Outside Picks Gear of the Year for Summer 2014

Last week, we received some great gear tips courtesy of National Geographic, and this week we'll start things off with the Outside magazine selection for the Gear of the Year for Summer 2014 as well. The editors at Outside have narrowed their selection down to just 15 amazing pieces of kit that you'll want in your gear closet for that next big adventure.

Some of the items making the list include the upgraded version of the very popular MSR Hubba Hubba tent, which somehow managed to get a little bigger, while still shaving a half-pound off the weight. They also gave a nod to the new Sierra Designs Mobile Mummy sleeping bag, which is rated down to 15ºF/-9ºC, and can be worn like a jacket while around the campfire. The Granite Gear Nimbus Trace backpack is lauded for its all-around excellent performance, while the North Face Ultra Trail running shoes took the crown as the best new trail runners on the market. Other gear making the list included a new mountain bike from Norco, a jacket from Marmot, and a kayak from dagger.

If the Gear of the Year items aren't enough to satiate your gear lust, than checkout Outside's  Summer 2014 Gear Buyers Guide. It expands the selection nicely, offering up more than 360 gear items to choose from. Categories include the essentials for car camping, the best new luggage, the best new tents, backpacks, cameras, and much, much more. It is a very comprehensive list, and one that will surely leave you wanting gear that you probably didn't even know existed. 

Between Outside's suggestions and Nat Geo's selection for gear of the year, we should have plenty of good choices heading into the summer months. 

Outside Picks the 20 Most Dangerous Hikes in the World

Looking for some new hiking trails to try this summer? Then you might not want to look at the new list from Outside magazine. They have compiled their selection of the 20 most dangerous hikes in the world, giving us a taste of just how dangerous hiking can be when you throw in extreme conditions, dangerous wildlife, and trails that are literally falling apart around you. This list isn't meant for those who enjoy walking the nature trail in their local park. These trails are for the truly adventurous who enjoy a bit of a challenge while they're in the wilderness.

Make no mistake, there are some truly spectacular hikes on this list. Many offer sweeping views or access to some of the truly great wilderness areas on our planet. But, as the name implies, they also offer some unique dangers as well. Those dangers come in a variety of forms that are sometimes unexpected. Take for example, the Huayna Picchu route in Peru, a trail that goes beyond Machu Picchu and up a 1000 feet of ancient stairs that the Inca carved out of stone. Those stairs are slippery, in need of repair, and shrouded in mist. Many people who set out on the hike, have no idea how dangerous it is, and often aren't wearing the proper boots, or carrying enough water.

Other outstanding – yet dangerous  – trails include the Maze in Utah, which consists of a series of twisting canyons that are easy to get lost in, and Mount Hua Shan in China, which is infamous for its wooden platforms precariously bolted to the vertical cliffs of the sacred mountain. Other trails that make the list include the amazing Drakensberg Traverse in South Africa, Kalalau in Hawaii, and El Caminito del Rey, in Spain, which I recently shared on this blog in video form.

The list offers trails that can be found in just about every corner of the globe, although the U.S. is heavily represented.  The Outside authors offer advice on the things that make each of these routes dangerous, and what we should be aware of before setting out. Of course, further research is highly recommended, but this makes for an interesting read none the less.

Hiking The Caminito del Rey: Spain's Most Dangerous Trail

My friend Matthew Karsten recently had the opportunity to hike the Caminito del Rey, a notoriously dangerous trail located in Andalucia, Spain. The trail was originally built over a century ago to grant works building a new dam in the area access to the site. It sits 100 meters (328 feet) above the canyon floor, and over the decades it has slowly fallen into disrepair. Sections of the trail are completely missing, while others have just steel beams left in place. This has caused most people to shy away from the route completely, but some adrenaline junkies visit just to experience the Caminito in its current state.

Matt gives us an extensive report on his experience there, as well as a fantastic video that he shot along the way. Read his thoughts on the experience here, and watch the video below.  He describes the place as very beautiful, while also acknowledging the inherent dangers of walking this route at the same time.

If you've always wanted to walk the Caminito del Rey, you may want to hurry. Matt also reports that in May, the trail will be shut down, and a restoration plan will be put into place. This will, of course, make things safer, but it'll also take away the reputation of the route as well. Considering that there have been several deaths on the trail over the years, it is a good thing that it'll finally be repaired, But I'm sure it'll also diminish the lure of the trail for some as well.

