Camping Gear Archives - Arizona Wanderings https://azwanderings.com/category/gear-reviews/camping-gear/ ...fishing, hunting, and roaming the Southwest Mon, 21 Oct 2019 13:47:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://azwanderings.com/wp-content/uploads/cropped-Rustic-Trout-Logo-Design-32x32.png Camping Gear Archives - Arizona Wanderings https://azwanderings.com/category/gear-reviews/camping-gear/ 32 32 Rambling Review: Zenbivy Light Bed https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-zenbivy-light-bed/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-zenbivy-light-bed/#respond Mon, 21 Oct 2019 13:47:40 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=15323 Rambling Review: Zenbivy Light Bed Why: I’m always working on my sleep system for hunting, fishing, and camping trips. The truth is that the temperature ranges so drastically in Arizona that it can easily be 100 degrees in the summer on a fishing trip and single digits on a winter hunt. I’ve experimented with different...

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Zenbivy Light Bed

Rambling Review: Zenbivy Light Bed

Why: I’m always working on my sleep system for hunting, fishing, and camping trips. The truth is that the temperature ranges so drastically in Arizona that it can easily be 100 degrees in the summer on a fishing trip and single digits on a winter hunt. I’ve experimented with different bags, quilts, and pads, and all of them have an application. However, the Zenbivy Light Bed is a unique product that provides a versatile sleep system. (This review is based on the 25 degree system)

First impressions:

The system – The Zenbivy Light Bed system is a two part bag system that attaches right to your sleeping bag.

  • Zenbivy Light Sheet – A fitted sheet that attaches securely to the sleeping pad
  • Zenbivy Light Quilt – A down overquilt that attaches to the fitted sheet using a series of hooks.

Lightweight – The Zen Bivy Fitted Sheet and Quilt weigh in at 2.3 pounds.

Field Use:

To be honest, it took me an evening of messing around with the Zenbivy light bed to completely understand all of the ins and outs of this system. Bottom line, it’s extremely versatile and designed to set up the quilt into three different modes.

  • Mummy mode – The quilt is able to be cinched in mummy mode which allows the bottom to be secured all together for maximum warmth.
  • Rectangle mode – Using the hook system, the quilt is secured to the fitted sheet to give a tucked in feel like your bed at home.
  • Quilt mode – If you’re saving ounces, you can leave the fitted sheet at home and sleep directly on the pad with the quilt on top.

Between turkey season, a family camping trip, and an overnight fishing trip, I’ve spent several nights in the Zenbivy Light Bed. I personally sleep really hot. I have a 3/4 zip mummy bag I’ve used forever and I always wake up on fire in it, but never can find the sweet spot to be comfortable. From my experience with the Zenbivy Light Bed, I really liked running the rectangle mode. In the night as I develop hot zones, I was able to take a hook or two out and kick my leg out without the whole sleep system rolling with me. The 25 degree quilt worked extremely well for my summer trips.

Zenbivy Light Bed

Pros:

  • Versatile use in multiple climates
  • Fitted sheet can be used on different sleeping pads
  • No slipping off you’re sleeping pad in the night
  • Lightweight and packable

Cons:

  • Cost – any sleep system worth its salt costs money

Prognosis:  I really dig what Zenbivy has developed with their Zenbivy Light Bed system. It is a great lightweight addition to my backcountry setup.

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review.  My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.

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Rambling Review – GSI Outdoors Dutch Oven https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-gsi-outdoors-dutch-oven/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-gsi-outdoors-dutch-oven/#comments Sun, 10 Sep 2017 04:09:19 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=14277 Rambling Review – GSI Outdoors 10″ Hard Anodized Dutch Oven Why: There’s nothing quite like eating food cooked over an open fire while watching movies from Las Vegas outdoor video display screens and I was looking to round out my cookware with a dutch oven. I have had great success with other GSI Outdoors products,...

