I spend a fair amount of time traveling. Sometimes it’s an Overland trip, other times it’s via boat or aircraft. One thing that remains constant, and that’s my travel loadout. I’ve tried a lot of different luggage, shoes, clothing and accessories over the years. Being a gear tester allows me the unique ability to try […]
Urban Commuter
Vostok from Epic Water Filters | a Water Filter for the Urban Jungle
The Epic Water Filters Vostok The Epic Water Filters Vostok water bottle is a great way to make sure you’re getting high-quality water in today’s urban jungle. This 34 oz double-walled stainless bottle not only keeps your water cold but filters it too. The included filter is specifically designed to further improve tap water. With […]
Nitecore BP18 | The Ultimate Commuter Pack
When I first opened the box, I thought the Nitecore BP18 is never going to accommodate my daily EDC for personal or professional use. My natural tendency is to over pack but I’m working on that. I’ve been scaling down my pack size to keep things lighter and more streamlined for easier movement. My personal […]
Traveling with the Chrome Industries MXD Link Sling Bag
While packing for a three week overland trip out west to explore the Rockies, I knew I needed to bring my MacBook Pro for work. As well as an iPad for navigation and all the related cords, plugs, pens, etc. Prefering to keep everything in one place but not take up much space was the […]
NITECORE SLB03 Shadow Sling Bag
NITECORE “Shadow” Sling Bag (SLB03) The NITECORE SLB03 Shadow Sling Bag is a well-made, durable sling bag with multiple carrying modes. It is constructed out of black, high density, nylon fabric. It features a quick release shoulder strap the makes it easy to detach and move between three different carrying modes: sling bag, cross body […]
The All-In-One MicroLite JavaPress from GSI Outdoors
A trip down to Appalachia to compete in the Red Clay Rally offered a perfect setting to test a new piece of kit from the folks at GSI Outdoors. After waking up in a frost covered tent, especially when it’s below freezing, the first thing on my mind is a hot cup of coffee. Well, […]
Streamlight EPU-5200 | The Best Portable USB Device Charger
In the last few years, the number of manufacturers of USB device chargers has grown significantly. Everything from the cheap little charging sticks that give you a single charge to the larger ones that provide the ability to charge phones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices. I personally prefer a middle-of-the-road charger that can charge/power my […]
Hillsound BTR 14” Folding Camp Stool | Better Than a Rock
Lightweight and packable, the Hillsound BTR Stool is definitely Better Than a Rock. I’ve used folding stools previously when attending training or working in situations that required me to be on my feet for long hours. With limited places to sit other than the ground, a nice packable stool can be a lifesaver. The one […]
Kathmandu Litehaul 38 Carry-On Luggage
Here’s a piece of gear I’ve been sitting on for a while. I was slated to test this carry-on luggage from Kathmandu right about the time COVID-19 was unleashed upon us. Grinding my air travel to a rapid halt, until recently. A three-leg flight from Northern Michigan to Chattanooga to compete in the Red Clay […]
A quick look at the Mission Workshop Rhake City Pack
We recently got our hands on the Mission Workshop Rhake city pack. I haven’t had much time to actually use the product yet, but I am thinking it’s a great candidate for a one-bag adventure. I’ve always strived to be somewhat of a minimalist when I travel. Looking over the other backpacks that I own, […]
DeckersXLab DX-G8 Boot | Pure Comfort
I’ve been wearing combat/tactical boots since the mid 1970’s via my military, law enforcement, and security careers. From standard issue boots to those purchased on my own dime. Most have been comfortable if sized correctly. With the exception of a pair of boon dockers I was issued in Navy bootcamp. For almost a month, I’ve […]
The Olight OPen 2 | A Pen & Light Union
When I’m packing my go-bag, there are two items I always have in the admin pocket. A good pen and a small light. In some of my travel backpacks, the Streamlight that I typically pack is a bit too thick to slide into a pen pocket. Fortunately, I recently discovered the OPen 2 from Olight. […]
Uncharted Supply Co. Brings the Dead Back to Life with the New Athena
PARK CITY, Utah (April 13, 2021) – Uncharted Supply Co. is expanding its line of emergency preparedness and safety gear with the introduction of the Athena. The second portable energy system in the company’s lineup complements the Zeus—a slightly larger, more powerful portable jump starter and charger released in 2018. Though slightly smaller than the […]
LIVSN Designs Launches New EcoTrek Trail Pant on Kickstarter
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – February 2, 2021 – LIVSN Designs, an outdoor apparel brand focused on creating durable outdoor clothing for those who value experiences more than stuff, today announces the Kickstarter launch of its new EcoTrek Trail pants, comfortable, high-performance pants tailored to look good in the city and withstand the harshest outdoor conditions. New […]