Explorer Julian Monroe Fisher Completes Inaugural Trek Of New Hiking Trail In Africa

Explorer and anthropologist Julian Monroe Fisher has completed the first trek of the entire length of a new hiking trail in Africa. His journey, which was Phase Three of RailRiders 2012-16 Great African Expedition, covered approximately 805 km (500 miles), as he walked the Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Historical Trail. The journey took him through South Sudan and Uganda, and marked the 150th anniversary of the Bakers' exploration of that region.

The new trail, which only just opened in January, begins in the South Sudanese village of Gondokoro, located near Juba, the capital of the country. From there, it runs south to Baker's View, overlooking Lake Albert in western Uganda, before pressing on to the top of Murchison Falls on the Nile River. In order to properly identify the route, historical markers were placed in fifteen local communities that fall on the trail. Those villages also represent the locations where Sir Samuel Baker, and his wife Lady Florence, camped on their historic expeditions through Central Africa during the 1860's and 70's.

Fisher embarked on this latest expedition back in January, just as the trail had opened. Having planned his expedition for months, he could not have foreseen that civil war would break out in South Sudan just a few weeks prior to his departure. While visiting the portion of the trail that falls in the Eastern Equatoria State, he was only allowed to travel by vehicle, and with an armed government escort. That allowed him to complete the task of delivering the historical markers to the six communities in that region however.


The civil war brought a series of challenges that had not been planned for. "There were tanks on the streets of the capital of Juba, checkpoints along the road where blurry eyed dicey soldiers were a bit too trigger happy and a 6pm to 6am curfew in place which insured nightly gunfire throughout the
city making it impossible to get a good nights rest," Fisher said. He also added "My fixer north of Juba in the land of the Mundari herdsmen was nowhere tobe found. I have never heard from him again."

Things calmed down after he was able to pass across the border into Uganda, and in mid-February Julian was joined by his teenage son Charley, who walked the rest of the trail with him. They reached Murchison Falls on February 24th, officially completing their trek on the Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Historical Trail.

While out on the trail, Fisher gathered content for OutWildTV.com, providing regular dispatches and images from the journey. Those dispatches give readers a sense of what this expedition was like, and what to expect on the new hiking trail. That content can be accessed by clicking here.

This new trail is meant to not only highlight the efforts of the Bakers, but also become a new form economic development for the villages that fall on its length. Sadly, the ongoing conflict in South Sudan will make that a challenge for now. But, the trail is open in Uganda, and safe for trekkers to explore.

Gear Closet: Osprey Exos 48 Backpack

Yesterday, I reviewed the new Rev 6 backpack from Osprey, hailing it as the best trail running pack that I had ever used. Today, I've got some thoughts on another revolutionary new product from the same company in the form of the new ultra lightweight Exos 48, a product that is sure to delight the "light and fast" crowd.

The Exos series of packs have been around for some time, and they have always remained highly focused on delivering very light, yet still durable, packs for backpacker who truly watches ever ounce. One of the hallmarks of the Exos packs has always been that they are comfortable to wear, while still maintaining their minimalist approach. With this new design, that level of comfort has increased even further, even as Osprey has managed to cut even more weight. So much so, that this year's model tips the scales at a svelte 2 lbs., 5 oz. (1.05 kg). That's extremely light for a pack this size.

The Exos series is available in three sizes, 38-, 48-, and 58- liters. Personally, I think the 48 is the definite sweet spot for being lightweight, yet still providing plenty of capacity to carry all of your gear. The large, internal chamber offers plenty of room for all the gear you need for a prolonged hike, provided you've already bought into the ultralight mantra. Make no mistake, the Exos packs are probably not the best option for a beginner hiker, but for those with a bit of experience under their belt, they are a very tempting option.


In addition to main storage compartment, the pack also has a removal upper pocket with a zippered compartment. I like this option for storing things that I want to keep close at hand, such as a headlamp or small medical kit. The hipbelt also has an integrated pocket on both sides, with are large enough to hold a small point and shoot camera or some snacks for the trail. These pockets have become indispensable to me over the years, and it baffles me when manufacturers don't include them these days. A large, external mesh pocket on the front is a great place to store an extra pair of shoes, or wet items that you don't want inside the pack as well.

Speaking of the hipbelt, it is surprisingly thick and well padded for an ultralight pack. Once adjusted properly, it rode exactly where it should, transferring the weight to my hips, and keeping the load well balanced for long hikes. Likewise, the shoulder straps are thick and comfortable as well, helping to maintain the overall level of quality across the entire design.

