This podcast can be downloaded for free on your phone for easy listening and I highly recommend it. An example of two of the Dirtbag Diaries podcasts I found on YouTube can be watched below. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I do.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Dirtbag Diaries-----The Best Outdoor PodCast There Is
There is a beautiful podcast I listen to on a regular basis and on repeat whenever I feel the need for insipration. It's called, "Dirtbag Diaries" and is hosted by Fitz Cahall and sponsored by Patagonia, New Belgium Brewing Company and Kuat bike racks. It tells the tales of outdoor adventurers and interviews those who have struggled and found themselves, and others, while being in the outdoors through mind blowing trips. When I found this podcast, it was like striking gold. I feel at home just listening to it and through listening to others stories I am constantly growing, learning and wanting to make myself into so much more.
This podcast can be downloaded for free on your phone for easy listening and I highly recommend it. An example of two of the Dirtbag Diaries podcasts I found on YouTube can be watched below. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I do.
This podcast can be downloaded for free on your phone for easy listening and I highly recommend it. An example of two of the Dirtbag Diaries podcasts I found on YouTube can be watched below. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I do.
Friday, August 30, 2013
The Mountain Hardwear Hammerhead 2
I chose the Mountain Hardwear Hammerhead 2 recently while deciding on a new tent and will be taking it out in just a couple hours for a camping trip in Pennsylvania this weekend. It sleeps 2 people for 3-seasons with 2 doors. Its floor dimensions 38 inches square feet floor space and peak height is 44 inches. The Hammerhead is made of Nylon and Polyester. The tent is on sale at REI for $216.73 (originally was $260.00)
I almost bought the Lightpath 3 by Mountain Hardwear but decided against it because
it was more of a minimal design that what I was looking for, but still a great tent none the less and will protect you from the wind and rain. The Lightpath 3 only has one door, only stand 38 inches tall, 30 inches square feet for the floor, and is not free standing either, which is not always an issue for me, but is something to be aware of. Although the Hammerhead 2 is slightly heavier in weight, the Hammerhead still met my needs for what I was looking for.
Tent features a zip out panel for a lighter, more packable configuration; leaving the panel behind takes 4 oz. off the trail weight
Or keep the panel for more protection and greater privacy
Sturdy 3-pole design offers great livability for 2 backpackers; clips, color-coded pole loops and reflective starter point ensure easy setup
No-see-um mesh doors and panels maintain ventilation to prevent interior condensation; large mesh sky panel rolls back for views and venting in nice weather
Opposing double-slider door zippers make variable venting easy
Rainfly's clear SVX film window adds light and a view outside; 2 vents ensure proper airflow in all kinds of weather
When the weather is "iffy" but you still want a view and ventilation, roll up the rainfly's front side for limited exposure
Dry-entry vestibule design prevents water from dripping inside tent when vestibule is open so you don't get soaked
Atlas 7001 Yunan poles are lightweight, corrosion- and dent-resistant and completely field serviceable by hand
For extra stability, each guyout point clips to the frame on the interior side of the rainfly via welded attachment points
All guyout loops are reflective for easy identification and canopy pockets keep tent organized
Hammerhead 2 features superlight buckles and webbing to save weight
Mountain Hardwear Watertight Construction: Thoughtful design, taping and welding technology combine to make this tent watertight off the shelf. No seam sealing is required
Save weight and create a minimalist shelter by using just the rainfly, footprint (not included), poles and stakes
Comes with stuff sacks, stakes and guyline/tighteners
Watch this video and see how easy it is to set up this tent!
I almost bought the Lightpath 3 by Mountain Hardwear but decided against it because
it was more of a minimal design that what I was looking for, but still a great tent none the less and will protect you from the wind and rain. The Lightpath 3 only has one door, only stand 38 inches tall, 30 inches square feet for the floor, and is not free standing either, which is not always an issue for me, but is something to be aware of. Although the Hammerhead 2 is slightly heavier in weight, the Hammerhead still met my needs for what I was looking for.
Watch this video and see how easy it is to set up this tent!
Friday, August 23, 2013
Magnesium Fire Starter
Experienced campers know that having more than one option to start a fire is almost always necessary in the outdoors. While waterproof matches and butane lighters are your best option in most scenarios, they’re not necessarily always available. This, of course, is why a little fire building knowledge and material will serve you well in a fire-necessary situation.
