Erik Schlimmer tells the story of how he learned to fastpack the Adirondacks, a grueling 110 miles and 19,000 vertical feet of climbing, in five days with only 11 pounds on his back.
When this issue hits the gyms and stores, the story that inspired this column will be old news, but I’m writing about it anyway because I think it raises some really important issues in the active community.
Our monthly review of the latest and greatest gear and gadgets.
Changing your tunes or amplifying the volume for your favorite song just got a little easier when you’re on the run. Strap on Timex’s new Ironman Sleek iControl watch and you can wirelessly control your iPod from the watch face to play and pause, change tracks and adjust volume. The receiver attaches to your iPod, so you can stow it in a pocket or waistpack and forget fumbling when you’re not in the mood for “Running on Empty.” $125, www.keepon.timex.com/icontrol
Whether you’re tackling a mountainside hike-a-bike or a morning commute, the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Enduro is built to perform both in and out of the pedals. The rugged nylon sole provides enough flex for comfortable walking, yet is stiff enough to keep power going to the pedals. The carbon rubber sole digs in for plenty of traction while the ratchet straps guarantee a snug fit. $110, www.pearlizumi.com
Found yourself on a solo hike only to come across some of the most beautiful scenery ever? You don’t want to take another one of those long-armed “this proves I was here” shots that ruin the scene and are definitely unflattering. Well, lucky hiker, it’s Bottlepod to the rescue. This little cap top fits into your pocket, screws onto the top of your trusty water bottle and, voilà, instant monopod. Just attach your digital camera and you can capture that perfect shot without pointing the camera straight up your nose. $15, www.civilianlab.com
