Hestra Ergo Grip Active Glove Review
When winter comes to Colorado and you want to still enjoy the outdoors having the right gear is very important. Some of the best gloves I have used to date are the ones in this review. Normally I use a very light weight North Face glove for almost everything, however I have recently picked up these Ergo Grips from Hestra and will never look back. Below is some history of Hestra.
“About the company
Hestra - one of the world's leading glove brands”
The family business Martin Magnusson & Co. was founded in 1936 and is now run by the third generation of Magnussons. Both design and development is done at the headquarters in the small town of Hestra.
Our gloves are manufactured in our own factories and we personally buy all leather, fabric, wool and other materials. This gives us control of the production chain and ensures a high level of quality. Several of our models are handmade by some of the most experienced glove makers in Europe.
Description
Exclusive outdoor glove with Ergo Grip construction creating pre-curved fingers, minimal excess material, and seams positioned for optimal grip. Durable goat leather on the palm, upper section made of windproof and breathable Gore WINDSTOPPER© Breeze.
Article number: 32950 Color: 861700
Outer material
Proofed aniline goat leather
GORE® WINDSTOPPER® Breeze Windproof and breathable. 100% polyester.
Lining
Brushed polyester Durable lining which is brushed for a softer feeling and containing more air for better insulation. 100% polyester.
Features
Reinforcement at index finger
Leather pull strap with velcro
Materials
Durable goat leather on the palm,
Upper section made of windproof and breathable Gore WINDSTOPPER© Breeze.
Brushed polyester Durable lining which is brushed for a softer feeling and containing more air for better insulation
ERGO GRIP
The key feature on these gloves is by far the “Ergo Grip.” At first I thought this feature was not needed as I had never had gloves that were shaped to hold items easier and never felt like I needed. After using the gloves for a couple months now I am in love. The gloves hold a pre-curved shaped to allow your fingers to actively grip items with ease. Even when bringing these gloves down to the park on a snowy winter day, I had found the gloves to preform perfectly while throwing the ball for Breck to fetch.
TOP TIER MATERIALS
The Goat leather used on the palm of the glove has broken in nicely and now even moves better than before. The leather is soft yet gives a surprising amount of grip as well. Ever stich on the Ergo is in line and feels perfectly placed. The craftsmanship on the glove is truly amazing.
WINDPROOF GORETEX LINING
The outside of the glove is made with a breathable but Windproof Gore-Tex lining and feels like a good compliment to the goat leather palm of the glove. It allows for great movement and space for the knuckles to move as well.
The Ergo grip is not fully waterproof which is somewhat of a downside, for that you will have to spend another $60 for the Ergo Grip Outdry. I opted for the normal version because if I needed anything more heavy duty and waterproof I would move up to my Hunters Gauntlet CZone. For what I have used the Ergo Grip for the wind proof lining has been plenty to keep my hands dry and warm. I had used them one time while building a snowman and after about an hour of picking up heavy, wet snow my hands started to get wet. If you really need a fully waterproof glove I suggest upgrading to the Outdry version.
The gloves secure with a Velcro strap and a stretch collar for easy on and off. Using the Velcro was very easy and it gives a great feel when strapped up.
The gloves not only preform well but they look the part as well. I like the looks as I feel it blends the line of a functional but fashionable look with the tan palm.
+
Goat Leather Palm
GoreTex Windproof Lining
Ergo Grip
Velcro Closure
Amazing fit
Great Craftsmanship
-
$$
Not 100% Waterproof
BOTTOM LINE
Overall, I think the Ergo Grip Active glove from Hestra is by far my favorite do-everything glove. It moves like a dream and is lightweight enough to wear almost anywhere. The windproof lining does an amazing job keeping the cold air out and as long as you’re moving and not messing with water your hands will stay warm and dry. The gloves come in at $110 which is not cheap but I believe to be an amazing deal for this nice of a product. I will be looking to get more gloves from Hestra in the future.
Academy Gear - Hi-Tec Socks
As stated in the Instagram feature of these Hi-Tec socks, I never thought I would write a piece on something as simple as a pair of socks. I was sent a few pairs of "Hiking" and performance socks by the team over at Hi-Tec and was blown away.
I have used these socks every drill day at the Fire Academy since they arrived and I have noticed a huge difference in many ways. My favorite pair of socks from Hi-Tec is the featured Orange and white pair for a few reasons that I will go over.