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GSI Outdoors Dutch Oven
Garlic Bacon and Taters

Rambling Review – GSI Outdoors 10″ Hard Anodized Dutch Oven

Why:

There’s nothing quite like eating food cooked over an open fire while watching movies from Las Vegas outdoor video display screens and I was looking to round out my cookware with a dutch oven. I have had great success with other GSI Outdoors products, so naturally went with the GSI Outdoors 10″ Hard Anodized Dutch Oven. It has not disappointed.

First impressions:

Construction – Made of high-performance, heavy gauge cast aluminum.

Lightweight – Lightweight is a relative term. The GSI Outdoors Hard Anodized Dutch oven weighs in at 3 lbs. 11 oz, roughly 66% lighter than a traditional Dutch Oven.

GSI Outdoors Dutch Oven
Cinnamon Rolls

Field Use:

Over the past couple of months, I’ve had the opportunity to get GSI Outdoors Dutch Oven plenty dirty which I had from online business from this site web. Before I could take it into the field, I worked up one of my favorite dishes on the stove, javelina chili. When I finally did get the dutch oven out on several camping trips it made cooking over an open fire pretty simple. Overall it was a great addition to my camp cooking set up.

GSI Outdoors Dutch Oven
Javelina Chili

Pros:

Classic Dutch oven design with lid lip for holding coals while cooking

Heavy gauge cast aluminum

Perfect for truck camping

Super easy to clean

Cons:

Aluminum can conduct heat far more rapidly than traditional cast iron Dutch Ovens, so keep an eye while cooking and make sure to have evenly distributed heat.

Prognosis:  I’m still a Dutch oven novice, but my experience so far with the GSI Outdoors 10″ Hard Anodized Dutch Oven has been fantastic. Can’t wait to get back in the woods and try out another recipe.

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review.  My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.

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Rambling Review: Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-coleman-fyrechampion-hyperflame-stove/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-coleman-fyrechampion-hyperflame-stove/#comments Mon, 23 Nov 2015 12:13:00 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=13517 Rambling Review: Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove Why: Although many times I’m looking for the lightest equipment for backpacking into the backcountry, there are plenty of times where I’m truck camping and space and weight are not an issue. When it comes to stoves, I have several compact camp stoves that are ideal for those backpacking trips...

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Rambling Review: Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove

Coleman Fryechampion Hyperflame Stove
Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove

Why:

Although many times I’m looking for the lightest equipment for backpacking into the backcountry, there are plenty of times where I’m truck camping and space and weight are not an issue. When it comes to stoves, I have several compact camp stoves that are ideal for those backpacking trips where all that is needed is to boil water for dehydrated meals, but these compact stoves are limited in the amount of any real cooking. For my fishing and hunting trips, where I’m camping next to the truck, I’ve been using the Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame 2-Burner Propane Stove which has been a pretty solid stove for me.

Coleman Fryechampion Hyperflame Stove
Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove

First impressions:

  • Dimensions – This stove measures 26.8″ x 6.6″ x 14.9″  and weighs in at 17.1 pounds.
  • Coleman’s HyperFlame burner technology cuts boil time in half compared to a standard burner at 3 m/sec. windspeed
  • The Coleman Hyper Fyrchampion Hyperflame stove boasts 12,000 BTU from each of the two burners
  • The Fyrechampion comes with two griddles, for use as a two-burner stove, griddle, or stove/griddle combo
  • Uses a standard 16.4-oz. propane cylinder
  • The Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove is covered by a 3-year limited warranty

Coleman Fryechampion Hyperflame Stove
Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove

Field Use:

After a couple months of use, the Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove has proven to be a great piece of gear for my truck camping trips. It’s seen several fishing and hunting overnight trips, as the two burner top really comes in handy when cooking up the main course and a side.

The removable griddles are an interesting touch on the stove, and to be honest, I was a bit skeptical if I would even use them and thought about leaving them when I first packed the stove for a trip. But the first time I cooked up scrambled eggs and toasted the tortillas on the griddles, I was sold. They are great for warming tortillas, cooking eggs and sausage, but unfortunately the the short sides of the griddles make them too short to contain bacon grease. Regardless, I’ve realized how nice the griddles are to have in the field.