Ultralight backpackers will like the fact that Osprey has designed parts of the Exos to be easily removed. In addition to the top floating lid of the pack, there are removable compression straps and sleeping pad straps for those who really are looking to shave ounces.  Those who do remove the lid will be happy to see an integrated FlapJacket to help keep the weather out of the interior of the pack.

As much as I really like the Exos 48, I have to say that I'm not sure I'd want to load it up with too much weight. While it is comfortable to wear, I feel that if you push it to its 48 liter capacity, it may start to show the strains of being such a lightweight pack. While some may find it carries that load just fine, I'd recommend being careful with pushing it too close to that limit. It feels like a safer option carrying 40-45 liters of gear, rather than stuffing it full.

That said, the pack is very easy to wear on extended hikes. It is comfortable, provided you recognize its limitations and don't push the weight too high. The new "Exoform" harness system is mostly to thank here, with those well padded shoulder straps and hipbelt aiding int he level of comfort.

I have been a fan of Osprey's airspeed suspension systes for some time, and it is a welcome addition on this pack as well. The suspension helps keep the pack off your back, which greatly adds in ventilation. There is no way to keep you perfectly cool and dry while wearing a backpack, but this design certainly helps some.

Of course, the pack is also hydration ready, and capable of carrying a 3-liter bladder. Sadly one isn't included with the Exos. On the one hand, this does allow you to choose the bladder you want to use, which is particularly handy for those of us who already own several. But Osprey makes some excellent reservoirs, and the inclusion of one here would have been icing on the cake, albeit at the expense of ounces.

The Exos series of packs are already a favorite with those hiking the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. My feeling is that this new version will only increase their popularity further. If you're looking for a lightweight pack that can meet all your ultralight needs, Osprey has delivered once again. With a price tag of $190, this pack delivers on the promise of comfort and performance, at an extremely low weight. Provided you know what you are getting when you buy in, I think you'll be more than happy with Osprey's latest masterpiece.

Video: A Week In The Desert

The video below was shot by the talented folks over at Mammoth Media, who went on a week long excursion through the deserts in Utah, Arizona and New Mexico. The result was a beautiful travelogue of their adventures, with stunning landscapes and beautiful windswept vistas. The travelers look like they had a great time on their journey, which will probably inspire you to plan one of your own.

A Week in the Desert from MAMMOTH on Vimeo.

Trekking The PCT For Multiple Sclerosis

At 2650 miles (4264 km) in length, the Pacific Crest Trail is one of the longest – and most beautiful – trails in the world. Starting at the U.S. border with Mexico and running all the way to Canada, the PCT is considered one of the classic long distance hikes in the entire world, drawing millions of hikers each year, some of whom actually trek the entire length.

That is exactly what backpacker Megan Bullers hopes to accomplish later this year, as she intends to walk end-to-end on the PCT to raise money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. She'll set out on April 24 of this year, and she estimates it will take between four and five months to complete the entire hike. Along the way, she hopes to raise $50,000 for the charity.

Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail is a long and challenging endeavor that requires a solid amount of inspiration to make it through. In this case, Megan is not just raising funds for MS, but is doing so to potentially help  her father, who has suffered from the disease since 2000.

If you want to help her reach her goals, you can contribute to this very worthy cause on Megan's donations page. You'll also be able to follow along with her adventure on her blog as well.

Good luck Megan!

Video: Another Look At Angels Landing In Zion National Park

A few weeks back I posted a great video of Angels Landing in Zion National Park, sharing a glimpse of what that great hike has to offer. The video below shares even more of that impressive trail, which appears to be a "must-do" for anyone who loves to hike, particularly in a national park. It is a beautiful setting, with an adrenaline inducing view.

Angels Landing :: Zion from JC Ferrer on Vimeo.

Video: End-to-End on the Pacific Crest Trail in 7 Minutes!

The Pacific Crest Trail is one of the greatest long distance hikes anywhere in the world. Stretching for more than 2600 miles (4185 km) from the U.S. border with Mexico to the border with Canada, the PCT passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the western United States. But not all of us have the time to walk it ourselves, which is where this video comes in handy. It allows you to see the trail, end-to-end, in just seven minutes, using three-second clips the entire way. After watching it, you'll probably want to hike it yourself even more.

The Pacific Crest Trail (Three Second Thru-Hike) from Halfway Anywhere on Vimeo.

