Gear Closet: TheraGun G2Pro Review

As a runner who puts in quite a few miles each week, and mixes in both road and mountain biking on a regular basis, it is safe to say that my legs sometimes take a beating. It is not uncommon for me to walk around with sore muscles on an almost constant basis. In fact, it has gotten to the point that I almost don't notice anymore and have just learned to deal with it in day-to-day life. But, a new tool has shown me that there are ways to help manage this pain and even prevent injury and soreness in the process.

The TheraGun G2Pro is a device that somewhat resembles an electric drill, but with hard rubber balls – called "AmpBits" – on the end. When turned on, the AmpBits rhythmically move up and down like a small, yet powerful, jackhammer. And when they're placed against your muscles and joints, they provide a deep tissue treatment that can help relieve soreness, fatigue, and chronic pain.

Physical therapists have used similar tools as the TheraGun in the past, but they often have proven ineffective simply because they are so painful to use. But, this device uses a unique form of both frequency and amplitude to trick your brain into shutting off its pain receptors, allowing you to use the TheraGun for far longer than you normally would be able to tolerate. The result is that you can give yourself a deep tissue message just about anywhere and at anytime.

When I received a test unit to review, I have to admit I was somewhat skeptical. The TheraGun has garnered quite a following with NFL, NBA, and Major League Soccer players, but I wasn't sure exactly what it could do for me. After using it for a month however, I've come to appreciate what it brings to the table and how it can help outdoor endurance athletes too.

The TheraGun G2Pro can be used in three ways: to warm-up, to stay loose, and to recover after a workout. The product works great as part of a pre-exercise stretching routine, using it for 30 seconds or so on each of the muscles you're going to be focusing on. This helps to get the blood flowing in those areas, which are often stiff and sore from previous workouts. For me, that usually means running a mile or two before I really start to find my groove, but with the G2Pro, I felt like I was already well on my way to being warmed up before I ever headed out the door.

Using the device mid-workout allows some athletes to keep the blood flowing to their muscles and joints, preventing them from tightening up. For instance, an NFL quarterback could use it on his shoulder during halftime to help keep the arm loose and ready to go for the second half. This wasn't as much of a concern for me, as I wasn't going to stop running or cycling to use the TheraGun, but it makes sense for athletes who find themselves in these types of situations.

Finally, you can use the G2Pro after your workout and shower, during your cool-down phase, to help your muscles relieve tension and tightness. The user can spend 15 minutes or so using the AmpBits on their legs and arms for instance and it ultimately should help them to not only feel better, but avoid longterm soreness and even prevent injuries.

I can honestly say that the device worked as advertised. The soreness in my legs was greatly diminished and I felt much better prior to my workout the next day as well. During my test phase with the TheraGun I also avoided picking up any nagging injuries and didn't aggravate any existing ones either.

Using the device is easy and intuitive. You simply pick it up, select the right sized AmpBit, turn it on, and apply to your sore muscles or joints. That's really all there is to it. How long you use it is entirely up to you and is based on what you're doing. As a post-workout massage, I found that it delivered a powerful impact to my sore muscles that was at times painful, but in a "hurts so good" kind of way. And afterwards, the relief was quick and evident. Best of all, the next day when I headed out for my next run or ride, my legs felt fresher.

The G2Pro is a high quality device, but it is also fairly pricey too. At $599, it is more expensive than what most people can afford. But serious athletes will find it it well worth the value. Not only do you get the tool itself, but it comes with four different size and shaped AmpBits, two rechargeable battery packs, and a charger. Those batteries are each good for about 40-45 minutes of use, which should be about 2-3 full sessions of post-workout therapy.

The TheraGun and all of its accessories fit nicely into a high-quality carrying case that looks extremely professional, which is of course the point. This is a device that physical therapists, personal trainers, and other sports medicine professionals will want to have at their disposal. It can and will deliver real benefits for their clients, and can make a huge difference in managing pain on a daily basis.

The TheraGun G2Pro is available online in a variety of outlets, although Amazon is the one that I found had it most readily available.

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Video: How a Drone Helps One Veteran Deal with PTSD

Most of the time we see a drone as a tool that helps us capture amazing photos and video from the air or for use in some other job. But, they can simply be fun to fly too, which is what David Daly discovered. As a combat veteran, Daly has struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for years, although he has learned to keep the symptoms at bay by taking his DJI drone for flight on a regular basis. His story is a fascinating one and another indicator that drones can play a number of roles in our lives.

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DJI Mavic Air folding 4K drone that avoids obstacles and flies by hand gestures

For use in Special ops

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Gear Closet: Suaoki S270 Portable Solar Generator Review

Portable battery packs designed to keep our smartphones charged while on the go have become too good that it is almost criminal to not have one at your disposal these days. Small, lightweight, and compact chargers can be found for not much money and they generally fit the needs of most day-to-day users. But what about those of us who have power requirements that go beyond the basics, but don't want to sacrifice portability either. Thankfully, we now have some good options to choose from as well, including the Suaoki S270 Portable Solar Generator, an awesome little power pack that is perfect for charging just about anything while on the go.

Lightweight and compact, the S270 never the less delivers on its promise of plenty of portable power. It is equipped with a 150 watt-hour battery and is capable of a sustained 100 watt output with a peak of up to 150 watts if necessary. That means it won't just charge your smartphone and tablet, but can also power laptops, drone batteries, headlamps, cameras, or just about anything else you plug into it. It can even power small appliances in a pinch.

