$140? No Way! - Hazard 4 Poncho Villa Softshell Poncho Review

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Let me get this straight...
$140 for a poncho that isn't waterproof?

Why does this even exist?

Today Luke is reviewing the Hazard 4 Poncho Villa Soft-Shell Poncho.

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Agenda Free Link : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AJ5FQF0

Price : Retail is $140.  On Amazon the older black version can be found for $94

Weight : 2.3 lbs.

2020 Version : What you see here is the previous gen. of the Poncho Villa; there is a 2020 version and it isn’t all that much different.  In the end, the main points in this review will apply to the new version.

Colors : Black, Coyote, OD Green (The colors have been refreshed for 2020 and are slightly different than the old version.  I have the old version)

Waterpoof : No!  Water Resistant

Material : (86% polyester, 14% spandex; liner is 100% polyester)

Taped seams throughout

Expanded Size : 79.5" L x 53.5" W (201.9 x 135.9 cm)

Folded Size : 13" L x 11.2" W x 2.2" D (33 x 28.5 x 5.5 cm)

Features :

Our thoroughly modernized version of the classic military poncho has more in common with technical sport jackets than the old vinyl camping stand-by that usually comes to mind.

The poncho can be stuffed into its own front pocket for storage. It even has a vent for drying!

Water-resistant breathable softshell

Modernized version of the classic military poncho.

100% waterproof fully-taped seams throughout.

Can be stuffed into its own front pocket for storage.

Size: One size fits most.

Review Pros :

Excellent design.

Very good quality.

Breathable

Can be stowed in its own pocket

Quiet

Suitable for light to moderate rain, snow, mist and light pressure type of conditions.

Can fit over packs/bags/chest-packs

Front and back velcro panels for agency i.d.

Velcro panels on the shoulders and head-back

Hood with brim section fits over head-wear

Hood-cinchers for front and back-of-head adjust

Zipper front to chin for full rain-coverage of throat

Large perimeter grommets for hanging as tent/tarp

Side snaps for closing edges in severe weather

Fully covers the torso and most of legs; some of arms.

Allows access to pockets and chest bags

Can become a SMALL make-shift tent in an emergency

Two ponchos combine for a larger tent – I don’t have two of these and haven’t been able to test this out.

Easy to put on

Easy to take off.

Cool looking

Easy to clean

Review Cons :

Heavy and with enough exposure to rain, it will get heavier as water soaks through

Not suitable for long duration, heavy rain events.  This will eventually wet through. Waterproof only under light pressure.  In truth I shouldn’t count this as a con as the poncho performs exactly has Hazard 4 has designed for it to but you do need to be aware that this is not a waterproof poncho.  Water resistant, not waterproof.

Expensive especially consider its performance.

Stowing this into the chest pocket can take time and patience. Not super easy to do. no instructions on how to refold it back up

Takes up a lot of space inside of your pack for a poncho

Summary :

Do I recommend this poncho; for the most part I don’t but ultimately it depends.

I like the looks of the poncho but the performance of this poncho is very limited considering it’s limited water resistance. In my opinion, in the snow is where this really shines and that is what I would recommend it for. While it is water resistant it isn’t a waterproof poncho; consider that for a moment, $140 for a poncho which isn’t waterproof!

For snow adventures, yes.  For rain conditions, no.

If you want something to wear that block minor amounts of rain and looks cool; then yes.

Foldable Kayak? - ORU Bay St Kayak Review

This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
Support TOGR with Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorgearreview/

Is a foldable Kayak the right boat for you?
What are the pros?
What are the cons?

Is it worth $1,600?

This is my Agenda Free review of the ORU Bay St Kayak.

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Link : https://www.orukayak.com/products/bay-st

Price : $1,600

Weight : 28lbs 

To be honest, I haven’t heard of this company but I have been impressed by how many people have! 

ORU offers multiple styles of foldable kayak, each with a specific area of use; this is the Bay ST which is perfect for fishing, river, lake, etc us. Best Use Flatwater Kayaking

12ft long, 25” wide

Packed Dimensions33 x 12 x 29 inches

300 lb weight capacity, allowing room for 1 adult + plenty of gear

Made in USA.

