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WHERE TO USE IT: Lake Winnipesaukee, near New Hampshire’s White Mountains, is 72 square miles of tree-lined coves and some 300 sprawling islandsnot to mentionwaterfront cabins with long wooden docks. Rent one on the quieter northor east side of the lake (from $1,000 per week; preferredrentals.com), then…
Trek has announced a huge push into the exploding triathlon market with its new Speed Concept frame, which it calls “the fastest bike in the world.” Part of what makes the Speed Concept so fast, Trek CEO John Burke told a gathering of journalists and…
By Stephen Regenold Headlamps have become de rigueur in the outdoors world for light at night. But the handheld flashlight still has a place for camping and other activities. This spring I put three flashlight models head to head, including a penlight, a super-bright model, and one…
I was just reading about pepper spray repelling a mountain lion...what about using one of those very loud boating/marine fog horns? These horns are quite small but can be very loud.
I would like to find a pair of clipless cycling shoes that are suited for adventure cycling with conditions that demand you have to hike while carry the bike. I have some old Sidi shoes but they don’t do the job when walking. Suggestions?—TonyLima, Peru
By Stephen Regenold A part of the mission of Cyclelogical, a small bike-products company based in Ogden, Utah, is to keep “the world we live in safe for bicycle commuting everywhere.” The company's Chopspokes cost just $7 and…
Think fast: Name three personal items you can’t live without while on the road. Running shoes? iPod? Journal or camera? What makes the cut? How do you decide? I’m not suggesting the Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Ultrasoft Shell Jacket ($160) bump anything off your list. But…
By Stephen Regenold Over the past few years, reviewing equipment for camping, hiking, biking, and other pursuits, a few products and a few ideas have stood out. These five innovations in gear have literally changed the way I do things outside.
By Stephen Regenold Marketed as “the Swiss Army knife of prescription eyewear,” Smith Optics' PivLock V90 glasses offer a new type of system for anyone in need of vision enhancement in the outdoors. In short, glasses wearers can purchase a prescription lens…
Karhu’s Strong Fulcrum Ride ($140) seems different out of the box than other road running shoes. Perhaps, it’s the styling with its nod to fashionable casual footwear. The stark white shoe has but a few touches…
“Not just different. Better.” That tester’s observation sums up this 15-degree bag from Montbell, whose major tech innovation—spiraled baffles—made it the most comfortable and best-functioning bag we tested this year. Far from a gimmick, the spiral baffles drape more evenly over the body, creating…
By Stephen Regenold In the running as the priciest underwear on the outdoor market, Ibex Outdoor Clothing touts its Balance Boxer Shorts as a body-mapped “second skin.” They cost $45 and are made of an itch-free wool that in my test did indeed take…
Advice on finding the best gear—and tried-n-true methods for maintaining your gear for years to come.
Sleeping Bags Twenty-seven testers fanned out across the Pacific Northwest, bedding down for an accumulated 88 nights in 25 different sleeping bags. Trail Shoes Over five months, Jason Stevenson and his team of three testers evaluated 70 pairs of light hikers in six states—from Arizona…
By Stephen Regenold Invented during the Great Depression, and seen as a small icon of American design for more than 75 years since, Zippo brand lighters package fuel, spark, and flame in a portable, durable metal case. Flip…
Years ago I wrote in and you recommended a Gregory Forester pack for my separated shoulder. It has served me well. I have lost too much weight for the large belt to keep the pack on my hips and getting a new belt has been difficult. I am headed to Philmont and am looking at the Gregory Baltoro 70, Osprey Aether 70, Deuter Act lite 60 +10, and the REI Flash 65. Could I go wrong with the REI Flash? Very light on the back and wallet. Mike Spory, VA
By Stephen Regenold “Free of bisphenol-A. Free of polycarbonate. Free of phthalates. Free of cadmium. Free of lead. Free of PVC.” Thus read the bullet points dissecting the makeup of Thinksport's 350 Silver water bottle. The $15.99 stainless-steel bottle comes from…
Today, a guest post from Outside senior executive editor Michael Roberts. During a recent trip to Santa Fe, I got a chance to test a Jackal MC-1, a hardtail carbon-fiber mountain bike…
I'm graduating from a Masters program in May, and planning, possibly, my last great summer get-away before becoming a hard-working stiff in September. My itinerary from mid-May through August includes a hiking/camping cross-country road trip to Sedona, two weeks of camping and hiking in Alaska, volunteering as a fly-fishing instructor in Alaska, and traveling in Asia for three weeks. If you were putting together a recommended gear list (particularly lightweight waterproof jacket, backpack, tent, and sleeping bag) from scratch where would you start?—JosephPittsburgh, PA
By Stephen Regenold A pair of international trips this year have netted me multiple bouts of stomach sickness, but I can't say I haven't tried to allude the little bugs that cause ill will to so many travelers. One weapon I've employed, the AdventurerOpti…
I woke up this morning to fresh, white snow. Snow! I know! It's totally shocking, right? Only it's not. I live in Jackson, WY, and it's only April 30th. We get snowstorms in early June, hailstorms in July and snowstorms in late August. It's normal for a 6,237-foot-high mountain town.