The designers of S270 gave it plenty of outlets so you can plug multiple devices in at once. Along one side it has four USB ports (three standard and one quick-charging), while the other side features four DC charging ports as well. The system even ships with a female DC adapter (read: car port) for charging devices designed for that type of output. The result is a handy portable power station that you can carry with you just about everywhere.

But, that isn't all. The S270 also features two AC wall outlets as well, which expands its versatility even further. When items are plugged into these ports, they charge as quickly and easily as they do at home, extending the life of your gadgets for a lot longer.

Other nice design choices include a set of flip-up handles that make it easy to carry the power bank and a set of built-in emergency lights. Those lights can even be set to flash an SOS signal if necessary as well. The entire product is built into a rugged, durable case that feels right at home in the outdoors.   That said, the generator is only "splash proof" so you won't want to leave it out in the rain.


The S270 is the result of a successful Indiegogo campaign, which shipped the generators to its supporters back in December. I was lucky enough to get one to review, and have been extremely impressed. At home, it sits on my desk, providing a convenient source of power to my iPhone, iPad, and various other devices that need recharging on a regular basis. But, I also traveled with it over the holidays, easily slipping it into a backpack to take on a road trip. It served its purpose then too, not only keeping all my electronic toys stocked with energy, but my travel companions too. It also helped keep my MacBook Pro powered up while working on the go as well.

The massive battery inside the S270 takes about 10-12 hours to charge via wall outlet, and the device does support charging in the field via a solar panel. I haven't had a chance to test it with a solar panel as of yet, but obviously that would take considerably longer, with direct sunlight, to charge the battery fully. Of course, this is the same with just about any solar-powered generator, where your mileage always varies based on conditions.

What I like about this battery pack is that if fills a niche niche between smaller chargers designed at phones and tablets, and larger generators from companies like Goal Zero. Not everyone needs something that large, but many people need a bit more than the compact battery packs that are sold at gas stations and drug stores. For those folks, the Suaoki S270 is the perfect companion for their adventures, providing plenty of power in a surprisingly small package.

Best of all, the S270 is very affordable. Priced at just $139.95, it is less expensive than some much smaller battery packs that are on the market. Of course, not everyone needs a battery pack of this size and power, but it is really nice to have one at your disposal. The versatility that this device offers is outstanding, and I've found myself using it more places than I first thought. I think other frequent travelers and explorers will love it too.

Find out more at the Suaoki Facebook page and order your own S270 from Amazon.

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GoPro Exits Drone Business, May Be Seeking a Buyer

It was a rough day for GoPro yesterday. The company officially announced that it was laying off more than 250 people and is killing its drone business in the wake of plunging revenues and continued losses. Worse yet, according to some reports, the company that created the action camera market may be searching for a buyer to acquire the business completely.

According to preliminary reports, GoPro lost somewhere in the neighborhood of 40 percent of its revenue in the all-important holiday quarter as compared to the same period in 2016. Part of that is due to decreasing demand for its high quality – but pricey – line of Hero cameras, as well as sluggish sales of its Karma drone, which was introduced to much hype back in 2016, but ran into problems when early production models began losing power while in flight, causing them to plummet from the sky. 

It has been a very difficult couple of years for the action cam company. Revenues and profits have been a rare thing in recent memory, forcing GoPro to reorganize, simply its product line, and search for new ways to generate income. The Karma was suppose to be an important step in that process, but it entered the market late, was beaten in nearly every way by competing products from DJI, and received lots of negative press for its inflight power failures. That design flaw was ultimately fixed by a piece of tape that held the battery in place more securely, but the damage was done and Karma never really got of the ground, despite very positive reviews. 

At one point it looked like the company was getting back on track as it reduced costs and saw growing interest in several of its products again. But, during the run up to Christmas, sales were sluggish at best, prompting this latest move. 

It should be noted that GoPro founder and CEO Nick Woodman denies that the company is for sale, but there are plenty of reports that indicate otherwise. For now, the future of this iconic brand remains murky. Hopefully we'll still have it around in the future. 

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Men's Journal Looks Back at the Best Gear of 2017

We may have already turned the page on 2017 and are now steaming ahead into the New Year, but that doesn't mean we still can't take some time to look back on the year that has just passed, particularly if we're reviewing some of the best gear to come out during that period. That's exactly what Men's Journal did with the release of its list of the editor's favorite gear from the past 12 months.

This list is impressive and comprehensive. All told, there are 71 different items hat made the cut, with a wide range of uses. Amongst the usual outdoor products – including jackets, bikes, and shoes – you'll also find laptops, a BBQ grill, television sets, and other gadgets too. There are motorcycles, backpacks, cameras, water bottles, and a whole lot more. In other words, no matter what your favorite outdoor adventure, you'll find something here that can support the effort. And when you're ready to relax afterwards back home, there are some great items to help you do that too.

While scrolling through this list I was surprised at times to discover some of the items that earned a nod. It was a bit like moving backwards in time as I was reminded of all of the really great products that were released in 2017, including things like the new Apple Watch Series 3 and the DJI Spark Drone, two items that I'd love to add to my Gear Closet at some point.

The best part is, now that 2018 is upon us, many of these wonderful pieces of gear can now be had at discounted prices as we anticipate the arrival of updated versions sometime in the months ahead. There is of course nothing wrong with "last year's" version, but there is always something new on the horizon.

Check out the entire list here.