Video: Hiking Angels Landing In Zion National Park

Angels Landing is easily one of the most popular hiking trails in Zion National Park. The five-mile long route offers stunning views throughout the walk, but the trail is very narrow, making it a fun, but sometimes scary endeavor. The video below gives you a taste of that, as well as a glimpse of what to expect when you visit Zion itself.

Angels Landing from David Lerman on Vimeo.

Video: Hiking The Appalachian Trail In 3.5 Minutes

Ever wanted to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail but just don't have the time? Then you'll certainly enjoy the video below, which features an end-to-end trek along the 2200 mile (3500 km) route that stretches from Georgia to Maine. It may not be as enjoyable as the real thing, but it certainly isn't bad when you're stuck inside on Friday.

Gear Review: Yaktrax Walk

Yesterday I posted a review of a new pair of running shoes designed specifically for running on snow and ice. Those shoes were waterproof, comfortable and had integrated spikes to help keep your footing on snow and ice. They also come with a price tag of $155. But for those looking for something a bit more affordable to help keep their footing on slick surfaces in the winter, the tried and true Yaktrax are tough to beat. These versatile, yet effective, tools are one of the best things to have in your gear closet when winter weather hits.

If you're not familiar with Yaktrax, they are a simple – yet ingenious – product. Designed to fit snugly over the bottom of your shoes, they instantly give better traction to just about any footwear by literally adding chains to the tread. When stretched over the sole of a boot, running shoe, or just about any other shoe, the chains add the ability to grip ice and snow, making it much easier to move safely and securely. Best of all, they can be added or removed very quickly, making it easy to transform your footwear from off road ready to formal wear in seconds.

I tested the Yaktrax Walk, which is the company's classic model. Lightweight and easy to apply, the Walk are great for just about anyone heading outside during the winter months. Whether you're walking down the street or on a snowy trail, they can make any hike much easier. They're perfect for use around town, around camp, or just about anywhere else you want to use them, and at just $20, they are an affordable solution for anyone.

The Yaktrax Walk are very good for all kinds winter walking challenges, but for those who demand a bit more performance will find other options as well. For instance, runners will want to try the Run, while hikers heading into more difficult conditions should use the Yaktrax Pro. Finally, those traveling in extreme environments, the XTR is the best choice.

Affordable, versatile and effective. Yaktrax are a great option for anyone looking to improve their traction in the winter. For the level of performance they provide, it certainly is tough to beat the price!

Best Hike Treks The Manaslu Circuit

My friend Rick McCharles of Best Hike fame is up to his usual tricks. Rick recently to Nepal where he walked the Manaslu Circuit, a 252 km (156.8 mile) sojourn that takes roughly 12-13 days to complete. Following his Himalayan adventure, Rick has posted his thoughts on the trek, sharing daily info on the walk and lots of beautiful photos as well.

As the name implies, this hiking circuit encircles Manaslu, an 8156 meter (26,759 ft) peak that is located in west central Nepal. The trail first opened back in 1991, but Rick says that it has gained in popularity over the past few years as more tea houses have sprung up along the route, giving trekkers more comfortable options for their adventure.

All told, the circuit features 12,585 meters (41,289 ft) of climbing and 11,279 meters (37,004 ft) of descent. It reaches its highest point at Larkya Pass, which falls at 5106 meters (16,751 ft). While that is plenty of altitude, Rick says that it rises at an acceptable rate, allowing plenty of time to acclimatize. The route will take you through six climate zones along the way, giving backpackers an opportunity to experience a host of beautiful scenery. As with most treks through the Himalaya in Nepal, it also exposes travelers to the great culture there as well.

Rick spent a total of ten days on his hike and from the sounds of his reports, he enjoyed every minute of it, despite some challenges. The thing that intrigues me most about his notes on the hike is that he compares it quite favorably to the legendary Annapurna Circuit from years past. There are many long distance hikers who feel the Annapurna Circuit is the best hiking trail in the world, although the addition of a road to the region altered that perception some. If the Manaslu Circuit is anywhere near as good, it says a lot about just how amazing this walk must be.

If you're looking for a new adventure for 2014, then perhaps the Mansaslu Circuit should be added to your list of potentials. Rick says October and November are the best times to go, although April and May aren't bad either. It looks like yet another amazing Himalayan hike I need to add to my bucket list.

Adventure Tech: Quechua Announces Ruggedized Cell Phone For Outdoor Enthusiasts

Outdoor gear company Quechua had partnered with budget tech firm Archos to produce a ruggedized Android cell phone that is designed for adventurers who can be a little rough on their gear. The phone, which begins shipping this week in some markets, if resistant to water, snow, cold, dust and other elements, while also being designed to survive a significant drop.

