Midwestern Mindset: GearJunkie

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Tuesday, October 22, 2019

RVLock: Push-Button Access to Any RV https://ift.tt/2W5xzDw

Unlock the convenience of keyless entry with coded security and a one-touch wireless remote for RVs.

Just 2 hours after purchasing our travel trailer, we sat at an RV resort scratching our heads. That’s when we realized the dealer locked our keys inside. Only minutes later, the park manager arrived on the scene, plucked a ring of keys from his pocket, and after two tries, swung our door wide open. I was pleased — but not happy.

That’s when I learned nearly every employee of an RV dealership carries a master key capable of unlocking any coach. It doesn’t work with the deadbolt, but that didn’t make me feel much better.

Because our RV serves as our home and mobile office, complete with all the expensive tools of my trade, security ranks high on my list of concerns. I immediately swapped the factory lock with a robust steel-core assembly from RVLock. The keyless-entry feature ensures I won’t lock myself out ever again.

Why Go Keyless?

Does anyone need a keyless entry system for their RV? Not really. That doesn’t mean it’s not a worthy purchase with practical benefits.

I try not to spend too much time sequestered inside. Whether I’m off fly fishing, trail running, or squeezing in a late-afternoon mountain bike ride, the last thing I want to do is squirrel away a key in a pocket a key I know I’ll lose.

Keyless locks are pretty straightforward. Type in the code and, open sesame, the deadbolt magically retracts. The RVLock adds a few extra bells and whistles. Users can select their own security code, and audible tones indicate locking and unlocking actions.

My favorite feature is the wireless remote. I can easily lock or unlock the unit with a tap of a button, just as I do with our truck. It’s a handy feature when walking to the door with my arms full of gear or groceries.

As short as my wife is, fiddling with keys and the cheap factory door lock often resulted in a flurry of expletives. It was hard for her to reach the lock and maintain the angle needed to turn the key. She often had to climb up the steps, unlock the door, then back down the steps to open the door, only to ascend the steps again. Okay, that’s not exactly a major life struggle, but it was a minor annoyance.

Now she can remotely open the lock, reach up to open the door, and presto, she’s in. It’s the little things, I guess.

Quick and Easy Install

Our kit included one locking assembly, two traditional keys, and a single wireless key fob remote. The lock pairs to a maximum of 10 remotes, but we only needed one extra at a minimal expense of $40.

Like most RV handles, a secondary lock secures the door lever. The included keys actuate both the handle and deadbolt tumblers. A manual lever inside the door also secures the deadbolt. We also ordered extra lock cores for our exterior cargo hatches. A single key unlocks everything now.

Although I fancy myself a handyman, I admit I sometimes fumble with even the most basic DIY projects. RVLock claims installation requires only one tool and 10 minutes. I would say that’s an honest assessment. A large battery compartment contains the four AA batteries that power the system. It’s easy to replace these, but we used the factory batteries all summer long.

With our lockout incident still fresh in my mind, I feel better knowing we have a much more secure system guarding our laptops, cameras, and other essentials. I wasn’t sure we needed to fork over $239 for the keyless-entry feature, but I’m glad we did. I have yet to lock myself out.

I just hope I don’t forget the code.

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Skiers Travel the Globe in Dreamy Ski Film https://ift.tt/33UByWd

Fall into a powder-filled dream state with this awesome amateur ski film.

In one winter season, Paul Norheim aims to show us what skiing is all about. And judging from this 30-minute globetrotting ski film, it’s about raw passion and skiing as much as possible. “I’m not a pro,” he said. “I just like to ski.”

He may not be a pro, but this ski film is full of pro moves. The 25-year-old skier from Norway cuts together gorgeous aerial footage of skiers on slopes across the world — Alaska, France, Italy, Norway, and the United States — into something called “The Dream State Project.”

From full storms to bluebird days, the film features lots of powder, epic lines, and positivity.

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Kids, Parents, and Skis: Nordica Film Series Highlights Families https://ift.tt/2BzQi0A

Nordica’s latest five-episode series focuses not on big descents or crazy stunts, but families who ski together. The first episode is live today.

Fifteen-year-old Stefano Pizzato is an elite ski racer. But he’s also a kid. Nordica’s newest series “It’s Family Time” profiles a variety of family figures who make skiing a big part of their lives.