The first and most important feature for me was the padded/extra thick heel of the sock. When standing all day and running through many different drills at the Academy you need great support. The extra padding on the heel helped keep my feet energized and ready for anything. The Bunker boots we spend all day in are far from supportive and this extra boost made a world of difference.
The next feature I loved was the Arch compression on the mid of the sock. The sock at first felt almost tight to squeeze into but as soon as my foot locked in they were set. Again the Bunker boots we wear have zero to no support and just the socks without the addition of any other arch support was plenty.
On the toe of the sock there is a mesh section to allow for great ventilation and at the very tip a reinforced toe box for durability.
For anyone looking to get a performance hiking sock, these guys from Hi-Tec are without a doubt the way to go. I've always wanted the best of the best in the boot department however, I truly never thought about going the extra mile and getting some supportive socks. The socks make a huge difference in my Fire Academy boots but combined with a nice hiking boot they are a match made in heaven. Hi-Tec also offers a "Feel Good" guarantee to back all of their socks.
Altra Lone Peak 3.0 Mid Hiking Boot Review
The search for the perfect trail boot is almost the same as that for the perfect pack. I have been testing a few boots here at RMK recently and the next one in line was the Altra Lone Peak 3.0 Mid boot.
Altra is a footwear company that "runs" on their Zero Drop platform, Pun intended. The Zero drop is intended to give perfect balance from the heel to the foot and I was able to experience it first hand. I decided to wait to review these boots until later in the year primarily due to the fact that they do run hot on those summer days.
The Altra Lone Peak's are a Mid boot which means they come up above the ankle for added support. I tend to prefer these style of boots because normally when I am using them I have a pack loaded out with 30+lbs and I need the support they offer. The Lone Peaks come in at $160 which I feel is a fair price point for everything they bring to the table. The Lone Peaks also weigh in at only 10oz which is the same weight as most of my running and workout shoes. For a waterproof ankle support hiking boot that is killer.
"Tons of Ankle Support"
Starting off the Lone Peak Mid has the high ankle support like most "Mid" style boots however these seem to offer more padding than any other I have tested. The tongue along with the side ankle padding is super thick and gives great protection as well as support. On either side of the side padding, there are multiple lace up points to ensure the right fit. I was able to get the boots exactly how I wanted throughout my hikes.
"Trail-Claw Outsole for Un-Matched Traction"
The outsole of the Lone Peak is their "Altra MaxTrac Sticky Rubber with TrailClaw". One of my "must haves" on a kickass mountain boot is a rugged outsole. The difference between a boot with one compared to a normal shoe when hiking even on flat dirt roads is night and day. The Lone Peak pass my test with their TrailClaw outsole. I never once lost footing on any of my test hikes even while carrying a ton of weight going both up and down hill. The outsole is rugged without being too much making walking on flat paved surfaces a task.
Above the Outsole on the Lone Peaks Altra has added their StoneGuard Sandwiched Rock protection and Natural Ride system which helps when trucking along those super rocky trails. I did notice on sharp or uneven rocks the boots kept my foot comfortable and felt more supported. For as light-weight as the Lone Peaks are it truly amazed me how protected my feet felt while strapped to these bad boys. Great job here Altra.
"Polartec Waterproofness"
Next, what is a real hiking boot without some 100% waterproofness. The Lone Peaks use a Polar Tec liner which is very different from the last pair of boots I reviewed the UA Verge Mid which used Goretex. On the UA boots, the Goretex would absorb the water into the shell of the boot while trapping it and letting it slowly evaporate out. I don't mind this method however, it can make the boot heavier and give your feet the feeling they are getting wet just from the temperature. Through my testing with the Lone Peaks, the Polar-Tec water lining stopped the water before it could even enter the boot. Normal hiking and splashing through puddles the Lone Peaks did great but how about standing in ankle high water for a couple minutes? They did great as well, they did not any water in and blew me away. After I walked back out of the water the boots were almost unchanged, still just shedding off the excess water.
The downside to this type of Polar-Tec lining however to the Goretex is that not letting any water in also does not let much air out of the boots. I did notice on the hikes I brought the Lone Peaks on my feet would get super hot and sweaty. That being said I would recommend these boots for more Fall/Early Winter hiking and I think they will do fantastic. I would also love to see the option to have a breathable, non-waterproof version of these boots from Altra.
"Plenty of Wiggle-Room"
The Lone Peaks footbed definitely strays from the rest. I have pretty wide feet and the LPs fit me perfectly, not only is the heel and midfoot section wide so is the toe box which is great for people like me or anything wanting to wear some nice hiking socks underneath. They can feel somewhat larger than normal hiking boots due to this and the amount of padding, however, that is something I will take day in and day out.
