I’ve been able to use the Yakima SkyBox LoPro on two vehicles this Winter–a 2005 Honda Odyssey using factory crossbars and a 2001 Subaru Outback utilizing Thule crossbars. Both vehicles have been well-suited for the LoPro. Lets walk through the installation process on both vehicles, starting with the Odyssey.

Installation on 2005 Honda Odyssey (factory roof rack/crossbars)

The Odyssey was a little more difficult to install correctly, but most of that wasn’t really the box’s fault. I’ve got factory crossbars and adjusting their location requires a hex wrench and a bit of elbow grease. As I planned the location out, it was apparent that the rear hatch would be ever-so-close to hitting the rear of the box, so I opted to slide the attachment claws as far forward on the box as possible. Doing so, put the box about a half-inch in front of the rear spoiler when the hatch was raised–PERFECT! Total install time was about 45 minutes.

Installation on 2001 Subaru Outback w/Thule Rack System

Now for the same process on the Outback… This was a little easier since the Thule Crossroad towers are simple-as-pie to move. I loosened the front crossbar, set the LoPro on top, then adjusted as needed to provide a secure rooftop location. As it turned out, the aftermarket crossbars definitely provide more compatibility than factory designs. Because of the extra height provided by the Thule crossbars and their easy adjustments, the LoPro looked and functioned right at home atop the Subie. The rear hatch cleared with plenty of space and the box looks handsome atop my black Outback. Total install time was about 15 minutes.

Compared to the typical attachments from competitors, I absolutely love the claw-like clamps used to secure this box in place. Yakima definitely takes the cake when it comes to secure and easy box attachment. To slide the box in place, all you do is reach inside and lift up the latches, reach underneath and open the rearward-facing claws, then slide the box backwards until the claws are centered on the crossbars. Once it’s centered and set in place, all it takes is a quick reach inside the box where the 4 latches can be closed and the box secured.

Placing items inside the box has now also been improved with an easy-to-use lever and three latches. When opening the lid on the SkyBox LoPro, you’ll instantly notice the ultra-stiff lid. No more flexible lid warbling around upon open, this thing moves as a single piece and securely engages all three latches in one motion (as opposed to walking up and down the side to latch completely).

The new latch and locking lever combo is built to prevent you from leaving the lid unlocked because the keys won’t pull out until you lock it. This is a great feature to prevent freeway yard sales, indeed, but it does hinder your ability to load the box on-the-fly since you’ve always got to track down the key first.

With its wide profile, this box can easily carry 6 or more pairs of skis with ease. And, with its long 92″ length, even the longest of skis will fit inside. I’ve appreciated being able to toss several pairs of fat skis, poles and ski boots up top for secure transport. And, the solar-powered LED interior light ensures nothing is left behind.

On the road, the box is definitely the quietest box I’ve used with no real wind noise to speak of. My 2001 Outback has the dual moonroof feature, so any added wind noise is immediately noticed, but I didn’t notice much if any extra noise. MPG’s were pretty much the same as without the rack, so not too much to worry about there.

The Good

• Sleek, low-profile design
• Wide enough to carry skis for everyone in the vehicle
• Locking feature prevents freeway yard sales
• LED light seemed gimmicky, but came in handy on dawn patrols
• Stiff lid moves as one piece for easier opening/closing
• Latching the lid is stupid easy
• No noticeable change in MPG

The Bad

• Key requirement puts a damper on loading on-the-fly
• Long length may hit some rear hatches (barely clears the 2005 Honda Odyssey)
• Not very tall, so big items like large backpacks and luggage may not fit

Bottom Line: Yakima SkyBox LoPro Cargo Box

If you don’t need to haul large items and you primarily use the box for winter gear transportation, the Yakima SkyBox LoPro is a killer choice with improved lid stiffness, quiet performance and ease-of-use.

Buy Now: Search for Yakima Cargo Boxes

I’m totally and completely onboard with SRAM’s new 2×10 XX drivetrain (read my thoughts from Interbike 2009) as it makes complete sense. Who can argue with eliminating duplicate gear ratios, simplifying front shifting and dropping weight? I know I sure can’t and neither should you.

I just got word that for 2011, SRAM will be introducing a 2×10 version of their workhorse X7 drivetrain. By coming in with the X7 announcement, it’s only a matter of time (weeks, days) before we start hearing about X9 and X0 2×10’s as well.

While X7 isn’t as sexy as the XX grouppo, it sure will save riders a ton of coin while providing excellent performance. Lets face it, the current X7 is going to perform as well as the X0 grouppo from 2-3 years ago (or better), which is still pretty darn good if you ask me. The crew at BikeRadar.com broke the story on the X7 announcement, so if you want dirty details, click here. Otherwise, check out the photos of the new 2011 X7 drivetrain and hang tight… it’s gonna get even better in SRAM land.

Buy Now: Search for SRAM Components

It’s impossible to notice my affinity towards Merino Wool, really. I mean I hardly wear anything made of the stuff except, well, my socks and my shirt and my hat and my base layers. Well, ahem… I suppose I DO have some sort of a Merino fetish.

There’s something about natural Wool fibers for moisture management, anti-stinkyness and warmth that pure synthetics can’t seem to match.

I/O Bio, purveyors of Merino Wool everything, gave me an opportunity to test the Contact Loose Tights over the past month and I must say they are sweet. I really dig the 3/4 length, for starters. Without the bulk from bunching them up above my ski boots, things feel much more comfortable overall. The warmth of these midweight tights is just right for every activity I do. I can vary up the outer shell thickness to compensate on colder days (like the Core Concepts Uncle Ben Bib) or wear a thinner pant (like the Sierra Designs Mantra) on warmer days.

I like the loose fit of these base layers as they feel comfortable for apres ski activities as well. Most times I can’t wait to rip my base layers off because they are so snug-fitting. It may be a personal thing as I feel the same about socks in general and bike shorts, don’t even get me started.  Anyway, lounging around in the Contact Loose tights is comfy and natural.

My biggest gripe is that there is no fly… did I happen to get a Women’s version or something? Come on guys, a fly please.

The Good

• Merino is soft-to-skin
• Resists odor
• 3/4 length is perfect for skiing
• Excellent moisture-wicking performance
  

The Bad

• No fly… what’s up with that?

Bottom Line: I/O Bio Contact Loose 3/4 Tights

Loose-fitting Merino Wool base layers… what more could you ask for?

Buy Now: Search for I/O Bio Clothing

GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany (March 12) – Ted Ligety (Park City, UT) added some more oomph to his trophy collection Friday as he clinched the second Audi FIS World Cup giant slalom title of his career with third in the season’s final event. The victory places Ligety in some pretty illustrious company as he joins Phil Mahre to become the only American men to earn two World Cup giant slalom titles.

“Having two globes is awesome,” Ligety said. “It’s cool to have those and to be the best in giant slalom over the last couple of years is nice.”

Ligety’s GS title is his second in three years, having won in 2008. Phil Mahre is the only other American man to win two, taking back-to-back titles in 1982 and ‘83. Bode Miller won the GS crown in 2004.

The GS was won by Carlo Janka of Switzerland, who locked the men’s overall World Cup title with the win, followed by Davide Simoncelli of Italy in second.

Ligety had a solid first run and, after falling slightly behind at the third interval, he picked up the pace in the second run to tie for third in the giant slalom race with Austrian Philipp Schoerghofer.

“It’s always better to tie someone than be one hundredth behind, so I was happy to be on the podium,” Ligety mused.

With a somewhat narrow 43 point lead on the giant slalom standings going into Friday’s race, Ligety said things fell into place on game day for him to beat his toughest challengers for the title.

“I knew I had to have a good first run and I was pretty lucky in the sense that [Massimiliano] Blardone had a big screw up and then Marcel [Hirscher] got disqualified,” Ligety said. “That opened it up for me and I skied decently in the second run.”

While those advantages locked Ligety in the title run before his second run, the 2006 Olympic champ had no idea he had already won the globe when the time came for him to race.

“I didn’t actually know that I had won the title no matter what at that point,” Ligety said. “I would have gone harder had I known that, but I had a safe second run and was still pretty excited to get on the podium.”

With the title Ligety added the 2010 discipline title to the first he won in 2008. He also capped the year with three consecutive World Cup podiums in GS to bookend a season that began with second in Soelden, Austria last October. Despite his success in GS, Ligety was looking for more with his slalom, but has one more chance in slalom Saturday to end on a high note.

“I don’t feel like the year has been great otherwise, so it’s definitely nice to walk away with the globe,” Ligety said. “It’s cool to be able to ski at this level for multiple years.”

Wrapping up the race Ligety noted the future he hopes to have on the hill when 2011 World Championships are held here.

“The hill is actually pretty good. It’s difficult on the top and then the bottom has a super long flat,” he said. “It’s a confidence booster to do well on the hill that you know you’re going to have World Championships here.”

Ligety and teammate Jimmy Cochran (Keene, NH) close out individual competition Saturday during World Cup Finals in Germany during the slalom event.

Watch: Visit UniversalSports.com

It’s Spring and that means cool mornings and variable, but warming weather–perfect for the new North Face Refraxion Jacket. This athletic jacket will shed wind and inclement weather while maintaining excellent breathability for mountain biking, trail running, snowshoeing or other aerobic activity.

The fit of the Refraxion Jacket is listed as “peformance” fit, but the body of the jacket is still a tad baggy, I think. It leaves extra room for a vest underneath, but when worn alone, it could be trimmed down just a tad. The sleeves, however are just the right fit–not too slim and not too baggy.

I really appreciate the overall feel of this jacket and its ability to breathe under pressure. It sheds moisture very well (thanks to the DWR treatment) and keeps the chilly winds at bay. Single-pull drawcords at the hips quickly cinch the jacket at the waist for improved fit and weather protection on the go.

I ran with the Refraxion Jacket on cold, snowy days as well as windy days and found it to perform very well. The stretch side panels add to the overall comfort of the design and in a pinch, the simple Roll-N-Tie system really came in handy as I tied the jacket around my waist.

The Good

• Comfortable, capable running jacket
• Sheds wind and water very well
• Can even work in the snow with a fleece vest underneath
• Collar is the perfect diameter and height
• Stretch panels add to the comfort
• Zips into itself
• Simple Roll-N-Tie system does come in handy

The Bad

• Body fit could be a little more streamlined
• Stretchy underarm panels do tend to hold body odor

Bottom Line: The North Face Refraxion Jacket

Definitely a solid performer for running or other athletic pursuits when you want good wind protection and protection from inclement weather.

Buy Now: The North Face Mens’ Refraxion Jacket – Women’s

While Norco is well-known for their gnarly North Shore freeride and downhill mountain bikes, they offer a full fleet of bikes for street, bmx, cruising and even have a respectable road program. While other “mountain bike manufacturers” may also have a token road bike or two, Norco has four full-carbon road bikes, three scandium cyclocross bikes, three touring bikes and two performance aluminum road bikes to go along with their expansive mountain bike lineup.

Since Norco doesn’t have a huge presence in the States, let me educate you a bit. They are one of Canada’s largest bicycle manufacturers with a full lineup of bikes in every shape and size and a full lineup of accessories and clothing under the Axiom, Mace, Adams and Bike Guard brands.

Over the years, I’ve established a strong relationship with the crew at Norco and have exposed many to the beauty of their bike designs and their cool nature as singletrack-hungry Canadians. They ride and they ride hard, but at the end of the day, the entire crew at Norco–including athletes–are down-to-earth and personable. I like that and am stoked to have a new Norco roadie in for review this year.

About the Norco CRR 2 Road Bike

Utilizing an entirely-new carbon platform for 2010, the CRR road line utilizes a new EPS Mandrel system for even layering with Thermoplastic Mesh for dispersed stress forces. What does that mean? Well, according to Norco, that means lighter, stiffer and stronger frames than ever before. This new carbon makeup is used in both the CRR road and XC carbon mountain bike frames. On top of the new makeup, you also get BB30 bottom-brackets and integrated seat masts.

Unwrapping the Norco CRR 2, I was really impressed by the overall package. For $2040, you get a heckuva bike with full Shimano 105, Ritchey cockpit, FSA cranks and Shimano wheels. I’m excited to get on the road with the CRR 2 and see how it performs… I can’t wait for the carbon goodness to soften the road chatter while also providing instant reaction-times for snappy climbing and handling.

Key Specs of the Norco CRR 2:

• High-modulus carbon-fiber frame/fork with HTR technology
• Ritchey Comp cockpit
• Shimano 105 drivetrain
• Shimano RS10 wheels
• FSA Gossamer cranks
• FSA headset
• MSRP: $2040 (find a dealer)

More Info: Visit Norco.com

Most of the big bike manufacturers have their own clothing and accessory lines. Some simply use their own brand for these products while others maintain a separate brand to allow them to reach out to different markets or market segments. Take Mace Gear, for example. Mace is the clothing and accessory arm of Canadian bicycle manufacturer, Norco Bikes.

While I’ve long been a fan of Norco, I’m just now getting introduced to their Mace line and am liking what I’m seeing. Mace doesn’t target the XC racer-type of mountain biker, but really reaches out to the downhill, freeride and all-mountain riders (e.g. you and me) with casual-yet-functional mountain biking gear.

Mace Mirage Gloves

Take the Mirage gloves… They are a snug-fitting lightweight design made for all-mountain riding. No bulky padding or armor here, just texturized rubber and breathable fabrics used in perfect strategery. The terry-cloth thumb can wipe your brow while the rubbery grip pattern on all fingers and palm will ensure consistent grip and brake feel. Articulated knuckles add to the overall package. Solid mountain biking gloves, indeed.

For now, you’ve got to either be Canadian or nearly-Canadian to get ahold of Mace Gear, but look for more dealers in the States soon. Or, check out Bellingham-based FanatikBike.com to buy Mace Products.

More Info: Visit MaceGear.com

I’ve been able to take these goggles out on a few backcountry trips as well as inbounds at Solitude Resort on an ultra-cold day and Alta Ski Resort on a powder day and have been thoroughly impressed. The foam conforms to my face very well for a comfortable, all-day fit.  I also like the style… yeah, a little loud, but not completely over the top.

Overall vision has been top-notch with superb clarity. Under cloudcover, I could have wished for a brighter lens tint, but these are pretty darn solid as a single lens of choice. The lenses seem pretty scratch-resistant as they have yet to incur any scratches–even after some up close and personal encounters with low-lying branches.

I’ve got to call these out a little more for their fog-free performance. You see, I tend to fog up nearly every pair of goggles I’ve owned. Truth be told, there are circumstances that can fog up even the best goggles, but I’ve put these through their paces and have yet to have them fog. Sweaty hikes, long traverses at Alta and hard-charging runs in deep powder… nothing has phased them. Fog-free goggles? Decidedly so thus far.

The Good

• Spherical lens provides distortion-free vision
• Excellent fit with a variety of helmets (Smith Maze and POC Skull Light)
• Has been fog-free in a variety of temperatures and conditions (and I’m a fog machine)
• Excellent pricepoint

The Bad

• No strap clip

Bottom Line: Scott Fix Ski Goggles

Easy on the wallet and excellent, fog-free performance on the snow, the Scott Fix goggles are a wise choice if you like being able to see your next turn well in advance.

Buy Now: Search for Scott Fix Goggles

When people think of Sierra Designs, they undoubtedly think of their great tents and sleeping bags. While their shelters and mummies are some of the best in the business, they also have a solid selection of outerwear for backpacking, skiing and hanging out in the mountains. For years, I’ve used Sierra Designs outerwear and have found it to be of high quality at a more palatable price point.

A great example of this is the Sierra Designs Mantra Fusion Jacket. This is their top-of-the-line shell and has all the great features you’d expect from every other high-end shell on the market, but at a fraction of their cost. At a very reasonable $259, the Mantra Fusion is a real bargain for what you’re getting. So, what are you getting? Lets dig into that.

Features

The Mantra Fusion Jacket is the best of the best waterproof-breathable rugged laminated mountain hard-shells. It is a fully featured, mechanical stretching shell with a full range of motion and ample storage for summer glacier trekking, south of the equator skiing and high mountain expeditions.

• Fully Fused PVC-Free Seams
• Helmet Compatible, Fully Adjustable Hood with Visor
• Adjustable Hem
• Adjustable Cuff
• Removable, Zip-Off Snowskirt
• Underarm Vents
• 1 Internal Mesh Dump Pocket and 1 Internal Zippered Mesh Pocket
• Interior Tricot Chin Guard
• Condor Construction
• Weight: 1 lbs 10 oz
• Colors: Black, Gator, Hot Sauce, Moth/Ash, Thunder
• MSRP: $259 (yes, indeed!)

Review

As mentioned above, I’ve always been impressed with the value provided by Sierra Designs outerwear. The Mantra Fusion Jacket is a fully-fused jacket, meaning all seams are fused instead of stitched. What this means is that there is no need for seam tape and no potential for the stitching to allow water to leak through. It also improves breathability at the seams by reducing the amount of material through which water vapor must pass. The result is a very sleek-looking and functional shell.

The 3-layer waterproof Tropozone shell has just enough 4-way stretch to it to make it even more comfortable under use. The cut is definitely not athletic… more of a traditional mountain cut with enough length to keep you covered under all conditions. With the zip-off powder skirt, this jacket can be streamlined for backcountry use or used as a killer resort-style shell. Speaking of that, the fit and styling is very resort-friendly so you don’t look like an Arc’teryx granola-eater inbounds (which I’m often accused of).

Weather protection is as expected… superb. Wind, rain and snow sheds off this jacket with aplomb and you just keep charging. The waterproof zippers are easy to use and have great zipper pulls. The soft brushed lining in all pockets takes the edge off when used bare-handed.

The interior is also lined with an ultralight brushed material to help take the edge off and help move moisture away from your body.

The Good

• Excellent pricepoint
• Comfortable 4-way stretch fabric
• Dependable weather protection
• Hood is easily-adjusted and functional
• Pockets galore
• Breathability is great
• Zip-off powder skirt gives this inbounds/backcountry flexibility

The Bad

• Cut could be trimmed down just a bit for a more streamlined fit, which would also reduce weight a tad
• Hand pockets are hard to zip/unzip one-handed
• Non-continuous Velcro attachments on cuff limits micro-adjustments

Bottom Line: Sierra Designs Mantra Fusion Jacket

My take on this jacket is that it is a great resort-specific shell or a general-purpose shell for camping, hanging out, etc. It’s not quite svelte enough for hard-core backcountry use, but zipping out the powder skirt does reduce some of the unnecessary bulk should you wish to haul it along for a serious mountain adventure. The price really separates this jacket from the crowd… it is a great overall package.

Buy Now: Mantra Fusion Jacket from SierraDesigns.com

TEMPE, AZ – The reigning World 24 Hour champion is riding Pivot Cycles for the 2010 season. Jason English, from Port Macquarie, Australia will defend his title aboard the USA’s most innovative full suspension mountain bikes.

“Jason is a perfect match for Pivot,” said Adam Vincent, Pivot’s marketing manager. “He demands a bike that is lightweight, stiff and precise and pedals with efficiency. Our dw-link technology and innovative frame construction delivers.”

English will be riding the 2010 Pivot Mach 4 with DT Swiss Wheels, Kenda Tires, Magura brakes, SRAM XX and Fox Suspension. His bikes weigh in at approximately 22 lbs and give him an advantage in efficiency and handling over some of the world’s toughest race courses. English rode the Mach 4 to victory at his first race of the year, the JetBlack 24Hours in Sydney Feb 13.

“The Pivot Mach 4 bikes are amazing. Despite the torrential rain and the wet, muddy, slippery conditions I was able to put over 3 minutes on my nearest competitor on the 2km downhill single-track section of the course. This enabled me to take it easy on the fire road climb back up and save my legs,” English said. “Part of my decision to move to Pivot was that I had read so much about the climbing and descending abilities of the Pivot Mach 4 and wanted to experience this for myself. I am not disappointed.”

Pivot secured the sponsorship with the help of its top global distributor, JetBlack Products. “We see this as a perfect partnership with the best rider in the world riding arguably the best endurance weapon ever made,” said JetBlack Marketing Director, Tony Simmonds. “Jason is going to be unstoppable.”

More Info: Visit PivotCycles.com

A stop in with my friends at La Sportiva while at Outdoor Retailer yielded a sighting of a really cool new Winter trail runner, the Crossover GTX. Built on the awesome Crosslite platform, the new Crossover GTX is well, Gore-Tex and comes with a built-in 4-way stretch upper gaiter. While this short gaiter may not replace full-size gaiters for all conditions, it will do a great job for most winter trails.

It’s hard to beat the traction and capability of the Crosslite (read my review), but adding Gore and a small gaiter makes these trail runners truly unique for Winter training.

Available Fall 2010, the Crossover GTX will retail for $150.

Buy Now: Search for La Sportiva Trail Running Shoes

Built for strategic sidecountry sorties, the streamlined Black Diamond Bandit Avalung pack is built to carry just enough gear to take you safely into and back out of the backcountry. The built-in Avalung is one of the best selling points of all BD ski packs. While you can’t guarantee you’ll still be conscious if buried in a slide, you’ll darn well be grateful you’ve got the life-breathing snorkel if you do.

