Tahoe Mountain Sports Blog Contributor and avid skier, Kirsten Alburg, had the opportunity to be a part of the 25th Annual Hartford Ski Spectacular at Beaver Run Resort and Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado this past December 2-9th. Today she gives us a summary of this life-changing event.
The Event
Disabled Sports USA (DSUSA) hosted the 25th annual The Hartford Ski Spectacular at Beaver Run Resort and Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado. The eight-day event was the nation’s largest winter sports event for individuals with physical disabilities. More than 800 participants, ranging in ability from first-time skiers to members of the U.S. Paralympics Alpine Skiing National Team and more than 160 wounded warriors and their families came together in Breckenridge.
TMS Blog Contributor Kirsten Alburg and Alaska Adaptive USA E-Ski Team Member Moriah Maybry.
The Hartford Ski Spectacular strengthens and expands adaptive snow sports programs in communities throughout the U.S.; identifies and trains youth, wounded warriors, and others with disabilities including those who strive to be winter Paralympians; and helps local DSUSA chapters improve their services. A week of ski and snowboard race training, sponsored by U.S. Paralympics, prepares athletes for national and international competitions, including the upcoming 2014 Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi, Russia.
TMS Blog Contributor Kirsten Alburg and Tyler Ryan of East Patchogue, New York.
Partnerships
The goal of partnerships with DSUSA and U.S. Paralympics is to increase awareness about the achievement that’s possible when you focus on ability versus disability. Inspiration is everywhere!
Photo: Ski Spectacular Participants Photo Op.
Many Different Programs
The Professional Ski Instructors of America – American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI) is offered training for instructors in the latest and safest adaptive ski techniques for skiers with disabilities. “Learn to” programs in alpine and Nordic skiing, biathlon, sled hockey, curling and snowboarding were also offered.
What It’s Really All About
Some people think that this is just another ski event but it’s about so much more than skiing – It is life-changing! The relationships, the smiles, the positive energy, the mentors, and the exposure to sports for people with physical disabilities are what it’s really all about!
This Week’s Favorite Holiday Gear Picks, Straight From Our Fun TMS Staff To You!
With Christmas only a few days away and your “dirt bag ski bum” taken care of, as well as your “overly concerned parents” happily checked off for the year, that leaves the last (but not least) on your shopping list – the starving student! Every family seems to have one, or at least someone who lives like one, but what do you buy for someone who needs everything? Our TMS starving students, Meaghen and Ryan, have the perfect gift ideas that will help even the most destitute on your list feel like gear-royalty (opposite of gear-junkie) without breaking the bank.
I’ve liked this Chico backpack ever since I saw it. It barely weighs anything and scrunches down really small so it would be perfect to keep in my glove box. That way I’d always have it in case I decide to take a quick hike or walk my dog. Also for grocery trips – I wouldn’t worry about forgetting recyclable bags because I’d always have a big one in the car, and it’s much easier to carry when I walk or ride my bike home from the store.
Why do I want this North Face hoody? Because it’s sick! Hmm…what else? It’s really soft and I like the way the hood zips up all the way around your head but leaves the perfect little window to see out of. It blocks out the wind but the fabric is really comfortable and the zipper won’t rub my chin and annoy me when I’m running.
I need a new pair of goggles really bad and these Smith Goggles are the best goggles out there. They’re really comfortable and they look sweet! The weather changes so much in Tahoe that it would be nice to keep an extra lens in the car and be able to switch from back-and-forth really fast (flat-light to low-light).
I do a lot of lightweight hiking and long-distance trail running when the ground is dry, but it’s not always warm outside. I wouldn’t even notice this in my pack because it’s so small and light, just like the other Snow Peak gear I have, and I tend to drink tasty beverages like cocoa and coffee really fast so if I had a straw I could savor those moments a little longer.
My thermals are shot! I wear the same pair almost every day and put a lot of miles on them in the backcountry. I figure if I got some Smartwool long underwear next, they would last a long time and I could wear them repeatedly without stinking them up too bad. Plus, sometimes it’s really cold and wet in the mornings and other days it’s not that bad – these would do the trick in all conditions.
I really like how much I can do with these gloves on. I borrowed a buddy’s Ergo Grip gloves a while ago and was immediately sold on them. It was nice not to have to take them off when I needed to grab something from my pack, adjust my goggles or unzip my pit-zips (underarm vents).
This Week’s Favorite Holiday Gear Picks, Straight From Our Fun TMS Staff To You!
Great! Now that you’ve completed your Christmas shopping for the “Dirt Bag Ski Bum” in your life, you can focus on the “Overly Concerned Parent” that has stumped your holiday purchasing frenzy. We got inside the minds of TMS owner Pam and her daughter, Adina, to find out what they really want this year.
