eWallstreeter

Trail Days Tragedy

Tue, 21 May 2013 04:01:47 EDT

Dozens were injured when a car plowed into a hiker parade at Virginia's trail festival over the weekend. Backpacker Get Out More Tour ambassadors witnessed the accident.

Thompson River today

Tue, 21 May 2013 01:26:24 EDT

Fishing season opened here on Saturday and today on this stretch of water I caught enough Brown Trout to make a very nice meal for an old friend. That’s a good day.

Government ejects man for voicing pro-2nd Amendment opinion…..

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:39:05 EDT

New Jersey has some of the strictest gun laws in the United States. Government’s overbearing ways are certainly present in this state. At a recent hearing where the public was invited to give opinions on upcoming gun control legislation – the government panel was not too happy with speaker James Kaleda. James Kaleda is a Second Amendment [...]

The Survivalist #30: Inheritors of the Earth…..just released

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:22:42 EDT

I just found out that a new edition of The Survivalist has been released – starting all new adventures for John Rourke (my childhood hero). The Survivalist #30 is now available on Amazon in paperback form. I have ordered my copy and cannot wait until it arrives. Here is some information on [...]

Tornado!

Mon, 20 May 2013 19:25:38 EDT

The Forecast: In April 2011, the epicenter of activity shifted from Tornado Alley to the mid-South, where 875 tornadoes killed 336 people across six states and a 1.5-mile-wide funnel hit Tuscaloosa, Alabama. It was the busiest month for twisters in U.S. history. Then, in May 2011, a tornado in Joplin, Missouri, killed more than 140 people. The likely culprit? The tail end of La Niña, a cooling of the Pacific Ocean that redirects the jet stream over the U.S. Since then, 2012 and 2013 have seen generally quieter seasons. Stats: 69—total 2012 tornado deaths in the U.S. Compare to 525 deaths in 2011 and 794 deaths in 1925, the deadliest reported year in U.S. history. Worst-case scenario: Being caught outside. Seek shelter, preferably underground. If you’re on foot or riding a bike and can’t make it to shelter, get as low as possible—look for a ditch—and cover your head. Smart Play: Wear a helmet. “People die by getting hit in the head with debris,” says Harold Brooks, a research meteorologist at the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, Oklahoma. “We recommend a helmet even if you’re in a basement.”

A Marco Pantani Throwback Jersey

Mon, 20 May 2013 19:21:38 EDT

Cold conditions and heavy snowed forced organizers to shorten the 15th stage of the Giro d’Italia, with the race ending four kilometers short of the planned finish at the Col du Galibier. Movistar’s Giovanni Visconti won the brutal stage, and Astana’s Vincenzo Nibali easily defended his overall lead. But our minds were on a third Italian, the late Marco Pantani, whose climbing exploits (especially his searing Galibier attack in the 1998 Tour de France) are immortalized in a monument at the revised finish. The controversial Italian climber was notorious for his flamboyance, earning the nickname Il Pirata (the pirate) for his shaven head and penchant for rocking a bandana and earrings. He’s in the record books as the last racer to win both the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France in a single season (in 1998), though fans also remember him for his rocking sense of style, especially the faux-denim kit he sported when his team was sponsored by the couture jeans company Carrera.   Now Nalini, who produced the team kit for Carrera back in the ‘90s, has brought back the look. Though the bibs and jersey are constructed of fully modern stretch materials, they are sublimated with the denim pattern for full Italian fashion effect.We heard rumors of these brash bibs last year, though we didn't really believe they'd go to production. But sure enough, the kit showed up in the mail and our friends and colleagues had a good laugh when we modeled them.   Truth be told, they're kinda growing on us. I mean, Pantani looked pretty dapper in them. And they're loads better than some of the tawdry team kits today (like those chocolate brown bibs over at AG2R-La Mondiale—gag). Best of all, the rear seat pockets on the bibs, complete with faux rivets, are functional—the perfect spot for stowing race notes, some food, or a pack of cigarettes. Eat your heart out Cutters....

How can I get into clipless pedals without falling on my face?

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:32:42 EDT

What's the best way to train for getting in and out of clipless bike pedals? New to the road bike, I'm also living in a chaotic city and terrified of falls. Thanks a million!

How can I stop my sunglasses from fogging up?

