Gear Blog

Fjällräven Keb Trousers

2013-03-14T22:43:09Z

Since we are on the topic of Fjällräven I thought it appropriate to go a little more in depth then just being a stand-up company to look out for. While admittedly, I do have a LOT of Fjällräven goods, by far (far far!) my favorite are the Keb Trousers. In my opinion, they are the best outdoor pants on the market. Suited for any type of use, these bad-boys feature stretch panels on key movement areas as well as the durable and functional G-1000 Eco.

G-1000 is a cotton/poly blend which allows the poly to be more breathable, but keeps its insulation value when wet. With the durability of a heavy grade canvas, but much lighter thanks to the poly portion -- this material is tooted as the best outdoor material. Nice thing is, the G-1000 Eco is made with, you guessed it, eco friendly materials; recycled polyester and organic cotton. Located in key areas such as the inside of the ankle (where people tend to kick up dirt from their boots) knees and seat, the G-1000 Eco makes these trousers some hard wearing, heavy duty garb.

Get warm easily? Worry not, for the stretch panels on the remaining areas of the pants allow for inhanced breathability and comfort without restricting movement. The softshell material is water resistant and simply comfy. That not enough? Well lucky you; the Keb Trousers just so happen to have two (read: TWO) 12" inch zippered vents on EACH leg, for a total of four vents. Now you don't have an excuse to wear your zip-off pants as these are as comfortable in the summer as they are in the winter.

With two large cargos -- one zippered for security, one open for convenience -- two regular pockets, and built in gaiter cuff (tightens around the ankle with a clip to secure the bottom to your shoelace preventing dirt and snow from getting in your boot) the Kebs are full featured, no bull pants.

Company Spotlight: Fjällräven

2013-02-07T18:26:37Z

Fjällräven worn (on left): Eco-Tour Jacket, Keb Trousers, Forest Friluft 30L Pack

As the Outdoor Industry grows, so does its accessibility. With all the great local brands like Gregory, NEMO Equipment, Mountain Hardwear, etc. we have never had to look abroad for gear, closing our eyes to all the incredible equipment small companies around the world have to offer. Enter Fjällräven, a Swedish brand which began in 1960, this company has been outfitting people for Nordic winters and harsh conditions since its inception. With their technical products, classic designs, and outstanding materials, Fjällräven stands out from the crowd.

Pronounced fee yall raven, the word means Arctic Fox in Swedish – an animal the company has sworn to protect. With their environmentally conscious state of mind, this company not only makes great products, but does what they can to leave no negative impact on the world which we all live in. Think of Fjällräven as the Swedish Patagonia – still family owned and operated small intimate teams of designers and testers, and the cool and calm personality we all associate with great outdoor brands.

The company is great, but how are the products? Outstanding. I’ve been gearing up to the nine with Fjällräven, and have yet to find a piece I don’t love. The classic design allows for a majority of their products to be worn in everyday life, and not look like you’re ready to go base jumping, however, it performs as well – if not better – than the highlighter yellow technical shell you’ve got from your favorite brand. The clean lights, attention to detail, and wonderful material makes for a highly versatile garment.

The best part of their products is the G-1000; a proprietary material made of 35% cotton and 65% polyester, ending the saying “cotton kills” for outdoor use. The cotton portion allows for the absorption of wax and increased breathability, where the polyester portion allows for the technical aspects we all require for outdoor use (quick dry time, retention of insulation value, lighter weight). Since there is no Durable Water Repellant (a chemical which nearly all technical products have applied to them for water resistance) it is much more environmentally friendly. The beeswax-paraffin blend allows for easy application even in the field. Just rub on the wax to the desired area and heat with any heat source. From a campfire, to camp stove – anything will melt the water resisting agent! This also allows for ‘body mapping’. You can wax the shoulders of your jacket for increased water resistance, but leave the back wax-free allowing it be more breathable.

I am excited to see the brand grow here in the states, and watch as the classic outdoor style makes resurgence into the Outdoor Industry. We all love our techy gear, but most of us enjoy looking good in it too; a specialty of Fjällräven. Remember, as Fjallraven says, there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear.

