Midwestern Mindset: GearJunkie

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Friday, October 25, 2019

The Best Fly Fishing Gear Now: 2019 IFTD Awards https://ift.tt/341ACPH

Simms came out as a dominant force in fly fishing at the International Fly Tackle Dealer trade show last week in Denver. The brand took home 10 top awards from the show, from waders to outerwear to accessories.

The leaders in the world of fly fishing can brush their shoulders off after last week. A few brands dominated top spots in their categories.

Simms took home 10 awards with a clean sweep of the apparel category. Abel Reels and Ross Reels took home the saltwater and freshwater reel categories, respectively. Sage took two out of three of the rod category.

Scientific Angler locked down for line and tippet. And Fishpond took home three awards for thoughtful and fresh gear in three different categories. But it was Scott that took home Best of Show with its Sector Series for fishing the salt.

Here, we lead with the Sector, break down 10 top items from the show, and list the rest of the awards.

Top Awards From IFTD 2019

Overall Best of Show — Fly Rod (Saltwater): Scott Fly Rods, Sector Series

The rod is a fast-action, state-of-the-art, tech nerd’s dream rod. And at $985, it’s certainly expensive. But it ain’t the most expensive thing out there! It’s hand-crafted for high performance, with its innovative Carbon Web technology and Ceracoil guides with PVD coating.

Youth Product — Gear/Apparel: Fishpond, Tenderfoot Youth Vest

For the kiddo who loves to fly fish as much as the adults in the room, this is a sweet little vest. With all the accouterments of a grown-up’s vest and a sized-down fit for the littler anglers, Fishpond leaves no one out with this addition to its lineup.

Fly Box/Storage System — Gear: Fishpond, Fly Dock

Fishpond’s recent acquisition of Tacky Fly Fishing also gains the brand a third award in the Best of Show category. This nifty little feller can stick in a billion places, and it’ll hold a grip of flies from streamers to nymphs. The Velcro bottom allows for easy transfer from fly box to your fishing vest, or anywhere you deem Velcro might belong. At $8, it also won’t break the bank.

Eco-Friendly — Gear: Patagonia, Black Hole Gear Tote

Yay for eco-friendly! Patagonia, of course, reins it in with its 100-percent-recycled Black Hole Gear Tote. It’s an all-around bag that will hold everything from fishing gear to beach gear to everything you need for a quick overnight. And you can feel seriously good about owning one.

Chest-Pack/Vest — Gear: Fishpond, Flathead Sling

The Fishpond Flathead Sling is a slick, innovative, and, frankly, cool way to carry your gear. Big enough to carry a coat, a water bottle, and your supplies, it’s still agile and small enough to not be annoying on the river.

Details like side pockets, an easy-access topper for flies, and an ambidextrous design add thoughtfulness to this pack and grabbed it the top spot in its category.

Fly Rod — Freshwater: Sage Fly Fishing, Trout LL

The Trout LL rod series is designed to give anglers an optimized experience for wade fishing, light tippets, close casts, and small flies. Blank taper optimization and specialized length offerings aim to make this an ideal dry fly rod.

The Trout LL is available from 3- to 6-weights in lengths ranging from 7’9” to 9’.

Fly Rod — 2-Handed/Spey: Sage Fly Fishing, Trout Spey HD

The design of this rod creates a lighter class of spey rod for the trout enthusiast. Sage is introducing five models from 10’3″ to 11’3″ and weights from 1 to 4. And soon, enthusiasts of the brand will have new options for covering as much water as possible in the method they prefer.

Reel — Freshwater: Ross Reels, San Miguel

A throwback to the San Miguel of old, Ross Reels will be re-introducing the slick and redesigned San Miguel in December of 2019. The fast retrieval on this rod is pretty spectacular, and the canvas Micarta grip allows for a no-slip hold in all sorts of conditions. Plus, this reel is just pretty.

Reel — Saltwater: Abel Reels, VAYA

The sister company to Ross, Abel took the Saltwater category with its totally gorgeous VAYA reel. It’s considered a reel for “light salt,” and its incredibly low weight profile speaks to that. It’s highly adjustable with a partially ported frame.

One of my favorite touches on this reel is the milled fly pattern silhouette that is relevant to the size of each model. And the hand-painted motifs knock it outta the park. This one is both functional and beautiful — nothing wrong with that.