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:30:35 EDT

I wear sunglasses for mountain biking, both for sun protection and shielding my eyes from flying branches and stuff, even during night riding. The climate here in the Bay Area has my glasses fogging up most of the time. I've tried the Smith No-Fog cloth and Cat Crap, with no real success. Do you have any suggestions to prevent this problem?

35. Tune Your Derailleur

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:26:28 EDT

It looks pretty scary: cables, gears, chains, grease, and springs. Who wants to mess with that? But the majority of shifting issues (jumping chains, rough shifts, clacking) can be fixed fast with zero tools. So next time your shifting goes, follow these steps from cycling guru Lennard Zinn, a former U.S. National Team rider and the author of several books on bicycle maintenance: (1) Determine whether you need to tighten or loosen the cable. Shift up until the chain is on the smallest cog (a) in the rear, then downshift one gear. If the chain doesn't climb to the next cog, or if it does so slowly, you need to increase tension. If it overshifts, you need to reduce it.* (2) Find the barrel adjuster (b). It'll be at the rear derailleur (most likely) or by the handlebars. (3) To increase tension, turn the barrel adjuster counterclockwise (when viewed from the end where the cable housing enters the adjuster). To reduce tension, turn clockwise. The barrel adjuster will click as you turn it. Go one or two clicks and recheck the shifting. Repeat until the chain moves easily in both directions. *This holds true for most derailleurs. But some, called "low normal," work in the opposite direction, with cable tension moving the chain away from the wheel, instead of toward it.To determine which kind you have, pull on the cable and watch which way the derailleur moves. If you have an LN, start on the largest cog and reverse this whole process.

How to Pack: Mountain

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:20:26 EDT

Mechanic Scott Haupert shows you what to pack before you hit the trails on your fat-tire steed. Frankie Flats Repair Service , Santa Fe, NM

5 Tips For Downhill Mountain Biking

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:49:41 EDT

HIT THE PARK: If you ride within your abilities, there’s not as much risk involved as people think. With the number of bike parks around, downhill mountain biking is becoming like skiing or snowboarding. There are trails for every level of rider and programs and equipment that allow you to learn safely. ELBOWS UP: This is a totally basic but highly important technique. You have to keep your arms bent and your elbows high for maximum strength and leverage. Wider handlebars make it easier to maintain that position. DROP IT: If you’re riding a downhill bike, you’ll be in the right position for descending. If you’re on a trail bike, then a dropper seatpost, like Fox’s D.O.S.S. ($439), is just awesome. It still lets you climb fast, but the push of a button puts you in a safer, lower position for cruising downhill. KEEP CONTACT: Your feet are two of the most important contact points with the bike, so the right shoes and pedals are crucial. Flat pedals, like the HT AE03 Evos ($160), help keep your feet in the right position when braking and jumping. The Giro Jackets ($120) have sticky soles, so your feet stay glued to the pedals. LET IT ROLL: If you get into trouble in a hard spot, keep neutral pressure on your bars, so the bike tracks where it wants to go, and avoid slamming on the brakes. The bike will almost ride down stuff on its own.

Sizing Up the Wheel Wars

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:49:16 EDT

Twenty-six-inch wheels have traditionally been the standard for mountain bikes, but 29ers have become so good at what they do that, though we tested a bunch of 26ers, not a single one made the final cut. Now there’s a third choice, as the 650B wheel (a.k.a. 27 or 27.5), a decades-old standard falling between 26 and 29, is the hot size. While each size has its pros and cons, we can say one thing for sure: 650Bs are here to stay. The Case For SmallerTwenty-six-inch wheels are lighter, more maneuverable, and more durable than bigger hoops, and they accelerate faster. They remain the standard for downhill riding and bike parks, where quick handling and jumping are key. That could change with 650Bs, which are nearly as sturdy and deft as 26ers. “We’ve been experimenting with bigger wheels,” says World Cup downhill champ Aaron Gwin, “and we’re seeing performance gains.” But Maybe Bigger Is Better?The advantages of bigger wheels include a larger tire-contact patch for better traction and improved rollover. But 29ers can feel big and heavy, and the geometries can be clumsy, especially when incorporated into longer-travel, full-suspension designs. The 650B has many of the benefits of a 29er, but the smaller circumference makes for crisper handling and greater durability. The TakeawayWe tested three Scott Genius mountain bikes with identical specs except wheel diameter: the 29-inch 910, the 26-inch 10 (which, tellingly, Scott discontinued this year), and the ’tweener 700, which comes with 650B wheels. We rode them on a series of courses, from fast desert screamers to techy downhill runs. We measured consistent power input from ride to ride and found that finish times varied less than 10 percent across platforms. Our final word: the speed gains of any one size are negligible, but each has distinct handling characteristics. Choose the one that fits your riding style.

