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New Desert Sunrise Collection from Ruffwear

Since 2020, Ruffwear has partnered with artists to create unique designs. A portion from each sale in the Artist Series goes to the artist’s chosen nonprofit organization.

This year, Ruffwear partnered with Vernan Kee, a Native American from the Navajo Nation, who designed a series of dog leashes, collars, and harnesses.

The design was inspired by the weaving tradition of the Navajo Nation.

Ruffwear Artist Series Leash

Kee remembered the many Indigenous women who raised him and how they would gather together and practice native weaving techniques. He remembered the sights and sounds of them weaving; and the elaborate patterns of geometric shapes that would emerge.

His designs for Ruffwear’s Artist Series is a way for him to honor his heritage and celebrate the traditions of the Navajo women in his life.

Every purchase of this collection, Ruffwear will donate 5% of the total revenue to the non-profit recipient chosen by Vernan, Turquoise Paw, an animal rescue within the borders of the Navajo Nation to support efforts in population control and education and most importantly, to provide the humane choice of no kill sheltering by maintaining a volunteer-based, safe harbor network. 

The Desert Sunrise Collection includes the Flatout Leash, the Flatout Collar and the Front Range Harness in this beautiful Desert Sunrise themed color way.

Flatout Collar Product Review

We were sent the Artist Series Flatout Collar to try out.

Ruffwear Artist Series Collar

The Flatout Dog Collar from Ruffwear is an everyday-use dog collar with an easy-to-use side release buckle.

It’s packed with Ruffwear essentials, including separate ID tag attachment point with tag silencer, webbing that will last, and an aluminum V-ring leash connection point.

Ruffwear Flat Out Dog Collar - Desert Sunrise
Ruffwear Flat Out Dog Collar – Desert Sunrise

Out of all the collars we’ve used for Parker, this one is my favorite. In part, because of the design. Kee’s geometric pattern is beautiful and it makes Parker all the more handsome.

I also love the V-ring leash attachment. It’s hardy and easier to clip to. This feature is really beneficial when on the trail, I will keep Parker off-leash, but will need to clip him in quickly when other distractions are nearby or when the trail gets too risky..

It also feels great knowing that a portion of the purchase goes to such a great nonprofit. Parker feels great about that too.

The Flatout Collar can be purchased online or at your favorite pet store.

California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt Review

What I love most about California Cowboy’s shirts is their functionality. We’ve recently covered their Western High Sierra Shirt (perfect for Fall and Winter activities) and their High Water Shirt (perfect for after playing in the pool or at the beach).

And as much as I love their High Water Shirt, because of the Terry Cloth lining, I don’t wear it unless I am going to the pool or beach. What about a shirt for boating? Or for hanging out at your local brew garden with friends? Or to wear on work calls so your boss says, “Huh, you’re looking festive today.”

California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt
California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt

Thankfully, California Cowboy has their Tropic High Water Shirt. They sent me one to test.

The Tropic High Water shirt is their take on a classic Camp shirt. They removed the Terry Cloth and used a new stretch fabric for a very light, loose, and comfortable fit.

And it still has the same features that make the Western High Sierra Shirt and their lined High Water Shirt so great:

  • Tech Dry Pocket for safe phone storage
  • Bottle Pocket for safe beer storage
  • Bottle Opener Pocket
  • Sunglass Loop
  • Camp Collar with loop
  • And it comes with a slick bottle opener and koozie

Last week I spent at the lake and this shirt was the perfect boating shirt. It was very comfortable in the 90-degree weather and I definitely made good use of the tech dry pocket for my iPhone and the extra beer storage.

California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt
California Cowboy Men’s Tropic High Water Shirt

I also have to acknowledge the fantastic designs on these shirts. The one I tested had this desert motel design; complete with howling coyotes, rattlesnakes, and cacti. Their designs are definitely a vibe.

If you’re looking for a functional shirt for summer, look no further than the Tropic High Water Shirt.

