BentGearBlog.com

Trip of a Lifetime is here - Himalayan Trip

2007-05-16T11:50:00.000-06:00

Well in two days I am off to the Himalayas in India. I won this trip from Marmot and the dZi foundation and have been counting the days. For me this is a trip that I have dreamed of since I was a kid, when the days of climbing was not about how many carbs where you eating but how many beers you could drink. I remember meeting Don Whillans before he died and what an amazing climber he was and how some of my friends still could not climb like him and that is how I started climbing and still carries over to this day.

This is my 40Th year and I made it this far which amazes me through some of the mis- adventures I have been through.

I fly to India on May 18th and then fly to Leh which everyone tells me is an amazing flight over the Himalayas. We then stay for a day in Leh as we fly in at 11,000ft and then we are off for 3 days by jeep to tour the area that people just never get to see. After that we are volunteering in a clinic for 3 days which will truly be amazing to give something back. Then we start the big trek that starts in:

Chilling in the Ladakh Range, try googleearth.com its cool. Then we hike through the Markha valley to places like Kaya, Chalak and over to 16,500ft to Hangkar and finally ending in Hemis. Wow is all I can say.

Chilling, Start of the trek

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"Geared for Adventure"

Wired to the Himalayas

2007-05-02T15:14:00.000-06:00

In today's modern world it’s easier than ever to stay wired and in tune no matter where you go. Remember no less than 10 years ago those big heavy adaptors for your camera, cell phone and oh yeah those CD players, memories. Children born after the making of deliverance probably have no idea what I am talking about.

On my trip to the Himalayas I want silence, but also a little bit of music, come on, we all do. After doing some research on MP3 players I bought the Creative Zen player because it’s small, I mean I can fit it into the palm of my hand small, and holds 1GB or 500 songs. I have to tell you like all my friends have told me 500 songs are not enough, and they were right of course. It’s amazing how much music you put onto a player.

Here is some of my Playlist:

Pink Floyd - Divison Bell
Gnarls Barkley - Kind of funk
James Blunt - Back to Bedlam
Mozart in Egypt
Lilly Allen - British Rap singer
Streets - British Rap singer
Cowboy Junkies
Diana Krull - Live in Paris
Art Blakey - Old Jazz
U2 - What you can't leave behind
Andrea Bochelli - Opera
Coltrane - Jazz
Il Divo - Opera
Puccinni - Classical
Neil Young
David Grey - Whiteladder and Sell, Sell, Sell
Ella Fitzgerald - Jazz

If anyone has some interesting new music let me know. I would love to listen on that long plane journey.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

dzi Foundation in Nepal

2007-04-27T11:50:00.000-06:00

If you are not sure what the dzi Foundation is, here is a link to their site: http: dzi Foundation. It is on behalf of the dzi Foundation and Marmot that I am going to the Himalayas. The dzi foundation helps provide health care, dental, starting schools and education on nutrition in Nepal and India in the Himalayas where these services have never existed.

Here is the dZi April newsletter by

Jim Nowak, Executive Direc.

Namaste, Friends and Supporters of dZi,

The other night I was at a dinner party and a friend asked me what I thought would be the highlight of my upcoming trip to Asia this spring. I told him that it is always an adventure and I am constantly surprised at what evolves as I travel from region to region to review our projects. Projects that you thought were “spot-on” have an issue or two that need to be dealt with, and what you thought was a problem with an individual, method of deli.

We have not been able to go back to the villages of Chhulemu, Deku, and the Taksindu Monastery area for the last 5 years due to the Maoist conflict. This is the area where Kim and I were married in a Sherpa “Demchang & Zendi” Ceremony that lasted 4 days with 200 Nepali friends from the surrounding area. You want to talk about a party! As we trekked for days to get to the site, the going joke was, “Walk 75 miles and bring a covered dish to Jim & Kim’s Wedding.”

Since our last trip, the Nepal Army and the Maoists have ravaged this peaceful area of the Solu Region, each attempting to control the area. The Maoists ruled by night and the Nepal Army ruled by day and, as in most conflicts, the villagers were caught in the middle, terrorized by both sides. With this 10-year chapter of Nepal’s history (and 12,000 deaths) hopefully behind us, we look optimistically towards the future.

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"Geared for Adventure"

Gear Review - Sleeping Pads

2007-04-26T13:41:00.000-06:00

Yep, I have thought this one over quite a bit recently for my trip to the Himalayas. How am I going to get the best nights sleep without carrying a ton? I already have a Thermarest, the Thermarests that I take when I am backpacking or car camping would probably be fine when push comes to shove, but I did a shop test of the Exped Down mat and I have to tell ya, it's comfortable, I mean really comfortable.

So you guessed it, I am taking the Exped Down mat to the Himalayas. It weighs pretty 28oz give or take a couple of ounces and it packs down pretty well for the amount of insulation you get.

The Exped Down mat is insulated with down so the only hang up is that it seems to take a bit longer to fill up as you need to use the pump bag that doubles as the stuff sack to pump air into the Exped. The Exped Down mat is also made from tough polyester so it will stand a good beating on the trail, but just in case I am really too tough on the Exped it does come with a repair kit.

Yep I think my nights are going to be pleasant under the Himalayan night sky, so I hear!

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"Geared for Adventure"

Gear Review - Down Jackets

2007-04-03T14:27:00.000-06:00

I was looking into my gear closet and I noticed that my once down filled jacket will no longer do for a pillow in the summer, never mind going to the Himalayas, it's time for a new jacket. Teary eyed, I gave up my 10 year old Rab down jacket to the local thrift store and headed out to do some research.

I was drawn to two jackets the Marmot Ama Dablam and the Patagonia Down Sweater.

Marmot Ama Dablam Jacket:

The Ama Dablam jacket has 650+ fill goose down with an adjustable down filled hood that packs down really well, but will keep me warm in May in the Markha Valley. I also liked the Drimclime chin guard for days when we are heading into a wind. The pockets on the inside and outside are actually big enough to put a headlamp, map etc in them. The fit on the Ama Dablam for an athletic woman, well, it fit's, other jackets you know have made a smaller version of the men's.

Patagonia Down Sweater:

The Down Sweater as 800 goose down without a hood. The Patagonia Down Sweater weighs only 10oz and packs down to a small chalk ball. The 800 down fill gives you the added advantage of packing down while lofting better. The zippers on the Down Sweater are lightweight but can easily catch while trying to open and close pockets.

It was a hard choice but I choose the Marmot Ama Dablam becasue of the insulated hood and the Drimclime chin guard, knowing that Himalayan temperatures will drop to +15 or less at night.

Bentgear.com

"Geared for Adventure"

Gear Review - Trekking Poles

2007-03-27T15:09:00.000-06:00

Well as I continue the final count down to the Himalayas in May, I am gathering the outdoor gear I am taking with me as well as the person I am taking with me. I and my guest are taking different styles of trekking poles so it will be interesting on what the end result will be at the end of our Himalayan adventure.

I am taking the Black Diamond Contour Compact Trekking Pole:

I am taking the Black Diamond Contour trekking poles because they are compact and will fit into my travel duffle. Besides that, after trying them out a few times the Contour's are light and the 15 degree angle is really nice with a non slip foam grip that even after a days hiking did not make me sweaty. I feel comfortable with the Black Diamond Flick Lock system and the binary system on the lower half and find them easy to use.