5 Tips For Making Better Videos

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:48:48 EDT

KNOW YOUR CAMERA: Familiarize yourself with all your tools in a nice warm place so that when you’re outside in the rain or snow, or under pressure, you won’t press the wrong button. With action cameras, it’s helpful to learn the field of view, because there’s no viewfinder on a lot of them. It’s important to know what will end up in the picture and what won’t. MIX IT UP: The coolest thing about these cameras is that they’re really tough, and you can put them anywhere—so put them anywhere. We don’t want a soup just made out of peas. We want a soup made out of peas, potatoes, and spices. Get a bunch of angles—top of the ski, chainstay of your mountain bike—so when you’re editing you have a lot of different stuff you can mix together. HAVE A PLAN: If you want to tell a good story, it’s really -helpful to decide what you’re going to do -before you go out and do it. Try and figure out a -beginning, a middle, and an end. Very few great pieces you see on video or on the Web just happened. KEEP IT SHORT: Nobody wants to watch a five-minute video of you mountain-biking down a trail. My preferred length for a Web video is 60 seconds. If you watch Super Bowl commercials, you’ll realize that you can do a lot in 60 seconds. But you also don’t have to do a lot in 60 seconds, because it’s a safe time investment for people. LISTEN: Sound is 51 percent of a film, and action cams are terrible at recording audio. It’s easy to get sound effects—like a bike chain running or birds chirping—at places like Freesound. Also try recording a bit of narration with the microphone on your laptop.

Why Do Gorillas Have Such Small Genitals?

Mon, 20 May 2013 16:47:16 EDT

Q. Why do gorillas have such small genitals? A. Though we doubt you've actually compared members with a gorilla, that's right: gorilla junk is only about the size of your pinkie. So how'd Kong get shafted? It comes down to the way our mating habits evolved, says psychologist Christopher Ryan, co-author, along with his wife, Cacilda Jethá, of Sex at Dawn: The Prehistoric Origins of Modern Sexuality. Among polygynous species—one male, many females—like gorillas and elk, males typically duke it out for control of a harem. "Those who lose get expelled from the group," says Ryan, "and they don't get to mate at all. That way the genes for ferocity, strength, and size get passed along." For such creatures, genital size is irrelevant, so they've stayed small. But among promiscuous species like chimps, bonobos, and—surprise!—humans, the battle takes place among sperm cells rather than individuals. (Ryan and Jethá hypothesize that humans became monogamous only when they started owning property and needed a way to determine inheritance.) Among species in which many males have historically copulated with many females, natural selection favors large genitals with ample reserves of hard-swimming sperm. Human testes produce so much sperm, in fact, that they have to reside outside the body, where it's cooler, which aids sperm survival. "It's like having a refrigerator in the garage for beer," says Ryan. "If you're the kind of guy who has a spare beer fridge, you're expecting a party to break out at any moment." And when that party's over, it's the winning sperm cell that determines whose genetics get passed on. A more developed member gives the little guys something of a head start.

14. Survive an All-Night Race

Mon, 20 May 2013 16:42:42 EDT

Golden, Colorado-based pro mountain biker Nat Ross has competed solo in at least three dozen twice-around-the-clock events—todays' preeminent endurance sufferfests—most recently winning Utah's 24 Hours of Moab in 2006. Here are his tried and true methods for making those long, hard rides as painless as possible: 1. Check ride424.com, pick your race, and give yourself six weeks to prepare. Get your bike properly fitted to your body (see wobblenaught.com), then work in some four-to-six-hour sessions and night rides, and train after meals to get used to going hard after eating.2. Start out at a comfortable pace—it takes a few laps to get your nerves unjangled—then settle into a groove and stay hydrated.3. Munch on the go: fruit, burritos, mashed potatoes, ravioli. 4. Rotate water and sports drinks, using different hydration packs for each, and go for 50 to 70 ounces per lap.5. Prevent blisters: Switch gloves and socks, use chamois cream on your nether regions, and align and tighten your cleats.6. Layer for a balance of warmth and wicking. 7. Oh, yeah: Have fun.