The new phone will retail for €230 (roughly $310) and comes equipped with Android 4.1 (Jellybean). It is powered by a Qualcomm 1.2 GHz, quad-core processor, has 1GB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage, which can be expanded through the use of SD cards. It also has a large 5" display and 3500 mAh battery that is said to be capable of 22 hours of talk time between charges.

But what sets the phone apart from most others is that it meets IP 54 certification. That means it has been built to survive the demands of the outdoors, including submersion in water, being used in sandy or dusty environments and withstanding the shock from being dropped. It is also resistant to both hot and cold temperatures, which could make it a great travel phone for those who visit extreme environments.

The phone does have a few knocks against it before it ever hits the streets. For starters, it doesn't have 4G data capabilities. The built-in 4GB of storage is a bit anemic as well, even though you do have the ability to add to that with memory cards. Android 4.1 is no longer the latest version of that operating system either, although it is a solid, modern OS in terms of features and stability. Still, for the price, I would expect a bit more out of the phone. You might be better served with buying a more capable device at a lower price and investing in a good cast to protect it. Just my two cents.

Gear Closet: Keen Revel II Hiking Boots

With temperatures dropping – and even colder weather on the way – a good hiking boot designed to handle rain and snow is a must for any gear closet. After all, we have excellent gear to keep our other body parts warm, and we definitely don't want to neglect our feet either.

Arriving just in time for winter, Keen has just started shipping their new Revel II hiking boots, which have some innovative new features to help keep our feet warm on cold weather hikes. They also manage to maintain Keen's typical high level of durability and comfort while also managing to look good in the process.

Keen has designed the Revel II to have a more traditional look when compared to some of the other footwear in their line-up. These boots have a more understated appearance that makes them feel right at home on the trail, and the high ankle support is a welcome addition to what may be the most sturdy dedicated hiking boots in the Keen catalog.
One of the features of this boot that helps them to stand out from the crowd and makes them a good choice for winter hiking is what Keen calls their Heat Trapolator Insulation System. This patent pending design includes three layers of insulation for the foot that helps keep warmth inside the shoe. This extends under the foot as well, helping to keep the bottoms of our feet toast warm. This approach makes a lot of sense considering that when hiking on snow and ice, much of the cold temperatures emanate from the ground itself.

Keeping our feet comfortable doesn't end with simply staying warm however. The Revel II boots are also waterproof to keep excess moisture out, while a breathable, wicking liner helps to pull moisture away from the foot too. The result is a boot that keeps your feet dry in all but the worst of conditions. When paired with a good pair of socks, most hikers will be ready to face the elements with a smile on their face.

As mentioned, these boots are very comfortable, which is a Keen trademark for sure. I did find that the break-in period for these shoes was a bit longer than some of the other Keen boots that I've worn, but once they did loosen up, they felt as good on my feet as I had expected. For a full-size, rugged boot, they are also lighter in weight than they would appear at first glance, although it doesn't seem that Keen has had to sacrifice any durability in achieving this svelte design.

The Revel II's aggressive outsole does a good job of holding their grip on both dry and wet surfaces, although once again there was a short break-in period before this happened. Out of the box, the bottom of the shoes felt smooth and slick but after wearing them for a bit, they seemed to improve. I'm not sure if my pair of boots shipped from the factory with a slick coating on the bottom, but traction certainly improved after putting a bit of mileage on them.

If you're in the market for a pair of hiking boots that are suitable for cool, or even cold weather hikes, than Keen's new offering may be exactly what you're looking for. They are comfortable, durable and perform well on snow and ice. They also happen to have traditional good looks and sturdy construction that should make them last for years to come. Available for $160, these aren't the least expensive shoes available from Keen, but they just might be the most capable hiking boots the company currently makes.

Trekking The Indian Himalaya To Kuari Pass With Best Hike

My friend Rick McCharles, who writes the Best Hike Blog, has been busy adding to his already impressive resume of trails that he has walked. Recently he's been in the Indian Himalaya, spending the better part of a week trekking the Kuari Pass and writing about his experience there. The trek takes travelers deep into the mountains of northern India where 7000 meter peaks abound, it also affords those who make the walk views of the famous Nanda Devi, a mountain that many believe is the most beautiful on the planet.