By Stephen Regenold “Climb efficiently, and descend like a champ.” That was the line from a Giant Bicycle sales rep when describing the theme of the company's Anthem line of mountain bikes. For the past few months, including three competitive events and hundreds of…
In the last few years I have really taken to trail running long distances. My long runs can last over eight hours and are often big loops or out-and-backs in the mountains. Stream water is abundant on the trails in Cascades where I run but unsafe to drink untreated. When I hike or backpack I can take my water purifier. While trail running I try and travel light. It looks like some of the treatment tablets take up to four hours and are not effective against all the nasties in the water. What do recommend for water treatment?—TomSeattle, WA
Wow, it's been nearly a decade I've been stopping in and asking you questions for my Army sponsored jaunts around the globe. It's Afghanistan this time and I need a stiff mountaineering boot that is still light and won't cook my feet to death in the 110 degree heat this summer. Our issue boots are getting better, but still aren't quite there for the really steep, rocky stuff. My average load is around 40 to 60 pounds with the body armor. Don't worry about colors or "military looking" stuff. Just let me know what will get the job done. BTW: The Suunto altimeter you turned me onto back in '02 is still going strong and hard at work over here. Nice job.—LarryFirebase Vulcan, Afghanistan
Stylish sport coat or performance cycling apparel? Actually, it’s both. I first rode around town in Rapha’s Tailored Jacket on a roasting summer day—and, believe it or not, was comfortable, unconstrained, and even cool. Rapha joined forces with famed London tailor Timothy Everest (no relation to that other one) for…
This year, U.S. Soccer finally fields a team worthy of competing—and making a serious run—at the world's greatest tournament. Heard that one before? Presenting a few reasons June in South Africa could be a whole different story.
By Stephen Regenold Mike Horn is a South African explorer known for his solo sailing expeditions and extreme feats, such as circumnavigating a route along the Arctic Circle via kayak, ski, and on foot. It was a solo trek that took more…
It started with sneakers (Prada) and moved on to bikes (Gucci). Now designer brands have hit the outdoor industry head-on with Chanel’s new line of $4,000 surfboards, debuting this spring. Go ahead and paddle out on one; we’re sure the locals will respect you for it. High fashion co-opts surfboards…
The new canvas for artistic expression? Bike racks. San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, among other cities, have instituted design competitions for their sidewalk bike racks. And in New York this spring, workers will begin replacing 225 outdated parking meters with winning rack designs—which, presumably, will not look like parking…
When we first contemplated the idea of stand-up paddling across the Hawaiian islandchain, it sounded so simple: All we would need would be a boat, a willing and able captain, and some boards and paddles. What we've learned is that planning a trip like this requires a…
1. If there’s one thing you need, it’s a nice pair of bibs. Whether or not the contoured fit of Sugoi‘s RSE bibs ($200; sugoi.ca) helped lessen muscle fatigue, as advertised, was hard to gauge. But both the moisture-wicking interior and quick-drying chamois received rave reviews.
