RANGE Magazine by RANGE

Issue Two

Winter 2015

RANGE

NICK ZEGEL,

‘ICED’

MOUNTAINS

WINTER 2015

Welcome to RANGE Magazine — Issue Two. Within these pages you can look forward to editorial content with a unique, on-trend voice that speaks to the past, present and future of the outdoor industry as a whole. Offering seasonalinspired brand features, lifestyle articles and photo essays, this issue encourages readers to find creativity and adventure in the outdoors year-round. Here are a few things we learned throughout the process of making this issue: • No one works over the holidays.

• The Italian Market in Philly is so gully.

• The early bird gets the worm.

• Salmon belly is the nectar of the gods.

• Cotton kills.

• There is a better way to book a campsite.

• You don’t win friends with salad.

• Instagram is an amateur photo contest the whole world is playing.

• Ice climbing is tite.

• Hiking makes us happy.

• Bozeman is so hot right now.

• New Zealand is for lovers.

• 2015 is the year of the woman.

• You can make a fancy cocktail with foraged ingredients.

• Wearing a helmet is rad.

• We have some incredibly talented friends.

• If you leave a Suburban unlocked in a ski town, ON

THE

HAKUBA,

someone will steal your Red Bull.

COVER

JAPANESE

ALPS

M E G H AY W O O D S U L L I V A N

04 TH E MOD E R N OUTDOOR S WOMAN

• The trend train never runs out of fuel.

• It takes a minimum of two weeks to break in new boots.

• The universe rewards those that are courageous.

We hope you enjoy the issue, and look forward to seeing you on the slopes, along the coast, on your bike and in the woods this winter! — The RANGE Mag Crew

06 LIVING THE CORDURA® LIFESTYLE 07 M A N H AT TA N P O R TA G E , N E W YO R K T O U G H 08 T H E L A S T G R E AT P L A C E 09 BOOG I E DOWN BOZ E MAN

publisher

contr i b utors

Range

Joe Gomez, Sydney Halle, Alex Gomes, Jeff Thrope, Rachel Mae Furman, Emily Han, Tiah Rubin, Charles Post, Dave Sutton, Andrew Luecke

e ditor ial di r ector

Jeanine Pesce art di r ector

Joel Speasmaker

10 B I G S KY COU NTRY 12 H I P CAM P — CAM PB N B D UCKWORTH—LAD I E S CHOICE

manag i ng e ditor

Alex Gomes social media

press

Sydney Halle

BOG S S I D N EY LACE TIMBUK2 ON THE GO

T U N E I N T O PA N G A COVE R S HOT!

to than k ou r

i ss u e wou ld not be possible. major hugs and high fives all around:

VENTURE OUT X S&S CORDURA®

17 MAP VENTURE

T H E P E R F E C T O U T D O O R S TA G R A M M O U N TA I N H A R D W E A R 19

Meg Haywood Sullivan, Max Lowe, Michael Persico, Jennifer Puno, Victoria Masters, Seth Neilson, Alyssa Larson, Caleb Woods, Oliver Fitzgerald i l l u s t r ato r s

artists

s pecial s hout-out to

sponsors, because

video

we would like

without them, this

Seth Neilson, Nick Zegel, Obi Kaufmann, Shelby Ling, Victoria Masters, Mike Cook

C O C K TA I L S + H A P P Y T R A I L S 14

photog raph e rs

OUT

STRUKTUR WESTERLIND BOGS MONTANA OFFICE OF TOURISM

HALF MY HEART CONDOR

Cooper Gill, Andrea Westerlind, Julie Atherton, Scott McGuire, Nina Stotler, Ron Croudy, Martin Carvajal, Ben Ferencz, Ben Nobel, Alex Buck, Bernie Bernthal, Chelsea Parrett, Kenzie Kirk, Gale Straub, Sasha Cox, Ali Carr Troxell, Jen Gurecki, Lizzie Garrett Mettler, Johnie Gall, Cindy McNaull, Amy Needham, Defne Altan, Molly Ambrogi, Molly Brewer, Theresa Blake, Eric Bach

RANGE

ou’ve probably noticed a serious

planning her next endeavor. You could just as

surge in images of women out-

easily find her climbing in the mountains as

doors - women, in terms of trend,

rediscovering her hometown. She explores with

are having a major moment. Not so much in

an eye for color, an appreciation of technique

the #mountainbabes kind of way, but more

and a pull towards what’s next.” According to

in the #outdoorwomen kind of way. They’re

Sasha Cox from Trail Mavens, which specializes

stronger and more successful than ever, doing a great job of balancing work and family, and seriously interested in getting outside. According to the Outdoor Industry Foundation’s in-depth report on participation, attitudes and behaviors called “Getting < Women < Active,” 61% of women currently

in outdoor adventures for urban women, “An

participate in outdoor recreation, and indi-

outdoors woman is someone who’s not afraid

vidually spend an average of $295 annually on

of getting dirty outside her comfort zone,

outdoor apparel and equipment.

and likely believes ‘adventure is adversity in

As more wom-

retrospect.’ Regardless of what happens, it’s

en are empow-

a learning experience and probably a great

ered to discov-

story.” This sums up the main difference

simple

between our experience as women in the

things being in

outdoors and that of our our traditionally

nature provides,

pragmatic male counterparts. Simply put, we

we wanted to ask

are on a journey to discover something deeper

ourselves: What

and more meaningful.

the

defines

today’s

The Outdoor Industry report states 75% of

out-

women agree their feeling of connection to

woman?

the outdoors is the most important reason

Is it about tactile

to get outside. “Unlike men, who are drawn

skills and experience, or is it more a state of be-

to the tactical, logical applications of gear

ing? We interviewed a dynamic group of women

in the outdoors and almost engineering-like

with varied levels of traditional outdoor experi-

mentality of de-

ence to find out. The modern outdoors woman

ciphering maps,

is inquisitive and kind, willing to introduce less

putting

experienced friends to the outdoors. She looks to

tents,

Donna Carpenter, Melissa Arnot, Liz Clark, Gina

snow pits, and

Bégin and Caroline Gleich for inspiration. She is

chopping wood,

beyond stoked to collaborate, and her competi-

women connect

tive nature, although present while in motion, is

with the emo-

more passive when creating content. She finds

tional side of

strength in her femininity and doesn’t feel that

being in nature.

words like “tomboy” define her. She is just as

Then there are

comfortable casting a line as she is shopping on-

also those of us

line, and is constantly daydreaming about trips

who like the adrenaline rush, but not with-

modern doors johnie gall, dirtbag

darling

and adventures.

