Long time no post, very sorry for the lack of communication.

Update: The warehouse sale / garage sale is in limbo. No word yet from the higher powers at be who control our world domination to provide the world with great deals on outdoor gear and apparel.

So as we sit here, we continue working, we still provide exceptional prices for gear on our ebay store - http://stores.ebay.com/reggiesplace

On another note, we have some more space here in the warehouse so we have set up for a home run derby. Jeff still leads 1-0 to Sylvia.

Peace. 

Still setting up for the warehouse sale (garage sale style) here at Reggies. We've made some good progress in about a week. This sale should help us move some product even faster, it's all priced to sell quick.


We wanted to make the space inviting and easy to navigate. We've come up with some interesting a creative idea. One that didn't make the cut was an ominous button that is labeled 'Push for dancing midgets'. When pushed a big exercise ball would fall from the sky and or swing from a mysterious spot and promptly become the attention of much joy.

 Here are a some that have made itto production.

Was to be used for bags, but these guys are fun.

Nemo Losi 3P tent, sits about 7 feet off the ground.

 

 

 

We haven't posted here in a while, we've been swamped and the blog isn't a top priority. However, we plan to bump up the priority a bit. 

Facebook and Pinterest have been great mediums for sharing and getting new and exciting information. 

Check us out - https://www.facebook.com/reggiesplaceoutdoorgear

There are a few companies that just do it right. They have a solid core and stick with it. We like to support those companies as best we can here at Reggie's Place. If you haven't tried these companies, or haven't heard of them we suggest that you take a look.

Throwing some thumbs up to Gramicci and ALO.

Gramicci

Pronunciation: grə-mee-chee

noun

1. affectionate nick name given to master climber Mike Graham in early 1980’s.

Do you know if ol’ Gramicci is climbing today?

2. name of climbing and lifestyle apparel brand set in Southern California started by Mike Graham.

Where did you get those awesome Gramicci pants?

ALO

LUXURY. SUSTAINABILITY. NAMASTE.

Alo's refined collection is inspired by yoga and embodies contemporary design, innovative details and eco-friendly materials for both women and men. By skillfully incorporating stylish designs, body flattering fits and luxurious fabrics like bamboo and organic cotton, Alo allows you to transition from the yoga studio into your daily routine without ever sacrificing fashion or function.
Just as our passion for style and design stands strong, so does our love for an active lifestyle and sustainable planet. At Alo, we exercise eco-friendly practices that strongly define our commitment to the environment. From our solar powered design house in Los Angeles to our numerous in-house recycling programs, we want to inspire change and always be a force of good.

Keep in mind beginners and veterans alike it helps to keep your ego in check, even if that means the sacrifice of a trip/expedition.

I've had to do it before and I'm sure I'll have to do it again, cancel a trip for a small unanticipated reason. Recently I had a trip planned to some canyons in Utah, first in June but that fell through so we bumped it back to mid July. Keep in mind that the temperatures between June and July are slight but still significant. Triple digits for July. The canyons in Utah are very far from any major cities/town and many non-emergency companies/persons will not travel on the back roads to assist with problems. Therefore you must have your gear in check.

Even if you're experienced it never a good idea to go in triple digit temperatures with a vehicle that probably won't but could give you problems. We recently canceled our trip while we were a day en-route. The transmission just didn't feel right, the mechanics couldn't find any issues or replicate the issues.

Regardless, we canceled the trip. It's a bummer but we cut the risk being stranded out of the equation. Stranded in the desert could mean death, a very real risk.

On our days drive back home we didn't have any issues that we had experienced before, however we can set up the trip again and we can limit the risks associated with our adventure.

Don't be afraid to cancel your trip or cut it short, it might just be the best idea you've ever had.

-Jeff

There is one very important message that we here at Reggie's Place would like to shout out, at the top of our lungs.

Please follow Leave No Trace Ethic's when you get out and enjoy all the amazing places we have in this World. If you're not sure what Leave No Trace Ethic's are then please visit here - http://lnt.org/

Too many times we go to our favorite spots and see it littered with debris that's been carried in, or signs of excessive human habitation in areas dedicated for minimal impact.  We've all seen it and it's disgusting. This disrespectful and irresponsible action by people give the authorities very limited decisions on what to do with with the land. Make it not accessible and try to funnel everyone into designated packed camping areas where they can have someone clean up the mess left by others. Follow LNT, it's easy to do, courteous, respectful and the right thing.

Please pass on this message. Don't be afraid to carry out more than you've carried in. Pack it in - Pack it out.