California Cowboy PCH Jogger Review

When I was at Outdoor Retailer, one of the standouts that was featured was an upcoming pant from California Cowboy. I was immediately impressed and I couldn’t wait to try them out. Luckily, California Cowboy was happy to oblige and sent a pair over.

California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

The PCH in the PCH Jogger stands for the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s an ode to the road tripper.

The PCH Jogger is a lightweight, stretch twill jogger. They have elastic ankle cuffs and an elastic waist.

California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

Then crotch is gusseted for extra comfort and stretch and the design also has an articulate knee so as you stretch and move the pant doesn’t shift on you.

It also has pockets for days.

  • Bellowed Bottle Pocket with Snap Closure
  • Breathable Mesh Tech Pocket
  • Welt Catch All Pocket
  • Front Slash Pockets
  • Combo Pen + Bottle Opener Pocket
California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

When I tested the PCH Jogger, I was road tripping across the Midwest and these pants were the perfect companion for 10 hour days in the car. They were light and comfy. The fabric itself is really soft.

Given that it was 90-degrees or more and the sun was beating on me while I was driving, I also found these pants to be very breathable. I never felt myself get uncomfortable or hot.

Once I got to the lake, I found the pockets to be especially functional. The catch-all pocket in the back was great for throwing in loose things: snail shells and special rocks from the kids, fishing supplies, and even my SONOS Roam (letting the top pop out of the pocket).

California Cowboy PCH Jogger
California Cowboy PCH Jogger

Additionally, I love the safety that the tech pocket provided. I was able to zip it closed and keep my valuables safe, which was much needed as I was chasing kids on the dock making sure that they (or I) didn’t fall into the lake.

I love these pants. I can’t wait for more adventures this Summer and Fall in them.

With the PCH Jogger, I tested a 34″ waist. With the elastic, I found that it fit true to size.

SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short Review

I’m a big fan of SAXX.

Several years ago, I started testing a pair of their 2N1 running shorts and they became, overnight, my favorite running shorts.

The reason was simple: I didn’t chafe.

I was preparing for several ultramarathons and recovery from long runs was the worse when chafing was involved. But in SAXX shorts, I didn’t. They were my constant race companion. I ran a 50K, 55K, and 50 miler in them and my boys were happy!

But as great as they were for running, that’s all they were good for. They were too light for anything else. That’s why I was excited when SAXX sent me a pair of their Gainmaker 2N1 Shorts to test out.

SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short
SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short

Their Gainmaker’s come in two sizes: long (9″ inseam) and short (7″ inseam).

These shorts were great!

They are made with SAXX BallPark Pouch™. It keeps everything secure without being too tight. The liner is made from a light-compression fabric so that even around your thighs, things are secure. Even after several reps of squats they aren’t going to ride up on you.

SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short
SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short

There are two hand pockets, along with a front security zip pocket. The zip pocket feels small, but it is big enough to squeeze in a iPhone 12 Pro.

The Gainmaker 2N1 is made for all types of training. Lifting weights, rock climbing, yoga–they are very versatile. Personally, I love them for yoga because they stay in place. The compression liner doesn’t move.

They are lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking so they can withstand any exercise.

SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short
SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short

I brought them down with me to Costa Rica and they were also my running shorts for my jaunts along the beach. Even after putting over 5 miles in them, they stayed in place and didn’t chafe.

The colors I tested were their Cargo Grey and Stone Blue. They are two of their lighter colors and when I did sweat in them, you saw where I sweated fairly easily. It’s fine for beach runs or home workouts, but if you are working out at a gym and a bit self-conscious about your appearance, I’d suggest going for one of their darker colors.

Overall, I am a huge fan of these shorts. I’ve been using them for all sorts of activities, including hikes and paddleboarding. The BallPark Pouch, more than anything else, is what makes these shorts stand out and a must have for your activities.

SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short
SAXX Gainmaker 2N1 Short

I am 5’11”, 180 pounds, a 34″ waist, and am wearing a size Medium. I am right on the edge though of being a Large. If you have an opportunity to try on before you buy, try that. Otherwise, if you’re like me, buy both sizes, and return what doesn’t fit great.

