Trail Sherpa Posts

Gobi Gear Hoboroll

Campy Mom — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 22:48:56 +0000

With a family of five, we have a lot of stuff, whether we are camping, traveling or just out for the day. Anything that can make our packing easier is worth a look, so I was interested in reviewing the Gobi Gear Hoboroll. The Gobi Gear Hoboroll is a travel organization system which allows you to organize and reduce the volume of the items packed.

Features of the Gobi Gear Hoboroll

5 compartments
Drawstring end closures
Compression straps
Tool loop to allow you to strap items to the outside or clip the Hoboroll to your pack

Testing the Hoboroll

My children and I recently visited a local animal refuge. On this beautiful day in Georgia, the weather was predictably, unpredictable. The sun was shining and the temperature was warm enough to wear a short sleeve shirt, but the breeze had a bite to it. It was the perfect time to try out our Hoboroll. Since our Hoboroll has 5 sections, we were able to pack a light weight jacket or hoodie for each of us (4 in all on this day). Not only were our jackets much more compact, they were also easy to access due to the dividers. The Hoboroll fit nicely in our small backpack. Amazingly, we still had room in our pack for parenting supplies and a blogger's camera.

What We Like About the Hoboroll

Even though we were unfamiliar with this type of system, once we started using it, we began to see more and more uses for the Hoboroll. It is a convenient way to pack your family's rain jackets when rain clouds are hovering nearby. The Hoboroll would also work well in a carry on bag on an airplane flight, so you will have some extra clothes in case your luggage gets lost. That never happens, right? You can also carry the Hoboroll by itself. The Hoboroll is an easy and convenient way to pack up and carry our jackets and clothes.

Worth Mentioning

Overall, I really like the Hoboroll, but you should realize that it is a roll and not a bag. Both ends open and cinch closed with drawstrings. If you have it filled completely to the point where the drawstrings do not cinch the bag closed all the way at the ends, small items may slip out of the roll. Therefore, if you are packing small items in the Hoboroll, you may want to place the items in a plastic zipped bag, then roll it up in your clothes.

Muck Kids' Rover II Boots

Amelia — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 13:00:34 +0000

The Rover II boots by MUCK are the only boots J has ever owned that have never, ever resulted in cold feet. In fact, I have come to trust them enough to not even throw in a toe-warmer (which I have started to do this winter as a preventative measure when the temperatures really drop and kids are sitting still.) They are the only boots that J has never complained about, the only boots he can fully put on my himself and the only boots that really can boast being completely waterproof. They truly work for all winter conditions: snowy, wet, cold and icy. In fact, while they are intended for colder weather, their comfort rating is good until 85 degrees F (according to MUCK) so we plan on wearing them almost year-round.

What we loved: - Never-worry-about-your-kids-getting-cold-feet warm. Complete peace of mind for all of us. - A tall height to allow for deep snow tromping (10.25") - Great traction - Fitted calf shaft to keep the snow out and the warmth in - Multi-season use: Rated from sub-zero temperatures to 85 degrees - Easy on and off for kids What we weren't so crazy about: - The boots ARE more fitted around the calf and inside than others we have. This could be tough for chubbier legs (though hasn't been an issue for us.) - Additionally, the biggest issue we have run into is J's wool socks being too bulky. Inside the boots it clearly says they are intended to be worn with athletic socks, though. Another testament to the warmth of the boots: he has been perfectly fine in lighter wool socks. And really small cotton socks would be fine except we are big proponents of the wicking properties of wool (and stand by that!) All the standard MUCK BOOT™ features plus (taken directly from the MUCK site): - Stretch-fit topline brinding snugs calf to keep warmth in and cold out - 5mm CR flex-foam bootie with four-way stretch nylon, 100% waterproof, light-weight and flexible - Diamond tread self cleaning outsole wraps around the entire perimeter for maximum protection and stabiliity - Added toe protection with a wrap-up bumper - Comfort range of sub-freezing conditions to 85 degrees F - Available in Toddler Sizes 10-13 and Youth 1-7 - Available in 6 different colors (for boys and girls)

ICEPOP Toddler Boots by Kamik

Amelia — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 20:39:05 +0000

A Canadian-based and family-owned company, Kamik is one of those names that comes up often when you are talking winter boots, especially for kids. I see them worn on kids around here boasting hand-me-down two or three (a sure-sign of quality gear.) We had a chance to test a pair of the ICEPOPs for for P (in the smallest size they come - a Toddler 5) and are pleased with what we found. He has worn them while we are skiing (and he "Chariot-bound"), with skis strapped to them on the bunny slopes and out sledding and exploring. While I do throw in a foot-warmer when it is really cold out just as a preventative measure, he has never had cold feet wearing these. What we love about them: - Keeps little feet warm - Easy to put on - Toggle at the top keeps boots snug and the snow out - Good grip/traction - Removable liner for easy drying and replacing when it gets packed out (which makes the warmth factor go way down) - Very light weight for easy walking - Completely waterproof - Built in the USA and Canada What we weren't so crazy about: - The midfoot velcro strap isn't as adjustable as we would like. Just a little more ability to keep it snug on smaller feet (like when the boots sized to grow into) would be great. - Additionally, we aren't sure how long the velcro and elastic will keep it's shape...this seems to be the first component sure to fail on the boots (even if it takes years and years.) Specs: - Available in Toddler Sizes 5-10 - Available in the following colors: Red, Black, Blue, Viola and Purple - Height: 7.5 Inches - Weight per pair: 0.98 Lbs. - Removable 6mm Thermal Guard Liner - Rated -25 F/-32 C

Jetflow Tomahawk Hydration Pack

Campy Mom — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 21:47:53 +0000

Today, I am reviewing the Jetflow Tomahawk Hydration Pack.

Features of the JetFlow Tomahawk Hydration Pack

Uses any standard water bottle.
Bullet bite valve. Maximum flow patented bite valve.
Oversize organizational pocket.
Adjustable sternum strap.
Reflective taping.
Maximum storage of two 1.0 liter bottles in back cell.
1.5 liter bottle to two 1 liter bottles recommended.
Gear storage volume- 250 cubic inches (does not include the storage cell).