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Video: GoPro's 2017 Year in Review

With about two weeks to go until we say goodbye to 2017, it is time to look back on the year that has passed and reflect on all of the amazing, wild, and down-right crazy things that have gone down. GoPro is doing that in video form, offering up a short, but spectacular, year in review clip for our enjoyment. There are truly some fantastic shots in this compilation vid, which is a nice reminder that 2017 wasn't such a bad year after all. But, it also serves as inspiration for chasing our own adventures in 2018.

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Gear Closet: Binoreal Radius F1 Smart Bike Light

Road cyclists and mountain bikers listen up – your search for the perfect cycling light might be over. The Radius F1 comes our way courtesy of Binoreal and it delivers some really great features to help us stay safe on our rides.

What makes the Radius F1 so special? For starters, it has built-in sensors that can detect when you're in motion and when you're stopped, and will adjust the light accordingly. It can even tell how fast you're going, increasing the brightness to match. The faster you ride, the brighter it gets – up to 450 or 650 lumens depending on the model. Slow down, and it the light dims to conserve battery life, but still manages to put out an impressive 200 lumens of illumination.

If all of that wasn't enticing enough, the light will also sense when you're slowing down and will switch to a pulse mode when taking corners or flash mode when you come to a complete stop. And if you are stopped for more than three minutes it will first drop into a stand-by mode until it senses that you are moving again, at which time it will automatically turn itself back on. After an hour of inactivity it switches itself off completely.

The Radius F1 is well built, durable, and water resistant. It also attaches to nearly any handlebar in a matter of seconds and comes with a magnetic charger that makes it a breeze to power up again. Battery life is about 2 hours on its brightest setting, although in real world testing it latest considerably longer than that thanks to its auto-sensing, brightness adjust capabilities.

At the moment, the Radius F1 is still in its crowdfunding phase. Binoreal launched its Kickstarter campaign last week with the aim of raising $15,000 to get the light into production. It has already easily surpassed that goal, which means it should start shipping in April, 2018. The 450-lumen version will sell for $80 while the 650-lumen model will retail for $100. Both can be preordered for half-price as part of the crowdfunding campaign.

I've had a chance to test a pre-produciton version of the Radius F1 and can attest to how well it works. The light is bright, has good battery life, and smoothly adjusts to your speed as advertised. In fact, I'm very impressed with how well it performs. This is a great product for bike commuters in particular, helping to make them safer and more visible out on the road.

Considering the Radius F1 can be had for a little as $40 during the crowdfunding campaign, this is a no brainer to recommend to anyone looking for a great light. Find out more here.

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Download The Adventure Podcast on Your Favorite Platform

As I write this, I am busily working away at editing the second episode of The Adventure Podcast. We hope to have the second episode out very soon. But before we release it, my cohost David Adlard and I wanted to let everyone know that the show is available on your favorite platform for listening to podcasts now. So, no matter if you enjoy listening on an iOS device, Android phone or tablet, or just on your computer, you should be able to subscribe to our feed and automatically get new episodes. 

For those who want to listen to our new little venture, here's where you can get the episodes:

• Subscribe in iTunes/iOS Podcasts by clicking here. 
• On Android use Google Play Music to get the show here. 
• If you listen on Stitcher, you'll find The Adventure Podcast here.
• We also have an RSS feed set up for the show here.

Also, if you've had a chance to listen to the show, we'd love your feedback. We can be reached on Twitter at @adventure_pod or by email at theadventurepod@gmail.com. You can also leave comments, suggestions, and questions on our Facebook page as well. 

Thanks to everyone who sent us feedback on Episode 0. We learned a lot while making it and the first  real episode will be better for it. We have some big plans for the show moving forward, and Dave and I hope you'll come along for the ride. 

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Video: The Bears Ears - A Living Museum in 360º Video

There has been a lot of talk about the Bears Ears National Monument this past year, and particularly in the past week. What makes this place so special? Why it is of such importance to so many people? This fantastic video will help you sort it all out, and it does so by giving viewers a 360º view of the surrounding landscape. You'll need a browser that supports that type of video to get the full effect, but even if you watch it and just listen to the narration, you'll get a better understanding of why this is such a special place.

Bears Ears - A Living Museum from Patagonia on Vimeo.

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Gear Closet: Cauldryn Fyre Mobile Heated Water Bottle

One of the things that I've l liked most about the continued advancements in technology is that it has forced us to improve the batteries that go into our various devices. These more powerful and long-lasting rechargeable power cells have made their way into a wide variety of other product that either didn't use them before or didn't exist at all. Such is the case with the new Cauldryn Fyre Mobile, a heated water bottle that will redefine the way you think about hot beverages and cooking around the campsite, while on the go.

At first glance, the Cauldryn Fyre looks like a lot of other water bottles you might find on the market, It is sleek, made of stainless steel, and uses the vacuum-insulated design that has proven to be a winner in countless other models over the past few years. The 16-ounce bottle even has two openings for sipping a beverage or for pouring out more liquid depending on your needs.

But look a little closer, and you'll start to see how this product differentiates itself from the competition. For starters, it includes a built-in heating mechanism that allows it to warm a beverage completely on its own, or keep liquids hot for hours at a time. This heating element is so powerful in fact that it can even boil water all on its own. Simply plug the bottle into a USB outlet and set it to the temperature you need.

The Cauldryn Fyre comes in two different models, the standard version and the Mobile. The difference between the two is that the Mobile edition comes with a battery pack that allows it to function while away from a power source. An included battery pack means that you can have hot beverages on the go, even if you're venturing far off the beaten path. Taking a morning hike to the top of your favorite peak, but would like some hot coffee along the way? The Cauldryn Fire Mobile can handle that. Snowshoeing or backcountry skiing and want some hot cocoa? Check!