Tifosi Optics’ New Sizzle Series Blends Expert Performance with Lifestyle Looks

Tifosi Optics, a leading sport and lifestyle sunglasses brand, is proud to introduce Sizzle series sunglasses. Pushing the boundaries of crossover eyewear, the Sizzle is the first Tifosi sunglass to feature a shielded lens design embedded within the body of a lifestyle frame. The Sizzle is built for performance but styled for all-day aesthetics, making it the perfect summer eyewear companion. 

Tifosi Optics’ New Sizzle Series
Tifosi Optics’ New Sizzle Series

Single-shield lens sunglasses offer superior eye coverage for runners and cyclists but their oversized appearance can make them awkward to wear in casual settings. The Sizzle offers the best of both worlds–a casual frame featuring a low-profile, shatterproof and scratch resistant polycarbonate shield for active pursuits. “We recognize that our customers take full advantage of summer weather. This could mean a bike ride in the morning followed by an afternoon barbecue,” offered Tifosi Optics CEO, Joe Earley. “The Sizzle is meant to be a lightweight, all-day eyewear companion that can provide protection for active pursuits, yet blends in when it’s time to relax with friends and family,” Earley continued. 

Tifosi Optics’ New Sizzle Series
Tifosi Optics’ New Sizzle Series

The Sizzle’s performance oriented Grilamid TR-90 frame complements its shielded lens. This includes Tifosi Glide, a treatment applied to the Sizzle’s arms which allows the sunglass to comfortably slide onto the face and stay in place during movement. 

While built with the same high-quality materials associated with a premium price tag, the Sizzle is highly affordable. Each of four frame and lens options, including the sleek looking Blackout frame and Smoke lens combination, retails for $34.95 and includes a microfiber cleaning bag. 

Tifosi Optics’ New Sizzle Series
Tifosi Optics’ New Sizzle Series

The Sizzle series sunglasses will launch online at http://www.tifosioptics.com and with retail partners on July 6.

First Impressions

I received a pair to test from Tifosi on July 5th. Not much time for testing, but I wanted to share my first impressions.

First, the look of these are pretty sweet. They are cool and stylish and they look great.

As for the fit: on my big head, they fit somewhat narrow. The arms have a little bit of give, so I don’t feel a squeeze. But time is the biggest test for sunglasses like this.

I plan to take these out for a few long runs to see how they hold up. More to come.

In the meantime, I’m looking forward to wearing these some more.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt Review

The Showers Pass Apex Merino Wool Tech is an extremely comfortable performance t-shirt. They sent us one to test and it’s been the perfect companion on many rides and hikes.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt
Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt

The Apex Merino Tech is made with 87% Merino Wool and 13% Nylon blend.

Merino Wool is a powerhouse of a fabric. It provides antimicrobial protection from odors and natural breathability. This makes the Apex Merino Tech the perfect shirt for long activities. When testing Merino Wool products, I always like to see how long I can go between washes before the stink sets in. I did a nice sweaty five-mile run, two 15 mile bike rides, and a four hour hike before I felt that I needed to put it in the wash. Given this performance, I am planning to take this on an overnight backpacking trip.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt

The Apex Merino Tech is also designed to reduce chafing. The sleeves and side panels have flatlocked stitching to reduce chafing. During testing with backpacks or hydration packs, I found that the shirt moved less than other performance fabrics, reducing the movement that my packs typically did.

I also appreciate that Showers Pass shirts have a longer back to keep the shirt from riding up. This is a great feature while cycling, reducing back exposure as you’re bent over the handlebars.

Unpacking the shipping box, I was immediately impressed by how light and soft this shirt was. You can tell how much thought and care Showers Pass put into this shirt.

Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt
Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt

The fit is on the slimmer side, but is perfect for the types of activities I’ve taken it on.

It was also comfortable when paired with their Cloudburst Jacket.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a performance t-shirt this summer, Merino Wool and this shirt from Shower Pass is a must buy.

