Video: Meet the Nomads of Mongolia

Life on the Mongolian Steppe is hard, but it is also steeped in tradition. The nomadic people that live there have been wandering that part of the world for centuries, and while modern amenities have made their life a little easier, they still very much continue to live as their ancestors have. In this beautiful video, you'll travel to the Steppe, where you'll get an up close and personal look at these nomads. They are an amazing people living in an amazing part of the world.

Nomads of Mongolia from Brandon Li on Vimeo.

Video: The New River Gorge in Timelapse

West Virginia's New River is considered to be one of the oldest river systems in the world, stretching back more than 300 million years. In this video, we travel to that place to explore it for ourselves, with timelapse imagery bringing us some amazing views of a place that remains on the wild side, even in the 21st century. The New River Gorge is even home to one of the largest bridges in North America, which features prominently in the film.

MELANCHOLY GORGE from Harun Mehmedinovic on Vimeo.

Men's Journal Looks at the 24 Greatest Feats of 2015

As the final days of the year slip off the calendar, it is a good time to look back and reflect on some of the things that happened in 2015. As usual, it was a busy year, filled with great stories of exploration and adventure. So many in fact, that you sometimes forget everything that happened. Fortunately for us, Men's Journal has put together a great little slideshow highlighting the 24 Greatest Feats of the past year.

Some of the amazing accomplishments that earned a spot on this list include the first winter crossing of the PCT, the longest time spent in space by an American, and Freya Hoffmeister's circumnavigation of South America in a kayak. Scott Jurek's speed record on the Appalachian Trail gets a nod as well, as does Dani Arnold's new speed record on the Matterhorn.

I won't spoil all of the entires on the list, but I will say paging through the MJ slideshow is a bit like taking a walk down memory lane. It reminded me of so many great things that happened this year, a lot off which we covered right here on The Adventure Blog.

For my money, the greatest feat of 2015 occurred all the way back in January. That's when Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson completed the first free climb of the Dawn Wall in Yosemite. For a brief time, the world was transfixed by a pair of rock climbers taking on the hardest big wall on the planet, and they did not disappoint. It was an amazing way to start the year, and it still stands as one of the most impressive climbing accomplishments ever.

With 2015 quickly fading away, now is a good time to look back on these great adventures, before e start looking ahead to those that will come in 2016. It was a great year. Here's to many more!

Video: Norway in Timelapse and 8K

The utterly captivating landscapes of Norway are captured oh-so beautifully in this clip, which features three-and-a-half minutes of timelapse images of some of the best locations found in that country. From snowcapped peaks to mist-filled valleys, this short film will leave you losing to visit Norway for yourself. My friends from Mountain Travel Sobek can make that happen, if you let them.

NORWAY 8K from Martin Heck | Timestorm Films on Vimeo.

The Latest Plan to Jumpstart Nepal's Tourism Economy? Slash Insurance Costs For Mountain Expeditions

We all know that Nepal has suffered greatly since the April 25 earthquake that left parts of the country in ruins. It has been a long, difficult struggle to even begin the rebuilding process, with some areas still waiting to see any positive results. And beyond the physical damage that is still being cleaned up, the Nepal's economy has suffered greatly, no small part thanks to the adventure travel market taking a nose dive in the wake of the disaster. But now, the Department of Tourism there has come up with a plan to help revive the economy, and it involves cutting the costs of a trip at the expense of reducing the price of insurance for guides and porters, with premiums dropping accordingly as well.

According to Bahadur Karki, the head of the Nepali Department of Tourism, a proposal has been sent up the ranks in the government that calls for a substantial reduction in the costs of both rescue and health insurance for workers who are taking part in a trekking or mountaineering expedition to any of the 188 peaks that are below 6500 meters (21,325 ft). The DoT has recommended that insurance premiums be reduced to $3000 for guides and porters, and $2000 for Base Camp staff. Furthermore, rescue insurance is being dropped from $10,000 down to $4000 for anyone on those expeditions as well.

In other words, this means that should something happen to the staff on an expedition, the payout that they receive would be cut dramatically. $3000 for guides and porters who could be sidelined by an accident is not much money, and could leave their families scrambling to pay for medical bills and covering their bills while the person recovers. Worse yet, if a helicopter is used to extract that person from the mountain, only $4000 of the bill will actually be paid. Considering how expensive it is to take a helicopter flight, that won't even come close to picking up the tab for such a rescue, which can easily exceed $10,000.


