Cash for Clunkers, Mountain Hardwear Style

Remember the government's Cash for Clunkers program? Where you could bring in your old vehicle and get cash towards a new one? Well, to announce and promote their new waterproof-breathable fabric, Dry-Q Elite, Mountain Hardwear is doing the same thing. Bring in your old shell jacket and get $50 dollars towards a new Dry-Q Elite Shell with the Mountain Hardwear Cash for Clunkers program. What is Dry-Q Elite and why is Mountain Hardwear giving you cash to go buy their jackets and check this new fabric out? Composed of 3 layers, Dry-Q Elite is a completely waterproof yet completely breathable fabric that essentially "turns on" as soon as you start your activity. According to MH, traditional waterproof-breathable fabrics require that the inside of the jacket (the part touching you) must reach a certain level of humidity before the material will breathe. With Dry-Q Elite, this technology is "always on." The theory is that as soon as you start to sweat, this fabric begins to breath, eliminating that gross clammy feeling that is usually associated with sweating in a shell jacket. Having just received the Mountain Hardwear Drystein jacket (a new Dry-Q Elite shell), in the mail yesterday, I can't give a full report on the jacket's functionality. However, I can report that the town I live in received 10 inches of rain yesterday. TEN inches! I ripped into the Drystein, put it on, and ran outside, figuring that a torrential downpour was about the best testing condition I could think of for "waterproof-ness." After about 30 minutes outside in what can only be referred to as a full on squall, I was still dry. A good indicator for Mountain Hardwear's Dry-Q Elite fabric. Look for a full report on the Drystien's features and function in a few weeks. Looking to get a new shell this season? Dive into your closet and find that neon yellow, neon pink and black shell jacket from the mid-eighties, and run to your nearest participating "Cash for Clunkers" retailer, and make that swap. Just make sure you don't accidentally end up at a car dealership. Want to know where you can go to get some cash for your ancient shell? Check the Mountain Hardwear Website and plug in your zip code. Live in the boonies and don't have a location to trade close to your house? Don't worry, Moosejaw is participating in the program as an online partner....

Read more...

Matchstick Productions’ Attack of La Nina: The Bitch Is Back

It's after Labor Day, which means it's officially time to get amped about ski season. To add to your stoke, the guys and gals at Matchstick Productions are releasing their 2011 Ski Film "Attack of La Nina: The Bitch Is Back," on September 17th in Boulder, Colorado. Don't live in Boulder? Don't despair. The 2011 Tour is going around the globe, from Norway to Vermont to Indiana (what?!? Do people in Indiana even know what skiing is?!?). Check out the MSP Website to find out where they're coming near you. After last year's phenomenal movie, "The Way I See It," the Matchstick crew has a lot to live up to. However, with the best winter in 50+ years for most of the West due to the lovely La Nina, some amazing skiers and what promises to be another shred-tastic soundtrack, I'm willing to bet they'll deliver. Look for a full report after the tour has come to Alaska, but for now, here's just enough to leave you wanting more... [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNI0ZKPA48A[/youtube]  ...

Read more...

Sierra Designs Donates to Tornado Relief in Joplin, Missouri

On May 22, 2011, a massive tornado struck the town of Joplin, Missouri causing dozens of deaths and untold millions in damage. Many would call it a crippling event, if it weren't for the moving resilience of the people there who have begun re-building and even started the school year on time. To aid with the relief, recently Sierra Designs joined with Terramar to provide more than 750 jackets to families affected by the tornados in Joplin and in Tuscaloosa, AL earlier this year. The project is called the "Community Rebuilding...From the Inside Out" project. The project included a huge tractor trailer with goods from brands such as Sierra Designs, Clif Bar, Chacos, Outdoor Research and Merrell. From the press release:

“There are a lot of people still suffering in the aftermath of these tornados, so when Terramar asked us to join this project, we were in a position to help and we jumped on board,” said Sue Timbo, marketing director with Sierra Designs. “The combination of a worthy cause and a trusted partner made is easy for us to help out. Hats off to Terramar for spearheading this project.”

Kudos to Sierra Designs and the others who are participating in this project, and good luck to the folks recovering from these tragic circumstances. ...

Read more...

Garmin Introduces Edge 200 GPS Cycling Computer

With my recent infatuation with the social cycling app Strava, I've been quickly realizing that my iPhone doesn't make the greatest GPS device. It works, OK, but it often loses signal and causes spotty tracking while I'm trying to KOM a brutal climb. LAME! Garmin has been making GPS-enabled cycling computers for quite some time now -- starting with the professional-featured Edge 800 ($449), then going down to the Edge 500 ($249). Well, now they have answered the call for an entry-level GPS-enabled cycling computer in the upcoming Edge 200 that hits the wallet at a budget-friendly $149. It's definitely time to step up to one of these if I'm going to crush anyone's KOM. Garmin's official release on the Edge 200:

It is an all too familiar situation when you get home from a bike ride and wonder aloud, "I am exhausted, exactly how far did I just go?" or: "I was flying down that hill, I swear I must have been going 30 mph!" Well, now we give you an affordable solution to know those answers during and after your ride. Today we announced the Edge 200 GPS enabled cycling computer. Lightweight and stylish, the Edge 200 features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, requires no calibration, can be switched quickly and easily between bikes and can be used in all types of weather. “The Edge 200 was designed for those budget conscious cyclists looking for the basics — speed, distance, time and calories,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales. “With no set-up or sensors required, simply switch on, press start and go. The Edge 200 adds so much to your ride that no ride will ever be the same again.” Whether you ride for fun, fitness or to feed your competitive edge, users will love seeing how far and how fast they rode — all without wires and sensors. Edge 200 stores up to 130 hours of ride data and sorts activities to quickly look up the fastest, longest or last ride – providing motivation and inspiration that’ll keep cyclists on track. With a 14 hour battery life, Edge 200 features a USB interface for easy charging and data transfer. Weighing a mere 2 ounces, the Edge 200 is both lightweight and affordable. It features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix® satellite prediction – meaning there’s less time spent waiting and more time spent riding. The Edge 200 also allows users to set alerts for distance, time or calories to make it easier and more fun to achieve their goals. The Edge 200 helps cyclists bring new life to old rides with Courses, a feature that lets riders challenge their times on previous rides. A digital cyclist shows their speed relative to past performance, along with an indication of how far ahead or behind they are. These can be taken from rides stored on the Edge or downloaded from the huge and expanding Garmin Connect™ community (http://connect.garmin.com). Here users can quickly and easily log their rides, track their totals, set goals, share rides with friends and family and participate in an online fitness community of more than 70 million activities around the world. Garmin Connect displays metrics such as time, distance, pace, and elevation. This information is shown through charts, illustrations, reports and a variety of map representations including street, photo, topographic, and elevation maps. Use Garmin Connect’s new Course Creator feature to plan new rides or convert a past activity into a Course. The new Edge 200 is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2011 and have a suggested retail price of $149.99.

Shop Now: Search for Garmin Products...

Read more...

Kaenon Polarized Launches New Men’s Style: Trade

We're big fans of Kaenon Polarized sunglasses and the all-new Trade looks like a great set for hanging out on the beach or in the mountains. Don't think you won't be able to push it with the Trade's though. With a wide variety of lens options and face-hugging fit, you can take these out on the trails as well. If you're looking for polarized sunglasses, give Kaenon a good look. Here's more information on the new Men's Trade, which will be available shortly.

Newport Beach, CA — May 10, 2011 — Kaenon Polarized, the Newport Beach based Lifestyle and Luxury Performance™ sunglass brand, announces the arrival of its newest men’s piece, Trade, now available exclusively at Kaenon.com and through Kaenon’s authorized dealer network. Inspired by the Southern California beach lifestyle, Trade offers the coverage, fit, comfort and performance Kaenon Polarized is known for, in a tall, boxy frame design laced with California soul. Accented by angular lines and maximum eye coverage, this addition to the men’s Lifestyle Performance line presents an ideal cross section of performance frame engineering and subtle, beach-inspired design for the everyday man seeking protection, function and good looks. While large in look, Trade fits a broad range of face shapes and head sizes due to its 8-base wrapped frame geometry and temple design. Its frame face tapers into sculpted temples that end with ergonomically engineered load-spreading temple tips, fusing Kaenon’s intuitive California design-sense and functionality. Variflex™ nose pads anchor the frame securely, offering a slip-free experience, so the frame remains comfortably in place no matter where your adventure takes you. Initially available in three colors, Brown Olive, Black and Matte Black, Trade retails at $199-209 and is Rx-adaptable through Kaenon’s optical retail network with authentic SR-91 prescription polarized lenses. Kaenon’s patented and proprietary SR-91 polarized lens, standard throughout the entire Kaenon Polarized sunglass line, is the only non-compromising polarized lens that combines superior optical clarity, impact-protection and glare reduction all in one ultra-lightweight material. Available in a variety of purpose-built lens tints and Light Transmission Levels, all SR-91 polarized lenses are available in Single-Vision and Freestyle Progressive™ prescription options using Kaenon-pioneered digital backside surfacing technology and software, resulting in unsurpassed, individually customized, optical accuracy. More Info: Visit Kaenon.com

...

Read more...

Top 3 Women’s Must Have Gear for Spring

Spring has officially sprung, although in some parts of the country old man winter is still  hanging around.  When the seasons change typically you'll find me lusting over the latest gear. A good rule of thumb is to go through what you have and donate a few things to make room for a few new pieces.  Trying to pare down a Top 3 list for Spring wasn't an easy task, there's a ton of new gear to be had out there. You'll find my picks are everyday life staples for Spring and beyond. 3.  Scrunchie Tote from Timbuk2 MSRP: $80

• Because one can never have too many bags.  Ladies you can relate, each bag has a different purpose in life and the Scrunchie Tote is one of those GREAT everyday bags. Since it's from Timbuk2 I can guarantee you'll get miles out of this bag. Although, I'm not too keen on the name as it reminds me of  the 80's hair scrunchie, it's still a perfect fit for ladies on the go. So what would I use it for you ask? Everything!  Work, gym, farmer’s market, carry-on and so much more. It's too new for fun funky colors, but I'm digging on potrero as it's sure to match any outfit.

Details:

• A roomy all-around gear bag that cradles your yoga mat and looks good doing it.
• Refined weave ballistic nylon exterior with a stylish printed graphic liner.
• Exterior slash pockets for quick access and hidden zipper pocket for safe keeping.
• Waterproof TPU base so your gear stays dry, even on a damp gym floor.
• Key tether to keep you locked in.
• Zip top closure gives you the option to be super secure or casually closed.

2.  Aura Sunglasses from Smith Optics/ MSRP: $129

• Living in Tahoe you can’t leave the house without your trusty sunglasses.  It’s also handy to have sunglasses for specific occasions. The Smith Aura is more of  the fun weekend warrior type. They're  also not only  functional but fashionable. Remember I usually opt for functional fashion. Wear them on a boat or cruising down the boardwalk with your pals. I'm digging  the stone frame with a brown gradient lens for Spring.

Details:

• Anti-Reflective and Hydrophobic Lens Coating
• Medium Fit/Medium Coverage
• Techlite Polarized Glass TLT Lenses
• Stainless Steel Spring Hinges

[gallery] 1. Rain Shadow Jacket from Patagonia / MSRP: $179

• An oldie but a goodie, the Women's Rain Shadow Jacket is a lightweight jacket every woman should have in their closet.  It packets down to a small ball making it easy to throw in your Timbuk2 Scrunchie Tote when weather calls for rain showers. Roomy enough to layer over a sweatshirt on colder days without it being bulky. I purchased this jacket for my trip to Central America with the idea of trekking through rain forests and hanging at beach for three weeks. It kept me dry and warm. Today, I wear my Rain Shadow Jacket around town and while hiking.  This is the jacket for you if you're looking for something lightweight, waterproof, and breathable.  Make a statement with color, I’m digging on the prickly pear for 2011.

Details:

• Lightweight - 10.9 oz
• waterproof/breathable H2No barrier and Deluge DWR
• Roll-down, 2-way-adjustable hood with a laminated visor improves hood structure and visibility
• Microfleece-lined neck and chin for comfort
• All exterior zippers and pit zips are watertight, coated and treated with a Deluge DWR

...

Read more...

Make a Mini Bike, Win a Custom $9000 Bike from Easton Cycling

An interesting contest was just launched by our friends at Easton Cycling in connection with the North American Handmade Bicycle Show. Here's the deal: Using only standard spokes, you twist, turn and create a miniature bike of your dreams. You then post it to Easton's Facebook Page and on April 18, the one with the most "like's" wins. Check out the full contest details and read below for Easton's official release on the contest.

Scotts Valley, Calif., February 25, 2011- Easton Cycling is giving riders everywhere the chance to have the bike of their dreams—on Easton’s tab. Together with veteran custom frame builder John Slawta of Land Shark Bicycles, Easton is giving away a fully custom, Easton and SRAM-equipped Land Shark road bike valued at more than $9,000. This dream machine will come with all top-of-the-line components including Easton EC90 wheels and cockpit plus SRAM’s new Black Red groupset. The contest is open to anyone free of charge and is a bit more involved than a typical raffle. To enter, contestants must create a miniature version of their dream bike using only bicycle spokes (as many as is necessary) then post a picture to Easton Cycling’s Facebook page (Facebook.com/EastonCycling) and encourage their friends to vote by clicking “Like.” We’ll tally up the “Likes” on Monday, April 18, and award the grand prize to the creator of the most popular spoke bike. The frame will be custom-built to the winner’s measurements and preferences by Slawta, an Oregon- based craftsman who has built race bikes for riders like Roy Knickman and Andy Hampsten (who won the Giro d’Italia aboard a re-badged Slawta frame). The winner of this Dream Bike contest gets to specify every last detail of the bike, from custom paint to their choice of Easton wheels, stem, bar and seatpost. Clinchers or tubular wheels, standard or compact cranks. This grand prize will be one of a kind. Visit EastonCycling.com or Facebook.com/EastonCycling to learn more.

More Info: See the Details of the Contest...

Read more...

Jelly Belly Cycling Team Rides FOCUS Again in 2011

(February 10, 2011; Carlsbad, CA) FOCUS Bicycles USA has announced that it will further its winning relationship with the Jelly Belly Cycling Team presented by Kenda for the 2011 season. Jelly Belly is the longest- running cycling team in the U.S., and earned big wins in 2010 aboard FOCUS bicycles. Top results included overall GC honors at Tour of Thailand, Tour of Korea, and Tulsa Tough, plus one-day wins including the Chicago Criterium and the Canadian National Road Championship. For 2011, the team will ride the premium FOCUS Izalco frameset, which features the best of German design and engineering. The Izalco is highlighted by ultra-light carbon construction, Liquid Shape Force Flow Design, elbowed comfort seat stays, internally routed cables, BB30 oversized bottom bracket, tapered head tube and matching 3T Funda Pro fork. For time trials, Jelly Belly will again turn to the Izalco Chrono, the supremely aerodynamic frameset designed by Andreas Walser. “We’re very proud of our on-going relationship with the Jelly Belly team and the entire Jelly Belly organization,” said Scott Rittschof, CEO of FOCUS Bicycles USA. “The team had great success around the world in 2010 riding FOCUS bikes, and served as fantastic ambassadors for our brand. This past experience, coupled with a rock solid 2011 roster literally sealed the deal for our continued involvement. “ The 2011 Jelly Belly Cycling Team presented by Kenda roster will consist of:

• Cameron Cogburn (USA)
• William Dickeson (AUS)
• Alex Hagman (USA)
• Nic Hamilton (CAN)
• Ken Hanson (USA)
• Sergio Hernandez (USA)
• Brad Huff (USA)
• Alastair Loutit (AUS)
• Sean Mazich (USA)
• Carson Miller (USA)
• Emerson Oronte (USA)
• Jeremy Powers (USA)
• Bernard Van Ulden (USA)

The 2011 Jelly Belly racing campaign will be highlighted by the team‘s repeat invitation to the prestigious Amgen Tour of California, along with the Redlands Cycling Classic, the Tour of Korea and the grueling Philadelphia International Cycling Championship. ”The Jelly Belly team rides aggressively in every race, and needs a bike they can truly count on,” said Danny Van Haute, Race Director for the Jelly Belly Cycling Team p/b Kenda. “FOCUS has not only provided the absolute best bikes for our riders, they have taken team relations to a whole new level of positive collaboration. It’s a relationship built to last.” About FOCUS Bicycles USA Based in Carlsbad, California, FOCUS Bicycles USA is dedicated to enhancing the cyclist’s experience with premium, race-inspired machines, which integrate German engineering, precision design and cutting-edge technology. True to the brand’s German lineage and world championship pedigree, FOCUS bicycles are developed, built, tested and delivered with utmost efficiency and to exacting standards. For more information check www.focus-bikes.com. About Jelly Belly Cycling presented by Kenda The longest-running pro cycling team in the U.S., Jelly Belly Cycling presented by Kenda has experienced global success. International wins in 2010 included the overall GC at both the Tour of Korea and the Tour of Thailand, along with North American success with overall GC at both the Green Mountain Stage Race and Tulsa Tough. Jelly Belly will again pursue a mix of international events and U.S. races in 2011. For more information, visit www.JellyBellyCycling.com....

