- Best of -
Spring/Summer 2014
www.backcountryedge.com
Letter from Backcountry Edge President Tim King: “Since 2004, Backcountry Edge has remained dedicated to our Awesome Gear, Amazing Service philosophy. As a small, family-owned business, we truly appreciate each and every customer and we work hard every day to continue earning your trust and support. Every member of our team is willing to go the extra mile to deliver a level of personalized service you won’t find everywhere else.
Awesome Gear, Amazing Service!
If you have any questions, give us a call and talk to one of our gear specialists, or check out our website for loads of detailed product information, customer reviews and informative videos. For us, Awesome Gear, Amazing Service is more than just a tagline, it’s our promise.
www.backcountryedge.com
www.facebook.com/backcountryedge
The next time you need quality backpacking gear or just some good advice, give us a try. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.”
Use Your Inside Edge To Earn Free Gear www.backcountryedge.com/inside-edge
featured brands! Congratulations to these
TM
See our complete list of brands at www.backcountryedge.com/brands 2
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
- Best of -
S K C A P
scan m your sm e with artphone
rt sma r e p “Su on!” izati n a org Coya
Marmot Apollo 50 (shown) Women’s Athena 48 The brand-new, versatile Apollo 50 and Athena 48 packs are lightweight and sleek enough for long day hikes while having the capacity and load-carrying capability to tackle multi-day backpacking trips. An included rain cover adds value and serves as a buffer against the elements. ($178.95)
Mountainsmith Mystic 65 Comfortably supporting up to 55 pounds, the Mystic 65 has plenty of capacity for multiday backpacking trips and Mountainsmith’s Breezeway suspension system creates breathable space between the pack and your back to cut down on sweat and keep you from overheating. ($219.95)
Kelty PK 50 Women’s PK W50 (shown) Anticipating what gear you’re likely to want to put your hands on first and saving you from having to dismantle the pack entirely to get there, the innovative PK pack introduces a whole new concept of how gear is stored and accessed. As perhaps its biggest trick, it does so without any zippers! ($199.95)
TM
1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
3
A. Osprey Exos 48 We’ve always loved the ultralightweight design and clean profile of the Osprey Exos, but a couple of tweaks for 2014 really have us excited. Increased padding and support in the harness and waistbelt make this iteration far more comfortable than the original while still checking in at less than 2.5 pounds! Already a thru-hiking favorite, the pack now has comfort to appeal to a broader audience than just the ounce counters. ($190)
D. Mountain Hardwear Fluid 12 A streamlined option for day hiking, trail running or adventure racing, the Fluid 12 incorporates on-the-fly compression to ensure that the pack moves with you while keeping its contents balanced and secure. Couple it with a hydration system (not included) and you’ve got an ideal minimalist option for long, speedy days on the trail. ($79.95)
B. Gregory Z55 J53 Women’s (shown) We’re always a bit nervous to learn that longtime favorites are undergoing changes, but when the Z and J packs from Gregory turned out to be lighter than before, just as capable of carrying weight, and available at a more affordable price, we knew we had nothing to worry about. ($198.95)
C. Boreas Bootlegger Count on the innovative design team at Boreas to build a highperformance modular backpack that ably serves the role of three very different packs. By utilizing a swap-out suspension system, the versatile Bootlegger is a 3-in-1 day pack, hydration pack (reservoir not included) and large submersible dry bag. ($199.99)
E. Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 25L Employing the clean design approach you’d expect from Patagonia, the sleek Ascensionist Pack 25L is perfect for day hiking or done-in-a-day climbing. A built-in spindrift collar opens wide to grant easy access to the top-loading packbag while effectively protecting contents. A minimalist webbed belt stabilizes weight without getting in the way of a climbing harness. ($98.95)