The Bandit is the lowest-volume ski pack (a mere 690 cu in) in BD’s lineup and offers little in the way of frills. It’s simple back panel and minimalistic interior offers just enough for the sidecountry yo-yo skier or for those who ride the heli or cat on a frequent basis. I got to test the Seth Plaid version, but there are more mainstream color options as well.

I used the Bandit for quick backcountry tours and found the size to be quite tight for all my stuff. Granted, I tend to haul the kitchen sink, but still… I was forced to live without a few items because there was simply not enough room. The small outside pocket on the top of the lid was only capable of carrying a couple of ProBars and a slim camera, so keep that in mind.

That said, I appreciated the lightweight feel of the Bandit (due primarily to me not taking along so much stuff) and, of course, the built-in Avalung–it’s just one more thing to help you in case the worst happens. Particularly nice is the insulated hydration sleeve that worked great with my Hydrapak bladder.

The Good

• Lightweight and simple
• Built-in Avalung
• Great for inbounds pursuits and sidecountry missions
• Just big enough for a 3-4 hour tour… barely
• Fits my full-size Voile shovel
• Built-in, insulated hydration sleeve (cha-ching)
• Simple ski carry system

The Bad

• Tight fit if you’re like me and tend to carry extra gear into the backcountry
• Simple back panel could use some updating compared to the competition
• No separate toolkit divider for quick shovel and probe access
• A single, tiny outside pocket

Bottom Line: Black Diamond Bandit Avalung

If you’re looking for simplicity in a backcountry ski pack but still want to be as prepared as possible, check out the Bandit and leave Burt Reynolds at home.

Buy Now: Search for the Black Diamond Bandit Pack

Hitch-mounted bike racks will solve world peace, cure AIDS and all that stuff… that’s a no-brainer. But, will they rack your bike and give you a high-quality trailside workstand at the same time? With the all-new Kuat NV, you get a sturdy two-bike hitch rack with a built-in bike stand. Take that, Thule and Yakima!

Kuat has been beating the lightweight bike rack drum for awhile now–it’s time people payed attention to the music they are playing. I’m a HUGE fan of the Yakima Holdup and the Thule T2, but they are bulky and heavy. While the Kuat NV doesn’t shave tons off their weight, it is lighter (you’ve got to have some heft to carry your bikes) and add on top of that a trailside bike stand and there may just be no comparison–except the price (more on that later).

I’ve yet to see one in person, but Robb over at Bike198 posted some initial thoughts and I’ve been eying the Kuat site to wrap my head around everything. I’m liking what I see.

Kuat NV Specs

• Heat-treated aluminum construction
• 2-bike capacity (optionally expandable to 4)
• Accepts 20-29″ wheels
• 60 lb single bike capacity
• Built-in cable lock
• Hitch stabilizing cam system
• 13″ bike spread for scratch-free carrying
• Folds up for storage
• MSRP: $495 (yeah, that’s the only bummer)

Recent Press Release on the Kuat NV

Springfield, MO – January 28, 2010 – Küat Innovations which makes lightweight, stylish, easy-to-use racks designed by cyclists for cyclists is ready to equip vehicles with its newest bike rack: The NV. “Like all of our products, the NV brings fresh new ideas to bike racks. We want to give people more than they expect,” said Justin Kosar, operations manager of Küat Innovations.

Made of heat-treated aluminum, The NV platform rack offers a variety of new features. It accommodates two bikes with a roomy 13 inches between them. Extra add-ons allow the rack to carry additional bikes. In fact, it can haul any two-wheeled contraption weighting up to 60 pounds, with 20-inch to 29-inch wheels, and without a motor.

The rack includes a repair clamp so cyclists can service their bike anywhere they can park. Plus, it features a built-in, robust integrated cable lock. The rack requires no tools to install using a hitch cam system and quickly folds up for storage and folds down for trunk access.

The NV is available at many fine retailers for $495 MSRP. To find one near you go to www.kuatracks.com.

More Info: Visit KuatRacks.com

Earth-friendly should be the norm these days, but unfortunately it’s not. While many outdoor gear manufacturers have adopted eco practices, some either don’t have the budget or simply have yet to jump in whole-hog. At the other end of the spectrum are a growing number of companies who have been focused on sustainability and eco-friendly materials since inception.

I think of Nau as a great example (though the road has been difficult) and frankly, Patagonia has made huge efforts in this area with a dedicated sustainability push for years. A great fact about Patagonia is that 77% of all their products are recyclable through Common Threads.

Ecogear Backs and Packs

I was recently introduced to Ecogear which is another example of a company who has built their business on sustainable sourcing and materials. They are quietly providing simple and functional everyday bags for school, work and travel palatable price points. Though not super-technical (meaning you won’t take them up Denali), Ecogear provides stylish messenger bags, duffles, backpacks, handbags and luggage for kids and adults alike. Some styles are a little vanilla (just being honest), but many are hip and fun while using RPET (recycled plastic bottles), PVC-free nylons, organic cotton, non-toxic dyes, recycled plastic hardware and wood accents. Kudos!

Again… not technical bags for your next backcountry ascent, but great, affordable options that are working hard to be light on the environment.

More Info: Visit Ecogear-Products.com

After riding the original Niner Jet 9 a little over a year ago (and completely loving it), Niner had a bit of an engineering snafu. It turns out that the Jet had some unforseen manufacturing defects that began to surface. Instead of trying to hide the problem, Niner stood out in front and was 100% honest with their customers about the issue–offering them replacement frames of their choice, discounts galore and everything you’d expect from an honest, forthright company. For everyone’s sake, lets move on…

2010 marks a new dawn for the killer Niner Jet 9 XC 29er trail-gobbling machine. This beast is really an all-mountain slayer in big-hooped 29er XC clothing. While Niner says it is race-worthy (which it is), I’d call it one of the finest all-mountain 29ers available today.

The changes made to the 2010 model are astounding and are the results of all the work done on the new RIP and WFO models. You’ll find tapered head tubes, gussets and a completely re-engineered well, everything!

The 2010 Niner Jet 9 will hit dealers in April. You can pre-order one now from your local Niner retailer.

More Info: Visit NinerBikes.com

I heart thin socks. Yes, indeed, I do heart thin socks. I heart thin socks for trail running, mountain biking and skiing. While I typically wear ultralight socks, some shoes and some ski boots require a tad thicker arrangement and that’s where the Lorpen Tri-layer Merino and Primaloft Light ski socks have come in handy. As they say, they are “not too thick and not too thin,” but just right.

Lorpen built these with a combo of Primaloft yarn and Merino Wool–a killer combo for warmth and moisture management. They have been the perfect match for backcountry skiing with my Dynafit Titan ski boots. The triple layers have been excellent at moving he sweat away from my foot while keeping my toes warm.

They are a little thicker than my typical ultralight, but after thermo-molding the liners in my boots, they take up that little bit of extra volume just dandy. The extra bit of shin padding has come in handy on a few chunky crud days too.

Here’s a little more about the construction of these socks:

The first layer, closest to the skin, is made of PrimaLoft Eco-Polyester, a synthetic fiber that is designed for performance and comfort.  It combines 50% recycled material with PrimaLoft virgin fibers to create a high loft, thermally efficient insulation.  PrimaLoft is also lightweight and water resistant.

The second layer, or middle layer, is made of Merino Wool, a natural fiber that can wick moisture away from the foot while providing softness.  Merino wool also features anti-microbial/anti-odor properties and is machine washable.

The third layer, made of Nylon, is highly durable making the sock resilient and long lasting. The nylon fibers are concentrated in the toe, heal and shin where the sock gets the most abrasion.

Bottom Line: Lorpen Tri-layer Merino/Primaloft Eco Ski Socks

These are a great pair of ski socks for those who prefer a lightweight, but not ultrathin ski sock. You’ll appreciate the warmth, comfort and moisture management they provide.

Buy Now: Lorpen Tri-layer Ski Socks

At Outdoor Retailer, I stopped in with the crew at Core Concepts to see what they were up to. Most everything was as expected until I saw this little beauty… the new Whiskey River Hybrid shirt. It’s a long-sleeve casual shirt with a little extra sauce. That extra sauce is in the innovative construction.

The outer is a soft nylon face with a DWR treatment and is backed by soft and lightweight jersey knit polyester. It’s versatile enough to wear as an outer layer in a jiffy yet comfortable enough for an impromptu high adventure with Mary Poppins (when you have kids, you’ll know). This long-sleeve is available in four colors and will hit the stores this Fall with a $90 pricetag.

Features:

• Wind and water-resistant nylon face with DWR finish
• Jersey knit polyester inner lining
• Moisture wicking, breathable and quick drying
• Pearl face snap closures
• Two chest pockets
• Colors: Carbon, Sport Blue Plaid (shown), Verdant, Verdant Plaid
• MSRP: $90

I got word that more online retailers will start carrying Core Concepts products in the near future, so keep an eye out or check out their dealer page for local retail outlets.

More Info: Visit CoreLayers.com

In a news release by SportsOneSource, quoting a recent Harvard study on barefoot running, the results show that barefoot runners have less injuries and are more efficient runners overall. Despite what you’d think, barefoot running (once your feet are sufficiently seasoned) is safer and better for the body. As an alternative, you could also try the Vibram Five Fingers shoes for foot protection in a barefoot-esque package or go with Newton shoes for a forefoot running endeavor. Read on.

SportsOneSource, Jan 28, 2009 — According to a study from Harvard researchers, runners who eschew shoes may be less likely to do serious injury to their feet because they hold their feet differently. Writing in the journal Nature, Daniel Lieberman of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts and colleagues found that runners who wear shoes tend to hit the ground with their heels first, whereas barefoot runners put the balls of the feet down first.

“People who don’t wear shoes when they run have an astonishingly different strike,” Lieberman said in a statement. “By landing on the middle or front of the foot, barefoot runners have almost no impact collision, much less than most shod runners generate when they heel-strike.”

“Most people today think barefoot running is dangerous and hurts, but actually you can run barefoot on the world’s hardest surfaces without the slightest discomfort and pain. All you need is a few calluses to avoid roughing up the skin of the foot.”

Lieberman and his colleagues at Harvard, the University of Glasgow, and Kenya’s Moi University studied runners who had always run barefoot, those who had always worn shoes and runners who had abandoned shoes. Barefoot runners had a springier step overall, and used their calf and foot muscles more efficiently, they found.

People used to running in shoes should not start barefoot trotting right away, Lieberman cautioned. “If you’ve been a heel-striker all your life, you have to transition slowly to build strength in your calf and foot muscles,” he said.

But he noted that evolution is on his side.

“Humans have engaged in endurance running for millions of years, but the modern running shoe was not invented until the 1970s,” Lieberman said.

Image courtesy The Denver Post. (gracias!)

I had a great time catching up with the crew at Outdoor Research. Hailing from the homeland of Seattle, we have a good time talking rain, Cascade Cement, green trees and new outerwear. For Fall 2010, Outdoor Research is essentially jumping into the sidecountry at Crystal Mountain with full avie gear and the new Access Jacket and Pants along for the ride.

I’ve always been impressed with OR’s high-quality, but less-known products. However, many of their pieces are lost in the shuffle of their intended market. Not so with the new Sidecountry Collection. These pieces are built for hard-charging resort skiers who need extra breathability because they slay the pow, or because they like to hike for a few extra turns in the sidecountry at their local resort.

Construction looks superb and the fit is a tad baggy (resort-style), but not obnoxious–just comfortable.

Features of the Outdoor Research Access Jacket and Pants:

• Gore-tex Shell
• Light insluation (Enduraloft)
• Side ventilation (as opposed to pit zips) for efficient cooling while carrying a pack
• Cargo pant-style–very nice looking
• RECCO equipped
• Zip-off balaklava stowed in the hood
• Light brushed fleece lining for moisture wicking
• MSRP: $365 (jacket) / $265 (pants)

Buy Now: Search for Outdoor Research Products

PARK CITY, UT (Jan. 26) – Double World Champion Lindsey Vonn (Vail, CO) and two-time Olympic silver medalist Bode Miller (Franconia, NH) join 2006 Olympic gold medalists Ted Ligety (Park City, UT) and Julia Mancuso (Olympic Valley, CA) as the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) announced the 2010 Olympic Alpine Ski Team Monday.

USSA President and CEO Bill Marolt, together with the U.S. Olympic Committee and Team partner Visa, announced the roster of 22 athletes to compete in the alpine events at Whistler Creekside north of Vancouver. The team is a mix of nine Olympic veterans and 13 first-timers.

Vonn’s 2008 and 2009 seasons accounted for five World Cup titles and she set numerous ski racing high marks, yet her genuine approachability by fans and media alike have rocketed her to the forefront of Olympic sport, including a recently announced honor as 2009 USOC SportsWoman of the Year. Vonn has won every World Cup downhill this season and currently leads the overall, downhill, super G and super combined points standings.

“With Lindsey, there’s potential in every event,” said women’s Head Coach Jim Tracy. “She’s put in the hard work to make it happen and has proven she can. But the cream of the crop will be there and they all have the same goal. She’s said it better than anyone, if she wins one medal of any color, she’ll be happy. Everything else will be a bonus.”

Joining Vonn and Mancuso in the Olympic spotlight is World Cup winner Sarah Schleper (Vail, CO) who becomes a four-time Olympian after missing the two seasons directly after the 2006 Games due to injury and the birth of her nearly two-year-old son, Lasse.

“Sarah has achieved a huge goal that a year ago might have been unrealistic,” added Tracy. “But she has a spirit like no other. If you look at the Olympics there’s always someone who comes out of nowhere. It’s exactly what Julia did in 2006 and now Jules has something that a lot of people will never have – an Olympic gold medal.”

Sparked by solid early season finishes in speed events and a January super combined victory in classic Wengen, Switzerland, Miller – also a four-time Olympian and a double silver medalist from 2002 – is poised to charge on North American snow.

Ligety’s big race success began in 2006 when he became the Olympic combined gold medalist. He has since continued the trend with multiple World Cup wins, a World Cup giant slalom title in 2008 and a World Championships giant slalom bronze in 2009.

“As a Team we’re proud of this group of guys,” said men’s Head Coach Sasha Rearick. “It’s an impressive mix of veterans like Ted and Bode, who’ve shown they can perform when it counts. But then we’ve got young guys like Andrew Weibrecht (Lake Placid, NY) and Tommy Ford (Bend, OR), who have consistently made progress all winter.”

Rearick noted World Cup veterans Marco Sullivan (Squaw Valley, CA), Steven Nyman (Sundance, UT) and Jimmy Cochran (Keene, NH) for putting in the hard work to earn yet another appearance at the Olympic Games. He also praised the Team’s European Training Base in Pagenella-Trentino, Italy for being instrumental in helping prepare his group with perfectly prepared training slopes all season.

“Each one of these guys has put in the work and effort to represent America in Vancouver,” said Rearick. “This staff has done an amazing job day in and day out taking care of all the details to make that happen. We’re a tight family who has been working together for many years and we’re looking forward to the opportunity to inspire Americans about the great sport of ski racing.”

Following a series of three World Cup speed races next weekend in St. Moritz, Switzerland, women’s speed will train at their European Base at Zell am See-Kaprun, Austria until Feb. 5 before arriving in Vancouver on Feb. 9, while the tech athletes will prepare in Jackson Hole, WY.

On the men’s side two giant slaloms and a slalom are set for Kranjska Gora, Slovenia before both men’s speed and technical groups move into a pre-Olympic camp in Park City, UT. U.S. men will also arrive on Feb. 9 in time for the first downhill training run set for Feb. 10.

There are a total of five medal events for each gender with downhill, super G, super combined, giant slalom and slalom all on the Olympic calendar.

The Team is subject to final review by the U.S. Olympic Committee.

2010 U.S. OLYMPIC ALPINE SKI TEAM

(name, hometown, age as of opening ceremonies, birthdate, (past Olympics))

Men

• Will Brandenburg, Spokane, WA, 23, 1/1/87
• Jimmy Cochran, Keene, NH, 28, 5/29/81 (2006)
• Erik Fisher, Middleton, ID, 24, 3/21/1985
• Tommy Ford, Bend, OR, 20, 3/20/89
• Tim Jitloff, Reno, NV, 25, 1/11/1985
• Nolan Kasper, Warren, VT, 20, 3/27/89
• Ted Ligety, Park City, UT, 25, 8/31/84 (2006)
• Bode Miller, Franconia, NH, 32, 10/12/77 (1998, 2002, 2006)
• Steven Nyman, Sundance, UT, 28, 2/12/82 (2006)
• Marco Sullivan, Squaw Valley, CA, 29, 4/27/80 (2002, 2006)
• Andrew Weibrecht, Lake Placid, NY, 24, 2/10/86
• Jake Zamansky, Aspen, CO, 28, 6/26/81

Women

• Stacey Cook, Mammoth Mountain, CA, 25, 7/3/84 (2006)
• Hailey Duke, Boise, ID, 24, 9/17/85
• Julia Mancuso, Olympic Valley, CA, 25, 3/9/84 (2002, 2006)
• Chelsea Marshall, Pittsfield, VT, 27, 11/15/82
• Megan McJames, Park City, UT, 22, 9/24/87
• Alice McKennis, Glenwood Springs, CO, 20, 8/19/89
• Kaylin Richardson, Edina, MN, 25, 9/28/1984
• Sarah Schleper, Vail, CO, 30, 2/19/79 (1998, 2002, 2006)
• Leanne Smith, Conway, NH, 22, 5/28/87
• Lindsey Vonn, Vail, CO, 25, 10/18/84 (2002, 2006)

Tucked in the back corner of the Salomon booth at Outdoor Retailer was a little-known product release for the backcountry skiing crowd–Salomon’s first backcountry ski boots. The new Quest boot line features all the downhill goodness Salomon is known for, all wrapped in a touring-friendly design.

While these aren’t for long-range backcountry ski tours, they are for hard-charging inbounds and out in all conditions. For my type of skiing, these may just be the single boot to rule them all. Yeah, they are going to be a little heavier than dedicated touring boots, but if you ski both front side and backside and only have the funds for a single boot, these will likely be a safe choice for overall performance.

A few key features of the Salomon Quest ski boot line:

• 3 buckle design
• Burly powerstrap
• Interchangeable Contagrip soles (DIN or AT/Dynafit Blocks)
• Thermo formable liner
• 3.86 lbs each (Quest Pro Pebax)
• Magnesium Backbone for improved power
• Tour/ski mode

I slipped into the Quest Pebax Pro (shown at right) for a walkabout and I must say I’m impressed with the fit and power of these boots. The walk mode is surprisingly capable and the overall fit is nice and comfy (101mm last). These compete directly with the Black Diamond Factor boot and will find homes in mountain towns all across the Rockies. With Salomon’s solid ski boot reputation and distribution, they will be a force to be reckoned with, for sure. Prices are TBA and availability will be Fall 2010 at a ski shop near you.

Buy Now: Search for Salomon Ski Boots

At Outdoor Retailer this week, CamelBak is introducing a new product in their wearable hydration lineup (RaceBak and VeloBak) built specifically for Winter sports needs. This time, their wearable hydration technology is built into a fleece vest that would be worn as an insulation layer. For skiers or snowshoers who want to go lightweight and not wear a backpack, this looks like a great option. Another benefit is that with it worn inside the shell, it will better prevent freezing.

These products will be available in Fall 2010 with an MSRP of $100 for the Men’s or Women’s PowderBak system.

See below for more details:

CamelBak®, the inventor of wearable hydration, is further expanding the line with an innovative new product for winter sports. PowderBak™ is a performance-oriented, full-zip mid-layer with an integrated hydration reservoir.

In designing PowderBak, CamelBak addressed the specific apparel, climate and agility requirements of winter athletes to offer the most convenient and effective hydration solution on the mountain. It’s as easy as zip and sip.

PowderBak is made with QuickFit™, CamelBak’s proprietary compression fabric that offers optimal moisture-wicking and quick-drying capabilities in a lightweight, breathable material. It also features HydroPouch™, an innovative compartment that comfortably supports and stabilizes a baffled, low-profile 72 ounce reservoir in a mid-layer that is lift friendly and utilizes core body temperature to help prevent freezing.

“The combination of cold weather, altitude and a day on the mountain is a quick recipe for dehydration, and it’s not always easy to get a quick drink during the day” said Jon Austen, Director of Product Management for CamelBak. “We developed PowderBak to make it both easy and comfortable to stay hydrated for several hours, so you can trade water breaks for a few extra runs.”

More Info: Visit CamelBak.com

The Kombi Proline 180 base layers are available in both Men’s and Women’s styles with crew and zip neck options. Women’s bottoms are also available in a 3/4 length option (why not for men?).

Kombi uses a full-synthetic blend of 90% polyester and 10% Spandex for stretchy-ness. The outer is soft and slick, which is excellent if you are putting a fleece jacket or mid-layer on top of these since the sleeves won’t get all bunched up. While the exterior is slick, the interior is brushed polyester for next-to-skin comfort and moisture management.

I’ve been using these for both backcountry skiing and winter trail running. The fabric maintains its comfort under use as the brushed lining wicks away moisture and keeps you comfy. I ran into some issues though after finishing my activity where the back of the top held the moisture a bit longer than it should have (which made for a cold, wet back).

