Indonesian Digital News Archive

REI has posted 13 Essential Tools for Surviving a Zombie Outbreak, with some tips on all the right gear, which they're happy to sell you, to have with you when the apocalypse begins. The infographic tells you how to neutralize a zombie using a cast-iron skillet, how to use a mirror to signal for rescue and much, much more. I've snipped the graphic down a bit to fit on this page, but click here to see it in all of its full-size glory.

Fun stuff for a Friday!

I am fortunate enough to have a lot of outdoor gear come cross my desk. Everything from the latest hiking boots, sleeping bags and tents to outdoor clothing, electronic gadgets and of course backpacks. Some of it is impressive and innovative and some of it is downright frustrating and poorly designed. On occasion I get to test a piece of gear that turns out to be quite a nice surprise. Something that I expect to be good, but it still exceeds my expectations. This happens to be the case with the new Quick Backpack from Cannondale, a bag designed for cyclists but versatile enough to be used for so much more.

The first thing that caught my attention about the Quick Backpack was just how many storage options it has. In addition to the voluminous interior pocket, complete with padded laptop sleeve, the bag has another large zippered pocket built into the lid and a smaller organizational pocket for storing pens, business cards, USB drives or any other small items that you want to carry with you. Two deep side holsters are perfect for even large water bottles and integrated helmet loops make it a snap to carry your headgear.

Constructed from very high quality nylon, this pack is durable and rugged. I am impressed with how well it handls day-to-day use without a hint of wear and tear and its water-resistant fabrics make it a perfect commuter pack for when you're meeting friends or heading to the office. The designers even had the foresight to line the bottom of the pack with a rubberized fabric that further helps to keep the interior safe and dry.



If I was impressed with the solid construction of the Quick Backpack, I was doubly so with how comfortable it is to wear. The shoulder straps and back panel feature thick padding without compromising ventilation. This helps the pack to carry a heavy load with ease, both on and off the bike, and I found myself choosing this bag not just for my regular rides but also for jetting off to the office as well.

All of my favorite gear have one thing in common and that is a level of versatility that makes them all useful in a variety of situations. The Cannondale Quick Backpack certainly fits that description. As I mentioned above, this bag is good enough to be used not just while cycling but for your daily needs or even while traveling. I love how large and easy to access the pockets are, which helps to keep all of your gear well organized and close at hand. I also love how well padded and well built it is as well, which not only helps protect the contents of the bag but ensure that you'll be using it for years to come.

If you, or the cyclist in your life, is looking for a pack that is comfortable, durable and versatile, then look no further. Cannondale has you well covered. Oh, and this pack also happens to be very affordable. Priced at just $120, the Quick Backpack is quite a bargain.

Over the past few weeks I've been posting my thoughts on a couple of pairs of running shoes that fit squarely in the "minimalist" category. Two weeks ago I posted my thoughts on the Sketcher's GObionic shoes and last week I shared my impressions of the Form from Skora. In both cases I appreciated how lightweight and comfortable they were, although I found that they were a bit too minimalist for my longer runs. That isn't the case with this weeks entry, the newly redesigned Streak II from Pearl Izumi.

Form fitting and comfortable the Streak II looks much more like a traditional running shoe than either of the other two pairs I reviewed. Tipping the scales at 7.8 ounces (221 grams), these shoes weigh about the same as the Skora Form, but are nearly two ounces heavier than the GObionics. Sketchers definitely wins the "most minimalist" award out of this group.

Those extra two ounces are put to good use on the Streak II however, as they felt more solid and supportive on my feet than any of the other minimalist shoes I've tested. In fact, I had less fatigue in my feet and legs following a run using these shoes and they have been more than accommodating on even my longer routes. I've used these on 8-10 mile runs without much problem at all and they certainly seem capable of going just about any distance I could possibly throw at them.

I wouldn't have guessed that would be the case following my initial impressions of the Streak II however as they were the only pair of shoes that gave me a blister while running in them. Their snug fit caused some uncomfortable rubbing in the initial break-in period, but fortunately that break-in period didn't last long. By the second or third run they were no longer causing blisters and were simply a joy to run in.



I've mentioned a couple of times already in this review that these shoes are form fitting and that is an important thing to keep in mind. If you have wide feet, the Streak II might not be for you. I also had to get them in a half-size larger than normal, although they were still quite snug on my feet. Personally I appreciate a tight fit in my shoes, but not everyone will like the way these feel on their feet.

Pearl Izumi has impressed me with the construction of these shoes as well. After more than a month of regular use they still appear as if they just came out of the box and they haven't lost a bit of support either. For a minimalist shoe, they have held up very well under some difficult conditions.