Read more...

Specialized Announces 2011 Freeride Bike Team

With riders like Darren Berrecloth and Matt Hunter onboard, Specialized has helped push the freeride scene as it has evolved. Not only are these guys pushing it in the park, on DH courses and events, but they are riding the entire mountain on capable bikes that they have helped design. For 2011, Specialized adds Martin Soderstrom to the freeride team. Good luck in 2011, fellas!

Aiming to dominate the freeride world in 2011, Specialized is excited to announce the addition of Swedish pro Martin Soderstrom to their freeride program. Specialized will sponsor Martin with frames and saddles for at least the next two years and will be joining two of the best, Darren Berrecloth and Matt Hunter, to create one of the most diverse—and dangerous—freeride teams in the world. Not only do this year’s athletes represent the best in the business, the two decorated vets and the young up-and-coming pro are not shy when it comes to product development. Specialized will make the best use of this partnership to take their products to the next level, as we’ve already seen with their XC and Downhill collaborations. Supported by strong partners for the 2011 season, expect Martin to nail some of the sickest tricks at 26TRIX, Vienna Air King, Rocket Air and the Crankworx events. Martin is fortunate to have two notorious rippers as teammates, Darren Berrecloth, and Matt Hunter. Darren’s 2010 results include winning VW’s Best Trick at Crankworx with an insane Switch-360 Lookback. He also placed 3^rd overall in the FMB World Tour, and 3^rd place at the RedBull Rampage. Like last year, he will ride his SX Trail, Demo 8, and P.3 on some of the craziest terrain we have ever seen. “I just bought a sick new pad and I’m building some awesome new trails in the backyard. I am going to Argentina here in a week or two to continue filming Where The Trail Ends, which is a film about travelling into the furthest regions to find the sickest big mountain lines. Contest series as usual, but more to note is my event - the Bearclaw Invitational, which will be held at Mt Washington on Aug 6^th. Be ready.” Darren’s goal this year is to find out how to take big mountain riding to the next level. He just gave us a sneak peek on his recent progress courtesy of Freeride Entertainment. Meanwhile, Matt Hunter has been touring the planet on his Enduro, SX Trail, and Demo 8, giving Specialized hundreds of pages of editorial content in magazines since 2003. Matt has appeared in films such as LifeCycles, Follow Me, The Collective, Seasons, Roam, Back in the Saddle, New World Disorder 5, and Suspect, resulting in enough media coverage and video clips to keep us all stoked for the next 20 years. This year, Matt will be involved in more video projects as he travels the world to show us the best places to ride in 2011. Be sure to check out http://www.iamspecialized.com to see the latest updates and videos from Matt, Darren, and Martin.

More Info: Visit IAmSpecialized.com...

Read more...

The North Face Expedition Team Makes the First Winter Ascent of Gasherbrum II in Pakistan

We just received some very cool news from The North Face's Expedition Team of Simone Moro, Denis Urubko and Cory Richards. They have successfully nabbed the summit of Pakistan's Gasherbrum II peak -- its first successful Winter ascent. Braving extreme cold, the weather held up just enough for their successful bid. Congratulations, fellas... well done! Read on for more details from The North Face.

We’re thrilled to announce that an expedition team of The North Face athletes, including Simone Moro, Denis Urubko and Cory Richards, has reached the Summit of Gasherbrum II (GII) at 8,035m (26,362ft) in Pakistan. This milestone achievement marks the first 8,000m peak to be climbed in the Karakorum mountain range during the winter season, and the first American [Richards] winter ascent of an 8000m peak. This is Moro's third 8,000m ascent in winter (Shisha Pangma in 2005 and Makalu in 2009) and Urubko's second (Makalu in 2009). Moro, Urubko and Richards left base camp (5,100m) on Sunday January 30th and reached the summit this morning at 11:28 am PKT (Pakistan Standard Time), with temperatures at about -23˚ C. The team is now beginning its descent back to base camp, which will take approximately two days. Via satellite phone, Moro said "It has been very hard, but the three of us feel well.” We wish the team the best of luck for the remaining descent. Weather Window Open As Moro, Urubko & Richards Go For Summit Lugano, Switzerland, January 29, 2011 – The North Face®, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, receives a green light as Simone Moro, Denis Urubko and Cory Richards go for summit on the morning of Sunday January 30th 2011, in their attempt of the first winter ascent of 8,035m (26,362ft) peak, Gasherbrum II (GII), Pakistan. Taking advantage of the first short weather window of opportunity, despite the prevailing -46° temperature and forecasted cloudy conditions, Moro, Urubko & Richards leave base camp (5,100m) on Sunday January 30th 2011 at 07.00 a.m. (PKT Pakistan Standard Time) to climb to Camp 1 (6,500m). The team will sleep at Camp 1 for one night and aim to depart on Monday January 31st 2011 to continue climbing to Camp 2 (6,900m) for a further night’s stay. Weather is predicated favourable with sunshine on Tuesday February 1st 2011, allowing the climbers to establish a transitional Camp 3 at 7,300-7,500m. Moro, Urubko & Richards aim to summit GII during Wednesday February 2nd, 2011. Weather outlook is for clear skies in the morning, before clouds set in during the afternoon. Snowfall is forecasted during the return journey to Base Camp. Located in the Gilgit Baltistan province in Pakistan, near the Chinese border, Gasherbrum II, also known as K4, is the 13th highest mountain in the world and the third highest peak of the Gasherbrum Massif in the Himalayan Kakoram range. First climbed by an Austrian expedition, Fritz Moravec, Josef Larch and Hans Willenpart, on July 8th 1956, G2’s time-line of ‘first’ ascents and descents number less than ten. None include a successful winter ascent, as yet. The five non-ascended 8,000m peaks in winter are all located in the Karakoram, Pakistan and remain unclimbed despite 16 attempted winter expeditions since 1987.

...

Read more...

Suunto Celebrates 75th Anniversary with Special-edition Core Watch

01.14.2011– Ogden, UT — Suunto, a global leader in sports precision instruments, is unveiling the newest piece in its award-winning Suunto Core collection—the Core Anniversary Edition. The Core Anniversary Edition will be formally launched at Outdoor Retailer Winter Market this month and will be available to customers spring 2011. The new Suunto Core Anniversary Edition celebrates 75 years of precision and tradition from Suunto. For 75 years, Suunto has led the pack as the premier sports precision instrument designer and manufacturer for the outdoor market. The Core Anniversary Edition uses the Core’s classic style and design with a special 75th Anniversary engraving on the back. As an all-in-one outdoor sports tool for the vertically inclined, the award winning Core gathers a range of accurate data and information needed when exploring the wilder parts of the globe. The Suunto Core Anniversary Edition is designed to provide reliable, accurate information confidently and evaluate the surroundings. It combines ABC (altimeter, barometer and compass) functions with additional benefits such as a weather trend indicator, depth meter, sunrise and sunset times and a menu in four languages. Suunto Core 75th Special Edition Features:

• Altitude with log memory and altitude change measurement
• Barometer with storm alarm and weather trend indicator
• Compass with semi-automatic calibration and a digital bearing
• Depth meter
• Sunrise/sunset times with more than 400 locations worldwide
• Digital thermometer
• Multiple watch, date and alarm functions

Buy Now: Find Suunto Core Watch Styles...

Read more...

Merrell Launches Barefoot Training Education Web Site

ROCKFORD, Mich. (February 1, 2011) - In tandem with its first barefoot collection of shoes hitting market, Merrell launches a new microsite, merrell.com/barefoot, the “go-to” resource on how to begin and train for barefoot running and adventure. As part of the launch, Merrell will introduce the Merrell Bareform Training Technique that incorporates proper running form, body strengthening and a flexibility regime for top condition training. Partnering with key barefoot and running ambassadors, such as Walt Reynolds, a top trainer, coach and owner of NovaSport Athlete Development, and Jason Robillard, barefoot ultra marathoner and founder of the Barefoot Running University, the site will introduce barefoot adventure to fans through videos, tips and news articles related to the growing barefoot movement. “As we looked at the fast-paced barefoot movement and listened to key influencers in barefoot running and lifestyle, we realized there was no place consumers could go to learn about the necessary training and education needed for barefoot adventure,” said Craig Throne, vice president of global marketing manager at Merrell. “As we introduce an entire collection of barefoot shoes with the goal of getting more people outside having fun, we want to make sure there is a resource so that runners and outdoor enthusiasts don’t just jump into a pair of barefoot or minimalist shoes without the proper background.” “My primary decision to work with Merrell was based on their dedication to education around barefoot,” said Jason Robillard, barefoot ultra marathoner and founder of the Barefoot Running University. “To date, every other manufacturer of minimalist shoes has done a poor job of educating people about proper running gait when transitioning from traditional running shoes to minimalist shoes or barefoot. Merrell is the first to fill this education void, and I am more than happy to help them do so. My ultimate goal in the promotion of barefoot running has always been education. We can help fuel their enthusiasm about barefoot running while providing solid information to prevent them from injury.” “I am a firm believer that everyone can ‘move better’ and barefoot is the best way to do so,” said Walt Reynolds, long-time trainer, coach and owner of NovaSport Athlete Development. “I am thrilled to help Merrell develop an educational program that supports their new barefoot line of shoes. The Merrell Bareform Training program combines the benefits of proper running form with total body conditioning, strength & mobility exercises that apply to hikers and climbers as well. This is a whole-body program that will benefit every active person, no matter what outdoor adventure they choose.” This March Merrell is planning to introduce a barefoot training iPhone application designed to introduce runners and outdoor enthusiasts to the barefoot movement and provide the education needed to begin to run and move. There will be a mix of four training intervals to instruct on the natural way to run, with a midfoot to forefoot landing, and aids in developing ankle, knee and hip stability to promote good movement. The application will also host a Merrell Barefoot iTunes mix that is based on the 180 beat-per-minute cadence of a natural running stride. Merrell Barefoot will be available at retail stores and on merrell.com in February. Merrell Barefoot blends minimalist design for added foot freedom with specific traction zones to meet the needs of any terrain – from street to trail. The designs help engage the feet for a more natural stride by moving the wearer off the heel and encouraging forward momentum to a mid-foot landing with lower impact and a more aligned and efficient gait. This technique helps stimulate and strength muscles strength in the legs and feet. Merrell® is a brand within the Outdoor Group, a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. that also includes Chaco and Patagonia Footwear. Merrell believes in encouraging everyone to get outside, be active and have fun, and is the largest outdoor brand partner of the National Park Foundation. Wolverine World Wide, Inc. is headquartered in Rockford, Michigan. The company’s portfolio of highly-recognized brands includes: Bates®, Chaco, Cushe®, Hush Puppies®, Merrell®, Sebago® and Wolverine®. The Company is also the exclusive footwear licensee of the following popular brands: CAT®, Harley-Davidson® and Patagonia®. The Company’s products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in nearly 180 countries and territories. More Info: Visit Merrell.com/Barefoot...

Read more...

Greg Hill Ascends 2 Million Vertical Feet in 2010

What an incredible journey. Watching Greg Hill creep closer and closer to his 2 million vertical feet goal in one year has been nothing short of amazing. The fact that he skinned, climbed and skied his way to his goal is that much more astounding! Congratulations, Greg!

PARK CITY, UTAH (Jan. 3, 2011) – On Jan. 1, 2010, Backcountry.com-sponsored (other sponsors include Dynafit and Arc'teryx) ski mountaineer Greg Hill set his altimeter watch to zero and set off on his mission to log 2 million vertical ski-touring feet — all self-propelled, counting only the up — by Dec. 31. After 266 days of climbing and skiing backcountry terrain in Canada, Chile and Argentina, Hill’s New Year’s resolution and yearlong quest became a reality on Dec. 30 when his watch hit the 2 million mark on Rogers Pass outside of his hometown, Revelstoke, British Columbia. “The incredible feeling of no longer having this immense goal looming over my days is amazing. So much has gone into this tiny number on my watch – so much dedication, perseverance and passion,” said Hill, 35. “We all have dreams. I’ve realized that the fact is you have to work hard to achieve them and if you work hard enough it is possible to accomplish them.” Joined by his wife, mother, stepfather, two brothers and a crew of friends for his final push on a bitterly cold day, Hill’s watch eclipsed 2 million at 1:30pm on Bonney Moraine – a special place for Hill, with impressive mountain views and untracked powder. It was the culmination of a long, exciting year inundated with emotional highs and lows, travel and a healthy amount of skiing. All of Hill’s 2 million vertical feet were logged completely under his own human power –no chairlifts, trams or gondolas. “The toughest part of this challenge was the continuous need to always be on it – averaging 38,500 feet a week every week for a year,” said Hill. “Any time off meant extra huge days ahead. December was my biggest month where I covered 238,000 feet.” Hill averaged 7,570 feet per day, scaled 71 peaks (including a handful of technical first descents) and powered through 77 days where he logged more than 10,000 vertical feet. To put Hill’s extraordinary and superhuman feat in perspective, it is equivalent to: running more than 200 marathons in a year, climbing Mount Everest 69 times and skiing back down, and taking the stairs up the Empire State Building four times and Eiffel Tower five times a day for 365 days. Now imagine accomplishing this in remote, high-altitude mountain ranges in avalanche terrain with 40 pounds of gear strapped to your back. As the final days of 2010 loomed over Hill, he skied into the night lit by headlamp to maximize his daily vertical consumption. Hill completed his yearlong goal with style and grace and admits that being surrounded by family and friends for the finale was more emotional than anticipated. “Every day during the last week of the year I was pushing out an extra hour in the evening with friends to be able to finish with a bit of grace,” said Hill. “Finishing was way more emotional than I thought it would be. When I hit 1 million and 1.5 million I was alone. It was so great to feel the support and psych of all my friends and family as I achieved this crazy goal – I most definitely cried.”

More Info: Visit GregHill.ca...

Read more...

Gear.com Editor’s Choice Awards – 2010

The best gear of 2010 -- that's a tall order to fill. At Gear.com we've been out testing gear all year long, and we've found some exceptional pieces of gear that have made the top of our list. But this is about choosing the best. So here they are, after having been tested and tried in the field, the best gear picks of 2010. Whether you get them for someone for Christmas, or you treat yourself by using some of that cash you get in Christmas cards from Mom & Dad, they're sure to please. Below are our first 'Editor's Choice' awards for 2010.

Patagonia Men's Nano Puff Pullover

It's evident that Patagonia's former chief, Perry Klebahn, left a transformative footprint on Patagonia. User-led design thinking rules the day at Patagonia. Simplicity and function to the point of elegance. To the point where you wonder why you can't live without a piece of Patagonia gear after you've used it a few times. That's the way I am with my Patagonia Tsali trail running shoes, and the Nano Puff Pullover is no different. It is an insulating layer for the ultra weight- and space-conscious. And even if you don't think much about space and weight, you'll soon realize how valuable those characteristics are because all of a sudden you find that you get more days of use out of a piece of gear if it makes itself easy to bring along. A fatter puffy won't keep you warm if you opt to leave the bulky thing in your closet most days. As stated by one tester, Eric Miller, "I love this jacket. It provides just enough insulation to keep you comfortable when it gets cool." Read Eric's full review of the Nano Puff Pullover here.

GoPro Hero HD Point-of-View Video Camera

This is one camera that you see mounted on the helmet of every ripper at Snowbird on big days. It can shoot more than 4 hours of 1080p video, and can run 2.5 hours on a single charge. Turn it on and off at the start of each downhill run, and you're good for most of the day. The great thing is that you slap it into iMovie or whatever and it's easy to edit (as opposed to Flip's lame clunky interface --- speaking from experience). The thing is, HD point-of-view (POV) video takes anyone right there with you. Get good light, good snow, and you may be the next sensation. As Adam said in his review, "For all those amateurs out there ready to “Go Pro”, I believe this camera will bring you to the next level. It can’t promise sponsors or face time with Sage, but it can deliver some serious HD footage of your mediocre skills. I’ve been playing with this camera for a couple weeks now and I had different results. Pretty much every company wants to sponsor me and all the TGR skiers are trying to ping me on twitter, sorry guys, no time. I wish." Read his full review here.

Scott Fix Ski Goggles

Goggles that don't fog are always an elusive species for me. Smith and POC goggles have generally treated me right. But nothing has been perfect. Or if you find some that are fog-free, they sometimes won't fit with a helmet. Well, Jason has found a Scott goggle that is a combination of both and they haven't left his head for a year. Seriously --- I haven't seen him wear another pair of goggles since he got the Fix goggle from Scott. As Jason said, "Sweaty hikes, long traverses at Alta and hard-charging runs in deep powder… nothing has phased them. Fog-free goggles? Decidedly so thus far." For more info, read Jason's full review here.

POC Skull Light XP Ski Helmet

If Jason has kept the Scott Fix Goggle glued to his head for a year, I've done the same with the POC Skull Light XP ski helmet. I tend to flop between different helmet brands. I've had a number of Boeri and Giro helmets, and at least two models of Smith. But the POC Skull Light XP is the best-fitting helmet I've ever found for my dome. It has a material that feels snug without pinching -- the inner circumference of the helmet is practically cylindrical, so it doesn't give me pressure points like others. With many other helmets, I've had to get it so large so to avoid the forehead pinch that within a month or two it has compressed to be a sloppy fit. Not the POC helmet. I also like having a visor -- gives your head more of a baseball cap look than a bowling ball look. My only real gripe? The visor can sometimes catch the wind like a sail. But hey --- it's removable, so if you don't like it then take it off and you'll still have the best-fitting helmet around. Read my full review here....

