Jumat, 04 November 2016
Video: Alive in Alaska with Photographer Alex Strohl
Join adventure photographer Alex Strohl has he takes us deep into the Alaskan wilderness to show us how he does his job. For many, the idea of making a living as an freelance photographer sounds like a dream, but it is also a lot of hard work and sacrifice too. But when the landscapes that you see here are your office, you can understand why Alex and others are so passionate about the possibilities. This is a great video to wrap up the week. It is filled with not only stunning scenery but plenty of wisdom too. Enjoy!
Alive in Alaska from Mathieu Le Lay on Vimeo.
Video: British Columbia is the Perfect Playground for Outdoor Adventurers
We all know that British Columbia is a spectacularly beautiful place. But in this short video we see why it is such an outstanding destination for outdoor athletes. Filmmaker Zac Moxley takes us to some wild landscapes where we witness mountain bikers, trail runners, skiers, surfers, and other enjoying their favorite activities. If you have some outdoor pursuits you are passionate about, chances are you'll be able to do them in BC.
Gear Closet: Voormi River Run Hoodie
I was fortunate enough to review Voormi's Drift Jacket for Gear Institute this past spring, and found it to be an amazing mid-layer. Warm, comfortable, very durable, and great looking, it set a new bar for the level of performance I expect out of my outdoor clothing. With that impression still fresh in my mind, I was also eager to try out their new River Run Hoodie as well, as it is a completely different piece of apparel from the Drift. I didn't come away disappointed, as this hoodie is now one of my most used articles of clothing, bringing a great deal of versatility to the table.
One of the things that separates Voormi from the competition is that the company uses a special blend of merino wool that is found on sheep living in the Rocky Mountains. That wool plays an instrumental role in some of Voormi's best products, and for good reason, namely it performs incredibly well in all kinds of weather conditions. When creating the River Run – and a line of other lightweight garments – the geniuses at Voormi developed a new type of fabric called Dual Surface UL. This incredibly thin material is incredibly lightweight, but still very durable, and retains the features that we've all come to know and love from merino. That is to say, it wicks away moisture, is highly breathable, wears well, and doesn't collect foul odors. In short, everything we want from our outdoor gear.
The River Run Hoodie puts this fabric to good use, making it a lightweight pullover when you want a layer of protection from the sun, or if you're simply looking to take the chill off when setting out on a crisp morning. Warm when you need it to be, but breathable enough to not be stifling, the hoodie is the perfect choice for use in a variety of activities. I've worn it hiking, biking, fly fishing, and paddling. It has also become my go-to layer for a morning at the dog park or running errands around town too.
With a relaxed-fit cut, the River Run makes a nice pull-over when you want a long sleeve outer layer that you can remove when things start to warm up. But, its incredibly soft fabrics are also comfortable enough to wear completely on their own on those days when you want to avoid to much UV radiation from the sun. It comes equipped with thumb holes to add a bit of warmth to your hands, and the oversized hood is useful when the wind picks up too.
Weighing in at just 6 ounces (180 grams), the hoodie is an excellent option for travelers too. I've taken this garment with me on several trips already, and it earns high marks for its lack of bulk and packability. In fact, I'd say that frequent travelers will have as much to gain by having the River Run in their closet as outdoor enthusiasts. It is just such a versatile piece of clothing that you'll likely discover new ways to use it on a regular basis.
If I had one criticism of the River Run Hoodie it is that I wish it had a pocket or two. It is completely lacking in this category, which is its only fault as far as I'm concerned. I would have liked to have had a pouch on the front for instance, which would be a good place to warm your hands on a cool morning, or stash a couple of small items that you want to keep close at hand. Other than this minor quibble however, I am completely in love with this pull-over. (Note: Voormi does make another hoodie – the Eleven.9 – which does have a front pocket, but isn't quite as lightweight.)
With fall upon us, warm days and cool nights are now the norm. If you're in need of a lightweight hoodie to add a bit of extra warmth without over-doing it, the River Run is a great option. Priced at $129 it is even a great bargain in my mind. Upon first inspection, you're likely to think that it too much to pay for a pull-over that is this light and thin. But after you've worn it a few times, Voormi will make a believer out of you too. This is a great garment to have in your closet, and I think you'll be very happy with how it performs.
Meet the 2016 Nat Geo Adventurers of the Year
Some of the people who made the list include climber Colin Haley, who put up some of the most demanding and impressive climbs of the entire year, paraglider Antoine Girard, who wowed us with his high altitude flight from Broad Peak, and cave diver Krzysztof Starnawski, who spent 20 years exploring a submerge cave only to discover it is the deepest on the planet. They're joined on the list by the crew of the HÅkÅ«le‘a, a Polynesian voyaging canoe that is sailing around the world using only the starts for navigation.
As usual, I won't spoil the entire list, because part of the fun is learning who made the cut and earned the title of "Adventurer of the Year." Needless to say however, the group is made of individuals who are all deserving of that honor, as each has done some amazing things throughout 2016.
Of course, there is still the matter of determining the "People's Choice Adventurer of the Year" as well. This is determined by online vote, with the polls closing on December 16 and the official winner being announced in January of next year. Choosing which of these individuals is most worthy of that honor is tough too, but thankfully we can all vote once a day through the deadline next month, so we can spread our support around some. To place your vote, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.
I am fortunate enough to get the chance to nominate some adventurers for this award each year, and it is always fulfilling to see some of the ones that I selected get the nod when the final choices are announced. I want to congratulate everyone who made the list. You are an inspiration to us all.
Two Wheelchair-bound Adventurers Setting Off on South American Expedition
Explorer's Web has the story of how these two men met at a physical therapy clinic and began hatching schemes of adventure with one another. They wanted to show that just because they were confined to a wheelchair it didn't mean they had to give up on their dreams of adventure and exploration. On the contrary, it has spurred them on to show the rest of us just what they can do.
In March of this year, Maciek and Michal applied for – and won – the Anderzej Zawada Award, which includes a monetary prize to help support young adventurers with their plans to explore the world. In this case, the two men had to appear before a jury and were given five minutes to convince them that they were worth funding. From the account given by ExWeb, they were very convincing. The two men went home with the prize, which will now help pay for their upcoming journey through South America.
On November 9, Maciek and Michal will fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina to begin their adventure. The two men will travel in a specially built 1996 Land Rover Defender 110 that is equipped with a roof-top tent for them to stay in, as well as plenty of storage for the gear and equipment that they'll take with them. The vehicle has also been modified from a manual to an automatic transmission, with both the gas and brakes now being hand-controlled. This will allow them to drive the Defender, even though they don't have the use of their legs.
The plan is to first drive to Cape Horn, the very tip of South America, and one of the most remote and wild area on the planet. The weather on the Horn is legendary, and sailors have gone out of their way to avoid that part of the world for hundreds of years. From there, they'll turn north and drive along the Pacific coast line up through Chile and Bolivia, before eventually turning their attention on Peru. They plan to visit the Amazon Rainforest while in that country, where they are even scheduled to meet with a local Shaman healer.