Men’s — Waders: Simms Fishing Products, G4Z Stockingfoot Wader

The Simms G4Z Stockingfoot Wader is a beast of bodily burden. Made of GORE-TEX Pro Shell, the three-layer upper combines with four-layer lowers. Compression-molded stocking feet cut bulk while focusing on comfort and durability. These are cool waders for cold weather without compromising on a thoughtful athletic action for the angler in motion.

The fabric is the coolest part. It feels soft, almost suede-like without the thickness. Simms uses the same fabric for the women’s G3Z wader, but on the women’s model, Simms went with a side zip.

Women’s — General Apparel: Simms Fishing Products, Bugstopper Leggings

I personally love Simms Bugstopper Hoody, so the genius of a pant isn’t lost on me. Permethrin-treated garments are the serious business when you’re in Bug Town. And it works — even through something nuts like washes.

Plus, the leggings are fun with a bit of a pattern, but nothing too overwhelming for those of us who don’t like to be too flashy.

IFTD 2019 Awards: Best of the Rest

Accessories — Under $100: Simms Fishing Products, Pro Nipper
Accessories — Over $100: RISING, Travel Net
Gift Items — Under $100: Danforth Art, Danforth Art
Entertainment/Education: Anglers Book Supply, “Steelhead Fly Tying” by Dec Hogan and Marty Howard
Fly Hooks — Gear: Umpqua Feather Merchants, XT050 Stubby T (#10-18)
Vices and Tying Tools — Gear: Renzetti, Streamer Pedestal Base
Fly Tying Materials: Hareline Dubbin, Bling Rabbit Strips
Fly Line — Freshwater: Scientific Anglers, Amplitude Smooth Infinity
Fly Line — Saltwater: Scientific Anglers, Amplitude Smooth Infinity Salt
Leader/Tippet — Gear: Scientific Anglers, Absolute Trout Tippet
Fly Pattern — Saltwater: Umpqua Feather Merchants, Skok Strong-Arm Crab
Fly Pattern — Freshwater: Flymen Fishing Company, Micro Changer
Luggage (Bags, Backpacks) — Gear: Simms Fishing Products, GTS Roller Duffel 110L
Boat/Personal WaterCraft — Gear: Outcast Sporting Gear, IK Angler 11′
Men’s — General Apparel: Simms Fishing Products, SolarFlex UltraCool Armor
Men’s — Outerwear: Simms Fishing Products, G4 Pro Jacket
Men’s — Wading Boots: Simms Fishing Products, G4 PRO Boot
Women’s — Waders: Simms Fishing Products, Women’s G3 Guide Z Wader
Women’s — Outerwear: Simms Fishing Products, Women’s G3 Guide Jacket

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50% Off: Crazy Deal on ‘Best Winter Running Shoe’ https://ift.tt/2NcOAaH

We’re not sure how long this deal will last, but you can score a pair of Columbia Mountain Masochist IV OutDry men’s trail-running shoes for half off.

Dipping temps and swirling flurries are just now beginning to signal the inevitable onslaught of winter snow. But for many runners, there is no offseason. And that means it’s time to score a reliable, sure-footed pair of winter running shoes.

And right now, one of our favorite snow-capable running shoes is on sale. Usually $160, the Columbia/Montrail Mountain Masochist IV OutDry Extreme trail runners (for men) are just $80.

See the men’s Mountain Masochist IV OutDry Extreme

Covered by Columbia’s permanent waterproof OutDry membrane that zips over a speed-lace system, the Mountain Masochist made our best winter running shoes list last year for its dependable moisture management and comfortable, soft sock liner.

This deal may not last long — especially if you’ve got a popular shoe size — so check it out if you plan to log some snowy miles.

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Free Gear Fridays: Darn Tough Kelso Sock Set Giveaway https://ift.tt/33ZXBe4

Here at GearJunkie, we test a lot of gear. We are fortunate to test cutting-edge new products. Now, we want to give you the chance to win some gear too.

This week, one lucky winner will receive a set of socks from Darn Tough!

More on the product: The Kelso is an unassumingly intelligent merino wool sock designed to power you through day-to-day adventures. From trail hikes to hearty yard work, the cool, silky feel of this micro crew hike sock provides long-lasting energy that will endure far more than your weekend to-do list. Better yet, each pair of socks is guaranteed for life.

