Go anywhere, do anything

In this series of Go to Gear I would like to discuss a piece that is totally essential to anyone, regardless of the amount of time you choose to spend outside: the softshell.

I have chosen The North Face's Apex Bionic Jacket.

There are a few simple reasons why this is the best jacket out there.

1. Price: this jacket can be found online for around $130, however you can often find it at outdoor shops on sale. The price cannot be beat!

2. Features: we are talking waterproof, totally windproof and proper fitting for layering. The side pockets are very roomy and the chest pocket offers ample space for a phone or an Mp3 player. The fabric of the jacket is a unique stretch material that leaves the wearer ample space for the movements required for multiple activities.

One surprising features of this thing is the breath-ability. It keeps you warm and dry without making your body feel stale with stagnant air trapped in!

3. Style:

This jacket is perfect for someone who is just getting into the outdoors, a student commuting to class, bike messengers, mall goers, hikers, campers, hip business people, or anyone who wants to arrive in style while being protected from the elements.

I have had my Apex Bionic for four years now and it has seen all sorts of weather; vicious Michigan winters, torrent downpours, gale-force winds and everything in between.

I urge you to pick one up ASAP!

-J

Tomorrow is the day

Faithful readers,

tomorrow I will be departing on the path to Maine. We have no itinerary, this should be a good time.

The cooler is full, the bikes are packed, kayak stuffed to the max. Items tied down, excitement level is very high.

Gone will be the familiarity of our beautiful mitten for adventure and exploring. We will be scaling walls, kayaking in the ocean, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, partying and finding treasures!

More to come later tonight. I have pics and an explanation of packing!

-J

So, packing packing packing, where to begin. I made a list a few weeks ago which was promptly lost. I made a valiant attempt to recreate that list, however I feel that that list was lacking, so I just began making piles of stuff and packing it into the bag.

I am pretty sure that I have everything packed. Watching a little Star Trek, enjoying some Leinie's Oktoberfest, and spending some quality time with C. Bromley before embarking tomorrow.

I fit all of those piles in my trekking bag.

Packed to the brim with all of the goodies that one could need for a multi-day trip.

Ready to go!

I will be using this trip to test out some of my newer jackets:

I am bringing a number of brands and weights, all with their own special features and claims. Hopefully they will provide favorable results.

Tim has allotted me space for my trekking bag, sleeping bag and a day bag.

For the day bag I selected the REI Traverse due to its ruggedness, waterproofing and capacity.

Since I am bringing the laptop and some camera equipment I plan on using my new Outdoor Products media backpack:

It will really help to keep things in order and safe from any unintentional impacts which will surely happen. So far this bag has been a good purchase, it holds everything in its own which is nice when you are traveling.

Well, it is time for bed, I leave you until probably Sunday morning. I hope you enjoy the weekend.

I leave you with a few pictures from my birthday trip home. Enjoy:

Taking some shots on the west fourty

This gnarled stump is a natural work of art.

A little grilled chicken at the Hart Motel, always a good time.

Chelsea picks out her first pumpkin at our new place, happy as ever.

I will talk to you all soon,

-J