Read more...

Salomon To Launch New BBR Ski at Local Demos and SIA

Salomon has never been a ski company that sits around waiting for innovation to happen. They have actively developed some of the most legendary skis the industry has ever seen. The XScream series was my first foray into the modern mid-fat and I have since skied a number of their skis and loved every turn. Now, their ski designer, Bertrand Krafft has announced his latest design... the BBR ski. View Specs: BBR 8.9 and BBR 7.9 Spec Sheet (PDF) Check out the details I do have on the Salomon BBR ski below.

12.06.2010– Ogden, UT— Salomon, the leader in technical design innovation in mountain sports, introduces a radical new design in alpine skis. The BBR ski is the latest innovation by Salomon ski designer Bertrand Krafft, (aka: BeBeR) the shaper behind groundbreaking innovation in skiing, the X Scream Series and Pocket Rocket. Inspired by the spontaneity and freedom of action found in water sports, the BBR ski offers the liberty to carve, cruise, float and play. BBR is unlike any ski ever made. The patented “V” shape redefines skiing on all types of snow. An oversized tip and rocker shape enable it to float in powder and adapt to uneven terrain smoothly and predictably. With a narrow waist and pintail, a short radius and short effective edge on-piste, BBR provides great carving and outstanding edge grip on harder snow. The result is an incredibly playful ski, with great performance in any situation. “With BBR it’s all about having fun,” says Jean-Yves Couput, Salomon Global Brand Manager. “This is the ski that helps get you that day on the mountain you’ll never forget. The freedom and adventure of your best days are exemplified in this revolutionary innovation.” The BBR launch unveiling kicks off with the Shape Your Adventure Tour, a nation-spanning road trip to a number of ski areas in the U.S. allowing skiers to test the fun factor first hand. Salomon athlete Seth Warner will haul a cache of BBR demo samples to virtually every area of the nation throughout the winter to give consumers a sneak peek and ultimate ride. Salomon officially launches the BBR at the SnowSports Industries America trade show in January.

Buy Now: Search for Salomon Skis...

Read more...

Giro and Renowned Designer Paul Smith Launch Bike Helmet Line

While most people are down with the run-of-the-mill helmet options from their local bike shop, sometimes a special-edition lid catches their eye. So, for those interested in a special-edition helmet designed by renowned designer Paul Smith, check this out.

(Scotts Valley, Calif., November 5, 2010)--Giro, the cycling world’s design leader, have teamed up with fashion iconoclast Paul Smith to release three special editions of the Giro Section. An avid cycling fan, Paul Smith fell into fashion as a teenager after a cycling accident put an end to his hopes of becoming a professional racing cyclist. However, to this day Paul remains an strong supporter of the cycling world. Drawing upon Paul’s interest in cycling, Giro invited Paul to design the ultimate, inspirational protective helmet. Paul chose the already edgy, skate-inspired Giro Section helmet which he then customized in three different styles - each feature unique Paul Smith designs. The result was three simple, striking and colorful designs that debuted at the Milan Furniture Fair this past spring. “With cycling becoming ever more popular especially in cities, making a bike helmet which we feel good in is quite difficult,” said Smith. “I think the shape of these helmets is really great and the matt finishes are really good. Apart from offering them in plain colors I have also added some colorful designs to them which I hope add more fun to something which could save your life!” The Paul Smith for Giro Section is available exclusively in Paul Smith shops and online (www.paulsmith.co.uk) for $95.00 About Giro Sport Design Giro®, based in Scotts Valley, CA, is a worldwide leader in the design, development and marketing of premium, high-performance protective gear and accessories for action sports and active lifestyles. We are an innovative and consumer-focused brand, with a mission to create products on the leading edge of inspired design that help you to look and feel your best.

...

Read more...

Mt. Everest Has 3G…Ultimate Nerdery

Hey everyone, let's strap up our solar chargers and battery insulated boots. Don't forget the espresso and your iPhones! We are headed to Everest! My buddy just texted this article to me and said, "No excuses now!" Puhlease. Is there anything more nerdy than updating your facebook status from Mt. Everest? Since I've spent so much time up there I am the most qualified to comment on the subject.

"Hey everyone. Well I'm on Everest playing Angry Birds and checking out twitter trends. OMG it's cold. Well my sherpa said the fluid in my lungs is no bueno. Cya L8r!"

On the flip side, all the sponsored climbers and do-gooders can update their compelling blogs and share their progress on excel sheets via GoogleDocs. I think that takes the mystery out of sending a loved one to climb Everest. Oh well, I mean it had to happen some time. I really wonder what the sherpas think about all this. Well if you need any iPhone accessories or ice axes, we got you covered here at Gear.com. And now you can ping us on facebook and let us know how it's going up there! via Gizmodo...

Read more...

The North Face Kishtwar Jacket Wins Gear of Year

The coveted "Gear of the Year" award by the editors of Outside Magazine is the goal of most outdoor gear makers. With The North Face Kishtwar Jacket, it really comes as no surprise as initial tests have been extremely-favorable. I've seen the Polartec PowerShield Pro fabric in action, but have yet to try the Kishtwar. I've been pitching this jacket to anyone looking for a waterproof/breathable shell since I first saw it at Outdoor Retailer in January. This one will be flying off the shelves of your local REI. Buy Now: Find the Best Price on The North Face Kishtwar Jacket Read the release below:

10.06.2010 – SAN LEANDRO, Calif. — The North Face, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, and Polartec, LLC, the developer, manufacturer and marketer of Polartec performance fabrics today announce The North Face Kishtwar Jacket was awarded “Gear of the Year” by Outside magazine. The Kishtwar is crafted of ground-breaking Polartec Power Shield Pro, which delivers the best combination of weather protection and breathability ever offered in a single fabric. "The Kishtwar just might be the ultimate soft shell. It’s made with a brand-new fabric from Polartec that somehow manages to be impressively breathable but also remarkably tough, windproof, and water-resistant,’" said Sam Moulton, Buyer’s Guide Editor at Outside magazine. "Add it all up and you've got a versatile soft shell for everything from backcountry skiing to cool-weather hiking." The holy grail of softshell jackets, the Kishtwar Jacket is designed for highly aerobic endeavors in foul weather. Polartec Power Shield Pro allows a high rate of air permeability that significantly improves moisture transport compared to softshells that do not allow airflow, while offering superior water resistance. The hydrophobic, microporous, polyurethane membrane stops water from penetrating while still allowing airflow. The Kishtwar features high abrasion resistance, four-way stretch and non-restrictive fit. “The Kishtwar is a revolutionary solution to adventurers who, until now, often had to choose between breathability and protection,” said Philip Hamilton, Vice President of Product for The North Face. “Working closely with longtime partner Polartec, we were able to create a solution. We are honored the Kishtwar stood out during Outside’s intensive testing process.” “Serious outdoor athletes and guides have been asking for a fabric like Polartec Power Shield Pro for years,” said Nate Simmons, Global Director of Marketing for Polartec. “Recent breakthroughs in membrane technology have finally made this combination of water resistance and air permeability possible. The North Face created an all-business jacket with the Kishtwar that will answer the needs of the most demanding users.” Outside magazine’s Buyer’s Guide features the latest and greatest of outdoor product and gear, as the ultimate guide for outdoor enthusiasts. Outside’s testing team looked at more than 50 of the best new jackets, and put a dozen through the paces on a wide variety of conditions, activity and terrain, including a mountain climb in Iceland, a trek to Mount Everest Base Camp in Nepal, and an adventure race in Patagonia. The North Face Kishtwar Jacket was also awarded “Gear of the Year” by National Geographic Adventure. http://on.natgeo.com/9ellZK For more than 40 years The North Face athlete team has defined the limits of what is humanly possible, and continually works with The North Face Research Design and Development teams, creating innovative designs that push new technologies and inspire cutting-edge products. Watch the Kishtwar in action – video: http://tnfvideo.com/video/kishtwar-jacket/ For more information on Polartec, visit www.polartec.com For more information on The North Face, check out www.thenorthface.com Visit Outside magazine at www.outsideonline.com About The North Face The North Face, a division of VF Outdoor, Inc., was founded in 1968. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, the company offers the most technically advanced products in the market to accomplished climbers, mountaineers, snowsport athletes, endurance athletes, and explorers. The company's products are sold in specialty mountaineering, backpacking, running, and snowsport retailers, premium-sporting goods retailers and major outdoor specialty retail chains. About Polartec, LLC Polartec, LLC is the developer, manufacturer and marketer of Polartec performance fabrics. Polartec products range from lightweight wicking base layers, to insulation layers, to extreme weather protection and are utilized by the best clothing brands in the world. In addition, Polartec fabrics are used extensively by all branches of the United States military including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Special Operations Forces.

Buy Now: Find the Best Price on The North Face Kishtwar Jacket...

Read more...

Ortovox 3+ Avalanche Beacon: Now Shipping

With more and more backcountry travelers heading out into uncontrolled terrain, nothing is more important than proper route-finding and safe backcountry travel protocol. Of equal importance is the proper gear should an accident occur. Tops on that list of gear is a beacon, probe and shovel in the hands of everyone in your posse. As beacons have become more widely-used, it's become more and more important to make them easier and easier to use. The all-new Ortovox 3+ avalanche beacon represents the latest in technology to deliver ease-of-use in an ultra-compact package. This transceiver is shipping to retailers now. Read on for more details.

Salt Lake City, UT (September 2010)—Buried alive in snow is not a comfortable thought or experience, thankfully the new 3+ Avalanche Beacon by Ortovox will have you out even faster. The 3+ is the first 3-antenna device with Smart Antenna Technology™, intelligent positioning system that analyzes the position of the antennas and automatically switches to the most optimal transmission. In short, the 3+ makes all other avalanche beacons more efficient at finding you. The 3+ Avalanche Beacon represents a significant and important forward step in backcountry safety technology. Utilizing Smart Antenna Technology™, the 3+ is the first avalanche beacon to automatically recognize which of its two primary antennas is best positioned to emit the strongest flux line for rescuers to pick up. “There’s never been an avalanche beacon like this,” said Ortovox USA CEO Marcus Peterson, “A lot of energy and investment has been spent making transceivers get better at searching. The 3+ is undoubtedly the best at being found.” The 3+ is no slouch at finding people either. A large real-time display with directional arrow and distance to the victim helps hone your rescue quickly and intuitively. The display deck also allows for a visual, easy-to-use overview of multi-burial situations that allows the rescuer to flag a victim once they are found. Additional features include rubberized housing for added protection, lighted display for night searches, switchover in case of a follow-up avalanche, optimized search acoustics and visual representation of victim proximity (in addition to metric distance). Best of all, Ortovox 3plus Beacons ARE NOW SHIPPING and will be available online and in specialty retail stores near you shortly. About Ortovox All over the world, backcountry skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers and military special forces have one thing in common: mountains and snow. Driven by their passion for improving the backcountry experience, Ortovox is a worldwide leader in developing new product solutions designed to make winter sports safer and more fun. This is why Ortovox has been the #1 selling avalanche transceiver and safety equipment brand worldwide for over 25 years.

More Info: Visit Ortovox.com...

Read more...

Ellsworth Bicycles Unveils 20th Anniversary Lineup at Interbike 2010

My friends at Ellsworth are unveiling some great new changes for 2011 across their entire lineup. The biggest change will be in the new SST tubing, which uses shapes and tapers instead of hydro-forming. These new tubes will now feature tapered head tubes, new trick color options for rockers and other bits as well as more standard color options across the line (hallelujah!). I'll be the first to admit that the funky nebula anodized colors are not my favorite and hopefully we'll see more standard colors from Ellsworth going forward. It only gets a quick mention in this release, but the new Evolution 120mm 29er looks to be quite the trail slayer. I love the Evolve 29er, but a bit more travel, new tubesets and a tapered head tube will make it that much better. Read on for a glimpse into Ellsworth for 2011.

SAN DIEGO — September 20, 2010 – Ellsworth Handcrafted Bicycles will unveil its 20th anniversary lineup at Interbike in Las Vegas (September 20-24) highlighted by its first Slope Style bike, the Momentum, a new 120mm 29er (The Evolution), the 2011 Enlightenment 26 firmtail crossover bike featuring the NuVinci® N360 drivetrain, and anniversary versions of the popular Truth, Epiphany, Evolve and Moment, each sporting new frame graphics, enhanced sst.2 tubing, semi-integrated tapered head tubes and super-formed pivot integrated seat tubes. Ellsworth’s "Made in America" tradition of handcrafting bicycles in the U.S. is front and forward allowing for frame and component customization and the introduction of a complete line of custom colored rockers, sex pins and derailleur hangers. Ellsworth’s new Momentum is the company’s first Slope Style bike - perfect for the Park or 4X. With the pedal efficiency of Ellsworth’s patented ICT suspension, the bike is fast like a hard tail, yet takes the edge off the hits with 120 mm of firm, speed tuned rear travel allowing the bike to carry more speed and stay connected. It’s the perfect ICT embodiment in a full suspension Park style bike. The Momentum will be customizable, offered with several build options, and will feature a custom configured Fox 831 fork and Ellsworth’s custom built All-Mountain wheels. Crafted from Ellsworth’s Rare Earth Carbon, the Enlightenment 26 crossover bike features force directional carbon shaping and lay patterns topped off with internal cable routing to protect the shifting from the elements. The DMS (Dual Mono Stay) firmtail frame design features an element of absorption, without mechanical articulation, that produces an amazing ride whether it’s a quick daily commute or an off-road trek on a favorite trail. The Enlightenment’s unique dropout design accommodates the NuVinci N360’s drive with a belt or a chain. The NuVinci CVP is a significant "shift" in drivetrain technology, transmitting mechanical power with spheres instead of gears. With an unlimited number of ratios available within its nominal 360% ratio range, the N360 enhances the Enlightenment’s performance with seamless, continuous shifting (even under high pedal torque), without power interruptions, missed gears or dropped chains. Ellsworth’s XC, Trail and All Mountain mainstays (Truth, Evolve, Epiphany and Moment) will feature the next generation of the company’s SST tubing (sst.2), which is hand-shaped after swaging and tapering, which gives precise control of wall thickness, over bulk hydro-forming. The shaping allows Ellsworth to create the precise characteristics of life and rigidity in each frame. In addition to new frame graphics and head badges, each frame will feature a new semi-integrated tapered head tube that provides superlative strength for razor sharp handling and increased front-end stiffness, improved overall stack height and allows for an increased bearing surface. In addition, Ellsworth is incorporating a new Pivot Integrated Seat Tube for each model. New super-formed seat tubes are lighter and stronger than ever. “Our 20th anniversary lineup continues the handcrafted, quality and technological ‘Made in America’ tradition of excellence that our customers have known and loved for two decades,” said Tony Ellsworth. “This is perhaps the most exciting model year lineup we have ever produced. Our mountain bikes maintain our tried and true ICT suspension design that provides greater efficiency — for climbing, speed and acceleration; ride quality — incredible handling, traction and control; and reduced rider fatigue — for sustained physical performance. Whether on or off road, our customers riding experience remains paramount to this company. That’s why we’d like to thank our customers for the ‘great ride’ over the past 20 years with a model lineup that pays homage to the past but propels us to the future.” For more information on the Momentum, Evolution, Enlightenment 26 and other 20th anniversary models, contact Ellsworth Handcrafted Bikes at 760-788-7500 or visit www.ellsworthbikes.com. Ellsworth will preview its 20th anniversary lineup at Outdoor Demo West in Boulder City, NV September 20-21 (Booth 2070) and at the Interbike Expo, September 22-24 in Las Vegas (Booth #4575). About Ellsworth Handcrafted Bicycles, Inc. Ellsworth Handcrafted Bicycles, Inc, designs and hand crafts its bikes in house providing the highest manufacturing integrity to its state of the art bicycles. Ellsworth, which holds multiple international patents for innovation in design and technology, is also committed to Social Responsibility and Environmental Stewardship, supporting programs to cure cancer, prevent global deforestation and is also headquartered in a solar and wind powered sustainable building. To learn more about Ellsworth Bikes visit www.ellsworthbikes.com, on Twitter "@ellsworthbikes", and Facebook @ “Ellsworth Handcrafted Bicycles”.

More Info: Visit Ellsworthbikes.com...

Read more...

