Gear We Love: Issue 92

Goodies for your active lifestyle

1. Reflekt Rival Unsinkable Sunglasses

Reflekt makes sporty sunglasses that are comfortable and good looking. What’s exciting is that these sunglasses will not sink in water. We are curious why no one has thought of this before because floating sunglasses are pretty much crucial in a lake or ocean environment. For anyone who has lost a pair of expensive sunglasses in the ocean we feel your pain – that’s why we recommend Reflekt Rival Unsinkables for all outdoor sports that involve water.

Made with a high tech plastic called Vaporlite, these sunglasses are actually lighter than water and will bob to the surface immediately when immersed.

Reflekt offers a unique warranty against loss or damage; simply register your pair upon purchase and your glasses will be replaced if you lose them.

MSRP $139.00
reflektpolarized.com

2. Hydrapak 1L Stash Collapsible Water Bottle

The Stash Bottle is a game changer no matter where your active lifestyle takes you. We love how lightweight the bottle is and well it collapses to stash away whether tucking it into a gear bag after our kids’ soccer game or backpack out in the backcountry where preserving space is critical.

Durable, flexible, and leak-proof, the Stash packs down to roughly one-fifth its filled size, and its design is lighter and easier to carry than hard bottles.

The wide-mouth screw top features an integrated bail-handle and makes it super easy to fill and clean. It can be frozen or filled with warm water (max temp 140°F / 60°C), fits most backcountry water filters and is 100% BPA and PVC Free.

MSRP $22.99
hydrapak.com

3. Blackburn Outpost Medium Frame Bag

We’ve found this cycling frame bag to be the ideal choice whether packing for a one day pleasure ride or a multi-day adventure. Its expandable bottom compartment accommodates a surprising amount of  gear, and makes it easy to customize your packing needs to your trip.

The bag includes adjustable mounting systems to fit almost any bike, and straps can mount in multiple locations for a secure fit. Other features include extra protection against the elements, a water bladder hydration port, and several mesh and slip pockets, as well as a main compartment baffle. Weight: 360g/0.79lbs. Also comes in large for $10.00 more.

MSRP $59.99
blackburndesign.com

4. Source Hipster Multi-Sport Hydration Belt

This hydration pack rides on your hips and we think you’ll agree it’s the most ergonomic hydration pack ever. The suspenders take a little getting used to, but after one ride or run you will never want to wear a backpack-style hydration pack again. The reason we like this style so much is that your center of gravity is kept noticeably lower which has some obvious advantages while trail running or mountain biking.

The capacity of the bladder is 1.5 liters making it suitable for long adventures depending on your hydration preferences. Source makes a variety of great products and this pack has all the features you’d expect from an elite level gear maker. The Widepac Hydration system is very easy to refill and the drinking valve comes with a magnetic clip that holds the drinking tube right next to your face so its handy – a feature we have come to expect from the best hydration packs.

Zippered mesh pockets on the side and velcro sealed small back pockets offer space for gels and bars. The Hipster is a must try if you are looking for a hydration pack and it’s ideal for biking, hiking, running and paddling.

MSRP $90.00
sourceoutdoor.com

5. Wren Boost MTB/Fatbike Frame Mount Pump

Wren Boost MTB/Fatbike Frame Mount Pump We ran across this powerful new bike pump from Wren at the Carson City Off Road. In a nutshell this pump is a work of art and highly functional to boot. Finally a totally self-contained frame pump with no loose parts or adaptors to fumble with or lose.

The Wren Boost Pump comes with an adjustable head that easily rotates between Schrader and Presta valves. Simply turn the knob clockwise until it stops for Schrader, or counter-clockwise for Presta. No adaptors to carry or reverse. What’s nice is the hose stays attached to and stores inside the barrel. Simply unscrew the adaptor head and pull out the hose. The hose is a full eight inches in length with three points of rotation at the head, hose and handle making your job a lot easier.

Wren pumps come with a mounting bracket including safety strap to keep your pump secure. The weight is 124 grams and the length is just a hair under ten inches.

MSRP $24.99
wrensports.com

6.Pura Naturals Active Sponge

We like Pura Naturals active sponges for dealing with that not-so-fresh-feeling that comes with car camping and backpacking. It’s convenient head-to-toe cleaning you can take anywhere without messy soaps and a washcloth.

The active sponge attracts oil, dirt, and impurities from your skin and gently exfoliates with rich botanicals.

MSRP $8.99
puranaturalsproducts.com

7. Pearl Izumi Men’s E: Motion Trail M2 Running Shoes

Bi-lateral midfoot stability in the Pearl Izumi Trail M2 creates nimble security on technical trails. We love the stable E: Motion platform for trail running because it adds a rock solid foundation for the ultra light uppers that Pearl Izumi is known for. This shoe is fast and feels just as sensitive as a minimalist running shoe without the bone jarring footfalls.

The shoe weighs in at ten ounces and features a 4mm drop. The seamless upper uses bonded technology for structure and durability, leaving the inside of the upper smooth and comfortable against your foot.

MSRP $59.99
pearlizumi.com