On Deck: EMS Escape 4 Tent

I just recently got my hands on Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) Escape 4 three season tent. While I have had little time to spend on a full-length review, I will be putting it through it's paces later this month for a weekend camping trip on Cape Cod.

More to come, so check back! http://www.ems.com

Gear Talk: Dakine Sequence Photo Pack

Hood River, Oregon's Dakine has been an innovator since their inception in 1979. Their Sequence photo backpack builds on that reputation by being a true multitasker. Sporting a removable and customizable padded camera block that can easily swallow a pro SLR body, lenses, and a flash or two, this 1800 cu.in. day pack can handle some sizable loads of both photo gear and general hiking gear alike.

On a recent trip to Florida, I stuffed the pack full of camera gear, ipod accessories, and random carry-on junk. The Sequence's pack harness made the load easily to shoulder through the airport and did not get as much as a second look with regards to carry on size limits.

For those of you who think that photography only just begins when the snow starts to fly, the Sequence should be high on your gear wish list. Capable of carrying skis / snowboard and offering an innovative through the back access to the main compartment and camera block so you'll never have to worry about putting your back down and later having the sand, snow, dirt, etc. fall into your precious photo gear when you later open the bag.

After nearly two full seasons of abuse and travel the pack shows little sings of wear. Not only has it become my go-to photo bag but it is quickly becoming my hiking day pack of choice too - just remove the camera block and and you have a terrific day pack. The only bummer is the lack of a hydration sleeve.

Final Word: Solid, practical photo pack capable of hauling loads of gear. Innovative through the back access just missing a hydration sleeve.

http://www.dakine.com/sport-packs/photo/sequence/

Gear Talk: Keen Newport Sandal

For those of you who who have yet to hear about one of the hottest new outdoor retailers; Portland, Oregon based Keen Footwear, it is time for you to crawl out from underneath your proverbial rock.

Keen Footwear has been building a tremendous following in thanks to high-quality construction and a unique and innovative fit that appeals to both the adventurers and fashionistas among us. Keen's Newport sandal is the foundation of their line as it was the first sandal they introduced and remains one of their most popular sellers.

The Newport features a washable, waterproof leather upper, molded EVA midsole and footbed, and Keen's patented toe protection and bungee lacing system. After recent treks to the beaches of Florida and white water rafting in Maine, the Newport performed flawlessly. Offering great support, fit, and protection from toe stubbs and river rocks alike.Perhaps their best feature is the ability to drop them into your washer machine for a quick freshening!

Final Word: Outstanding performance, unique looks, and smart design make the Keen Newport an outstanding value!

http://www.keenfootwear.com

Adventure: Rafting the Penobscott River

To the typical New Englander, if you mention the words Maine and June and one thing leaps to mind: Black Fly season. However, in addition to the swarms of annoying black flys, June also signals a return of activity after a sleepy Winter off-season for many Maine-based white water rafting companies.

One such company, Millinocket based New England Outdoor Center (www.neoc.com) offers comprehensive guiding services for three of the most scenic rivers in all of New England; the Penobscott, the Kennebec, and the Dead. The Penobscott river with it's stunning views of nearby Mount Katahdin and exhilarating mix of technical white water make the five hour trip from Boston worth the ride.

Recently, I had the chance to join one of NEOC's "Double Trouble" Penobscott rafting trips. After an early morning wake up call, NEOC's professional guides help outfit rafters with paddles, personal floatation devices, and helmets. Following instruction in general river safety and etiquette, rafters are bused to the morning put in below McKay hydroelectric dam. Our guide for the day informed us that the water level was "tame" but the Penobscott's mix of class III, IV, and V rapids can be a challenge regardless of water levels.

Following the put in, we immediatly hit one of the most technical rapids of the day, a class V beast known as Exterminator. Living up to it's moniker, Exterminator and the rest of the rapids making up the upper section of the river serve up a constant adrenaline rush. Just as our morning was winding down, we magically appeared at the take out point and after a short bus ride were treated to one of the best meals I have ever had in the woods. In addition to being knowledgeable river guides, NEOC's staff prepared a delicious meal of chicken, steak, fish, and rice over open flame grills while we waited.

After lunch and a return trip to the McKay station put in, we learned the true meaning of our "Double Trouble" trip, we would run the more technical upper section of the river twice! With the afternoon beginning to wind down and our arms beginning to fail us, we surfed our way through the days final rapid and made our way back to NEOC's base camp lodge. The lodge superbly outfitted with a fine dining restaurant, showers, bar, and outdoor hot tub make it easy to transition back from your days adventure.

What's that? Rafting is not your cup of tea? NEOC offers a variety of packages and activities including; guided moose tours, snowmobiling, and fishing trips, All of these and more can easily be packaged with lodging and breakfast at their convenient on-site lodging options.

Final Word: With breath taking views, outstanding service, and a friendly & knowledgeable staff; rafting the Penobscott river with the New England Outdoor Center is not an adventure to be missed!

http://www.neoc.com/