The Zero-Drop platform is what Altra bases their company off of. The Zero drop is intended to give perfect balance from the heel to the foot which I feel it does, however, it is not my favorite. My whole life I have used running shoes which have my foot arched, hockey skates that double that arch, and boots that do the same, as have many people. As much as I wanted to get used to the Zero drop Altra provided I just couldn't. It does give you added stability though because that's just science, but on those long hikes especially when I used them to ruck 30+lbs my feet were not loving it. Maybe if I used the boots day and night without any other type of shoes for a couple months I could finally get my feet transitioned however, I will probably stick to my normal hiking boots for now.
Overall, the Altra Lone Peak is a feature packed hiking boot from the 100% waterproof Polartec liner, to the mega padding offered throughout the boot. I absolutely loved the outsole and the traction it gave on steep hikes while not being overkill for those normal dirt and paved paths. With the lack of breathability from the Polartec liner and build of the boot, I would recommend this boot for cooler hiking where heat is not an issue. The Zero Drop platform may not be my type of deal however if you can get your feet used to it you will love the boot.
+
Polartec Waterproof lining
Tons of Ankle Support
Great Outsole
Wide Fitting Toxbox for Plenty of Room
Fun Colors
Respectable Price for Features
Super Light-Weight
-
Not Very Breathable
Zero Drop Is Not For Me
LALO Bloodbird Training Shoe Review
A major part of my day and a very important aspect here at RMK is keeping active and staying in shape. I not only do this through hiking/rucking but I put in many hours at the gym each week and in doing so I need gear that can keep up. While I was at Outdoor Retailer last month I managed to stop by the LALO booth, a new name to me. The booth along with the people managing it were great, super into the rucking and Goruck scene and shared the views RMK is based on. I was lucky enough to get my hands on a pair of their Bloodbird workout shoes and I wanted to get a quick review out on them explaining why they will be my new gym shoes.
LALO is a tactical based footwear company that produces top of the line athletic shoes, and tactical boots. I normally will do a quick summary of the company before a review however for LALO, I will let their bio fill you guys in.
At LALO Tactical, we honor those who choose a path of purpose, a path of hard work, grit and determination.
Our company was founded to serve the needs of Special Operations Forces and NSW Operators. Our award-winning designers and developers have been creating innovative footwear for some of the world’s most popular brands for over 30 years.
We use top tier materials to create some of the best and hardest working tactical boots and athletic footwear for those that rise to the toughest occasions.
We believe that a professional athlete and a SpecOps member have much in common, both extraordinary individuals who never ring the bell.
Companies have been collaborating with professional athletes for years in an effort to make specialized performance footwear. At LALO, we not only listen carefully to our professional athletes, we listen to our Operators on the front lines.
If that doesn't convince you to back a company I don't know what will. Not only does LALO have hardcore athletes testing their gear but military personal as well. Now that you have an idea the grade of company LALO is we can get to the Bloodbird.
The Bloodbird is one of 3 offerings by LALO in their athletic line along with the Zodiac Recon running shoe and the Grinder, their cross trainer. The Bloodbird is the beefier of the 3 options by LALO and serves primarily as the ironworker of the bunch. The BB is geared more towards workouts with less dynamic movement such as weight lifting. The fact LALO gives 3 completely different options for every aspect of training is great. Many companies claim their shoe can "do it all" and falls short in almost every aspect. I would rather have a shoe dedicated to whatever workout I am doing for the day and have an excuse to bring one of my many packs to the gym with me for holding the others!
The Bloodbird comes in at only 9.9oz which is extremely light for a weight training shoe. The Bloodbird could be compared to the Reebok Nano 4.0 which I used up until the Bloodbird and the Nano comes in right at 10.9oz. The Bloodbird I received was the "Jungle" color and also comes in Black, Grey, and Coyote.
"Side Overlays Allow For The Perfect Fit"
Right away one can notice the Bloodbird is a unique looking shoe with features unlike any other. The first being the stability wrap around the middle of the foot to ensure great support and the right fit. The stability wrap is not part of the main mesh shoe but another separate layer that can be adjusted to the user's needs. I have extremely wide feet and this feature lets me tighten just enough so my foot was not uncomfortable.
"Lightweight and Low Drop Outsole"
The bottom of the Bloodbird is definitely a different material than what I am used to in a workout shoe. The outsole is constructed of soft and hard plated materials. The soft parts almost feel like a military grade foam while the harder sections are a lightweight rubber. I have noticed more wear on the softer sections of the outsole and feel that the lightweight rubber they used on half would be better of covering the entire outsole.
