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

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

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

Installation on 2001 Subaru Outback w/Thule Rack System

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Good

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

The Bad

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

Bottom Line: Yakima SkyBox LoPro Cargo Box

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

Buy Now: Search for Yakima Cargo Boxes

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

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

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

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

The Good

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

The Bad

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

Bottom Line: The North Face Refraxion Jacket

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

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

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.

Unfortunately, I’ve been spending more time indoors than I would like as of late. As I finish up internship rotations for my masters degree, I currently spend about 50 hours a week inside Denver Children’s Hospital, running from one floor to the next all day long. However, one thing that has truly made my days at Denver Children’s a bit easier was the purchase of a pair of Dansko Professional Clogs!

As a Speech Therapist at Denver Children’s, I’m required to dress “business casual” every day. As one who normally lives in Mountain Khakis and Chacos, this was pretty much a death sentence for me. The idea of wearing heels on a daily basis was more than I could bear, so I explored my other options, and scored myself a pair of Dansko Professional Cabrio Clogs. They fit the dress code, and didn’t require that my toes were crunched into something awful and pointy. After having worn my clogs day in and day out for weeks now, I’m a Dansko wearer for life!

Dansko Professional Clogs- The Lowdown

• Originally designed and produced in Denmark, these close-backed clogs are now seen in hospitals and offices throughout the country. Dansko translates to mean “Danish shoe.”
• The clogs are popular in professional circles for a reason- the rocker bottom sole propels your feet forward as you walk, and allows for all day comfort.
• Heel counter- the clogs are made for movement. Your feet SHOULD slide up and down as you walk in the shoe. At first, I thought this was a little odd; I figured that meant that they didn’t fit my feet right. However, this movement is intentional, and allows for supreme comfort, and added breathability. This added breathability keeps your feet sweat free and comfortable throughout the day. The thermoplastic heel counter acts as a natural shoe horn, and facilitates that up and down movement in the shoe.
• Footbed- made of breathable open cell foam. Between that and the integrated heel movement, no sweaty stinky feet!
• Available in oiled leather, patent leather, cabrio leather and several different color options. I stuck with brown, so they’d match everything, but I’ve seen some pretty stylish pairs out and about when I’ve been at the hospital.
• The company itself is pretty cool. They support sustainable business practices and treat their employees very well. Be sure to check out their website to learn more about their business ethics. While that doesn’t necessarily affect the performance of the shoe, I like to support businesses with practices and principles like Dansko’s.

Dansko Professional Clogs- Things to Keep in Mind

• Each shoe is hand tooled and stapled, so the fit varies a bit from each pair of shoes.
• If you’ve got a really high arch, you may be out of luck. I have a mid-high arch and mine fit great, but my Mom happens to have an extremely high arch, and she can’t get her foot in the clogs.
• The clogs come in a wide and a narrow version, so they can accommodate different foot widths.
• Dankso makes several different designs and styles. If you’re not a clog person, you can find that same comfort and great construction in a different style of shoe.
• Price = $120. Ouch. However, worth it. I’ve spoken with colleagues who’ve had their shoes for over 6 years and are still wearing them daily. Consider it an investment in your feet!

Buy Now!

Dansko Professional Cabrio Clogs

As you may have remembered, I got the opportunity to take a JetBoil Flash with me on my surf trip to the northwest this past October. After continually using it throughout my surf trip, on backcountry ski trips, and out on long days hiking in the Wasatch, I’ve been really impressed with the whole system. My favorite feature is the Java kit, which turns your personal cooking system into a french press, ensuring you get your caffeine fix no matter where you are- yahoo!

Be sure to check out the pictures of where my JetBoil has made it with me- Lake Quinault, WA, foothills of the Wasatch, UT, Tobacco Root Range, MT, everywhere!

JetBoil Flash Personal Cooking System- The Good

• Everything stores inside the 1 liter cooking cup. Fuel, burner, coffee press attachment (if you opt for one), everything. The lid keeps it all inside, and also serves as a sippy lid for when you’re drinking, or as the housing for the coffee press when you set that up. Very compact!
• Push button igniter. Just twist the fuel onto your burner, burner onto the cup, open up the fuel, and press that button!
• Boils water in 2 minutes (give or take a bit for altitude).
• Newly designed drink cozy turns orange on the side when your beverage is hot- no more opening and checking in on it every 30 seconds!
• Tripod adds stability- you can set up your PCS anywhere. I’ve got mine balanced on some rocks atop a peak in North Salt Lake in some of the pictures.
• Weight = 14 oz! Including the fuel canister.
• Includes a translucent measuring cup, which doubles as a cover for the bottom of the stove when not in use. Bonus- you can use it as a cup and share your drink with a friend!

JetBoil Flash Personal Cooking System- The only “bad”

• The little push button igniter is awesome and super easy to use if you’ve got your hands out and glove free. However, it could use to be a little bigger, so that its accessible even when you’ve got gloves or big mitts on.

Buy Now!

Check out the JetBoil Flash or the JetBoil Flash with Java Kit

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

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

Features

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

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

Review

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

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

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

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

The Good

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

The Bad

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

Bottom Line: Sierra Designs Mantra Fusion Jacket

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

Buy Now: Mantra Fusion Jacket from SierraDesigns.com

I’ve owned Julbo glasses since I started mountaineering, and loved them. I’ve had the old school pair, with the leather side sheilds and the newer, more stylish pair with the plastic shields and the more “modern” shaping to them. However, not until this fall did I ever think I’d own a pair of “women’s specific” glacier glasses! This past fall, Julbo released the Monterosa, their women’s specific pair of glasses, intended to be functional enough to be glacier glasses and stylish enough to be worn on a daily basis.

Monterosa Glacier Glasses- Style Points

Now, I will be the first to admit, I am NOT the person to write a review on what is in style. I live in my mountain khakis, flannel shirts, and rarely glance in the mirror before leaving the house. I readily wore my old Julbo’s as daily sunglasses, oblivious to the fact that I looked a bit out of place until my younger, more hip sister pointed it out one day, informing me that I looked like an ant on steroids. However, when I got my Julbo Monterosa’s, I was given the official “sister seal of approval,” for style. So, when I say that the Monterosa’s are fashionable and in style, rest assured that this has been assessed by a professional.

• “Feminine from peaks to streets” is the slogan of the Monterosa- and I’d say they achieve it.
• Larger, more squared frames look much more like style based glasses than the old Julbos.
• Available in 2 colors- white or black. Each color comes with a second “accent color” on the sides, which is the same color used on the removable side shields.

Monterosa Glacier Glasses- Functional Features

• Removable side shields: as with all of Julbo’s glasses, you still have the removable side shields, so you can get that extra protection when you need it.
• Available with Spectron 4 or Camel lenses. The Spectron 4 are lightweight lenses with category 4 protection (5% visible light allowance, making them acceptable for high altitude mountaineering). The Camel lenses change colors, and when outside darken to a cat 4 protection, but lighten if you are inside or in an area with less sun exposure.
• Grip inserts: Keeps the glasses on your head! And, Julbo has positioned these inside of the side pieces, so they don’t stick to your hair and pull painfully, yet they stay put. Sweet!
• Curved temples: They’ve specifically designed the glasses so that they will fit your face, and also your head. Finally, someone that understands that to be the perfect pair of shades, they must function as both sunglasses AND a headband. I know my shades spend a fair amount of time up on my head when they’re not in use. I hardly ever take them off, just slide them up.
• Case: comes with a soft sided plastic case for storage.
• Uses: So far, I’ve taken my Monterosas mountain biking, road biking, skiing and mountaineering. I love how wide they are for these specific sports- keeps my eyes from drying out. I’m not a big goggle person, so I especially loved them for skiing. I could still get enough coverage to keep my eyes from frying and to keep most of the wind out, without having to wear goggles.

Overall

As with most sunglasses these days, they’re a bit spendy ($160 for the Camel lenses, only $90 for the Spectron 4), but I was impressed with the fit and I know Julbo’s unprecedented reputation for sun protection.

Buy Now

Check out the Julbo Monterosa!

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

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

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

Buy Now: Search for La Sportiva Trail Running Shoes

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

I went winter camping this last weekend and used the Brunton Duo Profile camp stove. I’ve already done a fall season review on this but I wanted to share my winter findings.

The Knobs When I say the word 'knob' I instantly think of Strange Brew. "Take off you knob!" If I had one request for Brunton it would be to change their knobs. When I was turning the ignite knob it was really slippery and hard to turn. Same with the two gas knobs. They need to stick some sort of spike or flatten the knobs so you can turn it no problem with a glove.

I know what you're probably thinking about me taking this big momma stove out in the snow. Too heavy? Too bulky? Well for me, if you can take the big poppa two-burner go for it. I don't care to mess with little Jetboils and MSR pocket rockets when I need snow melted NOW.

Does it Sled?

A couple weeks ago I got a $15 sled at BIG-5 to tote the kiddos around the icy sidewalks of Durango. When I went camping the other night I brought the sled along and put the Brunton stove at the bottom to carry to my campsite. It was a nice test to see if it would fit and it totally worked. Granted I walked about 200 yards so it wasn’t that big of a deal, but if I do a longer snowshoeing trip I’m totally bringing my stove/sled system and leaving the Jetboil at home. Not every camp out you can have steak and bacon for your meals, until now!

Bottom Line If this stove is going to dominate the two-burner universe the knobs have got to change. I totally see this thing hitting truck beds at football games and ski parking lots.

BUY NOW: The Brunton Duo Profile Stove.

Have a dog that loves to play with a Frisbee? Tired of replacing the frisbee every third day because your dog shreds it? Ruffwear has the solution for you. The Ruffwear Hover Craft Frisbee is one of the toughest dog frisbees that I’ve come across.

A few years back, Ruff Wear redesigned their Hover Craft Frisbee. It used to be more flexible, and was a floppier design. While that was great for compressing it, rolling it and tossing it in your back pocket, etc, it made the frisbee significantly less durable if you’ve got a dog that likes to chew on his toys while he fetches them. Baker, my black lab/border collie mix, is definitely one of those dogs. The newer Hover Craft Frisbee is super durable, and yet is still soft on dog’s teeth when they’re chewing it while bringing it back!

Key Features of the Ruff Wear Hover Craft

• Available in 2 sizes- small and large. The small one is great for tiny dogs, but I’d say stick with a large if your dog is over 25 lbs. The large is 9 inches in diameter.
• Both sizes come in BRIGHT colors (large in neon green and small in orange), so it’s pretty tough to lose if you’re throwing it into the woods.
• Core of the disc is made of molded foam, which helps it to maintain it’s shape, no matter how many days it sees in the field.
• Easy to hose off, which is great for drool removal after a long session of fetch!
• One thing to keep in mind- this frisbee is not intended to be a chew toy. If you let your pup loose with it all day, it will shred. However, as a frisbee, it’s very durable! Just be sure to get it back from your dog if he’s a chewer!

Overall, I’m impressed! Baker loves his Hover Craft!

Buy Now! Ruff Wear Hover Craft Dog Disc

Trade shows can be brutal on the feet. Akin to a death march through Death Valley, few thing can dish out pain and fatigue quite like walking/standing for hours and hours on nothing but a thin layer of carpet and a foot of concrete. At the end of two days of walking the ATA (Archery Trade Association) show I found myself at the Lorpen booth to compliment the guys on their awesome scent control merino wool hunting socks that I had used last fall while backcountry bow hunting. (review to come shortly)

After a little chit chat I asked what’s new. I’ll not soon regret what came next. The two guys looked at each other and nodded as if on queue and then introduced me to the new Lorpen Light Hiker sock, asking if I wanted to change the way the next day at the show felt on my feet. I was in, with both feet. (pardon the pun)

Lorpen Tri Layer Sock Details

Long known for it’s multi-fabric blended socks, this crew height hiker sock follows suit. It’s a combo of 36% Tencel, 35% Coolmax, 18% Nylon, 10% Lycra and a pinch of Modal at 1%. I can only imagine the spooling required to get that mixture correct when they weave the fabric. But it’s not just the weave that makes this “Partial Light” cushioned sock so darn comfortable all day long, it’s the way it’s tri layers are stacked.

• Inside Layer – Coolmax
• Middle Layer – Tencel
• Outter Layer – Nylon

What Lorpen has done is taken the Coolmax and put it next to your skin to increase moisture wicking property of the sock. Next comes the middle layer comprised of Tencel (brand name for the fabric Lyocell) which spreads moisture through it’s fibers more quickly to allow for more rapid evaporation. Last is an outside layer of Nylon knit onto high friction areas for added durability over time.

Lorpen Tri Layer Light Hiker Sock Fit and Feel

What do these three layers add up to? For me it adds up to an amazingly soft and comfortable sock that is thin enough to wear with any shoe but cushioned enough to have made that third day of the trade show more than just bearable.

But how do they do on the trail, their intended use? I rarely find myself hiking in anything but trail runners so some hiking specific socks are often too thick to make the grade. The Light Hiker again has just the right cushioned area and thin in others to fit well into my Salomon’s or Pearl Izumi runners. But given that it’s cold weather now, they fit comfortable in my Scentblocker hunting boots although in 20 degree weather they were a bit on the cool side.

Bottom Line on the Lorpen Tri Layer Light Hiker Sock

I think they nailed it (again) with a sock that you might even dig out of the dirty laundry basket to wear “just one more day”. It’s no wonder that on the side of each sock package Lorpen includes this guarantee:

If you are not completely satisfied with their product, return to the point of purchase for a complete refund.

I can’t imagine the day will come that I’ll ever put a Lorpen sock on my feet and not feel like my feet have arrived at the spa.

Good Lorpen Tri Layer Sock

• Soft feel
• Use of cross weave increases comfort on the top of the foot and through the arch
• Good cushion in the right places – forefoot and heel cushion

Bad Lorpen Tri Layer Sock

• After the second wearing the stitching on this particular pair near the toes started to come out. That’s a first for me on a Lorpen sock

Buy Now

Take your feet to the spa with the Lorpen Tri Layer Light Hiker sock.

Blue Jeans. Names like Calvin Klein, GAP, Diesel, and others come to mind. We’ve all got a few pairs in the closet and if you’re like me you’ve got a favorite. If you don’t believe it, pack for a trip and limit yourself to 2 pairs. You’ll find your favorite blue jean in a hurry.

But Mountain Khaki? The name Mountain Khaki already sets the jeans in an odd position, but the brand has truly come to mean quality products all the way around.

While strolling around the Outdoor Retailer show last summer I rolled into the Mountain Khaki booth to check out the new pants and lo-and-behold, jeans on display at Outdoor Retailer. Over the years I have come to love Mountain Khaki’s Original Mountain Pant and Alpine Pant, the latter being my steady digs as I spent 11 months in them while building my own home.

Simply based on the reputation of Mountain Khaki and my past experiences I figured the jeans were worth buying (they had an industry price at the show) so I picked up a pair of the Dark Indigo colored ones.

FIT and FEATURES

The Original Mountain Jean as they call it is comfortable right off the rack. It lands right in the middle between big baggy pants dragging around your butt and the pegged leg painted on skater kid jeans – like Switzerland these jeans are neutral. The result is straight up comfort and fit.

Features like a classic waist fit, 12.5 ounce denim fabric and my favorite diamond style gusseted crotch make this jean one you’re not going to take off. Although the denim is a 12.5 ounce cotton, it is quite soft right off the rack much like it’s brother the Original Mountain Pant would be after a dozen washings.

They’ve added features like a nylon strip on the zipper flap to prevent catching on the fabric. The same nylon strip is on the inside of the waist band. I think this softens the fit and feel around the waist.

In case you’re one of those very first run Original Mountain Pant owners and have a long memory, no worries here on shrinkage (note: subsequent runs of the Mountain Pants don’t shrink a bit like the first year pants). I’ve probably worn and washed the jeans 15 times and they’ve not faded or shrunk a bit.

The diamond gusset is a signature aspect of Mountain Khaki Pants and although it’s not an industry secret, their pants are the most comfortable I rally in because of this feature. Aside from being amazingly comfortable, according to the hang tags it also relieves stress on the seams, seams that are triple stitched to last you years. Yes, these jeans are built to last years and you can see that from the moment you pull them on.

BOTTOM LINE

I remember as a teen being conscientious enough to not wear the same jeans two days in a row. With the Original Mountain Jean from Mountain Khakis I wouldn’t have cared. And while I wouldn’t wear jeans to the mountains, the Original Mountain Jean will go with me just about everywhere else. Based on how long I suspect these jeans will last me, they are worth every penny.

BUY NOW

Pick up the Mountain Khaki Original Mountain Jean today and it’ll soon become your new favorite jean.

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

I like to run. Lots. I usually run about 50 miles a week, more if I have time to squeeze in longer runs between school and work. I have one ancient pair of fraying hot pink running shorts that I run in, every day. Snow, rain, sun… Doesn’t matter. I’ve always hit the trails in my awful hot pink shorts. So when Moving Comfort approached me and asked me to test their Endurance Skort, a running skirt, I was a little hesitant, for a few different reasons. First, how could I possibly leave my hot pink shorts behind? They’ve seen me through hundreds of runs. I felt like I was betraying my best friend… Second, it’s a skirt! Why would I run in a skirt? This was my first question for Moving Comfort- if my shorts function just fine, why in the world would I need to run in a skirt? After getting the run down (no pun intended, haha!), I decided to give them a try.

Moving Comfort claims that running in a skort is more comfortable than running in shorts. Running shorts ride up, wedge themselves in unsightly places, and if you’ve got a pair with that built in mesh liner, you know you’ve spent part of your run digging that thing out of the same aforementioned unsightly place. The principle behind the skort is that there’s a thin, spandex short underneath the skirt, functioning as a liner that doesn’t work its way upwards as you run. Then, the skort on top serves two purposes: 1. To cover up those thin spandex shorts and 2. To look stylish while doing it.

Moving Comfort Endurance Skort: Features

• Boy Shorts: I suppose you could look at it as the “business” end of the skort: they wick away moisture, provide compression, and come with a “crotch gussett” (read- built-in underwear in the shorts). Since they’re made of a very thin material, you don’t have excess material rubbing anywhere while you run.
• Wrap Around Skirt: The “party” end of the the skort. This layer covers the compression shorts and provides that little bit of style the Endurance Skort is known for. The skirt has a slit in the front and darts in the back to really allow it to move with you.
• Internal key pocket
• Non-rolling elastic waistband with a drawstring, so you can really adjust the skort to fit you.