up cutting

out the fresh air and good scenery to feed our

Gale Straub, founder of She-explores.com, a

souls,” explains Ali Carr Troxell, an outdoor

site dedicated to women who wander, describes

gear editor, adventure travel journalist and

her as “curious and ready-to-go, invariably

founder of PR agency Headwaters Collective.

sandra dejin for

coalition snow

WINTER 2015

Another key difference is the way we

CEO of Coalition Snow, which makes skis

purchase product. Men like buying things

sas ha cox, trail

mavens

and boards by women, for women.

quickly and concisely, but women want to

Social media inadvertently plays a huge

be romanced into a purchase by an editori-

role in how women interested in the out-

al point of view. 64.7% of women say they

doors are connecting with each other. “I felt

look to store displays for their apparel in-

like I was the only woman I knew mountain

spiration, confirming the fact that ladies

biking on the weekend or surfing on the East

want to shop where they feel captivated and

Coast in the winter. Social media offers me a

engaged. Wom-

sense of instant community in a space where

en get pumped

I used to lack many female friendships. It’s

for

in-store

especially relevant while I’m traveling. I’ve

events, sample

been able to bum couch space from women

sales and col-

all over the country who have become my

laborations, so

good friends strictly via Instagram,” notes

why not apply

Johnie Gall, founder of Dirtbag Darling,

that

formula

a blog that “celebrates the outdoor wom-

to the way they

an,” including those with “dirty feet, salty

shop for gear,

hair, goggle tans and borrowed surfboards.”

in the form of

And what about the outdoor selfie? Isn’t

clinics, product

it only natural

testing and group activities? The old days

to include our

of “pinking” and “shrinking” just won’t cut

gorgeous faces

it. Women want contemporary silhouettes,

in these scenic

trend-driven color options and prints that

vistas?

Well,

are more evolved than paisleys and daisies.

not

every

When conducting our own interviews about

case. “I typical-

the modern outdoors woman, we stumbled

ly leave my face

upon a very interesting fact: only a hand-

out of pictures

ful of the women we spoke with admitted

because

to wearing hiking pants. The rest wore leg-

lived that expe-

gings because they were more flattering on

rience already.

the form, felt better against their skin, and

I prefer to let people put themselves in my

didn’t make them look like a “funky aunt.”

shoes, and they don’t need to see my mug to

Discuss amongst yourselves.

do that,” explains Gall.

I’ve

So who is nailing it when it comes women’s

Everyone has a different level of comfort

apparel and hardgoods? That is a loaded

and an individual set of skills when it comes

question and really depends on who you

to being “outdoorsy.” Some connect through

are asking. “ To me, doing it ‘right’ means

sharing their outdoor experiences online,

you

gender

while others join all-women workshops to

stereotypes, your messaging/brand isn’t

enhance their technical skills. We know our

misogynistic, you truly support the female

textbook definition of an outdoor woman

athletes on your team, and you make gear

is someone who skis, snowboards, climbs,

and clothing women actually want. There are

camps, surfs, cycles, runs, backpacks and

a lot of really well-intentioned companies

does yoga, but that list could run on for-

still constructing their women’s lines out of

ever—or at least we hope it does. All the

pastel fabrics or producing short and soft

women we spoke with were different, but

skis. As the owner of a hard goods company,

they all had the same things in common:

I understand there is a process and you can’t

a unified, deep-rooted love of life and an

please everyone. What one woman loves,

absolutely pure appreciation of nature and

another may despise,” explains Jen Gurecki,

the great outdoors.

aren’t

promoting

harmful

gale straub,

she-explores

RANGE

Thinking outside the box, living the CORDURA ® Lifestyle

made

with

1,000- d e n i e r

nylon

the

small

cordura®

z i p top camo tote by

buckproducts

perfect

grabbing or

for

groceries

traveling

light.

hilly is a tough town filled with serious foodies, and home to the oldest and largest working outdoor

market in the United States, the “Italian Market” on 9th Street in South Philadelphia. While most people in the City of

master-piece’s

Brotherly Love rely on public transit for simple tasks like food

s u r pa s s n o .

shopping or running errands, bikes are becoming the preferred

12164 b ag

stylish,

mode of transportation for urban commuters on the move.

sophisticated

Environmentally friendly and community driven, cycling is much

thanks

and water

more than just a means to get from point A to point B—it is a

durable to

repellent cordura®

way of life for the residents of this bustling city. Odds are, on

classic

fabric.

any given day of the week, you can find friends riding together to work, the market, the game (go Birds!) and even the bar.

One thing we can all agree on is that the weather can be brutal, especially during the winter season. Howling winds made

cordura®

from

denim

fabric,

offer

the

of are

regular up

carve through the narrow streets and rain is relentless, so when

swrve jeans

look

and

cotton four

the Northeast weather bites, we say bite back with a heavy-duty

comfort

denim,

times

abrasion-resistant.

but

coat, an indestructible pair of jeans and a sturdy, solid pack. For

over 45 years, CORDURA® brand has set the standard for what durable materials should be. Equal parts fashion and function,

chrome industries’ truk is

pro shoe

1,000- d e n i e r fabric

and

technology clip-in

built

CORDURA® fabric is built to last without sacrificing style or

from

cordura

comfort. The company’s portfolio of modern, versatile and

classic

flexplate™

for

pedal

apparel-focused fabrics are embraced by some of today’s most

uncompromising

design-driven workwear and outdoor brands, including Levi’s,

performance.

Timberland, Topo Designs, Dickies and Chrome.

classic

designed for at

the the

savard

d u f f l e - c o at by

a x e l m i r ato n

work’n

mode

l’atelier in

paris.

contest

chardon

crafted cordura®

1,000- d e n i e r

from

classic

t h e k l e t t e r d ay has

been

fabric,

kletterwerks

rotation

since

1975.

WINTER 2015

the

mount from

hale vest

offers

timberland a

practical

approach

layering, with

resistant canvas with

made

abrasion and

cordura® lined

flannel.

topo de s ig n s and

salomon

teamed the

pro shoe, to

instinct set

release

spring made

‘ 15,

with

trannon culinary

premium materials cordura® and

redefined

travel,

like nylon

knife

bags

how

featuring

with

1,000- d e n i e r

horween

leather.

has

chefs

classic

durable cordura®

fabric.

“For over 45 years, CORDURA® brand has set the standard for

The tried-and-true nature of its range of fabrics, including CORDURA® Denim, CORDURA® Combat Wool and CORDURA®

what durable fabrics should be.

