Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Gadling Gear Review: Quiksilver Shutter Speed Camera Pack]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/10/gadling-gear-review-quiksilver-shutter-speed-camera-pack/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/10/gadling-gear-review-quiksilver-shutter-speed-camera-pack/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/10/gadling-gear-review-quiksilver-shutter-speed-camera-pack/#commentsFiled under:

In 2011, I had the spectacular good fortune to go on two trips that fit the "once in a lifetime" category. One was to Antarctica, the other to Tanzania. Both were the kind of trips where you want to take your best photo gear, weight be damned, because, dude, how likely are you to be twice in Penguinistan or Elephantlandia? So schlep my gear I did, my heavy Nikon, the big telephoto, a video camera, a pocket camera, a zillion miles of cable, pockets full of camera memory and spare batters and oh, yeah the laptop for additional storage and backup.

Hauling that much electronica across the planet and back has its challenges -- before I had a decent camera pack, I used a standard day pack which plunged, before my very eyes, from a hook on the back of a door in Bangkok to a hard tile floor. The result? An irreparable 200 lens and a somewhat depressed traveler. Thankfully, it was the end of the trip.

I now use a pack especially designed for camera gear. I'm partial to my Kata Digital Backpack. I tried the Timbuk2 messenger bag -- it's nice but it doesn't really fit my geometry. Quiksilver -- yeah, that surf brand -- now makes the Shutter Speed pack, a bag designed to get your gear from the top to the the bottom of the planet in safety. The short wrap? This is a great bag for transit, but I'm not sure it makes the cut for regular use.

To find out if this is the bag for me, I gathered my usual kit and stowed it in the Shutter Speed. There are loads of pockets, internal, external, zippered, mesh, I had no trouble getting my complete kit, flash included, into the bag. And it was all very well organized. I moved the Velcro secured pads around so they held my gear in place and zipped the bag shut. Nice. My stuff didn't rattle around, it was very secure. I didn't drop test it, I'm just too traumatized by the last time that happened, but I feel like the camera would survive the fall.

I also put in a binder, a laptop, a water bottle, and a few other odds and ends. Everything was beautifully organized. There's a security pocket at the small of the back for your stealables (I mean beyond your equipment stealables) -- you're not going to have your wallet or passport lifted if you stow them there. There's a stowable rain cover, some lashing straps on the outside for your coat, and did I mention the zillions of pockets? All good.

Continue reading Gadling Gear Review: Quiksilver Shutter Speed Camera Pack

Gadling Gear Review: Quiksilver Shutter Speed Camera Pack originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CameraBagday packDayPackNikonphotographyQuiksilver IncSci/TechVelcroFri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Clever Travel Companion secret-pocket tank top and underwear]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

travel clothing When going abroad, one of the biggest concerns for travelers is keeping their valuables safe from pick-pocketers. While fanny packs may be a decent option, they're also a dead giveaway that you're a tourist, making you an even easier target for getting ripped off. Then there are money belts, which are great fashion-wise, however, tend to get itchy and leave sweat marks when it's hot out. That's why I was excited when I found out about The Clever Travel Companion's line of "100% pick-pocket proof" clothing.

I tried a solid black tank top with hidden pockets, as well as a pair of underwear with pockets. To be honest, with or without the pockets I would definitely buy this tank top. It's not too tight, not too loose, made of 100% cotton, and actually feels like a second skin it's so comfortable. Even after walking around in it for an entire day it didn't stretch out or chafe my skin. The pockets make it that much better, as the zipper is literally right above your stomach, allowing for easy access to all of your important documents while still keeping them safe from thieves. You can wear it as an undershirt or as a shirt on its own.

underwear The underwear, which are actually more like boy-short bathing suit bottoms, are also extremely comfortable and made of 94% rayon and 6% spandex. When I first saw them I was a little worried they'd tug, slide up, or show through my pants; however, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they did none of these things. In fact, I forgot I was even wearing them. What I really like about this product is there are two zipper-pockets right in front, making it really easy to quickly get to your things while also eliminating the nervousness back-pockets cause of never really knowing if your stuff is still there.

The Clever Travel Companion has created an extremely useful yet comfortable set of clothing options for travelers, especially when you also think about the extra accessories you now won't have to pack. Secret-pocket tank tops and t-shirts cost $39.90, while the women's underwear costs $29.90. There are also products for men, including long johns ($39.90) and men's underwear ($29.90).

