9 Posts are tagged with: outdoor_product_of_the_week

Outdoor Product of the Week: Hepburn Trousers

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May 6, 2009 by Sabah K.

Put your days of wearing gym gear for running errands behind you, and freshen up your look with a pair of classy but comfortable trousers instead. The Horny Toad Hepburn trousers are a stylish addition to your casual wardrobe, and designed in classic Aubrey style that's fitted at the waist and hips, and a slight flare at the ankles. The jive medium rise rests half way between the hip and waist, which is especially flattering for those with short torsos and longer legs.

The Hepburn trousers are also designed with a straight fit and relaxed style to create a slimming silhouette. The stone enzyme wash is the perfect neutral to coordinate with almost any color top, and the Hollywood waistband combined with the button and zip fly closure add a stylish touch to this casual piece. You can wear this with your favorite tee, tank tops, sweater vest or hoodie for a cool, casual and comfortable look any time of year.

One of the telltale signs of a quality pair of trousers or slacks is the side stitching and accents on the hem. These trousers are designed with hidden side stitching and a skip stitch at the hem and front plackets for an extra stylish touch. Plus, the two flat-front pockets in the front help create a sleek silhouette and lengthen your legs for a seamless look.

The Horny Toad Hepburn pants are a versatile piece for your daily wardrobe, and a surefire way to look cool and classy without overdoing it when shopping at the Farmer's Market, browsing at the mall or just relaxing over the weekend. They're also great for traveling; the bungee duck cotton-spandex blend naturally prevent extra creases, so you can fold these up and pack them tightly in a duffel bag, backpack or suitcase without worrying about pressing them before wearing.

And for shoes? You can easily get away with a pair of Mary Jane flats, clogs, sneakers or other ballet flats to complement your relaxed look. The cuffs end right below the ankles so feel free to jazz up your look with some eye-catching shoes or sandals for the complete ensemble.

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Prana Nemesis Knicker

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Apr 29, 2009 by Sabah K.

For the outdoorsy type in need of some stylish gear, a pair of calf-length pants with a rugged design are a must. The Prana Nemesis Knicker is designed with super-strength seams and stretch fabric so any climber, hiker or sailor can roam freely and comfortably through their latest adventure. Theses pants are designed for ultimate comfort and extra protection during inclement weather; a convenient climbing brush holder, angled pockets and an adjustable waistband make it perfect for the outdoors - and you can look fashionable in the process.

One of the biggest benefits of these pants is their superb drying abilities. You can head out on a boat, trek through rain showers or just play in the mud without worrying about getting completely soaked. The pants dry within minutes, and when you work up a sweat on your trails, they will also soak up excess moisture in a flash. No need to fret about loose material from a poor fit, either; the adjustable waist band and generous cut in the hips and thighs provide a custom-fit look.

Making sure your outdoor wardrobe is made up of loose and comfortable clothing is essential for performance. You don't have time to tug on too-tight pants or fret about adjusting and pulling on pants and shorts to stay comfortable. Loose-fitting, versatile and lightweight clothing is the best match for dressing your adventurous side, and these pieces are easy to pack, wash, dry, and stay in good shape for the long-run. To put things into perspective, look at your outdoor gear as an investment; you need these basics to perform at your best, and when you're not playing the weekend warrior, you can even let some pieces do double duty as weekend wear or for working out.

The stretch nylon fabric makes the Prana Nemesis Knickers a comfortable pair for day-to-day wear, and a versatile addition to your wardrobe. You can wear them to the gym, when running errands, or just kick back and relax on the weekends with the cargo-inspired style. The Nemesis Knickers are available in four neutral colors to coordinate with almost any color top, jacket or vest.

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Columbia Waypoint II Shell Helps You Layer Right

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Apr 22, 2009 by Sabah K.

One of the most important things you'll learn when taking on that next outdoor challenge is the art of layering. Layering with lightweight jackets, tees, and hoodies helps you stay comfortable during inclement weather and gives you options if things start to heat up. Whether you're hitting the campsite in the tropical rainforest or gearing up for an ice fishing trip in the mountain tundra, layering up with an all-weather jacket can help you make the most of your outdoor adventure and stay cool, calm and comfortable no matter what nature throws at you.