Footwear

2012-05-02T01:41:15Z

How to Choose the Right Hiking Boots

For hikers and backpackers, the proper pair of boots is vital for outings. There are different aspects to consider when choosing the correct boots. Many of your decisions will depend on what kind of hiking you will be doing. Will it be an easy day trip, something longer, or even a trip that will take a couple of days? This will determine what kind of boot you should choose. A degree in design could help you to further understand the process of creating products like shoes.

Light Hiking Boots

There are three general types of hiking boots. Light hiking boots are designed for easy terrain and short trips. They are flexible and made of breathable lightweight materials. Many light hiking boots have a low-cut to provide ankle support, but this allows stand, dirt, or other debris to get into the boot.

Heavy Hiking Boots

Heavier hiking and backpacking boots provide better support for feet traveling longer distances are carrying a regularly weighted backpack. These boots have a mid to high range of cut; the higher the cut more durable and stable the boot is, and can provide better ankle support while keeping debris out.

Mountaineering boots

Mountaineering boots provide ankle and foot support for those carrying heavy loads on very long trips. Many mountaineering boots at a hard outer shell designed for snow and ice hiking. Mountaineering boots have the highest cut for support over a long trip.

Materials

The fabrics, materials, and technology that make up a hiking boot’s construction serve different purposes, and will affect their performance during a hike. Leather is durable and long lasting, but it takes time to break them in properly and can be quite heavy. Synthetic materials way less and take less time to break in, but they don't hold up as well. Many boots have a blend of both these materials.

Other Features

Other features include water resistance, and the Vibram® sole. Those looking for water resistant boots should look for a water resistant layer in the boots construction. Vibram soles are made up of synthetic rubbers that provide grip, traction, and durability. Boots with Vibram soles are marked with a yellow octagon on the sole.

Try Them On

When you already have the type and cut you want in mind, it’s still important to go out and try boots on. Be sure to bring your own hiking socks to ensure proper fit. Also try on boots later in the day as your feet swell over time. Many outdoor retail stores offer climbing ramps or even a fake rock in order to test out how a boot fits. A boot should hold your feet comfortably without binding them. Your feet shouldn't slide around inside the boot and your heel shouldn’t slide up and down either. Leave extra room for your toes.

When you have your new pair, start out easy and allow them to break in. Take them out on shorter hikes before you start something longer in order to avoid blisters. Afterwards you should be able to enjoy them.

Check out Shoe Blogs for even more information about shoes.

Sources

Expert How-How To Choose the Right Hiking Boots

How to Choose the Right Hiking Boots

NEMO Sleeping Bags: Nocturne

2012-04-18T17:15:58Z

As any follower (or unfortunate bystander) of The Dusty Camel knows, I love gear. I love using it, I love having it, I love reasearching it, and I most of all, love talking about it. Which is why it was so terribly difficult of me to hold off on spreading the word of the long awaited NEMO sleeping bag line.

Fortunate enough to test this bag on the Pacific Crest Trail, Andy and I were extatic about getting them, and even more so after using them. We got to test out the Nocturne: a 700-fill down, spoon shaped bag allowing much desired leg space for snoozing in the back country. Featuring a duvet flap for snuggling, and ultra soft nylon shell fabric, it is even packed with the exciting new DownTek nanotechnology. The spoon shape allows for room where you need it, and with vertical baffles, allows even heat transfer to prevent cold spots.

DownTek is a revolutionary technology that is added to down before it is used in garments, and now sleeping bags. Essentially, it creates a water resistant barrier around the down, but since it is so small (nano small, or 10^-9) it doesn't effect the loft, essentially eliminated the downfall to down (useless when wet). See this short video to get a quick glimpse into the sheer awesomeness of DownTek.

DownTek Demo from Lauren Fisher on Vimeo.

Should that not be enough to ease your woes, the Nocturne is also equipped with a waterproof foot box. Since it is usually inevitable for your feet to hit the tent wall, this gives an extra layer of protection by preventing condensation from getting the base of your bag wet.

Not only did these folks design an awesome sleeping bag, but they gave their prototypes out to nearly two dozen avid outdoors men and women and told us all to push it to it's limits. Afterwards, they listened to our collective input, and actually made changes to the design and construction.