Pam – TMS Owner (for my daughter, Adina)
$154.95 / 94.95 - Marmot Starstruck Jacket and Marmot Skyline Pants
Keeping my daughter warm and dry is a top priority in winter, so I only buy the best outerwear. I love the Starstruck Jacket for girls because it has the same technical features (insulated, waterproof, stylish) as the adult version but in cute colors for little girls. Pair it up with the Skyline pants and your kid can play outside all day long without complaining.
$79.95 - Smith Galaxy/Cosmos Helmet Goggle Package – A helmet is key for safety especially for an active child. I’ve watching our daughter bounce hard on snow, ice and pavement so we want the best helmet for her protection and it needs to be cute and comfortable too so that she’ll wear it. The Galaxy/Cosmos Helmet Goggle combo fits the requirements – an affordable helmet and goggles that comes in pink with butterflies!
$34.95 - The North Face Sprout kids backpack - Overly concerned parents like to make sure we have packed EVERYTHING, so a backpack is a must. I like The North Face Sprout because it’s just the right size for my daughter and she can carry her own essentials now that she’s four years old. For older kids, there are great larger packs like the Deuter Kids Backpack.
Pam (for me!)
$20.95 / 19.95 – Smartwool Mini-Fairisle and Smartwool Jovian Stripe
I love socks and think they are the best holiday gift. I especially love the colors of the Mini Fairisle socks and Jovian Stripe socks.
$34.95 - Icebreaker BF150 Sprite Hot Pant - I think the Icebreaker BF150 is hot! The color combos are bright and fun while the style is cute and comfortable. I totally want a pair – or two or three – this winter.
$249.95 -Ugg Australia Brooks Tall Boot - The Brooks Tall UggBoot in black would put a huge smile on my face this winter. Fashionable, warm and waterproof; the perfect boot. Please tell my husband that I want these!
Adina – TMS Poster Child
$18.95 – Black Diamond Wiz Headlamp - Adina really wants her own headlamp, so the Black Diamond Wiz will be going in her stocking this year. It comes it cute color schemes and is plenty bright for her to play at night or to tag along on night-hikes with my husband and I.
$34.95 – Bogs Glosh Boot – She already has Bogs boots, which we love, but she really wants the new Glosh Boot since it’s pink and weighs less than her current pair. The handles are a great addition to an already waterproof and warm winter boot.
$24.95 – Nite Ize Flashflight Lighted Frisbee – Anything from Nite Ize that lights up, like this glow in the dark frisbee, would be another perfect gift for my precious little munchkin.
This Week’s Favorite Holiday Gear Picks, Straight From Our Fun TMS Staff To You!
Everyone has those unique friends and family members who are a little more challenging to shop for around Christmas. The staff at Tahoe Mountain Sports understands this and wants to help you find something for everyone on your holiday list. How can we possibly help you find something for, let’s say, your “dirt bag ski bum”, your “overly concerned parent”, or maybe the “starving student” in your life? Well, we went to our talented staff for suggestions. Over the next few weeks leading up to Christmas, the magicians at TMS will be provide their top picks for each of these truly “special” people in your life, in hopes that you will be celebrating this season with good cheer and great gear!
Todd – TMS Web Guru
$24.95 (on sale for 15.95) Squallywood – The Complete Guide To Squaw Valley - This book has the skinny on Squaw’s sickest lines. No more staring down cliffs and couloirs and wondering whether it’s possible to make it down alive – Squallywood has the beta you need to slay the gnarliest of gnar.
$44.95 – Mountain Hardwear Stimulus Stretch Glove - Touchscreen-compatible liner gloves would let me check emails and surf the web from the chairlift without frozen hands.
$649.95 – Smith I/O Recon Goggles - These goggles are just way too cool! They project real-time data right in front of your eyes, including: altitude, vertical feet, speed, distance, temperature, navigation and even jump analytics. It can also connect with your smartphone to view incoming calls and text messages, and let you control your music. Ski geeks are sure to have a nerdgasm if they find Recon goggles under the tree.
Adam – TMS Content Manager
$19.95 - Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Crew Socks – I’ve got plenty of great ski socks, but usually wear ankle socks when I’m just tooling around outside or at work. As winter approaches I’m realizing I’ll need some good crew socks and I recently decided SmartWool is the only way to go if I want all-day comfort, warmth and the ability to wear the same pair repeatedly before washing without stinking up the office.
$39.95 -DryGuy Transporter Boot & Glove Dryer – I work a lot and I snowboard as often as possible, so it would be reassuring to know that if I have to leave my gear in the car all day the DryGuy can still dry my boots and gloves by the time I get to the trailhead at 5:30 am.
$218.95 – Suunto Vector Watch – My iPhone is great, but I’m sick of unzipping a pocket to check the time. The Vector has an altimeter so I can guage my altitude and progress in a white-out storm, a barometer that senses a change in weather, and a compass and logbook so I can track routes on long days or multi-day backcountry trips.
With the fresh snow we’ve been comes a fresh look and the latest pack reviews from our TMS/Boreas Adventure Team! Read on to see how the Boreas Lost Coast 60 held up against two of our most fearless and mighty pack testers!
