Through my years of trailblazing I’ve shed several pounds off the contents of my pack. Whether I’m adventure racing, cycling, backpacking, or trail running, I take only what I need. This trimming of excess weight has allowed me to improve my speed and decrease the strain and soreness after I return home. One of the biggest a-ha moments I had when down-sizing was when I realized I needed to invest in a smaller pack. I sought out a pack that would be a little less than I thought I could pack in… then forced myself to trim items and buy lighter and smaller gear to get into that pack. The Mountainsmith Phantom 40L is one of those small packs that can handle a 3-4 day backpacking trip with no problem, and if you think you might be ready to “go light” this could be your bridge to a faster and more pain-free outdoor experience.

The Mountainsmith Phantom 40L is a well constructed pack that is small enough for lightweight backpackers yet retains some creature comforts. A thickly padded hip belt left absolutely no hip bone soreness after carrying the pack for several hours during testing.  The shoulder straps have dual adjustments and ample padding. The hip belt even has small elastic pockets that are perfectly sized for anything from a Gu packet to a Clif Bar or knife. The zippers are tough and withstood some heavy tugging and yanking and the nylon is resistant to scrapes and minor cuts. The most impressive feature by far, however, is the Breezeway trampoline back panel suspension. Unlike other back panel suspensions that are supposed to keep the pack separated from your back for improved airflow, this one actually does just that. The rigid internal frame keeps items an inch or two off your back and helps prevent that soaked effect that can not only cause discomfort, but spawn a nasty rash.

Ice axe loops, generously deep side water bottle pockets, a hydration bladder pouch (bladder not included), and plenty of grab and lash loops round out the features of the Phantom. There is even a section on the back of the pack that allows for the stuffing of jackets or other large quick-stow items.  The Phantom 40L comes in regular and large torso sizes and will set you back $149.95… a reasonable price for such a well-designed pack.

Features

When we think of protecting our bodies from the trials of our outdoor jaunts, our minds quickly go to footwear and apparel.  Then we mutter, “Oh yeah, sunscreen,” as we scamper out the door. Once we are under wide open skies, though,  we are reminded of another critical piece of gear – sunglasses. But good shades can cost a pretty penny. Just look at the triple-digit costs of Bolle, Julbo, an Oakleys.

Having recently tested the BTB 160 sunglasses, I have come to a happy conclusion – we don’t need to shell out hundreds of our hard-earned dollars to get quality eye protection. BTB has created a line of sunglasses (their BTB 100 series) that ranges in cost from$34.95-$49.95. Since they are incredibly affordable, many may question the quality of these specs. We’ve all paid less and gotten less when it comes to gear.

The BTB 160s were up to the task in our quick test. The dark lenses made a bright day completely tolerable and the aerodynamics kept the wind out on a high speed bike ride. The test pair even came with a sample of a lens that had apparently been blasted with a shotgun. It hadn’t cracked or broken, but merely dimpled at the impact of the pellets. I took the sunglasses and performed a bit of a stress test by stretching and pulling on the frames, nose pieces, and the points where the lenses connect. Nothing snapped off.

If I have to find a negative to this particular model, it is that they are very dark. For those who prefer a lighter shade that allows more light to penetrate the lens when in the shade, the Crystal Brown or Optic Yellow options may be a better choice.

$34.95 as tested

Features

• Lenses provide 100% optic clarity (De-centered lens)
• Styles offer HD (High Definition) Lens Technology
• Lenses provide complete UVA & UVB protection
• Frames are made from Grilamid TR-90 & designed using an 8 to 10 Base Curve
• Offer a “Formed Fit” for comfort
• Temples & Nosepieces are made from a hypo- allergenic material and coated with an Anti-Bacterial agent for heavy perspiration environments
• Exceed ANSI, OSHA & Military Impact Specifications
• Lenses are “Ballistic” rated

By Cathi Cannon

I’ve long been a fan of Patagonia – both the company and their products. While their roots may be in other sports, their support of the trail running world continues to grow and is evidenced in their upcoming lineup for Spring 2012. I’ve only been able to peek at their trail running clothing (can’t wait for it to hit the shelves!), but rejoiced when I was asked to test the new Tsali 2.0 shoes. If their shoes were anything like their clothes, I would be in for a treat!

The Tsali originally debuted last year, and while it garnered much praise (as found on the web), it didn’t seem to be well-known — at least in my SE corner of the country. The first time I wore these shoes to a group training run, I felt like the popular kid in class – never have I had so many oohs & ahhs. I think if I had a secret stash of these shoes in my car, I could have made a hefty profit. Yes, the shoes are a real looker: sleek silvery gray mesh with a contrasting charcoal swoop, with a bright magenta outsole and other accents. I’ve never considered myself a “pink” person, but this combo was HOT.

