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Dearest Santa ...
Nobody can have too much useful and cool stuff for trips into the great outdoors. Not even me.
By TERRY TOMALIN
Published December 9, 2005
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Jet Boil
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Astral Personal Flotation Device
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Crocs Shoes
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White's Classic IDX+ Metal Detector
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CliC goggles
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Dorcy L.E.D. Dynamo flashlight
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Aqua Sphere Zip Fin
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Highgear Altitech2
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ThermaCell Lantern
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Recreational GP Kayak by Epic
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Burton Headphone Beanie
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Dear Santa,
Like many outdoor enthusiasts, I can't walk into a sporting goods store without leaving with something.
I have far too many pocket knives and flashlights. To ensure marital bliss, I find it necessary to hide my collection of specialized clothing and footwear in the garage. And it is no secret I have a soft spot in my heart for personal watercraft (surfboards, kayaks, canoes, etc.) but I am ashamed to admit that even I am not sure of exactly how many of these "tools" I own.
I have tried to reform my ways, but every time I head outdoors and see a piece of equipment that is lighter, stronger, more useful or simply downright cool, I have just got to have it.
Next year, however, will be different.
I promise I will learn how to make due with what I have.
Until then, here is a list of a dozen or so items to hold me through the holidays. You don't have to get me everything. I'd be satisfied with nine or 10 presents this year.
Thanks in advance,
Terry
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Jet Boil
$79.95
Boils a cup of water in 60 seconds. Sets up instantly: Just snap the base in the cup, push the igniter and you've got a hot drink or meal in minutes. The stove weighs only 12 ounces without fuel, which is sold separately. See www.jetboil.com
Aquapac waterproof flip-phone case
$45.00
You can still use your phone in this waterproof case. The Lenzflex window allows you to take pictures and video. The bag is submersible and floats. It comes with a neck cord and carabiner. See www.aquapac.net
Astral Personal Flotation Device
$175.00
Vented front allows you to unzip and cool off without unsecuring the PFD. The wicking polyester mesh liners keep you comfortable in all weather. Comes with water-resistant zippered pockets. It is hydration-system compatible, with a built-in cam/webbing system to accommodate any tow system. See www.astralbuoyancy.com
Crocs Shoes
$29.95
Heralded as the shoe of the future, these anti-microbial, anti-particulate, ergonomic, hypo-allergenic and non-toxic clogs are the favorite of fishing guides and paddlers. Available in fun colors. See www.crocs.com
White's Classic IDX+ Metal Detector
$399.95
Why wait until you are retired to supplement your 401K? This unit comes with an automatic target ID, slow sweep and quick recovery, as well as 2-year parts-and-labor warranty. See www.whiteselectronics.com/
CliC goggles
$59.99
They are molded foam cushion for maximum comfort and fit over most prescription glasses. The UV-protective lenses are optical quality and distortion-free, and there is a form-fitting headband and track ventilator for air flow. Friction sizing adjustment helmet compatible. Swing T-bar hinge. Great for snowboarding, skiing, running, walking, biking, hiking, motorcycling, jet-skiing, windsurfing, sailing, fishing and hunting. CliC Neodymiom magnet remains secure up to speeds of 130 MPH. See www.clicgoggles.com
Dorcy L.E.D. Dynamo flashlight
$19.95
No batteries and of light bulbs need. All you have to do is wind to charge. Perfect for camping, home or automobile. See www.dorcy.com
Aqua Sphere Zip Fin
$29.95
A great open-water swimming fin, the hydrodynamic design spreads workload over entire leg to maximize workout. The dual blades twist to an efficient angle for reduced ankle strain. Soft foot pocket and padded heel strap provide good comfort. See www.aquasphereusa.com
Mountain Hardware Dome Perignon Hat
$29.00
A warm, lightweight wind stopper that will keep you toasty on the water. See www.mountainhardware.com
Highgear Altitech2
$150.00
An altimeter, barometer, thermometer, digital compass and chrono timer in one handy tool. It also has day/date, alarms and is water resistant to 10 meters. See www.highgear.com
ThermaCell Lantern
$ 26.95
The latest in mosquito repellent, this lantern offers safe, quite, odorless protection. Also available as a hip holster. A good choice for any outdoor activity. See www.thermacell.net
Nordic Walking Poles by Leki
$99.95
The latest in fitness, nordic walking poles will help you burn up to 40% more calories during your walk and increase oxygen consumption up to 25 percent. The poles reduces stress to your knees and lower joints. See www.leki.com
Tilley Hat
$62.00
Billed as the "The Best Hat in all the World," the Tilley is a favorite of fishermen and sailors. The hat is guaranteed not to wear out and insured against loss. It also floats. See www.tilley.com
Recreational GP Kayak by Epic
$1595.00
It weighs just 29 pounds and is short enough to fit in the back of a regular pickup truck's bed. See www.epickayaks.com
Burton Headphone Beanie
$39.95
Listen to your MP3 player while you snowboard or ski. Headphones come secured in this hat. See www.burton.com
Boga Grip
$119.95-$240.00
The Boga Grip is a great tool for any angler's tackle box. It holds a fish safely and securely by the mouth and can be IGFA rated for those in search of a world record. See www.bogagrips.com
Fishworks Shorts
$45.99-$59.99
Fast-drying, stain-resistant shorts ideal for any water sports enthusiast. Comes with a pocket for fishing pliers. See www.fishworksproducts.com
[Last modified December 9, 2005, 12:24:05]
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