“The inclusive and emotional campaign illustrates how skiing brings people and families together, becoming lifelong participants in the sport,” wrote Nordica in a press release.

Episodes range from lighthearted to serious. “Mom Stoke” tells the story of a ski mom’s balance raising kids, while “Breaking Barriers,” which goes live in January, tells a Latina girl’s story about her relationship with ski culture.

You can watch them all here as they release over the coming months.

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Monday, October 21, 2019

REI Outlet Sale: Save 48% on an Ultralight Outdoor Research Jacket https://ift.tt/2pLdwxV

Save up to 50 percent on Outdoor Research, prAna, Marmot, and KUHLduring REI’s Outlet sale. The sale ends on October 23, so act fast.

Whether charging up the mountain or knocking out an all-day multipitch climb, the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket will keep you protected from storms without weighing you down. And right now you can save an extra 25 percent off the already marked down jacket. That’s nearly 50 percent off!

You can also save an extra 25 percent on gear from Outdoor Research, Marmot, KUHL, and prAna. Be sure to check out the REI Outlet for the entire selection.

See the entire REI Outlet sale

Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket — Men’s & Women’s: $159 $83

Need full storm protection in a lightweight package? Then the OR Helium II is just what you need. The 2.5-layer Pertex Shield ripstop nylon is lightweight and waterproof. It weighs just 6.4 ounces and packs down to the size of a sandwich. It won’t take up much space in your pack or hanging on your harness, so there’s never any reason to go without.

It’s one of thru-hiker Dan “Knotts” Binde’s favorite pieces of gear. As he explained, “It’s proved to be super durable and doubles as a rain jacket and windbreaker. It cinches down at the waist and face, and keeps heat in like crazy. I don’t really have any negatives. I’ve put tons of miles on it, and it’s still holding up.”

With sealed seams and an adjustable hood, you’ll always be ready for the unexpected. Right now, you can score 48 percent off select colors of the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket.

See the men’s OR Helium II Jacket See the women’s OR Helium II Jacket

This article is sponsored by REI. View the entire REI Outlet sale for the full selection of deals.

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This British Columbian Backcountry Traverse Is Gaining Popularity https://ift.tt/2qtzWnO

The Spearhead Traverse in the Coast Mountains is a classic winter route. In this short film, we get a first look at the route, the mountains, and the beauty of this terrain.

Nestled between Whistler and Blackcomb ski destinations is the Spearhead Traverse. It’s a winter wonderland stretching 21 miles, with about 5,580 feet of glaciers and mountain. But the Traverse is also an area struggling to keep up with the crowds.

“It’s big terrain. It’s exploding in popularity, which is great, but it’s also dangerous,” says the film’s narrator.

The film, produced by Arc’teryx and Origin productions, tells stories from the route’s first skiers in 1964 to the efforts of freeskiers today. Transport yourself to British Columbia through 16 minutes of calm narration, gorgeous views, and chilling footage.

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GearJunkie Goes RVing: New Section Explores Life on the Road https://ift.tt/2MxVYhO

This month, GearJunkie launches a major series with Go RVing to explore the people, places, and gear of recreational vehicles. We hope you’ll come along for the ride.

Campers know that a lot hinges on the weather. As the GearJunkie team made its way to north-central Minnesota for a weekend of mountain biking, campfires, and tall tales, our eyes drifted to the clouds building over the aspen and pine forests.

We found an old access road among the crystal-clear gravel pit lakes of Cuyuna and set to work. We pulled out the tents and sleeping bags just as the first drops splattered heavily on the summer leaves. It was going to be a wet weekend.

But the weather had a lesson in store for us. As we opened an awning on the demo Winnebago Revel RV and set up lawn chairs under the relative shelter, beers cracked open. Just as expected, the stories flowed well into the night. And even as rain fell heavily from the sky, that campfire surged to life safely out of reach of the camper.

For one weekend, a diehard group of campers became RVers. And given that it happened to be a very wet weekend, we were all thankful.

The GearJunkie crew had a home base for cooking, staying dry, and organizing our work gear (yes, we worked!) even in the soaking rain. We saw firsthand the value RVs bring, especially when your life on the road intersects your work life in a very real way.

Go RVing: Vehicle for a Life of Exploration

In the next month, GearJunkie will share a series of articles exploring the world of RVs in Out of Office, presented by Go RVing.