You can easily tell the softer spots compared to the rubber sections.
The shoe also features a 5mm drop to keep the foot as level as possible when doing heavy lifts like squats, deadlift, and cleans. On the inside of the shoe connected to the outsole there is a spiked section to aid in rope climbs which is an awesome feature.
On the top of the Bloodbird you have the extremely light weight and thin tongue and laces. The tongue has a small circle to aid in pulling and ensures the right fit. The laces on the Bloodbird match the color you choose and are almost a small paracord. They do a great job at getting the shoe tight on your foot however without a double knot they will come loose due to the shape.
"Wide and Protected Toe Box"
The toe-box on the Bloodbird is one of my personal favorite features. I have a tough time finding shoes that fit my wide feet and give my toes room to move, this is especially important on shoes I will be either running, rucking, or workout out in. The BB toebox is huge and gives plenty of room and also aids in full foot balance when lifting. On the front of the toe-box there is LALO's "Super Fabric" which has an overlay of that resist abrasion and protect the foot while staying lightweight.
The heel of the Bloodbird comes with a re-enforced lightweight rubber heel for support and protecting. Above there is a mesh section to aid with flexibility throughout the heel and to protect against blisters.
+
- 4 Great Colors
- Flat sole for Olympic style lifts
- Wide toebox
- Protected Toe
- Side wraps for middle foot support
- Made by a company built around a military mindset
-
- $$
- Soft spots on outsole can show wear
- Laces can come loose without the right knot
Overall, the Bloodbird by LALO is the complete package when it comes to a built to last a feature rich weight lifting shoe. The Bloodbird comes in 4 great tactical colors and is built the above average person in mind. At $130 the Bloodbird is not cheap but I feel it is well worth the price. If you are looking for a lightweight lifter and want to support a company with a great direction look no further then the Bloodbird by LALO.
Under Armor Verge Mid GORE-TEX Boots Review
We do quite a few outdoor activities here at RMK from hammock trips to hunting, hiking, fishing, camping, and even torturing ourselves up the CO Springs Incline. When we go on these adventures we always want to have the best gear for the job and not only the right backpack but the right footwear as well. I was sent over the Under Armor Verge Mid hiking boot to test out and put through the paces. I will say that the Verge Mid this is one of the lightest and most comfortable boots I have used to date.
The name Under Armor needs no introduction however, this is the first pair of hiking boots from them I have used. The Verge Mid has won Gear of the Year award by Outdoor Magazine for 2016 and for a good reason. Throughout my testing of these boots including hiking the CO Springs incline, many hammock hikes with Brecken and wearing them to work every day since I have received them I feel like I have put the Verge to the test.
"Light As A Feather"
As I said earlier the Verge is unbelievably light for a mid hiking boot at only 13.1oz. They are the same weight as my Nike running shoes for a comparison. This light weight is contributed to the mesh upper on the Verge that is reinforced with welded overlays to give it added durability. While on the trail you can really feel the weight of the boots and stay extremely quick on your feet.
"GORE-TEX"
The Verge Mid is lined with the famous GORE-TEX membrane which makes the Verge 100% Waterproof. Throughout my testing with the Verge, I walked through creeks, splashed through puddles, and even took a hose to them. Every time the inside of the boots were completely dry. Most of the time when you get a waterproof boot wet they gain a ton of weight and feel "wet'. The Verge being as light as it is still felt extremely light and did a great job at shedding off the water even with the mesh upper.
"All Day Comfort"
I not only used the Verge boots for hiking and climbing I have also worn them to work everyday since receiving them. Over the summer I normally work part time with lumber and walk 10,000-15,000 steps just at work alone. Before the Verge, I would have never even thought about wearing a hiking boot to work. That changed quickly when I picked up the boots for the first time and felt how light they were. After the first few hours with them on I not only appreciated the weight of the boots but also the support and cushion they gave. The Verge come with a Charged Cushioning insert under the forefoot and heel to give awesome support. Even after a full day at work, then straight to a hike with Brecken my feet felt great.
"Michelin Outsole"
The sole of the Verge is almost super unique as it is made by Michelin. Yeah, that Michelin. The sole of the boot is soft while still giving the needed support on rocks and stumps. The Wild Gripper outsole uses sculpted rubber lugs for extreme traction and durability. When I switched to the Verge over my old hiking boots I felt the added traction immediately on the dirt trails. I rarely lost my grip while climbing up steep hills even when trying. The outsole also gave great traction on rocks and made blasting through the trails a breeze. The Verge also come with an ESS rock plate and TPU shank built into the midsole for added underfoot protection, stability, and incredible support.