One of the standout features on the Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove is how much heat this stove puts out. Between the Coleman Perfect Heat Technology and Perfect Flow Pressure Control System, this stove puts out high, steady heat, even at 9000′ in the White Mountains on a chilly fall morning. The recessed cook top, lowered burners, and high intensity flame make for a fairly wind resistant unit. Although high heat is a positive when talking about a stove, I have found it a bit difficult to find the sweet spot for low heat and simmering.  While  the stove is capable of putting out, it takes a bit of playing to find the lower end of the flame without causing the flame to snuff out.

Coleman Fryechampion Hyperflame Stove
Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove

Pros:

A solid stove for vehicle camping trips

Two 12,000 BTU burners 

Bulk propane tank compatible

3 year warranty

Wind resistant

Cons:

The griddle sides are a bit short. Perfect for everything but bacon.

Made in China

Prognosis:  The Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame 2-Burner Propane Stove is a solid stove and worth your consideration if you are in the camp stove market.

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, The Coleman Fyrechampion Hyperflame Stove was provided by Coleman for the purpose of this review.  My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.

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Rambling Review: GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-gsi-outdoors-glacier-stainless-percolator/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-gsi-outdoors-glacier-stainless-percolator/#comments Mon, 26 Oct 2015 12:43:07 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=13355 Rambling Review: GSI Glacier Stainless Percolator Why: Regular readers of this blog know that I take my morning cup of coffee fairly seriously. At home I have a pretty standard French press routine, but I mix it up when I’m in the field depending on how much time, space, and weight I have. I’ve found that...

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Rambling Review: GSI Glacier Stainless Percolator

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator
GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator

Why:

Regular readers of this blog know that I take my morning cup of coffee fairly seriously. At home I have a pretty standard French press routine, but I mix it up when I’m in the field depending on how much time, space, and weight I have. I’ve found that I really enjoy the taste of percolated coffee in camp, and the GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator has become standard in my camp cookset.

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator
GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator

First impressions:

Stainless Steel – The GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolators are constructed from corrosion-resistant, marine-grade 18/8 stainless steel componentry and welds.

Sizes – GSI Outdoors sells several sizes of their Glacier Stainless Percolators: 8, 14, 28, and 36 cups. In this review, I am using 14 cup percolator

Dimensions – The 14 cup percolator weighs 2 lbs. 2 oz. and measures roughly 8.80” x 6.70” x 9.00”

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator
GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator

Field Use:

My Glacier Stainless Percolator has been a staple on my hunting and fishing trips this past summer and fall. One of the biggest aspects about the GSI Outdoors percolator that stands out is it’s rugged design. I never have any worries when I toss it in the back of the truck for an overnighter in the woods.

The other aspect that I appreciate about the GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator is the overall simplicity that comes with percolating coffee. Everything that is needed for making coffee is in one unit and completely reusable. As with all percolators, no filters are needed. The only ingredients needed are coffee, water, and a flame to boil water or filtered water can also be used, since there are filters that remove fluoride and chloride and that you can get online. Typically, I use my camp stove to get a boil going, but there’s nothing more aesthetically pleasing then hanging the percolator by the wire bail handle over an open campfire to make coffee.

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator
GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator

Pros:

Rugged design

Made from corrosion-resistant, marine-grade 18/8 stainless steel

Simple and easy to use

Cons:

Made in China

Plastic glass PercView top might be the piece to break if not careful

Prognosis:  The GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator is an excellent choice for someone looking for the esthetics and ruggedness of a quality percolator. 

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator
GSI Outdoors Percolator

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. The GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Percolator was provided by GSI Outdoors for the purpose of this review.Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review.  My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.

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Rambling Review – Stanley Gear for Fall https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-stanley-gear-for-fall/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-stanley-gear-for-fall/#comments Sun, 11 Oct 2015 17:52:36 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=13445 I’ve had some pretty cool opportunities lately to check out some gear from Stanley. Several have really stood out to me over the past few weeks. The first is the Stanley Growler, I had reviewed a growler from another company a while back, and although it was an awesome product, the Stanley Growler had two features...

