We’ve had a ‘Maine’ winter this year – without most of the snow.  We’ve had cold and we’ve had wind.  Lots of wind – leads to power outages, etc.  Unfortunately – lack of snow means my winter snowshoeing/camping trips have been put on hold.  So far, the Lumapivot has been used inside, while bringing in wood for the stove and while walking the dog.  So far, all I can say is: Wow!  This little lantern puts out a lot of light!  It pivots (of course) and shines in just about any direction.  When I first opened up the box and rotated the lights, I laughed  and thought it looked like a character out of Star Wars.  I’m not laughing at it now – I am smiling though.  The light can set on a table, hang from a hook – or my belt for hands free carrying.  Its sturdy enough that dropping it on the floor or a pile of frozen snow won’t hurt it.  I’m looking forward to getting to use in on a camping trip – either in the snow, or in Florida in a few weeks.

After using the Lumapivot for about 4 hours total, I have not noticed the light being diminished at all.  At this point I would keep spare batteries handy, but plan on continuing to use the originals to watch for any change and to see when they actually die.

Product Description from website:

Kelty Lumapivot Lantern

• 30 5mm Nichia LEDs
• Direct Pivot Technology: 2 swivel LED panels fold out & rotate 360 degrees
• Anodized Aluminum handle and accents
• 3 Watts
• Weather resistant
• 3-step Switch: Two panels / one panel / off
• ABS plastic body
• Weight measured w/o batteries
• Batteries: 6 AA, not included

Burn time (High): 6 hours
Burn time (Low): 12 hoursReadable light area: 20′ beam / 6 M beam

'Closed' View of the Lumapivot

Usable light area: 35′ beam / 10.6 M beam
Maximum Lumen output: 110
Minimum Lumen output: 60

• Weight: 15.9 oz / 450 g
• Height: 9.5″ / 24 cm
• Width: 4.25″ / 11 cm
• Depth: 3.5″ / 9 cm

Review by Arnie P

ready for New England winter weather

I received the Sandstone Peak Parka from Hi-Tec for review purposes.  This is not my grandfather’s fur lined parka which probably would have been made from caribou or seal  for protection from wind and freezing temperatures.  Here we are over a hundred years later with a parka that is a lot lighter, and a lot more versatile as you will read from my review.  To read more.

I have the large size in Malta/Black colors.  Other colors available are Roma/Charcoal, and Petrol/Charcoal.  The Sandstone is comprised of three parts: a detachable hood, a detachable long sleeve down vest, and an outer shell.  I will discuss the common parts which I find interesting and important to me.  The zippers on all three parts have large teeth.  I love the idea of large teeth on zippers because they have less tendency to get caught in the material and if they do get caught they are easier to untangle and tend to cause less damage.  They also are less likely to break.  The down side is they do have spaces which let in air.  This has been compensated for with a flap that is attached with a hook and loop system.  Hook and loop is used to adjust the cuffs on the sleeves of both the shell and the down jacket and also is used to attach the sides of the hood.  A cinch system is used to adjust the tension at the bottom of the jackets and the perimeter of the hood.  The cinch system consists of a press down device that allows an elastic cord to be adjusted to the right tension.

The detachable hood

The hood is constructed of a double layer of material and is attached to the shell with a zipper across the back of the neck with a hook and loop “sandwich” at each end of the zipper.  The attaching material is about an inch and a half making for a secure connection.  The teeth on the hood zipper are a lot smaller but this zipper will probably have a lot less use.  There appears to be a generous amount of overlap of the hood over the outer shell to minimize penetration by winds.  The hood, combined with sunglasses, leaves only a small amount of my face unprotected from the elements.  The two cinches on the hood are very easy to adjust.

inside view of detachable hood

The stand-alone long sleeve down jacket

The down jacket is Charcoal and very attractive.  It is attached to the main shell with a zipper on each side and three loops on the down jacket.  There is a loop at the end of each sleeve and one at the neck.  The shell has a fabric loop with snaps to secure the loops to the outer shell.  The ends of the sleeves have a hook and loop system to secure the ends of the sleeve to my wrists.  The same one-way zipper that attaches the down jacket to the shell also serves to close the jacket when it is used as a stand-alone.  The down jacket has 4 pockets — 2 inner and 2 outer, located near the waist and near the front center of the jacket.  The side opening outer pockets are large enough for my hands and a light weight glove or mitten and have flap concealed zippers with the tab at the top when closed.  With this arrangement I have less trouble with items falling out.  The teeth on these zippers are small, but again pockets don’t get as much use as the main zipper.  The inner pockets are open at the top and are rectangular in shape and larger than the outside pockets. (see specifications for details).  There are 2 cinches at the bottom of the jacket..  When I had the jacket on, I had trouble getting both hands to the location of the cinches.  I could, with some difficulty, adjust the cinches single handed, but not easily.  Maybe if I was younger this would be a lot easier.  I would have preferred the cinches placed closer to the main zipper where I could make easier use of both hands.  I can see this down jacket, along with a hat, used on cold days that are not windy, raining or snowing.

inside pocket of down jacket

hang loop for down jacket

loop to attach down sleeve to shell

The stand-alone Sandstone Peak parka

The Sandstone shell has 5 side opening zippered pockets, 4 on the outside and on the inside one at chest level on the left side near the zipper.  This pocket has a port for ear buds for an electronic device.  There is also a loop to hold the wires in place for the ear phone bud.  Two of the outside pockets are located near the waist and the other two are at chest level.  The zippers are vertical and closed in the up position.  The outside zippers are covered by a flap.  The upper outside pockets have a rubberized substance over the flaps.  The pockets are all about the size of my hand and I could wear a thin glove or liner glove and still have room.  The inside of the Sandstone is lined with a mesh fabric which provides a way to ventilate the parka.  The Sandstone has cinches located at the bottom jacket about where my hips are located.  I find them difficult to adjust with one hand and just as difficult using both hands.  The main zipper has snaps at the top and bottom of the zipper.  The flap which covers the main zipper has 4 evenly spaced narrow strips of hook and loop material to secure it to the parka and cover the zipper.

outside zippered pocket

cuff adjustmen

loop to attach down jacket sleeve

typical cinch

zipper for outer shell and zipper to attach down jacket

hang loop and loop for attaching down jacket

shell mesh liner

inside zippered shell pocket

Specifications

The following is from the hang tags on items not already covered
Features
Dri-Tec that is waterproof, breathable, and fully seamed sealed
Fabric
Shell: two-layer 75D X 150D Polyester ripstop
Insulation: Removable down jacket insert with 550 fill power
Waterproof: 10,000 MM
Breathable: 10,000 G/M

Measurements

These are measurements that I took that I thought might be interesting.

Parka weight: 1 lb 9.3 oz
Down jacket: 1 lb 0.3 oz
The pockets measurements are based on inserting my hand in the pocket and measuring the outline
Parks pockets
Lower outside waist pockets: 5 in w x 6 in l
Upper outside pockets: 3 in w x 5 in l
Upper inside pocket: 3 in w x 6.5 in l
Down jacket
Lower waist pockets: 7 in x 8.5 in
Inside waist pockets: 6.5 in x 8 in

Overall impression

I find the Sandstone Peak Parka has a lot of possibilities.  You really have three ways to wear this parka, the removable down jacket insert, the shell and the combination of both.  Using the hood with the shell or not gives other possibilities.  I am looking forward to trying out all possibilities in the upcoming weeks.  I have tried the Sandstone and the fit is very good, especially when I wear my favorite first layer of silk.  I really like the lightness, versatility, a loop for hanging, and a well designed product.  The only downside is some difficulty adjusting the cinches at the bottom of either jacket.  Please check back in about a month when I will have more to say about Sandstone Peak parka.

Update

1-30-2012

I has been an exciting month, mainly because of the variety of weather I experienced wearing the Sandstone parka.  We had a low of near 0 F to  a high of  over 50 F for temperature.  To accompany this there was snow, rain, sleet, freezing rain, and winds up to 25 mph.

OOPS

In my last report there were a few items I should have mentioned.  One was that I was using the Sandstone with the hood.  I like hoods but sometimes I get frustrated in that the hood does interfere with my vision.  The Sandstone’s hood was coming down too far on my forehead.  When I put my hand on the hood to adjust it, I felt the hook and loop strap to adjust the hood.  I made an adjustment and this improved things a lot.  This adjustment does a lot to maximize visibility.  Another item was that when I first looked over the down jacket, I did notice a loose thread on each side of the jacket.  I was going to wait till I wore the vest a few times before commenting  The threads were about 2 inches long and probably were part of the manufacturing process.  I did cut off  each thread and will check occasionally for other anomalies.  My experience with down products is that the down quills always manage to escape from their place of captivity.  That issue will be taken up in my last look at the Sandstone parka.

The adjustable cuff

What I like about the cuff is I am able to easily cinch down the cuff with one hand and then I can easily fit a glove/mitten over the cuff.  A lot of parkas are bulky where the sleeves end and gloves cannot go over the outside but, because the glove’s bulkiness,  they can’t be squeezed under the sleeve.  I was easily able to fit my gloves over the end of the Sandstone parka.  I will note that the loop on the right sleeve of the down jacket which attaches to the parka did break loose.  I would have thought this would have happened on my left sleeve where I wear my watch.  When removing my jacket there tends to be more force required sometimes to get that sleeve off.  It does not look like there are many threads attaching the loop to the jacket.  It is impossible to tell for sure since it is attached by a hidden seam.

Weather conditions in this report

Temperatures were down to almost 0 F, and winds up to over 20 mph.  I was out in sunny, rainy, and various types of snowy weather.  I will now go into the various ways I used the Sandstone parka.

The down jacket as a standalone

I used a silk long sleeve undershirt as my first layer then the down jacket.  I was hiking in 18 F with winds slightly over 20 mph.  I felt a little coolness in a few spots, but nothing that really made me uncomfortable.  I would say this speaks well of the down jacket being windproof.  I did feel some wind at the bottom of the jacket.  The cooling was not spread equally along the bottom of the jacket, so I did not try cinching the jacket.  On some of my hikes, I stopped by my daughter’s house and stayed in her kitchen which has a modern type wood stove.  I kept my jacket on to see what would happen.  It took about 15 minutes before I could feel myself getting warmer than I wanted to be.  I did not visit to warm up.  Essentially the jacket did a good job keeping the heat out at least for a short time.  I have tried the jacket with a cotton t-shirt and this was not as warm as the silk undershirt as a first layer.  In colder weather I could add a second layer of thin wool to the silk first layer.  I do not plan to wear the down jacket alone in rain, snow, or in places where the outside of the jacket would wet or get abused.

Pockets and zippers of the down jacket

The outside pockets of the down jacket are large and can be easily used to warm my hands, something I do more frequently these days.  The inside pockets are not easily accessible with the jacket zippered.  If the main zipper were a two-way zipper it might be easier to access the inside pockets.  I know they were meant to be used when the jacket is inserted into the parka, and the outside pockets of the insert are not accessible.  All the zippers are working very well.

Parka and hood

I have tried a number of combinations, some have worked better than others.  These combinations are cotton or silk as the only layer under the jacket, or with a thin wool sweater as a second layer.  The use of cotton for my first layer is the least favorable for me.  I think trying a vest would be interesting especially for activities where my arms are in motion a lot like cross country skiing.  The hood provides excellent protection from the wind.  It feels very cold when there is a wind coming off the frozen lake especially without a hood.  The air is laden with moisture and the coldness seems to go to the bone.  The parka keeps a lot of this cold away.  The only place I felt cold was my nose, cheeks and parts of my face not covered by sunglasses or the hood.  Now that I have more practice adjusting the hood, I am having less problems with the hood interfering with my vision.  There is some obstruction but only minor.  I have been in rain and strong winds and feel very well protected from both.  In light rain the water forms very small beads and in heavier rain the beads turn into larger accumulations of water, which fall off when they become too large.  I have not seen any evidence of water soaking into the material.

Pockets and zippers of the parka

The three outside pockets are easily accessible but are on the small side.  I found it difficult to warm my hands with the pockets of the parka.  These pockets are large enough to carry a cell phone, p&s digital camera, or a GPS device.  Other items could be a knife, compass, or a snack.  I would like to see a zippered chest pocket on the right side to match the one on the left side.  Although I am ambidextrous, I do use my left hand more than my right.  There are many times when I carry a camera and a cell phone and chest pockets are in the best location for convenience and keep the devices warmer.  All the zippers functioned flawlessly.

Putting parks and jacket together

In this combination my preference is to wear a first layer of silk, but could wear a layer of cotton when silk is not available.  If I were in really cold sub 0 F conditions with high winds, up to 40 mph, I would have a second thin layer of wool.  The limitation on layers is having enough space between layers to allow for adequate air flow and easy movement of arms.  I was pleasantly surprised that I did not have any restriction in the movement of my arms.  It may because I don’t have large arms.  I have short arms so the sleeves are a little long for me.  I was out in near 0 F weather with winds slightly over 20 mph and was very comfortable.  I felt a little coolness in a few places but this was not a concern for me.  I have more concern for getting overheated which did not happen.

Summary

I usually like to summarize with the things I like and those that could be improved.  It was not easy for me to arrive at a first choice but I decided on versatility.  I think using the shell and having the down jacket in my pack compactly stored and being able to retrieve it quickly if needed is awesome.  Windproof and waterproof would be second.  Lastly would be the comfort I experienced wearing the Sandstone parka.  On the improvement side, a stronger way to attach the loop on the down sleeve.  The addition of a right chest pocket on the parka, and lastly slightly larger pockets on the parka if possible.

The combination of shell with hood and a down jacket make for a triple combination that is difficult to beat.  I will be wearing the Sandstone parka daily and I should have more to say in about a month.  Please check back then for a last update.

Geigerrig has created a hydration system that is very unique, challenges the status quo and bends the rules when it comes to water bladders and hydration systems.  The Rig 500 Pack, Hydration Engine, and In-Line filter were all provided by Geigerrig for review purposes.

The Rig 500 Pack:

Factory Specifications: (in italics)

Fabric:  Ballistic Nylon

Capacity:  500 cu. in. (dry capacity)

Weight:  2.65 lbs / 1.20 kg

Zippers:  Heavy Duty, Size 8 Coil Zippers

Shoulder Strap: Ergonomic Fit, Terraced Overlay for Adjustable Tube Configuration and Power Bulb Configuration, Industrial Load Dispersement cut and padding

Chest Strap: Integrated slider chest strap

Additional Features: Plug & Play Reservoir Tube Connector, PVC Reinforced Compression Straps, Reflective Tabs & Zipper Pulls, Internal Storage Compartments and Organizer, Eco Rig Back Pads, Air Drive Ventilation, Heavy Duty Nylon Pack Handle and Vertical attachment hoops, removable waste strap.

At 2.65 lbs, the pack is anything but lightweight for its small size.  Created of ballistic nylon seems to trade its weight for durability and ruggedness.

Interior:

The main compartment has a sleeve for the water bladder which slides into the back wall of the pack (the one closest to your back as you wear it) and it also has two mesh compartments on the opposite side secured by zippers.  The two hoses from the hydration engine have two access points to the outside of the pack located inside the pack at of both of the shoulder straps. This is a very streamlined and clean looking way to use the hoses.  There are four different exits points on each of the shoulder straps so that you can customize just how much of hoses you want to be shown.

There are two mesh pockets inside the pack. Each of the interior mesh pockets measures out to be about 7 in. x 6 in. in size.  If you can see in center photo below, my wallet fits very comfortably with much space to spare.  Both of the pockets are mesh and do not protect from any sort of moisture or condensation from the water bladder.  In the photo below, I placed ice in the water bladder and the condensation from the bladder soaked one side of my wallet.  If you plan on keeping anything in these two pockets that can be damaged by water, I suggest placing them in something water-proof.  Besides the water bladder and what you can fit in the small mesh pockets, there is not a lot of room to spare inside the pack for anything large.

Exterior:

Some the exterior features of the Rig 500 pack make up for the lack of space inside the pack.  Two pockets on the front of the pack have a vertical zippered access.  The smaller one is the perfect size for my iPhone and has an access point for your headphones.  The pocket next to it is about twice the size of the “iPod ready compartment.”  Each of these compartments are water proof, so rest assured your electronics are safe.  The pack also boasts a removable hip belt as well as a sliding chest strap.

The pack also has two nylon reinforced compression straps that run across the  front of the pack.  The straps are long enough that you could lash almost anything that you wanted down to the pack.

The back of the pack has ample padding and ergonomically fits to accommodate your spine.

One of the necessities that I think every hydration system or pack should have is a clip for the hose on the shoulder strap.  It keeps the hose in place and prevents it from flying around everywhere when you are hiking, mountain biking or whatever activity you are doing.

On one of the shoulder straps, there is an elastic mesh bag that your pressure bulb fits snugly into.  You can slide this bag up and down the strap to find the most comfortable position to pressurize the bladder.

Because this mesh bag that holds the bulb cannot be removed, it appears that they hydration engine can only be used with a Geigerrig pack in order to accompany the bulb in order to keep it secure.  For me, this is clearly a limitation as I am not able to take it along on any overnight trips in a larger pack because you are not able to keep the bulb secure on the shoulder straps with the mesh bag.

The Hydration Engine:

The Geigerrig Hydration engine is also (used exclusively by Geigerrig) the Ogwa Hydration reservoir.  This reservoir, manufactured by Ogwa is “hosted exclusively” by Geigerrig.

Check this video for a quick overview of the hydration engine:

Specifications:   (info from website in italics)

Capacity:  70 fl. oz / 2 L

Material:   #15 Denier Polyurethane: This is a tougher polyurethane that minimizes any ballooning affect that may occur when the reservoir is pressurized for spraying. GEIGERRIG Pressurized Hydration Packs have a top quality Hydration Engine.  The reservoir is Phthalate, BPA, and PVC free.

Access:  The reservoir uses an opening that extends along the entire width of the bladder. The top of the reservoir folds over once and is manufactured with a small rail for a plastic slide to run over to secure the opening.

The mechanism is easy to use and provides very easy access in order to clean out the bladder.  My only problem with the slide mechanism is that it can easily be detached from the hook that secures it to the exterior of the reservoir meaning that is is very possible to lose the slide.

This top opening access allows the reservoir to be flipped inside-out so that it can be cleaned more easily and can even be placed into the dishwasher.

Valves:  The Hydration system utilizes a couple types of valves that you most likely have not seen on any other hydration system that you have used.  In partnership with Hydrapak, the drinking valve, aka the “Surge Valve” has multiple design factors that set it apart.  With a little pressure, the soft rubber tip allows the water to exit in a comfortable and steady rate. The valve also twists 180 degrees in order to shut the flow of water on or off.

The valve is easy to twist if you are using either both hands or one hand and your teeth.  I used the Geigerrig pack and hydration engine on a short bike ride and the best I could do was open the valve with one hand and my teeth.  For this easy ride on pavement, this was not a problem, but I can see how it could prove to be problematic mountain biking when you cannot sacrifice one of your hands beyond bringing the valve to your mouth.  The alternative is to leave the valve in the open position. This causes a small amount of water to leak each time any pressure is administered, which can be every jolt and bump on the trail.  I have also found that if there is too much pressure in the air chamber of the bladder,  when you put pressure on the bite nozzle for the water to exit, water will also leak from the seam where you twist to shut the water flow on and off. If you release some of the pressure, the water still flows at a good rate and the leaking stops.

For connections to the bladder, Geigerrig uses “quick release valves” that clip into the quick connect used for the valve ports on the bladder. A quick depression of the button on the valve allows you to remove the tubes from the entry and exits ports.

click to enlarge

click to enlarge

click to enlarge

Pressurization:  The Hydration Engine utilizes a two-chamber bladder in order to “pressurize” the water and allow it to stream out of the hoses. The bladder has an input hose and valve for the air, and an  an output hose and valve for the water.  The input (air) valve is at the top of the bladder, while the exit valve (water) is at the base of the bladder.