The secret behind the Cauldryn is its Fyre heating element. Embedded in the bottle itself, this handy piece of technology offers five levels of warmth ranging from Boil (212 degrees), Brew (195-205 degrees), Extra Hot (160-170 degrees), and two Hot modes (135-145 degrees and 125-135 degrees). Those modes can be selected as needed, providing options for conserving battery life too. The Boil and Brew options eat up the most power of course, while the lower hot modes are much more conservative. In fact, they can be switched on and keep a beverage steaming hot all day long, even running off of just the external battery.

The stainless steel cup can be easily removed from the power pack for wire-free drinking. It snaps back into place extremely easily, making it a breeze to take a drink while driving, then return it to its power source to keep the beverage warm as needed. The travel mug does a good job of keeping liquids hot (or cold) completely on its own, but when paired with the mobile battery pack, it truly can provide warm drinks all day long.

With the battery pack attached, the Cauldryn Fyre Mobile is a bit tall, which means you'll have to be careful not to tip it over. Because of this extra height it can be a bit unstable, although the lids ensure that no water spills out. In fact, the device actually operates just fine, even if it is laying on its side.

One of the more intriguing uses for the Cauldryn Fyre Mobile is as a portable stove for use in the backcountry. Because it can boil water quite quickly, you can heat up packaged meals in no time at all. Obviously there are backpacking stoves that are much smaller and lighter than this device, which tips the scales at about 1 pound (.45 kg), but when you factor in fuel and a pot to boil water, things even out quickly. On extended trips the battery life wouldn't necessarily be up to the task, but on short overnighter or weekend outings, this is a viable option. Particularly if you bring solar panels or an external power source for recharging.

Speaking of the battery, it holds a large enough charge that if you're conservative with how you use the Cauldryn Fyre you can make it last for quite a long time. The battery pack comes with two USB ports as well, allowing users to recharge mobile devices such as a smartphone. The battery pack is sold separately for $69.99, allowing standard Cauldryn buyers to add one later if they like, or Mobile users to pick up an additional one for additional run time.

Overall, the Cauldryn Fyre Mobile is a fast and efficient way to boil water, but is also fantastic for keeping hot beverages warm for extended periods of time. That makes it a great choice for anyone who spends time in the outdoors during the colder months of the year. Whether you're actually hiking into the backcountry or simply going to the local ice rink, this bottle will come in handy. It also makes a great gift heading into the holiday season as well.

The standard Cauldryn Fyre runs $69.99 while the Mobile edition is $129.99. Find out more here.

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Adventure Tech: Synavolt Expandable and Modular Portable Power Bank

I've said it many times before and I'm likely to say it again. Keeping our electronic gadgets powered up on the go can be a major challenge when traveling or living off the grid in the backcountry. Thankfully, we continue to see some fantastic new devices that can help us overcome this challenge, with fantastic new chargers and portable generators getting revealed all of the time. The latest to cross my desk is the Synavolt, a personal power bank that delivers unique functionality that I haven't seen before.

As a charger, there Synavolt comes equipped with a 20,000 mAh battery, which is enough to power a smartphone as many at 10 times over. It's also enough juice to recharge things like tablets, cameras, drones, and even laptops too. Plus, the Synavolt comes with three built-in USB 3.0 ports, making it a handy device to have with you wherever you go.

But what really makes this charger stand out from the competition is its modular design. Both ends of the Synavolt have expansion slots on them that allow users to add specially developed modules that expand functionality further. For instance, I've been testing the power bank with an AC inverter and a light, both of which allow it to do much more than a normal USB charger. The AC inverter allows me to plug in my MacBook while traveling and the light – which puts out 350 lumens – comes in handy around a campsite, in the car, or even at home.

Those modules are just the beginning however. Other options include a Bluetooth speaker, extra USB ports, a Qi wireless charging pad, a 12 V car adapter, and an additional 4000 mAh mini power bank for when you need an extra boost of energy. These modules snap right into place in the expansion port, draw energy from the massive battery itself, and expand the features of the Synavolt dramatically. It is a clever idea that takes the concept of carrying a power pack with you, but gives it some added functionality that you might have to carry other devices to normally have.



The concept behind the Synavolt is great and I love the added features that the modules bring to the table. The power bank is a bit on the larger side with those modules in place however, which may be a drawback for some. Without the modules, the device isn't especially big, and is about on par with most large-capacity USB battery packs. The modules do add weight and bulk though, although again if you were going to carry a large lantern or Bluetooth speaker with you anyway, this device actually ends up saving you some weight and space. Its modular design also offers impressive versatility in the field too.

At the moment, Synavolt isn't a product that you can just rush out and buy. It has launched on Indiegogo however, where the designers are looking to pull in $30,000 in crowdfunding to make it a reality. As I write this, they are about a quarter of the way toward that goal. If successful, they'll begin shipping in April of 2018 at an MSRP of about $200 for the base unit. Early-bird supporters can preorder one now for half that however, and can get deals on various modules too.



Check it out here.

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Video: The Power of Home - How Biolite is Changing Lives in Kenya

While at the Summer Outdoor Retailer show in Salt Lake City this past July I saw a very cool product that was coming our way courtesy of BioLite. The new Solar Home 620 is an out-of-the-box solution to bring solar power and lighting to cabins, vans, or even the campsite. But even more impressive was how BioLite was already using the kit in 5000 homes across Kenya to transform the lives of people who live there. In this video you'll see exactly what this product brings to the table, not just for us, but for the people of Kenya who are receiving affordable, efficient, and useful power for the very first time.