Canvas, lends itself seamlessly to the contemporary urban commuter that cycles, skates or rides motorbikes, offering a truly holistic approach to living the CORDURA® lifestyle. Apparel, outerwear,

Equal parts fashion and function,

footwear and accessories can look aesthetically pleasing while maintaining those industrial-strength attributes CORDURA® is

they have created a portfolio of

known for possessing, regardless of what mother nature throws our way. So, in the true Philadelphia spirit of riding our bikes when we want with whom we want, we say, “Back off, Jack Frost. We are on

stylish, versatile and apparel-

an Italian Market mission to cook up some belly-warming beef and acorn stew with our favorite local crew.”

focused fabrics that have been embraced by some of today’s most contemporary workwear

head

and outdoor brands, including

thisisrange.com for and

our

beef

acorn

stew

recipe!

Levi’s, Timberland, Topo Designs, Dickies and Chrome.”

There was once a time when messenger bags were primarily

by suburban high school ravers and urban fashionistas

worn by, you guessed it, bike messengers. However, when

alike. Manhattan Portage packs were worn like a badge

Manhattan Portage founder John Peters decided to design

of honor by in-the-know New Yorkers, the iconic red

a new version of the commuter-friendly pack in the early

label of the city skyline proudly emblazoned on every bag.

1980s, he changed the game, making a bag that was not only more functional for core cyclists on the go, but could

While there have been plenty of imitators, no one has

also be carried by straphangers, students and stylists from

been able to legitimately replicate the spirit or authenticity

Harlem to Lower East Side.

that makes Manhattan Portage so unique. Repping some serious street cred, they have held it down for over 30

To make a cycling-friendly bag that was “New York Tough,”

years with their exceptional construction and use of

Peters replaced the unreliable canvas and nylon historically

premium materials. As they look towards the future, while

used for messenger bags with CORDURA® fabric, adding

taking direction from the past, Manhattan Portage has

delrin buckles and reflective stripes to create a more

successfully transitioned from underground cult status

lightweight, durable and visible bag. This revamp of what

to mainstream pop culture, cementing their standing

was once a functional tool for delivery cyclists became all

as the go-to brand for functional packs and timeless

the rage with the general public during the ‘90s, adopted

bags, both in NYC and around the world.

alex

gomes

RANGE

1 0 F U N FA C T S A B O U T T H E 4 1 S T S TAT E

“Did you move here to be in a hurry?” If so, keep on truckin’.

Montana’s name is derived from the 1

Spanish word montaña, meaning mountain country. Montana’s diverse geography covers

ust

between

chickens,

more than 147,000 square miles, making it the fourth largest state in the nation.

Bozeman, Montana is so hot

right now. The sleepy ski town located in

The state nickname is the “Treasure

the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where

hunters and ranchers have hung their cow-

State.” Other nicknames include “Land of Shining Mountains,” “Big Sky Country” and “Last Best Place.”

boy hats since 1864, is attracting a new class of creatives—but please, don’t tell

The longest river in Montana is

them we said that. Bozemanites are happy

to share the bountiful landscape with “cu-

the Missouri, which flows 1,029 miles from Three Forks to the North Dakota border.

rious Californians” and hipsters that reloMontana’s Roe River was recognized

cate from major cities, but they just want to do it in moderation. “Did you move here

alex buck,

to be in a hurry?” If so, keep on truckin’.

founder

Records as the world’s shortest river at 201 feet.

buckproducts

Montanans have a hard edge but a soft

by the Guinness Book of World

The largest snowflake ever observed

center, and Bozeman is one of its most prized assets. Home to stops on both the

Bozeman Trail, an overland route connect-

What’s particularly interesting about Boz-

ing the gold rush territory of Montana to

eman is the number of companies that man-

the Oregon Trail, and the Yellowstone Trail,

ufacture outdoor-specific goods within the

one of the first interstate road systems in

If you are a skier, then consider Boze-

city limits. Kletterwerks set up shop in Boz-

the country, Bozeman has always played an

man the holiest of grails. Bridger Bowl, a

eman over 40 years ago when Dana Gleason

integral role in introducing Americans to

non-profit, community owned ski resort that

started making packs for climbing and ski-

the expansive West.

boasts beautiful and challenging in-bounds

ing out of the back of his VW bus. “In the

There are approximately 48,000 7

and minimum order requirements, Kelty,

activity, harboring more than 10,000 geothermal features, the most famous of which is Old Faithful.

offering sewers a new lightweight, yet strong

country are figuring out that

of the Rocky Mountains in Montana.

world’s most extensive area of geyser 9

posed to change the game of pack building, alternative to canvas. Due to lack of money

There are a total of 77 named ranges

Yellowstone National Park is the

spread about a new material that was sup-

of life and all corners of the

Native Americans, representing 11 different tribes, living in Montana.

Wayne Gregory, George Kelty and some of the early founders of Jansport. A rumor had

the size of a dinner plate, and was recorded on January 28, 1887.

early ‘70s, Dana was bumming around with

City slickers from all walks

in Montana was 15 inches wide,

The highest point in Montana is 10

Granite Peak, located in the Beartooth Range in the Rockies.

Gregory and Dana all got together to purchase a roll of CORDURA®, and at the time,

Bozeman is not just the “last

the only color offered was Rust. Hence, this

great place to live,” but it is also the next best place to live.

became the benchmark for the heritage look,”

was lured to Montana State University by a

explains Ben Nobel, the brand manager of

recruiter holding a hot cheese pizza and a

the multidisciplinary company.

poster of Bridger. Upon arrival to MSU, Buck

Since the launch of Kletterwerks in 1975,

decided he needed a bag he could use for

Dana Gleason has successfully cultivated,

school, so he started sewing his own packs

sold and relaunched a bevvy of brands, in-

inspired by river duffels. 10 years later, Alex

cluding his namesake Dana Designs, an

still calls Bozeman home and his line of

Farm to table restaurants are popping up

terrain, reminds us of the mountain desti-

iconic backpack brand of the ‘80s and ‘90s

colorful, CORDURA®-strong roll top ruck-

next to old school cafes, and GFCs (great

nations we visited as kids before things got

found on skiers and climbers from the U.S.

sacks, accessories and totes feels totally fresh

fucking cocktails) are served up with a side

corporate and cold, when packed lunches

to the Himalayas, as well as Mystery Ranch,

against the woodland camo backdrop that is

of Montucky Cold Snacks. 1920s era crafts-

were par for the course and powder days were

the company’s most advanced bag system,

traditionally associated with local Bozeman

man-style homes have been updated with

packed with locals. Then there’s the ice climb-

which boasts contracts with the Depart-

brands. In 2011, Caravan Skis was born out

modern additions and industrial materi-

ing. The greats like Alex Lowe and Conrad

ment of Defense, including SEALs, Special

of love for the outdoors, creativity and crafts-

als, while on the northside of Main Street,

Anker put Hyalite Canyon—home to over

Forces and even Marine Corps.

manship. Tapping into the local community

old factories, mills and stockyards are be-

250 ice and mixed climbs, and now a global

The “Ranchers” pride themselves on mak-

for input into ski design, graphics and test-

ing reclaimed by architecture firms, design

destination for ice climbers from around the

ing considered, functional collections that

ing, Caravan uses sustainable materials like

studios and start-ups. City slickers from all

world—on the map. Not to mention that the

rely heavily on the architecture of design.

bamboo, eco-friendly epoxy and basalt fibers

walks of life and all corners of the country

Bozeman Ice Fest attracts huge international

Simple forms, timeless shapes and above all,

to make light, snappy and durable skis you

are figuring out that Bozeman is not just

crowds for on-site clinics, film premieres and

the best, most durable, most comfortable

can feel good about skiing. Both of these

the “last great place to live,” but it is also the

the UIAA Ice Climbing World Cup.

carry systems in the world. “We build packs

companies, while still technically considered

in Bozeman because we can and we want to.