Moving Comfort Endurance Skort: The Numbers

• Comes in sizes XS-2X. I’m normally a size small in shorts, and this was consistent with Moving Comfort’s products: I wear a size small skort. True to size!
• Boy short inseam = 3 inches.
• Skirt inseam = 13.5 inches
• Cost = $42.00

Overall, I think my favorite feature of the Skort was the ability to go straight from my run to running errands without looking like a total doofus in my hot pink shorts. The skort looks stylish, and when you’re out grocery shopping, getting a hair cut, or just takin’ care of business, you’re the only one who knows about those compression boy shorts underneath!

Right now, none of our vendors are carrying the Endurance Skort. However, you can check it out on Moving Comfort’s website!

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

GoLite Roan Plateau Features:

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

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

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

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

The Good

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

The Bad

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

Buy Now: Search for the GoLite Down Jackets

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

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

Here are the details from SportsOneSource.com:

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

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

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

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

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

Among the key take-aways of the report are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The North Face Aconcagua Jacket Specs – Men

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

The North Face Aconcagua Jacket Specs – Women

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

Buy Now: Search for The North Face Aconcagua Jacket

“Looks like he is wearing a sleeping bag…” says a girl to her friend at my local coffee shop. Well technically I am wearing a sleeping bag and if you care to know it has a name; the Flex Down Jacket by Sierra Designs. While you and Ms. Francis update your Facebook and work on your novel freezing in those space boots that were cool in 2005, I’m also updating my Facebook and working on my novel snuggly warm in my down comforter-like jacket. “Enjoy your macchiato ladies.” pretending I didn’t hear them.

I’m not sure who made down jackets ‘cool’. Was it that ice climbing hermit that crawled out of Ouray for a movie premiere with his blue North Face nuptse? We all stood in amazement shivering in our Denali fleece and Patagonia pullovers. When was it exactly when these jackets didn’t make us look fat and focused on our hardcoreness? I don’t know exactly but what I do know is that my cheerleader sister-in-law is hooked and just called me the other day worried about some ‘feathers’ coming out of her down jacket. Oh the puffy newbie…

Sierra Designs improved the puffy in my opinion. Having been freezing my #$@ off in Northern NM for the past 4 weeks I have been trying out multiple jackets. If you’re cold, reach for a puffy. That simple.

That Light Fluffyness
Imagine a sleeping bag cut in half and sewn on arms with a hood. Thats the best way to describe the Flex. Compared to my Sub Zero from Mountain Hardwear, the Flex does just what it says; FLEX. Do you ever feel like the down fill is packed in SO tight that you have this Popeye can’t move type feeling in the shoulders? Sierra Designs completely solves that problem with the Flex. For example, the jacket is hanging in my office right now the arms hang down, not out. Meaning the shoulders aren’t reinforced with bullet proof structure. Finally, a down jacket I can move in.

How low does it go?
Let’s talk about length. I’m 5′8″ and the bottom of the jacket reaches mid-butt. Looking at it, you would think it goes farther but no. Compared to the snug waist style that the North Face Nupste has to offer the, Flex is longer by about 3-4 inches. The lower design of this jacket allows for a lot of movement and doesn’t ride up if your bending over. Making this a great option to ski in. I would NEVER ski in a Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero or TNF Nupste. Those jackets are for Rainier and attending movie premieres at bars.

Whoa! You did what?
The hood is completely filled with down which I’m impressed with. Also the hood has the cinch for when your turning your head…yadda yadda they all have that. But what I think is cool is the cinch string for cinching the hood around your face is on the inside of the hood, not the outside. How many times have you snagged your ski on that annoying elastic band on your hood when slinging them over your shoulder? Me? Like a billion times, so this makes sense.

Here’s what I want for next year Sierra Santa Claus
A fleece-lined hood would make so much sense. I would shower in this thing if it had a fleece-lined hood, and to the Sierra Designs team reading this review I’ll make a bet with you. You add a fleece-lined hood, and I’ll post a YouTube of me showering with it on. A fleece-lined hood kinda seems like Spyder and hanging out with Jennifer Aniston at the Sundance festival but I envy my wife’s Spyder mink fleeced hood and I’m planning on going star gazing this February in Park City.

Inside the left pocket there is this even smaller pocket for car keys or maybe Polly Pockets? It’s quite small, you couldn’t fit a credit card in it. It has a velcro latch to keep the Polly Pockets from coming out. This pocket has to go. The fleece-lined pockets are great, but every time I’m about to put my left hand in I cringe knowing its going to be cuddling up to some velcro and nylon.

Yes. Sierra Designs is doing their part going green. The material even has ripstop which when you first lay your hands on this jacket can be recognized right away. This just might be my new Rainier jacket.

BOTTOM LINE: Easy to move around in. I have not seen one hint of feathers coming out, I am very impressed with the nylon. Elastic cuffs are so the way to go, velcro can go make me a sandwich. For $245 this exceeds the price tag of the other guys but also exceeds my expectations, except for that nylon Polly Pocket thingy.

BUY NOW: The Sierra Designs Flex Down Jacket.

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

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

Kelty FC 1.0 Child Carrier

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

Kelty FC 2.0 Child Carrier

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

Kelty FC 3.0 Child Carrier

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

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

A technical shell with thumb holes? Where was I when this all started? Maybe I need to spend more time following Helly Hansen on twitter and less time outside. Their Mig Technical Shell has been fun to try out these last couple months. I still can’t get over the fact this thing has thumb holes.

The Minimalist Mig
The Mig is your minimalist adventure racing get out of my way shell. Helly Hansen makes the jacket with tech® XP material and 2.5 layer construction blah blah blah….all that matters is if this jacket keeps you dry. I took it camping and luckily ran into some rain. The group probably thought I was cuckoo when it started raining because I pulled out a handful of gear and started running around like a kid in a candy store. I spent about 90 min. in completely exposed rain (not hunkered down by a tree) and the Mig passed my nerdy test.

I compare the material to a nano felt-like feel which actually makes the moisture bead up. Pretty impressive. The inside of the jacket is a smooth feeling layer that clams up the bare skin. You can’t do mesh so I would hope companies in the future are working towards a more breathable comfy inside layer.

The hood is articulated but the brim on the hood is a bit large. For a minimalist piece I would expect something a little more trimmed down. Helly Hansen is working on saving weight with this but I would think the brim would be smaller to do so. It’s also hard to pack this baby down when you have a big brim. Jus’ sayin.

The Fit
Arms are too long and it bugs me quite a bit. When you put thumb holes in any piece I’ve found more room in the arms help thus preventing stretching the arms. For example, my Backcountry.com Merino top drives me bonkers because if I use the thumb holes all of a sudden I’m wearing a small rather than a medium. So if Helly was trying to compensate for the thumb hole usage they did a good job, but I don’t like the bunched up fabric I have left over when I’m not using the thumb holes.

The length seems short to me. You know when you lean over and your top hikes up your back? I feel that a with the Mig. However the torso feels perfect when I’m upright. When I sit down the chest section stays flat rather then lurching forward. The collar is well thought out, not too high not too low. It covers my face in the wind and tucks down nicely when I need some air space.

The Extras
Water resistant zippers always make a jacket snazzy. My gripe with the zipper is that it’s backwards. Every time I put it on I always forget. I think that is one zipper no-no. To quote Men At Work, “Never, EVER, touch another man’s fries”… I say, ‘Never, EVER, flip the zipper on a jacket’. The front of the jacket has reflective material that adds some cool style along with functionality.

Did I mention this jacket has thumb holes? I thought it was weird but I use them ALL the time. The elastic wrists make them easy to slip in and out. On that topic, velcro wrists on a jacket are so 2006. I cringe when I have to velcro my wrists shut. The chest pocket is deep so anything you put in sinks down and won’t easily fall out. No hand pockets on this jacket but you already knew that when I said the word ‘minimalist’.

Would I buy this jacket?
I would. For $200 I am pleased with what it has to offer and can get over my nit picking. You’ll pay $100 more for an Arcteryx Alpha SL which is 1.4oz lighter than the Mig so its up to you and your wallet situation. The big difference I see with the Mig and other minimalist jackets (TNF, OR, Arcteryx) is the felt-like material. Try it on and see how it fits for you.

BUY NOW: The Helly Hansen Mig Jacket.

I’ve got some central pieces of clothing that keep surfacing – no matter the season, no matter the sport. One of those is a Pearl Izumi Optik Jacket which I use for biking, running, and even backcountry ski touring. But what I don’t see is why so many companies make so many niche-focused pieces for each of those individual sports, when they all seem to require similar performance. Lightweight, compact, breathable, warm. So…why isn’t someone making something billed as a cycling-to-skiing crossover mid layer? Sure, a bike jersey or jacket might require a shorter cut in front than a ski jacket. Same with climbing (I learned that the hard way when I bought a Mountain Hardwear climbing jacket for skiing, and the front always rode up above my belt buckle). But I think having a form-skimming thermal cycling jacket that’s a little long in the front is a small price to pay to make it worthy of skiing cross over.

So this year I’m looking for a great versatile base-to-mid layer for ski touring, trail running, and even a bit of cold weather cycling. I want it to be bright-colored for when I’m in avalanche country. And I keep coming back to cold-weather cycling jerseys and jackets as my best options. Check out the Forza Thermal Jacket, or the Capo Atlas Thermal Jacket, or even this cycling jacket by Castelli.

Maybe I’m just uninformed, but for now I’m thinking that cycling gear is the first place to look for versatile base and mid layer items. So that’s where I’ll keep searching. And to all you clothing manufacturers out there — if you have some mid-layer jackets and such that are designed to be crossover items for multiple sports, let me know! Sorry if I’m just missing them.

There isn’t a brand more classic. Simple design. Comfy fit. Materials to drool over. The Patagonia Merino 3 offers nothing less. A friend told me he threw out all his cotton shirts to replace them with merino. I’m not there yet, but when I can let go of my soft cotty tees, merino will definitely be moving in the closet.

The all mighty Green
When I think of being obsessive about going green I first think of the innovators of going green. In fact, Patagonia doesn’t even call it going green, they call it; everyday values. Made in the USA, recyclable through Common Threads program, and durable material so you aren’t having to replace it abnormally frequently. Now I know what you’re thinking, “$90 for a long sleeve shirt that I’m suppose to recycle?”. I think Patagonia is trying it’s best to continually lower their footprint. It’s your shirt, turn it in if you want.

This shirt fits different, I swear!
I’ve had capilene and other merino shirts feel too lose and under ski clothes they bunch up causing an annoyance. Patagonia seemed to have tightened up the fit which really helps in the arms. It bugs me when you drop a chunk of change on a merino shirt that dries quick, but fits awkward. The collar also fits flat and I have yet to see it loosen.

The merino material doesn’t ride up my forearm like I have had capilene. The cuff fits snug but if I want to roll up my sleeves for a climbing session they don’t cut off circulation. The lower part of the shirt is the perfect length. Once again, doesn’t bunch up. It’s like the designers tailored it just for me. Which, might be bad for the rest of you. You definitely get what you pay for in many aspects, not just the merino material.

Thumb holes?
Nope. Not for this shirt. I’ve had a couple ski layers with thumb holes and have really enjoyed them. Maybe its on the dock for Patagonia but they might be holding back because its one more seam, one more hole, and one more chance to wear out a cuff. I am a fan of thumb holes however when you put your thumb through it stretches the shirt. Now you have to figure out how to mix lycra with merino; designers nightmare I’m sure.

This Pata-Gucci shirt homes the logo at the bottom left of the shirt, out of the way for logo-overloaded souls. Your addicted to merino anyway, might as well step it up a notch with this well thought out crew.

BUY NOW: The Patagonia Merino 3 Classic Crew.

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

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

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

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

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

The Good

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

The Bad

• No built-in support

Buy Now: Search for Wigwam Triathlete Socks

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

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

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

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

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

Good Fury

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

Bad Fury

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

The Bottom Line: Merrell Fury Running Shorts

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

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Shorts

As the weather cools back down in Salt Lake City, I’ve been trying to get out and run more. When it’s in the mid nineties, I am less inclined to go on a 3 hour run, and the dog is not psyched at all about running in that kind of heat. However, now that it’s cooler, I’ve had the chance to get out a few times a week for some longer runs, and used my CamelBak Delaney Plus Bottle Belt each time.

Not going to lie, when the CamelBak Rep first showed me the belt at the Outdoor Retailer Show, I  was a bit skeptical. In my mind, it was a glorified fanny pack. I felt like I needed leg warmers, a scrunchie and an oversized sweatshirt to wear it with. However, CamelBak really does seem to know what they’re doing when it comes to hydration, so I figured I would give it a shot.

After a few short runs and several longer ones, I’m sold. The Delaney Plus is perfect for those runs when you need water and a small snack but nothing else. The belt is so well designed that you forget it’s there until you need to pound that Gu and chase it with some H20.

Sweet Features of the Delaney Plus

• 2 pockets allow for enough space for a hat, gloves, and a few Clif Bars and your keys. one thing to beware of- one of the pockets is mesh, so don’t toss anything that is super sensitive to water in that one. I went out last week for a run in the snow, and came back with a soaked cell phone. Whoops.
• Breathable mesh backing allows for maximum ventilation against your skin as you run.
• Dual strap adjustment lets you truly customize the fit, and buckles sit in unobtrusive places near your hips.
• Elastic bungee on outside of bottle holder allows you to cinch the bottle down, and you can also toss a lightweight jacket into the cords if you chose to shed a layer when you’re crankin’ out that uphill section.
• Comes with a squeezable CamelBak Podium Bottle

Buy Now: Search for CamelBak Products

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

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

Suunto Core Extreme Edition Red

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

Suunto Vector HR

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

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

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

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

Buy Now: Search for Suunto

For those of you who haven’t seen yet, Rock/Creek is running an exclusive fall sale on their lineup from The North Face. This includes tons of the new fall styles, with deep discounts. Where else are you going to find stuff like I’ve seen over there? 20% discounts on brand new fall styles of puffies, softshells, and fleeces before Christmas? Looks like it just may be time to begin holiday shopping for all the gear heads you know who live and breathe gear from The North Face. I know what I’m putting on my list…

Click here to go to RockCreek’s North Face Fall Exclusive.

SEARCH FOR: The North Face

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

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

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

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

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

More Info/Order: Visit Stuffitts.com

JetBoil Flash PCS

• Color changing heat indicator on the side of the drink cozy: the indicator window turns orange as the contents of the cup heat up.
• New ignitor button: One push button easier to use
• Flux Ring: Helps to adequately transfer and distribute heat, meaning quicker boiling times and less fuel use. And! It sounds like Flux Capacitor, so you might also get transported somewhere in time as you drink heats evenly
• Tripod included for added stability when you’re cooking

JetBoil also mailed me the coffee press attachment, so I can stay caffeinated before and after my surf sessions. Look for a report on that in a few weeks as well. Though none of our vendors are carrying the Flash and the new coffee press just yet, look for it coming out soon!

I looked at a couple of Mountain Hardwear’s Synthetic bags, and arrived at the Switch after deciding I wanted a mid-priced bag with a temperature rating of around 20 degrees that could compress small enough to double as a backpacking sleeping bag without being enormous.

Mountain Hardwear Switch Sleeping Bag

• Weight = 3lbs 10 oz
• Stuffed Dimensions = 8 inches x 16 inches
• Quantum Expander System- the Switch comes with the Quantum expander, a secondary zipper system which essentially makes the bag bigger when you want more space and less warmth. When unzipped, it adds 8 inches of girth to the bag, which provides more space, and more air circulation. When you need that warmth, zip the Quantum Expander closed, and you’re back to a mummy bag to provide ample warmth.
• Comes in both a 20 degree or a 35 degree option.
• Price = $140.00
• Women’s bag means more insulation in typically cold areas, and a shorter overall bag (regular sized women’s bag is 5 foot 6 inches long, and the long one is 6 feet).

Overall, the Switch was the best choice for a versatile bag- I can use it car camping or backpacking, in warmer or cooler temperatures and in the rain or in dryer conditions without worry of losing warming capabilities when it’s wet. The only thing I have yet to truely test is multi-day use at lower temperatures, but I’m sure I’ll have a handle on that after I get back from the Pacific Northwest. Look for an update in a few weeks!

Check it out! Mountain Hardwear Switch 20 Degree Sleeping Bag

As I am packing for my upcoming Washington/Oregon surf trip, I am experiencing a new type of packing. What to bring for the dog, who will also be coming along in the truck for the 2 week trip? Baker will be sleeping in the truck with us, hanging on the beach with us, and will be an active participant in the whole trip! I’ve never brought a dog on a road trip before, so as I started laying out my kitchen box, sleeping bags and other items, it dawned on me that the dog would also need all of these things! I decided the first thing I would tackle would be a portable bed for the guy- everyone likes a place to sleep. I’m bringing along a RuffWear FlopHouse Foam Pad for Baker on this trip.

The FlopHouse Foam Pad seems ideal for our surfing/beach adventure for a few reasons:

• It’s foldable, and can get pretty small, so when we’re not using it, it won’t take up too much space.
• Integrated drain holes in the pad will let water drain out the bottom, instead of pooling and making a soggy bed. This will be great for naps after long days on the beach!
• Inner foam is removable, so it can’t be hosed off and dried out quickly.
• Comes in 3 sizes, which align perfectly with Small/Medium/Large crate sizing and the size of the back of most cars. The Large size fits perfectly in the back of a Subaru Forrester, or in the back seat of a Toyota Tacoma Xtra Cab (where Baker Dog will be staying as we drive cross-country).

Look for a full report when I return! For now, I’m off to finish packing the dog’s bin full of toys/beds/bowls/food/etc. Baker’s new Gourdo and Sqwash toys will also be coming with us!

Check it out! Ruffwear FlopHouse Foam Pad

Search for more Ruffwear gear.

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

Cold and unconnected?

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

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

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

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

Learn more: Visit Mountain Hardwear.com

To preface my review, I feel like I should give you a bit of information about me, size wise and activity wise. Let’s just say that when I sat down to meet with Moving Comfort, they looked at me, and then proceeded to ask who as actually going to be testing and reviewing the product, as their bras were intended for women with “a fuller chest” than me. After I informed them that I was, in fact, the one who would be trying out their product, they steered me in the direction of one of their most versatile sports bras for those on the “smaller” side- the Alexis. I am an avid trail runner, cyclist and mountain biker, so these were the activities the ladies kept in mind when choosing the Alexis for me- high impact. While I only tried the Alexis due to size limitations, Moving Comfort has several great lines of products like their Fiona Bra, which is a Sports Bra specific for high impact activities for those of you in the C-DD range, or the Dori Bra, a hook and eye closure racer back bra aimed at the B/C range. Be sure to give those a shot if you’re looking for great support in the larger cup size ranges. For now though, here’s my impression of the Alexis Bra.