1. Zoic‘s Black Market ($69; zoic.com) quickly became our go-to shorts. The reasons: plenty of pockets, a loose but not baggy fit, and, most important, an inner short with a super-comfy chamois. Mountain biking apparel MTB style 2. Thanks to its street-smart style and semi-fitted…
By Stephen Regenold It won't be in stores until this summer, but at $199, the Nano Puff Hoody from Patagonia is worth putting on your gear radar right now. I have been wearing an early-release version of the lightweight hooded…
Give me a well-crafted paddle, and I’ll take a grocery cart down a Class V. Give me a clunky, over-weighted paddle, and you couldn’t pay me to roll in a kiddie pool. A poor paddle equals poor paddling. It’s that simple. As a general rule, a good creeking…
On first glance, the black grips on the Wenger EvoGrip S18 look gimmicky and the Big Bird-yellow color is a bit loud for my taste. But, after a few test runs, I realized that the non-slip rubber allowed me to cut with more confidence and the…
By Stephen Regenold Loved to death. That was the case with my first pair of Inov-8 Roclite 285s, a shoe that I destroyed after a year of use and a couple hundred collective miles of trail traveled underfoot. The shoe–lightweight…
The AlterG M300 Anti-Gravity Treadmillreceived the 2010 Medical Design Excellence Award, according to runnersweb.com.
I am trying to decide between a Gregory Whitney 95 or the Gregory Baltoro 70 for the best-all around pack for anything from weekend trips to taking on the Appalachian Trail, and hopefully further reaches of the planet. Just trying to decide if the Baltoro offers enough space for the AT or if stick with the Whitney.—DavidOcala, FL
What's the right choice for a two- or three-person tent with a good balance of lightweight ventilation and privacy?—AllanSaraland, AL
By Stephen Regenold The certified multisport helmet has long been a Holy Grail in the outdoor world. KONG, an Italian company, comes close to the perfect multi-use hard hat with its Scarab Helmet, a lid certified by various agencies…
Wired's Gadget Lab has a collection of six helmet cam videos, titled “Headfirst…
I am looking for a portable, bright lantern that would do admirable service for hut-to-hut ski trips or sea-kayaking excursions. Is there one available that runs on liquid fuel? This would permit a modicum of fuel economy as I am still using my SVEA 123 stove, and avoid using throw-away canisters (recyclable though they may be). My Coleman 222 lantern just heaved its last gasp on a recent winter trip to the Gaspe and, sadly, needs to be replaced.—GeofferyToronto, Ontario
By Stephen Regenold Conjuring visions of Ninjas as well as union-suit-style long underwear of yore, the Pilot Suit from I/O Bio Merino can create a “perfect body environment,” the company touts. Indeed, the head-to-ankle base-layer suit ensconces the…
I sea kayak in the cold Pacific waters of British Columbia. Being a warm-water boy from North Carolina, I'm always freezing out there. I have a dry suit but have never found the perfect combination of layers below the suit to keep me warm while doing rolls and rescues involving submersion. I've even tried wearing my wetsuit with Sugoi thermal shirts and still been frigid. What else can I try?—JohnSalt Spring Island, BC
It may be the end of March, but here in Santa Fe, winter just won't end. We've gotten two major snowstorms in the last week alone. Which got me thinking: I've been testing winter gear for a decade now, but have never rounded up my all-time favorite stuff. Well, it's…
By Stephen Regenold Ironman champion Chris McCormack wears one. So do multiple Olympians and NFL players like Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings. The new category of sports accessory called performance mouthpieces is certainly catching fire among pros and amateurs…
If you've got an active kid–or are hell-bent on raising one–check out Axl's Closet for threads to dress up your groms. The company offers an array of outdoor clothing, including surf and skate, from Patagonia, Volcom,…
Last year, when I wrote about a pair of bike pants from Outlier clothing, I noted the company's products are made for a “small, affluent market niche.” Indeed, Outlier's tagline–“Tailored performance clothing for cycling in the city”–nods to the New York City-based company's theme of design that treads a line…
By Stephen Regenold It took a van loaded with gear to get from my house tothe airport. Then in the terminal, I juggled a cart stacked with three rollingduffel bags, a carry-on suitcase, and a daypack to wear on the airplane…
Ah, Venice, city of love—and site of one of the world's largest, goofiest rowing regattas, where anybody is welcome to paddle anything through the storied canals for 19 glorious, grueling miles. Into this tempest we tossed WELLS TOWER and his big brother. Their orders? Finish the damn thing without killing each other.
Proof that comfortable, travel-ready clothing need not scream, "I'm going on safari"? You're looking at it.
