Spring: The Season of Anticipation

There is nothing quite like the Spring thaw. Side walks are showing, the river is high, and the birds have migrated back and are singing an uplifting tune. Spring thaw also makes people like us antsy. It's not full on bike season (with the anticipation of another impending Ides of March Storm) and the skiing gets sticky and slow. Once the temperature rises into the positives, we yank out that beloved pack and inventory what gear we have, what needs to be repaired and what could be replaced. We start frantically flipping through gear mags and online forums to get the first look at what will be rolling into the local outdoor shops for Spring time and read all the reviews before it hits store floors. Which brand is putting out the ultra-light sleeping pad? And which hiking boot snagged the almighty "Gear of the Year" stamp of approval?
We've been stocking our shelves with what we think are going to be this years lightest, fastest, most fashionable and useful gear. Here is a preview of what we've got in store!

Sea To Summit Sleeping Bags: Talus TsI & Trek

These bags are the freshest in sleeping bag technology. The Talus TsI (shown left) is a 750+ Ultra Dry European Duck down. No more worries about having a wet down bag and it will be sure to not disappoint you when it comes to weight (1lb 15oz) and can fit into a 10L stuff sack! The Trek (shown right) is a bit roomier in the feet for those who go to sleep dreaming they are the karate kid. Its filled with a 650+ UltraDry down and it is extremely packable for those who like to get off the grid and pack light. 

Black Diamond Revolt Headlamp

The new headlamp from BD makes sure you are never left in the dark again! Rechargable by any USB, wall outlet or solar power! Also takes generic AAA batteries for versatility. See it work here!

Klymit Inertia X-Frame

This is the lightest most packable sleeping pad we carry. Weighing in at a scant 9.1 ounces, it comes with a hand pump, repair kit and stuff sack. Also check out the Static V from Klymit totalling in at $69.95. Lighter and comfort has never been so affordable.

Ahnu Footwear

Ahnu joins up with us this Spring. This company marries style with functionality perfectly! Check them out here! If you are in the market for walking shoe with style for your next European vacation, we've got a winner here, ladies.

Timbuk2 Commute Bags

The Snoop Messenger - stylish and secretive protection for your camera gear!

Timbuk2, the origin of the messenger bag is a line we've expanded in this summer. These bags are a must have for the commuter who carries everything in a day. You can stash your gym gear, your business documents, all your electronics - not to mention charge them, in a functional and stylish messenger (or non messenger) bag. Fully customizable, these are adaptable to fit you with their quick fit buckles so you can get to your stuff quickly, then tuck it snuggly on your back when its time to ride. 

LifeStraw

This little tool is a must have when backpacking! A self serve water filter that you can stick into your water source and BAM, filtered water. This weighs only a couple of ounces and is super easy to clean; just blow through the straw when you've finished drinking! Click on the video above to hear the benefits and uses of Lifestraw.

These are only a few of the fun toys that we've picked up this Spring, but we don't want to give it all away. We've got a lot of exciting goodies lining the shelves this season - but even better than reading about it all, is coming in and seeing it for real! Ask us questions; we love to gossip about the haps in gear gadgets and the latest styles.
 We love to hear your feedback. What are some things that you've read about that you'd like to see in the shop?
We hope to see you soon! Happy Springtime!