To push air into the air chamber, the bladder is equipped with an air bulb, very similar to that found on a blood pressure cuff.

If the bladder is fully filled with water, it takes only about five pumps on average in order to pressurize the chamber enough for the water spray. At the base of the bladder is another valve which connects to the hose with the “Surge Protector Valve” that you drink out of.   Each of the chambers is made of #15 Denier Polyurethane, which is strong enough to minimize abrasion and wear and also minimizes the “ballooning” the bladder experiences when air in inside under pressure.  Rather than pushing air into one single chamber to pressurize the water and possibly contaminate the water with dirty air, the hydration engine uses a separate chamber which air is pushed into. Once inflated, this air chamber places pressure of the chamber which holds the water and allows the water to exit under pressure.  The air chamber’s exterior is coated with nylon to prevent the above mentioned ballooning effect as well as enable the bladder to slide into the pack easily (the sleeve inside the packs is also made of nylon).  The only limitation that I have found with this design so far is that there is consistently about 250 mL left in the bladder which will not exit under pressure.  This is not a large amount of water, however, in a 2 L bladder, this is about 1/8 of its total capacity.  I believe this is due to the air chamber exerting a uniform amount of pressure on the water chamber which disallows the remaining water to exit the valve at the base of the bladder.  To remedy this problem, all you have to do is release all of the pressure in the air chamber, and suck on the valve to remove the last amount of water.

WARNING: ALWAYS RELEASE PRESSURE FROM BLADDER BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT TO OPEN. (SEE VIDEO BELOW)

In-Line Filter:

Geigerrig also offers a filter that can be integrated easily into the hydration engine to offer you a water purification solution while you are on the trail.  Key to this filter is the pressurization of the water passing through the hoses.  The water, having been pressurized, passes through the filter and out of the “Surge Protector Valve” at which point the water is then purified and safe to drink.  All you have to do is fill your bladder in the closest body of water, pressurize the hydration engine, and you are ready to go.

Here are the manufacturer specifications: (in italics) 

• Filter Size: In-Line Portable Water Filter. 5.5 inches Long X 1 In. Diameter. Easily carried in our hydration packs.
• Filter Capacity – Gallons: Rated to Filter Up To 50 Gallons – Your Hydration Pack now gives you a much greater range. 50 gallons!
• Weight: .06 Kg
• Tested and Certified:  Removes >99.9% Cryptospordium & Giardia – Your hydration pack now protects you when you need to refill in the field.
• Filter – Coconut Shell Carbon: Activated Coconut Shell Carbon reduce waterborne chemicals, improves taste and   eliminates offensive odors.
• Filter – Mirigard Antimicrobial Technology: Suppresses the growth of bacteria, algae, fungus, mold and mildew within the filter media.The Geigerrig filter is tested and certified to remove the EPA requirement of >99.9% of Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

Still want to know more about Geigerrig gear? Check out these extensive reviews by two of our other writers on other Geigerrig products.

• Geigerrig Rig 1600 by Ron
• Geigerrig Rig 1200 Camo by Coy

This pack and hydration system has a lot to offer and changes the way that hydration systems work.  I am excited to see how it works on the trail and I will have an update in about an month from now.

-Kaleb R.

 Update: December 11, 2011

First, I want to apologize for the time since my initial review of the Geigerrig Rig 500 Ballistic.   I have been able to use the pack in a variety of activities since then and want to update you on some observations that I have made.

A recent day trip with my wife and new hiking buddy Bo emphasized a few specifics about the Geigerrig Rig 500 Ballistic.

Day Hike with Bo at Paris Mtn. State Park

• The plastic slide clip that closes the top of the bladder easily disconnects from the bladder itself making it easy to lose/misplace.  Without the slide, the bladder becomes pretty much useless.  I had a little scare a couple days ago but luckily found the slide clip at the bottom of the pack.  In summation: DON’T LOSE THE SLIDE CLIP.
• The pressurized water stream is perfect for pets along the trail.  Whether you need to fill up their water container or give them water straight from the hose, the Geigerrig hydration system makes it easy.  Bo didn’t complain and neither did I.

Bo getting hydrated straight from the hose.

Filling up Bo's water bowl

It was great not having to remove my pack or take out a water bottle to fill his bowl.  With other water bladders that I have used, this is not possible to do with the ease that the Geigerrig hydration system provides.

• As I mentioned in my initial review of the Geigerrig Rig 500, there is not much room to spare in the interior of the pack with the water bladder full.  Don’t count on putting much more than a few small items like a wallet keys and phone in the two exterior pockets.  Stuffing these exterior pockets full compromises the space in the inside of the pack as they both compete for the same space on the front compartment of the pack.  I am still wary of placing anything of value or electronic inside the pack without it being in some sort of waterproof casing.
• If you have ever used a water bladder in the past, you will know how easy it is to forget and leave water in the bladder for  an extended period of time after you use it.  This often leads to mold buildup in the bladder and most of the time you don’t discover this until you are minutes away from heading out the door on your next excursion.  While the Geigerrig Hydration Engine is not immune from this problem, it is reversible and dishwasher safe. If you are like me, this is perfect for cleaning after all of those times I forget to empty the bladder and am welcomed by science fair caliber mold inside the bladder needing to be cleaned.
• The hoses that the hydration system uses are unlike hoses used on many other types of water bladders. The quick release valves have made it difficult for me to eliminate the remaining water that is in the hose after use.  While I have not had any issues with visible mold, it doesn’t help my peace-of-mind allowing that small amount of moisture to remain over an extended period of time.

My conclusion:

• They hydration engine usage is limited to the size of the pack.  The Geigerrig Rig 500 Ballistic hydration system is reinventing the way that you can stay hydrated while you hit the trails.  I still wish that the engine could be used in other packs, but it makes hydrating on the trail so easy that I am content to wait and see if Geigerrig creates a more versatile model. Find what activity you most need this great hydration engine for and purchase the Geigerrig pack that corresponds to your activity.
• The Geigerrig Rig 500 Ballistic hydration system is a luxury, not a necessity (for now at least). Once the hydration system becomes compatible with other non-Geigerrig packs, then I would easily make this my next purchase.

Thanks to Geigerrig for the opportunity to review this awesome gear!

Geigerrig RIG 1600

When Geigerrig wanted 4AllOutdoors.org to test some of their hydration systems I did not jump right at the chance like I do some other items.  I already have a hydration pack the similar size of the RIG 1600 and really wasn’t looking for another hydration / day pack until I got on Geigerrigs website and started doing some research.  What really peaked my interest was the inline filter that allows you to fill up your bladder from any water source and the filter ready drinking tube gives you clean, safe drinking water.  Another thing that interested me to try this pack out was the hydration system sprays the water into your mouth rather than having to suck it.  Once I decided to try the pack and received it, I found that this hydration pack has many more things to offer than my current pack.

Below is just a small amount of information about the Rig 1600 on the Geigerrig website.  The website is full of information and videos concerning all aspects of the bag.  The website is www.geigerrig.com .

Photo from Geigerrig 1600 website

Fabric: 100% Heavy Duty Ballistic Nylon
Weight: 1.48 Kg

Bladder: 100 oz. (3L), quick-release valves for drinking tube and pressurization tube for easy refill and bladder removal, slide top for easy refill, cleaning and drying.

Dry Capacity: 1600 cu inches (26.2L)

Zippers: Industrial Size 10 Coil Zippers

I-Pod Ready Compartment w/ Waterproof Zipper Garage

Padded and Stowable Hip Belt: Removable System with pockets configured for hosting Power Bulb if desired

Shoulder Strap: Ergonomic Fit, Terraced Overlay for Adjustable Tube Configuration and Power Bulb Configuration, Industrial Load Dispersement cut and padding

Chest Strap: Integrated slider chest strap

Additional Features: Plug & Play Reservoir Tube Connector, Compression Straps, PVC Reinforced Exterior Side Storage Pockets, Reflective Zipper Pulls, Internal Storage Compartments and Organizer, Eco Rig Back Pads, Air Drive Ventilation, Heavy Duty Nylon Pack Handle

When I received the pack and pulled it out of the box my first reaction and comment was this bag is made very well.  The heavy duty “ballistic” nylon seems very durable and all the zippers and buckles are heavy duty which is very important to me.  There is no wasted space on the pack.  If there is a place to put a pocket, Geigerrrig has found a way to put it there.  Starting with the front of the pack there is a waterproof pocket for a cell phone, iPod, etc.  It has a rubber port that would allow your ear bud wires to come out but not allow water in.  It is not a huge pocket but I can fit my phone (HTC Thunderbolt) and my wallet and that is all I can fit in there.  On both sides on the bottom there are pockets that have zippers that go about half way down the pocket.  These pockets are large enough for a camera and other miscellaneous items that you can reach without taking the pack off your back.  I will use them to hold my bottles that I mix powder drinks or electrolyte tablets in.  The pockets are large enough for Nalgene type  bottles or bike bottles.  The lower cinch straps will hold the bottles in place since the pockets are not tall enough to zip the bottles inside.   I do not like mixing drinks in my bladder so I use the water from the bladder to mix the drinks in smaller bottles.

Front waterproof pocket

Nalgene type and bike bottle in side pockets

The pack has two large main compartments.   The first compartment has a large mesh pocket that is divided in the middle to give you two smaller pockets.  They are large enough for a book, journal, food, bike tubes, tools, etc.  Behind the divided mesh pocket there is room for a larger notebook (I will keep my geocache notebook there) or smaller clothing items like gloves, skull cap, extra socks or a lightweight layer.  Sewn in the compartment is also a small organizer.  It has two zipper pockets that could store a small notebook, drink mix, electrolyte tablets, etc.  There is a small pocket that closes with Velcro that could hold a flip phone.  There are also three sleeves for pens or pencils.  There is also a hook to hold your keys.  The second compartment is one large pocket.  It is the length and width of the pack.  It has enough room for me to put 5 rain jackets (2 adults and 3 kids) inside with room to spare.  It will be great in the winter for mountain biking to store the extra layers I peel off as the day warms up.

Mesh Pockets

Organizer

Large Compartment

The hip belt which is attached to the pack with Velcro can be removed if you prefer not to use it.  It also has a pocket on each side. These pockets also are large enough for my phone but not room for much more than that.  The hip belt is approximately 4 inches wide at the hips and has thin padding.  It buckles and is adjusted by pulling on the straps to tighten or pull on the buckle to loosen.  The shoulder straps are about 2 inches wide and padded.  They are very comfortable and with the mesh backing they do not generate a lot of heat when using the pack.  The same mesh is on the pack the rest against my back that covers thick, comfortable pad.

Hip belt pocket

Other hip pocket

Padding and mesh backing stays cool against body

The pressurized hydration system is one of the reasons I wanted to test this bag.  It is a very easy system to use.  I found the easiest way to use it is unhook the pressure tube at the top of the bladder by simply pressing a button and twisting, then do the same thing to the drink tube.  Once the tubes are disconnected the bladder is very easy to fill.  It has a wide mouth that is similar to a Ziploc bag so it is easy to fill from a refrigerator, sink or and creek.  Once full, simply roll the top once toward you and slide the supplied slide in the direction of the arrow.  Once it is seals, water will not come out until you want it to.  I then reattached the pressure tube and drink tube and slid the bladder in its sleeve in the back of the pack that is separate from the two main compartments.  I zip the bladder compartment closed then pump up the bladder.  The pump is a bulb type that is like the ones you would see when you get your blood pressure tested at the doctor’s office.  The bulb is on the left shoulder strap near the bottom and is easy to pump.  I pumped the bulb around twenty times to get a nice steady flow of water.   To get the water flowing all you have to do is either bite on the bite valve or squeeze it and the water comes without having to suck.

Wide opening bladder

Pressure bulb

Blader sleeve

I have only had one chance to test the Geigerrig Rig 1600 and I was very impressed.  I went on a 2 hour mountain bike ride.  The temperature was 87 degrees with the humidity in the 50 percent range.  I was a little concerned that the pack would be very hot to wear but I wanted to give it a try.  The mesh backing on all the straps and the back kept the heat away from my body.  I did not use the chest strap but did use the hip belt.    I filled the 100 ounce (3 liters) full of water and ice and filled the bag with 2 pairs of flip-flops, a pair of shorts and 2 t-shirts.  Everything fit nicely with room to spare.  I pumped up the bladder and we were off.  We climbed the mountain and it was very easy to drink when I didn’t have to suck to get fluids.  As I drank and the bladder started to empty and was very impressed that the water did not slosh around.  Because the bladder is a two chamber system, the bladder holds constant pressure on the water and that keeps it from sloshing around.  As it normally happens I did take a spill during the ride.  I crashed on my side and landed mainly on hip and left shoulder but a lot of weight did land on the pack.  I was a little concerned that the bladder would have busted open but it was fine as well as the rest of the pack.  I also went under a fallen tree and I made it under the tree but forgot about the pack and it took the full impact of the collision.  I knew I had torn the bag or broken a zipper.  I took the pack off and it was in perfect shape other than a little dirt.  Near the end of the ride I noticed that the pressure of the water coming out was not as strong as it had been.  I gave the bulb about ten more pumps and the pressure was back.  When I got back to the truck I was not getting anymore water so I released the pressure out of the bag by simply pulling the pressure tube off the bulb.  I opened the bladder and noticed there was about ¼ cup (60L) of water left.  I guess I planned my fluids for that ride just right.

Output pressure by squeezing bite valve

Very comfortable on ride. No sloshing around.

I am very glad I am able to test the Geigerrig 1600 Rig because the guys who developed the pack thought of everything.  The only negative I have found so far is when there is pressure on the bladder the water does not slosh around so you cannot tell how much water you have without looking.  Their website is one of the best I have seen.  It is full of information on every aspect of the pack plus others packs they offer.  There are several videos that are also very informative.  I have not had a chance to test the filter system but will for my next review.  I look forward to using the pack on my upcoming adventures.  More to come in about a month.

Update 09/05/2011

I have had an opportunity to use the Geigerrig Rig 1600 several more times since my initial review and continue to be very impressed with its functionality, durability and comfort.   Not only is it great for day hikes and mountain biking, I have found it is great on weekend trips and cheering on friends as they competed in their first Ironman triathlon.  I have also had a chance to test the water filter.

I took the Rig on a short one hour hike.  As it has been all summer inSouth Carolina, the temperature was in the mid 90’s and the humidity around 80%.  I did not have very much packed in the pack other than a small first aid kit, couple of power bars, a GPS and my phone.  I had the bladder filled with water just to be sure I had enough on a hot day.   I pumped up the bladder so I would have pressure and would not have to suck to get water.  As before, I initially pumped the bulb about 20 times to get the output pressure where I wanted it.  The initial 20 pumps was enough pressure for the entire hike.  The Rig was comfortable to wear and I did not feel any hot spots while wearing it.

Last weekend I had two friends competing in their first Ironman triathlon.  For those who do not know what that is, it is a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile run.  It is an all day event and as a spectator, you are constantly on the move so you can cheer on the athletes as much as possible.  There were seven of us cheering on our friends and the Geigerrig Rig 1600 came along.  I got to carry all the snacks and water for the day.  I also carried extra t-shirts for everyone because we changed half way through the race.  I wore the pack for over 16 hours that day and it never became uncomfortable.  The only time it was off my back was at lunch, dinner and the short times we were in the car moving around the course to see our friends.  The temperature was nice, low 80’s and the humidity around 50%.  Like the other times I have carried the pack, I never felt hot wearing it.  I always used the hip belt but rarely used the chest strap.  I thought I may get some spots on my shoulders or hips from the pack rubbing, but that never happened.

I finally got the nerve up to test the filter system on the Rig 1600. I went to the lake behind our house and scooped out some water.  The lake has been tested and is safe to swim in but definitely not safe to drink.  It has been a hot, dry summer and the water is not flowing like it normally does.  I thought about driving up to the mountains and getting some cleaner water but I figured if I could drink our lake water without getting sick, the filter is doing its job.  After scooping the water in the bladder, I hooked up the filter tube and the pump tube and placed the bladder in the pack.  I pumped the bulb 20 or so times and squeezed the bite valve.  The first little bit of water was full of charcoal then it began to flow cleaner.  I poured some in a glass cup and compared it to non filtered water.  I found it to be clearer but not tap water clear.  I decided to take the plunge and drink some of the filtered lake water.  I drank about 6 ounces.  I never had any side effects so the filter must have done its job.  I will drink more for my next review and see if I get the same results.

Scooping up the water

Does not look too clean

Taking a drink

Torn strap

 

Another view of torn strap

 

Final Review  

The more I use my Geigerrig  Rig 1600 the more I am impressed with its features and durability.  Over the past month I have used it mainly for mountain biking.  As I have mentioned in my previous reviews, there is plenty of room for my extra gear, nutrition and clothing as well as room for gear of others who I am riding with. All the pockets and compartments that are offered allow me to keep all my gear separated so I’m not spending time searching for something that is stuffed in one main compartment.  The Rig 1600 is very comfortable to wear whether it is for a two hour mountain bike ride, half a day hike or an all day Ironman event as a spectator.  I have found I am more comfortable riding without the hip belt unbuckled.  The mesh padded backing on all points that contact my body keeps the heat away so I don’t have issues with hot spots or chaffing.

The Rig 1600 in built very well.  I have had several bike crashes with it on and there has not been any damage as the result of the crashes.  I have also stuffed it full of gear and have put a lot of pressure on the zippers and buckles.  Everything continues to work well and I don’t see any wear or tearing near the zippers or buckles.  I did mention in my previous post about the strap that ripped that holds the hydration tube on the shoulder strap.  I received a note from the VP of Geigerrig who read the blog saying he wanted to take care of the problem.  We spoke on the phone and I asked him what he would do with someone who does not write a blog if they called with the same issue.  He said he would do exactly what he was doing for me and that is replace the bag.  I was very impressed with him as I have been with everything about Geigerrig.

In addition to the quality and durability of the pack, I really like the hydration system.  The idea of a pressurized bladder that allows you to get fluids without having to suck is very impressive.  Geigerrig has figured out how to make it work and work well.  I can share my fluids, clean dirt and blood off me or just cool off with a steady stream from the bladder.  The optional inline water filter is another feature that separates the Geigerrig packs from the others currently on the market today.   It eases my mind that if I run out of fluids on a ride or hike, I can fill the bladder from any water source and have safe drinking water at anytime.

Sharing water with my sons friend

The Geigerrig Rig 1600 has been the best hydration pack I have ever used.  Geigerrig has proven to me to be a first class company.  They have an incredibly informative website, quality products and an excellent customer service.  I look forward to using the Rig 1600 on all my upcoming mountain bike rides and day hikes. I want to thank Geigerrig for providing the Rig 1600 for me to test and 4AllOutdoors for the opportunity.

Review by Coy Starnes
Rig 1200 provided by Geigerrig for review purposes.