My Guest is taking Life Link Guide Ultra Light trekking pole:

My guest is taking the Life Link Guide Ultra Light trekking poles because they to, are light and have a foam grip handle. The concerns my guest has with the Black Diamond is the flicklock system and will it hold up in the Himalayas and take a good beating. But the Life Link Guide Ultra Light trekking poles also have moving parts so we will see which pair hold up to our test.

Next week's review will be down jackets for the Himalayas.

Bentgear.com

Gear Review - Week One

2007-03-13T13:42:00.000-06:00

This is the first of my weekly gear reviews on what and why I am taking certain gear to the Himalayas. I am trekking in the Markha Valley in May/June and will reach an elevation of 16,500ft.

Marmot Couloir Sleeping Bag - 0 Degree down

The Marmot Couloir is a 0 degree down bag with 800 down fill that will not only loft better than a 650 degree down bag, but also compresses down far better so you get more space for your buck. The climate will be dry so I wanted something that was highly breathable but with a DWR finish. Also as a woman I do get cold especially in the feet and hip area the Couloir provides great insulation in these areas.

Bentgear.com

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Himalayan Trip of a Lifetime

2007-01-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

Well it's not often I write about myself (Head Buyer, Sharon) on the blog, but I think well this deserves a mention big time. Last week thinking it was a joke I received an email telling me I won an all paid trip to the Markha Valley in Ladakh, India, yeh right, right?

Yep I sure did, I am still in the, is this real? to the reality I am going to the Himalayas with somebody else is footing the bill, actually Marmot is footing the bill for this once in a lifetime trip. Thanks Marmot and the dZi Foundation.

I will be spending 24 days trekking in the Markha Valley that is situated on the western end of Himalayas, Ladakh has four major mountain ranges - the great Himalayan, Zanskar, Ladakh and the Karakoram, passing through it. I will be crossing one pass at 15,000ft and another at 16,500ft as it circles from the edges of the Indus Valley with monasteries that dot the landscape perched high atop hills. I will also get a chance to do some good and volunteer for three days by setting up a mobile dental clinic in Leh that the dZi Foundation provide's for first time dental care for the children in the valley.

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It's Dumping, Oh Yeh

2006-11-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

Finally, the Wasatch front is getting a good dumping. Edge your skis, wax the bottoms and enjoy some powder runs. Expected up to 3 feet of snow!

Live cam Canyons

Wednesday before this dump

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Soldier Hollow Wasatch Citizen Series Race

2006-11-10T15:36:00.000-07:00

The annual Nordic Wasatch Citizen Series Race is a great way to get the Nordic season underway, see old friends or start a new sport. The morning races are followed by a great lunch for all participants, than a raffle where it seems everyone wins. Race lengths for all ages and abilities. 10 a.m start.

Soildier Hollow is nestled above Midway and in the shadow of the Wasatch mountains and home to the Cross Country 2002 Winter Olymic games.

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HIGH TRAIN TO TIBET

2006-11-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

I recently came across this article about the new train system build by China going into Tibet at an altuide of 17,000ft. Is this a good thing for the people of Tibet? or will it bring economic growth for the Tibet people. If you have a chance to go would you go?

John Flinn, Chronicle Staff Writer

Strange things are starting to happen as the Lhasa Express chuffs across the rooftop of the world. Outside the double-glazed, UV-blocking windows, I can see black-robed Tibetan nomads tending their enormous, shaggy yaks -- a scene little changed from Marco Polo's day.

But that seems perfectly normal compared to what's happening inside the train. As the altimeter approaches 17,000 feet, a package of potato chips balloons outward until it ruptures a seam. Sunscreen and hand sanitizer erupt unbidden from bottles. In soft sleeper class, Chinese businessmen sprawl listlessly on their bunks, sucking oxygen from plastic hoses. The bathrooms smell of vomit.

Maybe trains were not meant to go this high.

It is, by any reckoning, one of the great engineering feats of our age. Over the last five years, hundreds of thousands of workers laid 700 miles of track over the Kunlun Mountains and across the Tibetan plateau, through some of the highest, coldest and most forbidding real estate on the planet. It cost $4.2 billion.

If anyone was up to the task, it was the Chinese. After all, as a Beijing businessman reminded me, it was Chinese laborers who built the most difficult parts of America's transcontinental railroad.

To be able to swing their pickaxes at altitudes of 13,000 feet and higher, railroad workers wore oxygen masks and were required to spend two hours each day inside one of the 18 oxygen tents set up along the rail line. Even so, Zhang Xiqing, the railway's chief operations director, told the Hong Kong Standard newspaper that 14,500 of them ended up in the hospital, many with a potentially fatal swelling of the brain and lungs caused by extreme altitude.
Environments decry the damage to such a fragile landscape, and others fear its effect on Tibetans and their culture, which have been reeling under 56 years of often-brutal Chinese rule. In an op-ed piece in the New York Times, actor Richard Gere, chairman of the International Campaign for Tibet, called it "the most serious threat by the Chinese yet to the survival of Tibet's unique religious, cultural and linguistic identity."

In all, the rail journey from Beijing to Lhasa covers 2,525 miles and takes just under 48 hours. Environmental and cultural issues aside, how does it rate as a travel experience.

The highest point on the rail line, the Tangu La pass, is usually listed as 16,640-feet. But the map in my Lonely Planet guide places it at 16,994.75 feet, which means passengers -- especially those in the upper bunks -- poke their heads above 17,000 feet. Another map cites an even higher elevation for the pass: 17,126 feet.

One thing is certain: The human body was never designed to rocket up to an elevation this rarefied this quickly. The Sky Train had been operating only a month when it suffered its first passenger fatality, a 76-year-old Hong Kong who suffered a heart attack brought on by the altitude. He had been warned by a doctor not to board the train.

The atmosphere here holds between 40 and 50 percent less oxygen than at sea level. Extra oxygen is pumped into the unpressurized rail cars as they roll across the Tibetan plateau, but it's not clear that it does much good. All around me in the dining car, passengers were suffering the hangover-like symptoms of altitude sickness: throbbing headaches and severe nausea. One by one they staggered off to the bathroom.

Four hundred miles of the route lie atop a particularly unstable form of permafrost that thaws during the day and freezes at night, causing the tundra above it to rise and fall by inches. To try to prevent tracks from buckling and cracking, Chinese engineers elevated more than 100 miles of it and installed the giant golf tees along other stretches. These are cooling pipes that use solar energy to turn liquid ammonia into gas, chilling the ground and preventing the permafrost from melting.

But the climate is warming more rapidly than forecast when the system was designed, and already some sections of track and concrete pillars have cracked, railway ministry spokesman Wang Yongping told the Beijing News recently.

It was also startlingly large. The Chinese, it turns out, have ambitious rail plans for Tibet. Over the next decade they plan to build lines linking Lhasa with Shigatse and Nyingchi, and another one connecting Shigatse and Yadong on the China-Indian border. There is even talk of running a line to Zangmou on the Nepal border.

The train departs Beijing every night at 9:30 p.m. and arrives in Lhasa just under 48 hours later. Tickets are in high demand, and the Chinese don't go out of their way to make it easy for foreigners to book. (The return trip is a little easier to book because many visitors fly home. It departs Lhasa daily at 8 a.m.)