Looks aside, the real test was on the trail. While not the lightest shoe in Patagonia’s lineup (check out the Fore Runner if you want to save 3/4 gram), this was definitely one of the lighter shoes in my own arsenal, coming in at 8.46oz (9.87oz for the guys). I normally require a bit of motion control in my shoes, but my running form held up well. Billed as a neutral shoe for runners wanting a bit more cushion on the trail, I found it be a bit less cushioned than I had anticipated. The toe box was more snug than I’m used to, with some hot spots developing when I hit technical trails for longer distances (perhaps a half-size larger would help?).

While this is a small detail, perhaps my favorite feature of these shoes is the lacing and construction of the top of the shoe. They tout a “Dynamic Lacing System” – I’m not sure how revolutionary this system is, but something about it just works and feels great. I could lace up and go, without having to fiddle with too much pressure here, or too much slip there. It’s the little things sometimes …

I think this time around, I’ll be hearing about them a lot more.

MSRP: $115.00

Mountainsmith has been a trusted name in outdoor gear for over thirty years. The Golden Colorado company has focused heavily on bags since their inception in the late 70s. Through the years they’ve expanded their line considerably to trekking poles, sleeping bags, and tents. We had the opportunity to test their two person Morrison Tent and here are our thoughts.

The Morrison’s overall design is somewhat familiar. If one steps back and squints a little, the Morrison resembles what we’ve seen from other major brands like Kelty, REI, and Mountain Hardwear. But taking a closer look will reveal that Mountainsmith has done its homework with the Morrison and improved on the basic two pole backpacking tent design.

For starters, the Morrison tent brings 35 sq ft of interior usable space to the table with this spacious design. There will be no problem changing clothes inside, squeezing in a dog, or playing a card game while waiting out the rain. The interior also features a sturdy removable gear loft. The gear loft takes advantage of sewn in pockets to provide even more storage space above so that items are more easily found in the dark. Corner pockets, plenty of ventilation, and a bathtub floor to keep out moisture round out the indoor features.

The Mountainsmith Morrison is freestanding but is most stable when staked in. Instructions for set up are printed on the side of the bag the tent stores in, although, I set up the tent in two minutes without glancing at the instructions. The intuitive set up continues when adding on the rain fly and staking it out. The “fresh out of the box” total set up time (without looking at instructions) took under 7 minutes.

Guy lines are supplied and were already attached to the tent when it came out of the box, however, I found that I didn’t need to guy the tent out since the rain fly hovers nicely above the tent wall.  The 6061 aluminum v stakes slip into solid dirt nicely and hook onto the corner loops of the tent base easily. I was also impressed by the double vestibules, one for both parties. No crawling over your partner to pee in the middle of the night!

The door zippers worked quickly with no snagging after multiple tugs and quick zips. The doors zip completely open to allow more space to move in and out and to put objects like inflated sleeping pads inside without compromising tent structure.

Perhaps the feature that will grab most tent buyer’s attention will be the price tag. At $169 this strong structure will keep the rain, sleet and snow off, keep the air flowing in summer, and with its quality construction could provide years of service.

The Details

By Cathi Cannon

I just don’t understand women’s purse fashion these days. Shoulder purses have somehow become giant bags carrying everything but the kitchen sink. It’s funny to watch ladies try to find their keys or other necessities – they duck their head in and fish around for a few minutes, eventually finding what they need at the very bottom. I’ve never understood this popular trend and have done everything I could to fall victim to it.

Then I find a bag like The Bidwell and know these ladies have it all wrong.

The Bidwell is the newest collection from OverLand Equipment, whose tagline says it all: Live Actively; Organize Accordingly. Coming in at a modest 9.5” x 8.25” (and a manageable 4.5” deep), the signature Bidwell shoulder bag proves that you don’t need a suitcase weighing you down to carry everything you need for a day’s adventure. It is smartly designed with 3 main compartments: an exterior pocket to slide papers for quick access, a large zippered compartment, and a front organizer with magnetic closer.

At first glance…
My test product came in Charcoal Gray, with stitching and internal accents in a bright sky blue (officially called Dove/Blue Mist on the OverLand website) – a striking color combo that caught the eyes of many friends. (Two other versions are available: Tangerine/Sand and Blue-Violet/Periwinkle.)