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Holiday Gifts for Under $50

After sharing gift ideas for hikers and backpackers, outdoor athletes, adventure travelers, and techies, I thought I'd round out the week with some suggestions for outdoor and travel gifts that are under $50. These items make great stocking stuffers or are fantastic pieces of gear that won't break the bank. Here are my picks.

Leatherman Sidekick ($50)
A good multitool is always a fantastic gift, and Leatherman's Sidekick is the perfect companion for hikers, backpackers, or anyone else who spends much time outdoors. Sporting 14 different tools, including multiple blades, a needlenose pliers, a bottle opener, saw, and even a ruler, the Sidekick is a full-blown toolbox that you can carry in your pocket. This is one of those gifts that will keep on giving, long after the holidays have come and gone.

Yeti Rambler Tumbler ($30)
Like all things made by Yeti, the Rambler tumbler is over engineered to survive in the outdoors. These stainless steel cups look great, are tough enough for use around the campsite or home, and will keep your drinks cold (or warm) for hours on end. The MagSlider lid even uses magnets to slide effortlessly into place, keeping drinks for accidentally spilling.

Lifeproof Lifeactív Charging Cables ($40)
Carrying USB cables with us to charge our devices is a fact of life these days, but often times the cables that come with our smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets don't survive the rigors of the road for very long. Lifeproof's new Lifeactív Cables are built for use in the outdoor however and are rugged and durable enough to take with you anywhere. Available in standard USB, USB-C, and Apple Lightning, these cords come with a protective lid that converts them into lanyards for easy stowing.


Mountain Hardwear Dome Perignon Winter Cap ($36)
Winter caps don't come much warmer than Mountain Hardwear's Dome Perignon, which uses Polartec Windbloc fabrics to keep the wearer protected from the elements. Perfect for hiking, trail running, or climbing in cold conditions, this is a great addition to any outdoor lover's winter wardrobe.

The Muncher Multitool ($45)
The ultimate tool for use around the campsite, the Muncher is a spork, and so much more. Made from titanium, the Muncher includes a serrated butter knife, both a can and bottle opener, and a fruit and veggie peeler, It also comes with a fire starter, cord cutter, box cutter, a flathead screwdriver, and serves as a pry-bar too. In short, it's exactly what campers need when preparing and eating meals.

Hydro Flask 24 oz. Water Bottle ($35)
Hydro Flask practically invented the double-walled, vacuum sealed stainless steel beverage bottle, and the company's products remain some of the best on the market. The 24. ounce,  Standard Mouth model is perfect for toting along just about anywhere, whether that means running errands around town, hitting the trail for a hike, or flying halfway round the world on some crazy adventure. Available in an array of colors, this is a fantastic gift that keeps your adventurer hydrated wherever they go.

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker ($25)
A good first aid kit is a must have for the outdoors, and no one makes better options than Adventure Medical Kits. The company's Mountain Series Hiker kit has everything you need to treat a wide variety of wounds and injuries, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, trauma pads, butterfly closures, and much, much more. All of the items fit neatly in a small, compact, and easy to carry bag that includes a handy map to tell you where to find everything in an emergency. It even comes with a guide for basic wilderness first aid too.

Swiftwick Socks ($13-$36)
Socks aren't always the sexiest of holiday presents, but when they perform like those made by Swiftwick, they'll be a major hit. The company makes socks for every kind of adventure, from trail running and cycling to hiking and travel. These socks are comfortable, breathable, and offer outstanding performance, while providing various levels of compression too. Chances are, if you love to do things outdoors, Swiftwick has a sock that for you.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Tech Travel Cube Set ($40)
Staying organized while traveling has never been easier than with the Eagle Creek Pack-It Spectre Tech Travel Cube Set. These handy travel bags are translucent in color, making it easy to store important items, and see exactly where everything is at inside a backpack or luggage. The set includes an extra small, small, and medium sized cube, which use with two-way zippers and are made from DWR and stain resistant fabrics.

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A Holiday Shopping Guide for Adventure Techies

Our holiday shopping guides continue today with yet another list of great gear for the adventurer on your list. This time out, we'll take a look at some of the best adventure tech available today, providing travelers, explorers, and adventurers the tools they need both at home and while on the road.

If you're looking for other gift ideas this holiday season, check out my previous gift guides for hikers and backpackers, outdoor athletes, and adventure travelers too.

iPad Pro with Apple Pencil (iPad - $649 | Pencil - $95)
With the introduction of the iPad Pro, Apple has inched us closer to not having to carry a heavy laptop with us when we hit the road. These powerful tablets can handle everything from editing video and photos, to recording podcasts, composing music, and writing blog posts and even a book. Throw in the awesome Apple Pencil, and you have a portable toolbox that can do some surprisingly awesome things from taking handwritten notes to sketching maps, and so much more. Throw in the new multitasking abilities of iOS 11 and you have a mobile workstation that is a blast to use.

Gnarbox ($270)
For mobile professionals who edit photos and videos on the go, the Gnarbox is a must-have device. This tiny, lightweight editing station provides the power of a laptop in a convenient package, allowing users to backup and store photos and video, while also editing those images and video up to 4K resolutions. Uses connect to the Gnarbox using their phone and tablet, and with a special app have all the tools they need to get work done in the field.