Gadling gear review: Clever Travel Companion secret-pocket tank top and underwear originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clever travel companionCleverTravelCompanionfashiongadling gear reviewGadlingGearReviewhealthpick-pockettingpickpockettingsafetytravel safetytravel scamesTravelSafetyTravelScamesThu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: DODOcase for iPad 2]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/gadling-gear-review-dodocase-for-ipad-2/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/gadling-gear-review-dodocase-for-ipad-2/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/gadling-gear-review-dodocase-for-ipad-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

gadling dodocase ipad2iPads, tablets, Kindles and other tablet devises are making it easier to carry around hundreds of books and the entire internet in slim, lightweight devices. That technology needs to be protected, and, with the DODOcase, you can do it while nostalgically remembering what it was like to carry around an actual notebook. Remember those halcyon days? But a good iPad case is defined by more than its aesthetics. It needs to be durable, useful for all types of everyday use and slim. I've had both generations of the iPad and tried out several cases. Is the DODOcase a winner or just a pretty face? I put it to the test.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: DODOcase for iPad 2

Gadling gear review: DODOcase for iPad 2 originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DODOcaseipadipad 2ipad caseIpad2IpadCasemoleskinnotebooktravel-techvaseTue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Nikon CoolPix AW100 camera]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/06/gadling-gear-review-nikon-coolpix-aw100-camera/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/06/gadling-gear-review-nikon-coolpix-aw100-camera/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/06/gadling-gear-review-nikon-coolpix-aw100-camera/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Nikon Coolpix AW100Buying a digital camera is no easy task these days. As cameras have grown in popularity, the market has become flooded with dozens of models, all with a dizzying array of features and specs, and few ways to distinguish one from the next. Aside from minor variations in shape and color, most of them all look about the same, and it is difficult to know which one is the best fit for each of our individual needs. That simply isn't the case for the new Nikon CoolPix AW100, which not only has a unique look, but an identity all of its own. This is a camera that is built for travel, and will have a great appeal to adventure travelers in particular.

After removing the AW100 from its box, the first thing you'll notice is how solid it feels in your hands. The ruggedized body conveys the sense that this is a camera that can take a lot of punishment, which makes it a great option for those excursions that take us to the far flung corners of the planet. The AW100's tough shell keeps it waterproof to 33-feet, while allowing it to withstand temperatures down to 14ºF and survive drops up to five feet in height. Those qualities alone help to set it apart from nearly any other digital camera on the market and make it an attractive option for scuba divers, climbers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who demand a high level of performance out of their gear.

Don't let this camera's rugged body fool you however, because under the hood, it has plenty of brains to go along with its brawny exterior. This CoolPix features a 16 megapixel CMOS sensor that not only takes fantastic photos, but also manages to capture video in full 1080p HD as well. It has a vibrant 3-inch screen, an easy to use (and understand!) interface and Nikon's new Action Controls, which make the AW100 a snap to operate, even while wearing gloves.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Nikon CoolPix AW100 camera

Gadling gear review: Nikon CoolPix AW100 camera originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelcameracamerasdigital cameraDigitalCameragearNikonNikon Coolpixnikon coolpix aw100NikonCoolpixNikonCoolpixAw100Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Keen Howser Wool Shoes]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/30/gadling-gear-review-keen-howser-wool-shoes/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/30/gadling-gear-review-keen-howser-wool-shoes/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/30/gadling-gear-review-keen-howser-wool-shoes/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Keen Howser slipper is a sleeping bag for your feet.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to wear a sleeping bag on your feet? That's exactly how Keen bills their Howser Wool slippers, which are designed to be comfortable and warm, both at home or while out and about around town. The shoes more than live up to that billing and make an excellent option for travelers as well.

In designing the Howser Wool slippers, Keen incorporated recycled quilted felt on the outside and super-comfortable microfleece on the inside. The former gives the shoes a unique look that is all their own, while the latter plays a big part in making these slippers something you'll want to wear everywhere you go. Of course, no shoe dubbed a "slipper" would seem like something you'd want to wear out in the elements, but the Howser's rubber outsole gives them an unexpected ruggedness that makes them perfect footwear for all kinds of environments.

Travelers will appreciate that the Howser slippers are lightweight and very packable, making them a great choice whenever you're hitting the road. Better yet, they are very easy to slip on and off, which is much appreciated when passing through TSA checkpoints at the airport. The fact that they are warmer than their weight would imply only adds to their versatility, and the memory foam footbed molds itself to your feet, making them more comfortable over time.

In my mind, Keen has built the perfect pair of casual shoes. After all, who wouldn't want to wear a pair of comfy slippers all day long? I love how lightweight these shoes are, while still keeping my feet warm and dry in winter weather. Because of this fantastic combination of qualities, I find myself regularly slipping into my pair of Howsers without even thinking about it. Whether I'm running to the store to pick up groceries, or heading to the airport to catch a plane, these slippers have become a favorite option for footwear.

With a price tag of just $65, you'll be hard pressed to find a more comfortable shoe for the money, and I think you'll discover that it won't take long for them to become one of your favorite pair of shoes too.