Despite the fact that these shoes look a lot like a traditional running shoe, there were times when I was reminded that they are still minimalist footwear at their heart. For instance, one of my regular running routes takes me off road and onto a trail for a few miles and the rocks on that trail can pierce right through the soles of the Streak II and directly into the bottom of your feet. Pearl Izumi has designed these shoes for the road and I suggest you keep them there. I've even managed to pick up rocks in the sole and have a twig jam directly through the bottom of the shoes, which were harsh reminders that you can pay a price for running in lightweight shoes. That said, when on smooth pavement, running in these shoes can be sublime.

Of all the minimalist shoe I've test recently, the Streak II are my favorite. But that isn't to say that I don't enjoy running in the other shoes as well. The Streak II just happened to fit my feet, and running style, quite nicely and I appreciate what they have to offer. At $115 they're also reasonably priced for the level of performance they deliver.

Running shoes are a difficult thing to recommend as we all have our personal preferences and, lets face it, brand loyalties. What feels good on my feet may not feel right on yours. These three pairs of shoes are all great choices for those looking to go minimalist, but in my case, the one that was most like a traditional shoe was the also the one that worked best.

A few weeks back I positively reviewed the Guide 10 Plus Adventure Kit from Goal Zero, calling it the best option for charging gadgets while traveling in the backcountry. But that kit isn't the only option when it comes to solar charging while on the go and for adventure travelers looking for a more compact solution there a variety of options available. Take for example the Classic2 from Solio, which is a solid update to their original Classic model and a viable alternative for those who prefer to travel light.

The Classic2 manages to wrap three small solar panels into a compact design that collapses down very nicely for storing in your backpack. When you need it to collect sunlight for charging the built-in 3200 mAh battery, the three solar cells slide open like the pedals of a flower, drawing in as much light as possible. The device also includes both a micro and standard sized USB port. The former is used to charge the battery via computer or the included wall adapter, while the latter is used for charging your gadgets.

The addition of the full size USB port is one of the improvements over the original Solio Classic that was released a few years back. That solar charger came with a set of proprietary adapters which weren't exactly convenient to carry along when traveling. The standard USB port ensures the Classic2 will work with nearly any device out of the box, including smartphones, rechargeable headlamps, cameras, GPS devices and so on. Other improvements include a higher capacity battery, a thinner overall design and larger solar panels.

All of those design options add up to a far more efficient and useful charger. The Solio Classic2 is now capable of completely recharging my iPhone a total of about three times and it can do it much more quickly as well. A full charge took roughly two hours to complete, which isn't a whole lot different from plugging it directly into the wall.



The Classic2 is also much faster at charging it's own batteries using the sun, although it is obviously slower than the Goal Zero, which has much larger and more efficient solar cells. Solio says it takes about six hours to fully charge the internal battery, but I found that it varied greatly depending on exposure to the light. In my tests, it was not uncommon for a recharge to take eight or even ten hours, although it was a more consistent and steady process compared to the original Classic.

It should be noted that the Classic2 is capable of recharging a device like the iPad, but those tablets have large batteries and it will completely drain Solio's little charger before you get your iPad completely topped off. It isn't a bad option to extend the battery life of Apple's slate but it's just don't expect it to work miracles either.

For travelers looking for a solar charger to help keep their gadgets powered while away from a more traditional power source, the Solio Classic2 is an excellent option. It will definitely extend the life of your favorite tech toys without adding a lot of undue bulk to your pack. This diminutive solar charger weighs just 10.1 ounces (286 grams) and costs just $100. That makes it a cheap but useful travel companion that you won't want to leave home without.

Just in time for the start of the impending ski season, Zeal Optics is introducing a new set of goggles that come equipped with a camera built right in. The new iON HD Camera goggles are capable of capturing both 1080p and 720p video and can take 8 megapixel still images. An in-goggle viewfinder helps you to know exactly what you're shooting at any given time and the oversized buttons make the iON easy to control even while wearing gloves. Videos and images can be easily edited and shared on Facebook, Twitter and social networks as well, so you can brag to your friends about your best powder days.

The 3-hour battery life doesn't sound all that great for long days on the slopes, but this does seem like a fun option for making ski and snowboard videos. The goggles run $399, which is a bit on the expensive side. Particularly when you can buy a GoPro HDHero 2 for less money and it would be far more versatile of a system.

Then again, these are some great looking goggles.

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Recently I've been testing several different pairs of new running shoes that fit squarely into the "minimalist" category that was defined a few years ago by the Vibram FiveFingers. But not everyone wants to run in "shoes" that are that lightweight and as a result, a number of manufacturers have begun offering options that are a step up in form and support, while still maintaining the minimalist mantra. Last week I posted my review of the Sketchers GObionics, which I found surprisingly comfortable, flexible and very affordable, although I felt they were best used on shorter runs. This week I have a different take on the minimalist shoe, this time from a company called Skora.