But we won’t just focus on the gear. We’ll have profiles of RVers who shape the culture of life in a highly mobile community. We’ll share some of the best locations to visit with your RV (or van, truck, or car and tent!). And of course, we’ll have the gear.

And when we say gear, we mean in-depth articles about subjects like electronics for your RV and communications solutions for life off the grid.

So buckle up and join us for the ride. We hope you enjoy it.

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Taste Test: Boon Nut Butter First Look https://ift.tt/2Jbf1MT

A new brand from the creators of GU, Boon launches this month with nut butter and stroopwafels to keep even the hangry-est athletes from bonking.

After a long run with friends, Magda Boulet, the VP of Innovation at GU Energy, was hungry. Maybe not hungry enough for dinner, but certainly for something filling and nutritious — and nothing in her pantry fit the bill.

As an elite ultrarunner, Boulet is acutely aware of the importance of healthy food in daily life. I can attest to this personally, as she harps on my frequent ice cream indulgence every time we run together.

Soon after the kitchen incident, the idea for Boon was born. The conversations on purposeful snacks between workouts grew, and now, a few years later, the team is preparing to bring Boon to market.

Boon will launch with two products — nut butters and stroopwafels — and grow from there. Both of the products will come in four flavors: ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and espresso. The stroopwafels are gluten-free and contain quinoa, chia, buckwheat, millet, and amaranth. The brand crafts nut butters with ingredients like almonds, cashews, and MCT oil. These provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

For the last few months, I’ve been a beta tester of the nut butters — I wish eating nut butter could be my full-time job — learning firsthand about the importance of good food in my daily life. As Boulet likes to say, every snack we eat is helping us prepare for our next adventure.

Boon Nut Butter: Tasty Flavors, Not Overpowering

Ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and coffee have been used for centuries for a wide variety of benefits. More importantly, these flavors are delicious. Boon employs these flavors in its nut butters, helping you prepare for hiking, biking, running, and climbing adventures.

Two things initially stand out about these flavors. First, each is surprisingly subtle. They aren’t a dominating force like a lot of candies and artificially flavored snacks. Instead, you can taste the nuts and oils, with an added flavor of spice.

Second is the variety. Most nut butters sold today are plain, chocolate, maple, or honey. The additions of cinnamon, coffee, and ginger stand out in the market.

A Spoonful: Ingredients, Taste, Texture

The Boon team is obsessed with small details. The ingredients list best demonstrates this. For example, the brand sources the coffee beans from Equator Coffee, also local to the Bay Area. And the Ginger People supplies the ginger, ensuring the highest-quality ingredients.

The team only partners with socially responsible, environmentally conscious brands that align with its values. None of the nut butters have palm oil, added sweeteners, or artificial ingredients.

The ingredients list is short, easy to comprehend, and, frankly, probably easy to copy if someone wanted to. The differentiator for Boon is quality. I probably could — and sometimes do — just eat full spoonfuls of these butters. They are that good.

In the last couple months, they have become my go-to complement for toast, bananas, apples, bars, crackers, carrots, and most handheld foods. The nut butters are made from California almonds, cashews, and unique sources of fats like MCT oil. And, in general, they’re more firm and concentrated that many oil-heavy butters on the market.

The Bottom Line: Cost, Packaging, Availability

Boon will be sold in packaging similar to GU Energy gels, which are single-serve and easy to open. This will make them easy to pack and take on the go. The brand has plans to sell Boon nut butters in bulk packaging as well but has not released details on it yet.

Boon will hit shelves at the end of October, available online and in select retailers starting at $16 for a box. As of writing this, the brand has not set a price for an individual package of nut butter.

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Merrell Long Sky Review: Ultrarunner-Designed Trail Shoe https://ift.tt/2MCrY4F

Merrell will release the Long Sky trail-running shoe, designed with ultrarunner Anna Frost, in November. We got an early test on these trail runners and put them to the test in the Grand Tetons.

As we set off from Granite Canyon Trailhead, I knew I was testing my luck. Taking a shoe out of the box, putting it on your foot, and running 23 miles is not a great formula for anything but blisters. But hell, my racing season was over and peer pressure was being laid on thick. Why not give it a go?

Along with four others, I had come to Jackson to test a pair of soon-to-launch trail shoes by Merrell. Primarily known for its ubiquitous hiking boots, the Michigan-based brand quietly entered the trail-running market a handful of years ago and has started to make a name for itself. But, until this trip, I had yet to try a pair.