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Stanley Growler
Stanley Growler

I’ve had some pretty cool opportunities lately to check out some gear from Stanley. Several have really stood out to me over the past few weeks. The first is the Stanley Growler, I had reviewed a growler from another company a while back, and although it was an awesome product, the Stanley Growler had two features that made it stand out from others I’ve seen. The first was that Stanley printed the proper government warning right on to the bottom of the 64oz growler. Arizona law states that for a brewery to fill the growler it must have the government warning on the actual container. The second feature I like about the Stanley growler is the heavy duty o-ring and latch. There is zero chance of leaking and the contents either stay very hot or very cold.

The second piece of gear that I really found useful in the mountains was the set of Stanley tumblers. The stainless steel BPA-free tumblers stack and nest together to save room when not in use.  These came in real handy around the campfire and the built in neoprene sleeves kept your cup sweat free while your drink stays icy. The Stanley Adventure Stacking Steel Tumblers make a serious upgrade to plastic Solo cups or the mismatch set of cups that typically make the journey to the mountains with me.

Stanley’s name has become synonymous with quality outdoor gear and they continues to expand their lineup and offerings. Check them out at Stanley Brand.

Stanley Growler
Stanley Growler

Stanley Tumblers
Stanley Tumblers

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion.   The Stanley Brand products were provided for the purpose of this review and the links in the article help to pay the bills here on Arizona Wanderings. As always, I always strive to be up front and honest about gear and my relationships with gear companies. Thanks for looking. – See more at: Stanley Brand 

 
Visit personal injury attorneys in Joliet today for some detailed information about injury cases.

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Rambling Review: Stanley Adventure Cooler https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-stanley-adventure-cooler/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-stanley-adventure-cooler/#respond Sun, 19 Jul 2015 16:11:56 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=13316 Rambling Review –Stanley Adventure Cooler – 16 Qt. Why: Where I live, normal temps in the summer can reach 115 degrees. In Arizona, coolers are not optional; they are a necessity. Enter the 16 Quart Stanley Adventure Cooler.   First impressions: The Lifetime Warranty – Pretty self-explanatory. I love warranties. Dimensions – The Stanley Adventure...

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Rambling Review –Stanley Adventure Cooler – 16 Qt.

Stanley Adventure Cooler 16 quart
Stanley Adventure Cooler

Why:

Where I live, normal temps in the summer can reach 115 degrees. In Arizona, coolers are not optional; they are a necessity. Enter the 16 Quart Stanley Adventure Cooler.

Stanley Adventure Cooler 16 quart
Stanley Adventure Cooler

 

First impressions:

The Lifetime Warranty – Pretty self-explanatory. I love warranties.

Dimensions – The Stanley Adventure Cooler exterior measures 16.6″ x 12.1″ x 11.3″ while the interior measures 12.7″ x 9″ x 8.3″ inches. The cooler weighs in at 8 lbs. 4 oz. and has a 16 quart capacity.

Integrated Adjustable Bungee System – One of the most noticeable features of the Stanley Adventure Cooler is the adjustable tie-down bungee system that is perfect for holding plates, cups, or even a thermos.

Stanley Adventure Cooler 16 quart
Stanley Adventure Cooler with integrated bungee system

Field Use:

The Stanley Adventure Cooler is constructed with a high-density polyethylene shell foam-insulated body and lid. The two latches on the front make sure the top stays  closed when the Stanley is bouncing around in the back of the truck. The overall construction of the cooler is pretty rock solid and I can see how this little cooler could stand up to some serious abuse. Through my short use of it so far, I was a little concerned about the movement in the handle, but knowing that a lifetime warranty covers the Stanley Adventure Cooler, quickly puts my mind at ease.