Back in May, I tested and very much liked Skora's Base running shoe, and recommended them for those who wanted to join the minimalist movement without going too minimal. Skora's other model, the Form, shares some of the features of the Base but wraps everything up in a more high quality package. For example, while the Base uses synthetic fabrics the Form incorporates durable and wear resistant goatskin leather. The result is a show that is attractive and tough with a unique feel.

Skora has designed these shoes to be very form fitting and I found that they simply felt strange on my feet if I was also wearing socks. As a result, while testing these shoes I ran barefoot, which is something I seldom do. I was a bit concerned that I would blister on my initial runs and when I first put these shoes on I even predicated exactly where that first blister would form. Much to my surprise however, those blisters never came and after just a couple of runs these shoes were well broken in and it was never a concern again.



Once broken in, the shoes also mold to your feet to a degree. This helps to make them more comfortable the more you run in them. The Forms also felt much more like a "barefoot" shoe than the Sketchers GObionic, which felt more like a traditional show despite being very minimalist as well. In fact, Skora's offering actually weighs a bit more, tipping the scales at 8 ounces (226 grams) as compared to the Sketchers 6 ounce (170 grams) weight.

Running in the Skora Form was comfortable and enjoyable. Their foot-hugging fit made me feel like I was a bit more connected to the road while still keeping my feet nicely protected. Like all minimalist shoes however, I still felt plenty of debris, such as rocks and twigs, when I stepped on them. When that happens, these shoes feel "barefoot" in all the wrong ways. Still, the Skora From lived up to my expectations that were formed from test out their Base shoes. They are comfortable, have a unique look and feel, and hold up well under the rigors of daily runs.

Skora has priced the Form at the higher end of the minimalist running shoe market. At $185 they're actually on par with many high-end traditional running shoes. While I very much enjoyed running in these shoes, I suggest you try them on before deciding if they're the right option for you.

With the fall now upon us in the northern hemisphere, and the winter season looming ahead, its time to start thinking about the gear we'll need to ensure that we stay comfortable on all of our outdoor excursions. Thankfully, our friends over at National Geographic Adventure are always happy to share a few suggestions and with that in mind, yesterday they announced their selections for the 2012 Fall/Winter Gear of the Year Awards. As usual, the list is filled with fantastic gear that any outdoor enthusiast would love to have. Each of the items brings something new to the table and it is tough to decide exactly which ones to spend your hard earned cash on.

One of the more intriguing products that earned a place on the Nat Geo list is a pair of ski/snowboard goggles from Smith Optics that include a built-in heads up display that shows speed, location, altitude, temperature and a whole lot more. We've seen similar units in the past but a new developer kit is allowing programers to create new uses for these kinds of displays, which when connected to your smartphone via BlueTooth can do some amazing things.

Other interesting products include Mountain Hardwear's new Ghost Whisperer down jacket, reportedly the lightest of its kind at just under eight ounces (226 grams). It isn't the only jacket on the list however, as Sierra Design's Gnar Lite is lauded for its use of new waterproof down fill. The Big Agnes McAlpin SL sleeping bag incorporates a competing type of waterproof down to provide plenty of warmth and comfort on backpacking trips and Garmin's Fenix GPS enabled watch is also given a nod for its mix of good looks and functionality. BioLite's Stove continues to garner plenty of attention for its ability to cook your meal while recharging your iPhone as well and I felt that it was one of the more revolutionary products that I saw at Outdoor Retailer in August.

This is just a sample of the products that made the cut on Nat Geo's Gear of the Year list. There are also skis, boots, and more apparel that will be of interest as you prepare for the cooler seasons ahead. Just be warned, some of these items come with a hefty price tag, although when has that ever stopped us from picking up the best gear possible?

A few weeks back I reviewed the High Peak Alpinizmo Lightning 50 backpack, lauding the company for creating a no frills, yet high quality pack that was perfect for both travel and backpacking. I gave the Lightning high marks for being very affordable as well, saying it was a great value for the money. High Peak applies the same philosophy of delivering gear that performs well at an unbeatable price to their line of sleeping bags as well, which I discovered while testing their Alpinizmo Latitude 0º sleeping bag.

The Latitude line of sleeping bags feature a mummy style hood and a synthetic fill wrapped up in an attractive package. Available in three flavors (20ºF/-6ºC, 0ºF/-17ºC and -5ºF/-20ºC) these bags are surprisingly comfortable and warm even when compared to similarly specced down bags.

High Peak stuffs these bags with a proprietary fill that they call CozyTherm which is suppose to increase warmth without adding much in the way of weight. This material is specifically designed to keep body heat from escaping the interior by reflecting it back onto the person sleeping in the bag. CozyTherm also includes solid wicking properties that help keep moisture from getting into the interior and completely ruining a good nights sleep.