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17 Inches at the Bird

2006-10-26T10:10:00.000-06:00

Snowbird was hit with as much as 17 inches of snow last night. Are you ready, ski waxed, edges tuned.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Life Link and Dynafit Part

2006-10-17T15:54:00.000-06:00

Life-Link Backcountry Travel and Dynafit have agreed to end their distributor relationship after the 2006/07 winter season.

After a fruitful 8 years it is apparent and agreed upon by both parties, that it is time for Dynafit to continue doing business on their own terms in North America. They have great product and we believe that Dynafit's success will continue to grow under Salewa U.S. A.

Life Link will continue to ship, order and customer service Dynafit until March 07 where Salewa will take over.

Interesting, interesting indeed, just like Scarpa.

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Cloumbia Fires its Montrail sales force

2006-10-13T13:36:00.000-06:00

Just heard through the grapvine the Montrail, ie Cloumbia have fired all their Montrail reps for the Sorel reps. What was that, Sorel?

So the huntin crowd are buying Montrail trail running shoes or maybe Montrail are getting ready for the big box stores as they are now owned by Columbia and is mearly about number's now. Or are we going to see a Montrail and Sorel hybrid shoe/boot combo, yeh we don't think so.

Is this the beginning of the end for Montrail as we know it.

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Fall in the High Unitas

2006-10-12T11:00:00.000-06:00

Fall is a great time of year in Utah, especially when you get a couple of days out of the office. Did a great hike up Shingle Trail and yep around 9,000ft a wee bit of snow. Totally forgot about Elk Season though, it's abit unnerving to see hunter's and knowing your in their scope especially when you meet one hunter whom I could here a mile away with a fringing scanner. Idiot, I think the Elk are safe from one hunter.

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Here's Wishing

2006-09-21T11:00:00.001-06:00

Six inches of fresh snow, yeh right? no kidding, here in the Wasatch mountains, UT we are seeing the white fluffy stuff at 7,000ft.

Photo: John Brady
Location: Red Tram

Snowbird Ski Patrol member Akela
keeping an eye out for new snow

Keep longing no long Akela, 3-7 inches on Friday.

BentGear
"Geared for Adventure"

Flashpacking, What you Say?

2006-07-21T13:56:00.000-06:00

According to a recent Associated Press report, there's a new outdoor adventure travel buzzword making the rounds: flashpacking. The term refers to backpackers who load their packs with digital cameras, power adapters, blank CD-RW, cables, cords, cell phone, laptop, USB memory stick, rechargeable batteries, MP3 players, and more. Primarily the domain of the adventure traveler, this new category reflects a changing demographic where world travel and adventure remain important, but where the traditional journal and pen have been replaced by electronic gadgets and gizmos. The term first began gaining favor in early 2003 in New Zealand and Australia, and now appears to have become sufficiently popular to garner mainstream media attention. While still a novelty in the United States, the practice of flashpacking may soon become more important to U.S. shoppers interested in remaining connected while on a vacation to disconnect.

Are you connected! old school huh!

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Primal Quest Racers

2006-06-26T11:40:00.000-06:00

Primal Quest as started and on it's first day. On Friday we had a team from New Zealand come into our retail store looking for those last minute supplies.

We say good luck to you. The team is grizzlytours.com - Team: Tony Bateup, Paul Chaplow, Keith Riley, Lisa Savage, they are #24 and still going strong.

Go and sign their guest book, give them some good Karma. Also check out other teams and how they are fairing in the Utah heat. Primalquest.com

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Primal Quest is Here

2006-06-20T12:09:00.000-06:00

The ultimate test of human endurance, selfless teamwork, and relentless determination Â Primal Quest is the world's toughest Expedition Adventure Race and is coming to Southern Utah starting on June 25. it's a 500-mile wilderness race lasting up to 10 days across remote parts of southern Utah (same region that the 1995 Eco-Challenge).

During the race, co-ed teams of four will navigate through confusing networks of rock canyons, trek through triple-digit desert heat, climb to altitudes of 12,000 feet, paddle whitewater rivers with Class III rapids, swim through frigid slot-canyon pools, and tackle rope courses with thousands of feet of ascending and rappelling. Along the way, theyÂll sleep only three to four hours a night, deal with blisters and heat illness, experience wild hallucinations, and receive no outside assistance. Competitors must carry their own food and water, make their own bike repairs, and meet strict cut-off times for every stage. In other words, it's just like a regular multi-day camping trip where everything goes wrong.

Keep in touch in which team is leading, what team could not endure the torture no longer.

Primal Quest Utah

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What's Happened to Mountaineering?

2006-05-24T10:33:00.000-06:00

Last week a British climber, David Sharp died on the way down Everest after summitting. He died not as you might think, from a fall, over exposure or alitude problems, he died because nobody helped him even though 40 people passed him on their way to the summit.

So my question is what's happened to Mountaineering that we leave a fellow climber to die rather than help someone that is in distress. Even Sir Edmund Hillary finds it horrifying that no one helped this guy.

Those supposed Mountaineers who past David Sharp by I know if were in trouble would look to there fellow climbers for help, lets hope they don't need it.

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High Uintas, Utah

2006-05-22T13:32:00.000-06:00

This weekend I decided I was tired of the city life of Heber City and wanted to start the backpacking season. I headed up into the High Uintas, UT to the many, many lakes in the Uintas. I was interested in the Naturalist Basin area and hiking the Highline Trail. Alas the main highway is still closed to, too much snow until June 15th.

So I headed up Norway Flats with a grand view of the High Unitas. Now I am hungry for the next trip. Thinking San Juan mountains, Colorado.

Nightime in the Uintas:

Gear Closet:

Gear Taken:

Marmot Driclime
Marmot Never Summer Sleeping Bag
MSR WisperLite Stove
MSR 11oz Fuel Bottle
Thermarest Z Lite Sleeping Pad
Patagonia Silkweight Tee
Patagonia R1 Pants
Mary Jane Santa Fe Pasta
Marmot Old, Old Backpack

BentGear.com
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Patagonia's Stance on Dean Potter

2006-05-18T11:21:00.000-06:00

Patagonia it seems is standing by Dean Potter for climbing Delicate Arch.Many individuals have asked us where we, as a company, stand on Dean's recent climb. Since last week, Patagonia has received hundreds of emails on the issue, many asking for a public stance. First of foremost, we support Dean as our Ambassador. He's part of our family and will continue to be. For those who are curious to see Patagonia's "official stance" on the subject, read on:

Patagonia ambassador Dean Potter’s May 7 free solo of Delicate Arch has generated significant controversy about the legality and appropriateness of the climb of what has been described as a national icon. We’ll be interested to follow the controversy and to listen to views of those on both sides.A few facts are in order. First, no crime has been committed. The National Park Service has conceded that its regulations were ambiguous and that they will not cite Dean for the ascent. They have said they will seek to clarify their regulations to prevent a second try. The Park and a number of opinion leaders have argued that Delicate Arch is an icon that should not be climbed.It is important to note that Dean did no harm to the route or to the rock. He free-soloed the arch, placing no anchors and creating no impact beyond blowing dust off the holds. As he says, “No one reveres rocks more than me. I consider all rocks sacred, as do most climbers.”Dean, like all Patagonia ambassadors, undertakes his own climbs on his own terms. He told us about the climb afterward.