1) How do you like the way the pack sits on your back?
(ROMMEL) The Lost Coast 60 was my traveling “Base Camp”. The pack fit great with even weight distribution and was extremely light.
2) Are there any changes you would make to the belt buckle?
(ROMMEL) The only suggestion I have about the belt is a change in the pockets. The hip belt pockets were in the way (just a little) during my climbs.
3) What do you feel this pack is best suited to do?
(ROMMEL) Overall, it worked terrific for climbing.
4) Is there a similar pack you have been lusting after? (It’s okay if it’s not theirs.)
(ROMMEL) I was eyeing the change Black Diamond made to their packs by going to a “Minimalist” feature design.
5) What did you like most about the pack?
(ROMMEL) One of the most impressive design qualities of this pack was how the top is situated back from the head and shoulders. For climbing this design proved invaluable, allowing for unrestricted movement of the head when climbing with a helmet on. In addition, the “soft shell” material in the front and side pockets handled being dragged over granite surprisingly well.
6) What did you like least about the pack?
(ROMMEL) Once again, the only part of this pack that didn’t work specifically for climbing was the hip belt pockets because they were sometimes in the way.
7) Overall thoughts on the bag?
(ROMMEL) I liked this pack so much that I will be trading my Black Diamond climbing pack for the Boreas Lost Coast 60.
(TIRELLA) New backpack companies always intrigue me. In a market so saturated with big-name brands, it takes a huge amount of drive and a passion for the outdoors and design to want to enter into such a competitive field.
Enter Boreas, a new company from San Francisco that stresses utility and simplicity through their impressively large and diverse pack lineup. I have previously owned their small 15-liter Repack, which I found perfect for biking and stuffing basketball shoes and some clothes into when going to the gym. I had some recommendations for improvement- and lo and behold the good folks at Boreas actually listened! They implemented them on an updated version of the pack, so needless to say I was very excited when Tahoe Mountain Sports gave me the chance to check out Boreas’ largest backpacking pack, the Lost Coast 60!
1) How do you like the way the pack sits on your back?
(TIRELLA) While the pack may not look “techy” on the outside, small design implementations ensure it wears incredibly comfortable.
Don’t you just long for the days when internal frame packs were the new thing? When an internal frame pack was essentially a hard metal square shoved into your pack? Neither do I!
Boreas’ frames are thin and lightweight, and unique in that they’re so noticeably curved. The result is that the pack wears “off your back”, allowing a space to form for air to circulate. This, coupled with the foam back, is a simple and comfortable combination.
The Z-Foam on the Lost Coast is a grown-up version of that found on my Repack, and it’s incredibly comfortable. The larger size of the ridges allows more air to flow and it’s really something you have to try to believe. They are “deeper” than those found on my Repack, and the result is a more solid, supportive back area. If you are having trouble imagining the design of the back panel, imagine someone took the soles off of a pair of Reebok ZigTech shoes, softened them up, and then covered them in mesh - very comfortable! The same “ridge” design radiates onto the hip belt, although in a vertical fashion.
2) Are there any changes you would make to the belt buckle?
(TIRELLA) All the adjustment and compression straps, barring the hip belt buckle, are smaller and thinner than what I’m accustomed to on backpacking packs of this size. It just seems weird to not have a 2-inch wide strap to tug on. They don’t necessarily feel weak, and I’m sure it’s how Boreas cut down on weight, but I just wonder how they will hold up over the course of a year or so.
3) What do you feel this pack is best suited to do?
(TIRELLA) This is a simple pack. It’s big, but not cavernous, and fully packed it would well serve a backpacking trip of about 4 nights, maybe a couple more if you are really skimping on camping comforts. At 3.5 pounds it doesn’t weigh much, and while that won’t put it on the short-list for through hikers or ultra lighters- it’s light enough for those of us whom, as Boreas’ website states, “care about weight but are not crazy enough to cut the handles off their toothbrushes.” Amen.
4) Is there a similar pack you have been lusting after? (It’s okay if it’s not theirs.)
(TIRELLA) I have been looking forward to testing out an upgraded version of my 15-liter Boreas Repack.
5) What did you like most about the pack?
(TIRELLA) Boreas has managed to fit a lot of storage space into the Lost Coast. Take for example the “double” brain compartment. While not much different than that of any other pack, what with a zipped interior pocket and straightforward design, the top of this pack has two zippered pockets. One is layered on top of the other, so you have an extra level of access and organization without losing out on storage space. The tuck-able daisy chains and ice loops, similar to the Repack 15, fold easily in and out of sight when not in use. The belt loop pockets, somewhat of an afterthought most of the time, are huge on the Lost Coast. So big I almost fit a DSLR camera inside of them. I said “almost” – but each one still easily fit a set of keys, a couple of cliff bars, a wallet and a cell phone. I would also like to make a note of the included adjustment slip. This is a small inclusion, which may be overlooked by some, but I believe it tells a ton about this company. You can have the most expensive pack in the world- but if it’s not fitted right, you won’t like it at all. Boreas, unlike any other pack company I have supported, included a fit guide with the pack. In an easy-to-understand, conversational tone, they illustrate how to fit the pack. And more importantly, they tell you WHY (“Your goal is to get about 70% of the weight on your hips. You may have other goals too”). Too often in our field of outdoor sporting goods the emphasis is on the features rather than the feeling.