So now, I can not only give the TDC stamp of approval on these bad-boys, but I can also give you the link to check out the line, and pre-order your bag of choice (snugglers rejoice, as there is also a two person bag!).

Enjoy. www.NemoSleepingBags.com

NEMO Slepeing Bags: Nocturne

2012-04-18T17:15:58Z

As any follower of The Dusty Camel (or unfortunate bystander) knows, I love gear. I love using it, I love having it, I love reasearching it, and I most of all; love talking about it. Which is why it was so terribly difficult of me to hold off on spreading the word of the long awaited NEMO sleeping bag line.

Fortunate enough to test this bag on the Pacific Crest Trail, Andy and I were extatic about getting them, and even more so after using them. We got to test out the Nocturne: a down filled, spoon shaped bag allowing much desired leg space for snoozing in the backcountry. Featuring a duvet flap for snuggling, and ultra soft nylon shell fabric, it is even packed with the excitined new DownTek nanotechnology.

DownTek is a revoluntionary technology that is added to down before it is used in garments, and now sleeping bags. Essentially, it creates a water resistant barrier around the down, but since it is so small (nano small, or 10^-9) it doesn't effect the loft, essentially eliminated the downfall to down (useless when wet). See this short video to get a quick glimpse into the sheer awesomness of DownTek.

DownTek Demo from Lauren Fisher on Vimeo.

Not only did these folks design an awesome sleeping bag, but they gave their prototypes out to nearly two dozen avid outdoorsmen and women and told us all to push it to it's limits. Afterwards, they listened to our collective input, and actually made changes to the design and construction.

Enojoy. www.NemoSleepingBags.com

Patagonia Auction!

2012-03-21T18:55:20Z

Thanks to our good friends at Patagonia, we are bringing to you the first 'live' auction at The Dusty Camel! All proceeds will be used to fund the Exploration Grant and website maintenance. Your contribution will be tax deductible and you'll have some pretty awesome pieces of gear!

We have two sets for you folks today -- one for the ladies, and one for the gents.

For the ladies we have an Ultralight Down Sweater Hoody and a pair of Rock Guide Pants. The Ultralight is an awesome down jacket that has the same amount of down as the best selling Down Sweater, but weighs in at less than nine ounces! The ultra tough nylon shell fabrics means low weight with high strength. Pair that up with the super comfy and stretchy Guide Pants, and you're set to go on your next trek! The Guide Pants are what I thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in... had the same pair the whole time! Retail value is $380!

For the men we've got the Ultralight Down Jacket as well as the Rock Guide Pants. A killer combo for everyone to enjoy. Retail value is $360!

The auction will be live until March 31st. Place your bids by commenting below! If you have any questions contact us at TheCamels [at] TheDustyCamel.org

Bidding starts at $50 per set and is sold as a set. Sizes are exchangable given stock at Patagonia. Happy bidding!

Deepsea Challeneger

2012-03-11T06:21:24Z

Ahh... rich boys and their money. First we have Branson going to the stars with Virgin Galactic, and now we have Cameron diving to the deepest point on Earth with his new submarine. Can't say I am anything but envious, and it is nice to see that these folks are spending their money to further human curiosity (obviously while given themselves a few extra dollar in the long run). Cameron is truly utilizing his title as Explorer-in-Resident from National Geographic with this one.

For those of you who haven't heard, James Cameron (the mind who brought you Titanic and Avatar) has secretly been building a human sized sardine can for which he can dive into the Mariana Trench -- nearly seven miles under water. He has kept it under wraps to undermine Branson and his attempt to get down there with his sponsored program -- you guessed it -- Virgin Oceanic.

In 1960, the U.S. Navy sent down a sub to explore the trench. However, after five hours of descent, they were only able to spend 20 minutes at the sea's floor. They weren't able to see anything as they kicked up silt which surrounded the sub in a cloud of impenetrable mystery.

In recent years, there have been cameras dropped down to the floor to see glimpses into the life seven miles deep, but never has there been a person to watch, collect samples, and film this unexplored territory. He plans to spend six hours down there studying and filming.

This month, Cameron is going to can himself up (the hatch is literally bolted shut from the outside) and bring his sub, dubbed the Deepsea Challenger, to the deep side of the pool in hope to break records, and make history.

