Winter Gear Feature: Hats

Penfield Conway Melange Beanie Hat in Navy

WOOD WOOD Ribbed Beanie in Black

 

We are well into the month of January and it is finally time to don some grade-A winter gear.  Temperatures are dropping and you know you need something good to keep you warm when the winds are gusting.  If you've been a reader for some time, you know I'm a huge advocate for guys stuff, because, well, the quality is often more durable and built for wear and tear.  And it's cooler, there I said it.

I picked out my three favorite hats from a designer menswear company you will love, Infinities. Up top I'm wearing the ultra soft and warm Penfield Conway Melange hat in Navy.  It is super soft and a classic hat for winter time.  The WOOD WOOD hat in the second picture is 100% Merino Wool and really durable.  It will block out the wind and keep your head nice and warm, and it's on sale!  The third hat that I really like is the WIP Carhartt Classic Watch Tab hat.  It's big, soft, and really warm when you need the extra insulation.  You're going to need a good hat this winter, so why not take my word for it?  

What is your favorite gear for Winter?

Father Nature Outdoors Camping Blanket

I'm going to say it, Spring is just around the corner.  And with that comes thoughts and plans of outdoor pursuits. New parks to explore, beaches to visit, lakes to jump in, and trees to climb.  I hope to do a lot of camping in 2015 or at least a couple more outings than last year.  It's time to upgrade my gear and be smart about what I really need.  

It's true, I'm a fair weather camper and I don't need -30 degree F mummy bags or your latest and greatest sleep systems.  Nor do I care too much about weighing gear to the 0.00001 oz. so that my pack is light as a feather.  

Perfect, because the Father Nature Outdoor Camping blanket weighs a little over 2 lbs. and can pack tight at the bottom of my bag.  I wont have to worry about overheating during the summer or getting too cold at night.  

Check out their infographic to see how it works, here.

Full Specs, click here.

Cycling #RoundUp: Winter and Night Riding

Be seen and heard during your next adventure aboard your trusty steed.  A couple great gadgets here to alert drivers of your presence on the road. The Proviz jacket has amazing reflective qualities at night, check out the link below to see it in action.  Not too steeply priced for a waterproof cycling shell either.

1. Japanese Brass Bell - $19.90
2. Fly6 Rear Light and Camera - $249.00
3. Proviz Cycling Jacket - $139.99
4. Defeet High-Vis Socks - $17.00
5. Defeet High-Vis Glove Liners - $15.00
6. Cateye Front Light - $17.25
7. Nite Ize SpokeLit - $8.00

All the Gear Ever Kind of Posts

Do you dig the posts with all the gear?  Well check out #roundups for every single post like this!

Winter Commute: 2013 Gear

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” ― Confucius

Unfortunately my boss doesn't have the same mentality about getting to work on time, so when it's cold and blustery I still have to get my tail in gear.  Luckily I have a few go-to items that get me there comfortably.  The first is the Sierra Designs Hurricane Rain Jacket that goes over a fleece or pullover sweater.  Though it's not perfect for Spring and Fall, it keeps out air, snow, and water perfectly.  Next up is the Bern Watts helmet I snagged off of REI outlet for ~$40.  It has a snap-in fleece for added warmth and coziness. I use an old Cannondale Urbapod Messenger bag I bought in a small bike store in Western Pennsylvania.  It's my first bike bag, but somehow I end up reverting back to it after a season or two.  It has its fair share of drawbacks, but I don't carry much and it's very comfortable.  The Stanley thermos, I've definitely sung its praises here and here. My dad got me the Ganka Thinsulate deerskin mittens for Christmas this year and they work wonders.  Finally, a mitten that keeps me roasty-toasty in the AM.  And, lastly, the Cateye Jido front light sent by the gods above.  It's a beam of light that shoots about the distance of one city block ahead.  I keep it on pulse for the strobe/rave/party effect.

Any go-to items that get you to work in one piece?

Introducing: Cricket Leather Co.

The belts from Cricket Leather Co. out of Northern California may be the last belt you ever have to buy. Constructed from English Bridal leather sourced from Wickett & Craig Tannery (est. 1867 in PA), you can expect a quality product that will last a lifetime.  The leather undergoes a "hot-stuffing process in which all natural oils, waxes and tallows are used."  Each belt is cut from 8-10 oz. of pure, drum-dried leather and made to specifications. Every piece is hand-cut, stitched and dyed.  The buckle is made of solid brass and is locally powder coated. These belts just wont die, and you'll never want them to.

