Gearzilla

ERGObaby Performance Carrier

nborchelt — Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:51 +0000

store.ergobaby.com
Whether or not you subscribe to the tenets of kangaroo parenting or believe in the so-called fourth trimester, there is no denying the widespread popularity and convenience of “wearing your baby.” Thanks to the ERGObaby Performance Carrier, carrying your child doesn’t have to slow you down. Well-suited for strenuous outdoor activities like hiking, and longer-duration urban expeditions like shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the zoo or a museum, the Performance Carrier improves on the company’s original, time-tested design. It is 30% lighter, water-repellent, and lined with a highly breathable and durable ripstop polyester outer layer. The soft, moisture-wicking cotton knit interior pouch keeps you baby comfy, cool, and dry, and an adjustable, elasticated, water-repellent sleeping hood protects from the elements. Also, unlike many slings and carriers, the ERGObaby Performance Carrier looks cool, modern, and technical.

The Performance Carrier can accommodate a child from infancy (with an Infant Insert cushion, sold separately) to 45 pounds (about five to six years old, on average); at the lower end of the weight scale, the pack is comfortable in the extreme for both adult and baby. The ERGObaby cradles newborns and infants close and secure in an ergonomically advantageous position that supports the proper development of the spine, pelvis, and hips. The affect on the wearer’s balance is minimal—important on an uneven hiking trail and a bustling metropolitan sidewalk. The ERGObaby offers three riding positions—on chest, side, and back—but only facing the adult wearer (an important distinction from other carriers). This, ERGObaby argues, avoids potentially harmful pressure on the child’s developing skeleton and joints. My six-month-old daughter consistently fell sound asleep as soon as she was strapped on, but her three-year-old sister complained about the restricted views available from the ERGObaby’s inward-facing positions. And, even though she falls within the weight limits of the ERGObaby, neither of us was very interested in conducting a test ride of significant duration. Be warned: it takes some practice, and flexibility, to master the ERGObaby. Buckling and cinching the strap that connects the shoulder harnesses behind your back while balancing a wiggly baby on your chest is, on the first few attempts, a daunting and risky endeavor (at least for this non-yoga-practicing father in his late 30s). Persevere, though, and the ERGObaby Performance Carrier will provide many hours of happy on-the-go kangaroo parenting.
–Adam Greenhalgh

Merrell Grafton Shirt

nborchelt — Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:28 +0000

www.merrell.com
One tester in our ranks pretty much despises heat and humidity, which of course presented us with the perfect opportunity. Last summer, we tossed him the Merrell Grafton and he went out into the ever-increasing summer humidity of Washington, DC, as well as a variety of warm-weather locales that satisfied his sense of wanderlust, but reinforced his disdain for sweating…while doing nothing. And now? He’s honed in on the perfect summer uniform. The 100-percent poly Grafton sits loosely and light, with a double layer of thin fabric at the shoulders that only improves the shirt’s breathability and wicking. It also boasts a 20+ UPF treatment to help combat the sun’s other detrimental effects, while bias-cut shoulders, snap-close buttons (including one breast pocket), and a variety of pattern options make it a go-to for hot-weather traveling, day hiking, and urban exploration.

Keihl Cross-Terrain UV Face Protector SPF 50 Sunscreen

nborchelt — Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:09 +0000

www.kiehls.com
This is best sun protection for a mountain man on the face of the planet. I live with five-o’clock shadow and sunscreen creams just don’t rub in well, they make me look like a grey-haired ghost. Keihl’s Cross-Terrain applies quick and clear and comes in a burly hockey puck-style container that I can leave in my pack or pocket to get smashed around during a tumble or a long travel and won’t leak or burst open make a mess. Its viscosity provides protection from extreme winds and is a worthy lip balm, so I don’t have to carry two items. In a pinch, after weather forced a retreat from Half Dome, I used it to lubricate some extremely chaffed body parts and found some clutch relief. SPF 50 means I put it on once, even at the highest altitudes, during the longest surf sessions and in the most extreme elements.
-JT Holmes