I recently purchased the Aurora Magnesium Fire Starter by soloscientific.com which uses a large 1/4" diameter composite flint steel rod that has magnesium built into it. It has a guided built in striking blade that maximizes the sparks and insures the ignition of any suitable fire starting material. This product is designed to function wet or dry and is made from corrosion resistant high strength materials.
The Aurora Magnesium Fire Starter has an overall length of 3.5", weighs 1/10th of a pound, and can be attached to your key ring so it is always there when you need it. The Aurora Magnesium Fire Starter is made in the USA and is designed to last years. This is a great fire starter compared to the Strikeforce, which has a smaller flint steel rod, making it harder to get a spark.
Follow the steps found at Camping Survival when first using your fire starter:
"To use your Aurora Magnesium Fire Starter unscrew the larger of the two sections that make up the starter. Doing this will reveal the fire starting rod enclosed. Hold the smaller section of the product in one hand and the larger section of it in the other hand. Next position the striking blade mounted on the top of the larger section of the starter against the fire starting rod so that the fire starting rod rests inside the 45 degree angled notch.
This places the fire starting rod in the optimum position to start a fire. While holding the smaller section of the Aurora magnesium fire starter firmly in one hand scrape the fire starting rod with the top corner edge of the striking blade in a fast smooth manner while pressing firmly against the blade and maintaining the optimum 45 degree angle.
You will notice that when done properly the Aurora Fire Starter will emit incredibly bright and hot sparks that will burn and ignite any suitable fire starting material. We recommend that you have fun getting to know your Aurora magnesium fire starter by igniting the fire starting material included - only a small amount of the included material is needed. Cotton balls and dryer filter lint are great fire starting material! (Note: After prolonged use the striking blade can be flipped over to reveal a fresh striking surface. To do this simply remove the top screw holding the striking blade in place, flip the blade horizontally, and then re-secure the striking blade with screw - the striking blade may also be sharpened.)"
Check out this video on a varitey of ways to start a fire with the Aurora Fire Starter:
I recently purchased the Aurora Magnesium Fire Starter by soloscientific.com which uses a large 1/4" diameter composite flint steel rod that has magnesium built into it. It has a guided built in striking blade that maximizes the sparks and insures the ignition of any suitable fire starting material. This product is designed to function wet or dry and is made from corrosion resistant high strength materials.
The Aurora Magnesium Fire Starter has an overall length of 3.5", weighs 1/10th of a pound, and can be attached to your key ring so it is always there when you need it. The Aurora Magnesium Fire Starter is made in the USA and is designed to last years. This is a great fire starter compared to the Strikeforce, which has a smaller flint steel rod, making it harder to get a spark.
Follow the steps found at Camping Survival when first using your fire starter:
This places the fire starting rod in the optimum position to start a fire. While holding the smaller section of the Aurora magnesium fire starter firmly in one hand scrape the fire starting rod with the top corner edge of the striking blade in a fast smooth manner while pressing firmly against the blade and maintaining the optimum 45 degree angle.
You will notice that when done properly the Aurora Fire Starter will emit incredibly bright and hot sparks that will burn and ignite any suitable fire starting material. We recommend that you have fun getting to know your Aurora magnesium fire starter by igniting the fire starting material included - only a small amount of the included material is needed. Cotton balls and dryer filter lint are great fire starting material! (Note: After prolonged use the striking blade can be flipped over to reveal a fresh striking surface. To do this simply remove the top screw holding the striking blade in place, flip the blade horizontally, and then re-secure the striking blade with screw - the striking blade may also be sharpened.)"
Check out this video on a varitey of ways to start a fire with the Aurora Fire Starter:
Friday, August 16, 2013
Paracord-An Outdoor Enthusiasts Lifeline, Literally
It is important to have some emergency gear in your backpack before you leave on a camping and hiking trip. Paracord, also known as parachute cord or 550, are all names to describe a lightweight nylon kernmantle cord used in military parachute lines. The 550 is referring to the 550lb weight limit it can hold. The 550 cord consists of 32 stand woven nylon outer sheath and an inner core of 7 nylon- 2 ply nylon yarns.
I purchased a paracord bracelet as a gift from Camping Survival for my camping partner. There are also paracord belts, show laces, keychains, necklaces, dog collars, dog leashes, DIY bracelet kits and just plain paracord. I really love the idea of the bracelets and belts because they are great for a minimalist and will not take up room in your pack. Also make sure your paracord is made in the USA to guarantee its strength and quality.