GoPro Hero 6 Black ($500)
If it has been awhile since you updated your action camera, GoPro has a few surprises for you. The new Hero 6 Black offers unparalleled image quality, capturing footage at stunning 4k resolutions at 60 fps. The camera is waterproof without a special housing, uses voice commands to control filming, and has onboard image stabilization too. As if that wasn't enough, low-light performance has improved dramatically and the new touch screen interface allows simple zooming as well. In short, its the best GoPro camera yet and a worthy addition to any budding filmmaker's arsenal.

DJI Spark Drone ($499)
Yes, DJI makes a line of more powerful and feature packed drones, but its Spark is affordable, offers lots of functionality, and is compact enough to carry with us just about anywhere. On top of that, it offers good flight times (16 mins) and is extremely easy to get up and flying. Capable of capturing great video and photos, this is a drone that is easy to transport without compromising on features.

Cases from Catalyst (Prices Vary By Model)
Keeping your mobile devices protected while exploring extreme environments can be challenging, but thanks to Catalyst it doesn't have to be impossible. The company makes great cases for a wide variety of devices, including the new iPhone X ($40/$90). My favorite Catalyst product at the moment is the handy waterproof case they make for AirPods ($25), which is simply the perfect accessory for frequent travelers.

Romeo Saber Power Pack ($299)
Striking the right balance between providing power and portability, the Romeo Saber is a battery pack that can keep all of our gadgets – including laptops and drones – functioning in the field. The device offers a powerful 86Wh, fast-charging battery, coupled with an AC outlet and three USB ports, all in a compact and relatively lightweight package. Portable power has never been this efficient and handy.

Cauldryn Fyre Mobile Heated Travel Mug ($130)
Battery technology has come a long way, allowing us to do some incredible things with what were once basic products. Take for example the Cauldryn Fyre Mobile, a heated travel mug that is powered by a lithium-ion battery and can keep your beverage warm all day long. But better than that, it can actually boil water, making it great for use around the campsite and even cooking meals. The Cauldryn is also equipped with a USB port that allows it to share its battery's charge with mobile devices too.

Ecoxgear EcoLantern ($130)
Camp lighting continues to get better and better. Take for example the new Ecoxgear EcoLantern, which not only offers up to 400 lumens of light, but also functions as a Bluetooth speaker and charger for small mobile devices. There are even "party" modes to that thump to the sound of the music and bring multicolored lighting to the campsite too.

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A Holiday Shopping Guide for Adventure Travelers

All week long I'm sharing some holiday shopping suggestions for gifts for the outdoor and adventure lover in your life. On Monday I posted some gift ideas for the hiker and backpacker and yesterday I offered some suggestions for the outdoor athlete. Today, we'll take a look at the top gifts for the adventure traveler with a wide variety of items to make life on the road more enjoyable.

Yeti Panga 75 Duffel ($350)
There are waterproof duffel bags and then there is the Yeti Panga 75 duffel. As you would expect from a duffel built by Yeti, this bag is practically indestructible. And thanks to the use of the hydrolock zipper, the bag can be completely submersed in water and still keep its contents completely dry. Whether your paddling the Amazon or hiking to Everest Base Camp, the Panga will keep your gear safe, secure, and dry.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Backpack ($200)
For those who like to travel light (who doesn't?) or just need a small bag for weekend getaways, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel pack is the perfect solution. With just enough space to take everything you need, but nothing you don't, the bag is built for adventure travelers. Cotopaxi has given the Allpa lots of organizational pockets and compartments, while still providing room for laptops, tablets, and other tech gear. It is also built tough enough to survive the rigors of the road and uses the company's trademark whimsical colors.

Goal Zero Venture 70 USB Battery Pack ($150)
Keeping our gadgets up and running while on the road is of the utmost importance these days, and thankfully there are a lot of portable power packs that can help us to do just that. My favorite is the Venture 70 from Goal Zero, which offers 17,700 mAh of power for smartphones, tablets, and other devices, and comes in a rugged, waterproof case. It even comes with charging cables and a built-in flashlight.

ExOfficio Underwear ($26)
Underwear doesn't always seem like a great gift for the holidays, but when it is ExOfficio Underwear it will be welcomed enthusiastically. Specifically designed with travelers in mind, these briefs are lightweight, comfortable, and breathable. They also have antimicrobial properties that keep them smelling fresh, even if they've been worn for a number of days straight. These are a must-have for any adventure traveler.

Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC Noise Cancelling Headphones ($200)
For frequent travelers, a good pair of nose cancelling headphones are a must. They not only help you relax and unwind while on the plane, they can also come in handy in noise hotels, airports, cafes, and other busy places. The HD 4.50 BTNC model from Sennheiser offer great sound, durable build-quality, the convenience of wireless, and excellent battery life. But best of all, their active noise cancelling circuitry is top notch, blocking out external distractions.

Leatherman Tread Tempo Watch ($450)
Leatherman's Tread Tempo watch is stylish and rugged, which alone makes it a great travel companion. But, its band also happens to contain 29 tools ranging from screw drivers to bottle openers, making it a handy multitool that you wear on your wrist. The watch is also TSA friendly, meaning you can wear it onboard an aircraft, ensuring that you're never too far from all of the tools you need.

Grayl Water Purifier ($59.50)
Access to fresh, clean drinking water can be a premium while traveling in some parts of the world, which is why every traveler should carry the Grayl water purifier with them when they hit the road. The Grayl removes all of the harmful materials from the water, like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, and even cleans out most particulates too, making it completely safe to drink. This purifier is simple, effective, and easy to use.