Gadling gear review: Keen Howser Wool Shoes originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gadling gear reviewGadlingGearReviewgearkeenkeen footwearkeen howserkeen howser slippersKeenFootwearKeenHowserKeenHowserSlippersshoesMon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling Gear Review: Winter hat and gloves]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/24/gadling-gear-review-winter-hat-and-gloves/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/24/gadling-gear-review-winter-hat-and-gloves/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/24/gadling-gear-review-winter-hat-and-gloves/#commentsFiled under:

Seattle was recently choked by the kind of snowstorm that we're not supposed to get. It was followed by an ice storm, something I've never had the joy and/or terror to experience. It was also great gear testing weather. I unpacked my snow gear and the big parka, the long underwear, and wrapped my hands and head in SmartWool's "Snowflake Pop" knits.

I like hats with earflaps because well, they keep your ears warm. Even though I've rabbited on much too much about how I love SmartWool, I didn't believe that the hat would not be itchy and that it would not keep the wind off. I was wrong, it's super soft and my ears did not itch. It totally gave me hat hair, but whatever, pretty much every one in my city has hat hair right now. As for warmth, it was a frigid 28 degrees F and I was pelted with freezing rain and I was certainly warm enough. Caveat -- I was wearing the hood to my parka to keep from getting too wet. I've been wearing this littlle hat regularly since the temperatures dropped. I only have one wish for it -- the braids on the ends of the earflaps are a little short. Sometimes, you want to tie those things up so your ears aren't covered. When I turn the earflaps up, they stick out and I look like Yoda. Not a good look.

Continue reading Gadling Gear Review: Winter hat and gloves

Gadling Gear Review: Winter hat and gloves originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesclothinggloveshatsSeattlesnowwarmwinterTue, 24 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Bushnell HD Torch flashlight]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/23/gadling-gear-review-bushnell-hd-torch-flashlight/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/23/gadling-gear-review-bushnell-hd-torch-flashlight/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/23/gadling-gear-review-bushnell-hd-torch-flashlight/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Bushnell HD Torch flashlightLets face it, a flashlight is one of the most useful pieces of gear that we can own. Who amongst us hasn't found themselves caught in the dark and wishing we had a bright light to help find our way. Flashlights come in handy around the house, in the car, and even when we travel, and the HD Torch from Bushnell is one of the most versatile and useful of all, even if it does come with a hefty price tag.

Built from lightweight, yet very rugged, aircraft grade aluminum, the first thing you'll notice about the HD Torch is that it feels very solid and tough in your hand. The high quality construction inspires a sense of confidence that this light can take a beating and still be ready for action when you need it, whether that's around the house during a power outage or at your campsite at the end of a long day on the trail.

Cranking out 165 lumens, the HD Torch offers plenty of light when and where you need it, but that level of illumination isn't the only thing that sets it apart from the competition. While the output from most flashlights is round in shape, Bushnell's offering is actually square. The result is a very focused beam of light, that provides more intensity across the length of the beam than most other offerings, which tend to see their light diffuse more on the edges. When I first read about this feature, I thought that it was simply a marketing ploy, but seeing it in action, the square design does indeed make for a more efficient light. It was actually quite astounding to see it in action.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Bushnell HD Torch flashlight

Gadling gear review: Bushnell HD Torch flashlight originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelBushnellbushnell hd torchBushnellHdTorchcampingFlashlightgadling gear reviewGadlingGearReviewgearhuntingtravel gearTravelGearMon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling Gear Review: The North Face Jammu Jacket]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/gadling-gear-review-the-north-face-jammu-jacket/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/gadling-gear-review-the-north-face-jammu-jacket/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/gadling-gear-review-the-north-face-jammu-jacket/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

gadling north face jammuWaterproof winter jackets don't always leave you dry. Sure, they keep the rain, snow and ice out, but they often end up leaving you drenched in your own sweat. The breathability of a jacket is almost as important as how impenetrable it is to the elements. Sadly, most coats that try to combine warmth and waterproofing end up sacrificing personal climate control. If you're going to be active throughout the winter, finding a jacket that's comfortable, allows for a full range of motion and keeps you dry and warm is a necessity. That's why I was so eager to try the new Jammu jacket from The North Face.

