Blogs
Exciting new stove system
We were having fun at The Pathfinder this week, playing with the new stove system from Optimus: the Crux Weekend Cook System. If you're looking for an ultralight, small, versatile stove and cookset, this is the best we've seen, and for a great price! We've had the Crux stove for a while, and have always liked its compact size, as it folds up and can fit in the curved cavity under a fuel canister. But the new cookset makes it possible to fit the stove, an 8 oz.
New Versatile Hybrid Bike
We are excited about a new style of hybrid bicycle that defies categorization but meets many people's needs. Specialized calls theirs the Crosstrail (men's) and the Ariel (women's) and says they are "...for riders who want one bike for all terrain." Gary Fisher calls their version the Dual Sport. Fisher says they are "...road bike fast, mountain bike durable. One bike that does it all." We have also heard them called "light 29ers" and "hybrids on steroids," but whatever you want to call them, these 700c wheeled bikes are quite versatile.
Cycle Trainers
Not familiar with cycle trainers? They can turn your bicycle into an indoor exercise bike to keep you in shape for the winter. Basically, they hold the back wheel off of the ground (so you stay stationary) and apply resistance to that wheel (to make it a great workout). The type and amount of resistance will vary based on what kind of trainer you buy. Some trainers use wind resistance (spinning a fan) while others use magnet or fluid resistance.
Self-Powered Radio/Flashlight
This is a great time for people to get ready for bad weather and power outages. We have many products designed to provide light and heat where there is no power, but perhaps our favorite is the Eton self-powered radio/flashlight. With a built-in hand-powered generator and a solar cell, this battery-powered radio can be charged without plugging into the grid. The radio section receives AM/FM and weather band frequencies while the light uses efficient LED bulbs. Plus you can charge your cell phone using the solar cell or the hand crank.