The shell of the Latitude consists of fairly standard 40D 240T Tactel Rip Stop Nylon, which is durable enough to resist wear and tear on all but the most demanding trips. Other features include a drawstring hood, draft tubes with a snap enclosure, high quality snag-free zippers, hang loops along the bottom and a zippered interior pocket. All of which is fairly common fair on most sleeping bags on the market over the past few years.  To their credit however, High Peak has implemented those features in a high quality fashion that that is sure to please buyers.

All of those features don't mean much if the bag doesn't perform up to specifications however and I'm pleased to report that the Latitude doesn't fail in that department in the least. This bag is warm and comfortable, although I had to leave it unzipped to allow a little extra ventilation. Admittedly I am a warm-sleeper however and those who prefer to stay a bit more cozy in their bag will appreciate the Latitude's warm. When the temperature plunges, this is a bag that you'll want to have with you.

Once again, High Peak has managed to deliver good performance at an affordable price. The Latitude 0º tips the scales at just 3 pounds, 2 ounces which is pretty impressive when you consider that it's price tag is even lighter. Priced at just $115, this is an affordable option for winter camping and alpine excursions. While the bag wasn't quite as comfortable as my 4-season 800-fill down bag, it also came in a fraction of the cost.

One other thing I should mention is that the Latitude isn't available in a long version. I'm 6'2" (188 cm) in height and I was a bit cramped in this bag. Nothing that impaired my ability to sleep comfortably, but if you're taller than I am, you'll probably want to look elsewhere.

Anyone else in the market for a new bag will find the Latitude to be a worthy option for your money. It's warm, comfortable and lightweight, and durable enough to take on all of your adventures.

When a cyclist hits the road these days, they often have a number of small, but essential items to carry along with them. For instance, if the ride is of any decent length I'll usually bring an energy bar or two, a couple of water bottles, my keys, wallet, iPhone and more. Stuffing all of that into my jersey and keeping it organized can be a bit of a hassle, but I know each of those things can come in handy at various times and there has been more than one occasion where I'm glad I've had it all with me.

Recently I've been taking the Speedster Ride Wallet from Cannondale on my regular rides and it has quickly proven itself to be essential gear. The Speedster is one of those items that you don't know you need until you have one and then you wonder why you hadn't picked one up sooner.

The Speedster features an internal waterproof zippered pouch that is perfect for carrying cash, an ID or a credit card. The wallet also has three small neoprene lined organizational slots that are perfect for a patch kit, CO2 cartridge or other small tools, but best of all it has a large sleeve, complete with a transparent window, that is specifically designed to safely hold a smartphone. The window allows riders to interact with the touchscreen on their phone without ever having to remove it from the wallet, which is great when using it with the numerous apps designed specifically for cyclists. The Speedster's water resistant lining keeps the electronic device safe from sweat or unexpected rain storms and strong strip of velcro keeps the wallet sealed tight.

That's basically all there is to this product, but that's also all we need from it. The Speedster is simply an excellent addition to any rider's gear list and if you're a regular rider, I think you'll find it as useful as I do. It's great to throw all of the items you want to carry with you into one compact, well designed wallet, then slip it into a jersey pocket and hit the road.

With a price tag of just $20, the Speedster Ride is also very affordable. Considering the build quality of the wallet, I wouldn't have been surprised if it had cost twice that. But at such a modest cost it is difficult to justify not buying one.

Not a rider yourself? This wallet also makes a great gift or stocking stuffer for the cyclist in your life. The holidays are still a few months off, but it is never too early to start planning ahead.

Are you looking for new gear for your next outdoor adventure? Than your first stop should probably be  to GearInstitute.com. The site is populated with reviews and insights of everything from boots and sleeping bags to tents, backpacks, base layers and so much more.

The Gear Institute takes some of the top outdoor professionals and gear testers in the U.S. and assigns them a particular category to cover for the site. For instance, you'll generally have all the reviews o say cycling shoes or climbing harnesses from the same person. Using a clearly defined rating system, the reviews are written to be easy to understand and simple for consumers to digest, with an expressed goal of helping people to buy the best gear they can possibly get for their money.

The site has actually been around for sometime, but went through a relaunch back in early August, right around the time of Outdoor Retailer. The new layout makes it easy to comb through the numerous gear categories and reviews to find exactly what you're looking for in just about every kind of category including running, camping, backpacking, skiing and so on. If you don't see a particular category that you're looking for on the site, and you  happen to be knowledgeable on the subject, you can even apply to join the GI Faculty.

On a side note, I contributed a piece to the site, writing this article on some of the best hydration packs for trail running. I put four good packs through their paces and rated each of them in a variety of categories. If you're in the market for just such a pack, you'll definitely want to check out my thoughts on the matter.

Also, if you have a gear hound on your list for holiday gifts, you may want to bookmark the Gear Institute as well. It'll come in handy when you're trying to find just the right piece of kit in a few months time.