We have taken positions in the past on a number of issues of climbing ethics, including bolting. We take no position on this one. As Casey Sheahan, our CEO, notes, “From the early days in the Tetons to the rebelliousness of Yosemite’s Camp 4, every generation of climbers has had its run-ins with government regulations that attempt to restrict climber’s freedom of expression. At Patagonia we don’t control the ways our sponsored athletes conduct themselves except to encourage respect for the environment and uncommon approaches to every challenge. Dean is at the pinnacle of free solo climbing, makes decisions for himself, and has our complete support.

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IMITATION IS THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY

2006-05-09T13:58:00.000-06:00

"Usually said ironically when someone tries to gain attention by copying someone else's original ideas. "Coined by Charles Caleb Colton in 1820.

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Battle for Naxo Looming

2006-05-09T10:13:00.000-06:00

Rottefella has long dominated the cross-country ski binding market with commanding market shares in every category from track to telemark. Last week, the Norwegian company announced it had acquired a 62.5 percent stake in the Swiss alpine touring binding company NAXO. Rottefella also has the option to purchase more shares in the future.I see a battle looming for the ever tighting telemark and AT market. What do you think?

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Arc'teryx Acrux Backpack

2006-05-01T09:32:00.000-06:00

What's on your gear closet wish list this summer season. I know mine, the new Arc'teryx Acrux backpack. This backpack is wicked. When I had a chance to try the pack it was the best pack I have ever tried and I have tried a few top brand packs. It did not feel I was carrying a 3000 cube backpack and my hips and shoulders did not hurt. The whole pack is all fused together and is waterproof with watertight zippers.

Bentgear.com now have the Acrux in stock.

http://www.bentgear.com/product_info.php?products_id=1110

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2 Seas 2 Feet Tour

2006-03-28T13:40:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to everyone who made a great event with Andy Skurka and his slide show of the 2 Seas and 2 Feet hike. We had around 45 people show up for the event with a great raffle at the end from our venders Golite, Black Diamond, Marmot,Montrail, MSR, and Jansport. Thanks to our venders for supplying some great gear for the raffle.

Images of the show and store:

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2 Seas 2 Feet at BentGear

2006-03-08T14:46:00.000-07:00

In July 2005, 24-year old Andrew Skurka became the first person to walk the entire 7,778-mile transcontinental Sea-to-Sea Route. Taking just over 11 months, Skurka's trek took him from Cape Gaspé on the Atlantic Ocean to Cape Alava on the Pacific, passing through some of North America's most rugged and scenic backcountry and through communities large and small.

Join Skurka and BentGear as he shares inspiring tales and highlights from his odyssey while you learn the essence and skills of lightweight backpacking. Leave with a newfound appreciation for this continent's breathtaking wild lands and a compulsion to start walking. Gear give-aways and Q&A will follow. The presentation is FREE and open to the public!

Presentation is on March 23rd at 7.00pm at Bentgear, 2210 s US Hwy 40, Ste C, Heber City, UT 84032. 1 800 470 2368.

Store Images:

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Cascasde Designs Announces 2005 Awards

2006-02-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

Rep of the Year for 2005 The Hi-Altitude Sales & Consulting team, including Ryan Overstake, Eric Miller, Jason Livingston and Lori Maddox, has been honored as the recipient of Rep of the Year for 2005. This distinction recognizes their commitment and passion for providing exceptional sales and service to Cascade Designs’ retailers in the Rocky Mountain region (Colorado, Utah, Wyoming & New Mexico).

Well done Eric and team.

BentGear.com
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Columbia Sportswear Company Announces Acquisition of Montrail, Inc. Footwear Brand

2006-01-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Word on the street is Montrail is part of Columbia, don't say it's so.

Columbia Sportswear Company (Nasdaq: COLM), a global leader in the active outdoor apparel and footwear industries, today announced that it has acquired substantially all of the assets of Montrail, Inc. for cash consideration of $15 million plus the assumption of certain liabilities.

Yet another great company being swallowed by a giant who needs to gain more numbers and dollars. What will we loose, another company that changed the trail running seen.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Kelty Woman.com Goes Live

2006-01-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

Building on a foundation of women's products that dates back to 1987, Kelty is launching an integrated outreach and marketing campaign designed to create a community for women and rekindle their sense of outdoor adventure. Elements of the Kelty Woman campaign will include: An on-line resource: A new and dedicated website, KeltyWoman.com will serve as the anchor of the campaign, providing both a community and a resource for women seeking information and inspiration.

· National imagery: In addition to a dedicated women's catalog, the marketing campaign for Kelty Woman will key on imagery and messaging that encourages women to participate in the outdoor experience.

· Diverse partnerships: By teaming with other leaders in the women's outdoor community, Kelty will build a continual presence of "women in the outdoors" messaging. Partnerships for 2006 include Team Luna Chix, the women's sports and advocacy organization; Fox River socks; and Baby Bootcamp, a nationwide series of mother-and-child outdoor fitness programs.

· In the shop support: At this critical juncture in the outdoor community, Kelty will partner with select retailers to create an unparalleled presence that engages and inspires the participation of women. Kelty's presence at the forefront of women's outdoor products dates back to the 1987 introduction of the first outdoor women's catalog, advertising campaign, and women's-specific sleeping bag.

Go to www.keltywoman.com for information on product, events and articles.This is a great resource for women.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Smith Optics To Produce Wireless Sports Gear

2006-01-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

Smith Optics and Plantronics will collaborate to develop new Smith-branded action sports gear incorporating wireless audio communication and entertainment technology. Smith and Plantronics will jointly develop helmets, goggles, eyewear and other products that incorporate wireless technology. The helmets will include audio systems compatible with MP3 players, such as Apple iPods, and MP3-enabled cell phones, advanced ventilation systems, a crash replacement program and an unprecedented lifetime warranty.

Smith's plan is to combine the same performance, style and innovation for this program that we provide in the goggle and sunglass businesses, while revolutionizing the integration of fashion and technology.

Never mind Giro can say say look out Oakley?

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

SKI TRAB US RACE TEAM

2006-01-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

Announcing the Ski Trab US Ski Mountaineering race team. Pete Swenson of Boulder, CO and Karen Kingsley of Ophir, CO will race on the World Cup dominating Trab Duo Race ski this coming season.

Karen is the most promising new talent on the US Ski Mountaineering race circuit. A former member of the German national cross country ski team, Karen has been the California State high school cross country champion and a seven time competitor at the NCAA national track and field championships. Karen finished 3rd, than 2nd, than 1st in her first three ski mountaineering races.

Pete finished 3rd last season in the overall US standings, his 1st full season of competition. He improved dramatically throughout the season, making it to the podium at the Jackson Hole National Championships. Pete is a former pro mountain biker, having raced for RLX Polo Sport, Specialized and the Sobe/Cannondale teams. He plans to participate in Ski Mountaineering competitions throughout the US and at the Cuneo world championships after supporting his brother Carl Swenson, a senior member of the US Cross Ski Team participating in his 3rd Olympics at Torino.

Both Karen and Pete will race on the competition dominating Duo Race Aero, an 835g carbon fiber race ski that won 5 out of the 6 podium places at the most recent world championships in Val D'Aran.