F. Exped Torrent 20 Constructed of laminated 420D nylon and equipped with highfrequency welded seams and a roll-top closure, the compact Torrent 20 pack ensures waterproof protection for day hiking, climbing or paddling. With its all-weather design and an integrated light-attachment loop, the pack is also a worthwhile consideration for bike commuters. ($118.99)
Ste ven
A
4
B
C
cks e pa e r h “T ne!” in o
D
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
E
I G
H
H. Lowe Alpine Expedition 75:95 As you might expect from a pack with a name that hints at challenging adventures, the Expedition 75:95 is loaded with performance features. The suspension system allows for on-the-go torso length adjustments. The pack has over 5,700 cubic inches of storage capacity, a myriad of gear attachment options and wellthought-out pocketing. It even contains a lined sleeve that can be removed entirely for use as a stand-alone hydration pack (reservoir not included). ($314.95)
I. Granite Gear Nimbus Trace Access 70 With its award-winning suspension system, the Nimbus Trace Access 70 offers excellent load-carrying capacity and organizational features while still weighing less than you might expect from a heavy hauler. An excellent balance of weight and performance, the pack comfortably carries up to 60 pounds. ($349.95)
J. Salomon Adv Skin Lab Hydro 12 Set Have you ever picked up a piece of gear and thought “Wow, they have thought of everything!”? That was our impression of the Adv Skin Lab Hydro 12 Set, a torsohugging vest pack that is built especially for ultra-marathons, fast packing and adventure racing. A dizzying number of pockets, gear lash points and dual soft flasks tucked into the shoulder straps address all of your race day storage needs. ($185)
F
J
1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-packs
G. Deuter ACT Lite 75+10 ACT Lite 70+10 SL Women’s (shown) The ACT Lite 70+10 SL Women’s and ACT Lite 75+10 deliver the same balance of weight and performance backpackers have come to expect from the popular Deuter ACT Lite series, but, thanks to a sturdier X-frame, they can comfortably carry up to 60 pounds. ($229)
5
A
B
C
- Best of -
Tents A. Kelty
Upslope Tarp Often overshadowed by the bells and whistles of ever-lighter traditional tents, a well-built tarp can prove surprisingly versatile. The new Upslope Tarp is the perfect example. It comes in under $100, pitches easily as a minimalist backpacking shelter with the use of two trekking poles (not included) and can also be tied out to serve as overhead sun and rain protection at your campsite. It even has connection points that enable it to attach to Kelty’s TN2 tent (sold separately) as an awning-style vestibule. ($99.95)
6
D
C. Sierra
scan m your sm e with artphon e
B. Big
Agnes Slater UL 3+ Despite a trail weight of just 4 pounds, 13 ounces, the Slater UL 3+ is packed with creature comforts. Take the dog, take your bikes, take whatever you like. Forty-seven square feet of internal space affords plenty of room for three backpackers and two vestibules, one of which is an immense 23 square feet, yield a wealth of external storage space. ($549.95)
Designs Flashlight 2 UL If you’re going to fiddle with a design that’s been effectively accommodating backcountry users for more than two decades, you’d better be sure of the changes. Sierra Designs is confident that the large drop doors, weight-saving hybrid single/double wall construction and out-of-the-way-but-stillwithin-reach storage of two front gear closets bring the best of the old and new under one roof in the Flashlight 2 UL. You can shave weight further by leaving two of the tent’s poles at home and using trekking poles (not included) in their place. ($359.95)
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
G E
F Mountainsmith Mountain Shelter LT A modern take on the classic trekking pole-pitched (poles not included) backpacking tarp tent, the Mountain Shelter LT can be an effective sanctuary for up to two backpackers or serve as a roomy solo tent. If you use trekking poles anyway, as many backpackers do, this design allows you to leave behind the unnecessary weight of tent poles. ($129.95) F.