The two-tone zip neck (tested) is very nice looking and comes in 3 colors (mercury/iceberg, black/grey, salsa/truffle). The single-color zip-neck option is a little less expensive and is still comes in 3 colors (orange, black or white). Crew neck tops feature an abstract design on the left side and are available in 3 colors (black, mercury skyline, iceberg).

The Good

• Comfortable fabric to the touch
• Bottoms are good for cold-weather running tights
• Zip-neck is perfect height and diameter
• Plenty of color options (most of the time

The Bad

• Bottoms are super long… no way they will work with ski boots
• Tops are pretty baggy overall, a more athletic fit would be preferred
• No thumb holes
• Moisture dissipation isn’t as efficient as some
• No fly on the bottoms

Kombi Proline 180 base layers are reasonably-priced and function pretty well. They do miss a few features I’d like to see, but may be still worth a look.

Buy Now: Search for Kombi Products

A new membrane treatment technology that reduces emissions as compared with the existing process will be unveiled by GE at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City, Utah. The new pilot scale process for GE’s eVent waterproof product line modifies how the oleo-phobic treatment is applied to its ePTFE film by leveraging treatment application technology that reduces VOC air emissions compared to our current ePTFE treatment process.

Search for outerwear using eVent Fabric

The new treatment application process uses supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) as a vehicle for applying the treatment to the ePTFE nodes and fibrals, protecting the film from oil contamination. The inherent open pore structure of the ePTFE film is maintained and even enhanced with this new treatment process, without requiring the use of a solvent based polyurethane layer to help protect the ePTFE film.

The EPA has awarded several Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Awards over the last 15 years to companies that have leveraged supercritical CO2 as a “green” solvent. In addition, the book Green Chemistry: Theory and Practice by Paul Anastas and John Warner (Oxford Press, NY 1998) identifies 12 principles of green chemistry, including the use of safer solvents and substitutes. The use of supercritical carbon dioxide in GE’s new process is a substitute solvent for isopropanol.

To further minimize the environmental impact, the carbon dioxide used in this process is captured from an ethanol manufacturing facility where it would be have been released to the atmosphere as part of that process.

“The outdoor industry continues to be very progressive in exploring the issues of environmental impact, and we are excited to be leading efforts in the development of this new treatment application process, both from a product and an environmental perspective,” said Gary Pacilio, General Manager of GE Energy’s Membrane Technologies Business. “This is another example of GE applying technology developed for one business application and leveraging it across multiple product lines to help our customers.”

More Info: Visit EventFabrics.com

I’m a sucker for a big, fat puffy down jacket in the doldrums of the Winter months. Slipping one on is like wearing a sleeping bag–as comfy as can be. The best part about natural down fibers is the packability so you don’t feel like you’re constricted in any way. GoLite is not only leading the charge in sustainability, but they are also producing killer, top-shelf apparel that’s both eco-friendly and durable/functional.

GoLite Roan Plateau Features:

• Warm and packable 800 fill natural down
• 100% nylon ripstop mini with DWR finish
• Relaxed fit
• Includes stuff sack
• Stretch knit cuff liners
• Drawcord waist
• Media pocket with internal cord routing
• Weight: 470 g (1 lb)
• Colors: Twilight Blue, Red Rock, Grease, Black
• MSRP: $225 ($275 w/hood)

The GoLite Roan Plateau jacket is available with or without a hood (I tested the non-hooded variety) and is stuffed with 800 fill down feathers–providing roasty toasty warmth on ultra-cold days. The cut of the jacket provides a tad more length than is typical and that’s a good thing since it keeps your backside covered while out and about.

I’ve used this jacket around town and weathering some cold temps at the start of Dawn Patrols (single digits) and have found it to be extremely anatomical in fit, excellent in coverage and very warm. I really appreciate the inner stretch sleeve cuffs as they keep snow out and provide an excellent weather barrier. The anatomically-cut sleeves and cuffs provide for excellent coverage under use.

I’ve been stashing the GoLite Roan Plateau jacket inside my backcountry skiing pack (Osprey Kode 30) for an emergency layer just in case and it packs down extraordinarily-small for its high loft. MSRP is $225.

The Good

• Anatomical and usable fit provides excellent coverage
• Love the stretchy inner sleeve cuff
• Compresses down for storage
• Extremely warm
• High, lined collar is comfortable and warm

The Bad

• Extra length can make you look “pregnant” when it bunches up

Buy Now: Search for the GoLite Down Jackets

I’ve been known to rant about crappy-looking topsheets in my day. The half-naked ladies or Iron Maiden-esque designs just don’t do it for me and would be quite embarrassing around my wife and my kids. Yeah, yeah… I know many of you could care less and would die for a half-naked Heidi Klum on your skis, but not me. No sir… not going there.

What’s cool about some of the smaller ski manufacturers is they do design contests where you can submit high-quality artwork for use on their skis. I know that Bluehouse Skis does this and G3 just announced their version today. Read on to find out how to get your art noticed:

Everyone who’s ever strapped on a pair of skis has looked down at the graphics and wondered if they could design something better. Once again, thanks to Genuine Guide Gear, they have a chance to find out – and potentially win a free pair of the skis they design. Genuine Guide Gear is inviting aspiring and professional designers and artists to submit their designs for a new top sheet on a G3 ski.

One winner will be chosen for each of three contest periods: January 15 – February 14; February 15 – March 14; and March 15 – April 14, 2010.

“SkiGraphiks is back by popular demand and we are excited to invite everyone to play,” says Naheed Henderson, G3’s Marketing Manager. “This year’s contest is boosted by more opportunities to win,” she continues, “and the judging of this year’s entries will be influenced by votes from the online community.”  Pleasantly surprised by the high number of entrants from around the world last year, Henderson anticipates the return of this popular contest will attract even more design entries this year.

To enter the G3 Ski Graphic Challenge, participants can visit www.genuineguidegear.com and click on the SkiGraphiks icon to review details on how to play, submit entries, plus review and vote on all contest submissions. G3 will take the lead from public votes to choose a winner for each contest period. All three winners will be awarded a free pair of G3 Tonic or Zest skis, printed with their unique graphic. The first (February 14) winner will also claim a free pass to the Kootenay Coldsmoke Powder Festival in Nelson, BC from March 4 – 7, 2010, including lodging, where they will be awarded their custom skis during a Saturday night event at the festival.

More Info: Visit GenuineGuideGear.com

But what if I want to haul more than one pair of skis? That’s the biggest question I’ve got for the latest in ski rack designs–the Raxstars ski rack. Simple in design and I’m sure solid in performance, the Raxstars ski rack is portable (it can fit in your glove box), lockable, simple and affordable (so long as you’re only carrying one pair of skis).

At a mere $24.95, it seems like a great option for on-the-fly ski carrying or slipping a pair of skis onto an otherwise-occupied set of crossbars, but the cost savings and ease-of-use quickly dissipate with each pair you wish to carry. Again, I don’t want to discount American ingenuity and entrepreneurship, but this has limited appeal considering the money and effort needed to carry 4 pairs of skis on a regular basis. I’d just fork over $120 and get the Thule Universal Flat-top 4 if it were up to me.

Here’s a Youtube Video demo of the Raxstars ski rack:

Read on for more information from Raxstars on this new ski rack:

Structured Solutions announced the launch of their new Raxstars™ portable sport racks. Establishing a new category of rack systems, Raxstars attaches to any factory auto rack with a crossbar and allows outdoor enthusiasts to mount their skis, snowboards or kayaks in just minutes. Raxstars are quickly removed and are small enough to store in a glove box or under a seat. At $24.95 (MSRP), Raxstars will appeal to families and outdoor addicts who need a safe, secure and affordable transport system for their gear.

Traditional rack systems can cost more than $100 with a time consuming installation that stays on the roof year round. The Raxstars innovative locking clamp design secures outdoor gear to the vehicle’s crossbar without tools and provides five times more locking force than standard roof-top carriers. Besides economical, Raxstars is small and versatile so it can serve as a primary carrier system, or a backup system. Skiers with full ski racks or with different sports accessories won’t have to add racks or switch out accessories. When not in use, the Raxstars portable racks does not stay on the roof rack—no added wind drag or noise from your ski carrier being left up all summer. Several Raxstars can fit in the glove box or just about any vehicle’s storage compartment.

Raxstars are available for sale on the company website www.raxstars.com and through specialty retailers around the country.

About Structured Solutions:

Structured Solutions llc has earned global recognition as the leader in the development of innovative, safe and easy-to-use tools. Last fall, Structured Solutions launched two newly designed wheeled snow shovels to compliment the original Wovel®, named one of the best new inventions in 2006 by Time Magazine. The innovative Folding Frame SnoWovel debuted in a new category of hybrid tools, combining safety for the user and the environment together with high-performance.

More Info: Visit www.Raxstars.com

In their continued dominance in the world of triathlons and in road racing, Felt Bicycles has signed Terenzo Bozzone for 2010 and beyond. Details below:

Irvine, CA (January 11, 2010) – Felt Bicycles is pleased to announce the addition of 2008 Ironman 70.3 World Champion Terenzo Bozzone to its lineup of talented Olympic and World Champion triathletes. The 24-year-old New Zealander will ride Felt bikes, including the DA triathlon bike and AR aerodynamic road bike, in 2010 and beyond.

“After visiting the company and speaking with Jim Felt and the rest of the crew, I had no doubt Felt was the place I wanted to be,” Bozzone said. “Felt’s track record of producing aerodynamically superior bikes is second to none, and I’m confident I will be on the best possible bikes and well looked after.”

Bozzone already has dozens of major victories to his name, including the 2008 70.3 Half Ironman World Championship title. Born in South Africa and raised in New Zealand, Bozzone has seen success at every level of multisport competition. As a junior athlete, fresh out of high school, he won the Men’s Under-20 Duathlon World Championships in 2001 and 2002, and the Under-20 Men’s Triathlon world titles in 2002 and 2003.

In the following years Bozzone chalked up elite category wins at nearly every major half-Ironman. In 2008, he dominated the Ironman 70.3 series, winning in Kansas, Idaho and California, before taking the 70.3 world title in Florida.

“Terenzo is a fantastic talent and we couldn’t be more pleased he is choosing Felt Bicycles to help take him to the next level of his career,” said Felt company namesake Jim Felt. “He’s a proven winner, and the sky is the limit for this young athlete.”

Having conquered 70.3 competition, Bozzone is now turning his attention to full Ironman-distance competition. His transition to the longer format got off to a solid start last March when he finished second at his first full Ironman in New Zealand.

Bozzone competed at the Hawaii Ironman World Championships for the first time last October and despite suffering badly on the run he finished 11th, showing great promise. “I am really enjoying competing over the full distance races and I think I have gained a great deal of experience this past year,” Bozzone said.

For 2010, Bozzone plans to continue competing in key 70.3 events, while also focusing more on the Ironman events. “My main goals are to get an Ironman title under my belt and win a couple 70.3 races,” he said. “And a top-five in Kona would top off the year for me. Long term, I aim to be the best triathlete in the world, and the most recognized triathlon is Kona.”

Bozzone joins a talented roster of Felt-sponsored triathletes in 2010 including Australian Michellie Jones and American Tim DeBoom—both two-time Ironman World Champions—as well as current Olympic champions Emma Snowsill (Australia) and Jan Frodeno (Germany).

More Info: Visit FeltBicycles.com

As one of the leaders in sustainable manufacturing in outdoor gear, GoLite has released their 2009 Sustainability Report fulfilling the standards set by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). I’ve been impressed with their products for some time and laud their efforts in sustainability. Time for the consumer to support these types of companies with their wallets. Look for a social media blitz by GoLite where you speak up and voice your support of companies like GoLite, Horny Toad, Nau and others.

What’s amazing about GoLite is they are improving product quality and sustainability at the same time. In the past, this has been mutually-exclusive, but not any more. If you dig what they are doing, why not become a fan of GoLite on Facebook?

Here are the details from SportsOneSource.com:

GoLite has issued its 2009 Sustainability Report, a ground-breaking and comprehensive look at the company’s environmental and social practices and footprint.

The 157 page report is GoLite’s first effort at full-spectrum transparency and fulfills the standards set by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), arguably the world’s most credible and trusted framework for corporate responsibility and sustainability reporting. The report focuses both on the company’s environmental practices and impact including product responsibility, waste minimization, and climate impact, as well as its social impacts including labor policies, global human rights and community involvement.

The report was peer-audited by an Assurance Committee comprised of leaders in the outdoor and sustainability fields. Both the Assurance Committee and the GRI staff in Amsterdam reviewed the report and affirmed it as meeting the GRI reporting level of A+. Globally, only 1,226 companies were known to have met the GRI reporting standard in 2009, and of that group, only 30% were affirmed by GRI at the A+ level of reporting.

“GoLite has set a new standard for small to mid-size enterprises, one that should help other companies realize the value of a high level of transparency,” said Jeff Hohensee, CEO of Natural Capitalism Solutions and Chairman of the report’s Assurance Committee.

GoLite is following a multi-year, metrics-based path to sustainability. The company is striving to eliminate or mitigate 100% of its environmental footprint and be a model company in how they treat their people and community. As they strive for a truly sustainable business model, they are maintaining or increasing their stringent end-use and testing requirements so that they are actually improving product quality and technical performance as they move forward, not sacrificing them.

Among the key take-aways of the report are:

• Three of the overarching goals that the company set in 2006 to be accomplished by year-end 2010 have been achieved, a year ahead of schedule. The three are: Using a majority of Environmentally Preferred Materials in its products by mass (they are now at 67%); achieving 100% compliance with their factory fair labor Code of Conduct; and using zero restricted or banned substances in any product.
• Two goals from 2006 are expected to be met in the coming months: achieving a 30% absolute greenhouse gas emissions reduction (not including offsets) through targeted emissions reductions strategies, despite doubling of sales; and achieving “carbon neutral” status through these climate impact reduction efforts plus carbon offsets for any remaining impacts. They are working to achieve their final goal of having a 100% Zero Waste headquarters. While they are not sure if they will achieve it for 2010, for 2009 over 94% of their waste was either recycled or composted, leaving 6% for them to figure out how to divert away from landfills in 2010.
• The report further reveals that the company’s single largest climate impact (62% of total) comes from the production of the materials in their products, putting product impact mitigation at the core of their sustainability work.
• The company made a bold move towards full conversion of its product line to Environmentally Preferred Materials in its Spring 2010 line when it replaced virgin, petro-chemical based materials in 100% of their main pack fabrics, travel luggage, and in all of their sleeping bag collections with Tier 1 recycled nylons and polyesters, which have been shown to have up to 70% (for nylon) and up to 80% (for polyester) reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while performing on-par with their conventional alternatives.

Members of the Assurance Committee included Jeff Hohensee, Chief Executive Officer of Natural Capitalism; Bart Houlahan, Co-Founder of B Lab and the B Corporation Certification; Frank Hugelmeyer, President & CEO of Outdoor Industry Association; Steven Lerman, Vice President of the Consumer Division at Brookwood Companies, Inc.; Dana Donley Morton, Marketing Director at GoLite, LLC and William Shutkin, attorney, educator, author, and social entrepreneur.

GoLite’s Co-Founder and Chief Sustainability Officer, Kim Coupounas, said, “Building a sustainable business is an expression of our brand essence and our passion. It’s also good for our planet, good for our customers, and good for our business. We hope the report inspires others in the outdoor industry and the corporate world in general to do the same.”

A public review period will take place immediately following the public release of this report during which GoLite will seek direct feedback from consumers and other relevant stakeholders via email, social media, and other channels.

More Info: View the GoLite 2009 Sustainability Report (PDF)

With oranges freezing in Florida and high temperatures across the nation that will make you rub your eyes to double-check if you’re seeing straight, it’s time to talk warm jackets. But, not just warm jackets for the high-rollers, but one for the masses. Yes, The North Face is one of the most ubiquitous brands in outerwear, so you’re not going to stand out in a crowd. However, that’s not necessarily a bad thing if you are looking for high-quality at a reasonable price.

In my opinion, if you live in a cold part of the country (Utah’s Wasatch Range counts), you’ve got to have a down jacket at your disposal. Not only do they keep you ultra-warm, but they are comfortable to wear because the compressible nature of natural down never restricts movement. Tops on the list of affordable down jackets is The North Face Aconcagua jacket for men and women (heck, it’s also available for boys and girls too–see pics to the right).

The Men’s and Women’s versions don’t look too much alike on the outside, but the down fill is identical (600 fill down). The differences are good, since the ladies version is decidedly more feminine with the criss-cross stitching pattern and a myriad of colors. That criss-cross pattern reminds me of the original Eddie Bauer down jacket from the 1920’s and remains one of the best ways to maintain even loft across the body of the jacket. The silky-looking exterior adds to the femininity of the women’s version as well, but it does add a couple of ounces to the weight due to the fabric differences.

For the Men, you’re getting at a pretty standard-looking down jacket with the typical features found on all The North Face products. Overall, this is a great jacket for outdoor activity or sedentary adventures to the store, etc.

The North Face Aconcagua Jacket Specs – Men

• Brushed internal collar
• Two hand pockets
• Hem cinch-cord
• Center-to-back length: 28″
• Body fabric: 40D 58 g/m² (1.7 oz/yd²) taffeta woven nylon with DWR
• 600 Fill Goose Down – learn more
• Avg Weight: 23.2 oz
• Colors: Anemone Green, Wick Grey, Black, Bittersweet Brown, Mountain Blue
• MSRP: $149 – buy men’s aconcagua jacket

The North Face Aconcagua Jacket Specs – Women

• Brushed internal collar
• Two hand pockets
• Interior stow pocket
• Hem cinch-cord
• Center-t0-back length: 25″
• Body fabric: 50D 95 g/m² (2.8 oz/yd²) satin nylon with DWR
• 600 Fill Goose Down – learn more
• Avg Weight: 25 oz.
• Colors: Denim Blue, Moonlight Ivory, Black, White, Blue Tide, Pagoda Red, Bittersweet Brown, Aurora Purple, Knight Purple, Aurora Pink
• MSRP: $149 – buy women’s aconcagua jacket

Buy Now: Search for The North Face Aconcagua Jacket

Like most mountain bikers, I’ve had a thing for Rocky Mountain bikes for many years. I’ve owned several of their bikes over the years and have always gawked at the way their factory freeriders have hucked their meat in style since the inception of “The North Shore”. Not only are their bikes top-notch, but their riders are excellent ambassadors of the sport. The kingpin, Wade Simmons continues as both a rider and global ambassador with the addition of several other talented riders.

Here’s the skinny from Rocky Mountain:

Rocky Mountain Bicycles is pleased to announce its 2010 Gravity Team roster with the re-signing of Wade Simmons, Geoff Gulevich, Dave Smutok, and the addition of rising talent Jarrett Moore.

Wade Simmons, known as the The Godfather of freeride mountain biking, is embarking on his thirteenth year with Rocky Mountain as a rider and global ambassador. “We couldn’t be happier than to have Wade back for another year. Wade’s one of the hardest working and nicest guys in the sport, and frankly, I can’t imagine him not being with Rocky Mountain”, commented Rocky Mountain’s Sports Marketing Manager, Peter Vallance. “Wade’s global profile is a huge asset to us in addition to his instrumental input to our bike development.”

Slopestyle and big mountain specialist, Geoff Gulevich rode for Rocky Mountain in 2008 and 2009 is back for the 2010 season. Vallance continues, “Geoff is one of the most professional slopestyle athletes we’ve worked with. If he’s not busy competing or filming, he’s working on his next new trick. Geoff has been closely involved with our R&D department and the development of a new frame that our slopestyle riders will be testing this season.” 2010 marks the premiere of the Anthill Productions’ highly anticipated film Follow Me, featuring Gulevich and several of mountain biking’s biggest stars.

American slopestyle crowd favorite, Dave Smutok is also back for 2010. Smutok, who is the head trail builder at Highland Mountain in New Hampshire, is also the man behind the Claymore Challenge, the largest slopestyle event in the U.S. “Dave is the full package for us. His slopestyle results, his presence at Highland Mountain, and his cult following make Dave an exciting part of our team”, Vallance adds. “His segment in the upcoming Black Box film, Antonym, is not to be missed.”

Rounding out Rocky Mountain’s gravity squad is Jarrett Moore. Hailing from Victoria, B.C., Jarrett made his international debut in Aaron Laroque’s film “What’s Next”, which profiled B.C.’s most promising new talents. Jarrett has been steadily making a name for himself at local contests and is poised to have a breakout year in 2010.

More Info: Visit Bikes.com

Without question, SCOTT Bicycles have received unprecedented media coverage over the past year. With the success of the Columbia-HTC cycling team, lead by sprinter Mark Cavendish, SCOTT is crushing it. Check out the 2010 Scott Addict RC bike to the right as an example of what the team will ride this season (wow!).

Here’s a bit of news on the brand’s success:

–

SCOTT Bicycles is pleased with the 2009 reader poll on Cyclingnews.com in which readers voted Columbia-HTC the number one team in the world by an overwhelming 51% margin. Over half of those polled decided the Team deserved the top spot for their dominance in professional racing during the 2009 season, thanks in large part to the successes of sprinters Mark Cavendish and Andre Greipel leading the Team to over one hundred victories aboard the SCOTT Addict road bike.

The same reader poll determined that the SCOTT Addict was in the Top 5 as favorite team bike, drafting off the success of Columbia-HTC. The 790 gram Addict was ridden by all members of the Team in both flat and hilly races, truly marking it as a bike that can do it all.