The thought behind these reductions in costs is that the savings can then be passed on to travelers, who will now be able to visit Nepal, and climb or trek in the Himalaya, for less money. The hope is that this will spur a return of visitors in the spring of 2016, when Everest climbers are expected to return in large numbers, and trekkers will be hiking throughout the region too.

As you can imagine, the guides, porters, and staff who take part in expeditions that are seeing a reduction of insurance costs aren't very happy with proposal. Following an avalanche that claimed the lives of 16 people on Everest in 2014, there was a movement to increase insurance benefits for workers. That was further enhanced this year when another 22 people were killed on the mountain following the earthquake. While those working on Everest wouldn't be impacted by these changes to the insurance costs, there are thousands of others who could be. There are a lot of climbs and treks that the place on the smaller mountains, but the dangers they face remain high.

It's obvious that the government of Nepal is desperate to jump start the economy and get visitors flowing back into the country. That will obviously take some time to happen, but they with so much work to be done, and so many people still without homes, officials are looking for solutions now. The problem is, this isn't a good solution. While it may make it cheaper for visitors to travel through the country, it is doing so at the expense of people who have already suffered greatly. If the they truly wanted to reduce the cost of climbing or trekking in Nepal, why not examine the price of permits instead? That would also have an impact on many workers, and on the governments bottom line, but at least it wouldn't be putting the future of many people in jeopardy the way slashing insurance benefits could. But then again, this is the government of Nepal we're talking about here. They're not exactly well known for making wise decisions when it comes to governing the country.

Thanks to Stefan Nestler's Adventure Sports Blog for sharing this story.

30 Fantastic Things To Do In Winter

We're now less than a week away from the official start of winter, and for many people that means shutting down their outdoor adventures until the arrival of spring. But for those of us who don't see a little cold weather and snow as a barrier to being outside, it is just another time of year to pursue our passions. To help us in that area, Outside magazine has compiled a list of the 30 best things to do in winter, giving us a bucket list for the season ahead.

Most of Outside's suggestions are approachable, even if they seem like something that would be tough to accomplish. For instance, they start the list by recommending we all go skiing with Chris Davenport, one of the most accomplished ski-mountaineers ever. At first glance, you're apt to ask yourself how that would ever be possible, but it turns out Davenport is going to be guiding on Aspen Mountain in March, and if you have enough cash you can join him.

Other suggestions are a bit more reasonable. For instance, they offer suggestions on where you can drive a snowcat or go fat tire biking. There are also options for soaking in a hot spring, going heli-skiing on a budget, and climbing and skiing a volcano. In short, there are so many possibilities on the list that you'll likely need ten winters to accomplish them all.

I like this list because it eliminates the excuses that many people make for not enjoying the winter season. Sure, its cold and windy, but that's also part of the fun. With the right gear however, you can spend all day outdoors and still be very comfortable. Besides, as an avid lover of the outdoors, why would you ever want to spend an entire season avoiding the elements, when you could be embracing them for an even more fulfilling experience. Winter is nearly here. Enjoy it to the fullest!

Gear Closet: Eddie Bauer Kara Koram 0� Sleeping Bag

We're living in a golden age of sleeping bag technology. Not only have our bags gotten lighter, warmer, and more packable, they now come with a wide variety of insulation types designed to perform better in difficult situations. Case in point, is the 0� Kara Koram sleeping bag from Eddie Bauer, a comfortable, well made product that is designed for cold weather expeditions where space is at a premium and getting a good night's sleep is crucial.

The Kara Koram line of sleeping bags continues Eddie Bauer's recent trend of creating high quality outdoor gear designed for use in the mountains. The company originally made a name for itself back in the 1940's and 50's by making great outdoor gear that was made for use on expeditions to remote places. But over the years the brand became more consumer focused, moving away from the rich heritage that it had in exploration and adventure. However, a few years back, the company launched its First Ascent line of gear, which was an attempt to get back to its roots. That gear was extremely well received, and got rave reviews from those who used it. In fact, some of my favorite pieces of gear that I own are from the First Ascent line, and I have loved everything that I've used. This sleeping bag is a continuation of Eddie Bauer refocusing on the outdoor market, and it delivers on the promise of high quality gear that is built to perform well in demanding conditions.

One of the first things that struck me about the Kara Koram bag was just how well it is built. Every aspect of the sleeping bag screams high quality, from the fabrics used on the outer shell, to the zippers, inner lining, and even the stitching that holds it all together. This feels like a product that can accompany you on many adventures, and come back in perfect shape. That kind of confidence is difficult to find in a lot of outdoor gear, but you'll feel it here.