The bracelet I bought was the made to order American Made Woodland Camouflage King Cobra Paracord Bracelet for $13.95. The King Cobra bracelet is 1"-1 1/4" thick and a size 8, which contains 7 to 8 feet of paracord. If an emergency arises you can take apart your bracelet and use the paracord for survival. A great buy and I received it really fast!
Paracord can be used for:
Make sure to check out this video from Camping Survival on the their paracord bracelets:
I purchased a paracord bracelet as a gift from Camping Survival for my camping partner. There are also paracord belts, show laces, keychains, necklaces, dog collars, dog leashes, DIY bracelet kits and just plain paracord. I really love the idea of the bracelets and belts because they are great for a minimalist and will not take up room in your pack. Also make sure your paracord is made in the USA to guarantee its strength and quality.
The bracelet I bought was the made to order American Made Woodland Camouflage King Cobra Paracord Bracelet for $13.95. The King Cobra bracelet is 1"-1 1/4" thick and a size 8, which contains 7 to 8 feet of paracord. If an emergency arises you can take apart your bracelet and use the paracord for survival. A great buy and I received it really fast!
Paracord can be used for:
- Making a shelter
- Tie up gear
- Fishing lines
- Make a splint for a broken limb
- Hanging game for drying
- Use as a tourniquet
- Tow line
Make sure to check out this video from Camping Survival on the their paracord bracelets:
Friday, August 9, 2013
On The Trail With Balls Of Goodness!
It is important to stay well nurished on a hiking trip, and with this simple & fun recipe you will be satisified and full of energy! Trail mix is a tradition in the outdoor community and very healthy, full of protein and fiber.
What you will need to start:
-Oven
-Mixing bowl
-Mixer
-Dry measuring cups
-9 by 15 inch baking sheet
- Large Spoon
-Oven mit
For 1-2 person serving:
-4 cups rolled oats
-1 cup flour
-2 eggs
-1 tsp. baking soda
-1 tsp. vanilla extract
-1 tbp. honey
-2/3 cup butter
-1/2 cup dark or light brown sugar
-1/2 cup chocolate chips or yougurt chips
-1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
-1/2 cup chopped alomnds or other nuts
What you will need to start:
-Oven
-Mixing bowl
-Mixer
-Dry measuring cups
-9 by 15 inch baking sheet
- Large Spoon
-Oven mit
For 1-2 person serving:
-4 cups rolled oats
-1 cup flour
-2 eggs
-1 tsp. baking soda
-1 tsp. vanilla extract
-1 tbp. honey
-2/3 cup butter
-1/2 cup dark or light brown sugar
-1/2 cup chocolate chips or yougurt chips
-1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
-1/2 cup chopped alomnds or other nuts
Directions:
Step 1
Preheat an oven to 325 degrees and place a baking rack near the center of the oven. Prepare the 9-by-15-inch pan by lightly greasing the entire inner surface with butter.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, honey and 2 eggs. Add melted butter last. Mix at a low speed.
Step 3
Add the remaining ingredients. Of course you can subtract or add any of the remaining ingredients to your liking. For example you can add pretzels, coconut, dried fruit or sunflower seeds!
Step 4
Roll the mixture into a ball formation with your hands and place one by one on the baking sheet seperated by an inch each. Roll the balls to the size of your choice!
Step 5
Place in the oven for 20-25 mintues or until golden brown.
Step 6
Cool for 45 mintues and ENJOY!
Friday, August 2, 2013
Fee-Free United States National Park Dates 2013
The United States National Parks are places that I wish my family, friends and everyone would take more time to visit and explore. Often providing you views that are far beyond your imagaination. I am still checking them off my list, and after I plan on visiting parks outside the United States.
Everyone has heard of the...
Great Smokey Mountains, Petrified Forest, Acadia, Grand Cayon, Yosemite, Glacier, Grand Tetons, Zion, Cayonlands, Saguaro, Big Bend, Olympic, Sequoia, Denail, Haleakala, Everglades and so on. That is just to name a few off the top of my head. The United States has 58 National Parks and hundrends of national monuments and historical sites.