A closer peek…
The front decorative flap opens to reveal an organizing system for your most used items. Normally I’m not a fan of these, as it encourages me to add unneeded bulk. However, this has just the right amount of space: 5 pockets to secure smaller items (including a microfleece-lined nook for my iPhone), and a zippered area for loose change. The largest also has a clip for securing keys. My biggest piece of advice is to not over-pack this area – while the magnetic closure is strong enough for the average, you should respect physics and not test it’s load limits. (Likewise, make sure it is secured before twirling it around. I yard-sailed the contents one day!)

Inside, there are 2 mesh side pockets for stashing a water bottle upright (no spillage!) and a large back pocket for smaller items in addition to the roomy main compartment. While the side pockets are a bit small for my normal water bottle, they’ve come in handy for quick access to other items. There’s more than enough space for my daily needs and not too much to tempt me to become a hoarder.

The Bidwell is a smart & stylish bag and has become a permanent accessory to my daily wardrobe.

Find it online at Overlandequipment.com. MSRP: $75

First of all with the Dansko Kassidy boot .. I like the chic style! And, I was pleasantly surprised at how light they feel when they are on. I have several pair of what I call “clunky” boots. These did not get stuck in that category. They seem to also have good arch support. The fit was a tiny bit big. But, I really like to wear my thick wool socks with this type of boot. So, for my purposes it was perfect. If you do wear thinner socks you might want a half size smaller. I really liked that I could wear these boots with a variety of different clothing styles. I have the black boots and I think the faux fur collar and velvet quilting dresses it up a bit. I have worn them with my long wool dress coat and black pants but also with my leather coat and jeans. Dansko promises these boots are both comfortable and warm. They lived up to that promise for me. While I haven’t had as much snow as I would like to test these in .. the quality is top notch. I did get “comfort without compromise!”

When it comes to eating in the back country, things need to stay simple. A bowl, a plate, a few condiments, a spork, and some chop sticks. That’s right, chop sticks! These ancient Asian eating utensils can be a fun addition to your pack, be a talking point around the fire, and help get noodles to your mouth. Ultralight aficionados may scoff at the idea of bringing this luxury in to the back country, but when they weigh less than a pencil, one has to wonder why the haters are hatin’.

Our friends at GSI Outdoors have combined the convenience of a titanium spork (which they call a “foon”) and mashed it up with the fun of chop sticks to create the Kung Foon. By sliding the sticks through the holes in the foon, an extended handle serving spoon is created for dishing out meals to a group or digging deep into those dehydrated pouches that tend to get your hand all gooey and gross.

The foon is a fabulous eating tool all by itself. Its deep bowl allows it to be used as a fully functional spoon for soups and mushy meals. The tines (points) on the edges of the fork section are barbed and grab food making it easy to tear meats and keep items on the foon – every bite is precious in the wilderness.

At $16.95 The Kung Foon will add a little fun to your trail meal and makes for a great gift item if shopping for the  “backpacker who has everything.”

With so many cyclists focusing on keeping their bikes light and fast, the practicality of riding a bike can often be overlooked. A sleek racing bike can also get a rider to work or even be taken on a quick errand. Any bike used for commuting, and especially for touring, is going to need more storage than the under-the-seat bag. This is where the Detours Sodo Handlebar Bag steps in and fills the gap between small bag and pannier.

Having tested the Sodo bag I know first hand why it is so convenient. The lightweight design doesn’t bog a ride down when it needs to be fast paced, yet it has enough room to carry the essentials. On a quick trip to the store, this handlebar bag can even haul home a handful of grocery staples. Where the Sodo really shines for my riding style, however, will be carrying the essentials for a long day ride or an overnight. I’ve been able to pack the following into the Sodo with no problem.

• tire levers
• allen wrench tool
• spare tube
• co2 pump
• rain jacket
• rain pants
• snacks (2-3 clif bars and trail mix)
• zip lock of Gatorade powder
• cell phone/camera
• map
• wallet
• keys

When the Sodo Handlebar Bag first comes out of the box it includes a bag of small attachments that will ensure it fits most any handlebar configuration. Attaching the bag to my Cannondale’s drop bars was a snap, and most of the included attachments weren’t needed. I had the bag mounted in less than 2 minutes. The bag detaches from the mount with a quick release button and includes a shoulder strap that can be attached to allow it to be carried into a store, work, or a hotel room with ease.