• Half Deck Rigging

• Floor Board

• Adjustable Footrests

• Bow and Stern Bulkheads

• Skirt Ready Concept

• Six Zipper Channels for Installation

• Back Rest and Seat Pad

• Maintenance Kit

• Made of 5mm double-layered custom-extruded polypropylene (double walled plastic)

• Manufacturer-rated for 20,000 fold cycles

• 10-year UV treatment

• Withstands sliding over rocks or bumping into obstacles under the water

• One-year warranty
• Seat Type Padded / Foam

Who is this for? :

Because of the lightweight nature of this kayak I would recommend this for relatively smooth water; hit the lake on a nice day, launch into a slow flow creek.  Oru rates this for handling class I and II rapids.  Personally my comfort level with this kayak would be class a and class 1.

Class A; - Lake water. Still. No perceptible movement. Calm

Class I - Easy. Smooth water; light riffles; clear passages, occasional sand banks and gentle curves. The most difficult problems might arise when paddling around bridges and other obvious obstructions. Classification

The Bay ST wouldn’t be my first choice for Class II or higher rapids; it’s simply to light and is easily affected by the elements which you are facing.

Class II - Moderate. Medium-quick water; rapids with regular waves; clear and open passages between rocks and ledges. Maneuvering required. Best handled by intermediates who can maneuver canoes and read water.

Review Pros :

Folding and unfolding is going to take some learning but once you have done it a few times it can go quickly. 5 minutes is about the norm for both setup and breakdown; that is me though and it should be said that everyone is going to have different levels of difficulty with this; I’ve spoken with people who it took hours to put together to begin with and after years of use it can still take them 30 minutes.  Everyone is different.

It folds and that is amazing - Stash it pretty much anywhere: your trunk, closet, boat, garage, van, even under your bed – Easy to put inside of your vehicle, easy to maneuver it.  That’s huge! 

Because of the design, you don’t have to worry about putting your kayak on top of your vehicle.  Forget having to strap your yak to the top of your SUV or truck

Size when folded is impressive – 

Weight is impressive –

Easy to clean

Skirt is available

Great acceleration due to it’s light weight

Performance is very good, slices through the water smoothly.

The turning radius on this kayak is also quite good for a 12 foot boat!

Sitting is comfortable; I broke my back when I was in high school and my back generally beings to hurt after roughly 2 hours in any kayak and the Bay ST is no different.  With that being said, I find the sitting to comfortable.

Can hold a surprising amount of gear – multiple smaller bags work better than larger ones.

Speed isn’t bad; you won’t set any records but its not bad.  At the highest I would estimate 5mph going all out.

Plastic is strong enough to handle average use with beaching, grounding and so on.

Review Cons :

Depending on the design of kayak which you are accustomed to, you may find that this boat handles differently and that is due to the sharp lines of the boat and the light weight.  

Not the straightest of traveler because of the light weight of the boat.  In other words, it’s not the straightest in terms of tracking.

Water can gather inside of the channels of the boat material which you will have to drain.  This translate to time and even potential water inside of your vehicle

While I haven’t had a roll, the boat doesn’t feel as stable as more rounder, heavier kayaks.  Make sure to clip everything in just in case of a rollover.

I’ve found that a good bit of water will get inside of the kayak due to the openings in the front and back; they are cover with neoprene but water still makes its way in.  You will need to make sure to use dry bags.

Price – It is pricey and there is no way around that but what you are paying for is size and convenience.  With that being said, there are other foldable kayaks on the market which are much more expensive.

Instructions can be a bit confusing; luckily there are plenty of videos online to take care of you.

No knee braces but you could come up with something fairly easily

Get ready to talk to people about this boat; this may actually be a good thing depending on who you are.  But if you don’t like having lots of conversations, this isn’t the kayak for you as people are going to notice it and are going to ask questions.

Company claims the kayak folds down to roughly the size of a suitcase….yeah, the biggest suitcase I have ever seen!