Hubba Hubba NX Years ago the Hubba Series from MSR ushered in a new era of lightweight construction in the backpacking tent market. As time went by, many tent designs seemed to chase ultralight benchmarks at the total expense of comfort. Updated for 2014, the Hubba Hubba NX is 9 ounces lighter than its predecessor but still boasts two doors, dual vestibules and maximum livability. ($389.95)
H
ut ck o “Che iew!� v that Mary
TM
NEMO Galaxi 2P Judging solely by its affordable price tag, you might expect the Galaxi 2P to be pretty barebones, but, true to its reputation, NEMO has incorporated a number of interesting features. Dual vestibules bestow an abundance of external storage and the doors tie back easily with unique magnetic connections. An integrated lightdiffusing pocket allows you to transform your headlamp (not included) into an overhead light. Adding additional value, NEMO even throws in a free protective footprint. ($249.95) G.
E. Marmot
Stormlight 3P The spacious, highly durable Stormlight 3P is ready made for three-season backpacking in varied conditions. A fully seam-welded rainfly bolsters weather protection and is solution dyed to enhance UV resistance. The combination of a roomy interior and reliability make the tent equally at home in the backcountry or the campground. ($348.95)
H. Mountain
Hardwear Optic 3.5 With its two enormous adjacent doors, the Optic 3.5 opens an expansive view of the outside world that few, if any, other backpacking tents can match. Even in inclement weather when you need to batten down the hatches, 45 square feet of floor space furnishes the tent with spacious room for you to hunker down. ($284.95)
1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-tents
D. MSR
7
- Best of -
s g a B g n i p e e Sl Marmot Helium 15 Degree Insulated with premium 850+ fill goose down, the Helium 15 Degree sleeping bag has long been a favorite for three-season backpacking. The bag’s lightweight warmth and compressibility is now enhanced by Down Defender so backpackers don’t have to worry about a drop-off in performance in wet or damp conditions. (starting at $398.95)
8
Kelty SB 20 Degree Women’s SB 20 Degree (shown) A three-season temperature rating, high-performance treated down insulation and innovative waterproof treatments at the head and the foot combine to make SB 20 Degree sleeping bags worthy of backpackers’ attention. The 800-fill insulation not only delivers warmth and all-weather confidence, it also enables the bags to pack down small and weigh in at just 2 pounds. (starting at $299.95)
Big Agnes Encampment 15 Degree The lightweight and roomy Encampment bag is an excellent choice for three-season backpacking. Its short staple synthetic insulation is warm, compressible and retains its insulating properties regardless of dampness or humidity. A built-in sleeve allows your sleeping pad (sold separately) to serve as the bottom insulation, shaving unnecessary weight off the bag and ensuring that you stay on your pad all night long. (starting at $179.95)
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
Mountain Hardwear Ratio 15 Degree Heratio 15 Degree Women’s (shown) ith scan me w hone Treated down technology has your smartp recently entered the marketplace, anointing lightweight, NEMO Tango Duo 30 Degree Double-Wide Slim compressible down insulation with the all-weather confidence The Tango Duo 30 Degree of synthetics. In many cases, Double-Wide Slim sleeping bag the sleeping bags that have utilizes lightweight, compressemployed that technology have ible, water-resistant 700-fill come with a scary price tag, but power DownTEK insulation to the new Ratio and Heratio bags allow backpacking couples utilize Q.Shield Down 650-fill to sleep together in one bag. insulation and do so at a very The uninsulated bottom does competitive price. Weighing require the use of two 20” x 72” well under 3 pounds, these pads (not included), but this 15 Degree bags are ideal for ounce-shaving design allows three-season backpacking and the bag to check in at a weight camping. (starting at $259.95) (2 lbs., 14 oz.) comparable with many solo bags. ($349.95)
1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-bags
Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed 600F 3 Season At first glance, the Backcountry Bed may have you scratching your head, but spend a night sleeping in it and you’ll be a believer. We did and we are. No matter how you like to sleep, on your back, side or stomach, this bag is accommodating, warm and comfortable. The truly unique integrated comforter maintains the bag’s temperature rating while providing unparalleled venting options. The compressible, all-weatherworthy DriDown insulation guarantees that you have an incredibly versatile option for backpacking and camping. (starting at $299.95)
9
PADS
A. Big Agnes Double Z Continuing to innovate, Big Agnes introduces the compact, lightweight Double Z inflatable mattress. Unique “stabilizer” construction makes for a less “pool rafty” base than traditional warm-weather inflatable pads and a two-piece valve allows for convenient one-way inflation and deflation. In addition to being comfortable and easy to use, the Regular length pad weighs just 16 ounces! Also available in a Long/Wide option for backpackers who prefer to sprawl. (starting at $79.95)
B. Kelty PDa A weight-saving mummy cut grants the PDa a trail weight of just 14.5 ounces and the pad inflates quickly and easily, creating a 2”-thick base for warm-weather backcountry sleeping. It’s a solid option for backpackers on the strength of these factors alone, but the real stand-out feature is the way the pad is packaged. Rather than a traditional “rolled” design that can complicate organization and make packing tricky, the PDa is housed in an 8” x 5.5” x 1.5” storage cube that fits more readily inside any backpack. ($69.95)
10
B
C. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Trekker Adding a reflective barrier to the interior of the inflatable NeoAir Trekker, Therm-a-Rest boosted the sleeping pad’s R-value to 3.0 while reducing the weight to right around a pound, making it a lightweight, comfortable and ultra-packable option for three-season backpacking. (starting at $129.95)
D. Exped SynMat Lite 5 Laminated layers of premium synthetic insulation on the top and bottom of the lightweight (24 oz.) SynMat Lite 5 give it a 3.8 R-value that makes the pad suitable for all but the coldest of temperatures. FlatValve technology makes inflation and deflation easy while eliminating the protruding valve common on many inflatable pads. (starting at $88.99)
ith scan me w ne ho tp ar your sm
C
D
E. Klymit Inertia O Zone The latest evolution in Klymit’s revolutionary series of inflatable sleeping pads, the Inertia O Zone uses strategic bodymapped cutaways to reduce weight without sacrificing warmth and comfort. The end result is a surprisingly comfortable 72” x 21.5” x 1.75” sleeping base that weighs just 12.2 ounces and packs down to 6” x 3”. An innovative, integrated 4” pillow further separates this design from anything else we’ve ever seen. ($99.95)
F. NEMO Cosmo Insulated Lite 20R Pleasing ounce counters and fans of comfort at the same time is no easy task. The inflatable Cosmo Insulated Lite 20R comes about as close as possible by delivering threeseason warmth, a plush 3”-thick base and an integrated foot pump while weighing just 22 ounces and packing down to 8” x 4.5”. ($159.95)
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-pads
- Best of -
A
- Best of -
Apparel scan me with ne your smartpho
F E La Sportiva Oxygen Windbreaker Pullover Windproof and highly water resistant, the Oxygen Windbreaker Pullover uses ultra-lightweight ripstop nylon and a 3/4-length zipper to weigh in at just 3.3 ounces. This feather-light design makes it a great go-to option for trail runners or an emergency back-up for backpackers, hikers or climbers. ($89)
Black Diamond Access Hybrid LT Hoody Depending on where you go or how high up you get, temperatures can still dip down pretty low in spring and summer. With its combination of burly stretch-woven Schoeller fabric and PrimaLoft ONE synthetic insulation, the Access Hybrid LT Hoody is a warm, functional piece for climbing, backpacking or hiking. When colder weather does return, the hoody also serves as a performance mid layer. ($188.95)
Patagonia Men’s Alpine Houdini Jacket Beefing up the ultra-lightweight design of its popular-for-running Houdini Jacket to better address the needs of climbers and backcountry adventurers, Patagonia unveils the Alpine Houdini Jacket. The 20D Ripstop Nylon shell has a PU coating and a water-repellent finish that makes the 5.4-ounce jacket ideal as emergency refuge when the weather takes a turn for the worse. ($198.95)
1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
11