Rick starts his travelogue of the trek with a Day 0 post that outlines what to expect on the hike, including the price. The 8 day trek costs $600 apiece for two hikers and includes a guided walk covering 82 km (50 miles) with the highest point reaching 5135 meters (16,847 ft) at Larkya La.

The trek offers some fantastic cultural encounters and amazing views, but of course one of the highlights is Nanda Devi, a 7816 meter (25,643 ft) peak that is the second tallest in India. It features a steep, sharp summit that cuts across the horizon in dramatic fashion. It also happens to fall inside the Nanda Devi preserve, that is off limits to all but a few lucky visitors. On occasion, permits are issued to climb the peak and some of the best climbers in history have attempted to reach its summit. The mountain is so striking that American climbing legend Willi Unsoeld named his daughter after the mountain. Sadly, she would later die trying to climb it.

Rick wrote six posts on the Kuari Pass trek, each of which can be accessed from the Day 0 post linked to above. Each of those posts shares his experience from each day and plenty of photos from the trail, giving us readers a sense of what it is like to make this hike.

After finishing up the Kuari hike in India, Rick has now jumped over to Nepal where he is busy walking the Manaslu Circuit. I'm sure we'll get some great info on that trek soon as well.

Gear Closet: Chrome Merino Cobra Pullover

Each year the outdoor industry invests millions of dollar chasing the Holy Grail of technical fabrics for use in a variety of gear. The top companies are constantly developing and refining lightweight, durable materials that are breathable, moisture wicking and odor fighting as they try to one up the competition in performance. It turns out however that nature has already provided us with the perfect material in the form of merino wool, which not only has all of those great qualities and more.

A number of great apparel companies already offer wonderful products made from merino wool and I've personally used plenty of them over the years. I am continually impressed with how well the material performs, particularly in active pursuits in cooler weather. Thats why I was eager to put the Merino Cobra Pullover from Chrome to the test. This great looking garment was created with cyclists in mind but it is so well designed that it can be used for a variety of outdoor sports, including trail running, hiking, mountain biking or even snow sports.

The Cobra Pullover is built to be form fitting without restricting motion in any way. It is clear that Chrome put a lot of thought into its design, making it a great option for outdoor athletes. For instance,  the high-quality neck zipper slides down far enough to allow you to pull on this extra layer without even needing to take off your helmet. It also comes with a high neck collar that can be flipped up to help ward off a cool wind. Thumb loops pull the extra long sleeves down over the hand, providing some much appreciated warmth when the temperature starts to drop, while a longer torso keeps warm air trapped close to the body.

As you would expect, the Cobra Pullover benefits greatly from Chrome's version of merino wool. The fabrics so an excellent job of wicking away moisture, helping to keep the wearer warm when out for a ride or a long run. But its ability to breathe allows heat to vent away from the body as well, keeping us cooler when we start to overheat. Temperature regulation is one of the benefits of merino and this pullover does a great job in that regard. The garment also happens to be odor resistant, which means you can go straight from the trail to a restaurant without fear of sending your friends running for the door. Travelers will love that feature as well, as it comes in incredibly handy on extended active trips.


Other nice touches include a large, zippered passthrough pocket along the back that provides ample storage and a smaller key pocket on the right arm just above the wrist. That pocket has an integrated fabric loop that you can attach your keys to, making it even more difficult to lose them.

The Cobra Pullover is one of those rare pieces of gear that looks as good as it performs. Chrome has put a lot of thought into the design and it shows. This is definitely an article of clothing that you won't mind wearing out and about around town, which isn't always the case with performance wear. This pullover has classic good looks going for it and when you put it on, you'll be right at home on the bike, trail, coffee shop or just about anywhere else you may go.

For a piece of clothing made from merino wool, the Cobra Pullover is actually priced quite affordably. Chrome sells it for $140, which is very competitive when compared to similar products from competitors. This is a warm, durable, well built active wear that is versatile enough to be used in a wide variety of activities. I really like what Chrome has brought to the table and think that it will be a favorite with cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts alike. With the holidays just around the corner, it would also make a great gift for the gear hound on your list.

Gear Closet: Goal Zero Rock Out 2 Portable Speaker

Goal Zero is a company that is well known for offering affordable and efficient solar chargers for use on everything from a day hike to a full blown expeditions to the Himalaya. GZ is dedicated to creating products that are tough, useful and good for the environment, and over the past few years their gear has accompanied many explorers on their adventures. But it turns out they also make a line of other products that are fun and a bit unexpected. Take for example the new Rock Out 2, a ruggedized portable speaker that is designed for listening to your favorite tunes and keeping your smartphone charged while in the backcountry.