As an avid trail runner, I log a couple thousand miles every year and am always on the lookout for a better-fitting, lighter, grippier, faster shoe. The opportunity to spend 3 days running in one of my favorite places was too hard to turn down despite the cold and wet weather forecast.

Our first day was the longest, a near-marathon on the Valley Trail, with almost 4,000 feet of elevation gain. The trail was muddy and slick, making a good litmus test for the Long Sky.

In short: The Long Sky is a middle-of-the-road trail-running shoe that should work well for many runners. It fits and average foot well. Its 8mm drop and luggy outsole make it a good choice for a large swath of trail runners.

Initial Feel: Snug, Comfortable Fit

The Long Sky fit well out of the box, and the first few miles were surprisingly comfortable. In fact, from the start of our run, I barely thought about the shoes — which is the biggest compliment a new pair of runners can get.

While this shoe is primarily designed to go longer distances such as ultras, it didn’t take more than a few hundred steps for me to break one in. As I test it more in the coming months, I’m curious to see how it holds up over a lot of miles. But for now, I’ll say it’s one of the more comfortable distance runners out there.

Traction: Good When Dry or Wet

Our route started with a few big climbs; one of the first things that struck me was the traction. Over the last couple weeks, I have worn the Long Sky in other conditions and terrain as well — rocks, roots, wet, and dry — and the shoes have yet to slip or slide.

The grip pattern and sticky rubber pair together to become one of the best trail shoes I’ve used, at least as far as traction goes. This was true for me when climbing or flying down technical descents.

Merrell’s secret is a totally new tread using a Vibram Megagrip rubber sole. It’s an aggressive pattern they spent 2 years testing and refining, and the result truly shows this effort. It’s designed for rugged mountain terrain and was designed in collaboration with one of the brand’s premier athletes, Anna Frost.

Support: Relatively Average

The cushioning on the Long Sky is, relatively speaking, pretty average when compared with some of the other top-tier trail shoes on the market. While I didn’t have any issues or new pain on our long run in Jackson, I’m slightly concerned that I might over time. This shoe is designed to be a race-day speedster, meaning the design team at Merrell cut every ounce they could.

No shoe is perfect, and the Long Sky sacrifices some cushioning to make it keep the weight at just 10 ounces for our men’s tester size. As someone who has fought sustained hamstring issues, I value support very highly. It is one of the biggest factors for me when selecting a new shoe, especially something I’m going to train in for hundreds of miles.

Protection: Ready for Rocks

Despite running a lot, I’m still pretty mediocre. I kick a lot of rocks and sticks, trip on ruts, and slip on creek crossings all the time. So, a well-built, durable shoe is a priority.

I kicked quite a few rocks on our run in Jackson — a technical and rocky trail — and the shoes held up well. Sure, small sample size, but it’s still impressive to start. The upper is made from tear-resistant fabric and has an added protective material at the toe.

I was most impressed with how they felt when running through wet conditions. I stepped in the water several times, and they maintained their comfort level and warmth. The Long Sky has a breathable mesh lining and internal bootie for a well-sealed top that still allows water to drain. Even when wet, the shoe still performed well, with great traction and comfort.

Fit: Good for Most Feet

I have a very average foot, and the new Merrell foot box fits well. Others in the group with wider feet said the same thing — that the Long Sky could accommodate them as well. The new split-sole design allows the toe box and heel to articulate independently, which helps as you roll over rocks and other obstacles.

When I occasionally step on uneven ground, this feature helps the toe move without pulling on the heel. This gave me a great deal of confidence and control compared to other shoes with a continuous sole and rock plate.

Merrell Long Sky Features & Specs

Mesh and TPU upper
Reflective details for increased visibility
Traditional lace closure
Molded TPU heel counter for added stability
Internal bootie for locked-in fit
Breathable mesh lining
Removable EVA foam insole with medial post for light pronation control
Vibram Megagrip
Stack height (heel/toe): 24.5 mm/16.5 mm
Weight (one shoe): 10 oz. (280 g) men’s / 8 oz. (230 g) women’s
Drop: 8 mm
Lug: 5 mm
MSRP: $130

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Banana Runner and ‘Heavy Water’ Champions: Adventure News of the Week https://ift.tt/2VYxJfM

From the inspiring to the tragic, ‘Adventure News of the Week’ presents a wrap-up of top news in the world of exploration and adventure.

