I think life is better when you K.I.S.S! Another words, keep it simple stupid. Buy less stuff, but buy more high quality versatile stuff. I feel that this principle is also key for gift giving and receiving, as besides a few short term smiles, disposable cheap gifts don’t do anything for anyone. The list below are all things that are quality products, most of which are quite versatile, and will enhance any adventure you can dream up. May your holidays be full of adventures and quality gear.
Cheers, Bryon
STAY FIT:
Garmin fenix 3 HR Watch
($599.99 BUY Now)
Versatility is key for products in my action packed mobile lifestyle, and the fenix 3 HR is not only extremely useful, to track my fitness, find my way, evaluate the weather and stay connected, it also offers up a tremendous amount of style as an everyday watch.
MyPakage Pro Series Black 2-in-1
($90.00 BUY Now)
Performance and comfort combine in this extremely versatile workout piece. Perfect for hitting the gym or heading out for a run, quality materials provide a wide comfortable temperature use range, while a 3 dimensional pouch supports your package. They are also great for travel, as they pack extremely small and are very light weight.
Armpocket Mega i-40 Plus
($49.95 BUY Now)
Simple, effective, comfortable and durable. I’ve been using a version of this armband for many years now, and haven’t used or seen anything that comes close. Be sure to check out my full review HERE.
Altra Superior 2.0
($110.oo BUY Now)
These shoes are perfect for aggressive trail running, offering up tons of grip, just enough rock protection, comfortable cushioning, light weight and are extreme durability. I’ve also used them as a daily shoe for all sorts of adventures. Besides my moto boots, these were the only other footwear I brought with me on my month long NE Canada adv moto adventure this past September.
LOOK GOOD:
ExOfficio Kelion Plaid L/S Shirt
($90. 00 BUY Now)
I’m not normally into plaid anything, but this shirt has a timeless, but modern, style that is perfect for a wide range of situations you might find yourself while living the life of adventure. It is extremely comfortable and seems to resist wrinkles pretty well, which is great when I tend to stuff my clothes into all sorts of bags while on the go.
Mission Nylon Series Belt
($34.95 BUY Now)
This no hole ratcheting style belt is adventure proven, and looks awesome. Check out my full review HERE.
Club Ride Cog Jean
($94.95 BUY Now)
I was recently introduced to the Club Ride brand, and have been impressed with all the pieces I’ve used. The Cog Jean has great style and comfort for just kicking around town, while also having great features for more active endeavors; like stretch denim, reflective accents and a large zippered leg pocket.
Clothing Arts Cubed Travel Jacket
($380.00)
I’ve only recently received this jacket for evaluation, but I’ve already fallen for its charms. It’s extremely waterproof, windproof and breathable, which all add up to a piece that is perfect for use in a wide range of environments. Extremely stylish and comfortable, the Cubed Travel Jacket is a perfect shell for a life of adventure anywhere in the world you might find yourself. Pair with a quality puffy, like the Sierra Designs DriDown Hoody, and you have a compact, light weight and versatile all weather travel system.
COMFORT IS KEY:
EE/Ninkasi “Life Of Adventure” Logo T-Shirt
Limited availability in Men’s (M, L, XL) & Women’s (S,M) sizing. American made quality tees that shows your passion for creating the “Life Of Adventure” that you’ve always wanted.
Sea To Summit Aeros Pillow Premium
($42.95 BUY Now)
Super light weight, packs crazy tiny and is oh so comfortable. This pillow has provided me so many nights of quality sleep over the past year, from the depths of the Grand Canyon to the remote off road trails of Newfoundland. With good rest comes good adventures!
SAFETY FIRST:
DeLorme inReach Explorer
($380.00 + monthly subscription)
The best way I’ve found to stay connected while on the go, when you need to be, anywhere in the world. I’ve used this device in the Arctic Circle, in the remote SE Australia High Country, the depths of the Grand Canyon and nearly everywhere in between, without a single issue. Two-way satellite communication and location tracking in a small powerful little unit. I have a private 25% off discount code on the device, so just email me if you’re interested (bryon@exploringelements.com).