The entire journey is expected to take about six months to complete, although the two men are discussing extending it further. There is the possibility that they may continue to drive north to Costa Rica, and potentially all the way to the U.S. Right now, they're playing it by ear and seeing how things unfold.
This adventure will be a great travel challenge, especially for two men who have to use wheelchairs to get around. But, I love that their mission is to break stereotypes and prove to the world what they can do. Simply by setting off on this grand journey they are already accomplishing that goal.
Kamis, 03 November 2016
Video: More Than Just Parks - Voyageurs in 8K
The More Than Just Parks project is an attempt by brothers Will and Jim Pattiz to shoot a spectacular video in each of America's National Parks. So far, they've visited places like Joshua Tree, Zion, and the Great Smoky Mountains, and each of their short films has been breathtaking. Now, they've traveled to the lesser known Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota to shoot this stunning video, which captures the beauty and essence of that place so well. This is a park that most people have never heard of, and yet it is one of the great wilderness regions of the country. If you're not aware of what Voyageurs is truly like, let the Pattiz brothers introduce you. You won't regret it.
VOYAGEURS 8K from More Than Just Parks on Vimeo.
Video: Mountain Biking the Dyfi Forest of Wales
In this beautiful mountain biking video we travel to the Dyfi Forest of Wales to ride some epic trails with pro mountain biker Dan Atherton. For Dan, the Dyfi is an amazing place to ply his trade, so he spends his time not just exploring the trails by bike, but also building new routes for other riders to enjoy as well. This clip will give you an idea of why this is such a special place, and just might inspire you to get on your bike today too.
Adventures in North Carolina: Ziplines, Foot Golf, Hiking and Mountain Biking
One of the first things on the agenda upon arriving and checking into the hotel was a visit to the Sapphire Valley Resort. During the summer months, Sapphire Valley offers visitors a host of activities, including a full 18-hole golf course set in the tranquil mountains of western North Carolina. In the winter, the resort switches over to skiing, offering a great place for beginners to cut pick up the skills need to hit the slopes, while keeping more advanced skiers occupied too.
While fall is definitely in the air in North Carolina, we were along way off from anyone shredding on the ski slopes. So instead, we climbed high into the trees to try out the on-site zipline experience. The Sapphire Valley zipline was first built back in 2014, and has since been expanded to 14 different platforms to fly off of. And while the activity will certainly give you an adrenaline rush, it isn't so intense that you can't bring the whole family along for the fun.
The team at Sapphire Valley helped us to gear up and get on the lines as quickly as possible, providing a nice introduction to zipping, as well as providing some handy safety tips too. After climbing into our harnesses, putting on our helmets, and learning the ropes so to speak, we soon found ourselves flying through the trees at breakneck speed. The course is shorter than some that I've done in the past, but the setting was great and it was a lot of fun to be so high up in the trees as the leaves were changing color. I'm told the course is open in the winter too, which means anyone ziplining at that time is soaring above the skiers passing below.
After we completed the zipline course, I was introduced to a completely new sport that I had never seen before. In addition to its traditional golf course, Sapphire Valley happens to be home to a "foot golf" course as well. What's foot golf you ask? Well, it's a new activity growing in popularity in which you try to kick a soccer ball into a suitably sized hole. You keep score just as you would in regular golf, with each hole being rated for par and given a handicap as well. Best of all, the foot golf course runs parallel to the standard golf course, meaning some family members can play one sport, while some play the other.
I only had time to play four or five holes of foot golf, but I can tell you that it was a lot of fun. I'm not much of a soccer player, but after a bit of practice we were starting to get the hang of it. Before long, we were even flirting with par on a regular basis as we picked up the nuances of the sport. In reality though, it was just another great excuse to spend some time outdoors in the beautiful North Carolina setting.
Ziplining and foot golf are fun of course, but anyone who knows me knows that I also enjoy more active pursuits when I travel. That's why I was so happy to see some hiking and mountain biking on the agenda too. For those two items on our agenda we traveled out to Panthertown Valley, a wonderful wilderness setting that is perfect for all of our favorite outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, horseback riding, climbing, and more.
Once at Panthertown we were joined by a guide from Play On Adventures who took us on a short hike along the School House Falls Loop. The trail is only about two miles in length – we extended it with another hike to a nearby beach – but it is incredibly scenic and ends at a the wonderful School House Falls.
Fortunately for us, we had the chance to explore the area a bit further from the back of a mountain bike too. Most of Panthertown's trails are mixed-use, which means you can hike, trail run, mountain bike, and go horseback riding on them too. So, after our hike was ended, we climbed aboard some full-suspension mountain bikes – also courtesy of Play On Adventures – and rode some of the trails that we had also just hiked. Covering that ground again quickly however, we also had the chance to press on into some new areas we hadn't yet seen.
The fall leaves made mountain biking a trickier affair than it would have otherwise been. While covering the ground, the leaves brought a level of slickness to the trail that wasn't quite so evident when walking it. They also covered hidden obstacles from time to time too, although it didn't tend to slow us down too much.
The trail we rode began as mostly downhill, which provided a nice sense of speed at the beginning. But, in order to test our legs some, we did ride up to a stunning ridge that gave us a nice view over the entire Panthertown Valley. From that vantage point – along the Devil's Elbow route – we could see how far this wilderness setting stretched. Once again, it was incredibly intriguing, and provided good incentive for me to want to return and explore it further.
Our long descent at the start of the ride provided a good workout as we made our return trip to the parking lot. As with the hike, the mountain bike ride was far to short, but it as already time to start thinking about heading home. As is often the case on these kinds of trips, I only got a taste of everything that a destination has to offer. Now, I simply want to go back to Jackson County to experience more of it at my own pace.
When it comes to outdoor adventure, the western states in the U.S. seem to get the bulk the attention. Those places are wonderful of course, and are deserving of the accolades that they receive. But, the eastern part of the country has plenty to offer too, with North Carolina being right up there with the best spots for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you're looking for a new destination to add to your bucket list, I think you'll find Jackson County is a great option. There are so many things to see and do there that you'll likely be overwhelmed with the possibilities. Whether you want to go hiking, camping, mountain biking, climbing, or fly fishing, you'll find some utterly spectacular places to pursue those passions. You'll also find plenty of wonderful and outgoing people that are extremely accommodating, as well as a host of declines restaurants, wonderful brew pubs, and eclectic shops to visit too. It is a great mix of mountain lifestyle and urban sophistication. I think you'll find that you'll enjoy it just as much as I did. I can't wait to go back.
Russians Uncover Secret Nazi Base in the Arctic
Russian researchers have discovered a hidden Nazi base in the Arctic. Yep, you read that right, and no this isn't one of those weird conspiracy stories that you'll find elsewhere on the Internet. Apparently the base, which is named “Schatzgraber†or “Treasure Hunter,†was built back in 1942 under order from Adolf Hitler himself. It is believed to have been in operation until June of 1944, when it was abandoned following a series of mishaps.
