Osprey Exos Day Pack
Osprey's Exos day pack is ideal for the hiker who wants utility and comfort without adding weight. The Exos' aluminum-framed Airspeed Suspension System allows for ventilation and provides a comfortable fit even when loaded with gear. In addition, the pack's harness is made up of die-cut ventilated foam that stretches and moves as you do. The pack comes in 34-liter ($148.99 as of 2009), 46-liter ($178.99) and a 58-liter ($218.99) models.
Vibram Five Fingers KSO Trek
For 2009, Vibram has added a trail shoe to its Five Fingers lineup. The Five Fingers KSO Trek ($124.99 as of 2009) is a beefed-up version of the KSO model, adding cleats the the outsole for greater traction, a durable kangaroo upper and interior and a thin (4-mm) EVA midsole rock plate to prevent stone bruising. This shoe will appeal to trail junkies as well as barefooters who need a bit more support than the Five Fingers KSO provides.
Treksta Sidewinders
One of Treksta's most notable trail shoes, the Sidewinder ($119.99 as of 2009) was built to provide traction in the most slippery conditions. The IceLock outsole was designed specifically to provide traction on icy terrain, and the sturdy sidewalls and reinforced toecap give a solid amount of protection from exposed roots, rocks and other trail debris.
Bergmoench Backpack Bike
Bergmoench built their Backpack Bike ($2,200 as of 2009) around a great idea--a bike that folds into a backpack so users can hike up a trail and ride down it. How could they go wrong?
Very easily, apparently--they didn't include a drivetrain or a seat. Downhill biking is a challenge with a complete bike, but when you start removing necessities like these, it can be downright unpleasant.
It's an interesting idea, and maybe later versions will bear fruit, but as it stands, Bergmoench's Backpack Bike doesn't hold up.
Article Written By Billy Brown
Billy Brown is an outdoor sports writer living in Northern California.
An avid rock climber and trail runner, he's been writing about outdoor activities, fitness and gear since 2005. He regularly contributes to "The Record Searchlight," uncooped.com, and Trails.com, as well as other print and online publications. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Simpson University and is a NASM-certified personal trainer.