Need Energy? Grab a Honey Stinger Waffle

Honey Stinger has always done things their own way. As the biggest producer of honey-based energy bars and goo, they attract a loyal crowd and I personally really like their products. With Lance Armstrong onboard as part-owner, his penchant for European waffles has led to their latest creation: Honey Stinger Waffles. I love honey and I also love waffles, so what could be better than a honey waffle? So long as it tastes nothing like an Eggo waffle, I think people will be stoked on these. Check out the details below:

Honey Stinger, the leading manufacturer of honey-based nutritional products, introduces a completely new energy product to the US market – Stinger Waffles. Suggested by Honey Stinger co-owner Lance Armstrong, the new Stinger Waffle provides 160 calories of great-tasting, organic energy. “The Stinger Waffle is an early example of the positive impact Lance has made in new product development,” states Bill Gamber, Honey Stinger co-founder. “He’s a big fan of the stroopwafels he’s eaten while racing in Europe and suggested that we try making some with honey. As it turns out, they’re delicious.” The traditional stroopwafel, which originated in the Netherlands over 200 years ago, is a waffle made from two thin layers of baked batter with syrup filling. In the Netherlands and Belgium, stroopwafels are sold in the streets and are popular with European cyclists looking for a quick boost of energy. Rather than syrup, the Stinger Waffle use organic honey and other organic ingredients, making Stinger Waffles a certified USDA Organic product. Each waffle is wrapped individually for easy transport and retails for $1.39. Stinger Waffles will be available at specialty sporting goods retailers and natural food grocers nationwide on October 15. About Honey Stinger Located in Steamboat Springs, Colo., Honey Stinger makes convenient, nutritious and great tasting honey-based foods including energy bars, gels and organic chews. Honey Stinger fuels some of the county's top cyclists, runners, triathletes and teams. In early 2010, the company welcomed Lance Armstrong to its ownership team. Honey Stinger products are available at specialty sporting goods retailers, natural food grocers and www.honeystinger.com.

More Info: Visit HoneyStinger.com...

Read more...

Osprey to Launch Momentum and Metron Bike Commuter Packs

Osprey Packs is diving deeper into the cycling market with some additions to their Hydraulics hydration pack lineup as well as two new offerings in the expanding bike commuting market. The all-new Osprey Momentum and Metron packs will include commuter-friendly features and weather protection that urban hipsters and cubicle junkies will appreciate. Here are the details from Osprey:

The Momentum and Metron series incorporate the superior fit and comfort of an Osprey Pack with the functionality that is particularly geared to the needs of a bike commuter. Momentum The Momentum series is designed with the avid bicycle commuter in mind. Whether the commute is beating city traffic or on rural roads avoiding highway speeds, these packs offer practical solutions for the bike commute lifestyle. Momentum features include:

• Built-in snug fitting high visibility raincover
• LidLock™ helmet clip
• Separate, padded laptop sleeve, with file sleeve
• Large cell phone pocket on shoulder strap
• Key pocket on shoulder strap with retractable key clip
• U-Lock slot
• 2 side compression straps
• Padded top and side grab handle
• Tuck-away shoulder straps
• Reflective print to front panel
• Blinker light attachment
• Front stash pocket with organizer
• Internal organizer for pump, tubes and tools
• Zippered Side Pockets
• Colors: Bamboo and Carbide
• MSRP: Momentum 26 at $129; Momentum 34 at $149

Metron The Metron brings a street look to bike commuting with a messenger bag inspired flap design. Beyond biking across town, the urban styling of the Metron offers an easy transition to days spent riding transit, hitting the coffee shop, or traveling by air or train. Metron features include:

• Integrated Raincover in Lid
• U-Lock storage pocket
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Large cell phone pocket on shoulder strap
• Key pocket on shoulder strap with retractable key clip
• 2 side compression straps
• Lidlock™
• Blinker light attachment
• Reflective detail to front of pack
• Colors: Black and Earth
• MSRP: Metron 25 $139; Metron 35 $159

More Info: Visit OspreyPacks.com...

Read more...

POC Trabec Race MTB Helmet – New Gear

We're in the thick of bike tradeshow season. With Eurobike just completed and Interbike next week, it's all bikes, all the time. From the folks at POC will come the new POC Trabec Race MTB helmet for the "all mountain" crowd. If you aren't familiar with POC, think of a Volvo for your head and if "all mountain" makes no sense, then think of it as someone who rides a bike on trails (that's you!). Here are the details of the all-new POC Trabec mountain bike helmet for those who want Volvo-like protection and also ride their bikes on trails.

The NEW Trabec Race in-mold MTB helmet has been developed in line with all other POC helmets, to provide the highest possible degree of protection without comprising functionality and performance. From the inside and out, the helmet has borrowed its construction from how the skeleton is built, for strength, resistance and durability. The Aramid filament reinforced EPS core is super tough and resilient to any kind of crash. The outer PC shell has optimized coverage without seams or gaps in the most exposed areas. The PC shell bonds both mechanically and chemically together with the reinforced core, giving a very light and strong helmet construction. The vent hole pattern is evenly distributed and optimizes airflow and protection. MSRP: $175

More Info: Visit POCsports.com...

Read more...

Giro to Launch High-end Road/MTB Shoes for 2011

With superstar Levi Leipheimer dancing in Giro prototypes for the past year or more, Giro makes it official and has released the details on their new high-end road and mountain bike shoe lineup for 2011. These shoes have been tested in The Tour de France, Leadville 100, The Tour of California and The Tour of Utah by Levi himself. With several podium finishes already, the new lineup has an impressive record -- even before the public can get their feet in them. With prices starting at $199, the new Giro shoes won't come cheaply, so they better be comfortable and durable on the trail or on the road. For those of you who remember their first ill-fated attempt at footwear, these shoes have little in common with that pilot project gone bad and look to be a welcomed entry into the high-end cycling shoe market. Look for them at your local Giro dealer sometime in January 2011. Here's a bit more info on Giro's new cycling shoes:

• Available in seven different models for both road and MTB riding
• Price range for road is $349 to $199
• Price range for mountain is $279 to $199
• Top-end models feature adjustable SuperNatural Fit Footbeds (also available as a separate kit)
• Two years in development with 16 revisions and thousands of miles of road and trail testing
• Features a proprietary last designed from the ground-up exclusively by Giro
• Developed with input and testing from Retul founder Todd Carver
• Three-time Tour of California Champion Levi Leipheimer was a critical force in the development of the shoes and raced the Tour de France in the Prolight SLX
• Top-end models feature a high modulus carbon or composite sole designed by Easton engineers
• Include premium materials such as Tejin uppers, custom fasteners and X-Static fabric
• Will be sold through approximately 500 dealers in the United States
• Giro shoes will also be available through dealers in Germany, Switzerland Denmark, Benelux, Scandinavia and the UK

More Info: Download the 2011 Giro Shoes Catalog (4.5 mb PDF)...

Read more...

Spyder Introduces OSMO Technology: Claims Supreme Breathability

When it comes to outerwear, everyone claims their fabrics are both waterproof and breathable. We've all used Gore-Tex, Pertex, eVent, Hyvent and the like with excellent, acceptable and poor results. Sometimes breathability wins out over waterproof and other times the opposite is the case and you're left wearing the equivalent of a plastic garbage bag. In recent times, I've been impressed with some of the new house-brand laminates in the market and this year Spyder is making some very bold claims with the introduction of their new OSMO Technology. On paper it appears to provide all the right ingredients to perform on the hill, but the real world is always the best testing grounds. Regardless, it's great to see Spyder offering a new fabric that is aimed at providing critical breathability in their high-end ski jacket line--because nothing is worse than wearing a sweatbag. Read on for the full details from Spyder:

08.26.2010 – Boulder, CO – The average person has 2.6 million sweat glands that produce up to a liter of sweat an hour. In cold environments, it’s imperative to move moisture away from the body to maintain dryness and warmth and avoid hypothermia. Spyder, the world’s leading skiwear and mountain based apparel brand, wages war on the cold with their new proprietary OSMO technology to dissipate moisture and help maintain your core body temperature. Featured in the high-end men’s and women’s 2010 Legend collections and Kyd’s Authentics line, OSMO technology is a super breathable laminate system featuring a 30,000g breathability rating and 20,000mm waterproof rating. This exclusive system achieves world-class breathability based on the inherent properties of osmosis, the diffusion of fluid through a membrane. Spyder’s OSMO edge was developed through the integration of an exclusive three-part system; the garment’s outerlayer, a laminate that provides breathability ratings never witnessed to date in skiwear, and an adhesive that bonds the laminate to the outer fabric. These three elements pull water vapor away from the interior through the garment to the exterior. The OSMO technology conversely blocks larger water molecules of melted snow and rain so they cannot pass through the outer shell toward the body, thus keeping the athlete warmer and drier. Long, cold days on the mountain never felt better. OSMO with X-STATIC® MVT+ silver technology is also released within Spyder’s 2010 line. A laminate utilizing pure silver throughout the membrane, the technology will provide OSMO’s superb waterproof/breathability while also utilizing the natural, permanent performance properties of silver. Bacterial growth on waterproof, breathable fabrics greatly reduces their effectiveness by clogging the cellular structure of the laminate. Spyder chose X-STATIC® MVT+ because it inhibits the growth of the bacteria on the membrane, allowing it to retain its breathability performance and protect from odor. As the natural silver properties of X-STATIC MVT+ never recede, the performance benefits will be with you for the life of the garment.

More Info: Visit Spyder.com...

Read more...

Niner Bikes Goes Presidential: George Bush Rides a Jet9

I just got the following news announcement from Niner Bikes. Pretty cool that Steve Domahidy and Chris Sugai would personally deliver a Niner Jet9 to the former Commander in Chief. Like him or hate him, I think it's cool to have a President who is also a mountain biker--not sure Obama cares so much for mountain biking, but I hear he has a mean jumper. Looks like Bush enjoyed the benefits of the big wheels by knocking 3 minutes off his previous best time! Details below:

Niner Bikes co-founders Chris Sugai and Steve Domahidy spent Thursday morning of this week delivering and fitting a Niner Jet 9 full suspension bike for Former President George W. Bush, with assistance from local Niner dealer Kennebunkport Bicycle Company. “Most of Peloton 1, Mr. Bushʼs regular mountain bike crew, is on 29 inch wheels and he wanted to check them out. He asked Brandon Gillard, owner of the Kennebunkport Bicycle Company and Peloton 1 rider, if he could try a Niner. Brandon called us and of course we were stoked for the opportunity” said Sugai “ It is really hard to believe that just a few years ago we were showing our first frame at Sea Otter and now we are riding with a former President of the United States” Bush, Sugai, Domahidy and the rest of the Peloton 1 crew (as well as a full complement of Secret Service people) went for a ride on the crewʼs usual morning loop. “Mr. Bush is really fast” said Domahidy, ”and a very good technical rider, too. He was flying on the Jet 9 and at the end of the ride said he dropped 3 minutes off of his fastest time!” Post ride, there was ample opportunity to chat, and the groupʼs conversation covered everything from trails, trail access and trail building to entrepreneurship in the USA. Said Sugai, “I found that he was very interested in the challenges of being a small business in the current economic atmosphere. This has been an amazing opportunity and we really have Niner owners to thank – their support over the years has gotten our little company to this point”. Photo Credit: CasmithPhotography.com

More Info: Visit NinerBikes.com...

Read more...

Outdoor Retailer: Easton Kilo Tent

Hot on the heels of the success of their snowshoes, Easton is hitting the lightweight tent market with a sledgehammer. Known for their innovation in both aluminum and carbon fiber, Easton is bringing some serious innovation and ultralight goodness to their forthcoming tent line. The headliner is the Kilo 2-person tent ($399) that comes in at a freakishly light 2.2 lbs! Much of the weight reduction is achieved by using ultralight carbon fiber poles and the elimination of shock-cord to keep the poles together. In lieu of shock-cord, Easton has developed what they call AirLock, which uses a carbon insert held together by mono filament line. Because the poles are now 59% lighter than aluminum ones with standard connections and shock-cord, Easton can continue to use durable fabric weights elsewhere and still come in as one of the lightest 2-person tents on the planet. More Info: Visit EastonMountainProducts.com...

Read more...

Outdoor Retailer: Patagonia Jackets and Activewear

Leading the charge in sustainability, Patagonia’s product line is now 90% recyclable through their Common Threads program. Kudos to Patagonia for that achievement. A new piece is the Ultralight Down Shirt ($250) that tips the scales at a mere 5.6 oz using ultralight ripstop nylon while being packed with 800-fill down for warmth. It’s packable and comfortable. The new Men’s Torrentshell Pullover ($119) is made for climbers who prefer a minimalist design so nothing gets caught up in harnesses or packs. This pullover is economical and streamlined for demanding climbers and mountaineers. Another great introduction is the new Air Flow running shirts. Available in both short-sleeve ($59) and sleeveless ($55), the Air Flow fabric features a subtle weave for extreme moisture wicking and performance. More Info: Visit Patagonia.com...

Read more...

Outdoor Retailer: Sierra Designs Backpack Revival

It's been a long time since Sierra Designs had backpacks in their line, but they didn't get into it halfway... their complete pack lineup is as impressive as many who have been making packs for much longer. Utilizing aircraft-grade aluminum stays, the Fulcrum Suspension system is both light and strong. The entire package is built to carry weight well with the suspension design and other little features, like the angled pack bottom to further concentrate weight on the waistbelt. Not only is this design made for comfort in the long haul, it's made for ventilation with plenty of airflow. Each pack is also hydration compatible. Shown at right is the Revival 65 ($240). More Info: Visit SierraDesigns.com...

Read more...

Outdoor Retailer: Tecnica Inferno Max and Sprint Trail Runing Shoes

More known for their ski boots, Tecnica is attacking the trail running market with a handful of well-constructed and designed trail running shoes. Utilizing the TRS system (Tecnica Rolling System) for improved rolling stride and with a slew of other innovations (asymmetrical overlap, performance platform, bathtub construction and more), Tecnica really means business… err, trails. The bright orange Inferno Max ($150) is built like a capable training shoe with the ability to smoke the trails on race-day if you choose to lace ‘em up on your next race. Not ultralight, but the wide platform and rocker design is built to make you more efficient and comfortable for miles. Weight looks like 12.2 oz each on these. With a more traditional contact patch width and a burrito wrap upper, the Inferno Sprint ($160) packs a serious punch in a low-profile race-ready shoe. A look inside yields all the goodies you’d expect with the addition of a carbon plate for lightweight protection and quickness. These will tip the scales at 10.4 oz each, so not the lightest race shoe, but still respectably-light. More Info: Visit TecnicaUSA.com...

Read more...

Surface Skis new Skullcandy Ski Lineup: Tunes and Turns

Peanut butter and jelly. Captain and Tennille. Scooby and Shaggy. Whatever combo you want to call it; local rising ski company, Surface Skis and local crazy-huge headphone company, Skullcandy, have announced a co-branding and marketing partnership with three Skullcandy-branded skis, poles and matching Skullcandy headphones. Park rats will rejoice as their entire ensemble will now match... horray! The nuts and bolts of this are big for both camps, but I see it as a huge step forward for Surface. Aligning with Skullcandy offers huge advantages as their presence is a huge force in the action sports world. Congratulations to both. Looking forward to these new designs this Winter. Here's a little more info:

Surface Skis, the fastest growing brand in freeskiing, which is the fastest growing segment in all of snow sports, is pleased to announce their partnership with Skullcandy, leader of core audio products. The partnership consists of three co-branded snow skis, poles and matching Skullcandy Icon 2 headphones for each ski graphic. An official launch party will be held this coming July at the Windell’s Ski/Snowboard camp in Mt. Hood, Oregon. Surface Founder/President, Mike Schneider commented, “Watching Skullcandy evolve the last few years has been a huge inspiration to our brand. We are honored to have an industry leader like Skullcandy choose us for a collaboration of this magnitude. This collaboration is the first of its kind in the ski community and we are excited to see what emerges from here.” "Skullcandy was born on a chairlift - This collaboration with Surface was just meant to be," said Dan Levine, Chief Merchandising Officer of Skullcandy. "We are beyond excited to partner with a company that shares our same beliefs and passion for the snow. We hope everyone else enjoys the hard work that has gone in to this project as much as we will this winter." Follow Surface and Skullcandy the entire month of July while they are Mt. Hood promoting the collaboration with daily updates on Skullcandy.TV, Twitter and an official launch party at Windell’s Ski/Snowboard Camp featuring a surprise-guest hip hop artist the last week of July.

More Info: Visit SurfaceSkis.com/Skullcandy...

Read more...

Geoff Kabush Takes 2010 Canadian National XC MTB Championships

Team Maxxis-Rocky Mountain rider, Geoff Kabush, continued his dominance for the 8th straight year after winning the Canadian National XC MTB Championships this weekend. Great work, yet again Mr, Kabush!

It would be easy to surmise that Team Maxxis-Rocky Mountain’s Geoff Kabush, having won Canadian National MTB Championships for the last seven years in a row, would cruise to number eight without much difficulty. Those “in the know”, however, predicted a Battle Royale between Kabush and Max Plaxton, the winner of two US Cup races this season. Plaxton, who has finished second to Kabush at several national championships, was hungry to don his first ever national champion’s jersey. Under sunny skies and hot temperatures, Plaxton and Kabush led the elite field out of the Canmore Nordic Center for the first lap, accompanied by Derek Zandstra and Rocky Mountain’s Marty Lazarksi following close behind. Kabush, Plaxton, and Zandstra built their lead steadily over the next two laps, each sharing the work to distance the rest of the competition. All three riders appeared to be riding within their limits and it was anyone’s guess as who would take the win. On lap four, as the three leaders began the long climb, both Zandstra and Plaxton attacked, but neither could shake the other riders. When they reached the last steep pitch of the climb, Kabush launched a blistering attack that neither Zandstra nor Plaxton could match. As Plaxton chased Kabush, he dropped Zandstra and the three spent of the race riding on their own. Kabush came into the finish with a time of 1:45:15 with Plaxton 48 seconds back in second place and Zandstra third, 1:39 back. "It wasn't an easy win," said Kabush. "Those guys are getting stronger every year, and pushing me a bit more. I waited until near the top of the steepest climb and then punched it hard, and was able to open enough of a gap to get away from them. I waited for the right moment to create some separation. I guess old school was able to beat new school for one more year." "He picked the right time to go," Plaxton explained, "and he can put in such a powerful attack that I couldn't go with him. Geoff's won of the top guys in the world, so there's no shame in being beaten by him.“

...