As we saw in the Solite 250 headlamp that I reviewed last week, the use of rechargeable lithium ion batteries is becoming more common. The use of those batteries bring a higher initial price tag, but they also deliver an impressive level of performance, both in terms of light produced and overall battery life.  Princeton Tec, a company seems to make a headlamp for every person and every situation, is even getting in on the act with their new Apex Rechargeable model. While the Apex and the Solite 250 share a few things in common, they are also quite unique as well, with both having their appeal for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.

Rugged and durable, the Apex Rechargeable comes equipped with a comfortable, easy to adjust headband, complete with crown strap, that holds the lamp and battery pack firmly in place, even while on the move. But if you find the battery pack too cumbersome to wear, Princeton Tec was thoughtful enough to include a 42 inch (106 cm) extension cable that allows you to wear it on your belt or place it inside a backpack. With five total lights (1 Maxbright LED, 4 white regulated LED's) the Apex is capable of cranking out up to 200 lumens on its highest setting, which is incredibly bright but still falls below the Solite's amazing 250 lumens. Also included in the box is a USB cable,  a plastic bracket for the battery pack and a velcro strap that allows the light to be attached to the handlebars of your bike.

Performance wise, the Apex shines both literally and figuratively. It has four different brightness modes that each have a direct impact on the battery life. For instance, when on its highest setting (the 200 lumens mentioned above) the spotlight beam is capable of reaching more than a hundred meters out, although it comes at the expense of battery life. In this mode the Apex can run for about five hours, which is twice the burn time of the Solite at its highest setting. On its lowest setting, the battery life extends to 90 hours as the beam is dispersed wider but not so far in front of the wearer. The higher settings are fantastic while riding a bike, while the lower settings are much more useful for casual use on a backpacking or camping trip. There is also an emergency blinking mode that comes in handy if you ever need to signal for assistance.



Knowing that we're likely to use this in some demanding environments, Princeton Tec made the Apex Rechargeable water resistant to up to 1 meter of depth. That means you won't take it deep sea diving, but it should survive freak rainstorms or an accidental dunk in the stream. It is also built tough enough to survive more than its fair share of abuse while on the trail.

Recharging the Apex is a snap. Simply plug it into any USB port on a computer, external battery pack or solar charger. Recharge times vary depending on which method you're using, but I managed to top the battery off using my laptop in in about four hours. A solar charger will take considerably more time, but is a viable option for when you're traveling in remote places where you don't want to take computer.

Princeton Tec added in a few extra features that help this product stand out from the crowd. For instance, it features two easy to operate switches for controlling the light, which can be adjusted nicely even while wearing gloves. The lamp itself can pivot up or down to place the light exactly where you need it and the high-tech regulation chip ensure that the brightness level of the lamp stays at a consistent level across the entire battery charge. All of those things help to round out an impressive package that climbers, backpackers and mountain bikers will absolutely love.

Those looking to shave ounces off their gear may choose the Solite 250 over the Apex. The Solite weighs in at a svelte 149 grams (5.25 ounces), while Princeton Tec's offering tips the scales at 283 grams (9.9 ounces). Most of that difference comes from the more rugged construction of the Apex, which seems like it can withstand more punishment.

The two headlamps are comparable in price with an MSRP of $150. As I mentioned with my Solite review last week, that can induce a bit of initial sticker shock, but considering how much money these headlamps can save you in batteries, it should more than make up for itself over the life of the lamp. Both are extremely high quality products that should last you for years, no matter where your adventures take you.

Looking for a compact, yet rugged, wireless speaker system to take on your next backpacking trip? Then look no further than the new Turtle Shell Boombox from Outdoor Tech. This powerful little sound system connects wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet via BlueTooth and pumps out your favorite tunes, podcasts or streaming audio. It is also water resistant, dust and shock proof, and designed to be mounted just about anywhere. It even comes with built-in camera threading, which means it can be mounted on tripods or a variety of other items quickly and easily. It comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides 9-10 hours of use and will make a good travel companion for those who need a little entertainment around the campfire.

Outdoor Tech is currently running a Kickstarter campaign to raise funding for the Turtle Shell. They're hoping to get about $40,000 in donations before they go into production. With just under two weeks to go in the campaign, they still have to generate a bit more than $20,000. To get there, they're providing some nice incentives for those who contribute, including selling the Turtle Shell for just $99. When it hits retail, the unit will run $149, so if you're interested, this is a great way to grab one at a discounted price.

Click here to find  out more and check out the video below. Looks like a rugged travel companion for those who enjoy listening to their music on the go.

Anyone who is remotely into running knows that over the past few years footwear companies have been in a race to create the most minimalistic shoe as possible. That race bottomed out with the Vibram FiveFingers, which are about as minimal as you can go and still remotely call something a shoe. But for many runners the FiveFingers are a bit too minimal and the "barefoot running" craze has remained out of reach for most of us.