Packed with 850 fill down, the Kara Koram is incredibly warm and comfortable, while still maintaining the ability to pack down to a surprisingly small size. That means it won't take up much room in your pack, but will still provide plenty of warmth on those cold nights in a tent. I haven't been able to test it at temperatures approaching its 0�F (-17�C) rating just yet, but I can attest to the fact that it has exceeded my expectations at every temperature range that I've used it in so far. I have every confidence that it would perform very well at the stated temperature rating, and possibly even lower should the need arise.

We all know that down is warm and provides great packability, but that it becomes all but useless when it it gets wet. That's why the Kara Koram features StormDown, which is Eddie Bauer's name for the water resistant insulation that comes from DownTek, the company that pioneered the hydrophobic down movement. Essentially, the down that is included in this sleeping bag has been treated with a water resistant coating that allows it to repel moisture, while maintaining its loft and ability to keep us warm. It is truly a revolutionary product, and I'm happy to say that it is put to good use here. For this bag to fail in the same manner as older down sleeping bags, conditions would have to be incredibly bad.

Getting a good night's sleep is imperative to enjoying your time in the backcountry, and this bag will help you to do jus that. Its interior is very comfortable, and while it does feature a mummy-cut design, I never felt cramped or claustrophobic inside. The designer at Eddie Bauer were even thoughtful enough to include an interior pocket for storing your electronic devices. This has the two-fold benefit of keeping those items close at hand for when you need them, as well as keeping them warm in cold conditions � something that can help with maintaining battery life and protecting LCD screens.

As with any mummy bag, the hood plays an important role in keeping you warm throughout the night, and the Kara Koram is no different. Fortunately, I found it easy to cinch up the hood, and still sleep very comfortably. But if you're the kind of person who finds this style of sleeping bag confining, you may have issues here.

For those who are concerned about how much their packs weigh when setting out on an adventure, the Kara Koram tips the scales at 2 lbs. 12 oz for the regular version, and 2 lbs. 15 oz for the long. While that doesn't make it the lightest sleeping bag on the market of course, those are still impressive numbers for bag that is rated for 0�F. Winter gear is always heavier and bulkier than what we can get away with during the warmer months, but all things considered, this sleeping bag provides excellent performance for its weight and size.

Of course, any piece of gear that offers this level of performance tends to come with a steep price tag, and the Kara Koram 0� is no different. MSRP for this sleeping bag is $549, although it can be found online for less if you search hard enough. That price will probably be enough to put some people off, but good winter gear always costs more, and you'll be hard pressed to find a bag that performs this well for less.

As you can tell, I'm highly impressed with this bag. If you need something for cold weather adventures, I'd recommend it highly.

Video: You Will Remember Chile

Shot as a promotional video for the South American country of Chile, this clip does its job very well. With its stunning images of Patagonia and the Atacama Desert is paints an alluring picture of everything that Chile has to offer for adventure travelers. Whether you want to go climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding, Chile can accommodate, and offer so much more. It is one of my favorite destinations in South America, and would highly recommend to anyone.

If you do choose to go, Mountain Travel Sobek can help. They have several great itineraries that are focused on Chile that can introduce you to the wonders that that country has to offer.

Nat Geo Presents Holiday Gifts for the Adventurer in Your Life

Now that December is here, the holidays are just around the corner, which probably means that you're searching for the perfect gift for the outdoor enthusiast or adventurer in your life. Why not let National Geographic help you find just the right thing to put under their tree this year?

Nat Geo has just published it's holiday shopping guide for 2015, with some great suggestions that are sure to be popular with your outdoor explorer. Some of the products that get the nod include the Pace Norviz Reflective Top from Helly Hansen, which is zip-necked activewear top that becomes highly reflective in low light conditions. The Danner Jag Steel boot is recommended for its retro look, comfort, and lightweight, while the Filson Meridian duffle is a great option for use on those short, weekend escapes. Other gift options include new running shoes from New Balance, a down-insulated pull-over from Patagonia, and an ultralight stuff pack from Osprey.

You'll find items on the list for every budget and lifestyle, ranging from high end watches and cameras, down to simple � but highly useful � items that don't cost much at all. Most of the items on the list will definitely be highly coveted by the outdoorsman or woman in your life, and will provide them with something that will be of use for many years to come.

If Santa is reading this blog post, I'd certainly enjoy finding the new Suunto Traverse under my tree this year. That, and a puppy.