The Columbia Waypoint II Shell fits the bill with its ultra-performance shell that keeps you warm and dry no matter what the forecast has in store. The jacket is designed with a waterproof shell and extra seams to keep water out. The sleeves have adjustable cuffs for extra protection, and the drawcord adjustable hem means you can look forward to a custom fit. You'll also find small zippers in the underarm area; these help you stay cool without having to take off the entire jacket and it works as a venting system that circulates extra air - any time you need it.

The jacket is made with a recycled polyester blend with Shangri-La ripstop and Omni-Tech fabrics. This gives you an extra layer of protection and keeps you dry even when you're sweating it out in the humid rainforest or jungle. The jacket sizes run large, so you'll have plenty of space to layer with fleece jackets underneath, a lightweight sweatshirt or even a button down flannel shirt or top. A stow-away hood keeps you looking sharp when you don't need to hide from the wind, and the simple, clean-cut design is a great addition to any outdoor wardrobe.

One of the most innovative features of the Columbia Waypoint II Shell is the interchangeable liner; you can switch out the liner with most 3-point Columbia Interchange System liners to use it in almost any type of environment. Plus, this versatile piece is easy to clean; just throw it in the washing machine for a cold rinse and tumble dry on low to freshen it up in a flash.

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Trench Coat

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Apr 1, 2009 by Sabah K.

Whether you're heading out on a walking trail or running errands across the city this spring, do it in style with a chic and versatile trench coat. The classic trench coat continues to be one of spring's ultimate must-have accessories, a necessary transition piece between chilly winter days and the warm months ahead. The season's most coveted coats are designed in bright and bold colors and simple, classic styles that flatter your figure and give you just enough coverage to ward off chilly winds and the occasional rain shower. Easy to pack, clean and maintain, the trench works with cropped pants, jeans, skirts and even dresses.

The Patagonia Women's Negril Trench Coat is a stylish and sassy addition to your spring and summer wardrobe, the best way to enjoy cooler days and nights without bulking up with sweaters and extra layers. The double-breasted trench coat is designed with a slimming, fitted cut with stretch cotton for extra support and feminine shaping. Trench coats are a versatile jacket for almost any body shape, and even the loose and comfortable fitting can turn any basic outdoor ensemble into something a little more sharp and stylish.

Both the front and the back of the Patagonia Trench are designed with contoured seaming for the perfect fit; use the wide belt to emphasize your waistline and create an even more flattering effect. This coat also features hip pockets on the princess seams, printed binding and trim on the inside, and the coat falls right above the knee for maximum coverage. Plus, the high-quality materials allow you to machine wash and dry at home - no extra trips to the dry cleaners necessary. The wrinkle-free materials will make this coat a low-maintenance addition to your spring closet.

Get this one for casual weekend days, running errands after office hours or even as a versatile coverall for leisurely walks and hikes in the backcountry. The Patagonia trench coat is available in "Afterglow," an eye-catching burnt orange that looks great with jeans, black pants and other basics, and "Sesame," a light khaki color that works especially well with skirts, summer dresses and capris.

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Patagonia Men's Dispatch Pants

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Mar 25, 2009 by Sabah K.

Love the outdoors but hate coming home with cuts and scrapes? Protect your skin with the right lightweight clothing to enjoy the experience without wearing unnecessary layers. The Patagonia Men's Dispatch Pants are a pair of easily packable, low-maintenance pants that you can wear for a short walk, a long trek or just to relax in after a busy day.

When warm temperatures and bright sunny days are in the forecast, you're probably setting your sights on a trekking adventure in the forest or backcountry. It's tempting to throw on a pair of shorts for the day, but many savvy hikers know that cutoffs and shorts aren't going to protect those legs on the trails.