Crown Trails Headwear ($25)
America's national parks and triple crown long-distance hiking trails are favorites amongst active travelers, often resonating with them long after they've gone home. The team at Crown Trails Headwear has put together some fantastic hats that commemorate those places, offering options for the Appalachian Trail and PCT for instance, as well as parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and numerous others. These high quality hats allow travelers to show their love for these destinations, both while they are on the road and back home.

Eagle Creek USB Travel Adapter ($70)
Recharging your favorite electronics while on the road has never been easier than it is with the Eagle Creek USB Travel Adapter. The device comes with two built-in USB ports for charging smartphones, tablets, cameras, and other gear, but it also quickly and easily converts for use in just about any outlet found anywhere in the world. The adapter features onboard surge protection and supports charging up to 2200 watts, making it fast, easy, and efficient. 

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This is not a Volvo brake ad

This is not an Ad.. #volvotrucks pic.twitter.com/rQnNqxcwOd

— Interesting Engineering (@IntEngineering) November 13, 2017

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Gear Closet: Ecoxgear EcoLantern Waterproof Speaker and Lantern Review

One of my favorite trends in outdoor gear at the moment is the increased focused on better lighting options for use around the campsite. We've seen some really interesting solutions for this age-old problem in recent years, including the introduction of a variety of "smart" lanterns that include a bevy of features beyond just illuminating the darkness. One of the more fun and useful of these products is the new EcoLantern from Ecoxgear, a company best known for making rugged Bluetooth speakers for use in the outdoors.

At it's core, the EcoLantern is a bright light capable of producing up to 400 lumens on its highest setting. The lamp has five different brightness levels, allowing users to find the sweet spot in terms of illumination and battery life. The light it can even projected in a full 360º pattern or more focused at 180º instead, providing some nice flexibility in how it is used around the campsite, or even at home in the backyard. Ecoxgear has even included a "party light" mode in which the lantern changes colors and thumps in time with the tunes it is belting out.

But the EcoLantern more than just a light. Since it was created by Ecoxgear, it should come as no surprise to learn that it is also Bluetooth wireless speaker too. The company is well known for its line of rugged outdoor speakers, and EcoLantern builds on that legacy. Sound quality is good, and the speaker can pump out music or podcasts in a 360º fashion as well. It even has surprisingly good bass, which is not all that common in a speaker of this size.

Armed with a 4400 mAh hour battery, the EcoLantern also features a built in USB port that can provide quick charging capabilities for smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets. This is also handy around the campsite when you want to keep you devices charged while living off the grid. Charging is indeed fast and efficient, although it can also eat into the run-time of the lantern and speaker. On a full charge, the EcoLantern can get up 20 hours of playback, but after recharging an iPhone and running the light on medium brightness, that battery life was reduced to about half.


Built for use in the outdoors the EcoLantern is dust and waterproof with an IP67 rating. It also feels very durable in your hands, as if it could withstand a beating in the backcountry and continue to operate as needed. The device can even float, although it will survive being completely submerged in water. Ecoxgear has always done a good job of making its products to last, and that continues here.

Weighing in at 26 ounces, the EcoLantern isn't especially heavy, particularly when you consider all of the functional that it brings to the table. But it is heavy and large enough (measuring 10.4 inches/26.4 cm) that it will be a luxury item on many backpacking trips. If you're a weight-weenie, chances are you wouldn't consider bringing something like this with you in the first place, but others will probably see the weight as negligible for the enjoyment it will provide.

Priced at $129.99 the EcoLantern is a product that can bring a lot of fun to the campsite. It is bright, has solid battery life, and can stream music from your smartphone. It is also tough, durable, and versatile, with features like "party lights" and the ability to survive in the rain, adding more value to already impressive product.

As we head into the holiday season, the EcoLantern would also make a great gift for the tech-loving, outdoor enthusiast on your list. Find out more at ecoxgear.com.

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Gear Closet: Lifeproof LifeActiv Power Pack and USB Cables

There once was a time when keeping your gadgets powered while on the go was a real challenge. Battery life on mobile devices was suspect, and there weren't a lot of convenient ways to get a charge while on the go. But times have changed, and now there are a wide array of mobile chargers and battery packs to choose from. If you've ever tried out any of those power packs however, chances are you've discovered that they are not all created equal and finding the right one to fit your needs is still key. Thankfully, some of our favorite outdoor brands are now offering rugged options for use on our adventures, including Lifeproof which just launched a new waterproof USB battery pack and rugged cables to go along with it.

Best known for creating durable cases to protect smartphones in the outdoors, Lifeproof has taken its extensive knowledge of how to build tough products and extended it in new directions. Recently, the company launched a line of durable Bluetooth speakers, and now its expanding the catalog once again, this time with other products that are important not only in our daily lives but when we hit the road too.

Lifeproof Lifeatíve Power Pack ($79.95)
Lifeproof's first entry into the mobile charging station is the new Lifeactíve Power Pack. The device offers all of the features you would expect from this type of USB battery pack, including smart sensors that automatically detect the best speed to charge a mobile device as well as knowing when its battery is full and to stop charging altogether. This helps protect the delicate components of smartphones and tablets from overcharging, which can be harmful to their internal batteries.

With its 10,000 mAh battery, the Power Pack finds the sweet spot between size and power. That's a battery with enough juice to recharge an iPhone 3 or 4 times, but it is also small enough that it isn't overly bulky or heavy. Lifeproof's mobile charger tips the scales at a mere 8.8 ounces (250 g), which is actually pretty impressive considering it is also waterproof down to 2 meters and protected from drops up to 1.2 meters.