You can see the inReach Explorer on the tank bag of the bike above. The bike is owned by a solo retired adv moto traveler I ran into fixing his flat tire in Newfoundland. He used it to keep in touch with friends and family while he searched for the remote roads less traveled across North America. Everything on his bike was simple, economical and important to the adventure.
Icon Variant Raiden Carbon Helmet
($550.oo)
A high quality light weight helmet to protect your noggin on your adventure motorcycle adventures. I’ve used this helmet in a WIDE range of conditions and environments and it has performed flawlessly. Great value!
Alpinestars Toucan Boot
($499.95 BUY Now)
Nope, not cheap, but you get what you pay for! This boot is perfectly suited for the adventure motorcycle lifestyle. The GoreTex liner keeps the water out, and lets the sweat escape. It also has enough comfort and ankle mobility to work well off the bike, whether snapping some photos, going on a short hike or stopping at the pub for dinner and a pint.
Dynaplug Mini Pro Inflator GT
($69.99 BUY Now)
Lightweight, compact and efficient. This little gadget is a must for all motorcyclists. The built in pressure gauge is a really nice feature, rarely seen on other small compressors.
SECURE YOUR GEAR:
Mosko Moto Backcountry 35L Pannier Kit
($699.99)
Not sure there is a better way out there to carry your gear on an adventure motorcycle. These soft bags are super functional, impressively durable and look great. They are also sold direct, to provide you with the best value, from a quality American company full of great people.
Mosko Moto Backcountry Cinch Strap
($34.99 pair)
Versatile, quality and feature rich. Check out the full Backcountry Cinch Strap review HERE. They work great to haul the important stuff in life 😉
Sea To Summit Big River Dry Bags
($20-$60* BUY Now)
Being prepared to protect your gear from the weather is just part of outdoor adventuring. These dry bags are burly strong, versatile enough to work on a wide variety of adventures and are just plain reliable. Check out my full review HERE.
SHARE YOUR STORY:
MindShift UlraLight Dual 25L Photo Daypack
($169.99 BUY Now)
I’ve been using this photo backpack for a few months now. It has all the features you need for a short day photo mission, and works great as a light weight adventure day pack when you go minimal, or without, your photo gear. Water bottle holder, tripod holder, padded removable camera case, comfortable secure and ventilated harness system and so much more.
BE INSPIRED:
Work Less to Live Your Dreams: A practical guide to saving money and living your dreams by Dan Grec
(eBook $2.99 BUY Now)
A great little read from an experienced traveler, friend and all around good guy, Dan Grec. This guide is money well spent! Read my full review HERE for all the details.
Travel The Planet Overland by Graeme & Luisa Bell
($45.00 )
While I haven’t read this book yet, it is for sure on my to do list. The authors are amazing people, friends and experienced overland travelers. The book was just released, and the quality looks to be top notch on all levels. If you want some insight on what it’s like, and what it takes, to travel the world overland, this is your new resource.
Tread Magazine
($8.99 print / $7.99 digital / $53.94 yearly subscription)
This magazine just hit the market in early 2016, and is quickly developing into a quality off road /adventure /overland publication. I’ve had at least one piece in every issue so far, with lots more articles in the works for the coming year, when the mag will be doubling it’s yearly issue releases. Worth a read!
You’re sure to keep the family and friends happy this holiday season by stocking the fridge with tasty Ninkasi Brewing craft beer. A great place to start with your Ninkasi beer tasting is their iconic Total Domination IPA. These aren’t light weight beers, so be sure to savor the flavor and moderate your intake. #PerpetuateBetterLiving 🙂
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
(Disclaimer: Many of these products have been supplied free of charge, or at a discount, for review consideration over the past few years, while others were purchased independently. All are pieces of gear that I’d personally recommend and spend my own money on.)