Kelso Sock Set

More on the brand: With roots in Vermont, Darn Tough has the perfect backyard for product research and design. Employees participate in a variety of outdoor activities — from skiing to running to biking — to test products and provide feedback. And not only is Vermont the brand’s testing ground, but it’s also where each pair of socks is manufactured.

Enter below for your chance to win!

Be sure to check back every Friday for a new giveaway.
Want the giveaway in your inbox? Sign up here.

The post Free Gear Fridays: Darn Tough Kelso Sock Set Giveaway appeared first on GearJunkie.

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REI Snow Sale: 50% Off Patagonia Jacket & More https://ift.tt/2Jo0CwR

Save up to 50 percent on Patagonia, Smartwool, Arc’teryx, Black Diamond, and more during REI’s Ready, Set, Snow sale. The sale ends on October 28, so act fast.

Whether exploring the backcountry or flying down the mountain, the Patagonia Descensionist Jacket is up for the task. With excellent breathability and water resistance, it will quickly become your favorite winter companion. And for a limited time, it’s 50 percent off!

During REI’s Ready, Set, Snow sale, you can also save big on gear from Smartwool, Arc’teryx, Black Diamond, and more. On top of all that, you can score 20 percent off one class, day tour, or event with code SNOW4DAYS19 and get 50 percent off Ski and Board Shop services. Be sure to check out the full sale for the entire selection.

See the entire REI Ready, Set, Snow sale

Patagonia Descensionist Jacket — Men’s & Women’s: $449 $224 (50% Off)

Looking for a do-all backcountry jacket? Then it’s time you met the Patagonia Descensionist. Built for mountain adventures, it offers top-level protection in a thin, light package. The three-layer, 50-denier hardshell fabric stays breathable on the uphill, while the DWR finish protects against saturation.

Complete with a helmet-compatible hood and fully adjustable powder skirt, you’ll be ready no matter the conditions. Patagonia doesn’t go on sale often, so scoring this for half off is a killer deal.

And for a limited time, you can also score 50 percent off select colors of the Nano Puff Jacket and Powderbowl Insulated Snow Pants.

See the men’s Descensionist Jacket See the women’s Descensionist Jacket

This article is sponsored by REI. View the entire REI Ready, Set, Snow sale for the full selection of deals.

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Kilian Jornet Takes Title at Golden Trail World Series https://ift.tt/2BJQJ8E

Kilian Jornet — six-time gold medalist in ski mountaineering championships — just won the Golden Trail World Series.

Kilian Jornet, an ultrarunner and ski mountaineer from Spain, just finished first in the Nepal stage of the Golden Trail Series to take the overall title.

The Golden Trail Series, sponsored by Salomon, consists of six intense marathon runs across the world. The series lineup includes the Mont Blanc Marathon, Dolomyths Run, and Pikes Peak Marathon. Runners must participate in at least three of the races to qualify for the final.

The series final was the Annapurna Trail Marathon, with over 12,000 feet of elevation gain. Kilian Jornet ran the grueling 42km trail race in 4 hours, 46 minutes, 5 seconds. Out of the six races leading up to the Annapurna Marathon, Jornet won three of them.

His wins were at the Zegama in Spain, Pikes Peak Marathon in the U.S., and Sierre Zinal in Switzerland. Jornet’s finish time of 2 hours, 25 minutes, 35 seconds at the Sierre-Zinal set a new course record (it’s also his seventh win at the race).

Jornet posted about his win on Instagram, thanking all the organizers of the race.

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What a race! A incredibly beautiful race for the @goldentrailseries final in Annapurna’s 🇳🇵 . The variety was crazy, from deep jungle to high mountains traversing technical forests and open fields with an amazing view of Annapurna’s and Machapuchare. . I felt actually good and could get the win after a nice climbing to the high point with @davidemagnini who finish 2nd in front of @stianangermundvik . Thanks to the organizers for an amazing work to put on this piece of a race, to all the spectators who were cheering in the trails and to @salomonrunning to make this trip possible! . #goldentrailseries #visitnepal2020 #timetoplay #annapurna100 📸 @martiskka

A post shared by Kilian Jornet (@kilianjornet) on Oct 25, 2019 at 6:06am PDT

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Today’s Bargains: 3 Can’t-Miss Gear Sales https://ift.tt/2MKbo2H

Great outdoor gear at an amazing price: That’s our goal each week. Check out the bargains below and save on gear for your next adventure.