Read our policy on gear reviews by professional athletes

Mammut Zephir and Zephira Climbing Harness

nprichard — Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:42 +0000

www.mammut.ch; 9.2 ounces
A climbing harness is safety equipment—something you trust with your life, but reliability is where the characteristics of a harness should start. Our testers loved this light, easy-to-use harness, from its always-secure aluminum buckle (you tighten the webbing and it locks on its own) to the comfortable, gently padded hip belt. The light harness is made even lighter, and less sweaty, thanks to a mesh and foam construction with large cutouts to save weight and increase ventilation. Four gear loops hold a dozen quick-draws and slings, but you’ll need a gear sling for long, traditional routes. Although the harness only has minimal padding, it’s enough for you to endure resting on the rope or a hanging belay. You can’t remove the leg loops, or adjust their size, but they are attached to the rear of the harness with ingenious bungy-type cords that can be released when nature calls.
Sizes XS to L, men’s and women’s models

OverLand Equipment Bidwell Bag

nprichard — Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:14 +0000

www.overlandequipment.com
Can you say “organized”? Whether you’re a busy mom or an Olympic athlete (or both), the Bidwell Bag is made for an active lifestyle. Inspired by Annie Bidwell, a general’s wife who donated thousands of acres of wild land for a namesake park in Chico, California (the home of OverLand Equipment), this bag does it all. Inside the zippered main compartment are two mesh bottle pouches, and enough room for an iPad and paperback, or, as in the case of one tester, climbing shoes, chalk bag, and harness. The outside pocket, with its secure magnetic closure, encloses a leather key fob, microfleece glasses sleeve, mesh zip security pouch, and an array of compartments for pens, cards, and notebooks. A hidden sleeve on the back is ideal for maps, plane tickets, or easily access your cell phone. The sleek yet roomy satchel has wide, soft, leather strap with bronze hardware that shrieks class. $75

Sole Casual Flips

nprichard — Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:55 +0000

www.yoursole.com
No shoes, no shirt, no service. But what about when you’re where flip flops and a Lei are considered acceptable attire? We admit to spending more time than our mothers would like balancing a fruity concoction in one hand and a shot glass in the other. What led us on the path of destruction? Flip flops, those care-free, devil-may-care sandals that are as at home on the beaches as, well as, the beach. Fortunately for all of us misguided fools who haven’t fled to the islands of our minds, flip flops are now de rigor wear for casual Fridays. And our pair of choice? Sole Casual Flips. The orthopedic shape mimics the natural, barefoot stride. The footbed is cork, which molds to your foot after wear. Plus it’s sustainable. In contrast to many flip flops, the Sole Casual’s have a textured rubber sole that provides grip on trails, sidewalks, and everything in between; the tread is big enough to rebuff sand and dirt. The upper is a durable, washable cotton canvas, backed by a thin foam and synthetic liner. Like all the gear in Gearzilla, you’ll thank us for our stamp of casual approval. We also like to leave a pair in the car for a comfortable drive back home after days stomping through the backcountry.

Crank Brothers Eggbeater 2 Bike Pedals

nborchelt — Tue, 08 May 2012 15:00:51 +0000

www.crankbrothers.com, 10 ounces
Upgrading from traditional pedals or foot baskets to clipless is much like moving into a larger living space–once you’re there, you’ll never go back. The biggest hurdle in that evolution, however, remains the perceived challenge of getting your shoes in (and out) of those damn cleats. For us, the Crank Brothers’ Eggbeater 2 pedal is the cycling equivalent of having someone on the inside to help you out. The pedals boast four entry points, which means it’s nearly impossible to not find purchase when you go to clip in. And getting out is even easier. Twist your foot away from (or toward) the bike, and you’re free; the 15- to 20-degree angle you need (which expands the metal coil enough to release the cleat) isn’t part of standard pedal rotation, so staying in the pedals as just as intuitive as getting out. The Eggbeater 2 pedals each weigh a measly 10 ounces, and are constructed out of stamped and stainless steel. We’ve pedaled on one pair well past its five-year warranty without any issue, save one: the brass cleats (the part you screw into your bike shoes) did wear down after a few years of near-daily use (commuting and riding singletrack), and they slipped until they were replaced. But new cleats only run $22, and are easy to find online or in most bike shops. One bit of advice to the clipless new-comers: practice on a grass field till the experience becomes intuitive. Then hit the trail, path, or street and see how much more speed and control the pedals afford.

