress, but promises to
include an interactive trip planning guide and more. Get info on their
Outdoor Skills clinics while you're there.