[caption id="attachment_6282" align="aligncenter" width="550"] The Jetflow Tomahawk Hydration Pack[/caption]

What We Like About the Jetflow Tomahawk Hydration Pack

No Soft-sided Bladder. The main difference between the Jetflow Hydration Pack and the other hydration packs on the market is the soft-sided bladder. The Jetflow Hydration Pack doesn't have one. WooHoo! That's right. You can use water bottles, sports drink bottles, soda bottles, etc... No Hassle. Since the Jetflow Hydration Pack doesn't have a bladder, you don't have all the hassle that soft-sided bladders create (cleaning the bladder, filling the bladder and that bad taste created by... you guessed it- the bladder). Easy to Assemble. Just screw the bottle onto the Jetflow manifold. The bottle fits upside down in the pack. Easy to Clean. Just run the components through the dishwasher. Earphone/headphone Access. Sometimes I like to listen to my tunes. ;) Reflective taping. I like this added safety measure, which really comes in handy when you are riding your bike. It also looks really sharp on the pack. [caption id="attachment_6283" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Attach the manifold to the top of a water bottle or your favorite sports drink.[/caption]

What We're Not So Crazy About

Actually, I really like this hydration pack for single person usage. However, some people have raised questions regarding this hydration pack and the environment since it uses water bottles. The water bottles used by this hydration pack are recyclable or you can purchase a reusable Nalgene® bottle for this pack. For this reason, I feel that this pack is as environmentally friendly as any pack on the market. [caption id="attachment_6285" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Turn the water bottle upside down and place it into the hydration pack. All set![/caption]

Avex Stainless Steel Water Bottle Comparison

Tim Miner — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 20:28:05 +0000

The Avex stainless steel water bottle sets a new standard

I was sent both versions of the Avex® water bottles for testing and comparison a few months ago. One unit is equipped with Autospout™ technology that releases a drink tube when the button is pressed and the other with Autoseal® technology that seals between drinks virtually eliminating spills. Last year, I spent a significant amount of time discussing hydration as part of the Hydration Summit. One of the things I learned from that exchange was that we tend to drink more on the trail (or in the office) if the process is easy. The Avex Stainless Steel Water Bottle makes drinking as easy as possible.

The technical specs

Both stainless steel water bottles are double walled with vacuum insulation
Drinking with one hand is easy
Integrated spout guards can be closed to protect the drink tube or valve
Each comes with an integrated carabiner style handle
Both stainless steel water bottles are made of 100% FDA approved, BPA-free materials
Units can be washed on the top shelf of the dishwasher
Each holds 24 oz
Fits in cup holders in both of our vehicles

[gallery ids="1027,1026,1025,1024,1023,1022"]

A closer look at Autoseal® and Autospout™ technology

[caption id="attachment_1024" align="alignleft" width="271"] Autospout and Autoseal technologies[/caption] When these two stainless steel water bottles arrived, my wife immediately snatched up the one with the straw. Avex has created a very cool spout for this unit that collapses with just the pressure of a single finger. It stows away behind a cap that protects it from dirt or grubby little hands (we have 4 of those hands in our house!). Avex refers to this as their Autospout technology and my wife loves it. She has used this water bottle exclusively for the last two months at home, work, and in between. It's also a very kid friendly spout. Spills are non-existent and the button is easy enough for them to operate with their little hands. The Autospout works flawlessly with just a push of the button and closes almost as easily. There have been zero leaks or spills since we began testing it. The unit that I have been testing personally leverages what Avex calls their Autoseal technology. Again, a simple push of a button opens the drinking spout and liquid free pours with just a tip of the bottle.

Free pour means more intake

Unlike many other bottles that I've used, the free pouring spout on the Avex bottle with Autoseal technology doesn't produce the chugging sound, whistle, or vibrate from the flow of air and liquid inside the bottle. It truly is a free pour and it delivers water (or whatever you load it with) with quickness. That actually took a bit of getting used to. The kids have a bit of trouble regulating the flow and usually end up wearing a bit of it. But the upside, like Derek mentioned in his review, is that I find I am drinking more water each day. And that is a very good thing.

Things to consider

[caption id="attachment_1025" align="alignright" width="300"] Cleaning can be tricky unless you use BottleBright[/caption] Overall, I love both versions of the Avex stainless steel water bottles. But there are a few things to consider if you are in the market for a new stainless steel water bottle.

Consider how you will use the bottle - these may be heavier than some would like if pack weight is a concern for you
These bottles will not work for hot or carbonated beverages
Both bottles fit snug into our two vehicles' cup holders - a little slimmer design would make them slide in and out without sticking
Choose the spout design based on your activity - the Autospout version allows you to keep your eyes on the terrain as you drink unlike the Autoseal version...good for hikers and trail runners
Cleaning the Avex bottles by hand can be tricky - the spout mechanism is integrated into the lid and is not easily accessible

But here's a tip: I clean all of my water bottles and hydration bladders with BottleBright from Clean Ethics. Give it a look and make cleaning easy.

Baby Bogs

Amelia — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:00:22 +0000

I admit I have been checking out Baby Bogs from afar for a while now and have been super skeptical. Sure, they're cute, but didn't seem like a boot that would actually keep my kid's feet warm. So, like we do a lot here, when we finally got our hands on a pair, we worked pretty hard to put them through the rigorious (and cold and wet) paces until they reached that inevitable fail. Long story (outlined below) short, I was wrong. While Baby Bogs certainly have their place (and are NOT for tromping through 12 inches of snow) they are pretty incredible little footwear. Similar in style to their adult counterparts, Baby Bogs are lined with a plush fleece and have a soft and flexible sole AND upper. They are rated to 14 degrees (F) and have handles (like most Bogs Boots) for easy on and off that even young toddlers can handle. I love that they are available starting in a size toddler 4 (and up to a Toddler 10) While other reviews online that I have seen will say they are not waterproof, Bogs guarantees that they are, and I back up their claim. In fact, this was the part I was most skeptical about so I let P do plenty of tromping in (deep) puddles to test them out (which he didn't mind one bit.) I checked his socks and the inside of the boots every time and found them to be dry. However, since the boots are NOT very tall, water and snow can find its way in fairly easily, which obviously cancels any waterproofness of the boot. We remedy this by just pulling his snowboots (or Ducksday Suit if he is puddle tromping) over the top of the boots. [caption id="attachment_2640" align="aligncenter" width="430"] Sitting in a puddle...after stomping in it![/caption] What they are great for: - An every day boot for toddlers, not excluding new walkers - Tromping around in a little bit (or packed down) snow - Wearing indoor and outdoor (like going to school, doing errands, etc.) - Use as an indoor slipper (though their feet may get warm, depending on the indoor climate) - Puddle tromping - Layering in (I usually add an extra thick sock to P's feet to keep them from falling off) - Teaching your child to put on (and take off) their own boots [caption id="attachment_2642" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Baby Bogs[/caption] What we love: - Kids love to wear them - They are easy to get on and off - They keep little feet warm - They are cute - They have kept his feet dry - Super easy to walk in (the ups and downs of piles of snow is hard enough, you don't need boots getting in the way too!) - Machine-washable What we aren't so crazy about: - They definitely can easily fill with snow/water/sticks through the top (having them be a little taller or having the ability to cinch the top a little better would be nice) - They fall off easily if kids are kickers (I remedy this by adding a pair of Big Brother's thick wool socks to his feet) - A bit spendy for toddler shoes (though a few styles are currently on sale for $33!)