"Molded Ankle Support"
I have always been a fan of the "mid" boots when compared to the normal hiking shoes. I love having the added support around my ankle, probably coming from my years of playing hockey and the same protection and support from the skates. The anatomically molded collar adds comfortable support around the ankle and feels great. The Verge also features an "Anafoam" stability chassis that delivers "body-mapped fit, lightweight structure & increased support".
The laces run the whole face of the boots and do a great job of tightening the whole boot when pulled from the top which allows for quick adjuments and on and off.
The UA Verge Mid GTX boot is without a doubt my favorite boot to date. The combination of lightweight, max support and waterproof GORE-TEX lining come together to make one hell of a hiking boot. The Verge comes in at right around $170 which is not the cheapest hiking boot but can be justified by the great build quality and features.
+
- GORE-TEX Waterproof Lining
- Great Ankle Support
- Michelin Outsole For Max Grip and Durability
- Comes in Many Different Colors
- Anafoam Midsole For Added Support and Protection
- Super Light Weight At Only 13.1oz
- Charged Cushion Support For Protection and Energy
-
- Not Cheap At $170 MSRP
Public Rec All Day Every Day Pant Review
"A MORE STYLISH ALTERNATIVE TO SWEATPANTS AND A MORE COMFORTABLE ALTERNATIVE TO JEANS."
Sweat Pants have forever been the image of the Sunday warrior cleaning the gutters or pumping some cold iron while sporting a cut-off in the local gym. Over the past few years, however, sweats have been making a big comeback and the Public Rec Everyday Pant is at the head of that comeback. The Everyday Pant gives you "A more stylish alternative to sweatpants and a more comfortable alternative to jeans."
Public Rec is a smaller company that had their first project funded in a big way on Kickstarter back in 2015. So far the only product PR produces is the ADEDP (All Day Every Day Pant) and it shows, in a good way. The pant has a tailored fit which gives you the option to wear it hiking in the fall, or to pair it with a flannel and head into town.
"FULLY EQUIPPED SWEATS"
The ADED pant also has a few small but noteworthy additions that separate it from the normal sweatpant. The first being the Faux front fly for a more formal look. There is no actual zipper here just a "fly" looking flap of material which is brilliant. Another great feature is the back pockets which also give to pants a little extra when it comes to the style factor.
"FULLY ZIPPERED FRONT POCKETS"
The last addition is the zippered front pockets. When I first received the pants I thought there were no front pockets. When the pockets are zipped up and closed you can hardly notice they are there which is awesome. On the other hand, when unzipped the pockets are large and give you plenty of space for all your items. I took these pants to the gym and found this feature to be an absolute must have. When doing my normal ab workout and leaning back on the decline bench my phone would normally have slipped right out of my pocket and onto the floor. It happened one time and I remember the zipper which I then closed and was able to actually go all out and not have to worry about my phone.
"TAILORED FIT FOR THE PERFECT FIT"
The ADED features a tailored fit that allows for enough room in the thighs while keeping the bottom of the pants trim. The foot of the pants is slim without having the scrunched look like typical "jogger" sweat pants.
"COMFORTABLE ENOUGH FOR ANY ACTIVITY"
While at the gym I also noticed that the material being a blend of Nylon and Spandex was actually very breathable, incredibly soft and stretchy which was perfect for leg day. All of the stitching on the ADED pant is top notch and look to last a lifetime.
"BUILT IN THE US"
As many of you know here at RMK we love to review and use products and brands that build their products in the US. Public Rec is one of these companies.
The waistband on the ADED Pant is exactly how it should be. It has plenty of stretch, yet almost a tight and strong feel to it. It is very wide and can be tightned by a drawstrgin.
The ADED Pant by Public Rec is a home-run when it comes to active wear. These sweats are by far some of the best fitting and most comfortable I have worn. Not only are they great fitting, but they also have all the attributes to warrant taking them out for a night on the town. They are made right here in the US which combined with the attention to detail and the features/fit justify the $95 price tag. If you are looking for a do-all sweat pant look no further then the ADED Pant by Public Rec.