“Clearly this is huge for our brand,” said Scott Montgomery. “If you look at the leaders in the team bike survey, they are all brands used by the top teams. These polls prove that as a team gains popularity, so do the brands they ride. We are seeing this reflected in early fill in demand of 2010 Addict, CR1, and Plasma orders. We are confident that our brand is headed to the top position in the US market, as it already is in Europe. The age old adage of race on Saturday and sell on Monday is alive and well across the world–road racing is the pinnacle of a brand building and positioning, and with some 16 million Americans having watched the Tour de France last year, we are confident that 2010 will be our best year in our company’s history.”

Buy Now: Search for Scott Bikes

When Backcountry.com announced the release of their Stoic line of outerwear and apparel, I was stoked. While some “house brand” products can be pretty ho-hum, Backcountry has a way of producing very technical and usable products for committed outdoors enthusiasts. Take the Backcountry.com Stoic eVent shell, for example. That jacket continues to be my top choice for ultralight all-season protection and can be found in my backpack on nearly every backcountry ski tour I take.

With those high expectations, I embarked on an adventure with the new Stoic Welder Insulated Softshell jacket. While this jacket leans more towards the resort side of the spectrum, it’s still built with a nice cut and all the features you’d come to expect from a hard-core outerwear manufacturer. Most noteworthy is the welded softshell exterior. While most jackets still utilize stitching, Stoic has chosen to weld nearly every seam on this jacket (hence the name Welder) for a more streamlined and lightweight feel. The seams are a little stiff, but you eliminate the need for taped seams and all the garbage that comes along with it, so the tradeoff is minimal.

If you’ve ever worn a Kjus jacket, then you know how comfortable a quality ski jacket can feel. Well, I’d put the Stoic Welder Insulated jacket pretty much on par, comfort-wise, to a Kjus jacket. Yes, it lacks some of the fancy bells and whistles that Kjus is known for, but for almost a third of the price, you’re better off going for this jacket.

The softshell fabric is stretchy enough to make all movements feel natural and comfortable while the lightweight insulation isn’t bulky at all, but provides enough warmth to keep the notoriously-cold bodies nice and toasty.

Of course the jacket has fleece-lined pockets galore with easily-grabbed zipper pulls (for use with gloves on) and pit zips. The pit zips are nice to have, but they are backed with a mesh lining that prevents full-on opening. This is good and bad, but I think mostly bad. The mesh lining prevents snow from entering, but it also reduces their effectiveness. So, for those of us who forget to zip up the pits before dropping into the waist-deep goodness High Ruslter at Alta, you’ll be stoked, but you’ll not be able to dump heat as well on the long traverse.

The overall function of this jacket is great and I look forward to putting it through its paces through the remainder of the season.

The Good

• High-quality feel without the huge pricetag
• Welded seams simplify construction and reduce bulk
• Fleece-lined pockets are comfy cozy
• Cut is just right… not super-athletic, but not baggy (I’ll call it form-fit)
• Zippers all zip up/down with ease with or without gloves on
• Pit zips
• Muted, classic styling
• A little extra backside coverage helps

The Bad

• Mesh-backed pit zips reduce ventilation
• Hood is a little difficult to adjust on-the-fly
• No powder skirt (not a huge deal, but some prefer it)

Final Thoughts: Stoic Welder Insulated Jacket

My final verdict is very positive on this jacket for inbounds use. It’s comfortable and extremely warm. You’d be hard-pressed to find its equal at this price.

Buy Now: Search for Stoic Welder Insulated Jackets

After much speculation and impatience by Ibis enthusiasts worldwide, Ibis has finally announced the details of the all-new Ibis Mojo HD. Looks like it will be available in March and come in at $2399 with Fox RP23 shock. The full details of the Mojo HD is available over at IbisCycles.com.

I saw the Mojo HD in person while at Interbike last Fall and as a Mojo owner, I’m stoked on the longer-travel design. While I’ve yet to feel like I’m bottoming-out my Mojo, an extra bit of plush with the same efficiency sounds sublime. And, the frame continues to be as sexy as all get-out. Head on over the Ibis Web site for more details about the new Mojo HD.

More Info: Visit IbisCycles.com

Felt Bicycles continues to grow its presence by sponsoring the UCI World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland. In doing so, Felt continues to make their mark as one of the premiere manufacturers of road, triathlon, bmx and mountain bikes. Read the following press release:

Irvine, CA (January 5, 2009) – Felt Bicycles has partnered with the International Cycling Union (UCI), the world governing body of cycling, to supply a full stable of road, time trial, track, mountain and BMX frames to the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland. The architecturally renowned World Cycling Centre opened in 2002 and houses the offices of the UCI staff as well as elite training facilities for Olympic cycling hopefuls from around the world. The WCC also functions as a training center for national-level cycling coaches, team directors and other management roles within the sport.

“We’re pleased to be a sponsor of this incredible facility and the athletes who train there,” said Felt President Bill Duehring. “We’re especially proud to support those athletes from developing nations that might not have the resources or elite level of support to help them chase their Olympic dreams.”

Located in the Swiss Alps and surrounded by roads and trails that are ideal for road and mountain bike training, the World Cycling Centre was created to help develop the sport globally. To that end, WCC coaches identify riders from countries that lack fully funded national teams and invite them to live in Aigle to train at the WCC. In 2009, more than 83 riders from 38 different countries benefited from the WCC facilities. Since opening, the WCC has hosted 717 athletes from 113 countries.

UCI President Pat McQuaid expressed appreciation for the sponsorship. “The World Cycling Centre is delighted with this new partnership, which will benefit promising young riders in all the disciplines promoted at the WCC,” he said. “The UCI’s training and coaching center would simply not be able to fulfill its missions without the support of all its partners, and one of the most important of these is Felt.”

Athletes who have trained at the WCC range from Olympic champions to unknown riders with untapped potential. American Sarah Hammer, a two-time world champion who is sponsored by Felt, currently lives in Aigle and trains at the WCC.

The WCC facilities include an indoor 200-meter velodrome, an Olympic-style BMX course and a fully equipped gymnasium. In addition to training athletes, there are coaching programs as well. In some cases, a coach is invited along with an athlete so that, together, they can take what they learn back to their home country. Beyond that, the WCC also recently introduced programs aimed at training team directors. It’s all part of the mission to improve cycling opportunities all around the world.

Felt’s sponsorship of the WCC began January 1, 2010 and continues through December 31, 2012.

About Felt Bicycles

Felt Bicycles is a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of its own proprietary premium quality bicycles, framesets, components and accessories. The company’s U.S. office is in Irvine, California, and its European office is in Edewecht, Germany. Felt Bicycles is an internationally recognized brand with bicycles and products sold in more than 30 countries worldwide. Athletes on Felt products have won numerous events including World Championships, Olympic Games, ESPN X-Games and other major national and international competitions. For more information on Felt Bicycles call (949) 452-9050 in the U.S. or (49) 4405-928015 in Europe, or visit Felt online at www.feltbicycles.com or www.feltbmx.com.

About the UCI

The International Cycling Union (UCI), founded in 1900 and headquartered in Aigle, Switzerland, is the Olympic International Federation of Cycling. It is the association of 175 National Federations. The UCI is the liaison between the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the National Cycling Federations, managing rules, rankings and calendars for all cycling disciplines, and organizing the World Championships for all disciplines.

It’s the middle of Winter where I’m sitting, but somewhere it is still 80-degrees and sunny, so here goes… Flojos announced a handful of new flip-flops that are a part of their 2010 lineup. Here’s the word:

Nothing says cool, casual and confident quite like Flojos’ line of men’s sandals for spring 2010. Guys will love the fact that Flojos sandals provide them with all-day comfort and support and style.

“Durability and comfort are always at the forefront of Flojos designs,” said Alan Beatty, vice president of marketing for Flojos. “We provide sturdy sandals coupled with style, so that our customers can truly get maximum use and satisfaction from their footwear.”

Guys will travel in style in 2010 in the casual and athletic leather Swift thong. With a suede foot bed, cupped heel and swooped back to keep the heel balanced and in place, these sandals will take you from one activity to the next with ease. They are available in black, brown and tan; MSRP: $49.

Perfect for throwing on after working up a sweat on the basketball court, or if your feet are in need of a little TLC, the Xander features a thick memory foam footbed and a soft lined strap, providing men with all-day ultra cushy support. Available in black, brown and camel; MSRP: $29.

The name says it all with the Traveler. Made for the guy on the go, this sandal features a rolled comfort footbed, arch support and a slight heel cup. Available in black and brown; MSRP: $36.

Buy Now: Search for Flojos Sandals

Lounge shoes… comfy slippers… beach Loafers? How about all three? The Patagonia Maui Moc shoes are made for ultimate comfort around the house, around town or while traveling. Built for comfort with or without socks, the recycled PET fleece lining is ultra-cozy against either option.

Features of the Patagonia Maui Moc:

• Water-resistant, corduroy-embossed pigskin leather upper
• Comfortable recycled PET fleece lining and footbed wick moisture
• Dual-density, air-cushion midsole contains EVA that’s 20% recycled
• Air Cushion Plus provides shock absorption
• High-abrasion EVA outsole lends the ultimate lightweight platform
• Slip-lasted construction
• Medium to wide width, full toe box, medium arch/ instep
• 369 g (13 oz)
• MSRP: $80
• Colors: Retro Khaki, Earthenware or Sable Brown

I slipped these on and headed out for a night on the town in the 15-degree weather and my feet were kept comfortable and warm. The soles aren’t ideal for ice walking, but that’s admittedly pushing their limits. I immediately appreciated the air cushioned EVA midsole as it provides tons of cushioning for my flat feet.

For the Winter, the sweet spot for these mocs is around the house. We have tons of tile and it takes its toll on bare feet, so I’ve taken to wearing these around the house and quite like them. They slip on/off easily and provide ample cushioning all-around. When I wander around outside or hit a quick trip to the store, the Patagonia Maui Mocs have been comfortable and casual with jeans or khakis.

The Good

• Air-cushoned EVA midsole
• Ultra-comfy PET fleece lining
• Collapsible for travel
• Superlight
• Casual versatility at its best

The Bad

• $80 pricepoint may seem a bit high
• Not really supportive

The Bottom Line: Patagonia Maui Moc

Built for lounging, travel or casual wear, the Maui Moc is ultra-comfy with enough versatility to wear around the house, on the town and everywhere in between.

Buy Now: Search for Patagonia Maui Mocs

The new product machine at Smith is relentless. Without fail, every six months, I get the lowdown on the new sunglasses, goggles, helmets and accessories. Chopper at Smith was particularly stoked on this new model, so I was naturally intrigued.

“We had a handful of mountain bikers ride them for several days straight on the Umpqua River Trail in Oregon,” he said confidently. “They were all stoked on how lightweight they felt.”

Slipping them on, I could see why as these glasses offer some of the best field of vision while remaining super light at the same time. The frameless design really gives the V90 Max a stylish look, but more importantly provides killer field of vision and excellent water shedding qualities.

I’ve used the V90’s extensively on the bike and trail running and really appreciate the grippy rubber and clear optics. I actually have used all three lenses in differing light conditions and truly dig the new Pivlock lens system. Changing lenses couldn’t be easier with no need to ever touch the middle of the lens to do the swap. A quick rotation of the arms, a tug on the nose piece and you’re swapped out.

The only real gripe I have with these glasses is that the ear pieces don’t curve behind the ear enough and tend to interfere with my Giro Xen bike helmet. I found myself adjusting the glasses a little too much on the bike with that helmet.

I love how light they feel and how comfortable they are in all conditions. I settled in on the Ignitor lenses for all-around performance. My favorite feature of these is the amazing field of vision offered by a truly frameless design, which lends itself to excellent peformance while trail running, mountain biking or hiking where a wide field of vision is key.

The Good

• Excellent coverage is much appreciated–especially during cold weather activity
• TLT optics provide great clarity in all conditions
• No frame to interfere with vision
• Flexible for any head shape
• Easy to swap out lenses without scratching
• Ultralight feel

The Bad

• Ear pieces interfere with my bike helmet (Giro Xen)
• Still not sold on clear lenses (I know… I know… night riding)

Bottom Line: Smith Pivlock V90 Max Sunglasses

A solid new sunglass offering from Smith features new Pivlock interchangeable lens technology in an uber-light shield design.

Buy Now: Search for Smith Pivlock V90 Sunglasses

The proper wheelset is critical to overall bike performance. It may cost a lot, but think about it… the wheels are darn important. Next to the frame and fork, the wheels are the next most important parts of your ride quality. Flimsy, cheap wheels will ruin your ride quality faster than a Deore rear derailleur ever will, so spend wisely.

Now the Crank Brothers Iodine’s have been matched to my new Ibis Mojo for the past 6 months. When I first got the bike assembled in all its glory, I couldn’t keep my eyes off it. The burnt orange Iodine’s were just the perfect match with the natural carbon fiber black of the Mojo. The whole package just looks amazing. I wasn’t the only one… most everyone who saw the bike commented on how cool the wheels were.

While looks are great and all, they don’t get you much when the trails get gnarly. In every riding condition, I’ve been super-impressed with the ride quality of the Iodine’s.

Rolling quality is outstanding as these wheels seem to roll on and on by themselves. The rear hub provides fast and smooth engagement under all load conditions–steep climbs, fast rollers and downhill transitions. Quick adjustments in rocky sections to avoid pedal-strikes are met with a solid drivetrain no matter the location. The only negative of the freehub is the volume as you’re coasting downhill. The tell-tale whirrrrrr is really quite loud. My riding buddies have commented multiple times on the loudness, but if that’s the only flaw, it’s pretty minor.

Other than that, my initial set of 15mm end caps were machined a little off, so I had to spend a few minutes hand-sanding the inside diameter to remove a few microns. A second set of caps were much better, so it appears to no longer be an issue.

I just love laying into corners with the Iodine’s as they track straight and true no matter how hard-pressed. Tracking through rock gardens and rough terrain, the Iodine’s simply hold their line. Drops and jumps are also met with solid hoops underfoot.

Everywhere from the epic downhill of the Wasatch Crest Trail to the winding singletrack of the Ridge Trail 157 and fast loops in Corner Canyon have been perfect for these wheels.

I’ve yet to ride these tubeless (I know, I know…), but will change to tubeless in the Spring and post a follow-up.

The Good

• Lateral stiffness
• Tracking through the rough stuff
• Smooth rolling
• Unique design
• Quick freehub engagement
• Easy to service and/or replace bearings
• Amazing good looks (the wheels or me?)
• Tubeless-compatibility

The Bad

• Loud freehub
• Proprietary spokes may be difficult to find in a pinch
• Color options may clash with your ride
• It’ll cost ya’

The Final Word: Crank Brothers Iodine Wheelset

If you’re in the market for a new set of high-end all-mountain wheels, give the the $950 Crank Brothers Iodine wheelset a fair shake–they roll well and adeptly track through rough stuff.

Buy Now: Search for Crank Brothers Iodine Wheels

Kind of a funny parody, actually, but not so funny for The North Face when it infringes upon their brand. I’m not certain where parodies fall, but I thought they were pretty much OK so long as they stay within certain boundaries. I suppose The South Butt overstepped those bounds and is now in the crosshairs of legal action.

Personally, it’s kind of sad to think that TNF feels threatened by these guys, but I suppose they feel they have some precedence to stand on. Judging by some of the backlash (Twitter Land), it might be backfiring in some respects. Good luck there guys… you’re gonna need it!

The North Face has filed a patent infringement suit against a teenager marketing fleeces, T-shirts and shorts under the brand name “The South Butt.”

In its lawsuit, TNF alleges James Winkelmann Jr., Williams Pharmacy and The South Butt LLC infringed on its patent with their parody product.

Winklemann, 18, created The South Butt two years ago and began selling them through Williams Pharmacy, which owns four drug stores in the St. Louis area. The brand features fleeces, T-shirts and other apparel adorned with a square white on red logo that is very similar to TNF’s iconic logo. The South Butt uses the tagline “Never Stop Relaxing” in a parody of TNF’s “Never Stop Exploring.”

“Unfortunately, and inevitably, The North Face success attracts opportunists seeking to pirate its famous trademarks for their inferior knockoffs,” reads the suit, filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. “The three defendants named here are merely the latest in a long line of such opportunists. They are marketing apparel that directly and unabashedly infringes and dilutes The North Face famous trademarks and duplicates The North Face’s trade dress in its iconic Denali jacket.”

Brands have historically had difficulty proving a parody product infringes their patents.

In its lawsuit TNF alleges that the defendants twice tried to obtain a U.S. trademark registration for The South Butt. When TNF opposed the registration, Winkelmann offered to sell the business to TNF for $1 million. Winkelmann has since withdrawn the offer and plans to expand the manufacture and sale of its line nationwide in the spring, the suit alleges. The company is soliciting additional retail locations and campus reps to represent the company on college campuses.

On Tuesday, The South Butt logo on the company’s Twitter page had changed from red to blue. The site was filled with posts from fans citing news reports about the lawsuit.

More Info: Visit TheSouthButt.com

Golden, BC, Canada (December 13, 2009) – Last weekend Great Canadian Heli-Skiing was proud to host the 2009 FIS North American Freestyle Judge Clinic which included individuals who will be officiating at the 2010 Winter Olympics. In addition to the 16 attendees was International Judge Educator Marcello Centurione, the only North American chosen to be one of 5 scoring judges for the freestyle halfpipe snowboard event during the upcoming Winter Olympics. Marcello, who judged at the last Winter Games in Torino and is North America’s most experienced snowboard judge with over 50 world class events under his belt, specifically selected Great Canadian Heli-Skiing as the venue of choice as it is the perfect location to discuss the latest trends in judging while at the same time feeding the judges’ passion for snowboarding. He gave both the course and the heli-boarding “Perfect 10’s”!

“The terrain, the snow, the guides, the small groups of 4 and the possibility of run after run of unlimited vertical re-emphasised to us that Great Canadian Heli-Skiing is THE place to go heli-skiing!” exclaimed a passionate Marcello.

The goal of the clinic was to discuss and update participants on how best to judge freestyle snowboarding competitions. In judged sports other than snowboarding, competitors must announce which manoeuvres they are going to perform, or have a degree of difficulty assigned to them: not so in snowboarding! This freedom given to the riders to express makes it complicated for judges to score a run when a rider ‘throws down’ a trick that may have never been seen before. To this end, ‘progression’ was the main topic of discussion at the clinic. Progression is 1 of 8 criteria that a judge takes into account when scoring a rider along with Amplitude, Execution, Variety, Difficulty, Risk, Combos and Pipe Use.

If snowboarding superstars such as Shaun White and Canada’s own, Jeff Batchelor, unleash tricks never seen before, Marcello and his fellow Olympic judges will be ready for them, despite maybe never seeing the trick before in live competition. In the clinic they discussed the various potential ways riders can grab, cork, invert and spin themselves and their boards and how they would thus score them. So no matter what new trick a rider pulls out, the judging team will be prepared to score them fairly. This allows snowboarding to retain its “free”style image and reward progression while incorporating some structure.

Marcello said “the great thing about snowboarding is that it’s all about ‘freedom of expression’”. So why hold a judging clinic at Great Canadian Heli-Skiing? Since the structure of snowboarding freestyle competitions is centered on the freedom of expression, it is essential for a judge to personally stay connected with this ideal. What better way to stay connected than to go free-riding in the mountains?

Judge/Coach Mike Stastook exclaimed, “That was the best riding of my life! And I must admit, I have had some great days out there. I’ve toured Rogers Pass a lot, sledded all over Revelstoke and Golden, been catboarding before…but nothing compared to the experience that I had with you guys this weekend. The run selections were amazing, the pilot was unreal, my guide Allison was the best we could have asked for and our group was very tightly bound by our friendships. I will never forget this”.

The 2010 Olympic Halfpipe events will be held at Cypress Mountain on February 17th and 18th.

More Info: Visit CanadianHeli-Skiing.com

++

Great Canadian Heli-Skiing, the most accessible Canadian heli-skiing operation from an international airport, is located between Golden and Revelstoke BC in the heart of the world’s heli-skiing powder belt where it snows +14 metres (46 feet) annually. The company offers helicopter assisted guided skiing in the snow-choked mountains of the Purcell and Selkirk Mountain Ranges. In 1988 Great Canadian Heli-Skiing pioneered skiing in small groups of 4 and was the first to incorporate Unlimited Vertical (i.e. no extra charges for ski more than the guaranteed amount) in all packages.

I’m a huge fan of what KGB Productions is doing. Their ski and mountain bike films tell a story and are stocked with great footage and music (and they tell a story). Just this morning, I was thinking about how old it gets to watch the same ski movies with the same thrash bands and the same corked 540’s off a backcountry booter. OK… off my soapbox.

Here’s the skinny from KGB Productions on their Holiday Sale:

Skip the sweater this year and get them something that they will actually enjoy. Freedom Riders DVDs, Sublimation Experiment DVDs, I love Dirt hoodies, Freedom Riders pint glasses, etc, on heavy discounted sale now!

