Since 1932, the Danner boot company has been making high-quality tootwear for working men and women, and they are based right here in the United States. Danner’s headquarters are in Portland, Oregon, and they stake their reputation on using a blend of old-world craftsmanship and new-age technologies to build footwear that will literally last a lifetime. This […]
Gear
Spoil Dad for Christmas: Gifts Under $100
Deciding on a gift for dad is never easy. Deciding on a gift for dad when you are on a budget is even more difficult. Together, we here at The Loadout Room have put together a list of 10 affordable, top-quality gifts that we believe any father would love. Some of the products have been reviewed by our […]
Review: Vans Syndicate Defcon Shoes
These shoes rock for everyday wear in an urban environment. I’ve even taken them on the occasional day hike, and they proved to be very comfortable and provided more-than-adequate ankle support. Though I wouldn’t use them for day hikes that involve difficult terrain, they’re well-made shoes, and possess a high cool factor. Colors: MAS (Maritime Assault […]
Quick Look: Garmin Fenix 2 Multisport Watch
Garmin strikes again with what might very well be one of the best sports watches out there. For the distance runner—and I am one—it packs it all. Sure, the usual suspects are included: The Garmin tracks speed, pace, time, distance, and heart rate. But it gets interesting with a few new features, such as a foot pod that calculates […]
Quick Look: Vortex Viper and Diamondback Binoculars
If you’re a military observer, hunter, or sightseer, there is one product that should always be in your toolbox. A set of dependable binoculars. One of my favorite brands of binoculars on the market is the Vortex line. Within the Vortex line, the Viper and Diamondback are at the top of my list for quality, […]
Review: Giro Feature Mountain Bike Helmet
The Giro Feature mountain bike helmet was designed for the trail/all-mountain rider in mind, but works for all disciplines of riding (unless you require full face protection). This helmet is an ultra-comfortable, light mountain-bike helmet that provides more protection than the standard cross-country or road helmet. The Giro is light and comfortable enough to go largely […]
Quick Look: Nemo Veda 2P Trekking Pole Tent
If you have ever hiked, you probably know that packing yourself a good shelter comes at a price. You lose space and usually gain a good amount of weight, but your comfort increases a lot. Being protected from the elements when you’re still and can’t get warm by moving around is critical. Most companies have […]
Quick Look: Outdoor Research Stormsensor Gloves
The Outdoor Research Stormsensor touchscreen gloves are well-designed, highly functional, and brilliantly constructed. Offering more warmth than the OR Sensors, and more dexterity than the OR Ambits, these touchscreen gloves are sure to be favorites of tech-savvy, cold-weather outdoor enthusiasts. Construction Everything from the stitching and seams, to the choice and placement of materials make the OR […]
Quick Look: Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket
The streamlined Beta AR Jacket provides the backcountry minimalist with durable storm protection in a lightweight and packable format. This hip-length GORE-TEX Pro jacket reduces layering overlap and bulk, its helmet compatible DropHood offers quick storm protection, and the jacket’s reinforced shoulders and elbows can survive alpine abuse. Colors available: Anvil Grey, Black, Chipotle (Bright Orange), […]
Review: Rab Strata Hoodie
http://vimeo.com/72851117 The Rab Strata Hoodie is a highly compressible, lightweight, breathable, synthetic-insulated jacket made for active performance. Colors:Â Rust (red), Apple (green), Ink (reviewed jacket), and Ebony (black) Sizes:Â S-XXL Weight:Â 430 grams, 15.2 ounces (Large) Materials: Outer shell:Â 20d Pertex Microlight. The fabric is very smooth, snag and abrasion resistant, yet breathes very well. I have brushed against […]