+
- Made in the US
- Zippered front pockets
- Back pockets
- Tapered Fit
- Great breathability and feel
-
- $$$
- Only three Colors to choose from
OLIVERS Apparel Convoy Tee and Capital Short Review
I was recently sent over the OLIVERS Apparel Convoy Tee and Capital Short to test out and review. OLIVERS Apparel is a performance wear company dedicated to producing top-tier apparel.
"This company wasn’t founded with venture capital, a team of MBAs, or even a detailed business plan. We started with a handful of fabric swatches, a small workshop in California, and a passion for athletics and the culture of sport. Fast forward 3 years, and what began as a fresh take on gym shorts has grown to much more.
Piece by piece, we create athletic apparel essentials, updating them with the best performance fabrics and detailed tailoring to nsure they will last for years to come. But we aren’t only focused on the pursuit of athletic excellence - we’re about the spirit of adventure, and we’re here to help you tackle it head on."
"Handmade in the US with Merino Wool"
I love reviewing products made by companies like OLIVERS not just because of their attention to detail and the high-quality products they make, but also for the fact that they produce every product right here on American soil. As said before, it is hard to find a clothing company in today's day that takes enough pride in their work and will go the extra mile to produce here in the US.
Starting off with the Convoy Tee from OLIVERS. The tee is made from 100% Merino Wool. Merino Wool is not the same as your Grandparents wool blanket, Merino Wool is much more fine, soft, and more suited for a performance tee. Merino Wool is breathable, strong, odor resistant, quick drying, static-resistant, has great wicking capabilities and sun resistant. Literally, everything you could want in a sports/performance tee.
"Athletic Fit for the Perfect Fit"
The Convoy has a natural slim fit which is perfect for showing off your hard-earned muscles while pumping iron. But really, the fit is spot on with perfect length sleeves and waist. The neck stays high and tight without being uncomfortable, while the chest does the same.
"Wear it Anywhere"
Not only is the shirt great looking with some of the best material available, the stitching from the guys over at OLIVERS is top notch. When it comes to a shirt that I will be using to not only workout with but, hike, run, climb, camp, and many more strenuous activities, I want something I can trust and not have to think twice about. I have ripped countless tee shirts while hiking and camping hiking through the brush and I have no doubt this tee will prevail. If for some reason it doesn't everything OLIVERS makes is backed by a 6 month guarantee from anything outside of normal wear.
The Convoy Tee is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the best of the best when it comes to everyday wear. The Merino Wool will last a lifetime while giving the best active wear has to offer. At $68 the Convoy is not the cheapest of tee-shirts, however, the Merino Wool is some of the best fabric out there and the Convoy is hand made in California, which is enough for me to back them. The only "negative" I found with the Convoy was the first outing with the shirt was somewhat scratchy until I first washed. After the wash the shirt felt great.
+
- Handmade in California
- Merino Wool
- Great Fit
- Tons of features
-
- Somewhat on the pricey side
- Wool can be somewhat "scratchy" on first wear until washing
The second work of art I was sent over from OLIVERS was the Capital Short. I want to start off by saying I have grown up playing hockey my entire life and in the gym. I am no body builder, however, my legs and back end have always been too large for the right waist size shorts.. Forcing me to buy much too large waist sized shorts and suck them in with a belt. This has never been the problem when buying workout shorts due to their stretch, however when trying to buy nice looking, pocketed shorts it a huge problem.
"Finally a Short That Moves With You"
When I first saw the Capital shorts by OLIVERS I figured they would be another lost cause and would not be worth it. I then read the details on the shorts, the 87% Nylon and the 13% Spandex means the short is tough enough for any activity yet, it will finally move with me instead of against.
- 87% Nylon, 13% Spandex
- 4-way stretch. 170 GSM
- Water Repellant (DWR)
- Slim, athletic cut. Fits true to size
- Stainless steel Italian tack button
- Gusseted crotch
- Bar tack reinforcements
The short also has a 4-way stretch and Gusseted crotch feature. I cannot stress how amazing this is. I have used these shorts for running, hiking, and a full backyard leg workout. The fact that these shorts can look amazing paired with a casual dress shirt or a cut off while doing squats is truly amazing. Another great feature of the Capital is the Water repellent DWR treating. The coffee can find its way on your lap early in the morning runs right off.
The Capital features four extremely soft and light pockets. The two on the front are perfectly placed and sized for everyday carry items.
"Hiking, Climbing, Running, Netflixing"
The Capital Short is hands down the most versatile short in my lineup. I have worn them dressed up for a movie and dinner with the girlfriend, camping up in the Rockies of Colorado, and in the gym. For anyone who wants a bombproof pair of shorts with the ability to move with you into any setting, look no further than the Capital Shorts by OLIVERS Apparel. The Capital comes in at $98 which is in no way cheap, although this price is easily justified by the countless features and the fact they are handmade in California.