Author using Rig 1200 on a hot afternoon day hike

Describing the Rig 1200 is no easy task but for starters, it is a 1200 cubic inch day pack with a hydration system built in.  The pack itself is very tough looking and feels like it can really take a beating. The website says the fabric is Heavy Duty Dura-Oxkin but all my Google searches on the term referenced the Rig 1200 in camo.   I’m not sure what the fabric is, but I got the camo version.   However, the same pack can be had in black, and the website list that fabric as Heavy Duty Ballistic Ripstop.  The website also says the camo version at 1.22 kg and the black version at 1.14 kg so the fabric may be slightly heavier considering the packs look identical.  In the following paragraphs I will try to describe the features of the Rig 1200, but keep in mind, the website has all the details outlined very nicely, as well as several videos demonstrating the different packs and especially the hydration system

There are two main compartments on the Rig 1200 and both are about the same size.  The inner most compartment is slightly bigger front to back but the hydration bladder takes away a little of the room when full and pressurized. The outer most pocket (furthermost from my back when worn)  features a waterproof zipper. Inside this compartment is a key keeper conveniently located at the top and an iPod ready pocket hanging just below it.  The iPod pocket has two zippered pockets at the top.  The upper one is big enough for my hand to fit inside. The lower one is the same size but not quite as tall.  Sewn to the face of the lower pocket is a  fairly big pouch with a hook and loop flap over it.   Beside this are three smaller tube style pockets.  This picture should do a better job of describing it though.

iPod ready pocket

At the very top of the pack (right under the tote handle) is a small pocket lined with a very soft fabric.  It feel like a fleece blanket.  I’m not sure what it is designed for but  it is big enough for a phone or small camera but probably not both.  There is a bungy cord crossing back and forth across the rear of the pack.  The Rig 1200 does have two side pockets that are traditionally used to carry water bottles.  I checked and found my 24 oz insulated bike bottle fits easily in either side pocket but quite a bit was sticking up past the top. However there is a compression strap on each side of the pack  that goes right across the top of each pocket and goes right across the indention on my bottle.  However, I doubt it would fall out even without the strap.  But these pockets will likely see more use for small items like my phone and camera since the Rig 1200 features a 3L hydration bladder.  Here is one of the pockets with a water bottle in place.

side pocket shown with a 24 oz water bottle

And now for the suspension. The shoulder pads are well padded and very comfortable.  The left shoulder strap has a small mesh pocket to hold the inflation bulb for the bladder while the right shoulder strap holds the drinking tube,  It has a clip to keep it from flopping around so much.  The pack features a removable hip belt but it is not padded.  It is basically two nylon straps that attach to each side with a hook and loop affair which goes around a D-Ring and fastens in the front and center of the wearer with one of those two prong snap buckles that slide together and you mash the sides to release.  The 3L bladder fits in a zippered compartment accessed from the back of the pack  At the bottom of this compartment is a small hole to allow any water that may get in (the bladder will sweat in hot weather if filled with ice water) get back out.  The back side of the pack is also well padded and has several built up areas that allow for ventilation.  Again, a picture may show this better than I can describe it.

padding on back panel

The feature that really sets this pack apart from most hydration packs available today is the hydration bladder Geigerrig uses.  They call it the “engine”.  Some of the smaller packs feature 2 L bladders but the Rig 1200 comes with a 3 L bladder.  The bladder is easy to open and close with a slider bar seal.  It is dishwasher safe and the online video says to turn it inside out and place it in the dishwasher.  This also makes drying the inside much easier than most typical hydration bladders.  But what really sets the Geigerrig bladder apart from most bladders is the fact that the water in the bladder can be pressurized.  This has several benefits.  First of all, drinking is much easier, just point the end of the hose towards the mouth and press on the sides of the valve.   In fact,  since your mouth does not have to touch the drink valve, it can be shared with others.  It also means you can spray water wherever needed.  Say for instance you get a cut with a brier, this system will allow you to rinse any blood or dirt from the cut with clean water.

I also received an inline filter.  Actually, it is another complete drinking tube assembly that is filter ready.  I have not tried it out yet but Geigerrig claims it will filter water as you drink it.  The same action that lets you drink from the spray forces water through the filter so there is no pumping like most filters.   The website says it removes >99.9% Cryptospordium & Giardia and can treat up to 50 gallons of water.

Early Testing
I have already carried the Rig 1200 on a 4 mile day hike and really liked using it.  I guess I could sum up my feelings by revealing that in all my years of backpacking I have tired several different hydration systems but always seem to revert back to bottles.  After just one use I can see that this hydration system answers several misgivings I’ve had.  Namely,  it was easy to wash the inside of the the bag right from the start.  I did find my arm is too big to easily slide down inside to grab the bottom of the bag to pull it inside out but my wife was handy so she did the honors. After a quick wash with regular dish detergent I was ready to fill it.  I started by filling it with ice right from the ice dispenser on my refrigerator door. I then moved over to the sink and filled to the full line.  Well, not exactly, my faucet is not quite tall enough to completely fill the bladder, so I ended up adding about 12 oz from a glass to top it off.  When full, simply fold the top down one turn and slide the bar (similar to a zip-lock but on the outside instead of built in) into the slot and she is ready to go in the pack.  Attaching the inflation hose and drinking tube is a snap (literally).  I then pumped the bulb about 15 times and set out for my hike.

On the hike I was able to get a drink easily, even when I was out of breath. I only drank about half of my water on this hike but 3 liters is a lot more than I usually carry.  I still had ice in the pack when I got home even though the temperature was 92 F during the hike.   One thing I did notice was that the water would get pretty warm in the tube, but after just a few seconds of spraying it was ice cold, almost too cold.  After several drinks I did notice the pressure had dropped, but a few quick pumps on the bulb had it back up.  I should also note that pumping the bulb is not hard at all and does not get more difficult as pressure builds. The bladder also sweated quite a bit but did not soak the compartment it rides in. If you enlarge the photo below you can see the moisture, but other than that, I had no issues at all with the pack.  I find it interesting that the camo pattern is an almost exact match to the rock the pack is sitting on.

ice water after a couple hours in 92 F weather

I did not have a lot of gear inside the pack other than my rain jacket, knife, phone and some TP, but with 3L of water it was not exactly a light load.  Anyways, the pack felt great.  I did have to let the hip belt out nearly all the way and anyone slightly larger than me might have issues fastening the belt.  For the record,  I wear 38 jeans at the moment but they are getting a little big on me.

That’s all for now.  Please check back in about a month from now to see how the Rig 1200 is doing.  I plan to use it mostly for day hiking and for my bike rides when I’m on one of my regular bikes.  I will try and see if I can rig it to work on my recumbent also.

Update Geigerrig Rig 1200 9/27/2011

Getting a drink with the Rig 1200 on a mountain bike ride

Now that I have had the Geigerrig Rig 1200 a couple of months I have had several opportunities to use it doing various types of activities and it has performed great no matter what I was doing.  My favorite and most numerous uses have been while riding my bike.  I purposely skipped riding my recumbent during the past few months because I could not wear the Rig 1200 while riding it.  I also used it on a three day canoe trip and on several day hikes.

My longest use was on a three day canoe trip on Black Creek in Southern Mississippi.  When packing for the trip I filled the Rig 1200 (3 L) and carried another gallon in a milk jug, along with three 32 oz Gatorade’s and a half gallon of V-8 juice.   I used the gallon of water to refill the Rig 1200 as needed.  I was just about out of water on the third day but we passed a landing that had fresh tap water so I was able to refill with enough water for the rest of the trip.  I could have filtered water with the inline filter but I forgot to pack it.  Anyways, it worked out great for the trip.  I started with the pack sitting on the floor of the canoe behind me so that I could get a drink while paddling but after a few hours on the water I saw that the pack material was soaking up river water.  I then moved it up on my other gear in front on me and did have to stop paddling to get a drink but it was no big deal.  We were on a fun trip and not a race.  As a matter of fact we only paddled about 26 miles in the three days we were on the river.  I did use a water bottle (32 oz Gatorade bottle) in my hammock at night because I could more easily keep a small bottle inside the hammock.  Plus, the bugs were pretty bad so I did not want to unzip the bug netting to get a drink form the Rig 1200.  However, I discovered that with about 20 pumps, I could fill a 32 oz bottle before the hydration bladder ran out of steam.

I used the Rig 1200 on several bike rides.  My longest ride was 25.97 miles in 2 hours and 20 minutes.   I had a flat on the way to work at mile 11 and so as not to be late for the meeting had a guy come pick me up.   I ended up with a 2 hour break before starting back home.  But the upshot was, by the time I started home at 1 PM it was in the mid 90s. By the time I got halfway up the mountain right at a mile from home it was 97 F and I had to stop and rest.  While I was laid out in the shade, my daughter called, worried about me in the heat and insisted that she come pick me up.  I must admit, she didn’t have to persuade me much.  However, the Rig 1200 was great for the trip.  My water was nearly gone but I still had a little ice some 4 and a half hours after leaving the house.

author crash testing the Rig 1200

I also recently took up mountain biking.  I used my Dynamik on one trip and borrowed a mountain bike from a friend for another ride before getting one myself.  I have been on two more rides with my new bike but the Rig 1200 was with me on every ride.  These rides were all 5 or 6 mile each and each one lasted about 2 hours.  We found we had to take a lot of breaks because it was a lot tougher then road riding.  I had a major crash on two of the rides but the Rig 1200 came through without a scratch each time.  I came through with nothing broken but was real sore for a few days after both crashes.  I did a complete flip during one of the crashes because I wrecked while climimbing a steep hill at an angle and when I lost my balance towards the low side I tried to put a food down.  It was so far down that I just continued on in a roll, taking out a small tree in the process. The photo on the left doesn’t really show just how steep the drop off on the lower side of the trail was but you can barely see the Rig 1200.

I spent so much time riding that I really did not do that much hiking.  For one, it has been extremely hot and at least while riding a bike I was able to create a breeze at least part of the time.  But I still managed several day hikes.  One of these was with my daughter and we hiked about 3 miles total.  I carried my water in the Rig 1200 hydration engine and carried her water in a couple of bottles inside the pack.  We did not share the water as Geigerrig says you can do because I am selfish with my water.  OK, that is not the reason, however, I did find I liked drinking with the valve in my mouth.  I found when I just mashed the valve and let it squirt water I ended up spilling a lot of water, especially if I did this while on the move.   But the beauty of the Rig 1200 was that by putting her bottles in the main pack which is adjacent to the pouch that holds the Rig 1200 3L hydration engine, her water stayed almost as cold as my water with ice in it did.  On another hike I only went about 2 miles but it was really hot.  I packed a Kelly Kettle (Trekker) in the main compartment.  It pretty much filled it but just shows how much room this pack has.

I know there are smaller and more nimble hydration packs including some by Geigerrig, but the extra capacity of this pack can come in handy at times.  For example, on my last mountain bike ride we started riding early in the morning when it was only 51 F.  I had on a light jacket and kept it on for at least an hour.  However, when I did finally take it off it was easy to stuff it inside the Rigg 1200.  I already had my mini-pump, a spare tube, camera, wallet, keys, cell phone and a few other essentials in the pack.

If there is one weakness in this pack it is that my hand is too big to easily turn it inside out for easy cleaning and drying.  However, I found that I could easily clean it by adding a little soapy water, then sealing it and sloshing it around vigorously.  Then a couple of rinses and it was ready to dry.  I found that I could hang it outside over a stick big enough that it kept the sides from touching each other and it would dry in a couple of hours.

I’ll sum up by saying that the Rig 1200 is just an awesome hydration pack.  With the 3L bladder full and the other gear I carried the pack is pretty heavy but I always found it extremely comfortable.  On my bike rides I pretty much forgot I had it on as far as comfort goes.  Even on the one long ride when it was 97 F at the end I did not find the pack uncomfortably hot to wear.  I did notice it got a little hot when hiking in extreme heat but even then it is a very comfortable pack.  Stay tuned for my final update.

Final Update – Geigerrig Rigg 1200 -  December 2, 2011

I have continued to use the Rigg 1200 on a pretty regular basis and have not found anything new to report other than to say that it still works great.  I have used it mostly on my weekend bike rides anywhere form 8 to 12 miles and lasting anywhere from two to four hours.   I also used it for several more day hikes of around 4 miles that usually lasted a couple of hours .  I used it recently on a 12 mile mountain bike ride.  The route went around Blackwell Swamp in the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge.   This was a pretty flat ride compared to most of my rides.  I went with a friend and our hope was to spot a few gators which are not very common this far north.  However, I surely did not anticipate this.  As can clearly be seen in the photo, I was wearing the Rigg 1200.

The Rigg 1200 really stands out in this photo...

OK, that was photoshopped by my daughter as a gag, but we really were looking for gators.  We did not see any and I complained so my daughter decided to have a little fun and make it happen.  Here is the actual photo.

the unedited version

Now back to my findings.  As mentioned earlier, I used the Rigg 1200 on several rides the past couple of months but they all have a similar theme.    On the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge ride The Rig 1200 was with me for the entire ride as well as quite a bit of walking around the swamp in search of the elusive gators. As on previous rides, I kept a few snacks in the pack as well as my bike tools.  Mainly a small pump, patch kit, spare tube, and a bike multi-tool. I carried my phone in one of the side pockets and my camera in the other.   This ride lasted about 3 hours and I drank most of the 3L of water I had placed in it.  It was pretty cool at the beginning of the ride (around 45 F) but had warmed up to near 60 F by the time we finished.   This was similar to several other rides that started out fairly cool and ended on a warmer note.  However, the Rigg 1200 was the perfect solution as I could start the ride with a warm jacket on and then when it warmed up I would stop long enough to stash the jacket inside the pack.

The Rig 1200 has continued to work very well as my hydration solution.  On the Wheeler ride I only placed a 12 oz glass full of ice in the bladder before filling it with water, and by the end of the ride the ice was gone but the water still felt ice cold when I would get a drink.   And as usually, my back did get a little sweaty but the pack never felt hot or uncomfortable on the ride.  Here is a photo of what the trail was like for most of this ride.

a beautiful trail on the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Summary
This is a very comfortable pack.  It is sized just about right for day hikes and fairly long bike rides.  It held what I needed with enough room to spare so that I could take off my jacket and gloves when I started to get too warm.  The hydration system (bladder) is tough and the pack is even tougher.   I guess I’d sum up my experience with the Rigg 1200 by saying that it is a game changer as far as I’m concerned.  I’ve tried several regular hydration systems and never like using them all that much.  The Geigerrig approach is hands down the easiest to drink from and the advertizing slogan of ” never suck”  is more than just a slogan.  It works!  Many thanks to Geigerrig and 4alloutdoors.org for the opportunity to test this awesome pack and hydration system!

About the Author

I am from northeast Alabama where I spend a lot of my time divided among several hobbies that include  backpacking and dayhiking, canoeing and kayaking, and just getting out enjoying nature.

By David (the turtle) Wilkes

Always carry a flagon of whiskey in case of snakebite and furthermore always carry a small snake.
W. C. Fields

On the edge of the Columbia River, in central Washington, is a fascinating landscape. Carved by floods of unimaginable proportions, one finds the dry remains of Ancient Lakes sitting in what were once the plunge pools of enormous but brief waterfalls. Standing below the sheer walls of basalt it is hard to comprehend what it must have been like when the Missoula Floods roared across the landscape carving out channels, in some places hundreds of feet deep, in the basalt that covers most of central Washington State. At the base of these dry falls, fed by small streams lies the small lakes named Ancient and Dusty Lakes.

After a long winter and a cold wet spring I was itching to get out on the trail. So with the excuse of having some gear to review, and despite having a tight schedule, I headed out. The plan was to hike the 3 miles into Dusty Lake late on Friday, spend Saturday hiking and exploring, then hike back out Sunday morning in time to pack and head across the mountains (3hrs drive) to start work on a major project by 8PM. Yeah, a recipe for disaster…but I needed to recharge my batteries after a few difficult weeks at work, and in preparation for what I knew was going to be another long and difficult week.

So I get off work a bit early, load up my gear, and head to the trailhead. On a whim, I thought it might be nice to have a few sips of something in the evenings so I picked up a small bottle of Jameson’s Irish Whiskey. At the trailhead, the day was warm and clear, one of the few nice days so far this year, and the hike into the lake was mostly uneventful. The terrain was easy to walk, with most of the trail following old jeep roads. Along the way I spotted one small rattlesnake in the shade of a large sage bush right on the edge of the trail, so when I met up with a couple of folks with a dog, I warned them they should probably keep the dog close as they pass that area. Upon reaching the lake, I found there did not look to be many good campsites. I found a nice spot near a few tents and hung around till the owners returned and asked if they minded if I camp near them. They said they were OK with it, but that they were expecting a few more people and they might get rowdy. I said I did not mind and set up my camp. As it turned out, I was more tired than I thought and ended up falling asleep rather early, completely missing any roudyness that may have occurred, but not before I discovered a good size rattlesnake not far from our camp area.

I got up late the next day, chatted with the guys in the adjacent camp (mentioning the snake I saw) and headed out for a day of hiking. My only footwear for the trip was my Vibrum Five Fingers Sprint shoes and I was wearing shorts. With a light pack (the Platypus Origin 9 that I was reviewing), minimal gear, and my MP3 player, I was off for a day of easy but fast-paced hiking (about an 8-mile loop down to the Columbia River and back). This trail was much narrower than what I had been on the previous day and in some places partially overgrown. The day was cooler and slightly overcast, combined with the cold nights it was ideal conditions to encounter rattlesnakes out during the day. It was not long after leaving camp that I decided the MP3 player was probably not such a good idea, so I put it away (probably the only smart thing I did the entire trip). Before long, I encountered my first snake of the day…by almost stepping on it. I was glad I was not wearing my headphones as my first indication was the rattling next to my foot. During the day I encountered many more snakes, most by almost stepping on them. One particular snake refused to get out of the trail until I prodded it with my trekking pole, and even then it simply coiled up under a sage bush directly adjacent to the trail and started rattling, forcing me to bushwhack around it (praying there were no other snakes in the low growth I was walking through, and contemplating the irony of getting bit by an unknown snake while avoiding a known one). The day remained cool and overcast with a few light showers, quite pleasant for hiking, and despite the snakes was enjoying myself immensely. About 2 miles from camp, the trail I was on reconnected with the old jeep road I had hiked the day before. Energized by a day of easy hiking, and relieved by the relatively (but false) safety of a more open trail, I decided to run the rest of the way back to camp…but it was not to be. Within about a half a mile I caught some movement out of the corner of my eye and looked just in time to see a snake shoot out of the brush and narrowly miss my leg. I let out a few choice words that I can’t print here and decided maybe running in these conditions was another bad idea.

I returned to camp to find a few kids who were searching the area for snakes, spiders, and scorpions (all of which they found in abundance). Not long after I got there, they turned over one of the rocks only yards from my tent and discovered a small rattlesnake! They were nice enough to capture it and move it quite a distance from our camp.

That evening after dinner, I went over to chat with the guys in the adjacent camp. They were drinking and playing a game that one of them invented, and invited me to join them. One thing lead to another and the next thing I know my whisky is gone and I find I am drinking some vodka they poured for me. I have no idea what time we finally turned in for the night, but I am sure it was quite late, and I was feeling no pain.

I awoke late the next morning, and knew the previous night was a bad idea, but had no idea how bad yet. My tent was like an oven in the morning sun, and I was lying in a pool of sweat with a pounding headache and the earth spinning around me. Picture the scene from Wizard of Oz, of Dorothy in her bed with her house spinning in the tornado, only I was in a tent…and not wearing a gingham dress.  I finally managed to drag myself out of the tent around 9am and it took the better part of two hours to eat a small energy bar and pack my gear. Just about the time I had all my gear packed I lost my breakfast and immediately felt better. I put my pack on, and headed up the trail. I don’t think I have ever moved that slow in my life. If you have never experienced it, I can tell you that backpacking through desert terrain in the hot sun with a hangover is a kind of Hell that I don’t think even Dante could imagine. I had to stop every 20 yards or so, sitting down when I could. Shade was out of the question and I found it difficult to even find places suitable to sit down so did most of my rest stops on my feet. If you have never tried to puke while wearing a 25lb pack at the same time as trying to avoid being bitten by snakes, I can assure you, it is an experience you do not want. About half the way back to the trailhead, I took the final few sips out of my water…oops! In my condition, I had totally forgotten to refill my water. Since I had time constraints, going back to the lake to refill my water was out of the question. The heat, my condition, and vomiting had me quite dehydrated and there was no water between my vehicle and me. Ugh! Needless to say I was severely berating myself for making such poor decisions. The one saving grace was that I managed to encounter only one small group of folks on the trail, and so mostly spared the embarrassment of my predicament.

I ended up not reaching the trailhead till about 3pm. I had planned to be back at my vehicle by no later than 10am! I had about one and a half hour drive to get home, but stopped along the way to pick up a cold drink, and then stopped again when it came back up. I got home, jumped in a cold shower, swapped my backpacking gear for my suitcase, then off for my 3 hr drive and a full night of work (ended up working till 3am) arriving only an hour later than originally planned. Work that night was tough, and the difficult day I had made it even harder. I was able to accomplish the work I had planned and then went to my hotel for some much needed sleep.

