February 2013 Newsletter

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter

Feb 2013

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

TRANSITION TIME

February is a bit of a strange month for us at Wild Rock. We are still very much in the mix of winter and enjoying the winter activities and sports that we love. Our staff have spent plenty of time nordic skiing, snowboarding, and playing outside this winter.

But.....

It is this time of year that we start to see what is just around the corner. It is transition time for us. In February we see all the new and exciting product that we ordered so long ago start to arrive for the spring season. There is a steady flow of new sportswear, footwear, bicycles, athletic gear, camping equipment, and even paddling gear. Probably not a fun time for our courier drivers - but it gets us pretty excited to see everything new rolling through the door.

Our customers will slowly start to see the store change this time of year, with some of these new items already making their way to the sales floor. Over the next month or two, we begin to shift gears to the upcoming season.

Don’t worry you will still be able to find warm winter clothing, nordic ski and snowboard gear, hats, gloves, and all that good stuff that will help you get through the remaining days of winter.

For February we return with our new format for the newsletter. Hopefully you enjoyed our last issue, and are looking forward to more!

This month we bring in a couple of new features: Get to Know - profiling a member of our staff each month, What I Ride - a little insight to the bikes we choose to ride, and why, Brand Knowledge - giving you a look into the brands we carry and why, and a great collaboration with the Canadian Canoe Museum on the evolution of outdoor gear.

Whether you are making the most of your winter activities or longing for warmer days ahead, have a read!!

Sincerely, Wild Rock Outfitters

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

GET TO KNOW....

Kieran Andrews co-pilot/buyer Kieran has been an outdoor enthusiast from a very young age – and it was his love of playing outside that lead to him starting Wild Rock Outfitters with Scott Murison way back in 1992.

At Wild Rock Kieran takes on the responsibility of searching out the latest and greatest products in the outdoor industry, as well as being a jack-of-all trades on the sales floor.

Kieran is heavily involved in running the day to day operations at the store, as well as working as a buyer in footwear, sportswear and cycling apparel.

Kieran is a dedicated outdoor athlete, and has spent considerable time on climbing walls, in kayaks, and traveling with a backpack on. With the exception of a few years’ hiatus, Kieran has raced his road bike since the age of 14. He is now a Masters racer and part of the successful Peterborough Cycling Club – where he is most often found at the front of the pack!

Kieran has travelled the world in pursuit of adventure – and most recently travelled to Spain and Italy to ride his bike and share cycling.

Winters are spent on the local skate ski trails and sometimes pointed downhill on his skis or snowboard!

Kieran has been heavily involved in the growth of the cycling community in Peterborough.

Along with developing the great Cycling Routes Map, Kieran can also be found sharing his love of cycling in the Kawarthas with www.ptborides.com – check it out!

photo: d.blondel

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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JUST IN

Rhys P. For many the price of high end sunglasses is justified once you spend some time wearing them; but for those looking to get a set of shades that are better than average, but don't want to make the move to a $300+ set, Smith may fit the bill perfectly. All of their lenses come from the factory with a hydrophobic coating for those snowy runs and the inevitable rain on Wednesdays night rides too.

The most expensive option at $249 is the Pivlock V2 Plus which includes a photochromatic lens. This is a fantastic lens for starting out in the sun and ending your ride/run in the dark as it automatically lightens its tint as the sun goes down. The Pivlock V2 features one of the easiest to use lens interchange systems and are frame-less, allowing the glasses to widen for a more comfortable fit. The nose piece also adjusts for a wider or narrower nose fit as well. Smith also makes a prescription adapter for the Pivlock glasses for those with less than 20/20 vision.

The Parallel is framed and includes an easy to change lens with no moving parts, It’s a little less like the windscreen of the Pivlock and more like a classic pair of sunglasses. The Parallel will excel as an all around pair of sunglasses, and their lightweight will appeal to the run crowd. These glasses come in three lens heights for a variety of coverage.

The Parallel D-Max have the tallest lens and airflow is still great. The Parallel fits smaller, and the Max comes in with an in between profile.