Looking for a handsome, quality belt for yourself, a lucky friend, or family member?  Cricket Leather Co. is about to launch their kick off special on November 29, 2013.  50 belts, $50 a piece. Just in time for the holidays! #StockingStuffers

Follow Cricket Leather Co. on Instagram
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The Kennebec Switch-Pack by L.L.Bean

About a month ago I returned one of my favorite bags, the Continental Rucksack, to the L.L.Bean factory because the straps were completely worn out.  Personally, I would have preferred them to put new straps on and send me the old standby back, but they don't do repairs(!).    After carrying this bag for five years or so, my shoulders refused to endure the pain any longer.  Countless times the sales representatives offered to send a completely new bag.  So I got to thinking, why not just pick something different and have it replaced for free through their lifetime guarantee?  Maybe something with a whole new style and similar functionality?

The Kennebec Switch-Pack is a new addition to the L.L.Bean family of gear and completely unlike anything I've ever seen.  It's not just a bag, but also a fishing vest.  I know, you're wondering why I settled on this being a city-dweller and all.  Well the truth is that I prefer a bag with a waist strap, the shoulder straps are super comfortable, and there are like 100 pockets.  I even used it fishing in the Adirondacks, albeit I was spin-casting and not using all of the pockets in the fullest extent that a fly fisherman would (see the tippet dispensers on the side attachments), but it worked really well.  Not totally waterproof though (the expectation is that you will stand in knee-high water fly fishing with it on your back...) so be careful. This may be a problem for me since I use it to bike to work, but the water-resistant capabilities have kept most of my things dry during a small showers.

I look forward to seeing how versatile the bag will be for my lifestyle.

Click on the link below to see the how the side attachments turn the pack into a vest...

Late-Summer Fairmount Park Visit

It must be the chill in the air or the breweries changing out their seasonal offerings, but I'm ready for late-Summer and pre-Fall festivities and all signs are pointing to the change in the air.  Nostalgic reminiscing about Summer escapades and laying on the cool, soft earth in the park is what August is made for.

1. Beloved Bicycles - Imperial Works Morton
2. Millican - Les The Cooler Bag
3. Etsy Seller - Repurposed Skateboard Deck Bottle Opener
4. Faribault Woolen Mills Co. - Box Weave Throw
5. Southern Tier - Imperial Pumking
6. L.L. Bean - Rubber Mocs
7. Into the Abyss: An Extraordinary True Story
8. Libbey - Dimple Stein Beer Mug
9. Filson - Cruiser Shirt
10. Badminton Set

Vipukirves: A Finnish Axe

Vipukirves is an interesting axe design made in Finland.  It is a precision-cast product made at Sacotec Components Oy in Riihimäki, southern Finland and the Blade is painted by Lainisalo in Oy, Helsinki.  You can read a bit about the precision-cast method here.  There you will also find more information about the product.  What's really interesting is the short amount of time it will take you to cut through a big block. Check out this quick video here.  For those traditionalists out there...be open minded, the Fins know how to keep warm using tools that get the job done.

Dr. Bronner's Magic Concoction

The bar of soap that lasts forever and can do just about anything.  Behold, the Dr. Bronner's Lavender Soap bar.  Aromatic and cleansing, this bar lasts for a pretty long time and is concentrated for maximum bubbly.  Take it camping wrapped in your washcloth, use it on your head after a dip in the ocean, or use it as part of your daily routine.  Check our the Citrus Orange or Peppermint scents too!

Prepping for the Camping Trip

Having used almost all of my allotted vacation for the year on my trip to S. Korea, the next little trip planned is for the Adirondacks in August.  I know there's a lot of Summer between now and then, but here's a couple things I'd like to get my hands on before the big day.

1. Book: The Coldest Crucible...

2. Crew neck Sweatshirt:  Reigning Champ

3. Bottle Opener: Fort Standard Crest Opener

4. Camp Flag: Don't Tread on Me

5. Camera: FujiFilm XP60 Waterproof

6. Sandal: Birkenstock Gizeh

7. Beer: Victory Brewery Summer Love

8. Tote: Epperson Mountaineering 

9. Tent: Eureka Expedition Tent

10. Book: Paddle Your Own Canoe...

Bubble Visor Reviews...

You have to read this bubble visor review!  I love silly reviews online, see more goodies: here

Sierra Designs Hurricane Rain Jacket Review

A bit of Spring showers and morning mists can't keep me off the bike.  I pulled on my newly acquired Sierra Designs Hurricane Rain Jacket for the occasion.  First and foremost the jacket didn't break the bank or require countless hours of research, but it did have to be breathable and waterproof.  I checked out REI and they had just the jacket, on sale, in a bright color with all of the right specs.  Here's what I found out:

Breathability:
3/5 Stars

There are under arm zips for ventilation, but otherwise a pretty sealed shell.  The nylon ripstop fabric is nice and light, but the actual level of breathability leaves me wanting more.