WORLD TOUR: Red Bull Heavy Water Paddleboarding Champions Announced. The 13-mile paddle course and surf competition saw Casper Steinfath win for the second year in a row in the men’s category. Although the competition was cut short due to conditions, Terrene Black from Australia claimed the women’s title.

Central Coast Stand Up Paddler Terrene Black won the Women's Red Bull Heavy Water Race 2019 in extremely challenging conditions in San Francisco. The race pushed every athlete beyond their abilities. Men's winner Casper Steinfath said "I was so scared & not sure how we survived" pic.twitter.com/iIek14JgxL

— LIVE LOCAL SPORT (Central Coast NSW) (@LiveLocalSport) October 19, 2019

HIKER RESCUE: A Lost Oregon Hiker Survives a Brutal Snowstorm. Robb Campbell was hiking the PCT when he wandered 7 miles off course — and then a blizzard swept in. The hiker called 911, but his call dropped, so he found shelter in a pit toilet restroom. Search-and-rescue personnel were able to track his footprints. He survived the ordeal with frostbite and minor injuries.

CYCLING JAPAN: Bauke Mollema Wins the Japan Cup Cycle Road Race. Mollema, who’s placed in the top 10 in all three Grand Tours, won the 13-lap, 144km race in just 3 hours 41 minutes. The one-day race travels over Mt. Kogashiyama in Japan and reaches grades up to 6.9 percent.

What a day!! Unbelievable.@Il_Lombardia @TrekSegafredo pic.twitter.com/a84q6v21Bf

— Bauke Mollema (@BaukeMollema) October 12, 2019

HUNGRY BEAR: Bear Enters Hikers’ Truck Looking for Food. Hikers in Canada had a rude awakening when they returned to camp to realize they’d forgotten to close their truck hatch. A bear was trapped inside. The hikers were able to release the hatch safety, and the bear wandered off.

Minnesota Woman ‘Everests’ by Bike in 23 Hours 10 Minutes. Minneapolis native Alix Magner, 39, rode her bicycle up a 6.5-percent-grade hill in neighboring St. Paul 170 times, nonstop, on October 11. Why? Because after nearly a full day of continuous pedaling — without sleep — Magner climbed the equivalent of Mt. Everest, and then some.

“It was by far the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Magner told the Star Tribune. “Everesting” is a global cyber-challenge in which riders must repeatedly climb a hill until they’ve logged 29,029 feet — the height of Everest. Magner actually climbed 29,580 feet in her push and is the first to Everest the local street.

BANANA MAN: American Man Breaks World Record While Running as Fruit. American Melvin Nyairo broke the record this weekend for running the fastest half marathon while dressed as a fruit. He finished in 1:15:35. (Yes, someone already held that record.) Nyairo, who ran as a Chiquita banana, beat out the previous record-holder, Rob Lapensee, who ran as a bunch of grapes.

I am thrilled to announce that I have accomplished my goal of breaking the Guinness World Record for running the fastest…

Posted by Melvin Getumbe Nyairo on Sunday, October 20, 2019

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Friday, October 18, 2019

Editors’ Take: Behind This Week’s Biggest Headlines https://ift.tt/2BlwTQZ

Each week, GearJunkie editors dive into the most provocative headlines of the week. Go beyond the story and hear our take on what’s making news.

Where are all the female park rangers? GearJunkie’s Mary Murphy and Sean McCoy discuss Yellowstone National Park’s hiring of the first female chief ranger in its 147-year history. Many women work in our nation’s parks, but no women so far have held the chief position at Yellowstone.

Earlier this year, the NPS also appointed the first female chief ranger in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We hope to see more diversity in national parks ranger appointments in the future.

Have you heard about Leatherman’s new K Series pocket knife and want to know more? We break down all the tools in the newest Leatherman K2 and K4, including the magnetic features, serrated blade, and complete one-hand operability.

“For the everyday carry market … this is a great product,” editor Sean McCoy points out. Read the review and let us know what you think.

Finally, there’s some exciting news from Boa technology regarding how some of its closures can improve performance. The scientific study conducted by the University of Denver will be available before the end of the year.

Get all this and more on the Weekly Roundup, presented by Go RVing.