Odlo SUW Natural X-Warm Base Layer Top — Men’s & Women’s: $55 (50% Off)

This extra-warm base layer is built for long-term performance and is ever so sleek. The midweight SUW Natural base layer from Odlo is made with virgin merino wool for the ultimate level of comfort.

In addition to the wool, the long-sleeve has brushed polyester “warming zones” on the lower back, shoulders, torso sides, and arms for temperature control all day long. This is a great deal for merino no matter how you slice it.

See the men’s Base Layer Top See the women’s Base Layer Top

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Sky 2 Tent: $322 (25% Off)

I love when backpacking tents are on sale, and this one from Mountain Hardware is a great deal. The 40-denier, two-door tent has an average amount of floor space but a great amount of headspace for taller folks, and has 9 square feet of vestibule area when the fly is on.

The fully taped seams and sealed corners means it will keep you dry from any harsh rain. And being a two-person tent, splitting the 3 pounds 9 ounces of weight between you and your camping partner is even better.

See the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Sky 2 Tent

Black Diamond Spark Gloves — Men’s & Women’s: $64 (20% Off)

I know that usually the rule is mittens are warmer, but I want gloves when I’m skiing on the mountain. These Spark Gloves from Black Diamond offer both cozy warmth and finger dexterity. The gloves have a fleece lining and waterproof insert all wrapped up in a tough goat leather shell.

The Spark gloves also have a hook-and-loop wrist closure to keep snow out while you’re on the mountain — whether it’s a day at the ski resort or a remote backcountry expedition. Get 20 percent off using the code FALLFLASH at checkout.

See the men’s Spark Gloves See the women’s Spark Gloves

The post Today’s Bargains: 3 Can’t-Miss Gear Sales appeared first on GearJunkie.

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Thursday, October 24, 2019

Logging Time With Vaer’s American-Assembled Heritage Dark Watch https://ift.tt/2BGbHVV

A field watch seems like a rather easy thing to design and make. Most do little more than keep time. But without fancy features to hide behind, every tiny detail draws scrutiny. And that’s why I love the Vaer Heritage Dark field watch.

There is much to consider when creating a basic wristwatch. Subtle things like font choice and the size of the numerals determine readability. The shape of the case, placement of the crown, or fabric used for the band establish the foundations for the overall aesthetic.

Material choice influences resistance to daily abuses, and, of course, the mechanism within must record the passing of time with unquestionable accuracy.

These are the elements of design Vaer’s founders, Ryan Torres and Reagan Cook, pined over before starting their small watch company in 2015.

It’s why they chose to assemble their watches, like their Heritage Dark, in Los Angeles. It affords the opportunity to sweat every detail from the chamfer of the bezel to the radius of case lugs and make changes as necessary.

From their workshop, they see each component carefully placed, by hand, by their own craftsmen. It’s an old-school way of making timeless timepieces.

Vaer Heritage Dark: Form Meets Function

Like many people, I don’t need a wrist-top computer. I just want easy access to the time and date. As a frequent international traveler, I prefer the simplicity of a classic watch. As I pass from one time zone to the next, I needn’t toggle through layers of digital menus just to advance the time an hour. Analog is sometimes best.

Of the things I like most about the Vaer Heritage Dark ($229), the classic styling and material quality win my praise. For the last 8 months, it has only left my wrist three times, each of those to swap out the included bands. I cringe to think of how much neglect and misuse it has endured.

And yet, it looks as good as it did out of the box. The beautifully sculpted and brushed 316L stainless steel case doesn’t show a single nick or scrape. I’m hell on watches, and the sapphire crystal has yet to display a single imperfection.

It’s participated in a dramatic motorcycle crash in the Himalayas and a mountain bike tumble in Chile’s Atacama — not that anyone would ever know. Although I’m not much of a water guy, I know it will survive a plunge to 100 m.

Despite the recent trend towards monstrous watches, the 40 x 9.5mm case doesn’t sit on my wrist like a doorknob. It’s sleek. I think that alone keeps it from smacking into things. The crown sits at the 3-o’clock position, out of harm’s way, and features deeply cut knurls for a sure grip when making finite adjustments to the time or date.

Inside the case, the Swiss-made Ronda 763 movement keeps superb time. If it gains or loses time, it can’t be more than a few seconds stretched over weeks. That’s certainly good enough for me.

Like most modern field watches, the Heritage Dark features luminous hands. Vaer recently upgraded its glow-in-the-dark lume to Super Lumi-Nova BGW9 blue for longer light retention and brighter glow. I wish the brand would have applied the same material to the numerals, but that’s a minor quibble.

