Since the media has blown up the BPA scare for lexan water bottles we’ve seen an increased demand for aluminum bottles with an interior coating from companies like Sigg and Laken.  However, Nalgene and Camelbak have begun using BPA-Free plastics for their water bottle production.   Stainless steel is probably the most environmentally friendly bottle out there.  Whatever your choice, they all are BPA-Free.  Should you get rid of your old BPA bottles?  That’s a decision that only you can make.  Is it worth the risk?  Is it worth paying $10 to $25 to protect yourself from future potential cancer risks?  Again…it’s up to you.  We have BPA-Free bottles available now.

We are running a trip to Patagonia from November 14-22, 2008.  This is going to be amazing…definitely the opportunity of a lifetime.  Sign up now or contact us for more information. 

Lots of new clothing and gear for snowboarding, and skiing here in Las Vegas. I’m at the Snowsport Industry Association show looking at all of the new product for next winter. New colors, prints and designs are out there for jackets, pants, boards, bindings and just about anything you can print on. Women get ready. There is a greater focus on product just for you, and I think you’ll like it. Guys…you won’t be left out. New technologies and style for you too. All I can say is it’s almost too much to take in! More later…have to check out the next big thing.

If you find your waterproof, breathable shell is no longer shedding water there are a couple of possible solutions. 1) Run a warm iron over your shell to reactivate the water-repellant finish; 2) If that doesn’t work, you can treat it with a durable water repellent (dwr) finish like Nikwax. Hint: Keeping your shell clean will help it last longer. Wash it with a washing agent that is designed for waterproof, breathable garments like Nikwax Tech Wash.

Just received a cross country ski report that on Snake Hill this morning there is about 3″ of dense, cold snow on cold ground, the first decent base of the season. Temps are in the low teens, and the sky is lightly overcast. Conditions in the Big Field are Excellent. Blissful kick. Blissful glide. No icing whatsoever. Other trails are good Rock Skiing. It’s beautiful, and it’s lots of fun. Get out and enjoy it!  Thanks for the update Strat.

It’s cold out there and if you are hiking, camping or skiing in the back country, it is likely that the water in your bottle could freeze.  There are a few things you can do to help prevent water bottle freeze-up:  1) You can fill your water bottle with hot water; 2) Hike or camp with the bottle as close to your core as possible(inside your jacket or sleeping bag); 3) Leave room at the top of the bottle so that the sloshing slows the freezing process;  and 4) Add a powdered drink mix (minimally effective) which may drop the freezing point a degree.  Remember, that even when it’s cold outside you have to stay hydrated.

Welcome to our first posting.   It is a frigid, cold day here in Morgantown, WV.  It makes me think about the icy conditions that we will face on the slopes and trails in the next few days.  Make sure you don’t get caught with dull edges on your snowboard or skis.  You should hand edge them (there’s a hand tuner that you can buy for this) or have them edged professionally at Adventure’s Edge.  For more information, give us a call at 304-296-9007.