“new kids on the block” compared to older,

We’ve been fortunate to have a diverse cus-

more established Bozeman brands, repre-

tomer base who needs (and wants) Ameri-

sent an emerging group of creative thinkers

can-made product, and that diversification

breathing new life into the valley and its sur-

enables us to continue expansion into other

rounding regions.

next best place to live.

caravan s ki s; kletterwerks x

j u ng mave n te e, mystery

ranch

headquarters

markets. Building product at home allows for

The beauty of Bozeman is that the good

some titanic benefits: quality control, shorter

ol’ boys and young guns are making it

lead times and most importantly, being able

work. These unlikely partners are proving

to test product immediately during the de-

that although they may not hail from

sign and development phase,” notes Nobel.

the same school of thought or even the

But Kletterwerks and Mystery Ranch ar-

same generation, they can agree to exist

en’t the only American-made manufacturers

in harmony on the same plane. At the end

in the stockyard. BuckProducts was found-

of the day, the common goal shared by all

ed by Alex Buck, who would visit the city

Bozemanites is to build a bright future

every summer when he was a kid to “fish,

for the rapidly expanding community of

ride horses, make mud pies and camp.” He

natives, locals and transplants.

WINTER 2015

RANGE Magazine’s guide to Bozeman, Montana, complete with good eats, must-see shops and essential outdoor destinations through the lens of a local.

Eats + Drinks 1

Shopping

The Eagles Lodge

Wild Crumb Bakery

Schnee’s

wildcrumb.com

The Eagles Lodge is the place to go if you’re looking for

Some say two is better than one, and in the case of

ave, an d

authentic entertainment in Bozeman. With cheap drinks,

Wild Crumb Bakery, it’s definitely true with twin sisters

With three locations and a 25-plus-year history in

identity as the go-to spot for big lines and deep pow.

games, live music and two-step dancing, what more

Lauren and Caroline Schweitzer baking up delicious

Bozeman, Schnee’s is the leading manufacturer of oil-

Thanks to its cooperative status, Bridger’s only mistress

could you ask for from a no-frills Montana dive bar?

organic artisan breads and pastries before dawn each

tanned, top grain cow and bison leather “pac” boots

is mother nature and when the season is in session,

day. A great choice for your breakfast fix, Wild Crumb

with durable, vulcanized rubber bottoms. Their boots are

you can expect the ridge line to be packed with locals.

also serves up local Ghost Town drip coffee, providing

made for the rugged, mountainous outdoors of Montana

One of the few resorts in North America where a

patrons with a perfect start to their morning in the

and provide all-day comfort, whether you are hiking,

transceiver is required for inbounds terrain, you can take

Northside industrial hood of Bozeman.

riding or just doing chores around the ranch.

(nearly) free avy classes at the Gallatin National Forest

roostfriedchicken.com

/ 1520 w mai n st

Tennessee transplant Joe Darr has brought his family’s

schnees.com

/ 35 e mai n st, 1934 n 19

Bridger Bowl

316 e main st

Roost Fried Chicken

/ 600 n wallace ave, s u ite 6

Adventures th

bridgerbowl.com

Founded in the late 1950s, Bridger Bowl maintains its

2825 w mai n st #2e

southern fried chicken and barbeque recipes to the

Avalanche Center to ensure you are ready for whatever

town of Bozeman at Roost Fried Chicken. Offering

The Stockyard Cafe

REVOLVR Menswear

conditions the mountain throws your way.

plenty of delicious comfort food to choose from like

s to c k ya r d c a f e . c o m

fried and rotisserie chicken, mac and cheese and fried

The Stockyard Cafe is a no-nonsense counter service-

Jon Davis opened REVOLVR Menswear in July 2013

okra, they’ll even pack a box to go if you’re planning a

style diner that’s known for its breakfast options and the

to offer the male Bozeman community affordable, high

n o r r i s h ot s p r i n g s . c o m

fishing trip on the river.

best bacon cheeseburger in Bozeman. Be sure to follow

quality clothing with clean lines and great fits, sans the

Live music, a geodesic dome, good food, campsites

the list of 22 house rules while you’re there, which

over-embroidery or beaded embellishments that can

and 30 minutes from downtown Bozeman, Norris Hot

include answering the phone if it rings while you’re near

sometimes come with more formal Western wear. They

Springs, also known as “Water of the Gods,” prides itself

it to answer the caller’s question and not expecting ice

carry brands like Coal Headwear, Poler, Levis and Nixon,

on the “perfect soak for all seasons.” A series of artesian

because they “don’t have any.”

and will offer you some local beer while you shop.

springs, flowing at a constant rate of 60 gallons per

Taco Del Sol

ta c o d e l s o l . c o m

/ 17 s t r a cy av e

Step into Taco Del Sol to find authentic L.A.-style

r e v o lv r m e n s - c o m . m y s h o p i f y . c o m

/ 1018 e griffin dr

/ 30 w main st

Mexican food made quickly with fresh ingredients.