Alexis Sports Bra- The Good

• “Smoosh” free design- The Alexis comes with padded cups integrated into the bra, and an overall shape to it. This provides support in a similar way to a normal bra, as opposed to just smashing the girls closer to your body and hoping they don’t move.
• Skinny straps- Nothing digging into your shoulders as you move.
• Back mesh panel- allows for great ventilation
• Moving comfort products are the #1 selling apparel product (pants, jackets, shorts, you name it) in running stores nation wide. They’re onto something for that high impact support category!

Alexis Sports Bra- The Bad

• Even in the smaller size, the padded cups really were overkill for someone of A/B cup size. Definitely made for a “smoosh” free experience, as Moving Comfort advertises, but I felt that compared to my usual preference of a seamless, padding free bra, I was hauling around a lot of extra material for a lot of support that I didn’t really need.

Overall, I was really impressed with the design and thought that clearly went into the development of Moving Comfort’s products! They just weren’t for my specific body type. However, I would highly recommend them to any of my fuller chested friends!

Check It Out! Alexis Sports Bra

Cooksets these days keep getting better and better. I’ve been a fan of GSI ever since my rendezvous with the Pinnacle non-stick pan. Now I’m turning my spoon towards the Pinnacle Dualist cookset and all the sweet stuff it comes with. GSI might be in the woods stalking hikers studying all the little things they don’t like about cooksets, there is no other explanation for how they nailed it with the Dualist.

The Lid
The orange plastic tab at the top of the pot lid flips up to grab easily while cooking. Doesn’t burn your hand. Doesn’t slip. No need for a special tool (you’ll probably lose anyway) to attach. The orange tab is also used to lock down the handle to secure all the bowls inside the pot. The lid has a built in strainer that didn’t clog up when I made pasta. It is also crushproof/meltproof plastic which I put to the test with the Brunton Profile Duo stove. And when it comes to weight, this is definitely not the heavy part of the cookset.

Pot Scuttle
The pot handle gets a little warm when you heat up the stove. The plastic coating on the handle made me a little nervous as I felt like it got a squishy from the heat. I tried to move the pot so the handle wasn’t getting any heat which worked well. I finally had to cut off the plastic right next to the pot on the handle because it burned. For a backpacking stove this probably wouldn’t be a problem but I think GSI should revisit the material used on the handle. I think the only stove that would fit inside the system would have to be a MSR Pocketrocket.

No need to pack along those annoying measuring cups with the Dualist. Check the side of the pot to make that eyeball estimate a little more tuned in to not botch the freeze dried scrambled eggs. GSI uses Radiance technology in the metal to distribute the heat lowering boil time. I can’t say I noticed a drastic difference between a Jetboil system but it definitely wasn’t slow.

Feeding the Troops
The oatmeal is steaming hot and the drooling hiking partners are hungry. Slop them up quickly with the four bowls that come with the Dualist system. Two bowls are a hard plastic and the other two have a neoprene cover to help resist burning your paws while you chow. The system also comes with two lids for the bowls for those outdoor leftovers. And yes, everything is BPA-free and odor resistant.

Is that a spoon? Or a fork?
I think sporks are kinda dorky. Before someone could think of a really clever name for the utensil Johnny Joe Cool in the corner blurted out, “SPORK!”. So here we are. But GSI added a cool twist on the epic camp utensil by having it collapse making it able to fit inside the bowls. Moving parts make me nervous when camping. From the looks of things their spork is made with the same polycarbonate the bowls are so I guess I’ll let it slide.

Quick Dualist Facts

• 20.7 oz
• Non-stick coated
• Welded wash basin storage bag to put it all in (PROBABLY MY FAVORITE PART!)
• $60

This 2008 Editors Choice award winning kitchenette has just about everything but the hungry hiking partners. I liked how it just felt bomproof. Me of all people make dumb mistakes cooking and this has been forgiving for my weaksauce cooking habits.

BUY NOW: The GSI Outdoor Pinnacle Dualist Cookset.

Best comedy of all time? You can bet Happy Gilmore is in the top 10. But for as screwball as that comedy was it taught a valuable golf lesson – I don’t care if you can crush it off the tee, it’s your short game that will win it or lose it for you. Most golfers can be found at the driving range trying to whack the ball with their huge drivers clear out to the end of the range. But many experts argue that as much as two-thirds of your strokes are made within 50 yards of the hole. That means that you probably have more opportunity to cut strokes off your game by improving the shorter shots than by stretching more yards out of your powerhouse drive. So in the movie, Happy’s coach takes him mini-golfing to practice keeping his calm with the short game, even in the face of that laughing clown machine that keeps spitting his putts back at him.

Enter the RoboCup Golf Ball Retriever from Fine Tune Golf. The RoboCup is like your own personal Happy Gilmore clown, without the ridicule. In the 2009 PGA Merchandise Show it was named “Best New Product.” I can see why it was chosen from among all the new golf gear as best new product — it probably has the best chance at making it fun to actually practice your putting game and cut strokes off your score. And it could save your back in the process.

Though the RoboCup name might make you think it is some sort of protective armor that you wear, it is actually pretty much a pocket-sized version of the Happy Gilmore clown. You set it in a putting cup and whenever you hit the ball into the cup, it pops it back out to you so you can practice again. Just like the clown. Most golf ball retrievers are just long claws you use to reach down and grab your ball out of the cup, which certainly will save your back from reaching down repeatedly to the cup. But that adds the trouble of walking over to the cup every time you putt it in.

It seems like such a simple little machine. Could this really be as ground-breaking a product as the awards hype it to be? To me it seems the RoboCup really could be, since it may turn out to be golf’s equivalent of the tried and true Kanon tennis ball serving machine that was introduced to the game way back in 1975. What took golf so long to produce a similarly efficient machine for putting practice? Nowadays you don’t see a tennis club without a serving machine, and I would venture to say that within a couple of years you won’t see any serious golf pro shop that isn’t carrying the RoboCup. Perhaps some may opt for the more expensive mini-golf clown instead, but I personally prefer a less sarcastic teaching device. My golf game needs enough work without throwing taunts into the mix.

Search for golf gear.

UPDATE: Fine Tune Golf sent me a sample to try out, and I have to say that it does exactly what it says it will. You putt in (or, if you are close then the guide cord will drop your ball for you), and then the Robocup pops it conveniently right back to you. Easy, convenient way to keep drilling that same putt angle over & over again. However, here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• First: Please don’t sit there on the green and practice with everyone backing up behind you.
• Second: If you are at the club’s practice green that has a number of holes placed in different locations on the green, then you usually are going to putt a bunch of balls towards one hole, then pull up the cup and putt towards a different hole, and on and on. That way you are always practicing new angles and won’t necessarily want the ball returned to you by the Robocup to keep practicing the exact same angle at the hole. But if there’s a certain angle at the hole that you just want to drill and drill and drill, nothing will do it for you like the Robocup will. The Robocup is your tool for that.
• Third: And, if the club’s practice green is crowded then placing your Robocup kind of let’s you ’stake your claim’ on a particular hole on the practice green. But don’t tell people that WE told you to be a cup-hoard like that!
• Fourth: Since you can drop the Robocup into the cup at any angle you want, then you can actually putt into the hole from one angle and the Robocup will pop the ball out at a 45 or 90 or 180 degree angle from where you putted. That way it pre-places your next set of balls to hit some putting practice from all around the same hole.
• Fifth: Fine Tune Golf will cringe when they hear me say this, but the Robocup can also be used as an awesome gag. When you cordially go pull the pin for your buddy to putt in, you quietly drop the Robocup in there. When he drops his putt, it spits it back at him. Just like the Happy Gilmore clown! Priceless…

What has 25 water bottles, a lumbar strap, and three zippers? The Mountainsmith Recycled Day Pack of course! Except the water bottles are in, well, a different form. Pretty impressive Mountainsmith has stepped it up by re-using that much plastic for their bags and still sustain a good performing waist pack.

The pack can be used for just about everything. I have seen photographers pack this full of padding to rally a SLR camera, moms packing it with diapers, and soil scientists using it to carry planting supplies in the field. Compared to the previous models of the Day lumbar pack, I noticed this model has a zipper upgrade making opening easier with one hand. The straps are trimmed down a bit also, it can be annoying when you have an airport travel bag that seems to have unnecessarily long straps flopping around.

Light or Heavy, it doesn’t matter
When I hit the farmers market to pick up my favorite cranberry-jalapeno salsa, I sport the pack on one shoulder briefcase style. After picking up the freshest produce I throw the shoulder strap across the chest to help carry the extra weight. Then when I want to buy that really heavy rock sculpture I strap on the lumbar strap to transfer the weight on the hips. The Day pack exceeds versatility expectations.

The Day pack offers 854 cu. in. capacity compared to the trimmed down sister version, the Tour, coming in at 488 cu. in. If you aren’t carrying 850 cubic inches of stuff around you probably want to nab the Tour pack. If the Day pack isn’t filled up it can be a bit annoying with the sagging empty space. The outer yellow bungee has been great for attaching a rain jacket and the lower compression straps help suck in the un-used space.

The top gear loops are very easy to grab on to when passing the bag to someone else. Compared to the Osprey Float bag, the Day gear loops are way better. I can never seem to grab the Floats tiny top gear loop and end up grabbing a handful of material. The Day shoulder strap comes off literally with a snap which has been really nice for hiking use. Other waist packs have their shoulder straps sewed on making them less versatile. The lumbar straps also tuck away when not in use, nothing says ‘gomer’ more than un-used straps flopping around while at the coffee shop.

My Criticism
To make this bag more competitive against other waist packs I would include a cell phone holder. I know us outdoor gear freaks all think we don’t carry a cell phone, but lets be honest. Mountainsmith makes the Amp Cell Phone holder so maybe retailers might consider selling it as a coupled deal to keep up with the times? However maybe keeping them separate would be cool to mix and match colors and give us the ability to put the holder exactly where we want.

The inner hideway pocket is made with a nylon that I think could be replaced with a felt material that is attached to the inner wall of the pack rather than the outside wall. I found when I had my keys in the pocket it was a pain opening the zipper and retrieving other stuff inside.

More colors than a kaleidoscope
Mountainsmith offers a TON of colors to choose from in all their waist packs making this a great gift idea to fit any personality. I like their design and I’m glad they are keeping it the same. I really hope they don’t do multi-color in the future, their style is untouchable.

BUY NOW: The Mountainsmith Recycled Day Lumbar Pack.

I cringe when a scary old broken down stove makes it to the campground. My mind flashes forward to the headline, “Outdated Camp Stove Blows Up without Warning…”. Time to upgrade to the Brunton Profile Duo which offers a range and grill with steel construction. Had the chance to cook with the Duo last week in Southern Colorado at around 9,000 feet.

Gas options
The versatile stove offers propane and butane giving you the power to choose or the flexibility when your buddy picks the wrong canister. I burned a 1/3 of my green Coleman tank over 3 days of cooking for 3 people. The flexible hose to the tank was perfect for setting the stove on different tables and tailgates. The regulator is easy to fit on the tank and stores nicely under the grill burner in the stove for carting around.

Brunton Power
The boil time for a Nalgene of water was about 4 minutes on the range. There is a ring on the range burner that heats up and really helps to lower boil time and also stays hot when leaving the pot on to keep the food warm. I came back to a pot of noodles sitting on the range for 15 minutes and steam was coming out as if I had the burner on low. I quickly turned off the burner because I thought it was on. Just be aware the Duo needs some solid cool down time. After all, it sounds like an F-16 when you fire it up.

Considerations
When I first opened up the stove it was jammed which I noticed again and again. When you are closing it, make sure the grill hasn’t come loose. I remedied the jam by putting pressure on the hinges which brought the cover forward a bit releasing the jam. The latches on both sides of the stove don’t fit very tight which I think is good because they would probably wear out and put unnecessary strain on the top cover.

This ain’t your Grampys stove
The steel grate is sturdy and has a small pole that fits in the range area keeping big pots secure. The wind screens take a little maneuvering, make sure to do it right though, you don’t want those puppies coming down on your dinner treats. I noticed where the hose attaches to the stove can let out gas if not fitted tightly. When I first attached the hose, it felt tight but then the hose shifted a little and I could hear a leak. I just needed to tighten up the nozzle a bit more. Never had the problem again.

My favorite part about this camp stove is the handle on the bottom. I’ll probably never find a slick case to lug the 10 lb. stove around so the handle is key. I have never had good luck with igniters on stoves but the Duo lights right up after one turn of the orange knob. The only time it didn’t spark right up was after the first night I accidentally left the stove out in the rain over night. I wiped the range burner with a paper towel and it sparked right up. NOTE: Leaving the Duo out in the rain is not suggested and is disrespectful to your Brunton resulting in bad food karma.

Can you say ’ski season’?
The Duo is coming skiing with me this year for sure. Hot dogs and bratwursts at my car in the parking lot at lunch. This $90 stove is the ultimate crowd pleaser for car camping.

BUY NOW: The Brunton Duo Profile Camp Stove.

Lately there have been a lot of good women’s gear companies cropping up. It’s great to see functional women’s gear out there, but let’s be candid: Deny it as they may, skier girls and guys will often still buy their gear for looks. And like I always say…nothing’s as hot as a chick who can rip.

The phrase I keep hearing to describe all the new women’s fitness gear is ‘active and attractive’ — and I think that phrase fits well. Companies like Nike, Adidas, The North Face and Isis have represented women’s fitness very well. But Lole is a brand that is gaining big-time traction in large part just because their stuff is just so darn good looking. Lole’s tailored and stylish designs in their active wear cross over seamlessly into daily use.

The name Lole is pronounced “low-lee” and is an acronym for ‘Live Out Loud Everyday.’ My wife already has a pile of great Lole gear. But she may need to make room for more, because I recently received an update from Lole about some of their best items for the coming 2009-2010 season:

For fitness, see the Delight Jacket ($ 140). With zip-off sleeves and reflective details, this is a jacket perfect for chilly fall runs. Start out with the sleeves, and as things start to heat up, zip them off and store them in the lower back pocket. Breathable, stretchy fabric makes this a great piece for any runner or walker’s gear closet.

For lifestyle, check out the Lole Evolt dress/tunic. Wear it over jeans or leggings, with boots or flats. At $90, it’s a versatile piece that last in any woman’s wardrobe. Belt loops and a hip pocket add functionality, and the fabric is stretchy and comfortable.

For snowsports, the Madison Jacket ($300) is a must-have. This jacket has all the tricked-out details, as well as a few fun details as well. Snow skirt, removable faux fur on the hood, and inner wrist gaiters all add to the style and functionality of this jacket.

BUY NOW: Click here to search for Lole gear.

At this summer’s Outdoor Retailer Show in July, I had the opportunity to meet with a lot of companies to discuss some of their sweet new products, including Five Ten’s Women’s Guide Tennie, Keen’s Commuter Shoes, several Jetboil products, and a whole host of new dog gear from RuffWear. One of the companies I was also fortunate enough to spend some time with was Mountain Khaki, based out of Jackson Hole Wyoming.

I have been a fan of MK products for year, but have never been able to fit into their amazing “Utility Pants.” Until 2 years ago, the women’s version of the pant was a shrunken version of the men’s, with wider hips. I loved how durable these pants seemed, and how easily my guy friends could wear them for an all day crack climbing-palooza, and then head straight out for food and drinks afterwords without needing to think twice about it. However, try as I might, I could not make a pair of the pants fit me. The smallest size was miles too big, and it looked like I had a box around my hips. I eventually gave up on my quest for a perfect pair of Mountain Khakis.

Then! 2 years ago, MK designers completely re-engineered their Women’s line, and someone was doing their homework this time! The pants now fit perfectly! Length, rise, everything. The Women’s Alpine Pant (the female version of the Utility Pant) was now officially the most rad pair of pants I’d ever seen, and they fit me. “Built for the Mountain Life,” as Mountain Khaki describes their product, these pants are definitely my “go-to” pair, for climbing, hiking and everyday wear as well.

Reasons Why I Love My Mountain Khakis

• Mountain Khaki is a member of “1% for the planet,” which in turn distributed MKs donations to the Snake River Fund, The Access Fund, and The Grand Teton National Park Foundation, among other places.
• They come pre-shrunk! Or, as the industry calls it, “garment washed” for “minimal shrinkage.” Nice, so you know that you’re not going to need new pants after the first time you toss them in the dryer.
• Comes in both regular (31 inch) and long (34 inch) inseams.
• >Reinforced hem- in the back portion of the pants, where your heel is, MK has doubled the thickness of the fabric, so you don’t shred the heel if it happens to get stuck under your shoe occasionally.
• >Comfortable, durable pants that have some decent shape to them. Really, need I say more?

Along with their traditional Alpine Utility Pant, Mountain Khaki has a line of Women’s Corduroy pants and Twill Pants. This year, Mountain Khaki also released their Snake River Collection, an entire collection of synthetic pants and shorts. Look for reviews on those other product lines later! For now, check out the Alpine Utility Pant:

Buy Now: Mountain Khaki Women’s Alpine Utility Pant

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Good

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

The Bad

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

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Outbound Boots

Let Sierra Designs send you on a magical trip for two to Wales. Plane tickets, luxurious yurts, and of course free gear from one of the top brands out there.

Enter Sierra Designs Sweepstakes before Sept. 30th at midnight

Winner will be drawn in October so brush up on your…Wales…language….errr WELSH. Thats it! And in no time you’ll be updating your facebook status, “Off to Wales! Diolch Sierra Designs!”.

Sierra Designs is hooking up the winner with the award winning Lightning XT 4 tent along with other gear. The Lightning has full mesh sides with two doors and two stout vestibules. I’ll be doing a review on this tent here in the coming weeks and from what I have seen there is a complete makeover with pole-inserts and tie downs.

Good luck to everyone and while you wait on the winner announcement check out Sierra Designs gear and apparel.

I have been using the same socks for a while now. In fact, candidly I’ve got socks that have made it more years than many startup companies. Quite a while ago I ended up switching over to high tech cycling socks for all my running and athletic wear. But for some reason I still had not upgraded my hiking socks.

That’s when I ran across Teko Organic Merino hiking socks. The “organic” and “chlorine-free” angles are great attributes for the Teko sock, but what is best is their comfort. They have a snug fit around the metatarsal area that I absolutely love. They are also completely seamless, so you don’t get hot spots or blisters across the top of your toes. This is HUGE in my book. Nothing can kill a hike faster than blisters and otherwise uncomfortable feet. The merino wool is also a very enjoyable material for a hiking sock because it doesn’t suffocate you, isn’t itchy, and has a natural feel to it.