Santa does not have this stuff! Freedom Riders DVD makes a great stocking stuffer for any bike enthusiast. Check out the movie that everybody from Mountain Bike to Bike to Decline Magazine to Pinkbike.com and mtbr.com, to spandex clad road bikers are raving about …Including my Mom

For any clothing purchase we are going to hook you up with a limited edition pint glass, to fill with Holiday Cheer.

Shop Now: Visit FreedomRidersTheMovie.com

When it comes to teaching your kids how to ride a bike without training wheels, all kinds of images come to mind of scraped knees and elbows and hours of trying over and over again. As my kids have gotten older and have started riding their own bikes with training wheels, I didn’t want to doom myself to an all-day bike riding event–instead I opted for the balance bike strategy.

Balance bikes come in different shapes and sizes with some of the first ones on the market being made of wood. Yeah, you could just buy a kids bike and remove the crankset and chain, but at some point you’ll have to re-assemble it. And, in my case that would mean disassembling and re-assembling 4 times over the next 4 years. So, I ordered up the Performance Kids Balance bike because it’s built solid, yet lightweight and it’s white with boy or girl sticker options so my boy won’t have to ride around with a pink bike with tassles.

Getting the bike out of the box and ready to ride was easy. Just insert the stem and bars, put on the front wheel, pump up the tires and then insert the seatpost/saddle combo and that’s it.

The First Few Rides

For the first few days, my 4-yr-old daughter would keep saying, “Daddy… the bike is broken… can I ride my other bike? The other bike had pedals and training wheels, so I talked her out of it saying, “This is your new bike… it’s fun, right? Get back on it and you’ll soon be scooting all over the place.” To this, her response was always, “OK, Daddy.” and off she went struggling her way along the sidewalk.

After a couple of days, she began to get the hang of it and could at least keep the bike upright. After a week, she was comfortable enough to lift her feet off the ground for a few feet at a time and just coast. And, after two weeks, she was pushing herself around so fast on that bike, it was crazy. She’d put her feet on top of the forks and just coast for 50 feet or more.

The Transition to Big Kid Bike

Once she became all-to-comfortable with the balance bike and could steer and coast without a problem, it was time to remove the training wheels of her 12″-wheeled bike and have a go at it.  Of course, I talked it all up and helped her feel confident she could do it.

The moment of truth came and all it took was one lap around the neighbors houses with me holding onto her seat, then she was pretty much off on her own. It took a few days for her to get the whole stopping and starting processes dialed in, but she learned how to ride without training wheels in 2 weeks–almost completely on her own.

I highly recommend the use of balance bikes to teach your kids how to ride. They are fun, lightweight and teach them balance in a non-threatening way. The bike feels very sturdy and is actually built by Raleigh Bicycles, so the welds and construction is a billion times better than any Huffy or Murray bike on the market. It feels lightweight too, which is a plus for kids who will have to pick it up and push it around.

The $79 price (current price may be lower or higher) is also reasonable–especially for me since I’ll have 4 kids using it in the coming years.

Buy Now: Search for the Kids Balance Bike from Performance Bike

Core Concepts was founded with the intent of creating overwhelmingly-functional activewear for outdoor athletes. The entire system from base layers to outerwear is built to work in harmony and function at a high-level. Each piece is built well and is offered at competitive price points in the market.

This Winter, I’ve got a pair of the Core Concepts Uncle Ben Bibs. I’ll flog them skiing both inbounds and in the backcountry as well as other Winter activities.

Features of the Uncle Ben Bib

• Waterproof and breathable (20k/15g) stretch shell pant
• Lightweight Schoeller® Dryskin Extreme bib upper
• Fully taped seams
• Zippered chest pocket
• Two zippered hand pockets and one cargo pocket
• Double-snap closure at waist
• Zippered vents at thigh
• Schoeller® Kevlar reinforced scuff guards
• Built-in adjustable gaiters
• 100% nylon Shelter Stretch shell
• Colors: Black
• MSRP: $220 – buy now

Core Concepts Uncle Ben Ski Bibs – Quick Thoughts

I’ve had these for a few weeks and have finally been able to take them out into the Winter weather. My initial take is they feel very high-quality and have some great features. I appreciate the Schoeller fabric of the bib to keep the snow out but also maintain wearability.

The fit of the Uncle Ben isn’t snowboard-style baggy, instead it’s an efficient fit that’s both at home in the resort and in the backcountry. The side zips are critical to dumping heat while skinning and the front pockets and zippered cargo pocket add to the versatility.

The cuff and gaiter is a bit bell-shaped, so they fit very easily over ski boots. This is great for ski or snowboard boots, but does present some challenges for wearing with lighter-weight boots for other activities, like snowshoeing, shoveling snow, etc.

I’m liking these bibs overall and will post my long-term thoughts after giving them the full beat-down. In the meantime, head on over to Core Concepts to see their full line of products.

More Info: Visit CoreLayers.com

Pyramid Breweries, brewers of the gold medal1 award winning Pyramid Haywire® Hefeweizen, seasonal winter warmer Snow Cap®, and the 2008 Brewery of the Year, announces a brand new steep and deep winter sweepstakes offering an epic backcountry ski experience at Squaw Valley USA.

Those dedicated to quenching their thirst for life can log-on to PyramidBrew.com/Backcountry and enter to win an all-expenses paid trip for four on a “Winter Backcountry Getaway in Tahoe”. The grand prize package includes a five-day trip for one winner and three friends, complete with airfare, lodging, guided backcountry cat skiing adventures, lift tickets, custom Pyramid K2 snowboard, technical outerwear from Mountain Hardwear, and more!

Additional prizes include a custom Pyramid K2 snowboard for each of five second place winners, and Pyramid branded Mountain Hardwear soft shells for twenty-five third place winners.

The picturesque location and optimal mix of adventure and high performance gear positions the “Win a Winter Backcountry Getaway in Tahoe” sweepstakes as the ultimate cold weather excursion worth sharing with friends. This promotion follows the success of Pyramid’s summer sweepstakes which awarded four lucky grand prize winners a Slickrock Mountain Bike Expedition in Moab, UT along with a high-performance mountain bike and adventure gear. Evidenced by over 5,000 entries from all across the country, both programs celebrate the energy and activity enjoyed by the communities where Pyramid brews, lives, and plays everyday.

Pyramid has teamed up with several respected promotional partners, including: Pacific Crest Snowcats – Tahoe’s only snowcat-assisted backcountry skiing and snowboarding service; Squaw Valley USA – one of the world’s premier destination resorts; the Resort at Squaw Creek – accommodations rivaling the magnificence of the alpine setting; K2 – world renowned products for the sports enthusiast; Mountain Hardwear – the most innovative and technical outdoor gear available.

The sweepstakes launches November 1 through themed displays at select Pyramid retailers, where consumers will be directed to enter online at PyramidBrew.com/Backcountry. The program will run through December 31 and winners will be announced mid-January.

About Pyramid Brewing Co.

Pyramid Brewing Co. is a leading brewer of specialty, full-flavored beers produced under the Pyramid family of ales and lagers. Pyramid beers continue to be honored by beer drinkers and judges, earning the most craft beer medals in the last decade at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival (GABF). Since its beginning, Pyramid beers have received 22 medals at the GABF. The brewery has also been awarded seven medals in international competition at the World Beer Cup.

With breweries in Seattle, WA, Portland, OR, and Berkeley, CA, the Company owns Alehouses at all three locations as well as two additional Pyramid Alehouses in Walnut Creek and Sacramento, CA.

After much anticipation, Burton unveils today the US Snowboard Team Uniforms for the upcoming 2010 Winter Olympics. This February, as the US Snowboard Team steps onto the World’s stage in Vancouver, they will look and feel unmatched with designs that speak to both individuality and heritage, key hallmarks of the Burton brand and the snowboard culture. Building on their long-standing relationship with Gore, Burton has enhanced their own unique designs with the Gore-Tex^® brand.

The Olympic uniforms feature a fresh and progressive style while also managing to pay tribute to more classic Americana fashion staples. The pants seamlessly integrate the look of real, worn, vintage denim, and the jackets feature preppy plaids adorned with leather patches and chenille crests with both pieces incorporating the performance benefits of Gore-Tex fabric. All product development at Burton is rider driven and this Olympic outerwear is no exception.  Burton held a roundtable discussion with top pro-snowboarders and Olympic hopefuls Elena Hight, Mason Aguirre, Danny Davis, Kevin Pearce, Jack Mitrani, Luke Mitrani, Steve Fisher, Scotty Lago, and Louie Vito to review design concepts for the outerwear before arriving at the final creation.

“Since its inception, Burton has been a rider driven company,” said Jake Burton, Founder and Chairman of Burton Snowboards.  “For the creation of the US Snowboard Team uniform, we listened carefully to the riders’ needs and used their input to ensure that the final fit, fabrics and overall design would maximize their performances and take these riders to the podium. It was also absolutely critical to ensure these Olympic uniforms were worthy of bearing the Burton name.”

The partnership with the Gore-Tex brand, the official fabric of the 2010 U.S. Snowboarding Team’s Olympic outerwear, further enhances the technical designs, enabling riders to compete in a variety of cold weather conditions. Gore-Tex fabrics combat the snow, ice, water and wind, while maintaining breathability, keeping riders drier and more comfortable.

“The Olympic team is made up of the best riders in the world and they demand the best in functionality and performance,” says Brad Hill, NA Snowsports Marketing Leader.” As the leader in technical fabrics, our number one priority at Gore is to make sure our products are best in class. By blending Burton’s unique style with the unbeatable comfort and protection found in Gore-Tex fabric we’re confident the uniforms will enable riders to stay focused on the challenges of the event itself, and not on the distractions bad weather can bring.”

W.L. Gore & Associates (Gore) and the GORE-TEX® brand launched a new online community today, MyExperienceMore.com.

“Our new community is geared towards outdoor enthusiasts of all levels and activities,” states Bill Foster, GORE-TEX® brand marketing director. “MyExperienceMore.com provides a forum for these individuals to communicate with one another and share their outdoor experiences via photos, videos and message boards.”

MyExperienceMore.com community members will benefit from special promotions and offers from Gore’s partner brands and retailers. The community will also highlight upcoming events across the country and fundraisers for related non-profit organizations.

“Outdoor enthusiasts are a vibrant and active community who thrive on connecting with each other,” states Melissa Riggs of Gore’s Fabric Marketing division. “We are simply providing a means through which these individuals can be inspired and energized by their peers.”

To launch the new MyExperienceMore.com community, the GORE-TEX® brand presents the “Experience More Challenge,” an online contest in which community members have the chance to win the experience of their dreams. Members can submit photos of themselves “experiencing more” outdoors, and the online community will rate these experiences. Entries receiving a certain average rating will then be considered for six finalist positions, chosen by a panel of Gore representatives. The six finalists will receive GORE-TEX® gear and will be reevaluated by the online community, who will vote for the winner of the “Experience More Challenge.” The Grand Prize Winner will receive up to $10,000 towards planning his/her own dream experience, including expenses and gear. Additionally, the GORE-TEX® brand will donate $5,000 to one of 10 participating outdoor non-profits, to be selected by the Experience More Challenge winner.

About W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

With more than $2.5 billion in annual sales and approximately 9,000 employees in 30 countries worldwide, W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., provides diverse, high-performance solutions in consumer, industrial, electronic, medical, and surgical markets. As well-known for its unique corporate culture as for its products, Gore’s 50-year success story rests equally on product and organizational innovation. Perhaps best known as the inventors of expanded PTFE (ePTFE) and the makers of GORE-TEX® fabric, Gore is a leading manufacturer of thousands of advanced technology products that comprise a breadth of capabilities.

If you’ve got kids and you like to go hiking, there’s no doubt you’ve seen Kelty’s kid carriers. They are without a doubt the most popular kid carriers on the market (though Deuter also makes great ones). I’ve got one and have used it for years with my kiddos. For long trips, nothing beats it for both my comfort and my kids comfort.

Heading into the Holidays, REI has an exclusive on the upcoming 2010 models from Kelty. Other retailers will follow, but if you want the latest styles and models, head over to REI. Each model has a bit more bells and whistles, but most notably, the 3.0 includes the sun/rain visor, which is a must for warm or foul-weather travel with kids.

Kelty FC 1.0 Child Carrier

• Auto-deploy kickstand extends and retracts smoothly thanks to an internal spring-loaded system
• 5-point, adjustable harness system is anchored directly to frame and features an easy-to-use central tensioning system similar to car seats
• Curved, molded foam shoulder harness with sternum strap and padded hipbelt evenly distribute load
• Mesh back panel with sliding torso-length adjustment allows easy fitting changes between short and tall parents
• Padded, fixed cockpit offers a reclined position, allowing child to sit naturally and comfortably
• Double-hook seat height adjusts quickly and easily
• Under-seat storage compartment accommodates small toys, snacks and a change of clothes
• Carrier also features hipbelt storage pockets and toy loop attachment points
• 3M reflective tape accents provide 360° of visibility
• Manufacturer recommends a maximum weight limit of 50 lbs. for child and gear
• Made from durable 600-denier polyester and brushed nylon
• MSRP: $149.95

Kelty FC 2.0 Child Carrier

• Auto-deploy kickstand extends and retracts smoothly thanks to an internal spring-loaded system
• 5-point, adjustable harness system is anchored directly to frame and features an easy-to-use central tensioning system similar to car seats
• Curved, molded foam shoulder harness with load-lifter straps, sternum strap and contoured, padded hipbelt evenly distributes the load
• Padded, molded back panel with sliding torso-length adjustment allows easy fitting changes between short and tall parents
• Padded, removable and washable cockpit offers a reclined position, allowing child to sit naturally and comfortably
• Double-hook seat height adjusts quickly and easily
• Zip-off diaper pack with shoulder straps stores toys and essentials
• Under-seat storage compartment accommodates more diapers, toys, snacks and change of clothes—enough for a day’s outing
• Carrier also features hipbelt storage pockets and toy loop attachment points
• 3M reflective tape accents provide 360° of visibility
• Manufacturer recommends a maximum weight limit of 50 lbs. for child and gear
• Made from durable 600-denier polyester and brushed nylon
• MSRP: $199.95

Kelty FC 3.0 Child Carrier

• Auto-deploy kickstand is internally spring-loaded (no bungees) for smooth deployment and retraction
• 5-point, adjustable harness system is anchored directly to frame and features an easy-to-use central tensioning system similar to car seats
• Curved, molded foam shoulder straps with load-lifter straps, sternum strap and 2-layer contoured padded hipbelt evenly distribute load
• Padded, molded back panel with sliding torso-length adjustment allows easy fitting changes between short and tall parents
• Padded, removable and washable cockpit offers a reclined position, allowing child to sit naturally and comfortably
• Double-hook seat height adjustment is fast and easy to change
• Included sun/rain hood protects your little one from the elements and also helps guard against unruly bushes and branches
• Removable diaper pack with shoulder strap lets you bring along toys and essentials
• Under-seat storage compartment accommodates more diapers, toys, snacks and change of clothes—enough for a day’s outing
• Includes changing pad for those unexpected diaper changes while on the go
• The Kelty FC 3.0 Frame child carrier also features hipbelt storage pockets for small essentials for mom and dad and toy loop attachment points for the little one
• 3M reflective tape accents provides 360° of visibility
• Manufacturer recommends a maximum weight limit of 50 lbs. for child and gear
• Made from durable 600-denier polyester and brushed nylon
• MSRP: $249.95

Buy Now: Visit REI for Exclusive Deals on 2010 Kelty Kid Carriers

The Jackson Hole Air Force is legendary in skiing circles. These guys were pushing the limits of the terrain and the patience of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The film is airing across the country now in ski towns nationwide, or is available on DVD for small-screen viewing.

From Swift. Silent. Deep.

Swift Silent Deep is a documentary ski film about a revolutionary underground band of rebel skiers who called themselves the Jackson Hole Air Force. Swift Silent Deep opens the book on a notorious group of hardcore ski bums who checked authority as they explored the out-of-bounds terrain of Jackson Hole and unwittingly became the fathers of the extreme skiing movement. This great ski movie features incredible archival ski footage and a great cast of characters, including Benny Wilson, Howard Henderson, Scot Schmidt, the founders of Teton Gravity Research, Warren Miller, and the late Doug Coombs. Swift Silent Deep is a must for any ski film collection.

View the Swift. Silent. Deep. Trailer

More Info: Visit SwiftSilentDeep.com

Chaco sandals owners are definitely zealots when it comes to evangelizing their love of their sandals. Just a quick google of “Chaco tan lines” and you’ll see thousands of pictures and stories of happy Chaco owners. I just got word from Chaco HQ about their repair program, which will return your sandals to new–a great service to loyal Chaco owners.

If you LOVE your Chaco’s, send them home for a little TLC.

More details from Chaco:

Everyone loves a trip to the spa to refresh and rejuvenate; Chaco sandals are no different! A unique program allows Chaco owners to send their sandals “back home” for TLC when they need it.

Chaco’s repair/warranty program replaces outsoles and webbing straps that wear with the extended use that Chaco fans are known to give their sandals, both on the water and on the town. Chaco provides resoling and rewebbing (plus a number of other adjustment and repair services) for all of its sandals, for as long as the owner has them. This is a key reason that so many people are Chaco fanatics (ask one!)

Chaco replaces buckles, shortens and lengthens straps and heel leashes and adjusts heel risers, and performs all repair services in a turnaround time of approximately five days.

Repairs are performed by a skilled team of veteran Chaco-ites who are committed to keeping the brand on the job and on their owners’ feet for as long as possible (Chaco can’t guarantee to help adventure ridden, callused feet, but the sandals will be revitalized!) Once sandals are received, turnaround time is approximately 5 business days.

More Info: Learn about the Chaco Repair Program

Extra-thin socks have been standard-issue my ski socks now for years. I prefer the close-to-boot feel and have typically had a very slim, race-fit with my ski boots. I have since come off that just a tad in favor of all-day comfort instead of rock-solid race-fit, but I still prefer a thin sock for skiing.

From the legendary mills of Bridgedale, I now have in my hands (and on my feet) a comfortable, moisture-wicking and thin pair of ski socks, the Bridgedale Ultra Fit, Ultra Lightweight ski socks. They are thin, but have been built with lightweight support in mind (hence, they aren’t just a simple thin sock).

Built with WoolFusion (Merino Wool, Polypro, Nylon and Lycra) yarn to provide comfortable, stink-free and moisture-wicking performance, the Ultra Fit socks look and feel promising.

At this point I’ve only worn them on dry runs indoors as I’m getting dialed in for the ski season, but the fit and comfort out the gate is phenomenal. Just the right mix of materials for elasticity, support and comfort with minimalist weights in high-flex areas for a bunch-free fit. I will provide a detailed report on performance during the season, so stay tuned.

Features of the Bridgedale Ultra Fit ski socks:

• WoolFusion yarn blend: 38% Merino, 38% Endurofil, 22% Nylon and 2% Lycra
• Lightweight fit for snug-fitting boots
• Machine washable (see care instructions)
• 3-year Guarantee!
• Colors: Grey or Black
• MSRP: $24.95

Buy Now: Search for Bridgedale Ski Socks

Looks like Backcountry.com is stepping it up with their new Stoic brand. I’ve been very impressed with the variety of Backcountry-branded gear I’ve reviewed in the past and envision the new Stoic pieces to be even better.

Here’s the news release on the official launch of Stoic.

Sheets of light-density snow blanket the mountains before an epic powder day. Solid ice has finally formed on a classic mixed line that rarely exists. The suffocating deluge that has kept a climbing team holed up in their tent for five days at 20,478 feet has abated, giving way to a welcoming ridge of high pressure for the first ascent summit push.

It’s game on. It’s time to thrive in your element. You need Stoic.

Stoic is a new line of premium technical gear that has captured, cultured and distilled mountain adventure into everlasting bomber apparel.

Every Stoic piece works as part of a whole. Whether you seek an ascetically spare shell system or a fully featured alpine expedition suit, an ethereal second-skin base layer or a bulletproof backcountry bib, Stoic delivers. Every feature, fabric and construction method is tried and thoroughly tested not only by human hands, but by the terrain and conditions that surround us, and the community of alpinists who share and stoke our drive.

“Stoic is made for people whose gear and skills are tested by alpine terrain and conditions,” says Bill Hartlieb, Stoic Brand Manager. “We built this line with the innovation of welded construction and weather-protecting materials, and an ideal synergy of weight, function and durability to provide maximum comfort and performance when you’re charging in the mountains.”

Stoic has a fresh fall ’09 line-up, featuring a number of super technical pinnacle pieces:

Stoic Bombshell Insulated Jacket

Weighing in at less than two pounds, the fully weld-seamed Bombshell Insulated Jacket is your new backcountry friend that quietly keeps you warm and dry thanks to Cirrus microfiber synthetic insulation and a proprietary Bombshell waterproof breathable material that allows a bit of stretch. The burly Bombshell Bib flows unobstructed with your every move, from precise front-pointing to dynamic knee-dropping while farming turns.

Welder Collection: Softshell & Gloves

The softshell jacket Welder Collection – Lo, Hi and Insulated – will out-breathe the best Lamaze gurus and fend off precip like a Cockatiel’s oily feathers. And for your digits, the softshell Welder Glove features fused dynamism with superior dexterity, welded technology and a wool liner that means warmth and comfort for your hands.