Earl Android tablet from Sqigle, made with outdoor exploration in mind

Mon, 20 May 2013 16:18:24 EDT

When you think tablet, you think fragile slate for entertainment with big screen and short battery life. Sqigle though more about ultimate survival gadget for the backcountry. Earl is an interesting gadget to say the least. Its 6″ screen puts it in the tablet category, akin to a kindle. And like it it has an E-Ink screen, perfect to read...The post Earl Android tablet from Sqigle, made with outdoor exploration in mind appeared first on Gear Exposure.

The 50-Mile Ultra raining Plan

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:24:54 EDT

If you can run a marathon, you can finish a 50-miler. “You just need a different strategy," Freeman says. Follow his five-month plan, an abbreviated version of which is presented here, to toe the starting line in peak physical and mental shape.

The Top 10 Ultramarathon Training Tips

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:23:41 EDT

It goes without saying that running 50 miles at a stretch is far from easy. “There’s a different understanding of the human spirit that comes about when even getting food down is a luxury,” Freeman says. Below, the country’s top 50-mile runners share their tips for going the distance YOUR ADVISORSMichele Yates, Two-time national 50-mile trail champion and course record holder Cody Moat, 2013 national 50-mile trail champion and course record holder Jimmy Dean Freeman, owner of Coyote Running coaching and training programs, five-time 50-miler finisher, and finisher of more than 30 ultra-distance races 10. Pick your hydration packYes, there will be aid stations. But there’s no telling how much time will pass between them, so bring your own fluids in a handheld bottle, pack, or belt. Which one you choose is a matter of preference. Yates favors a belt, citing a 2010 study that found carrying loads close to the core is more economical than handheld bottles. That said, Moat set a course record at the last 50-mile trail championships running with a handheld he fashioned out of a plastic water bottle and duct tape. 9. Test everything“Spend time on your runs trying stuff out,” Moat says. That includes your race-day fuel plan and the extra clothes and gear you’ll wear to compete. “In a road race, I’ll usually just wear boy-cut shorts and a sports bra,” Yates says. “But in a [trail] ultra, I’ll also have compression socks, gaiters, and a longer tank top to eliminate the possibility of chaffing from my hydration belt.” Longer socks, she says, are especially important on singletrack where prickly plants and bushes can cut up your legs. You’ll also need a headlamp, as many races start—and can end—in the dark. So get comfortable running in everything you might wear or carry in the race. The big day is bad time to realize you need a bandana to keep your headlamp from denting your skull. 8. Organize your drop bagsDrop bags are sacks of personal items that will be accessible at one or more predetermined locations along the course. Arrange everything in yours for quick and easy access. “You’ll see a lot of people going through their stuff really slow,” Yates says. She streamlines the process by breaking all of her bars into bite-sized chunks and placing them in plastic baggies—no unwrapping required. Don’t know what bag to use? Victory Sport Design makes a popular drop bag with clear pockets that make it easy to identify your food and gear. 7. Do doubles“The longer the distance that you run or race, the higher percentage it becomes mental,” Freeman says. The best way to train your brain for a 50 is to run two long days in a row. “The second long run is about getting out there on sore, tired, fatigued legs and continuing to run, fuel yourself, and practice a mental strategy,” Freeman says. It’s also about learning how to make adjustments on the fly. “Doubling your distance takes smart planning, and also the ability to throw that plan out and base everything on instinct,” Freeman says. You’ll hone your intuition on that second long run. 6. Forgive yourselfThe secret to finishing your first 50 is learning not to sweat bad days or missed workouts. “If you go in not at your best fitness, but you have a sharp mental game plan, it’s possible you’ll have the best race of your life,” Freeman says. “Conversely, you could enter the race as fit as you’ve ever been, and if you haven’t done your mental homework, you’re gonna have a tough day.” Think of a terrible training run as a mental exercise in disguise. 5. Study the competitionBefore Moat ran—and won—his first 50, he researched his competitors. “I knew there was somebody in the race that was going to run the race smart, who had experience,” Moat says. “My strategy was to follow him and let him show me how to do a 50-miler." If your race posts an entrant list, research your competitors and try contacting a few who might be willing to share their wisdom, or even run with you. 4. Watch the weather“Know what the weather conditions can be,” Yates says. That’ll help you decide what to put in your drop bag. This year’s USA Track and Field 50-mile championship in Rocksprings, Texas, for example, started off at 37 degree...