Video: A Journey Through Wild and Remote Patagonia

We all know that Patagonia is one of the most wildly beautiful places on the planet, but that fact is hammered home even more convincingly in this short video. Shot in both Argentina and Chile, filmmaker Benjamin Aubray has captured incredible shots of the landscapes that are found at the very tip of the South American continent. You'll see jagged snowcapped peaks, pristine lakes, rushing rivers, and lush meadows, all working together to make the setting that much more spectacular. If you haven't gone yet, Patagonia needs to be on your list of places to visit. It not only lives up to the hype, in exceeds it in every way.

PATAGONIA from Benjamin Aubray on Vimeo.

Video: Iceland From Above

Iceland is a country that never fails to captivate. It is a land filled with remote, wild destinations that are stunningly beautiful to behold. This video is a good reminder of that, giving us a bird's eye view of some of the more spectacular locations that the country has to offer. This is 4+ minutes of pure bliss that will once again leave you longing to visit this place yourself. And when you're ready to do just that, Mountain Travel Sobek can help take you there. Check out their options for visiting Iceland here.

ICELAND from ABOVE - Aerial highlight video taken from all around Iceland from Paul Weeks on Vimeo.

Video: A Journey Through the Galapagos Islands

With their stunning natural beauty and dizzying array of wildlife, the Galapagos Islands are one of the top destinations for travelers from around the world. Located 906 km (563 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos are home creatures that don't exist anywhere else on Earth. They are also the isolated living laboratory that spawned Charles Darwin's concepts of natural selection and evolution. In this video, we take a photographic journey through this spectacular setting, catching a glimpse of some of those animals, and the wild settings that they live in.

And when you're ready to visit the Galapagos for yourself, my friends at Mountain Travel Sobek can help. They offer multiple options for exploring the islands, and other parts of Ecuador as well. This truly is a destination that should be on the bucket list for any adventure traveler, and MTS can help you get there.

Galapagos from Tom Pinsard on Vimeo.

The Adventure Blog 2015 Holiday Shopper's Guide (Part 2)

Yesterday I posted the first part of my 2015 Holiday Shopper's Guide with ten suggestions of gifts aimed at the adventure traveler and outdoor enthusiast in your life. Today I have even more gear ideas that the explorer or adventurer in your life will sure love.

Big Agnes Rattlesnake SL2 mtnGLO Tent ($350)
With its integrated LED lights, the Big Agnes Rattlesnake SL2 mtnGLO tent isn't just a great camping shelter, it is a fun place to sleep in the backcountry. This two-person, three-season model is lightweight, sturdy, and easy to assemble. It comes equipped with a rainfly, two doors and two vestibules, integrated media pockets, and more. And at the end of the day, those built-in LED's give create an ambient light that makes this tent even more cozy and comfortable inside.

Osprey Atmos AG 50 Backpack ($230)
Rated amongst the best backpacks currently on the market, the Atmos AG 50 from Osprey is comfortable to wear, offers plenty of capacity, and is durable enough to withstand all the punishment you can throw at it. On top of that, it comes equipped with Osprey's amazing anti-gravity suspension, which makes wearing this pack a joy, even when it is fully loaded. Great for camping, backpacking, or adventure travel, this is a backpack you can take with you just about anywhere, and know that it is going to serve you well.

Base Camp Power Solutions from EnerPlex ($350 - $1400)
For those who need plenty of power while on the go, EnerPlex has the solution. They offer a pair of lightweight generators that can be recharged by solar panel, and are a source of electricity even in remote locations. The Generatr 100 is small enough to be slipped into a backpack and carried anywhere, providing a charge for your smartphone, tablet, camera equipment, or even laptop. The larger Generatr 1200 is built for use in base camp, and is even capable of powering a television set or a small refrigerator. Best of all, this model is less than half the weight of competing products, which makes it far easier to use on extended expeditions.


GoPro Hero 4 Session ($300)
Acton cameras continue to be all the rage as more budding filmmakers capture their outdoor exploits. GoPro remains the leader of the pack, even though other camera manufacturers are closing ground. The new Hero 4 Session is a great choice because it is the smallest, lightest, and simplest camera that GoPro has ever produced. It shoots professional quality video, is compatible with the majority of GoPro accessories already on the market, and it is durable and waterproof out of the box. If you have a future action film director on your shopping list, they'll be thrilled to unwrap this camera.

Berghaus VaporLight Hydroloft Reversible Hoody ($220)

When it comes to innovative design, it is tough to top the VaporLight Hydroloft Reversible Hoody from Berghaus. This jacket takes the "reversible" angle to the next level, and not just for cosmetic value. With one side of the jacket facing out, it is a windproof layer that can keep the wearer warm while out on the trail. Turn it inside out, and the hoody becomes more breathable to help vent out excess heat. As if that wasn't enough, the jacket weighs less than 8 ounces, making it the perfect companion for trail running, winter hiking, climbing, and even mountain biking.