Mountain Hardwear Men’s Super Light Plasmic Jacket Women’s Super Light Plasmic Jacket The brand-new waterproof Super Light Plasmic Jacket utilizes innovative Dry.Q EVAP technology to accelerate wicking in order to keep you dry and comfortable. Hand pockets are set high so you can get to them even while wearing a pack or harness. Best of all, this great set of features and all-weather construction tips the scales at a mere 8 ounces! ($199.95)
Outdoor Research Men’s Helium Hybrid Jacket Women’s Helium Hybrid Jacket A truly waterproof jacket is usually overkill for highly aerobic activities like trail running, cross-country skiing or even fast-and-light backpacking, but an ordinary windjacket doesn’t always supply adequate protection. The Helium Hybrid Jacket splits the difference with highly breathable and wind-resistant nylon on the body and waterproof Pertex Shield+ fabric on the shoulders and hood. ($125)
Sierra Designs Women’s AllSeason Windjacket Men’s All-Season Windjacket There are a number of great waterproof/breathable options for backcountry exploration, but many of those jackets end up living in your closet once you get back home. The All-Season Windjacket isn’t completely waterproof, but it is highly water resistant and extremely effective at blocking wind and wicking moisture. Additionally, it has stylish lines that make it equally at home in urban environments. ($169)
12
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
Beck y
or ect f “Perf d-light an fast- ntures!” v ad e
Rab Xiom Pants Pants are pants, aren’t they? With three-layer Pertex Shield construction, the Rab Xiom Pants jumped out at us as being a cut above the norm. Weighing just 10 ounces, the pants serve as an effective barrier from snow and rain and include a number of great backpacking features, including an elasticized waistband with drawcord, knee articulation and 3/4-length side zippers that aid in venting and make it easy to take the pants on and off. ($149.95)
1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-apparel
Marmot Accelerator Hoody Women’s Accelerator Hoody Built to be a cool-weather outer layer for aerobic activities like trail running, biking or cross-country skiing, the Accelerator Hoody can also function as a highly-breathable, comfortable mid layer. A bit of strategic texturing at key contact points enables the jacket to perform well even beneath a pack. ($124.95)
13
- Best of -
r a e w t o o F adidas Outdoor AX 2 Mid GTX Count on adidas Outdoor to put an athletic stamp on their hiking boots. The AX 2 Mid GTX has a tapered mid-height cut that supports and stabilizes without inhibiting motion. A GORE-TEX membrane safeguards feet from moisture while the synthetic uppers ensures breathability. A high-traction rubber outsole grips effectively on wet or dry surfaces. ($134.95)
La Sportiva Bushido The minimalist trend in trail running shoes certainly has its place, but it’s nice to see a design that manages to deliver lightweight “feel” without skimping on support. The Bushido has a sticky rubber outsole and aggressive traction for mountain running or fast-and-light hiking while a TPU frame stabilizes without adding excessive weight. ($125)
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid The Renegade GTX Mid is one tough and reliable boot and those are straightforward qualities for backpackers to embrace. Fulfilling its promise of “all terrain comfort”, this best-selling, waterproof/breathable boot provides midfoot stability, an ankle-supporting cut and trustworthy Vibram traction. ($225)
Patagonia Footwear Rover At times the lines between trail running, scrambling, and climbing become blurred and the Rover is the perfect shoe for that very situation. A true multi-sport shoe, it has lightweight responsiveness for running and incorporates variable lacing and an extra-sticky outsole that effectively tackles rock and allows for “edging” on steeper terrain. ($124.95)
14
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
Salomon XA Pro 3D Salomon continues to introduce innovative, ultra-lightweight running shoes, but we remain fond of the iconic XA Pro 3D. Updated grip and durability make the 2014 version of the shoe that much more capable as a tough-as-nails trail runner or a supportive, fast-and-light hiker. That versatility makes it well worth the asking price. ($130)
Vasque Taku GTX The Taku GTX hiking boot brings a lot to the table comparative to other waterproof/breathable boots in its price range. A full-leather upper guarantees durability, a GORE-TEX lining keeps feet dry, and a Vibram outsole and broad-based lugs deliver excellent traction for long days on the trail. ($179.95)
