Monthly Archives: July 2014

Black Diamond Ultra Distance Trekking Pole Review
July 30, 2014
The Ultra Distance trekking pole from Black Diamond Equipment is (as with all Black Diamond gear) an excellent piece of hardware. The lightweight design of these specific trekking poles is what makes them stand out from the pack and what peaked my interest around them. Through a combination of carbon fiber construction and Black Diamond’s Z-Pole […]

What to expect when guiding a trip
July 25, 2014
When it’s up to you to plan a trip, coordinate a group of people, and finally lead that group into the great unknown a lot of responsibility is on your shoulders – in fact all of it is. The success or failure of a trip and the joy others get out of the experience depends […]

REI Flex Lite Chair Review
July 24, 2014
The REI Flex Lite chair is an ultra compact fully featured camp chair. It folds down into a very small package, due to its “tent pole like construction”, but doesn’t skimp on support allowing you to kick it in luxury no matter where you are. I picked up this chair specifically to take with me on multi-night […]

Kayak Overnight Packing List Published!
July 15, 2014
My latest packing list is now live! Its what I take with me when I go on an over night kayak trip. I’m heading out this weekend for a two night kayak around the San Juan Island in Washington so its literally everything that is going in my boat! Kayak Overnight Packing List

Trailblazer Sawvivor Collapsible Saw Review
July 11, 2014
While not a new product the Trailblazer Sawvivor collapsible saw is an item that very few people seem to know about. It is hands down my favorite way to process wood in the backcountry – either for trail building or for a campfire. Its extremely lightweight design coupled with incredible usability and a low cost […]

Osprey Exos 48 Backpack Review
July 8, 2014
For 2014 Osprey updated their very popular Exos line of packs. The newest update has a couple big changes – primarily squishy new shoulder and hip belt straps that promise a more comfortable ride. There is also a cool new double lid (called the FlapJacket) that makes it easier to use the Exos with the head pouch […]

REI Flash 45 Backpack Review
July 1, 2014
The REI Flash 45 backpack is another iteration of REI’s Flash line of gear (which includes sleeping bags and pads as well as backpacks). Its geared as a lightweight pack perfect for weekend trips or extended trips if you are an ultralight enthusiast. This pack stands out for three reasons – its weight (just over 2 lbs.), […]