There is only one problem with living in a very active community and area. What to do with my weekends?

Climb?

Bike?

Hike? Camp? Swim?

"I got 99 problems but having nothing to do ain't one."

Received this email from an international customer this morning. He is trying to avoid taxes when his dog coat that he purchased from us passes through customs... Very creative thinking you could say.

"would you mind declaring the jacket as gift-used dog jacket for the German customs? I wouldn´t mind if you send some hair within."

-Lori :)

The 8000 Meter Suit!!!!

 

One of the many things I love about Reggie's Place is that you never know what's going to be in the next box. And be still my heart - today it was THE suit! I have see this suit online and could not get over it. I never thought I'd get the chance to see one, let alone try it on and act like a complete dork! And the timing could not have been better. I've been freezing all day. I couldn't wait to slip into this 800 + fill goose down slice of heaven. Within 30 seconds I was HOT. I was immediately in love and with great pain posted it online for a very reasonable price. (sigh) I hope it finds a happy home with its new owner and is treated with the love and kindness it deserves.

Check out the statement on the back of a Nixon Watch we have. 

After moving the 'Mess' of boxes from the front of the shop to the back of the shop I noticed that there were a few boxes that were larger than other but also lighter in weight. What could it be?

After mining the boxes from the mountain of the 'Mess' I opened one up to find a LOAD of sleeping bags. All four boxes were full of bags. Each box held between 5 and 8 bags.

Allowing the bags to loft.

 
I love sleeping bags, today is a good day. Oh and I found a DreamWalker sleeping bag, a sleeping bag that you can wear around camp with arm holes and a leg holes.

Enjoy - Jeff

Not a normal Friday, but a decent change of pace and the open space makes me feel good.

This is what I did - Shifted the 'Mess' from the front to the back.

This:

This was near the doors. A sea of boxes.

Cleared a spot in the back

Doors are clear.

Filled the spot in the back.

 
The 'Mess' shifted from one part of the warehouse to the next in order for it to grow and morph into a challenge that seems like it might never get diminished. 

The good part is that I can open the doors and move freely and when I walk in I'm not greeted by a wall of boxes that extends into a sea.

Whoop - Jeff

I was looking at some of the reviews that were written on item that have shipped from Reggie's Place.

This one caught my eye and I chuckled.

"how did you get that in the box? great transaction! super seller!!!! thank you!"

This was for a 2 person inflatable Kayak.  I remember packing this guy. We like to re-use boxes, its just our way to reduce and reuse. That day I didn't have the right size box, either way too big or 'it might fit'.

It took me a good hour of squishing, rolling, unrolling and re-rolling the kayak to get it to fit perfectly in a box that might have been a bit small for it. However, I wanted to make sure it was safe for transport and I wanted to use a box that was previously used instead of using a new one.

And I did.

-Jeff

Save this date and get out to show some appreciation for this one thing that inspires us all.

June 2nd, 2012 - National Trails Day

To participate in a local hike, dog walk, cycling event, horseback ride, trail maintenance project, paddle trip, health fair, geocaching activity, photo safari, birdwatching expedition, and more.  Whatever you like to do outdoors, there is bound to be an event that will match your interests. - http://www.americanhiking.org/NTD.aspx

Remember it's not only for us now, but for out four legged friends and our future generations.

A great write up on Outside Magazine. 

The Most Influential Gear of All Time

We’ve scoured the gear archives and the history of sport across continents and eras to compile our first attempt at an authoritative list of the 100 most important outdoor inventions ever

By: Berne Broudy and Andrew Freeman

http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/The-Most-Influential-Gear-of-All-Time.html

Each item goes to a link with the history of the item. The Primus stove looks way cool.

Where I work and where I live you will find people who are involved in a multitude of sports and activities. I myself am a person who on any given weekend will bike, hike, rock climb, go caving, white water rafting, kayaking, etc. All these activities require gear and sometimes a large amount of gear.

One of my biggest challenges is getting all this gear ready to go. I have my gear rack and gear boxes with backpacks, sleeping bags and sleeping pads stacked and hanging from the walls.

A way that I combat the organization of gear is just to take it all with me in totes (not the smartest if you don't have a truck or large carrying capacity car), or put the gear for each activity in its own bag. This essentially creates a 'Go Bag' for whatever activity is next, a simple and easy way to be ready for the activity in a quick and timely manner. A favorite bag of mine is the The North Face's Base Camp duffel bags.

