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Gear Up for Summer with Missouri Brands

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Timber Longboard Co.

With summer right around the corner, you might be thinking of all the different ways you and your family can soak up the sun. While it’s easy to get caught up in all of the different opportunities for outdoor recreation in Missouri, don’t forget to consider the equipment you’ll need to for your excursions outside. Luckily, Missouri companies and products have you covered, from staycations to big adventures.

For the Backyard

Enjoy the ultimate backyard barbecue with a Smokin Brothers pellet grill. Designed by a southeast Missouri family with a passion for barbecue competitions, the grills hold a constant temperature and have a large grill space. Smokin Brothers also sells wood pellets as well as spice rubs and sauces.

Pair your delicious dinner with a chilled beverage served up in a Kansas City-themed glass from Made in Kansas City. No matter what your drink of choice is – lemonade, wine, beer – you’ll find a perfect glass with screen-printed artwork.

If your dinner party is still in full swing around sunset, keep unwanted guests at bay by lighting a citronella candle made by Lebanon Candle Co. The 100% natural soy candles burn for 80 to 100 hours, which means maximum mosquito repellence.

On the Water

St. Louis-based company, Summersalt, has created comfortable, high-quality swimming suits by taking measurements from 10,000 women to create the best fit possible. The company is also dedicated to using recycled materials for both the fabrics and product packaging.

A day out on the water calls for careful attention to UV protection. In addition to sunscreen application, a wide-brimmed hat will provide extra Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) coverage. Henschel Hat Company has a selection of UPF 50+ hats that are perfect for a lake or pool day.

Getting out on the water with a paddle board is hands down one of the most fun ways to explore Missouri’s lakes and rivers. The best part is you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the challenge of a stand-up paddle board. Timber Longboard Co. handcrafts beautiful wood boards with local materials. Alternatively, Ozark River Walkers sells lightweight, inflatable paddle boards for easy packing.

In the Woods

When you’re out in the woods on a camping trip you want quality gear to establish your home base. UST in Columbia offers everything you could need from tents and sleeping bags to fire starters and headlamps. The company focuses on sustainability and accessibility by selling core camping equipment directly to consumers.

Insects are not only obnoxious to outdoor explorers, their bites could cause irritation or even harbor diseases. Herbaria has a selection of insect repellents including Camper’s Choice Soap and Citronella Mist. Both products are formulated with essential oils to naturally repel mosquitos and other pests.

The Normal Brand has backpacks, totes, duffel bags and travel bags that are suited for both camping trips and city adventures. Designed with style and durability in mind, these bags will quickly become your go-to travel companions. If you’re still on the hunt for a specific product that’s made in Missouri, or if you just want to peruse what the Show-Me State has to offer, visit the Buy Missouri Business Directory.