Located on the remote island of Alexander Land, the base was believed to have been a weather station. After it was constructed, teams of Nazi soldiers lived there throughout 1943, a year after the Germans invaded Russia during World War II. But, running low on supplies the men that lived there were later forced to eat raw polar bear meat, which caused some of the soldier to become ill and even die. The remaining staff members departed the station just as the tide was beginning to turn against Hitler back home.
After that, the base became a forgotten structure from a bygone era. There were rumors of its existence, but no one was able to confirm that the Nazi's had indeed constructed the weather station above the Arctic Circle, although others had previously searched for it in vain. But the Russian team that discovered Schatgraber say they found more than 500 relics from the WWII era that were left behind by the previous tenants. They found a number of German bunkers, fuel barrels, and even old paperwork that was left behind when the soldiers left. Most of it is well preserved in the harsh, cold conditions, which should make for some interesting historical discoveries amongst the remains of the base.
Up until now, the base had only been mentioned in old Nazi reference material and German supply records, but since it had never been found, Schatgraber was believed to be a myth. There are many such stories of hidden Nazi bases – including some in the Antarctic too. Most of those probably are just legends, but this discovery will certainly add fuel to the fire.
The researchers the discovered the station say they'll take all of the artifacts that they've found back to Russia with them for examination. Perhaps they'll find even more interesting things about what the Nazi's were doing there in the Arctic from the paperwork they discovered.
Check out some images from the base in the news video below. The dialog is in Russian, but you'll at least get a sense of what the site looks like now.
Antarctica 2016: The New Season Begins Today!
The first ALE flight is schedule to depart Punta Arenas, Chile today and fly to Union Glacier. That aircraft will deliver several South Pole skiers, as well as a staff and supplies to the permanent camp at the blue-ice airfield on the Antarctic continent. Those who are on the flight today will likely spend a day or two at Union Glacier collecting their gear and finishing last minute prep. They'l then take a smaller plane on a short flight over to Hercules Inlet, the traditional starting point for an expedition across the ice.
Among those who are expected to be on this first flight are Johanna Davidsson, who hopes to ski solo to the Pole and then kite back to her starting position. Johanna posted on her website that she is packed and ready to go, with her sled weighing in at 110kg (242 pounds). On it she has everything she needs to survive for the next two months out on the ice, where she hopes to follow in the footsteps of other famous Scandinavian explorers who have gone before her.
Also scheduled to be on the first flight to Union Glacier is a team of six British skiers who will be making the trek to the South Pole to raise funds to help former soldiers in their time of need. They are contributing everything that is donated to the cause to the Soldier's Charity. Much like Johanna, the team is packed and ready to go, and just waiting on word of when the flight will take off.
Unfortunately, one skier won't be joining on them as scheduled. Emma Kelty reports that she was expected to be on the flight out of Punta Arenas today, but her bags and gear did not arrive there from Santiago as expected. Apparently there is an ongoing strike in Chile's capital, and as a result her bags are stuck in customs. She intends to fly to the city today, collect her things, and then drive back to Punta Arenas with everything in tow. Hopefully she'll be able to accomplish that and still have time for her expedition. She hopes to make the round trip ski journey from Hercules Inlet to the South Pole too. Something that will take a considerable amount of time and effort.
Meanwhile, Mike Horn has made his way to Cape Town, where he is planning on sailing his ship, Pangea, to Antarctica where he'll embark on his long-planned Pole2Pole expedition. He hopes to ski across the Antarctic, traversing the entire continent via the South Pole, as he attempts to become the first person to circumnavigate the planet via both Poles. A major undertaking to say the least. I would expect he'll set sail once weather permits too.
Finally, Italian kite-skier Michele Pontrandolfo is already on the Antarctic continent having flown to Novo Base last week. He reports that he has been out on the ice for three days, but poor weather has prevented him from updating his position thus far. He plans to make a travers of the Antarctic using a kite, traveling east to west as he goes, with a stop at the South Pole along the way. He attempted the same crossing last year, but struggled to find proper winds. Hopefully this year he'll be more successful.
That's all for now. More news at we learn about it.
Rabu, 02 November 2016
Video: Every Flight Counts - Speedflying in the Alps
There may be no better way to take in the stunning scenery of the Alps than from the air. In this video, a team of paragliders head up into the mountains on several flights, recording their adventures along the way. The results are some breathtaking shots of the mountains with plenty of stunning scenery in every direction.
Every flight counts // homebound speedflying - 2016 from Marius Beck Dahle on Vimeo.
Video: Climbing Mountains to Save Snow Leopards in Kyrgyzstan
The snow leopard is one of the most endangered animals on the planet, with less than 4000 believed to still exist in the wild. But as you'll see in this video, efforts are being made to protect these amazing big cats which roam the Himalaya and other high mountains of Central Asia. In this clip, we travel along with conservationists in Kyrgyzstan and witness first-hand their efforts to save these beautiful animals from poachers. You'll also get a rare glimpse of the leopards themselves thanks to camera traps strategically placed in the mountains.
Adventures in North Carolina: Fly Fishing the Western North Carolina Trail
During my travels this year I've been fortunate enough to get the chance to learn how to fly fish in a number of different places across the country. On the three or four occasions where I've been able to try the sport this year, I've come to discover that not only is it a lot of fun, it is incredibly calming too. There is nothing quite like being out on the water, casting your line, and finding yourself completely immersed in nature. So, when I saw that fly fishing was on the agenda I got pretty excited. I would later learn that I had plenty of reason to get excited, because Jackson County is one of the best spots to go fly fishing in the eastern U.S., if not the entire country.
As it turns out, Jackson County happens to be home to the very first fly fishing trail in the United States. The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail was created a few years back, and remains a labor of love for those involved. It was created to spotlight some of the amazing places for anglers to ply their craft, and trail maps are available for anyone who is coming to visit. Those maps share 15 top spots that are found in the area, providing both locals and visitors with some fantastic options.
While I was there, we traveled out to Tuckaseigee River to see if we could catch anything. Rainbow, brook, and brown trout are all found in the waters in this part of North Carolina, and on the Tuckseigee the can often be found in large numbers.
It was a cool, crisp morning when we donned our waders and boots, grabbed our poles and shuffled out into the river. The sky overhead was clear blue, without a cloud in sight. And while the sun hadn't yet climbed high enough to top out over the surrounding ridge lines, it was clear that it would eventually be a warm day.
Our guide for the morning's activities was Alex Bell, a retired school teacher and principal turned fishing guide who has been instrumental in getting the Fly Fishing Trail off the ground. For Alex, the project is something he is passionate about, and he wanders to other parts of the country to share the story of why Jackson County is such a great place to fish. He is also the owner of AB Fly Fishing, which specializes in taking travelers out to the water and teaching them the tools of the trade. In fact, Alex mentioned that the majority of his customers are beginners to the sport, and that he very much enjoys introducing them to the nuances that go along with it.
Wading out into the river, we discovered that its water levels were down as a result of a summer drought in the area. Despite those conditions however, we could spot a number of other fly fishers in the water both up and down the stream, several of whom were routinely pulling in – and releasing – trout.