The Teko socks I used most recently were their Light Hiking model. I took it on a few solid trails up the canyons on the Wasatch Front. I liked its comfort factor very much – I didn’t require a polypro liner under it. But one thing to note: when they say light hiker, they mean light. Meaning, it is about the same thickness as a normal athletic sock. So if you are planning to wear these under your trekking boots then you will end up with a loose fit on your boots. Instead, these seem to be designed to be worn under a recreational hiking boot or a trail runner. For trekking or extended backpacking trips, I would recommend looking into one of Teko’s heavier weight socks.

All in all, I liked the Teko Light Hiking socks quite a bit and will definitely be picking up a few more pairs.

Click here to search for Teko gear.

The Gerber Flik Multi-tool is like no other when it comes to a functional smooth tool. Smooth meaning it doesn’t jam when you are trying to collapse or expand the tool. I am not sure if Gerber joined up with the producers of Transformers but that is the first thing I thought of when I saw the Flik. So maybe there are more to this tool than meets the eye?

The needle nose pliers are truly unique. I was tightening up a medium sized phillips screw the other day and it looked like the needle nose could fit inside. Instead of searching for the phillips tool I just jammed the needle nose and twisted. Worked like a charm. Best thing was, I didn’t even have to take it out of the case as there is an opening at the bottom of the Gerber case.

When I use a multi-tool I am probably more hard on it than it is made for.

Examples:

• Using it for a hammer.
• Pulling off metal grates where a crowbar would be used.

*The Flik has survived my multi-use beating but I don’t recommend it. Not that the tool can’t withstand it, but you can really hurt your hand.

Moving Parts
The slide to expand the tool is very smooth. It rarely jams compared to other multi-tools I have used. The patented Saf.T.Plus™ locking system works in two ways:

1. Obviously locks the tools in place when in use.
2. NEW! When you engage the locking slide it slightly pops up all the tools on that side of the handle. This prevents hurting your fingernail when trying to pull out that tiny little flat head screw.

To pull the large knives out you use the pad of your finger rather than your fingernail. Each knife has an opening to grip on to the finger. The scissors aren’t spring loaded until the scissors are open and than you put the blade against the spring.

My one gripe about the tool is the heavy weight. On the hip I constantly feel it. I wish the case had a little more gusto so it didn’t slide on the belt. With weight comes a tough industry standard tool, but something to keep in mind. Overall the hinges are very well built and I’m a big fan of the tool opening system.

BUY NOW: The Gerber Flik Multi-Tool.

Look forward to the new Helly Hansen Trail Lizard HT for all your winter running and snowshoeing. The 15K waterproof material attracts 4-season trail runners establishing itself as a true trail runner hybrid. I’ve been kicking around in the shoe for a couple weeks now and here are my findings.

Comfort
You know when you put on an uncomfortable shoe and you find yourself looking at them a lot wondering if you installed the batteries wrong? I probably could have slept in the Lizards because of how they feel. I really had no idea I was wearing them on the couple trail jaunts I have been on. Superb comfort.

Sole
I noticed the sole near the toe has extra support under the curl of the toes. Almost as if it is has bump under the toes giving more power in your stride. The heel cup is similar to the Oboz Ignition in that it holds the heel in place but is more forgiving than the Ignition. The Lizard sole is lower to the ground than the Saucony Guide TR-2 which I like because I feel like it doesn’t weigh me down.

Material
Matching the 15K waterproof material is a 15K breathability rating. Backpacking anyone? I am always nervous taking out low profile shoes backpacking but it looks like the Lizard is stable enough. Anytime a shoe can keep my feet dry for long hikes I am a happy hiker. The rubberized grid outsole seems like a great idea. Instead of caking on the rubber Helly Hansen has put down a grid to keep the shoe burly but low profile.

So far my favorite part about the shoe is the mesh-like sides that keep the top of the foot cool. Is it mesh? Is it nylon? It’s down right functional. Looks like the Helly Hansen Twitter is all ready for ski season, stay tuned for more of their apparel and footwear gear recipes.

BUY NOW: The Helly Hansen Trail Lizard HT Trail Shoe.

I imagine that most of you have had a chance to lust after Wenger’s gorgeous Swiss watches. Wenger is the Maker of the Genuine Swiss Army Knife, and for years have also produced Wenger Swiss watches with a quality and style that is unquestionably upscale but also very wearable. Wenger watches are the real man’s Patek Philippe.

In that same vein — rugged but upscale — Wenger has now released a solid new line of outdoor footwear under the Wenger brand. I had the opportunity to use my new Wenger Eiger hiking boots last week on a hike up Grandeur Peak in Utah, and I have to say that I am quite impressed with the performance. For a freshman boot, it comes with a new angle that I think lots of consumers will appreciate:

• Nubuck uppers instead of full-grain leather, meaning it is ‘broken in’ from day one. No blisters (for me, anyway).
• Red polyurethane midsole reinforcement (see pic of sole) instead of a heavy steel shank — reducing weight.
• That same red midsole reinforcement still provides significant reduction in foot-flex compared to less burly sport boots, which means less foot fatigue (but still lighter weight than a steel shank).
• Rivet-style lace eyelets (durable, holds laces in place).
• Soft enough outsole for immediate good grip when scrambling over rocks.
• Beautiful style that many other boot manufacturers are just plain missing. Though the ‘Pine Green’ color that I got is actually more of a sky blue, as you can see from the pictures. My favorite color for the Eiger is the black and red version.

I usually don my Asolo boots when hitting a hike, but this time I opted for the Wenger Eigers and I was immediately taken with how comfortable they were from the first step. Also, the finish on the boots is exceptional — so there are no rough edges to the leather or stitching that create hot spots or require filing or other mods to ‘break in’ the boot to your foot. However, the toe box is quite a bit roomier than my Asolo boots. While I appreciate not banging my toes against the top or front of the toe box when hiking downhill, I thought the Eiger tall height of the toe box left me with little toe control over my steps. But then again, I also prefer most of my shoes to have a low volume toe box so that I can feel the top of the shoe lightly skimming the back of my toes and metatarsals. It makes me feel like it is a glove fit. So if that is not the sort of fit you prefer, you may like the larger volume of the Eiger boot’s toe box. NOTE: I usually wear a size 10 Nike running shoe, so I got the size 10 in the Wenger Eiger. But it turned out to be sized a bit large — I should have gone for the 9.5, and that may have improved my perception of the toe box volume. Also, I was wearing a single light hiker sock from Teko, not a heavy trekking sock with a liner. That may have made a difference.

The boots do a great job, performance-wise, for their category. They keep debris out of the top of your ankle without cutting off circulation, and they can hold up for a solid 3-day backpacking trip. They are light and comfortable, with enough of a sturdy sole to last a couple of days in a row of hiking without too much foot-flex. But do not mistake them for a long-trip trekking boot. It is evident that after 3 days or so of heavy hiking, the flexible nature of the sole would indeed lead to some degree of foot fatigue. These are intended to be a hiker — not a trekker. And they are not crampon-compatible, so don’t buy them thinking you will use them as your go-to mountaineering boot. Instead, they are a very solid hiker with a distinctly upscale style and brand. The Wenger Eiger is a very welcome boot in the rugged and upscale footwear category.

Click here to find Wenger products.

Click here to find all hiking boots.

For a look at some more of Wenger’s products, see the video below from Park City Television’s Ori Hoffer:

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

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

North Face Singletrack

North Face Fire Road II

North Face Devil’s Thumb GTX

North Face Sentinel Boa

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

Buy Now: Search for North Face Trail Running Shoes

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

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

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

Buy Now: Search for Osprey Hydration Packs

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

Buy Now: Search for Arc’teryx Jackets

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

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

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

Enter to Win: Visit Packaday.MountainHardwear.com

Building on the ultralight MSR Carbon Reflex 1 and 2 tents, it’s time to have a Carbon Reflex 3 tent for ultralight (as MSR deems it hyperlite) performance. Carbon fiber is stronger and lighter than aluminum–thus shaving precious pounds from your pack compared to similarly-sized tents. For example, the new MSR Carbon Reflex 3 has a minimum weight of 4 lbs. 7 oz. while the Mutha Hubba tips the scales at 6 lbs. 9 oz. A savings of over two full pounds! Even though it’s lightweight, the Carbon Reflex 3 is still liveable with plenty of room and two vestibules.

The major setback here is price. This tent will cost a pretty penny at $600 (but did I mention how light this is!?!?!). Look for it to hit retailers in January 2010.

Buy Now: Search for MSR Tents

These flexible hydration bottles kick the whole plastic vs. stainless bottle debate to the curb by utilizing a soft, durable and BPA-free water bottle material that packs well and reduces volume as you use it. New for Fall 2009, the new Platypus SoftBottle will be offered in two, ultra-portable sizes (0.5 L and 1 L) with either a HyperFlow bite valve or a standard closure cap. This bite valve has a simple 1/4-turn locking system to prevent accidental spillage. With the bite valve, water flow is excellent and it easily doubles as a water gun to keep the kids cool on a hot summer day.

Bottles stand up on their own and the 0.5 L version is made to fit into standard cupholders. Each size will also come in three colors. Platy Bottles are available now, but expect the SoftBottles to arrive at retailers in September 2009 with prices ranging from $7.95 to $12.95 depending on size and cap option.

Buy Now: Search for Platypus Products

It has been nice to slip back into a pair of New Balance shoes. It’s been several years, but my feet haven’t forgotten how well The Big N’s feel. I’ve now had the 875’s on-trail for several weeks and about 50 miles of mixed trail and pavement (80/20 split), so it’s time to spill the beans.

The 875’s have been super-comfortable for my feet from the outset. I simply slipped a pair of standard Sole footbeds inside and never looked back. A full day of walking the halls of Outdoor Retailer followed by miles of demanding trails in American Fork Canyon has shown the versatility of the 875’s in the all-around competition.

Construction of the 875’s is solid with huge vents on either side of the forefoot, which act like wind-tunnels expelling midsummer moisture. My feet are always hot, but these shoes run comfortably at high temperatures. My sock of choice has and typically always is the Lorpen Ultralight, but I also wore a pair Bridgedale X-Hale Speed Demon socks during the course of the review. Both socks worked well, but I always prefer the minimalistic design of the Lorpen’s.

On rugged and rough trails, the Rock Stop forefoot protection in combination with Abzorb cushioning is superb. Honestly, this is the best trail running chassis I’ve worn this year. I feel like I’ve got enough protection to run all day in the rocky terrain so common to Utah without fear of bruising.

My favorite feature of these shoes is the Lockdown Liner. Just as the name suggests… it locks down your foot for a precise and predictable feel on all terrain. This is definitely a unique system that puts the fit over the top.

Traction throughout the stride is solid and confidence-inspiring-except for extreme toe-off where the minimal toe treads lose traction on occasion.

The Good

• Fit is true-to-size (Men’s 10)
• Excellent breathability
• Comfort right out of the box
• Smooth on/off road
• Top-notch trail protection with Rockstop plates
• Ribbed laces eliminate need for double-knots
• Huge side vents keep feet cool
• Abzorb cushioning offers just the right comfort

The Bad

• Not for wet weather or stream crossing
• Toe-off treads could provide more traction

Buy Now: Search for New Balance Trail Running Shoes

I got to scope the Saucony Guide TR-2 at Outdoor Retailer and have been wearing them for a couple weeks. So far I have been liking the ‘walking on clouds’ feel and the loud Godzilla green design. Everyone I have talked to about Saucony always rave about their comfort and quality. Now it’s my turn to give them a test drive.

Guide TR-2 Breakdown
The Guide TR-2 is unique by catering to on and off road conditions. Unless you live in a cabin and can hit the trail at the drop of a hat, you may want to consider a hybrid like the Guide. I think this shoe would be great for recreational runners who want to keep up their running skills on the road and trail. The Guide TR-2 offers ProGrid technology which is meant to absorb impact and to give your feet a smooth transition.

A Dual Density EVA is going to increase response and more importantly durability. That way your not having to buy as many shoes saving you green. From other shoes I have been wearing this summer I can already tell the Guide TR-2 is a bit bulkier but with that comes a lot of stability and comfort. The padding on the tongue is quite generous as is the sides of the shoe.

The toe box has more room than other trail runners I have noticed. The tread is multi-directional which is meant to decrease slippage on rocks. So instead of having to wear knee pads, the Guide TR-2 has you covered. Hopefully.

I look forward to trying out this gaiter compatible antimicrobial trail runner hybrid over the coming weeks. Stay tuned for my final review. In the mean time, check out Saucony shoes and apparel.

I had the chance at Outdoor Retailer to see what Columbia was up to. Aside from a totally hip style of winter outerwear coming soon, this new Mobex Trail pack made me do a double take. Is it a tent? Is it a pack? Does it come in my size?!?
First Impressions
The clamshell opening is great for eying all your gear to organize and get to a bite to eat on the trail quickly. The lycra outer pockets always win me over. I fit about 5 PROBARs in the one pocket and I wouldn’t be surprised if my rain jacket fits in there also.

The pack straps are lightweight with a breathable design. The hip strap has a pouch that could fit a gel, cell phone, and most likely a bar. I wasn’t quite sure what the tent poles do to help the pack. I’ve only used the pack a couple times and I find that having the pack ‘already open’ is actually pretty sweet for throwing stuff in.

I’ll put some miles on the pack and get back to you on how well the tent poles do. I see rock climbing, day hikes, farmers market, and urban use in this backpack’s future. The Columbia Mobex trail pack comes to you in Spring 2010.

Buy Now: Search for Columbia Gear

At Outdoor Retailer, I stopped in at the New Balance booth to get a rundown of the latest trail runners. As one of the staples of the trail running market, New Balance will offer two updated styles: The 876 (replacing the current 875) comes out in Jan/Feb 2010 and the race flat 100 comes out in Oct 2009.

New Balance 876 Trail Running Shoe

The New Balance 876 features an all-new design from top-to-bottom featuring a debris-free tongue design, Absorb cushioning, N-lock heel and an entirely new, lower-profile tread pattern. As you can see in the 2nd picture, the tread pattern has been drastically changed for the better (top is new 876 and bottom is current 875). Tipping the scales around 20 oz./pair, the new 876 looks to be a solid everyday trainer for warm weather. MSRP will be $99.95.

New Balance 100 Racing Flat

The New Balance 100 is a race flat with a few really cool innovations. While it’s not as low-profile as some race flats, it appears to provide just enough cushioning and support for longer races (hence the 100 name for 100-mile endurance races). It does feature a Rockstop Plate and is built to wear with or without socks–all in a svelte 7.7 oz (each) package. MSRP will be $74.95.

Buy Now: Search for New Balance

While at Outdoor Retailer, I stopped by to see my old friend Greg “Chopper” Randolph from Smith Optics. The guy is the real deal and loves to show the goods coming down the pike from Smith. This year, the story was in refinement with several new polarized options and the all-new ultralight Pivlock V90 and V90 Max interchangeable lens sunglasses.

This all-new minimalist shield design from Smith offers a super-lightweight design with solid wraparound protection. The V90 and V90 Max differ only in the size of the lens, otherwise all other features and interchangeable lens designs are the same. Trying them on, they are extremely lightweight and comfortable–I can’t wait to try them on the trail as I imagine I’ll forget I’ve got them on. The lens design not only eliminated frame interference in your line-of-sight, but it also reduces material usage. Throughout the entire Smith line, you can expect solid optics, polarization options and Eco-friendly materials with the Evolve lineup.

The V90 and V90 Max will be available soon with an MSRP of $119 for a single lens and $139 for 3 lenses.

585 Mini-Barrage Wins Knife of the Year

July 30, 2009, OREGON CITY, Ore. – The Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence presented its 2009 Knife of the Year Award to Benchmade Knife Company for the model 585 Mini-Barrage™. The awards were presented at the Shooting Industry Masters event on July 24th in Windsor, Connecticut.

“We are thrilled and honored to receive such a prestigious award” says Les de Asis, CEO and Founder of Benchmade Knife Company. “Benchmade prides itself on manufacturing high-quality, American-made products. To have our standard of excellence recognized is extremely rewarding and gratifying.”

The 585 Mini-Barrage features a patented AXIS® Assist Locking Mechanism, combining speed and strength in one complete package. Other key features include 100% ambidextrous function, reversible carry clip and 154CM blade steel. For more information on the 585 Mini-Barrage, please visit: http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=585

Benchmade has won Knife of the Year eight times since 1998 and remains committed to designing and manufacturing world class sports cutlery and superior-edged tools. Knife of the Year winners include 610 Rukus (2006), 425 Gravitator (2005), 921 Switchback (2003), 556 Mini-Griptilian (2002), 690 Elishewitz (2001), 720 Mel Pardue (2000), 710 McHenry & Williams (1999), and the 910 Stryker (1998). For more information on previous winners, please visit: http://www.benchmade.com/shooting_industry/recap/

For a recap of all winners at the Shooting Industry Masters, please visit: http://www.shootingindustry.com/09SIAEwin.html

Sincerely,

Team Benchmade
“It’s not just a knife… It’s a Benchmade”

“Since market introduction, the award-winning original SPOT has initiated more than 250 rescues and sent millions of peace-of-mind and track-me messages around the world. We have listened to our customers’ suggestions and are proud to introduce today the second-generation SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger with its increased features and utility,” said Darren Bassel, director of global marketing, SPOT LLC. “Today’s announcement further demonstrates our continued commitment to expand our product line and develop integrated services like SPOT Assist roadside assistance providing advanced personal satellite communications to increase safety for our customers on a daily basis.”

The new SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger will include the following new features designed to enhance customer usability:

• 30% smaller and lighter than the original model at 5.2 ounces
• New enhanced satellite antenna for improved performance in foliage or canopied environments
• Advanced GPS performance chipset
• GPS Acquisition light
• “Message Sending” indicator light
• Dedicated GPS Tracking button
• New, dedicated pre-programmable Custom Message button
• Protective covers over S.O.S and Help button to prevent inadvertent message transmissions
• Illuminated buttons
• Choice of orange or silver
• Included case and neoprene fastening band

The new model includes globally recognized symbols for its message buttons to accommodate use in international markets and stimulate distribution to a growing customer base in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

“The active outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers, boaters, pilots, riders, remote workers and travelers will continue to enjoy the new SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger for its ruggedness while its smaller compact size and weight is ideal for portable use,” continues Bassel. “The smaller size and ease-of-use will appeal to our broader consumer markets including the family on-the-go or anyone who spends time in the areas with unreliable cellular service.”