Hoboroll by Gobi Gear

Amelia — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 05:06:19 +0000

While on recent travels, we had the opportunity to test out the Hoboroll by Gobi Gear. The Hoboroll is designed to organize luggage and gear in different compartments while having the ability to cinch down the items. Made of nylon to reduce added weight and including an extra long cinch strap, the Hoboroll is truly unique. We decided its best use would be to help us keep the kids' winter snow gear separated for easy retreval and reduced in size to help with our packing puzzle. We have honestly been going back and forth on this review more than any other review we have done. The Hoboroll is not anything I would think to buy, but it does serve its purpose well and can come in handy. Let's break it down a bit.... Possible/Best Uses: - Keeping extra winter gear tucked neatly in the back of the car for emergencies - Heading to the pool as a family and keeping everyone's towels and swimsuits separate - Cinching down "puffy" gear in luggage - Keeping socks, underwear, small clothing items together and compressed while traveling - Keeping dirty and/or wet clothing separated from each other and from the rest of your pack What we loved about it: - Easy to fill each compartment by stuffing as you would a stuff sack - Cinches on each side to keep items a little more contained - A looped strap along the side so you can attach it to a pack (via a carabiner or rope) - Very light weight - Nylon so easy to clean - Well-made and tough enough to handle carrying gear - It did hold more gear than we expected. A small jacket and snow pants (like for a 2 year old) will fit in one compartment. All the gear (minus boots) for both our toddlers can fit in a fairly small pack when "Hoborolled" and cinched tight. What we weren't so crazy about: - Because of the nature of the compartments being contained in a single tube shape, if you fill one compartment too much it means no room for another compartment. In short, you have a limited amount of space in the overall size of the Hoboroll and there is no stretch at all. - I wish it opened up completely so there was some give on the overall size and it was easier to pack - The sides do cinch, but items can definitely still fall out. A cover of some sort on the ends would be helpful. - The shoulder strap is really just an extension of the cinch strap and isn't easy to sling over a shoulder. I think it would be better with just a fixed small handle or adjustable to allow for different lengths and sizes of wearers. Our load barely fits over my shoulder (and isn't super comfortable).

Specs (taken from the manufacturer):

Dimensions:

15″ long x 10″ diameter (38cm x 25cm) *shorter when ends are cinched up*

Weight:

3.5 ounces/100 grams

Capacity:

1160 cubic inches/19 liters

Big Agnes Picket Mountain 4 Tent

Campy Mom — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:42:47 +0000

I recently had the opportunity to review the Big Agnes Picket Mountain 4 tent. As a tent camper, I was pretty excited about reviewing this tent. The tent is after all the backbone of our camping experience. This is the first piece of camping equipment I have owned from Big Agnes. I have always felt that their camping equipment was a little pricey and I wondered if the quality of their equipment would justify the price. Let me just say that I was very surprised by the quality of this tent. The price for this tent is $279.95. Not a bad price.

Features of the Big Agnes Picket Mountain 4 Tent

3 season tent.
4 man tent.
Color coded webbing and buckles.
Reflective guylines for nighttime visibility.
Tent body is lightweight polyester mesh and durable polyester rip-stop.
All seams taped with waterproof, solvent-free polyurethane tape.
Fly and floor made of durable polyester rip-stop with 1500 mm waterproof polyurethane coating.
11 aluminum stakes included.
Mesh storage pockets.

What We Like

Picket Mountain 4 is a 4 man, 3 season tent. We love that it is lightweight and very easy to setup. The tent has plastic clips that attach the tent to the tent poles. Interesting design. You don't need to thread the tent poles through fabric pockets. Nice. In addition, the buckles are color coded. The orange buckles on the rain fly attach to the orange buckles on the tent body. The guylines are refective for nighttime visibility. I love this feature! This has always been a problem with my other tents (it's hard to see the guylines at night). I am so glad an outdoors company has addressed this issue.

What We Were Not So Crazy About

The aluminum stakes bent right away even though the ground was still slightly moist from a recent rain. Granted, tents usually come with aluminum stakes. To use this tent, it is imperative that you buy sturdier tent stakes to bring with you.

Time to Relax

GeigerRig Rig 1600 Hydration Pack...

David Creech — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 01:27:34 +0000

Last Summer I received the GeigerRig Rig 1600 backpack for review as part of the Hydration Summit, sponsored by Trail Sherpa and GeigerRig. The Hydration Summit featured 15 high-profile outdoor bloggers discussing a wide variety of hydration topics from waterborne illness to keeping your kids hydrated on the trail. GeigerRig challenged us to do side-by-side comparisons between their new Hydration Engine and the other leading hydration pack manufacturers. My focus at the time was on the bladder and comparing it to the other leading brands on the market. Thus, I never got a chance to write a review of the pack itself. Now that I've had the pack for a while and put it through it's paces, I thought it was time to let you guys know what I think.

GeigerRig: The Hydration Engine...

The whole thing centers around what GeigerRig calls, the Hydration Engine. It is a pressurized reservoir system that allows the user to spray fluid from the drinking hose instead of using suction. Pressurizing the system allows you to work with a stream of water. In Katie's review of the Rig 500, she finds, "...the pressurization feature most useful when mountain biking; drinking while pedaling uphill and breathing hard was much easier than trying to suck out of a normal drink tube." Others also talked about the benefits of water pressure allowing them to share with their kids, share with their dog, clean up at camp, clean wounds among other things. All around, it seems to be convenient to have a pressurized water system. Personally, I found that I enjoyed having the pressurized system when biking, or climbing, a steep grade and exerting myself to the point that sucking water through a hose was difficult. I also enjoyed being able to spray myself with water when hiking in 100+ degree Summer heat. While hiking with a friend in remote Cold Spring Canyon, I was able to share my water without having to share the bite valve. I simply sprayed water in to his empty water bottle. I've also really enjoyed the convenience of being able to share water with Wiley on the trail without getting close enough for her to lick the tube. What I really like about the design of the reservoir is the closure design. It's a very simple fold-over clip design but it allows the entire top of the bladder to open making it incredibly easy to fill anywhere. It also allows the bladder to be turned inside out for cleaning. GeigerRig recommends turning the reservoir inside-out and placing it on the top rack of your dish washer. No more trying to use pipe-cleaners and annoying brushes to clean the bladder because you can't get your hand through the opening. There are only a couple of real downsides to the pressurized system. First is that it takes a few seconds to build up pressure if you don't leave it under pressure the whole time. 15-25 pumps from the small ball pump lashed to the shoulder strap should give you enough pressure to spray. The second issue (potentially not a down side) I found is that I go through a lot more water. I have emptied a 3L reservoir on hikes where I would normally use less than 1L. For this reason, I found it advisable to get a flow meter for the tube so I can monitor my consumption.