It doesn't hurt that the best fly fishing usually takes place in extremely scenic places. Standing in a river, surrounded by trees lining the banks and towering mountains looming overhead can be a powerful experience indeed. It is a different way to connect with nature, but no less satisfying than say hiking a trail or climbing a mountain.
The scenery we found in Jackson County certainly helped to convey that feeling. Visiting in fall – even after peak leaf-season – was dramatic. The trees were still ablaze with bright oranges, reds, and yellows, and while the days were warm, the air felt crisp, letting us know that fall was truly lurking, and that winter is indeed coming. While we stood in the water, tall ridges cast long shadows over us, keeping the morning air cool for longer than it should have been. But, it made the conditions ripe for fishing, and we were eager to take advantage of the time we had out on the water.
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to reel any fish in on that day, although some other members of my group managed to catch a couple of trout. That's the nature of fly fishing of course, as sometimes it is action packed, and other times it's tough to even get bite. Learning exactly which flies work for the conditions you're fishing is crucial, and being willing to experiment can pay nice dividends. But just being out on the water is its own reward too. On that morning, standing in the Tuckaseigee, there was no place I'd rather have been, even though I didn't even get a nibble.
Before we knew it, our time on the river had come to and end. We had a busy schedule for the weekend, and only one morning set aside for fly fishing. That was barely enough to get a taste for what the Jackson County and the Fishing Trail have to offer, but it was also enough for me to know that I'd very much like to go back to hone my skills on those waters further.
It was also enough of a taste for me to confidently share with others that there is indeed great fly fishing to be had in the eastern U.S., and particularly in North Carolina. It is a spot that is more accessible to many travelers than booking a long trip out west, and the waters are well stocked with plenty of fish. Sure, places like Montana, Colorado, and Idaho receive a lot of accolades for their great fly fishing spots – and rightfully so – but Jackson County is a place that should not be overlooked, as it is right up there with the best of them in terms of setting, quality fishing spots, and numbers of fish.
If you're looking for new places to test your skills, or you want to fly fish for the first time, you need to have the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail on your radar. You certainly won't be disappointed.
Find out more about the trail by clicking here.
Exactly What is the Toughest Outdoor Sport?
In this article, Outside compares rock climbing, downhill mountain biking, ultrarunning, open water swimming, and nordic skiing to one another in terms of calories burned per hour, as well as injury rate and fatality rates. Using those statistics, they then analyzed each of the activities and spoke with experts on the sports to determine which ones are the most demanding.
In terms of calories burned per hour, those sports ranked in ascending order as downhill mountain biking (632/hr), ultrarunning (768/hr), rock climbing (818/hr), nordic skiing (952/hr), and open water swimming (957/hr). This gives you a bit of an idea of how much energy you expend while doing each of these activities on a high level. It explains why these athletes are in such impressive shape too. Burning those levels of calories on an hourly basis is intense, particularly when done for an extended period of time. I can tell you that when I go on one of my longer runs (10-15 miles) on a weekend, I ended up being hungry the rest of the day.
So just which of these sports was deemed the most difficult? According to Outside nordic skiing takes the crown because it requires strength, stamina, speed, and a level of cardio performance too. Next up, was rock climbing in no small part because of the technical skills required, followed by open water swimming and downhill mountain biking. Ultrarunning came in last of the five sports listed, although everyone involved with the article admitted that it is still an incredibly tough and demanding sport too.
What do you think? Did Outside get it right? Which of these sports do you think is the hardest? Is there one that didn't make the list that deserves a mention?
In terms of calories burned per hour, those sports ranked in ascending order as downhill mountain biking (632/hr), ultrarunning (768/hr), rock climbing (818/hr), nordic skiing (952/hr), and open water swimming (957/hr). This gives you a bit of an idea of how much energy you expend while doing each of these activities on a high level. It explains why these athletes are in such impressive shape too. Burning those levels of calories on an hourly basis is intense, particularly when done for an extended period of time. I can tell you that when I go on one of my longer runs (10-15 miles) on a weekend, I ended up being hungry the rest of the day.
So just which of these sports was deemed the most difficult? According to Outside nordic skiing takes the crown because it requires strength, stamina, speed, and a level of cardio performance too. Next up, was rock climbing in no small part because of the technical skills required, followed by open water swimming and downhill mountain biking. Ultrarunning came in last of the five sports listed, although everyone involved with the article admitted that it is still an incredibly tough and demanding sport too.
What do you think? Did Outside get it right? Which of these sports do you think is the hardest? Is there one that didn't make the list that deserves a mention?
Himalaya Fall 2016: One First Ascent Expedition Begins, Another Ends
Take Bill Burke for instance. The American climber has returned to Nepal to attempt the first ascent of Burke Khang, a mountain named in his honor. He is making the attempt with David Liaño, and the two men, along with their support team, are still trekking towards the mountain. They got their first look at the peak a few days back, and it will be another couple of days before they arrive in Base Camp, but they are eager to get started on this 6942 meter (22,775 ft) mountain.
Last year, Bill and a team of climbers attempted Burke Khang as well, but came up just a bit short of the summit. That was the first real scouting trip up the slopes of the mountain, and this year – armed with intel from the previous expedition – he hopes to complete the first ascent. We'll be keeping an eye on their progress in the days ahead.
Polar explorer and mountaineer Lonnie Dupre is also in Nepal where he is wrapping up operations on Langju, another unclimbed mountain that reaches 6365 ft (20,885 feet) in altitude. The expedition launched back at the beginning of October, at late last week the team moved all of their gear up to High Camp to prepare for a summit push. But, unfortunately the path to the summit was very dangerous, with a high likelihood of avalanches, so feeling that the conditions were to treacherous to push forward, so they decided to pull the plug on the expedition and head home. The team is now descending the valley and are currently in Jagat Village and preparing to continue on back to Kathmandu.
Finally, Alan Arnette tells us that French climber Frederic Degoulet has aborted his attempt to make the first ascent of the South Face of Nuptse. The team made a five-day push toward the summit, but overestimated their chances and ended up finding it impossible to continue upwards. The route was harder than they expected, and conditions were not good, but they fully admit they made some strategic errors in their approach that prevented them from topping out. They'll now head back to Kathmandu and go home to ponder another attempt in the future.
That's it for now. More news as we receive updates.
Selasa, 01 November 2016
Video: New Zealand - Land of Light and Shadow
Anyone who has ever been to New Zealand will tell you just how beautiful of a place it is, but this video is a good reminder nonetheless. It captures some of the stunning landscapes of that country in timelapse, with the sun, clouds, and sky all casting intricate shadows across the ground. Short and sweet, this is a minute-and-a-half of pure bliss, and a perfect way to wrap up the day.
To visit New Zealand yourself, check out all of the options available from Mountain Travel Sobek.
New Zealand - Land of light and shadow from Stephen Patience Photography on Vimeo.
To visit New Zealand yourself, check out all of the options available from Mountain Travel Sobek.
Video: Take a Stunning Tour of the International Space Station
Most of us will never see the inside of the International Space Station. It just isn't in the cards. Thankfully, we have amazing videos like this one, which take us on a grand tour of that orbital apartment for astronauts. In this clip, you'll slowly drift through one of the most impressive feats of engineering ever created, and you'll get a first hand look at the various modules the make up the ISS. Set to some very tranquil music, this tour is relaxing to watch, so sit back, get comfortable, set the video to "full scree" and enjoy.