+
- Handmade in Californa
- 4-way stretch
- Gusseted crotch
- DWR treated
-
- Not cheap
SPI Venture Series Running Belt Review
My last review was on a great product to help make my runs/hikes more efficient while with my dog Brecken. This product is meant to do the same however is more geared towards myself. I was recently sent over the SPI H20 Venture Series running belt by SPI. SPI stands for “Small Personal Item Belt” and specializes in making quality belts to hold all your small items while on the go.
"A storage pocket that will hold your phone and more"
The Venture’s main feature is the stretch storage pocket that will hold your phone, key, cards/cash, and whatever other small, thin items you need to take with you on your run. The storage pocket is right at 8.5” long and about as wide as your normal sized phone. The pocket is built with a very high quality stretch material that's a WeatherGuard lining to help keep the elements out. Along the full length of the zipper there is also a flap to give extra peace of mind and on top a reflective strip to aid at night.
On either side of the storage area, there are two elastic loops that allows the user to store energy bars, or chews.
"Thick, Bounce-free Belt"
The band on the Venture is very thick and super comfortable. The thickness of the belt really helps with the fit as it does not dig into your sides at all while running and makes sure to keep everything in place. At the two ends of the stretch belt there are matching buckles which are very large and also heavy duty. The belt can also be adjusted from 27”-47”.
"Two 8oz Hydration Bottles"
One thing unique to the Venture series is not only the thick belt but also the two 8oz H20 bottles that can be slipped on when needed. I found these to be great as normally I do not bring water on my daily runs and these let me do so. The 8oz size is perfect to keep myself hydrated with one and Brecken hydrated with the other. When you do not want to run with the bottles they can be effortlessly slipped off the belt.
Although this belt is marketed towards runners I found this extremely useful for hiking and the gym as well. There are many times when I am at the gym and my phones either falls out of my pocket or gets in the way of a lift and this belt is perfect in keeping it safe.
"Made in the US"
One more great detail of the Venture belt is the fact that it is made in Austin TX. Here at RMK, we love getting to use and review any product that is built in the US.
The only negative I found with the Venture series belt is the lack of a dedicated headphone cord slot. This is not a huge gripe as you can easily enough position the cord so that when the zipper is closed it can be fed out at the end and then through. It has worked for me so far I feel it would just be easier to insert and remove the phone is one could leave the headphone cord in place.
The Venture comes in right at $45. Overall, from the “bounce free” design to the weather sealed construction and the US production the SPI Venture Series running belt is a must have for not only die-hard runner’s, but also anyone looking for a safe and easy way to hold their phone and small personal items while on the move.
+
- Made in the US
- Bounce free
- Two 8oz Water bottles
- Reflective strip
- WeatherGuard lining
- 2” Thick belt
- Loops for Storage
- Fits 27”-47” Waists
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- No headphone cord slot
Kitanica American Hoodie Review
I love to review backpacks for all different types of adventures here at RMK however, there are a million different parts of a winter/fall load out then just the perfect pack. On a cold day at the range or on the trail there are few things more important than the right outer layer. I have always been a firm believer that a solid hoodie is the perfect all-around piece of cold weather kit. The ability to throw it on under a Carhartt for those extremely cold days, or being able to wear it over a shirt for a crisp fall day make it the universally loved torso piece.
“Made in the US”
When it comes to making hardcore tactical and outdoor clothing the guys over at Kitanica have it down. Other then the bulletproof nature of all their gear it is also all made right here in the US which is a huge plus in my book. I reached out to Kitanica about reviewing one of their American Hoodies and they sent one right over.
The American Hoodie is made from 200 Weight Fleece and accompanied by all YKK zippers. I decided to go for the Flat Dark Earth color, it also comes in Black and Stone Green and the sizes range from XS - XXXL. I opted for the XL as my chest measurement came in right at 47in.
Starting off the American Hoodie has a very unique look that does not scream tactical, but still lets anyone who spots it know the wearer is not the average joe. The fit on the American is spot on, both the sleeve and the bottom of the hoodie have a slight taper that will keep from riding up while in use.
“Concealed / Admin Pocket on Sleeve”
On the left sleeve, there is a small admin pocket that has the Kitanica logo on the front flap. Upon opening the flap you will be greeted with a small velcro patch and a zipper that runs vertical of the pocket. This pocket at first glance is much smaller then when opened. I was able to fit my entire hand inside. I experimented with my Glock 19 to see if it would fit while in my remora holster and was not successful however, I am sure a smaller caliber firearm would fit no problem.