Speaking to the big impact of tiny details, the choice of red for the second hand makes for a nice contrast to the black-and-white watch face. I don’t know what it is about a simple color choice, but it makes an otherwise innocuous feature stand out.

One of my favorite attributes includes the use of nylon and leather single-pass wrist bands. Swapping one for the other takes but a few seconds and does not require the removal of the retention pins.

The nylon bands include brushed metal hasps and strap retainers for a classic and finished look. My box included a Horween leather strap, which, I have to admit, doesn’t seem quite as refined as the nylon bands.

8 Months of Daily Use Later

Before I fawn too much over the Heritage Dark, I concede it owns two minor foibles.

With my less-than-hawk-like eyesight, I can’t often read the date once it rolls into the double digits. And, to get downright nit-picky, the lume on the numerals fades too quickly. It’s a little tough to read in the dark or in low light.

At $209, with a second watch band, there are other field watches with similar features for less. But watches are rarely about pure value.

The high-quality stainless steel and sapphire crystal drive the price above lesser watches, but it’s the provenance and sharp looks that will win customers — like me. I like things assembled in America by entrepreneurs gutsy enough to give it a go.

If you don’t need a watch capable of counting your steps, recording your location, or notifying you of incoming texts, the Vaer Heritage Dark might be the perfect antidote for information overload.

I know one thing: I love it when people ask me for the time. It gives me a chance to admire my watch.

The post Logging Time With Vaer’s American-Assembled Heritage Dark Watch appeared first on GearJunkie.

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Bollinger Motors Just Put a Price on This Electric Dream Truck https://ift.tt/2MJ06eX

We’ve been following the development of the impressive Bollinger Motors EV SUV and pickup for a few years now. Today, they finally put a price tag on our dream vehicle: $125,000.

Starting today, you can reserve your place in line to purchase either the Bollinger B1 four-door SUV or the B2 four-door pickup. The final price on both is $125,000. To get your name on an early-production vehicle, you’ll want to put down a $1,000 deposit today. Do note that this deposit is fully refundable at any time, according to Bollinger.

Production is expected to start in 2020 with “first deliveries slated for 2021.” This is at least a year past the projections set when no-deposit reservations were first taken last year.

Sales and service of Bollinger vehicles will be through independent dealers throughout the U.S. and in other global markets. Hopefully, delivery times and service options will become more clear soon, as both are a bit vague at this time.

Bollinger Motors B1 & B2 EV Stats

All-electric all-wheel-drive dual motor, 614 hp, 668 ft-lb torque
Performance: 4.5 seconds 0-60 mph, 100mph top speed, 200-mile range
Capability: 15” ground clearance (adjustable between 10″ and 20″), 10” wheel travel, 5,201-lb. payload capacity, 7,500-lb. towing capacity
Weight: 5,000-lb. curb weight, 10,001-lb. GVWR
Energy: 120kWh battery pack, 200-mile EP range, regenerative braking, 10-hour Level 2 (220V) charging time, 75-minute Level 3 (DC Fast) charging time
B2 truck bed dimensions: 4’1” W x 5’9” L
Dimensions (wheelbase/length/width): B1 118.8”/171.5”/77.2”, B2 139”/207.5”/77.2”
Cargo space: B1 113 cu ft, B2 not listed
Approach/breakover/departure angles: B1 52/30/43, B2 52/25/28
Tires: LT285/70/R17
Brakes: 11.75″ vented regenerative 4-wheel anti-lock inboard discs

Both the Bollinger B1 and B2 will be hand-assembled in the U.S. and feature many of the same options. Both will sport a fully electric drivetrain with dual motors and a 120kWh battery pack. In-wheel portal gear hubs will help both achieve a truly impressive 15 inches of ground clearance. Also impressive is the 5,000-pound payload capacity.

The Bollinger Motors full-electric vehicles are unique beasts, even when compared to the plethora of full-electric trucks and SUVs coming to market soon from the likes of Rivian, Tesla, and Fisker. The huge payload, unique cargo storage options/configurations, and portal axles are just a few of the things that set Bollinger apart.

Bollinger Motors is also planning relatively low production numbers, hand-building their vehicles and selling them at a very premium price. All of these decisions are generally the opposite of what we know now about current and potential competitors in the full-electric, off-road-capable truck/SUV space.