6) What did you like least about the pack?
(TIRELLA) While the pack has a ton going for it, as expected in the first iteration of a model by a new company there are some small problems I found. They are mostly harmless, and perhaps they are just a result of being used to having these features on my current pack.
There is one main compartment with an obligatory hydration sleeve on the inside. This pocket probably accounts for 90% of the pack’s storage. This leads to one of my only complaints with the pack, which is a lack of access. Since the pack is essentially one large compartment, things at the bottom are incredibly tough to get to, as the only access point to the inside is through the top. While the main compartment is certainly huge, I would have liked to see just one more separate area for organizing gear. While the center compartment does have an overhanging “lid”, it would have been nice to see some kind of securing feature: even just a small strip of Velcro to prevent things from falling out or from curious hands while traveling. Another issue is that the back panel has no place “behind it” for the shoulders’ adjustment straps to fall, so they either sit uncomfortably between your back and the foam padding or flapping off to the side. Another small problem is that the hip belt doesn’t pivot. Again, this is something that I’m just used to on my pack. A pivoting hip belt makes the pack wear more fluidly while bending or twisting. However, that’s about it. The positives of this pack far outweigh these few drawbacks, but depending on how you use your pack, they might be bigger issues than they were for me.
7) Overall thoughts on the bag.
(TIRELLA) As a San Francisco company, you can tell just by browsing their website that design is incredibly important to Boreas. Their selection of bags- all in their first model year- is expansive. At the same time, they all share a very distinctive look and you can tell the design cues were well thought out and implemented. Not just individually are these packs beautiful to look at, but the design is consistent among the whole lineup, something many companies do not choose to do. That is something that really resonates to me. The hexagonal foam padding and hip-belt pocket graphics on the Lost Coast match exactly up to those on my Repack 15. While this is not a make or break issue for a pack, it is reassuring to know that design will not lose out to utility as packs become increasingly more full of features.
There’s a lot of attention to detail on the Lost Coast- from the reinforced pull-tabs on the shoulder cinch straps, to how the “V”-stitching on the front of the pack coincides with the compression straps to ensure a supported load. I especially liked the drawstring on the top of the large compartment. The zippers all feel solid (with the exception of that on the inside of the brain), and the pull-tabs are beefy and feel secure. I opted for the simple black and blue model, but there are two other color lines available for those who want to spice things up a little. It should be noted that these colors match up to the scheme on my Repack, another sign of lineup consistency that I really appreciate.
In Conclusion:
This is a great pack. I think the overwhelming majority of people will be enticed by the simplicity and comfort of the Lost Coast 60. For me personally, the lack of access in a 60-liter pack is a little bit of a turnoff, however I imagine the inconvenience is less so in the 30 and 45-liter models as you have less stuff to reach for. It’s certainty not the most technical pack available, and the lack of features and easily accessible pockets may deter some buyers. Still, it’s simple, elegant design and attention to detail make it one of the best weekend backpacking packs available, in my opinion. And for the low price of $199, the Lost Coast is a steal.
1) How do you like the way the pack sits on your back?
(GREENWOOD) The large backpack is really comfortable. It breathes well and moves fluidly with me. I wish I could have pulled it closer to my shoulders with the upper shoulder strap stabilizer; the strap needs to be longer.
2) Are there any changes you would make to the belt buckle?
(GREENWOOD) The hip belt is awesome although it tends to curl under It’s self. I had to pay attention to laying it flat on my hips before buckling it or it would fold under and annoy me. I enjoyed the pockets on the hip belt but the main buckle is just a little awkward, as it requires just a little more guidance than a standard three-tie buckle. I loved the ability to pull both straps inward simultaneously to equally tighten the belt!
3) What do you feel this pack is best suited to do?
(GREENWOOD) The pack was ideal for a three-night trip. I schlepped it all over the place: long days on the trail, cross country through willow, over granite and balanced on logs. It is really a great pack with a low profile and body hugging morphism. It’s too big for day hikes but I think it may be too small for treks longer than 5 days. Put a bear canister in there and it would be REALLY tight!
4) Is there a similar pack you have been lusting after? (It’s okay if it’s not theirs.)
(GREENWOOD) I was really open to any pack that was lighter than my Gregory. This mountain pack helped me shave my fully loaded pack weight from 49 to 25. What a difference! I am really satisfied with it.
5) What did you like most about the pack?
(GREENWOOD) I really like the stretchy fabric component of this weekend pack. The hidden daisy chains are great too and there were so many pockets! I loved the plethora of pockets in the top lid. The hip belt was really comfortable. I also liked the pull “loops” on the zippers and tightening straps that made things easier to adjust.