The best strategy is to wear loose and comfortable clothing; this is important for hikers, trekkers, camping enthusiasts and even city folk who want to get out and explore for the day. Lightweight pants that wick away moisture and protect your skin can keep you cool and comfortable in almost any climate. These types of pants also reduce the chances of getting bug bites, suffering from excessive sun burn or dealing with extreme allergies from plants and flowers. Pairing these pants up with a lightweight shirt or tee that can be layered with a hoodie or puffy jacket is the best choice for longer hikes, treks and camping trips.

The Patagonia Dispatch Pants are made with a quick-dry, nylon and polyester fabric blend, which means they're an ultra-breathable pair for even the most hectic day. Plus, you can layer these under a pair of heavy-duty fleece pants or other outdoor gear when temperatures drop. Roll them up and tuck them into your backpack, suitcase or gym duffel or even stow a pair away in the trunk of your car for any last-minute trips or getaways.

The Patagonia Men's Dispatch Pants are available in espresso or black. Match them up with almost any basic piece from your outdoor wardrobe and head out on your adventure in comfort and style. When you want to pack minimally and head out on a fuss-free adventure, a pair of lightweight and versatile pants is a necessity.

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Camelbak Support for Biking and Hiking Adventures

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Mar 18, 2009 by Sabah K.

If you're determined to win the annual bike race or you're heading out on a hiking adventure, staying hydrated is a top priority. As the weather warms up and you find yourself spending more time in the hot sun, making sure you have enough water on hand ensures you'll survive the adventure like a pro. The Camelbak Chaos pack is an excellent choice for any avid rider or hiking enthusiast. The low-profile bag holds enough water for almost two hours of riding, so you won't have to make any pit stops on your trek.

The main compartment is large enough to hold all your gear for the trip, and the side compression straps make it easy to add on a few extra items if needed. You'll find plenty of pockets and straps to keep everything organized, and the adjustable waist belt makes it easy to just gear up and go at the last minute.

So what exactly do you need to pack when you're heading out on a biking marathon or trek in the great outdoors? The key to packing success is to keep it simple; you want your pack to weigh as little as possible so you're not carrying around extra weight for the ride. First, you'll need a fresh set of clothing. You never know when the weather will turn on you and a fresh set of clothing can help you finish your route in comfort. A simple pair of cycling shorts, lightweight t-shirt and insulated underwear (if the weather warrants it) are sufficient for a 1-3 hour trip. You'll already be wearing some cycling shoes, riding gloves and socks, but you may also need to pack an extra pair of socks if you get stuck in rainy conditions for a long period of time.

If you're not sure about the weather conditions for the day, it's a good idea to pack some goggles, a fleece vest or jacket and some waterproof over gloves. You may need some extra gloves to take care of any bike repairs or other unforeseen problems along the trail. Finally, don't forget to pack some emergency basics including a mini-first aid kit, a pocket knife, compass and a map. You can tuck all of these essentials into the waterproof compartments of your pack for safekeeping.

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Layer Up with the North Face Apex Bionic Jacket

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Mar 11, 2009 by Sabah K.

Whether you're hitting the hiking trails for a cross-country adventure or trekking off to the lakes for an ice fishing adventure, layering up with fleece and wind-resistant fabrics is an absolute must. While a down coat or parka will help you stay warm throughout the day, it's the layers that will trap in your body heat to the max and keep your muscles and joints in great shape during frigid temperatures.

Layering Basics
Camping gurus already know the golden rules of layering; much of this process is common sense, but you'll need to be selective about what types of clothing you're packing on for the day. To stay warm in wintry climates, you'll need to stick with clothing that's lightweight and sticks close to your skin. This means steering clear of too much bulk and avoiding clothes with too many zippers and accessories; too much hardware makes it harder to layer different types of clothing and also makes it harder for you to move around.

For the inner layers, you'll need to stick with thermal underwear and moisture-wicking fabrics that won't absorb any sweat on your skin. This clothing needs to be made of lightweight materials and fabric, which are not only comfortable but also easy to wash.

The mid-layer is one of the most important. This is your insulation layer, the layer that includes pants, vests, fleece jackets and sweaters. This North Face Apex Bionic Jacket is an excellent choice for the mid-layer; it fits snugly and comfortably over basic tanks and tees, and it's made with Weatherblock fabric which stops that bone-chilling wind dead in its tracks. Plus, it's easy to wash and maintain; you can count on this for your mid-layer under a parka or down coat, or just wear it as a light jacket during warmer temperatures.