It opens up wide so i can stack or just throw the gear in. The handles allow me to carry it like a duffel, or to carry it like a backpack and the material is made from pretty bomber material that will take the equivalent of being dragged behind a bus in Australia for a few kilometers.

-Jeff

It's 'Bike to Work Week' and I hope everyone participates. #biketoworkweek

Not only does biking to work take vehicles off the road and lessens the pollution, even if it's not by much, but it can also change your frame of mind and perspective.

Getting up a little bit earlier doesn't sound fun but it does have it's rewards. The endorphins that will be generated with the morning and afternoon commute will provide you with an added boost in your day. The only way you can prove me wrong is to try it.

Get a bike and go. Then grab yourself a beer afterwards to celebrate your efforts.

-Jeff

Footwear is important, however it can be daunting to figure out what you should use and when.

Carrying loads of 30 lbs - 40 lbs on back country terrain you should consider a mid to high boot with a light to medium stiff torsion control.

Loads of 40 lbs or more then consider mid to high boots with a stiff torsion control.

For mountains or alpine - get mountaineering boots.

But for other excursions with light loads there are many options that work well in many terrains. Keep in mind that you don't have to limit your options to just footwear that will support ankles and covers the toes. Hiking in sandals can be just as comfortable, pleasant experience as any footwear. This isn't to say they don't have their drawback, just don't limit your options.

I've done back country ultra light camping and multi-country backpacking in a set of Teva's that lasted 9 years. Very comfortable, great traction on so many different terrains that they were usually my go to hiking footwear (for light loads and just kicking it, specially for disc golfing).

Recently I've been interested in Chaco Sandals - Solid PU sole that will last longer than any EVA. But the main reason I love them is that when your sandals have issues of wear they can be fixed - check it out on ReChaco - http://www.chacos.com/US/en/Rechaco-Landing

One can also create their own Chaco's and they've recently started making some of them in the U.S.A. Great company with solid beliefs of making great products and doing good business.

Rock the Chac's

-Jeff

I sent out an Exped mat the other day and wrote a note on the box regarding the use of the pad and I hope they enjoy their new gear. I also put a note not to for get the flask and that I prefer whiskey.

I received this today in my email - made my day.

Dear reggiesplace,

I received the mat today. I LOVE the note on the box exterior! I too prefer whiskey if hard liquor is choice.
Your mat will be heading to Teton and Yellowstone this summer. We'll toast to you and Reggie while we are there.

This was excellent. -Jeff

One of the big hurdles for newbs getting into camping is what clothing to wear. This isn't a large issue when car camping but with back country excursions cloths can add weight and less weight is a happy camper.

I have many people that are asking for specific items because they have seen some marketing stating that this or that item is the last piece you will ever need and it does everything you want. Keep this in mind - There is NO item that will cover all conditions and situations.

Layering is the best option for any conditions. Check the average conditions for the area you're planning, average rain, temps (night and day), wind, etc.

Layers (non alpine) -

Base - avoid cotton it will absorb sweat and stay wet. This can impede your body's temperature control. Instead use a synthetic, or my VERY FAVORITE wool. Wool is the best base layer IMO. Why?

 

• Is very sustainable
• Doesn't absorb wetness and can keep you warm even if wet
• Can be cleaned on the trail very easily
• Isn't generally treated with chemicals for anti stink - it already automatically is anti bacterial
• Merino is soft and feels wonderful next to my skin, no chafing. 

Mid layer - Cotton can be used here but I like to avoid it, the whole absorbs water thing is a big no-no. I like either a thicker wool, or a synthetic fleece. They range in weights, or thickness. If it might get cold at night - thicker fleece, warmer - lighter fleece.

Shell, or outside layer - Generally I like to take a rain shell if there is any chance of rain or wind, 100% waterproof. If there is little chance of rain and it might be cold a soft shell works well but they aren't 100% rain proof. Rain shells will not allow your body to expel the heat during heavy activity, big draw back - doesn't matter what they market to you if you're hiking fast enough to build up sweat it will make it icky inside. Soft shell are a better at this, they let more heat out faster but also let water in. Again, check the average weather patterns and choose wisely. 

-Jeff

 

Shredding the Cascades

Our Michelin Man is ripping it up in the High Cascades!

Rip and Grip little dude...

I was going to write about water filters but there are so many great articles the cover the topic in great detail. 

Here is one of my favorites - http://www.backpacking-guide.com/water-filter-purifier-reviews.html

I just recently purchased the Sawyer 4 Liter Complete Water Purification System and I love it. 

