by Chris Maxcer | Adventure
The new Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite is astoundingly lightweight. The regular weighs a scant 8.8 ounces while the large — which is what I always use — is just 12 ounces. The fabric is definitely lighter than most other air mattresses that weigh a pound or more, but the NeoAir UberLite doesn’t strike me as fragile for sleeping on it inside of a tent. However, I wouldn’t toss this mattress down on sharp rocks and lounge around. With an insulation R-Value of 2.0, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite is aimed at summer backpackers. Read my full UberLite review at Man Makes...
by Chris Maxcer | Adventure
While some fly fishers travel on air planes to go fly fishing, most use vehicles so a “travel” fly rod and reel case isn’t particularly necessary. But there’s a great use for this kind of case: Organization. I’m a big fan of go-bags that help you organize your gear so you can get outside faster and more easily. For this purpose, the Orvis Safe Passage Carry It All bag is awesome. I can load the Safe Passage Carry It All with several fly rods and reels. Not only do I have backup gear handy, I can pack enough gear for friends and family,...
by Chris Maxcer | Adventure
The new Orvis Ultralight Convertible Waders are excellent — just like the Silver Sonic versions they replace. The color is better, as well as the suspenders and chest pockets. Better yet, the waders are part of the Orvis Ultralight Wading System, which is great for fly fishers who’d rather go light than burly and cumbersome. To learn more, check out the full Orvis Ultralight Convertible Waders review at Man Makes...
by Chris Maxcer | Adventure
The new Orvis Ultralight Wading Boots are pretty fantastic. In addition to being lightweight, they’re not as tall so they feel much more nimble when you’re wearing them. They are super durable and the dry-ground traction is excellent. In the water traction is about average, so nab some Orvis PosiGrip Screw-in Studs just in case you end up needing them. To learn more, check out the full Orvis Ultralight Wading Boots review at Man Makes...
by Chris Maxcer | Adventure
It’s hard to buy a bow for a bowhunter because there are so many variables — you need to know your bowhunter’s draw length and draw weight preferences, but also how they might want to use their bow. A tree stand or blind-using hunter might prefer a short bow while a western hunter might prefer a longer bow to help with stability with longer shots. Still, there is a lot of great bowhunting gear and bow hunting gear upgrades that make it reasonably easy to shop for a bowhunter. To see a list of 25 great gifts for bowhunters, check out the full bowhunting gift guide at Man Makes...
by Chris Maxcer | Adventure
The REI Co-op Stormhenge 850 Down Jacket is more coat or parka-like than lightweight jacket. It’s super warm, but it also includes well-designed features like pit zips that let you dump excess heat when you’re working hard outside in the cold. The high-quality 850 fill power down is excellent, but what makes the Stormhenge stand out is its waterproof shell. When snow turns to sleet, you don’t have to run back to your cabin, lodge or vehicle. Read the full Stormhenge review at Man Makes Fire or see it listed in the Man Makes Fire guide to the best down...