K2 Sidestash Skis

nborchelt — Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:14 +0000

www.k2skis.com, four pounds, nine ounces
This is a one-ski quiver that will never let you down. Its 108mm waist is coupled with a traditional tail, giving it reliability on firm snow and on the steeps as well as a predictable landing platform, while the all-terrain rocker in the tip gives you enough floatation to hang with any crew on even the deepest powder days. I traveled with the Sidestash as my only ski while competing on the entire Freeride World Tour in 2010, and it got me through steep, boney French competition venues, heavy pow days in Russia, and icy groomers in Switzerland. At home in Squaw Valley, where I have an arsenal of skis to choose from, go still with the Sidestash 95 percent of the time because I know I can charge those first few untracked runs and not have to switch up to a skinnier, less-rockered ski for the afternoon crud.
-JT Holmes

Read our policy on gear reviews by professional athletes

Marmot Leadville Soft Shell Jacket

nborchelt — Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:11 +0000

marmot.com, 1.02 pounds
The Leadville has been in Marmot’s line for years—with good reason. As one seasoned tester reports, it’s risen to the top of his go-to list for soft shell jackets in cool temps and variable conditions (aka: this jacket is the Holy Grail for gearheads). The Gore-Tex Windstopper fabric locks out averse weather in a variety of activities, from spring skiing in Utah corn to biking in Scotland to hiking through the biting winds of the Andes. It also proves to be about 80 percent waterproof, which is enough to handle all but monsoon-like conditions (though, as with most water-resistant soft shells, the jacket will eventually soak through after an hour of moderately persistent drizzle). The inner panels (under the arms and along the torso, as seen by the differently-colored fabric) are constructed from a slightly lighter mix of poly and elastane, offering additional breathability and stretch. The pocket construction, including two zippered handwarmers, is the execution of simple versatility. A draw string at the hem increases protection against truly foul weather, and the mid-height collar is lined with kitten-soft microfleece. The partially elastic sleeve cuffs fit snugly, with Velcro tabs to really lock them down. Gauntlet-style gloves, which pull over the cuffs, fare best, though one tester was able to routinely tuck his lightweight gloves under the cuffs and bike and hike without gaps. For temps at 50 degrees and up, the Leadville may prove a bit too warm, especially if you’re exerting yourself. But for mild to cold weather, this jacket is tops. Refreshingly, little has changed since the jacket first premiered; the logos are now reflective (a nice touch for urban cyclists and runners), and the color schemes have gotten a bit brighter. But even if you go with the flashy orange hue, rest assured that that near-florescent color will become subdued over years of reliable use.

Eureka! Warrior 230 IR LED Remote Control Lantern

nborchelt — Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:13 +0000

www.eurekatent.com, one pound, 14 ounces
One if by land, two if by sea. A reliable lantern should be part of everyone’s essential gear. For modern-day emergencies that can cut your power supply off for days, the Warrior 230 provides 200 hours of light on the low setting. The high setting limits the output of the three D-size batteries to 50 hours, but our testers only used this ultra-brint light (230 lumens) while cooking gourmet dinners on a Rogue River trip. Otherwise they used the remote control dimmer function that adjusts the light output from 100 percent to 10 percent. The versatile lantern is great for river trips, car camping, and even illuminating a backyard barbeque. The water-resistant case can be carried with a collapsible handle, or hung upside down via a small, fold-away hook. For roadside or backcountry emergencies, the lantern has a flashing SOS function that’s good for 200 hours with fresh batteries. Testers loved the remote control with its 25-foot range, as it allows you to leave the lantern in its most effective position (suspended on a tree branch near the kitchen or pit toilet), with the ease of turning it on and off from your warm, cozy sleeping bag.