I get to test and review a lot of gear here at UtahOutside.com, and every year I take a look back at the equipment that really caught my attention. Whether it’s because the gear is innovative, comfortable, or just flat-out works beyond expectations, the bets of the best rises to the top and is honored. So below is my top 10 outdoor gear that I tested and reviewed in 2011.
There is a ski model out there who’s name is being whispered in the halls of skidom. They are long-awaited boards that promise to bring powder-floaty-happiness to face shot seekers the world over. It is the sequel to the legendary Salomon Rocker, and this reborn version is aptly named the Rocker 2.
All over the mountain, the Salomon Rocker 2 skisSalomon are on the hunt. In every condition, from deep powder to groomers, these guys could handle it. Considering how big these skis are, I was surprised at how versatile, quick, and maneuverable they could be. Salomon managed this by reducing weight in the tip and tails, thereby reducing the “swing weight” when you turn. Those honeycomb, edgeless tips are responsible, and they work. Purchase the Salomon Rocker 2 skis here.
Klymit Inertia X Frame Camping Pad
The Klymit Inertia X Frame is an anatomically patterned, super light weight (9.1 oz) camping pad that packs down to the size of a soda can. Looking at its unusual shape makes one wonder if such a thing is possible to sleep on. Klymit has made some revolutionary changes to the standard inflatable pad, and the result has many people scratching their heads. But I slept on the X Frame during a winter camping trip, and found that this pad is worth far more than its tremendously low weight.
The Klymnit Inertia X Frame made me rethink about what I really need to be comfortable when sleeping outdoors. If the goal is to travel as light as possible, then there’s no reason not to own the X Frame for backpacking and camping adventures during every season. Purchase the X-Frame from Klymit.com
Geigerrig Rig 500 Ballistic Hydration Pack
The Geigerrig Rig 500 is a small hydration pack that I found to be perfect for short day trips on the bike or on foot in Utah’s outdoors. It’s a very well-built pack made from durable Ballistic Nylon, and has the most unique, innovative hydration system I’ve ever seen.
First, the reservoir is of the slide-top variety with a wide mouth for easy filling and cleaning. In fact, after a day on the trail and the subsequent scrubbing back home, I could reach in and turn the bladder inside out so it can dry. Second, the bladder is pressurized by a pressure bulb, located on the left shoulder strap of the pack. Pressing the bulb a dozen or so times ”pumps up” the bladder with air, allowing water to be sprayed out of the bite valve, eliminating the need to bite down and suck. Third, the bite valve not only can switch on and off, but it sprays water in two steady streams without leaking, even if it’s fully pressurized and in the unlocked position. Finally, working with this hydration system is made easier with quick release valves. The tubes are easy to release from the bladder for easy refilling and cleaning. Purchase the Geigerrig Rig 500 here.
The first time I wore them, I immediately determined that the Chaco Otis Nurl are among the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn. I figure the primary reason for that is Chaco’s world famous footbed. The midsole features a contured LUVSEAT™ platform that does wonders for arch support and all day comfort.
The beauty of these Chaco shoes lies in their simplicity. The upper is made from suede leather that looks good under a pair of jeans and gives some serious outdoorsy/western cred, especially when it gets scuffed and well worn. Stroll through an open field in these kicks and you’ll feel like a ranch hand circa 1895… minus the anatomical footbed. Overall, for casual wear during fall or spring, you can’t go wrong with the Chaco Otis Nurl Boots. Purchase the Chaco Otis Nurl here.
Icebreaker SS Roto Half Zip Bike Jersey
The Icebreaker SS Roto Half Zip Jersey looks like your typical bike top, but it sure doesn’t feel like it. Merino wool is soft and flexible, and immediately after slipping it on I appreciated how much more comfortable it is over the standard Lycra fare. It also actually looks good with its subtle colors and styling, unlike the logo-covered, neon clown-suit monstrosities that have invaded the singletrack these days.
The bottom line is this: if you’re looking for a mountain bike jersey that breathes, stays dry, doesn’t make you look like a rolling billboard, and is the most comfortable jersey on the face of the planet, then look no further than the Icebreaker SS Roto Half Zip.
Salomon XR Crossmax Trail Running Shoes
The Salomon XR Crossmax trail running shoes “go from door to trail,” and I’d say they perform pretty damn well for everything else too. That being said, the trail is where the Salomon XR Crossmax really shine, and boy howdy do they like to tear it up on the dirt and mud. Traction was second to none unless things turned super muddy, and stability was excellent. I also love the Quiklace system that got my feet snug inside the shoes, and stowed into the flexible material on the tongue to keep excess out of the way.
As if creating an amazing hybrid shoe wasn’t enough, Salomon went ahead and released two versions. The shoes I tested were the XR Crossmax Neutral, which is a standard cushioned running shoe. But Salomon also made the XR Crossmax Guidance, another version that has pronation control and stable cushioning for runners who over-pronate. Purchase the Salomon XR Crossmax here.
Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottle
Hydro Flask is just a water bottle… or is it? Really, this is no typical bottle. The Hydro Flask is a double-wall, vacuum insulated piece of gear that will do everything except massage tired feet… or not. But ever since I got my hands on the 21-ounce, standard mouth version of the Hydro Flask, it’s become my go-to bottle not so much for water, but as an insulated container for my coffee and hot chocolate on backcountry ski tours.
Looks like the Hydro Flask is the only bottle you’ll ever need. You can use it for liquids hot or cold, and it should last for the rest of your life. In fact, I think it’s probably best to own two. That way you can bring both hot coffee and cold water with you wherever you go. Purchase the Hydro Flask at their website.
Out of the box, I was impressed with the Oboz Beartooth’s bombproof materials stitched together like Nubuck leather over suede, stainless steel hardware, and a surprisingly high quality urethane foam footbed with high arches and airflow perforations. In fact, I swooned over the footbeds as I have high arches and felt no need to replace them with after-market versions, which is very rare compared to other shoe companies who tend to cheap-out on that particular aspect of shoe manufacturing.
If you’re one who practically runs to the tops of mountains, look elsewhere. But if you fall into the category of someone who enjoys long backpacking trips into the woods, or need lots of ankle support on the trail, then you really can’t go wrong with the Oboz Beartooths. Purchase the Oboz Beartooth Boots here.
Easton Mountain Products CTR 70 Trekking Poles
The Easton CTR-70 trekking poles are adjustable, durable, and lightweight due to being made of carbon. Other features include Rock-Lock™ clamps to lock in the tiered segments, a large grip constructed with EVA foam, and a really thick wrist strap that is downright luxurious. The CTR-70 poles are even included with powder baskets so they can be used for both summer hikes as well as winter snowshoe adventures.
All of these features add up as proof that the Easton CTR-70 trekking poles are some of the best in the outdoor market. Check them out online.
Brooks-Range Isto Soft Shell Jacket
The Brooks-Range Isto Soft Shell is made from a flexible fabric that features 4-way stretch, protection from the elements, and is highly breathable during aerobic exertion. The inside is lined with lightweight fleece for added warmth on cold days. Plus, it only has the features you need like a moisture wicking collar, single chest pocket, zipper chin guard, Velcro adjustable cuffs, hem drawcord, and zipper hand warmer pockets.
If you’re not familiar with Brooks-Range’s outerwear line and you’re in the market for a soft shell jacket capable of ski touring, ice climbing or all around cold weather layering, give the Isto Jacket a look. It has everything you need, and nothing you don’t. Purchase at the Brooks-Range website.