On the right sleeve, there is a full sized velcro patch that can be used to show patches of your choice.
“Versatile hood for any situation”
The hood on the American is constructed with a great deal of attention as it is much larger than a regular hood. The American hood can be used with a helmet and ear protection on underneath without a problem. There is also a nylon lining on the inside to help with sliding the hood on and off without snagging. I used this hoodie on a small hike in the hogbacks of Colorado while it was snowing quite a bit, this hood while being larger still worked perfectly and did not look too large without any head gear. On the neck of the hood there are two pulls to synch up the hood.
“Plenty of Main Pocket Storage ”
The main pocket of the American hoodie is right where most seem to be placed except this one is usable. I'm not sure how many times I try to load the front lower pocket of my other hoodies full of everything that doesn’t fit in whatever pack I am currently carrying, only to spill out as soon as I get out of my truck or bend over. The main pocket on the American is much larger than the average pullover and has zippers on either side to ensure not spillage. Not only is the pocket huge and can be enclosed but also lined with a light mesh, with a pocket on the stomach side of the hoodie. This pocket is perfect for anything smaller that you really don't want to be losing.
+
- Made in the US
- 100% Fleece
- Versatile Hood
- Huge front pocket
- Admin pocket and Patch on Sleeves
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- Price could turn people away, but justfied with the build quality and US made.
All in all, the American Hoodie by Kitanica is a great looking, and a top-notch piece of gear built by a true American company. No matter if you wear it with another jacket on top or just the hoodie you won't have to worry. It will be a perfect addition to your cold weather hiking, range, or adventuring kit.
Myles Apparel Everyday Short Review
Most of my site is dedicated to outdoor oriented adventures and gear which I have always had a love for ever since I can remember. However, I did also play competitive hockey until the age of 21. I’m sure every athlete can relate to what I am going to say, especially hockey players. Finding the right pair of jeans or good looking shorts has been a lifelong struggle for me. Sweatpants or baggy athletic shorts always fit, I am talking about a good clean looking pair of shorts that I can wear to a special dinner possibly with a collared shirt. It has never been a problem with finding the right waist size but more finding a pair of shorts that my legs and glutes will slide into while still being able to bend over. I am confident that I have found the perfect short that allows all of this to happen while also letting me take them to Crossfit, hiking, biking, and almost anything you can think of.
“Made in the California"
Enter the Myles Apparel Everyday Short. The Myles Everyday short is made in California which is awesome, it is always nice to see companies going the extra mile to produce in the US. The short is made of 87% Nylon and 13% spandex giving it just the right amount of stretch and durability.
“Perfect pockets for running or jumping”
The pockets of the shorts are made from Ballistic Mesh allowing the pocket to bounce less while running or jumping. This feature of the short is nothing short of genius as I normally keep my phone in my pocket while running to listen to music. I have noticed almost no bounce when comparing to my name brand super stretchy, loose fitting sport shorts.
“Just the right fit”
The fit of the Everyday short is perfect. They have up to size XL which I knew I would have to pick up for my legs sake. I normally wear a 34 waist which was their Large size however I would rather have a few extra inches in my waist then look like I am wearing Yoga shorts. So I decided to go with the XL in Standard and they fit perfect. The shorts standard length run shorter than the average shorts to give a clean and respectable look. You can also go with the Long instead of the Standard to give a little extra length.
“Water, Sweat, Chalk, Dust, Pet hair… No worries.”
The shorts are treated with a water repellent which works like a charm. I have used these shorts for the hardest of Crossfit workouts and they continue to impress me every time. Sweat, chalk, water, everything and these shorts still look brand new. Another awesome feature I have noticed while abusing these shorts is that even in my black pair, the long blonde hairs from my pup Brecken are never anywhere on the shorts.
In my reviews, I normally try to find the good and the bad to make for an honest write up, however over the last month of using these shorts almost every day I have yet to find something I would change. So far there are no signs of wear or seams giving up. I will update this review in the next couple months to see if these bad boys continue to impress me.
If you want a pair of shorts that you can throw in a bag and travel the world with these are the ones. Paired with a nice pair of shoes and shirt you can blend in with the nicest restaurants. On the other hand, you will never have to think twice while working out or adventuring out on the mountain. I will be collecting every color of the Everyday shorts over the next year without a doubt.