Norris Hot Springs

minute and an average temperature of 120 degrees,

While the menu isn’t extensive, featuring a few types

Montana Fish Company

El Heart

the wood-lined outdoor pool is emptied nightly using the

of burritos, tacos and nachos, they’re better known

m o n ta n a f i s h c o m pa n y . c o m

for exhibiting their patrons’ burrito foil art creations,

Montana Fish Company is holding it down for seafood

Jade Elhardt’s cute clothing store El Heart — get it?

thermal springs are clean, chemical-free and packed

displaying the best of the best in the restaurant as well

lovers on Bozeman’s Main Street, where fresh fish air

— carries a mix of colorful dresses, novelty National

with posi vibes, just the way we like it.

as on Instagram.

cargo deliveries are made daily that are then filleted and

Park camp hats and cold weather basics like vintage

processed by MFC’s master fish cutters. We can attest

Patagonia fleeces. Catering to both men and women,

to the freshness and quality of their offerings since we

you can not only pick up some handmade wearable

h ya l i t e . o r g

had some of the best sashimi and salmon belly we’ve

goods from artisans, but also buy, sell and trade your

World class ice climbing and home of iconic routes,

ever had in our lives there.

own unique apparel and accessories along with the rest

including The Matriarch and Winter Dance — enough

of the Bozeman community.

said. Whether you prefer fishing, hiking, climbing or

Blackbird Kitchen

b lackb i r dkitch e n.com

/ 140 e main st

Blackbird Kitchen is only open for dinner, but is well

elheartshop.com

/ 119 e mai n st

worth the wait for their pastas, brick oven pizza and

/ 131

w babcock st

original gate valve installed by miners in the 1880s. The

Hyalite Canyon

entrees, which are made with local and organic

The Filling Station

mountain biking, Hyalite Canyon has something for

ingredients. They have a decent selection of wine and

2005 north rous e ave

everyone with three developed campgrounds and two

beer on tap or if you’re looking for something non-

The Filling Station, or “The Filler” as it’s known by locals,

day use areas. As the winter weather creeps in, the

alcoholic, try the Maine Root Spicy Ginger Beer or

is a V.F.W. bar that has been open in Bozeman since

activities don’t cease, as you can use the trails for skiing

Mexican Coke.

1976. There’s always some great live music happening

and snowshoeing, or catch some dinner while ice fishing.

at this roadhouse, and it’s a great place to get a drink when other places town are crowded with tourists. bridger bowl illustration

mike cook

y e l lo w s to n e > 78 m i l e s

t h e s to c k ya r d c a f e

nor r i s hot s pr i ng s < 35 m i le s h ya l i t e c a n yo n < 18 m i l e s

ou n r

11 12

bakery

schnee’s

roost fried chicken < 1 mile

m o n ta n a f i s h c o .

ave se

wild crumb

open range

main street

r e v o lv r

ta c o

menswear

del sol

little red wagon coffee roasters

el heart

blackbird kitch e n

th e eag le s lodg e

RANG E X WE STE R LI N D

Photo Essay

WINTER 2015

photographs looks

westerlind,

woolpower, shot

max lowe

j u ng mave n,

vuarnet

and

bozeman,

snow peak,

pata g o n i a

m o n ta n a

RANGE

hipcamp

There’s a Better Way to Book a Campsite

founder eric bach

amping is fun. Reserving a campsite, not so much.

“Right now, we have to do the final transaction through Reserve

For starters, camping in temperate, rapidly growing

America because they have a government contract,” said Bach. “We

California has turned finding a campsite into a competitive sport.

basically get you as close to the finish line as possible.” One of Hip-

The most popular sites must be booked months in advance,

camp’s major initiatives is for open data within the park system,

removing any hint of spontaneity from the experience. Also, if

which Bach argues would allow for a more competitive and creative

you’re booking based on the information online, it’s rarely clear

marketplace. Reserve America basically came around at the dawn

what you’re signing up for. And how many times have you been

of the Internet and has held the contract with the government ever

told that everything is booked when you’re staring at a handful

since. Bach explained that because of this closed system, there hasn’t

of empty sites! While we wouldn’t say the system is broken, it is in

been much reason to innovate, but if park data were made available

desperate need of repair. This is why Hipcamp exists.

to everyone, more businesses could provide more services.

Hipcamp is a new way to discover and book campsites. Right

For example, if you think about the travel industry, there isn’t one

now, the website only covers California, but the site is expanding

exclusive place to book all of your travel. There are a wealth of options

to Texas and plans to encompass the entire Western United States

aimed at landing you the perfect itinerary at the right price. Why should

by summer 2015.

camping be any different? Ideally, each step ofthe process for the entire country could be done via Hipcamp, from research

Hipcamp is more than just the

and planning to booking and even sharing the

antidote to Reserve America.

experience

afterward.

“That is the goal and we’re getting there,” said

The story goes something like this: Back in 2013, Hipcamp

Bach. “We’ve actually just

Founder Alyssa Ravasio wanted to explore the Big Sur coastline.

built our own booking

She spent hours researching different sites with 20-something tabs

software, and we have

open in her browser. “One minute you’re on the government site,

a campsite using it in

then you check out Yelp, then you find somebody’s blog. It’s a mess,”

Sonoma County. Since

Eric Bach told us. He later co-founded the company with Alyssa.

they signed up with us,

Alyssa ended up camping at a state park next to an epic surf

they’ve seen 300% growth

break, but she missed out because somehow this valuable piece

in revenue.”

of information had escaped her research and she didn’t bring her

His enthusiasm isn’t

board. Surfers may not be the most forthcoming about good surf

so much about profit-

spots, but Alyssa couldn’t help watching the waves break, thinking,

ability as it is the campable land going untapped. Offering a platform

“There must be a better way!”

for managing reservations to park land, but also private landowners, it

Hipcamp’s first step approached the problem through modern

increases availability and opens the door to some rad places people have

design. The founders built a website as easy to navigate as it is

never explored.

visually pleasing. The content is informative, offering not only real-

“We are in the process of speaking with private landowners—places

time campsite availability, but also information about the local area

that have waterfalls, intricate trail systems, ocean views. Places people

and nearby activities. It’s an experience that actually makes you more

have never heard of. You can think of it almost as an AirBnB for places

excited about going camping, however, there are some limitations.

to camp,” said Bach.

joe gomez

Duckworth is the homebase of the #sheeptoshelf

What is the inspiration behind the

movement,

women’s collection?

Montana’s

source-verified

wool

company manufacturing quality goods from

The forest, my garden, real food and

100% Helle Rambouillet merino. Sheep are raised

fast cars. Clothing that is source-verified,

on mountain pastures at 9,500 feet, the ideal

clean lines and “acta-non-verba” with style.

elevation for producing premium wool. From there

Northern soul and provenance. In general, the

the fibers are sent to North Carolina to be spun,

collection is truly inspired by the fabrics – their

knit and sewn into an impeccable, completely

character and the best possible application for

American product. In FW14, with the help of

each one of them. Warm and comfortable,

Design

Duckworth

classy, yet functional clothing that is made

quietly launched a focused women’s collection

close to home with exquisite fibers grown on

of basics, which we think it is the perfect poetic

one ranch.

Director

Outi

Pulkkinen,

balance of form and function.

Tell us about the Hummingbird series. range

Who is the Duckworth girl?

How is the hand so soft?