Continue reading Gadling Gear Review: The North Face Jammu Jacket

Gadling Gear Review: The North Face Jammu Jacket originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jacketjammuneoshellnorth faceNorthFacepolartecpolartec neoshellPolartecNeoshellthe north faceTheNorthFaceTue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Bogs Jamison Boots]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/16/gadling-gear-review-bogs-jamison-boots/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/16/gadling-gear-review-bogs-jamison-boots/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/16/gadling-gear-review-bogs-jamison-boots/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bogs Jamison bootsWhen packing for a trip, one of the most important decisions we make is what shoes to bring along. Usually we know that we're going to be busy, and on our feet a lot, so comfort is always a consideration, but versatility doesn't hurt either - especially if you prefer to travel light. That's why the Jamison boots from Bogs are such a great choice for active travelers, as they manage to be stylish and comfortable, while providing plenty of protection from the elements, at the same time.

Bogs has built its reputation by designing boots that are rugged and tough, which has made them a favorite in workplaces ranging from farms to construction sites. But the Jamison is one of their first attempts at creating a hiking shoe, and in that arena I feel they get mixed marks. While these boots are more than capable on the trail, I believe there are better options out there from companies that specialize in hiking boot, as these felt a bit heavy and cumbersome while on extended hikes.

That said, the Jamison boot brings a lot to the table that does make them easy to recommend for travelers. As noted several times already, they are quite comfortable to wear, even over an extended period of time. They're also completely waterproof, which comes in handy whether you're caught in a sudden rainstorm or visiting a destination well known for its inclement weather. These shoes also happen to be plenty warm as well, which make them an ideal choice for cold weather adventures. But be warned, I did find them to be almost too warm at times, although I fully admit that my feet tend to run hot anyway.

While putting the Jamison boots through their paces, I was impressed with how well they handled the wear and tear of regular, day-to-day use. While it took very little time to get through the initial break in phase, my pair continues to look like I just took them out of the box. This speaks volumes about the build quality of these shoes, which seem like they'll be accompanying me on my travels for years to come.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Bogs Jamison Boots

Gadling gear review: Bogs Jamison Boots originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelBogsBogs bootsbogs jamison bootsBogsBootsBogsJamisonBootsbootsgadling gear reviewGadlingGearReviewgearshoesMon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Hummingbird Carry-on Zip]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/09/gadling-gear-review-hummingbird-carry-on-zip/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/09/gadling-gear-review-hummingbird-carry-on-zip/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/09/gadling-gear-review-hummingbird-carry-on-zip/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Hummingbird Carry-on Zip duffel bagPicking the right bag to carry with us on our travels can be almost as important as selecting the items we put inside of it. Our baggage must be versatile, rugged, distinctive, and now days, easily fit inside an overhead compartment. The Carry-on Zip from Hummingbird meets all of those criteria, and then some, providing travelers with a simple, but very useful, bag for active excursions. Especially ones involving water.

Before getting into what the Carry-on Zip brings to the table, it is important to understand what it doesn't. In terms of design, this is most definitely a no-frills, minimalist bag. There aren't a lot of pockets - in fact there is just one large 40-liter compartment - and the bag doesn't have wheels or feature a retractable handle. It is, for all and intents and purposes, a simple duffel bag.

But to call the Carry-on Zip "just a duffel bag" is to greatly underestimate its value for travelers. This bag is designed for those that prefer to travel light and are looking for something they can take with them anywhere they go. Made from a tough, but flexible, vinyl material, the Carry-on Zip takes a beating without showing the wear and tear that comes from frequent travel, and its large, comfortable shoulder straps make it a cinch to carry, even when packed to the brim with gear. Those same straps can be easily adjusted to wear the bag like a backpack, and its single, cavernous, compartment has plenty of room to store everything you need for weekend escapes, or even week long adventures.

The vinyl material that makes the Carry-on Zip such a tough, durable travel option also makes the bag waterproof as well. Hummingbird has matched those materials with heavy duty zippers that when locked into place, they seal the bag up tight, keeping everything inside safe from the elements. The waterproofing is so good in fact, that I recently carried this bag on a trip to the Virgin Islands, where I spent my days snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing the beautiful ocean waters there. Thanks to the Carry-on Zip, I was able to take my camera, cell phone, and laptop with me where ever I went, without fear of damaging those expensive items within. On more than one occasion, I found myself wading into chest and neck deep waters to meet a waiting boat, and each time this bag kept my gear completely dry. It was very reassuring to know that I could trust this pack with my most fragile gear, even while swimming in the Caribbean.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Hummingbird Carry-on Zip

Gadling gear review: Hummingbird Carry-on Zip originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelbaggagebagscarry oncarry-onCarryOngearHummingbird carry-on zipHummingbirdCarry-onZipluggagescuba divingScubaDivingsnorkelingMon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten technology products that changed the way I traveled in 2011]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/05/ten-technology-products-that-changed-the-way-i-traveled-in-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/05/ten-technology-products-that-changed-the-way-i-traveled-in-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/05/ten-technology-products-that-changed-the-way-i-traveled-in-2011/#commentsFiled under:



2011 was a great year for Gadget lovers - the tech industry pushed out new products at an insane pace. As usual, a vast majority of said gadgets were borderline useless, but especially for the traveler, the year proved to be quite rewarding.