I also have the MSR MiniWorks. I felt that a ceramic filter couple with the ease of field maintainability was a great design and very safe. However, with new technology camping gear just keeps getting better. The Sawyer is just about bomb proof, not as field maintainable but you really shouldn't need to do anything except back flush this simple inline filter. 

Prior to this I have either boiled my water or had used chemical treatment. All fine options and if you find yourself somewhere else other than Northern Europe, or North America always carry some chemical treatment. 


But, and this is a big one for me, I sometimes lack patience and hate waiting. Chemical, boil, UV and pumping all require me to use my time waiting for the water to be ready. With the Sawyer gravity system I can fill it up, hang it and get back to getting my back country kitchen set up. In a few minutes I have a few liters of water ready to go. Fill it up again and let it hang and there is my dish and water for the night. Maybe 1 minute to fill it in a river or stream. It really cuts down my time regarding water management. 

Oh and this filter has a 1 million gallon guarantee. 

-Jeff

Sometimes I get to bring my dog to work. Working on Saturday for a few hours, thought it was a good time. Not too hot or cold out. Gary picks a spot in the sun but the shade moves quickly. Caught him in a nap in this one.

-Jeff

Turned our little Michelin man into a snowboard dude.

Skull and Cross Bones.

It's so fun to take pictures of the children items. 

Little kids are awesome. 

We do a lot of shipping and if I can avoid using a new box I'll do so. Found this insignia on one of the re-purposed boxes shipping a 2 person sleeping bag.

Really cool that there are programs out there like this. It's not  perfect but it is a start. Here is also a cool website - http://www.aboxlife.com/

Recycle, Reduce and Reuse.

-Jeff

So we have this seeing eye in the shop. We decided to give the security guard some entertainment.

We hope he enjoys.

Technology is awesome.

In the outdoor community some do not see technology as all that rich. Some find that technology can led a person into unsuspecting risk. 

Arguments have been made that a GPS shouldn't be used. Instead everyone should use a map and compass. It is believed that people who use a GPS rely on a GPS too much and generally do not carry a map and compass, or don't have the skills to use one.

My thought is that technology is awesome. A GPS is no different than a map and compass. A camper should have map and compass with the appropriate skills and carry them If you want to GPS-it - AWESOME! 

The next time you hear someone bashing a GPS over a map and compass, ask them if they know how to navigate by the stars. Tell them even star navigation is the child of human technology innovation.

GPS user/map and compass carrier - Jeff

Car camping is a great way to get into the camping scene. Car camping will allow extra space, a sense of security and the ability handle a multitude of situations in a flash.

Use the time car camping to test new ideas and techniques. Refine skills that will be useful when transitioning into other types of camping. Do you want to see how long dry ice will keep a steak cold?; test it car camping first before you try and pack it on a back country weekend.

-Jeff

If you're starting out with any adventure it's best to plan ahead for any possible mishaps. Get yourself a good medical kit, one for the car, one for the backpack. Get a book of knowledge regarding how to best treat back country injuries read it cover to cover then put it in the med kit. Medical knowledge and preparation in the back country could be very beneficial. Don't ever rely on a cell phone or any other communication device. Rely on your own intuition.

I only bring this up because that same mentality can be handy for multiple situations. Wrapping duck tape around a bottle, having a needle and thread available or bringing a few plastic bags for whatever reason is all preparation for the unexpected.

A perfect example is my bike ride today. I planned a 15 miler, nothing to intensive and on familiar terrain. This was the second ride of the season, still tweaking everything. I had a bike tool, patch kit but no hand pump. No worries though, I've only had a flat maybe twice. The first was before I even got going, the second was within walking distance to the car.

However, the unexpected loves doing its job. On my ride the first 2.5 miles is uphill then it levels out and drops, levels out again and I start heading back. On my way back the last 2.5 miles is excellent downhill, good straights, good switchbacks and the right slope that I'm not white knuckled.

Right before the downhill I lower the air pressure in my tires, do it all the time, and start the decent. Not even 300 ft into the decent and I get squirrelly on some rocks and pop goes the back tire. With no pump and only patches this meant just short of a 2.5 mile hike back to the car carrying the bike. No epic downhill and a 2.5 mile walk I cannot get back.

Lesson Learned - Jeff

Differences in camping.

If you're new to the camping adventure scene then you should know that there are a few different terms for camping or camping related activities.

Just to name a few -

Car Camping - This term is used to describe what the majority of Americans see as camping. This involves getting to and from and using your car as a vessel for you and your gear and not really ever being too far away. It can also be the place where you cook and sleep.