I guess for me, she is

It starts with the extra fine wool fiber

pretty straight up. She is adventure-loving,

from the Helle Rambouillet Merino sheep.

but not silly. A solid person you can count

We select the finest micron, long staple wool

on in all situations. She probably drives

fiber to spin a very fine yarn, knitting slowly

a truck and hunts with a bow and arrow,

and carefully to create a 2x1 rib structure.

or appreciates and is intrigued by things

The combination of fine wool and a knit

of true nature, the outdoors and all it

that has air trapping ribulets with reduced

encompasses and offers.

points of contact with the skin gives the rib an

outi pulkkinen

amazingly soft and light hand.

hipcamp founder a ly s s a ravas io

WINTER 2015 E SS E NTIALS

Snow Peak Knife

Foraged cocktails straight from the trail.

Snow Peak Cutting Board Mason Jars Cast Iron Skillet Large Pot Snow Peak Silicone Glassware Pruning Shears Snow Peak Titanium Flask Jigger Spoon Muddler Cheesecloth Soil knife for digging dandelion roots

FORAG E D FI N DS Before our trail cocktail mission, we packed some basic cooking essentials to heat water and make syrups with

Purple Sage / Salvia leucophylla

our finds. A stop by the farmers market provided winter

Black Sage / Salvia mellifera

fruit and citrus to incorporate into the cocktails, maple

Pink Peppercorn / Schinus molle

syrup and sugar to sweeten, and spices to accent.

& Schinus terebinthifolius Dandelion Root / Taraxacum officinale

FA R M E R ’ S M A R K E T

Pear Lime

Winter Gimlet makes

2 servings

Honoring the environment and foraging graciously was

Cranberry

the first lesson on our adventure. Our foraging guide

Cinnamon Stick

Emily taught us to look around and take note before

Orange Peel

snipping any leaves. Was there plenty of that particular

Star Anise

plant growing in this area, and did it look healthy and

Burdock Root

lush? Once we identified a plant with leaves to spare, 3

oz. Gin

we respectfully trimmed just the tips so as not to

oz. Simple syrup

disrupt the plant health.

1 ½

Limes, squeezed and muddled

Caramelized pear

3-4

Sprigs purple sage

2-3

Sprigs black sage

Backwoods Tea makes

Slice pears in half, sprinkle with sugar to caramelize in cast iron pan over the fire, and add extra foraged sage for flavor. When golden brown, remove from the heat, slice in half again, and add a pear quarter in a mason jar with a few sprigs of sage leaves. Cut limes in half, squeeze one and a half limes, and drop them into the mason jar. Muddle until the pear is mashed and limes are fully juiced. Add gin, simple syrup and a few ice cubes. Shake everything in the mason jar with the cap on, and then use the disk of the cap to strain the

Off-Trail Soda makes

1 serving

cocktail into a glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and another sprig of sage.

1 ½

oz. Vodka or tequila

Heaping tablespoons of

cranberry peppercorn chutney

Club Soda

1 serving

1 ½

oz. Bourbon

Large pinch of dandelion root

Large pinch of burdock root

Dried star anise

Cinnamon sticks

3-4

Orange slices

oz. of maple syrup

Scrub the dandelion root well and finely chop. Place in a tea bag or cheesecloth with the burdock root. Boil in a medium pot of water with cinnamon sticks and dried anise to make a tea. Add two to three glugs of maple syrup and the orange slices. Heat until the tea is flavored, pour into a mug with bourbon, and garnish with a cinnamon stick, anise and orange peel.

Cover the bottom of a medium sized pot with cranberries, pour in just enough water to cover them, and then generously sprinkle one cup of sugar over all ingredients. Pick off peppercorns from their branches/leaves and sprinkle in with the cranberries, about 20-30 peppercorns. The leaves are not meant to be consumed, so be sure to just use the actual peppercorns. Let the pot boil, the cranberries pop, and the liquid reduce a bit. Once all are mushy, remove from the heat and muddle in the pot to form a chutney consistency. Spoon two heaping tablespoons into a

Purple sage and black sage were abundant on the trails. Everywhere we turned, we were met with their fragrant lure, as well as the scent of sage brush, a similarly named but unrelated plant. A gentle brushing of the leaves in our hands released the freshest scent, and we couldn’t help but pinch some all along our walk.

glass, add booze, top with club soda, and give a stir.

Using our finds from the farmer’s market to create cocktail ingredients, we sprinkled our pears with sugar before heating them facedown in a cast iron pan. The sound of the cranberries popping was similar to the sound of the fire crackling, creating a magical song as the sun began to set and the day started to wind down.

words

recipes

rachel mae furman photographs

jennifer puno illustration s h e lby li ng foraging e m i ly h a n

RANGE

Let Me Upgrade U

c o n s t r u c t e d w i t h 5m m neo-tech™ lite insulation

eyoncé knows when it’s time for an upgrade, to flip the page and introduce you to

some new things. It seems like the designers over at Bogs Footwear are following in Queen B’s footsteps these days, 100%

revamping the look and technical features of their boots.

waterproof

The brand’s Fall/Winter 2015 collection provides serious updates to your #basic weatherproof winter boots. Rooted in the Pacific Northwest, Bogs has a solid understanding of wet,

bogs max-wick™ moves sweat away from your foot to keep you dry

snowy, muddy conditions, but also realizes the demand for fashionable footwear that can be worn on a daily basis, no matter what the weather is like. In particular, the Sidney Lace boot combines a minimal, lace-up silhouette with innovative features, such as 5mm Neo-Tech™ Lite Insulation for warmth, DuraFresh odor-fighting biotechnology, Bogs Max-Wick™ to keep

molded eva insole with durafresh and bogs max-wick™

feet dry, and outsole rebound technology, which creates true, lasting comfort. The high-gloss upper is paired with a slightly shifted plaid, lending a touch of flawlessness to an otherwise tomboy-inspired staple. This 100% waterproof boot will take you wherever you need to go this winter, through slushy sidewalks along your urban commute or lingering puddles by your favorite yoga studio. Comfort rated at five degrees Fahrenheit, you can’t go wrong by giving your winter boot collection a little upgrade, courtesy of Bogs’s Sidney Lace. Ladies, that’s a good look.