Ladies Bombshell Pant

For the ladies, both in- and out-of-bounds, the Bombshell Insulated Ski Pant uses the same comfy flat welded seams and just the right amount of Cirrus insulation on the legs. The adjustable waist pants combine inbounds fashion and side- or backcountry function.

Stoic is the more focused newcomer, born from its predecessor, Backcountry.com brand gear. Over the past three years, what is now Stoic has been formed and refined with the help of feedback from hundreds of members of Backcountry.com’s Gear Guru community. It’s the honed and tested result of the people that push their gear to the limits and tell us about it. Core gear users helping build gear for other core users, that’s Stoic.

More Info: www.stoicgear.com

In recent months, the acquisition market has started buzzing and the outdoor industry is seeing its fair share of it. Just today, Implus Footcare, LLC announced that they acquired Highgear (maker of altimeter and heart rate monitor watches and electronics). While both companies call the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina home and both companies are involved in the outdoors, it seems more like a bailout than a match made in heaven. Maybe I’m out of the loop, but it just seems odd.

To be honest, Highgear has been struggling to compete in the high-end market for years. Their watches and technology are good and solid, but not on par with market-leaders Suunto and Polar. My guess is this may be somewhat of a shotgun wedding, but I’m a complete outsider looking at it from outside the fishbowl. I trust that the combined company will now be stronger and more able to deliver high-quality products to the market.

And now the release:

Implus Footcare LLC has acquired Highgear, the provider of performance watches, navigation tools and accessories. The acquisition comes as Implus continues its commitment to expanding its current outdoor and sporting goods product offerings.

Highgear’s products include altimeters, compasses, pedometers and navigational devices, as well as licensed New Balance sports monitors.

“Joining the Implus family provides Highgear with a new sense of energy and additional resources to continue our growth and expansion, and to meet the changing needs of the outdoor market,” said Mike Hosey, President and Founder of Highgear. “The shared strengths and synergies we have with Implus was obvious from the get go, making this transition a natural fit for the Highgear brand.”

“The addition of Highgear® to the Implus brand family greatly increases our reach to the growing outdoor consumer segment,” said Todd Vore, President of Implus. “Highgear’s® line of products allows us to meet the many needs of outdoor enthusiasts and complements our other outdoor brands: Yaktrax, Granger’s and Little Hotties Hand & Body Warmers.”

The acquisition of Highgear comes on the heels of the company’s relocation to an expanded facility in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Boasting over 252,000 square feet, the new Implus location brings all of Implus’ distribution operations under one roof. Over the last two years, the company has successfully acquired and grown three major brand expansions: Yaxtrax, a unique line of winter traction footwear, Sneaker Balls, a line of sports air fresheners, and Little Hotties Warmers, a leading provider of hand, body and toe warmers. Implus also became the North American distribution channel for Grangers, a leading company specializing in performance care treatments for fabrics and leather.

More Info: Visit ImplusFootcare.com

I just heard about this nifty little contraption… the Bike Brake. Seems like a no-brainer to have in your pocket for parking your bike, photo shoots or standing against a wall in your garage. We’ve all had our bikes wander on us after we set them against the rear bumper or a wall, but this little number looks to be an easy solution. However, a heavy-duty rubber band can really do the same trick.

More Info:

In September 2009, Bike Brake introduced their new bicycle parking brake for use on bicycles not equipped with kickstands. Designed with a low profile to remain on the grip, it is durable, lightweight, and un-obstructive. Bike Brake features two grab tabs to easily lift and extend around the brake lever to keep the front wheel from spinning, greatly stabilizing the bicycle when stood upright. Now available in nine colors Bike Brake fits both road and mountain bikes.

“Bicycles are very expensive and there is always the potential for them to fall when temporarily parked. This can scratch the bike or often the car it rests against,” said Kendall Kelsen, President of Bike Brake. “It takes less time to apply the Bike Brake than to attempt a good bike balance. You can be confident your bike will stay in place.”

Bike Brake can be used when preparing for a ride, taking a break, performing maintenance, or storing the bicycle. There is also a theft deterrent factor when the bicycle is unattended. MSRP is $2.99 each.

More Info: Visit BikeBrake.com

Yup, me and socks… we have a love/hate relationship. Too thick and they make my feet sweat, not tight or supportive enough and they slip all around on my feet. I heart thin socks, but sometimes in the Winter, I do admit that I can endure trail running in a little thicker sock but when the weather is above 40 degrees and I’ve got a reasonable pair of trail running shoes, me and thin socks are a duo.

While I’m quite fond of the Lorpen Multisport socks, the light weight and function of the Wigwam Ironman Triathlete Pro socks is similar to the Lorpen’s to some extent. I’ve now used these socks both trail running and mountain biking and while the Lorpen’s are still my #1 choice, these are a comparable sock for less money.

The Ironman socks are thin, light and comfortable in trail runners or bike shoes. I really appreciated the moisture management capabilities and the thin feel. I like thin socks because it improves trail feel when running and keeps my tootsies cool. In the summer, I do all I can to avoid wearing socks, but if I must wear socks, they have to be ultrathin.

Another nice thing about these socks is the toe stitching is reversed so the bulky part of the seam is on the outside instead of causing chaffing on your foot–nice.

Not all is honky dory with the Wigwam Ironman Triathlete socks though. Yeah, they’re ultralight, but ultralight doesn’t have to mean unsupportive. When compared to the Lorpen Multisport, these socks completely lack any cross-support–they are a straight, no-nonsense thin sock. With feet as flat as mine, I can appreciate some support in the midfoot from a snug-fitting sock. These remain loose and really provide no support.

The Good

• Ultralight and breathable
• Stays stink-free even after multiple bike rides
• Perfect height for trail running or cycling
• Excellent pricepoint (REI has 2 pair for $15)
• Reverse stitched toebox

The Bad

• No built-in support

Buy Now: Search for Wigwam Triathlete Socks

This is #2 in command in the Trek Top Fuel lineup with an even 100mm travel front and rear all mated to a full-carbon frameset. This bike is built for speed, cap’n… no question about that. The Trek Top Fuel 9.8 trim level is essentially a full Shimano XT drivetrain that’s then rounded out with a smattering of Bontrager and Raceface components to round things out.

• OCLV Red Carbon frame w/ABP Race, Full Floater, magnesium EVO Link, oversized pivot bearings, replaceable derailleur hanger, 100mm travel
• Fox 32 F-Series Remote RL, 100mm travel
• Fox Float RP23 shock
• Bontrager Race Lite Disc wheel system
• Shimano XT drivetrain
• Bontrager and Raceface cockpit
• MSRP: $4719.99

Trek Top Fuel 9.8 Review

When I arrived at the Trek tent first thing in the morning, I pretty much had my pick of the litter–all except the new Remedy 9.8 and 9.9’s (Michael Browne, Trek’s Product Manager informed me they were off limits to North American pubs… uggh… I can talk like a Brit! Didn’t work). So, I opted for a bike that I wouldn’t typically ride, but looked compelling on Bootleg’s then-empty trails.

After getting dialed in, I was anxious to get spinning before the morning air turned into a veritable hair dryer. Slipping up past the tent city, I could really enjoy myself on the technical, rocky terrain of Bootleg.

While the Top Fuel climbs like a billy goat, the narrow Bontrager XR1 Expert 2.0 tires were a little lacking when encountering loose sand (think a beach) as they sunk in and ground me to an occasional near-stop. However, when the hardpacked and rocky/technical trails were the obstacle, holy smokes can this bike ascend! A quick tap of Fox’s nifty F32 remote lockout combined with a quick flip of the ProPedal lever on the Fox RP23 rear shock and the Top Fuel turned into an unmatched trail-climbing machine. I could climb on this bike all day and still have energy to climb some more, then wake up and do it all over again… it’s very responsive, fast and agile.

After being thoroughly impressed with the climbing ability, it was time to slip downhill and see just what this bike could do when faced with the rock-strewn trails of Bootleg Canyon. Let me just say this… it’s not my first choice on these types of trails, but with some stouter tires, this bike can still hang well when the trails get technical and steep. On smooth, twisty singletrack (stuff this bike was made for), the Top Fuel carves and flows as good as the best bikes on the market, but consistently technical terrain will definitely give you a wild ride unless you are an expert line-picker.

The best way to describe the Top Fuel is to call it a rocket. This bike is fast as all get-out, but you will pay the price if you descend extremely rough terrain with any regularity. Where you’ll come away smiling is in the efficient and smooth suspension that can propel you to the top of any climb on your list.

Trek has been making carbon-fiber mountain bike frames as long as I can remember and the much-lauded ABP suspension design with EVO Link and Full Floater system is the real deal. I felt nothing but smooth suspension travel under load and while braking.

Good Top Fuel 9.8

• Fast as a rocket
• Beautiful OCLV carbon fiber frame
• So light you’ll cheat the trails (only 23 lbs.)
• Solid parts spec from top-to-bottom
• Fox’s F32 fork with remote lockout is awesome

Bad Top Fuel 9.8

• Not quite capable enough for rough trail duty
• Limited seat height adjustment

Bottom Line: 2010 Trek Top Fuel 9.8

This bike will no doubt propel you to the top of the mountain or podium with ease. Don’t blame the bike if you don’t crush your personal best climb times since this 23-lb rocket is as efficient and fast as they come. I’d say this is a capable cross-country racer, but one that still takes a fair amount of abuse once the treads are swapped for something more substantial.

More Info: Visit TrekBikes.com

Spyder, the world’s leading skiwear and mountain-based apparel brand, announces the debut of a completely re-engineered speed suit for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics to be worn by the U.S. and Canadian teams. The new race suit system incorporates three key innovations that will improve the suit’s aerodynamics and result in significant time savings for North American athletes. It will be available for consumer purchase in 2011.

“The focus of Spyder’s research during the last few years has been about how we can make our speed suits more slippery against air,” says Spyder Product Director Phil Shettig, “Our goal is to manipulate airflow properties to make all of our suits faster against the competition.”

Spyder refined the surface texture on the top face knit, reducing the co-efficient of friction against wind. The new slippery surface has less texture than past fabrics, and was tested in wind tunnels to shave off precious hundredths of seconds from racers’ times, a margin by which many ski races are won and lost.

To replace traditional padding, Spyder worked with d30™ Labs to create a pad that has 40% less volume than prior protection. d30™ pads are made from intelligent molecules that flow during movement, but reactively lock together on impact to absorb shock. The padding system is more aerodynamic due to its lower profile and a lack of abrupt edges that can “catch” wind.

Finally, Spyder moved their protective pads from their slalom and GS suits to a separate underlayer in order to reduce the amount of thread, seams and needle holes on the outside fabric, all of which contribute to wind friction.

Phil McNichol, former U.S. Ski Team Men’s Alpine Coach says, “Spyder is at the forefront of developing these technologies through wind tunnel and on-snow testing. Without a doubt we will have the best technical advantage at the Vancouver Games.”

Spyder’s Slippery Technology is the latest in a long line of innovations that have historically allowed Spyder race suits to stay far ahead of the competition. From the brand’s first padded slalom sweaters in 1970s to the Speedwyre suits that were banned by the FIS in the 1990s for being “too fast,” Spyder will once again charge ahead and separate itself as the leader in speed suit engineering.

About Spyder Active Sports
Spyder revolutionized ski apparel in 1978 with a padded slalom sweater designed “for racing, by racers.” Spyder products continue to dominate the race circuit and are the choice of the US Alpine and Canadian Alpine World Cup Ski Teams. Renown for integration of high-tech fabrication, function and fashion, Spyder is the world’s leading skiwear and mountain-based apparel brand. Based in Boulder, Colorado, Spyder products are distributed in over 50 countries worldwide.

In 2008 Spyder acquired Cloudveil Mountain Works, credited as starting the modern day soft shell revolution. Cloudveil draws inspiration from its home-base of Jackson, Wyoming, building innovative and functional apparel for the outdoor, snowsports, fly fishing and casual apparel markets. For more information, visit www.spyder.com and www.cloudveil.com

As Scott’s first foray into the 29er market, they decided that they wanted to attack the entry-level market with a killer-looking and performing bike at an amazing pricepoint. Well, I was floored when he said the MSRP would come in at $1649. To get it to that price, the parts spec is pretty pedestrian, but the frame, fork and wheels are solid.

Here are a few specs on the test rig (they vary slightly from production):

• Hydroformed tubeset
• Slightly curved seat tube for improved tire clearance and shorter chainstays/wheelbase
• Trail-friendly geometry
• DT Swiss 485D wheelset
• Rockshox Reba SL fork w/remote lockout (100mm)
• Avid Elixir S brakes
• Schwalbe Racing Ralph 2.25 tires
• Weight: 26.21 lbs
• MSRP: $1649

Scott Scale 29er Review

Scanning over the Scott lineup at the demo, the Scale 29er was tops on my list–even before I knew it was a budget-friendly spec. Just in time, the 29er appeared and Adrian gave me the lowdown. As Scott’s first 29er, this one is poised to take advantage of the current 29er wave by offering a knockout pricepoint with a solid bike. Going over the frame details, it has all the makings of a great bike with hydroformed tubes and trail-friendly geometry. Even the paintjob is stunning–not your typical $1500 rig as far as looks go.

Slipping out on the trails, I was quickly reminded why the 26er hardtail should die a slow death… 29ers just make everything smoother and faster. This bike was an effortless climber and just felt comfortable. It felt like a great bike with the ability to rail corners and maintain speed in a way only 29ers can.

I was able to power up some good terrain and climb anything I wanted. And when the trail turned downhill and the turns made their way down the desert singletrack, the Scale 29er felt poised and comfortable. This bike is a well-executed entry into the market… hopefully the future holds a carbon 29er from Scott because that would truly make this bike that much better.

Good Scott Scale 29er

• Comfortable trailbike
• Well-mannered and smooth
• Great looking overall package
• Amazing pricepoint means easy entry into 29er land
• Well-executed aluminum frame with solid geometry
• Fast and fun

Bad Scott Scale 29er

• Entry-level parts
• With Scott’s carbon expertise, I’d expect a carbon frame option
• A little heavy, but lightweight parts = expensive

Bottom Line: Scott Scale 29er

This bike has a ton of potential and at a killer pricepoint to boot. If you’re thinking hardtail, skip right past the 26ers and look on over at the new Scale 29er–you’ll be hard-pressed to find this much quality, value and fun on the market today.

More Info: Visit ScottUSA.com

Compared to my GoLite running shorts, these are like basketball shorts, but in reality, they are the perfect length for all-around use. No need to feel uncomfortable hanging out post-run while wearing these because their casual cut hides the excellent function of these shorts.

Built with 100% microfiber with just enough stretch to keep things comfortable and to ease freedom of movement. On top of that, the full mesh side panel that goes up each side and along the bottom of the waistband increases both flexibility and breathability. At pace, you can feel the air movement–perfect for hot days on the trail.

I used these exclusively for trail running and found them to work very well for that purpose. I appreciate that these shorts are full-featured with usable front pockets and a rear pocket. While they aren’t the most lightweight shorts (minimalists will scoff), they are highly-functional and versatile.

The inner liner is one of the more supportive I’ve worn. In concert with the Ex Officio Give-n-go Boxers, these shorts fit well and the liner added just the right amount of support in the man area.

Just a couple of minor gripes on these shorts. The fabric now has a handful of snags from trail-intruding scrub oak branches and other trailside brush–nothing major, but they could be a little more snag-resistant. For me, the drawstring waistband is useless since the drawstring just keeps pulling back into the waistband. Luckily, the size large shorts fit my 33 in. waist perfectly, so it was really not a big deal.

Good Fury

• The perfect length… not too short… not too long
• Excellent side vents to keep things cool
• Usable pockets all around
• Supportive inner liner

Bad Fury

• String in waistband always pulls back into the waistband
• Fabric could be a bit more snag-resistant

The Bottom Line: Merrell Fury Running Shorts

With just the right length and plenty of ventilation, the Merrell Fury shorts are a great mix of road and trail performance for everyday runners. Purists will scoff at the lack of upper thigh exposure, but everyone else will appreciate the fit and style of these shorts.

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Shorts

Continuing to lead in the realm of new media, Teton Gravity Research is proud to announce its most recent ski and snowboard film, Re:Session, now available on iTunes for distribution and purchase. The 65-minute ski and snowboard film is available for digital download for $7.99.

Making use of the latest forms of digital distribution is a growing trend for TGR. When TGR launched podcasts on iTunes 3 years ago (a free service where subscribers can download weekly high-resolution video webisodes to their computers or iPods) an organic subscriber list of over 70,000 quickly amassed. TGR was also one of the first action sports company’s to launch it’s own iTunes Studio, where customers can buy it’s films and television shows.

“As a youthfully-driven multi-media company, we’re very aware that we have to embrace new forms of media,” co-founder of TGR, Todd Jones said, “whether it’s opening up our films for digital download, selling digital music, fostering online community or producing podcasts, we’re constantly on the lookout for creative new ways to distribute our message.”

In recent years, TGR’s online brand has taken off. TetonGravity.com currently boasts more than 300,000 unique visitors and over 5 million pages views every month. With over 25 percent of those users coming from outside the US, digital distribution in iTunes could make a significant impact on sales and brand awareness.

Todd Jones said, “When you think of all of the hassles and costs of international distribution, digital formats offer instant, easy and inexpensive options for everyone. We are pushing to expand into the international iTunes market in the near future.”

Buy Now: Visit TetonGravity.com

I just got word from the crew at Corsair Bikes that they are opening up the floodgates for potential riders to apply for their 2010 downhill race program. Corsair is a growing, rider-owned bike company with a solid fleet of downhill, freeride, dirt jumping, park and all-mountain bikes. They are growing and eager to get a solid race team on the ground to promote their brand.

Here’s the skinny from Corsair Bikes:

Corsair Bikes is now accepting applications from riders interested in competing on Corsair Bikes during the 2010 Season. The Corsair Co-Sponsorship Program is open to individuals or shop teams based in the US, Canada or Australia and is targeted at riders who compete in DH, 4X, Slopestyle and Dirt Jumping.

The Corsair Co-Sponsorship Program helps talented, up-and-coming riders with the expense of racing by offering very special pricing on Corsair’s high performance frames and top-level components from participating manufacturers. Riders who are chosen to participate will become part of a growing program that focuses on community and development just as much as results.

Interested riders should send their resume as well as their tentative 2010 competition schedule to hookmeup@corsairbikes.com . This program is available to athletes on a first come, first served basis and will close January 5, 2010. Riders will be notified by email no later than Jan 15, 2010.

More Info: Visit CorsairBikes.com

After some warming up, I’ve come to like the new Smith Foley sunglasses. They are a complete departure from every other pair of sunglasses I’ve ever owned as I never opt for style over function, but these are a fun pair of sunglasses.

Built with all the lens technology you’d expect from Smith, these are much more than your typical metal 80’s throwback sunglasses. They are offered in polarized and non-polarized and feature Smith TORIC lenses with TLT optics for superior optical clarity in all conditions. Here’s the skinny from Smith:

The FOLEY is an exceptionally well fitting NEW METAL style from SMITH. Intended to compliment the documented success of the Serpico, this new style features a medium-scale, modern silhouette that uniquely blends the classic shape of a navigator and an aviator. The sculpted metal temples feature dimensional branding that seamlessly integrate with the sleek lines of this style. TORIC lenses featuring TLT Optics deliver optical clarity in both polarized and non-polarized options.

Smith Foley Review

While the Smith Foley glasses are pretty much dedicated to looking stylish or impersonating motorcycle cops, they are still highly functional with excellent optics. They feel very light on your face and offer excellent wraparound coverage–something not many aviator-style glasses are known for. My gold-framed glasses were mated to polarized gray/green lenses.

In spite of the darkness of the lens, I felt like these glasses were letting in ample light for mixed conditions. Direct sunlight was a bit bright (a mirrored coating would reduce that), but overall lens tint was excellent. I appreciated the quality of the polarized technology and didn’t get much in the way of rainbow effect, which happens with some polarized glasses.

The lenses are only slightly curved top-to-bottom, but feature quite a wraparound as compared to most aviator glasses. This really improved the function of the glasses and increased the peripheral vision. Grippy nose pieces keep things in place, but you’re not going to want to do much more than chill in these shades unless you’re Officer Friendly then we’ll all be kept wondering if you’re a good cop or a bad cop.

MSRP: $139 (polarized) or $119 (standard lens)

Good Foley

• Stylish update to aviator-style sunglasses
• Lens quality and optical clarity
• Cool throwback styling
• You get to play good cop bad cop
• Grippy nose pieces keep things steady

Bad Foley

• Pretty much relegated to hang-out duty
• Don’t sit on these (at least Smith will take care of you)

Buy Now: Search for Smith Foley Sunglasses

I’ve been a long-time Suunto fan. From my first Suunto Vector to my current Suunto Observer, I like the function of the watches and their overall feel. While Polar maintains themselves as the market-leader in heart rate technology, Suunto is no slouch and crushes the competition when it comes to ABC (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass) watches. Along those lines, the new Suunto Core Extreme Edition Red and Vector HR continue to solidify Suunto as the market-leader in ABC watches. Here’s the release:

Suunto, a leading sports precision instrument designer and manufacturer, is releasing two new watches to join its award winning collection. The Core Extreme Edition Red and the Vector HR will be released in November.