Fortunately other companies have embraced the minimalist concept and delivered shoes for the rest of us. Over the past month and a half I've been testing several pairs of minimalist shoes that were built for the rest of us, and over the next few weeks I'll be posting my thoughts on each of them. The first of those shoes are the new Sketchers GObionics, which are just slightly above the FiveFingers on the minimalist continuum.

Sketchers isn't necessarily the first shoe company that comes to mind when you think about running shoes and I have to admit I was a bit skeptical when I first got my hands on the GOBionics. But then I put them on my feet and my doubts began to evaporate quickly. These shoes aren't so lightweight they practically feel like you aren't wearing anything on your feet all. Of course, thats the whole point of minimalist shoes, right?

Not quite as form fitting as the FiveFingers, the GObionics hug the feet nicely none the less. The synthetic mesh upper is extremely breathable, which came in handy in the hot Texas summer. The interior of the shoe is lined with soft, moisture absorbing materials that make it possible to wear these shoes while running barefoot, while a removable insole helps you to customize the perfect fit even further.

While these are incredibly lightweight shoes, they do have one major advantage over the FiveFingers – namely the fact that they have a sole. That goes a long way toward protecting the bottom of the foot, especially on longer runs. That alone made these a better option for me personally than Vibram's offerings, although I still felt plenty of rocks, sticks and other debris while running in my Sketchers.

The other thing that stands out about these shoes is just how flexible they are. I'm not sure I've ever put on a pair of running shoes that are remotely as flexible as the GObionic straight out of the box. There is zero break-in time with these Sketchers and as soon as you hit the road on your first run, you'll appreciate the comfort they provide.

These shoes aren't perfect however. They are still very much minimalist footwear and may still be too lightweight for a lot of runners. I personally limited my distances to just 4-6 miles in the GObionic, as anything beyond that left my feet a bit on the sore side. On longer runs I still need more support than these shoes can provide, although I have to admit they are a joy to wear on those shorter distances.

Overall, I really enjoy running in the Sketchers GObionics. They are minimalist for sure, but provide more comfort and protection than the alternative. They are the shoes for the "not quite barefoot" crowd and I think they'll be very popular with runners looking for something a bit more than what the FiveFingers have to offer. At $90 they're also quite affordable.

High Peak is a company that has a reputation for making solid, affordable gear that is both durable and dependable. Their products don't tend to be flashy or over blown, but they are very functional and are often a great example of how simple design can be highly effective.

I was reminded of this recently while testing their new Alpinizmo Lightning 50 pack, which at first glance didn't seem to offer much in comparison to some products offered by competitors. There aren't an over abundance of pockets and storage compartments, and other than a few compression straps and an ice axe holder there isn't much to set this pack apart from the crowd. But the Lightning 50's true strength is in its simplicity and this is a bag that truly shines when you actually start putting it to use.

My early impressions of the pack changed dramatically as soon as I put it on. The Lightning is surprisingly comfortable and I love how easy it is to adjust the fit even while wearing it. The adjustable frame makes this a "one-size-fits-all" option and finding just the right settings were a snap. Even the chest strap is adjustable both vertically and horizontally, and in a matter of minutes I had the pack dialed in exactly where I wanted it.



Sticking to the no-frills approach, the Lightning 50 has just two internal compartments that are separated by a drawstring shelf. The bottom chamber is perfect for a sleeping bag of course and the top can be used for the rest of your gear. The drawstring makes it possible to open the interior into one large compartment, but I personally preferred some level of organization. The pack's lid has another pocket that is great for keeping the most important small items, such as a headlamp or multitool close at hand. Another small pocket on the waist belt is perfect for a small point an shoot camera and an energy bar.

While the Lightning 50 may appear to be a no frills pack, High Peak hasn't exactly skimped on the quality. Everything from the highly durable fabrics and thick buckles on the belts and straps are nothing short of impressive. The Vario air channel system provides good ventilation for the back while out on the trail and the built in hydration sleeve can comfortably hold hold up to a 3-liter water bladder.

All of that comes in an attractive package that weighs just 3.4 pounds and carries an MSRP of $149. That's actually a great price for a rugged pack that will keep most backpackers and hikers happy for a very long time. The Alpinizmo Lighting 50 is an excellent option for the outdoor enthusiast who just needs a simple, comfortable pack to carry all of their gear on the adventures.

One of my favorite pieces of gear that I reviewed last year was the Solite 150 headlamp from Light & Motion. At the time, I was impressed with how lightweight and bright the little torch was and I loved the fact that it came with a rechargeable battery that provided excellent burn times. Fast forward to now and the company now offers an updated version of their iconic light in the form of the new Solite 250 – a product that improves on the original in every way. 