I was certainly impressed with the durability and organizational options on the bag. The coated waterproof flap has a see-through clear pouch on top for keeping maps, gps, and phone visible. The interior has plenty of organizational compartments to keep your dirty tools separate from your more sensitive items. The Sodo is also equipped with a rain cover, stowed in a hidden pocket, for when the heavy stuff comes down.

Having a handlebar bag does mean extra weight up front and the rider will need to shift other items normally attached to the handlebars – like headlights or bike computers. A handlebar bag also takes a bit of getting used to, since there is an additional item potentially touching the rider’s hands when in the top position. The trade-off is worth the effort with The Sodo. It maintains high quality standards, weighs around 2 lbs, and the extra storage it provides can stretch a 50 mile ride into a century or an overnight. More riding = happy cyclist.

Check out this video gear review of the OutThere USA MS-1 Pack.

OutThere USA MS-1 Pack Review from Randy Ericksen on Vimeo.

With airline baggage fees on the majority of the airlines here to stay, more travelers are opting to seek out options that allow them to maximize their capacity with a carry-on. Well, here it is…the bag you have all been waiting for!

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I saw another piece of adventure travel piece of luggage had arrived at our headquarters. All doubt went out the window when I pulled the Gregory Alpaca 22″ Roller out of the box. I received the ‘sunset red’ (it also comes in black) version and anyone that has ever traveled with me knows that I am a big proponent of luggage that stands out for ease of locating on the belt and for describing to airline personnel in the event luggage is misplaced or delayed.

I recently traversed the concrete jungle of Manhattan with this bag in tow. The 4″ oversized wheels and the wide retractable handle made it a fluid travel experience a I made my way from Grand Central Station to Rockefeller Center and beyond.

When flying on smaller commuter jets, it is not unusual to have to check your bag plane side. Many times, I have had to walk out on the tarmac leaving my bag to the elements until loaded. With the bag’s abrasion and water resistant TPU fabric, you won’t have to worry about your contents getting wet or damaged in transit.

The bag’s interior lid contains a large mesh, zippered pocket to help with the inferior organization. The same pocket contains a strap for attaching your keys while you are traveling. The top of the bag also contains a small zippered pocket for travel documents, medications, or liquids needed for quick retrieval when passing through airline security.

The interior is spacious enough for 3-5 days worth of clothing. The temps in New York for my visit were in the low teens and there was more than enough room for my apparel, toiletries, large winter coat, boots and my MacBook Pro and iPad.

I have tested more than 15 bags in the last several years and this bag has quickly become a favorite after only one use.

The bag also comes in a 28″ version (MSRP: $399) to complete the set.

MSRP: 22″ – $349

By Jill Peloquin

This is a review of Ahnu Women’s Montara, mine are ruby wine in color. First, these boots are extremely attractive – I love their look on the trail and off. Dare I say, they are crazy cute. I’ve done maybe 15 miles on muddy trails and double that around town walking the dog and pushing the stroller. These boots are extremely comfortable, warm and I’ve never left a walk or hike with wet socks or blisters. I live in New England, so I know how easy it is to get both of those. I really like the level of rigidity of the sole of this boot and their relative light weight. Together, these characteristics make it easy to hike nimbly on rocky trails and then run errands around town without having to change shoes. They have honestly become my go to boot/shoe for the winter season.

I’m not sure how these would fare for me on a trail gaining or losing a lot of elevation, where the strain would be placed more squarely on my ankle. The boots end just underneath my ankles, which makes them extremely easy to navigate terrain easily, but I’m not feeling the strong ankle support that I might need for a more aggressive expedition. I think for such hiking, I’d aim for a more traditional over the ankle boot. Also, these boots tend to narrow a bit toward the toe, it’s still comfortable for me, but I do notice the difference compared to some of my other shoes. However, the Montaras just made the cut to be part of my skimpy weight allowance to travel with me to an Antarctic oceanographic research cruise…so that should tell you how much I love these kicks.

I also found these boots to fit true to size.

MSRP: $150

As a light packer, I can stuff the bare essentials in a backpack, sling it over my shoulder, and get by for most any trip under two weeks. When it comes to long distance cycling, this light packing skill is essential, as I learned on my week-long journey up the Natchez Trace a little over a year ago. After the trip I detailed out what I took with me in my Cycle Touring Gear List. On that trip I took a one-wheeled trailer. Lately though I’ve been testing the DTR Large Panniers by Detours, and I’ve been very impressed.