The outer layer is your final insulating layer and needs to be adjustable so that you can take it on and off with ease. Look for areas with extra ventilation and lightweight materials so you're not weighed down. This is the only layer where you need to pay attention to extra pockets, flaps and other accessories.

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Columbia PFG Marlin Sandals

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Mar 4, 2009 by Sabah K.

Spring Break season means more sun and surf time will be filling up the calendar, so you'll need to pack comfy and versatile gear to make the most of your adventures in the great outdoors.

A pair of cushioned sandals is a great way to kick off the season in style! The Columbia PFG Marlin sandals are a super-lightweight pair made with waterproof lining, a contoured foot bed and a non-slip grip and tread for extra comfort. You can say goodbye to sore and distressed feet after your day of trekking across beach territory for your perfect spot under the sun.

The best thing about these sandals is the extra padding. Whether you're hitting the boardwalk on Venice Beach or been sunning on the sand in the Bahamas, you can protect those toes from the scorching sands and pebbles along the waterfront with the contoured foam base. They're slightly flexible too, which means you can jump into that next beach volleyball or other waterfront game without putting stress on your feet by going barefoot. The contoured base fits even wide feet, so you'll get plenty of arch support; the deep tread pattern prevents slipping and sliding on watery surfaces, giving you plenty of traction indoors and out.

If you're a fan of hiking along the oceanfront cliffs or exploring the rainforest on an eco-adventure, these are the sandals to take on the trails. You can slip in and out of them at a moment's notice when you're ready to dip into the lake or stream, and they're super-easy to rinse off if you get stuck in muddy waters. For cleaning, a quick rinse or scrub in soapy water followed by an air drying session is all it takes to keep these sandals in tip-top shape.

And don't forget to protect those toes even further with plenty of sunscreen and moisturizer. Your feet need as much attention as the skin on your face and body when you're out in the sun; these thong sandals won't cover up much when you're spending hours outdoors, so load up on SPF 30 or higher moisturizer to prevent chapping, flaking and sunburn!

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Outdoor Product of the Week: Cooking Tips for the Outdoor Chef

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Feb 18, 2009 by Sabah K.

When you're hitting the backcountry for an overnight stay, eating like a king (or queen) is possible with the right equipment. Whether camping in the rainforest or undertaking a multi-day hike in desert country, you can cook up a storm when there's no inn or tavern in sight.

Benefits of the MSR Blacklite Cookset
When traveling in a group, the MSR Blacklite Guide Cookset will be every weary traveler's essential. The set features 3-liter and 4-liter aluminum pots with fitted lids, a pot-lifter and pack towel, so you can heat up that tomato soup, baked beans and other canned staples within seconds.

If you want to cook up a one-pot meal, use these sturdy pots with their non-stick and scorch-free coating; the rounded corners will heat everything up in a flash, and the snug lids will keep that stew bubbling with steady heat.

The MSR brand is one of the most trusted and well respected gear and equipment providers on the market; you can rest assured that these pots will last for years of adventures to come.

Outdoor Cooking Tips
A few more tips for cooking on the run:

Pack Ingredients in Separate Zip Lock Baggies
Just pre-measure everything and store it in Zip Lock bags for easy cooking at the campsite.

Cover Pots at all Times
This keeps the bugs out and heats up the pans faster.

Store Food above Ground Level
Hang or stack food away from the ground to prevent insects and small animals from joining the dinner table.

Use Cans of Frozen Juice as Coolers
Frozen juice cans work just as well as ice to keep food and beverages chilled on the road.

Use a Charcoal Chimney
This will heat up the coals much faster and help you get an even temperature. Using coals also helps prevent burnt or overcooked food.

Wear Gloves
Suede work gloves can do double duty as oven mitts for handling hot pots and pans.

Degrease with Dish Soap
A few drops of dish soap and hot water are all it takes to get rid of burnt food at the bottom of the pan.

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