Stanley Adventure Cooler 16 quart
Stanley Adventure Cooler

Built with a heavy duty leak resistant gasket, the Stanley cooler is rated for 36 hours of ice retention. That 36 hour number was pretty interesting to me, so I decided to do my own, extremly unscientific test to see how well the cooler would work on a typical day out hunting quail. So I filled the cooler up with beverages, ice, and a couple frozen water bottles and put it out in the backyard for 8 hours in direct sun on a 112 degree Phoenix, Arizona day. When I picked up the handle and felt the body of the cooler it was hot to the touch. But inside I still had some ice as well as the frozen water bottles.  For a $65 cooler, I was impressed.

Stanley Adventure Cooler 16 quart
Stanley Adventure Cooler

This beefy 16 quart cooler can hold up to 21 cans and will also fit a regular 32 oz Nalgene bottle standing up. I was a little bummed when I went to put a case of bottled brew in the cooler and realized that the top would not close while the bottles were standing straight up.

Pros:

– Lifetime Warranty

Price

– Leak-resistant construction

– Adjustable tie-down bungees secure

– Rugged polyethylene exterior with foam-insulated body and lid

Cons:

– Cooler is not tall enough to fit a regular 12oz bottle standing up

– Handle 

 

Prognosis:  If you are in the market for a new the Stanley Adventure Cooler should absolutely be on your radar. A great cooler with an even greater warranty.

 

Stanley Adventure Cooler 16 quart
Stanley Adventure Cooler 16 quart

 

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion.   The Stanley Brand products were provided for the purpose of this review and the links in the article help to pay the bills here on Arizona Wanderings. As always, I always strive to be up front and honest about gear and my relationships with gear companies. Thanks for looking.

 

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Rambling Review: Stanley Brand https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-stanley-brand/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-stanley-brand/#comments Mon, 08 Jun 2015 17:44:29 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=13231 I had an opportunity to get my hands on some classic Stanley Brand products, and they have been keeping me company at work and in the mountains. Stanley has been in business since 1913 and their name is synonymous with quality. Stanley Brand thermoses and mugs keep beverages hot and stand up to the day to...

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Stanley Brand
Stanley

I had an opportunity to get my hands on some classic Stanley Brand products, and they have been keeping me company at work and in the mountains. Stanley has been in business since 1913 and their name is synonymous with quality.

Stanley Brand thermoses and mugs keep beverages hot and stand up to the day to day abuse of work and the campsite. The 8oz flask is perfect for tucking in your pack for a midsummer fishing trip or a night around the campfire.

Check out more Stanley Brand products.

Stanley Brand
Stanley Classic Vacuum Bottle (1.4 Qt.) and Coffee Fixings

Stanley Classic Vacuum Bottle (1.4QT) – This big green Stanley thermos is a classic. TheStanley Classic Vacuum Bottle has an iconic look that is matched with a much deserved reputation for keeping your beverages steaming hot for a long time. At 1.4 quarts, this thermos is ideal for those all night drives on the way to a remote fishing spot or a Monday morning at work. It’s the perfect way to make sure you’ve got enough coffee to make it through any situation.

Stanley Flask
Stanley Adventure Flask and Bulleit

Stanley Adventure Flask (8oz) – It sure is nice to have a rock solid flask to dip into around the campfire to take the chill out of the evening. Fill it with your swill of choice and you’re on your way.

Stanley Flask
Stanley Adventure Flask

Stanley Classic One Hand Vacuum Mug
Stanley Classic One Hand Vacuum Mug

Stanley Classic One Hand Vacuum Mug (16oz) – This Stanley mug sees daily use at the office. It is not unusual for a project to keep me engrossed for most of the morning and I neglect to drink my coffee. With the Stanley Vacuum Mug, my coffee stays hot, well into the afternoon, so I’ll always get a hot cup of coffee.

Stanley Brand
Stanley Brand

Prognosis: If you are looking for the perfect Father’s Day gift, definitely give the Stanley Brand a look. There is something for everyone in their lineup.