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-footwear
Salewa Firetail EVO Employing a unique fit design concept and including a multi-fit footbed system to accommodate feet of varying volumes, the Firetail EVO performs well on a wide array of surfaces. This agile, nimble, and supportive shoe provides protection for full days on the trail, rock scrambles, and approach hikes. ($118.99)
Zamberlan SH Crosser Plus GTX RR The SH Crosser Plus GTX RR is the rare lightweight, responsive hiking boot that still manages to be supportive and stable enough for multi-day adventures. Whether you’re on a weekend backpacking trip, thru-hiking the AT, or just out for the day, this waterproof boot is built to please. ($170)
ith scan me w hone your smartp 1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
15
- Best of -
wTraeattmeenrt
ith scan me w hone tp ar sm ur o y
Platypus GravityWorks 4.0L Filter System (2014) One of our favorite water filtration options for base camping or larger group outings just got even more user friendly. The pump-free GravityWorks 4.0L Filter System requires you to fill the “dirty” bag with water but then employs gravity to do the rest of the work, providing up to 4 liters of potable water in just 2.3 minutes. New corner-mounted valves make this lightweight system pack down even smaller than before. ($119.95)
DEB
ht tweig h g i “L and se” -to-u easy
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-water
SteriPEN Freedom Solar Bundle Utilizing the same UV technology used by municipal treatment facilities, hospitals and water-bottling plants, the lightweight (2.6 oz.), compact Freedom water purifier allows you to enjoy safe drinking water wherever you go! The bundle also includes a solar panel charger, a BPA-free water bottle and a carrying case. ($149.95)
Ruff Wear Singletrak Pack Putting their dog-first focus to work, Ruff Wear has really dialed in the fit and features of the updated Singletrak Pack. With low-profile saddlebags that allow a free range of motion, a highly-customizable fit, and two integrated, soft-sided water bottles, the pack enables athletic dogs to accompany two-legged pals on hikes and trail runs. ($89.95)
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-dog-gear 16
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
- Best of Hammocks-
- Best of headlampsPetzl Tikka RXP Introduced by Petzl a couple of seasons ago, Reactive lighting equipped users with a light source that automatically adjusted brightness and beam pattern based on the distance between the bulb and the object being illuminated, increasing efficiency while delivering the specific lighting needed. If you passed on the first Reactive headlamps based on sticker shock, check out the sleek new Tikka RXP that offers that same high performance at a more budget-friendly price. ($94.95)
Black Diamond Storm Ideal for any outdoor activity requiring all-weather performance, the waterproof Storm delivers both long-distance beam and close-proximity lighting options. An updated bulb for 2014 ratchets its brightness all the way up to 160 Lumens. ($49.95)
Snow Peak Mola Headlamp We thought we’d seen every possible take on a headlamp, but the Mola proved us wrong. The bulb housing actually selftilts to follow the angle of your eyes so that the beam casts light exactly where you need it. A built-in feature does allow you to lock the position when necessary. This little powerhouse weighs just 2.4 ounces while generating 110 Lumens of brightness. ($59.95)
scan me with ne your smartpho
1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-hammocks
Eagles Nest Outfitters JungleNest Hammock A hammock and a bug net rolled into one, the JungleNest lets you spend the night outdoors without concern for insect pests. A full-length zippered entry makes it easy to get in and out and the no-see-um netting is height-adjustable to give you room to sprawl. An organizer pocket allows you to conveniently stash gear safely inside. ($99.95)
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-headlamps
Exped Scout Hammock Combi An all-in-one shelter/sleep system for backpacking or recreational use, the Scout Hammock Combi includes a hammock, a rain tarp, and a mosquito net. The modularity of the system enables you to choose the components you need for any given trip and shave the weight of those better saved for other adventures. ($198.99)
ith me w scan artphone sm your
17
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-poles