SMITH PIVLOCK V2 PLUS $249

SMITH PARALLEL $149

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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DOUBLE DOUBLE SKIATHLON If there is one day that captures the spirit of “glory through suffering”, it may just be what has become know as The Double Double - a great challenge that was brought forth by Paul Wilkinson and should be experienced by any fan of nordic skiing. Pack a lunch, ski at your own pace, and enjoy. j.elcombe

From Paul W. Fancy a challenge? Need some motivation this time of year? Is your winter too, well, medium regular?

The sixth annual Double Double Skiathlon will be held on Sunday February 24 at 8 am at Kawartha Nordic Ski Club. Many consider it to be the toughest endurance event in the area. So tough that in any one year no more than ten hardy skiers has ever completed it. Hard, yes, but completely do-able.

Here’s how it works. The route varies from year to year but we always complete two big laps of classic technique skiing followed by two big laps of skate skiing to achieve an overall distance of about 60 km. It’s totally informal and not a race. It’s just for fun but is a great accomplishment.

We typically stop after most of the laps to re-fuel, re-wax, change clothes or just provide moral support. And there’s usually a variety of abilities taking part so you don’t have to be a super-fast skier. It’s free to members and anyone else with a day pass. There’s no official support so please bring your own food, drinks, etc.

Please check the KNSC forum for more information and updates.

And don’t worry, there’s plenty of time to complete your panic training and be ready.

“Because after the finish all the suffering turns to memories of pleasure, and the greater the suffering, the greater the pleasure.”

Tim Krabbe - The Rider

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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WHAT

2. If you swap wheels and the spacing is slightly different as you leave the laneway you simply hold down a small button and the rear derailleur adjusts itself to the new rear wheel in about 30 seconds for spotless shifting.

I RIDE text: s.murison

Why I ride what I ride.

Last year I was lucky enough to get my hands on a Cervelo R5. This is the cousin of the more popular R3 (R3 is almost as stiff, and over 1 pound lighter than the Pinarello Dogma at 25% the price.) You might remember this bike from Ryder Hesjdals win at the Giro D’Italia last year.

So it worked for him but some of you may have noticed I am no Ryder, so why am I on an R5? They are a great blend of lightweight (frame is less than 900g), stiffness and comfort. The frame and fork provide a very smooth ride on gravel, chip tar and broken asphalt. This touring sort of comfort usually requires a compromise on performance but I can’t seem to see any compromise. When you stand to sprint or climb the response is akin to squeezing an overly ripe watermelon seed between your pre-wetted fingers! The bike jumps forward as soon as you press down on the pedals.

The bike frame only makes a portion of the joy.

The other bit and bobs are pretty darn important. I started with the new Shimano Ui2 electronic shifting. After you go electronic I don’t think you will ever go back. Smooth shifting, no chain rub and super low maintenance. I charge the battery every 2000km whether it needs it or not and I have never even seen the low battery light. Some things you notice after owning it for a while are: 1. The front derailleur tracks and adjusts as you shift at the rear so you never get any chain rub.

3. You can effortlessly shift on the front while standing or under power

The handlebars I have the shifters mounted on are FSA shallow drop wing bars. These are modestly priced and reasonably light. The key to these bars is they are perfect for the middleaged roadie as the drops are shallow. This means I can actually ride in my drops and not lose too much power or comfort.

The seat is a trusty Sella Flight model that keeps my rear end happy and pain free for hours of riding. White, of course, to match the bar tape and shoes…. You don’t leave the house with a belt that does not match your shoes now do you.

You will notice the wheels… not only are they pretty swanky, but they are incredibly light and incredibly smooth on rough roads - a beautiful combination. These are an incredibly sweet upgrade to any bike. They add a lot of spice to the ride.

Some other little bits I really like are my Quark power crank that reads my meager wattage and sends it to my Garmin 800 computer that tracks my work and ride. I have the Garmin 800 not only as a bike computer but on many of our trips I have used it for route finding. It has come in very handy.

This bike has been a great ride. I look forward to every time I get chance to ride it. It weighs in at about 15.5lbs! That means I can drink and extra couple of cappuccinos!!!!

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

pcc 2013 launch party

ROLLER RACING feb. 23. 7pm at wildrock outfitters.