Yes You Can: Run an Ultramarathon

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:22:47 EDT

Any ultrarunner will tell you each step past 26.2 miles is transcendental. “It’s a willingness to get really uncomfortable for self-enlightenment,” says ultra coach Jimmy Dean Freeman, who ran his first 50-miler in 2005 after seeing “Ultramarathon Man” Dean Karnazes speak at the Nike Women’s Marathon in San Francisco. Thanks to books like Born to Run and celebs like Karnazes, participation in ultrarunning events has more than doubled over the past five years, according to Ultrarunning Magazine. Last year, more than 52,000 people tested their grit at 717 ultra-distance events held in North America. The draw lies in something beyond tight abs and a roaring metabolism. Forget worrying about time and rank. Running 50 miles is an exploration of your own resolve—a psychological challenge that borders on a spiritual awakening. But that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. “Don’t do it!” is the first thing Freeman tells runners considering a 50-miler (a typical intro distance for aspiring ultramarathoners). “Imagine how difficult it is to train for 26.2 miles, the sacrifices and the challenges both physical and mental." Then tack on a battered immune system, amplified exhaustion, and a higher risk of injury. “You’re not doubly as healthy running 50 miles,” Freeman says. “You’re not doubly as fit.” So why go the distance? It all comes back to the mental challenge and the opportunity for personal growth. “I definitely have learned new levels of patience, perseverance, and focus through participating in 50- and 100-mile mountain races," Freeman says. "I’m a better person than I might have been otherwise.” Ready to test your mettle? Follow our guide to get you to the starting line. The Top Ten Ultramarathon Training TipsThe Ultra Nutrition PlanThe 50-Mile Training Plan

The Ultimate Ultramarathon Nutrition Plan

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:19:21 EDT

If you're running an ultra, you can pretty much expect to face some gastric distress along the way. “It’s not so much if you’re going to have stomach problems, it’s when you’re going to have stomach problems, and what you’re going to do about it,” says sports nutritionist and ultramarathoner Sunny Blende. “Have a plan,” she says, like the one outlined below, “then deviate from it when you need to.” The Night Before“Usually we think of carbo-loading the night before an endurance race, but when you get to ultramarathons, you don’t always want a lot of food in your gut,” Blende says. She recommends eating a meal that’s 60 to 70 percent carbohydrates two nights before your event. The rest of your calories should come from protein, like salmon or tofu, and a small amount of fat. If you do carbo-load two nights before, make sure to drink more the day before. “Try to drink some of your calories so your gut will be pretty clean when you go off the line,” Blende says. The night before, eat a regular meal with high quality carbs such as sweet potatoes, or whole grain pasta. Stay away from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, Blende warns, because they can cause gas. Morning of the RaceWhat you eat the morning of your 50-miler depends entirely on what kind of runner you are. “If you’re the nervous type,” Blende says, “you should eat a late-night snack rich in complex carbs” so you don’t have to eat much for breakfast. If you don’t mind getting up early, wake up two to three hours before the race starts to eat a good-sized breakfast, then go back to sleep. If you want to sleep as much as possible, wake up an hour or two before the race, eat a light breakfast, then go for it. Examples of good pre-race meals include a bagel with peanut butter and jelly and a banana, plain oatmeal, a sports bar and some water, or even a rice, bean, and cheese burrito. “The key is to eat something you’ve tried before your long training runs,” Blende says. “You’re just topping off. You’re not trying to eat all of the calories you’re going to burn in the race.” Blende recommends travelling with your breakfast, and even your post-race dinner, as ultramarathons are often held in remote regions where access to the food you need may be limited. During the Race“Off the line, you’re full. You don’t need anything for the first hour, maybe two hours,” Blende says. After that, you’ll have to start eating or drinking calories. But while you’ll burn about 100 calories per mile, your body can only absorb about 240 calories per hour, so it’s important not to eat too much, or you can get sick. “It’s a deficit sport. You can’t eat all that you’re expending,” Blende says. “The best way to consume calories during a 50-mile race is to think of dripping them in like an IV.” She recommends setting a watch on a timer so it beeps every 15 minutes. Each time the alarm sounds, eat or drink something, whether it’s a gel, chew, sports drink, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, or a baked potato dipped in salt. “Leave a little of everything in your drop bag,” Blende says. “Leave your gels, your chews, your sports foods, your mixed drinks, because you might need it or you might have dropped something.” As for hydrating, the rule is simple: Drink according to thirst. Should your stomach get upset, slow down, stop eating, or take in less. Keep up your hydration if you’re thirsty, and then start adding things back in. “Sometimes when you throw up, it’s really just your body saying, ‘OK, I’m wiping the slate clean, let’s start over,’” Blende says. Keep calm, and keep moving. Post-RaceDrink water if you’re thirsty. Then start taking in calories as soon as possible in a ratio of one part protein to three to four parts carbohydrates. “It’s like if you’re going to build a house, the protein is going to help rebuild the muscle—it’s the lumber and the nails—and the carbohydrates are the construction crew. You need both,” Blende says. Eat whatever you want, but, Blende advises, “the healthier you eat, the better off you’ll be.” Expect to keep losing weight for ...

