Do you follow the crowd or do you go against the status quo? Tourists seem to flock to the same areas for the same purposes. Maybe it's time to leave the crowds behind and blaze your own trail. This week's theme is a trip of self-exploration. First off, you will need a rugged truck to get you there. After you pick up a truck, you'll need some gear and accessories to make your adventure more exciting and memorable. Below is some gear we think would give you the opportunity to have the adventure of a lifetime. Scroll down and click on the buttons to learn more about each piece of gear!
American Expedition Vehicles builds the Prospector XL on the proven platform of the Ram Heavy Duty. The difference between AEV's builds is that all of their components are made and installed in the US. Starting from the bottom, you will have 41" tires on 13.5" wide wheels. AEV casts the "Kalta" wheels to exceed SAE J2350 standards. They even have recessed valve stems to protect the TPMS system, and their backspacing is specific to the Ram HD. The bumpers are fabricated from plate steel and are ready to accept the optional Warn 16.5ti winch and AEV's auxiliary light package. Other options include differential coolers, air lockers, snorkel, and two grades of premium leather.
If you want to experience the hottest and coolest spots in the lower 48, we suggest loaded your AEV Prospector with the Yeti SB5 Carbon and head for Death Valley. Unload your bike at Badwater Basin and head for the sky. At 279 feet below sea level, you can pedal your way to Mt Whitney. While only 132 miles apart, you will end at an elevation of 8,360 feet. The Yeti SB5 is carbon fiber with Fox Racing suspension and Maxxis tires. If you aren't looking for pedal up 9,000 feet, we suggest starting at the top and coasting your way down, you won't regret it!
If you want the lightest & strongest helmet on the market, the Rover from Smith Optics is well ventillated and has an integrated visor. It has single layer webbing to save weight, and their VaporFit adjustable straps. If you're heading into the backcountry alone, you deserve the most advanced helmet on the market.
Do you have fogged & sweaty shades? The Attack from Smith Optics is their latest design. The low brow line will keep your corneas cool and their hydrophobic Megol temples & nose pads ensure you are ready for high speeds. Their new ChromaPop lens technology allows for quick lens changes for varying light conditions.
Getting lost is not fun, so Garmin's latest GPS watch offers 2 weeks between charges. It uses GPS and GLONASS satellite reception along with a barometric altimeter. Your heart rate is logged with uploads to the Garmin Connect fitness community. The 3-axis compass will keep you on course thanks to a built-in gyroscope. The hardened stainless case is available in 42, 47, and 51 millimeters and it has no less than 17 color options.
This highly reflective cycling backpack has 31 liters of capacity, and it easily holds a 15" MacBook Pro. Made of durable 1680D ballistic nylon for years of cross-county adventures. The right side has access to the padded notebook compartment. The U-Lock keeps your gear safe and the included organizer keeps everything in place.
If your adventures involve underwater sabotage or sweeping for unexploded mines, the Lecia X-U has a 35mm design and a 16.2 MP CMOS sensor. It is water, dust and shockproof, so its perfect for a rugged trip.
The ultimate in spherical video, the Fusion captures 5.2K video and 18MP photos. Videos can be played back on VR headsets for the ultimate reminder of your adventures.
If you need to escape bad weather in a hurry, the Houdini is a featherweight DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. The zippered chest pocket converts to a stuffsack, reinforced by a carabiner. The cuffs are half elastic with drawcord hems. Available in 7 colors.
If you plan on leaving civilization for a few days, you don't want to come back smelling funky. That's why Patagonia Nine Trails shirt is made of Heathered polyester with Polygiene® permanent odor control. it has a cotton-like feel, but the performance of a technical shirt. Set-in sleeve construction with underarm gussets for chafe-free comfort and range of motion. No tags to itch you, and a reflective logo to keep you safe. Available in 5 colors in XS to XL.
Mountain-biking shorts featuring a durable, removable liner and chamois pad with versatile, breathable and adjustable outer shorts. Outer shorts built with stretchy nylon/spandex plain-weave fabric with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish for plenty of breathability and airflow on warmer rides.Curved waistband follows the natural shape of the hips and allows room to move.Low-profile external hook-and-webbing waist adjustment for a fine-tuned fit.Two drop-in hand pockets, one secure zipper pocket at left thigh.Liner shorts and outer shorts snap together and are compatible with our Dirt Roamer Bike Shorts and Endless Ride Liner Shorts. Availavle in 3 colors in 28" to 40".
The ultimate cycling shoes are made of exclusive Vibram rubber on the outsole for grip in all conditions. The shank plate is fiberglass reinforced for the ultimate in rigidity. Synthetic leather upper is supple and stretch resistant. The perforations keep you cool on long rides, and they are available in 4 colors in most sizes between 36 and 48.