ESEE Knives Izula 1 & 2 - Gear Review

When it comes to back-country dependability, less is more.  Simplicity rules and breeds dependability.  Designed and manufactured by survival training experts at Randall's Adventure and Training, ESEE knives are built to last and function in the most unforgiving conditions.

The Izula 1 & 2 from ESEE knives is a case study in classic simplicity and why to leave the frills at home.  Named after what the Peruvian locals consider the nastiest ant in the jungle which they call "Isula", we call it the Bullet Ant.  Tough, light and versitile, the Izula will make you a believer the minute you pick one up.  This knife is designed to be a perfect addition to you lightweight survival kit or as a concealed carry knife.

Razor sharp and incredibly light, these knives are a dream to cut with.  The textured powder coating helps to ward off rust and corrosion and improves grip in damp conditions.  The Izula 1 and 2 are nearly identical, except that the 2 has a slightly (1/2 inch) longer handle, which I prefer.  Both have a .55 inch pommel to easily attach a caribiner for trasnport.  If the skeletal design is too minimal for you, add the canvas micarta scales for a more comfortable grip. 

Further proof that simple is better when it comes to wilderness gear. 

Izula 1 Specs:

O.A Length: 6.25"

Blade Length (end of handle to tip): 2.88"

Cutting Edge Length: 2 5/8"

O.A. Blade Length: 2 3/4"

Maximum Thickness: .156"

Weight: 2 Ounces (Knife Only)

1095 Steel - 57 Rc.

Blade Width: 1.0"

Grind: Flat

Handles: None (Optional Scales Available)

Sheathing: Injection Molded, Black

Pommel: Hole To Accommodate Carabiner

Spine: Thumb Grippers

Finish: Textured Powder Coat

Colors: Black, OD Green, Desert Tan, Tactical Pink

Serial Number On Tang

MSRP: $80  Available online from $43...

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Kelty Spring Cleaning Sale

Spring is here and our friends over at Kelty are helping us get our gear organized....



Head on over to Kelty.com to get in on the action...

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Half off on your next BWCA adventure....

Thinking about heading up to the BWCA this summer for a quick getaway?  Buy it now, book it later, Save 50%!!!  

For the next 2 days Crowd Cut is offereing this deal: $145 for Three Days & Two Nights Wilderness Canoe & Camping Trip with Gunflint Northwoods Outfitters ($290 Value). Complete Outfitting Includes All Meals, Supplies & Equipment!  But get it while it lasts, quantities available are limited.  Click Here to get yours...

Gunflint Northwoods Outfitters
143 South Gunflint Lake
Grand Marais, Minnesota 55604
(218) 388-2296

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Granite Gear Escape A.C. 40 - Gear Review

Not all packs are created equal, and Granite Gear proves that once again.  These guys just get it...  I got my first taste of the new Air Current system integrated into several of their 2011 technical multi-day packs at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market back in January.  I could not wait to get my hands on one.  This next step in the evolution of the Vapor suspension system takes flexibility and comfort up a notch.

Take all the advancements of the Vapor System, a light weight dependable backbone that flexes with your natural range of motion, then integrate air channels into the plastic frame and add bumps to the foam pad.  You now have the most flexible and comfortable 40 liter pack on the market.  I am also glad to see a return of external pockets to performance multi-day packs.  This top-loader comes with an easy access pocket on the lid and a large vertical stash pocket along the front of the pack, both of which allow for ample storage of "quick access" necessities.  Infinitely adjustable and equipped with the LineLoc compressions system, you can secure your load and get it riding perfectly for hours of pain free trekking.

If you are in the market for a new Hiking pack, you simply MUST try out the new AC series from Granite Gear.  Big props to a great company right here in our back yard, Two Harbors Minnesota....  Keep up the stellar work guys!

MSRP: $199.95

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Wolverine Terrain Mid iCS Hikers - Gear Review

Since their founding in 1883 and the 1919 introduction of the 1000 Mile Boots, Wolverine has earned a spot in outdoor footwear's elite.  Over the last hundred years or so, they have crafted boots for a huge range of activities.  From the job site to the back-country, these are "The worlds most comfortable boots and shoes.  Guaranteed"®.  Many of their most popular lines come with a 30-day comfort guarantee, unlike most guarantees that cover only defects, not your satisfaction.