Suunto Core Extreme Edition Red

The Suunto Core Extreme Edition Red reflects brand colors with a black aluminum ring with a red accent. The new Core will provide the reliable data as previous Core models. It combines advanced ABC (altimeter, barometer and compass) functions with benefits such as a depth meter, sunrise and sunset times, and a menu in four languages. Accurate to 29,500 feet, the altimeter in the Core displays current elevation, elevation gained and lost, and records session for reviews. The automatic alti/baro mode switches between altimeter and barometer depending on activity and shows the most relevant information for each situation.

Suunto Vector HR

The new Suunto Vector HR is a tool for top performance, whether you’re climbing a mountain or training to. It combines an altimeter, barometer and compass with a heart rate monitor. The Vector HR’s zone alarms let the climber know when his or her heart rate is climbing too fast or when the training regimen is too easy. The new Vector HR also gives an objective measurement of exertion whether it’s a long hike or short intense bursts. The Vector HR’s altimeter features a range up to 29,500 feet and can measure vertical speed. The barometer function also helps you stay ahead of any storm with a weather trend display that tracks changes in the barometric pressure.

The electric compass, with bubble level, gives accurate reading with 3 degree precision. It can also be set to track a certain bearing and show the difference between that and the actual bearing.

The Suunto Vector HR comes with the Analog Comfort Belt, which is a textile band that provides a softer feel.

The Suunto Core Extreme Red and the Suunto Vector HR will be available in November.

Buy Now: Search for Suunto

Goal0 is a new Utah-based company dedicated to producing the finest portable power devices for use on expeditions, weekend hikes, hunting trips, emergency situations or in remote regions of the world where electricity is not readily available. I’ve used the GoBe portable battery and solar panel system to power some of my electronic devices on-the-go and it’s a pretty cool system.

As part of the global launch of Goal0 (that’s GoalZero), they are holding a video contest where you submit to them a video explaining what powers you… what drives you… what makes you go out and do the fun outdoor activities you do. For me, it’s more often to get away from the grind and enjoy nature and the tranquility it provides–that’s what rejuvenates me (hey, maybe I should produce a video too?).

The contest began Oct 14 and continues through Dec 14, so head on over to their site and familiarize yourself with the guidelines and contest rules. One lucky winner will get two roundtrip tickets anywhere in the world with some sweet new gear from GoPro, wrapsol and Goal0.

More Info: Learn More & Enter the Goal0 What Powers You Contest

There’s no question… dry shoes = happy, non-smelly feet. Whether you live in the Pacific Northwest where your feet are always soggy or if you are an athlete who sweats a lot in their shoes (ahem… me), these little wonders look like a great shoe drying solution that works without electricity, batteries, fans or anti-odor sprays.

Made with natural cedar fibers (well-known for moisture and odor absorption), these look to be great solutions for drying your running shoes, ski boots, hiking boots, golf shoes or any other types of shoes.

All you do is slip them in and let the natural fabric and trying power go to work. Here are some details on Stuffitts:

• Made of 100% Cedar, creating a refreshing smell
• Dry out shoes 8X faster than air drying
• Eradicate odor by absorbing moisture which creates an inhospitable environment for the source of shoe odor, bacteria
• Easy as 1-2-3 – simply insert Stuffitts into your shoes to stop moisture in its tracks
• Affordable cost – $24.95

Pretty cool little invention that could save you from wet and stinky feet. If you suffer from “stinky feet syndrome” or if you live like a duck, you can definitely benefit from these.

More Info/Order: Visit Stuffitts.com

Two weeks from now, endurance athletes Greg Kolodziejzyk of Calgary, AB and Jordan Hanssen of Seattle, WA will attempt a nautical circumnavigation of Vancouver Island, piloting the custom-designed, pedal-powered boat Within on its first long-distance ocean voyage. Greg and Jordan will launch Within on Friday, Oct. 30 from Comox, BC and travel clockwise around the Island. If successful, this voyage will mark the first-ever circumnavigation of the Island in a pedal-powered boat.

The journey is expected to take approximately two weeks to three weeks, depending on weather and ocean conditions. British kayaker Sean Morley holds the current record for a human-powered trip around the island, completing a counter-clockwise paddling trip in 17 days, 4 hours, and 49 minutes in September 2008.

Greg has previously set 2 human-powered records (land and water) for the longest distance traveled in 24 hours. Hanssen was captain of the American team who won the trans-Atlantic Ocean Fours rowing race in 2006 and has also cycled coast-to-coast in Australia – from Perth to Sydney. Kolodziejzyk’s reason for this arduous journey isn’t about entering the record books however.

“My objective is to demonstrate the amazing things a human being can do under his or her own power. I hope to motivate and inspire more people to explore their own human-powered potential. It’s good for the environment, it’s essential for our health, and sends the right message regarding physical activity to our children.”

Hanssen says they’ll be expecting the unexpected,

“I think Vancouver Island is a complex coastline with complex water. I feel confident, but there are definitely a lot of things we will learn. As I was once told by a veteran sailor, it’s all about how you recover from your first big mistake!”

The Vancouver Island circumnavigation is the duo’s first chance to put the boat to the test in ocean conditions and an opportunity to prepare for an even more ambitious journey, called Pedal The Ocean. Kolodziejzyk is preparing for a solo Pacific crossing from Victoria to Hawaii, currently planned for June 2010.

Calgary Press Conference – Wednesday, Oct. 21, Glenmore Reservoir, 12pm

Circumnavigation Departure Date – Friday, Oct. 30th, Comox, BC. Time: TBA

More Info: Visit PedalTheOcean.com

I just got word of the release of the new Kastle FX ski line for the 2009/2010 ski season. At first blush, these skis appear narrow (well, they are), but they are built for hard-core mountaineering ascents and descents with highly-technical terrain and variable snow conditions. With Chris Davenport driving product development, that all now makes sense since hauling your butt to the top of a 14-er requires lightweight gear that will work in a variety of conditions–not just wide-open pow.

The typical European “touring” skis are ultralight and super-narrow. While the FX74 and FX84 aren’t fat skis, they are built with lightweight materials while still offering extra girth to make the ride more enjoyable.

Here’s more detail on the new Kastle FX ski lineup:

Austrian ski brand, Kästle Ltd., announces the release of its FX line for the 2009-10 ski season. Two models, FX74 and FX84 kick off Kästle’s new Freeski Mountaineering collection.

Freeski mountaineering combines the physical challenge of backcountry skiing with the technical ability required for high alpine accents. This evolving sport requires tremendous experience and skill as well as lightweight, high performance gear for efficient climbing and fast ski descents.

“Skiing has changed dramatically in the past few years: boundaries have been pushed and the modern skier demands more their equipment,” states Kästle Ltd. president, Siegfried Rumpfhuber. “We’re excited to introduce our new breed of skis that combine the performance of a freeride ski with an alpine touring weight range. We anticipate that weight-to-performance ratios will be a main focus in ski engineering in the next couple of years and we hope that our FX skis are setting the bar high.”

Both the FX74 and FX84 models feature Kästle’s proprietary dual Hollowtech technology, a lightweight sandwich sidewall construction consisting of two fine titanal laminates and an ash / silver-fir / poplar wood core. Dual Hollowtech technology reduces the mass of both the tip and tail of the ski dampening vibration, allowing faster edge transition and providing better tracking.

With a 112 mm tip, a 74 mm waist and a 100 mm tail, the FX74 prefers short to medium radius turns ideal for tight couloirs to open tree skiing. The lightweight construction (6.7Ibs / pair) makes for effortless hikes without sacrificing the performance of the ski whether in difficult off and on-piste conditions. The MSRP is $980.

The FX84 (122-84-110) is a smooth and stable ski boasting the response and control to handle any speed, terrain or snow-condition. The FX84 (7.7Ibs / pair) is the ultimate ski for off-piste excursions yet has the versatility to carve on groomers. The MSRP is $1,080.

“The FX 84 has been a godsend for me because I finally have an ultra light mountaineering ski that doesn”t compromise on performance,” Chris Davenport, Kästle Team Athlete. “The FX 84 allows me to ski fast and with confidence in all sorts of conditions. It truly performs like an alpine ski but allows me to climb without being bogged down with added weight. I think the FX will define a whole new category in skiing”

The FX skis and custom skins will be available in North America and Europe at selected retailers this fall. Skis will be sold flat to allow for individual set-up with various AT binding makes.

TYR prepares for the Kona Ironman World Championships with its online site, www.tyr.com/kona, with pre-race and race day coverage.

The site features biographies, a photo gallery, and live video blogging of TYR’s sponsored triathletes including two-time defending world champion Chrissie Wellington, Ironman 70.3 world champion Andy Potts, and Eagleman Ironman 70.3 champion TJ Tollakson.

In addition, viewers have the opportunity to win a Tracer Sayonara, an elite swimskin made with Titanium alloy to be worn by the top competitors at the Kona Ironman World Championships.

More Info: Visit www.tyr.com/kona

Electronic devices, argon gases… what will the modern ski jacket look like next? Well, the future is now with the all-new Mountain Hardwear Radiance and Refugium jackets that include a built-in, flexible battery pack to power the integrated heating elements or external devices such as mobile phones or an iPod.

Cold and unconnected?

Mountain Hardwear solves both problems this winter with the industry’s first pre-wired jacket that not only provides on-demand heating, but also simultaneously provides power and re-charging capabilities for handheld electronics including GPS devices, PDAs, MP3 players and digital cameras.

More than 60 percent of the U.S. population uses handheld electronics to stay connected, oriented and entertained, whether riding a lift, skiing in the backcountry, attending a winter sporting event, or walking the streets of SoHo. Mountain Hardwear partnered with Ardica Technology, the creators of the Ardica Moshi Power System, to deliver today’s “plugged in” consumer this year’s jacket of choice.

Now available at retail, Mountain Hardwear® Men’s Refugium and Women’s Radiance jackets are designed with a specialized, integrated pocket to accommodate the portable Ardica Moshi Power System, which provides power necessary to generate heat into critical areas of the jackets, as well as power for handheld devices through cables located in the jacket pockets.

• Enjoy 8.6 hours of continuous heat on the low setting, and 3 hours on the high setting.
• Runs power on any electronic accessory requiring less than 10 watts – cell phones, MP3 Music Players, GPS devices, lights, satellite phones.
• Rechargeable power source. Charge electronics by a USB cable (included) – provides approximately 20 charges without needing a recharge.

Learn more: Visit Mountain Hardwear.com

Just got word from ScottUSA that they will be hosting breakfast chats with the Commerzbank Triathlon Team before the Ironman World Championships this weekend. Drop in for a sip.

Today SCOTTUSA announced that it will be hosting three breakfasts with Normann Stadler and the Commerzbank Triathlon Team this week as a lead up to the Ironman World Championship.

Please come join us next to Lava Java in Kona, Hawaii on Tuesday October 6^th, Wednesday October 7^th, or Friday October 9^th morning from 9 to 11 AM for your chance to meet Normann Stadler and the members of the Commerzbank team prior to race day. Also come check out the Scott showroom next to Lava Java daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.

More Info: Visit Ironman.com

My quick one-day trip to the Outdoor Demo came and went in a flash, so it’s quite appropriate that most of the bikes I chose to ride were carbon-fiber beauties dialed in for uptempo singletrack assaults. The all-new Yeti ASR 5 Carbon was definitely tops on my list of must-rides at the demo. After catching up with owner, Chris Conroy and domestic sales master, Seth Mukai, I got the low-down on the new ASR 5 C.

Billed as a long-legged XC bike that’s built burly enough to handle all-day adventure, yet still capable on the race course, the full-carbon frameset is superlight (4.7 lbs.) and downright sexy. Yeti knows how to build dialed-in single-pivot mountain bikes and the new ASR 5 C is no exception.

Yeti ASR 5 Carbon Quick Review

The ascent out of the mayhem of the demo booths was met with a responsive and fast climber. This bike shows its XC lineage in its efficiency and quick handling. One onto the twisty, rocky singletrack of Bootleg Canyon, the bike continued to shine. Right at home with narrow desert ribbons winding through unforgiving rocks and “no fall zones”, the ASR 5 C took me up West Leg Trail without so much as a flinch. The rear wheel stayed firmly planted in the desert sand and rocks and propelled me with ease. Quick, steep ascents were no match for this bike.

When the trails turned downhill and the real fun began, this bike felt absolutely solid under pressure. I enjoyed railing it down the swoopy singletrack and dropping small ledges along the way. While the suspension is very compliant and can take some abuse, I still felt like I needed to be careful which line I chose to take. It’s not the kind of bike that can take the burliest line without so much as breaking a sweat–you’ve still got to finesse it down the rough stuff.

The Good

• Love the feel of the carbon fiber frame
• Extremely lightweight
• Travel sweet-spot… not too much, not too little
• Very balanced feel both up and down
• Tracks through winding singletrack with ease
• Loves to be pushed hard
• Efficient climber and cross-country trail slayer

The Bad

• Gotta pick your lines through the rough stuff (not really a bad thing though)

Final Thoughts: Yeti ASR 5c

This bike loves to be pedaled hard and fast both uphill and down. I really dig the balanced feel of this bike and its ability to ascend up virtually anything yet still give you enough confidence to tackle rough terrain.

Buy Now: Search for Yeti Bikes

I just received the following release from Intrawest (owners of Whistler-Blackcomb, Copper Mountain, Steamboat, Tremblant, Winter Park and more) about their new helmet policy. I think it makes complete sense… I’ve worn a ski helmet for nearly 15 years and can’t see why anyone wouldn’t wear one, but that’s just me. Here’s the release

SAM Magazine–Vancouver, B.C., October 1, 2009–Intrawest announced that starting this season, the company will recommend that all visitors at all of its North American resorts wear helmets. In addition, there will be mandatory helmet requirements for all youth participants in ski and snowboard school programs, as well as students participating in freestyle terrain park programs, regardless of age. The age span requirements will vary from resort to resort, but will be between three and 12, 13, 14 or 17.

A helmet will be included with all kids’ rental packages at Intrawest-owned outlets and parents can no longer use an opt-out clause for certain programs and activities. The company will also step up efforts to educate both employees and customers on the importance of helmet use. In fact, much of Intrawest’s future marketing visuals will contain helmeted skiers and riders.

As for employees, by 2010-2011, Intrawest will require employees to wear a helmet while on-duty in the terrain parks and staff at the ski and snowboard schools will also be required to use a helmet if they are participating in any program that requires mandatory helmet use by the guest. Several resorts will begin these helmet use guidelines this season, with the rest coming on board for next season.

Do you think this is going overboard or do you think it’s a smart move that more resorts will follow?

Two-time World Cup overall champion Bode Miller (Franconia, NH) was named Thursday to the U.S. Ski Team and will compete this coming season on the Audi FIS World Cup. Miller has skied independently the last two years, winning his second overall World Cup title in 2007-08. The U.S. Ski Team and Miller made the announcement in a joint press conference at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

According to U.S. Ski Team Head Men’s Alpine Coach Sasha Rearick, Miller has committed to the U.S. Ski Team program.

“Bode is committed to the Team and the Team looks forward to helping Bode achieve personal greatness,” Rearick said. “Because Bode is such a great competitor he’s going to challenge everyone on the Team to push their personal limits and strive for greater performances. I look forward to Bode being a positive team member and leader.

“Our men’s Team the last two years has grown into a close-knit family – we help each other be successful. Having proven veterans like Ted [Ligety], Marco [Sullivan], Steven [Nyman], Scott [Macartney] and Bode all training and racing together will help all of us. This is a group of strong leaders that Bode has trained and raced with throughout his career.”

Bode Miller added:

“I am excited to be back with the guys and the Team. We’ve had great success together,” Miller said. “I look forward to taking advantage of the great program we have in place.”

Miller was named to the Team based on his results from last season. Like all other athletes, he will need to qualify for a slot on the Olympic Team based on 2010 season results. The Olympic Team will be named January 26.

The Team will begin working with Miller immediately. The four-time World Champion Miller did not set a return to competition date. He is not expected to compete in the Oct. 25 Audi FIS World Cup season opener in Soelden, Austria but is hopeful to be at the Visa Birds of Prey World Cup Dec. 2-6 in Beaver Creek, CO.

Bode Miller skis on Head Skis.

While I personally loathe Jelly Belly jelly beans because you never know what flavor you’re gonna get (buttered popcorn!… eww), their Sport Beans have been wildly successful and are the perfect bite-sized energy-packed beans. At Interbike 2009, Jelly Belly introduced all-new formulas to provide longer-lasting energy and better taste for endurance athletes. Here’s the skinny from Sport Beans:

Sport Beans® jelly beans, introduced by Jelly Belly Candy Company and the world’s first sports performance jelly beans, are now made with all natural formula. Sport Beans are flavored with natural flavors from fruit juices, use colors derived from natural sources and are naturally sweetened with evaporated cane juice and are free of corn syrup.

The popularity of the Sport Beans jelly beans among cyclists, triathletes, marathon runners and fitness buffs prompted the company to update the Sport Beans jelly beans line with new flavor and color profiles, plus new carb sources. Sport Beans are now made with tapioca syrup and evaporated cane juice replacing corn syrup and sugar.

The four refreshing flavors of Lemon Lime, Orange, Berry and Fruit Punch – formulated to energize the body during exercise – are made with lemon, lime, orange, raspberry, apple and grape juices.

Extreme Sport Beans, a caffeinated variety, available in watermelon and cherry flavors, made with real watermelon and cherry juices.

In addition the company is introducing a new easy-open bag with a resealable zipper. The improved bag makes it easier to dispense the Sport Beans while running, biking, hiking and climbing.

Scientifically formulated for sports performance, Sport Beans jelly beans provides carbohydrates for energy, electrolytes to maintain fluid balance and vitamins to help burn carbs and fat and protect muscles against oxidative damage.

Each of the six flavors of Sport Beans is packaged in 100-calorie single serving packets for portable power before, during and after exercise. The variety provided by six flavors allows athletes to select a favorite or to enjoy the range, escaping taste monotony. Visit www.sportbeans.com.

Buy Now: Search for Sport Beans

My annual trip to Las Vegas for Interbike was a bit compressed this year. I could only squeeze in one day–thank goodness flights from Salt Lake City are quick and plentiful! First flight in and last flight out got me a full 8 hours of riding the latest and greatest mountain bikes. I’ve got a knack for riding my favorite bike of the day as the last bike. Lucky for me, as I was rapping with the crew at Santa Cruz Bikes a Large Santa Cruz Tallboy arrived with a giddy rider onboard. After a quick change to my Crank Brothers Smarty pedals, I was off on my last test loop for the day.

Upon initial fit, the stem felt a bit long-ish. I’d opt for about a 70mm stem instead of the 100mm stem provided, but that didn’t affect the overall ride one bit.

For those of you who have yet to ride a 29er mountain bike… you don’t know what your missing. For trail riding, there’s nothing smoother than a well-executed 29er full-suspension bike. My favorites have typically been from Niner Bikes, but this new Santa Cruz Tallboy is now on par with the best designs from 29er makers.

Built with 100% high-modulus carbon fiber, the Tallboy is smooth-looking and smooth riding. The combination of large hoops and carbon frame make for one bump-absorbing machine. Not only was the downhill sublime on the Tallboy, but the ascents felt nearly effortless as I pumped enough RPM’s to ascend the technical, rocky terrain of Bootleg Canyon.

This was a quick 1-hour ride, but my first impression has me drooling for this bike when it becomes available. I’ll say this… the Tallboy rides like a great trailbike–it just happens to have 29-inch wheels (a bonus).

Good Tallboy

• Comfortable geometry
• Smart looks
• Smooth climber with excellent hook-up
• Excellent descender with the ability to snake through both tight/technical and open/flowy trails
• Good weight (guessing 28 lbs.)

Bad Tallboy

• Without Propedal engaged on the Fox RP23, rear suspension bobs a bit much on extended climbs
• Not yet available to the public

Buy Now: Search for Santa Cruz Bikes

Banshee Bikes has been building bombproof Canadian-style mountain bikes for years. Back in the day, I reviewed the Banshee Chaparral and loved it for bombing trails and general mayhem, but it was a tank. By today’s all-mountain standards, it would be left in the dust purely on its piggy weight. However, the ride quality still stands out in my mind.

Banshee has since introduced a number of bikes and completely changed their platform from a 4-bar design to their own flavor of virtual pivot suspension. The new Banshee Legend MK1 DH bike is the latest incarnation from Banshee.

Here’s a little bit from Banshee:

Every aspect of the Legend is designed around one thing, to go faster! After 4 years of development, to compete at World Cup level racing, the Legend is a no compromise DH winning machine. The rider will feel at home pinning it over off camber roots and picking fast lines through the burliest rock gardens.

The VF4B suspension design give super efficient pedaling while remaining super active under braking with a supple feel over square edge hits and excellent big hit absorption. The Legend has a super low center of gravity due to shock placement to allow great cornering and handling characteristics.

The frame features adjustable travel between 7-8.5″ and weighs a respectable 8.5 lbs (no shock)!