Yet another great looking ski company in the Wasatch mountains.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Avalanche Danger is High

2006-01-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend on the back of Mt. Timpangos 2 snowshoer's were caught in a pretty big Avalanche . One of them was able to get out of it but his friend was not so lucky. Heed the warnings and call the Utah Avalachne Center for the latest snow condition's and make sure you know the snow and you have a beacon, probe and shovel with you, even snowboibler's.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Smith Optics Launches New Snow Sports Helmet Line

2005-12-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Smith Optics is excited to announce their launch into the helmet category with a full line of snow sports helmets for the 2006/2007 winter season. Smith will use their knowledge of winter sports technologies to enhance the combined function of goggle and helmet performance. Industry experts agree that the snow sports helmet market is on the precipice of a surge as new technologies such as those that Smith offers appear in helmets and as consumers are encouraged to wear helments by a variey of coalitions including doctors, instructors and resorts.

Smith has entered into a long-term agreement working directly with a leading helmet factory to develop helmets using lightwieght In Mold and BombshellTM hardshell construction technologies, plus an entirely new construction technology called Smartshellä On Mold, which allows designers more freedom to create unique shapes and maximizes the final products' cosmetic appearence. "Smartshell opens the boundaries of EPS helmet design, allowing mold shapes, shell types and joint lines previously impossible with In Mold or hardshell construction,Smith has entered into a long-term agreement working directly with a leading helmet factory to develop helmets using lightwieght In Mold and BombshellTM hardshell construction technologies, plus an entirely new construction technology called Smartshellä On Mold, which allows designers more freedom to create unique shapes and maximizes the final products' cosmetic appearence. "Smartshell opens the boundaries of EPS helmet design, allowing mold shapes, shell types and joint lines previously impossible with In Mold or hardshell construction.

First Giro is making a Sunglass line and now Smith making helmets, who's going to win this fight.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Black Diamond Recalling Scarpa Boots

2005-12-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

Did we already go through this, yep we sure did. Black Diamond Equipment is recalling about 2,300 pairs of Scarpa T2X Telemark Ski Boots.

The plastic boot cuff can crack when flexed open in an unbuckled, non-skiing position causing discomfort on the ankle or shin, making the problem evident prior to skiing and thus unsuitable for use. The firm has received two reports of cuffs cracking during boot fittings. No injuries have been reported.The two recalled models of T2X Telemark ski boot can be identified by a dual color ankle cuff and the marking T2X on the outside of each boot (boxes are marked with model numbers: 142045 Men’s and 142046). Repaired or replaced product can be identified by a single color cuff: Men's cuffs are red, and women's cuffs are blue.

They were sold by ski retailers, mail order and the Black Diamond Web site from September '05 through October 10, '05 for about $560. Consumers were advised they should stop using the ski boots and return them to the nearest dealer for a free replacement.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Petzl Improves Upon Their Headlamps

2005-12-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

Petzl, manufacturer of innovative Hands-Free Lighting solutions and climbing and caving equipment announced today that it is upgrading its LED (light emitting diode) headlamp line to utilize a new technology that significantly boosts light output and burn times, without an increase in price or battery consumption.

With this new LED technology, Petzl headlamps now shine brighter and burn longer. For example, the TIKKA PLUS, one of Petzl's most popular headlamps, now shines 32 meters, up from 17 meters previously. On a single set of 3 AAA batteries, it will run for up to 150 hours instead of 120 hours. This amounts to an 80% increase in lighting distance and a 20% increase in burn time. Most of Petzl's TIKKA, MYO and DUO headlamps will see considerable increases in lighting efficiency, thanks to this new technology. The new LEDs use what is called ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) technology,
which was originally developed for the semi-conductor industry. When applied to LEDs, the ITO coating doubles LED efficiency. Petzl's engineers have used this technology to produce the best balance of light output/burn times according to the particular headlamp's intended use.

The new headlamps will be heading into store's beginning of the 06 season.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Snow is High and Powder's Dry

2005-12-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

In the last 48 hours the Utah Wasatch back as had a few good dumps. Was up in the mountains yesterday and found some good powder pockets. All the resorts reported good snow coverage. But boy was it cold, keep warm out there.

Try out these Black Diamond glove liners - http://www.bentgear.com/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=25&products_id=736&engine=CelSearch

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Proof There is Snow!

2005-11-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

This past weekend BentGear employee Sharon skinned up to see the snow for herself at Deer Valley and found to her surprise that the snow ain't too bad, yeh we could do with more snow but hey we skiing.

Proof in the pudding:

Gear Used
Black Diamond Skins - Recommend
Arc'teryx Gamma SV - Recommend
Prana Hat - Recommend
Gloves - Black Diamond Jetstream
Golite CTE Top - Recommend
Dakine Heli Pro - Recommend
MSR Denali Poles - Yeh no
Bridgdale Ski Socks - recommend
Camelbak reservoir - Recommend
Fritschi Binding - Recommend

BentGear.com

Welcome to BentGear

2005-11-16T15:01:00.000-07:00

We would like to welcome another gearhead to Bentgear. Scott Mason comes with a great deal of experiance in the outdoor industry. Scott is one of those guys that like to run, and I mean run, you will see him running some of the mountain races throughout the season being sponsered by Montrail and Patagoina, crazy guy.

Maybe you will see him this winter free heeling in the Wasatch Mountains.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

View from our Retail Store & Warehouse

2005-11-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a view from the back of Bentgear's Retail Store & Warehouse. It is Mt. Timpangnos sitting at 12,000ft.

Atomic Skis are in:http://www.bentgear.com/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=86&products_id=766

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Who's Doing the Snow Dance, Snow Dance

2005-11-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it started, snow is in the mountains. Snowbird, Park City, Canyons and Alta got a good smutering of the white stuff and is still snowing in the mountains today.

Even the High Unitas has snow up on the higher eleveation's, alas not enough for me to get a few turns in on Sunday.Stats as of today:

Brighton Ski Resort:
New Snow: 12"
Base Depth: 19"
Surface Conditions: Powder

Brighton Web Cam

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Timberland Buying Smartwool

2005-11-08T11:24:00.000-07:00

Timberland signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of SmartWool Corp. from RAF Industries and the Stripes Group. SmartWool, a privately held company based in Steamboat Springs, CO.

The purchase price is estimated to be approximately $82 million and will be funded through Timberland's existing cash balances and short-term borrowings.

The SmartWool organization will continue to be headquartered in Steamboat Springs and will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Timberland under the leadership of Chip Coe, SmartWool's president.

Maybe that's why Chip called his company " Smartwool".

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Snow and Cold

2005-10-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

This weekend in the Wasatch mountains the snow got down to about 7,000ft, enough to put a sprinkle of the white stuff on the slopes of Snowbird, Canyons and Park City.

More of the same is supposed to happen on Friday getting down into the 30's. Here is a cam of Snowbird at Gad Valley.

October 31st, 2005

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Burton sponsoring Chinese Snowboard Team

2005-10-27T14:16:00.000-06:00

Burton snowboards have just signed a three- year deal to sponsor the National Snowboard Team of China- yeh, you heard it, China. Burton said China as some of the best athletes and the best mountains in the world", says Jake Burton, chairman and founder of Burton.

The National Snowboard Team of China consists of six men and women, each handpicked because of their althlete ability but have yet to try snowboarding on snow!!.