I am 5’11” and 185 pounds and wear a size large.

You can purchase the Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt on their website for $75. Well worth it and it will last for several seasons.

Zeal Optics Eco-Friendly Stainless Steel Aviators Review

This summer, I was on the hunt for new sunglasses. I have plenty of sunglasses for outdoor activities; everything from cheap and easily breakable to top-tier cycling shades.

But what about something more stylish?

Something that would be more appropriate for a beach wedding and carnival in Costa Rica?

Zeal Optics Easterly Aviators
Zeal Optics Easterly Aviators

Our friends at Zeal Optics in Boulder sent us a pair of their Easterly Aviators to test out just in time for our flight out.

Given the trend of aviator sunglasses after the latest Top Gun movie, I was game.

The style of the Easterly Aviator is a classic throwback to the 1960’s. They are smaller and rounder than your typical aviator shade, but there is a really cool vibe that is channeled when wearing them.

They are built with a hardy, but light stainless steel frame. These aviator sunglasses are so light. I always dislike heavy glasses that leave marks on my nose from the pads, but these sit and rest easily without the excess weight.

The frame is accented with recyclable, eco-friendly Hexetate on the tips.

Zeal Optics Easterly Aviators
Zeal Optics Easterly Aviators

The lenses are also eco-friendly, using plant-based Ellume Polarized lenses.

Lenses made of plants? Who would have thought? Other lenses are made with a petroleum-based polymer. But Zeal Optics’ approach allows for a lens that is better for the environment and is also lighter and more comfortable.

The lenses are also polarized and have a scratch resistant hardcoating.

The Easterly Aviator’s fit is advertised on their as small/medium. Before trying them on, I was a bit worried. My reading glasses are “wide.” Would my head be too big? No. These fit perfectly!

Zeal Optics Easterly Aviators
Zeal Optics Easterly Aviators

Plus, these were perfect for our Costa Rica vacation. They were really stylish for the wedding and carnival-themed afterparty. They were also a great fit for lounging at the pool or relaxing on the beach.

Now, I know we are an outdoor adventure company. I would recommend these for light hikes, but nothing too technical. Likewise these are great for paddleboarding or boating. But I wouldn’t suggest these for trail-running or your weekend cycling tour.

They retail for $199 and can be purchased on their website or at your favorite outdoor retailer.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt Review

If you could have the perfect after-pool or post-beach shirt, what would it look like?

Would it have a sunglass holder?

Would it be lined with the softest towel-like material?

Would it have a dry pocket that you could slide your iPhone in so that you could take it to the pool or beach without worrying about keeping it dry?

Would it have a pocket to stash an extra beer or seltzer?

Would it come with a bottle opener and coozie?

Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?

But California Cowboy lives on making your beachwear / poolwear dreams a reality.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

This summer they’ve released their High Water Shirt, which is the amalgamation of all these possibilities.

Over the last month I’ve been hanging out in Costa Rica. Pura Vida, all the way.

A lot of time at the beach and pool and this shirt has become a stable in my daily attire.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

It is lined with terry cloth, so I can hop out of the pool, put it on and be dry and comfortable.

I have three kids, so I’m always chasing after them. Sunglasses stashed on the head or easy to lose, so having a sunglass holder built into the shirt is amazing.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

Likewise, being able to carry an extra beverage or two is very important. The High Water Shirt has that covered with their beverage pocket.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

It’s easy to keep a cold one safe while you’re sipping on another one. Or, if you’re chasing after kids, stash your beverage into your pocket for safe keeping.

If you’re at the beach, it’s also a great pocket for stashing seashells.

Finally, there is the dry pocket. It can easily hold a iPhone Pro Max, wallet, and keys.

Needless to say, the product design on this is fantastic.

California Cowboy High Water Shirt
California Cowboy High Water Shirt

I love this product and it is going with me to the pool and beach every time I go.

You can purchase the High Water Shirt on their website. I am 5’11”, 185 pounds, and wear a size Large.