Do we want a Bollinger? Hell yes! These vehicles are extremely capable, can haul a ton of gear, and have classic, timeless looks. But the big price tag, vague delivery schedule, and unsecured aftersale support network have us keeping our wallets closed — for now.

If you’re in the LA area at the end of November, be sure to stop by the Los Angeles Auto Show to check out both of these Bollinger Motors’ vehicles in person.

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VaporKrar 2.0 4L Review: Run in Rob Krar’s Vest https://ift.tt/32O55Re

Nathan Sports built the VaporKrar 2.0 for Rob Krar, one of the top trail runners in North America. We put it to the test.

Knock on wood. I’ve stayed healthy this entire running season, logging just over 1,000 miles in the last 3 months. This includes some mountain trails I’ve been dreaming about for years: Wonderland, Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim, Timberline, and Teton Crest, among others. Yet most of these sweaty, muddy miles were on forest roads, through regional parks, and less-glamorous urban sidewalks.

This summer, I tested the VaporKrar 2.0 ($165), an updated running pack by Nathan Sports. Any time I planned on a long run — generally anything more than an hour — I would throw on the VaporKrar, stuff a few GU Energy snacks inside, fill the bladder with water, and head out.

I did this so often that my dog now associates the pack with a long run and gets extra excited when she sees it.

Nathan VaporKrar 2.0 Fit: Like a Glove

The new trend in running packs is to fit like a piece of clothing, hugging your body as tightly as possible. The rationale for this is straightforward physics — mass closer to the center of gravity takes less energy to move.

Many brands have taken note, designing shorts, shirts, and packs that help distance runners tuck snacks, spare layers, and water close to the body.

The VaporKrar 2.0 is especially good at this principal, with a streamlined design that I barely notice on my runs. The downside of this design that contours tightly around your chest is that, when you’re really pushing hard up a steep hill or grinding on long trails at elevation, your breathing is restricted just a little.

But the trade-off is certainly worth it — water and nutrition are necessary.

Durability: Small Cosmetic Tears, Still Full Integrity

My initial gripe with the pack was some small rips. Early in the season, I tackled a 50-mile route in the Grand Canyon and, admittedly, carried a lot of stuff. Still, I was surprised to see a couple of small tears at the top seams after the run.

Like all running packs, Nathan worked exceedingly hard to keep this pack as light as possible, and that led to some weak spots. I found them pretty quickly.

But after months of use in mud, rain, sleet, and dirt, the pack still performs like new, and these small tears haven’t expanded at all. It now has some sweat stains and mud marks, but all of this is cosmetic; the performance hasn’t declined at all.

Bounce: Best in Class

I’ve used a lot of other packs — Salomon, Ultimate Direction, and Patagonia to name a few — and nothing compares to minimal bounce of Nathan’s VaporKrar. When packed right, the apparel-like fit helps mitigate almost all bounce.

The front pockets are designed to provide easy access and spread out the weight. The pack has a compression strap that runs behind the hydration bladder, allowing you to compress the bladder as you drink. But the biggest difference comes in the bladder itself. It is an hourglass shape that helps eliminate the mind-numbing slosh sound and the equally painful bounce.

Storage: Pockets Everywhere!

Each shoulder strap of the VaporKrar 2.0 has two large pockets, good for hydration and snacks, plus a pill-specific pocket and a waterproof cellphone pocket. The back has two large slide-in pockets (for the bladder).

Plus, there’s an even larger zipper pocket for layers and more snacks as well as an easy-access slide-through pocket that you can reach with either hand. I use this most frequently for gloves, a hat, a headlight, and a windbreaker. Despite being listed as 4 L of storage, I’ve found that if you get crafty you can fit much, much more than that.

VaproKrar 2.0 Specs

Includes patented 1.8L Vapor hydration bladder
Apparel-like fit with a lightweight, breathable structure
Compression system tightens the load against your back for stability
Adjustable sternum straps attach for maximum flexibility and personalized comfort
Rear bladder pocket is easy to access on the go
Main rear zippered pocket with internal stash pocket
Multiple stash pockets for on-the-go access to essentials
Front storage for soft flasks, nutrition, smartphones sized up to iPhone 7 Plus
Storage capacity: 732 cubic inches
Weight: 12 oz./340 g (includes bladder)

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This Year’s Red Bull Rampage Is Scary https://ift.tt/2Wc9g6I

Red Bull Rampage happens in just 2 days. Now you can get an exclusive look at the crazy lines — and competition.