How Can I Relieve the Pressure on My Back and Neck That Comes from Road Biking?

Mon, 20 May 2013 14:34:50 EDT

I'm a 57-year-old female cyclist who likes long day rides and touring. I have always enjoyed a quick, responsive bike, but I'm now experiencing arthritis and neck pain with the current, fairly extreme, bike configurations. I guess I need a new bike. What type should I buy?

How can I repair a tear in my cycling shorts?

Mon, 20 May 2013 14:29:27 EDT

A nail recently tore a one-inch hole in my nice new Pearl Izumi Ultrasensor bib shorts. The tear is just to the right of center; not on a se. Are these things repairable?

Climber Dies on El Capitan

Mon, 20 May 2013 14:06:30 EDT

Falling rock killed one climber on Yosemite National Park's El Capitan on Sunday. Mason Robison of Montana fell 230 feet after pulling loose some rock and causing a slide. My Mother Lode reports that his climbing partner was not injured..According to witnesses, a second rockslide occurred around seven hours later, but nobody was reported injured.Rockslides are commonplace in the park, but slide-caused fatalities are a rarity. The last death was reported in 1999 when a Colorado climber was killed by falling rocks on Glacier Point Apron; in 1996, a hiker was killed by a falling boulder. The largest accident occurred in 1980 when thousands of tons of granite came crashing down the Yosemite Fall Trail, killing three people.

Anchorage Snow Season Sets Records

Mon, 20 May 2013 14:01:40 EDT

It’s still cold and snowy in Alaska in the middle of May, but at least Anchorage has something to show for it. May 17 marked day 232 of measurable snowfall for the city, the longest snow season in over 30 years. The last record, set back in the 1981-82 season, was 230 days. May 17 also set new daily records for coldest maximum temperature and liquid precipitation in Anchorage, with as much as six inches of snowfall in some parts. Time to summon JP Auclair:...

How do I deck out my road bike for a cross-country trip?

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:48:09 EDT

I am considering a serious cycling trip across Europe, and I’m set on getting a road bike for it. But I’m having an equipment quandary. I won’t need much, but how do I carry things like a sleeping bag? I don’t want to carry a pack on my back. What do you suggest?

How Do I Find a Training Partner?

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:38:55 EDT

I’m bored of my routine and have trouble getting motivated to exercise. I'd like to train with someone, but I'm not sure where to look. Got any suggestions?

How can I keep my toes warm while snowboarding?

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:35:37 EDT

So, the winter snow will soon be upon us. As a snowboarder, my feet always seem to get extremely cold. I wear SmartWool socks, and I sometimes need to wear two pairs of socks (though not necessarily both SmartWool). Do you think my feet are just overly sensitive to the cold, or is there something else out there to keep my tootsies cozy?

McAfee's Belize Home Burns Down

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:33:08 EDT

In the most recent chapter of John McAfee’s humdrum life, the software tycoon’s $500,000 Belize property was burned to the ground in a fire on May 16. While local news agencies pinned the incident on a small bush fire that burned out of control, McAfee, ever the center of mystery, suspects foul play. In a post on his personal blog, McAfee pointed to the Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Oliver Barrow as a possible culprit: As mentioned in an earlier post, the Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Oliver Barrow has enormous power and puts into action whenever he needs to... today was another good example... This afternoon my compound in Orange Walk was burned to the ground, my sources confirm that barrow was livid over the fact that my employees were acquitted of all charges last month and that an investment group was about the purchase the property (sale was supposed to close over the next few days). Another source at the U.S. Embassy called me to confirm that the fires were not accidental... McAfee, 67, famously went on the run last November after authorities in Belize declared him a person of interest in the fatal shooting of his neighbor, Gregory Viant Faull. He was eventually detained in Guatemala and deported to the United States. Faull’s murder remains unsolved. Read about Jeff Wise's bizarre encounter with John McAfee here.