6) What did you like least about the pack?
(GREENWOOD) It really prefers to lie on its back when not on my back. It falls over unless perfectly propped up, and because it refuses to stand, it is a bit awkward to put on. It has to be lifted every time instead of propped on a rock or something else and then slipped into. This could be a girl thing. Many women tend to not lift and fling a backpack on like men do; instead a lot of ladies like to wriggle into it. If it could somehow have a more square-like bottom or a firm plastic piece to help it stand that would be helpful. While I love the stretchy fabric, it does tend to pick up burrs easily and gets dirty fast, it also gets quite misshaped if not packed carefully.
7) Overall thoughts on the bag.
(GREENWOOD) I am sold on the trail pack. It really fulfilled all my needs and is comfortable, light, adaptable and manageable. The compression straps keep things tight and conforming. The stretchy fabric ads space where needed. I really like the hip belt for comfort and it’s lightweight attributes. It doesn’t have that heavy bulk that other backpacks associate with comfort, which is great. In closing, I would recommend this overnight pack to friends.
You have been waiting for it, dreaming of it, and desiring the outcome. From the edges of bike seats to the vistas of mountaintops, you haven’t been able to eat or sleep. Yes, this is true, but your deprivation has fogged your memory. “What is it that I’m thirsting for again?”, you ask. The exciting results of our fearless TMS/Boreas Pack Tester Adventure Team, of course! Our “brave seven” embarked, over the past month, on their own grand adventures to put the new Boreas backpacks to the ultimate test. This test would officially dub the Boreas packs worthy of outdoor gear grandeur, or at least provide feedback that will help Boreas meet their goal of greatness. If you are one of the many who have been waiting on the edge of your Thermarest for us to unveil the secrets of great packs, hold onto your Gu, because here it comes! The TMS/Boreas Pack Tester Adventure Team’s final results!
Overview: During the testing of this bag I took my Boreas on multiple trips. Out of the gate I took the bag to Alaska for some work around Talkeetna and Denali, followed by a few days out in the tundra of Bethel, AK. From the Last Frontier, this pack helped me take a few weekend trips to Western Montana, mostly acting as a suitcase. After it’s journey through Big Sky Country, it went down to Denver and Golden, Colorado for some more work (with some hiking mixed in on South Table Mountain when I could). I don’t do any extended backpacking, so I didn’t test this on any overnight trips in the woods.
1. How do you like the way the pack sits on your back? (TESKE) I had a couple of issues with the way the pack sat on my back. The curve of the internal frame did not match up with my upper back as well as I’d like. It took some fiddling with the shoulder straps and load lifters to get something the felt right, but even in the best position it still felt like I was being forced to hunch over a bit. A great feature of this pack is the removable frame sheet. It was really easy to take it in and out, even when the pack was loaded. That is an issue I have with my current 30L daypack. Sometimes you need the bag to be able to lose its shape (like when stuffing it in between the seats of a bush plane). The issue I had was that when the frame sheet was removed, the “z-foam” padding tended to bulge in the lower back area. So it’s kind of a trade off, remove the sheet for fitting it into tight spaces or for day trips, but endure some slight discomfort in the lower back.
2. Are there any changes you would make to the belt buckle? (TESKE) The belt buckle functioned very well. The wide straps for tightening made adjustments easy. The little pouches on the belt were designed very well for holding small items. The semi-rigid bands on the pouches were a great touch and made getting in and out with one hand pretty easy.
3) What do you feel this pack is best suited to do? (TESKE) This pack would be great for a two or three day backpacking trip. It didn’t really function as well as I would like for my needs. The 55L size is huge, and Boreas’ design lets you use every square inch of it. I loaded it up for multi-day trips to Alaska, Denver, and Montana and never maxed out the main pouch, even with multiple clothing layers and shoes going in with some camera gear. Most of the time during my test it was less than half full with the camera and field gear I needed for my work. Accessing the items in the bag can be a bit of a hassle when reaching down to the bottom of the bag from the cinch top. However, that cinch top opening was like a snake, it swallowed anything I packed into the bag whole.
4) Is there a similar pack you have been lusting after? (It’s okay if it’s not ours.) (TESKE) I can’t think of a specific model of pack. I was looking for something larger than my current 25L daypack and not as large as my large-size North Face Base Camp Duffel. This was in that size range, but again, 55L, especially the way Boreas lays it out, is huge. I think a 30L or 40L Boreas bag would be more what I could use.
5) What did you like most about the pack? (TESKE) I loved that Boreas maximized the space inside the bag. It was like one of those old Navy duffels with a lightweight, comfortable frame system. A close second was the sleek design. Even when loaded to the gills there weren’t many straps or loops hanging off it to snag on seats or foliage when dragging the bag around. In fact the design is so sleek it took me two days to notice the rather size-able zipper pocket on the front of the bag.
