Gear Reviews
Thule Locking Straps Review
Overview: The Thule Locking Straps enclose a steel cable within theft-resistant nylon to provide a dual layer of security while transporting your boats and boards! – Kayak Dave The Deet: Materials: Steel Cable in Nylon Sleeve Locking Mechanism: Keyed Lock Length: 10ft (Thule Part # 832), 13ft (Thule Part # 831) Cost: $69.95 (10ft), $79.95 … Continue reading
Bending Branches Balance SUP Paddle Review
Overview: “The Balance is the perfect exercise equipment for water lovers. This paddle marries a high-tech blade shape and materials with the beauty and warmth of wood. Squared-off profile catches the water and delivers a powerful workout.” –Bending Branches The Deets: Blade Size: 8”x17” (100 sq inches) Shaft Material: Aviation-grade T-700 carbon fiber Blade Material: … Continue reading
Astral Greenjacket (2013 Edition) PFD Review
Overview: “The Greenjacket represents the most innovative and comfortable rescue vest to date. Featuring a freestyle tectonic front panel, large clamshell pocket with multiple compartments, added back protection, fleece hand-warmer and a variety of safety features, this jacket is the top choice for river guides and expedition paddlers alike.” – Astral Buoyancy Stats: PFD Type: … Continue reading
Best In Show: A Report on the Exciting New Paddling Gear at EORA 2013
KayakDave.com just returned from our first trip to the annual EORA show at Killington Resort in Vermont. The EORA trade show is like a mini-version of the Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City and it was packed to the brim with all sorts of exciting new paddling and outdoor gear for the 2014 season! … Continue reading
Astral Brewer Water Shoe Review
Overview “Technical performance and classic style blended perfectly to bring you the shoe whitewater kayakers have been waiting for.” –Astral Buoyancy The Deets: Durable Cordura Upper Breathable Airmesh Vamp & Tongue Balanced Geometry” Midsole Stealth Rubber Outsole Weight: 8 ounces Colors: Black/Lime, Navy/Azul, Grey/Maroon, & Black/White Review: Some may be surprised that the piece … Continue reading
Astral Releases LE7 Greenjacket PFD!!!
Astral has made a tradition of blowing the kayaking world away each year with a new Limited Edition Greenjacket PFD. This year is no exception with the LE7 Greenjacket being a dead sexy piece of artwork. Apparently the “Hawk Eye” design was inspired by Astral athlete Pat Keller as a “tribute to art and craft … Continue reading
Biolite Portable Grill Review
Overview: “The BioLite Portable Grill provides a safe, seamless, and fun way to cook your favorite foods on the wood-burning BioLite CampStove. The unique design allows you to keep sizzling while your fire keeps burning, all without the need for charcoal or propane.” -Biolite The Deets: Compatibility: For use with Biolite CampStove only! Cooking … Continue reading
Power Practical Meter Review
Overview: The Practical Meter by Power Practical (makers of the PowerPot) allows you to measure the power output of your USB charging device to ensure that you’re getting the most out of it! The Deets: Compatible with any USB charger Measurement Range: 1 to 5 Watts Resolution: 1 Watt (rounds up) Physical Size: 1.7” … Continue reading
Aquabound Posilock Ferrule Review
Over the years I’ve seen dozens of ferrule designs (cam-lock, screw-lock, push button, ect.) all with their pluses and minuses. What I’ve comes to appreciate is that ferrules are a finicky thing and something that the engineer in me has no interest in designing. For example, Werner Paddles has goes through at least four iterations … Continue reading
MTI Slipstream Lifejacket Review
Overview: “Ultra-low profile 3D cut foam with racer back and Z-Strap cinch down technology. Mesh Air Flow System interior with memory foam comfort cushions. 2 cargo pockets with soft fleece hand warmers. Stretch mesh pocket with media portal for radio antenna or headphones cord. Solas reflective tape.” – MTI Adventurewear The Deets: PFD Type: USCG … Continue reading