I have noticed a fairly high amount of negativity online concerning this company, the quality of their boats and their customer service.  I have to mention this due to my allegiance being with my viewers.  I have had an issue in terms of quality as well as a bulkhead channel ripped off after my first use.  With that being said, this boat is a used one which the company sent me and with the bulkhead channel becoming detached I can see that this was previously repaired by the company and yet again it has failed.

The issue with the bulkheads is a common one and there are reports of failures that I have bound online which are very recent.

Seat isn’t really comfortable; after an hour I start becoming uncomfortable.

There is only a 1 year warranty and because this kayak is so expensive and there are known issues, I would like to see a lifetime limited warranty. If I smash it into a rock, it’s my fault but if the bulkheads rip off then they should replace it; you have to keep in mind, this kayak costs $1,600.  

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Summary :

When it comes to kayaks, this one falls in the middle in terms of use.  In my opinion, it’s better and more robust than an inflatable but not as durable as a hardshell. With that being said, it is way way way more convenient to store, to load and unload.  For people who have cars, apartments, condos, etc this is an option for them to consider so that they can get into kayaking.  Considering that, one has to keep the cost of this boat in mind as the price is certainly high; my first car was less expensive that this kayak.

The slimmer design of the kayak may make you feel less stable; you have to use 

An inexpensive kayak can be had for a couple hundred dollars; my personal kayak is an old emotion which cost around $450; I purchased it from Amazon and that price included free shipping to my home.   

Yes it is heavy, it’s a pain to get it to the water at times but again, it only cost $450 and while it takes up a lot of space in my back yard, I can store outside no matter the weather and it’s always ready to go when I am.  It should be mentioned that my hardshell kayak weighs in around 45lbs.

With the Bay St, it has many advantages but they do come at a cost and even still there are disadvantages with this boat.

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Do I recommend it? 

I like where the company is going with this kayak but the one question that comes to mind is durability.  As mentioned I have had an issue right off the bat and there are plenty of reported issues online.  With my old Emotion kayak, I’ve had it 8 years and it will last another 20 easily.  There is nothing to break where as with the Bay ST; there is plenty which can fail you.

The Bay ST solves a lot of problems and the question becomes, does it solve enough of the common kayak issues to justify the price?  Only you can make that decision.  

With TOGR the channel is 100% agenda free; Susie and I present our thoughts and feelings on a product so you can make the best decisions for yourself.

Waterproof? - 5.11 Tactical Aurora Shell - Review

This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
Support TOGR with Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR

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It is time to review the 5.11 Aurora Shell,
is it an awesome waterproof jacket or are their seriously problems?

Find out now!

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Link : https://www.511tactical.com/aurora-shell-jacket.html

Price : $150
Colors : Black, Brown, Green and Blue

Size : XS – 3XL

From 5.11 : "For some of us, being outside is mandatory, no matter what the forecast shows. Whether it's a hike, a hunt or a long walk on your favorite path, the Aurora Shell Jacket is a great choice. It's 15K/15K water resistant and breathable, so you stay drier, longer, even when those gray clouds turn into a good shower. The underarm zippers give you extra venting, and articulated sleeves and shoulders free up your arm motion for those inclines. And because you're never without your phone, podcasts or music, internal media ports help keep cords out of your way. Trek on."

Breathable
Fully seam sealed

Articulated sleeves and shoulders
Left chest zipper pocket with internal media ports for cord management

Hand zip pockets with internal RapiDraw™ pass through access

Adjustable hem with shock cord system

Regular Fit

2.5L 100% Nylon Plain Weave Face with Coffee Print Backer, DWR


Pros :

Looks terrific.

Comfortable

Excellent quality

Nice feature set

Very breathable – excellent in this regards.

Makes a good shell for wind, light rain, dry snow.

It works well as a wind-shell especially when combined with a quality insulating mid layer, and its breathable and has pit vents for when its a little warmer and you want to stay dry. The waterproofing is good for light rain and will repel water nicely to a certain point, but if its really down pouring and you expect to spend a lot of time in the rain, you may want to treat it with a hydrophobic product.


Good visor

Easy access to your front carry concealed firearm – While I like this feature, how compatible it will be with your carry system will depend on your training, layers, and the size of your firearm.