SPOT Gen 3 Satellite Messenger ($149, Free for a Limited Time)
The SPOT Gen 3 Satellite Messenger has been around for awhile, but it is still a great way for adventurers to stay safe while in the backcountry or traveling in a remote parts of the world. The device allows friends and family to track their whereabouts at any time, and it can send pre-canned messages to let everyone back know that they are okay. And if an emergency situation should arise, the SPOT messenger lets the user to call for help, even if they are way off the grid. And for a limited time, you can get the SPOT hardware absolutely free with the purchase of a qualifying service plan.

Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight & Watertight .9 ($36)
Want to show your favorite outdoor enthusiast that you really care? Than buy them the excellent Ultralight & Watertight .9 first aid kit from Adventure Medical Kits. This compact and lightweight pack contains everything you need to take with you on a backpacking trip or while traveling abroad to treat common injuries and ailments. Inside the waterproof bag you'll find everything from band-aids and syringes, to medicines to kill the pain and silence an upset stomach. There are wraps and bandages, as well as moleskin for blisters, plus a few tools that could come in handy too. This is the kind of gift that really shows its true value over time.

Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 Mountain Bike ($3730)
Really want to spoil the mountain biker on your holiday list? Why not buy them a new bike? The Cannondale Habit Carbon 3 is an all-mountain ride designed for nimble performance on the trail, fast climbs, and even faster descents. This is a bike that begs to be ridden in all kinds of terrain, and with its dialed trail geometry, lightweight frame, and high performance components, it is sure to put a smile on anyone's face.

Princeton Tec Sync Headlamp ($30)
A good headlamp is always a handy device to have with you while traveling or even at home, and the Princeton Tec Sync is one of the best available right now, especially at such a great price. Tipping the scales at a mere 3 ounces, it is comfortable to wear and easy to operate. It can crank out up to 90 lumens of light, and offer a burn time of over 200 hours on its 3AAA batteries. On top of that, it features both a spot and flood beam, as well as red light LED. The wearer can dial in exactly the brightness and settings they need with the twist of dial, making this one of the most convenient headlamps to have on you in the backcountry.

Phiaton BT 330 NC Bluetooth Headphones ($179)
Anyone who travels regularly can tell you the value of having a good pair of headphones. They come in handy on long flights and they are great way to stay entertained while on the road. The new BT 330 NC headphones from Phiaton have two great qualities that frequent fliers will definitely love. First, they use Bluetooth connectivity to wirelessly stream music from a smartphone or tablet, and they come equipped with noise canceling technology to keep out background noise too. Music and podcasts sound crisp, clear, and vibrant, and these headphones are comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time.

The Adventure Blog 2015 Holiday Shopper's Guide (Part 1)

Do you have an adventure traveler or avid outdoor enthusiast on your list this holiday season? Are you struggling to figure out what you should get for them? I've got more than a few suggestions for the best gear for hiking, backpacking, climbing, or just plain having fun around home. So, without further ado, I present The Adventure Blog's 2015 Holiday Shopper's Guide (Part1).

Ex Officio Storm Logic Vest ($125)
It's hard to find a more versatile piece of outerwear than the Storm Logic Vest from Ex Officio. Not is it comfortable to wear, and will keep your core plenty warm, but it comes equipped with seven interior pockets, each designed for a specific purpose like keeping your smartphone close at hand, protecting your passport, or storing your sunglasses. If that wasn't enough, the vest even transforms into a travel pillow for use on those long flights to your next destination.

Limefuel Rugged Portable Battery Pack ($85)
Need portable power to keep your smartphone and tablet running in the backcountry? Than checkout the Limefuel Rugged, a battery pack that is built to survive in the worst of conditions. This waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof product has a built-in battery that packs a whopping 15,000 mAh of power. That's enough to recharge your iPhone nearly eight times over. With dual-USB ports you can charge multiple devices at once, and the Rugged is even capable of powering a full-sized tablet. Just the think for the modern adventurer on the go.

Sugoi Zap Run Jacket ($170)
Have a runner on your list? Want to keep them warm, dry, and safe on their winter workouts? Than the Sugoi Zap Run Jacket is the way to go. Made from water resistant fabrics, this jacket reflects light on an insane level, making the wearer highly visible, even on very dark nights. It also comes with two hand pockets, a chest pocket, and a headphone management system built right into the collar. Sugoi's signature quality is a given of course.