The lessons in this are rather obvious, in fact should be common sense, but sometimes I guess I need to learn things the hard way. While I love hiking in my Five Fingers, I will think twice next time the conditions are ripe for snake encounters. I don’t know what I would have done had I not had my trekking poles. They helped beat the bushes and clear the snakes from my path. Not to mention how much I needed the extra stability on the hike out. And as for drinking on the trail…It was never something I was fond of, if there is a time when I want a clear head it is when driving and when on the trail, so I don’t expect to experience that again…EVER!

If you enjoyed this I invite you to read my 3 part Misadventures of Dave series…

If you love the great outdoors as much as I do, it is difficult to justify running on sidewalks and paved roads in town while there are miles and miles of trails waiting to alleviate the boredom and monotony that go along with running on paved surfaces.

While many of us are not lucky enough to run on the trails as often as we may desire, Oboz Footwear has created the Lightning trail runner to get the most out of training on the trail.  Gear provided by Oboz Footwear for review and testing purposes.

Oboz is a fairly young company, having only opened their doors in 2007, but that hasn’t stopped their Lightning shoe from being awarded Trail Runner Magazine’s Editor’s Choice for “Best True Trail.”

Manufacturer Specifications (from website)

Upper:  Synthetic leather and fabrics

Four-Part Midsole:

1. Trail Dynamics Balancing System
2. Two Part Molding Process with Dual Density EVA
3. Full Forefoot & Heel EVA SuperSkin Plate
4. Nylon Shank

Outsole:  Bridger model

Insoles:  BFit Deluxe and BFit Minimal footbeds

Quick Overview:

I was excited to receive the Oboz Lighting trail runners and to see how they would perform on the trail.  A quick description on the Oboz website about the Lightning shoe described the shoe as “light weight.”  I realize that there are many interpretations of “lightweight” out there, but 12.7 oz is not what I consider as a lightweight shoe.  A quick search of a variety of makes and models of trail running shoes out there, shows that the Lightning shoe is at the upper spectrum of shoe weights.  So if you are looking for the minimalist “lightweight” trail running shoe, the Lightning may not be the first place to look.   That being said, your feet and shoes take a good beating when trail running.  The Oboz Lightning offers a good balance of protection and comfort for the trail.

Upper:

The Lighting utilizes a heavy dose of double-layer synthetic mesh and  also employs synthetic leather throughout the construction of the shoe’s upper.  The mesh allows for breathability and moisture wicking while the synthetic leather provides rigidity and protection for the toe-box and the forefoot.

Lacing:

The Lighting shoes utilize an asymmetrical lacing system, which Oboz claims allows a much better fit and flex on the forefoot and is more comfortable overall.  An interesting feature that the Lightning shoe employs is the use of a rubber film (see photo below) which connects the base of the outsole to the base of each of the loops in the lacing system on both the medial and lateral sides of the shoe.  This allows for a more secure fit of the shoe on the foot as the shoe is tightened and the laces are tied.

The tongue of the shoe does not protrude very high above the laces, in fact only about a quarter of an inch protrudes when fully laced.  The tongue is also continuous with the upper of the shoe, which is a nice feature on the trail as it allows less grit and debris into the shoe (see below photo).

Outsole:

My first impressions with the outsole of the Lightning was that it was a little less aggressive than I have seen on other trail running shoes .  The Bridger outsole style, supposedly named after the Bridger Mountain Range in Montana,  was designed as a shallow outsole in order to increase the surface area of the shoe.  The multi-directional lug pattern of the outsole was developed to create optimal grip and traction on whatever surface you face. Interesting note:  if you look closely enough at the outsole rubber, you can see a topographical map of what I assume is the area around Bozeman, Montana.

Insole:

The Lightning comes with two different insole inserts for the trail runner to use.  The BFit Minimum is just what the name says: minimal.  Nothing more than soft EVA foam for cushion, the lighter BFit Minimum sole is ideal for those with wider feet and who do not desire any additional arch support.  The BFit Minimum also has small holes in the heel and forefoot to provide extra ventilation for the foot.  This will be the insole that I will be using to review the shoe as I have very flat, wide feet and do not require any type of arch support.

front: BFit Minimum rear: BFit Deluxe

The BFit Deluxe is a new insole provided by Oboz.  It offers a pronounced arch which is kept firm and durable with exra EVA resin to maintain shape throughout the life of the shoe.  This is the sole for those who need the added arch support in their shoes.  The BFit Deluxe also features  soft EVA under the heel and forefoot for extra cushion (see photo below). The BFit Deluxe also features small ventilation holes in the forefoot for extra ventilation.

Conclusion:

The Oboz Lightning appears to be an able shoe with a lot of potential.  I am excited to hit the trails and get some runs in so that I can update you on just how the Oboz Lighting performs.  I also want to highlight something that I believe is important when you consider buying any kind of outdoor gear.  Oboz goes great lengths to be environmentally responsible.  I know that this is just as important to many of you who are looking to buy outdoor products.  Visit Oboz’ website to see their environmental ethics.  Please check back in about a month for my first update on the Lightning shoes.

-Kaleb R.

Update #1

The Oboz Lightning trail running shoes have gotten a good bit of use over the past month and I have been happy with how they have performed so far.

Comfort:  My feet are very wide and very flat.  This often causes problems for me with virtually any shoe out there on the market.  I usually have to “break in” a pair of shoes for a few weeks before the pain is tolerable enough to wear.  Most of the pain can be attributed to a narrow width or arch support that is too high. So far, I haven’t experienced any pain with the Lightning trail runners.  I have been wearing the BFit Minimum insoles which are the lighter of the two insoles that come with the shoes and also does not have any arch molded into them.  The padding and seams inside of the shoe have been comfortable and haven’t caused any issues with blistering or skin irritations.  I have also been able to comfortably wear thin cotton athletic socks as well as thick wool socks with the shoes.

I have worn the shoes for everyday use and they have proved to be very comfortb

Breathability: Heavy implementation of mesh throughout the shoe and ventilation holes in the insoles makes the Oboz Lightning very breathable.  I have worn the shoes in the gym and on the trail and so far my feet have not become overheated despite the high activity and heat during my runs and time in the gym.

On the trail:  I have used the Lightning trail runners on a variety of surfaces.  One recent run took place on both gravel and asphalt.  I had good control on both surfaces.  The dual density EVA construction allowed for comfort on each of the surfaces.  The high-density EVA  provided protection from the the sharp gravel, most of it about the size of golf balls, from bruising the soles of your feet.  The low-density EVA provided adequate cushioning on the hard surface of the asphalt.  The terrain that I experienced on my trail runs was very diverse.  Portions of the trail that I encountered consisted of sand, hard packed clay, stumps and rocks.  The multi-directional lugs on the outsole of the trail runners handled each of the different types of terrain with ease.  All of the trail runs that I have completed so far in the Oboz Lightning shoes were in dry conditions.  For my next update I will do my best to try some the shoes out in some wet and muddy conditions to see how they perform.

Check back in a month to see my next update on the Oboz Lightning Trail Running Shoes.

-Kaleb R.

Final Update: 1.3.12

I have always enjoyed trying out a new pair of shoes, especially those from new and upcoming companies. The opportunity to try out a pair of Oboz trail runners over the past months has been a blast and I have come to some final conclusions about the “light weight” shoes.

• These shoes are NOT “light weight.”  At 12.7 oz a piece (size 9.5), I would have to say that these are on the heavy side of the weight spectrum.  In a world where lightweight, ultralight, and all the adjectives in between are used superfluously, I believe that the label on Lightnings is misleading.  However, here is why that does not matter to me…
• My feet feel safe in these shoes.  Let me try to explain this by telling you what often makes my feet feel”unsafe.” Many lightweight shoes out there use materials which leave my feet moving around far too much inside the shoe. This hasn’t been the case with the Oboz Lightnings. The upper is rigid enough to keep my foot in place on the footbed, but soft enough to still feel like a pair of running shoes. The upper material has stood up well over the past months and it’s durability also contributes to making my feet feel safe. The toe box is rigid enough to take the blows of roots and rocks on the trail but doesn’t make your toes feel constricted as if you were wearing steel-toed boots.
• These can be your everyday go-to shoes.Don’t try to wear them to a casual dinner, your wife wont approve (tried it and failed). However, I’ll throw these shoes on to head to the gym, go for a day hike,  take a trail run, or just use them for my everyday activities.  I like to leave the laces tied lose and just slip them on and off. The heel loop is something that I didn’t think I would use, however, since I leave my shoes tied loosely, it comes in handy to pull them on (I realize that this can ruin the heel of the shoe, but I’m sure some of y’all out there do the same thing)
  

  Loosely tied

• They are durable. I have worn these at the gym, to work, on trail runs, on day hikes, to run errands. I’d say I wear them at least 3 days a week and as you can see from the photos below, the outsole may show some minimal wear, and some threads have frayed, but they are still in great shape.

Loose threads (if you can even see them)

Wear on outsole heel

• My wide, flat feet love them.  I have to qualify this by the fact that I mostly wore the shoes with the BFit Minimalist insole. While my flat feet perhaps needed the support of the BFit Deluxe sole, it made the shoe narrower and these wide feet of mine need all the width they can get. Be warned, they are not as cushioned compared to the comfort sole, however the trade off it worth it for me. So, rest assured, if you have wide feet, these shoes can work for you.

MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set

Review by Ron J.

MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set was provided by MSR for the purpose of this review.

Information below from the website (in italics).  http://cascadedesigns.com/msr/cookware/cookware-accessories/alpine-deluxe-kitchen-set/product

The Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set is our most comprehensive set of tools for outdoor cooking. A releasable webbing handle makes the protective zippered case easy to hang anywhere and inside, two generous mesh pockets replace old-school elastic loops that tend to limit versatility, stretch-out and lose their grip over time. You’ll find innovations such as our new combination pot strainer/cheese grater, moisture-resistant salt and pepper shaker, folding cutting board, stainless steel Utility Knife and more.

Includes:

• 100% BPA-Free Materials
• Alpine^™ Folding Spoon, Spatula and Strainer/Grater: Spoon is calibrated for common measurements and Strainer doubles and cheese grater.
• Alpine^™ Salt & Pepper Shaker: New design is moisture resistant and holds plenty.
• Alpine^™ Dish Brush /Scraper: Nonstick friendly pot cleaner with edge radius to match cookware.
• Alpine Kitchen Knife: 4.5″ Santoku-styled knife in a ventilated, plastic sheath is made from 440-series high-carbon stainless steel.
• PackTowl^® Dish Towel: The original travel towel absorbs four times its weight in water–over and over–dries fast and is built to survive years of abuse.
• Deluxe case: Zippered, semi-rigid case with two large zippered mesh pockets for maximum versatility.
• Alpine^™ Deluxe Cutting Board: Strong, hinged design for durability and portability.
• Plus: (2) squeeze bottles, Bottle opener/corkscrew.

Total weight – 1lb 6.6oz / 640.4g

Packed Size – 9.0 x 6.0 x 2.75in / 22.9 x 15.2 x 7.0 cm

Country of Origin – Made in Taiwan

The best part of camping to me is sitting down and preparing and eating a good meal.  I am always looking for lighter, more compact, quality cookware set to take with me on camping trips and I found that in the MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set.  The compact case has just about everything I need to prepare, cook and clean a meal while I am camping.  I have not used it on a camping trip yet but I did test several of the items in my kitchen at home.

I am very impressed at the performance of the items I have used so far.  The grater/strainer, spoon and spatula all have folding handles so they fit nicely in the case.  They easily lock into their full size by opening them until you hear it snap into the locked position.  Once locked in they are securely opened until you are ready to fold them back which is easily done by simply squeezing the handle at the arrows and folding them to their storage position.  One edge of the spatula has a serrated edge for cutting a sandwich or spreading butter and is large enough to flip an egg, pancake or a grilled cheese sandwich.  The spoon is deep enough to use as a ladle and has lines for common measurements.  It is marked but difficult to read so its best to remember what each line represents.  The marked measurements are 1tbsp (15 ml), 2 tbsp (30ml), ¼ cup (60 ml) and the top rim is 1/3 cup (80 ml).  I was very impressed on how well the grater worked.  I figured it would be difficult to grate cheese being plastic but it did a great job on tomato basil cheddar cheese.  I was able to grate it as easily as I could on our home steel grater.  The strainer has a lip on either side (for right or left hander’s) to hold the strainer against the pot as you pour out the liquid from the pot.  The rigid cutting boards packed size is 7.4 x 5.2 x 0.3 inches ( 18.8 x 13.2 x 0.8 cm) and opens to 7.4 x 10.4 x 0.3 inches ( 18.8 x 26.4 x 0.8 cm) and weighs 6.2 oz (176.7g).  The knife has a 4.5″ Santoku-styled very sharp blade and a protective cover.  It smoothly cut through a block of cheese and several pepperoni’s stacked together.

For cleaning up after your meal, the MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set has a nifty dish brush with a scrape blade.  It is great for scraping off the left behind cheese or egg in your pan then brush it right out.  There are two plastic bottles (looks to be 2 -3 oz each) that can hold your dishwashing soap and a PackTowl^® dish towel that absorbs four times its weight in water over and over and dries fast.  It also has a strap with a snap that you can put through a belt loop and attach it to your side for easy access.

I have not had a chance to try the cork screw and bottle opener or the moisture resistant salt and pepper shakers but will for my next review.  It is nice how everything included fits easily in the two large zippered mesh pockets.  Once everything is securely inside, the semi-rigid case folds together like a suitcase and can easily fit in a backpack.  The case with all its contents (weight of fluids in squeeze bottles and salt and pepper are not included) weighs only 1lb 6.6oz (640.4grams) and when closed is only 9.0 x 6.0 x 7.2 inches (22.9 x 15.2 x 7.0 cm).  Everything in the sett is 100% BPA free.

I am very impressed with the quality and usages of the set so far and I look forward to using the MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set on my future camping trips.  More to come in a month.

Update 06/24/2011

Have you ever used something and thought to yourself, what have I ever done without the MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set?  That is how I feel about this kitchen set.  I had the opportunity to use the kitchen set on a camping trip with three other families (16 people).  I used the set to prepare two breakfast and a dinner.

Breakfast is my favorite meal while I am camping and I was excited about what was on the menu on Saturday morning.  The adults had omelets in a bag and the kids pancakes.  I got up and started cooking the bacon and sausage.  I used the folding spatula to turn the bacon and sausage.  While they cooked, I started chopping onions, peppers and tomatoes for the omelets using the kitchen knife and cutting board.  The knife easily cut through everything even the tomatoes that sometimes crush if my knife is not sharp enough.  Once the bacon and sausage were done cooking, I started cooking the pancakes that I mixed using the folding spoon that doubles as a measuring cup.  I also used the folding spoon to pour the pancake mix on the griddle and flipped them with spatula.  Once everyone was full, it was clean up time.  The dish brush and scraper removed all the excess food left behind on the griddle for easy washing.  After we washed everything, I dried it all using PackTowl^® dish towel.  The towel dries everything then I hung it up to dry for its next use. 

For dinner on Saturday I was cooking a low country boil.  For those of you not from the southeast, a low country boil is chopped potatoes, onion, corn on the cob, kielbasa, shrimp and crab all boiled together in crab boil seasoned water.  It is a great dish when you have a lot of people to feed.  The hardest part of this meal is preparing for it.  I had to cut up all the potatoes, onion and kielbasa into bite size pieces.  The kitchen knife and cutting board made it a snap.  The knife again easily cut through the 5 pounds of red potatoes and 3 pounds of onions and 3 pounds of kielbasa.  For dessert my son made a peach cobbler in a Dutch oven.  He had to drain a large can of peaches and of course the MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set had what I needed.  We used the folding strainer/grater with the raised lip to keep the strainer from slipping off the can and it worked like a champ. The meal was a success and everyone was full and happy.

Another scrumptious breakfast was planned for Sunday morning.  Adults again had omelets in a bag and shrimp and grits with the leftover shrimp from the low country boil.  The kids got pancakes again.  The folding spoon that doubles as a measuring spoon was perfect for measuring out the grits.  It also stirred and served the grits.  The moisture resistant salt and pepper shakers did their jobs seasoning the shrimp and grits.  I was concerned the salt shaker would not work since everything got so wet in Friday evenings storm but it worked great. I used the folding spoon for measuring, mixing and pouring the pancakes again and the spatula for flipping and serving.  Cleanup was a snap with dish brush, scraper and PackTowl^® dish towel.

As you can probably tell I am very impressed with the performance of the MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set.  The other families that were with us kept telling me they are going out and getting the set and I cannot blame them.  I still have not tested the cork screw but promise I will before my final review in about a month. 

Final Update 

The MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set continues to be my favorite cooking kit that I have ever used.  As I mentioned before, the set have everything I need to prepare, cook and clean up after a meal.  I have been able to use it on a couple more outdoor camping trips and the kids have even got it out on their living room camping trips to make their dinner (I use that term dinner loosely since their meal was peanut butter and jelly). 

I have found that I use the knife, cutting board and the spatula the most in the set.  I figured they would show some wear from the harsh environment I used them in.  After close examination, I do not see any wear or damage on the spatula.  On some of my home spatulas, there is damage on the edges from heat and use but the Alpine folding spatula is still in excellent condition.  The Alpine Kitchen Knife is still very sharp with no signs of wear or chips.  I have been most impressed on how well it cuts through anything I have asked it to with ease and efficiency.  The Alpine Hinged Cutting Board has cuts in it from all the use but none of them are deep telling me the board is very tough but not too tough were it dulls my knife blade.  I really like how Alpine made it a folding board so I get twice the surface area to use while it still folds nicely into the case.  The Alpine Folding Spoon and Strainer / Grater still look as good as they did the day I got the set.  I have used both on many occasions and my only complaint is I wish MSR could figure a way of having the lines and levels in the spoon stand out more.  They are difficult to see when using the folding spoon as a measuring spoon.  I have only used the grater a couple of times but it grates cheese with ease and it is easy to clean.  I do like the lip MSR put on the strainer to keep a can from sliding off the strainer when in use.  The Alpine Salt and Pepper Shaker holds plenty of salt and pepper for a weekend trip and I have not had any issues of moisture causing either to clump up and get stuck inside.  I like how the shaker is one piece that divides the salt and pepper.  The salt and pepper comes out at a good rate so I don’t have to shake it real hard to get the desired amount out.  I have no issues with the squeeze bottles.  They hold plenty of detergent for washing dishes for a weekend.  I really like the Alpine Dish Brush / Scraper.  It makes for easy cleanup by scraping out whatever sticks to my pan without damaging the pan.  Burnt eggs, cheese and pancake mix can be scraped with the edge and then brushed right out.  Neither show any wear and the brush bristles are still firm and don’t look at all like an old toothbrush.  The Packtowl Dish Towel works great and is easily cleaned itself.  It does not smell like many dish towels seem to do and other than being wrinkled, it is in great shape. 

As promised I tried the bottle opener / corkscrew.  The bottle opener works fine.  It is a typical slide the metal piece under and the cap and pop it off type opener.  The corkscrew is a simple corkscrew and not the type that has the wings that raise up as you screw it in.  It is easy to screw the corkscrew into the cork but it is not the easiest way to open up a bottle of wine.  It takes a lot of effort to get the cork out as you can see in my facial expression.  I would say it’s not the easiest way to open a bottle of wine but the bottle opener / corkscrew is durable, lightweight and will work on a camping trip.

A little difficult pulling the cork.

The MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set far exceeded all my expectations.  I have been more than impressed with its performance and will continue to use it on my camping trips as well as at home.  Thank you MSR for allowing me to test this set and 4AllOutdoors for the opportunity

This Product was provided by Platypus for this review.

http://cascadedesigns.com/platypus

Images complements of Platypus - Click to see additional images

Platypus (a Cascade Designs Inc brand) currently offers 5 hydration packs: the Origin 3, 5, 9, 22, 32 with the number indicating the volume of the pack in liters.

I received the Origin 9 to review. This pack is touted as an ultralight hydration pack with 9 liters of dedicated storage area as well as a 3 liter (Platypus Big Zip hydration reservoir) hydration bladder.

The pack is advertised as weighing 1 lb 2 oz / 497 g and 5.8 oz / 165 g, on my scale I measured 18.6oz / 529 g for the pack, and 5.8 oz / 164 g for the pouch.

The main compartment of the pack is described as being weatherproof with welded all weather zippers and taped seams. The pack is intended for short hikes or ultralight all day outings (and looks to be targeted at cyclists). Along with many smaller details, it has a dedicated hydration compartment, a main storage compartment with a small mesh inner pouch, an outer expandable pouch, and two small side pockets in the hip belt.

The shoulder straps have two different attachment points on the hip belt and at the base of the pouch to accommodate different torso sizes. The main sections of the shoulder straps are filled with foam padding containing holes (to cut weight and provide ventilation?).

I have used a few Platypus hydration products over the years (I love the wine preservation pouches) and believe the Origin line is the first time they have offered hydration packs. If so from looking at this pack it looks like they sure did their research and intend to be a player in this field. This pack has many features and details that I will do my best to describe and review.

To start, this is a very good-looking pack, and looks well designed and constructed. The main material is shiny and embossed on the outside while the inside is coated very much like a raincoat, with what inner seams in the main compartment fully taped. The secondary material is a smooth stretchy material, similar to lycra workout cloths, but thicker and maybe not quite as stretchy.  The Platypus brand name, logo and “ORIGIN 9” are all printed on the pack, and are highly reflective. As is the decretive stitching in the fabric attachment loops on the shoulder straps. The external zippers are all weather zippers without covering flaps similar to what I have been seeing on many of the soft shell jackets that I have been dreaming about getting. On the back of the pack, in addition to two helmet attachment loops on either side of the pack there are two other attachment points, one near the top and one near the bottom, that are little more than double slits in the material. They are backed with patches to maintain the weatherproof feature of the pack. There are 5 different openings that the drink tube can pass though from the inside of the pack. The primary one is at the top center of the pack and the opening is at an angle. I presume to help prevent water from entering. The other four are at the bottom of the pack on either side, one at the top of the hip belt and the other at the bottom corner of the pack. All on the inner side of the hipbelt, again presumably to help keep water from working its way into the pack.

The 3L Big Zip hydration reservoir that comes with this pack is an item that could stand to get a review of its own. I have owned many hydration bladders over the years and this one looks to have all of the features have been looking for. To start is the Big Zip opening at the top. The problem with early bladders is that the opening was not large enough to adequately clean and dry it properly between uses. The result is that I had to dispose of them when they would begin to mildew after extended storage. This bladder has a large zip opening (think resalable freezer bag on steroids) with a plastic clip that slides on to reinforce the zip opening to prevent it from accidentally opening as well as provide a convent way to carry/hang the pouch. The drink tube is attached to the pouch by way of a quick disconnect that has an integrated auto-shutoff valve. When the drink tube is removed the valve is closed, this way the tube can be removed from the pouch without the remaining liquid spilling out. This allows the pouch to be removed from the pack to be filled or emptied while not having to remove the hydration tube. The mouthpiece has its own valve to help prevent it from accidentally leaking. I have had a mouthpiece leak when it was in the back seat of my car on the way to a trailhead, and so this is a feature I can appreciate. The pack contains two toggles that fit through eye holes in the plastic closure clip to hold the pouch in place when inside the pack.

The 3L size of this pouch is a bit of over kill for most of my adventures. 3L of water is rather heavy and a bit much to carry most of the time, but it is not necessary to completely fill the pouch every time. However in camp I like to have additional water capacity so I can have all the water I will need for the night with a single trip to the stream or lake. In addition, I am planning a long (~15hr) all in one day of Mt Adams this summer, and for that the 3L size of this pouch is what I was planning to carry anyway.

I am looking forward to using this Hydration pack over the next two months and invite you to return in one month when I will be posting the 2^nd of 3 installments to this review.

 [Update July 12 2011]

Over the last month I have used this pack on a few day hikes and one abbreviated trail run.

While on a day hike with my kids I found the pack size to be good for our basic items; 10 essentials* (see note below), and snacks. Since we hiked up out of the canyon to a local winery, I found it even had enough room to bring home a bottle of wine. The gear plus 3L of water and bottle of wine not only all fit well, it was also quite comfortable despite the weight. I brought the pack along on a recent backing trip to use for day hiking. I spent a full day hiking in cool weather with light rain. The light rain simply beaded up and rolled off the pack so I had no worries of any of my gear getting wet. The pack was quite comfortable despite almost a full day on the trail so I decided to do some trail running. I managed to only run about half a mile before a snake shot out and barely missed striking my leg. During the brief period I did manage to run, I found the pack to ride quite well not shifting or bouncing at all. I don’t normally wear a pack while running and was quite surprised at how comfortable it was and how it had little or no affect on my running.

There is one feature of the pack that I have found lacking, and that would be the whistle. It is a nice touch to include the whistle, but the whistle that came with the pack does not work very well. The way it is built, unless I get my lips positioned just right, it seems best to put the whistle in my mouth sideways, most of the air bypasses the whistle and makes no sound. Even when I do get my lips positioned right, the whistle is still not very loud. So at the end of the review period I will probably be replacing the whistle with one that works better.

The hydration system works flawlessly. The large opening has made it easy to fill, empty, clean, and dry (I like to store my pouches open with some paper towels inside them to help keep them from mildewing). I really like the quick disconnect on the drinking tube. It allows me to remove the pouch for filling without having to completely remove the drink tube. The only trouble is that the water that is in the tube can drain out into the pouch, but that is at worst only a minor nuisance.

The hip belt pockets, at first seemed a bit small and their position looked like they could be difficult to access. However, I have not found this to be the case. I found the pockets quite convenient for items like snack bars, lip balm and even my camera. I like hip belt pockets and so far have found them to be sized well to fit the overall storage size of the pack.

So far I am quite impressed with this pack. The design and construction so far has exceeded my expatiations. The size is great for my shorter and/or lightweight day hikes. I look forward to the rest of the testing period and invite you to return in about a month when I will be posting my final review of this product.

On a side note, my teenage daughter has been bugging me about this pack. She loves the design and color and has repeatedly asked me if she can have it when I am done reviewing it. I told her that she can have this one only if she buy’s me the Origin 22. [grin]

* 10 Essentials

• Navigation (map and compass)
• Sun protection (sunglasses and sunscreen)
• Insulation (extra clothing)
• Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
• First-aid supplies
• Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candles)
• Repair kit and tools
• Nutrition (extra food)
• Hydration (extra water)
• Emergency shelter

[Update Sep 1 2011]

Since my last update I have done very little in the way of day hikes and so while this would not be my ideal pack for this, I brought this pack along for one of my Mt. Adams climbs as a summit pack.

NOTE: I have a very light weight 18L frameless pack that I normally use as a summit pack. Turned inside out it functions as a stuff sack (I use it for my clothing in my multi-day pack). But for my 3^rd ascent of Mt Adams this year (in just over a month) I chose to use the Platypus in its place.

The Platypus is a bit stiff and bulky for stuffing inside a pack, but since over the last 2 years I have greatly reduced the weight & bulk of my gear so I easily had room for this in my Osprey Ather 70. After arriving at camp I removed my clothes from the Platypus and repacked it with what I would bring for my trip to the summit (10 Essentials, wind jacket, down jacket, lightweight crampons, rain/glissading pants, snacks & lunch, & ski gloves). I filled the hydration bladder with 2L of water for the climb and clipped my camera to the chest straps. I have been carrying my camera in on side pocket of the pack (sunscreen & snacks in the other) and while this works really well, for this trip I did not think it a good idea since the plan was to hike up and glissade down (in one section we descend over 2000 vertical feet in less than 10min).

While the Platypus may not be ideal for stuffing in another pack, its comfort was welcome during the ascent to the summit. As I have come to expect, soon after putting the pack on I can completely forget about it. No matter what amount of bending and twisting I do the pack stays firmly and comfortably in place. When stopping, I really appreciate the internal storage pocket, as it makes it easy to locate smaller items even when perched on an icy 70 deg slope. During the glissade down, its compact size and ability to stay firmly in place was even more appreciated. At one point there was a bit of a roadblock in the glissade trough (climber decided to stop halfway down to chat with friends), forcing me to self-arrest. While my normal summit pack would shift during a maneuver like that, it was not until I had gotten past the climber and resumed my glissade that I remembered to check that my pack and all its contents were still with me.

Since receiving this pack I have stuffed it with various loads and found that if I really overstuff it, I can make it ride uncomfortably. When overstuffed the pack tends to ‘round’ and no longer sits firmly on my back, but since this requires way overstuffing the pack, I can’t fault the pack of that.

I have been really impressed with the design and construction of this pack and can find little to complain about in that area. Despite is apparent small size it fits my larger frame quite well, and while this pack has not really experienced the level of abuse that many of my day packs do, it appears to be quite durable. The only complaint I have in that area is that while packing for my Mt Adams trip I noticed a few loose treads on one of the bottom corners of the pack. I plan to take a closer look to see if this is a sign of the seam coming loose, and if it does not look like trimming/melting the loose threads will take care of it I plan to contact the manufacture to see if it can be repaired (and if it is covered under the warranty), and will update this review.

As for the Big Zip? Well there is really not much I can add to what I have previously said. It has performed flawlessly. No leaks (not even the mouthpiece), no odor (though I have used it exclusively for plain water, no flavors or additives). The Zip opening is still easy to open/close, makes the bag easy to clean and dry, and creates a leak free seal. After using this, I am considering purchasing one or more of the Platypus water bottles that I can use for things like short trips, sports drinks, etc.

I will conclude this review the way I started it in saying that Platypus really hit a home run with this line of packs. The design, materials, and workmanship are clearly the result of some research with a focus on the end user.

I would really like to thank the folks at 4AllOutdoors.org and Platypus for the opportunity to test this fine product. I expect this pack to be a standard part of my day trip gear (unless my daughter steals it from me as she has been threatening to do ever since I received it). Now I need to find a way to get my hands on the Origin32 as it looks like the ideal pack for things like long day trips, travel, and snowshoeing (I have a birthday coming up, maybe someone will mention this to my wife…).

Dave (the turtle) Wilkes

Review by Coy Starnes
Aquapac 25L Wet & Dry provided by Aquapac for review purposes.

Aquapac 25 L Wet & Dry viewed from behind

I was excited when offered a chance to test the Aquapac 25L Wet & Dry backpack.  I have used an Aquapac phone pouch for several years now and it has always kept my phone dry so I felt I could trust my camping gear to the same manufacture.  The bag fastens with the proven roll-top design.  Here is the fastening system with my old camera pouch laying across the bag.

Roll-Top closure shown with my old Aquapac phone case

The Aquapac 25L Wet & Dry is basically a small waterproof backpack with shoulder straps attached. And by small, I mean 25 Liters is more in the daypack range of pack sizes. It is also very light.  It does sport several cool features though. The main one being the separate storage sack inside which allows wet and dry items to be kept separated.  The storage sack (I will call it the wet bag) is located inside the pack next to the back panel.  It is almost the same size as the main pack compartment so theoretically, it could hold a lot and the main compartment very little. I envision having my clean clothes inside the main compartment at the start of a trip and then transferring dirty ones inside the wet bag as the trip goes along. However, due to the overall small size of the pack, I don’t see using it as my only dry storage for extended outings. The wet sack is a bright yellow inside and out which is said to make it easier to see things inside.  It has a hook and loop fastener across the top of the bag.

On the outside of the wet bag is a separate pouch for keys and other items. It is clear and has a small hook and loop fastener. This photo shows my hand inside the bag so it is obvious it will hold a lot more than keys.

This clear pocket is called the key pocket, my keys are going to fit easily...

Moving to the outside of the pack, the shoulder straps are very minimally padded.  I have not had a chance to go hiking with the pack but it feels comfortable just trying it out around the house with a 10 lb load. There is a strip along the front of each of the shoulder straps with several holes in them for attaching carabiners etc. There is also a sternum strap to help keep the pack secure.  This photo provided by Aquapac shows the features I am speaking of.

Suspension system on the Aquapac 25L

The pack has a waist belt, but not like the waist belt on most backpacks I’m familiar with. It is a simple 1 inch web strap with no padding whatsoever and is used to keep the load steady instead of supporting any pack weight.  The belt attaches on each side of the pack so it is easily removable.  This does make it a little more difficult to snap than a more traditional belt that fastens in the center.  However, I really like the fact that the belt is completely removable because I don’t like a lot of extra straps flopping around when storing gear in my kayak or canoe.

The Aquapac 25L Wet & Dry also features 2 mesh pockets on each side of the pack. These are huge and Aquapack says they can easily hold water bottle or pump. I know they practically swallow my insulated 24 oz water bottles.

The back panel of the pack has a removable part that adds some stiffness to the pack.  It can be removed and used as a seat. The pouch it fits in can be used for a hydration bladder. The removable seat part is fairly thin so it does not have to be removed to fit a bladder inside.  Aquapack does not say what size bladder it will hold and I don’t have one, but it looks big enough for at least a 2L bladder too me.

Now that I have stumbled through describing the pack let me just quote Aquapack’s information provided on the website.

# Key Features Full-size waterproof internal pocket – Allows you to separate your wet and dry things (or dirty and clean things) stowed safely in the same bag.
# Internal pockets in yellow – So you can see to the bottom of the bag easily.
# Clear key pocket – No need to scrabble around inside the bag for those small items.
# External mesh-pockets – Keep a bottle or pump quick and easy to get to.

*  TPU-coated fabric with taped seams – Water can’t seep in through the seams, even where they are sewn.
* Proven roll-seal – Quick and easy closure which provides excellent sealing against the elements.
* Removable back support/seat – Take it out to dry it quickly after a soaking, or protect yourself when sitting on rough terrain.
* Pocket can be used for hydration bladder – Add in a bladder and clip the hose to the carabiner supplied, to stay hydrated on the trail.
* Integral light-lash – Add a light to your back, or clip on your helmet to stay hands-free.
* Breathable mesh straps – Quick-drying and breathable mesh straps are lightweight and comfortable.
* Reflective logo print – Be seen at night with reflective ink on your back, but be subtle in daylight.
* Sternum and waist straps – Keep the backpack securely in place when you are moving on the trail. And remove the waist strap if you don’t need it.
* Carabiner lashes – So you can attach your map-case, water-bottle or safety equipment to keep it convenient and hands-free.
* 100% PVC-Free – Stays supple and crack-free even when it’s really cold.

That is pretty much it for now.  I plan on using the pack for dayhiking and perhaps some short overnight trips.  I also plan to use it as a dry bag when kayaking this summer.  Stay tuned for my next update in approximately 1 month from now.

Aquapac 25L Wet & Dry Update: June 30, 2011

So far I’ve been using the Aquapack mostly as a day hiking pack, but I did use it when riding my bike several times.  The hikes were anywhere from 2 to 5 miles long and the longest bike ride was 23 miles.   On one ride, I was taking some letters up to the post office and weighed the pack while I was there.  I knew it was pretty light, but  now I know it weighs 1 lb 8 oz.  On this particular trip I ended up riding 15 miles total and it got up to 86 F.  I found my back did sweat a little under the pack but I really didn’t notice it while riding. Of course I did not have a lot in the pack, my tool kit, a spare tube, toilet paper, my phone, wallet and keys.   I did have 2 water bottles in the side pouches.

As I noted earlier, the water bottle pockets are very tall so I did find it a little hard to reach back and pull a bottle out while walking and even harder when riding.  Therefore, I usually just took the pack off to get a drink.  One exception was on a hike to the holler with my daughter. I just had her grab one out when I needed a drink.  I carried her bottle in the other pocket and 32 ounces of water in an old gator-aid bottle inside the pack to replenish our water when needed.  This was one of the shorter hikes but it was very hot (92 F) and I ended up emptying my 24 oz bottle twice.  She almost finished her 24 oz of water.  Here is a photo showing how much I was sweating.  And yes, I was sweating more where the pack rested against my back, but I have found this to be true with just about any pack so this is not a bad reflection on the Aquapac.

My back did get a little sweaty under the pack

I have not been able to test the waterproof qualities of the pack other then on two hikes.  On both occasions, I left the house shortly after some thunder storms came through so the trees etc were wet and when passing under them I would often get a good shower of rain.  As a matter of fact, I was pretty much soaked by the end of each hike.  I checked and found everything perfectly dry inside the Aquapac.  No big surprise here.  I’m planning a 3 day paddle in the middle of July and should be able to give it a more thorough waterproof test then.

What I really missed was an outside pocket for my phone and knife.  I know that if it were raining I would pack the phone safely inside the pack, but during nearly all my uses, we were in the middle of a drought and there wasn’t a cloud to be found anywhere, much less rain.  I know I had to undo the roll-top to answer it and missed several phone calls. I called right back so no harm done, but it is a slow process to get inside this bag.  Well not that slow, but by the time I got my bike stopped and into the pack I missed the calls. I did manage to answer my phone a few times when hiking because I was able to immediately take the pack off and open it. I know I have sounded a little negative about the lack of an outside pocket but I do like the Aquapac.  It is very comfortable with the loads I have carried so far but none exceeded 10 lbs.  And I later started carrying my phone and knife on the outside of the pack.  As can be seen in this photo I had my phone clipped to the sternum strap and my knife clipped to the waist strap. It worked out well enough but I would still prefer a small outside pocket.

phone and knife carry method

That is pretty much it for now.  I have not used the pack under any real wet conditions but hopefully I can better report on this aspect of the pack after my paddling trip in mid July.   Stay tuned for my next update in approximately 1 month from now.

Aquapac 25L Wet & Dry Final Update: August 22, 2011

Great gear shot...actually, the Aquapac is down in the bottom of the canoe

I did not get back into the pack until the next day when I was at home.  The dirty clothes had a pretty strong smell but the sweat pants and long sleeve shift still had not really picked up the odor from being in the pack with them.  But the most impressive thing was that they stayed dry during the whole trip.  As a matter for fact they were the only thing that stayed completely dry.  I had my hammock and some ofter gear in another pack that was not waterproof and it got wet the very first day just sitting on the bottom of the canoe.  I had placed it behind me so I could use the hydration bladder but after the first day I started putting it on top of the  Aquapac. In other words, the Aquapac was in the bottom of the canoe every day and the canoe bottom often had a lot of water in it but the seal never failed.  The materail the pack is made of also did a great job of keeping out ny moisture.

Summary
The Aquapac 25L is a great day pack for those times when your gear must not get wet.  It also works great as a dry bag for trips when the pack feature is not really needed.  However, the really neat thing about this pack is the wet bag that lets me put wet things in it and not have to worry about them wetting the dry stuff in the main compartment.  A small zippered compartment at the rear of the pack would be a nice touch for getting small items out without having to undo the roll seal but this might compromise the water proof shell so I can live with the pack as it is.  It has been a pleasure testing the Auquapac 25L pack!

About the Author

I am from northeast Alabama where I spend a lot of my time divided among several hobbies that include  backpacking and dayhiking, canoeing and kayaking, and just getting out enjoying nature.

Review by Arnie P

Aquapac and shoulder strap front view

Aquapac and shoulder strap back view

padded container

The Aquapac Waterproof Camera Pouch was provided by Aquapac for review purposes.