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Klean Kanteen 64oz Stainless Steel Bottle With Loop Cap - Review

Up for review is the Klean Kanteen 64oz Stainless Steel Bottle With Loop Cap.

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Klean Kanteen Classic 64-Ounce Stainless Steel Bottle With Loop Cap

Amazon Link : http://www.amazon.com/Klean-Kanteen-Brushed-Stainless-64-Ounce/dp/B00MS3M2ZI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449355699&sr=8-1&keywords=klean+canteen+64oz

Price: $28 on Amazon at the time of filming but on average these run around $30

Large 1.75" (44 mm) opening for easy filling and pouring

Easy to clean (rounded corners)

Does not retain or impart flavors

Safe, durable, high-quality materials

The bottle that launched Klean Kanteen a decade ago is now available in 64oz. Compatible with the Swing Lok cap for an instant growler conversion, the Klean Kanteen Classic 64 oz. Loop Top Bottle is perfect for car camping, river trips, all-day picnics or just hanging with friends. Best of all, it goes where glass can't, which is extra handy for beer, kombucha, or cold brew coffee transport.Wt. (with loop cap): 12.8 oz. (362.8 g)..Size: 11.6"H x 4.3"W (295.3 mm H x 110.0 mm W)..

Available in 18oz, 27oz, 40oz and 64oz

Made from high quality, 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, the Klean Kanteen Classic is safe and toxin-free, and does not retain or impart flavors. No matter how many times it is filled, or what is put into it, these Kanteens keep drinks fresh and clean tasting. With a variety of cap and color options, tailoring a Classic to your lifestyle is effortless. The 1.75 inch mouth opening is easy to drink from and is large enough for ice cubes and bottle brushes (for thorough cleaning).

Snugpak Proforce RJ 1 Rain Jacket and RP 1 Rain Pants - Review

Today is a double review of the Snugpak Proforce RJ 1 Rain Jacket and RP 1 Rain Pants.

Rain Jacket Link :

http://www.proforceequipment.com/product-details.php?id=459&catid=5

Rain Pants Link :

http://www.proforceequipment.com/product-details.php?id=460&catid=5

Outdoor Research Helium Pants - Review

Months ago I reviewed the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket and today up for review is the Helium Pants.

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Available in two colors : Grey and Black
Sizes : Xs - XL

Prices : $120 on the Outdoor Research site and around $81 on Amazon at the time of filming this video.

Material : 100% Nylon

Features
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Ankle Zippers; Fully Seam Taped
Waterproof
Breathable
Lightweight
Fully Seam-Taped
Elastic Waist with Drawcord
Ankle Zippers
Stuffs into Back Zipper Pocket
Fabric: Pertex® Shield+ 2.5L, 100% nylon 30D ripstop
Weight for the Medium size 4.5oz
When folded in it’s own pocket like this, it is 5”x6”

When it comes to most rain pants, they tend to have longer inseams.  These pants have shorter inseams which means better fit….for myself at least.  Some people like longer inseams; it’s a personal preference thing so keep this in mind before purchasing.

These pants are indeed waterproof as I have worn them in some knock down thunderstorms.  Very light weight, great quality, won’t take up much room in your pack and are perfect for spring, summer and fall.  For the winter months I tend to do with more technical laminate materials like Goretex.  In other words, stronger materials that can handle the abrasive nature of ice.

Perfect for those who are looking to cut weight from their loud outs while not sacrificing protection from the rain.

When it comes to cost, $80 is just about right for the materials.  Similar products are around the same range price wise.

Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket

Today we are taking a look at the Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket.
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Price ranges from $105 - $160 depending on retailer.
Links:

Amazon : http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Research-Mens-Helium-Jacket/dp/B0071JW8TE

Outdoor Research : http://www.outdoorresearch.com/ch_en/or-gear/jackets/mens-helium-ii-jacket.html

Available in a lot of colors including this cool coyote cooler!

Available in all of the typical sizes too; Small to XXL.