Like most years, I went through a huge amount of new gizmos, but some of them really stood their ground - and made it into my bag for more than one trip. Here are the ten products I deemed worthy of claiming they actually changed how I traveled in 2011.

Continue reading Ten technology products that changed the way I traveled in 2011

Ten technology products that changed the way I traveled in 2011 originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4GAndroidAT&TCanon PowerShot S90Deutsche Telekom AGetymoticEtymotic Researchgadgets best gadgetsGadgetsBestGadgetsheadphoneshoneycombHuluIPadkeyportkeyport slideKeyportSlidelteSci/TechsonySpotifythunderboltUSB flash drivevaioxoomThu, 05 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling Gear Review: Bamboo Bottle Company Water Bottle]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/03/gadling-gear-review-bamboo-bottle-company-water-bottle/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/03/gadling-gear-review-bamboo-bottle-company-water-bottle/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/03/gadling-gear-review-bamboo-bottle-company-water-bottle/#commentsFiled under:

I'm always losing water bottles. I'm grateful that they're swag at so many events, because I'm continually leaving them behind somewhere -- on airplanes, in hotel rooms, in the back seat of the rental car. Carrying a water bottle is The Right Thing to Do, not just because throwing away plastic bottle after plastic water bottle is bad. It's the right thing to do because you're on the move, man, you need to stay hydrated, and if you have a water bottle, you'll do a better job of that. So, yeah, a water bottle, you should have one.

I'm partial to stainless screw top water bottles, they fit in the site pockets on my day pack and if I've remembered to grab a carabiner, they clip in to place. I know lots of folks who like the non-BPA wide mouth plastic bottles too, they're easy to deal with and you can keep more than water in them -- I've used them to stow the cables for all my electronic stuff, for example.

Both of those options are lightweight, good for when you have to haul your stuff around, which I do, often. I mention this right away because the bottle I got from the Bamboo Water Bottle Company is heavy. It looks cool. It's well designed. It's made out of snappy materials. It's heavy. And that's before there's water in it.

The bottle pretty, it's really pretty. It's got a blond bamboo sleeve that protects the glass bottle inside from breaking. The sleeve also provides some insulation. The lid has a built in straw so it's easy to drink from while you're driving or riding your bike. There's a version with a flip top -- it snaps shut so your drink won't spill when you knock it over. The bottle comes apart so you can wash it; you can put everything but the bamboo sleeve in the dishwasher.

Here's the truth: I'm probably not going to use it much for travel. When the weather improves around here, it will be great for drinking ice tea out of while I swing in the hammock in the backyard. If I'm packing a picnic, I can see filling it with gin and tonic for one, or some other summer cocktail. It's a nice bottle for leaving on your desk at work, a good water bottle really does go a long way towards helping you ease up on the office coffee.

But given my tendencies to leave a trail of water bottles across the planet? There's no easy way for me to clip it to my bag. And the weight alone is enough to make me reconsider packing it. I like this thing, it's an attractive piece of gear. I'm just not convinced it's something I need for travel.


Gadling Gear Review: Bamboo Bottle Company Water Bottle originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bamboobottleGlasshydrationnalgene bottlesNalgeneBottlesplastic bottlesPlasticBottleswaterTue, 03 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lessons from a Year of Travel Gear]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/02/lessons-from-a-year-of-travel-gear/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/02/lessons-from-a-year-of-travel-gear/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/02/lessons-from-a-year-of-travel-gear/#commentsFiled under:

Truth: Writing gear reviews is fun. I get to play around with a lot of different toys, try on clothes that are polar opposites of what passes for my personal style, and most of the people I meet in the outdoor gear industry are great fun. They're just like you and me; they like to travel and camp and be kitted out nicely while they're doing it.

The tough part about being a gear head is that you actually have to try the stuff out to say anything meaningful about it. This means finding the right situation for that one thing in your review pile, putting on some shoes, and heading out into the world to get dirty. I've ruined some stuff this way and while it's all in the purpose of research, it makes me feel kind of bad when something doesn't hold up. I want to like everything, but I just don't, and sometimes, maybe I like it but it's just not good travel gear.

Through testing and laundering and using and carrying and schlepping every single thing I review, I've come to a few broad conclusions about what works and what doesn't. As this year closes and next year's new stuff starts to appear in my review pile, I'll share with you my lessons of this year in travel gear.

It's got to be able to survive the washing machine. Yeah, I know it says dry clean or hand wash only. It doesn't matter, everything I test goes into the laundry. I ruined a really nice cashmere blend sweater from Horny Toad because I washed it. I'm bummed, but if it can't survive the laundry, it can't survive my travels. Cashmere, you are staying home.