The camera pouch is lightweight and waterproof.  A padded container is provided to protect items in the waterproof pouch.  A shoulder strap also is provided as a convenient way to carry the pouch.  The pouch weighs 2.9 oz and is made out of TPU nylon.  The seams are welded and the pouch and is rated down to -40 C/-40 F.  The pouch is about 7 in wide and 10 in high.  The removable padded container is 3 in x 3.7 in x 6 in and weighs 0.9 oz.  The waterproof pouch is closed with a roll down top which has buckles that attach to the pouch.  The shoulder strap which is about 41 in long and ¾ in wide slides into an attached panel and weighs 0.7 oz.  See picture below.  There are 2 places to attach the pouch to a strap or belt.  The slot for attaching to a belt could possibly accommodate a belt up to about 1.5 in wide, depending on the thickness of the belt.

Trying it out

I found that I could easily fit both my compact P &S digital cameras into the padded container and still have space for my cell phone.  For backpacking I would add matches, maps, identification, and other small items that need to be kept dry.  I have been using various plastic bags to store the above items.  I think the waterproof pouch may provide a simpler drier more efficient method.  Since I use suspenders on most of my hiking pants I will probably not be using the belt attachment.  I did put my 7.7 oz digital camera in the pouch and carried it by way of the shoulder strap.  While carrying it this way, I could not feel the weight of the camera.  It was light enough for me to wonder if I had put the camera in the pouch.  As a test I put my camera in the padded container in the pouch, rolled down the top, and cinched the straps.  I could put a fair amount of force on the bag and it felt almost like a balloon.  I think there is enough trapped air for the package to float on the surface of water.  I think I will find the pouch especially useful on backpacking trips or hikes requiring stream crossings.  I do have a backpacking trip planned with a friend to do Owl’s Head.  This requires crossing a stream several times.  The water is usually very cold, swift and the bottom is covered with slimy slippery rocks and sometimes an unexpected deep spot.  I feel I will be less concerned about getting my water sensitive items wet.
,
As I use the pouch more, I will probably find other items to carry in it on hikes and backpacks.  Please check back in a month when I will have more to say about the Aquapac waterproof camera pouch.

Update

6-15-2011

Life always has surprises and shortly after I finished my last report, I discovered the Aquapac is quite different from other dry sacs I have used.  I noticed that there is a seal similar to the seals on Zip lock bags located just below the regular seal.  It was time to start using the Aquapac.

Initially I used the Aquapac for occasions when the threat of rain was possible or there was a chance I could get the contents of the pack wet.  Then, I started taking the Aquapac on hikes where I was using the Aquapac to carry items I needed while on the trail.  I usually store the items I need quickly in my shirt pocket or in small waist pockets on a backpack.  However there are times when these pockets are not available or I don’t have enough space for all the quickly needed items.  There are times when I may be carrying some of the following items; camera, cell phone, traditional compass, small snacks, knife and some kind of GPS device in the future.  I don’t expect to be carrying all these items at once very often, but it’s nice to know that it is possible.

Ways to use the Aquapac waterproof camera case

The easiest way is to store the Aquapac inside my backpack or to attach it to the outside of my backpack.  The problem with that is that I don’t like taking off my backpack or asking someone to get something for me.  I then started trying different ways of carrying the Aquapac using the strap that was supplied.  It turns out the strap supplied is too short for me to use as a waist belt.  The belts I have were too thick or too wide to fit easily into the slot provided for a waist belt.  I also found out that using a belt over a backpack belt would be clumsy at best.  I think it could work on day packs that don’t have waist belts.

I tried 2 positions, first over my shoulder and then over my neck.  When I tried using the Aquapac over my shoulder, I felt I needed a longer strap, it just was not long enough to be useful or comfortable for me.  Using the Aquapac over my neck  in front of me, was a lot better.  I found I was using the belt in the fully extended position all the time and sometimes wished the belt was longer.  The shoulder strap is attached to the Aquapac about in the middle of the pack and sometimes I think it would be nice if the strap attachment were placed closer to the top of the Aquapac.  This would be more stable.

hiking in Pepperell forest

hiking along snowmobile trail in New Hampshire

I have recently bought a much lighter but smaller backpack and will be using the Aquapac to carry items that I can access without having to remove my backpack.  I like using the Aquapac a lot so far.  Please check back in a month when I will have more to say about the Aquapac.

A last look

7-11-11

I am so glad that the Aquapac compact camera pouch (021) can be used in dry conditions as well as wet ones. As mentioned in my last report, my new backpack is smaller and I am finding the Aquapac compact camera pouch may provide some of the space I lost when going to a much lighter and somewhat smaller backpack. My plan is to put into the Aquapac compact camera pouch a lot of the smaller items that I want have access to while hiking as well as items that need to be kept dry. I found out quickly that lightweight backpacking requires a number of skills, organizational ones being the most important, followed by eliminating unessential items, but allowing for a few exceptions. My down pillow is the exception for me, a luxury I don’t want to give up at this time. This could happen if I found a lighter, smaller, and almost as comfortable pillow. When I started using a lighter backpack, I no longer had a number of compartments and pockets in which to store and organize my items. The Aquapac compact camers case restores a pocket I lost. At this point in time, I am still looking for the best combination of items to put in the Aquapac compact camera case.

Hiking and overnight backpacks

One of the concerns I mentioned previously was how to wear the Aquapac compact camera pouch. I decided on 2 possible ways. One is using the strap provided and having the Aquapac compact camera pouch hang from my neck in front of me. The other is to strap it to my backpack facing backwards as I hike. As can be seen from the picture, the pack does hang down and may look a bit strange. This may prove to be a blessing in disguise. With tighter budgets trail maintenance is not as it used to be. This means I encounter a lot more trees that have been blown across the path than usual. If the attached pack was rigidly in place, it would pose a higher profile for me when crawling under a tree that crossed the path. I am hoping there is enough slack to avoid getting caught while crawling under a tree. Since all these situations are different there is almost no way to prepare for them ahead of time.

Aquapac compact camera pouch attached in front

Unexpected hike

This had been planned, then cancelled, then with good weather in the forecast it was back on again. My wife and I met feral cat (trail name of a hiking friend) at Great Brook Farm. We had a good hike and I was able to try out the Aquapac compact camera pouch attached to my backpack. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2011 Windrider backpack and Aquapac compact camera pouch )021) were ready for their inaugural trip and this would be a good conditioning hike for me. Within a half hour I found the Aquapac compact camera pouch was bouncing and this was too annoying for me. My wife was able to find a better way to attach the Aquapac to my backpack and this did work well. I had filled the Aquapac compact camera pouch to capacity. I am now wishing this pouch was a bit larger.

Aquapac compact camera pouch attached on pack

Aquapac compact camera pouch after my wife adjusted straps

Weekend backpack to Mt Isolation

This backpack had been postponed and finally happened. It was a 15 mi backpack to Mt Isolation. I reexamined the way I was attaching the Aquapac to my backpack. Instead of using the strap provided by Aquapac compact camera pouch I used a strap provided by Hyperlite Mountain Gear. I attached the strap to the front of the Aquapac compact camera pouch and then the 2 ends to my backpack. See picture below.

attached with HMG 2011 Windrider straps

This is a product that will over a period of time find a place in my arsenal of hiking and backpacking gear. It may become very useful for some trips and be reasonable on others and maybe there will be a few that I will not be using it. I wish to thank 4alloutdoors.org and Aquapac for the opportunity to test the waterproof compact camera pouch.

An article by Dave (the turtle) Wilkes

Growing up I rarely wore footwear (even for school), and when I did it was usually just flip-flops. The soles of my feet at the time were tough as nails. For example one of our favorite pastimes was to stand barefoot in the beach parking lot and watch the tourist. They would see us standing there barefoot and figure they did not need to put on their shoes. They would get out of their cars and almost immediately start doing the ‘hot foot dance’. We thought it was hilarious! One day we were playing football in the street. I stepped on a rock. It kind of hurt, but not enough to stop me from playing. It must have been at least an hour before we finished and since my heel was still hurting I sat down to take a look at it. Embedded in my heel was a piece of rock about ¼” across. It was embedded so far into my heel that I was unable to remove it and had to go to the doctor (who of course had my mom hold my leg down while he ripped it out…now that part HURT!). Whatever the terrain, lava rock as sharp as razor blades, corral, or thorny underbrush, I recall having absolutely no trouble negotiating my way across as nimble as a mountain goat.

Fast forward a few decades and after years of wearing assorted footwear, my soles are still tougher than average, but nothing like they were. More importantly my feet are not as strong, flexible, or nimble as they were. I originally chalked it up to age…that was until I started reading about barefoot running.

I have tried to become a “runner” a number of times. Over the years I have run an annual 5K race, sometimes training first, most often not. But I have never been able to really get into running in such a way that I stick to it. In addition, I have experienced some injuries, making it even more difficult.

Recently I got the opportunity to review a pair of GOLITE trail running shoes [Read review here]. While researching the shoes I discovered minimalist/barefoot running. After reading some of the material (pro’s & con’s, plenty of controversy, and the ubiquitous internet “noise” and bickering) I realized the fundamental concepts made sense, at least to me. By not landing on the heel of the foot with each step, there should be less shock (claims that are of course supported by some research and doctors & discredited by others). And without the constraints imposed by most shoes, more of the muscles are utilized making the entire foot and lower leg stronger. Also, by not insulating the foot from the activity, the nerves are better able to do their job (the foot aperently has the second largest cluster of nerves in the body). I also realized that while growing up barefoot gave me an advantage, years of wearing shoes had to be overcome gradually before I could really reap the potential benefits.

On a side note, I had already been transitioning away from using heavy boots for hiking and into lighter footwear with very good results…so taking the next step into minimalist or even no footwear for running was not that huge a step.

As I mentioned above, I reviewed a pair of GOLITE shoes, they are kind of a middle ground between more traditional running shoes and minimalist shoes. As such they have no heal rise, and the soles are built upside down in that the soft part of the sole contacts the ground providing traction, while the hardest part is what the foot comes in contact with the foot, providing a more barefoot like experience. But unlike true minimalist shoes they are not all that much lighter than other running shoes. I really enjoyed testing those shoes and later realized they were the first step in a new journey for me (thank you 4AllOutdors.org and GOLITE for the opportunity to experience them).

The early stages of this journey have shown progress, but I was still plagued with pain in my Achilles tendons that could take a week or more to heal, as well as other injuries that hampered my progress and prevented me from enjoying the experience.  As a result I would start a running program, only to stop for one reason or another.

It turns out there were two more parts to this puzzle that I needed to discover.

I realized being 45 and 30-40lbs overweight was bad for my health as well as interfering with my ability to enjoy my outdoor adventures (am I a genius or what?). Therefore, I started to lose weight, and after losing about 20lbs I decided to try running in my Vibrum Fivefingers Sprint shoes. The difference was remarkable! The combination of being lighter and having virtually nothing on my feet made running freer and easier than I have ever experienced. Note: I have tried running in the past when I was lighter, with disappointing results.

I started out with a few short trial runs to see how my feet, bones, and joints would handle having no cushioning, including some softer surfaces (school track & grass) to help minimize the pounding I feared I would be experiencing. I quickly noticed two things. First, that despite a few runs in a single week, I had a little muscle pain (the normal pain of pushing muscles a little beyond what they are used to), but no bone, joint, or tendon pain. The second thing was that the same runs I have done before felt easier than ever. I started keeping track of my time and distance, and noticed that within about two months, my time to run 5K was quickly approaching my personal best (30min). The next thing I knew I returned home to discover I had run 5k in 29min without even trying!

And within a week later I had reached a new personal milestone… I have some friends and relatives who run (one overachiever I know actually ran a marathon in Antarctica). One thing that I have heard and read is when runners get over the initial ‘hill’ the running becomes enjoyable. This was a totally alien concept to me. When I run, I spend about the first one third of the run warming up and trying to ignore the parts of my body that are trying to convince me to go home and have a beer, then spend the rest of the run desperately anticipating getting to the end so I can stop (and maybe have that beer). But recently, after a particularly trying day, the kind of day it would be very easy to justify sitting in front of the TV rather than going out into the cold windy evening, I decided not only to go for my run, but to make it a bit harder (the last half entirely uphill). To my surprise, about a mile from home I realized I was grinning…it was a strange new sensation to be enjoying running! I have no idea what the people who saw me thought: 45F and windy, I am wearing bright red Vibram Fivefingers shoes, running shorts, a long-sleeved shirt with a fleece vest, gloves, a fleece hat, running down the road grinning like the Cheshire Cat. By the halfway point I started thinking about what I expected to be a long slog home, uphill all the way. Soon after starting up the hill, I realized it was not only not as painful as I expected, but I was actually enjoying it! So I picked up the pace a bit, and found that felt good to. By the time I got to where I was going to turn off for the final 2 blocks home (still grinning), I realized I did not want to stop. I finally reached the point where I was not bored, nor was I just anticipating the finish, but actually enjoying the sensation of running. Maybe it is just me, but that was HUGE!!! A major milestone for me! I cannot fully express what it did for my moral and self-image. I realized at almost 46 years old, I was actually in better shape than I was in boot camp (where running 1.5 miles in 15min was only attainable by pushing myself to the point of puking at the finish line).

So what is next? Good question.

I have only been running like this for a few months, so I believe I am at the beginning of a journey, I just don’t know how long it will be or where it will take me. It is like standing at the trailhead of an unfamiliar trail. There is the feeling of excitement mixed with some dread. What if I get lost? What if I don’t like this route? What if I get only a short way and find I must turn back?

However, what if it turns out to be the best trip I have ever been on?

Disclaimer: I am not promoting barefoot/minimalist running as something everyone should do or even as a good idea, but simply describing the totally subjective and not scientific experience of one individual. I have no tie to the products mentioned other than as specified in the text (I reviewed a pair of GOLITE shoes that I received free of charge, and I own a pair of Vibrum Fivefingers shoes that I purchased). Like psychic readings, the lottery, and congressional hearings; this is “intended for entrainment purposes only”.

By Jenn K.

The manufacturer provided this product for the purpose of this review.

Therm-A-Rest has a new air mattress on the market for 2011 called the NeoAir Trekker. It is available in three sizes: large torso, regular, and large. I have the opportunity to be reviewing the regular size NeoAir Trekker. The regular size mattress retails for $119.95 and is available in one color (Everglade/Phantom). This mattress is part of the Trek & Travel Series; it is marketed as being lightweight and offers go-anywhere air mattress comfort.

Photo obtained from the manufacturer's website.

Listed specifications:

• Weight: 1 lb 4 oz (570 g)
• Width: 20 in (51 cm)
• Length: 72 in (183 cm)
• Thickness: 2.5 in (6.3 cm)
• Volume: 3,600 cu in
• Packed size: 9 x 4 in (23 x 10)
• Stuff sack included

The NeoAir Trekker has a Triangular Core Matrix that was introduced in the original NeoAir Mattress. The core creates over 100 internal cells that are designed to equalize air distribution for stability and three-season warmth. These cells also trap heat and slow heat loss without using a synthetic or down filler. This construction is supposed to provide twice the warmth of other uninsulated air mattresses.

The NeoAir Trekker inflates using manual inflation. To inflate the mattress the air valve is twisted open and air is blown into the mattress. It is suggested to blow air into the first section of the mattress and then close the valve. Then the air is to be pushed into the bottom of the mattress. After this is done the valve is to be re-opened and the inflation process is to be continued until the mattress is filled. The manufacturer states in the product instructions that it takes 20 strong breaths of air to inflate the mattress. It took me a more than 20 breaths of air to fill the mattress. Guess I have a small lung capacity! To deflate the NeoAir Trekker it should be folded into thirds lengthwise and rolled toward the valve to push out any excess air. The mattress can be stored rolled up and it is recommended to store it in the stuff sack with the valve opened.

The exterior of the mattress is made of a polyester material with an air tight coating. The bottom is made of durable 100D polyester and the top is constructed of lighter 75D polyester. It is recommended to clean the exterior by filling the mattress with air and washing it in a tub with a bristle brush and a mild detergent. Formula 409 is suggested to clean sunscreen or bug repellent off the fabric. The mattress should be air dried when it is clean. And it is recommended not to store it wet. To extend the life of the NeoAir Trekker the manufacturer suggests to use a ground cloth if not sleeping in a tent; prevent exposure to prolonged sunlight and sparks/flames; limit contamination from DEET insect repellents, sunscreen or chlorine; and partially deflating it on hot days if placed in a car or tent.

I inflated the mattress and decided to see if it was comfortable on the floor in my house. My body fit completely on the NeoAir Trekker and it provided enough support that I could rest comfortably and not feel the floor, but check back next month after I use it camping to see if I am finding it comfortable in the field.

Update 6/21/11

The NeoAir Trekker was used while camping for two nights in Southern Utah near St. George. The temperatures during the night were on the mild side; in the upper 50′s and low 60′s F. I was not cold from the ground beneath me and my core stayed warm, so I was a happy camper. I am actually quite surprised how small the Trekker packs down and how comfortable it was while sleeping on hard, dirt packed ground (in my tent of course).

The NeoAir Trekker was used inside of a free standing, floored tent. I used the pad locks of my sleeping bag to assist in keeping the pad underneath me during the night. I tend to thrash around at night, especially if I am uncomfortable. The mat was not sliding around excessively during the night on the tent floor, but I have found in the past that the Sil-Nylon of my tent floor is slightly tacky. Also I did not notice my sleeping bag sliding excessively on the Trekker. The mat makes a crinkling sound when I roll or move around. It is not excessively noisy, but I notice it.

The Trekker provided enough loft that my bony and high pressure points were not bottoming out and feeling the ground. This was the case when I was even sleeping on my side. The Trekker is long enough for me; and I even have some extra head and foot room. I am 5 ft 5 inches tall and I am not lacking room with the regular length. Also the pad appears narrow when it was inflated, but I fit on it just fine when I sleep on my back or my stomach. I barely fit on the Trekker when I am sleeping on my side.

I am actually surprised how thick the Trekker is. I was expecting it to be a thinner mat; just because of its low weight. I like the design of the Trekker as it is not a flat designed mattress pad; it appears to have a baffled type of construction (air chambers).

Inflation is easy, but it takes abut 50 breaths to fill up the Trekker (I must have a small lung volume). Once it is inflated fully it is quite firm. I like a mat that is not hard like a rock, and the Trekker is not super hard when it is fully inflated. The mattress was still comfortable in the morning and it appeared not to leak during the night.

This pad packs down small and feels lightweight to me. It is lighter than my other Therm-A-Rest sleeping mats.  The air is easily pushed out of the mat for storage and rolls up small enough to fit in the stuff sack every time. I am not of fan of trying jam sleeping mats in stuff sacks in the field. I am glad that this mat came with a stuff sack, but it sure would be nice if there was a patch kit included.

Final Update 8/8/11

During the past month I used the NeoAir Trekker while bikepacking for one night. Yes, bikepacking; load up a backpack, ride the mountain bike into the backcountry, and camp for the night. I had to take a smaller backpack than usual to save some weight and to prevent myself from taking too many luxuries. The NeoAir Trekker squished nicely into my backpack while being protected by the stuff sack. I folded the Trekker into thirds, then in half (lengthwise) and rolled it up. There was some room in the top of the stuff sack, so I decided to stuff a small down camping pillow in it to fill up the volume.

We camped in the mountains near the ocean and the marine layer (fog) quickly approached after sunset.  Luckily we had the fly on the tent because the misting fog got everything wet. The night was mild with the temperatures in the low 50’s. I used a 32 F sleeping bag as a quilt for a portion of the night. When I became warm, I put the sleeping bag underneath me over the Trekker. There were even times that I removed the sleeping bag from underneath me; just because I was too warm. When sleeping with no bag beneath me, I was not sticking to the Trekker nor did I sweat. No pad locks were used on this trip, but I found that I stayed on the Trekker for most of the night (only rolled off twice). The Trekker does make a crinkle noise; I find it tolerable. My camping buddy got up in the middle of the night and I was told that the crinkling noise was heard a good distance away from the tent. Maybe I am used to the crinkling noise as some of my other sleeping mats make the same noise when I move around on them.