EVENT IS FREE AND AWESOME. SHOW UP! RACE YOUR FRIENDS. PETERBOROUGHCC.COM | WILDROCK.NET

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

CYCLING SEASON AND PETERBOROUGH CYCLING CLUB

LAUNCH NIGHT SAT FEB 23rd 7pm at WILD ROCK Wild Rock is getting ready for cycling season - and we are kicking it off with our Cycling Season Launch Party! Join Wild Rock and the Peterborough Cycling Club as we get ready for a great season ahead!

The Peterborough Cycling Club will be hosting their annual membership kick-off night - a great chance for interested folks to learn more about the club, its rides and events, and for members to get together with their riding friends they may not of seen for a few months!

This year the PCC and WIld Rock are pleased to provide food, beverages, a chance to pre-order your PCC cycling kit and we are bringing the excitement of indoor ROLLER RACING to Peterborough for the first time!

Challenge your friends, show off your fitness and see who can lay down the best time in a series of short head-to-head sprint events - guaranteed to be a blast to participate in and watch!

We have also confirmed the attendance of the famous Shimano Beer Bike for the night!

The PCC is also celebrating its 10th season as an incorporated club in 2013 - and the Season Launch Night will be your chance to order an exclusive limited edition PCC 10th Anniversary Jersey - sure to be something special!

Plenty of new cycling products and bikes from Trek and Specialized will be on display to help get you excited to get out and ride in 2013!

Make sure you join us Feb 23 - whether you are a PCC member, are interested in learning more about the club, or a cyclist who wants to take part in a great night to celebrate the season ahead!

Check out the event page for updates!

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

www.wildrock.net

JOB OPENING AT WILD ROCK Wild Rock is Hiring!

Want to work for a great company, with great people?

Have an eye for fashion? Love clothing?

We are looking for an enthusiastic person to join the Sportswear department team.

You should have retail and visual merchandising/display experience, be comfortable with technical fabrics, and have a willingness to learn.

Positive work environment provided, and lots of awesome perks!!

Part time to full time hours – hours are flexible. Preferably Wednesday through Saturday, full days. March start date expected.

Apply with resume to jess@wildrock.net or in store.

Ask for Jessica M or Jon M. when applying.

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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BRAND KNOWLEDGE text: jess m.

How do you say, Arc’Teryx… Do you emphasize the “Arc” or the “teryx”? Not an easy word to verbalize, but whichever way you swing, it’s still a lot easier than the reptilian fossil the Brand’s name comes from: Archaeopteryx Lithographica! Just like its name, Arc’Teryx embodies complexity made simple. The brand is known for its highly technical gear and clothing, unrivaled in innovation, performance, and quality of materials, but is also widely known for the simplicity of its clean design. And like the first reptilian fossil found with feathers, Arc’Teryx is evolution in action.

Why do we carry them?

It looks great, you have to admit. Besides that, we love Arc’Teryx because it is just made so damn well. To showcase how well made an Arc’Teryx garment is put together, I was always told to take the garment and turn it inside out. When the seams, stitches, and toggles are just as clean and well produced on the inside as on the outside, well, you have yourself a beautiful piece that should perform for a long time. Arc’Teryx also uses e3D

patterning, which involves lots of articulation points and 3D fabric molding that increases your range-of-motion. Yes, Arc’Teryx is “high end” - and although there may be an initial struggle to wrap your head around the price, those who’ve tried it know the true value of what they’ve spent, and usually become ardent followers. Some even know the secret handshake.

New Product This spring, Arc’Teryx has put a lot more energy into their sportswear line, adding new designs and also re-vamping a few classic pieces. Things to check out: their excellent new pant program for men and women, the redone caliber cardigan, and the women’s C’esta program, which is natural-fibre based (somewhat of a new concept for Arc’Teryx).

Having a more substantial sportswear line will certainly make the brand more accessible for those who haven’t tried it out.

Arc’Teryx : A Canadian business success story, and positively a WRO staff favourite.

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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From L to R C'esta Hoody in soapstone: $99.99 Detente Hoody in desert lapis: $119.99 Parapet Pant in black: $89.99 C'esta Pant in soapstone and celsian: $99.99

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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On Jon Rampart Pants in black: $99.99 Peakline l/s button up in pewter: $85.00 NEW and improved Caliber Cardigan in soapstone: $149.99

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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On Jess Beta SL (Gore-Tex) in desert lapis: $299.99

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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YOGA

"

TRIANGLE (TRIKONASANA) Melt into your triangle to feel the body stretch and strengthen through the legs, hips, and torso. Without a doubt you will feel your steadiness working to balance you, your flexibility working hard to lengthen and release the body, your internal organs being stimulated, and your heart opening to expand into that space through the chest and shoulders that perhaps has been locked up in some way.