Read more...

Mile High Mountaineering to Launch Fresh, Youthful Backpack Line

Looking ahead to Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, a new product launch caught my attention. Mile High Mountaineering, founded by two lifelong friends, Colorado natives and outdoor enthusiasts, is launching their fresh and youthful technical backpack line aimed at those who are not satisfied with the same dull and boring designs that line the walls of your local REI. While fresh colorways are a huge part of MHM's pack line, there are a number of innovative features as well, such as:

• Side-loading sleeping bag compartment
• "Back Hugger" internal compression system
• Fully-adjustable harness system
• Dual-pivoting/adjustable cant hipbelt
• Premium suspension design (dubbed sYnc A.C.)
• "Backdraft" air channeled back panel
• Easy gear access pockets and compartments

While they have yet to launch their products to the public, I obtained some specs and photos of three of their packs in the Expedition Line: Flatiron 38, Divide 55 and Fifty-Two 80. You can read more on each pack below (info provided by MHM) and check out additional pictures as well. For a first effort, the packs look very cooked. Learn more about MHM on their Web site or become a fan on Facebook and follow on Twitter.

MHM Flatiron 38 Pack

The Flatiron is the smallest pack in our Expedition Series and this versatile pack is intended for quick and light backpacking. Though it is a small expedition pack, it is not small on features. We thought it should still be built with the comfort, adjustability and features of a larger pack. Most companies begin to cut quality and key features out of their smaller packs but the Flatiron maintains all the right stuff to set itself apart from all other packs in this size range. To improve access to your gear, we put a long vertical water-resistant zipper on the front of the pack and 2 large stretch pockets on the each side for stashing those on trail essentials. It has a sturdy single aluminum stay/HDPE frame system, ventilated backpanel, dual-pivoting hipbelt and plenty more features that make it unrivaled by all other small and light hiking packs out there. For ultimate versatility, the aluminum stay can be easily removed without even opening the pack for more mobility while scrambling.

MHM Divide 55 Pack

The Divide is perfect for weekend to weeklong trips and a great “go-to” pack for most of your exploring. This mid-sized pack comes as fully featured as its big brother, the Fifty-Two 80, but 25 liters smaller. Equipped with our beefy dual-stay sYnc A.C. suspension, this pack’s frame system is incredibly stable and can handle weight far more efficiently than most packs in the 55-65 liter range. Access to gear is simple too since we put a vertical water-resistant zipper on the front panel so any part of your load can be accessed without opening the top. With superb back ventilation, the best dual-pivoting adjustable hipbelt available and a unique compartmentalized design you’ll be ready for any adventure.

MHM Fifty-Two 80

The Fifty-Two 80 is the long hauler in our Expedition Series packs. This deluxe pack is built for your week+ adventures and carrying a lot of gear. The sYnc A.C. suspension coupled with the variCant hipbelt will give you a customized fit and keep your back happy under heavy loads. A large center zip pocket in the front of the pack for extra storage is just 1 of the 12 pockets on this pack that makes stashing your gear a breeze. Like all of our packs, the Fifty-Two 80 has secondary access aside from the top. We outdid ourselves on this pack by adding a large “U” shaped zipper that opens the entire front panel like a suitcase. Whether you’re traveling across Europe or thru hiking the Continental Divide trail, the Fifty-Two 80 can handle anything you can throw at it. More Info: Visit MHMGear.com...

Read more...

9:Fish Surfboards

For the summer, I've been living out of a 1978 Toyota EZ Rider RV on the Oregon coast, surfing, hiking and enjoying a moment in my life where I'm not in school. Throughout the summer, I've been working with 9:Fish Surfboards to review several boards within their line here on Gear.com. 9:Fish, a surfboard manufacturing company based out of southern California, has been designing and producing surfboards for over 4 years now. Owners/Engineers/Surfers Sunny Trinh and Wes Negus had 2 things in mind when they started 9:Fish surfboards: designing a surfboard based on engineering principles, and designing a board that would catch more waves, which means more fun!

9:Fish- A History

9:Fish began its evolution when Clark Foam, a well known manufacturer of the foam used inside surfboards, shut down in December of 2005. When materials became scarce, the cost of surfboards skyrocketed, with your average fish surfboard costing almost double what it would have pre-Clark Foam shut down. Wes and Sunny, surfers and engineers, set out to make a surfboard that was more affordable and still a ride-able, fun board. Throughout the design evolution of 9:Fish boards, the owners had a few things in mind. They wanted a board that was fun to ride, a board that was more conducive to learning/novice surfers than a shortboard, something that was smaller and less cumbersome than a longboard, and a board that would perform in a variety of conditions. They set out to create a paddling friendly, wave catching profile that any surfer could have fun on. Owner/Designer Sunny Trinh will be the first to say, 9:Fish is not a hardcore, performance only surf company. 9:Fish is geared towards those who surf for the fun of it! After looking at their list of "requirements" for board design, 9:Fish decided they would do one thing, and do it well: they would make fish surfboards. Historically, fish surfboards were small wave, summer boards. 9:Fish sought to change that stereotype and make a board that was fun in all conditions. They started with four prototypes and took those board all over, seeing how they performed in different conditions. Owner Sunny Trinh was able to surf 9:Fish's 6'2 Seared Ahi at Sunset Beach on Ohau's notorious North Shore in dumping triple overhead conditions, and also at the mellow, knee high waves of Waikiki, and have fun in both places on the same board! This type of versatility in a board is unheard of, so 9:Fish knew they'd nailed it. They stuck with that design, and began manufacturing surfboards. 9:Fish now makes a range of surfboards, stressing that they have something for everyone. While the pro surfers may be ripping on shortboards, that type of board isn't for everyone, and 9:Fish realizes that. They are a "beginner friendly" company, a rarity in the surfing industry, and are just looking for all their riders to have fun.

"Our goal is to catch more waves. Catching more waves means having more fun. We're not about ripping the hardest or looking the coolest. We're about having the most fun." -Sunny Trinh, 9:Fish Owner

9:Fish- Making waves in environmentally friendly surfing

As a sport, surfing is somewhat of a tragic irony. Although surfers are arguably some of the most "in touch with nature" folks I know, the process of making surfboards is one of the more toxic processes out there. The production of foam has multitudes of harmful effects on the ozone (see the EPA's website for information on foam and acceptable, less toxic substitutes), and foam is the core of most surfboards. Epoxy, fiberglass, resin... None of this stuff is nice for Mother Earth, and yet necessary for surfboard production. A sad, yet true dichotomy between surfer's love for nature and their tools continues to exist. When 9:Fish started shaping boards, they wanted to be sure to mitigate the harmful effects of surfboard production in as many ways as possible. Currently, 9:Fish's production warehouse exceeds Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards in regards to employee safety and waste disposal. This means added air filter systems to filter dust during shaping, sanding and laminating, activated carbon filters to treat paint vapors, and solid waste recycling. Even more eco-conscious and forward thinking than just meeting and exceeding standards, 9:Fish has another environmentally thoughtful project up their sleeve. 9:Fish is currently working with Harvey Mudd College to develop the worlds first recyclable, resin free, fiberglass free surfboard. With this, the world of surfing has almost come full circle, looking much like the early days of surfing, when redwood planks were the board of choice. However, 9:Fish's new development won't weigh 70lbs, and will surf just like a board developed using today's shaping and engineering knowledge. So far, they've made three prototypes that ride great! The next challenge is how to make those prototypes into wave catching machines with a friendly price point. 9:Fish is dedicated to finding a solution, so I don't doubt they'll get there. For more information on 9:Fish, or to start having fun on a fish of your own, scope the 9:Fish website, or feel free to give the guys a call at 1-877-9Fish-SB. Frank, Sunny or Wes will be happy to answer all your fishy questions. Also, be sure to check out Gear.com's current selection of surf apparel and accessories!...

Read more...

Tour de France Contests from Easton, Specialized and Giro

With the 2010 Tour de France kicking off tomorrow, there are a slew of contests out there with the possibility of winning some absolutely killer schwag. Interested in a Specialized frameset, a pair of Easton Wheels or some new Giro helmet? Check out these contests and enter to win your share. I'm sure I've missed a few, so chime in with others that you're seeing.

Specialized 21 Frames Contest

21 frames in 21 days. You dig? Well, not so fast. First, you have to choose your team. Are you cheering for the reigning champion, Alberto Contador and Team Astana or are you rooting for Cancellara/Schleck of the Saxo Bank Team? Decisions, decisions... Before you get to worked up, head on over to your local Specialized dealer (there are a billion the last time I checked) to pick up a special promo code, then visit IAmSpecialized.com for a chance to win one of 21 customized team-colored framesets. Enter the Specialized 21 Frames Contest

Easton Wheelset-a-Day Contest

Once again... 21 wheelsets to go with the aforementioned 21 frames. But, you've got to follow the Live Coverage from CyclingNews.com to get the question of the day. Answer it right and you, my friend are entered to win a sweet new Easton EC90 wheelset (Aero, SLX, SL or TT). Enter the Easton Wheelset-a-day Contest

Giro Lance Armstrong Sweepstakes

Noggin protection is key in le Tour. Without question, we will see our share of spills and thrills as the 21 stages unfold. Lance will be fully-protected with his Giro Ionos helmet and you could be too! You can be entered to win one of three signed Giro Ionos helmets. One of the lids will feature a custom Livestrong design and has yet to be unveiled, but think yellow, I'm sure. Enter the Giro Lance Armstrong Sweepstakes...

Read more...

Contest: Get Your Chaco Tan Started

Ah, the Chaco Z tan. Nothing quite says "my summer rocked!" quiet like a good Chaco Z tan on the tops of your feet come Autumn. Where the prominent farmer tan line is a fashion phopaux surely capable of garnering laughs, pointing fingers and becoming the butt of happy hour jokes, the Chaco Z tan lines are honored, revered, only to become campfire conversation fodder and if exceptionally pronounced even lore to be spoken of with respect and ahh. You think I'm joking? People are freaks passionate about their Chacos and the tan lines left behind. Try searching "Chaco Tan" on Flickr or Google Images. There's even a "I have a Chaco tan and I'm proud of it!" Facebook Group, of which I'm a proud member despite my meager Z tan at the current moment. Yes, the Z tan is where it's at. In fact, I've long contended that the best measurement of summertime fun and adventure is how prominent your Chaco Z tan can become. Summer of Chaco Z Tan Contests You asked for it, Chaco is bringing it. A summer of back to back contests to spray about how impressive your Z tan is or where you take your Z tan. They've launched a micro-site for the contest that has all the details about the first contest and will be the place to check out the various contests that will keep launching throughout the summer as your tan matures and seasons. The Details First off, get working on your tan! Secondly, visit the Chaco Contest Website and upload the best photo of your Chaco tan to win a river rafting trip, a new pair of Chacos, and other great prizes. The Chaco Tan photo contest will run June, July and August, and will feature a different mini-contest every two weeks. Selected finalists from the mini-contests will be entered to win the grand prize rafting trip. The grand prize winner will be announced on Labor Day, September 6th. Contest #1: Best Adventure Spot Between June 22 - July 2nd, submit photos that showcase your Chaco tan in exotic places and out-of-the-way spaces. The person whose photo receives the most "Likes" by 5pm EST on July 2nd will receive a prize, and the photo will become a finalist in the river rafting trip grand prize contest. Check out the Chaco Contest Website and check back to see the entries throughout the summer. I hope to see your feet there! IF you don't have any Chaco's, get some on your feet and get that Z tan started. My favorite is the Chaco ZX/2....

Read more...

Last Chance! Enter the Vibram Grip Your World Contest

Yes, it's confirmed... I do live under a rock. Well, case in point. The Vibram Grip Your World contest has been going on for quite some time and I just now found out about it!?! Well, better late than never, I suppose. I just entered to win a chance to head to Chamonix, France for the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, August 24-29. You can too if you hurry. The deadline for entry is June 18, so get your boogie on over to GripYourWorld.com and enter. Entry is simple (if you live in USA or Canada). Upload a photo, share a quick story and shazaam, you could be trail running in Chamonix this August.  Suerte, amigo! Enter Now: GripYourWorld.com...

Read more...

Merrell and Vibram Partner to Launch New Merrell Barefoot Collection

With the wild success of the Vibram Five Fingers shoes and the recent barefoot running buzz, many shoe manufacturers are taking a harder look at their designs--wondering if simpler is better. Merrell and Vibram are partnering to deliver a minimalistic new footwear design that's not as funky as Five Fingers, but promises nearly all the same benefits. Look for these designs in early 2011. Full press release below.

ROCKFORD, Mich. (June 14, 2010) - Merrell®, a leading outdoor footwear and apparel brand known for out-of-the-box comfort and versatility, and Vibram®, the world leader in advanced performance sole design and makers of the well known Five Fingers® barefoot concept, exclusively collaborate to create an outsole design that aids in multi-directional movement and adaptability. The end result is Merrell Barefoot, a collection of minimalist, lightweight, versatile and efficient footwear. The collection is a progression of shoes that meet the varying needs of outdoor enthusiasts. All will be available at retail and on merrell.com in February 2011. “As minimalist footwear and barefoot running continue to stay at the height of discussion and in the heart of the enthusiast, we saw the clear need to bring barefoot outdoors, beyond running and fitness,” said Clark Matis, original founder and current designer and developer at Merrell. “Having been with Merrell for 26 years now, it is exciting to see the brand continue to push the design boundaries in the outdoor industry. Our partnership with Vibram, and its expertise in barefoot running and fitness, allows us to introduce the ideal barefoot designs for all outdoor activities. Merrell Barefoot provides a good balance of foot freedom, surface protection and cushioning to help outdoor enthusiasts avoid injury and strengthen their muscles while doing what they love “Merrell is a long-term partner of ours and we are excited to extend the benefits of barefoot alternatives in the outdoors,” said Tony Post, President & CEO of Vibram USA. “For feet to be healthy, we believe they need to be stimulated and exercised, which will in turn improve the body’s balance and agility. On that premise, we collaborated with Merrell to develop an exclusive outsole that aids in stride efficiency and adaptability for all outdoor terrain.” Merrell Barefoot blends minimalist design for added foot freedom with specific traction zones to meet the needs of any terrain – from street to trail. The designs help engage the feet for a more natural stride by moving the wearer off the heel and encouraging forward momentum to a mid-foot landing with lower impact and a more aligned and efficient gait. Stimulated muscles increase core strength, amp up agility and build the body’s ability to burn more calories. For men, Trail Glove is an athletic trail runner for a close-to-terrain ride. For scrambling across creeks and crags with natural ease, True Glove is a streamlined, all-terrain multi-sport shoe. Both feature synthetic leather and mesh uppers and the proprietary Merrell Omni-Fit™ lacing system that quickly cinches for a precise fit. An internal support construction secures the mid-foot for optimal fit and responsiveness. Rounding out Merrell Barefoot for men is Tough Glove, a foot-conforming soft leather style, designed with ultimate versatility for wear around town or into a spontaneous game of ultimate Frisbee. Merrell also brings an entire category of barefoot fit and function to women’s-specific outdoor footwear. These patterns designed and engineered by women let enthusiasts get closer to the terrain on which they play in three new Merrell Barefoot designs. Pace Glove, a low-profile trail runner, is constructed with a breathable mesh upper, and advanced protection underfoot is mapped with minimal cushioning where it’s most needed. A Merrell Omni-Fit lace system quickly pulls tight for an individualized fit and optimal responsiveness on uneven terrain. Two multi-activity feminine styles are ideal barefoot companions for on and off trail adventures and great for a commute to work, a walk around town, or a casual hike with friends. Power Glove takes outdoor style to the next level in a soft leather ankle high design with three Easy Z-Rap™ Velcro closures that secure the foot for simple, lightweight performance. Pure Glove is a super low-profile Lycra mesh Mary Jane with a hook and loop closure strap for a precise and secure fit.

...

Read more...

