In partnership with Kathmandu

There's no denying that surviving an Australian summer is no easy feat. The unpredictable nature of the weather down under sees us endure four seasons in one day more times than we would care for. But in true Australian spirit, our ability to adapt – given the right equipment – is unmatched. An assortment of essentials we return to time and time again for any and all circumstances and scenarios. It should come as no surprise then, that the RUSSH editor's look to Kathmandu as an ongoing source for the best summer essentials.

The brand has always been a go-to destination for pieces that make the outdoors even more enjoyable. Not only are Kathmandu's pieces expertly crafted with some of the harshest terrains in mind; but the brand has also expertly mastered the ability to marry the playful with the practical. From beach umbrellas you'll want to carry all summer long, to reliable and always handy insulated drink bottles and coffee tumblers for ongoing hydration; here are the RUSSH team's non-negotiable Kathmandu summer essentials.

Mia Steiber

Digital strategy director

A big beach umbrella is an absolute essential for me. When I'm beaching on the weekend I like to go for a while, a few hours at least. But of course you can't do that without lots of sun protection. Aside from a hat and lots of sunscreen, an umbrella allows you to laze on the sand without getting burnt. My last one had an unfortunate run in with gust of wind, so Kathmandu's Retreat Beach Umbrella is the perfect replacement. It's the official colour of my hot vax summer.

In continuing the orange theme, the Retreat Low Lounger Chair is next. I got one some years ago as a gift from my in-laws and was a little bit disappointed because I never use things like that. As it turns out, it ended up being one of the best gifts I've ever received. I've used it so much I've nearly worn it out. I actually just keep it in the car now because of how often I take it around with me. Picnic season is made infinitely better when you're not sitting on the ground but in a comfy seat.

But since my current ones are a little bulky, this compact iteration is a perfect addition. I'll be taking them on my Christmas sojourn to Byron Bay.

Elyssa Kostopoulos

Content director

Those closest to me already know that when it comes to a day at the beach, I'm a no-fuss kind of girl. I love to be able to bundle up my essentials and not worry about lugging around multiple bags or baskets. Naturally, Kathmandu's Insulated 700 Carry Handle Bottle and the complimentary Roamer Sand Proof Beach Towel fit the brief. Not only are the two items extremely lightweight, but they're designed to make a hot summer's day oceanside that much easier.

The insulated bottle ensure your drinks will stay cold for up to 12 hours – which is more than enough time to get your hit of vitamin D and salt water rejuvenation. And if you're not a fan of tiny graduals of sand littering your car and home, the towel's easy shake-and-go feature means that all of the beach gets left behind. Adorned in Mulga's signature design, there's no doubt you'll be turning heads at the beach this summer.

Lucienne Bambridge

Brand & campaigns coordinator

I’m not going to lie, I’m not the best at keeping hydrated. So, to ensure I do, a chic water bottle is a must. Kathmandu’s Insulated 500 Bottle comes in a gorgeous, creamy shade of ‘Eggnog’ and paired with a Retreat Bottle Holder in the sunniest of yellows, this combination is a must have for any of the endless days in the sun to come. This insulated duo keeps icy water (or chilled vodka) in peak condition with its insulated stainless steel design. And in winter (or these rainy summer days), it’s perfect for tea on the go – who doesn’t love a trans-seasonal piece?

Teressia Carr

Designer

If covid has revealed anything, it’s my new-found appreciation for a good ol’ picnic. Connecting with friends, being outdoors and chilling all day long is my new ideal situation this summer. The Kathmandu Roamer Roll Up Picnic Rug is not only appealing to the eye but has the comfiest fleece finish for maximum all day lounging. It’s durable backing making it perfect for any surface – wet or dry. My picnic game has truly levelled up with this nifty rug.

But what would a picnic be without some classic old-school games? The Kathmandu Wooden Cornhole Game is the perfect way to add some light-hearted (or sometimes highly competitive) spirit to an otherwise ordinary picnic.

In true Kathmandu fashion, my two new favourite picnic stables are both completely compact. Kathmandu never misses when it comes to convenience and lightweight travel and I expected nothing less.

Charlotte Agnew

Fashion editor

Going from public transport to the office and then onto the beach in summer always presents different beverage desires. It's the reason why having the Roamer Coffee Tumbler on hand is an absolute non-negotiable – proving to be an easy way to transport my cold or hot drinks all the way through summer. Equally as important, surprisingly, is a spare change of clothes. When I'm shooting on location or in desperate need of a spontaneous swim, a men's-style silhouette like the Mulga Take A Hike Print Tee is always a handy essential to change into.