Red Bull Rampage is just like what it sounds — a risky, death-defying event in which pro mountain bikers fly down steep canyon lines. Each rider makes their own line and hits jumps and features they’ve built along the way.

The competition is known for showcasing some of the best riders in the world. But the event is also known for its crash-inducing level of difficulty. It’s also possibly the biggest competition in freeride mountain biking.

Follow along with riders like Carson Storch, Brandon Semenuk, and Brett Rheeder in the first practice event of Rampage.

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Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Is Everest Taller Than We Think? https://ift.tt/2N7WTof

After 2 years of surveying efforts, Nepal — and China — will announce the new official height of the world’s tallest mountain.

Mount Everest is 29,029 feet (8,848 m) tall — that has a nice ring to it. But what if it’s even taller? The mountain, which sits in the Himalayas in Nepal bordering Tibet, has shifted over the past decade. For years, Nepali officials at the Land Reform Ministry and Survey Department have been working to find out for sure how tall the mountain stands.

Is it possible the mountain has shifted? Of course. Mt. Everest lies on the Indian tectonic plate, which shifts a few millimeters every year. The direction in which the plate shifts, however, is dynamic and varies each year.

The department conducted four different methods of geological surveys, reported the Kathmandu Post: precise leveling, trigonometric leveling, gravity survey, and GNSS survey.

During Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent trip to Nepal, both countries signed an agreement that they would announce the new height together. “Mount Sagarmatha/Zhumulangma is an eternal symbol of the friendship between Nepal and China,” read the joint statement.

What’s the Official Height Now?

The true height today recognized by Nepal is 8,848 m, but that measurement was taken in 1954. In 1975, China measured the mountain as 8,848.13 m. Then in 1999, an American mountaineer from the Boston Museum of Science used GPS to declare Mt. Everest a new height of 8,850 m.

In 2005, China remeasured and declared a height of 8,844.43 m. Since then, the country of Nepal has been on a mission to measure the current height of the peak on their own.

Mt. Everest/Sagarmatha’s official new height will be announced later this week.

The post Is Everest Taller Than We Think? appeared first on GearJunkie.

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Hikers Find Human Skeleton in Sierra Nevadas https://ift.tt/32I82Ts

Tyler Hofer and his hiking partner had planned to summit California’s Mount Williamson that afternoon — not to discover a body.

On October 7, two climbers happened to venture off-route during their ascent of Mount Williamson, a 14,374-foot peak in California’s eastern Sierras. As they were heading up the mountain, they caught a glimpse of a skull in a boulder field. A human skull.

They decided to investigate and discovered a full set of human remains buried beneath some boulders. The hikers also found remnants of shoes and a belt.

“It wasn’t in a position of distress or curled up,” Hofer told the Associated Press. “It was definitely a burial because it was very strategically covered with rocks.” The skeleton apparently lay face up with its arms crossed.

The discovery of the remains led to a full investigation by the Inyo County Sheriff’s Department, who successfully airlifted out the skeleton. They plan to run a DNA test for identification.

“This is a huge mystery to us,” said Carma Roper, the Sheriff’s Department spokeswoman. This week, the Inyo County Sheriff’s Office released information on the mystery remains. So far, they haven’t found any possible matches in missing persons or search-and-rescue records.

According to the county sheriff’s office, the body — possibly a climber or a hiker — could have been there for decades.

The post Hikers Find Human Skeleton in Sierra Nevadas appeared first on GearJunkie.

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Best Outdoor Gear Deals of the Week https://ift.tt/2N4KOAc

This week’s best outdoor gear deals highlight a puffy blanket, a fleece jacket, a fixed-blade knife, and more.

Patagonia Descensionist Snow Pants — Women’s: $189 (50% Off)

These three-layer hardshell pants from Patagonia are a high-quality steal. If you’re like me and don’t like paying upwards of $300 for a pair of snow pants, these are a great option. The pants are made with a 50-denier nylon-polyester fabric with a DWR finish.

They’re also embedded with a RECCO reflector, which can help search-and-rescue personnel find you or your partner in an avalanche. Other great features on the Descensionist pants include large zippered thigh pockets, vented pant legs, and internal gaiters. They are stylish yet durable for those of us who get in lots of powder days.