Elite Sprinter, Tour de France Stage Winner Mark Cavendish Launches Book: “Boy Racer”

We all get stoked watching Mark Cavendish outsprint the pack in the Tour De France--claiming victory in fist-pumping style. The kid can sprint and he also has a great story to tell in his new book, "Boy Racer". He has also helped propel Scott bikes to the forefront of the road bike market. Available now, it can be had for $21.95 at bookstores everywhere or online at Amazon.com. Read the Press Release:

Boulder, CO, USA - June 8, 2010 - Cycling super-sprinter Mark Cavendish explains his phenomenal rise to stardom in his new book, Boy Racer: My Journey to Tour de France Record-Breaker. Cav describes with riveting detail the sprint victories that propelled him into the highest ranks of the cycling elite. His first-person play-by-plays put readers wheel to wheel with the world's fastest cyclists. Boy Racer is now available in bookstores, bike shops, and online, just in time for him to take the starting line of the 2010 Tour de France. Boy Racer is a page-turning journey of pure exhilaration-candid, opinionated, and scrupulously honest-chronicling Cavendish's rapid rise from local hero to National Champion to Tour de France stage winner. Along the way, Cavendish takes us behind the scenes of the Tour de France to unmask the intrigue, the mayhem, the hysteria, and the adrenaline-fueled, all-out chaos of professional cycling. Written off as "fat" and "useless" in his youth, Cavendish has since sprinted to the front of the peloton to become cycling's brightest star-and its most outspoken. Cavendish tells how defying the naysayers fueled his early career on the road and the track and led him to ten Tour de France stage wins and overall victory at Milan-San Remo. Vivid, unflinching, and brilliantly conveyed, Boy Racer sweeps readers into the swirl of the racer's world and delivers them to the finish line with an insider's view from the freshest eyes and most agile mind in bike racing. About Mark Cavendish Born and raised on the Isle of Man, Mark Cavendish became a world track champion as a teenager in 2005 and a Commonwealth Games gold medalist a year later. In 2008 he regained his world title on the track with British teammate Bradley Wiggins. After switching his focus to the more glamorous world of road cycling, Cavendish set a new record of four stage wins in the 2008 Tour de France. He won six stages of the 2009 Tour de France and the prestigious Milan-San Remo one-day classic. Widely regarded as the most exciting and charismatic young rider to join the sport in years, Cavendish rides for the American cycling team HTC-Columbia and will be the most closely watched sprinter in the pro peloton in 2010.

...

Read more...

The Gear Junkie Treasure Hunt – $40,000 in Prizes

Our friends over at GearJunkie.com announced a first-of-its-kind treasure hunt slated for July 11 in Roanoke, Virginia. This treasure hunt will feature over $40k in gear and participants for the adventure will be capped at 300. By the sounds of it, those 300 folks will each walk away with some great schwag and prizes. Registration started today and the cost is a mere $25. Teams will be sent out with a map in hand in search for flags worth a certain amount of points. At the end of the hunt, those flags will be cashed in for prizes. To learn more about the event details, click here. Read on for the press release and more info.

ROANOKE, Va. (June 7, 2010) – Outdoor enthusiasts and gear junkies, get ready to explore! RoanokeOutside.com – a resource for the Roanoke, Va., region’s outdoors – has teamed with GearJunkie.com, a top outdoors blog and publication, to host a one-day-only Treasure Hunt event in a Roanoke wilderness park on July 11th. The event will be called "Gear Junkie's Treasure Hunt: Roanoke." More than $40,000 in outdoor gear – from backpacks to kayaks – will be given away to an estimated 300 participants. Additionally, during the run up to the event, GearJunkie.com will hold online contests for its readers. Details including sign-up information and event schedule are available at www.GearJunkie.com/Treasure-Hunt-Roanoke. “The Treasure Hunt is a first-of-its-kind event,” said Stephen Regenold, founder and editor of GearJunkie.com. “Roanoke provides a great venue for this activity, which will blend elements from adventure racing with a substantial gear scavenger hunt.” Gear Junkie's Treasure Hunt: Roanoke event is presented in partnership with Odyssey Adventure Racing, Roanoke Parks & Recreation, and Roanoke County Parks, Recreation and Tourism. “The Roanoke region is one of the best spots anywhere for outdoor recreation," says Pete Eshelman with the Roanoke Regional Partnership. "By teaming up with Gear Junkie – a nationally-recognized web site that specializes in outdoor gear – we hope to further solidify our region’s standing.” ### ABOUT THE ROANOKE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP The Roanoke Regional Partnership was founded in 1983 as a regional economic development organization for the greater Roanoke area that includes Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin, and Roanoke counties plus the cities of Roanoke and Salem and the town of Vinton. Its program of work includes image building, asset development, and business recruitment. The Partnership has been involved in business locations and expansions that have created more than 13,600 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment in real estate and equipment. To learn more, please visit www.Roanoke.org. ABOUT GEARJUNKIE.COM Operated by Monopoint Media LLC of Minneapolis, Minn., GEARJUNKIE.com was founded in 2006. It is an online publication devoted to the outdoors, health, fitness, adventure travel, and all the gear and equipment associated with those pursuits. It is based off a nationally-syndicated newspaper column of the same name written by freelance journalist Stephen Regenold, a world-traveling adventurer/journalist with a home base in Minnesota.

More Info: Visit GearJunkie.com...

Read more...

One Crazy Scotsman Will Paddle the Atlantic then Run Across the USA for Wounded Warriors

Scotsman, Don Lennox, embarked from New York City to paddle across the Atlantic on Sunday, May 30. His team intends to smash the paddling world record from NYC to the UK. Then, this crazy dude will fly to San Francisco where he will embark on a coast-to-coast run from the left to the right coast--once again attempting to break the current running record. You can follow his madness at http://transatlantic.posterous.com.

(Santa Cruz, Calif., May 28, 2010) – Don Lennox of Scotland will embark on one of the most grueling multi-sport endurance events in recent memory on Sunday, May 30, when he leaves New York City to row 3,500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean--and then tops that feat by immediately running across the United States. His goal is to complete the row and run in 100 days. Part of a four-person rowing team that already has one trans-Atlantic rowing world record, Lennox and his team will depart New York’s Battery Park by boat at 9 a.m. on Sunday. Rowing 24 hours a day in two-man shifts, the goal is to reach England in fewer than 45 days, smashing the current record. Once he reaches England, Lennox will have no time to rest. He will immediately fly to California, where he will begin his grueling run in the Bay Area in mid-July. Wearing a kilt and Somnio brand running shoes to keep his legs fresh, the Scotsman will attempt to run the length of the United States in 50 days. It is an unbelievably audacious goal, but this ultra-endurance athlete says he is up for the challenge. “Starting the run after spending 45 days in a boat will be the toughest part,” says Lennox, who is raising money for Wounded Warriors, a nonprofit that helps veterans who lose limbs in combat. “But my pain will be nothing compared to that suffered by wounded combat veterans.” Somnio, based in Santa Cruz, Calif., decided to sponsor Lennox after being attracted to his athletic abilities, psychological toughness and desire to help others. “We are hardcore runners here at Somnio, but we can’t imagine doing what Don is attempting,” says Somnio Founder Sean Sullivan. “Whether he succeeds in his goal of completing this grueling journey in less than 100 days is beside the point for us. We think he is a winner for just trying something this insane.” Lennox will be updating his blog throughout the journey, where he may also be contacted: http://transatlantic.posterous.com/

More Info: Read Dan's Blog...

Read more...

Get Serious Deals on Outdoor Gear at LeftLaneSports.com

Everyone is familiar with the many One-Deal-at-a-Time (ODAT) sites these days. There seems to be one for just about any type of sport or activity. Into skiing, try Tramdock.com. How about hunting? Try Camofire.com. What about gadgets and gizmos? Head to the original, Woot.com. While these are all fine and dandy, sometimes I prefer to take my shopping a little more casually instead of feeling under-the-gun to pull the trigger before the next steezy deal arrives. While the online private sale format isn't entirely-new either, it's fun to see it develop and provide choices to the outdoor enthusiast. I tweeted about TheClymb when it launched earlier this year and have recently run into another similar site called LeftLaneSports.com. Similar to TheClymb, this new site provides steep discounts on one brand per week. These are name brands you know well with high-quality products to meet your needs while going light on the wallet. Interested? Read the following press release and check out their site for yourself. This week is Sugoi, last week featured Ogio products and we'll see what is on tap for next week. Press Release from LeftLaneSports.com:

LeftLaneSports.com, an exclusive members-only destination offering premium sports brands and products at discounts up to 70% off retail, launched as the sporting goods industry’s leader in the private sale arena. LeftLane Sports will begin offering sports enthusiasts a unique way to shop their favorite brands and products at deep discounts. Featuring sports gear through short, limited quantity sales events, the site follows in the rapid-growth footsteps of private fashion and home décor retailers like Gilt Groupe, RueLaLa, and One Kings Lane. Founded by industry veterans, Helio Fialho and Maggie Bartels, LeftLane Sports is set to offer the sporting goods world a new channel for merchandising and debuting their products. “LeftLane Sports delivers unparalleled access to premium sports gear at incredible values,” said co-founder Erik Fialho. “Sporting goods consumers finally have their place in the Private Sale world.” Thousands of visitors to LeftLane have taken advantage of the savings during the company’s quiet “soft launch” period. Current members have had exclusive access to hand-picked selections from brands like Salomon, Columbia, Patagonia, GoLite, and Gregory. The site’s one business day shipping (the fastest standard shipping of any Private Sale site) has created strong brand loyalty among members. “In the short time we’ve been live, many customers have shopped with us three or four times,” said Bartels. The launch of LeftLane Sports marks the second historic sports ecommerce event for founder Helio Fialho. As former COO of west-coast retailer, Copeland’s Sports, Fialho launched the first online sports retail site, ShopSports.com, in 1996. As CEO of ShopSports, Fialho propelled the site to number one in the sporting goods industry before leaving the company in 2000. Fialho believes that LeftLaneSports.com will follow in the same market dominating footsteps of his previous sporting goods endeavors. About LeftLane Sports LeftLane Sports (www.leftlanesports.com) is an exclusive member’s only private sale site offering premium sports products at up to 70% OFF retail. Site membership is free and requires only a name and email address. LeftLane Sports was founded in 2009 by industry veterans and friends, Helio Fialho, Maggie Bartels, and Erik Fialho. To become a member, visit www.leftlanesports.com.

More Info: Visit LeftLaneSports.com...

Read more...

Anthill Films’ Follow Me DVD Available Now

Curl up with your freeride machine and riding partners, pop some popcorn and enjoy "Follow Me" from the comforts of your own home. The DVD is available now with the download up on iTunes and Blu-Ray coming next month. Freeriders worldwide rejoice!

WHISTLER, BC, May 12, 2010 – Coinciding with an international film tour currently underway, Anthill Films’ new mountain bike film Follow Me presented by Shimano will be available this week for retail purchase. While audiences are being blown away along the film tour, pre-orders are being fulfilled and consumers can now purchase Follow Me on DVD direct from anthillfilms.com where they can also gain access to exclusive content including photos, videos and rider interviews. Follow Me will also available for purchase at select international bicycle and sports specialty retailers and on iTunes. The film will additionally be available on BluRay in June 2010. Shot predominately in British Columbia, Follow Me, the newest production by local film production company Anthill Films, is a modern portrait of mountain bike lifestyle which gets back to basics and reminds viewers why riding bikes is so much fun. Shimano-sponsored riders including Gee Atherton, Geoff Gulevich, Matt Hunter, Cam McCaul, Kurt Sorge and Thomas Vanderham are featured along with Ben Boyko, Sam Hill, Brandon Semenuk and Stevie Smith. Follow Me gives viewers a lot more than just breathtaking, progressive action. Set to an eclectic and modern soundtrack, the film breaks away from traditional formats and finds out what happens when the world’s top downhillers, freeriders and slopestylers are mixed and matched together in some the best places to ride on the planet. Follow Me is all about good times, pushing limits, crazy adventures and most importantly having fun. The Follow Me film tour is currently underway, with over 60 exclusive premiere events taking place all over the world. Visit www.anthillfilms.com to view the trailer, exclusive content and interviews with athletes starring in the film and to purchase a copy of the film. Specialty retailers looking to carry Follow Me can visit www.vasentertainment.com. Follow Me is the first feature film for Anthill Films, a new film production company formed by the crew who helped create award-winning films including: The Collective, Roam and Seasons. Follow Me is presented by Shimano in association with Adidas Eyewear, Bike Parks of BC, PRO Components, PinkBike.com, Bike Magazine and Nike 6.0. Follow Me is distributed globally by VAS Entertainment.

Buy Now: Visit AnthillFilms.com or Download on iTunes...

Read more...

Save the Poles Expedition Reaches North Pole… Everest Next

Sierra Designs-sponsored Save the Poles Expedition has reached the second of its three goals in an effort to raise awareness of global warming. Eric Larsen and his team have reached the North Pole and will now set their sights on Everest. Wow!

BOULDER, COLO. (For Immediate Release) – After 50 days of skiing, hiking, and swimming across 500 miles of shifting Arctic ice and open water, the Sierra Designs-sponsored Save the Poles team arrived at the North Pole, completing the second of three expeditions designed to rally support for the fight against global warming. With journeys to the North and South Poles completed and an ascent of Mount Everest scheduled for later this summer, the Save the Poles team is one step away from reaching three environments most susceptible to climate change.  A self-imposed 365-day timeframe will make this accomplishment an historic first. “We were very grateful for the opportunity to sponsor Eric and his Save the Poles expedition,” said Sue Edmiston, Sierra Designs marketing manager.  “Save the Poles is a great way for Sierra Designs to help spread the word about the most important environmental issue of our time while having our gear extensively tested in three of the most extreme places on the planet.” Larsen will also use this expedition to collect relevant scientific information while advocating for a reduction in carbon emissions. “This expedition will highlight the effects of climate change on these cold, sensitive places so we can better understand how our actions affect the poles and ultimately the planet,” said Larsen. “Human-triggered global warming is completely preventable.  Knowledge and education are essential to keeping the Earth cool and inhabitable for future generations.” Eric worked closely with Sierra Designs to design, develop, and manufacture much of the apparel and equipment used during the Save the Poles expedition.  Eric’s custom-made sleeping bags, hardshells, down jackets and pants were constructed to the highest standards from the finest materials available to ensure flawless performance in the exceedingly harsh polar environment. With more than 50 years experience creating technologically advanced outdoor gear, Sierra Designs is providing custom designed apparel, sleeping bags, and other equipment to help Larsen and his team perform in some of the most challenging environments on the planet. About Sierra Designs Founded in 1965, at the beginning of the golden age of backpacking and climbing, Sierra Designs is one of the original brands for the eco-conscious outdoor enthusiast. We have always had a passion to protect where we play, and our tents, sleeping bags, and apparel have been to every corner of the world, from the highest peaks in Tibet to your local greenway around the corner. We model and design our products for high performance adventurers, but make it attainable for you. Sierra Designs’ gear and apparel fits in with your daily life, no matter where it takes you. Visit us online at SierraDesigns.com or see us on Facebook.

Learn More: Visit SaveThePoles.com...

Read more...

Black Diamond Sold; Will Merge with Gregory Mountain Products

In an unexpected move, the parent company of Gregory Mountain Products (a publicly traded company called Clarus Corporation - CLRS.PK) has purchased Black Diamond and will merge the two companies. The new company will bear the name Black Diamond Equipment. Black Diamond, the Salt Lake City based climbing and backcountry skiing company, has for many of us here at Gear.com been an icon in the industry and local community of climbers and skiers. We've skied their skis through countless powder glades, placed their cams in splitter cracks, tied into their harnesses, climbed with their skins to lofty peaks and trusted our lives to their innovations like the Avalung and other avalanche gear. In short, BD has become intertwined with us in many ways, some well beyond the gear we love and use. So it's a little shocking to me to hear the news of them being sold. I can't say that I even remotely saw this coming...but now a couple of things are making sense. Last month some of the Gregory pack designers and others were in town and I happened to hook up with them for a late season backcountry ski tour. At the time I thought it strange that the designers for Gregory would be in meetings with the guys from Black Diamond, but I wrote it off as industry comradeship. SNAP! I should have known something was up!

Peter Metcalf

Peter Metcalf, the longtime President and CEO of Black Diamond made the announcement yesterday in an open letter to employees, friends and the community. You can read the entire letter on the Black Diamond website. I've known Peter for a number of years and enjoyed his friendship and the good conversations we've had. I've long respected him as a businessman, leader, and a passionate climber/skier at the core. After reading his heart felt announcement I have even greater respect and admiration for Peter because I know that what he said is not Wall Street M&A verbage but a heartfelt thanks for the past that they've built and a declaration of the challenging and exciting route before them stated with pure gusto. From the announcement:

Authenticity is a word that gets thrown around a lot. For it to actually mean something, which it does at Black Diamond, we live and breathe the sports we represent and reflect that in our business practices. We approach business like we do climbing. As you can appreciate, there is precious little room for error in either. When we climb, we learn to make careful choices, act as a team, proceed purposefully, realistically assess risk, and ensure that we are protected against it. At the same time, we know how to maintain focus and, when necessary, to act decisively and aggressively to make progress. We constantly adapt to the route in front of us. That we approach our business the same way is no accident. Today, we have a new route and new summit to tackle.

Gregory Mountain Products

Not to be forgotten in this is Gregory, one of the best pack making companies around. I've been using the Gregory Targhee the past two seasons and have fallen in love the the clean design. I've also used the Gregory Whitney as my backpacking pack for years. This too is a great brand with quality products and a legacy of excellence.

Where will they call Home?