The Trekker kept me warm; including my core and my extremities. The regular length is the perfect length for me. It provides coverage for my feet and my head with some extra room.

I like the thickness of the Trekker. It is not overly thick nor is it too thin. Even while sleeping on my side I could not feel the ground beneath me. I find that the loft of the Trekker also provides good comfort; which equates to a better night of sleep.

During the past two months I have found the NeoAir Trekker to be a great sleeping pad. It is comfortable, warm, packs down small, lightweight, and has proven to be durable with no holes or rips in the fabric. I find that it does not slide around much and I generally stay on the Trekker even though it is on the narrow side. It does make a crinkle noise when I move around, but I can live with that. I am glad it comes with a stuff sack, but I wish a repair kit was also included. This mat is a keeper for me and I plan to use it on many more trips in the future.

For more information on the NeoAir Trekker please visit http://cascadedesigns.com/therm-a-rest.

Image complements of Gerber

The Metolius Pocket Folder was provided by the manufacturer free of charge for this review.

[Text in italics are quotes from the manufacturers documentation].

“The Metolius Pocket Folder is a thin, strong every day carry knife designed with hunters in mind. Stainless steel and a TacHide inlay ensure it will perform, whatever the conditions.”

Manufacturers web site: http://www.gerbergear.com

Features:

TacHide Inlay – For secure grip in all conditions

All Stainless Steel – Good balance and strength

Thin – Easy to carry

Full Fine Edge Blade

Low-rise Pocket Clip – For discrete carry

Specifications:

Blade Length: 3.0 in.

Open Length: 7.0 in.

Closed Length: 4.0 in.

Weight: 4.7 oz.

MSRP US$ 36.99

I won’t go into detail but suffice to say that I am a big fan of Gerber’s product guarantee ever since they repaired (at no cost) a multi tool that broke while using it to save my butt (if not my life) while I was stranded alone on top of a snow covered mountain. I have owned and used an array of knives from cheep (semi disposable) knifes costing as little as a few dollars, to expensive ones I can only describe as well crafted cutting instruments. Most have their place as long as the quality fits the price and the user’s expectation (e.g. I don’t expect to be able to chop down a tree or perform surgery with a $5 knife, but if I pay $150+ I expect it to do some amazing things).

Image complements of Gerber

The Gerber Metolius Pocket Folder is the latest addition to Gerber’s Metolius line of hunting knives. [I Googled Metolius and apparently it is a city in Jefferson County Oregon] When I saw the description and price of the Metolius Pocket Folder, I was expecting a knife that might be suitable to carry around in my pocket as a basic utility knife. When I received it, I immediately noticed its weight and heft (how it feels in my hand). This is clearly not made to be lightweight; in fact, it is probably the heaviest folding knife of its size I have ever used. If you are shaving plastic off your toothbrush in order to save weight, you might want to think twice about this knife. On the other hand, if like me, you are looking for a knife that will perform like a fixed bladed knife but has the convenience of folding and stashing in your pocket, than this is one of the places where a few oz’s may be worth their weight in gold. [I know the analogy does not hold up…what could be more useless than a knife made of gold?!?! But, I am sure you get my meaning.] My first impression is of a sturdy tool built to take some abuse like its larger cousins in the Metolius line, and I fully intend to see if it is up to taking the place of the fixed blade I have been carrying lately.

As mentioned above the knife has a nice heft to it and feels good in my hand, however the handle seems just a bit short, it fits my hand ok, but if my hand were just a bit bigger my pinky finger would surely slide off the end. The knife handle has a low profile belt clip on one side and some contoured plastic material (they call “TacHide”) on the other for grip. Being right handed this puts the clip in the palm side of the knife and the grip on the outer side. The pocket clip is very low profile and seems to clip easily on to my pocket while holding the knife securely. I attempted to clip the knife to my belt and found the clip a bit too tight for that, but that is OK since this is intended to be carried clipped inside a pocket. I will mostly carry this in a pocket or clipped on the webbing strap of my backpack. On the subject of left vs. right handed, the knife has thumb studs on both sides, to allow for one-handed opening from either the left or right hand.

The knife arrived open, and when I first closed it I noticed that the lock took some pressure to disengage (not a bad thing) and the action of the blade was a bit stiff. After working it open and closed a number of times it has gotten smother, but is still too stiff to “flick” open. Getting it to open with one hand requires I get my thumb in just the right spot or I can’t get enough leverage. Given the choice, I would rather it a bit stiff than too loose as I once had a knife partially open while in my pocket, and while reaching into my pocket I shoved the tip of the knife deep into the tip of my finger. So while I would like it a touch looser, I would not complain if it stayed as it is. When opening the knife I hear a very satisfying and solid ‘click’ as the back lock engages. While I like this style of lock on a folding knife, I have had some slip on me, so hearing how solidly this one engages is a very good sign as to the quality of this knife. When opened the knife blade is solid, with only a slight side to side wiggle. When closed the blade is just slightly off center. As mentioned above the knife feels very solidly built, so much so, that I would consider the pummel end of the handle adequate for hammering (something I would not do with many other folding knifes). The handle has deeply recessed finger grips making for a secure hold and it seems very unlikely that my hand will be able to slip towards the blade even when stabbing the blade into wood (I tried sticking the tip into a 2X4 a few times with no problem).

The blade of this knife is somewhat wide for its length. This is probably due to it being designed primarily as a hunting knife. The spine of the knife has a long serrated section (“jimping”) to provide grip for my thumb. The jimping extends a full third of the way up the length of the blade. I have never seen jimping extend so far up a blade before, it seems like it should provide good control while shaving or whittling wood for tinder. The knife arrived with a very sharp edge (I could shave the hair off of my arm with it) and no nicks or defects that I could find. I am surprised at the shallow angle of the sharpened edge. Again, this could be due to its primary design being for hunting and skinning as this creates a very sharp edge. For general purpose use I prefer a more aggressive angle (25 deg) giving a more durable, but not as sharp cutting edge. On the other hand if this is very hard steel (not sure what it is made of as I can find no reference about what kind of stainless steel is used for the blade or handle) this angle could be quite suitable. In one of the descriptions I read about the knife, it mentions being easily field sharpened suggesting to me that the steel may be more on the softer side. [Note: I will hold off on judgment of this until I have used the knife enough to get a feel for how well it holds an edge].

So far I am impressed with the quality of the knife, especially given the relatively low price it is advertized for. I am looking forward to using this knife over the next few months to see if it lives up to my initial impressions.

[Update May 31 2011]

Since my initial review I have been carrying the Gerber with me most of the time. I have used it at work for basic cutting tasks such as opening and cutting boxes. At home I have used indoors and out for tasks such as cutting rope and cord, cutting various types of foam, opening packages (plastic, paper, & cardboard), sharpening pencils, and just about anything else that needs cutting. I have carried it on a few day hikes and a 3 day backing trip. During my backpacking trip I use the knife to practice primitive fire building skills. In doing so I carved a notch out of some driftwood and whittled down a branch about as thick as my thumb as well as cut tinder and kindling. In a test of the durability of this knife, while clearly not what it is intended for, I used the knife to split kindling off of some split pine logs. To accomplish this I placed the knife on the edge of the log and split off sections using another piece of log as a baton to hammer the blade through the wood.

NOTE: I am kicking myself for not getting some pictures while splitting the wood. Almost the entire blade of the knife was embedded in the pine with only a small amount of the tip (just enough to hammer on) sticking out the other side. [Yes. This is clearly abuse of the knife and I do not recommend using it this way.]

So how has it performed? Well, have not been disappointed. The action of the hinge has remained constant, firm and a bit stiff as when it arived, despite the above mentioned abuse. This suggests to me that the hinge is quite durable. And the lock feels as firm as it did when I received it. The pocket clip is also showing no sign of loosening and has held firmly onto my pocket during every activity I have performed (including Zip Lining), so I never worry about it accidently slipping out of my pocket. The body of the knife is showing very little wear and unless examined closely still looks new. The blade has held an edge far better than I originally expected. Since my initial sharpening of the blade to an angle more suitable to the sort of use I use it for, I have not found the need to sharpen it again.

So at this point I really have nothing to complain about. The knife has performed better than I would have expected for a knife in this price range. Over the next month I will continue to carry this knife and use it in my daily activities. I invite you to return to see if it continues to exceed my expectations.

[Update July 30 2011]

Since receiving this knife I have been carrying it in my pocket or clipped to my backpack almost daily. I have used it for the assorted tasks one would expect, and as mentioned in my previous post maybe one or two tasks that are a bit beyond what it was probably intended for. My last trip with the knife was a solo climb up Mt Adams (Washington Cascades). On this trip I carried the Metolius as well as a [high end] fixed blade knife. As expected, the convenience of the folding pocked knife resulted in my not using the fixed blade knife on the trip. I did sharpen the Metolius once just before the trip and took an edge quite quickly.

The body of the knife has proven to be very durable and is showing little to no signs of the use (and abuse) it has endured, and despite being clipped to pockets and backpack straps, the pocket clip is showing no signs of loosening. This also goes for the hinge and lock, they are also showing no signs of wear or damage.

I have to say that I am very pleased with the quality of this knife. While I would prefer to save a little weight, I am not sure I would trust a lighter weight knife to withstand the demands of splitting fire wood and chopping through branches as this one has. I find the combination of reasonable cost, reliability of a fixed bladed knife, and convenience of a folding knife to be just about ideal for my outdoors needs.

I would like to thank the folks at 4AllOutdoors.org and Gerber for allowing me to review such a well built knife.

Dave (the turtle) Wilkes

~ Leesa

Ever get lost on the way to the trailhead?  Most people worry about getting lost IN the woods.  Me?  I’d be more likely to get lost on the way.  I have an iPhone, and rely on it for taking pictures, maps and the calendar (rarely use the phone itself).  When Magellan approached me about reviewing the Premium Car Kit, I was intrigued.

Description from Magellan:

• Built-in GPS receiver enhances performance A powerful, sensitive built-in GPS receiver provides fast and accurate directions every time.
• Turns your iPod touch into a GPS navigator* The built-in GPS receiver transforms your iPod touch into a full-featured GPS navigator with real-time, turn by turn directions.
• Works with most navigation or location-based apps* While optimized for the Magellan RoadMate app for iPhone, the cradle is compatible with most GPS navigation apps.
• In-car charging The cradle automatically powers and charges when connected. No need to worry about running out of battery.
• Noise-cancelling, hands-free speakerphone Full duplex speakerphone for crystal clear calls.
• Powerful, amplified speaker Use the volume control for loud and clear voice guidance.
• Secure, adjustable vehicle mounting Quickly secure the cradle to your windshield or dashboard and easily adjust for portrait or landscape viewing.
• Fits hard shell cases or silicon skins Accommodates most cases or skins for maximum flexibility when inserting into the cradle.

Magellan Premium Car Kit Cradle, from magellangps.com

DEVICE

• Dimensions (English)6.1″ x 5.8″ x 2.8″
• Dimensions (Metric)154.94mm x 147mm x 71mm
• Weight (English).8 lbs
• Weight (Metric)362.9g
• SpeakerYes
• Stereo Audio JackYes
• Temperature Range (F)14F to 158F
• Temperature Range (C)-10C to 70C

Once I opened the box that the Car Kit came in, I was able to connect it to my windshield in my car.  The suction cup holds amazingly well.  The cradle (the part that holds my phone) is easy to adjust so that I can easily see the phone.  I was equally impressed with how quickly I could then tighten the adjustment so that it did not move around once I found the right angle.   According to the directions, the Car Kit can also be mounted on the dashboard – although mine is not quite right for that.    I’m very happy though with it on my windshield.

Some of the features I’ve taken notice of already:

Hands free phone calls – I love being able to just click the ‘answer’ button and then ‘speaker’  and talk hands free.

Music – Now I can listen to the music on my phone, and from my Pandora app while driving.  The small speaker ampliphies clear and loud enough to work ok while driving.  Its great to be able to enjoy different types of music while driving long distances, without playing the station game.

Charging my battery – I like being able to charge the phone while driving, and without have a tangle of wires.

Maps – Having the Premium Car Kit hold the phone steady allows me to be able to read a map without fumbling around.  I have not received the Magellan RoadMate app for iPhone yet, but will update this review once I’ve had a chance to use them together.  Right now, I am using the map app that came with the iPhone.

I’m looking forward to using the Car Kit and Magellan RoadMate together and seeing how they work together.  I have some familiarity with using a GPS, and am curious as to how the Car Kit and RoadMate stack up.  Most of my GPS software is trail based, I’ll be interested in using the RoadMate and seeing if it keeps me from getting lost on the way to the trail!

Check back soon for an update, and a look at  the Magellan RoadMate app for iPhone.

Update  5/15/2011

I’ve been using the Magellan RoadMate app and Car Kit for about a month now, and its proven to be a great aid in getting me from point A, to point B (and C and D).  The Car Kit itself works well to keep my phone positioned so it is easy to see, without obstructing my view of the road.  A few small issues have occurred, but are not bothersome enough to make me stop using it.  One thing that is odd – if the weather changes too quickly, the suction releases the Car Kit from my window.  In Maine, it is not unusual to gain 30 degrees in a day.  Mornings in the spring are often just at the freezing point and can reach 60 F by mid-day.   The first time I came out of work and the Car Kit was not stuck to my window I panicked.  I thought it had been stolen.  When I got into the car I found it on the floor.  It happened 2 more times after that in similar weather.  Now that are temps are staying above freezing, it hasn’t happened again.  I’ll mention – it didn’t happen when the temps were staying below or close to freezing either, so I am assuming it is the change in temps that causes this to happen.  Also – it has never happened while the phone is in the cradle.

The one other issue has been that I have to ‘wiggle’ the phone onto the cradle.  It is easy to do two handed, but not with only one hand.  The only time that this has happened is if I need to use the phone while it is not in the cradle (for privacy) and then try to return it to the cradle while driving.  I now just wait until I stop to replace it.  Its probably safer anyway to just wait.

Now that I’ve mentioned those things, I’ll focus on all the wonderful features!  Atlanta – the reason I bought an iPhone in the first place.  I can now get out of the airport and to my hotel or work site without driving in circles and wanting to scream!  So easy to punch in the addresses, and have the RoadMate guide me.  In is so simple, that it amazes me how accurate it is.  For those of you who may accidentally go over the speed limit – it will gently remind you one time you are over the speed limit.  It gives you 3 warnings about upcoming turns.  First at 1/2 mile, then 1/4 mile and then as you approach it.  If you miss a turn, it will automatically recalculate the directions.

At home I punched in the address for a trail head I wanted to find and didn’t think I’d find it with the RoadMate, but hoped I’d get close.  It was off a dirt road that had been abandoned by the town.  I was amazed again when the directions took me right to the road, and within feet of the trailhead.   I’m looking forward to using this more during the summer, once school is out and I look for some more remote places to go hiking and kayaking.

Some of the features I’ve used:

Screen Shot of main screen, Magellan RoadMate iPhone App

Address: Type in your destionation, starting with the state and then city.  The App automatically gives you available options.  For instance, looking for Bobby Brown Road in Atlanta, Georgia. I typed Georgia, then selected ‘A’ for Atlanta, and then just touched ‘Atlanta’.  It then asked for the street, and I selected ‘B’, it then only gave me letter options of possible streets.  I selected ‘O’ and Bobby Brown showed up.  I selected it, and I then could select the number range of street address.  It saved a lot of typing, and I was sure the address was accurate.

Previous Destinations: On my next visit to Atlanta, I could tap on ‘Previous Destinations’ and then just select ‘Bobby Brown Road’, and it would automatically load the directions from where I was currently.

Points of Interest: I’ve used it to find restaurants, gas stations, and ATM machines.  It lists then in order of how close they are to your current location.  Makes finding things when out of town so simple!  My only issue has been that the closest restaurant to where I was the first time I used it happened to be inside the airport.  I didn’t realize that from the address given and was to the airport entrance by the time it dawned on me where we were headed.  It just goes to show that RoadMate displays the facts, and the user needs to pay attention also.

Contacts: This is linked to your contacts on your phone.  I do not see a way to have it give directions to the contacts automatically.

Return Home:  Reverse directions, or how to get home from wherever you are.  Nice feature, especially if you’ve been out driving around a lot and may be a bit lost.

I haven’t used the Emergency feature, but it gives you the closest hospital, police, repair facility and your current location.  I can see the last choice being vitally important in an emergency.   You can save trips, and find the city center also.

Screen Shot of Map

I am very impressed with all the features and especially the maps.  I am very visual – I like to ‘see’ where I am going.  The maps are clear and yet offer a lot of information as to side roads, exits and road services.  There is quite a bit of information in this App, and I am sure I will discover more uses for them as I continue to use it.  More to come in about a month – stay tuned!

The Tech4o Accelerator Pro Plus Watch was provided by the manufacturer for the purpose of this review.

By Jenn K.

Photo obtained from the manufacturer's website.

The Tech4o Accelerator Pro Plus Watch is a multi-function sports and fitness watch that has a plethora of functions. Very impressive! The most impressive features I have found so far with this watch are the PC Link and the accelerometer sensor.

The PC Link allows for transmission of data from the chest strap (heart rate data) and the watch (log data) to a computer for viewing of the data. The PC Link uses a USB device called the PC Pod to get the data from the watch and the chest strap to the computer. There are a few different ways the data can be sent: through the watch, chest strap, and the PC Pod (combined); from the watch and PC Pod (combined); real time while wearing the chest strap with the PC Pod connected (for heart rate values). So far I have only installed the program, paired the watch and the chest strap with the computer, and viewed my real time heart rate. The program was easily installed on my personal computer and the menu tabs and functions are simplistic. I was able to view the screens with no difficulty. I will be letting you know how the PC Link works next month after I have some data to share and I get more familiar with the functions of the Accelerator Pro Plus Watch.

The accelerometer sensor measures speed and distance without a footpod or a GPS.  This sensor is claimed to give 95%+ accuracy. The manufacturer explains this sensor on the product website: “The accelerometer sensor works by detecting changes in the user’s movement (acceleration) that are translated into varying degrees of electric current within the sensor. These electric currents are instantly decoded by the watch into highly accurate measurements of speed and distance and displayed on the watch face.”

I have set up the basic features of the watch, but I am still working on figuring out my stride length. There is a website link for a stride length calculator in the instruction manual. This is an important measurement for the accuracy of the Accelerator Pro Plus Watch. I plan on setting it up shortly before going on my fitness walk. I will be comparing the accuracy of the Accelerator Pro Plus Watch against a Garmin Forerunner 305 (GPS) Watch.

The watch is mostly gray in color with a lime color on the underside of the rubber strap that accents the strap holes. The mode button is also this lime color. The strap is fastened with a typical watch buckle that is made of stainless steel.

There are 4 buttons on the watch (2 on each side) that are used to select the menus, scroll, escape, value changes, turn on the backlight, etc. The buttons are easily pressed to view the desired screen or function. There is also some text on the face of the watch near the buttons to indicate the main functions of the buttons.

This watch has so many features so it took me some time to get view all the menus, explore the features, set the time/alarm, and set my personal data. I still have to reference the instruction manual to figure out how to view certain screens. Hopefully I will get more familiar with the settings that I no longer have to reference the manual.

Below is a list of the features of the watch. As you can see there are many.