Gear Closet: The Cubed Travel Jacket from Clothing Arts
These same sentiments have been sweeping through the travel industry over the past few years as well, and as a result we're seeing good looking gear made for frequent travelers that also incorporate the latest technical fabrics. This allows those products to also perform at a high level, while delivering all of the functionality that is unique to travelers too. That is exactly what you get from the Cubed Travel Jacket from Clothing Arts, a stylish jacket designed specifically with the needs of travelers in mind, with more than a few features that you didn't even realize you needed until now.
For those not familiar with Clothing Arts, the company makes a line of apparel to keep travelers safe and comfortable no matter where they go. For instance, the Pick Pocket Proof Pants are a must have for any adventure traveler, while the Travel Shirt features classic good looks that makes it feel right at home in any environment. But the Cubed Travel Jacket is the company's first attempt at making outerwear, and the designers behind it have clearly put a lot of thought into what they wanted to deliver. The result is a jacket that not only looks good, but offers Clothing Arts' trademark security features too.
Made from eVent's DVStorm fabrics, the Cubed Jacket is both water and wind proof, without sacrificing breathability. Those fabrics, when paired with taped seams, help to keep all but the worst weather conditions at bay. In fact, I took this jacket with me to Spain a few weeks back, where we faced regular rain showers and the occasional gusty day. But, this jacket performed admirably in all weather conditions, keeping me comfortable and dry at all times.
Despite being made from these highly technical fabrics, the Cubed Jacket doesn't look technical. That is to say that there is nothing about this jacket that screams "outdoorsy." Instead, it is made with a more fashionable look that allows it to blend in seamlessly in urban environments, while still looking good on the trail too. No one will ever mistake this jacket for something from The North Face or Mountain Hardwear, but that is a very good thing for travelers who don't want to look like they just stepped off the mountain. Instead, they'll find a more understated – and again classic – design that won't go out of style by the time the next fashion season rolls around.
In terms of other features, the Cubed Jacket also includes velcro wrist closures and waterproof zippers to further assist in battling the elements and dialing in just the right fit. It also comes with a detachable hood, which is nice to have in rainy conditions but can be removed when visiting a destination where that isn't especially a problem. Personally, I prefer a jacket with a hood, but I also like that you have the option here.
Of course, most of these features that I have noted already aren't enough to help the Cubed Travel Jacket to stand out in an increasingly crowded market. But, what this jacket does better than any other I've worn, is offer you plenty of pockets to carry your items around, most of which are secure enough to ensure that those items remain safe from unsavory characters.
As mentioned, Clothing Arts has made a name for itself by creating travel apparel that offers security options that make those items pick-pocket proof. Those same sensibilities carried over here with a variety of onboard storage options. In addition to two standard hand pockets, you'll also find two Napoleon pockets, and for more stashed away on the interior of the jacket. Those options include compartments that are perfect for stowing away your passport, sunglasses, smartphone, and even a small tablet.
There are a number of small details that help to set this jacket apart from the competition as well, including the ability to access the contents of some of the interior pockets from both inside and outside of the jacket. This is a level of versatility that I haven't found in other travel jackets, and it is something you come to appreciate when wanting to access your smartphone in a rainstorm for instance.
Several of the larger interior pockets also come with patent-pending security clips that add yet another layer of protection from thieves. In addition to having to gain access to the interior of the jacket, and open the zippered pockets, any would-be pickpockets would also have to get around the security clips without being noticed. Not an easy task to say the least, which should provide a nice piece of mind when traveling abroad.
Each of these small elements blend together incredibly well in the Cubed Travel Jacket, making it a must have for anyone who travels regularly. It is a deft combination of convenience, comfort, and versatility, wrapped up in a good looking package. It isn't easy to make jacket that delivers on all of those fronts, and creating one that is both water and wind proof is a nice feature as well.
All of that functionality and design comes at a price however. The Cubed Travel Jacket carries a price tag of $380, which puts it right in line with some of the best high-end technical jackets from the outdoor brands that we love so much. If you think of this product as "just a travel jacket" you'll probably see that price point as being way to high. Indeed, you can definitely find good dedicated travel jackets for less. But, if you take a look at the specs on Clothing Arts' offering, and weigh in its level of performance, this is a jacket that is more akin to something you'd find in more technical outdoor pursuits. The Cubed Travel Jacket hasn't been designed for those activities of course, but it performs on much the same level.
If you need a travel jacket that stand up to the rigors of the road with ease, while also providing a high level of versatility and security, than this is the product for you. Not only does it look good and provide protection from bad weather, it also allows you to carry a full day's worth of gear with ease and security. And when you buy this jacket you can bet that you're investing in a product that will last for years and accompany you on many adventures. It is durable enough to take virtually anywhere, and you'll look great no matter where you. What more could you ask for out of any piece of travel clothing?
Find out more at ClothingArts.com.
Outside Gives Us the 5 Best Deals in Outdoor Gear
Amongst the tips that Outside has to offer are that these stores offer plenty of great gear for car campers in particular where when and size is not a major issue. They also say that both shops are great for purchasing rods and reels, but you're better served buying your flies elsewhere. Finally, they also recommend that you take your time when visiting Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's as these outlets are quite large and it takes awhile to sift through everything, particularly if you're looking for good deals.
Speaking of which, Outside also offers their picks for the best bargains to be found inside these stores as well. Those bargains include a 6-person tent from Bass Pro that costs just $100, a 3-pack of 200-lumen flashlights for $25, and a 20ºF sleeping bag from Coleman that is priced at $50. The magazine also recommends a $20 jug for bringing plenty of water to the campsite and a $13 compass from Brunton for navigating the way.
While not all of those items will necessarily come in handy for your next trip, they are a good reminder that Bass Pro Shop and Cabela's have some affordable gear that is useful in the outdoors no matter what activities you're taking part in. I'm not a hunter or much of a fisherman (I'm learning to fly fish and enjoy it though!) but I do like good gear that doesn't break the bank. I think we'll find that at one of these outlets, even if REI and similar stores cater more to our needs.
Dawn Wall Update: Progress Slows, But Adam Ondra Continues to Climb
As of this past weekend, Ondra has successfully completed the first 13 pitches of the Dawn Wall, and was working on pitch 14, 15, and 16. Those are amongst the three toughest sections of the entire climb, and he reports that it will take colder weather and more skin on his fingertips to finish those three pitches. He says both are on the way, but in the meantime he's been gathering intel on the moves he'll have to make – some of them very tough – to get through this next series of challenges.
Once he's above pitch 16 things get a bit easier and he should have few problems finishing off the Dawn Wall. If he does complete the climb, it'll be only the second time it has been scaled. You probably recall that Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson knocked it off in January of 2015, but they spent years planning their ascent. Ondra is currently making his first visit to Yosemite Valley.