Camping - A general term used to mostly describe the use of a tent and and other camping gear. It is also used to describe car camping, again a very general term.

Back Country Camping -  This is generally used to describe a trip into the back country where a vehicle either cannot go or isn't allowed to go. All the tools need for camping is carried in by backpack, snowmobile, horse, bike, etc. Your tent, sleep gear, cooking gear and survival gear is all contained in a system that allows portability.

Backpacking - This intertwines with the term 'Back Country Camping' a little bit. Americans view backpacking as a way of getting into the back country on foot either on an out and back trip or as some sort of a looped trip. For the most part the time spam for back packing is 3 days or longer and a certain mileage is covered. The rest of the world views backpacking as a way to travel from country to country in search of different views and experiences. Most Americans might view this as multi-country backpacking. Using a tent and staying with people or hostels are very common while moving frequently from spot to spot with no where or nothing in particular to do.

Ultralight Backpacking - Using the lightest and smallest gear you can be comfortable with as well as using techniques to save on weight. For example, many serious ultralight backpackers don't cook meals, use sleeping pad or take a full tent set up. They can survive on such a small amounts of gear. Not recommended for beginners, it can take years to perfect ultralight backpacking skills and knowledge with a fair amount of sacrificing comfort.

Trek, or Trekking - Same as hike or hiking. Can but doesn't have to involve camping.

Mountaineering - Back country camping and climbing mixed. Also can be generalized as climbing, not to be confused with Rock Climbing. Carrying all your gear and camping on a mountain on your assent and descent.

There are plenty of other terms used to describe camping, but if you're getting started and you need information choosing the right term for camping will help out when seeking help from others.

-Jeff

Get a good bag.

Both kinds of bags.

I took a survey the other day in regards to 'How to best get people into camping.' The survey was focused on how to make it easy for people to get into camping. Their suggestions were by providing a campground with everything you need already set up; or by providing cheap enough gear to where the beginning investment isn't a hurdle.

I have mixed emotions about the thought process that it has to be easy to get into something.

Granted, gear is expensive, however used gear is a great alternative.  Cheap gear can lead to later issues and products that have a very low or short usable life. Someone starting out in camping that has their cheap tent fall apart the next year isn't likely going to think that another tent is a great alternative.

If you start with good gear and take care of it the gear will last and have a great resell value. By starting out buying good gear a person will likely commit to learning about camping. LEARNING - that's the key.

It's not always easy to camp. When you camp you carry your kitchen and your bed. It takes planning, a certain amount of knowledge and patience. This planning involves learning about what to take, how to use it and what scenarios to plan for. It is the whole picture that makes camping worth it. Planning, implementing and enjoying.

Work hard, play harder. I've always enjoyed the knowledge I've gained from learning how to back country camp. I've enjoyed the views much more.

-Jeff

Mountain Hardwear Casa 4

Homemade Crampons!?

Awesome Crampons! (Not only affordable but could second as a tool in the kitchen!) 


So to go along with our last post of the killer ice axe one would need in the case of a zombie apocalypse...we have found a pair of homemade crampons that may have similar value... Though I do think the rubber band could be changed out for some good ol' scotch tape. The fact of the matter is, crampons could easily be made rather than purchased for that trek up, through, down, and around the glacier.

Or you could just screw the three ply...

Nice...homemade crampons!

-Employee of Reggie's Place.

Ice Axe Gone Wild

When ice climbing or traversing that steep glacier...and then...all of a sudden -zombie climbers come out of NO WHere! The only tool for the job.(scream in the background inserted here)!

The multipurpose ice and snow tool for the mountaineer just got better...

-Reggie's Place Volunteer Mountain Zombie Hunter/R&D Product Review Specialist of Extreme Gear

2wo TIMES 2wo

Yes, the impossible is possible now with the Ledge Canyon -5 Degree Sleeping Bag!  Sleeping never had it so good as it does now with the combined total square footage of sleeping delight equaling 48+ sqft!!

To be completely honest, I want to selfishly take this bag all to myself. It has huge fluffy fun written all over it. Not literally of course, but in the sense that what I think of when seeing it is, "huge fluffy fun!"

Put it in the back of a pick-up for camping outside Joshua Tree or Smith Rocks...
  

or take it home- Rip off that worthless flower comforter your wife has put on your bed (when it should be on a kids double) and replace it with the Ledge Canyon- Why not camp everyday in your own home? I think- totally doable with this bag!

-Employee of Reggie's Place