National Geographic Traveler....

Lighten Up: 7 Essentials That Won't Weigh You Down

>>Ex Officio Air Strip Shirt ($78; 10.2 oz.; www.exofficio.com) This breathable button-down has a three-position sun collar, pleated bellows pockets, hidden zip pocket, and handy roll-up sleeve tabs.  >>White Sierra Trail Pants ($45; 13.5 oz.; www.whitesierra.com) Pockets for every occasion, ankle zippers, and quick-drying fabric.  Zip off the pant legs and they turn into shorts.  >>GoLite Clarity Jacket ($99; 12 oz.; www.golite.com) This feathery, waterproof jacket layers well and folds into a tiny pocket.  >>Ibex Neve Jacket (pictured at right; $260; 16.5 oz.; www.ibexwear.com) A ventilating, crushable wool-synthetic jacket makes a wind- and water-resistant, toasty outer layer for wintertime travel.  >>Terramar Underwear Bottoms ($16; 3.5 oz.; www.magellans.com) Encase your buns in light and breezy Qwik-Dri fabric.  All you need is two per trip.  >>Terramar Transport Tee ($24; 6.5 oz.; www.magellans.com) A comfortable polyester-blend T-shirt that controls moisture and odor.  >>Smartwool Adventure Light Hiker Socks ($16; 3.5 oz.; www.smartwool.com) Non-itchy wool wicks and evaporates moisture, leaving toes dry and comfotable. --Lynn Seldon