The Czech climber hasn't been only focused on the Dawn Wall. Last week he took some time off to climb The Nose with his father, hoping to complete that iconic route in a single day. While they did manage to finish around midnight, it wasn't completely free climbed. They also got hit by a storm near the summit and were forced to camp out on top until the following morning.
After his foray on The Nose, Ondra has now returned to the Dawn Wall and is working on figuring out that challenge. We'll continue to bring you news of his progress as we hear more.
Senin, 31 Oktober 2016
Video: Scenes from the Arctic
The Arctic is one of those places on our planet that few of us ever get the opportunity to see in person. But, thanks to this video, we can all travel to this frozen region of the Earth and experience for ourselves. The scenes shown here are beautiful, tranquil, and amazing to see. It is quite an experience and one that I think you'll enjoy greatly. Sit back and soak this one in, as it is indeed a wonderful short film set in remote place.
Video: Renan Ozturk - Obsessed or Devoted?
This video comes our way courtesy of The North Face and is part of the company's new #QuestionMadness marketing campaign which celebrates TNF's 50th anniversary. The clip focuses on sponsored athlete Renan Ozturk, who is amongst the best mountaineers/climbers in the world today. As with the other videos in this series, the question is where or not Renan is obsessed or devoted to his passion projects, which is a valid one for anyone who has seen the film Meru. But Renan isn't just trying to push the envelope in the mountains, but has other aspects to his character as well as you'll see here. Like most other outdoor athletes of his caliber, he is driven to be the best in whatever undertaking he sets his mind upon.
Himalaya Fall 2016: Controversy on Manaslu - 150 Summit without Actually Reaching the Top
Those in the know in the mountaineering world understand that there is a narrow ridge that is covered in a snow cornice that runs out to the actual summit of the mountain. That ridge is unstable and difficult to cross, particularly in high winds or other poor weather conditions. As a result, about 90% of the climbers this season turned back approximately 5 to 10 meters below the actual top of the mountain, but still claimed a full summit anyway. This has sparked some debate as to whether or not those claims are actually true.
In writing about a slew of climbing expeditions this fall, Alan Arnette also weighed in on the topic, sharing some of his own experiences. He also reminds us that a Japanese climber perished on Manaslu this year when he fell through the cornice while trying to reach the true summit. That's an indication of just how dangerous the final approach to the top truly is. Although as Alan points out via a quote from Himex boss Russel Brice, the blame is square placed on the team that was put in charge of fixing the ropes to the summit, but failed to complete the final 20 meters, which directly led to this fatality a few weeks back.
When considering where to actually give credit to someone for making the summit on Manaslu, it is important to also note that the incredibly narrow approach to the top serves as a significant bottle-neck for those going up and coming down. It would literally take hours for everyone to shuffle across the approach ridge, even if it were completely safe. That would leave climbers standing in line at the top of the mountain while they waited their turn, leaving them exposed to the elements the entire time. Most of the operators on Manaslu aren't willing to put their clients through that kind of difficulty, so they certify summits at the lower point on the mountain.
On the other hand, getting credit for a summit has always been about reaching the highest point. To take that away from experience doesn't seem completely fair either. Yes, it would mean fewer people climbing Manaslu if they actually had to negotiate that tough final portion of the ascent, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing either. There is a part of me that feels that if you want to actually receive a summit certificate you should have to reach the actual true summit to get credit. Anything else, just comes up short. It is up to the climbers themselves if they actually want to complete those final 20 meters or play it safe and turn back below that point. But if they don't get all the way up, the wouldn't earn full credit either.
Obviously this is a tough call. For safety sake, I understand why they turn back. But for the pure mountaineering aspects of it, they should actually touch the highest point in my opinion.
What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Patagonia to Close All Stores in the U.S. for Election Day
The move comes as part of Patagonia's Vote Our Planet initiative, which encourages us to support candidates that take a tough stand on environmental issues, something that should be of major concern for all outdoor enthusiasts. The idea is to rally around men and women who are running for office that are looking to preserve the planet for future generations and protect wildlife and wild spaces.
“During a time of catastrophic environmental crisis, when America needs strong leadership to confront the fundamental threat of climate change, voter turnout threatens to reach historic lows as people are turned off by the ugliness of politics,†said Patagonia CEO Rose Marcario. “As a business, we have a unique ability to take a stand and choose to prioritize the health of the planet over profit, and I think it’s important we take that opportunity when it truly matters. We want to do everything possible to empower citizens to make their voices heard and elect candidates up and down the ballot who will protect our planet.â€
Obviously the presidential election to be held next week is an important one for many reasons. I don't often use this blog as a place to make a political statement or support any one candidate over another. But I will say that the future of the country, and perhaps the world, rests in the hands of who will be elected to the White House on November 8. While I have my own opinions on who should or should not be in charge, what is most important to me is that everyone get out to vote. Patagonia is making that a little easier, at least for its own employees and customers.
If you care about the environment, do a little research on the candidates in your area and get out and vote for the ones that are looking at ways to make things better moving forward. We are at a critical point when it comes to climate change and other environmental factors, and now is the time to have our voices heard. Vote on November 8 to at least play a role in that process.
Antarctica 2016: Interactive Map Explains Ski Routes to the South Pole
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The map is hosted at ExplorersHouse.com and includes 9 different paths that explorers use when traveling to the the South Pole as well as 1 path to reach the Pole of Inaccessibility. Clicking on any of the routes will provide information about its length, who first pioneered it, and the year in which it was traveled. For instance, both Amundsen and Scott Routes are marked on the map, which were first opened back in 1911-1912, when the two legendary explorers were battling one another to be the first to reach the South Pole.
Explorer House included some text with the map that provides context on what exactly a "valid" expedition truly means. In this case, that is defined as starting anywhere along the Antarctic coast and skiing all the way to the South Pole. This rules out a "last degree" journey of course, which is exactly what it sounds like – a short ski expedition from 89ºS to 90ºS. Those "tourist trips" are typically only about 100 km (62 miles) in length, while a full expedition covers more than 1000 km (620 miles).
As we head into the start of a new Antarctic season, you'll find that the vast majority of the skiers are using the Hercules Inlet Route, which has become the standard for these types of expeditions. They'll fly out of Punta Arenas and land at the ice camp that is built and maintained by ALE at Union Glacier. From there, they'll catch another short flight to ferry them out to their starting point. If they are going solo and unsupported, they'll all be dropped off at unique locations to begin the journey, as the rules for adventure state that they can't have any contact with another individual along the way in order to maintain that status.
Later this week – weather permitting – the first teams will begin their march to the Pole. Once they're underway, we'll provide regular updates on their progress. There are a number of goods stories to follow, so it should be an interesting year in the Antarctic.
Kamis, 27 Oktober 2016
Video: Unclimbed - Reaching the Summit in the Himalaya (Part 7)
If you've been watching the fantastic series of "Unclimbed" videos from Discovery Canada, you'll definitely want to catch this latest episode. In this latest installment of the mountaineering series the team of Gabriel Filippi, Elia Saikaly, and Pasang Kaji Sherpa are reunited in Kathmandu before setting out to the Himalaya to the first ascent of several unclimbed peaks. But before they go, they must face down a mountaineering legend who has never summited a single peak – the indomitable Miss Elizabeth Hawley.