The technology that we carry with us into the field today continues to get more powerful, sophisticated and useful, enabling us to be more productive and stay in contact where ever we go. Whether its smartphones, GPS devices, tablets, mp3 players or some other gadget, keeping those devices powered can still be a real challenge. After all, all of that technology is simply dead weight without a way to refill the battery. That's where Goal Zero can offer some assistance. The company makes some of the lightest, most versatile solar panels available today and after putting their Guide 10 Plus Adventure Kit to the test, I now understand where GZ's reputation for making quality products comes from.

The Adventure Kit comes with everything you need to keep all of your devices well charged while on the go. it includes the Guide 10 battery pack with USB port for storing a charge, a 12V cigarette adapter, a 4-pack of AA rechargeable batteries, a rechargeable LED flashlight and all the cables you need to power up your gizmos. But the heart of the kit is Goal Zero's Nomad 7 Solar Panel, which is capable of generating up to 7 watts of power. That makes it a more powerful option than GZ's competitors while still remaining compact and lightweight enough to carry anywhere.

When fully opened, the Nomad 7 provides two surprisingly large panels for collecting energy from the sun and it can put that energy to good use. Goal Zero says that the average smartphone, GPS device or digital camera will take between 2 and 4 hours to charge and in my testing of the kit I found that to be accurate. My iPhone 4S was fully topped out in a little more than 2 hours and my point and shoot digital cameras varied from 2-4 depending on battery size. My DSLR took a bit longer, closer to 4 hours, but it still did the job nicely. The Guide 10 will even charge an iPad, although it does take considerably longer, particularly for the iPad 3 with its larger battery. An iPad 1 or 2 requires more than a full cycle from the battery pack to completely charge, which I did overnight. I found it more efficient to top off the third generation iPad more regularly however, not letting it run completely down.



Thin and lightweight, the Goal Zero solar panels are surprisingly rugged. GZ understands that we not only need to have something that can generate plenty of power for our gadgets but it also must be able to withstand lots of punishment too. The Nomad 7 panels are built to be taken on anything from a weekend camping trip to a months long expedition to the remote corners of the planet. Top to bottom, this is a solid kit that can be used where ever we travel and with just about any device that we take along with us.

While testing the Guide 10 Plus Adventure Kit I used the system in two ways. First, I connected to my backpack and allowed it to collect sunlight while hiking all day. The other way I test it was in a permanent campsite where I simply laid it out flat to collect sunlight all day long. Not surprisingly, the kit performed the best while stationary, as it was exposed to a consistent amount of sun throughout the day. But that isn't always an option and I found that the Nomad 7 worked efficiently even while dangling from my pack, although it did take longer to top off the charge in the Guide 10 battery pack.

Anyone who ventures off the beaten path but still needs to be able to power their gadgets will find the Goal Zero Guide 10 Plus a fantastic option. It isn't the most compact of solar kits in this price range and class, but it is easily the most powerful that I've used. The Adventure Kit costs $159.99 and includes a handy carrying case to keep the entire system organized. Personally, I feel this is a great bargain considering all that is included with this kit and how versatile it actually is. If you consistently need power while off the grid, this is by far your best option.

Early today I posted an update on the Moguls to Manaslu expedition which features Glan Plake, Greg Costa and Rémy Lécluse in an attempt to summit and ski the eight tallest mountain on the planet. If you've ever wondered what kind of gear it takes to undertake just such an expedition, then you'll want to check out the video below. Shot before the team left for Kathmandu, it gives you an idea of what equipment they are using on this climb.

EpicTV: Moguls to Manaslu from EpicTVAdventure on Vimeo.

When we think about the most important gear that we have with us when we head out for our favorite outdoor pursuits the first equipment that generally comes to mind are things like backpacks, hiking boots or shell jackets. But often times it is the small piece of gear that we take for granted that is actually amongst our most important and useful items. Take for example a good pair of sunglasses. Usually we put them on almost as an after thought and we don't even realize how important they actually are. I was reminded of this recently while testing out a new pair of shades from Liberty Sport, whose Trailblazer sunglasses have quickly earned a spot amongst my favorite gear items.

Lightweight and durable, the Trailblazers provide plenty of coverage with an attractive wrap around design. They are form fitting, yet comfortable, and are perfectly shaped to wear under both a cycling and climbing helmet. I especially liked the large lenses which kept the bright Texas sun out of my eyes on daily runs and bike rides.

A good pair of outdoor sun glasses needs to be able to withstand plenty of abuse out in the field and the Trailblazer definitely can handle just about anything you throw at them. The frames are flexible and can absorb impacts when dropped and the performances lenses are specifically designed to be as much as five times stronger than standard polycarbonate. The result is a set of eyewear that can be used in a variety of environments and activities.