Well what about the US Team or maybe in this world market the US is no longer a viable market for long term profits.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

The Mountain Hardwear/Life-Link/Dynafit Ski Mountaineering Race Series Expands to Seven Races.

2005-10-20T14:36:00.000-06:00

The United States Ski Mountaineering Association (USSMA) announces the expansion of the Mountain Hardwear/Life-Link/Dynafit Ski Mountaineering Race Series to seven races for the 2006 season.

This years race series begins with the Arcteryx Randonnee Rally at Whistler Blackcomb, Canada on January 7th, then the Sugarbush Resort/Mad River Glen, Vermont Race on February 5th, Crested Butte, Colorado on February 11th, then to the Outdoor Research Rally at Alpental Washington February 25th, the June Mountain Race, California is on March 4th, followed by the Marmot Race at Kirkwood March 11th and culminating in the American Cup Race in Jackson Hole, Wyoming on March 25th. There will be both a race and recreation class for both men and women at all races. The racing division competitors will be able to earn points towards the overall series championship.

This year there will be a unique aspect for those in the racing division as they will also be able to earn points toward the race championship at the Black Diamond Powder Keg Race in Salt Lake City on March 18th.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

How About that Corn

2005-10-18T10:12:00.000-06:00

Fox River will be part of a four-member U.S. hosiery manufacturing group that will launch socks made with corn-based Ingeo fiber in Japan.

According to NatureWorks, Ingeo fiber—the first manmade fiber created from 100% annually renewable resources—is an innovative product that combines the best of both worlds: the performance of a synthetic fiber and the appeal of a natural material. And because it is derived entirely from natural sources, Ingeo fiber contributes to reducing our dependence on limited fossil fuel resources such as oil.

Fox River's Ingeo athletic sock is made with 90% Ingeo, 8% nylon and 2% Lycra 3D. It will retail for about $9.50 when it is introduced in U.S. sporting goods stores in March 2006.

So when your friend's say you have corn feet now you can say yep, I do.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Yo, Yo Scarpa T2X telemark boot recalled

2005-10-11T11:46:00.000-06:00

Have we heard this one before. Black Diamond is recalling the Scarpa T2X Telemark boot.

I bet Black Diamond are happy letting Scarpa go. When will Black Diamond design their own boot. hum 06 maybe?

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Oakley Enters Film Production Biz

2005-10-11T11:28:00.000-06:00

Oakley created 1242 Productions, Inc., a film production company focused on promoting awareness of its core board sports market and world-class athletes. 1242 Productions' first release, "The Community Project," is a snowboarding film that takes the viewer on an action-packed adventure through many of the world's best snowboarding locations.

The film features some of the world's top snowboarders including: Travis Rice, JJ Thomas, Zach Leach, Tyler Lepore, Terje Haakonsen, Bryan Iguchi, Andy Finch, Kyle Clancy, Eero Ettala and Shaun White on location in New Zealand, Japan, Jackson Hole, Alaska and Whistler/Blackcomb among others. Shot on Super 16mm film, the production team includes Rich Goodwin, a veteran cinematographer with more than nine years experience in snowboard filmmaking, accomplished editor and cinematographer Curt Morgan, and Circe Wallace and Travis Rice serving as producers. The film's major sponsors are Oakley and Red Bull.

Click below to see some teasers.
http://www.community-project.com/teaser.php

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Loveland and A- Basin Racing to the Gate

2005-10-11T09:42:00.000-06:00

Loveland and A-Basin are racing to see who can say they opened their gates first for the snow season.

Loveland could actually open on Friday, with A-Basin planning to open on October 21st. Ahhhhhhhh is all I got to say, while tuning my skis yet again waiting, waiting for Utah's first big dump.

Snowmass Village
(Aspen Times / Paul Conrad)

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Snow in those Mountains

2005-10-05T11:07:00.000-06:00

I was driving to work this morning, but this was not your usual drive - there's snow up on those mountain's. Mt. Timpangnos got a few inchs last night and got down to 30 degrees.

Take a look at Snowbird - fresh snow 10/05/2005.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Marmot Names VP, Design

2005-10-04T13:00:00.000-06:00

Marmot Mountain, LLC. announced the appointment of Gregory Houser as Vice President of Design and Product Development, effective October 1

Houser was previously the VP and DMM of strategic planning and product development of L.L. Bean’s outerwear, technical apparel and men’s sportswear divisions, and worked with all aspects of Bean’s product development, design, sourcing and marketing. He also has prior product development management experience with Eastern Mountain Sports and Nike.

Houser began in the outdoor industry 18 years ago when he assisted his brother in opening a specialty outdoor store in Vermont. Houser stated, “Marmot was our premier brand then and it still is today. I grew up with Marmot. I am excited for the opportunity to address the Marmot global growth opportunities and to help drive its tradition of innovation into diversified outdoor products.

Marmot contunies to add to it's core line with great design and commitment to core product rather than watered down verisons that a couple of core brands have done these last few years and now have lost their brand appeal- need I say anymore.

Bentgear.com
" Geared for Adventure"

Jetboil Going Hollywood

2005-09-28T15:42:00.000-06:00

Jetboil manufacturer of the Jetboil Personal Cooking System, is launching a Java Kit in partnership with Paul Newman's Own Organics. The Java Kit features holiday gift packaging and POP that retailers can merchandise in their holiday gift sections. Jetboil's Java Kit includes the Jetboil PCS, Jetboil Coffee Press, Jetpower fuel, and a 2-ounce sample of Newman's Own Organics Fair Trade Certified coffee.

If anyone remember's the movie classic the "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid", yeh I will be buying coffee, Paul Newman still has it.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Brunton Taking the Art World by Storm

2005-09-21T12:18:00.000-06:00

Brunton today announced that their ground breaking SolarRoll 14, waterproof, flexible solar panel will be included in an upcoming display at the esteemed New York City Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

The exhibition entitled 'SAFE: Design Takes on Risk' is the first major design exhibition at MoMA. The Brunton SolarRoll 14 was introduced in August 2002 and has quickly become and industry favorite for its versatility, lasting performance and ability to keep users connected while traversing the proverbial road less traveled. http://www.bentgear.com/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=24&products_id=591

Before you go over to Sotherby's auction house the exhibit ends October 16th.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Camelbak changes Managerment

2005-09-20T15:12:00.000-06:00

Camelbak announced today the retirement of its President and Chief Executive Officer Glenn Gross, after a decade with the company. Gross joined CamelBak in 1995 and in November 2003 saw the privately-held company through its acquisition by Bear Stearns Merchant Banking, a New York-based investment firm. Gross plans to remain in his position until his replacement is found.

"CamelBak has seen steady growth over the years and has added 20 employees over the past year," he said. "The company is in good shape and we are leaving it in very capable hands," said Gross.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Geared for Adventure on Bold Mountain

2005-09-19T13:58:00.000-06:00

Head buyer Sharon Page took a trip to the High Unitas in Utah this weekend and hiked up to Bold Mountain to see fall foilage.

Bentgear.com

North Face Retail Store

2005-09-19T13:26:00.000-06:00

The North Face opened a second Pacific Northwest store, its ninth freestanding retail location. It opened at 1202 NW Davis Street, Portland. Continuing the brand's strategic expansion into key markets.

Question is: are North Face profits getting to bad that they have to open retail store's or that they do not care about the retailer and cutting into their business. Just like Oakley and a few other venders as a retailer you have to consider is it worth holding a full stock?