"People who use GEIGERRIG hydration packs during activity report that they comfortably drink 30% more water than they do when using standard, un-pressurized, sucking hydration packs." - GeigerRig.com

The most impressive part of the GeigerRig reservoir is it's durability. The thing is damn near indestructible. When I did my initial testing I put all my weight on the bladder and it didn't flinch. Bob Geiger produced a video of them testing the reservoirs for their breaking point and finally got one to pop at over 1,100 PSI. You might also like this video of GeigerRig trying to blow up a Rig 700.

GeigerRig: The Backpacks…

GeigerRig started developing their products to be used by the military in combat situations. All of their Rigs are made from industrial strength Ballistic Nylon. They are put together using heavy duty zippers and redundant stitching. The buckles and clasps are high-grade polymer plastics made to take tons of abuse. They're also made to carry some serious weight and the padding on the shoulder straps is beefy enough to do so comfortably.

"We felt that [Ballistic Nylon] was perfect for our RIGS as we wanted to have hydration packs in our line-up that could take heavy abuse delivered by hard core outdoor enthusiasts and motor sports enthusiasts." -GeigerRig.com

There are some specific design features I really like in these packs. On the Rig 1600, the removable waist-belt has easy access pockets on either side and they're made from a stretchy nylon material so you can really stuff a lot in to those pockets. I like to use them for trail mix and my compass. I also like that the waist-belt is very wide, allowing the weight to rest on your hips much more comfortably. The Rig 1600 also has two small side pockets on either side of the main body of the pack. These give the pack an odd shape but I find them incredibly useful pockets for everything from first-aid gear to extra food. Perfect for anything you might need to get to quickly or often. The main body of the Rig 1600 has 3 compartments: The reservoir compartment accessed from the back (it's more than just a sleeve), the main storage compartment, and an outer "admin" compartment. The reservoir compartment fits the full 3L reservoir with room to spare. There is a bit of looped webbing at the top of the compartment that I use to hang my reservoir so it doesn't slide down as it empties. I've managed to stuff a full 3L bladder and two extra (small) water bottles in this compartment. The main storage compartment is sizable I would essentially categorize this pack as a day hikers pack, but one could stash enough gear to do an overnight trip without too much trouble. The zipper for the main compartment goes about halfway down the pack on either side allowing for generous access. The "admin" pocket on the outside is generous as well and has multiple interior pockets for organizing smaller gear. [gallery columns="6" link="file" ids="1789,1785,1784,1780,1779,1774"] I also have the Rig 500 and it's made with the same heavy-duty construction of it's big brother. The Rig 500 is smaller and more streamlined, designed more for mountain biking or trail running. It will fit the 3L reservoir but is designed more for the 2L. The storage capacity is obviously much tighter than the Rig 1600 but there is still room for snacks, first aid and a spare shirt or extra layer.

BaseFresh® by Nikwax is powered by anti-stink

Tim Miner — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 22:55:50 +0000

That title may have been a bit misleading but BaseFresh® by Nikwax is a phenomenally useful product. This deodorizing cleanser from Nikwax not only cleans your most challenging baselayers but it also conditions the material as well. Just add it to the fabric softener dispenser and you're good to go.

The Test

I received a few sample packets of BaseFresh® from the Nikwax folks a month or so ago. Between the four of us in our household, there is usually a fairly large pile of wicking garments that need washed. And you know how that can smell after you've used a baselayer for awhile, right? No. Well, me either. This is really about a friend I have! We decided to test BaseFresh® on a few sports bras, short sleeve baselayers, and some long sleeve layers that the boys had battered over the weekend.

The Results

Just as advertised, BaseFresh® removed all the latent smells from each garment and both my wife and I could tell the difference. There is certainly a noticeable difference between using your regular detergent alone and then in concert with BaseFresh®. Now, the brand also claims that it will enhance wicking and breathability and I can say that I am unable to verify that. Though it may be true, I'm not really sure how to test that particular assertion. However, the other claim that Nikwax makes is that the use of BaseFresh® improves drying times by up to 90% and we believe it. Wicking baselayers usually come out of a high spin wash pretty dry anyway. But using this cleanser and conditioner has had a positive impact on the drying time of our layers. I removed a Columbia short sleeve shirt from the washing machine and hung it on the back of a chair. Within 10 minutes it was completely dry. I suspect that the brand is referencing drying times while you're wearing the garment but this was an easy way to test it. And it works as advertised.

The Bonus about BaseFresh® from Nikwax

I returned from a weekend of gear testing in Sedona when the samples arrived. I forgot to use BaseFresh® on those clothes initially. But if you've ever camped with a fire going for the better part of three days you know how much your clothes will smell. You also know how hard it is to get all of that smell out of your clothes with even multiple washes. That was the case here. I washed all of my layers, including a fleece pullover and cotton longsleeve t-shirt, without using BaseFresh®. Even after that initial wash, the smells of the cedar, pinyon, and soft woods were still very noticeable. I washed all of them again, including the fleece, in a single load but using BaseFresh® this time. The results were dramatic. No smell, no problem. Though I have not found any documentation on the Nikwax website saying not to use BaseFresh® with fleece or cotton, it appears to work well.

Patagonia Piton Hybrid Jacket

Amelia — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 13:00:55 +0000

The Piton Hybrid Jacket from Patagonia is not only for alpine climbing, but rather an incredible all-around mid or light outer layer for a high-intensity sport. Mtn Papa has been working hard to put it through the paces over the past few months and it has come out on top as an all-time favorite. He wears it daily as both an all-around layer of warmth, but also his go-to for winter sports. It has a slim fit, which allows it to work great as a layer and increase mobility. Best Uses: - As a Mid layer or light outer layer - Skiing - Biking - Alpine Climbing (what it is promoted for) - Winter running - Nordic Skiing What he loves about it: - Comfortable - Breathable - Wind Resistant (does not take the place of something like a Gor-Tex shel, but does block the wind) - Good length to provide adequate coverage while in motion - Repels moisture in light rain and/or snow - Hand pockets hold keys, small wallet, etc. - Despite his ability to sweat excessively (hey - hauling that Chariot is TOUGH work!) the jacket breathes well enough and doesn't harbor any funky smells. - Made from recycled bottles What he wasn't so crazy about: - The interior fabric, while soft, sometimes makes it difficult to slide over base layers (merino wool in particular.) - No thumb holes to help with layering (which would aid above issue) - Expensive [caption id="attachment_2390" align="aligncenter" width="200"] Patagonia Piton Hybrid[/caption]