For my Ohio friends make sure to check out your local Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
The National Parks are all affordable to visit, but it's even better when it's free! The following dates the National Parks waive the entrance fee:
If you're planning a trip that includes multiple National Parks, you should purchase the $80 annual pass that provides entrance to all National Parks. Visit America the Beautiful for details.
Featured National Park: Big Bend
Big Bend is located in West Texas and well worth the visit. My cousin and I ventured hours from Dallas to spend some time in this place that literally looked like a back drop it was so beautiful. Along our travels we met great people and drove through old west ghost towns. Big Bend has over 150 miles of hiking trails that will make you forget about your troubles and big cities by bringing you silence and solitude. Right along the Rio Grande and with Mexico right at your toes it offers a vast range of wildlife, desert and canyons. I'd consider this one of the less explored National Parks and it is something to add to your list.
Which US National Park is your favorite to explore? Please answer my survey question!
Everyone has heard of the...
Great Smokey Mountains, Petrified Forest, Acadia, Grand Cayon, Yosemite, Glacier, Grand Tetons, Zion, Cayonlands, Saguaro, Big Bend, Olympic, Sequoia, Denail, Haleakala, Everglades and so on. That is just to name a few off the top of my head. The United States has 58 National Parks and hundrends of national monuments and historical sites.
For my Ohio friends make sure to check out your local Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
The National Parks are all affordable to visit, but it's even better when it's free! The following dates the National Parks waive the entrance fee:
- August 25th-National Park Service Birthday
- September 28th- National Public Lands Day
- November 9-11- Veterans Day weekend
If you're planning a trip that includes multiple National Parks, you should purchase the $80 annual pass that provides entrance to all National Parks. Visit America the Beautiful for details.
Featured National Park: Big Bend
My trip to Big Bend National Park, TX in March of 2013
Big Bend is located in West Texas and well worth the visit. My cousin and I ventured hours from Dallas to spend some time in this place that literally looked like a back drop it was so beautiful. Along our travels we met great people and drove through old west ghost towns. Big Bend has over 150 miles of hiking trails that will make you forget about your troubles and big cities by bringing you silence and solitude. Right along the Rio Grande and with Mexico right at your toes it offers a vast range of wildlife, desert and canyons. I'd consider this one of the less explored National Parks and it is something to add to your list.
Which US National Park is your favorite to explore? Please answer my survey question!
Friday, July 26, 2013
You and Your Pack: Best Buddies
There are a wide range of backpacks to sort through as you decide on what best suits your needs. There are backpacks for cyclists, day hikers, thru-hikers, and mountaineering enthusiasts. It is important that you are fitted properly and heading comfortably down the trail or road with your backpack.
This week I will be comparing the Osprey Talon 33 and the Rugger by Mountain Hardware from facts to personal experience.
Osprey Talon 33 (M/L)
-Holds 33 cubic liters of capacity
-Soft internal from that fits comfortably around
the back without giving up support for heavier
packing
- Hip and sternum support straps for adjustments
-Dual ice axe loops come with bungee tool tie-offs,
letting you lash extra gear outside
- Water reservoir compartment between the frame
and the main storage pouch. This can hold a
bladder up to 200 ounces that is made up of
stretchable material that is both water and dirt
resistant
-Front and side stretch-woven pockets are ideal for
jacket, helmet or other often-used gear
-2 lbs.
-24 x 10 x 7 inches
-Nylon
-Retail price is $129.00
Osprey Warranty
-The awesome thing about Osprey's warranty is the
no questions asked guarantee on all their packs no
matter the age of where you it was purchased– The
Osprey All Mighty Guarantee. Pretty
awesome, right?
Rugger by Mountain Hardware
-Day pack
-22 liter pack
-Built in compartment for hydration that can fit a 100
ounce reservoir
-Adjustable sternum and hip straps (detachable)
-Main storage compartment to fit gear for a day hiker or
books for a student
-Secondary compartment with pockets to keep those small
items in place
-Fleece lined pockets keep electronics from getting wet
-Nylon
-2 lbs. 4 oz.
-19 x 13 x 8 in
-Retail Price is $69.95
Mountain Hardware Warranty
-Mountain Hardware guarantees that the materials and workmanship
in their products will stand up to the use for which they were designed.
This warranty does not cover damage caused by improper care, accident
or the natural breakdown of materials. Products should be returned for
evaluation and will be repaired or replaced at their discretion. Damages
due to improper care or accident will be repaired at a reasonable rate.