Fit: Standard Fit

Fabric : Pertex® Shield+, 2.5L, 100% nylon, 30D ripstop

Center Back Length: 28 1/2in. (L)

Avg. Weight (oz./g): 6.4oz / 180g (L)

Waterproof
Breathable
Lightweight
Fully Seam Taped
YKK® AquaGuard® Center Front Zipper
Fully Adjustable Hood
Single-Separating Front Zipper
Zippered Napoleon Pocket
Internal Pocket Doubles as Stuff Sack
Carabiner Loop
Elastic Cuffs
Drawcord Hem

I have been hiking with this jacket for a few months now and I’ve been nothing but impressed with it.

No internal moisture build up and no rain penetrates and it packs small and is light.

How To Clean : 20 Liter Heavy Duty Water Container

Today I'm going over how I went about cleaning the 20 Liter 5.2 Gallons Heavy Duty Water Container to get it ready for use.

$51.00

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001IV8IYA

20 Liter 5.2 Gallons Heavy Duty Water Container - Preview

Today we're previewing the 20 Liter 5.2 Gallons Heavy Duty Water Container.

$51.00

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001IV8IYA

There are other manufactures of cans just like this and for many the price is very similar.  You can find them a bit cheaper on eBay but it’s impossible to know what has been in them and what they were used for.

Available in UN Blue, Black, Tan, Olive Drab Green

This was made by LC Industries in Hazlehurst, Mississippi  LC Industries is absolutely a government contractor that hires mostly disabled folks.

made in the USA

Seamless all-plastic construction.
Lightweight and super tough.
You'll have water wherever you go.
Capacity of 5. 2 U. S. gallons.
Single carrying handle and screw top cap.

The hole is big enough to put you hand in and if you live in a hot environment, you can put ice in it.

Heavy Duty Water Containers are just the ticket with seamless all-plastic construction; they are lightweight and super tough so you'll have water wherever you go. With a capacity of 5. 2 U. S. gallons, these cans feature a single carrying handle and screw top cap that stays securely in the closed position. The small spout makes it easier to fill water bottles, and a vent provides great airflow for easy pouring. Manufactured from food-grade materials, they will not add taste, odor, or any chemicals to the water.

Compare to Sceptor Containers. 18 3/4"H x 13 1/2"W x 6 3/8”D.  Same dimensions as 5 gal steel Jerry cans, but better.

Around 6lbs empty but almost 50lbs when filled with water.  1.1 liter is 2.2lbs.  2.2 x 20 = 44lbs.  Add the weight of the can = 50lbs give or take.


They fit in standard military jerry can holders and have a single handle

These are exact productions of what many have used while in the army, right down to the Property of US Government   Perfect for car camping, hunters and even emergency backup needs.

These won't dent or rust. Replacement caps and gaskets are available

The lid offers several options for filling and pouring.

I’ve been using mine for a number of weeks now when I go out to work on Lone Wolf Mountain.  Incredible strong and durable.  I do recommend washing them when you get one to help with the plastic taste.

If you want a pour spout, you can find these online if you’re interested.

Vargo Titanium Water Bottle with Lid - Preview

Today we are previewing the Vargo Titanium Water Bottle with Lid.
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Vargo Titanium Water Bottle with Titanium lid
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$84.50

http://www.vargooutdoors.com/titanium-water-bottle-with-ti-lid.html#.VLK89IuJn0c

I have seen them a bit cheaper on the net though.

Stats:
LID : Foldaway carry loop with silicon ring around the top of the lid.
Weight: 3.9oz
Capacity: 650ml (22oz)
Dimensions: 2.8” wide 8.6” high
Material: Titanium

One thing that I have noticed is that the product details are inconsistent when it comes to Vargo’s descriptions.

Their site says that the bottle with lid weighs 3.9oz.  The box that the bottle comes in says that it weighs 4.6oz

On my scale the products weighs 3.9oz.

Expensive even though this is made of Titanium.

There are stainless steel water bottles that are almost identical which weight 3 oz more but cost in some cases $60 less!

With a product like this you have to ask yourself, is saving a few oz with your water bottle work such a steep price.

Pros: Very light weight.  Can be used over a wood fire to boil water from what I have read.