Equipped with two, notification LED’s and six function buttons the new SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger transmits activated messages based on varying levels of need:

• OK/Check in lets contacts know where you are and that you’re okay
• Track Progress sends and saves your location and allows contacts to track your progress in real-time using Google Maps(tm)
• * Help notifies your contacts or SPOT Assist professional services of your GPS location and need for assistance
• SOS/9-1-1 Alert notifies an emergency rescue coordination center of your GPS location
• Custom Message button sends a pre-programmed message to your personal contacts

Since market introduction, the award-winning SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger has initiated more than 250 rescues and sent over 10 million peace-of-mind and track-me messages around the world. As of March 31, 2009 the Company had received orders to ship more than 120,000 units and it currently has a growing global network of more than 8,000 points of distribution.

When will the new SPOT Satellite GSP Messenger Be Available?

The new SPOT Satellite GSP Messenger is scheduled to be available at select retailers later this fall. To find a SPOT retailer in the United States please visit the SPOT dealer locator at http://findmespot.com/en/locateadealer/.

About SPOT LLC

The SPOT Satellite Messenger, the world’s first satellite messenger, uses both the GPS satellite network to determine a customer’s location and the SPOT network to transmit that information to friends, family or an emergency service center. SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. (Nasdaq:GSAT), provides lifesaving communications technology that allows users to communicate from remote locations around the globe. Thanks to this affordable, cutting-edge personal safety device, the company offers people peace of mind by allowing customers to notify friends and family of their location and status, and to send for emergency assistance in time of need, completely independent of cellular phone or wireless coverage. For more information on how SPOT LLC. is helping users live to tell about it – from disaster preparedness to outdoor adventure purposes – visit www.findmespot.com.

Buy Now: Search for SPOT Satellite Messenger

As the name suggests, the all-new KEEN Newport Backpack takes its cues from the ubiquitous KEEN Newport Sandals that have made the brand so famous. One look at the compression straps and you think, “That pack sure looks like KEEN Newport Sandals”. Well, I’ll take a step out on a limb and say, YES… it was planned that way. 

With a bevy of enviro-friendly components the KEEN Newport Backpack will go from boardroom to backcountry in a jiffy. It is hydration compatible and comes with a suspended laptop sleeve built to schlep up to a 15.4″ laptop in cradled comfort.

Check out a few more features of the Newport Laptop Backpack:

• 100% recycled aluminum components
• 15.4″ padded and suspended laptop sleeve
• 100% recycled interior liner
• Hydration bladder pocket with hose outlet
• Breathable mesh and foam back panel
• Water bottle pockets on both sides
• 100% recycled inner tube rubber bottom
• Dimensions: 20″ x 12″ x 8″
• Price: $100

Buy Now: Shop for the KEEN Newport Backpack

Eureka!, maker of high-quality, innovative sleeping bags and tents for a wide range of campers and outdoor enthusiasts, introduces eight new sleeping bags for 2010. Eureka!’s new Implosion series includes the Kotey 35°, the Riner 40°, and the Shawnee 40° offering minimal pack size and weight while providing warmth for activities in temperate climates. The new Deep Woods Collection featuring the Centerfire and Rimfire are rectangular, classic-designed sleeping bags with upgraded features for whatever Mother Nature has to offer.

The Implosion sleeping bags series is highly compressible and lightweight with a 50D polyester ripstop shell, Eureka!’s own/proprietary Rteqmicro fill and vertical “S” quilting for better insulation distribution. These performance bags come in three different styles – a the mummy, rectangular and hybrid, offering outdoor enthusiasts a variety of design and shape options depending on their sleeping patterns and preferences. Each bag features “peached” polyester liner fabric that is super-soft and feels warm to the touch, as well as an internal pocket and an integrated compression stuff sack.

• Kotey 35° mummy bag (82” x 32” x21”): 2 lbs 1 oz. Retail: $84.90
• Riner 40° hybrid bag (82” x 33” x 24”): 2 lbs 8 oz. Retail: $89.90
• Shawnee 40° rectangular (78” x 33”): 2 lbs 8 oz. Retail: $79.90

“The Implosion Series bags are just right for adventurers who are concerned about carry weight and pack size while on the trail; they provide exceptional performance without the bulk,” said Rob Marcello, Eureka! sleeping bag product manager. “Eureka!’s high performance sleeping bags provide consumers with the technical features they crave blended with the comfort they need to get a good night’s rest.”

Eureka!’s new Deep Woods Collection consists of classically designed rectangular bags that are durable, warm and roomy, providing the rugged outdoor enthusiast with a bag that is perfect for harsh elements. Each bag features a 100% yarn-dyed cotton flannel liner for excellent resistance to fabric color transfer and Eureka! ThermaShield™ insulation.

The Centerfire collection features bags that are constructed of a two-tone 10 oz cotton duck shell with stylish riveted reinforcements giving the bags the look of a pair of work jeans. Other notable features include a “sip n’ zip” 20-inch zipper on the left side that allows campers to sit up and enjoy breakfast in bed or easily do other activities that require use of both arms without getting out of the bag, and a “downwind” zippered foot vent at the bottom of the bag for comfort. The bags also include an integrated (detachable) carry duffle.

• Centerfire -10° (80” x 38”): 13 lbs 6 oz., MSRP: $139.99
• Centerfire 0° (80” x 38”): 12 lbs. 4 oz., MSRP: $129.99
• Centerfire 15° (80” x 38”): 11 lbs. 3 oz., MSRP: $119.99

The Rimfire bags are constructed of a 5.6 oz poly/cotton blend, and come with and three free floating webbing straps that will not tear the seams of the bag when it is secured for transport or storage They are available in two temperature ratings:

• Rimfire 0° (80” x 38”): 10 lbs 8 oz., MSRP: $109.99
• Rimfire 15° (80” x 38”): 9lbs 7 oz., MSRP: $99.99

Visit EurekaTents.com for more details.

Editor’s Thoughts

Eureka is introducing a great lineup of sleeping bags at affordable price-points. The Implosion series is great for warm-weather backpacking or camping where light weight and compressibility is appreciated while the Rimfire and Centerfire designs are standard rectangular bags with all the bells and whistles for the outdoor enthusiast who wants comfort and warmth in any condition.

More Info: Search for Eureka! Tents & Sleeping Bags

Ultralight shells are excellent companions on summer hiking trips for unexpected weather changes, or for those crisp Spring or Fall mornings to take the edge off. I’ve tested a few items from Penfield over the years and have been impressed with the quality of their products. New to their Spring/Summer collection is the Penfield 360 lightweight, breathable and weatherproof jacket.

The 360 jacket looks to be a great companion for hiking, mountain biking or trail running should the need arise for a little more protection from the elements. Built from 100% nylon, this jacket will definitely do the trick. Here are a few more features:

• Fabric: 100% weatherproof nylon
• Adjustable hood
• Lower pouch pocket
• Chest pocket with printed waterproof zip
• Elastic cuff and hem
• Mesh lining
• Colors: Yellow, Blue or Black
• MSRP: $110

While the colors and styling aren’t anything earthshaking, it can be your silent partner on many outdoor adventures.

More Info: Visit PenfieldUSA.com

I went to the local lake yesterday in search for a battery re-charge from the daily grind. We met up with some friends to throw the boats in the water, roast weenies, and darken up our ghostly white farmer tans. I had my Kelty Cabana with me but didn’t set it up right away because someone else had brought a 10X10 shade tent. My friend said the cabana was too small and that I should just leave it in the bag.

Cabana First Thoughts
As a gear junkie you can’t just leave stuff in the bag even if the need for the gear has already been fulfilled. The cabana is quite spacious actually and is a stellar beach shade getaway. You may not be able to fit six adults underneath along with their Twilight books and lawn chairs, but if you have little ones who need to take a nap the ground floor provides great protection from the sand.

Cabana – 1. 10X10 shade – 0.

Tent Set-up
The set up isn’t bad. If your like me, you probably don’t have 3 people dying to help you set up your tent making the cabana a good addition. After a couple times you get an idea of how the poles are suppose to bend and find which sequence works best. The tent has two short poles and one long one creating the frontal hoop. Anything that can get me in the water faster makes me smile in my sleep.

Cabana – 2. 10X10 shade – 0.

Fighting the Wind
If you went to the beach and watched people there is no doubt something in their spot will blow away at some point. The pole design on the cabana reminds me of a glider and isn’t exempt from being ‘blown-away proof’. Stakes are a must but you’re going to have to dig some up because my cabana didn’t come with them. The little sand bags at each corner of the tent won’t do it. They are a cute idea but this nylon aircraft is going to be ready for takeoff without some serious anchors.

Cabana – 2. 10X10 shade – 1.

Cabana Design
One thing that I would seriously consider marrying Kelty for is that they are simple. I like the two bug screen windows that can be covered by lifting up the nylon sides hooking into the velcro. The floor space was big enough for me to hang my feet out the front opening while laying down with my head towards the rear. You could easily fit two people for an afternoon nap. We also fit a camp chair inside and while sitting you don’t feel like the roof is on top of your forehead.

Cabana – 3. 10X10 shade – 1.

The front opening also closes completely for some beach privacy to switch in and out of clothes. One idea I had is cutting out a hole in the floor of the cabana for cooking with a stove. With the curved design and leaving the door open it could ventilate during a little storm. The material wouldn’t be ideal for a rain storm but hey I’m a dreamer.

Cabana – 4. 10X10 shade – 1.

Bottom Line: Kelty needs to get rid of those silver casings on their poles and retire the sleeves. Hooks may weigh more but 99% of the time the 4lb. 14oz. cabana is coming in my car not my Osprey Argon 85. This cabana is a strong contender in the beach shade department and I’m looking forward to taking it on my next beach excursion.

“Put em’ in a body bag Johnny!”

BUY NOW: Get the Best Price on the Kelty Cabana

I have been trying out the Oboz Ignition trail runner along with the END Stumptown 10 and 8.5 these past couple months. My opinion about trail running is if your going to go, get far and get dirty. Trail running provides the chance to get away from the mundane neighborhood loop. There are a lot of choices out there for trail runners and hopefully I can relay some knowledge to keep your feet happy on the trail.

About Oboz Footwear
Pronounced “Oh!-Boze”, this Bozeman company uses the saying ‘True to the Trail’ as a motivation to provide solid footwear for your outdoor demise. Their philosophy is make time for getting outdoors despite the whirling time suckers that consume us and strive to minimize our carbon footprint. I’m looking forward to calling up their number to compliment them on their shoes and listen to their recent bike ride story. Nice to see a company run by people who can relate to their audience.

FYI – Oboz has commited to planting a tree for every pair sold.

The Oboz Fit
After using the Ignition for a couple 4 mile runs I couldn’t describe how the shoe formed around my foot. Later I found the technology is called the Radial Fit System which fits perfect to how it feels. Some shoes I have worn in the past do a good job wrenching a gripping fit around the arch but can cause soreness after a while. The Oboz have a good stable fit without cutting blood to the toes. The rocker in the Ignition is a bit more aggressive than I have seen in other runners.

The rocker made it nice for uphill jaunts keeping my toes higher than I am use to. The heel cup is also more snug and stable than other shoes I have tried. I telemark in the winter so believe me when I say, “I hate heel lift”. The TPU cup and plate work together to protect your feet from rocks while maintaining stability. The toe box is fairly wide which I appreciated to give my toes room. I did notice a bit of a hot spot on the outside of my pinky toe after a run, but I never noticed it again.

Ignition Material
The leathery upper is key for those wet muddy days. I also think the leather helps preserve the toe bend area. I have had shoes wear out very quickly because that area was just made with mesh. I can tell Oboz paid close attention to detail for common complaints with trail shoes.

The Z-Grip rubber has a lot of bang without the bulk. Compared to the END trail runners, the Oboz sole is definitely a lot heavier but with that comes more stability than the END line. It is up to the runner really, if your ankles can compensate for the stability than END is a good choice. Personally it was a toss up because running in the Oboz really doesn’t require extra thought on how stride or place your feet.

The Z-Grip is grippier than a rubber glove in the ER.

All-around Use
Who doesn’t show of their new trail runner at dinner? The no tongue design isn’t ideal for everyday use. I don’t normally care for the slip-on style footwear, but once it’s on, you’re set for a stellar run. The benefit of this shoe is you can leave it on after a run so really you could probably shower and sleep with them until snow falls. The Ignition was also comfortable for a backpacking trip I recently did, once again that sole is plenty stable.

Bottom Line
The 27oz. Ignition may seem a lot heavier than an END shoe but don’t let weight be your boss. The breathability works well in wet conditions and would be a great stable addition to your trail runner quiver.

BUY NOW: Get the Best Price on Oboz Footwear

This past weekend, I headed down to Moab for my last multi-sport weekend before it gets way too hot down there. I grabbed my climbing gear and my road bike and headed south with the intention of some cragging on Potash Road and a ride through Canyonlands National Park. After a sweet day of biking, my partner in adventure suggested something a bit more exciting than the Potash crag- Ancient Arts, a well-known tower in the Fisher Towers area outside Moab. Looking at my gear, I was never so happy to see my “Oh S#!t” kit packed inside my duffel. This little orange stuff sack and its contents come with me EVERYWHERE, including on multipitch climbs. Knowing that I had my little kit with me, I transitioned my day from a day at the crag to my first day of desert tower climbing. I thought I’d offer you some insight into what I bring with me any time I go outside, and why I chose the products I do. Much like the Boy Scouts “10 essentials,” this kit is what I consider my essentials any time I go outside. Do I use every part every time? Nope. Have I been SUPER psyched to have it with me on a few specific occasions? Absolutely.

For all the products that our vendors carry, I’ve included a link to a more detailed review. Be sure to give it a click and check out specifics for each product.

1. Granite Gear Air Bag: Keeps all the below items with me! Lightest stuff sack I’ve been able to find that is still durable.

2. Purell Hand Sanitizer Wipes: Like carrying hand sanitizer with you, but with the added bonus of it being in wipe form, and no danger of it exploding all over your stuff if you change altitudes. Sanitize your hands and wipe off grime at the same time.

3. Coppertone Kids SPF 30 Stick Sunscreen: Wear sunscreen (anyone else remember that sweet song!?). To avoid getting it all over your hands before a climb, I’d use a stick form, and my fav is Coppertone Kids. It’s waterproof and lasts for 6 hours.

4. Adventure Medical HeatSheet Emergency Bivvy: Super compact, and keeps you warm in a pinch.

5. Leatherman Juice Xe6 Multitool: 18 tools in one, including 1 straight knife, 1 serrated knife, screwdrivers and pliers. Great for unlocking frozen ‘biners, severing cord, chopping up dinner or opening the post-climb celebratory beverage.

6. Mini Bic Lighter: Never know when you’re going to need to set something on fire!

7. Honey Stinger Energy Gel or Clif ShotBloks: Delicious! Quick energy when you really need it. Be sure to avoid that bonk!

8. 1 Luna Bar: Something with a bit more substance to snack on.

9. Charmin To Go Toilet Paper: No internal cardboard roll, just TP rolled on itself in a great tiny plastic container to keep the sand out. Great for emergency poos, nose blowings or wiping off your bloodied hands from the gnarley desert chimney you just sent.

10. Potable Aqua Iodine Tablets: If you ever end up somewhere and you’re out of water, yet have access to some source of liquid (snow, river, ice), iodine will keep you hydrated and bacteria free!

(ok, there are 11 things. No one ever accused me of being good at math!)

11. Black Diamond Spot Headlamp: I never, ever, ever, ever leave without a headlamp. Even when you’re leaving at 6am. You never know what’s going to go down that is out of your control, and adding darkness to an already deteriorating situation makes it that much worse.

Depending on the environment and weather forecast, I sometimes also take my Marmot Ion Windshirt, which compresses small enough to fit into my original granite gear stuff sack along with all of my other crucial materials.

So, at full retail, the emergency kit I’ve put together costs about $80 dollars if you don’t include the Leatherman (the most expensive item on my list, by far). If you’re good with watching for deals, you can easily put the whole thing together for under $50, and then add the Leatherman the next time it goes on sale! The whole thing weighs about 2lbs (Leatherman also weighing the most). This way, I’ve got the essentials I feel I need, instead of some formulaic kit!

Not too shabby for a homemade essentials kit, huh?

Details about The Black Diamond Spot Headlamp

• Comes with 2 different types of LEDs. 1 Hyperbright 1 watt LED and 3 Superbright LEDs. Each type of light has 3 brightness settings plus a strobe, so in total you are looking at 6 different light settings and 2 different strobe settings.
• Swivel head allows it to point in whatever direction you need. Ratchets so it will stay up or down.
• Super compact: Elastic band is minimal, and the headlamp itself fit inside my fist.
• On the Medium setting, the HyperBright light will last 150 hours and the SuperBrights 120 hours.
• With batteries, weighs only 3 oz!
• Check out BD’s tech video for more info on the Spot

Check It Out! Black Diamond Spot Headlamp

Charmin To Go Roll

• 55 squares in one small roll. The entire package, including those 55 squares is about the same size as the cardboard tube you find inside your normal TP.
• 1 ply. Not cush. But gets the job done.
• Water resistant dispenser! Allows you to dispense what you need, snap it closed again. This keeps the sand, dirt, bugs, water, etc. out.

Buy Now! Charmin To Go Roll!

The Skinny: Honey Stinger Energy Gels

• Comes in 6 flavors: Gold (? is this a flavor or a color ?), Mint, Chocolate, Banana, Strawberry and Ginsting (Ginsing). Remember going to the state fair as a kid and eating those sticks of honey? In all sorts of different flavors? That’s what the Honey Stinger Energy gels taste like.
• Ginsting shot offers the caffeine option: 32 mg of naturally occurring caffeine. These are the specific shots in my pack.
• Doesn’t come with a “litter leash” to keep that top tab from blowing away. Bummer. Other than that, these shots rock.

Buy Now! Honey Stinger Energy Gels

The Details: Potable Aqua Iodine Tablets

• To treat 1 quart of water you need to drop 2 tablets in and wait 30 minutes. Like I said, not time efficient, but in an emergency, 30 minutes of waiting is better than no water at all.
• Each bottle comes with 50 tablets that are good for about a year. If you keep the bottle closed and don’t expose it to temps above 86 degrees and below 60 degrees, then it’s good for about 4. However, stick to the year as your general rule as to when to replace it.
• Kills bacteria and giardia. Does NOT kill cryptosporidium. Again, not the best system out there, but in a pinch it’s great! Also, for the cost, it’s definitely effective. 50 tablets for around $5 bucks? Awesome.
• Some people don’t like the taste of iodine-ed water. Not to beat a dead horse, but in a pinch, who cares? Slightly different tasting water vs. no water at all? I’ll take the iodine taste please!