 

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion.   The Stanley Brand products were provided for the purpose of this review and the links in the article help to pay the bills here on Arizona Wanderings. As always, I always strive to be up front and honest about gear and my relationships with gear companies. Thanks for looking

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Rambling Review: Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-kelty-pathfinder-3-0/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-kelty-pathfinder-3-0/#comments Mon, 09 Feb 2015 12:15:56 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=12954 Rambling Review – Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 Why: If you have been following along at all, you know that my little girl has been growing fast. My wife and I are avid hikers and really like to get outside and enjoy all that Arizona has to offer. Trying to fit a one year old baby girl...

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Rambling Review – Kelty Pathfinder 3.0

Kelty Pathfinder 3.0
Kelty Pathfinder 3.0

Why:

If you have been following along at all, you know that my little girl has been growing fast. My wife and I are avid hikers and really like to get outside and enjoy all that Arizona has to offer. Trying to fit a one year old baby girl into that lifestyle is tough, but very doable. All of our outdoor activities became a whole lot easier when we picked up the Kelty Pathfinder 3.0.

First impressions:

The specs –

  • Maximum weight load (Child + Gear + Pack): 50 lbs / 22.6 kg
  • Child weight: Minimum 16 lbs / 7.3 kg; Maximum: 40 lbs /  18.1 kg
  • Length: 19 in / 48.5 cm
  • Width: 15 in / 38 cm
  • Height: 30 in / 76 cm
  • Volume: 1300 in3 / 21 L
  • Weight: 7 lb 10 oz / 3.5 kg
  • Suspension: Adjustable

The fit – The Kelty Pathfinder is a fully adjustable aluminum frame pack. It’s just as comfortable as any other pack that I’ve worn and carries weight right on the beefy hipbelt very well.

Kelty Pathfinder 3.0
Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 in sunshade mode

 

The small things – Kelty has done an outstanding job of marrying the fit and feel of a rugged quality pack to the tiny nuances of baby life. Some of the things that really stood out to me are the:

  • sun hood (It’s Arizona. The sun is always out.)
  • toy loops (Favorite 1-year old game – throw things on the floor and see how many times Daddy picks it up for you)
  • changing pad (Poop happens)

Storage – The zip-off day and bottom storage compartment pack provide ample storage for baby and parents.

Kelty Pathfinder 3.0
Kelty Pathfinder 3.0

Field Use:

Imagine my surprise when my wife pipes up one Saturday morning, “Let’s go fishing.” In situations like this, I don’t ask questions. I just start packing. We picked a spot in town where there are plenty of ponds to walk around and look for cruising fish. We loaded up the Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 with a fly box, tippet, diapers, wipes, snacks, toys, sunscreen, water, and a binki, and we were ready to go. The one thing that is probably the most important thing I learned about the Pathfinder 3.0 this day was that my daughter loved being in it. A kid-carrying pack doesn’t do any good if your kiddo doesn’t like being in it. Our little girl gets the biggest smile on her face when we get the backpack out of her closet and she tries to climb into it all on her own. Kelty passed the first test – Baby approved.

Kelty Pathfinder 3.0
Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 – Kid approved

 

The second aspect of this pack that makes it so attractive to a parent is how comfortable it is for me. I spend a good deal of time with different packs on my back and the Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 is about as good as it gets. The big beefy hipbelt puts the weight right on your hips and takes the pressure off your shoulders and upper back. There are upper load lifters, lumbar compression pulls, and a sternum strap all help to keep the weight of the pack secure and close to your back. Between our little girl, water, and all the odds and ends in the pack, the Pathfinder 3.0 was right about 30 pounds and felt very comfortable and stable to carry.

There are so many small things that went into designing this pack that there are almost too many to describe in a post. I’ve mentioned several of them above. Here are some other key additions to the pack that I think are worth noting:

  • There are several waterbottle holders along with a H2O pocket all set up and ready for a bladder and hose.
  • Auto deploy kickstand for when the pack is on the ground. The kickstand allows you to easily get your child in our out while the pack is stable.
  • The high aluminum frame of the baby carrier provide some added protection for the back of the child’s head and acts like a bit like a roll cage, should you take a spill.
  • The Pathfinder 3.0 really takes the safety of the child seriously 5-point harness and color coded leg straps make sure that your child is in nice and snug.