Holiday Clif Bars ($15 box 12)
Clif bars are a staple of in the diet of many outdoor adventurers, and it is easy to see why. They're good for you, easy to carry, and provide a burst of much needed energy at times too. Plus, with so many flavors to choose from, everyone will find at least a few that they like. But during the holiday season, Clif Bar always introduces some special seasonal flavors that are only available for a limited-time. This year those flavors include hot chocolate, iced gingerbread, and spiced pumpkin pie. Get 'em while you can.

Cold Weather Buff ($20-$25)
I've been a big proponent of Buffs for years because they have so many uses while traveling or on an outdoor adventure. The super-versatile headwear can be worn around the neck, as a hat, balaclava, face mask, and more, and really should be a part of everyone's wardrobe. Better yet, the company has a line of Buffs specifically designed for use in colder weather, providing extra warmth for our favorite outdoor winter activities. Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, this makes a great stocking stuffer too.

Mountain Khakis' Original Mountain Pants ($85)
Looking for a pair of pants that you can wear on hike, traveling the globe, or to the office? The Original Mountain Pant from Mountain Khakis can fill that role, and than some. This is the article of clothing that put the company on the map, and has continued to be one of their most popular products for years. Comfortable, packable, and easy to keep clean, these pants are ready for adventure.

Eddie Bauer Kara Koram 0� Storm Down Sleeping Bag ($549)
When you're camping, backpacking, or traveling in remote settings where the temperature can drop surprisingly low, having a good sleeping bag is the key to staying comfortable. The Kara Koram 0� bag from Eddie Bauer isn't just good however, it's great. Packed with 850 fill water resistant Storm Down from DownTek, this bag is ready for the worst of conditions. Warm, comfortable, and lightweight, this sleeping bag is perfect for backpacking, climbing, and cold weather camping. It is also available in 20� and -30� version too.

Skins A400 Starlight Running Tights ($160)
Keep the runner in your life warm on those winter workouts with these running tights from Skins. Form-fitting, yet very comfortable, the A400 Starlight tights are designed to help the wearer perform better and recover faster, while also staying highly visible in low light conditions. The reflective power of the fabrics used in these tights is very impressive, and will increase safety out on the road too.

Suunto Traverse GPS Watch ($450)
The Traverse is the latest GPS watch from Suunto, delivering all of the features you would expect in such a timepiece, in a new, thinner form factor. The watch features improved navigational capabilities that make it easier than ever to find your way, its barometric sensors will alert the wearer of changing weather patterns too, giving them an alert on incoming storms, as well as data on sunrise and sunset times across the globe. Connect it to a smartphone to receive notifications, or use it as a fitness tracker. With a battery life of over 100 hours with GPS activated, this is truly a versatile watch designed for the outdoor adventure lifestyle.

Lorpen Hiking Socks (Varies)
Yes, I know what you're thinking. Socks are a terrible gift that are often the butt of holiday jokes. But Lorpen makes great technical socks that are perfect for the outdoors, including their T3 Light Hiker ($17.99), which is made from a blend of three fabrics designed to keep the foot comfortable on long walks. For those who require a bit more from their performance socks, the Trekking & Expedition Polartec/Primaloft ($69.99) model is the way to go. Billed as the "ultimate sock for high altitude expedition use" this is a highly technical sock to be worn inside mountaineering boots in rigorous alpine environments. Whether you're buying for a trail runner, hiker, backpacker, skier, or all of the above, Lorpen has a sock that can meet their needs, and make their feet very happy in the process.

That's all for part 1 of my holiday gift buying guide. I'll be back tomorrow with even more suggestions.

Thanks Again to Mountain Khakis

As we start another week here at The Adventure Blog, I once again wanted to extend my appreciation to Mountain Khakis for sponsoring the site for the month of November. I appreciate the support, and have been very happy to have them onboard for the past several week.

If you're not familiar with MK and their line of products, now is a great time to change that. With the holidays now just around the corner, you'll no doubt be searching for the perfect gift for the adventure traveler or outdoor enthusiasts on your list. Mountain Khakis has plenty to choose from, for both men and women, including their signature line of pants of course, but also shirts, jackets, and a complete line of accessories, amongst plenty of other things.

Do me a favor and click on over to the Mountain Khakis website to checkout everything they have to offer. Chances are you'll not only find something to help out with your holiday shopping needs, but you'll probably find something for yourself too.

Gear Closet: ECOXGEAR EcoPebble Powerbank Bluetooth Speaker

There is no denying that technology has brought a level of convenience and enjoyment to nearly every aspect of our lives, and that includes the outdoors. The proliferation of smartphones and tablets have put a great deal of information right int he palm of our hands, not to mention plenty of options for entertainment, navigation, and communication. It has gotten to the point now that we rarely leave home without these gadgets, whether we're setting off to run errands around town, or flying to the far side of the planet. 