Given that Gregory is based in Sacramento, California and Black Diamond here in Salt Lake City, Utah, it remains to be seen whether or not BD will stay rooted in Salt Lake or if they'll move to the foothills of the Sierras, a move that could bring the company near to its roots of Yosemite when Ivan Chouinard formed Chouinard Equipment out of passion and the need for quality climbing gear which became the predecessor to Black Diamond's formation in 1989. It was that bold move in 1989 when Peter Metcalf and others faced the climbing community with a similar challenge that lay before them and declared they would forge ahead on a new route towards the summit which they now find themselves glancing back at as they embark once again.

What is not changing? Our commitment to our mission vision and values, and our efforts to help write the stories of the sports and the communities which inspire us. This shared passion is the universal Esperanto that connects us with fellow climbers & skiers no matter where we are. We view this new route in front of us as not only a method to growth, but as a collaborative effort through which we will strengthen and expand the way we do business and our community of fellow users

Financial notes

On the financial and investment side of things, since Clarus is a publicly traded company Black Diamond Equipment will be entering a new and challenging phase as a public company, formerly operating as an employee owned company. I can only assume that this will remain true to some degree as employees may have been given shares or options of Clarus. (ticker - CLRS.PK) For those that follow stocks, shares jumped from $5 to $6 in a flurry of trading yesterday. Read More: Read the entire announcement by Peter Metcalf on the Black Diamond website. ...

Read more...

Zipp Launches 404 Carbon Clincher Wheelset

Looks like the folks at Zipp are at it again... launching their new 404 Carbon Clincher wheelset that's said to offer all the benefits of a deep-profile design, but offer handling akin to a wider rim. More details below. Zipp Press Release:

Zipp Speed Weaponry has revealed details of the company’s highly anticipated 404 Carbon Clincher, the first deep-profile carbon clincher design to offer the superior aerodynamics, ride quality, strength, and handling of a wide rim body. Available now through authorized Zipp retailers around the world, the 404 Carbon Clincher employs a radical new aerodynamic rim profile, dubbed Firecrest™, and exclusive materials technology developed in collaboration with Zipp’s composites supplier. As a result, the 404 Carbon Clincher reaches an unrivaled level of performance for clincher wheels and a total weight of just 1557 grams, putting it among the lightest deep-profile carbon clinchers available. Zipp Technical Director Josh Poertner said, “This is a product that a lot of people have been waiting for, and we wanted to give them something unlike any other wheel on the market. We spent two years optimizing our carbon clincher technology and it’s probably the biggest leap forward we’ve ever made.” To address the differences in airflow patterns between clincher tires and tubulars, Zipp engineers developed the fully toroidal Firecrest profile with a complex set of high-radius curves that adjust the width of the rim from 25.5mmm at the braking track to 27.5mm at its widest point. This wider, less tapered version of the proven hybrid-toroidal profile used in Zipp’s previous clincher wheels particularly improves the aerodynamics of the rear wheel as it rotates within the frame and makes the 404 Carbon Clincher by far the most aerodynamic clincher wheelset in its class. The new rim shape also directs airflow so precisely that handling is noticeably improved. As Zipp discovered with designs like the Paris-Roubaix-winning 303 Tubular, a wider rim also increases lateral stiffness for sprinting and cornering yet offers greater vertical compliance for more control and comfort on rough surfaces. With clincher tires, the wide rim design offers even greater benefits, as the tire takes on a more stable shape that places more rubber on the road while cornering without adding rolling resistance. Increased air volume also reduces the likelihood of pinch flatting compared to narrower rims. Because clincher tires are more susceptible than tubulars are to the effects of heat buildup from heavy braking on carbon surfaces, the 404 Carbon Clincher is manufactured with a heat-resistant resin based on the materials used in motorsports brake systems. During the development process for the 404 Carbon Clincher, chemists and engineers from Zipp’s composites supplier made repeated visits to Zipp’s R&D lab to test and refine the new technology, which offers more consistent braking performance and prevents spikes in tire pressure on long descents. According to Jim Douglas, Zipp product manager for wheels, “The versatility and popularity of the Zipp 404 made it a natural choice for carbon clincher. The performance characteristics of the 404, combined with the functionality of our carbon clincher and Firecrest rim shape will make it a success among triathletes and road racers alike.” Indeed, the 58mm-deep 404 has long been a favorite of Zipp athletes for long-course triathlons, field sprints, rolling breakaways, and even mountain stages. Like all Zipp carbon wheels, the 404 Carbon Clincher uses rims manufactured in-house by Zipp, premium Sapim CX-Ray spokes (16 front/20 rear), and US-made hubs with Swiss steel bearings. Suggested retail price is $2700 U.S. per wheelset.

More Info: Visit Zipp.com...

Read more...

The Jeep Tiki Hunt… Win One of Three Jeep Wrangler Islanders

The iconic Jeep Wrangler has always been a symbol of adventure. From its early days in military service to today when you can hop in and head out to the mountains or beach--the Wrangler is a go-anywhere machine. Now, Jeep has announced the Tiki Hunt contest where sleuths in three locations, Denver, Los Angeles and Chicago, can track down and win one of three Jeep Islanders. Visit JeepTikiHunt.com to follow the clues and head out in search of your new Jeep! Hurry, the contest is already underway and the three cities have been revealed (Denver, LA and Chicago). The 4th clue is up now with only two more go to before the Jeeps are found and driven off. Get out there and have fun! Jeep Tiki Hunt Resources: Official Site: www.JeepTikiHunt.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Jeep Twitter: www.Twitter.com/Jeep...

Read more...

Sierra Designs Vapor 15 Bag – The Lightest 15-degree Bag Available

Pushing the limits of ultralight backpacking, Sierra Designs introduces the Vapor 15 bag weighing a scant 30 oz. By eliminating the full-length zipper and optimizing the insulation and design elsewhere, this ultralight sleeping bag will provide extended 3-season comfort yet won't weigh you down on the trail. From Sierra Designs:

The newest member to join the Sierra Designs ultrlight lineup, the Vapor 15 shaves weight by using light and warm 850-fill goose down insulation, an offset 25" jacket zipper, and 15D nylon shell and lining to create the lightest weight 15º bag available. An ultralight jacket hood reduces weight while adding warmth by eliminating heat-robbing dead air space. An ergonomically shaped foot box adds comfort while sleep pad locks can be removed for additional weight savings.

• Offset 25" zipper on left side
• Ultralight Jacket Hood
• Continuous Baffle Construction
• Ergonomially Shaped Foot Box
• Fill: 850-fill down
• Material: 15D nylon
• Sizes: Short (5'6") / Regular (6') / Long (6'6")
• Trail Weight: 1 lb 11 oz /1 lb 14 oz/2 lbs 1 oz
• Rating: 15-degrees
• MSRP: $419, $439, $459

Buy Now: Available from CampSaver.com...

Read more...

Havaianas Launches Limited Edition 2010 World Cup Sandal Collection

Got a favorite team for this year's World Cup in South Africa? Why not support that team head-to-toe with the full spectrum of regalia--including sandals? Havaiana's is introducing a limited-run of flips for the event. Available April 21 (yes, tomorrow), these little sandals should prove to be fairly popular worldwide. Here are the details on the World Cup sandals:

With the 2010 FIFA World Cup coming up this June, Havaianas has introduced a collection of Limited Edition 2010 World Cup-inspired flip flops to commemorate the 19th World Cup tournament in South Africa. There will be 17 teams available in the Havaianas 2010 collection shown below and available for both men and women on www.us.havaianas.com, retailing for $24. HAVAIANAS flip flops are the little affordable luxury that that never goes out of style. Designed and manufactured in Brazil, the ultra-high quality and comfort of Havaianas is due to a special rubber recipe that makes the sandals feel supple and soft, yet highly durable. The line is characterized by a vast variety of chic colors, styles, and prints that will add flair to any outfit and indulge your feet.

Buy Now: Visit US.Havaianas.com...

Read more...

Giant Bicycles Rider Takes Sea Otter Super D on New Anthem X 29er

Still a long way to go, but 29ers continue to shine on singletrack and in races. This time Giant rider, Carl Decker, cruises to the win in the 2010 Sea Otter Super D on an advanced Giant Anthem X 29er prototype. Giddy up. Here's the word from Giant:

Giant has owned Super D racing at the Sea Otter Classic ever since the event was added to the massive cycling festival at the Laguna Seca Raceway four years ago. On Friday, Giant Factory Off-Road riders Carl Decker and Kelli Emmett kept the win streak alive, winning the opening pro mountain bike races at the four-day event in Monterey. Decker, who has worked with Giant on the development of its 29er mountain bikes, received the latest version of Giant’s prototype Anthem X 29er featuring Maestro Suspension the day before the race. After a quick test, he decided to race it. “This bike felt pretty amazing,” Decker said. “I can tell you now I’m pretty much going to race this on everything this year. It’s super fast.” It was Decker’s third consecutive Super D win at Sea Otter, and he has also won the last seven national series Super D events that he has started. Decker edged out Cannondale teammates Marco Fontana and Manuel Fumic on a fast, wide open course that includes one significant climb followed by 50 mph plus fireroads. The high speeds, combined with water bars and wind, always make the Sea Otter Super D interesting. The men’s race was close; Decker pulled away in the final stretch to take the win. In women’s racing, Emmett topped a small pro women’s field, powering her Giant Anthem X Advanced SL bike to a third Sea Otter Super D win in the past four years. “I was leading up that first climb and I could see I was starting to get reeled in,” said Emmett. “So I made a big surge there. I kind of got a gap and just rode my race from there.”

More Info: Visit Giant-Bicycles.com...

Read more...

Earth Week Sale from Altrec – up to 40% off!

Once again Altrec is bringing you a worthy sale, this time in celebration of Earth Week. They have a lot of gear discounted, some as much as 40% off --- just in time for spring and getting outfitted for summer! And it's not just a pair of socks here and a hat there. Here's a sampling:

• The North Face Men's Denali Jacket
• Patagonia Women's Guide Jacket
• Keen Women's Cheyenne Clog

Note that the sale lasts only until 4/29/2010, so go check it out and get all geared up! BUY NOW: Click here to go to Altrec's Earth Week Sale!...

Read more...

Clif Bar Mini Energy Bars = Kapow in Your Pocket

Looking for that quick picker-upper, but don't want to commit to a full-size energy bar? Check out the new mini-sized Clif Bars in a compact and pocket-sized form-factor. When out on a long adventure (like climbing and skiing Lone Peak, Utah), the full-sized Clif Bars are perfect, but for around-town adventure or for stuffing into your back pocket, I've found the Clif Mini's to be perfect. At only 100 calories, they are a great mid-afternoon snack instead of hitting the 7-Eleven or the dreaded vending machine. Available in an assorted box of Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Chip and Crunchy Peanut Butter ($13 @REI) and now in Oatmeal Raisin Walnut, Blueberry Crisp and Chocolate Chip Peanut Crunch -- you can now have that perfect 100-calorie snack in Clif Bar form. See, kapow in your pocket! Buy Now: Clif Mini's at REI.com...

Read more...

Polar Introduces CS500 Cycling Computer

Polar has long been the market-leader in heart rate monitors and training devices. They have also had a handful of cycling-specific watches and computers, but the new Polar CS500 really hits the cycling market hard and fast with its innovative design and overall function. The all-new CS500 cycling computer includes all the metrics you'd ever want or need to know for your next road or mountain bike ride. With its large screen, expandable pods and unique rockered function switch, this new cycling computer will be the athlete's choice for hard-core training and performance. You can't have everything, but the only thing I would like is an integration with the Polar G3 GPS unit for mapping--guess you can't have it all. The total package looks great!

Polar CS 500 Features

• Rockered switch for easy navigation
• Utilizes W.I.N.D. technology for intereference-free transmission
• Oversized face with large readout
• Altimeter and barometer
• Heart rate features: Automatic target zones (age-based), HRmax (age-based), HR alarms, OwnCal, OwnCode, OwnZone, upload to polarpersonaltrainer.com
• Cadence sensor
• Speed sensor
• MSRP: $319.95 (available May 2010)

Full Press Release Below:

Lake Success, N.Y. (April 13, 2010) – Polar (www.polarusa.com), the leader in heart rate monitoring and fitness assessment technology, today announced the launch of the CS500 – a new cycling computer that is the first in the market to offer rocker switch operation and a sleek, extra-large display screen. The CS500 is also compatible with the wireless Polar Power Output Sensor W.I.N.D., which provides the rider with cycling power, enabling the highest level of professional training. Event riders have long desired cycling computers with simpler button-pushing and a display screen with large, easy-to read digits – especially at high speeds. The CS500 meets these demands with two exclusive design features. First, with an extra-large and aerodynamic display – the CS500 offers outstanding visibility, and allows more information to be viewed on the screen, creating a data-rich, cycling computer. Second, the diamond-shaped handlebar unit sits on a pivoting, two-way rocker switch. When cyclists want to change the screen to view different data, they no longer have to take their hands off the bars – they simply use their thumb to lightly tap the left or right side of the CS500, and the screen instantly flips to reveal a different set of performance data. With this unique design, cyclists can better concentrate on their ride. “With the CS500, Polar is revolutionizing the way cyclists view, track and monitor their data,” said Jeff Padovan, President of Polar USA. “From design to functionality, cyclists can train at a higher level with features including the industry’s first two-way rocker switch that allows users to easily view data and rich feedback such as speed, cadence and power. Additionally, the option to add accessories separately gives the cyclist the flexibility to customize their training based on their changing needs.” Designed with competitive riders in mind, the CS500 combines the precise and leading Polar heart rate technology with advanced cycling features. The CS500 tracks speed, distance, cadence, heart rate, calories burned, incline, altitude, ascent and descent and temperature. Up to four different data points can be displayed on the extra-large screen and using the auto-lap splits feature, miles automatically roll-over and cyclists can see a snapshot of their data per lap. To simplify training at the right level and help cyclists get a better workout, the exclusive Polar OwnZone® feature provides a personalized, target heart rate recommendation on how hard to ride. When paired with the Polar Power Output Sensor W.I.N.D., a separate accessory, the CS500 can track high-level cycling data such as power output. With power meter compatibility – available at an affordable price – the CS500 can evolve with a cyclist, as they become more advanced and their training needs expand. The CS500 syncs with polarpersonaltrainer.com, which is a free, online training journal, where cyclists can easily set goals, track progress, analyze results and challenge friends to a common goal. After a workout, data is uploaded to the site via the DataLink, a new wireless communication device from Polar, which includes Mac compatibility. The DataLink plugs into the USB port on a computer, and automatically detects the CS500 in the room, instantly uploading new workout files to a user’s personal profile. In conjunction with the CS500, polarpersonaltrainer.com has been redesigned with new, cycling-specific features, such as “Training Load,” which helps cyclists make smarter decisions by interpreting how hard a specific workout was, and advising when you have recovered from the previous workouts. Utilizing Polar W.I.N.D. technology, the CS500 eliminates the issue of data drop-outs or cross-talk between cycling computers, as the powerful, 2.4 GHz transmission signal ensures disturbance-free training. The new Dual Lock Bike Mount, made of reinforced composite metal, guarantees sturdy, rock-solid attachment to the bike, making it ideal for both road and mountain biking. The CS500 can easily be customized and used on up to three different bikes, and also features a “Drink Reminder,” prompting cyclists when hydration is needed during a ride. To see a video of the CS500 in action and its unique functionalities, visit the Polar USA YouTube Channel. The CS500 is available as a base set, or bundled with a cadence sensor. The base set includes the handlebar unit, WearLink W.I.N.D. fabric chest strap, CS speed sensor W.I.N.D., and Dual Lock Bike Mount, and is available for a suggested price of $319.95. The CS500 cadence set is available for a suggested price of $359.95. The Power Output Sensor W.I.N.D. is available as a separate accessory for a suggested price of $359.95. The DataLink is also available as an accessory, for a suggested price of $54.95. All products are available online or at specialty stores. About Polar Headquartered in Lake Success, NY, Polar USA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Finland-based Polar Electro OY, which invented the first wireless heart rate monitor (HRM) in 1977. The leading Polar heart rate monitoring and fitness assessment technology delivers unparalleled insight into the human body. Our wrist-based training computers provide valuable guidance and feedback, enabling individuals to improve their fitness level, overall health and well-being or sports performance. Polar products and technologies are key to the success of leading fitness facilities, athletic teams, corporate wellness facilities, health insurance providers and thousands of physical education programs around the country. Today, Polar training computers are the number one choice among consumers worldwide.

More Info: Visit PolarUSA.com...

Read more...

REI 20% Members Discount – Only 10 Days Left

I grew up dreaming of REI. As a Seattle-native, REI was a staple and it was where I would spend my free time... browsing up and down the aisles looking at backpacks, tents, sleeping bags and, of course, flexing skis. We were content just dreaming about new gear instead of wandering around the mall with the rest of the teenagers. Now that I'm a little older, I can appreciate REI not only for their amazing selection, awesome return policy and myriad of locations, but also appreciate the way the company is run. You see, REI is a Co-Op. What does that mean? Well, it's actually owned and managed by its members--you and me (well, if you're a member). A lifetime membership is a paltry $20 and gives you an annual dividend (typically 10%) and access to the annual 20% off one item sale. This year is the first year that REI's house-brand Novara bikes are included in the 20% off sale, so I took advantage of that and bought my 4-yr-old a Novara Firefly 16" girls bike and saved almost $32! With ship-to-store, I didn't have to pay a dime for shipping and it arrived in less than a week. She's stoked and I'm stoked to get such a great deal on a quality bike for my daughter that can be passed down to her two sisters as they grow older. So, what are you buying with your 20% REI member discount? Shop Now: Visit REI.com...