Rachele is wearing Lole’s Fly Tank - $59.99 and Lole’s Serene Capri Pant - $55

Triangle is a great pose to incorporate into your daily practice. Here is how!

1) Stand with your feet 3 to 4 feet apart. Right foot points to the top of the mat, left foot turns to point to the side of your mat, and align your right heel with left heel.

2) Extend your arms out, shoulder height parallel to the mat, palms facing down.

3) Inhale to reach to the right, lengthening through the torso and extending to the right as far as possible. On the exhale release at the hip , bending into your triangle. The right arm slides down towards the earth, along the right leg resting on the inside of your shin, palm facing away. The left arm reaches to the heavens, with your gaze looking over the left hand , if comfortable. Otherwise, keep your head in a neutral position.

4) Ground this posture by keeping your feet connected in the four corners, but also insuring that the outer heel is firmly connected without rolling your foot inwards. Keep your torso strong and equally long on both sides.

5) Hold your triangle working the breath. When you are ready, exhale to come back up, using your core strength to come out safely. Flip your feet and repeat on the other side.

Namaste, Rachele The Hummingbird Academy

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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photo: Lole

 H A

photo: j.elcombe

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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ARTIFACT SPOTLIGHT THE PACK BASKET text: Jessica Lapp Canadian Canoe Museum

Pack Baskets have long been a part of tripping culture, even before the idea of canoeing as a recreational pursuit came into vogue.

Although baskets can be made from a variety of materials, they are traditionally made from pounded black ash splints, and are as functional as they are beautiful. The adjustable harness allows the basket to be worn comfortably as a backpack, and the baskets flat back and round belly create ample storage space.

These baskets were traditionally used by the Native Peoples of the Eastern Woodlands, and were later adopted by guides in the Adirondack Mountains in Maine.

As early as 1820, city folk sought out nature for both relaxation and its perceived health benefits.

The notion that fresh air could cure lung ailments was a popular belief of the times.

Canoe tripping culture began to emerge as city dwellers hired knowledgeable outdoorsmen or “guides” to lead them in the wilderness experience.

For the more steely-hearted, a guide was far from necessary, in fact, the adventure was in the exploration of uninhabited and often isolated canoe routes.

The pack basket pictured here belonged to Eric Morse, a member of the latter breed of outdoor adventurer.

Morse was one of eight men dubbed “The Voyageurs”.

The Voyageurs began their canoeing adventures quietly in the 1950’s when few others were making wilderness canoe trips.

However, by the end of their careers, they had unwittingly inspired an entirely new generation of paddlers. Over the course of 15 years between 1951 and 1964, Eric Morse, Sigurd Olson, Omond Solandt, Elliot Rodger, Tony Lovink, Blair Fraser, Denis Coolican, and Tyler Thompson had completed eleven major trips spanning Canada from Quebec to the North West Territories, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

In 1954, the group famously followed the fur trade route from Grand Portage to Fort Frances, likely one of the only groups to travel this route since the days of the fur trade itself Over the course of his 30year canoeing career Eric Morse completed more than 20 trips, often alongside his wife Patricia Morse, Canada’s de facto first lady of wilderness canoeing.

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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Morse’s meticulously researched book Fur Trade Canoe Routes of Canada/ Then and Now, has inspired generations of wilderness paddlers.

W.C. LEONHARD & CO., SARANAC LAKE, N.Y.

THE CANOEISTS CATALOGUE, 1978.

COPYRIGHT THE CANADIAN CANOE MUSEUM

Pack baskets continue to be an invaluable part of the modern day canoeists tripping kit, however, for some outdoor enthusiasts there is no comparison to the durability and versatility of the barrel and barrel harness.

Pictured above is a 30L barrel comparable in size to Eric Morse’s pack basket.

Both the barrel and the Riverstone Barrel Harness are available at Wild Rock.