One of the more popular accessories for these smart devices is a Bluetooth speaker, which allows us to listen to our favorite music, news reports, or podcasts while on the go. And over the past few years, few companies have produced speakers that are more well suited for the active, outdoor lifestyle than ECOXGEAR. Their products are rugged and durable, easy to use, have been designed to take anywhere with us. But of all of their devices that I've tested so far, none compare with the new EcoPebble Powerbank, which brings some much appreciated new options that make it a more valuable both at home, and on the road. 

For many of us who like to travel light, carrying a Bluetooth speaker on our adventures is a luxury that we often can't often afford. After all, these devices do take up extra room in our backpacks, and add unnecessary weight. But ECOXGEAR has decided to counter these arguments by making a device that is more versatile and useful, eliminating some of the reasons why we might not want to take a speaker with us when we hit the road. In this case, the Powerbank not only cranks out our favorite tunes, it also has the ability to recharge our other gadgets, and comes equipped with a built-in flashlight capable of producing 200 lumens of light when necessary.

If you've ever used one of ECOXGEAR's other speakers, you probably already know what to expect from the Powerbank in terms of build quality. The device is built like a brick, and feels nearly indestructible in your hands. It has been ruggedized against the elements, and is IP67 rated. That means it is waterproof, dustproof, and impact resistant, making it a great choice for use not just around home, but the backyard and campsite as well. In fact, the speaker is so durable, I wouldn't hesitate to take it with me just about anywhere. 

As with any modern Bluetooth device pairing is a simple affair that takes just a few seconds. Within a matter of moments you'll have audio being wirelessly fed to the Powerbank, with sound quality that is crisp and clear, even at higher volumes. Audiophiles will probably find fault with the way the speaker performs, but the vast majority of us will find that it delivers solid performance with our favorite tunes, particularly for use in an outdoor environment.

Most Bluetooth speakers have a relatively small battery, which gives them somewhere between 8-12 hours of playtime depending on the device. But the Powerbank gets its name from the fact that it has a massive 10,400 mAh lithium-ion batter, which can keep it belting out music for up to 50 hours. That is impressive in and of itself, and means that it can probably get you through most of your adventures without needing a recharge. 

But that massive battery isn't just for keeping the speaker powered up. The Powerbank also has two integrated USB ports that allows it to transfer power to other devices as well. For instance, it can recharge most smartphones up to four times, or cameras as much as eight times. It'll even power-up your full sized tablet once too. That means that when you carry this speaker with you, you're also bringing a portable power source for your other devices too. 

ECOXGEAR has also integrated a speakerphone into the Powerbank, which allows you to take calls right from the device when it is pared with a smartphone. This is a handy feature to have around home, and extends the usefulness of the device a bit further. This isn't a feature that I use often, but it is nice to have in a situation where you want to have a conference call, or allow the whole family to chat at the same time. 

The Powerbank's built-in flashlight feels a bit like an add on that isn't altogether necessary, but it is also nice to have in a pinch. As mentioned, the light source is 200 lumens, which is plenty bright for use around a dark campsite, or for emergency purposes at home when the power goes out. It won't replace a trusty headlamp of course, but it is certainly nice to have in a pinch. 

Despite its high level of build quality, enormous battery life, and level of versatility, there are still a few issues with the Powerbank. For starters, it is not only built like a brick, but it is about the size of one as well. If you like to travel light, you'll probably still have some qualms about taking this speaker with you, particularly since it weighs 1.4 pounds. That's a considerable amount of weight to add to your pack, although its increased functionality does help to offset that to a degree. 

I also found that the range on the speaker's Bluetooth chip wasn't particularly impressive. In theory, Bluetooth should have a range of about 30 feet (9 meters) or so, depending on conditions. Some devices even have greater range than that. But if you wandered more than 15-20 feet away from the speaker while carrying the audio source, the sound quality dropped off and began to cut out. I ended up leaving my smartphone next to the speaker most of the time as that ensured a good connection, but if I carried the device too far away, it left others without any music to listen to. 

Despite a few nitpicks like these however, I really like the Powerbank. It is a fun device that is truly built to survive in the outdoor. Because it is on the heavy side, I'll certainly pick and choose the times when I'll want to carry it with me. But it is a very well-built device that offers a number of features that I truly appreciate while on the road. The fact that it can not only play audio sources, but also recharge my other gadgets, is a big plus, and the flashlight is a nice bonus that adds convenience. 