Detours’ headquarters is located in the heart of Seattle, a fantastic cycling town. But, besides their Seattle roots, Detours has a lot more going for them – namely, respect. Getting high praise across the bike blogosphere and within the hard-to-penetrate cycling culture is street cred enough to get them on anyone’s shopping list, but I wanted to try a set of Detours bags myself and see what the hype is about. Here is the lowdown on what I’ve found so far…

• The D2R Large Panniers have ample room for this light packer. The set has 2,125 cubic inches of space  – enough for bike tools, spares, hand pump, rain gear, a change of clothes, and a small toiletry set. If you’re crafty enough you could even fit your small camping gear items and snacks in with no trouble.
• The Large Panniers are probably overkill for a commuter – but for those who want a little more “trunk space” these may be just the ticket.
• The weather resistance of these panniers has sold me. I like the facts that the lid has an inner coating on the nylon and that the bottoms of the bags are rubberized for durability and splash resistance. The rain covers included with mine are a nice bright yellow with a reflective strip and handle moderate rain with no problem.
• Side pockets provide extra room for quick access items and are adequate. I would love to see a side zipper pockets, but know those would add weight.
• A front zipper pocket provides a bit more security and is hidden with a flap. This pocket is also great for those who like to compartmentalize when they pack.
• Reflective strips are a nice safety touch.
• The stitching is nicely done. I’ve abused the bags a little and haven’t noticed any wear or tear. The clip and hanging mechanisms seem durable.

Bottom Line: Durable and sturdy panniers at an affordable price ($95 at Detours.us). Detours also makes a variety of other bag sizes for a plethora of riding styles.  If you buy from Detour, remember you’re supporting a US-based cycling company. Check them out to find out more.

By Grant Killian

This shoe beat my expectations of a Lowa trail runner. Lowa is a name I associate more with alpine treks and hiking, but I think this is a solid trail running shoe for when the weather is bad. Shallow puddles were no match for the shoe; I barely noticed a temperature difference when going through a couple icy puddles one morning.

This is a comfy shoe. I mean, it feels like warm plush slippers when I slide my feet into them. This can be both good and bad. For long hikes on cold days or those quick early morning runs when the temps are below freezing, this shoe rises to the occasion and is a pleasure to have on my feet . . . but I found my feet overheating in them on runs of 1 hour or more and for warmer days, these shoes would be best left at home. For a Goretex shoe, however, I think this conservation and build-up of heat is to be expected; the idea is they should keep your feet warm and dry, and this shoe delivers.

The shoe is well-constructed and sturdy enough for rock hopping and scrambling. The traction is reliable on a variety of surfaces. The only real gripe I have with the shoe is the shoe laces are prone to coming untied. For every 90 minute run I went on, the shoe laces would become untied at least once per shoe. Seriously! I know it’s easily fixed by putting different laces on or double tying them. I wish that all shoes I review had just a lacing downside as the main con.

The shoe’s fit was spot on. I typically wear an 11 in trail running shoes and this shoe was no different.

MSRP: $145

This week, Sierra Designs will be debuting their new DriDown technology at the Outdoor Retailer Conference in Salt Lake City. The technology is being touted as “groundbreaking” and promises it will revolutionize down sleeping bag performance. Just what is this new technology and how will it affect our gear going forward? According to the gear gurus at Sierra Designs:

Zissou 15 – featuring DriDown

“DriDown features a molecular level polymer applied to individual down plumes during the down finishing process.  A proprietary application method developed by Sierra Designs ensures a hydrophobic finish.  As a result, DriDown stays dry 7 times longer in the presence of rain, melting snow, or spills, maintains 98% loft after a night in a high humidity environment, and dries 33% faster when it does get wet for a dryer, warmer, more comfortable night’s sleep.”

The first gear to have this tech…

Sierra Designs’ DriDown sleeping bags include the Zissou 0 HI (3 lb, 1 oz; $299), Zissou 15 (2 lb, 11 oz; $259), Zissou 30 LITE (2 lb, 1 oz; $199), Eleanor 20 HI women’s (3 lb, 0 oz; $299) and Eleanor 30 LITE women’s (2 lb, 9 oz; $259).  All five bags feature 600 fill DriDown™, polyester ripstop shells, and polyester liners for an outstanding blend of performance, warmth, compressibility, and light weight.

When and where can we get our hands on it?

DriDown sleeping bag retail availability is scheduled for June 1 exclusively through REI stores and on REI.com, Sierra Designs’ first-to-market partner.  Look for Sierra Designs DriDown sleeping bags at other specialty outdoor retailers mid-July with DriDown apparel debuting in August 2012.

What do we think?