Just my 2 cents.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Snow, snow, snow

2005-09-13T14:08:00.000-06:00

Oh Yeh, the first dusting of snow hit the peaks of the Wastach mountains yesterday. What do you do think for an early snow this year. I think the chance's are really good and the snow this year is going to be sooooooooooooo good. Some people tell me because the lakes are full this year that we will get more of a lake effect, meaning more mositure in the air to drop into snow flakes and more powder.

My skis are waiting - come on snow.

Bentgear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Katrina

2005-09-06T20:03:00.000-06:00

The events over the past week have shocked everyone worldwide. People have not just lost their cars, they have lost their jobs, homes and loved ones.

Let's do our part, no matter how small you make a donation it makes a differance.

For outdoor venders you can go to snews and make a donation for helping outdoor retailers in New Orleans restart their buisness.
http://www.snewsnet.com/cgi-bin/snews/03332.html

For those wanting to give a donation the Red Crossis a safe bet - there are already people scaming so beware. http://www.redcross.org/

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

BIC Shaving Closer to the Kayak Market

2005-09-06T20:00:00.000-06:00

Yeh, you heard it, BIC as announced their expansion of the US Kayak market. BIC have been around making sea kayaks for a couple of years now. They will distribute the BIC Surf product line in North America, including US, Canada and the Caribbean. This is another step in the natural transition of the distribution of BIC Sport products that began when BIC Sport established distribution operations through BIC Sport North America in West Wareham, MA, in January '03.

The BIC Surf line joins the existing product portfolio supported by BIC Sport North America, including BIC Kayaks, BIC and TIGA Windsurfing, and Gaastra and Fiberspar Windsurfing.My question is- are the BIC shavers the same plastic as their kayaks?

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Golite Promotes it's Own

2005-09-02T11:03:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Kevin Volz who has been promoted to head Golite's International sales efforts while Jessica Jaret has been promoted to lead GoLite's public relations efforts.

Both Volz and Jaret are long-time GoLite employees with Volz having served as both customer service and marketing manager and Jaret having served as customer service manager and marketing production manager.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

PrAna Announces Wind Power Initiative

2005-09-02T10:48:00.000-06:00

PrAna launched the prAna Natural Power Initiative, providing 100 of its retailers renewable wind energy certificates equivalent to the electricity their stores consume. PrAna said it eventually intends to bring all 1,000 of its U.S. retail customers on board, as part of its commitment to sustainable practices, according to Beaver Theodosakis, prAnaÂs owner and founder. "The word prana is synonymous with breath. Investing in wind as a natural source of power is a perfect fit for us," said Theodosakis.

Also La Sportiva has committed last week to becoming a 100-percent windpowered operation.

With a shortage of oil on the East coast there should be more rewards for inventive ideas to other energy source's.

Just my 2 cent's.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Soldier Hollow 24 Bike Race

2005-08-22T14:24:00.000-06:00

The second annual 24hr Soldier Hollow is on and ready to roll. With nearly 2'000 vertical feet from the valley floor, yielding spectacular views of Mount Timpanagos and the rest of the Wasatch Back, this course is fast becoming a great race. The race begins on September 10 to 11, 2005.

You can race as a team or solo with 2 events rolled into one. You can bike for 12hr or 24hr depending on your grit.

For more information you can click onto: www.24hoursofsoldierhollow.com

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Black Eyed Peas and Jansport

2005-08-20T20:19:00.000-06:00

Well what a night. Jansport invited me to the Black Eyed Peas concert at the Outdoor Retailer show and went well into the early hours.

Jansport have kicked it up an notch in spring 06 in their Techincal pack line and sure showed it with a Black Eyed Peas concert. Fun, fun, fun.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

TUBBS ADDS TO PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT TEAM

2005-08-10T13:27:00.000-06:00

Tubbs Snowshoes has expanded its product development team and taken steps to strengthen its women's snowshoe business. The company, which designed and launched the industry's first women's specific snowshoe collection in 1998, has named two women to key product development positions in its Berkeley, CA based design center.

Finally women developing products for women by women, now maybe we can do something about developing a true backpack for women by women and not a souped down version of the men's.

Just my 2 cents.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Cascade Designs

2005-08-08T12:40:00.000-06:00

Cascade Designs signed an exclusive agreement with Vapore, Inc., a California-based technology startup, to manufacture the Capillary Force Vaporizer (CFV) for portable stoves. Cascade said CFV technology enables a stove to operate with the performance of liquid fuel and the convenience of canister fuel, providing high output without pressurization.

“This is a fantastic milestone for our stove business”, said Drew Keegan, Cascade Designs' stove product manager. “We introduced this remarkable technology to the trade last August at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City and it was the talk of the show. Cascade Designs plans to re-introduce the stove to the commercial market next year after fulfilling its commitments to the Army.

This technology revolutionizes portable combustion”, says Keegan. “Imagine a liquid fuel stove where you don't need a separate fuel bottle, and the fuel pump and fuel line have been replaced by a device the size of a thick U.S. dime. Imagine the convenience of a canister stove that isn't affected by cold or altitude and where you can see how much fuel you have left to burn. Imagine efficiencies substantially greater than any stove currently in production. That is what this new MSR® stove with CFV technology represents.”

Hopefully we will get to see a working model soon. Give me one to try.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Yum, Yum Pro Bar

2005-08-05T13:26:00.000-06:00

Have you ever tasted the new Pro Bar's, if not go and buy one and you will understand. The Pro Bar's are enery bars that are not cooked the traditional way of oven roasting but are not cooked at all and leave all the nutriants and a far better taste.

Well Pro Bar now have come out with their latest flavor "Berry Blast" contains whole blueberries and strawberries, which have been preserved with apple juice and blended with an organic brown rice syrup. The custom syrup, unique to PROBAR, is infused with blueberry puree prior to meeting the nutty contents of the bar. Peanut butter has been replaced with almond butter. The result is a delicious, rich, almond-berry experience to go with the abundant nutrition and energy found only in PROBARs, yummy.

Soon you can buy them at Bentgear.com

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Black Diamond and Franklin

2005-07-26T16:38:00.000-06:00

Black Diamond Equipment integrated Franklin Climbing Equipment into the Black Diamond brand. With the integration, Black Diamond feels it can more efficiently build, develop and market specific, high-end bouldering gear. The shift will allow Black Diamond to hone its focus and efforts on fostering a complete climbing brand.

Black Diamond are making some big changes these days - hopefully it will increase their value.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Black Diamond and Scarpa Go There Seperate Ways

2005-07-18T19:47:00.000-06:00

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. will end its longtime working relationship with Scarpa at the end of 2005. Peter Metcalf, CEO, Black Diamond, said, "Over the past 18 years, Black Diamond together with Scarpa have brought true innovation to the market and as a result have dramatically evolved the sports we serve. We are immensely proud of that. At the same time, the marketplace is evolving, and both BD and Scarpa realize the partnership that led to our past success is not the best path for the future. Thus, we agreed to terminate amicably."

Andrea Parisotto, the new president of Scarpa North America, commented, "We believe in the North American market and hope to better recognize and serve their specific demands. Scarpa will open Scarpa North America Inc. in Boulder, CO, effective immediately. Chris Clark has been chosen as sales and marketing manager.