Buy Now! Potable Aqua Iodine Tablets

18 Tools: What you get with a Leatherman Juice Xe6

• 420HC Clip Point Knife
• 420HC Sheep’s Foot Serrated Knife
• Needlenose Pliers
• Regular Pliers
• Wire Cutters
• Hard-wire Cutters
• Extra-small Screwdriver
• Small Screwdriver
• Med/Lg Screwdriver
• Phillips Screwdriver
• Scissors
• Wood/Metal File
• Diamond-coated File
• Saw
• Bottle Opener
• Can Opener
• Awl
• Corkscrew (only 3 leathermans come with a corkscrew!)

Phew. That’s a lot of tools. My personal favorites are the straight knife, the scissors, bottle opener and can opener. They see a lot of use with me.

The Juice weighs only 6.7 oz (so far the single heaviest thing in my “Essentials” kit, if you’re keeping track), and is 3.25 inches long when fully closed. It’s stainless steel and comes with a 25 year warranty, so even I’d be hard pressed to break this one!

Check Out the Leatherman Juice Xe6!

The Details

• The HeatSheet Emergency bivvy comes in a small orange stuffsack the size of my fist. I’m a tiny gal, with tiny fists. This bivvy is minuscule!
• Along with being small, it’s light. Weighs 3.8 oz.
• Composed of “vacuum-metalized polyethylene,” which is about the consistency a tin foil/plastic wrap hybrid minus the stretch. This material has a bit of give to it, but will rip if stretched too much.
• 1 side is orange colored- east to spot even in bad weather.
• Sized for 1 adult. In a pinch, you can rip the bivvy at the seams, and wrap it around 2 people. Been there. Done that. Did not enjoy the 6 hour bivvy on a 3 foot ledge in howling wind. But the bivvy did its job, even split between 2. The parts of me that were covered with the bivvy were significantly warmer than the others.

Pick one up for yourself today! Adventure Medical HeatSheet Emergency Bivvy

The Specs

• Comes in 6 sizes, from 2 L through 16L.
• SUPER lightweight: my size 1 weighs 11 oz.
• Made of 30D Sil-Nylon Cordura. I’ve had mine for over 3 years now, and it’s come on multitudes of trips and made it up many climbs with me as my emergency kit container. No holes, no rips, no complaints.
• The fabric is see through, so you can give it a quick visual and ensure that you’ve got what you need in there before you head out.
• Drawstring closure. I beefed mine up a bit to be able to carry it on my harness without ripping the cord, but the area around the drawstring exit is reinforced so you’re not going to blow out seams.

Check it out some of the great Granite Gear options our vendors carry!

Introducing an entirely new watch lineup from Suunto–the Elementum Series. Consisting of three stylish and functional watches: Aqua (for diving enthusiasts), Terra (for outdoor pursuits) and Venta (for sailing). The entire lineup features new design language not typically associated with the Suunto brand. These are high-end, top-quality timepieces with the guts of a Suunto.

All materials and craftsmanship screams quality and will look good no matter the occasion. That way you can really have a single watch that will take you from the boardroom to deckside, mountainside or undersea without skipping a beat.

The rich feature-set of each activity-specific watch is well-rounded and highly accurate (that’s why it’s a Suunto). Here are the details:

Suunto Elementum Terra

The Elementum Terra combines decades of outdoors experience with a lifetime in precision craftsmanship, making it a survival tool no real adventurer can do without.

Features:

• Time, date and alarm
• Backlight
• Altimeter
• Barometric pressure and trend
• 3D compass
• Chronograph
• Cumulative ascent/descent
• Logbook: last 8 ascent/descents with max. altitude
• MSRP: $899-$1199

Suunto Elementum Aqua

The Elementum Aqua is a modernly designed timepiece that combines the craftsmanship of chronograph construction with the functionality of a high-technology diving watch.

Features:

• Time, date and alarm
• Backlight
• Auto dive mode
• Depth and max depth
• Dive time
• Surface time
• Water temperature
• Number of dives
• Logbook: last 14 dives
• MSRP: $899-$1199

Suunto Elementum Ventus

The Elementum Ventus is the perfect complement to the perfect yacht as a highly sophisticated, functional sailing timepiece designed with elegance.

Features:

• Time, date and alarm
• Backlight
• Barometric pressure trend graph (12 hour)
• 3D compass
• Sailing timer
• Chronograph
• Logbook: 24 hour barometer graph
• MSRP: $899-$999

Buy Now: Search for Suunto Watches

Let me clarify something out the chute… Cloudveil lists the BPM as having an athletic fit, but I’d beg to differ.  I opted for the size Large on the test jacket, but should have gone with a Medium, but this jacket features as straight of a cut as any standard-fit jacket. Most “athletic” cut garments I’ve worn are tapered and fitted (hence the “athletic” moniker).  Just keep that in mind when selecting your size.

I used the BPM for springtime trail running in cool, windy and rainy weather. As stated above, I love the feel of this jacket… it just feels soft next to the skin. The material does a great job at expelling moisture, but it could stand to use some mesh vents in the armpits or in back to act as a relief valve. After a 30 minute trail run, it would be damp to the touch on the inside back, but would dissipate within 15 minutes or so afterward.

The minimalistic design has a single chest pocket and a rear stash pocket, so get used to fishing for non-existent handwarmer pockets. As ubiquitous as the iPod is, most manufacturers are slapping MP3 ports and such on all their jackets. Thankfully, Cloudveil didn’t do that with this jacket because in my opinion those gimmicks aren’t intended to serve the core users, but only to appease to the trendy masses.

I dig the asymmetrical cuffs because they keep your wrist covered much better than straight designs–especially on a mountain bike. But, the only negative comes when trying to see your watch because it’s well-covered. You have to slide the sleeve down with the opposite hand to see the watch face.

The Good

• Breathes well
• Stretchy fabric is comfortable
• Laminated lining feels soft to touch
• Angled sleeve cuffs keep wrists covered
• Very lightweight
• One-pull drawcord

The Bad

• Stretchy fabric does grab on things
• Angled cuffs make it hard to see your watch
• Could use handwarmer pockets (tough to do and keep weight down)
• Fit is not athletic as stated
• Expensive, but high-quality

Buy Now: Search for the Cloudveil BPM Jacket

The Fox River Fingerless Ragg Gloves are $9.00, I don’t want to hear excuses, buy them. Although the Fox River Fingerless Ragg Gloves are limited to the brown tweed color, that is likely their most limiting factor.

Wool has come a long way in the last few years. The Merino movement has refined wool smooth as silk. The Fox River Ragg Fingerless are not as soft and cuddly as a refined Merino, but is not the rough, scratchy wool that our parents generation endured. After several uses the wool weave gently packs, similar to how your favorite socks pack out after you have been wearing them all day. This is not a bad thing. They begin to take the general shape of your hand and contour where your hand contours. The wool is burly, and non-itchy.

My hands get cold in about .2 seconds due to lingering post frostbite effects from a few years back. Unfortunately cold hands are not limited to the winter. Fortunately there are gloves. Hands can get cold when the desert sun hides behind a giant plateau for extended periods, after being soaked in a cold river water, standing in the shade for long periods belaying, or anytime after sunset or cooking breakfast before sunrise. I use these gloves all the time. They are lightweight, low profile, durable, and inexpensive, so you can almost afford a reserve pair, just in case.

Why wool? Many good reasons. Here are a few: Wool is warm when wet. The fabric itself does not take on a lot of water, and the hollow fibers of the material are odor neutralizing, minimizing the number of times they will need to be washed. Cutting down on washes lengthens the life of any glove or garment. Wool is also fire retardant. I often take my MSR pot off the fire, just with my Fox River Fingerless Ragg Gloves and set the hot pot on the palm of my glove and chow right form there. The fingerless aspect is awesome. You are able to manage rope systems, utilize all the dexterity of your hands and fingers while keeping your hands warm and protected.

Sizing: Fox River opts to apply unisex sizing. Be aware of this. I am typically a medium in womens gloves, and I am a small in unisex gloves. If you are familiar with the sizing used by crack climbers, my perfect hand jam fills a thin hands crack according to Falcon Guidebooks.

The bottom line:

• These are inexpensive, multi use, durable gloves
• There is a size for everyone from XXS – XL
• Lightweight and low profile
• Fire retardant and odor resistant

Buy Now from REI!

The pics of these undies without legs in them, do them no justice. Ex Officio has made some amazing underpants, the Give-N-Go Boy Cut Brief.

The Give-N-Go Boy Cut Brief has everything you love about your favorite synthetic base layer. They are full range of motion friendly. They feel sleek without feeling slick. The quick drying synthetic blend comes in handy for impromptu clothing required hot springs or creeks, and again when you are on long backpacking trip and you are hand washing/ drip drying your clothes.

I am excited to see Ex Officio expanding their color choices. I have a few pair of the Give-N-Go Boy Cuts, but mine are limited to the black and the white of last year. I am stoked to add a little color. Be aware the entire women’s line of Ex Officio underpants run large. I am 5’9” and a slender 125 pounds. I typically wear a small/ medium in most next to skin layers due to a broad climber’s back and sturdy cyclist thighs. When I bought my Ex Officio Boy Cut Briefs I was an XS (extra small) for the first time in my life. Wild. The fabric does shrink up if you wash them in a commercial washer and dryer, but the blended fabric stretches right back out to hug your body, and is not tight.

Ex Officio Give-N-Go Boy Cut Brief Highlights

• Snythetic blended fabric of nylon and spandex

• Quick drying fabric, odor resistant

• Variety of colors and prints

• Non-restrictive, full range of motion

• Made to last!  Wear over (and wash them) and over (and wash them) and over…

I wear my Give-N-Go boy cuts all the time. The low seam line comes right under the curve of the glute, so you can move every which way without needing to readjust. If you are wearing a tighter fit yoga pant or running tight, there is no visible panty line. I find myself reaching for the Ex Officio Give-N-Go Boy Cut Brief again and again for the crag, yoga class, and the creeks and ventures in between.

Buy Now form Backcountry!

Lightweight and comfortable with an elastic waistband to keep things simple, the Cloudveil Journey Trail Shorts have been excellent as trail running shorts. Granted, the 9″ inseam is a little long for a dedicated running short, but with the stretchy softshell rear material, the extra length doesn’t mean restricted movement.

Even during warm-weather runs, the Journey Trail Shorts have been cool and comfortable. They are unlined, which I prefer. I used them in combination with the Ex Officio Give-n-Go boxer briefs and found them to be extremely comfortable.

The two front hand pockets are deep enough to stash a wallet, Blackberry and keys with room to spare. There is also a smaller stash pocket for a single key or small MP3 player (iPod Nano fits perfectly). The simple drawstring can provide an extra measure of adjustability should you choose to cinch them down a little.

I found the size medium to fit me perfectly (5′11″ – 175 lbs. – 33 waist) and the length was comfortable for extended use around town without showing too much thigh (everyone but my wife appreciates that, I’m sure).

The material dries quickly and these shorts are versatile enough for river trips, trail running, lounging or swimming–lots of flexibility with these.

In spite of them being lightweight and comfortable, I’d like to see a few mesh vents here and there and some sort of pattern on the front. With the plain front design, they just look boring, but the lack of seams eliminated chaffing, so I suppose it’s a trade-off.

The Good

• Lightweight fabric is comfortable and dries quickly
• Stretchy rear fabric adds to freedom of movement
• Versatile enough for all outdoor or even casual pursuits
• Deep front mesh pockets

The Bad

• Could use a mesh vent or two
• Front looks a little bland

Buy Now: Search GEAR.com for Cloudveil Shorts

I’ve never been a fan of the big clunky battery pack headlamps, but I wanted to try something that could really put out a lot of light in a variety of shapes, and to see what all the fuss was about, so I finally bought a Black Diamond Icon Headlamp.

Key Features of the Black Diamond Icon Headlamp

• 2 different light options- a 3 watt bulb for incredible amounts of light, but lower efficiency, or use the 4 .5 watt LED lights for lower light but long battery time.
• Runs off of 3 AA batteries or a Black Diamond NRG rechargeable battery pack. This is nice because you can charge it when you’re home or basing your adventures from some place with an electric plug. Then, you can switch to AA batteries when you’re out in the field. Less batteries used overall. This is not so nice, however, because you have to buy the rechargeable kit, an additional $29.95. The battery charging kit does have a cigarette lighter adapter though, so you can charge your headlamp up on the drive from one adventure to the next.
• Memory Mode- The Icon remembers the last setting you had you headlamp on, and when you turn it back on, it retains that setting. Nice for nights when you’re in your tent and not wanting to blind your partner as you flip your light back on to search for your socks…
• Cable between the battery pack and the light itself is coiled, so you aren’t mucking with an ill-fitting wire when taking the headlamp from your head to your helmet.
• Just like with other BD headlamps, to navigate between the 4 settings of LED light levels, you have to “half click” the button, depressing it slightly to change the setting without turning the whole thing off. Takes a bit of finesse, but if you’ve had a BD headlamp before, you won’t have a problem at all.

Overall, I liked using my Icon. It was certainly the brightest light I’ve had on my head, ever. The 3 watt beam definitely does stretch far (BD specifies 83 Meters!), and I was impressed with the width on the 4 lower wattage LEDs. There wasn’t anything I couldn’t see. I brought my Icon out for the first time searching for a pair of lost sunglasses left on a trail earlier in the day, and the Icon lit the whole pathway up! By the end of the night, I discovered 2 things – 1)The shades were in my truck and 2)I was psyched to use such a bright headlamp.

Will I completely convert and carry the bigger one with me all the time as opposed to my usual Black Diamond Spot? Probably not. I like my lightweight, streamlined gear. Is it nice to know that I’ve got a higher light quality option in case I decide I want exceptional visibility on one trip? Definitely.

Check It Out! The Black Diamond Icon Headlamp

The weather is a tricky thing, especially on these spring days here in Salt Lake City. One minute, it’s beautiful and you’re 3 pitches up Pentapitch, loving live and stoked to drop down and climb Sasquatch before you head out. Next minute, you’re being pummeled by wind, freezing, and if you’ve got a Marmot Ion Windshirt, you’re psyched!

The Marmot Ion Windshirt is the lightest functional piece of clothing I own! At 4 oz (Ws size Small), you’re not going to get wind and water protection any lighter. With minimalist features, this windshirt is a great piece to toss in a stuff sack and hang off your harness for multi-pitch routes, or to leave in the bottom of a pack for days at the crag. It’s so light, you’ll forget it’s there until the storm clouds begin rolling in, or when the wind picks up just enough to make that belay uncomfortably chilly. Reach into your pack, grab your Ion, and let the fun continue. Also great for trail running!

Key Features of the Marmot Ion Windshirt

• Wind resistant and water resistant. The Ion comes with a DWR coating, so while it’s not waterproof, it’s certainly water resistant.
• That same DWR coating does limit breathability a bit. I actually liked my jacket a bit more after some of the DWR coating had worn off- it offered a bit more breathability, and was still wind resistant.
• Integrated hood
• 1 chest zip pocket, in case you need to stash a Gu Shot or a Cliff Bar. Other than that, no pockets, no frills. Just stripped down, minimalist wind and water protection.
• Packs down to the size of a tennis ball!

Check it out! Marmot Ion Windshirt.

If you enjoy a good beverage a few days into the backcountry, Platypus has designed a new product to eliminate toting all that glass in your pack. The Platypus PlatyPreserve system allows you to take wine from the glass bottle, seal it into a PlatyPreserve container, and open it a few days later, still getting that just-opened taste!

Exposure to oxygen affects the taste of wine, and wine can go bad within 2-8 hours after opening a bottle. Crux! How do you tote you Pinot Noir on your 5 day backpacking trip without a) drinking the entire bottle the 1st night or b) hauling along that cumbersome glass bottle the entire trip and fumbling with gas-exchange systems to retain the taste? Get yourself a PlatyPreserve.

Platypus PlatyPreserve Features

• Collapsible container- when you’ve finished off your beverage, there’s no large container left around to haul for the remainder of the trip.
• The PlatyPreserve allows you to put your wine in, and then remove all the Oxygen from the bladder, eliminating the exposure to any O2. This keeps your wine tasty, even days later!
• No taste transfer! Your wine doesn’t taste like plastic.
• BPA Free- who likes that stuff anyways?
• The average glass wine bottle weighs 2 pounds! Shave that weight off.
• The PlatyPreserve allows you quite the selection of portable wine, as opposed to just the wine that comes in a box…
• $12.95 per bladder. A bit pricey, but think of the weight and space you’re saving.

Check It Out! Platypus PlatyPreserve System

I love cooking good food in the outdoors. I break away from dehydrated food every now and again to spoil myself and the people I camp with. I am done messing around with pan clamps and heavy pans, the GSI Pinnacle Frypan is the happy medium you’ve been looking for.

There might be a day I take this backpacking but for now I’ve mostly taken it car camping. Even car camping I like to have my gear small and easy to store. Squeeze the handle and it stores nicely in the pan when not in use. The handle has a nice plastic coating that I still have yet to burn away. The hinge prevents the heat from transferring to the handle which sure beats a smoldering cast iron.

The first time I cooked on the Pinnacle I, of course, forgot any type of cooking spray. I was happy to find the finish didn’t have any problem cooking eggs or meat. There are also circular strips on the bottom of the pan which help the heat distribution and prevents sliding on the stove.

The 10 in. pan is just less than a pound in weight so if you did take it backpacking it wouldn’t weigh you down that bad. With a price tag of $25 and with stellar specs I wouldn’t go with anything else.

BUY NOW: Search for the GSI Pinnacle Frypan

I made a trip down to Coyote Gulch a few weeks ago for some light backpacking on my mini summer break, and one product I used every day was my Katadyn Hiker Water Filter (I also used my Black Diamond Lighthouse Tent, check out that review for an awesome lightweight tent).

Katadyn specializes in water filtration systems, and makes a lot of really neat products. From water filters to desalination systems for boats to Micropur purification tablets, Katadyn is your water expert.

Katadyn Hiker Microfilter Specs

• Ideal for 1-2 persons
• Weight = 11 oz. Superlight!
• Max output of 1 liter/minute. I certainly don’t have the arm strength to pump out a liter a minute, but the filter has that capability.
• Filters out Bacteria, Protozoa, cysts, algae, spores and sediments. This includes cryptosporidium!
• Comes with both Nalgene compatible and hydration bladder compatible attachments, so you can attach it right to your water container and worry less about spillage.
• Great for weekend, week-long and day trips. If you’re looking for a product to serve you on a several month expedition, look more towards Katadyn’s Endurance Series filters.
• Filter contains an active carbon core, which reduces “icky” tastes and colors in your water.
• At $59.95, it’s a relatively inexpensive water filter for what you get!