rebound technology in outsole provides lasting comfort

rubber

outsole

with

stacked

comfort rated 5˚ f / - 15˚ c

heel

The urban jungle is one of life’s greatest treasures, and navigating through it can be part of a city’s charm - but getting from one place to next while lugging your gear can sometimes be a hassle. To lighten the load and make life easier, San Francisco-based Timbuk2 has created solutions for your weekend and playtime explorations with its gender-neutral Alamo and Octavia bags, both from the brand’s Skyline Collection. The Skyline Collection from Timbuk2 fuses a versatile design with genuine leather and elevated fabrics to provide you with functional accessories to carry your belongings while helping you maintain your rep as a stylish urbanite. The Octavia is specifically great for all the folks who insist on carrying their 13-inch MacBook Pros around town, and if backpacks aren’t typically your thing, then the Alamo Tote-Pack has you covered with its ability to seamlessly convert into a tote. Upscale, roomy and versatile, these Timbuk2 packs are worth your while. Whether your adventure includes getting around by bike, streetcar, train, bus or foot, these packs help deliver you in style and ready for whatever occasions the day brings.

sydney halle

WINTER 2015

Connecting Craft, Community and Wellbeing in the Canyon

ree from the bustle of L . A ., yet close enough to hear the cultural heartbeat, families and creative

souls are settling in Topanga Canyon. Residents Heather Culp and Carly Jo Morgan are tapping into the region’s bohemian past and transforming it into a sustainable lifestyle with their bi-annual devendra banhart

Mercado Sagrado fair. The two-day event presents beautiful handmade objects, curated vintage collections, panels on nutrition,

dodecahedron sound

opportunities for meditation and creative expression, and

sculpture

musical performances by Devendra Banhart, all set in the

m at t h e w morgan

mountaintops above the Pacific Coast Highway.

and

Those seeking a healthier model of commerce will find

arjan

miranda

one at Mercado Sagrado. Artist, jewelry designer and event organizer Carly Jo Morgan describes an afternoon where

rob doran

maker and consumer can meet face to face in appreciation

ceramics

of an object available for purchase. Each artisan’s booth is presented as an extension of their craft studio, showcasing the hard work that goes into creations such as those by ceramicist Rob Doran. What emerges from the oneof-a-kind vintage gems and handcrafted furniture is a sensory experience that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the soul. It’s not simply a monetary exchange, but also a

Photographer and Mercado Sagrado organizer Heather Culp ex-

conversation, a shared smile and a trusted handshake. In

plains that while Topanga’s hippie past is still palpable in its current

mijanou

culture, it has noticeably transformed and matured. While free love,

montealegre

one word: community. The concept of community can be fickle in an isolated area like

photographs on

hemp

h e at h e r c u l p and by

furniture o n ly l o v e

is real in the

home

c a r ly j o m o r g a n

experimental drug use and being “checked out” ruled the Canyon in

Topanga Canyon. Creative solitude and the counterculture famous-

its heyday, today emphasis is placed on family life, wellness

ly converged there in the 1960s and ‘70s, bringing with it a flur-

and being “tuned in.” The population is no longer charac-

ry of actors and musicians, including Dennis Hopper, Neil Young

terized by individuals looking to escape, but rather by those

and members of the Doors and Canned Heat. Today, contemporary

seeking awareness. Accordingly, Mercado Sagrado offers sub-

artists continue the pilgrimage to the Santa Monica Mountains, al-

stance-free self-exploration through meditation, the healing

though to a decidedly different beat. Nature still runs wild and while

arts, organic foods and a carefully cultivated speaker program.

residents value the ability to live and produce in the landscape’s se-

Although Mercado Sagrado is geared as a platform for

clusion, they also seek new ways to connect with like-minded souls.

thought leadership, food culture and creative expression, it

This is where online communities like Instagram and in-person ex-

aims to do so quietly. That is, while a participant may choose

periences like Mercado Sagrado come into play.

to attend a practicum on organic food or opt in for a card

of and

mystic mama kirsty hume

reading, the experience remains distinctly apolitical and completely customizable based on attendees’ preferences. What is brought home from Mercado Sagrado will range depending on what one is looking for, whether it’s the memory of breathtaking Canyon views, a hand-carved wooden object or simply the sense that a gentler, more peaceful way of life is possible. This is the intention of Mercado Sagrado - the embodiment of the Topanga Canyon spirit that Carly Jo Morgan and Heather Culp would like every visitor to embrace.

tiah rubin

photographs

k a c i e to m i ta

h e at h e r c u l p a n d

Meg Haywood Sullivan is an outdoor lifestyle photographer

village of less than 9,000 people,

winter camp would shield them from the long

whose work has been featured in publications from

would be their jumping off point to

night with temperatures that dropped below

across the globe, including The New York Times and

the vast sea of snow, ice and rock

negative 10 degrees Fahrenheit. As the last

NationalGeographic.com. Meg’s passion lies in her deep

that surrounded them. As one day

of the snowflakes fell off their tent, Meg arose

reverence for the outdoors and relentless pursuit of those

led to the next, it quickly became

unforgettable moments that punctuate her adventures.

apparent they were in for the long haul. The sun hadn’t

last rays of the moonlight and the first beams of dawn that

to see her wintery world illuminated by the

offered a single ray for close to two weeks, and they were

blanketed the ribbons of mountains and valleys below. That

A shotgun trip to chase POW on assignment for Transworld

running out of time. On the 14th day, that formative moment

moment, captured here, will forever illuminate the sheer

Snowboarding landed Meg in the heartland of the world’s

came when the forecasts they had been meticulously

bliss etched deep into her memory.

deepest powder and arguably the best snow, a claim that

studying offered a glint of hope. Tomorrow would be their

immediately proved true shortly after arriving in Japan

day. Bags were packed and their sights were set toward

during the winter of 2014. She was there to photograph two

the snowy abyss. Over the course of four grueling hours,

of the snowboarding world’s most progressive big mountain

Meg, Ryland and Ralph would skin their way uphill, covering

riders, Ryland Bell and Ralph Backstrom, in the shadow

miles of chest-deep powder, an arduous journey powered

of the looming Japanese Alps. Hakuba, a cozy mountain

by a collectively intrinsic commitment to get the shot. Their

charles post

RANGE

A Visual Mixtape, Road Tripping Through New Zealand

lake

cobb,

hawea

pelorus

meatworks

kahurangi

beachfront,

reserve

kaikoura

lake

tennyson

Venture Out is a production of Outdoor Retailer in collaboration with The Mountain Lab. Part trade show, part community building event, Venture Out highlights the brands, attitude

kaikoura

and experience of the modern outdoors. Stadiums & Shrines explores music from a surreal vantage. While most scenes on their site are imagined, they also dream of reaching real, wondrous destinations. New Zealand, with its infinite vistas and mirrored waters, has long topped the list. With the support of Venture Out, Dave and Victoria from S&S campervanned around its breathtaking South Island, and returned with a visual mixtape, highlighting the spectrum of landscapes on their distinct road trip adventure. Inspired by this sensorial experience, the audio mix (which you can find at thisisrange.com) is comprised of NZ-based artists and field recordings taken along the way. #VentureOut hills photographs

victor ia maste rs

marlborough

national

park

WINTER 2015

www.madewithmap.com

he places we go say a lot about who we are. How many times do you catch yourself geeking out about

your favorite brewery or that epic beach that no one knows about? There are a lot of digital tools for organizing, navigating and even ace

hotel,

photograph

andrew jason leung

red

rock

canyon,

rating the places we go, but what about telling the story?

photograph

MAP is a visual mapping community celebrating people and their

ken lin

journeys. Several years back, co-founder Jennifer Puno and her husband, Daniel Chin Yee, were preparing to travel

Right now, anyone can create a MAP or follow another user, and

across Thailand, but felt

you can search for locations.

that most travel resources

stahl

There is a lot out there in the travel space, but not so much for

lacked depth or covered

location-based discovery and sharing.

virtually the same ground.