Mountain Hardware only covers products that have failed in the line of
duty due to a manufacturing defect. The warranty does not apply to
exchanges of any kind.
Personal Review:
Jessica: "You use both of these packs on a regular basis. What is your personal
opinion of the Osprey Talon 33?"
Gatsby: "Overall the Osprey Talon 33 offers a lot of features for its size. While
only at 33 liters, it's still possible to pack for a multi day back packing
adventure. I also use it for a day pack; it's lightweight and not as
cumbersome as my other interior framed backpacks. I am a minimalist,
so I love how versatile the pack is!"
Jessica: "Tell me what you use on your way into work everyday and mountain biking."
Gatsby: "The Rugger. This is an extremely durable pack! I use it nearly every single
day of the year since the summer of 2010! What is really cool about this pack
is how well it translates from the trail to the urban sprawl. It fits comfortably
in the middle of my back which is really nice for my bike commute to work."
This week I will be comparing the Osprey Talon 33 and the Rugger by Mountain Hardware from facts to personal experience.
Osprey Talon 33 (M/L)
-Holds 33 cubic liters of capacity
-Soft internal from that fits comfortably around
the back without giving up support for heavier
packing
- Hip and sternum support straps for adjustments
-Dual ice axe loops come with bungee tool tie-offs,
letting you lash extra gear outside
- Water reservoir compartment between the frame
and the main storage pouch. This can hold a
bladder up to 200 ounces that is made up of
stretchable material that is both water and dirt
resistant
-Front and side stretch-woven pockets are ideal for
jacket, helmet or other often-used gear
-2 lbs.
-24 x 10 x 7 inches
-Nylon
-Retail price is $129.00
Osprey Warranty
-The awesome thing about Osprey's warranty is the
no questions asked guarantee on all their packs no
matter the age of where you it was purchased– The
Osprey All Mighty Guarantee. Pretty
awesome, right?
Rugger by Mountain Hardware
-Day pack
-22 liter pack
-Built in compartment for hydration that can fit a 100
ounce reservoir
-Adjustable sternum and hip straps (detachable)
-Main storage compartment to fit gear for a day hiker or
books for a student
-Secondary compartment with pockets to keep those small
items in place
-Fleece lined pockets keep electronics from getting wet
-Nylon
-2 lbs. 4 oz.
-19 x 13 x 8 in
-Retail Price is $69.95
Mountain Hardware Warranty
-Mountain Hardware guarantees that the materials and workmanship
in their products will stand up to the use for which they were designed.
This warranty does not cover damage caused by improper care, accident
or the natural breakdown of materials. Products should be returned for
evaluation and will be repaired or replaced at their discretion. Damages
due to improper care or accident will be repaired at a reasonable rate.
Mountain Hardware only covers products that have failed in the line of
duty due to a manufacturing defect. The warranty does not apply to
exchanges of any kind.
Personal Review:
Jessica: "You use both of these packs on a regular basis. What is your personal
opinion of the Osprey Talon 33?"
Gatsby: "Overall the Osprey Talon 33 offers a lot of features for its size. While
only at 33 liters, it's still possible to pack for a multi day back packing
adventure. I also use it for a day pack; it's lightweight and not as
cumbersome as my other interior framed backpacks. I am a minimalist,
so I love how versatile the pack is!"
Jessica: "Tell me what you use on your way into work everyday and mountain biking."
Gatsby: "The Rugger. This is an extremely durable pack! I use it nearly every single
day of the year since the summer of 2010! What is really cool about this pack
is how well it translates from the trail to the urban sprawl. It fits comfortably
in the middle of my back which is really nice for my bike commute to work."
Friday, July 19, 2013
Taking to the Water: Willow Vs. Squamish
Being a proud owner of a kayak is exciting, but before purchasing a kayak it is important to know which one is right for you. There are a few questions that need to be answered first: What activities will you be doing? How much do you want to spend? What can you handle in the water?
This week Current Designs Willow and Squamish will go face to face; two different British touring kayaks from the same well-known brand. Touring kayaks are able to handle a wide range of water conditions and cover a lot of water in a short period of time. From numbers to personal opinions you will get to know Willow and Squamish very well thanks to my friends at Ridgebridge Farm. The only thing you will have left to do is to go test them out for yourselves at your local kayak dealer.