New gear innovations are always exciting. They bring us technology that pushes the industry forward and makes our lives outdoors just a little more comfortable – allowing us to go farther and see more. We haven’t seen the technology first-hand yet, and we can’t wait to test it out. But if the claims are true about DriDown, Sierra Designs may have just taken a giant step forward. The competition will no doubt be scrambling to develop technology to go head-to-head with DriDown but those things take time. For now, you’ll have to wait until June to get your hands on this tech – the wait may be well worth it.

Teva‘s roots run deep within the water shoe market. Heck, in 1984 they created the first real sports sandal. Since those early days for Teva quite a bit has changed. The technology invented for their sandals has made its way into their new shoe types which include flops, casual shoes, and boots. I recently slipped on a pair of their Forge Pro Winter Mid WP boots to see what this evolution has brought us.

The Forge Pro Winter Mid WP isn’t just another sandal sole with a boot resting on top. The Forge Pro has all the makings of  a real hiking boot with useful winter-specific features. The sole is the real soul of this boot. Strategically placed pods, infused with fiberglass, give the boot a firm grip on slick and icy surfaces. In testing the boot stood up to the challenge – and not just on the trail. While the boot performed well on wet and frosty dirt and grass surfaces it really shined on rock and pavement. The grip was noticeably better on hard surfaces which are notorious for causing falls.

The exterior is a nice black on black and has Teva’s T.I.D.E. waterproof membrane, thus the WP in the boot’s name. I submerged the boot in water and donned it in the rain and my feet remained bone dry. The tongue area even stayed dry during submersion which is not always the case with “waterproof” kicks. The “gaiter-like” heel collar suctions above the ankle to keep trail debris from finding its way in.

As for comfort, the Thinsulate insulation was warm enough for the 38 degree test these boots got from me. The footbed was comfortable but those with arch problems may want to look into footbed replacements. Be careful when synching up the top loop, however, the boots can rub the ankle bone of some feet if tied too tight. Try different levels of tension on the laces to get a personalized fit.

The bottom line on the Forge Pro Winter Mid WP is this – a great winter hiking boot or even everyday boot to wear when the mercury falls and slick surfaces are in the forecast.

$160 at Teva.com

The Evolution of the Mountain Hardwear Transition Vest

First, the good news:
For a mere 6 oz (7oz for the guys), this vest is worth its weight in gold. Made with Gore-tex Windstopper fabric, it successfully blocks winter’s harsh nip, while it’s DWR coating shakes off light rain, snow, & sleet to let you run further or bike longer. With a stretchy back and sidepanels, this vest moves as you do and allows excess heat and moisture to escape as you heat up. Even with a long sleeve baselayer underneath, the Transition Vest never feels bulky, thanks in part to flat-lock construction throughout. A single side pocket is handy to stash some bars (or even a pair of lightweight gloves). A big bonus is the reflective patches on the front shoulders & lower back, to help you stay visible as the sun quickly fades.

And now the not-so-good news (which actually turns out to be pretty awesome):
While you may be able to find this vest on sale at various online outfitters, it is officially not part of the Mountain Hardwear lineup this season. (I received this to test just as spring turned into a steamy summer here in the SE, so I’ve been saving this one). Instead of using traditional Gore materials, Mountain Hardwear has recently launched an innovative new waterproof/breathable technology called Dry.Q. — which means exciting new outerwear is now gracing the product shelves.

As expected, Dry.Q is highly windproof, waterproof, and breathable. But unlike previous similar materials, Dry.Q Elite’s “instant on technology” starts working the moment you put it on. It is air-permeable, meaning it allows air and moisture to escape outward. Translation: you’ll stay dry and warm from the get-go.

With 3 levels of sports-specific functionality — Elite, Active, and Core — the Dry.Q collection is certain to find success in many wardrobes this winter. I stopped by my local outfitter, Rock/Creek, to check out Dry.Q in person. All I can say is WOW, this stuff feels amazing: super-ultralight and moves with your body like a second skin. Perhaps we’ll be able to report back on this soon!

Read more about Dry.Q here.

See the Dry.Q Elite collection here.

Not everybody has the luxury of an endless summer, but thanks to Chaco’s ever expanding line of outdoor footwear we can step into other seasons in comfort. For many years, winter would roll around and I would be in some kind of footwear purgatory, unable to give up my trusty pair of Chacos I’d see it through to the bitter end, disregarding the sometimes fashion faux paus of wearing socks with sandals and tell myself that with a thicker pair of wool socks I can get by a bit longer. No longer do I have to feel bad about losing my Chaco tan line, because there is a new generations of Chacos.