- Best of Trekking poles-
Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock Women’s Trail Pro Shock Combining durable, easy-to-use external locking mechanisms, innovative imbedded-inthe-handle shock absorption and rugged but lightweight aluminum construction, Trail Pro Shock trekking poles are a great balance of year-round performance and price. ($139.95)
MSR Talus TR-3 Why bother stopping to fiddle with your trekking poles when you can make on-the-fly adjustments? A built-in release mechanism allows you to adjust the height of the durable 3-section Talus TR-3 poles with a simple pull on the “trigger.” Available in Standard (41.3”51.2”) and Long (45.3”-55.1”) size options. ($159.95)
ith scan me w hone tp ar sm ur yo
LEKI TourStick Vario Carbon We’ve seen some “hybrid” gear over the years that ultimately proved to be mediocre in a number of applications and not really very good at anything. That’s not the case with the TourStick Vario Carbon, a lightweight, compact pole that works great on snow, on hard-packed single track, or on off-trail adventures. Dual aluminum and carbon construction balances weight and durability. ($199.95)
eally “It r s!” work Brian
Klymit Litewater Dinghy Not intended to take the place of an actual boat, the Litewater Dinghy is a convenient solution for what might otherwise be an end-of-the-road obstacle on backpacking or canyoneering trips. Weighing just 35 ounces, the inflatable, minimalist raft keeps you afloat at water crossings and stows in your backpack once you’re back on dry land. ($224.95)
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-other-gear 18
A w e s o m e G e a r, A m a z i n g S e r v i c e
- Best of -
Stoves C B
A. Jetboil Joule The Joule turns a fuel canister (not included) on its head, literally, to maximize cold-weather performance. As with Jetboil’s popular personal cooking systems, the Joule utilizes a FluxRing design to connect the burner to the cook pot to shorten boil times and increase efficiency. Because of its large 2.5-liter capacity, the Joule is a great option for base camping or large groups. ($199.95) B. Vargo Titanium Hexagon Wood Stove Tired of the hassle of liquid-fuel stoves or the weight, bulk and wastefulness of canister stoves? Weighing just 4.1 ounces and packing down flat to take up almost no space in your backpack, the streamlined (4” x 5”) Titanium Hexagon Wood Stove enables you to utilize twigs and sticks as the heat source for your next backcountry meal! ($59.95) C. Optimus Elektra FE Cook System An inclusive (NOTE: fuel canister not included) option for backcountry cooking, the Elektra FE Cook System includes a lightweight, high-output Crux Lite stove and a .95L anodized aluminum cook pot with a lid that doubles as a frying pan. Optimus even throws in a clip-on windshield and a handheld Piezo lighter to make mealtime a snap. ($94.95)
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-stoves
A
ith scan me w ne ho tp ar sm r u yo
Helinox Cot One It’s hard to believe how comfortable and capable the Helinox Cot One really is when you first see it packed into its stuff sack. Putting the trusted DAC pole technology found on many backpacking tents to a very different use, the cot has 72” x 26.4” dimensions, packs down small and supports up to 320 pounds. ($299.95)
www.backcountryedge.com/best-of-other-gear 1-800-617-0643 www.backcountryedge.com
19
Visit the Backcountry Edge Video Library! We feel strongly that part of delivering Amazing Service is sharing as much information as possible to help our customers make their gear selections. That is why we write thorough product descriptions, provide detailed key features, and assemble specification charts that allow for effective comparison shopping. It’s also why we continue to produce informative videos that give a more multi-dimensional view of the products that we carry, describe new or unique technologies, and offer tips and how-to-instructions. Visit the Backcountry Edge Video Library to see all of our videos as well as hundreds of others from gear manufacturers. Helpful filtering options allow you to search by type of video, product category, or brands to easily track down the content that interests you most. Have a look!
www.backcountryedge.com/video-library
Awesome Gear, Amazing Service!
www.facebook.com/backcountryedge Use Your Inside Edge To Earn Free Gear www.backcountryedge.com/inside-edge
708 Ditz Drive Manheim, PA 17545
www.backcountryedge.com
with e me n scan martpho s r you