More Info: Visit Bansheebikes.com

I just got the following product release from Relaj who is launching a new, ergonomic water bottle to enable safer hydration wile riding and keeping your eyes on the road. Looks like a great product. Here’s a bit of history:

The wheels of Relaj began turning in 2007. Its principal owners, Bruce and Becky, had a 14 year old son, Alex, who’d been peddling all over the steamy Tampa/St. Petersburg area, sometimes riding as much as 50 miles on an old, tattered, beach cruiser. Life changed dramatically for Alex that Christmas when he was given a brand new road bike. His riding distances increased, and a few months after his 15th birthday he expressed a desire to become a professional cyclist. Thrilled with his newfound passion, his parents hired a coach to help him train safely and effectively.

One of the coach’s first tasks was to cajole Alex to hydrate properly, especially while riding long distances in the scorching Florida sun. It took a while, but Alex finally took heed of this important message. Then, one July afternoon while watching a racer struggle to get water from his bottle during the 2008 Tour de France, he turned to his parents and matter-of-factly asked, “Why doesn’t someone invent a bottle that I can actually drink from?”

When asked to explain, he replied, “Well, I can’t get water out of the bottle without tipping my head way back, and then I can’t see the road.”

The safety implications of his response were clear, and further research uncovered a myriad of other performance-related factors with the bottles and cages currently used by cyclists. However, one glaring flaw stood out – the only way to drink from the bottle was to squeeze it intensely while tipping the head back, causing the rider to abandon the optimum aerodynamic position, and making it difficult, if not impossible, to keep sight of the road.

Convinced all these issues could be fixed, serious discussions began about a startup enterprise. A new family business was incorporated in August of 2008 and, shortly thereafter, a very talented product design firm in Merrimack, New Hampshire was hired. Their collaboration resulted in a top-to-bottom overhaul of this highly visible, yet often overlooked product category, and two new products — the Relaj Water Bottle and the Relaj Water Bottle Cage — revolutionizing water bottle shape, style, and functionality. Patents are pending for both products.

Buy Now: Search for Water Bottles

Like most Subaru owners, I’ve been very loyal over the years. Since 1996, I’ve owned 5 Subaru wagons–one Legacy wagon and 4 Outbacks. When I consider purchasing another vehicle, I really don’t wander much from the Subaru lineup because of the overall value Subaru provides. They are also a very progressive company with environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes.

Now all that may change with the 2010 Subaru Outback. Not only is it built unnecessarily like a wanna-be SUV with extra plastics and “tough” styling, they’ve completely missed the mark on one of the most important features–the factory roof rack!

Most roof racks are simply an open rail going front-to-back on the vehicle. This allows for easy installation of any aftermarket crossbar from Yakima, Thule or others. Being stuck with the factory crossbars is an extremely limiting factor, in my opinion and here’s why:

1. Subaru is in the car business, Yakima and Thule are in the roof rack business… ’nuff said
2. Genuine Subaru accessories are typically 4-5 years behind in technology
3. The factory crossbars typically have lower load ratings
4. Factory crossbars are funky shapes, thus limiting the bike and ski rack attachments
5. Factory crossbars are limited in width and will only allow 2-3 bikes or a small box and a single bike… aftermarket bars can be set up wider to accept more bikes, skis and a larger box AT THE SAME TIME

Not only are the above limiting factors in play fro the 2010 Subaru Outback, but the open area of the crossbar rails (at center) I’m told is a mere 21-inches wide–not wide enough for a sturdy bike rack, cargo box attachment or enough for a stable ski rack.

Here’s a snippet from the crew at Rack Attack Portland about the 2010 Subaru Outback factory roof rack:

So we’ve had several of the Outbacks in our shop now, and I’ve got good news and more bad news.Good news–the Yakima Skybox 16 will work.  This will be the biggest box we can go with, and it will hold your 185cm skis.  The Thule Atlantis 1800xt is officially too big to clear the hatchback, though.

More good news–Thule will let you use the Crossroad 450 setup, and Yakima approved the Railgrab.

Bad news now–the crossbar spread for the above options are an almost pointless 21″–less than you will need for boards or boats over 8′, and too narrow for any cargo baskets or boxes.  Skis and most bike racks will be OK.  Yakima grants you 150lbs capacity, and Thule will only let you slide with 110lbs.

Well, that pretty much sums it up from the rack experts at RackAttack.com.

As a loyal Subaru owner, this is disappointing, but my disappointment is tempered because my next vehicle will likely be of the 7-passenger variety. Just so long as the Subaru Tribeca doesn’t lose its standard roof rails (hint, hint, Subaru!), it may still be in the running against the Volvo XC90 and other similar mid-size SUV’s with 3 rows of seating.

Look at the pictures to the right… one of these roof rack rails is not like the others.

More Info: See the Rack Fail for Yourself at Subaru.com

I think we were all cheering for little miss Melanie Oudin at this year’s US Open Tennis Tournament. Here’s a cool little tidbit on how her high-profile custom pink Adidas mi Barricade V shoes created such a buzz:

Adidas AG indicated that revenue and traffic to its miadidas website have both surged five-fold due to the success of American teenager Melanie Oudin’s performance at the U.S. Open tennis tournament. Oudin, 17, lost her match Wednesday night to ninth-seeded Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark in the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open in New York, ending a run that took her past 2006 champion Maria Sharapova and Olympic gold-medal winner Elena Dementieva.

In an interview with Bloomberg News, adidas said the company decided before the tournament to feature the 17-year-old Oudin and 22nd-ranked man Sam Querrey on the Internet site, which allows people to design and purchase their own tennis shoes.

Oudin, according to adidas, chose her pink and yellow version of the company’s Barricade V sneaker, with “Believe” written on the heel. Adidas signed her a year ago when she turned professional. Oudin also endorses Wilson tennis rackets.

“She’s done very well for us,” Adidas spokeswoman Linda Murphy said in an interview with Bloomberg. Shoes on the site, which is only available in the U.S., range in price from $95 a pair to $240.

Oudin was ranked 70th in the world by the WTA Tour before the tournament.

Adidas anyone?

Buy Now: Search for Adidas Gear

Everyone who has driven with a roof-mounted bike rack will, at some time or another, experience a mishap. This could be relatively minor (hitting the clearance sign at Taco Bell or major (crashing full-speed into your garage… uggh).  There’s just no way around it… if you haven’t done it already, your time will come, my friend.

Luckily, my one incident wasn’t with my nice bike, so I wasn’t too bummed, but it did do $1000 in damage to my Outback (not sure which is better).

While I really dig hitch-mount bike racks, both the Thule T2 and Yakima Holdup weigh a TON. They are burly as all get-out, but they weigh a ton. I know my wife can’t get the Thule T2 on without my help and I’d rather not have to lug such a beast around either.

To reduce this, Yakima has just introduced the new HighLite hitch bike rack:

The HighLite (MSRP: $299 2-Bike, $329 3-Bike), an aluminum hitch rack, is one of the lightest hitch racks on the market, making it easy to carry and install. This is especially important for women, aging baby boomers and consumers that prefer a lightweight, rear of car option that allows bikes to be loaded at hip level. The UpTight™ hitch knob increases stability by expanding (and wedging) into the corner to fill any gaps in the hitch receiver, while the SwitchBlade anti-sway cradles protect against bike-to-bike contact. The LockDown cable and HitchLock secure both the rack and bikes for added peace of mind.

The HighLite is available in a two-bike or three-bike model, fitting both 2” and 1.25” hitch receivers out of the box. The narrow arms fit most bike types and the TriggerFinger release folds the arms down. The rack also tilts away from the car for better access to the rear of the vehicle. HighLite comes in silver or white and includes bottle openers at the end of the cradles for enjoying post-ride beverages.

It’s still a “forklift rack”, so it won’t work with all frame types, but I’m looking forward to hefting this new hitch rack and feeling the difference… I know my back will thank me.

Buy Now: Search for Yakima Bike Racks

Merrell recently jumped into the traditional road running market and continues to offer a handful of road-specific shoes in the line. As a refinement from its introduction, the new ST Stamina 2 looks to clearly set the stage for Merrell’s acceptance into the market. The running shoe market is flush with offerings from all the major players, but Merrell’s core following should latch onto some of the nice fatures of this shoe, including: improved stability (G3 Phase Pronation), increased breathability, more comfortable fit with optimized uppers and ample cushioning in the forefoot and heel. Expect these in stores this Spring at a $105 pricepoint.

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Running Shoes

After a quick office break-in, I headed out in the Wasatch with my wife to climb Sunset Peak–the Merrell Outbound Mid Gore-Tex boots on my feet. This is a relatively quick hike that takes you from Alta Ski area to the convergence of Little Cottonwood, Big Cottonwood and American Fork Canyons. The views are spectacular and the hike is well worth the effort.

As I was breaking them in, I was quick to notice just how stiff these hiking boots were. Laterally, you’d be hard pressed to twist your ankle or feel in any way compromised in its stability. The stride of these boots feels very natural and the forefoot flexes just enough to keep things comfortable. One of the great features of these boots is the combination of Merrell Air Cushion and Merrell Spring Motion™ insole. With the 7mm Vibram-lugged sole, the midsole support and cushion is just enough to reduce shock and keep things comfortable over the long haul.

You don’t want a super-squishy boot for long-distance backpacking, but the cushioning midsole on the Outbound feels to be the perfect combination of stability and comfort/shock absorption.

Lacing them up for the trail, it was easy to cinch them down for a proper fit. With just a midweight pair of EMS-brand hiking socks, I was confident that I’d be blister-free and I was.  In the lower-angle approach trails, the tightness of the forefoot and cuff was just right, but when the trail reached the ridge and got considerably steeper, my ankle wasn’t able to flex enough fore and aft for comfort. As a result I just shortened my stride a tad to slightly reduce the ankle flex–I was too lazy to re-lace, but could have done that easily.

Just keep in mind that these are stiff boots that are built to protect your foot and support your body for heavy-duty backpacking. As such, you will sacrifice some flexibility, but the lugged Vibram sole makes up for some of that lack of flexibility in its excellent terrain-hugging grip. This outsole provided excellent uphill and downhill traction on rocky and loose terrain.

I tested out the waterproof capabilities of these boots by stepping in a stream. The DWR finish on the Cordura exterior combined with the Gore-Tex liners were impossible to penetrate. Water just beaded up and nothing came close to penetrating the boot. I’m sure over time, the DWR finish will wear off, but the Gore-Tex liner will be worth its weight in gold should you choose to hike these in wet conditions (like my homeland in Washington State).

The Good

• Love the supportive comfort of the Air Cushion and Spring Motion midsoles
• Vibram outsole is very grippy in all terrain
• Excellent waterproofing with Gore-Tex and DWR finish
• Surprisingly breathable
• Supportive and sturdy in technical terrain

The Bad

• Gore-Tex could get hot if hiking in extreme heat
• Upper tongue seems a little thick

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Outbound Boots

With Eurobike going strong this week, ’tis the season for new bike gear. It’s always a bit of a letdown when cool stuff leaks out of Eurobike because Interbike is still a couple of weeks out. However, sometimes it’s good because I get a head’s up prior to going as to what to look for at the show.

Hot off the press is the official release of the 2010 Niner AIR9 Carbon in all its sexy goodness. I’m not a 26-inch hardtail fan at all, but a 29er hardtail is a different story and a carbon-fiber 29er hardtail is even better. Look for more details as they come in, but here are a few specs on the all-new Niner AIR9 Carbon.

Niner AIR9 Carbon:

• High modulus carbon fiber
• Bio-Centric EBB bottom bracket for geared or singlespeed use
• Tapered steerer tube
• Built around 80-100mm forks
• Internal cable housing
• Colors: Tang or Vanna White
• MSRP: $TBD

More Info: Visit NinerBikes.com

Over the past few years, it seems like both the amount of ski binding manufacturers have decreased while a slew of others are hitting the market as re-badged Tyrolia bindings. I suppose that’s not too out-of-the-ordinary given the fact that 1) the manufacturing technology is expensive to develop and tool and 2) Tyrolia makes a solid (but sometimes heavy) binding.

The reason this is coming to mind is that after thumbing through the Powder Magazine Buyer’s Guide, I kept wondering why half of the ski bindings listed were even on there. Of the 12 bindings listed, 3 of them were Tyrolia (4Frnt Deadbolt 15, Head Mojo 18 and Fischer X17), Two of them were Look (Rossignol Freeski2 180 and Look PX 14 XXL Legend) and two were Salomon (Atomic FFG 16 and Salomon Sth 12 Oversize). So, in reality, there are only 8 ski bindings to feature, not 12.

I suppose this is really not much of a surprise or a big deal, just a gee whiz moment on my part. But, just be aware as a consumer when shopping for ski bindings. You may be able to get the exact same binding at a lower price because it’s not branded as a Marker, Salomon, Tyrolia or Look. And, another suggestion… if you don’t know how old your ski bindings are, it’s probably time to pick up some new ones. With surefire killer deals this Winter, now is a great time to shop.

Buy Now: Search for Ski Bindings

I just got this press release from Garmont about their new 2009/2010 ski boot lineup. While things have only been refined for this year (e.g. new colors and tweaks here and there), the lineup continues to impress both inbounds and in the backcountry. We’ve been big fans of the Garmont Radium, Endorphin, Axon and G-Ride for years. Now with their no-nonsense alpine boots, like the Shaman, you can ski Garmont boots tele, backcountry or at the resort.

August 28, 2009 – Backcountry, Skiing, and Powder magazines have hit the newsstands with their gear guide issues. Among the three magazines, Garmont ski boots have been awarded Backcountry Magazine Editor’s Choice Awards, Skiing Magazine Official Ski Test Selection, and Powder Magazine Skier’s Choice Awards. Totally 14 awards for the 2010 ski season, Garmont won awards in all of their boot categories – Alpine Power Performance, Alpine Freeride, Ski Mountaineering, and Telemark.

The most award-winning boot in the Garmont collection is the new Prophet NTN Telemark ski boot. “Outstanding tester response, exceptionally high scores, and category-leading overall performance contributed to our selection of the Prophet and Voodoo as 2010 Backcountry Magazine Editors’ Choices,” said Backcountry Editor Drew Pogge. Paul Parker comments, “When we decided to develop an NTN boot, we weren’t going to modify existing boots. We committed to a completely new telemark boot design, using what we had learned from our new a.d.d.™ Overlap AT boot design, and the unique anatomic fit of our newest Alpine and AT collection. We were committed to taking telemark skiing to the next level. It’s gratifying to have that effort acknowledged.”

The new Voodoo and the softer flexing, lower-cuffed Kenai Telemark boots, built for the 75 mm bindings system, feature the same award-winning a.d.d. Overlap design. One tester’s comment on Voodoo was, “Smoooooth flex… It fits great out of the box, and drives like a European sports car on the Autobahn.” Voodoo won Backcountry Editor’s Choice and the Skiing Official Ski Test Selection. Women’s Elektra also won Skiing’s award.

Skiing magazine complimented Garmont’s powerful Alpine model Shaman saying, “Bravo to Garmont for not messing with a good thing” and “Testers universally admired it.” Skiing Magazine comments “Garmont did its homework here, drawing from veteran designers with years of successful race-boot engineering.”

Garmont focuses on designing ski boots for skiers who seek adventure and extraordinary experiences. Garmont boots have skied many noteworthy lines on the feet of ski mountaineers Chris Davenport, Kim Havell, and Dave Watson. Earlier this month, Dave Watson skied the Bottleneck on K2 from 8350 meters to Camp 3. In June, Kim Havell skied from the summit of Denali as part of the “Electric Eels,” all female expedition. Last Spring, Davenport completed his quest to ski four of the highest and most famous peaks in the Alps: Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa and the Eiger.

View all of the award winning boots at www.garmontusa.com/awards.html

Buy Now: Search for Garmont Ski Boots

Facing stiff competition in the trail running market, The North Face is stepping up their product offering and styling for their Spring 2010 trail running lineup. One notable change throughout is the new swooshy waterfall logo treatment on the side of every shoe. Gone is the subtle red square in favor of a swooshy thing–not sure how I feel about that, but the brand experts must have weighed in and spoken.

Refinements and/or new trail running shoes in the Spring line include the following:

North Face Singletrack

North Face Fire Road II

North Face Devil’s Thumb GTX

North Face Sentinel Boa

I don’t have much detail on these shoes, but what do you think about the new styling? Good, bad, indifferent?

Buy Now: Search for North Face Trail Running Shoes

I’m a sunglasses junkie and have been drawn to the performance of Kaenon sunglasses of late. Having flogged the Kaenon Kore sunglasses for over a year and subsequently wearing the Kaenon Jetty sunglasses now for about 6 months, I’m sold on the lens technology and the function of these killer optics.

From Kaenon, here’s the skinny on the Jetty:

JETTY™ is an oversize, tall and boxy performance frame with plenty of street attitude which embodies the company’s Luxury Performance™ design and engineering mantra. A unisex frame that can be worn by men and women everyday, JETTY is also built to perform for the active lifestyle.

This style features tall temples and a rectangular face shape with clean and smooth surface design; plus functional details such as recessed Variflex™ rubber nose pads for secure fit and heavy duty, non-corrosive, five-barrel stainless steel hinges for added comfort and durability. JETTY is finished with the polished Kaenon jewel icon that marks the authenticity of a Kaenon Polarized original design. JETTY comes with a protective metal case.

Kaenon Jetty Sunglasses Review

While the Kore’s are built for athletic performance (cycling, skiing, running, etc.), the Jetty’s are built with style and performance in mind. So, you do give up some of the pure performance features in favor of a little more street or beach style.

By no means do you give up anything when it comes to the lenses as the polarized SR-91 lenses offer crystal clear optics and durability not found on other non-glass lenses on the market. Another note about the polarization technology used by Kaenon… I’ve worn these side-by-side with other polarized lenses and the difference is dramatic. With some of the others I got rainbow artifacts while mountain biking–not so with these.

While I really appreciate the clarity of the optics, the Jetty does have its limits when pushed hard, but they still performed surprisingly well. I wore them on several mountain bike rides and even on a few long-distance trail runs just to see how well they’d work. Surprisingly, they stayed put and were quite comfortable–even when I was sweating buckets.

For true athletic activity, I’d prefer the Kore, but these are amazingly-versatile while still being super-stylish. I always love to share my Kaenon’s with others when at the river or the lake to show them just how effective polarization is at cutting down glare. I’m a believer.

Model Tested: Black with G12 Lens, MSRP $208.95

The Good

• Top-notch polarization
• Scratch-free performance
• Stylish design around town and on the trail
• Feels very comfortable
• Rubber nose pads keep them in place

The Bad

• Wide frame design doesn’t sit well on top of the head (flush carefully!)
• No rubberized earpieces

Buy Now: Search for Kaenon Sunglasses

While at Outdoor Retailer last month, I made a stop at Osprey to see what they had up their sleeves for the coming year. Looks like on top of some of the great stuff I’d already seen (Osprey Kode Pack and Osprey Flapjack Pack), they introduced a nifty hydration pack lineup called Hydraulics.

Available in 4 sizes (6, 10, 14 and 18) and sporting what’s called an Airscape Suspension (accordion-style back for torsional stiffness, breathability and conforming fit), the new Osprey Hydraulics hydration pack line consists of the Mantra line (for hiking) and the Raptor line (for mountain biking). I’m stoked on the Raptor line and the Raptor 6 in particular as it provides a streamlined form-factor, optimized fit for minimal “pack bounce”, an integrated and customized Nalgene bladder that features a solid back that locks into place inside the pack and a simplified helmet holder.

MSRP will range from $79-$119 based on size and I’m told these should start hitting the shelves this Fall.

Buy Now: Search for Osprey Hydration Packs

Small tweaks and a full zipper makes the Arc’teryx Accelero Jacket a welcome improvement over the Accelero Pullover (one of my personal favorites). This lightweight and breathable material sheds water extremely well and breathes like a mesh shirt. Wind resistance is minimal–just enough to keep the chill off, but perfect for a cool morning or a light rainstorm. I love my Accelero Pullover, but the full zip should make this jacket that much better.

Buy Now: Search for Arc’teryx Jackets

Back-to-school doesn’t necessarily mean “back to school”, but for those who are you have my condolences. For those of us who are not, it’s time to look closely at that beat up and useless backpack you haul back and forth to work or up and down the mountain. Is it the same Jansport pack you overused in college? Does it lack enough storage for a quick business trip?  No laptop sleeve? Worse yet… does it smell of bunghole (thanks Beavis)?

If so, search around here on GEAR.com for a new backpack, or check out Mountain Hardwear’s Pack-a-Day Give-a-Way where you have a chance to win a pack every day between now and September 17. All it takes is a name (hope you have one) and email address (you’ve got mail) and you are entered to win.

Today’s pack is the Mountain Hardwear Sachel, but it changes every day, so check back often.

Enter to Win: Visit Packaday.MountainHardwear.com

With more and more people bike commuting, the market is ripe for cool innovations like the Merrell Spokes polo shirt. On the surface, this shirt seems like any old polo shirt, but don’t let that fool you, it’s got some great features for bike commuters and loungers alike. Take the plaited Opti-wick material used in its construction, which mates soft cotton outside fabric with a polyester inside for moisture and odor management, add on top of that a grippy material on the back hem that prevents plumber’s crack and a small zippered pocket for lip balm or keys and you’ve got a solid shirt for the town or the trail.

It’s not cheap at $69, but it’s got some unique features not found on other shirts. Look for it in Spring 2010.

Buy Now: Search for Merrell