Video: What Exactly is Adventure Racing?
I write about adventure racing regularly on this blog, but not everyone knows exactly what the sport consists of. Thankfully, the fine folks over at the Adventure Racing World Series have put together this excellent and helpful video to help explain the sport to newcomers and to remind long time fans just how awesome it is. For my money, adventure racers are amongst the best endurance athletes in the world. Don't believe me? Check out the clip below to find out why I feel that way.
Video: Stunning Wingsuit Flight Ends in Nasty Crash
Wingsuit pilots take their lives into their own hands every time they take flight. Case in point, in this video a flyer named Eric Dossantos starts off with a leap from the top of a mountain with stunningly beautiful views all around him. His descent down the slopes of the peak looks fantastic too, with snow covered ridges zipping by at warp speed below him. But once he soars low enough to encounter the treeline things start to go wrong with Eric ultimately crashing into the forest below. Fortunately, he survived the flight, although he did end up with fractured ribs, multiple bruises and lacerations, head trauma, and a lacerated kidney. Dossantos has set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for his medical bills but it is going to be awhile before he's fully back on his feet.
The flight took place above Chamonix, France, which has recently banned wingsuit flying because of these types of dangers. This video underscores why they decided to make that decision, but thankfully Eric survived. Others haven't been quite so lucky.
How not to fly a wing suit unless you want to crash from Eric Dossantos on Vimeo.
The flight took place above Chamonix, France, which has recently banned wingsuit flying because of these types of dangers. This video underscores why they decided to make that decision, but thankfully Eric survived. Others haven't been quite so lucky.
Donations to the Himalayan Stove Project Doubled Through Giving Tuesday
One of my favorite nonprofits is the Himalayan Stove Project, an organization that is replacing old, inefficient, and dangerous cookstoves in Nepal with clean burning, healthier models. Over the past few years, the HSP has distributed and installed more than 3000 stoves, impacting the lives of thousands of people as a result. Many of the families that have received these stoves have seen their lives transformed. The air in their homes is cleaner than ever, and they can now enjoy a meal indoors together, often for the very first time. In short, the Himalayan Stove Project is having a direct, and measurable, impact on the quality of life for the people that it helps, which is something I appreciate and admire greatly.
Heading into the holidays we can all do something to help the HSP and see our contributions to the program stretch even further. Between now and Giving Tuesday – November 29, 2016 – all donations to the project will automatically be doubled thanks to a generous anonymous supporter. That means that if you give $50, the HSP will receive $100. No donation, no matter how big or small, is exempt, which makes this the perfect time to contribute to the cause.
I personally love what the Himalayan Stove Project does for a number of personal reasons. The fact that the not-for-profit is having such a dramatic effect on the lives of the people it helps is inspiring to say the least. There are a lot of other foundations like this one that aspire to help people in the developing parts of the world, but they often struggle to actually deliver on their promise. That isn't so with the HSP, which has done a wonderful job of staying focused on its mission.
The other reason I'm a fan of the Himalayan Stove Project is that it is helping people who live in Nepal, a country that I dearly love. It is easily one of the most beautiful places I've ever been, and the people there are incredibly warm and generous, despite the fact that they often have little of their own. It is a place that has left its mark on everyone that has visited it, and it is understandable why those of us who have been there would like to have a positive impact on their lives.
If you're looking for a great charity to contribute to this year, the Himalayan Stove Project is a fantastic option. Take a look at the HSP website to learn more, and click here to donate to the cause. Remember, anything you give between now and November 29 will be doubled.
Himalaya Fall 2016: Summit Push Begins on Ama Dablam
Yesterday, the rope-fixing Sherpas on Ama Dablam reached the summit after waiting out poor weather conditions all of last week. The team of six mountain guides worked from Camp 2 on the mountain all the way to the 6812-meter (22,349 ft) summit in a single push, clearing the way for commercial teams that have been waiting in the wings. Now, with the ropes installed, it looks like there will be a mass summit push will begin in the next few days.
According to The Himalayan Times, more than 400 climbers will now move up from Base Camp to get into position to reach the summit. 200 of those alpinists are foreign climbers, while the others mostly consist of guides, high altitude porters, and the like.
It is unclear at this time exactly when the summit push will be completed, but with good weather in the forecast it seems like it should take place within the next few days. Unlike expeditions on other big Himalayan peaks, it doesn't take weeks to acclimatize on Ama Dablam, nor does it take numerous days to top out. Once the push begins, the summit should be very busy a few days later.
Ama Dablam is one of the most distinct mountains in the Khumbu Valley, with climbers and trekkers passing by on their way to Everest Base Camp. The beautiful peak is a good place for climbers to get valuable experience for what it is like to climb in the Himalaya prior to moving on to one of the 8000-meter peaks. For my money, it is still one of the most beautiful mountains that I have ever personally seen with my own eyes, creating a very memorable view on the trail to EBC.
Good luck to everyone heading up the mountain in the next few days. Get up and down safely and quickly, and enjoy the walk.
Rabu, 26 Oktober 2016
Video: Exploring Japan's Spiritual Connection with the Mountains
The Japanese practice of Shugendo is a spiritual practice of seeking a connection with nature, particularly in the mountains where Japan's forefathers believed their gods resided. This connection can bring on a zen-like state, with the person seeking a oneness with the natural world around them. In this video, Salomon athletes Rickey Gates and Anna Frost make the journey to Japan in search of their own unique connection with the natural world. As you'll see in the video below, what they find there is a powerful attachment to nature that is unlike anything found in other cultures. Be sure to turn on subtitles to get the entire story.
Video: Base Jumper Sets New World Record by Leaping Off Cho Oyu
Standing 8188 meters (26,684 ft) in height, Cho Oyu is the 6th highest peak in the world, and a popular climbing destination during the fall season in the Himalaya. A few weeks back, climber/BASE jumper Valery Rozov went up the mountain in an attempt to fly off the summit. He didn't quite make it to the top, but he did manage to don his wingsuit and leap from 7700 meters (25,262 ft), setting a new world record in the process. You can learn about his expedition, and see his flight in the video below.
Gear Closet: Haibike Xduro AllMtn RX Electric Mountain Bike
This little speed-boost has made e-bikes especially popular with commuters, many of whom find that the onboard motor helps them travel along with traffic better and allows them to arrive at their destination relatively fresh thanks to not having to exert as much energy.
An avid biker myself, I've been intrigued with e-bikes for some time, but hadn't gotten the chance to try one out for myself. That changed recently when Haibike sent me one of their electric assisted mountain bikes to take for a spin, and I have to say I came away impressed. The bike delivered on everything that was promised – and more – allowing me to power through a ride like never before. But in the end, it also left me reevaluating why I like mountain biking so much in the first place.