Alpinist Found Alive on Aiguille Verte

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:21:47 EDT

A 21-year-old French alpinist was found alive in the Mont Blanc massif on Saturday after spending four days lost in the Alps. According to PlanetMountain, Gaelle Cavalie planned to solo Couloir Couturier, a moderately difficult snow route up the north face of the Aiguille Verte, when she wandered off route and became lost last Tuesday. On Saturday, a rescue helicopter spotted the climber just below the summit of the mountain. Cavalie, who spent the four days and nights in a snow cave, suffered mild hypothermia, but is otherwise healthy.

Chinese Climber Dies on Lhotse

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:01:51 EDT

A Chinese climber, Xiaoshi Li, died while attempting to summit Lhotse, the world's fourth-highest mountain, on Monday."Li died due to sickness on his way to Lhotse peak," Nivesh Karki of the expedition organizer Seven Summit Treks said. Li fell ill on Saturday at 8,000 meters while attempting to approach the summit. "The rescue operation by the helicopter was operated for two days but could not be successful due to bad weather at the height where Lee had fallen sick," the mountaineering section of Nepal's Ministry of Tourism told Xinhuanet.

Should I Replace My Bike Helmet?

Mon, 20 May 2013 12:53:46 EDT

I bike a lot. Between my sweat and the sun, I wonder—how long does a helmet last? Is there something I can do to extend its life? If it is time for a new lid, what do I buy?

Testing the TevaSphere Speed Trail Running Shoes

Mon, 20 May 2013 10:23:17 EDT

Even though I can’t help thinking of these as Trail Running shoes, the TevaSphere Speed was actually inspired by the unpredictable world of obstacle races and the athletes that are crazy enough to take them on – hello GORUCK’ers and Tough Mudders! It features their new TevaSphere technology that uses a spherical heel and support [..Read More..] Follow @bfgreenThe post Testing the TevaSphere Speed Trail Running Shoes appeared first on Brian's Backpacking Blog.

Food Storage for 30 Days

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:40:20 EDT

Food Storage for 30 Days by Harry I’m an Engineer and really like solving problems. Especially, when there are lots of variables leading to a number of potential solutions. That allows me to put some of my personal preferences into the mix and develop what I believe is the best solution. [...]

2013 Gravel Grinding Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:52:19 EDT

Originating mostly in the Midwest, gravel grinders—long races held on predominantly unimproved dirt, chip-seal, and gravel back roads—have exploded in popularity over the past few years. People race on whatever they’ve got (mountain bikes, cyclocross rigs, traditional road bikes), and the vibe is part century, part adventure race. Challenging road conditions, nasty weather, and limited support checkpoints are all part of the allure.

2013 Women's Running Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:52:19 EDT

Fast and flattering gear for your next workout ...

2013 Women's Mountain-Biking Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:52:19 EDT

What you need to go bigger, look better, and ride harder

2013 Women's Travel Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:51:56 EDT

We always say: If it isn’t versatile, don’t pack it. Luckily, these essentials are as travel-friendly as they come, ready for you to throw them in your luggage and head out the door....

2013 Women's City Biking Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:51:46 EDT

Looking for a good excuse to ditch your car and ride around town? We’ve got seven.

2013 Women's Climbing Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:51:36 EDT

Going up? Our testers covered all the essentials to find the best climbing gear out there....

2013 Travel Tech Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:51:26 EDT

Traveling with too many gadgets can make you forget that you’re on vacation. The key is to figure out which ones you truly need. For us, it’s these four.

2013 Stand-Up Paddleboarding Essentials

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:51:18 EDT

SUPing is easy to learn, involves only a few pieces of gear, and, perhaps best of all, delivers a full-body workout. We found some of the best gear to keep you floating all day.