Visit the camping department to find an array of tripping equipment, supplies and must haves for your own wilderness adventure!

SIX OF THE “VOYAGEURS” in 1953.MORSE THIRD FROM THE RIGHT

MORSE’S PACK BASKET, PADDLE AND BACK PACK

The Canadian Canoe Museum is located at 910 Monaghan Rd. in Peterborough Ontario. The Museum is home to a series of Adult Artisan Workshops that teach and encourage traditional building methods and techniques. The next Woodland Pack Basket workshop will be running on April 27, 2013. Please visit www.canoemuseum.ca or contact Beth Stanley beth.stanley@canoemuseum .ca for more information.

MODERN DAY CANOE BARREL/HARNESS

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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EVENTS FEBRUARY SNOW DAY IN BETHANY HILLS.

Conditions are perfect to celebrate winter in the Kawarthas. On Saturday, Feb. 9, the public is invited to play in the snow and support the Kawartha Heritage Conservancy, which works to protect our region’s beautiful environment.

With the chance to win a $500 value weekend getaway at Emily Creek Cottage, Snow Day in Bethany Hills takes place at South Pond Farms, 1020 Gray Road, near Bethany and runs anytime from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Snowshoe or cross country ski on the adjoining Ballyduff Trails that wind through stands of pine and cedar on a KHC-protected property. Learn the basics with beginner ski lessons. LEARN MORE HERE

KAWARTHA NORDIC SKI ENDURO

KNSC is hosting its 5th annual Ski Enduro Sunday, Feb 10th 2013. This is event is open to skiers of all ages. For some it's a fun, friendly competition and for others it's a fun, fitness challenge.

Race lengths are 2.5, 8, 16 or 32km with options for solo racers, 2- person teams or 4person teams. The 2.5km option is open to children 9 to 12 years old only. The 8, 16, and 32km options are "open" categories. Each team member must ski a minimum of one 8km lap.

For example, a solo racer could ski any of the three race distances. A 2-person team could ski either the 16km or the 32km race, with each team member skiing either 8km or 16km respectively. A 4-person team will ski the 32km race, with each team member skiing 8km. Weather permitting.

LEARN MORE HERE.

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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TIP OF THE

MONTH text: k. andrews

Boots are like old friends. Winter boots and hiking boots take care of us. They keep us warm and support us when the going is rough. Year after year, they serve us while asking little in return, but they have needs, too. All your boots ask of you is that you show them some love from time to time. Only you can do what needs to be done to keep the leather supple, comfortable, and waterproof. Take a moment to show your boots that you love them and they will keep working their hearts out for you.

Whether salty or just plain dirty, the first step to treating your boots is to get them clean. There are many great leather cleaning products on the market but we choose Grangers. The Grangers slogan, “Original Performance Restored”, says it all. Their entire product range is ecologically sound and designed to replicate the original water repellent treatment on most boots and clothing.

Yup, we like Grangers but, if like many people, you have a closet full of this kind of product now is the time to start using them up. If not, then come see us and we can help you select the right Grangers product for your boots.

The steps are simple: 1. Aggressively brush any loose dirt from the footwear.

2. Follow the directions on whatever product you have. Most likely, this will be a simple application of cleaner followed by a rinse in the sink.

Not too much to ask, eh? Now we move on to the treatment stage. The steps here are also simple but you have a choice to make before moving on. Again, you may have a number of these products kicking around your home but we would be very happy to help you select a new one.

The key is to use the product that is designed for use on the type of leather that your boots are made of. A paste wax should be used on smooth leathers while all rough leathers such as splitgrain, suede and nubuck should be treated with a liquid or spray. These liquid or spray treatments are not as durable but do not discolor the leather.

Again, the steps are not complicated: 1. Whatever the product, follow the instructions on the package you are using. It should be as

simple as, “apply with a cloth, or shake applicator, and apply evenly”.

2. Dab off excess and allow to dry.

Follow these simple steps and your trusty boots will be with you as long as possible.

Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

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www.wildrock.net

twitter: @wildrockptbo facebook.com/WILDROCKOUTFITTERS Wild Rock Outfitters Newsletter February 2013

169 Charlotte St. Peterborough, ON K9J 2T7 705.745.9133 www.wildrock.net