For my little e-bike test drive, Haibike sent me a 2015 model known as the Xduro AllMtn RX. The current model that fits pretty much the same specs is the Xduro AllMtn 7.0. Both versions sport Shimano components, 27.5" tires, a full-supsenion, and a slick looking design that looks aggressive and fun to ride. Hidden inside the aluminum frame however, is a 36-volt motor that is powered by a 500 Wh battery that help this bike truly stand out from the crowd.
Before we go too far into this review, it is important to point out that while most e-bikes provide an electric assist, but you still have to do all of the pedaling. You simply don't have to pedal quite so hard in order to get the bike up to speed nor to maintain that speed. Likewise, when climbing a hill, the speed-assist kicks in to lend a hand, making it surprisingly easy to shoot up steep grades, although you still have to put in some work to get to the top.
The motor installed on this bike has five different settings, including Eco, Tour, Sport, and Turbo, as well as off. Yes, you can ride the bike without any type of electrical assist, but since it tips the scales at 49.2 pounds, it does feel a bit slow and ponderous. Eco mode provides the least level of assistance, which doesn't feel like much, although it is there to lend a hand when you need it. Turbo is bit like strapping a rocket to your bike, although it comes at dramatically reduced battery life.
While testing the Xduro, I only switched over to the highest level when tackling a big hill, otherwise I tended to stay in Tour mode most of the time. This allowed me to easily maintain a good rate of speed over a variety of terrains without having to expend a lot of energy in the process. The result was that at the end of my ride, I still felt like I had a good workout, but I wasn't completely wasted, even after riding a tough trail.
The Xduro AllMtn has a built in cycling computer mounted on its handlebars that provides information such as your current speed and time, as well as offering a trip odometer, and life-time odometer all in a digital format. That same display also provides constant updates of how much battery life remains by showing not only a battery indicator but also the amount of range the bike has before it runs out of juice. The screen also has an icon that indicates which level of power that the motor is set too as well.
Getting on the bike for the first time, I was unsure exactly how things worked. The motor was engaged, but there is no throttle that you can control, so I wasn't exactly sure how I'd know if it was working properly. It only took a second to figure that out however, as when I started to pedal you could feel the electric assist kick in with a very noticeable boost, even in Eco mode. That boost only became more noticeable as increased the level of power generated by the motor.
Before too long, I found myself testing the bike to see what it could do in a variety of different conditions, and for the most part it performed very well. It wasn't quite as agile and responsive as my Trek mountain bike back home, then again that bike doesn't power up big hills as easily either. I have to admit, the Xduro AllMtn is fun to ride, and is quite capable of tackling a wide variety of trails types.
Now, all of that said, I have to say that I have a few reservations about this e-bike as well. For starters, it is a heavy beast. As mentioned, it is nearly 50 pounds (22.68 kg), which makes it more than twice as heavy as my normal ride. That added weight becomes more evident on tougher trails where agility can be an important factor. And heaven forbid you should run out of battery power while riding, as it would definitely be quite a workout to get Xduro back to the trailhead without the electric assist.
Despite how much fun I had riding the bike, I also couldn't help but feel like I was cheating a bit out on the trail. Part of the allure of mountain biking for me is taking on the challenges of the route with just my bike. That includes all of the challenges, such as climbing hills and maintaining a good speed. This bike made that so easy to do that it almost felt like an entirely different sport. At the end of my test run, I came to the conclusion that while I wouldn't mind an e-bike for commuting around town, I'm not sure I want one to replace my mountain bike.
That said, for riders who are a little older, or aren't quite as physically fit, the Xduro AllMtn is a good solution that allows them to ride challenging trails much more easily. I can definitely see the allure of this bike under those circumstances.
Durable and well-built, the Haibike Xduro AllMtn 7.0 is competitively priced at $5299. It has quality parts and components at every important spot, and a tough aluminum frame with solid geometry. It also happens to have a secret weapon hidden away in the form of an electric motor. All of that design and technology doesn't come cheap, although I've seen plenty of standard mountain bikes that fall in the same price range, even without a motor. Of course, those bikes are likely to have even better components and a carbon frame, just to put things in perspective.
If you've been considering an e-bike for your mountain biking needs, I'd certainly encourage you to give the Haibike Xduro AllMtn a look. It is a great machine for the right rider. I'm just not sure if that rider is me.
Find out more at Haibike.com.
Everest Air Premieres Tonight and I've Seen the First Episode
Over the past several weeks you've read my post announcing the show as well as my interview with Jeff Evans, one of the key players on the program and an emergency first responder who helps provide medical aid to climbers, Sherpas, and a variety of other people living in the mountains of Nepal. Naturally, after speaking with Jeff and receiving a number of press releases from the Travel Channel regarding Everest Air, I've been anxious to see how the show turned out. Now, after getting the chance to watch the first episode, I can assure you that it lives up to its billing as a realistic depiction of life in the Khumbu, and what it is like to conduct a rescue above 20,000 feet (6096 meters)
One of my biggest concerns when ever there is a reality show based around Everest is that the climbing scene there will be exploited for ratings. We've seen it time and again on various networks, which only seem to focus on the relatively few deaths that occur on the mountain each year, rather than the hundreds of successful summits. There have even been reports of another network filming on the mountain this past spring that was taking a similar approach. I'm happy to say that Everest Air does not fall into this category and while watching the show I didn't feel like it felt exploitative at all.
The first episode does a good job of introducing the viewer to the primary characters that we'll be following over the next six week, of which Jeff Evans is only one. We also meet other medics, communications coordinators, helicopter pilots, and support crew that all play a vital role in running the air rescue operations and saving lives on Everest and throughout the Khumbu Valley. The team isn't there just to rescue wealthy western climbers, but to lend a hand to the Nepali people too. In fact, some of the more interesting and dramatic medical emergencies revolve around the Sherpas who live and work in the shadow of the tallest mountain on Earth.
Having been to Everest Base Camp it was a lot of fun for me to see some of the more memorable landscapes throughout the region. The crew that filmed the show never appear on camera, but they are some of the unsung heroes of the show for sure. The Himalaya look impressive on screen and while the production team was there to film the med team in action, there is still plenty of eye-candy in the form of jaw-dropping scenery too.
Everest Air gets off to a fast start, with some daring operations by the helicopter pilots and the rescue squad in the first episode. I don't want to spoil too many of the details, but I can tell you that each of the missions are a good indication of what the remaining episodes will be like. You'll get a first hand look at the effects of altitude sickness, as well as some of the other injuries and afflictions that anyone living in – or visiting – the Khumbu Valley face. Seeing some of the symptoms of pulmonary and cerebral edema manifest in patients is highly sobering, and will help you gain even more respect for the men and women who attempt to climb the big mountains. It'll also provide plenty of respect for Jeff and his team as they deal with the consequences too.
Whether you're someone who follows the Everest climbing scene closely each year, or just have a passing interest in the Himalaya in general, you're likely to really enjoy Everest Air. But beyond that, if you want to see a real-life drama, played out on a massive and grand stage, this show will keep you riveted as well. This is true reality TV, where the decisions that are made are literally a matter of life and death. It is hard to top true human drama, and this show has that in spades.
Check out the preview for Everest Air below, and catch the show starting tonight at 10:00 PM Eastern time.
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