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Overland Expo East: Top Gear for Adventure Vehicles https://ift.tt/2VUXCgt

Now in its sixth year and at its fourth location, Overland Expo East managed to dodge the extreme weather that has plagued the event for so long. Under new management and ownership, the expo is better organized at its new home at Infinity Downs Farm in Arlington, Virginia. I visited with the nearly 200 vendors displaying the latest gear to dig up the latest and greatest from the overland world.

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6 Great Female-Focused Adventure Films https://ift.tt/31t7izS

A growing number of female filmmakers, directors, producers, and subjects are broadening outdoor narratives on screen.

It’s no secret that women are underrepresented in adventure films. But the paradigm is starting to shift. There’s a momentum among female filmmakers and stories they tell. And the growth of women-centric film festivals like “No Man’s Land” and the Women Sports Film Festival evidence this push even further.

“The more we see of women in these mediums, the more we’ll see women in these sports,” said Aly Nicklas, director of “Blue,” a dream-like fat biking story full of female shredders.

“There’s a cumulative impact of sharing these kinds of stories: My goal is to contribute towards showcasing the value of women’s stories in the outdoor space, and to do so in new, imaginative ways.”

Below are six epic documentaries — and their directors — that celebrate the female lens in winter sports.

Best Female Outdoor Documentaries of 2019

‘Blue’

“Blue” takes viewers through Alaska’s glacial mountains by way of a female crew of fat bikers.

“The film serves as a fantastical reminder to dream beyond the boundaries of what you may currently perceive to be possible,” Nicklas said. “Our hope was to portray these genre-pushing women in a way that inspired women and girls of all ages.”

‘This Mountain Life: Director’s Cut of the Skiing Nun’

“You see lots of movies about men doing crazy things and trying to bag peaks. In reality, there’s a diversity of people drawn to the mountains, and that’s why I want to share those stories,” said Jenny Rustemeyer, producer of “The Mountain Life.”

‘Creek Sessions’

“Creek Sessions” distills the experience of venturing outdoors through conservationist and climber Jess Kilroy, who goes to Indian Creek to rope up and create music.

“There are endless perspectives on the outdoors — regardless of your gender,” director Tahria Sheather said.

“We all have a unique lens through which we view the world. Jess’ celebrates the subtle elements of the outdoors that are often drowned out in traditional outdoor films. She reminds us that it does us good to tune into the quiet in nature. Her music is also an effortless, beautiful vehicle to explore a far heavier topic of the loss of wild spaces.”

‘Eighth Wonder’

“Eighth Wonder” follows Erica Madison, a scientist who quits her job to become a commercial fisher in Bristol Bay, Alaska.

“There are actually tons of women and incredible diversity all around Bristol Bay fishery. And the fishery’s astounding aspects are universally understood and felt by anyone in it,” director Ryan Peterson said.

“Erica’s superpower is that she is funny, articulate, heartfelt, and strong as shit — but so are lots of people. I’m not sure if there is any voice or perspective here that diversifies a traditional one, other than we have a woman providing it. That in and of itself is still somewhat revolutionary for outdoor films.”

‘Dead Last’

“I hope ‘Dead Last’ can broaden people’s perspective and understanding of who an athlete is regardless of gender, physical ability, or age,” producer Sarah Herron told us.

In the film, adaptive climber Kaitlyn Heatherly overcomes self-limiting beliefs to compete at the paraclimbing world championships.

“The lead role of adventure films is often a mega-athlete, or there’s an unattainable goal, which may alienate viewers from the message altogether,” Herron said. “As a person with a limb difference who loves the outdoors, my hope is that the young girl who thinks she could never be an athlete sees this film and is inspired to try if that’s something deep down she wants.”

‘Life of Pie’

Mountain biking brought life partners Jen Zeuner and Anne Keller to Fruita, Colorado. The small community wasn’t completely open yet to trail development — or “nontraditional” relationships. When the couple co-launched a pizza shop, The Hot Tomato, their business flourished and helped locals foster inclusivity.

“I wanted to see if we could tell a mountain bike story with more depth and meaning that we’re used to seeing,” director Ben Knight said.

“The majority of mountain bike films have been focused on the riding, landscapes, and textures — not so much what gives the sport a pulse. Mountain biking is quickly becoming less associated with joy and more associated with $120,000 vans and $12,000 bikes. It’s important to remember [the sport’s] dusty ghetto roots.

