Planning another jaunt up Haleakala this summer? Taking that special someone along to Kalalau Beach? Or, maybe you're planning an off-island trek through the Cascades or the Appalachian Trail. If so, you've probably encountered the irony of being a local gear junkie in one of the loveliest hiking destinations: There aren't enough outdoor product retailers in Hawai'i.

The closing of Powder Edge and other outdoor gear shops, over the past few years has left many islanders stranded as they contemplate their next trek. Aside from Mauka to Makai Outdoor Gear Hawaii, Great Pacific Patagonia and a couple of box stores, the options for local hiking enthusiasts are few and far between.

Fortunately, the Internet provides more than just access to the latest Britney or Lindsay scandal. Large camping and hiking stores have all the resources needed to keep up with the latest technology and trends, online. Most include customer service phone numbers for any questions you might have.

Here are a few examples of this summer's outdoor gear finds.

SKAREB 55

Manufacturer: The North Face
The Specs: 2 pounds, 3 ounces; volume from 50-60 liters; internal frame with tubular aluminum suspension; split contoured shoulder harness; dual side compression
The Skinny: Lightweight, but suitable for 2-3 day trips; built with durability, comfort and easy compression in mind
Cost: $149.97
Where to Get It: www.campmor.com

REACTOR STOVE

Manufacturer: MSR
The Specs: 21 ounces without the fuel canister; 1.7 liter pot; approximately 80 minutes of burn time (based on an 8-ounce fuel canister); approximately 22 liters of water boiled per canister.
The Skinny: An ignition button makes starting this stove easy, while an efficient heat exchange and an enclosed radiant burner make for a consistent flame. The compact, lightweight cookware allows for easier cleanup and storage.
Cost: $139.95
Where to Get It: www.adventure16.com

SPECTRUM 33

Manufacturer: The North Face
The Specs: 4 pounds, 12 ounces; poles diameter: 10.5 mm, 9.0 mm; 22" x 6" stuffed; (canopy) 33 denier, 244T nylon with silicone and 1,500 mm PU; (floor) 50 denier, 270T nylon taffeta coated with 3000 mm PU; vestibule area 9 feet, 2 inches
The Skinny: Though it sleeps three adults, this tent is still fairly lightweight and compressible. The injected nylon is intended for cooler temperatures, but a combination of higher and lower ventilation (with zip closure) can offset its enhanced insulation.
Cost: $299
Where to Get It: www.usoutdoorstore.com, www.campmor.com, www.rei.com

RADIUS LOW HIKER

Manufacturer: Merrell
The Specs: 2 pounds; Slip-lasted Nubuck leather upper; 7.5 mm narrow gauge webbing; polyester mesh lining; compression-molded EVA footframe, Air Cusion midsole; Vibram Multi-Grip sole.
The Skinny: This versatile hiker is light enough for quick (and quick-paced) day hikes and comfortable and supportive enough for longer treks.
Cost: $90
Where to Get It: www.campmor.com

LAMINA 35 (REGULAR AND WOMEN'S)

Manufacturer: Mountain Hard Wear
The Specs: 2.3 pounds; ThermicMicro insulation; 40D nylon ripstop shell; 78-inch inside length; 62-inch shoulder girth; welded construction; internal zippered pocket; full-length zipper with dual sliders; water repellent.
The Skinny: Light, highly compressible and suitable for temperatures as low as 35 F, this update to the Lamina line is a solid choice for relatively low cost.
Cost: $120 (regular); $130 (long)
Where to Get It: www.usoutdoorstore.com

CAPILENE 3 WOMEN'S CREW/PATAGONIA CAPILENE 4 MEN'S ZIP NECK

Manufacturer: Patagonia
The Specs: Recycled polyester (50 percent recycled material or more); 100 percent recyclable
The Skinny: Patagonia makes four types of moisture-wicking capilene fabrics, for different temperatures and climates. Capilene 3 is suitable as a base layer for mildly cool to colder adventures. Capilene 4's inside grid pattern conserves warmth and repels moisture.
Cost: $44 – Capilene 3 Women's Crew / $85 Capilene 4 Men's Zip Neck
Where to Get Them: www.patagonia.com, www.rei.com, www.adventure16.com, www.usoutdoorstore.com