Hot New Products for Summertime 

Boat Tote
Made with the same custom-woven Dacron cloth used on sailboat sails, the Navigator duffel bag has nautical flair and durability. Water-repellent with a mildew-resistant bottom and detachable padded shoulder strap, it’s the perfect carryall for boating buffs and landlubbers alike. $185; 800/701-5512.


’Rita With a Kick
Give this classic Mexican cocktail a new twist with Get Beached spiced margarita mixer. An all-natural blend of lemon and Chesapeake Bay spices provides a bit of unexpected heat. It’s perfect for your next poolside barbecue and can be served as a non-alcoholic drink too. $9; 800/221-2722.




Backseat Bingo
On your next road trip, turn off the DVD player and challenge your children to a game of auto bingo—just like you played in the back seat of your parents’ station wagon (without air conditioning). Boxed set comes with four colored pads and four colored pencils. $12; 847/963-1805.




Right on Course
Golf apparel need not be boring thanks to Golftini, a Westfield, NJ-based brand of stylish attire designed by Susan Hess and worn by LPGA player Laura Diaz. Sport this pink and black flowered skort, and you’ll be the fashion forward player in your foursome. $136; 800/930-4377.





Cool for the Pool
Too cool for baby brands, your ’tween will love Kinesys SPF 30 Girl sunscreen. Sold in a curvy pink spray bottle and scented with green tea and vanilla, it delivers UVA/UVB protection in a PABA-free, hypoallergenic formula. $18.99; 877/546-3797.





Goodnight Moon
Your staycation need not be indoors; book a night in your own backyard. The Elite Evanston 8 tent is easy to set up and sleeps eight, so there’s enough room for the entire family or plenty of kids from the neighborhood. $200; 800/835-3278.


Made for Shade
The Nantucket hat from Wallaroo Hat Company combines serious sun protection (SPF 50+) with a playful ribbon design. A hidden drawstring provides a custom fit, keeping the hat in place even when that summer wind comes blowin’ in. 5 colors, $36; 888/925-2766.



Many of these products are available in local stores. Check the manufacturers’ websites to find out where to shop for them.

Christine Esposito is a writer and mother of two from New Jersey. To suggest products for this column, write to goodiesandgear@gmail.com.

July 2009