6) What did you like least about the pack? (TESKE) Really the top load design was not very good for me. I think it was designed well overall, but I think I need either a smaller top load bag, or a panel load bag to get at my items easier.
7) Best uses? What activities do you think this pack is best used for? (TESKE) A 2-3 day backpacking trip would be the best use of this. It really didn’t work well as a travel pack and was too big for an extended day pack.
8) Overall thoughts on the bag. (TESKE) I haven’t used a large frame pack since I was in The Boy Scouts. I know technology has come a long way since those days and Boreas seems to take things in a great new direction by incorporating key features with unobtrusive design. I will probably take a look at some of their other packs and bags to augment my ever-expanding collection.
1) How do you like the way the pack sits on your back? (BORDEN) The Boreas 60 was extremely comfortable for me. I’ve been using a 5-1/2 lb pack and didn’t think I could get comfort in a mid-weight pack, but this pack felt as if it was tailored just for me. I took it on a 4-night, 41-mile trek in the Wind River Range of Wyoming. I’ve been backpacking for 30+ years and have had many packs, and this is by far the most comfortable and functional.
2) Are there any changes you would make to the belt buckle? (BORDEN) I was concerned about the size of the buckles; they are small, but did work well. My concern is if it were really cold I may not have the hand dexterity to manage such a small buckle. The belt buckle itself was fine. I also would like to see the Camelback hose opening a 1/2″ longer. I had a heck of a time snaking the hose through the slot when it was 28-degrees outside. The sternum strap was fine for me, but I would have liked to see more range of up and down.
3) What do you feel this pack is best suited to do? (BORDEN) This pack is best suited for backpacking.
4) Is there a similar pack you have been lusting after? (It’s okay if it’s not ours.) (BORDEN) My plan was to start pack shopping toward the end of this season, so thanks for saving me the trouble! I have a Gregory Deva and a Z pack that now will be lenders. I was going to look at Deuter packs.
5) What did you like most about the pack? (BORDEN) I liked the comfort of the pack. I carried 35-40 lbs for 5 days up and down mountain passes and was completely comfortable. No shoulder or hip rubbing, and the load stayed centered and snug. I liked the large outside pocket as a quick place to store rain gear, which I did need in a hurry! The loosening loop on the hip belt was awesome, as well as all of the daisy chain loops and the way the fabric seems to stretch to accommodate whatever you want to put in the pack. I also loved the two hip belt pockets and the two deep outer side pockets for added storage. Thank you, Boreas, for making them so deep!
6) What did you like least about the pack? (BORDEN) What I like least is the color. Orange is actually my favorite color and I will never be mistaken for a deer, but it is sure shows the dirt. The buckle sizes could be larger, as stated before, with exception of the hip belt.
7) Overall thoughts on the bag. (BORDEN) I really liked this pack and it really surprised me that I did. I took my old pack with me to the trailhead because I was afraid to try a new one on this long of a trip, but once I loaded it I liked the way everything fit and decided to just roll with it. I’m so glad I did! Additionally, I have to say that it’s great it comes with a rain cover – not many packs go the extra mile like that. The Lost Coast 60 is smaller than the bag I’ve been using, but it holds more and does it more efficiently. Overall, this was a great pack.
ADVENTURER DETWILER – BOREAS BAG TEST REPORT
Name: Michael Detwiler Pack Testing: Boreas Repack 15
1) How do you like the way the pack sits on your back? (DETWILER) It fits well. I have never worn a pack that sits high on the hips like this one does but I like how it keeps the weight higher up.
2) Are there any changes you would make to the belt buckle? (DETWILER) The buckle is good. I might add a bit more padding for more comfort when weighed down with heavier gear, but I just had some lightweight items so that wasn’t a big deal.
3) What do you feel this pack is best suited to do? (DETWILER) It’s best suited for short day hikes and bike rides. It has plenty of room for lunch and a few important items.
4) Is there a similar pack you have been lusting after? (It’s okay if it’s not ours.) (DETWILER) No.
5) What did you like most about the pack?
(DETWILER) The adjustment loops on the hip belt were really handy. The bungee loops on the outside were great when I went for a hike and had to secure my fishing rods to the pack. It’s a very lightweight pack and stays secured to your back.
6) What did you like least about the pack? (DETWILER) I would have liked a third compartment. Also, the sternum strap rubbed on my arms when I went SUP’n (Stand-Up-Paddleboarding), but this was fixed by moving the strap down with the adjustable sliders. Another concern that I had was that I was worried I might tear the pack if I crashed or snagged a branch. Maybe the material is strong, but I worried it would tear easily.
7) Best uses? What activities do you think this pack is best used for? (DETWILER) This pack works great for mountain biking and day hikes.
8) Overall thoughts on the bag. (DETWILER) I liked the pack. Overall it was a good choice in gear.
This feature comes from Kirsten Alburg, a TMS staff writer, teacher, and owner of Alaska’s Take Refuge Canoe. Kirsten is a regular contributor to our blog and an above-average adventure enthusiast living on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska.