ISIS Diva Jacket and Pants

Amelia — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 13:00:37 +0000

I am pretty picky about jackets, especially ones that I am wearing all winter long. I love them to stretch a bit and move with me so I can comfortably sled, snowshoe, XC ski, downhill ski AND stay dry. Admittedly, I have recently put quite a few through the paces in the past few years. Many of them from super reputable companies that build incredible jackets. But, despite all the tests I have done, the Diva by ISIS has me completely head over ~~heels~~ (ski) boots. Even better? ISIS also makes a pair of Diva Pants that are equally impressive. AND they are both currently on sale. Both the Diva Jacket and Pants are essentially an outer shell. They do NOT provide warmth on their own, but are instead designed to keep you warm and dry as you stay active throughout the winter. The best part about this kind of gear is the ability to layer them with your favorite mid and base layers for the conditions you are encountering. They are completely waterproof, but allow for excellent breathability and wicking of moisture as you sweat. I wear both of them nearly daily. [caption id="attachment_2368" align="aligncenter" width="573"] ISIS Diva Pants and Jacket - Nordic Skiing in Yellowstone[/caption] ISIS Diva Jacket $325 (on sale for $228) Best for: - Nordic Skiing - Snowshoeing - Sledding - Layering (allows for however many layers you need) - Alpine and Backcountry Skiing What I love about it: - Moves with you to allow for maximum mobility - Completely waterproof (even on the wettest of days) - Laminated zippers and water-tight pockets - Hand pockets AND additional pocket on the sleeve for ski pass, money, license, etc. - Generous length means full coverage as you move - Hood is helmet-compatable to protect you from the most extreme elements. What I am not so crazy about: - The taped/laminated zippers are great because they keep out the moisture, but sometimes they are just TOUGH to zip! (though this is not specific to this jacket.) ISIS Diva Pants $299 (on sale for $209) Best for: - Nordic Skiing - Snowshoeing - Sledding - Layering (allows for however many layers you need) - Backcountry Skiing **Not necessarily recommended for resort skiing where you may need a bit more warmth built into your pants.** What I love about them: - Moves with you to allow for maximum mobility - Completely waterproof (even on the wettest of days) - Laminated zippers (including full-length side ones) and water-tight pockets - Removable and adjustable suspenders help keep them in place and the snow out. - Relaxed fit to allow for layering - Internal gaiter to work with ski boots - Sturdy bottoms and scuff-guard keep them looking good despite being used and abused. What I am not so crazy about: - As much as I love that the suspenders are removable, I wish they also had a belt option (because the suspenders usually bug me).

The North Face Men's Zero Jacket

Amelia — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 13:00:34 +0000

The North Face's Zero Jacket is an incredible shell that is so light it's easy to second guess the ability really keep out the elements. As with all shells, this jacket will do NOTHING to keep you warm unless you have properly layered under it. Its purpose is to keep the wind, rain, snow, sleet and the rest of the weather out so your base and mid layers can do their job. As with all shells, it isn't cheap either. But, is a piece of gear that you can wear for years and years. Just the fact that it is so substantially lighter than anything else makes it easier to bring, easier to wear and easier to keep moving in. Not only is it great for resort skiing, but for nordic skiing, biking, and even climbing. What he loved: - Super light weight (almost to the point that originally he questioned it's ability to perform) - Generous pockets both inside and outside - Good pocket location for easy access, even with pack or harness on - Absolutely wind and water proof What he wasn't so crazy about: - Hard to loosen up the hood with gloves on to remove it - Difficult to work cuff velcro with gloves on

Sierra Designs Men's DriDown Gnar Lite

Amelia — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 13:00:02 +0000

We're big fans of the new technology by Sierra Designs that allows down (in its natural, renewable form) to be able to withstand moisture AND retain its loft. It means being able to not worry about the previous damaging effects of getting wet from rain, humidity or even sweat. The Men's Gnar Lite is incredibly light (as its name implies), is the warmest down jacket Mtn Papa owns (800 fill) and can be worn as either an outer layer or mid layer. He typically layers it under his Zero Shell and keeps it readily available in his ski pack for a quick warm up if needed. What he loves: - Very warm - Definitely ok in rain, humidity and any kind of moisture - Packs small and light - Thumb holes to help with layering - Maintains loft What he isn't so crazy about: - While Mtn Papa isn't much of a "hood guy", he can see the value of having one (pssstt....Sierra Designs DOES have a hooded DriDown jacket too...for men and women) - It would be nice to have the included stuff sack integrated so it wouldn't get lost

Ahnu Elkridge Mid Hiking Boots...

David Creech — Sat, 19 Jan 2013 17:32:10 +0000

For quite a while I was almost exclusively trail running whenever I went out. Hitting the local trails was more about training than hiking, pushing for a faster time and keeping the trails under 10 miles. As a result, I had several pairs of trail running shoes and no hiking boots for more rugged hikes. I started shopping around, looking for something I could use as an honest-to-goodness hiking boot. I can't just order random shoes off the internet either, I really have to physically try every pair on to see what fits my ~~grotesquely deformed~~ unique feet. As a result, I'm limited to what I can find at the local REI (which doesn't have the best selection). I must have tried on a dozen styles and nearly as many brands trying to find a shoe that didn't smash, squeeze or contort my hobbit feet like a medieval torture device. I was sorely disappointed at trying on some of the shoes I had drooled over online, just to find that they were horribly uncomfortable on my feet. It's enough to make me forsake shoes altogether and follow Barefoot Jake and Bigfoot into the shoeless wilderness. Then I saw a pair of mid-height boots from Ahnu, a company I'd never heard of. I had the REI associate bring me a pair and tried them on, expecting another miserable disappointment. But these boots seemed to fit well. I laced them both up and walked around for a while, looking for signs of pinching or rubbing but they fit perfectly. They also happened to be on sale. I was so elated at finding boots that didn't hurt, I bought them.

What makes Ahnu boots different...

The Ahnu Elkridge Mid is a great boot. It's a bit of a throwback, featuring classic styling and simple lug design. The shoes are designed with what Ahnu calls Numentum Hike Technology, a supportive sole assembly that "is engineered to center and guide the foot to promote balance when traversing trails". I have to admit, it's one of the most stable boots I've ever worn. The small TPU shank, mid-foot, provides substantial arch support and torsional rigidity. There's also a shock dispersion plate designed into the forefoot to protect against bruising and fatigue from rocky, uneven terrain. All of these components make for a smooth, balanced, confident stride on the trail. The Elkridge Mid has a soft, leather-lined collar and tongue which I have found to be amazingly comfortable. The main feature of this sweet boot is the eVent material used for the inner lining. This allows the boot to be breathable in the heat, allowing sweat to evaporate and wick away while still being a waterproof boot. I was a little concerned about this being a bogus claim, thinking the first time I used these in a wet environment I was going to be soggy and disappointed. But I've slogged through creeks and stomped through miles of wet snow in these boots without getting my socks wet. Overall pretty impressed with the eVent technology.

A boot for any terrain…

I've had my Ahnu Elkridge boots for almost a year now. The range of environments I've subjected them to have proven their versatility and functionality. They've climbed to high summits in the hot, dry Arizona summer. They've slogged through wet creeks and washes. I've worn them in icy 4 degree snow and steamy 100 degree heat. They've been reliable performers on the trail and comfortable enough to wear off the trail. The lug design of the Vibram outsole is pretty simple. It's aggressive enough to handle climbing rocky, rugged terrain but not so aggressive as to make walking on the flats awkward. I have found the sole to be grippy and effective in wet and dry conditions.