An hour on the Spring Creek trail

Sun, 19 May 2013 23:59:27 EDT

A little spare time in the late afternoon, a short drive, cool green shade and flowers. Scarlet Indian Paintbrush, Castilleja miniata Kinnikinnik, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Howell’s pussytoes, Antennaria howellii Woodland Strawberry, Fragaria vesca Yellow Coralroot, Corallorhiza trifida This encounter made my day! It was the first time that I’ve encountered this saprophytic orchid. Its greenish tinge […]

Russian Space Mice Return to Earth

Sun, 19 May 2013 19:38:11 EDT

A Russian space capsule carrying 45 mice, 15 newts, and a host of other small, possibly adorable animals, returned from a one-month mission in orbit Sunday. The Bion-M spacecraft landed safely in the Orenburg region of Russia, some 750 miles south of Moscow, according to Russian Mission Control. Along with snails and gerbils, the capsule holds recorded data that Russian scientists hope will help pave the way for the first manned flights to Mars. A field laboratory has already been deployed near the landing site so that scientists can begin observing the effects of microgravity on the skeletal structure, nervous systems, and circulatory function of the animals. According to Russian Mission Control, these tests would have been impossible to conduct on humans aboard the International Space Station. They also added that a mission separate from the ISS was necessary since a small zoo on the station would have posed a tremendous health risk. There is no word yet on whether the animals have actually survived the ordeal or developed super powers.

Bacon Cafe Under Attack For Smelling Like Bacon

Sun, 19 May 2013 18:31:32 EDT

A popular pork-centered restaurant in the San Francisco area is closing due to its overwhelming aroma of bacon and concerns over grease disposal. Department of Public Health officials told the SF Examiner that the restaurant, Bacon Bacon, had months to resolve the concerns raised by neighbors but failed to do so. The announcement has led to a swell of online support for the cafe, including a petition with more than 1,600 signatures from Bay Area residents who want to keep Bacon Bacon open. A public hearing must be held before Bacon Bacon can reopen, but one may not be scheduled until July. In the meantime, neighbor has offered to install an air filter to reduce the overwhelming smell of bacon, but the "to date, the owner has not accepted that offer," says Ryan Patterson, the attorney for the unnamed but upset neighbors....

This place is falling apart……

Sun, 19 May 2013 01:36:58 EDT

The United States is falling apart. I am convinced daily that this country is falling apart and I believe history will show things are accelerating. What the end game will be I don’t know and what the time frame is – mystery as well. Bottom line is evil is growing stronger and it is not [...]

Beyond the Fairy Slippers

Sun, 19 May 2013 00:46:29 EDT

Nearly all of my photos result from my frequent wanderings in the mountains and forests of western Montana. The wildflowers in my previous post were encountered on the way to a hike to view the peaks of the Cherry Peak roadless area, something I choose to do at least once every year. After a ten […]

Spring(?) Kayaking on Brule Lake in the BWCA

Sat, 18 May 2013 19:10:52 EDT

Tweet This spring has been slow in coming. In northern Minnesota, we’re between 14 and 20 days behind median ice out, and it’s wearing a little thin on the nerves. This week some of the bigger lakes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness finally started to go out, so with that in mind, Jeffrey [...]The post Spring(?) Kayaking on Brule Lake in the BWCA appeared first on PaddlingLight.com. You can leave a comment by clicking here: Spring(?) Kayaking on Brule Lake in the BWCA.

STUDY: Drought to Impact Major Cities

Sat, 18 May 2013 16:15:51 EDT

Washington, D.C., New York City, Los Angeles, and San Diego may be facing severe water shortages as climate change increase drought potential, a newly released study finds.The Columbia University Water Center notes that population growth and increased future demand for water combined with climate change may severely stress the current water infrastructure. “Projecting current trends, if you continue business as usual without any innovation, eventually you're going to get to a point where you're not going to have enough water to cover population demands,” Veolia Water Chief Sustainability Officer Edwin Pinero told Bloomberg News.The report follows a Ernst & Young sustainability study in which 76 percent of corporate representatives chose water as a top resource risk. Over the next 17 years, global demand for freshwater is expected to outstrip supply by 40 percent while companies in northern India and China are already shutting down due to a lack of water in the region.

2013 Women's Road-Biking Essentials

Sat, 18 May 2013 15:45:34 EDT

Time to fire up Strava and notch some Queen of the Hill climbs

2013 Day-Hiking Essentials

Sat, 18 May 2013 15:45:34 EDT

Style meets function in these testers' trail favorites.