The Power Pack also features built-in LED lights that allow it to be used as a flashlight, with two brightness settings, as well as red lighting and flashing red lights to signal an emergency. That's another handy feature to have whether you're looking for something in your tent, hotel room, or even just around the house during a power outage.

I absolutely love the size and form factor of the Lifeactíve Power Pack. It is small and lightweight, making it easy to pack for any adventure. The fact that it also dirt and snow proof make it extra appealing, as you can easily stash it in a pocket in your jacket for use on the trail, slopes, or even the water. And as you would expect from Lifeproof, this is a durable product that can withstand a lot of punishment.


My only knock on the Power Pack is that it has just one USB out port for charging other devices. I would have liked to have seen a second port so I could charge two devices at once or allow a buddy to hook up to it too. Most of the other battery packs that I carry on my travels come with two charging ports, so only being able to charge a single device at a time feels rather limiting at times. But, when you are charging, your mobile devices juice up quickly and efficiently, which is always greatly appreciated.

Priced at just $79.95, it is easy to recommend this charger for anyone looking for a battery pack they carry with them on their outdoor adventures. Yes, there are less expensive batteries out there, but most won't offer the same level of durability and build quality that you'll find here. Personally, I think it it worth a few extra bucks to get a much better device.

Find out more about the Lifeactíve Power Pack at lifeproof.com.

Lifeactíve Waterproof Charging Cables ($39.95/each)
In addition to launching its new battery pack, Lifeproof has also introduced a line of durable, waterproof USB charging cables. Available in micro-USB, USB-C, and Apple's Lightning models, these cables are fantastic for the outdoor adventurer and frequent traveler. They are also a good option for anyone who finds themselves breaking the less durable standard charging cables that come with most mobile devices.

Wrapped in a thick, braided coating, the cables feel much sturdier than 99% of the other charging cables you've ever owned. It is difficult to tell how well they'll hold up over time, but in the week plus that I've been using them, it feels like they would last a lifetime. The cable's high build quality has made them my go-to choice when powering up my smartphone, both at home and when traveling. And the fact that they come with a specially designed tip that turns them into a lanyard is a nice touch when trying to find them in my backpack. That same tip is built to connect to the Power Pack, ensuring that the cable you need is never far away.

Despite how impressive these cables are, I still have a couple of issues with them. For starters, at 15 inches (38 cm) in length, they aren't particularly long. On the one hand, this helps to keep them organized and prevents them from getting tangled, but sometimes when you're charging you need something with a bit more length to it.

The cables are also on the expensive side. At $39.95, they're pricier than I'd like to see as well. That's twice what Apple charges for a standard Lightning cable, which also happens to be more than twice as long too. But, Lifeproof's offerings are far more durable and convenient to use, which should be a consideration if you've invested in Apple's first-party models only to find they stop working in a few months time.

Spending $40 on a charging cable is no small investment, but it does bring with it a great piece of mind. These cables feel incredibly durable, which gives me the confidence that they'll continue to function properly for a long time to come. Hopefully I'm right about that, but only time will tell.

Find out more at lifeproof.com.

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Adventure Tech: Romeo Power's New Saber Portable Power Pack

Whether you're setting out on an expedition to far-flung corners of the globe or traveling to a more civilized setting, having an easy to use power supply is a must these days. After all, no matter where we're headed, we usually have a slew of electronic gadgets in tow. In my case, I rarely leave home without a smartphone, tablet, and laptop, and depending on where I'm going, I often have rechargeable headlamps, GPS devices, cameras, and other gear as well. Because of this, I'm always on the lookout for a good way to keep those items charged and I may have found the perfect solution at last.

Launching today, the new Saber portable power pack from Romeo Power Technology offers 86 watt-hours of power in a device that you can hold in the palm of your hand. That is enough to recharge most laptops – including a MacBook Pro – twice. It can also recharge a smartphone more than ten times, and a tablet anywhere from two to four times.

The Saber comes with a USB-C port, two standard USB ports, and more importantly, a built-in AC inverter. That means that you can plug in just about any device, just as you would a wall socket. The Saber can provide power to anything that draws 90 watts or less, meaning it can be used to recharge DSLR camera batteries in the field or even a drone. In a sense, it is a bit like having a lightweight, portable generator that you can take with you pretty much anywhere.

We've seen a number of power packs using built-in inverters in recent months, but what sets the Saber apart from the competition is that it is both built for the outdoors and designed to recharge rapidly. This power pack is IP67 rated for protection against moisture, dust, and drops, and while usually a battery this massive would take the better part of a day to charge, the Saber can be juiced up in just two hours, both from a wall socket or the 12V plug in your car. It can also be charged via solar, but the time it takes to complete a charge varies depending on direct sunlight available, type of solar panel, and so on.

When compared to other portable power packs, the Saber is a bit on the heavy side, weighing in at 2.2 pounds (1kg), but considering what it packs into its small package, that is relatively small. This is a power solution that goes beyond the usual USB battery packs that most of us carry when traveling. Instead, it is a device that is built for outdoor professionals who need plenty of power at all times, but don't want to compromise on durability and reliability while in the field.

The Saber is available for preorder today and for a limited time is available for just $199. After the preorder period ends, and the device begins shipping on Cyber Monday in November, it will sell for $299. So, if you're in the market for a great portable power pack, and the Saber looks like something that might fit your needs, it is worth it to preorder now.

I'm hoping to get my hands on one of the devices and give it a proper test and review at a future time. Stay tuned for that.

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