“Anne and Jen love to ride and love sharing it with people. If riding is their identity, it’s for the right reasons.”

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Free Gear Fridays: One Eleven Field Watch Giveaway https://ift.tt/32suakF

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 Field Watch from One Eleven!

More on the product: Designed with the environment in mind, the Field Watch features a solar-powered movement that continually charges in both natural and artificial light, rPet straps crafted from recycled plastic bottles, 75-percent-recycled stainless steel, and bioplastic made from plant-based castor oil.

The Field Watch is durable enough to keep up with your most rugged adventures and timeless enough for those city days too. Featuring a high-contrast dial with luminous hands, 24-hour time, time zone functionality, and waterproofing up to 10 atm, the Field Watch will keep you on time and on point — wherever your adventures may take you.

This watch will be available in November. Enter below for your chance to win!

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The post Free Gear Fridays: One Eleven Field Watch Giveaway appeared first on GearJunkie.

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Backpackers: This Is the Only Coffee Mug You Need https://ift.tt/2VSzpHK

The GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacking Mug is cheap, effective, and light. I’ve been abusing one for several years, and it just keeps on working as the best coffee mug for hikers and backpackers.

OK, so coffee mugs aren’t exactly high-tech equipment. You won’t die if one fails. Or will you? Some of us really like our coffee in the morning.

But when backpacking, weight is a big concern. A lot of people skimp on bowls, plates, and utensils. I certainly do. But there’s one container that goes on every hike with me: the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacking Mug.

First off, it weighs just 3.5 ounces. While yes, that is some weight, it’s worth every gram. Second, this is a heck of a value, costing just $10. And third, it holds 17.5 ounces of fluid (enough to use as a bowl in a pinch).

Best Light Coffee Mug for Campers: GSI Infinity

While there are tons of great mugs for everyday use from brands like Stanley and YETI, those double-wall insulated containers are heavy. For backpacking, this superlight product is perfect.

The rigid interior cup is BPA-free, non-leaching polypropylene. GSI wraps that with a cloth-covered, insulated neoprene sleeve. On the bottom, nonslip footing keeps it secure on slick surfaces.

The insulation is just right for a quick pre-dawn coffee while hunting or even for leisurely camp coffee. Stuff stays hot long enough to allow me to continue getting ready for my day while sipping drinks over a half hour or so.

It has a good lid that seals tightly enough to cause suction when changing altitude. A small tab opens to allow you to sip your coffee or tea without opening it entirely. It’s avoided many spills.

Finally, a sturdy webbing handle offers a grip. It collapses flush for storage.

The plastic doesn’t seem to hold onto flavors much, and I’ve used this thing for coffee, oatmeal, wine, whiskey, water — you name it — over years of backcountry abuse. The outside sleeve is dirty as heck. But beyond that, it works as good as the day it was new.

I’m sure there are other good mugs on the market. But after using this for dozens of big hikes and backcountry hunting trips, I cannot imagine how one could be better. I see really no flaws in this, and for $10, you really can’t go wrong.

The post Backpackers: This Is the Only Coffee Mug You Need appeared first on GearJunkie.

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

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.

REI Co-Op Trail Pack 40L — Women’s & Men’s: $59 (50% Off)

REI hosted a summer clearance deal last week, but there are still some great summer sale items in stock, like the brand’s 40L Trail Pack.

The perimeter steel frame and abundance of pockets means the pack isn’t superlight but is superdurable for hiking and non-hiking travel. Other great specs on this pack include trekking pole clips, a hip belt, and included rain cover. The pack comes in different sizes (measured by torso length) and multiple colors for both men and women hikers.

See the women’s 40L Trail Pack See the men’s 40L Trail Pack

Columbia Pilsner Peak Pants — Women’s & Men’s: $11 (Up to 66% Off)

These wonderful quick-drying hiking pants from Columbia are on sale now. The Pilsner Peak pant comes in men’s and women’s styles and is a great versatile choice for taking on any trail.

The pants have articulated knees, roll up into capris, and are made with Columbia’s Omni-Wick technology (a polyester and nylon fabric) rated to 50 UPF protection. Lightweight, slim, and durable — these pants are a great deal.