The Chaco ToeCoops are similar to clogs with some performance enhancements – a rear strap combined with an adjustable instep strap keep your foot in proper placement no matter what activity you are engaged in. Featuring a PU LUVSEAT™ platform for precise biomechanic sustainability and a waterproof unlined leather upper gives a rugged yet respectable appearance all coming together to make ToeCoops ideal year round footwear whether you’re running your dog along the trails behind your house or working at the office. Not to mention the Vibram® Gunnison outsole for the reliable traction and performance you’ve grown to love and trust about Chaco footwear.

The cult of Chaco wearers is growing – they call themselves Chaconians and they are everywhere. They could be your neighbor or teachers at your nearby school. They could be a river guide or the woman throwing a frisbee to her dog in the park. There is a certain inevitable kinship that exists between Chaco wearers, an understanding that they have at last found the secret to being comfortable on your feet. Check out the Chacosphere to find out more and see a video of a fellow Chaconian about the ToeCoop.

This is pretty much the mattress you want.

A sleeping system with a three inch thick air mattress, a half inch Isotonic Memory Foam insert and plush microfiber cover / durable nylon bottom – you might just find yourself sneaking outdoors to get a good night’s rest (or even rolling out the DreamTime next to your actual bed). A few years back I spent a few nights on the older model DreamTime and was convinced that I needed this in my life – and that was before they added the memory foam technology. Developed by NASA in the mid 60′s, memory foam was initially designed to increase the safety of aircraft seating and was released to public domain in the 80′s when the technology was absorbed by mattress companies and found application in the medical fields. For patients forced lie immobile for extended periods of time, the memory foam drastically reduced pressure sores. The DreamTime’s combination of contour hugging memory foam and air mattress offer a perfect balance comfort, warmth, and durability. This means less time counting sheeps and more time dreaming.

In many ways, your sleeping pad probably sees the most use out of all your outdoor gear – and plays a key role in your outdoor endeavors. Without a good night’s rest, even liquid sleep (coffee) can’t always encourage a cheerful outlook – even in the great outdoors. Obviously with a rolled up dimension 25″ x 11″ and a weight of just under 7 pounds, this is not your go to mattress for backpacking trips, but that doesn’t rule out loads of other situations perfect for a bit of luxury.

Most recently, I rigged up my little Toyota Tacoma with a camper shell for a tour of California’s best mountain biking spots – and was able to afford enough space in the truckbed to fit my bike and gear as well as my DreamTime mattress. When visiting friends, I escaped the need to surf their lumpy couch; when in random out of the way spots, I knew at the end of a long day of riding, I had a comfy bed waiting for me. At 24 hours of Halloween bike race, I pedaled with a four person singlespeed team with laps lasting about an hour I had to make the most of my rest time – particularly throughout the night hours when my whole body ached. Pretty much every time I hopped in the back of the camper I experienced a moment of bliss, experiencing the decadence of the DreamTime – though the cold night and comfort of the mattress didn’t exactly encourage me to get out and gear up for another lap.

Definitely ideal mattress for supported adventure races, bike races, music festivals, etc. but even nice to have around when your friends or in-laws crash at your house. And far easier to setup and stash away than your typical air mattress, not to mention far more comfortable. Two DreamTime’s can be attached together with included straps for couples. The outer microfiber sleeve can be removed and is machine washable.

The Insulation rating of R 9.0 basically means you can sleep directly on snow if you were so inclined. I have the 25″ width large version, but would probably opt for the 30″ extra large model as I spend the majority of my nights on the mattress. The price is quite steep for such decadence, but a worthwhile investment when you consider the importance of a good night’s sleep.

If the Shoe Fits, Wear It.

As an endurance trail runner (translate: a lot of miles on the trail!), I get asked many questions about the best shoes out there. My answer?

There are LOTS of great ones! The key is to try them on and see what works best for your foot.

One of the brands I’ve had the opportunity to test this year is Montrail. While they discontinued my trusty favorite, the HardRock, Montrail has introduced several new shoes to their lineup since, including the ever-versatile Fairhaven.

First Impressions:
The Fairhaven has a generous toebox, yet the fit was secure enough for me to confidently traverse rocky terrain. They have more cush than my previous trail running shoes; while comfortable, I’m curious to see how the support holds up after long miles on the trail.