But will they last…

When I first got these, I had someone ask where they were made, questioning the durability. Ahnu does manufacture their products overseas (China). This alone has many doubting the durability and workmanship of the product (any product). I will admit to having some reservations about this myself. But after hundreds of miles in hot and cold, wet and dry environments, these shoes have held up amazingly well. I even left them outside for over a month during the summer, usually the kiss of death for most shoes, and they weathered it well. I am seeing little-to-no wear on the Vibram outsoles and the uppers are holding up beautifully (they picked up a slight color change when stained with red rock dust from Sedona). The leather liner at the collar and tongue is still soft and supple and showing no signs of degradation.

Solo Stove for Backpacking

Tim Miner — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:20:18 +0000

A few months ago I connected with Jeff at Solo Stove. He asked us to review their wood burning backpacking stove so we had him send us a few units to put through the paces. Wilderness Dave offered a solid review of the Solo Stove on his blog in November. Dave addresses a lot more of the technical aspects of the stove and its secondary combustion process. It's taken me a bit longer to get my review completed. I wanted to test the Solo Stove based on my three types of outdoor adventure: day hiking, camping, and backpacking. The Solo Stove is suited to all three.

The Solo Stove works for day hikers

I often get strange looks from friends at the trailhead when they see a stove in my day pack for a 4-5 hour hike. But there is always a point when we stop for a break that lasts more than a few minutes. In the past, I would bust out my Snow Peak stove and fuel canister to brew a late morning cup of coffee or boil water for a cup of ramen. Now, I unleash the Solo Stove, snap a few twigs to start the fire, and then build a small pile of feeder sticks. The Solo Stove is easy to use in general. It only has two pieces and starting a fire is dead simple. I place a few thick twigs on the grate in the bottom of the stove and build a pile of thinner kindling on top which I light to start the fire building process. Those ignite and burn to the point of collapse dropping the fire down onto my larger pieces. Then the downward convection takes over and within a few moments the fire becomes a rager. Well, as much of a rager as this little stove produces. For day hikes, I like to stop at the mid point for the traditional summit beer. In colder weather though I like coffee or ramen. It's great fuel for the return and warms from the inside out. The Solo Stove makes that easy. The best part for day hikers is that the Solo Stove is relatively lightweight coming in at about 9 oz and can be easily justified for a half or full day on the trail.

Campers will love the Solo Stove too

For years, I would pack all my camping gear, everything I owned, for each weekend trip only to realize when I returned that much of it was unnecessary. So I wondered as I made the drive to Sedona how I would justify another addition to my camping kit. I was pleasantly surprised. There is something about a wood burning stove that appeals more to me than the fuel burning counterparts. I'm not about to abandon my Snow Peak but it will most certainly share time with the Solo Stove moving forward. If you're like me, camping is anything but restful. I am constantly stoking the fire, fussing with gear, moving around camp. Building and maintaining a fire in the Solo Stove is easy but it does require some attention. I enjoy the process. As Dave and I jumped from one topic to another, I scoured the campsite for small twigs to maintain my wood pile. Throughout the weekend in Sedona, I used the Solo Stove daily for a variety of preparations.

I prepared coffee every morning
I boiled water for my daily ramen
We made hot apple cider as the base for Dave's new creation: a hot cider bourbon with a orange twist. You need to try that!

The Solo Stove has a place in my camp right next to my Coleman stove. Plus, it works great as a second stove for trips when the campsite is really basecamp for day hikes. The Solo Stove easily drops into my day pack for use on the trail.

Solo Stove was built for backpackers

I'm not really interested in the weight debate that many backpackers question. Ultralight or ultracomfort. Whatever. I select gear that I love and that does the job I need it to do. The Solo Stove does that. And it does that well.

It allows me to travel without carrying fuel but I gather good fire starters as I hike anyway
It weighs approximately 9 oz which for me is negligible
It's compact in size and actually fits in a side pocket of my pack
It brings me closer to my meals by requiring a bit more of my attention

I have come to truly appreciate the process of starting the fire and maintaining it while I cook. I'm not opposed to fuel canisters but there's something more rewarding that comes from using the Solo Stove. It took me about 10 minutes to boil water on average and during that time I was part of the process. Fuel canisters deliver more of a set it and forget type of experience. [gallery link="file" columns="5" ids="948,944,942,946,945,943,947,949,950,951"]

MERRELL Barefoot Trail Glove for Kids

Amelia — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 22:07:54 +0000

While around here we are certainly focused on colder-weather footwear for kids, I didn't want to miss an opportunity to show off a pair of shoes that I think are so incredible for kids that I would pay the $60 for them again and again. While they certainly have their place (note - not the best for snowy, wintery conditions) any shoe that helps kids connect better with the ground they are walking on is top notch in our opinion. In fact, for both of our boys we have had countless pairs of "soft" shoes to help aid them as they begin to walk (and run and explore.) Despite all the different brands that have come through our home, these Barefoot Trail Gloves by Merrell are the absolute best I have seen. Available beginning in a toddler size 3 all the way through adult sizes, the shoe remains the same (just bigger as the sizes go up!) It is built to last (your kid will certainly outgrow them before they outwear them), super easy to walk in and, because of the structure, can be worn with both thinner and thicker socks. This fall our kids wore them camping, hiking, running, and playing. Now they are their go-to shoe for anything indoors. The sole is flexible enough to allow for easy movement while still protecting them (much better than any leather sole that infants/toddlers often wear) on the trail or playground. They don't have to worry about discomfort while walking over rocks and sticks. We're hoping they DON'T outgrow them over the winter! :) But, will be replacing them when they do. What we loved: - Flexible AND durable joining the freedom to move and remain protected from rougher and sharper terrain - Built exactly like their adult shoes, the kids' line is upheld to the same standard - Mesh and synthetic uppers allow for getting feet wet or washing dirty shoes (in the washing machine!) - Hook and loop strap mean a snug fit every time (even around different sized socks) - No seams mean they can be worn barefoot with no issues What we weren't so crazy about: - I can't think of much. These shoes have been worn and worn and worn. On our newly-walking/running infant/toddler and older toddler. They continue to be worn daily and loved immensely by both them and us. Not something I can say about all shoes! However, I would love to see a pair that was just a little less "bright" colored for dressing up a little.