A Jetboil cooking system in use on-board a canoe.
Take Refuge Canoe, an adventure canoe company that runs guided and outfitted canoe trips in the Kenai Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, boasts that without their Jet Boil Cook System they would be up a crick without a paddle.
The Kenai Wildlife Refuge Canoe System, one of only three nationally recognized wilderness canoe systems in America, combines close to 300 lakes within two river systems with abundant wildlife. With many lakes to paddle there are just as many portages to forge, so paddlers expect to carry their gear a good distance – sometimes upwards of a mile. Since canoes weigh so much, there is a strong emphasis on packing light, and camp stoves are never an exception.
This is why Take Refuge Canoe uses the Jet Boil Helios Group 1.5 liter Cooking Systemas their campsite and on-the-go cooking system for all their trips. With an adjustable burner, push-button ignition, insulated lid and canister stabilizer, things are really made easier out on the trail (or boat) when you have a Jetboil.
Stove and Fuel both fit in the pot!
Jetboil fuel canisters are also small and lightweight, and just the right size (110 grams) to accurately gauge your fuel consumption prior to departure. This makes it very easy to pack for an adventure.
The Jet Boil Flash is also a key component on all canoe trips, due to its simple usability inside the boat and its quick boiling time. A thermochromic temperature indicator is visible through three stripes on the side of the 1-liter anodized aluminum cooking cup, so you can tell when your water is hot and close to boiling. When it reaches boiling, pour it through a Jetboil Coffee Press and enjoy your favorite brew when you’re as far from a Starbucks as you can get. Jetboils have excellent fuel efficiency and are one of the best backpacking stoves available today.
TRC’s last group of the season, who decided to embark on an extremely rainy fall overnight trip, was especially thankful for the quick cups of hot tea, coffee, and meals made along the way, says company owner Kirsten Alburg. It was these “liquids from heaven” that our guests said kept their spirits high and dry during the nearly flood-stage two-day downpour. A note taken from the TRC suggestion box stated, “The Jet Boil system was our best friend during our amazing yet damp paddle trip through the Kenai Wildlife Refuge! It’s so nice to book with a company that has the right gear for the job!”
This feature comes from Kirsten Alburg, a TMS staff writer, teacher, and owner of Alaska’s Take Refuge Canoe. Kirsten is a regular contributor to our blog and an above-average adventure enthusiast living on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska.
Following the lead of their instructor, a dozen-Yogi clan paddled into a single-file line between buoys, excited to embark upon a new adventure: the sport of water-top yoga. Without their paddles for balance, the group flounders as they attempt the Downward Dog position.
Their instructor explained that when she first jumped into paddleboard yoga the expanse of the water broadened her perspective of the exercise and gave her respect for the sport. “It’s way bigger than you; the water, the balance needed, the focus,” she said.
It’s key to not be distracted when you’re trying to balance above frigid waters. You’re forced to truly be one with the moment – to focus on your breath, the board and the water. You can’t control the environment. It’s not like an indoor studio where you can catch yourself when faltering. As the group’s leader worded it, “It’s intense! You have to really be one with the water to stay on the board, but it’s so much fun!”
At the end of the workout, as the sunscreen-protected group lay on their backs in Corpse pose, a flock of ducks flew overhead – a sign that true balance with nature had been achieved.
Balancing atop a large surfboard is noteworthy, but twelve people posing on stand-up paddleboards is enough to get the attention any passerby. Stand Up Paddleboarding, considered one of the hottest new sports today, is a draw for many water and yoga fans.
Each year the sport of paddleboarding increases in popularity. SUP yoga migrated from Hawaii to California and now is taking off throughout the United States. SUPs are not propelled by waves alone, but by their rider wielding a long single-bladed paddle. Stand Up Paddleboards are longer and wider than regular surfboards, improving buoyancy and balance ability.
Paddleboard yoga is a variation of Stand-up Paddle Surfing (SUP, or Hoe he’e nalu in Hawaiian) combined with the ancient practice of Yoga, which originated in Rishikesh, India. The sport combines the ancient practice of hathayoga and vinyasa yoga asanas, or poses, with the ancient form of surfing.
SUP yoga benefits athletes with a strong ‘core’ workout. Some of these benefits include decreased blood pressure, cholesterol and weight, coordination improvement and increased range of motion. It can even help treat anxiety and depression. Paddle Board Yoga is popular in warm coastal climates and resorts, and is gaining in popularity. Celebrities such as Jennifer Anniston, Matthew McConaughey, Lance Armstrong and Kate Hudson are sampling the sport, and cross-over athletes such as big wave surf pioneer Laird Hamilton are training with SUPs.
Author: Kirsten is a TMS staff writer, teacher, and owner of Alaska’s Take Refuge Canoe, a company offering fully outfitted canoe adventures on the Kenai Peninsula.
As cool air welcomed the greeting of fall in Alaska’s Kenai Wildlife Refuge, a splendor of crystal blue sprinkled with gold beckoned us to jump in our boats and go canoeing!