Kelty Pathfinder 3.0
Kelty Pathfinder 3.0 – H20 pocket

 

Pros:

Very comfortable pack

Ease of use

Tons of storage space

Strong aluminum frame

Baby friendly

Cons:

Cost (top of the price range for child carriers, but so worth it for the extras)

Weight (a 7lb starting weight for a pack is a bit heavy, but again worth it when you’re talking about keeping a baby happy)

Kelty Pathfinder 3.0
Kelty Pathfinder 3.0

 

 

Prognosis:  If your looking to keep after your outdoor hobbies with a baby in tow, do yourself a favor and look at the Kelty Pathfinder 3.0. This pack is worth it.

 

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review.  My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.

 

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Rambling Review – Hydro Flask Insulated Growler https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-hydro-flask-insulated-growler/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-hydro-flask-insulated-growler/#comments Mon, 06 Oct 2014 12:22:47 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=12214 Rambling Review – Hydro Flask Insulated Beer Growler Why: My life consists of three main beverages: Water, Coffee, and Beer. Coffee is best served hot. Water and beer are best served cold. Spending a good bit of time outdoors, I’m always looking for a way to keep coffee hot and water and beer cold. The Hydro...

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Rambling Review – Hydro Flask Insulated Beer Growler

Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Insulated Beer Growler

Why:

My life consists of three main beverages: Water, Coffee, and Beer. Coffee is best served hot. Water and beer are best served cold. Spending a good bit of time outdoors, I’m always looking for a way to keep coffee hot and water and beer cold. The Hydro Flask 64 oz. Insulated Growler is the perfect solution when you’re headed into the woods.

Hydro Flask Fill

First impressions:

Double wall vacuum insulation: The biggest selling point of the whole Hydro Flask line is the fact that they are double wall vacuum insulated. This double wall construction has “no matter between the two walls.” Since there is no matter, the temperature outside the flask has a difficult time affecting the temperature of the contents inside of the flask.” The Hydro Flask motto is “cold up to 24 hours and hot up to 12 hours.”

Material: The Hydro Flask Insulated Beer Growler is constructed with 18/8 food-grade stainless steel interior. It’s BPA free and resistant to bacteria, odor, and taste, as well as very easy to clean. The exterior of the Hydro Flask Growler is a powder coated stainless steel available in many different colors.

Wide Mouth: The wide mouth opening is 2.3 inches in diameter and perfect of loading up on plenty of ice.

Size: At 64 fluid ounces, the Hydro Flask Insulated Growler is a beast. The Growler stands at 10.5 inches tall with a diameter of 4.9 inches. Empty, the Hydro Flask Growler weighs 27.8 oz.

Lifetime warranty: The folks at Hydro Flask guarantee their growlers for life. They’ve got a pretty simple online warranty form should you have any issues with the performance of your bottle. I also played flash games last night and we had a lot of fun.

Hydro Flask

Field Use:

The fun part about testing out the Hydro Flask 64 oz. Insulated Growler was the wide variety of beverages that I filled it up with. Bottom line, this thing works.

The first opportunity I had to use my Hydro Flask Growler was on a cold turkey hunt here in Arizona. Me and a buddy were high in the hills when a freak snowstorm dropped 6 inches of snow on us. In spite of the snow, we still woke around 4, made a cup of coffee to wake us up, and another pot for the road. We hunted the morning and made it back to the truck around noon, both a bit skeptical about what temperature we would find our coffee. Outside temperatures were below freezing, and the coffee had been sitting for 8 hours. We were both surprised to find coffee that was just as hot as when we made it. There’s nothing like a mid day caffeine pick me up.

Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Growler

The true test came on the carbonated adult beverages. I have found one of my biggest complaints about other screw-cap growlers is that no matter how tight you get the top, any movement will cause the pressurized liquid to seep out of the top. This was not the case with the Hydro Flask Insulated Beer Growler. The big wide-mouth lid gives a secure seal to the Growler. I don’t recommend going around shaking your beer filled growler, but a normal amount of movement doesn’t result in the seepage like I’ve seen in other growlers.

Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Growler

Beer stayed plenty cold. I filled the growler at a local place in the morning, left it sitting on the counter all day, and found it at basically the same temperature 12 hours later. After the growler proved itself around the house, I didn’t think twice about filling it up and taking it into the woods for a camping trip. The Hydro Flask is an excellent way to bring a favorite local brew on the next outdoor outing.

The one negative that I ran into with the growler, isn’t really against the growler itself, but pertains more to growler laws here in AZ. Technically, to fill a beer growler, the growler must have a warning label on it before the brewery, bar, or wherever can fill it. I didn’t know that, and several places filled it before someone finally denied filling it, due to the no warning label. Now, I get the law, but it’s kind of silly. Regardless, I’m on the lookout for a warning sticker to put on my growler so it’s a 100% legal next time.

Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Growler

Pros:

Double Wall Vacuum Insulation

High quality food-grade stainless steel

Wide mouth

Keeps hot liquids hot

Keeps cold liquids cold

No leakage/seepage

Lifetime Warranty

Cons:

No warning label (needed in AZ to fill growler with beer)

Hydro Flask Growler
Hydro Flask Growler

 

Prognosis:  If you like your coffee hot and your beer cold, check out the Hydro Flask 64 oz. Insulated Growler 

* Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review.  My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.

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Rambling Review – GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-gsi-outdoors-commuter-java-press/ https://azwanderings.com/rambling-review-gsi-outdoors-commuter-java-press/#comments Mon, 04 Aug 2014 12:31:07 +0000 http://azwanderings.com/?p=12212 Rambling Review – GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press Why: Going right along with my GSI Outdoor JavaMill review, I had the opportunity to check out the GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press. These two products are a match made in heaven. If you’re looking for a easy, no-hassle cup of coffee in the woods or on the...

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Rambling Review – GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press
GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press

Why:

Going right along with my GSI Outdoor JavaMill review, I had the opportunity to check out the GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press. These two products are a match made in heaven. If you’re looking for a easy, no-hassle cup of coffee in the woods or on the water, then you’ve got to check out the GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press.

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press
GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press

First impressions:

The set up – I was actually expecting the Java Press to be a bit more complicated, but the whole thing is pretty simple. There are three main pieces: the cup, the lid, and the “plunger.”

Dimmensions – All said and done, the GSI Outdoors Java Press will hold about 15 fluid ounces. It stands 7.8″ tall and weighs 10.4 ounces when empty.

The finish – The GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press is built with a non slip base and comes with an insulating sleeve. The top also has a hinged cap which allows the top to be sealed.

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press Mug
GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press Plunger

Field Use:

The GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press is pretty slick and very simple to use. Here’s how it works:

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press Mug
1. Take out plunger and add course ground coffee

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press
2. Add boiling water

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press
3. Wait a little while and then depress the clear cylinder

It works like a charm, but here are some of the highlights that I really found useful:

1. The Commuter Java Press is extremely easy to cleanup. I have a JetBoil french press, and although it makes great coffee, it’s a huge pain to setup, clean, and break down.

2. The cup and plunger are BPA free and shatter resistant. Combine that with a nice foam insulation sleeve and you’re looking at a drop proof mug.

3. It makes a darn good cup of coffee.

Pros:

Simple to use

Easy cleanup 

BPA free shatter resistant

Cons:

At 15 fluid ounces of coffee, I’m going to need several cups to get me started

GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press
Darn good cup of coffee

Prognosis:  I’m a coffee lover and always interested in a quick, quaility cup of coffee when I’m in the woods or on the water. The GSI Outdoors Commuter Java Press is the perfect way to start a morning in the great outdoors.

 

Disclaimer:

The reviews at Arizona Wanderings are my honest opinion. Arizona Wanderings is not sponsored by or associated with any of the stated companies and is accepting no compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this review.  My independent status may change in the future but, as of the date of publication, no relationship other than described above has been pursued or established.

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