There are many outdoor activities that require education and certification. Scuba divers, for example, must train indoors under an instructor's supervision before hitting the open water. Or to legally drive a motorcycle, riders must pass a driving test and receive a special license.

The compass has no protruding parts and is water resistant. A rubber cover can be purchased separately for $17.95 The KB-14 weighs four ounces and comes with a nylon pouch so it can attach to a belt loop. Two-year warranty. Pricing starts at $125..

MP3 players such as iPods can do much more for users than the 1982 CD player. But the cost is still high — the new iPhone 4 with 32GB is about $300. Expensive equipment can make owners feel protective. Gadget owners who want to bring their pricy phones or music players to the mountains can protect items from water damage with specialty cases.

The diary is organized by weeks, with each day receiving a page. For each day, users write in a goal, and there is also space for “daily wrap-up” thoughts. There is an area for nutrition notes as well as mind-body observations.

Athletes training for a triathlon or swim competition may have a timing issue. Few watches are both waterproof and able to time laps, meaning athletes can only time the full workout and then divide the workout time by the number of laps swum..

The inserts are designed for high impact activity and can be worn for running, walking, basketball, tennis, skateboarding and skiing. They have three layers of cushioning that mold to an individual’s foot. Users can accelerate the molding process by heating the inserts.

There seem to be fewer options, however, on where to stash stuff while exercising. Some exercise shorts have internal pockets, but the weight of keys may be bothersome when vigorously moving. Internal pockets can also cause chaffing..

The Vacuum iBottle with Influser from Timolino is a thermal mug with a mesh cap that prevents users from drinking tea leaves and coffee grounds. The iBottle holds 12 ounces and has a double wall insulation meant to keep drinks hot (or cold) for longer.

The suit is available in either black or red and has reflective accents for visibility. The fabric is made from 80 percent nylon and 20 percent Lycra. It is meant to shift perspiration and heat away from the skin and does not provide insulation or cold water protection.

Custom features include foam padding that can be changed for personal fit and removed for cleaning. Sizes range from Extra Small, which fits a head circumference of 20 to 20.5 inches, to an XX Large, which fits between 24 and 24.4 inches..