70+ Mile Update:
In order to properly test this shoe, I indulged in runs on all kinds of terrain, from gravel roads to rocky trails to wood chip pedestrian paths… and even some paved surfaces. The Fairhaven features FluidPost, Montrail’s new pronation control technology that “provides customized support for any runner’s footstrike on any terrain” (read more here.) It’s really quite genius: extra support is there when you need it (like on those gnarly trails full of ankle-twisting rocks), but not when you don’t (good for when it takes a bit of road in order to get to the trails). Speaking of rocks, the Fairhaven sports Montrail’s trusty Gryptonite outsole for excellent traction on sketchy terrain (both wet & dry). The result is a do-it-all shoe perfect for trails with diverse footing or on new ones when you don’t quite know what lies ahead.

Conclusion:
The Fairhaven is definitely worth checking out next time you’re at your local shoe retailer. My biggest complaint is that my foot seems to be right inbetween a 9 & 9.5; however, with a thicker sock, the Fairhaven has performed well, guiding me to new sites on new trails, as well as several top 10 finishes in trail races. Winning in my book!

Want more info? See the Fairhaven in action here.

For the weight weenies: Men 11oz/310g / Women 9.4oz/265g

For those of us experiencing the fringes of fall weather right now,  conditions are ideal for road biking. Slipping through the curvy backroads enjoying smooth surfaces and cool temps is something I long for all summer. But the reality of the daily grind can hamper those jaunts into the country when daylight is running short. For city dwellers, the thought of packing the bike up into the car, adding air to the tires, changing clothes, and then fighting traffic to get to the “good” pavement is often too much. It’s easier to take a quick cruise around the neighborhood or through the urban jungle. For the urban road rider, who doesn’t own a cyclocross bike, the best option is to get a slightly beefier tire to avoid the pitfalls of punctures.

I recently wore out my second set of tires in the past year (I’ve been putting the miles down). I was on the market for something a bit grippier and fairly puncture resistant, all while maintaining the stylistic theme of my bike – I’m “one of  those guys” with the bike that has the matching tires and handlebar grip tape. I found what I was looking for in the Michelin Orium.  Continue Reading

The notion of a four-season tent most probably crosses the average adventurers mind on rare occasion. The need for a tent that can remain standing in gale-force winds or keep its form under inches upon inches of snow isn’t a piece of gear the weekend warrior needs often. Then there is the price tag on four-season tents… the name “four-digit tent” might be more appropriate. But there are those trips that push beyond the limits of a three-season tent and warrant more resilient gear. When borrowing isn’t an option, it may be time to invest. But the new Sierra Designs Convert Tents prove that one doesn’t have to take a second mortgage out for an upper-tier bombproof shelter.

On a recent three-day attempt at the Southwest Couloir Route on Granite Peak in Montana I had the opportunity to test both the Convert 2 and Convert 3 from Sierra Designs. We slept for two nights above 10,000 feet. Temperatures dropped below freezing and winds whipped hard the first night. A volley of sleet pelted our camp on night two. Both nights the tents held form, as if nothing were going on outside. Both tents repelled 100% of the water, despite the fact my body was pressed against the tent wall all night due to a screwy sleeping position. Continue Reading

Once again, CLIF is adding more flavors to their line-up. More samples are on the way to us and we will share our results with you shortly.

CLIF CRUNCH® and CLIF MOJO® are expanding their snack bar lineups with new flavors that are now available at grocery, natural food and mass merchandise stores nationwide.

CLIF CRUNCH
CLIF CRUNCH, the crunchy granola bar made with organic ingredients, has introduced two new flavors, Blueberry Crisp and Chocolate Peanut Butter.

Blueberry Crisp delights your taste buds with bursts of blueberry in every bite. Chocolate Peanut Butter, combines two popular classic flavors, featuring a generous helping of peanut butter and chocolate chips along with a topping of peanut butter drizzle. The new CLIF CRUNCH flavors (SRP: $3.99 per 10-bar box) are available now.

CLIF MOJO
CLIF MOJO, a delicious trail mix bar made with 70 percent organic ingredients, has introduced three new flavors that deliver a mouthwatering array of chocolate, nuts and coconut for a crispy, crunchy texture in bars that taste both sweet and salty.

CLIF MOJO Chocolate Almond Coconut blends toasted coconut, chunks of indulgent chocolate and deliciously salty whole roasted almonds. CLIF MOJO White Chocolate Macadamia combines freshly roasted macadamia nuts with richly flavored soy white chocolate chips. Not to be outdone, CLIF MOJO Dipped S’Mores is a healthy take on a classic campfire favorite, featuring crunchy graham cookies, creamy soy white chocolate and organic chocolate chunks. The new CLIF MOJO flavors (SRP: $1.39) are also on shelves now.