Continue reading Lessons from a Year of Travel Gear

Lessons from a Year of Travel Gear originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clothesColumbia Sportsweargearkeenoverhead binOverheadBinpackingreviewsrollaboardroller bagRollerBagshoessuitcasetesting the garmentTestingTheGarmenttravelMon, 02 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Stem Innovation Time Command Mini clock]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/02/gadling-gear-review-stem-time-command-mini-clock/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/02/gadling-gear-review-stem-time-command-mini-clock/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/02/gadling-gear-review-stem-time-command-mini-clock/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Time Command MiniI've always enjoyed having a collection of my music with me when I travel. It helps me to relax on a long flight, keeps me entertained while on the go, and is much appreciated when I'm passing the time in a hotel room. Thanks to MP3 players and smartphones, it is now easier than ever to carry our entire library of music with us wherever we go, and enjoying that music is made even easier with a compact alarm clock/speaker system such as the Time Command Mini from Stem Innovation.

Designed specifically for iOS devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch), the Time Command Mini is a very small and lightweight clock that has the potential to be a favorite amongst travelers. The device weighs just 9 ounces and measures less than five inches in diameter, which makes it easy to pack and take along with you when you hit the road. Better yet, it offers surprisingly great sound out of such a small package, filling a room with your favorite music with ease.

On it's own, the Time Command Mini is a very basic alarm clock with limited functionality. As you would expect, it tells time and can wake you as needed, but other than that, it doesn't do much else. It doesn't even include a built in radio, which is a standard feature on the vast majority of alarm clocks these days. But when you plug an iOS device into the dock, located on top of the Mini, it can easily play music, podcasts, or streaming Internet audio, quickly making up for these shortcomings.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Stem Innovation Time Command Mini clock

Gadling gear review: Stem Innovation Time Command Mini clock originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gadling gear reviewGadlingGearReviewgearIOSiOS deviceIosDeviceipadiphoneiPodipod touchIpodTouchtime command miniTimeCommandMinitravel clockTravelClockMon, 02 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Powerbag - part bag, part portable power source]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/31/powerbag-part-bag-part-portable-power-source/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/31/powerbag-part-bag-part-portable-power-source/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/31/powerbag-part-bag-part-portable-power-source/#commentsFiled under:

Powerbag mobile powered luggage

The Holiday season may be over, but that shouldn't stop you from paying attention to gift ideas (for yourself). If one of your New Years resolutions is to travel without landing at your destination with an empty iPad or phone, then we recommend checking out the assortment of bags from Powerbag. Their lineup covers everything from a basic sling, to a complete mobile office on wheels.

Now, a variety of luggage is definitely not newsworthy on its own, and what makes these bags worthy of a mention here is that they all come with an integrated power source. Inside each of the bags is a powerful battery pack, integrated battery indicator and power switch and a water resistant AC charger port. Pack your bag, then pop your tablet, phone, headset or other devices inside and plug them in.

The built in battery pack is rated at 6000mAh, which is more than enough to charge a phone 4-5 times, or charge multiple devices at the same time. The system includes power tips for Apple, MiniUSB and MicroUSB, though a regular USB port also allows you to use your own cable. Best of all, Powerbag will gladly sell you a second battery pack in a higher or lower capacity.

The bags start at $139.99 and are available directly from the manufacturer or a variety of (online) retailers. We'll try and get a full review up on Gadling as soon as we can.

Powerbag - part bag, part portable power source originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backpackbaggageful bagFulBagluggagemobile powerMobilePowerportable powerPortablePowerpower sourcepowerbagPowerSourcerolling bagRollingBagSat, 31 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling Gear Review: ioSafe Rugged Portable hard drive]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/29/gadling-gear-review-iosafe-rugged-portable-hard-drive/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/29/gadling-gear-review-iosafe-rugged-portable-hard-drive/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/29/gadling-gear-review-iosafe-rugged-portable-hard-drive/#commentsFiled under:

ioSafe Rugged Portable Drive

2011 may go down as (yet another) "year of the cloud", but that doesn't mean the cloud is the solution to everything. On my travels, I rely on Dropbox, Google Music, Amazon Music and Sugarsync to provide instant access to my files, but the "instant" part relies heavily on having access to reliable and speedy Internet access. Since speedy Internet can be just as hard to find in downtown Las Vegas as it is in downtown Tallinn, I also trust locally stored files on a good old hard drive and a variety of USB drives.

