Olympus Tough TG-810

2 M shockproof

10 M waterproof

14 megapixel

Tough cameras have been revolutionary for the casual outdoors person who likes to document his or her adventures. And Olympus has been at the forefront of this progression from early on. I've pointed and I've shot with this little guy all over the Northwest US, British Colombia,  a couple months in Thailand. It has taken some falls, gone snow camping, and sunken from a tipped kayak while deep water soloing on the Andaman sea. But most of all it's captured a lot of great memories. Not once has it gotten internal condensation or any type of water damage or been injured from a fall. I can definitely say that it passed the tough test. However, toughness only goes so far. The picture quality is good for most situations, and its 5x internal optical zoom does pretty well. It also logs the GPS coordinates of where your photos are taken. All in all, it's a good little point and shoot, and its toughness is no false claim.

Solo Stove Review

Solo Stove, Solo Stove. I may have difficulty writing this review without becoming emotional, but I will do my best. In the sense of the word that we have developed for objects which we become attached to, enjoy and depend on; I love my Solo Stove. It can go with me anywhere. It can cook anything and can be fueled by almost anything. I have been on backcountry day trips when the solo stove was our only option for sure safe drinking water. This makes for patience and encourages the beautiful zen of tea breaks along rivers. I have used my solo stove to cook for seven people for eight days, without the help of any other stoves (not ideal, but alright). On a spur of the moment over-nighter by the Columbia, my roommate and I stuffed a tea pot with a dozen whole potatoes and grabbed a bottle of Sriracha on our way out the door. We cooked the potatoes on the Solo while getting our chill on, and pretty well had dinner for the seven of us. It can boil water for a large bowl of oatmeal in 3 or 4 minutes. The Solo Stove may test your patience and fire building skills at first while you figure out what starting technique works best for you. However, I really do enjoy feeding my Solo Stove, and it gives you a bit of that campfire vibe, even when campfires may not be an option. I also have the alcohol burning attachment which is slower to boil, but an excellent option when burnables are not around.

Chaco Rex

 The Chaco Rex Is Chaco's performance sandle with a near the ground design. Some people don't want the stiffness and support of a classic hiking boot  in their sandal. That's why they created the Rex. I've had a pair for a few months now. I've enjoyed running, scrambling and climbing up granite lakes around yosemite, up to ten mile hiking days, kayaking, and plenty of water activities in them. In all these situations, they have performed superbly. I was curious to see whether the chaco soles would grip and hold up as well as the Vibram soles on the Z2s I had owned before. I have been very happy with the grip on the Chaco soles and they are holding up well. Adjustments are even easier on this model, with drag of the webbing between sole layers. All in all a great shoe and significantly lighter than previous models.

MSRP: $90

Stoic Vaporshell Anorak

 I got the Stoic Vaporshell Anorak because I wanted a simple, light shell that keeps moisture out well and breaths. The Vaporshell is that. I like the simple no frills design, and I happen to like pullover anorak style of jackets. Some people might find them inconvenient. I found that the Zipper that runs from hip to mid ribs on the right side is very nice for allowing some air flow, while that opening is still sheltered by your arm as far as rain. The hood is comfortable and roomy and the welded zippers are solid. The rubber cuff velcro is not very secure though. I would say fit runs a little small. I am 5' 9", 155 lbs and the Lg fits very well.

Outdoor Research Halcyon Sombrero

The Outdoor research Halcyon Sombrero is a very light, very packable hat with excellent sun protection. It even sheds water quite well. I took it on an eight day kayaking trip in Desolation Sound in British Columbia. I wore it most of the time and was extremely glad to have it. It is a one-size fits all design. I have a very large  head and it fit perfectly. My younger sister, with a small head, had the same size and it did not look baggy or goofy. Snapping up the sides works well to stiffen the hat when it gets windy. The hat does not have vents, but the fabric is light and breaths well. Does heat up your gourd or make you extra sweaty. I have been working construction just out of yosemite for a month and wear the hat everyday. Would recommend it to any one looking for some practical sun coverage!