One of my favorite features of the Trailblazer sunglasses are the included eye cups that snap into place along the inside of the lenses and stay there through the innovative use of magnets. These cups help to seal off the open areas around the outside of the farm, keeping excess sand, dust or snow out of the eyes. The fact that the magnetic eye cups can be added or removed as need, gives these glasses a nice level of versatility that makes them a good option for a variety of outdoor pursuits. For instance, I keep the eye cups off while running and cycling, as the increased ventilation is much appreciated. But when hiking a dusty trail on a windy day, it is nice to have the ability to keep flying particles out of our eyes. Additionally, mountaineers and skiers will appreciate this option of using the cups to keep the snows at bay. Liberty Sport has truly created a pair of sunglasses that is versatile enough for all environments and sports.

Over the past month I've used the Trailblazers nearly every day and I've been extremely happy with their performance. These glasses keep my eyes well protected from the harsh summer sun and the large lenses are a big help in that department. Initially I was afraid that the wrap around design and thicker frames would be warmer to use, resulting in more sweat in my eyes while running. It turns out the Trailblazers were actually better at preventing that irritating sweat from running down my face, making them much more comfortable to use on the 100ºF/38ºC days.

On top of all those other great technical qualities the Trailblazers happen to look great too. While its true we all want our gear to function at a high level, it also doesn't hurt if that same gear has a level of good ascetic design as well. Sun glasses in particular should be fashionable as well as functional, and these shades can be worn out on the town just as easily as on the trail.

Outdoor athletes looking for a versatile pair of sun glasses that they can use for a variety of activities will appreciate the Trailblazer from Liberty Sport. They carry an MSRP of $175 which makes them competitive with similar frames from other eyewear companies, but considering the fact that they can be used in a wide variety of sports and environments, I think they are well worth the money. The included magnetic eye cups are a great touch as well.

Over the past couple of years the iPad has become the one piece of technology that I can't leave home without. When I travel it is my portable communications and entertainment system, providing movies, music, books, magazines, games and more. It is my lightweight, portable workstation, as well as a photo and video editing machine. In short, it is quite possibly the most important item I take with me on the road.

While Apple's tablet is a solid, well built device, there are times when I can't help but wonder if it's a good idea to take it to the far ends of the Earth. Since it's release in the spring of 2010, I've taken my iPad to Everest Base Camp, deep into the African Bush, and to the remote Atacama Desert, just to name a few. To help protect my favorite gadget, I've used several different cases to help keep my iPad safe. Each of them has brought a measure of security to the table, but none have been as rugged and secure as the new 1065 HardBack Case from Pelican.

Designed specifically to accommodate most 10" tablets, the 1065 HardBack is like having an impenetrable shell to keep your gadget safe and sound even under the most extreme conditions. The case is crush-proof, water resistant up to 3 feet in depth and features automatic pressure equalization to keep the contents safe at any altitude. The thick, durable plastic housing provides a great sense of security no matter where you're traveling.



The HardBack isn't just tough on the outside however as the interior provides plenty of protection as well. A foam liner keeps the all important screen safe and sound, while a water proof gasket seals the interior from not only water but excess dust too. A rugged, yet easy to open, latch locks tight and remains firmly closed even while taking plenty of abuse.

Using Pelican's hard case is akin to having luggage specifically designed to protect your iPad. It is a the perfect product for those who need to carry their tablet with them into the backcountry and wrapped in this rugged armor, they can rest assured that there device will be well taken care of. It comes with Pelican's lifetime guarantee and with an MSRP of $49 it is a bit on the high end of iPad cases but considering the level of protection it provides, the cost is actually quite affordable.

The only knock I have on the HardBack is that it is a bit on the heavy side. Weighing in at 1.25 pounds (567 grams) this case isn't exactly a featherweight. Those looking to travel light may pass on Pelican's protective armor in favor of something that is a bit leaner, although they'll almost certainly be giving up some measure of protection. But if you value your iPad the way I do, and you need it with you when you travel, the extra weight is worth it.

Gear company Wenger, the makers of all those great Swiss Army Knives, not to mention some sweet watches, and a variety of excellent outdoor and travel gear, launched the new blog for its North American website last week. In addition to keeping readers up to date on new products and other happenings at Wenger HQ, the blog will also be updated regularly with outdoor and adventure news from a host of writers, including yours truly.

Fresh content is already flowing onto the site including a great piece on learning to camp by playing the Oregon Trail and an informative piece on making drinkable water while in the backcountry. There is also a good post on what outdoor enthusiasts should know about land and water conservation and I've already contributed a piece on West Hansen's Amazon Express expedition.

I'm fortunate to have been included with a great group of outdoor adventurers who also happen to be very good writers. I think the blog should be a lot of fun to read and will have lots of interesting stories that will be posted on a daily basis. If you're looking for a new site to help with your adventure fix, the new Wenger Blog looks like it'll help fill that role nicely. Go ahead and bookmark it now!