Maybe now Scarpa can produce the line they want in the hiking market as well as they do in Europe.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Mt. Timpanogos - CEO Geared for Adventure

2005-07-12T14:37:00.000-06:00

We like to say at BentGear we are geared for most adventures, true is the case when CEO Sid Ewing and some buddies went to hike Mt. Timpanogos on the July 4th weekend. Usually this time of year you can summit the 12,000ft peak with a few hint's of snow at the top. Not this year, we have had so much snow that Sid and company spent most of the time strapping crampons and ice axe, however true to the BentGear spirit they summited.

Where's the lake ? Feeling the pain!

Quiksilver Acquires Canadian Distributor For DC Shoes

2005-07-08T14:48:00.000-06:00

Quiksilver, Inc. announced it has purchased the Canadian distributor of DC Shoes for approximately $7.0 in cash.

Under terms of the agreement, Quiksilver will acquire Centre Skateboard Distribution, Ltd., which holds the rights to distribute DC Shoes in Canada, as well as the various assets associated with that business. The Company also announced that the personnel and infrastructure of CSD Ltd. will support its Quiksilver and Roxy operation in Canada.

Are DC - Roxy skis on the way, I think not.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

London

2005-07-08T11:20:00.000-06:00

Like everyone else yesterday there was shock and horror but more so as I spend 6 worried hours calling my family in England, finally getting through and in typical English spirit my brother complaining about having to walk home for 4/5 hours and then walking another 2 hours to find a friend.

For my first love, my country England keep up the English spirit.

Cheers,

Sharon Page
BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Ultra-Lite Backpacking Gurus to Lead Hike/Clinic at Continental Divide Trail Fest

2005-07-01T12:16:00.000-06:00

As part of the 10th anniversary celebration of the Continental Divide Trail, GoLite founders Demetri "Coup" and Kim Coupounas as well Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear and Ryan Jordan, will lead a hike and clinic of Grays Peak, beginning at 7am on Saturday, July 16th from the Keystone Montezuma parking area in Keystone, Colo.

During and after the hike, the four will be offering hands-on tips and techniques on ultra-lite backpacking, and the clinic will conclude with gear give-aways and Q+A. "The Continental Divide Trail is one of our nation's treasures, and all four of us are honored to be able to reach out to backpackers at the festival while contributing to the Continental Divide Trail Association's 10th anniversary celebration," said Coup.

As I remember Gray's Peak, take your snowshoes still plenty of snow up there.

BentGear.com
"Geared for Adventure"

Bye Bye Dana Design

2005-06-20T21:28:00.000-06:00

Dana Design backpacks are now owned by Marmot. With this Marmot has increased it's backpack line as well as award winning features from the Dana Design.

More news on this to come.

BentGear.com
Geared for Adventure

Poor Rossignal

2005-06-17T12:04:00.000-06:00

Quiksilver will acquire a money-losing operation next month. Rossignol reported a FY net loss of EUR 25 million. In the prior FY, it had a profit of EUR 7.2 million. The ski maker said it had also been affected by Its FY operating profit fell to EUR 9.5 million from EUR 24.5 million.

Oh well, there goes another great ski company to get chewed up.

BentGear.com
Geared for Adventure

Thank You

2005-06-09T09:09:00.000-06:00

We just wanted to say thanks to the many people who showed up at our grand opening of our retail store on Saturday, June 4th. It was alot of fun and a great success. We also want to thank everyone in the outdoor inustry who have supported us this far and in the future.

If you have not had a chance to see the store with the new hip colors and hip gear then stop on by. We are open 10.00am - 6.00pm Monday ~ Saturday. Will open Sunday soon.

BentGear
Geared for Adventure

Rain Helps Grow BentGear 100%

2005-06-02T19:54:00.000-06:00

Boy oh boy as it rained in Utah this Spring. What Spring?.

Maybe this helps explain's BentGear's 100% growth these past few months. However our Head Buyer sees it as something a'bit closer to home. Our Head Buyer explains that there are niche product's out there that other compaines ignore becasue they go with the brands that are totally safe, which is fine we still need those products. But if you can take a little risk and try a product that is good and different then why not. For instance the Vargo Titantuim stove and utensils, it's been in Backpacker a few times this year as the lightest and toughest gear out there.

We were willing to take a risk and is paying off with customer's seeing other product's that they may never get to see without doing some major research.

Our moto "Geared For Adventure", explains what our staff at BentGear is about and our mission.

http://www.vargooutdoors.com/

Eureka Tents

2005-05-31T16:15:00.000-06:00

Eureka Tents just received a 15 million military order thus saving the company having to lay off worker's and saving it maybe from going out of business in the short term, however how about the long term future of the company?

ARC'TERYX AND PETZL

2005-05-20T15:29:00.000-06:00

ARC’TERYX , designers and manufacturers of technical apparel, backpacks, and climbing harnesses, together with Petzl, a leading manufacturer of innovative climbing gear and headlamps, today announced a partnership to host RocTrip - from June 24th-26th 2005, in Squamish, British Columbia.In its third year, RocTrip brings some of world’s best climbers and the climbing public together to celebrate climbing in a fun, laid-back atmosphere while raising money for local climbing area conservation efforts. Rock climbing contests, a bouldering fest, movies, slide shows and parties are just a few of the planned events. Both the ARC’TERYX and Petzl climbing teams will be attending in full force, with athletes coming from all over Europe and North America.The key component of RocTrip is conservation and this year’s event features a trail clean-up and other activities to raise awareness of local conservation issues. Money raised from the event will go directly to the Climbers’ Access Society of British Columbia, a non-profit organization whose purpose is to support public access and conversation to the cliffs and mountains of B.C.

GRAND OPENING OF RETAIL STORE

2005-05-13T09:33:00.000-06:00

On June 4th BentGear will open it's brand new retail space to gearheads, campers, bikers, and hikers. Brands that will be at the store are Arc'Teryx, Camp USA, Kelty,Garmont, Bridgedale, Trango, MSR, Brunton, Life Link, Golite, Isis, Sugoi, Gramicci and more.

We are sending out flyers to the Park City and Heber City area but don't worry if you don't recevie one you will still get smokin deals by showing up. So if you are a hiker, biker, skier, climber we have everything you need.

Opening hours are 10am - 6pm on Saturday, June 4 at 2210 S US Highway 40, Ste C, Heber City, Phone # 1 800 470 2368.

Bent Gear
Geared For Adventure

WELCOME

2005-05-04T10:33:00.000-06:00

Welcome to BentGear's blog where you can get the latest gear news and trends from the guys in the know how within the outdoor industry.

Latest From Atlas Snowshoes:

Four Atlas Snow-Shoe Company staff members on April 16 completed a technical Trans-Sierra snowshoe trek traveling from Symmes Creek near Independence, Calif., on the Eastern side of the range, to Wolverton Ski Area in Sequoia National Park through John Muir Wilderness on the Western slope. The traverse served as an authentic means for the Atlas team to test its latest snowshoe products and ensure quality of its newest technologies in a real-world environment over multiple days. The "Sierra High Route" is a classic summer backpacking trip and challenging winter backcountry mountaineering and ski tour with five passes above 12,000 feet and one pass above 13,000 feet, including an elevation gain of 12, 500 feet between Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks, yet the 45-mile route has rarely if ever been completed on snowshoes.