The EcoPebble Powerbank is available now for $99.99. It offers solid audio performance, outstanding battery life, and useful features that go beyond what most other Bluetooth speakers can provide. That makes it easy to recommend this device for anyone looking for some backcountry entertainment around the campfire, and it would be a great gift for the adventure traveler on your list this holiday season. 

Video: The Spectacular Landscapes of Canada

What better way to wrap up the week than with a stunning tour of the amazing landscapes of Canada? This video takes us into British Columbia, Alberta, and the Yukon to show us just how outstanding the outdoor settings of Canada truly are. This is nearly four minutes of breathtaking footage, much of which was captured by drone, that will leave you eager to go explore the Canadian wilderness more fully.

And for those who would like to visit these places for themselves, Mountain Travel Sobek has a wide variety of excursions to Canada to help you discover everything that country has to offer.

Canada - The True North from Man And Drone on Vimeo.

Nat Geo Presents the Best Trips of 2016

As the year begins to wind down, it is time to start looking ahead to 2016, and making plans for some adventures of our own. To help us out with that process, National Geographic Traveler has announced their picks for the 20 best trips for the year ahead, with some classic places earning a nod alongside some surprisingly new destinations as well.

Some of the more adventurous places that earn a spot on Traveler's list include Eastern Bhutan, Greenland, South Georgia Island, and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Some of the other destinations don't necessarily qualify as adventure travel per se, but they do still offer plenty for visitors. Locations like C�te d'Or in the Burgundy region of France or Bermuda for instance. But then again, travel is an adventure in and of itself, so just about any one of these places will help satiate your wanderlust to a degree.

Each of the entires on the list not only include a brief description of why that destination earned a spot in this exclusive travel club, but also offers good travel tips for anyone heading there. Those tips include the best places to stay, what to eat and drink, and how to efficiently get around. There are also cultural tips, suggestions on what to buy, and even movies and books you should watch or read before you go.

If you're looking for some suggestions on places you should visit in 2016, The Traveler list is a great place to start. Not only will it remind you of some classic places that may have fallen off your radar, it will also provide some fresh new suggestions that you might not have thought of before. For me, the Okavango Delta remains extremely high on my places to get to, as I can never get enough of Africa, and the landscapes and wildlife found there are said to be unbelievable.

So? What's your 2016 travel bucket list? Where would you most like to go next year?

Video: The Best of Yosemite National Park with National Geographic

On Sunday, December 6, National Geographic will premiere a new show dedicated to America's National Parks. In preparation for that debut, Nat Geo has started release shorting videos of some of the more famous, and beautiful, parks. This one takes us to Yosemite and gives us glimpse of the very best that park has to offer, including El Capitan, giant sequoia trees, and epic views of one of the most spectacular valleys on the entire planet.

Want to Ride a Bike to the South Pole in 2016?

The 2015 Antarctic season is just barely getting underway, but there is already a reason to start looking ahead to next year. That's because TDA Cycling � a company that specializes in long distance trips by bike � has announced the first ever guided bike expedition to the South Pole.

The new trip will launch in December of 2016, and will cover the last degree to Pole. Riders will be flown to the 89th parallel to begin their journey in Punta Arenas, Chile where they will first spend four days prepping for the challenges they'll face out on the ice. After that, it'll be on to Union Glacier Ice Camp for a brief stay before proceeding to the 89th parallel, which is where they'll start pedaling to the Pole. It is expected to take nine days to cover the distance to 90�S, with the team covering approximately 20km (12.4 miles) per day.

The ride will be conducted on fat bikes, which are the only ones that are suitable for the Antarctic terrain. These types of bikes are big, and heavy, but the wide tires are very forgiving on snow and ice. There have already been a couple of people who have ridden to the South Pole, so the usefulness of the fat bike has already been proven in these conditions.

Before you can sign up for this one-of-a-kind tour, TDA is requiring all participants to first take part in a training ride in Lake Winnipeg this coming February. That tour will be used to get everyone accustomed to riding in the snow, and get acquainted with their bikes. Successfully completing the training ride will demonstrate to the TDA guides that you are ready for your polar expedition.

As you can imagine, a trip like this one doesn't come cheap. The price is $70,000, which doesn't include flights to Punta Arenas, travel insurance, gear, the Lake Winnipeg training session, or even a bike. In other words, this is one expensive adventure. But if you have the cash, it looks like it would be the experience of a lifetime.

Check out this tour, and all of TDA's cycling expedition, on the company's website. And watch the video below for more information.