Your first thought when you hear the name Wolverine may be work boots, but that is just the beginning.  Their line of outdoor footwear runs from Hunting to Hiking and does it all very well.  I have been testing the Terrain Mids and I am sold.  These waterproof mid cut boots provide a comfortable fit and gnarly traction that can handle whatever trail I throw at them.  The nubuck and mesh construction provides excellent ventilation, but leave me a little concerned about long term durability.  

In continuing their commitment to comfort Wolverine has released the new iCS or Individual Comfort System.  Adjust the feel and level of support with the rotatable disc in the heal.  Choose from 4 settings; increased inner support, increased outer support, firmer feel or extra cushion.  So whether you need to make adjustments for your particular feet or today's outing, the iCS system has you covered.  I absolutely love the fact that I can adjust the level of cushion; go from squishy comfy for the quick hike or ramp up the support for when I strap the 40 pound pack on. 

All in all these are great hikers and the iCS system takes on-the-fly fit adjustment to all new levels.  I expect Wolverine to continue to innovate within the outdoor footwear space, driven by their motto "Relentless by Nature".

MSRP: $125

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Laundromat Sweaters - Gear Review

So, I am not the most naturally insulated guy and this Minnesota winter has been long and frozen.  The last several weeks have been made more comfortable, however, thanks to a couple of new additions to my wardrobe from Laundromat. 

The story of the Laundromat gear is unlike that of most makers of woolen knitwear.  The Canadian design team understands the needs of those of us here in this Winter Wonderland.  From hefty zippers to lined pockets, all the creature comforts have been integrated.  Combine that with their artfully skilled knitters in Nepal and 100% natural wool and dyes and you have some of the nicest sweaters on earth.  A proud member of the Fair Trade Federation, Laundromat strives to create quality product while ensuring the planet and all people involved are treated fairly. 

These sweaters don't mess around.  They are warm, bordering on HOT...  Rugged wool lined with a velvety soft fleece make them incredibly sturdy and comfortable (no itchy makes me happy!)  The construction is simply amazing, durability is not going to be an issue.  The only drawback is, as with most natural wool, the three most dreaded words in laundry; DRY CLEAN ONLY...

These sweaters are going to be staples in my attire from October to April.  Doubling as a Spring/Fall jacket and keeping me from freezing to death in the heart of the Winter.

MSRP: $145 to $150 depending on style...

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Just over 24 hours to go.....

Our current Gear Give-Away is drawing to an end... 

Click HERE to get the low-down on how to score these sweet goggles from our friends at Ryders Eyewear...



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Ahnu Belgroves - Gear Review

Whether you are putting miles on the local trail system or chasing the kids around the shopping cart, the Belgroves from Ahnu Footwear will keep you comfortable and nimble all day long.  These casual lace-ups have no problem making the transition from Friday office wear to Saturday at the trail-head. 

It is one thing for your shoes to look good, but performance is what makes a shoe wearable.  If your feet are sore and tired after a few hours, you need an upgrade.  Ahnu has built a shoe that is both and more.  From design to materials, they left nothing on the table.  Waterproof leather and suede uppers keep your feet dry, while the "high surface contact" soles let you feel the ground beneath your feet.  Somewhat reminiscent of a climbing shoe and the new barefoot styles, you feel truly in-touch with the surface in every step, while still having ample protection and support. 

What I have noticed more than anything else in these shoes is that I can wear them forever; 8 to 10 hours a day is no sweat. Plus, they just look cool.  Stitching details and contrasting leathers make the aesthetics of these shoes stand out.  Ahnu has successfully married urban street style with off-road technologies to create a shoe that can go anywhere and simply out perform the competition. 

MSRP: $100.00

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Gear Give-Away - Ryders Eyewear Remix Gogles

The Paddle Junkie has teamed up with Ryders Eyewear to get a sweet pair of Ryders Remix Goggles into the hands of one lucky reader.  To learn more about these killer specs, check out our full review HERE.

So, do you want a chance to be the lucky winner? In order to qualify you have to be a fan.  That means you have to follow The Paddle Junkie AND Ryders Eyewear on either Facebook or Twitter.  After you do this, COME BACK to the www.ThePaddleJunkie.com and leave us a comment telling us why YOU should have these in your gear bag. 

If you want to be a SUPER FAN, suggest us to some of your friends via FB, Twitter or old fashioned email! 

One winner will be chosen at random on Friday, March 11th at 4pm.

Good luck!

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