Nuun

This electrolyte replacement drink is now my go-to drink for everything. On the bike I
have one bottle of Nuun with one of a more traditional carb/protein make-up. On paddling trips it's the only athletic drink I bring - mostly for during the day as there are many other non-athletic drinks for dinner and breakfast on the beach. Nuun is refreshing, not overly sweet, doesn't grow stuff in bottles, and my body really likes it. It's easy to carry extra tabs and they are quick to mix up.

Merlin II in action

This is an example of the fun that can be had in the Merlin II. OK, so spinning on a dime is not really all that practical, but the ease with which this boat allows such play speaks to it's responsiveness.

Kaj

Osprey Switch 26 Backpack

[photo: Mark Dale]

Osprey's backcountry ski specific pack, the Switch 26 is my favorite daypack of all time. Strong words, but true. I got my start in the outdoor industry with a small pack manufacturer here in Seattle, so although I'm no current expert (like the folks at Osprey), I am a bit of a pack geek.

Specifically, I find that when I go looking for something at a break or while in motion it is right where I naturally anticipate it to be. The pack is split vertically into two main compartments. The outer compartment (away from my back) holds avalanche gear and other tools such as skins. The zipper-accessed compartment closest to my back is perfect for extra clothes and a lightweight day-shelter (OR LightHaven). In between these two compartments is a section for a water bladder. The drink tube snakes through the insulated shoulder strap on the right side. The top pocket is made, in part, of stretchy mesh so it can expand to accommodate lunch, ski crampons, sunglasses, goggles, and other small items. Also, the pockets on the hip belt allow me to carry sunscreen, lip balm, pocket knife, snacks, and other items I need while skinning or sliding free.

I guess the magic of this pack is that it does it all well, from fit to function. It's a sport-specific product that does what it claims.

Kaj

Exped Down Wallcreeper Sleeping Bag

The Exped Wallcreeper Sleeping Bag - ahh the volumes we will write about this thing.

Sleeping bag you say? Yes! But a very special one. It zips open completely to become a blanket in warmer weather, has arm holes and a drawcord at the foot section which allows it to be worn as a jacket around camp, and looks great. It's light, super versatile, compact, and warm to about 35 degrees F. for the average person. It's one of those ideas that seems wacky at first glance but proves itself in the first use. Everyone in camp will be wishing they had one. I use mine for bike touring, backcountry skiing, backpacking, and paddling.

Check it out here and here.

Kaj

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Tifighter's take-
I am sold on this concept:

*Need to save weight? Take this and save a layer; it is a bag and a parka.
*Hate to get out your bag to go outside in the middle of the night? Stick your legs out, get up and go.
*Want to make cocoa on a cold morning? Get up, stick your arms out and fire up the stove, Chester.
*Too warm? Stick out the limb of your choice, or ventilate with the large central zipper.
*Want to share? Zip it open and it becomes a comforter, thanks to its square shape.

I don't have one for some stupid reason, but that will soon change. It comes in down or synthetic. Now I just need to find someone to the sharing thing with ;)

Bell Canoe Works Merlin II Solo Canoe

Solo canoeing is an outstanding way to get in touch with paddling at its most elemental level. One paddler, a single bladed paddle, a canoe with no rudder, and a set of skills - very little between you and the raw experience. When it comes to the canoe itself, a Bell Merlin II is a sweet machine. In my opinion it is a near perfect blend of characteristics: it can turn on a dime when asked but will go straight ahead for miles with 5 or 6 strokes on a side in the sit-and-switch. And it's nice to look at too.

That's Ted in the upper photo - paddling near Burrows Island in north Puget Sound. If I'm not mistaken, Ted likes this boat too, but I think he prefers a go-fast-and-straight design over this multi-purpose style. Not me. This is it for me. OK, I admit, I'll need one day to add a straight and fast boat to the quiver...

Kaj

K2 Mt. Baker Superlight Skis

If you are looking for a do-it-all backcountry ski, consider the Baker Superlight. These things are indeed superlight on the uphill and great performers on the downhill as well. Fat enough to float and a perfect match for a Dynafit binding. Jump turns feel great with such a low swing weight!

Love these skis.

Kaj