The Rock Out 2 is a refined update to the original Rock Out portable speaker system that Goal Zero has offered for several years now. The multifunctional device serves as a protective case for your smartphone or mp3 player while also allowing you to listen to music, podcasts or other audio sources while on the go. In a sense, it is an entertainment system for backpackers, campers and hikers who just can't leave home with out their personal soundtracks.

Goal Zero brought some nice upgrades to the sound quality of the new Rock Out 2. The bass is louder, deeper and more full than the previous model, delivering a surprisingly nice thump for such a small speaker. I found sound quality to be quite good across the entire audio spectrum with the mid- and high-ranges coming through distinctly at all times. The speakers also don't distort as the volume increases, belting out tunes clearly at all times.
A portable speaker is only as good as its battery and GZ was sure to give the Rock Out 2 solid performance in this area. It includes a lithium-ion power source that is rated for up to 20 hours of playback. In my testing, I'd ay that was fairly accurate. Higher volumes seemed to drain the battery a bit more quickly but it was always a considerable amount of time between charges. A built-in energy saver system automatically shuts the speaker off after five minutes of inactivity, which helps to preserve power as well.

As you might expect, the device is also designed to easily pair with a Goal Zero Nomad 7 solar panel to stay charged in the field. The company says it takes about three hours to recharge the device using their system, although that time will vary depending on the amount of available sunlight. You can also charge the Rock Out by plugging it into a USB power source. Recharge times will vary there as well depending on the quality of the USB port. My MacBook Air was able to refill the battery in roughly two hours.

The outer case of the speaker system is well built and feels very solid. It has been designed to protect any device that is slipped inside its padded interior and it does an excellent job at doing just that. Not only is it water resistant, but it would take a seriously vicious impact to the Rock Out for any damage to actually pass through to the interior of the case, which has been expanded in order to accommodate larger smartphones. If you're someone who likes to take your iPhone or Android device with you into the backcountry, you'll find that the RO2 provides plenty of protection, although it is bulkier than a standard case thanks to the built-in speaker system.

Goal Zero listened to customer demands and added exterior controls to the Rock Out 2 allowing the user to  adjust volume, pause, play and skip tracks. This is a nice touch over the older model which required you to open the case to access the audio device to make those kinds of adjustments. Doing so can expose the smartphone to the elements, which is counterproductive considering the amount of protection the case provides otherwise.

While the Rock Out 2 is a fun, well built product there is one thing that it doesn't do that i would have liked to have seen included. It doesn't allow the user to tap into it's battery and use it to recharge your smartphone directly. I know the idea is that everything will be charged through a solar panel, but it would be nice to able to take the Rock Out and your smartphone with you and have the battery life extended by charging off the speaker itself. It's a minor quibble but it would have been nice to have the option.

The new Rock Out 2 carries a price tag of $59.99, which is a reasonable price for speaker/case of this kind. GZ kept the original Rock Out in their line-up for $29.99 as well, giving customers a choice. Personally, I think the performance gains from the new model are worth the upgrade price, but if you're looking for audio output while on a budget, you'll find the older model to be quite a bargain too.

Gear Closet: Osprey Viper 13 Hydration Pack

One of the common traits of all my favorite pieces of gear is versatility. I like gear that can be used for multiple purposes and activities. Versatile gear gives you more chances to use the item and it can save you some cash since you don't have to purchase multiple pieces of gear to cover all of the things you want to do. This is especially true with a good backpack that is designed from the ground up to be used in multisport endeavors, which is exactly what Osprey had in mind when they designed the Viper 13 hydration pack.

As the name implies, the Viper 13 features 13-liters of storage, which is an excellent size for day hike, long trail run or a mountain bike ride. The pack weighs just 1 pound, 6 ounces (.62 kg) but features Osprey's trademark high quality construction which makes it feel like it is tough enough to take any abuse you can throw at it. That is much appreciated when you start putting the Viper through its paces on the trail.

Despite its narrow shoulder straps, this pack is quite comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. Thin waist and sternum belts allow the wearer to quickly and easily dial in a solid fit and once locked into place, the Viper doesn't shift around while moving. This is a great quality to have no matter how you're using the pack, but it was especially appreciated while trail running. The back of this pack is designed to help facilitate some ventilation in an attempt to keep us cooler while being active, and while it is effective to a degree, it is difficult to integrate a true ventilation system in a pack of this size.