KEEN Infant Kootenay Boot

Amelia — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 21:14:54 +0000

This fall we started to realize that we were going to have a pretty serious issue outfitting our tiny (walking, running, jumping) toddler in appropriate winter footwear. When the temperatures started to drop, he was still wearing a size 3 (seriously....) and there was no way he was going to manage walking in his brother's size 6 hand-me-down boots. While we have managed to find some other alternatives (namely, STONZ boots, that are excellent for slipping in foot warmers on very cold days, by the way...) over the past couple of months, we went to KEEN first. We were looking for warmer boots/shoes, though weren't too worried about the height of them (since the snow took a while to fall this year.) The Infant Kootenay is really the only choice from KEEN for warmer footwear in any size smaller than a Toddler 8. Available in sizes 4-7, the Kootenay is a slightly higher shoe/boot with the added warmth of a faux shearling liner and the protection of leather and dual-climate rubber (which means traction remains even in the cold.) While it really isn't designed for heavy moisture, we have a kid that loves jumping in puddles and his feet remained surprisingly dry. The Kootenay is certainly no alternative to snow boots, but it does have a little extra warmth that can be layered UNDER a STONZ boot (or something similar). What we loved: - The comfort and durability KEEN is known for, in an infant (or tiny toddler) sized package. - Surprisingly waterproof - Warm enough for fall and mild winter days (when paired with wool socks.) - Easy on and off with a velcro closure What we weren't so crazy about: - If P had thick wool socks on, the velcro limited the sizing of the shoe. It's good velcro, but velcro does have limitations. After months of daily use, it doesn't stick quite as well as it used to (though DOES still keep the boot closed in normal circumstances.) - Despite being a great shoe, $55 is steep for anything you will outgrow in a matter of months. While I think other KEEN shoes we have will outlast these (because of the velcro) they will be passed down to at least one or two more kids.

KEEN Kalamazoo High Boot WP for Toddlers

Amelia — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 20:45:14 +0000

We have worn KEEN shoes for years, but this is the first winter boot for our family that we have had the opportunity to test out from the company we support so much. The Kalamazoo High Boot for toddlers (available in sizes 8-13) is excellent. Built with kids in mind, the boot boasts easy on-off velcro closures, 200g of Keen.Warm Insulation and a waterproof upper to keep feet comfortable. Admittedly, I was skeptical at first. The velcro closures had me wondering if it would keep out cold air effectively enough to ward off sub-zero temperatures. While any boot is certainly challenged by sedentary kids (in our case, sitting in the Chariot while we ski) this one seems to do fairly well (though there have been days when it is really cold that I have stuck in a foot warmer...or wished I had.) However, the boot definitely performs best while J is moving himself (sledding, snowshoeing, skiing). What we loved: - Super warm (especially while the child is in motion) - Easy on and off (velcro means J can dress himself) - High enough to keep snow out - Absolutely waterproof (even for those really wet days) - Great traction keeps kids upright - Easy to walk in What we weren't so crazy about: - The velcro occasionally comes undone while in play. While I love the ease of it, I worry that it will wear out over time. However, so far, so good! - Admittedly, I have yet to find a kids' boot that will keep J warm during extended periods of just sitting in cold temperatures (usually in the Chariot.)

Lucky Bums In-Mold Helmet for Kids

Amelia — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 13:00:04 +0000

We are big advocates of helmets here. Our kids begin to wear them from an early age and get used to wearing them every time. They are not on a bike or on skis without one and we have started wearing them sledding too. The benefits of ANY helmet are enough to make it worth the money to protect their heads. Earlier this year, I wrote a post about some of the stats related to bike helmets and the benefits of their protection. I would venture to say that snow sports are even more helmet-worthy. Unfortunately, I have heard of way too many careless injuries on the ski or sledding hill that could be prevented with a helmet. Lucky Bums just came out with a new one. The In-Mold helmet is extremely light, durable and ventilates well. Taken best from their own words, "In-mold construction fuses a tough polycarbonate outer shell with the helmet's impact-absorbing foam liner. This allows us to sculpt better ventilation systems, so the Alpine Series In-mold helmets can be lighter and cooler than traditional helmets."

While the helmet comes in two sizes, we found that the dial adjustment at the back of the helmet allows for it to safely fit both of our children (aged 18 months and 3.5 years.) Since P is still fairly young, a lighter helmet is something we are more interested in, just to protect his neck. The In-Mold is absolutely the lightest I have seen. On colder days, we pair the helmet (and really any helmet we own for the kids) with Patagonia's Baby Synchilla Hat (an excellent under-helmet hat that is available in sizes XXS - L).

What we loved about the In-Mold Helmet: - Super light - Great ventilation - Quick adjustments to allow for different sized kids or the necessity of a hat on colder days - Great under-chin padding prevents pinching - Standard clip on the back holds goggles in place - Available in three different colors (and NOT the standard black!) - Great ear protection What we weren't so crazy about: - The price is a little steep. However, helmets are not something we skimp on at all - you get what you pay for. The In-Mold is no exception.

GoLite's Beartooth 650 Fill Down Vest for Women

Amelia — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:22 +0000

This vest is my first impression of GoLite's gear and I am certainly not disappointed. The company was recommended to me by a trusted source...I can't wait to get to know further aspects of their line. The Beartooth vest is another favorite. It's not as "fancy" or streamlined with lots of feminine tapering and seams as some of the others I have reviewed, but there is a part of me that really likes that. A great after-ski layer (or during) or winter camping/cabin staple. Best For: - Cold days when you want another core layer - After skiing - Around the house/cabin/chalet in the winter - Wearing on its own throughout the fall - Throwing in a backcountry pack (because it packs so small) What I loved: - It is "fluffy" and light....which means great warmth without unnecessary weight - Generous fit (great for layering underneith) - Zipper worked great (it's the small details...) - Elastic around bottom hem and arm holes - Zips high to cover neck - Fleece at top of zipper is comfortable on my face - Packable in its own stuff sack - Zippered pockets What I wasn't super crazy about: - While the vest is light enough to pack down under outer layers, it is a little more "puffy" which some people really don't like. Personally, I don't mind it (though it does make my shell look a little more puffed out.)

YakTrax Run

Amelia — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 23:06:35 +0000

Running throughout the winter can be fairly tricky if you live in a climate with actual "winter conditions". This year, was starting to doubt that Yellowstone had those said conditions, but can now safely say that a little traction help is a MUST around here. In fact, Yaktrax are used throughout the park for employees' safety. They are available at most doorways to help avoid unnecessary injuries related to the ice and snow. While YakTrax have been around for years, their newest model, YakTrax Run, is opening up a whole new world of possibilities. The Run model is different because the coils are only on the back of the foot (instead of the whole length.) On the ball of your foot, there are spikes to help with traction, but cut down on unnecessary bulk underfoot. They also have a safety strap that goes across your foot to keep them on and stable (which seems to make a HUGE difference when running). What we loved: - Easy on and off - Sizing is forgiving (so not specific to just ONE pair of shoes) - Coils and spikes working together mean worry-free traction - As long as you are running on packed ice or snow, you notice little extra bulk underfoot - The possibility to run miles and miles without pain What we weren't so crazy about: - One of the downsides of YakTrax in general is that they can be difficult if conditions are changing. They really are MUCH better on packed snow (because they can sink in enough to get that traction and not affect your gait.) If you run into clearer roads, they are much more clumsy. So much, in fact, that I have taken them off part way through a run to safe the spikes AND my feet. The good news is that they ARE easy to get on and off. - Both Mtn Papa and I dealt with the toe of the YakTrax Run coming off our feet on our first run with them. However, in both cases, it was just a matter of not having them on correctly. They do take a bit of practice, but after one or two runs in them, they work great. - Since they ARE specific to running, they work best over running shoes. These aren't the traction you want if you are just walking and want to wear bigger boots. Choose Walk or Pro for those times! Buy them: Yaktrax Run are available for $39.95 at REI and various other fine outdoor stores. Mountains Plus gear has the Yaktrax Pros for $30 You can also find the basic Yaktrax right now at Sierra Trading Post for $13.95 (30% off)