-Willow
-One person seating inside(padded)
-Carry Handles
-Deck rigging
-Foot braces
-Skeg
- Hull: V-Shaped
-Material: Fiberglass
-Hatch location: Bow, center & stern
-Dimensions:
-Length: 15.5ft.
-Width: 22in.
-Weight: 45lbs.
-Weight capacity: 275lbs
-Cockpit: 29 x 16 inches
-Retail price: $3,199.00
-Squamish
-One person seating inside(padded)
-Carry Handles
-Deck rigging
-Foot braces
-Skeg
- Hull: V-Shaped
-Material: Thermoplastic
-Hatch location: Bow & stern
-Dimensions:
-Length: 15.67ft
-Width: 23in.
-Weight: 54 lbs.
-Weight capacity: 250lbs.
-Cockpit: 29 x 16 inches
- Retail price: $1,299.00
As you can see the Willow and Squamish have all of the same standard features. They do differ in some areas of dimension. Willow being slightly smaller all around makes for easier handle in the water. If you are a newbie this will be ideal for you, but as experience is gained over time Squamish would be a great advance. When the owners of the kayaks, Karen and Skip, take the kayaks out Karen usually takes the Willow because it is easier to handle and turn because she is smaller. Although they love both of them, after time you have personal preferences. Hatch access is easier on the Willow because they are easier to open on the water, unlike the straps on the Squamish. The Squamish does perform better in rougher and open waters because it's longer with more stability.
Another difference is the material. Willow is made of fiberglass (glass-reinforced-plastic) and Squamish is made of plastic. What's the difference? Good question! I was hoping you would ask. Material matters and it is important to know why. Thermoplastic is the cheapest and most common material used. It can take a beating against rocks and more aggressive adventures. Fiberglass is very expensive (note the Willow retail price) because it requires hand work. It damages more easily than plastic, but is great for fast speeds and better performance. So basically this brings you back to the question: What kind of activities will you be doing in your new kayak?
This week Current Designs Willow and Squamish will go face to face; two different British touring kayaks from the same well-known brand. Touring kayaks are able to handle a wide range of water conditions and cover a lot of water in a short period of time. From numbers to personal opinions you will get to know Willow and Squamish very well thanks to my friends at Ridgebridge Farm. The only thing you will have left to do is to go test them out for yourselves at your local kayak dealer.
-Willow
-One person seating inside(padded)
-Carry Handles
-Deck rigging
-Foot braces
-Skeg
- Hull: V-Shaped
-Material: Fiberglass
-Hatch location: Bow, center & stern
-Dimensions:
-Length: 15.5ft.
-Width: 22in.
-Weight: 45lbs.
-Weight capacity: 275lbs
-Cockpit: 29 x 16 inches
-Retail price: $3,199.00
-Squamish
-One person seating inside(padded)
-Carry Handles
-Deck rigging
-Foot braces
-Skeg
- Hull: V-Shaped
-Material: Thermoplastic
-Hatch location: Bow & stern
-Dimensions:
-Length: 15.67ft
-Width: 23in.
-Weight: 54 lbs.
-Weight capacity: 250lbs.
-Cockpit: 29 x 16 inches
- Retail price: $1,299.00
As you can see the Willow and Squamish have all of the same standard features. They do differ in some areas of dimension. Willow being slightly smaller all around makes for easier handle in the water. If you are a newbie this will be ideal for you, but as experience is gained over time Squamish would be a great advance. When the owners of the kayaks, Karen and Skip, take the kayaks out Karen usually takes the Willow because it is easier to handle and turn because she is smaller. Although they love both of them, after time you have personal preferences. Hatch access is easier on the Willow because they are easier to open on the water, unlike the straps on the Squamish. The Squamish does perform better in rougher and open waters because it's longer with more stability.
Another difference is the material. Willow is made of fiberglass (glass-reinforced-plastic) and Squamish is made of plastic. What's the difference? Good question! I was hoping you would ask. Material matters and it is important to know why. Thermoplastic is the cheapest and most common material used. It can take a beating against rocks and more aggressive adventures. Fiberglass is very expensive (note the Willow retail price) because it requires hand work. It damages more easily than plastic, but is great for fast speeds and better performance. So basically this brings you back to the question: What kind of activities will you be doing in your new kayak?
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