Gear June 2017

In addition, the Explorer has a digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer. It can be paired with compatible mobile devices. Its rechargeable lithium battery can last up to 100 hours in tracking mode. If the unit is in power-save mode, battery life can stretch to 30 days. In the event of an emergency, the unit can be used to contact the GEOS 24/7 search and rescue-monitoring center.

The Explorer is 6.5 inches long and weighs in at just 7.5 ounces. It's impact- and water-resistant. A satellite airtime plan is required to use the network and communication features. Monthly subscription plans range from $11.95 to $99.95.

Learn more at Garmin.

Need a good demonstration model to walk your students through everything from CG to maneuvers? The Universal Trainer modular airplane ($29.95) is designed for illustrating a solid variety of flight principles. Its control surfaces are movable, and it comes with a pair of magnets that can be moved around to demonstrate CG.

The Universal Trainer can be assembled into just about any configuration you could want in a propeller-driven airplane. It can be a high-wing or a low-wing, multi- or single-engine, taildragger or tricycle gear. The parts simply slot together. When taken apart---which takes less than a minute---it lays flat for easy storage.

The UT's wingspan is 15.75 inches, and it weighs less than 5 ounces. It's made of flexible UV and moisture-resistant plastic. In addition to the plane itself, the Universal Trainer comes with a zip-top bag to store its small parts and some extra O-rings and tape for repairs.

Learn more at Luso Aviation.

Sitting still for long periods of time while flying can create complications from general aches and pains to life-threatening deep-vein thrombosis. Skins Unisex Travel Recovery Compression Tights ($119.99) can help combat those risks by providing engineered gradient compression to help maintain healthy circulation, reduce swelling and minimize dehydration. Skins compression tights are designed to be comfortable to wear even when at rest and fit easily under clothing, making them a good choice for long flights as a passenger or a pilot.

The tights are made from a thermal Polyamind/Elastane fabric, which offers breathability, a soft feel and abrasion resistance. It also has moisture-wicking properties to help keep you comfortable and regulate body temperature. Machine-washable and equipped with a permanent anti-microbial treatment, the compression tights are easy to keep clean and fresh even when worn for long periods of time. Sizes are based on the company's BMI/anthropometrical algorithm for a more accurate fit for a large variety of body types. Skins' website provides both a sizing chart and a simple-to-use size calculator.

Learn more at Skins.

With the 4 Paws Ear Muffs ($65-$75), your best friend can come along for the ride without risking hearing loss. The 4 Paws Ear Muffs are human-tested, showing an average noise reduction of 41.875 decibels across frequencies ranging from 250 Hz to 8000 Hz. The Ear Muffs are made of nylon and aircraft-approved sound-deadening foam. The around-the-ear gel seals are designed to mold comfortably to each individual dog's head shape. All of the materials used to make the ear muffs are nontoxic to dogs.

The adjustable chin strap features a break-away clip to prevent panic or choking if your pet gets caught on something while you're flying. If you're planning a high-altitude trip in an unpressurized plane, the Ear Muffs are made to work with 4 Paws' pet oxygen hood delivery system. Small, medium and large sizes are available. The ear muff straps are made of webbing and attach with clips rather than Velcro® so pet hair doesn't get caught as easily. They come in white, pink or black.

Learn more at 4 Paws Aviation.