Kelsyus Go With Me Chair

Amelia — Sat, 08 Dec 2012 05:16:37 +0000

Kids are constantly on the move. They run, they play, they throw, they yell and they wiggle....even while sitting. We have more than our fair share of spills thanks to not-so-stable sitting arrangements for our kids (and kids we know!) And by "arrangements" I mean logs, buckets, camping tables and foldable camping chairs. I couldn't be more excited to share all about this "camping chair " (which we are using all year round here - indoors AND outdoors). New from Kelsyus, the Go With Me Chair really is adaptable for kids aged ~3 months to 6 years. PLUS, it is sturdy (we have yet to get it to tip over). The Go With Me Chair has three "stages": - Stage 1: Sitting in a (removable) 5 point harness (totally doable for most 3-4 month olds.) - Stage 2: Standing (still in that harness) through leg holes that are exposed by opening a flap that covers the seat and unfolds from the bottom. - Stage 3: Sitting, no harness [caption id="attachment_2123" align="aligncenter" width="100"] 5 Point Harness - Photo courtesy of Kelsyus.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2118" align="aligncenter" width="200"] Seat flap opened to reveal leg openings[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2116" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Feet opening pocket bound up under chair[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2117" align="aligncenter" width="200"] Feet pocket opened up to allow for the standing position[/caption] Other chair options: - Removable sun shade - Removable cup and snack holder [caption id="attachment_2119" align="alignleft" width="250"] Both sitting with snack tray[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2122" align="alignleft" width="240"] Sunshade (L) and Standing Position (R)[/caption] What we loved: - Completely stable - Easy to wash - Snack tray really is great for drink AND snack (or pieces of a meal) - Sun roof provides great coverage - Is contained in it's own bag (chair, snack/drink tray AND sunroof) - Safety locks on the chair and the sun roof mean no pinched fingers and things are staying in place What we weren't so crazy about: - The chairs are a bit heavy, which is the sacrifice you make for that added stability and options. J couldn't easily pick it up and carry it. However, I am ok with that trade off. - Would love to see the chairs in just solid colors [caption id="attachment_2120" align="aligncenter" width="409"] Showing size of chair all packed up next to an average-sized 3.5 year old[/caption] Right now you can find these Go with Me Chairs on sale at Kelsyus.com with free ground shipping until December 14th, 2012.

Acorn Slippers

Amelia — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 15:45:21 +0000

Our new(ish) home in Yellowstone is mostly hardwood floors (don't worry - it's not as luxurious as that sounds! ;)) Between those floors, keeping our house cooler to keep the bills down, and taking trips to the garage and basement, slippers are a necessity - for the whole family. They have the potential (because not all slippers are created equal) of not only keeping feet warm, but also aiding with traction. The kids are usually in full motion 95 % of the time, so anything to help their feet stick to the floor (and cut down on the bruise count) is appreciated around here. This fall/winter we had the chance to check out a few pairs of slippers from Acorn. Begun in 1976, the company is committed to happy feet...whatever that means to you. They have an extensive collection of slippers for men, women and kids in a variety of styles. Acorn Drew Mule $50 The support in these slippers is what makes them so incredible. They are indoor/outdoor (which means I can run outside real quick with no issues) AND have the most comfortable footbed I have ever felt in a slipper. It's like wearing a shoe, but with the coziness of microfleece (for moisture wicking) on top and soft sherpa fleece underfoot. The wool blend felted top is unique and "woodsy" too (and comes in two other colors.) The slippers work great with both socks and barefoot (though I tend to have to aid them on a little more when wearing socks so I am not stepping down on the heel of the slipper.) My favorite feature? They don't stretch out with use so have a good fit every time. E asy Bootie Slippers for Kids $18 Definitely more for the infant/young toddlers. A great fleece bootie that P wears over socks and barefoot too. The elastic around the ankle does keep them on well, though they aren't fool proof for kids who like to take their shoes off. Available in four different colors in sizes Toddler Small - Extra Extra Large (~ size 6 months - 3 years). These booties are definitely more "indoor" slippers, but there is traction on the bottom of them to help reduce "slippage". GO Fish Moc for Kids $30 The best kid slipper I have seen for kids. J wasn't so sure about them when we got them, but now won't take them off. They go to preschool with him for an indoor shoe and he easily runs, jumps and plays with them around the house. Similiar to the build of the DREW Mocs, these have a "memory foam midsole over a comfort cushion layer of featherweight EVA guarantee comfortable, happy feet." Yes, they are $30 kid slippers, but ones that won't wear out (we have actually seen no wear at all in over a month of wearing them) and can be passed on. More importantly, they provide adequate support to keep kids' feet covered safely (without resulting in a twisted ankle or worse from sloppy slippers!) These mocs are also available in "girl" colors - you can see the whole kid line here. You can find Acorn on their site and on Facebook. Psssttt....REI is also having a sale currently on Acorn slippers! Super good deals. Get them while they last!

Slipstream Jacket

Amelia — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:39:40 +0000

The Slipstream Jacket from ISIS boasts a 800 fill down and is the warmest down jacket I have worn. It is not only great for layering, but also has a water repellent finish which means no worrying about your down getting wet! The best feature is its packability making it ideal for traveling, an extra layer while backcountry skiing or snowshoeing or just a quick jacket to pull out and depend on its warmth! Yet again, ISIS does not disappoint. What I loved about the jacket: - Uber warm - Packable - Fitting to its name, the jacket is a bit "slippery" on the outside, making layering easier - The 26 inch torso length is slightly shorter than the ISIS Whisper Hoodie - Flattering and feminine fit - Comes in number sizes (6,8, 10 etc.) instead of letter sizes (S, M, L, etc.) to allow for a more perfect fit. What I wasn't so crazy about: - The zippered pockets are great, but I found them to be just a little on the small side. I always struggle to get my Otterbox-covered smart phone in them.

The Slipstream is also available as a vest You can find the Slipstream Jacket for 30% off right now at REI ($159.93). Snag this deal while you can - it's a SCORE for this jacket!