Accelerator Pro Plus Features (obtained from the manufacturer’s website)

Speed & Distance Mode:

• Speed (Current/Average/Maximum)
• Distance
• Pace (min/mile)
• Calorie burn
• Steps
• Exercise/moving time
• Fully Adjustable Personal Profile
• 10 day memory

Heart Rate Measurement:

• Coded – 2.4GHz transfer speed insures unit doesn’t interfere with other monitors or equipment
• Heart rate zone alert – on/off selectable
• Heart rate alert on – audible & visual indication for out of HR limit
• Heart rate statistics (Average, Minimum, Maximum HR)
• In-zone timer
• 2 Heart rate training zones
  • Fitness zone (65% -85% of estimated max HR)
  • User defined heart rate

User Mode:

• This mode displays 3 rows of user selected information
  • Select from:  Time / Exercise Time / Moving Time / Speed / Max Speed / Avg Speed / Pace / Distance / Odometer / Steps / In-zone Timer / Heart Rate / Max HR / Min HR / Avg HR / Calories Burned

Logbook with PC-Link:

• Up to 7545 records
• 12 Selectable logging rates
• PC Link
  • Upload data to your computer for review and analysis
  • PC compatible – Windows 98 / 2000 / ME / XP / Vista / Windows 7

Time Mode:

• Time, Date, Day
• 12/24 hour format
• Dual Time
• 2 Daily or Weekly Alarms
• 50 Lap Chronograph
  • Recall lap time & total time
• Countdown Timer

Other:

• EL Backlight
• Adjustable LCD levels
• Key Tone on/off
• Low battery indicator
• Power save mode
• User replaceable battery CR2032
• Water resistance 100M / 300 ft

The Tech4o Accelerator Pro Plus Watch retails for $129.99 and is currently only available in a men’s version. I as a female find some of the GPS watches to be huge on my wrist, but Accelerator Pro Plus Watch is not overly large on my wrist.

Update 5/28/11

Since my first update, I have been busy using and getting familiar with the Tech4o watch. I am gradually getting more confident scrolling through the display screens without the need of the instruction booklet. There are a plethora of functions and capabilities with this watch that at times I found it difficult to find the proper menu that I was looking for. Also I sometimes would forget how to complete certain functions. Since the initial update, I am much more familiar with this watch including the features and settings. There are some sections of the user manual that are not very descriptive and could use more explanation on the general features and the functionality.

All the buttons press easily to complete the desired function. The ESC button enables the backlight to turn on, exits the current display, and returns to the previous menu. The “Mode” button confirms/selects a section and can advance to the next level of menus. The arrow keys scroll the menus or change the settings.

The display on the watch is easy to read; the numbers and lettering are large. With the regular backlight setting the watch can be easily read in the dark by pressing the ESC button, but the backlight only lasts for a few seconds. In night mode the backlight is activated with the press of any button, but then again the light only stays on for a few seconds. I wish there was a way to turn on the backlight for a longer period of time. The night function is helpful, but sometimes I need to look at the display for more than a few seconds.

Many of the main watch functions are accessed from “Time Mode”. These settings include the time, date, system settings (display, sound, light, and pairing), user, and units.

The watch has two alarms that can be set once, daily, or weekly. I used one of the alarms on a daily basis to help me wake up in the morning. The alarm beeps for 30 seconds and it can be deactivated by pressing any button on the watch.

The “Timer Mode” was handy when I only wanted to walk for a certain period of time. I could not figure out how to set up the quick set values that are already in the software. So, I would set the timer with my own preset value instead of the quick set values. I will continue to work on figuring out how to use the preset values.

Mostly I use the Distance and Heart Rate Mode for my fitness walks. Both of these modes turn on in five seconds as the default setting. The sensor can be changed to have a manual setting. The “Distance Mode” setting captures: current speed, maximum speed, average speed, current pace, number of steps, calories burned, distance, and exercise time. This mode is helpful when I just want to look at distance, speed, and time. I can save the workout and view all the data from the workout. Also ten days of workouts are also recorded on the watch under the “Daily Record” menu. The pedometer can also be placed into sleep and the sensitivity can be changed.

When I want to capture more data from my workout I use the “Heart Rate Mode”. This mode captures the current heart rate, heart rate zone alert, calories burned, heart rate statistics, and in zone timer.

I have used the PC Link Program (with the USB) to store and view my workouts on my personal computer. I did not know at first that only the past 10 days of the daily record is transferred. Unfortunately I lost some data since I failed to upload in the 10 day window. Once I was able to upload some data, I found it convenient to view my workouts and my data.

I am confused as to what the functionality of the “Logbook Mode” is. This is where some explanation of the features of the modes would be helpful in the user guide. I am assuming that this is to store more than 10 workouts on the watch. I will have to dig deeper into this functionality

So far I am pleased with this watch. It took me more time than expected for me to become familiar with most of the functions. However, I am happy to say now that I can successfully record my workout and use most of the functions without referencing the user guide.

Final Update 7/11/11

Another month has gone by and I have been enjoying the Tech4o watch during my fitness walks, hikes, and walks at the beach. I am very familiar with the settings/functions now and I rarely need to reference the manual.  I have also been diligent to record my workouts within the 10 day window to the PC Link Program. I think it would be cool if the PC Link Program had the capability to store the workouts on the Internet to be shared with others; or just for a different way to track my data.

I have finally got the “Daily Record Review” to save correctly and have been successful saving the daily record to the PC Link. I found the “Logbook Mode” to work well when I have multiple workouts in one day or when I want to split a workout. Mostly I just use the “Daily Record Review” to view the data stored. I have the “Logbook” set to record automatically when the sensor is activated in “Heart Rate”, “Distance”, or “User” modes. The “Logbook” functionality is still a little bit confusing to me.

The “Heart Rate Mode” appears to give an accurate reading on my heart rate. This was compared with manual readings and using a Pulse Oximeter. I have the “Heart Rate Mode” set to give alarms when I am outside my heart rate zones. I have this mode set for my custom ranges.

What would a workout be without burning calories? It is nice to see how many calories are burned in a workout. However, I do not take this data too seriously. It gives me a good ballpark figure to see how much I can eat on my workout days (and I aim below the calorie data recorded). Seriously, how can a watch know exactly how many calories were burned when there are so many variables. 

I changed the stride setting in the watch and I noticed that when I am walking briskly or slowly there is a difference in the distance and the number of steps. It is not by much, but it was noticeable. I know when I change my walking pace my stride length differs.

Still all the buttons are functional and easy to use (now that I am more familiar with the settings and functions). I have set the watch to not beep when the buttons are pressed. The beeping was annoying to me and people would look at me oddly when I was setting up my watch and it was beeping with every button that I pressed.

This watch has all the bells and whistles I need to record my fitness walks, hikes, and walks at the beach. I find it enjoyable to capture my workout data and to track my progression. It also has general features that are nice for daily usage. I plan on using this watch for many more outdoor adventures.

For more information please visit www.tech4o.com.

Review by Arnie P

The Woolrich company originated in Woolrich Pennsylvania in 1830. Over the years I have owned several Woolrich shirts and have always liked them.

The men’s Concourse shirt was provided by Woolrich for review purposes.

The Woolrich company originated in Woolrich Pennsylvania in 1830. Over the years I have owned several Woolrich shirts and have always liked them.

The shirt weighed in at 7 oz on my scale. The weight on the web site is listed as 3 oz, but it does not mention for what size shirt. After contacting the web site, I found that the 3 oz is the weight per square yard.  The sizing chart indicates medium for chests measuring 38-40” and large for 42-44”. My chest size is 41” and I like my shirts to be loose fitting. Thus I asked for a large size.  When hiking, I wear a long sleeve shirt all the time. This provides for insect protection as well as sun protection. When it gets cooler I can put a light weight mid layer beneath the shirt. When hiking I usually wear silk or wool next to my skin to wick any moisture away from my body. It is always good to keep your body dry.

Concourse shirt pocket

The shirt is available in 8 colors. The colors are Cadet Gingham, Olive Tonal, Light Olive, Moccasin, Deep Naval tonal, Deep Navy Mini, Light Olive Gingham, and Light Olive Mini. I was sent an Olive Tonal color shirt. I found the actual color of the shirt to look better than what I saw on the web site.

Outstanding features as listed on the hang tag:

Button down collar

Convertible roll-up sleeves

Flat button closure pockets

Inner comfort collar band

Wrinkle resistant

Machine washable easy care

And features mentioned on the web site

Two button adjustable cuffs

Curved shirttail hem with even front & back lengths

The care tag reads:

Men’s 6035 Olive Tonal

size L

100% cotton

Made in China

Hand or machine wash cold

no bleach

like colors

gentle cycle

tumble dry lo

remove promptly

cool iron

The features I like are the 2 button down pockets which are big enough for my camera and a cell phone. At other times I may have a compass or a GPS instead of the cell phone. I like being able to roll up my sleeves occasionally and lock them in place with a button. It is no fun to have to continuously roll up your sleeves only to see them return back down quickly. When hiking I like to keep my shirt outside my shorts or pants. This allows for better ventilation. The curved shirt tail hem with even front and back makes this practical as well as better looking.

Trying the Concourse

On a near freezing sunny day I hiked in the Horn Pond reservation. For this hike, I wore a thin wool sweater under the Concourse shirt and a fleece vest over the Concourse shirt. I was comfortable except when the wind picked up. The ground temperature is still colder than the air temperature. So it does not take much of a breeze to feel the cold.

Horn Pond Reservation

I am looking forward to using this shirt in warmer weather. I will also be wearing this shirt to seminars and meetings. Check back in about a month to learn more about the Wooolrich Concourse shirt.

Update 

4-24-2011

The snow has gone in Massachusetts and is being replaced with rainy weather.  I am finding the Concourse is very versatile and I have used it hiking, attending seminars, socializing, and at various meetings.

Indoor activities

For indoor use I wore a cotton T-shirt as I would normally do for any other shirt I own.  The meeting and seminars I attend last from 2 hours to 9 hours.  During the course of a long day the  temperatures can vary from being too cold to being too warm.  I found this shirt has handled these varied conditions better than any other shirt I have.  This is good because I attend about a meeting a week.

Outdoor activities

The role of cotton as a material for hiking and backpacking is a topic that comes up often in hiking circles in New England.  In general cotton is not recommended for hiking in cold or potentially cold weather.  Many leaders will not allow someone who is wearing cotton to be part of an organized hike.  The reasoning behind this is that cotton tends to absorb moisture and when this moisture starts to dry it cools down the person and also conducts heat away from the body.  One of the things I did with this shirt, in weather below freezing, was to wear a silk first layer, in order to keep moisture away from my body.  In this cold weather, I wore a thin wool sweater as a second layer, followed by the Concourse.  I then wore a fleece vest over the Concourse shirt.  I was always comfortable with this combination.  I found this shirt is not like the typical cotton shirt which is thicker and does have a tendency to absorb and hold moisture.  The Concourse is thin and dries quickly and thus does not take heat away from my body.  I have used cotton T-shirts and found they get damp and stay damp for a long period.  So it was a pleasant surprise when I found that I could wear this all cotton shirt without getting wet from sweating.  I probably would not go hiking in this shirt when the temperature is much below 20 F.  I am looking forward to using this shirt in warmer weather when I will not need the fleece vest for warmth.  Since I will be using this shirt a lot in the sun it would be nice to know UPF rating for this shirt.  Most likely it is rated over 50, but I still would feel better if I knew the rating.

hiking on town ski slope

During May I will be spending a week in the mountains of New Hampshire.  Please check back in about a month when I will have more to say about the Woolrich Concourse shirt.

A last look
5-24-2011 

The weather improved in May and in addition to using my Concourse shirt for indoor activities, I hiked twice in Pepperell forest and spent a week in New Hampshire where I was out on a hike nearly every day.

Hiking in Pepperell forest

The first 2 Sundays I was hiking with my hiking friend feral_cat to prepare for upcoming backpacks starting in June.  We decided that doing this 8 mile hike would give us an indication of our fitness level.  The temperatures ranged from 50-70 F on these hikes, and I found that with a silk undershirt, I did not need a jacket and that I did not get too warm at the higher temperatures.  We did each 8 mile hike in about 3 hours.  I was comfortable, protected from the sun, well ventilated, and dry.

hiking in Pepperell forest

Hiking in New Hampshire

My wife and I stayed in Franconia Notch for a week.  There are several mountains in the area including Lafayette (5260 ft,8th highest in New Hampshire) and Cannon (4100 ft).  The upper parts of the these mountains still have snow and when the warmer weather arrives there tends to be a lot of fog surrounding the mountains and the possibility of rain is high a lot of the time.  The temperatures for our daily hikes was about 50 F.  Since the wind off the mountains can be cold, especially with the high humidity, I wore a silk first layer on the windier days, and this worked out well.

Our first day we walked to Echo lake where I purified some water and then we hiked along a bike path leading to the trail head for Skookumchuck trail.  On this hike the temperature was close to 50 F, but the winds were moderate up to 20 mph.  They were strong enough that I had to secure my hat or risk having it land somewhere inaccessible such as the lake, a swift stream, or a tree.     Another day, we hiked on the Copper Mine trail to Bridal Falls.  We almost made it to the falls, but my wife was not able to do a difficult part of the trail.  On the way back we returned by way of the Sugar House trail.  When we reached the paved road, we were about half a mile from the car.  The last part of this hike was through grass and quite a few tics attached themselves to our clothing.  Fortunately we don’t think any of them bit us.  On another day we hiked most of a 5 mi snowmobile loop north of the Skookumchuck trail.  We were lucky to see a young moose briefly as it walked onto and up the trail in front of us.  The moose seem to walk slowly, but cover a lot of ground quickly.  Then on the next to the last day of our trip we visited the Basin and Baby Basin in Franconia Notch, and again walked some of the bike path.

on the shores of Echo Lake

on bike path to Skookumchuck trail head

on Coppermine Trail

on snowmobile trail

at Baby Basin

Summary

I have used the Concourse shirt almost daily, and overall I am very pleased with the outcome.  The material dries quickly.  When temperatures reached into the high 70′s, I would probably want a faster drying material.  The quality of this shirt is extremely good.  I could not find any loose threads anywhere, and after two months no signs of wear or tears.  I washed the shirt several times and there are no stains.

I wish to thank Woolrich and 4alloutdoors for giving me the opportunity to test the Concourse shirt.

Chuck

The Thermarest NeoAir (www.cascadedesigns.com) has been the big talk among the internet chat rooms and forums on “What is the best inflatable mattress out there?” Thermarest has won many awards for this very advance mattress and here’s why…

(words in italic are from Thermarest)

The NeoAir mattress represents the world’s most advanced engineering in ultralight comfort. Beyond being the lightest air mattress available, we’ve utilized two patent-pending internal technologies, making it up to three times warmer and far more stable than any other uninsulated air mattress available. And when it comes to space in your pack, you’ll appreciate that it’s no bigger than a one-liter water bottle. Revolutionary by design, the gossamer NeoAir mattress makes comfort one less thing you’ll need to compromise when traveling fast and light.

Ultralight & Compact: Weighs just 14oz. and packs down to the size of a 1-liter water bottle.

Unrivaled Warmth: Our patent-pending reflective barrier returns warmth to your body and reduces heat loss to the ground, keeping you three times warmer than any other uninsulated air mattress.

Sleep Stable: When inflated, patent-pending Triangular Core Matrix technology creates an internal truss system, resulting in the most stable non-self-inflating air mattresses.

Lasting Performance: Achieving thermal efficiency without down or fiber insulation means the NeoAir mattress can be inflated directly without the added weight of a pump, or worrying about exhaled moisture wetting insulation and decreasing performance.

Made in USA

Here are the Specifications:

Color: Limon

R-Value: 2.5

Weight: 14 oz.

Width: 20 in.

Length: 72 in.

Thickness: 2.5 in.

Carry Dimension: 9 in. x 4 in.

Outer Fabric: Nylon

Inner Core Fabric: Nylon / PU

I received the Thermarest NeoAir as a test product and was amazed immediately at the light weight of it. It came in a display box already folded up and to me was amazingly light in weight. I received the Regular size which is 72 in. long and I noticed on the packaging that it comes in three other sizes. Small, which is 47 in. long. And Medium which is 66 in. long and both are the same width as the Large at 20 in. wide. They also have a Large which is 77 in. long but it is 25 in. wide.

I pulled it from the package, unfolded and unrolled it. I could immediately tell that it did not have any type of foam inside the mattress, at least the type that I am used to. I unscrewed the valve and began to inflate the mattress. This took about a minute to completely inflate the mattress. It seemed to inflate pretty fast. The material feels very soft but I can tell it’s thin. Caution will have to be used to make sure I don’t have any sharp objects near the mattress as it wouldn’t take much to poke a hole or puncture the material.

I laid it out in my living room floor and laid on it. It had some crinkling sound to it as a moved about on it. But the comfort well outweighed the noise it made. I am 6 foot tall (72 in.) which is the same length as the pad but it felt much longer than that. I flipped over on my stomach and my toes hung off the end but didn’t touch the ground. This will be nice when I have it on cold grounds that my feet won’t touch the cold ground. The comfort is very nice and I can’t wait to have it under a sleeping bag in the outdoors to get the real feel on the comfort and warmth of it.

I released the valve and started to fold and roll  the mattress back into it’s packed size. The air released very easy as I rolled it up as there is no foam inside to prevent the air from escaping. I was able to get the mattress back to its original package size in less than a minute.

I am very excited to be reviewing the Thermarest NeoAir and look forward to getting it out into the backcountry.

UPDATE: March 16, 2011

From the time I received the NeoAir to when I actually got to take it out in the backcountry was quite a bit of time due to the winter weather we were experiencing. I finally got to take it on a camping trip with my son where we stayed in the same tent. I knew this was going to be a good trip to try it on because the weather was getting milder but the ground was still very cold.

The sleeping bag that I use has to use a pad for the insulation under the bag. For this night, I used the NeoAir to see how well the insulation properties of the pad worked. I inflated the mattress as usual and inserted it into the bag sleeve. I laid on top to get the right inflation for my comfort by slowly releasing some of the air until the comfort was to my liking. I took notice of the temperature which was 48 F before I fell asleep. I did wake up in the middle of the night due to some road noise nearby but I noticed that I was nice and toasty in my bag. I looked at the temperature gage and it read 39 F and this was about 5:00 a.m. I was very happy that I had slept through the night and stayed warm and toasty.

I wanted to try something so on the second night I switched mattresses with my son which was NOT and insulated mattress. He had no complaints the previous night of being cold but I wanted to see for myself the difference from an uninsulated mattress and one that has a reflective barrier such as the NeoAir. Both mattresses were the same thickness, width and length. I did wake up a couple of times chilled and the chill was coming from underneath. The temperature was 41 F on the first occasion and 37 F on the second. And both times were due to me being chilled. I can’t professionally diagnose that it was strictly because I was on an un-insulated mattress but it seemed as if that was the problem.

As it stands right now the NeoAir is one of the most comfortable and warm mattresses that I have ever slept on, and I’ve tried many. I will be going on another trip in a couple of weeks where I will be sleeping on a cot and I am curious to see if the cold air has any effect on the NeoAir and its warming capabilities to my body. Laying on cold ground and being suspended in the air where cold air can penetrate from underneath are two different things and I look forward to coming to a conclusion on this.

UPDATE: April 21, 2011

After sleeping on the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir on two seperate outings on a cot, I have defenetely come to the conclusion that the warmth factor to weight ratio has far exceeded any mattress that I have ever tried. The  ease and mobility has exceded my expectations.

On both of these trips the nights temperatures dipped into the mid 40′s (F). Now I understand that at that temperature, it’s not all that cold but when you are suspended in air whether it be a cot or hammock, the air temperature ‘seems’ to be colder than it really is. I slept perfectly fine even in a 40 F rated bag.

Packing up the NeoAir is also very easy and what I like about it is since it doesn’t have a foam core, I don’t have to try to keep the foam compressed as I roll it. I just loosen the valve and with my bag still on top of the pad, the pad deflates almost completely. I just remove it from under the bag, fold it once or twice length wise and roll it towards the valve and close the valve. I don’t have a stuff sack to put it in so I usually just tuck in a pocket or in the bottom of my bag somewhere and it stays rolled up.

I still feel like I have to be careful with it when its inflated as the material seems thin and could puncture very easily. Overall I have truly enjoyed the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir and it has lived up to its reputation for winning so many awards. This pad is going to be very hard to beat when it comes to lightweight, compressible and warmth rating. But until that comes along, the NeoAir will continue to go with me and offer a good nights sleep.