Of course, the biggest risk of carrying a hard drive is always going to be physical damage - the thing is after all designed around rotating platters with magnetic heads floating micrometers above them. To combat this, there is the rugged drive. One of the most popular names in rugged storage is ioSafe, long known for their line of fire and waterproof drives for at home, but now also the name behind a variety of portable rugged storage.

Continue reading Gadling Gear Review: ioSafe Rugged Portable hard drive

Gadling Gear Review: ioSafe Rugged Portable hard drive originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloud storageCloudStoragedropboxiosafeLas VegasLasVegasportable hard drivePortableHardDriverugged portable driveRuggedPortableDriveSci/TechTallinnUniversal Serial Bususb 3.0usb 3.0 superspeedUsb3.0Usb3.0SuperspeedThu, 29 Dec 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Sofshell case for iPad]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/28/gadling-gear-review-sofshell-case-for-ipad/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/28/gadling-gear-review-sofshell-case-for-ipad/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/28/gadling-gear-review-sofshell-case-for-ipad/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Sofshell case for iPadIf Santa left an iPad under you tree this holiday season, you've probably spent the last few days getting to know your new toy and discovering all of the fun things it can do. You've probably also admired how sleek and thin the device is, which is great when slipping it into a bag for travel, but can make it a bit precarious to hold on to at times. That's where the Sofshell case from Sofproducts comes in handy. The very thin and tough plastic case, fits on the back of your iPad, delivering extra protection and a tighter grip at the same time.

The Sofshell case is made out of anti-slip, lightweight plastic materials that are just as useful when you are holding the iPad as they are when it is is resting on a slick surface. The manufacturer claims that with the Sofshell in place, the device will stay put, even when resting on a surface with a 70° angle, and from my own testing I'd say that is fairly accurate. Once I had the Sofshell installed on my iPad, no matter where I set it, it stayed in place. This provided a nice sense of security that my expensive tablet wasn't going to slide off to its doom on the hard floor below.

Even with a case like this one, accidents can still happen of course, and gravity will take its natural course, sending your iPad tumbling to the ground. Fortunately, the Sofshell also provides some protection from those accidental drops as well, reducing the shock from a fall by as much as 43%. That can be the difference between a functioning device and an electronic tragedy, and once again it is nice to have that sense of security, particularly when traveling.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Sofshell case for iPad

Gadling gear review: Sofshell case for iPad originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipadipad 2ipad caseiPad casesIpad2IpadCaseIpadCasessofshell ipadSofshellIpadWed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guerrilla's Airporter Pack: A Backpacker All-in-One Bag]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/26/guerilla-airporter-pack-a-backpacker-all-in-one-bag/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/26/guerilla-airporter-pack-a-backpacker-all-in-one-bag/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/26/guerilla-airporter-pack-a-backpacker-all-in-one-bag/#commentsFiled under:

Man, do I see a lot of luggage. Roll-aboards. Day packs. Laptop/iPad/digital whatever storage solutions. And honestly, most of them don't quite make the cut. Part of the reason I have so many of these things is that I continue to quest for The Perfect Bag. Light, versatile, the right pocket for that one thing that always gets loose and floats around inside my luggage.

I'm impressed when a bag designer really thinks about how a bag will get used. Attention to detail, that makes all the difference. (See also, this bag by Tom Bihn.) The folks behind the Airporter by Guerrilla Packs have given a great deal of thought to putting their bag together. They've made a well designed backpacker/round-the-world bag and if you're in the market for such a thing, you should check it out.

The Airporter is one of those system packs with a clip on day pack. Gravity isn't always your friend with these things, your balance gets out of whack because where the weight sits is just wrong. The day pack on the Airporter is small, so that helps. Pack smart and keep most of your gear in the big bag, just use the day pack for stuff you need to access frequently and you'll be fine. Then, when you're day tripping, use the bag for whatever you need -- stowing your swimsuit for that snorkel boat day, shopping, whatever.

There's a sleeve for your laptop in the back, a pull through for your headphones, some internal pockets and key loop. Plus, hey, that's nice... picked up too much stuff while out shopping? The day pack expands, just open the wrap around zipper. Clever. What's missing? A water bottle pocket. Sure you could stow your water bottle inside the pack, but that's beside the point, no?

Continue reading Guerrilla's Airporter Pack: A Backpacker All-in-One Bag

Guerrilla's Airporter Pack: A Backpacker All-in-One Bag originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backpackbackpackingbagluggagepackingroller bagRollerBagRTWsuitcaseMon, 26 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A Headlamp is a Travel Essential]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/23/a-headlamp-is-a-travel-essential/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/23/a-headlamp-is-a-travel-essential/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/23/a-headlamp-is-a-travel-essential/#commentsFiled under:

Scenario 1: Sure, there's a campfire, but it's not enough to let you see what's on your plate. You're alternating between a fork and a flashlight. That's no way to enjoy your ramen.