See the Patagonia Descensionist Snow Pants

Rumpl Original Printed Puffy Blanket: $90 (30% Off)

If you don’t have a Rumpl puffy blanket, what can I say? You should get one. Are they necessary? No. But they’re ridiculously comfortable and useful to have on a camping trip.

Right now, multiple original printed styles from Rumpl are on sale. The “puffy” factor is made from synthetic insulation, and the blanket has a 20-denier ripstop nylon shell and water-repellent finish so you can use it anywhere you want outside.

See the Rumpl Puffy Blanket

Marmot Urban Hauler Pack: $28 (45% Off)

This top-loading bag is pretty unique and so very versatile. The straps are adjustable, so you can slide them to turn the bag from a backpack to a tote. This one weighs 11 ounces and can hold up to 14 L of gear: just enough to fit the essentials for commuting or a trip to your local gym.

The bag is nylon and has water bottle side pockets and a front zippered compartment. It was originally 26 percent off, but you can get an extra 25 percent off this sale item today.

See the Marmot Urban Hauler Pack See all items in extra 25% off sale

Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks — Women’s: $18 (20% Off)

Everyone needs socks. These crew socks from Darn Tough are darn comfortable, made with a blend of merino wool and nylon for moisture wicking and comfort all day long. The crew socks work great with both mid- and low-rise hiking boots, are durable, and will work for casual hikers, thru-hikers, and hardcore peakbaggers alike.

See the Darn Tough Hiker Crew Socks

Outdoor Research Interstellar Jacket — Women’s & Men’s: $119-177 (Up to 60% Off)

Outdoor Research’s three-layer Interstellar shell is an amazing waterproofing layer, and right now it’s also available an amazing price. The Interstellar is windproof, waterproof, and has necessary features like a helmet-compatible adjustable hood, zippered chest pocket, underarm panels, and key clip. It’s also pretty lightweight at 10-11 ounces.

Depending on your color of preference and size, you can save up to 60 percent on this item.

See the women’s Interstellar Jacket See the men’s Interstellar Jacket

See the full sale

KEEN Gypsum II Mid Boot — Women’s: $113 (25% Off)

Summer clearance sales are great, but sometimes the best time to buy a new set of boots is in the fall. And KEEN’s sale on the women’s Gypsum II hiking boot is a great example. The midrise boot is waterproof and contains KEEN.Dry, a breathable membrane that works to keep the elements out and sweat to a minimum.

The hiking boots have a multidirectional tread wit 4mm lugs and weigh in at 16.4 ounces. The style also offers a fair amount of heel and ankle support for those who prefer it or who hike in rougher terrain.

See the KEEN Gypsum II Mid Boots

KUHL Women’s Kiley Shirt & Men’s Invoke Shirt: $37-42 (50% Off)

These two tops from KUHL on sale right now are a great deal. The men’s and women’s styles are similar, both with a 50 UPF sun protection rating and adjustable cuffs.

The women’s Kiley style is an organic cotton blend with knit panels on the sleeves and double chest pockets. This long-sleeve is great for traveling.

The men’s Invoke style is similar, made from a nylon-polyester blend, featuring zippered chest pockets and side mesh panels for airflow. It’s great for traveling or a light hike.

And right now, you can get 50 perent off both.

See the women’s KUHL shirt See the men’s KUHL shirt

Morakniv Outdoor 4.1-Inch Fixed Blade: $12 (40% Off)

This fixed blade from Swedish-founded Morakniv is a great tool to have in your outdoor gear arsenal. This specific knife has a 4.1-inch high-carbon Sandvik steel blade with a Scandi grind and high-friction-grip plastic handle. This blade is great for general outdoor use or for cutting or caving wood. A textured plastic sheath is included.

See the Morakniv Fixed Blade

RedHead Explorer SCENTINEL Fleece Jacket & Pants — Men’s: $33-36 (40% Off)

This midweight fleece is a great and comfortable option for those who hunt, whether it’s early or late in the season. The jacket and pants have a scent-control technology fabric embedded with antimicrobial silver to reduce your scent in the field (and keep your gear fresh).

The jacket has two zippered slash pockets and a chest pocket, and the pants have fleece handwarmer pockets as well as cargo pockets for small gear storage. The RedHead Explorer SCENTINEL fleece layers come in two different camo color schemes.

See the RedHead Fleece Jacket See the RedHead Fleece Pants

The post Best Outdoor Gear Deals of the Week appeared first on GearJunkie.

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