Read more...

RockShox Domain Dual Crown: Park-friendly Platform Gets Burlier

Just got the word on the upcoming RockShox Domain Dual Crown fork. Park riders will rejoice with the durability and stiffness of the new Domain fork and their wallets will easily plunk down for this reasonably-priced park-slayer. More details on the RockShox Domain Dual Crown:

Introducing the new Domain Dual Crown, same Domain characteristics brought up to a 200mm dual crown chassis. The tried and true long travel single crown grows up! We started with all the core features of Domain: hardened steel upper tubes and easily adjustable compression and rebound damping. Once we had those key features in place, we sprinkled some of the most exciting parts of the BoXXer’s World Cup winning chassis on top! Assembled, this new dual crown offering will be the smoothest most durable park weapon in the wild. Features:

• Proven park durability
• Dual-crown 200mm chassis
• 35mm tapered steel stanchions
• BoXXer-based chassis
• Aluminum 1-1/8 Steerer
• 20mm Maxle Lite
• Coil-sprung
• Motion Control IS
• Includes short and tall crowns, 2 tuning springs
• MSRP: $660 USD

Buy Now: Search for RockShox Forks...

Read more...

Metolius Strenghtens Commitment to Access Fund

As key wilderness areas are coming under attack from both development and over-use, it's great to see companies, like Metolius, committed to protecting these beautiful playgrounds for generations to come. As a part of this effort, Metolius announced their continued commitment to The Access Fund for maintaining and protecting climbing routes for all disciplines of climbing. It is a dual-pronged awareness and funds matching approach through the sale of Metolius Master Cams. See below for details.

BEND, ORE. – Metolius, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in rock climbing gear and hardware, will team up with the Access Fund in 2010 to help protect threatened climbing areas from development and maintain access to multi-recreational areas. The Access Fund Land Conservation Campaign (AFLCC) is the first-ever multimillion-dollar revolving loan program that provides local climbing organizations and other agencies with the funds and expertise needed to act quickly to save threatened climbing areas. Metolius has earned a well-deserved reputation as a leading manufacturer and designer of quality and innovative climbing equipment that is Safer by Design™. Metolius will leverage this rock solid reputation in support of the Access Fund in 2010 through an innovative retail program to help create awareness for the Access Fund and its new Land Acquisition Program. By partnering with the Access Fund, Metolius expands its commitment to environmental preservation of recreation areas for current and future generations. “Metolius has been an Access Fund Corporate Partner since our inception in 1991. Their support has been invaluable in our growth and has helped create programs like Adopt a Crag and TeamWorks that bring climbers together to take care of climbing areas across the country. Without companies like Metolius being part of our Corporate Partner Program, the Access Fund would not be in the position we are today. The many outdoor industry companies that support us help make our work possible,” said Jason Smith, Development Director with the Access Fund. The campaign kicked off in January 2010 and involves a two-pronged approach to concurrently raise awareness and funds through the sale of Metolius’ Master Cams. Program one includes a co-branded Access Fund / Metolius hangtag to be secured to each and every Master Cam for sale at retail. The hangtag will introduce the Access Fund and briefly explain the new loan program. The second component is an exclusive offer available only through Metolius’ website (www.metoliusclimbing.com). Customers purchasing Master Cams are given the option to donate a dollar or more to the cause. Metolius will then match any donation with a $1 contribution in support of the Access Fund Land Conservation Campaign. As a group of climbers who are passionate about protecting the environment and its recreational areas in which we all work and play, Metolius identifies this program as an opportunity to leverage their brand to promote the importance of access to the American climbing community. Due to private land pressures, access is the single greatest challenge facing the climbing world and its vertical environments. “Metolius is very excited to see this incredible new loan program implemented in the coming months, it will make a real difference to climbers around the country!” said Brooke Sandahl, Vice President, Metolius Climbing. Access Fund revenues have always been allocated to the acquisition and protection of threatened climbing areas, but the new AFLCC program will expand on this function by empowering local climbing organizations with the resources to dispute anti-climbing landowners and developers. About Metolius Founded in 1983 near the headwaters of the Metolius River, Metolius equipment was born out of respect for rock climbing. Metolius has since built a solid reputation as a leading designer and manufacturer of performance rock climbing equipment that is Safer by Design. Metolius has always focused on new and innovative rock climbing gear while ensuring the highest quality available. They’ve built a strong reputation as an innovator in the design of cutting-edge rock climbing gear. Metolius is proud to be able to claim innovations in just about every category of rock climbing gear from traditional, sport, bouldering and big wall/technical alpine. Metolius also works to educate others to preserve the environment and the climbing lifestyle. For more information, visit www.metoliusclimbing.com. About the Access Fund Since 1991, the Access Fund is the national advocacy organization that keeps climbing areas open and conserves the climbing environment. The Access Fund supports and represents over 1.6 million climbers nationwide in all forms of climbing: rock climbing, ice climbing, mountaineering, and bouldering. Five core programs support the mission on national and local levels: climbing management policy, stewardship and conservation, local support and mobilization, land acquisition and protection, and education. For more information visit www.accessfund.org.

...

Read more...

Wend Magazine: Get the Spring 2010 Digital Issue

Our friends over at Wend Magazine are not only pumping out the glossy print for lounge chair perusal, they also provide a digital version online for free. The Spring issue has just hit the digital newsstand and can be downloaded gratis: Wend Magazine Digital Issues - it's free! All it takes is a quick registration and you are then able to access any of the Wend issues on your laptop from the comfort of your office chair. While the perusing experience isn't quite the touchy-feely one you'd get with the print mag, the price is right and accessibility is killer. As with all issues of Wend, the Spring issue contains well-written articles on the outdoors, activism and our beautiful planet. I'm just digging in myself, but have been drawn to the article, "Greetings from the North Atlantic Garbage Patch," by Stiv J. Wilson. Growing up on the Puget Sound near Seattle, I can't help but wonder how much pollution we've pumped into the world's oceans. With the Atlantic gyre (you'll have to read it to find out) circulating massive, Texas-sized amounts of garbage, it should serve as a wake-up call to humankind. You'll have to read it to find out more for yourself. More Info: Visit Wendmag.com...

Read more...

Dakine Blade Backcountry Ski Pack – Fall 2010

Looking at my notes from Outdoor Retailer a few months back, I've found a few treasures that I wanted to be sure to pass along. This one comes from the folks at Dakine with the re-design of the popular Blade ski pack. The complete overhaul utilizes lightweight materials and is packed with even more features for more demanding backcountry ski tours or extended trips. Most notably is the asymmetrical backcountry toolkit pocket that's built for quick-access to your shovel and probe when precious seconds count. Slipping it on, the pack feels ultra-comfortable and is likely a stable partner on long or demanding ski descents. Features of the 2010 Dakine Blade Pack:

• Volume: 2300 cu in
• Cross and vertical snowboard carry
• A-frame or cross ski carry
• Both top-load and back access entry
• Insulated hydration sleeve
• Asymmetrical toolkit access
• Billowed stash pocket for ropes or other misc gear
• Weight: 3.9 lbs
• MSRP: $135

Look for it this Fall. Buy Now: Search for Dakine Backpacks...

Read more...

SRAM is at it again… 2×10 Coming to X7 in 2011

I'm totally and completely onboard with SRAM's new 2x10 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 2x10 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 2x10'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...

Read more...

Ted Ligety Wins 2010 Audi FIS World Cup GS Title

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, a Head Skis athlete, 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...

Read more...

Altrec Outlet Sale – up to 80% off!

You can always count on Altrec to deliver killer gear at good prices, but this week they are doing a major outlet sale and we all get to be the beneficiaries. Their sale page lists many top brands, and it looks like as of this morning (Monday) there are a few thousand items in the sale. They say the sale only lasts until March 15, 2010 -- so go pick up some good gear while it lasts! So click through to their site and check out the sale. Here is their link directly to the sale: Altrec Outlet Sale - Up to 80% off...

Read more...

Scott T2 Pro Triathlon Shoes

I've been checking out the new T2 triathlon shoes from Scott recently, who has been upping their game on a regular basis lately. The shoe appears to have a revolutionary new heel cup that clips and unclips to speed transitions -- for the triathlete focused on shaving wasted seconds from their time. On top of that, Scott says that the shoe has a sole profile designed specifically for triathlete runners, and favored by heroes like the famed pro athlete Normann Stadler. I'll reserve judgment until I can get myself into a pair and bring you a proper review. But here's what Scott says about the T2 line (which includes the Scott T2 Pro and the Scott T2C):

"Designed specifically to be the fastest triathlon running shoe. Ergologic Ride ™ midsole allows faster running by reducing energy loss and by increasing the transition speed from midstance to toe-off. Quick Entry System™ allows for the fastest transitions with perfect fit and prerace adjustment. See the whole story of this sophisticated Scott footwear project, including IRONMAN Superstar Normann Stadler."

BUY NOW: Click here to search for Scott gear....

Read more...

Pivot Cycles Signs World 24-hour Champion: Jason English

In a great move for Arizona-based Pivot Cycles, the reigning 24-hour World Champion will ride a custom Pivot Mach 4 this season. See below for release:

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...

Read more...

20-40% off gear from Paragon Sports thru Feb. 2010

Paragon Sports, well known for its NYC flagship store and large selection, is throwing a pretty major sale through February 2010. They are taking thousands of their products and slashing them 20-40% for this month only. Check them out to pick up some good gear by clicking the link below: Paragon Sports Winter Sale Going On Now! 20% - $40% Off...

Read more...

Kuat NV Hitch-mount Bike Rack

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...

Read more...

Ecogear Bags and Packs are Eco-friendly and Functional

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...

Read more...

2010 Niner Jet 9 29er to Ship in April

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...

Read more...

Core Concepts Whiskey River Hybrid Shirt

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...

Read more...

Do you barefoot run? Harvard study says you should

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!)

...

Read more...

Outdoor Research Access Jacket and Pants for Fall 2010

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...

Read more...

2010 US Olympic Alpine Ski Team Announced

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)

...

Read more...

Salomon Quest Alpine Touring Ski Boots

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...

Read more...

CamelBak Introduces PowderBak for Wearable Winter Hydration

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...

Read more...

GE’s eVent Fabric Goes Greener, Reduces VOC Air Emissions

While I've been a huge proponent of eVent Fabrics since their inception, they (like all PTFE films) have been plagued by the use of harmful chemicals and the like. Well, GE engineers have now improved the application process to reduce harmful chemical emissions. Read on for more details...

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...

Read more...

Design Your Own Skis with the G2 Skigraphiks Contest

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

...

Read more...

Raxstars Portable Ski Roof Rack Debuting at Outdoor Retailer

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...

Read more...

Felt Bicycles Signs World Champion Triathlete, Terenzo Bozzone

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...

Read more...

GoLite Issues 2009 Sustainability Report – Greener and Greener Everyday

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)...

Read more...

Rocky Mountain Announces 2010 Gravity Team

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...

Read more...

SCOTT Pro Cycling Team Puts Brand at #1

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...

Read more...

Ibis Mojo HD Revealed

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...

Read more...

Felt Bicycles Becomes Official Bike of UCI World Cycling Centre

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....

Read more...

Flojos 2010 Men’s Sandal Lineup for Style and Comfort

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...

Read more...

Surf Skiing on Hawaii’s Big Waves

The progression of sport has never ceased to amaze me. Sometimes "progression" seems like a kinder way of saying "suicidal" when you catch your first glimpse of a new sport, while other pursuits elicit mind blowing ideas that truly push the envelope of what people can do with their bodies and interacting with nature. Remember the first time you saw this? Yea, sky diving lead to base jumping which led to flying suits and the results blow the mind! So the idea of surf skiing shouldn't be that far fetched. Water skiing has been around for what seems like centuries and has given birth to wake boarding, wake skating, wake surfing which influenced kite boarding that morphed into kite skiing and kite boarding on snow. Or was it wind surfing which gave birth to kite boarding on water which....you get my point. The boundaries of one sport have become so thin that inspiration for new progression in sport isn't as vertical as it used to be but is extremely lateral in nature. Which brings me back to ski surfing. Mike Douglas and Cody Townsend teamed up with their sponsor Salomon to experiment and build a ski that would be able to surf the big waves of Hawaii. While they tested a number of boot designs it turned out in order to have the safest setup that would also give performance was to have a ski boot and binding system. Imagine the consequences of going over the falls with skis on your feet that wouldn't come off? Certain death. But they pulled it off and a couple of weeks ago set out to prove that skiing the big waves of Maui is just another step in progression. The fact that they did it with style is a bonus as well as a testament to these guys. This is the result of their work - Surf Skiing in Hawaii What about Poles? While it seems somewhat natural for a skier to have poles, as I watched the video it seemed so unatural for the guy to have poles. Then again, what about the paddle surfing guys who have a paddle? Not so strange eh? Mike Douglas chimes in:

We brought poles with us because both Cody and I think that skiing without poles is just weird. Honestly... what are you supposed to do with your hands? Anyway, if you go back and watch the vid you'll see, that aside from the big day, we were dealing with heavy chop out there. Despite my best attempt at tying the poles to the sled, they were gone in about 20 minutes. By now, I'm sure they've been found by a beachcomber on the north shore. I never did get to try them. In glassy conditions, poles probably would've worked until we got slammed by a big one. It's hard enough to find the skis in a foot of foam, let alone poles.

Will surf skiing become the next method of sliding on water? Perhaps for some, most likely not for most. They set out to prove it could be done and pulled it off with style so my hats off to them. What I think looks like it's got legs is water ski kiting - finally an answer for kite skiers on snow that feel obliged to kite board in the summer due to lack of a skiing option. Bottom line is the evidence is here that it can be done and that progression of sport is still very much alive, especially for skiers. ...

Read more...

The North Face vs. The South Butt – Let the Legal Battle Ensue

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...

Read more...

Free 2-Day Shipping on Patagonia gear until Dec. 22nd

If you're like me, you just may have waited a little late to get going on your Christmas shopping. You don't want to get stuck fighting the crowds at the store on the 24th and hoping against hope that they have just what you need. Instead, shop for Patagonia gear by December 22nd and receive free 2-day shipping when you place an order for $100 or more on patagonia.com. Check out a few of the most popular items here: Patagonia Womens Primo Down Jacket Patagonia Mens Powder Bowl Jacket Patagonia Mens Fitzroy Down Hoodie BUY NOW: Click here to go to patagonia.com and get your free 2-day shipping on any order over $100. ...

Read more...

Olympic Snowboarding Judge: Great Canadian Heli-Skiing is a “Perfect 10″

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....

Read more...

KGB Productions Holiday Sale on Videos and Gear

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...

Read more...

Pyramid Breweries Announces “Winter Backcountry Getaway in Tahoe” Contest

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....

Read more...

Burton Unveils US Snowboard Team Uniforms for 2010 Winter Olympics

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.”

...

Read more...

Gore-Tex Launches Online Community & $10,000 in Gear

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....

Read more...

Swift. Silent. Deep. A Documentary of the Jackson Hole Air Force

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...

Read more...

Niner and WTB Release Kodiak 2.5 DH 29er Tire

By Jason Mitchell - Monday, November 9th, 2009 - No Comments

With the introduction of the Niner WFO this year, Niner continues to promote the demise of the 26er in all disciplines--including DH. DH!?!?!? Really? Yup... the WFO is for real and to complement the WFO, Niner and WTB have released the all-new Kodiak 2.5. This tire is MEATY for sure. I recall seeing it at the WTB booth at Interbike--definitely DH-only! Here's a bit more info from Niner:

The much anticipated WTB Kodiak tire is now available for purchase exclusively from the Niner Bikes online store and from the Niner Bikes dealer network.

“This tire is the result of our desire to offer the longest travel, burliest production 29er mountain bike, and WTB?s help with the project has been invaluable.” said Niner co-founder Chris Sugai, “WTB knows that there are a ton of riders out there that want a 29er with freeride and downhill capability and their willingness to step up and be the first to make a wire bead, dual-ply 29er tire shows that their passion for the big revolution is genuine”.

WTB Kodiak Tire Details: A 2.5'" monster, this Niner exclusive tire is the burliest rubber you can spec on your 29er bike. Made with WTB's High Grip DNA™ rubber compound, the tread is specifically designed for fast, gnarly, technical descending. The WTB Inner Peace™ sidewall reinforcement has your back when it comes to pinch flat protection, sidewall stiffness and keeping tire damage to a minimum. Finally, the wire bead means less bead stretch and better rim retention when you do push the limits of your riding. WTB Kodiak Specs: 29x2.5", 1400 grams, 50 Durometer, 27 TPI, MSRP is $49.95 - buy now

More Info: Visit NinerBikes.com...

Read more...