Our adventure began driving our 12-passenger van and canoe trailer down the Swanson River Road, a fifty minute dirt road rumble with the added excitement of wildlife around every corner. The road was originally created for the Swanson River Oil Field, Alaska’s first productive oil field, circa 1957. The Swanson River road stretches 17.5 miles north into a forested, lake-rich section of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, and terminates at the Swanson River. Moose can often be seen feeding along the road early and late in the day. Roadside access to nine different lakes offers a chance to see common loons and other waterfowl, bear, lynx, wolf and hundreds of birds species!
Kenai Wildlife Refuge Canoe System:
The Swan Lake and Swanson River canoe paddling routes are located in the northern lowlands of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was established to conserve the fish, wildlife and habitats of the Kenai Peninsula in their natural diversity, as well as provide opportunities for fish and wildlife-oriented recreation. The canoe routes are located in a nationally designated wilderness area. The routes are also one of three National Recreational Canoe Trails in America!
We put in at the West Entrance of the Swan Lake Canoe System, where we knew the first three lakes had great trout fishing. These lakes also have fairly short portages, so we had less than 1/4-mile to carry our canoes and gear between them. This is a nice contrast to the longer, mile-long portages that are encountered further into the system. With the fall colors in full bloom, we found that the hikes were some our favorite parts of the trip. At times it seemed as though we were walking through tunnels of gold, and the scent of the turning foliage was refreshing.
In the crisp, 50-degree blue-bird day, we were well dressed as we paddled from lake to lake. We paused to fish, hike the banks, and to enjoy wonderful wildlife moments.
On Canoe 1 we paddled into what seemed like a beautiful post card setting. We watched a beaver as it jumped from the banks and slapped it’s tail, warning us to stay clear of its home.
On Canoe 2 we watched as a pair of common loons enjoyed the romantic setting together. Their collective song echoed across the lake as we paddled, bringing joy to our hearts and a smooth tempo to our stroke. A large bull moose also graced us with his presence during our second portage, and then quickly moved deeper into the colors in the opposite direction.
Canoe 3 was most exciting as it provided us with a few wonderful gifts: one black bear grazing the south shore and three 20-inch rainbow trout that we enjoyed for dinner later that night.
It is well known by those who enjoy canoeing that the further back into the system you travel the more wildlife you experience. This makes it difficult to force yourself to turn around after just a few short hours. Paddling the larger loops can take anywhere from three to ten days, and as much as we wanted to keep going, we weren’t prepared for anything longer than a day. This is a heartbreaking reality, and as we looked at the next portage trail sign that clearly pointed the way to Contact Lake, deeper into the system, we wondered what magic the day would have held for us had we continued our journey just a little further.
Collective Alaska experiences have taught us that thoughts of safety should always prevail over adventure, so we continued to wonder as we turned around and paddled home. After an amazing eight hours of paddling and fishing in one of Alaska’s greatest best kept secrets, we loaded everything back onto the trailer and headed out. Overwhelmed with pleasure yet emotionally, spiritually, and physically exhausted, we shared fun stories all the way home. It was a great day paddling in Alaska!
Stan Powers, from Washington, was kind enough to contribute this review to Tahoe Mountain Sports. Stan swears by his Vibram Five Fingers and hopes to persuade more runners to fall in line.
I was actually turned on to Vibram Shoes by my eye doctor who runs in them almost daily. He has run half-marathons and will be doing a marathon in them soon. They seem to come from the philosophy that the native Africans and Australians had to run miles and miles to run down their prey. Gazelles, as well as other animals, tend to overheat when they run too much because they have no means of sweating. It’s amazing, really – these natives have no arch supports or Salomon running shoes! By running on the toes of your feet and letting your them absorb the shock, versus landing with all that impact on your heels, you don’t send the shocks directly up your leg. This helps to prevent knee and hip pain both now and in the future.
Converting to Vibram Shoes is not easy, but totally worth it! I had some pretty nasty foot pain develop when I first started trail running in my Vibrams, but in time the pain went away. The only thing I must recommend, as you’ve probably heard from others, is to break your finger shoes in slowly. Our foot muscles, tendons and ligaments tend to degenerate over years of non-use. I got a bit too aggressive because the shoes felt so liberating and seemed to provide infinite energy, so I ran further than I likely should have on my third time out. The result – a small fracture in one of the top bones coming from my fourth toe. I stayed away from running for a month or so. That was difficult, but worth it, and I have been more than happy with my new shoes ever since.
I ran my first 10K in them at the ocean in July. It was fun watching all those footprints deep in the sand in front of me, but looking behind me I noticed I hardly left a trail at all. I was able to run a 10K in under one hour comfortably, which was a first for me. I suggest these Vibram shoes to anyone who runs! Why fight what we are naturally made to do?
I was actually turned on to Vibram Shoes by my eye doctor who runs in them almost daily. He has 