Cons: I don’t mind the lid but I HATE screwing the lid in and securing it.  It’s like scratching your nails down a chalk board.  If there was any dirt or sediment in the threads it would be a nightmare.

Nalgene Tritan Oasis Canteen - Review

Today we are reviewing the Nalgene Tritan Oasis Canteen.

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$8.50 on Amazon

Available in three colors; Blue, Gray and Red

http://www.amazon.com/Nalgene-Tritan-Canteen-Narrow-Bottle/dp/B001U03VEQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1417700927&sr=1-1&keywords=nalgene+canteen

Leakproof threaded cap.

Made from Eastman Tritan copolyester that is manufactured without BPA. Resistant to staining and retaining odor.

32 oz narrow-mouth

Weight : 4.6oz

A standard issue military canteen weighs : 5oz

Get Canteen Cup :

No plastic taste to it at all after washing it and using it for the first time. In contrast, my army one has always had some plastic-ish type flavor to the water ever since it was new. This canteen is the same shape and size as the military version and as such fits right into the canteen cup and holder.

The benefits of a clear canteen is that you can see exactly how much water you have left.

Also you can easily see if the canteen needs to be cleaned.

As for improvements, I’d like to see nalgene include measuring lines into the plastic.  That would be a beneficial super easy thing to do.

Works with canteen cups and pouches.

Platypus SoftBottle 0.5L - Review

Today we are reviewing the Platypus SoftBottle 0.5L.

http://www.amazon.com/Platypus-Soft-Bottle-Closure-1-Liter/dp/B008W0I9UI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1414765196&sr=8-4&keywords=platypus

16oz or half a liter.

$7.95 on amazon.

Multiple Colors; Blue, Grape, Gray, Red, Mountain, Tree,

Capacity 17 fl. oz / 0.5 liters

Weight 0.8 oz / 22 g

The good thing about these bags is that they can be froze without fear of being broken.  Just fill it 1/2 to 3/4 full and put in the freezer without the cap.

Pro-Tip : Be careful not to lose the cap!  You can buy replacements but since they aren’t attached, it’s possible lose it. I’ve read that a soda bottle cap is a good replacement but I can’t confirm that.

The bottle is great-- compact, sturdy, and reliable

Perfect for easy carry in a chest rig such as the Hill People Gear Kit Bag or the Ribz pack.

It’s a nice way to carry hydration with you without becoming bulky or weighing you down.

No issues with leaking around the cap or leaking from the bag either.

SealSkinz Thin Mid Length Socks - Preview and Field Test

Today we are looking at SealSkinz Thin Midlength Socks.

http://www.sealskinz.com/US/ke701-thin-mid-length-sock-black.html
...
$30 - $40

lightweight mid length
waterproof sock.
Merino wool lining

When purchased directly from SealSkinz you receive a 2 year warranty.

Inner:
44% Acrylic
41% Wool
14% Polyamide(Nylon)
1% Elastane(Spandex)
Outer:
98% Polyamide(Nylon)
2% Elastane(Spandex)
SealSkinz Thin Mid Length Socks

SealSkinz Thin Mid Length Sock Features:

Thermal Rating: 2
Anatomically designed mid-calf length fit.
Close fitting knitted construction.

Product Data
Mens: Yes
Ladies: Yes
Road: Yes
Waterproof, Breathable Technology
Sealskins products incorporate a unique, seamless three-layer technology.

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The New River - Kayaking Adventure

This is The New River - Kayaking Adventure.
Thank you all for joining me.

...

Outdoor Products Rafter 50L Weather Defense Duffle - Preview

We are previewing the Outdoor Products Rafter 50L Weather Defense Duffle.

http://outdoorproducts.com/rafter-50l-weather-defense-duffle/

Dimensions: 23.5in L x 11.5in H x 11.5in D / 2,867 cu in

$79.99

• Roll top closure
• Welded seams, waterproof
• Reflective accents
• Removable padded shoulder strap
• Top carry handle
• Top compression straps
• Decompression valve
• Made from 420 Denier fabric with TPU coating

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