See the women’s Columbia Pilsner Peak Pants See the men’s Columbia Pilsner Peak Pants

Native Eyewear Linville Polarized Sunglasses: $64 (50% Off)

We all need to protect our eyes from the harsh sun — whether hiking, biking, or traveling. Luckily, these Native Eyewear polarized unisex sunnies are 50 perccent off at REI.

The sporty Linville model offers 100 percent UV protection and blocks 40 percent of infrared light to decrease eye fatigue. The frame is sturdy a thermoplastic, with built-in vents, so your lenses don’t fog up in the middle of your adventure.

See the Native Eyewear Linville Sunglasses

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

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La Sportiva TX Guide Review: The Most Runnable Approach Shoe https://ift.tt/2BqqT9z

The La Sportiva TX Guide is at home on both flat terrain and near-vertical crags. It’s a great choice for fast-and-light hikers on technical terrain.

As the horizontal world of running and the vertical world of climbing start to blend, there is a gap in technical footwear suitable for these hybrid adventures. You either lean toward a trail-running shoe that runs better but lags in climbing ability, or you go with an approach shoe that climbs well but offers a less-than-desirable ride while running.

Of all the companies situated to make a first-class hybrid running approach shoe, La Sportiva comes to mind first.

It already produces some of the world’s best rock climbing, approach, and running shoes. Imagine if the running and climbing teams at La Sportiva collaborated on a shoe that runs like the Bushido, climbs like the Solution, and scrambles like the TX4! Every athlete who moves fast in the mountains would own a pair.

While La Sportiva’s latest approach shoe isn’t quite as dreamy as my imaginary perfect shoe, it’s a step closer.

La Sportiva TX Guide Review

Targeted for mountain guides and climbers who want a nimble, comfortable approach shoe that’s adept at moving fast horizontally and vertically, the TX Guide falls in La Sportiva’s Traverse X approach shoe line.

Despite its classification as an approach shoe, it’s strikingly similar to some of La Sportiva’s best trail-running shoes. It has the same dual-density compressed EVA that’s found in the Bushido II and Kaptiva. It rocks an Ortholite insole also found in the trail-running shoes.

Toe-Rand-Image- — An up-close look at the protective toe rand on the TX Guide

The midsole is rather firm with little flex thanks to a rigid TPU Torsion Shank. This works well carrying heavy loads through talus fields, but not as well on a smooth running surface. Despite the firm undertone, it’s rather comfortable with hints of a trail-running shoe.

Although I didn’t get to spend an extended amount of time in the shoe, I got the sense it would ripen with time, losing some of its rigidity, ultimately running a bit smoother.

The outsole has a dual compound Vibram Megagrip under the forefoot and IdroGrip rubber with La Sportiva’s Impact Braking System in the heel. The combo handles loose rock and dirt terrain better than all the other approach shoes in the TX line.

If I were judging it as a pure runner, it’s not on par with pure trail-running shoes. However, as a dual-duty running approach shoe, it’s the best I’ve tested.

TX-Guide-vs-TX4-Image- — A comparison of the TX Guide outsole against the TX4 outsole.

Climbing, Running Shoe Gray Area

In terms of climbing ability, it also falls in the gray area between a true approach shoe and a trail-running shoe. It’s much better than any trail-running shoe I’ve used, but it’s not quite as good as an approach shoe.

Outfitted with a full rubber toe rand and a generous climbing zone that extends a good distance down the big toe (even more so than it’s TX siblings), the TX Guide has plenty of edging power.

The asymmetrical lacing system extends down toward the toes for a more dialed-in precision fit while climbing.

Lacing-Image — A look at the asymmetrical lacing system more commonly seen on approach shoes

If you want a shoe that both runs and climbs well, the TX Guide is the best shoe I’ve seen. It combines the nimbleness and comfortable feeling of a trail-running shoe with the sticky-soled edging ability of an approach shoe. The La Sportiva TX Guide will be available in late winter 2020 and will retail for $159.

Cory Smith is a Santa Barbara, California-based athlete, online running coach, and freelance journalist specializing in running- and climbing-related content and gear review. He draws from over 25 years as an elite runner and rock climber for ideas, inspiration, and expertise.

His work has been featured in Outside Magazine, Trail Runner, GearJunkie, Gear Patrol, Philadelphia Magazine, and Gear Institute. Check out his portfolio at www.storiesbycory.com.

The post La Sportiva TX Guide Review: The Most Runnable Approach Shoe appeared first on GearJunkie.

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