Overall, I was very impressed with my Katadyn Hiker. Lightweight, easy to pump, and adaptable to my nalgene…. No wonder it’s the bestselling filter in its class on the market.

Buy Now: Search for Katadyn Hiker Microfilter

As a grad student, my summer break lasts all of a week and a half. However, over that week and a half, I’ve been cramming in lots of adventures, and all of them have involved my Deuter Guide 30+ pack.

I’ve had limited exposure to Deuter packs. The only other pack by Deuter that I’ve used is their massive NOLS pack, intended for huge loads and long periods of time. The Guide is a smaller, sleeker 30 liter pack (plus an extension), full of features. From the side zip to the ice tool holders, the guys and gals a Deuter have clearly put a lot of thought into the design of this pack.

Fit Info

The SL means that the pack is a women’s specific fit- shorter torso and slightly narrower overall. However- I’m usually a Small frame in BD packs, Arc’teryx packs and Marmot packs, and this SL torso was almost too short on me. If you’re normally on the border between a Small and Regular torso length, I’d say size up with this one.  Shoulder straps are set closer together, and are more narrow than on their regular packs. After wearing mine for a multi-day  backpacking trip and for several days at the crag, I’m impressed at how well this pack carries. Super comfortable with moderate loads! I’ve yet to toss more than 40 lbs in it, but if you’re carrying that much weight, you’re probably looking at a larger volume pack anyways…

The hip belt is conical and contoured up for women’s hips. It also comes with a Vari-Flex his belt  system, which allows the hip belt to pivot with you as you move over varied terrain. This distributes your load evenly, and adds to the carrying comfort of the pack. The hip belt is also removable, in case you want to go super-light one day.

Key Features of the Guide 30 SL Pack

• Compression straps- Make the pack smaller when you’ve got smaller loads. 2 on each side, bottom ones are a hybrid ski strap/compression strap.
• Hydration compatible
• Ice Axe loops- Different than the previous years of the Guide and most packs. No longer do you have to muck with threading your Axe upside down, and then pulling it up to secure it. The ice axe loops on the pack are more like keeper loops- picks of the axes feed into small loops and are secured both at the bottom and the top of the pack.
• Crampon storage- Top of the pack. You’ll need to toss some straps on the top yourself, but it’s reinforced and the right size for storing them.
• Side access zipper
• Rope carrier- Easy rope storage on the top of your pack.

My Overall Impression

I like it! Carries well, narrow profile, and enough cool features to make it interesting without being overwhelming. I’ll definitely be using mine for many adventures. There’s a few areas I think could use a bit of work, though.

• Top of the pack- Small! I’m used to stashing my day’s food, headlamp, cell phone, keys and my emergency kit in the top of my packs. That won’t all fit in this one. Also, the top of the pack is permanently attached to the pack by a piece of fabric. When you’ve got the pack completely full, the top of the pack doesn’t sit properly on top of it, because the fabric section limits how far you can pull the top over.
• Ski Holders- They’re sweet, and double as compression straps. However, when the pack is full, a pair of Karhu Berthas (100 underfoot) won’t fit in the straps. Too wide.
• Compression straps- How many people use a Ridgerest when they backpack? I’d be willing to say a large majority of people out there do. Why is it, then, that ALL pack manufacturers make their straps on the side just small enough that it’s a 30 minute wrestling match to get your Ridgerest onto the side of your pack? Certainly not just an issue with my Deuter Pack. Black Diamond, Arcteryx, Marmot, Gregory, they’re all guilty too. Would it hurt to make that strap 2 inches longer to eliminate all that frustration?

Our Retailers haven’t started carrying the Guide 30+ SL yet… But check out the Guide 35 for an idea on design and check back soon!

Looking to keep your kids toesies comfy and covered in sustainable Merino fibers? Check out the latest offering from TEKO for the little ones. I dig Merino wool-blends for their moisture and odor management and I’m sure my kids will also appreciate the benefits of this natural fiber. Well, maybe I’ll appreciate their non-stinky feet after a summertime hike.

TEKO introduced two new socks for kids made with Merino wool. Here are the details.

Summit tekoMERINO™ KID’s Midweight Hiking

• The Summit Series offers a more relaxed fit and chlorine-free, undyed, organic tekoMERINO™ wool next to the skin. Teko kid’s socks have all the performance features that our adult socks have.
• Great for backpacking and extra warmth while hiking.
• Medium cushion throughout the entire sock
• Seamless toe
• Arch band
• Y-heel gore
• Style #3994 Kids sizing Small: shoe size 9-11.5 Medium: shoe size 12-2.5 Large: shoe size 3-6
• MSRP: $10.95

tekoMERINO™ KID’s MiniCrew

• Organic, chlorine-free tekoMERINO™ wool wicks moisture.
• Teko kid’s socks have all the performance features that our adult socks have.
• Seamless toes, arch brace, articulated Y-heel.
• Strike-zone cushioning in footbed.
• Comfort-stretch zones.
• tekoMERINO™ Wool: From Argentine farms that have been practicing environmentally-sound techniques for hundreds of years. The wool is shrink resistant and dyed with non-toxic dyes.
• tekoPOLY™ Recycled Polyester reinforced heel and toe for durability.
• Machine wash, tumble dry (or air dry).
• Style # 3902 Kids sizing Small: shoe size 9-11.5 Medium: shoe size 12-2.5 Large: shoe size 3-6
• MSRP: $10.95

More Info: Visit TEKOSocks.com

The on and off rain here in SLC as of late hasn’t stopped me from getting out, thanks to my Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket.

As with all their jackets, the Arc’Teryx Beta LT Jacket comes with all sorts of sweet features. Before going into the little details though, lets talk about the fabric for a bit. The Beta LT is constructed using 320N Gore-Tex Pro Shell 3L material. This material consists of 3 layers (where the 3L comes from)- a internal Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable membrane, 320N face fabric and a GORE Micro Grid Woven backer layer. This last layer, the Micro Grid, is the key difference between Arc’teryx shells and others on the market. It’s highly abrasion resistant and yet extremely breathable. This is the layer that really keeps that water off your back without feeling like you’re wearing a plastic bag.

Now, on to the cool little details that make an Arc’teryx Shell truly top of the line.

• The Beta LT is a hip length jacket, with a drop back hem, meaning your butt gets extra rain coverage from this jacket! The one hand pull cord makes it easy to cinch up the bottom of the jacket when the weather gets fierce.
• Pit Zips! Crucial for venting in fast changing weather.
• Vislon WaterTight zippers- on the front, pockets and in the pit zips, these zippers ensure that your shell is 100% waterproof, 100% of the time.
• Pockets- you’ve got 2 external hand pockets. 1 laminated pocket inside 1 of those external hand pockets, and 1 laminated internal chest pocket. Plenty of space for GUs, other snacks, an iPod, whatever you want to toss in there.
• Moulded zipper garages- when your zippers are all done up, there’s literally a little fabric “garage” for the zipper to pull in to, keeping your jacket as streamlined as possible.
• Hood- stowable (you’ve got a zippered compartment to compress it into) and helmet compatible. I could fit mine over both my Petzl Elios climbing helmet and my Smith Variant Brim ski helmet.
• Weight- a size medium is a measly 12.3 oz.

A few drawbacks to the Beta LT Jacket

• As with all Arc’teryx products, it’s on the expensive side. $500 dollars for a shell is expensive, no matter how you look at it.
• Because you’ve got that burly 3 layer Gore-Tex Pro Shell construction, the Beta LT doesn’t compress down as small as other shells, like a Marmot Pre-Cip might. However, it offers far superior water protection, so it’s worth the extra space in my book.

Buy Now: Search for Arc’teryx Beta LT

The Adaptor Coolmax Travel Liner is smooth and sleek.  The soft synthetic is a moisture managing fabric designed to get the sweat off you to keep your body theromregulated.  It is an awesome plus that using Adaptor Coolmax Travel sleeping bag liner legthens the life of your sleeping bag.

If you are unfamiliar with Coolmax, the fabric is awesome.  It feels silky and soft, and I have never met anyone who didn’t like the feel.  The Sea to Summit Adaptor is rather thin, and designed intensionally so.  There is loads of versatility in this liner.  If you are crashing on a friends couch, or staying in a sketchy hostel and do not want direct contact with the sheets, or to actually line the interior of your sleeping bag.  The Adaptor Travel Liner is not a blanket for warm, but  can add a few degrees to your sleeping bag comfort rating.  It is a technical liner for moisture control, and that is where bags and any soft good loose heat first.  It also takes the beating of repeated washings, so you don’t have to put your bag through it.

While the liner has four season adaptability, I would recommend a thicker liner for winter conditions.  I had this liner in use full time and I did not care for it in the really cold months. When I would wear wool base layers the Coolmax would get stick to my baselayers and would wake up all wrapped up.  I have found the Adaptor Coolmax Travel liner truly shines in the hot and sweaty climates.  Regions like the tropics where it humid is nearly impossible to sleep dry, that is challenge where the Adaptor Coolmax Travel Liner rocks it.  I would throw this liner in between my sheets or on the hammock in Costa Rica and it was a lifesaver.

Features of the Adaptor Coolmax Travel Liner:

• Lightweight (9 oz)
• Quick drying, moisture regulating fabric
• Comes with its own stuff sack
• Preserves your sleeping bag, making the beating of funk and washing
• One color: blue
• Same cut as a mummy sleeping bag

Buy now form Backcountry.com!

The last thing I want when I am sleeping in a snow cave is feeling chlosterphobic in my sleeping bag or sleeping cold.  I am looking for a warm, comfortable nights rest and the Marmot Couloir has you covered.

The Couloir has been refined to be one of my favorite four season bags on the market.  Every time I have pulled this bag from it’s stuff sack, people watch in amazement as the 800+ fill loft continues to expand.  I love the loft!  The 0 degree Celsius rating is very conservative.  I have slept is this bag comfy and warm at -10.  In the warmer months I simply unzip the bag and drape it like a blanket.  I am not typically a warm sleeper.

Marmot sleeping bags are put through the ringer at the Thelma Center in Norway for testing, and the work shows.  Marmot has kept the big picture, while not over looking the small things.   The trapezoidal footbox surrounds your feet and ankles naturally, you won’t wake up with a tangled end or your feet smashed in the corner.  The sleeping bag is designed after the human form, comfy from the feet all the way to the shoulders.  Many mummy bags are looking to cut weight by making a narrower cut bag.  The Marmot Couloir weighs in at just over 3lbs and is worth ever ounce.  Even after the drawstrings are secured I do not feel chlosterphobic in this bag.  The loft is light and the seams are non restrictive, so I do not even have to think about anything, or make adjustments, just sleep.

One my pet peeves with down goods is the loathed zipper snag.  One hard snag and you can ruin a down jacket or bag.  The Marmot Couloir has reinforced the nylon so it is virtually impossible to snag the bag.  The zippers are smooth and consistent.  I have had mine 2 years and it has not worn out and I do not get any draft coming through the hood or zipper line.

While the Marmot Couloir comes in just the one curry color, it is available in a Dryloft version (if you are in wet climates) and in a long version.  I have heard complaints from people saying their bag looks dirty when they are new.  It is the loft filling in under the translucent nylon, the bag is most likely not dirty.  I highly recommend this bag for is durability, performance to weight ratio, as well as comfort.

Features of the Marmot Couloir:

• 800+ fill down
• Trapezoidal footbox
• Anatomically designed, wide shoulders, easy to grab zips
• Hood and hood muff to prevent drafts
• No snag zippers
• One pocket on the interior of the bag
• Storage sack and stuff sack included

The Marmot Couloir is a quality bag, and it will be a loss when it is removed from the market.  Buy one and take care of it.  Unless you live in the Couloir, the issue where it is going to show signs of wear is repeated washing.  I would recommend buying a liner (then you can just wash the liner and preserve the bag, I really like the Sea to Summit Coolmax liner) or wash it with a Nikwax down wash.  Nikwax is inexpensive and makes for long life.  Abrasive detergents can work their way into the nylon and weaken the barrier.  Enjoy and buy now from Backcountry.com! …now all you have to worry about are avalanches and cave ins…

As school has been winding down for the semester, I’ve finally had some more free time! So far, I’ve spent most if it climbing or doing yoga in my Verve Sapho Capris.

Verve, a climbing specific clothing company developed in 1988 by climber Christian Griffith, makes some killer tanks, shorts and capris all oriented specifically for climbing. Check out the Verve Lorelli Top that Sarah’s psyched on here. Just as Sarah mentions, Verve’s products are all sewn by “Verve Grannies,” out of Boulder, CO and each piece of clothing has an initial letting you know just who made your clothes. Pretty cool, huh?

Verve Sapho Capri

• Comes in 2 materials- cotton or rayon. I own the rayon ones, and love the way they stretch and move with my body.
• No polyester in materials= no pilling as you continue to wear them. Awesome.
• Scooped waist is just the right amount of “scoop.” Comes down about 2.5 inches below my belly button, so its enough to keep the material out of the way, but still comes up high enough to keep everything covered!
• Draped legs- the Sapho capris widen a fair amount between the hips and your knees, so you’ve got lots of room to move.
• Sizing- Verve makes the Sapho capri in sizes XXS through L. At around a size 2, I am an XS, and the waist fits perfectly, and the legs come down to just below my knees.

Currently, none of our vendors carry Verve products, but you an still buy directly from the Grannies at Verve direct on their website.

As promised when I wrote my quick review of the La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat Mountain Running Shoes, I have put several miles on them and can now provide you with a more extensive review! To get the basic specs and review of the general info about the shoe, check back in on my quick review.

First, lets talk about when this shoe excels. After running these in a variety of conditions for a variety of lengths, the Wildcat seems to have one area of expertise- short runs with relatively level ground. If you’re heading out for a 45 minute run up the foothills on your lunch break at work, up a well beaten path, these shoes are awesome. So lightweight that you can barely feel them on your feet, they’re idea for short runs where you’re looking to move fast and save weight. They’re my first choice shoe for my lunch break runs, or late evening jogs up on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.

Now, let’s talk about when this shoe would not be my first shoe of choice. While the rubber and traction provided by the sole are grippy, the shoe itself does not offer enough support for more varied terrain. If you’re stepping on or over rocks larger than a grapefruit, the Wildcat’s lightweight mesh doesn’t seem to provide quite what your feet will need to have a great run. The same holds true for long runs (in my case, anything over an hour and a half). I reach for a more supportive shoe when I’m out for my longer days. Thought I’m sacrificing the lightweight advantage that the Wildcat’s provide, my choice is more support.

After running in the shoes for a while, the soles are still holding up great. Mud, dirt, trail and a bit of pavement, these shoes have seen a lot in the past few months. Since I’ve had them, I’ve logged about 100 hours in them, and they’re still holding up great. Overall, I have only 1 gripe with the shoe: No pull tab on the back for easy on and off. I’m constantly crushing my fingers or the back of the shoe in an attempt to get them on. The integrated tongue makes it a bit more snug of a fit, and with that added snugness, getting them on without a pull tab is a bit of a chore.

Bottom line: La Sportiva has made a great lightweight trail running (oh, excuse me, mountain running) shoe that excels for shorter runs on well established trails. They stay in my truck as my lunch break running partner!

Buy Now! La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat Mountain Running Shoe

The trend in woman’s sunglasses has grown to the big, bug-eyed, gigantor frames.  While I love to embrace my womanhood, I don’t know if I could sport glasses as huge as the cool California kids.  This is how I came on the Smith Melrose Sunglasses.  Smith Optics have made two Audrey Hepburn inspired sunglass wide and stylish without drowning your ENTIRE face, the Audrey and the Melrose.

The Smith Melrose are wide and styley.  They are available in both polarized and non-polarized frames.  I highly recommend the polarized.  The world looks better, and your eyes are protected through additional UV protection and technology.  The Melrose, despite their size, are lightweight and I do not get any red marks or depressions where the glasses lay on my face and nose.  There is a sexy little space between the frame and the lens as the frames hones around your face.  The Smith Melrose is very classy, and an asset to a woman’s wardrobe.  The frame fits loosely on the face, well suited for city wear, and not so much for the backcountry.

When comparing Smith Optics to other top sunglass manufacturers, the place where I feel Smith could improve is the lenses themselves.  While I love the wide range of lens colors, and the Tapered Lens Technology (eliminating distortion), the lenses seem to scratch over time.  It is not easy to scratch them, but will happen inevitably with continued use.  I am not gentle on my gear (yes, I consider sunglasses gear).  I have accumulated a few scratches through tossing the glasses in my purse full of random objects, or carrying my glasses in the same hand as my car keys.  Absent-minded care of Smith Melrose sunglasses will result in scratches within a year.  If you are kind to them they will last several years.  This earns Smith a “good” on the crappy – excellent lens quality scale.

Highlights for the Melrose:

• Polarized (also available non polarized)
• UV Protection
• Tapered Lens Technology
• Hydrophobic coating
• Variety of frames colors
• Variety of lens colors
• Lens quality- good
• Lifetime Warranty

My experience in redemption of the Lifetime Warranty with Smith Optics has been 50/ 50.

Attempt number one: Damn the man at Smith. I had an awesome pair of Smiths for several years.  In the years of wear, my glasses accumulated small micro fractures in the frame below the lens.  I wore them anyhow, I loved they way they fit and the specific tint of the lens.  When the fractures finally combined and broke through I sent them back for warranty.  I knew they were discontinued and I was hoping they might have an old pair stashed away or a method of repair.  No dice.  An angry warranty worker woman called me and told me to “stick it”, and they hadn’t made the sunglass in years.  She told me since the lenses were scratched the warranty was void.  I was bummed.

Attempt number two: Props for Smith Optics. One day while riding a motorcycle, I turned my head to check traffic to make a lane change.  As the Smith Melrose are wide framed and sit away from your face, and considering the angle of my head turned, the sunglasses were torn from my face by the wind and shattered on the road.  Funny thing is I had only owned the glasses for a few weeks.  I turned around and picked up the pieces from the road, mailed them into Smith Optics and they sent me a new pair within 3 days.  That is unreal.  And awesome.  I in no way expected them to honor their lifetime warranty in this scenario, but was a poor college student and was hoping they may.  I was stoked.  Thanks all at Smith.  I ended up buying a second pair of Smiths, the Interlock 01, as they hug closer to my face, to prevent the problem in the future.