This Father’s Day, Protect Your Balls With BN3TH

When it comes to protecting your most sensitive area, having the right underwear is key. If it’s too tight or too loose or not the right fabric, you could be in a world of discomfort. And if there’s an area I don’t want to be uncomfortable, it’s there in my nether region.

For Father’s Day, BN3TH sent me a few pairs to test out.

BN3TH Pro Iconic

The fabric in their Pro Iconic line were made out of 82% Polyester / 7% IONIC+™ Polyester / 11% Spandex. They were super comfy. During heavy workouts or long activities like hikes, I found that they wicked moisture away. Not having swamp butt or a sticky crotch was a great feeling.

These were made for movement!

They fit tight around my thighs, but weren’t uncomfortable. During the hikes I took during testing, I noticed that they didn’t ride up like some other underwear. They stayed in place and didn’t bunch up.

BN3TH Pro Iconic

The fabric also contains anti-odor technology to keep things smelling fresh, making day hikes or camping easy.

Over the last several days, I’ve been in Costa Rica. It’s rainy season, so things are also moist. But the days that I wear BN3TH, things are kept super fresh.

But what truly stands out about BN3TH is their MyPakage Pouch Technology™. It’s a pouch for your man goods. It keeps them separate, which helps eliminate chafing or sticky situations.

BN3TH has a variety of styles to choose from based on your various needs. If you’re assessing your underwear drawer and wondering if you need to make a change, the answer is yes.

Ruffwear Approach™ Dog Backpack Review

When hiking with our dog, Parker, our biggest challenge is carrying all the things.

Our backpack is already full of snacks, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and water for the human kids. Yet, we still have water, water bowl, snacks, and poo bags to pack for our canine kid.

Ruffwear sent us their Approach Backpack to review just in time for school to be out and our summer outdoor adventures to begin.

Ruffwear Approach Backpack
Ruffwear Approach Backpack

The Ruffwear Approach Backpack is a harness for dogs that offer saddlebag storage and all-day comfort for your four-legged family members.

The saddlebags contain four total zippered pouches; enough space for water, dog bowls, snacks, food, and those pesky poo bags.

During our testing period, we took Parker on several multi-hour hikes. We were able to store ample supplies, but it is worth noting that Ruffwear suggests that dogs carry no more than 25% of their body weight and to start them out with lighter loads to build up their endurance.

Parker is a big dog and eventually, he’ll be able to carry around 20 pounds. For the testing period, he carried anywhere from 3-7 pounds of supplies. And even with that, there was plenty of room for more light items.

The Ruffwear Approach Backpack is made of a light and durable 150 denier polyester. The saddlebags have a radial cut to provide a comfortable fit and throughout our hikes moved easily with Parker.

Each side has a lower main compartment zipper and an upper side stash zipper. The lower pockets were the perfect size for flat water bottles, food, leashes, and stashing full poo bags. The smaller pockets up top were great for snack bags and his collapsible water bowl.

Ruffwear Approach Backpack
Ruffwear Approach Backpack

On the top of the Approach Backpack, Ruffwear has a padded handle to lift Parker up and over large boulders or sections of trail that were too technical for him. Next to the handle is a metal v-ring for leash attachment.

On the underside of the pack, there is a five point adjustment system. There are three points of adjustment on the chest plate and two additional straps on the underside of the backpack. This allows you to size accordingly to your pup’s size and make sure that the pack is stable, but not too tight; just enough to remove any sway or shifts in the pack.

During each hike, I monitored Parker to make sure the pack was comfortable. Throughout his tail was wagging as he walked down the trail.

After the hike, after I removed the pack, I inspected Parker to make sure there was no rubbing caused by the pack and there wasn’t. He seemed very comfortable throughout.

Conclusion

Overall, I was very impressed with the Ruffwear Approach Backpack. And so way Parker!

It is a very well made, comfortable, and durable piece of hiking equipment.

If you are wanting to hike with your pup and not carry all their crap, this is a great investment. The Ruffwear Approach Backpack is a winning combination. Any time I pull it out, Parker gets excited because he knows a hike is coming!