In terms of storage options, the Viper is well equipped to carry all of your gear. The main compartment is fairly spacious with a couple of organizational slots. A secondary pocket includes a key clip and several mesh pockets for keeping your important items close at hand, while a mesh pocket on the front of the pack is great for carrying an extra pair of shoes or some other items you need easy access to. There is even a stash pocket on top that is lined with soft fabrics to protect sunglasses, a smartphone or some other delicate items. There's even a built-in lidlock for carrying a bike helmet for your two-wheeled outings.  In short, no matter where your day trip takes you, this compact pack can carry just about anything and everything you might need for your adventures.

As mentioned, the Viper is a full featured hydration pack and Osprey ships it with a 3-liter bladder. That bladder is cleverly stored in it's own compartment and puts plenty of water at your disposal. In another nice touch, the bite valve on the bladder features a magnetic clip that attaches to another magnet on the sternum strap. That keeps the water tube out of the way until you need it and the magnet is strong enough that the valve doesn't shake loose when your activity gets more vigorous.

When put to the test in the field, the Viper performs as well as I had hoped. It offers a good fit, sits well on my torso and provides lots of carrying capacity for a solid day on the trail. The hydration system is easy to access, takes no time to fill and provides plenty of water when needed. Osprey has delivered another excellent pack for mutlisport athletes. It is comfortable, versatile and built to withstand the punishment of the trail. What more could you ask for out of a lightweight pack that is just as useful on a mountain bike as it is on foot?

With a price tag of $109, the Viper provides a lot of performance for the price. If you're in the market for a new pack for all of your outdoor activities, it is tough to beat the Viper, which is also available in 10, 7 and 4-liter models as well.

Gear Closet: Eureka Midori Solo Tent

Last year, tent-maker Eureka made a splash with a well designed new line of backpacking shelters in the form of the Midori 2 and 3. Those tents were lauded for being lightweight and affordable while still offering plenty of features that campers and backpackers really appreciate. This year they're bringing that same sensibility to the new Eureka Midori Solo, which as the name implies is a lightweight tent built for one.

The Midori Solo has inherited a number of key features from its older, larger siblings that make it an attractive option for anyone looking for a single person tent for their excursions into the backcountry. For starters, I was impressed with how easy it is to set up, even on my first go. It took less than ten minutes to take the tent out of its included bag, assemble it and move inside. Considering the tent is designed for the solo hiker, that ease of set-up is much appreciated.

I was also impressed with the level of ventilation on the Solo. Here in Texas, we're just now starting to cool off from the summer heat and the evenings have continued to be relatively warm. Rain has been at a premium as well, which meant I was able to camp without the rain fly without any issues. Even on warmer nights however, I was comfortable inside the tent with jut a light sleeping bag liner.

One of the most important aspects of any solo tent is how much it weighs, after all you won't be able to split the weight across multiple backpackers on a solo excursion. Eureka has delivered a product that performs relatively well in this aspect, particularly considering the tent's price tag. The Midori Solo tips the scales at 3 pounds, 9 ounces, which is hardly svelte but not especially hefty either. Make no mistake, there are solo tents that  weigh considerably less than this one, but they'll also lighten your wallet too.

Inside, the Midori Solo provides a solid amount a room for a single person although things get a bit tight if you bring too much gear inside. When secured into place, the rain fly provides a secure place for hikers to stash their gear to keep it protected from the elements. Inside their are a couple of gear pockets  for keeping a few small items close at hand such as a headlamp or a multitool. A gear loft across the ceiling provides even more internal storage.

With the fly in place, this is a tent that is rated for three-seasons, making it versatile for just about any outdoor adventure save winter camping. As mentioned, we haven't had much rain in my area, so I can't comment on how well the Midori Solo performs in wet conditions. But if it maintains the same level of performance of the Midori 2 and 3 however, it should do well in adverse conditions.

On more than one occasion in this review I've indicated that Eureka has delivered a great tent at an affordable price. The Midori Solo will sell for just $129.99 when it hits gear shops in January of 2014. That's a great price for a solo tent of this quality and relatively light weight. If you're in the market for a single-person tent for your future excursions, without breaking the bank, this is a tent that I think you'll be very happy with.

(Note: The photo in his story is of the Midori 2. I haven't been able to find a solid image of the Solo yet and I didn't carry a camera with me when I went camping with this tent. While the Solo is smaller and more narrow, the image of the Midori 2 does give you an indication of what the Solo looks like as well.)