The closest thing that comes to mind is

So she and her husband

Instagram’s Photo Map feature, which

created a prototype and

allows users to simply geo-tag photos

tested it on their trip.

and represent them on a map. While

Initially it had more of a

it’s been around since 2012, Instagram

food focus—the food is

remains much more about photogra-

bomb in Thailand—but

phy than it does mapping.

after connecting with so

“Where MAP is different is in the

many people in so many

community we are building,” said Puno.

new places, they wanted

“We want to showcase your taste and

a tool that could bring

personal connection to a location. You

everyone together.

can be a tour guide through your expe-

“We’re fine-tuning

working stuff

just get into it, and this is for them.”

search and photo upload-

Currently MAP is in beta, but it is al-

ing,” said Puno. “But we have some great features on the way like

ways seeking trailblazers to add to its al-

the ability to get notified of new photos in a specific location.”

ready growing community.

joe gomez

The creative conference for active, outdoor, and urban design Portland, Oregon May 7-8, 2015

Join us for conversations and workshops on design leadership, communication, and entrepreneurship. Presentations from Nau, Poler Outdoor Stuﬀ, Swift Industries, Range, Gear Commons, Carryology, Giro, Snow Peak, Shwood, Topo Designs, The Mountain Lab, and more. Evening receptions hosted by Snow Peak & Poler Outdoor Stuﬀ.

www.strukturevent.com

jennifer puno

riences. There’s a group of people that

house,

photograph

Struktur Event

RANGE

f a t ree fal l s i n a fo re s t an d n o o n e i s aro u n d to hear it, does it make a sound? And if the perfect

outdoors-inspired moment isn’t captured and shared on social media, did it ever really happen? Humans have been documenting their fascination with the outdoors since the early 1800s when the world’s first photograph, “View from the Window at Le Gras,” was taken in 1826 by the French photography pioneer Joseph Nicéphore Niépce. The process was long and complicated, and included an eight-hour exposure and an oil mixture of lavender and white petroleum, but the subject matter was simple. It was nature.

Many outdoors enthusiasts love the great wide open because it affords them the opportunity to “just, like, get away from it all, man.” In this age, “from it all, man” surely includes one’s smartphone, right? We just can’t help ourselves. Who isn’t guilty of stopping on a hike to snap a pic of an epic sunset or a perfect vista? Fast forward to 2015 and just like Niépce, savvy social media users continue to share their love of nature and the outdoors. We hate to say it, but there’s a recipe for success associated with this genre of documentation. If you can nail the right combination of images, textures and angles of intimate outdoor moments, we can pretty much guarantee that your following and overall likeability will #increase. So while the recent avalanche of outdoorsy Instagram accounts boasting well-curated selections of #campvibes, #axes, #adventures and #backpacks have provided us with a much needed dose of thoughtful content, let’s take a moment to reflect on just how silly and undeniable this algorithm truly is.

illustrations

seth neilson

When you’re warm, you don’t even think about it, but when you don’t have a jacket, you’re miserable. Maybe you’re one of those people that constantly tells others how cold you are, which can be annoying, right? Either way, you spend the rest of the day wishing you had a jacket, but not just any jacket. A good jacket, the kind of jacket that’s so great, you’re constantly telling people how warm you are, which is still annoying, but awesome. Enter Mountain Hardwear, the mad scien-

trekking to work on a subarctic day in Chicago. Then you

tists of insulation and design, who want

can have a jacket that’s just for chillin’. It’s lightweight, com-

to make sure you’re wearing the right

fy and cool. If you are looking to stay toasty, but you know

jacket for the right situation. They’ve got

you’re going to get wet, duh, there’s a jacket for that, too.

your top-of-the-line warm, lightweight, breathable down jacket, which is some-

Mountain Hardwear has over 50 different sleek styles for

thing you might cram in your pack when

both men and women to keep the cold off your back and

you’re traversing across Antarctica or just

outside where it belongs. #findingwinter

joe

gomez

WINTER 2015

was sure that the flapping wings in the corner of my eye belonged to another one of the seemingly

endless amount of turkey vultures that make their home under the bright blue skies of California. The second time it passed overhead, I looked up, squinting towards the sun, failing to catch a glimpse of the distinguishing white pattern that makes the noble buzzard so easily identifiable. I glanced back down at my boots, scanned the surrounding redwoods, and took a deep breath. I was 3,000 miles from home, one mile ahead of the rest of my group and one week fresh off the end of an eightyear relationship. Needless to say, birds were not on my mind. I kept walking, quietly whispering, “Fuck Fuck Fuck Fuck Fuck Fuck Fuck Fuck,” as one sings a scale of “Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti Do.” I had been doing this for the first leg of our trip, a few days of trail maintenance in the Sespe Wilderness, and it had been calming me down, making me feel a little less dramatic about coming to the woods to mend a broken heart. Truth be told, I had booked this trip months ago, and when deciding at the last minute if I should cancel, I thought a few days of physical labor, rolled cigarettes and whiskey would do me good. It was only a matter of minutes before the silence of the woods was overtaken by loud repeating swooshes that ran through the tops of the ancient trees. I tilted my head back to see not one, but two enormous black birds crisscrossing the sky, dancing back and forth, up and down, side to side. The California condors, North America’s largest birds, were so close that I could hear their wings flapping in the soft summer breeze. I put my dirty hands in the air thinking that if I tried hard enough, I could touch one when it floated past. I sat down and took off my pack, barely noticing a friend from my group had caught up and laid right beside me. We both sat in silence, watching and listening to the great show, pretending that nothing else in the world ever existed before or after those damn birds took to the illustration

dancefloor. After a few minutes, my fellow audience member and I

obi kaufmann

caught eyes, wiping the tears from our face before we burst into laughter. He looked up at two of the 500 condors left on Earth and mumbled, “All of the shit, I don’t think it matters much.”

jeff thrope