Smith Optics: Buy Now at Moosejaw.com

After working as a wilderness guide in the high desert for a few years, and now working with Search and Rescue, I am a bit of hydration Nazi.  If you are going into the backcountry you need to bring water, plain and simple.  Water containers should be an uncomplicated idea, but you have loads of choices.  There are bladders, collapsible boxes, dromedaries, bottles made of aluminum, steal, plastic, and the classic Nalgene.  What is a simple hiker to do?

I like to keep things straightforward and versatile, this is what keeps bringing me back to my Klean Kanteen.  The sleek stainless steal is durable and frank.  The bottle is long and fits smoothly in your hand.  It doesn’t feel like you are gripping a basketball or meeting your fingers all the way around.  While the steel does accumulate small dents if you are hard on it, a Klean Kanteen is extremely resistant against cracking and bursting.

The lip of the Klean Kanteen is a soft curl of steal.  The opening is wider than a Sigg bottle but narrower than a classic Nalgene.  The threads of the bottle are wide and distinct, providing a strong, steadfast seal.  The loop of the lid is rather handy to secure the Kanteen with a ‘biner or assisting in drawing the bottle out of your bag.

When the Klean Kanteen shines:

I use this bottle constantly.  The 27 oz is narrow enough I can toss it in my purse for simple daily drink, to the yoga studio, a hike, backpacking, the library, climbing… my Klean Kanteen has seen some scenes.

When I opt for another bottle:

If I am going to sustain in extreme conditions like high altitude or severe cold, I do not prefer a steal bottle.  The metal conducts the heat right out of my hand.  In these scenarios I find myself using a wide-mouth Nalgene with layers of duct tape around it (the layers of duct tape insulate the bottle and it keeps your tape outrageously accessible, the wider mouth is useful if your water freezes and you have to break it up).

Cycling- another negative application for the Klean Kanteen.  Although it fits in the cage on my bike, as steal is opaque, I cannot see how much water I have, making more difficult to manage consumption.  When riding I usually use a bladder system like a Nathan Hydration Pack, or even a simple, translucent, recycled plastic bottle suits well.

Features of the Klean Kanteen:

• High-quality, 18/8, food-grade stainless steel
• Holds no flavor retention in the bottle, your water tastes like water!
• Klean Kanteen gives back 1% to the planet
• Reusing a Klean Kanteen cuts back on plastic bottle use

The consumption of plastic and plastic waste infuriates me, but I will stay away from the soapbox and allow you to explore the facts through this video link if you wish.  It briefs the situation of obscene amounts of plastic bottles floating in the ocean accumulating to twice the size of Texas.

One thing many athlete miss in the declination of plastic bottles is the loss of sports drink.   If you are attached to the idea of electrolyte balance try out Nuun Hydration.  Nuun is simple tablets that dissolve in a reusable bottle, like a Klean Kanteen, to become a great replenishment.  Nuun is another great way to cut back on your consumption of plastic, and promoting the support of the environment.

Buy a Klean Kanteen now at REI!

Spring is here, despite what the mountain town weather keeps throwing at us. Today is bluebird and the thermometer is dancing it’s way to the 50’s. With the need to get some new threads for spring and summer forays but the desire to have something I could tuck in for the impromptu meeting I checked out Cloudveil and found a couple of shirts that I’m not growing quite fond of.

The Cloudveil More Gripped Shirt has been around for a while now (as evidenced by it being on sale at most locations around the web) but it was the clean design and casual look that caught my eye. It stated that it was pre-shrunk so I opted for the XL which is my standard size and have been pleased with the results after a few washings.

Going on it fits pretty well in the shoulders even when imitating Tommy Boy and trying to stretch out your shoulders. But it’s not too baggy which is reason to shelf a shirt. It has a square bottom hem so if you’re rocking it untucked like I like to do most of the time it looks like it belongs, but just as well it’ll tuck in nicely for the lunch meeting.

I did need to toss an iron at it when wearing it for work but even still it came out of the dryer looking like it lost the wrestling match with my jeans. Could be the type of cotton they use or the fact that I’m washing jeans and a button up shirt in the same load.

Features of the Cloudveil More Gripped Shirt:

• Pre-shrunk and garmet washed
• Subtle western cues with a double yoke (the subtle Wyoming cowboy tag is a nice touch)
• Chest pocket with flap
• Interior felled seams
• Logo horn button exposed on front placket
• Relaxed fit

With a little cowboy and a whole lot of mountain town the Gripped Shirt from Cloudveil has quickly become my go to shirt.

Buy Now: Score a deal at BaccountryOutlet.com on the Cloudveil More Gripped Shirt before they sell the last few.

I teach yoga full time.  A few classes I teach are 5:30 am… yawn, stretch, breathe deep, and grab a tank top on the way out the door.  When I don’t know what to wear it usually ends up being the PrAna Bella Sport Top.

The PrAna Bella Sport Top has clean lines and a sleek four way stretch.  The criss-cross back allows for full range of motion in the shoulders, and the straps stay put without digging in, even when the yogini is in the deepest of bound twists.  I prefer the rather exposed back the Bella Sport offers, so I can demonstrate more subtle motions of the shoulder blades.

The top feels professional.  The strong internal shelf bra with removable cups has you covered.  I don’t have to think twice when dropping back into a back bend.  The fabric holds up well against multiple washings and the color holds strong.  The PrAna Bella Sport is composed of a recycled poly and spandex blend.  The quick dry technology is great moisture control.

The PrAna Bella Sport Top Rundown:

• Recycled poly and Lycra blend with four way stretch
• Criss-cross back straps
• Internal bra shelf with removable cups
• Quick Dry Technology
• Retains color and shape

PrAna has been making the Bella Sport Top for a few years now, reintroducing it each season with updated colors.  The black, as well as the white Bella Sport hold consistent year round while the spring pinks, blues, and yellows are replaced with maroon, dark blue, and browns in the fall.

The seams are sewn with an intesion to flatter your shape.  While I love this top and wear it often, I hope PrAna will soon offer a seamless version so I can have all of the great qualities of the Bella Sport and not have to wear the exact top so often.

Buy Now: Search for Prana Tops

The Verve Lorelli Top is one of the best fitting sports bras I own.  Unlike most sports bras, which are designed to hunker down and strap the boulder to the shoulder, the Verve Lorelli was designed with motion and all-sport application in mind.

Verve stresses quality of materials and craftsmanship. The Lorelli offers a Cool Max fabric next to skin, which is soft and moisture wicking.  The cross back straps are independent from each other to allow full range of motion in your yoga practice or day at the crag.  The Lorelli top is finished with a layer of an organic cotton/ Lycra blend.

If you fall in the A or B range, the Lorelli will be one of your favorite pieces.  The Verve Lorelli is amazingly flattering for modest to moderate busts.  It gives a soft perk without the risk of falling out of your top.  If you fall into the C or D range I would veer away from the Lorelli and consider the standard Verve Bra.  The Verve Bra still avoids the uni-boob effect, but has a bit more coverage, as the perk the Lorelli offers might put a larger bust over the edge.

Verve clothing is quality and simple.  Verve is the kind of apparel that makes you notice the climber or yogini and not be distracted by some flashy top.  Verve Clothing, based in Boulder, Colorado, has four rockin’ seamstresses who work from their homes and sign each Lorelli or Verve piece they build.  This elite crew is known as the Verve Grannies.  You can look up the Granny who sewed your Lorelli, check out her pic and learn a bit about the woman.  Brenda sewed my top, and she did a fine job.

The Lorelli Wrap Up:

• Cross back straps for ultimate range of motion
• Bilayer
• Cool Max next to skin
• Organic cotton/ Lycra blend top layer
• Made in the USA by a Colorado Verve Granny

I have had been wearing my Lorelli for over a year.  It is the top I sweat in for Birkram sessions (yoga in a room heated to 112 degrees…) and climbing days that are so nice that I simply cannot be bothered with a shirt.  The Lorelli top has held up against the granite I press and slide it up against, a hundred or so washings, and also doubles a swim top for those impromptu desert rivers or a hot spring on the way home from the crag.

Buy now from Verve direct!

Despite my attempts at changing the weather with my summer-oriented dressing, it doesn’t seem to be working. To brave the snowing weather, I’ve been running around in my Backcountry.com Shift Hooded Softshell Jacket.

I’ve had a few different softshells before, but never one with a hood. I’m never going back! In terms of weight, I’d say this softshell falls in the midrange. Certainly heavier than the Mountain Hardwear Transition Jacket, but not as heavy as the classic Mountain Hardwear Alchemy Jacket.

Backcountry.com Shift Hooded Softshell Jacket

• Wind-Resistant Polar-Tech PowerShield Lining: Makes the Shift wind resistant yet breathable. Certainly not the most wind resistant softshell I’ve owned, but definitely the most breathable. So, if you’re looking for a jacket with less wind resistance but more breathability, the Shift is right up your alley.
• Pockets galore: Inner iPod pocket (if you’re like me and wondering what exactly makes it an iPod pocket, it’s that small hole that your headphones can come out of without keeping the pocket unzipped), outer upper sleeve pocket that’s just large enough for an ID, credit card and GU shot, plus fleece lined hand warmer pockets.
• Sizing: This is the only area I’d say the Shift goes a bit awry. Normally an XS to a S in jackets, I am a Medium in the Shift. Also, I have a shorter torso, and it fits me perfectly. If you’ve got a longer torso, I’d be sure to try it on!
• 4 Way Stretch Material: Makes it a great jacket to run/ski tour/climb in. It moves with you!

Summer camping season is just around the corner and while I don’t know about you, most of the time when I’m camping or backpacking I eat freeze dried meals like those from Mountain House or Mary Janes.  As a result, the only needs I have for eating are a titanium spork and my favorite stove – the Jetboil.

But lately I’ve been doing more car camping and backpacking with the family and while the freeze dried foods have remained steady dinner options (along with the time proven tin-foil dinners!) we’ve gone to the less expensive and easy to make meals. Examples like instant oatmeal, soups and hot cocoa have been great but you can’t just make them and eat from the pot, especially if I’m cooking for the kids.  As a result the need to eat from something other than a freeze dried package or the cooking pot has finally arrived.

After poking around Backcountry.com I picked up a couple of the GSI Outdoor Nesting Bowl Mug Combo sets and despite a non-traditional shape the entire clan is super pleased with them!

My wife took my 3 boys on a backpacking trip up Kings Peak last summer while I stayed home with our baby daughter and the GSi Mug and Bowl were a hit!

They are small enough to not take up too much space but ample enough to eat or drink from. The lid on the mug held well despite one reviewer at Backcountry.com who had the opposite result. The neoprene sleeve does help to insulate the mug.

Features of the GSI Outdoor Gourmet Nesting Mug and Bowl

• 3.4 ounces
• Neoprene sleeve that actually does insulate and keep warm soup or tea…warm!
• Multiple colors available
• Made from Cascadian polypropylene  – BPA Free!

BUY NOW: If you’re in the hunt for no frills light weight camping bowls or mugs, check out the GSI Outdoor Gourmet Nesting Mug and Bowl. You may never go back to anything else.

It’s Spring (at least on the caledar), so that means it’s time to start thinking about shorts, flip-flops and other spring/summer apparel. Most recently, Merrell’s apparel line has been catching my eye as some of the most stylish and functional outdoor-focused clothing.

New for Spring is the Merrel Sedona zip polo shirt made from a mixture of Merino wool and nylon to keep you cool and comfortable in all conditions. I know, I know… the polo shirt has been done in so many ways, what makes this stand out? Here are a few great features:

• Natural wicking performance of Merino wool and durability of nylon
• Merrell Coppertec to keep odor at a minimum (excellent for the lunchtime hike, walk or ride)
• Subtle droptail for backside protection on the bike
• Small zippered back pocket for keys, ID or credit cards
• Raw edge seam finish

Because the Sedona is built with moisture management and odor control, this polo is ready for everything from a stressful business presentation to a hike in the mountains. The front zipper can aid in ventilation or allow you to show off more or less of that chest hair.

The fabric feels soft to the touch and with the nylon content, it should be durable. I’m a big fan of natural Merino wool fabrics and like the feel of this shirt.

Available in three colors (black, putty & lake blue) with an MSRP of $75, look for the Sedona in your local Merrell retailer.

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Shirts

REI’s Ti Ware sets are made of Titanium, which is lighter than stainless steel, yet stronger than aluminum. Titanium is also supposed to conduct heat a bit better than aluminum, leaving less hot spots on your pot.

REI Ti Ware Titanium Cookset

• Cookset comes with a 1.9 liter pot and a 1.3 liter pot. Each pot comes with a lid that can double as a frying pan. 
• Pans are coated in an extra-thick silicon ceramic coating, which means added scratch resistance and better heat dispersion.
• Handles: Each pot and lid comes with a collapsable handle, allowing the pots to nest. I’m a bit skeptical as to how sturdy the handle is when you’re carrying 1.8 liters of water in that 1.9 liter pot! The handles seem a bit wobbly, and are coated with a plastic tube that seems as if it would melt after the second or third use.
• Comes with a stuff sack. Might not seem like a big deal, but when you’re trying to pack effectively and efficiently, having the right sized stuff sack can really come in handy!
• Lightweight: The whole set (2 pots, 2 pans and stuff sack) weights 18 ounces. To give you a point of comparison, the MSR Duralite Mini Cookset, which is 2 pots and 1 lid (no pans/no dual lids) weighs 17 oz. For 1 oz more, you gain a lid, and 2 frying pans. 2 lids allows you to quickly boil 2 pots at the same time, and pans mean eggs for breakfast!

In my rush between booths at Outdoor Retailer and back-and-forth to my vehicle (usually to check if I got a parking ticket), I had passed by the SylvanSport GO trailer several times, but it didn’t register. I have no idea why it didn’t click how amazing this product is until a simple email in my Inbox this morning.  A quick click and now I’m stoked on this thing. It’s like the Transformer of the camping and utility trailer world.

Pop-up camping trailers have always been interesting to me, but they have a limited purpose–camping only. Where the Sylvan Sport GO shines is in its versatility. It can go from pop-up tent camper to ATV hauler, gear hauler and crap hauler in a matter of minutes.

Take a look at a few of the images to the right to see the various configurations.  Take note that some of the accessories (bike racks, storage, etc.) are not included, but you get the idea–this little trailer can be accessorized to the hilt for whatever adventure you and your crew are into.

SylvanSport GO Trailer Overview (from SylvanSport)

GO is for fun. Our crack design team made the GO selfishly for themselves. But I guess that’s okay, because like a lot of us, they’re into every imaginable outdoor pursuit. We love to camp, boat, bike, surf, sleep, and indulge in just about any other activity that includes family, friends, adventure and fun.

GO is flexible. Mobile Adventure Gear is more than a trailer. Like a Transformer™, it changes from a sleek, low-profile, you-hardly-know-it’s-there trailer, to an ATV-hungry hauler, to a secure, comfy camp in just minutes.

GO carries the load. It easily hauls, stores and organizes all of your toys, from boats, to bikes, to moto-machines and even tools and garden gear. So whether it’s a spur-of-the-moment mini vacation or a trip to the home improvement megastore, GO works. And it’s smart!

GO gets around. With its LED lighting, custom wheels with high-floatation tires, and intelligent suspension geometry, GO is easy to hook up to your tow vehicle and easy to tow—even by first-time-towers.

GO light. At 800 lbs. GO can be towed by almost any vehicle out there. This efficient ‘backpack on wheels’ allows you to have the benefits of an RV without the gas credit card.

GO knows. From GO’s hyper-engineered™ all-aluminum frame, to its Thule-compatible rack system, to its Kelty tent structure, GO is the most refined small towable ever.

SylvanSport GO Trailer Features

• Low profile design for minimum drag and super fuel efficiency
• All aluminum hyper-engineered™ frame
• Torsion suspension for smooth load control
• Very light weight at 800 lbs.
• 13” ground clearance and high flotation tires for off-road use
• UV resistant plastic storage boxes for years of maintenance free watertight storage
• Waterproof gear storage in top camping pod
• Lockable waterproof gear storage in front storage pod
• Rack system frees up space from your tow vehicles’ roof rack
• Rack system compatible with Thule, Yakima, and other brand accessories
• 800 lb. load capacity
• Control-Tilt™ cargo bed with hydraulic dampening system
• Easy to own with very low-maintenance
• Excellent suspension geometry and handling characteristics make it easy to tow
• Cast aluminum wheels
• Self lubricating hubs
• Spare tire
• LED lighting for safer, long lasting service
• Waterproof electrical system suitable for use as a small boat trailer
• Reinforced diamond-plate flooring for heavy loads
• Multiple tie-down points
• Multiple configurations for carrying gear
• Download SylvanSport GO Configuration PDF

Sylvan Sport GO Camping Tent Features

• Innovative Kelty tent system
• Insulated bed platforms for snug sleeping
• Stargazing windows
• Excellent ventilation
• Custom self-inflating air mattress from Pacific Outdoor Equipment
• Equal to a king-size and a half of sleeping surface
• Secure entry awning with optional larger awning
• Zippered entry / screen door
• Multiple living space configurations
• Center beds convert to table
• Overhead camping pod with gas struts for safe and easy tent set-up
• Convenient rear step also functions as a tailgate.
• Stabilizer jacks in all four corners provide secure stability.

The SylvanSport GO Trailer is available through local dealers or direct from SylvanSport.com for $6195 (plus shipping).

Buy Now: Visit SylvanSport.com

PrAna boasts that they make sustainable clothing for yoga and climbing, and this company truly lives up to the name sustainable. After checking out their website (www.PrAna.com), I learned about a number of organizations they are allied with (from HERA to the Conservation Alliance), and the National Power Initiative, of which PrAna is a proud member. By supporting renewable resources at their corporate headquarters and within their own homes, PrAna employees have done the equivalent of keeping 2,300 cars off the road. Be sure to check out their website for more cool facts… But now, back to my shorts!

PrAna Bliss Shorts

• Poly/Spandex Blend: stretches with you when running, hiking or just walking around, yet maintains its shape. NOT like that pair of stretchy jeans out own that you can wear once before they’re so stretched out they need to be washed again.
• Side stash pocket: Just big enough to fit a drivers license, credit card and a GU shot. Beware though, this pocket doesn’t close.
• QuickDry Material: Jump off the boat and into the river, hop back out and wait 5 minutes, and these shorts will be dry again.
• 4.5 Inch inseam makes these shorts stylish, yet long enough to still hike in them!
• Comes in sizes XS-XL. As a size 2, I fit comfortably into an XS, so they seem pretty true to size.

Check Them Out! PrAna Bliss Shorts