Enjoy this little video on the mission.

KONY 2012

2012-03-09T16:23:19Z

This Gear Blog is used to bring you the most exciting, interesting, and technologically astounding outdoor products on the market. My personal interest in gear can only be satiated by the search and research to bring the folks who follow the gear they will use.

However, that being said, I also feel it important to share pertitent information on the world, the environment, and things that are important to the time we live in. The Dusty Camel was created to share stories, inspire and fuel the natural adventurous spirit in everyone.

I have found a story, that hopefully you know of. While not an environmental issue, nor related to the outdoor industry and it's gear, this is a story of inspiration. With Andy working hard on The Daze of Freedom, our documentary sharing with you the inspiring story of America, we have been searching for other inspirational videos out there. Thus we came across Kony 2012.

If you haven't seen this, watch it. If you have, watch it again. This is our chance to make a difference in the world, and this is our time to show that our generation is one of empowerment and positive change. It's time to do something that will not benefit ourselves, but defend human dignity. For it is every souls right to live a life as they want it, and not because someone else forces their hand.

Enjoy.

KONY 2012 from INVISIBLE CHILDREN on Vimeo.

Airlite Inflatable Snowshoe

2012-03-09T00:55:21Z

Any long distance trekker will tell you -- hiking in snow sucks. Countless times did I turn to my hiking partner exclaiming "man, I wish we had snowshoes". Snowshoes just aren't practical for those living out of a backpack. They are bulky, heavy, and gosh darn hard to deal with if you're not using them

Enter Airlite. Built out of the need of snowmobilers who weren't smart enough to bring extra fuel, or were having too much fun to pay attention to the fuel gauge, this was created for emergencies. However, this design is ideal for long-distance hikers. Weighing in a hair over a pound, these guys pack down into nothing, can sit on the bottom of your pack forever, and can be inflated by mouth or compressed air capsules. While it can be inflated solely on breath, they suggest a shot of compressed air to stiffen it up.

Worried about puncturing? Ha. Don't. This bad boy is created from military grade plastic that won't puncture. Throw it in your pack, and this will save you from post-holing up that mountain, and waisting energy falling through snow.

Wish I had this in the Northern Cascades...

Airlite Snowshoe $168

Suunto Ambit

2012-03-07T17:42:58Z

Long time lover of Suunto, I've always sported one on my wrist. From the Vector on the Appalachian Trail to the Core on the Pacific Crest Trail, I think I found my next Suunto for the ever growing elephant in the room -- The Continental Divide Trail.

Suunto's Ambit, which was just released this month, takes the best of both worlds; outdoor specific watch (not training specific) with an integrated GPS. While not the first time this is done by Suunto (see their X10), it is the first time that a GPS watch is realistically usable for an outdoor traveller.

Coined as the "GPS for Explorers" it has all the functions that I love about the Core: barometer, altimeter, compass, watch, alarm, etc. However, it adds a function that most don't see in a trekkers watch: GPS, training elements, and connectivity to Suunto Pods.

The reason why the x10 didn't catch on -- in my opinion -- was because of the training aspect to it. The GPS watch was used to track and record runs, cycling loops, etc. and did not have the battery life or adaptability that the Ambit has. The x10 only had a 14 hour battery life and had to be charged daily for anyone who wanted to use it regularly. The Suunto Ambit has three modes to combat this lack of battery life; training mode where the battery lasts 15 hours, and is most similar to the x10, Outdoor mode where the battery lasts 50 hours and records intervals less regularly, and watch mode which lasts 30 days. This gives you the versatility to use your watch as you need it. Track your daily pace every few days on the long expedition, or track your pace up a climb to see how fit you are getting. What it comes down to, is having a versatile watch you can rely on. I believe this is it.

I'm looking forward to getting the Ambit. I still wish Suunto customer service was a little more understanding to those on expeditions (tried to get mine replaced on the PCT, but they required it to be sent in before they could send out a replacement... what kind of trekker wants to go weeks without their navigation and time tracking tool?!) The best part is it charges via USB. Making it easy to plug into portable battery you may carry on long trips.

Suunto Ambit $525