Five brilliant new devices for playing at home and traveling abroad.
It's a great week for the cycling community. Trifuel.com has reported that the League of American Bicyclists recently awarded TriSports.com with a Silver Level Bicycle Friendly Business (BGB) award. The League,which was created to promote more bike friendly businesses, is paving the…
Hey, I'm looking for your recommendation on high-quality lightweight tents. I lead extended backpacking trips (30 to 45 days) in Alaska during the summer (read: snow is likely, so both three- and four- season tents are options), and am hoping to find a good three- to four-person tent that can withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and is light enough to be carried by the group. Double wall is preferable. Any suggestions? I'd like to keep the price under $600 if possible.—CaseyO'Malley, NY
What are your top choices for a commuter urban/city bike for NYC under $1,000? Also, the bike needs to handle long afternoon rides (50+ miles) through the city. I've looked at Cannondale, Swobo, Specialized, Marin, and others, need some help. Thanks!—JosephAstoria, NY
I am looking for an all around boot/shoe to go hiking with in the mountains, usually distances of more than 20 miles. I like to hike without socks in the summer. I have had Merrells before but want to try something different now.—BryceRaleigh, NC
I recently went for a snowshoe hike in the Adirondack mountains and struggled to maintain a comfortable temperature. The day started out at -11 degrees F and as long as I stayed moving I was warm, but once I stopped I would freeze! How do I layer properly for variable weather so I don't roast when moving and freeze when stopped?—AlvahGeneva, NY
By Stephen Regenold My head is still spinning. My feet are damaged but on the mend. To say the Wenger Patagonian Expedition Race was a crazy time would understate the experience. After almost seven straight…
By Stephen Regenold It took months of training and nearly a full week of human-powered effort (six days, three hours, and 31 minutes, to be exact) to traverse the entirety of Tierra del Fuego in Chile's Patagonia region. But from a ferry depot on the Strait of…
I have a Bibler Ahwahnee, which is a brilliant tent, but I see new options for tents that are a kilo or more lighter. Having compared Black Diamond’s HiLight and Nemo's Nano, they look sturdy and light. But how can I check for breathability to match my Bibler?—IanJohannesburg, South Africa
First Ascent Mountain Guide Jacket Price: $229 Don’t let the interior seam tape mislead you: This is not a hardshell. But after subjecting it to frigid, 30-mph February gusts, we had to cut it open with a knife to prove this thin, supple softshell wasn’t…
We don't know when the phone will hit the U.S., but Puma recently announced they have a solar-powered phone coming to the market. Engadget has more details, but from what we can tell, it will do everything a regular smartphone can…
I am an avid reader of your advice and I like the way you also explain technologies. So here's a question that involves both: I would like some shoes for day hikes of up to six hours. I already have some great boots (Meindl Burma) for multi-day trips or rugged day-hiking terrain. But I'd like something light for other occasions (but probably with some waterproofness as it rains a lot in New Zealand). The trouble is, I don't really know what I am looking for. Light hikers, trail runners, cross-terrain shoes...? Are these different names for essentially the same thing?—KarenWellington, New Zealand
When spring showers make a mess of your favorite streets and trails, fight back.
Laptops and cell phones are merging. Here's the new range of options for connected travelers.
I travel a good deal, mostly to visit friends or on vacations. I've made it my goal to never check a bag, which of course dictates that I pack simply (and wash clothes often). It also demands the right bag for the job. What would you recommend?—DavidDansville, NY
By Stephen Regenold Dubbed an “arctic slip-on,” the Fairbanks Snow Sneakers are a strange low-top option for winter use. Made to protect from the snow and cold, the shoes have waterproof leather uppers and felted wool lining. The tough outsole tread is…
I took the Petzl Zipka 2 headlamp ($40) on a recent camping trip to the White Mountains in New Hampshire. It's one of the most pared-down headlamps on the market these days. Petzl replaced the conventional elastic-band head strap with a thin retractable cord. At first…
As a descendant of proud Swedes, I shamefully admit that Dale of Norway knits some of the world’s finest sweaters. With classic designs like the “Voss,” “Utstein,” and “Uppigard,” you can’t miss the Nordic connection, but the technology that this 130-year-old company employs is what will blow your mind. Working…