Waterproof:
5/5 Stars

Absolutely worked like a charm.  Stopped all of the rain and weather that was thrown at it.  I took of the jacket and with a quick shake, flicked all of the excess water off.  According to Evo Waterproof ratings, I would say it's between 16,000mm - 20,000mm.  I couldn't imagine it as 20,000mm+ based upon the nature and quality of the fabric, but I haven't had extreme enough weather to test it.

Fit/Sizing:
3/5 Stars

I'm really lazy when it comes to returning clothes for the correct size.  I'm impatient.  But, even though this jacket runs large, I decided that it would be good for layering once it starts to get colder.  As a shell for warm weather, it's a bit bulky.  The cut is a little too feminine for me (I hate when the bottom flares out) and the picture on the website is a bit misleading.  Just show me a front view of the jacket!

Price:
4/5 Stars

Super cheap closeout price on REI.  $49 dollars plus a pair of socks to earn free shipping, can't beat it.  I would never drop $80 bucks on this.

Overall opinion, the jacket was cheap enough to let it's lack of breathability slide.  It's kept me perfectly dry and is super lightweight.  I see myself wearing this a lot for hiking and as a rain jacket.  I'm not super excited about the fit, but it will work out and be handy in the Fall/Winter.  I would recommend to everyone to spend the ~$50 or so and pick up a waterproof shell for cycling, it makes the morning commute a lot more tolerable.

Stay dry and have a great Monday!  Oh and there's a men's version of the jacket too.

Gearing Up For April Showers

We're halfway into April here and the rainy season has begun.  I underestimated the rain on Friday morning and ended up sopping wet from my early morning bicycle commute.  The rainy weather can get you down, especially if you are like me and you've been waiting for nice weekend weather to mountain bike in.  Cheer up, here's a list of gear that'll get you through the day and keep you (for the most part) dry!


1. LL Bean Classic Anorak
2. Swiss Army Bike Tool
3. Rapha Short Trousers
4. Otter Wax Waterproofer
5. Velo-Orange Hammered Fenders
6. Mission Workshop Waxed Canvas Rucksack
7. Asos FlyFish Embroidery
8. Five Ten Impact II Grippy Shoe
9. Sweet Action Cream Ale - Post Ride Brew

Pre-Order: Tracko Splinter Camo Cycling Vest

Pretty cool design coming from Tracko.  Manufactured by Endo Customs in downtown Los Angeles, CA.  I'm always up for a little camo in the woods and it seems Tracko has been rolling out the camo gear for a bit of time now.  With a $125 price tag and %100 polyester, you gotta weigh your options here.  Head on over to the site for more deets.

And for all of you sitting in your cubicle itching to get out there...Chris Akrigg is at it again, recovering from his crazy fall and cranking out some fun videos for our viewing pleasure.  Check it out!!!

Glove Guide for Winter Work



It's getting chilly out there and you have to protect your hands!  Whether you work outside all day, hang out in an office cubicle, or whatever you do, there's a glove or mitten for the job.  I commute every morning by bicycle to work (rain, shine or snow...unless I wimp out) and there's nothing more important in the morning than a good pair of mittens (and some noggin protection).  When I'm home for the holidays I always get sucked into some firewood cutting, tree job or something in the bitter cold and end up ditching my handgear for a pair of leather mittens my dad has had for more years than I've been alive.  Not a huge fan of gloves while handling a chainsaw, but there are some fine gloves coming from SwedePro.  Plus they are a cheap alternative to those lobster claw-like gloves the bike sites always push.  Do you use any of the glove/mittens mentioned or prefer something different? 

Looking for a more everyday guide to mitten wearing?  A more sartorial approach?  Check out this article over at kempt.

a. SwedePro Chainsaw Gloves

b. Kinco Insulated Deerskin Gloves

c. Husqvarna Leather and Poly. work Gloves

d. Swedish Military Leather Mittens

e. Ragg Wool Convertible Mitt/Gloves



Walk Around a Beach Town



New Balance Shoes  |  Topo Designs Mountain Bag  |  Taylor Stitch Grey & Black California Bear Ballcap  |  Bonobos Solid Black Board Shorts  |  Lands End Canvas Fly-Away Linen Cotton Shirt  |

Left Field NYC: Top Picks

Left Field NYC looking good for the summer (and sale!).  Details:  Navy Stripe Ringspun Cotton Crossgrain Terry Crew $59.99  |  Pink Japanese Plaid S/S Button Down $89.99  |  Chambray Miner Chinos $165.00  |  Heather Tees $60.00  |  Navy Sailor Tee $29.99  |

Summer Picks

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Wheelmen & Co. (Scout Series) Merchant Daypack  |  BBros Patterned Belt  |  Woolrich John Rich & Bros. Safari Jacket  |  Becket Boot Dr. Marten  |  “Dover Street Bust” Brian Ferry  |  Robyn  |  Specialized Stumpjumper FSR EVO  |