Scenario 2: Digging through your bag for your earplugs when your tent mate has shattered your sleep with her snoring takes both hands.

Scenario 3: That budget hotel is on generator power, and that goes off at 10am. It's 3am, it's as dark as the inside of an elephant, and you have to pee.

You need a headlamp. I've tested a few of these and I've settled on a favorite, Petzl's Zipka Plus 2. Here's what I like about it.

The Zipka has a spring-loaded retractable cord rather than a typical elasticized webbing headband. It's super compact right from the get-go because the design has cleverly eliminated the strap. I like that you can strap it to your hand or your arm or whatever - tent pole, beer can... if it's the circumference of your melon, you can put the lamp around it and it will stay put. Win.

Next up? There's a red light mode. That snoring camp buddy? You don't have to paste her with high wattage while you're rooting around in your bag. You're not a jerk. This is a really nice feature I didn't know I wanted, and now, I think it should be standard. The red light is just, well, it's more polite, so it's great for dorm rooms, too, or any situation where low light is a better choice.

There's a blinky mode, too, so if you're striving to be seen (say you're using it as a bike light), you can set the blinker to go off in either red or white light. It's really bright when it's blinking in the full power white light mode, if they're within visible range (a maximum of 35 meters, according to Petzl) your crew will find you. When it's blinking in red light mode, it's not as bright, but it's still useful for making yourself seen by those around you.

You can use the white light in two modes -- full and "economy". In economy mode,the light is plenty bright for reading and, according to the specs, the light will last for up to 140 hours. That's a good long time.

Finally, if you'd like to attach the light to something, Petzl has an adapter kit that allows you to mount the light in bunch of different scenarios, including to a standard elasticized headband.

As I mentioned, I have a few headlamps (including the Irix, that Gadling Gear Guy Kraig Becker reviewed here) but this one is my favorite. It's tiny, it's bright, it has more features than I thought a headlamp could possibly need -- and I like all of them. Mine lives in my travel bag now, I don't head out on a trip without it.




A Headlamp is a Travel Essential originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelcampingFlashlightheadlampIRIXlightingoutdoorspetzlFri, 23 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Pick-Pocket Proof Pants from Clothing Arts]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/19/gadling-gear-review-pick-pocket-proof-pants-from-clothing-arts/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/19/gadling-gear-review-pick-pocket-proof-pants-from-clothing-arts/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/19/gadling-gear-review-pick-pocket-proof-pants-from-clothing-arts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pick pocket proof pants from Clothing ArtsFew things can ruin a trip more quickly than losing your wallet to local thieves who make it a habit of preying on unsuspecting travelers. In the blink of an eye, your cash, ID, passport, credit cars and other valuable items, can be gone, leaving you scrambling to recover. To prevent these types of situations from ever occurring, the designers at a company called Clothing Arts, who happen to be travelers themselves, have created a line of pick pocket proof pants that make it nearly impossible for you to lose your important items.

Dubbed the P^cubed travel pants, Clothing Arts makes these garments for both adventure travelers and businessmen and women who frequently visit areas that pose a high risk for pick pockets. These pants (and shorts!) resemble typical cargo pants, with pockets in the usual places, namely the front and back, as well as additional pockets on the legs. But these aren't your typical pockets, as you soon find out when put the pants on. Security is central to the design of the P^cubed line, and as a result each of those pockets can be sealed with both zippers and cloth covers. When sealed up tight, it would take a very talented pick-pocket indeed to gain access to your valuables.

These security measures mean that you can put your wallet in a pocket and without the fear of it being lifted. The pockets are spacious enough to accommodate most small items that you would want to carry with you, and the cargo pockets even expand for extra storage. Even cell phones and small cameras can comfortably be carried without worrying about them finding their way into unwelcome hands.

While we can all appreciate having an added sense of security while we're traveling, the bottom line with any piece of clothing that we take with us is that it has to be comfortable. The P^cubed pants excel in that area as well, using a blend of nylon and cotton to offer up a relaxed fit that doesn't hamper movement, even when taking part in active pursuits such as hiking or climbing. I found the pants were just as comfortable to wear around town as they were on the trail, which makes them a versatile piece of gear that can be used just about anywhere. That versatility is a big plus for travelers who like going as light as possible and don't always want to carry a lot of items with them.

Continue reading Gadling gear review: Pick-Pocket Proof Pants from Clothing Arts

Gadling gear review: Pick-Pocket Proof Pants from Clothing Arts originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelclothing artsClothingArtspantspick pocket proof pantspick pocketsPickPocketProofPantsPickPocketstravel clothingtravel safetytravel securityTravelClothingTravelSafetyTravelSecurityMon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST