Exploring the Features of the mtb Gulch Bag by Wildhorn Outfitters

Mountain Bike Specific Bag

When it comes to selecting the perfect bag for your next mountain bike adventure, Wildhorn Outfitters' Gulch Bag stands out as a noteworthy contender. Combining functionality, durability, and style, this bag is crafted to meet the demands of modern explorers. Let’s dive into the features that make the Gulch Bag a must-have for your travel and adventure needs.

Design and Aesthetics

The Gulch Bag embraces a sleek and modern design that doesn’t compromise on ruggedness. Available in a range of versatile colors, the bag boasts a refined aesthetic that suits both urban environments and natural landscapes. The minimalist design is complemented by robust materials, making it a stylish yet practical choice for any occasion.

Durable Construction

One of the standout features of the Gulch Bag is its durability. Made from high-quality, water-resistant materials, this bag is built to withstand the elements. Whether you’re caught in a downpour or trekking through muddy trails, the Gulch Bag’s weather-resistant fabric ensures that your belongings stay dry and protected.

Spacious and Functional Interior

The interior of the Wldhorn Gulch Bag is designed with organization in mind. It features a spacious main compartment that can easily accommodate clothes, gear, or other essentials. Multiple internal pockets allow for organized packing, so you can keep smaller items like keys, gadgets, and travel documents easily accessible.

For those who like to keep their tech gear organized, the Gulch Bag includes a dedicated padded compartment for laptops or tablets. This compartment is not only secure but also well-cushioned to protect your devices from bumps and impacts.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort is key when it comes to carrying a bag for extended periods, and the Gulch Bag delivers in this area. The adjustable, padded shoulder straps provide a comfortable fit and reduce strain on your shoulders. Additionally, the bag features a padded back panel that offers excellent ventilation and support, making it a great choice for both short trips and long hauls.

Versatile Carrying Options

The Gulch Bag is designed with versatility in mind. It comes with multiple carrying options, including a top handle and detachable shoulder straps. This flexibility allows you to switch between a hand-carry, crossbody, or backpack style, depending on your preference and the nature of your journey.

Security Features

In terms of security, the Wildhorn Gulch Bag has got you covered. The main compartment features a secure zipper closure, while some models include lockable zippers for added security. This is particularly useful when traveling to unfamiliar places or when you need extra peace of mind regarding your belongings.

Eco-Friendly Materials

Wildhorn Outfitters places a strong emphasis on sustainability, and the Gulch Bag is no exception. Made from eco-friendly materials, the bag reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Choosing this bag means you’re not only investing in quality but also supporting a brand that values ecological responsibility.

the takeaway

In summary, the Gulch Bag by Wildhorn Outfitters is a well-rounded and versatile choice for adventurers and travelers alike. Its durable construction, spacious interior, comfort-focused design, and eco-friendly materials make it a standout option in the crowded market of travel and adventure bags. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring rugged terrain, the Gulch Bag is engineered to meet the demands of your journey with style and functionality. If you’re in the market for a new bag that combines practicality with a touch of elegance, the Gulch Bag is certainly worth considering.

Happy adventuring, and don’t forget to pack smart!

A Blend of Comfort and Style: FreeFly's Latitude Pant Shines!

I recently had the pleasure of trying out FreeFly's Latitude Pant, and I must say, they killed it! These pants have quickly become a staple in my wardrobe and for good reason. Not only are they incredibly comfortable, but they also boast a stylish design that seamlessly merges fashion with functionality.

First and foremost, the comfort level of the Latitude Pant is off the charts. Crafted from a blend of premium materials, these pants feel like a dream against the skin. The fabric is soft, lightweight, and breathable, allowing for maximum mobility and ensuring I stay cool even on hot summer days. Whether I'm lounging at home, running errands, or embarking on an outdoor adventure, the Latitude Pant never fails to provide unparalleled comfort.

The fit of these pants is equally impressive. FreeFly has managed to strike the perfect balance between a relaxed and tailored look. The slim, tapered leg design gives them a modern and flattering silhouette, while the elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring provides a customizable fit that accommodates different body types. I appreciate the attention to detail that FreeFly has put into the construction of these pants, ensuring they fit perfectly and stay in place without feeling restrictive.

One of the standout features of the Latitude Pant is its versatility. These pants effortlessly transition from casual wear to activewear, making them suitable for a wide range of activities. Whether I'm going for a hike, practicing yoga, or simply lounging at home, the Latitude Pant adapts to my needs without compromising on style. The minimalist design, clean lines, and subtle logo placement make them easy to pair with various tops, creating countless outfit possibilities.

Durability is another aspect where the Latitude Pant shines. Despite multiple wears and washes, these pants have held up remarkably well. The high-quality construction and attention to detail are evident in every stitch, ensuring they withstand the test of time. Additionally, the fabric is resistant to pilling and fading, maintaining its pristine appearance even after prolonged use.

Lastly, I must commend FreeFly for their commitment to sustainability. The Latitude Pant is made from eco-friendly materials, including a blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester, reducing its environmental impact. It's reassuring to know that while I enjoy the comfort and style of these pants, I'm also supporting a brand that prioritizes sustainability.

In conclusion, the Latitude Pant from FreeFly is a true gem. It combines comfort, style, and versatility effortlessly, making it a must-have addition to any wardrobe. Whether you're seeking the perfect lounge pants or reliable activewear, these pants deliver in every aspect. FreeFly has truly outdone itself with this exceptional offering, and I highly recommend the Latitude Pant to anyone looking for the ultimate blend of comfort and style!

test 2

test

Nemo Dragonfly Osmo 2P Bikepack Tent - Lightweight & Durable

The Nemo Dragonfly Osmo 2P Bikepack Tent is an awesome option for those gnarly souls getting into bikepacking. But, let me just throw this out there - this tent is also an excellent choice for backpackers. I will get into the details more as we go. It is lightweight, weighing in at 4.1 pounds, made with durable, high-quality materials and loaded with weatherproof features to ensure comfort on the trails.

Features of the Nemo Dragonfly Osmo 2P Bikepack Tent:

(Almost) Ultralight: With a trail weight of 4.1 pounds, the tent is lightweight, making it light enough to carry along on bikepacking and backpacking trips, but I wouldn't consider that to be ultralight. Especially if you pin it up against the Hornet 2P. (More on that later)

Spacious Interior: Ample space is available to fit two people, as well as additional gear storage. Especially if you take advantage of the vestibule areas, clever pocket designs and use the gear tray.

Simple Setup: With color-coded poles and grommets, the tent can be assembled with ease even in low-light conditions.

Durability: Crafted with 15D ripstop nylon and floor fabric, it is sure to remain secure against wear and tear as well as any potential damage from weather conditions. If you plan on camping in wet weather or on rougher terrain (read: the desert), you should definitely pick up the footprint.

Ventilation: For comfortable temperatures in warmer weather, it has large doors and mesh panels to guarantee great ventilation. The Dragongfly tent body uses a white mesh for privacy around the sides, and black mesh to make sure you can see the night star up above.

Bikepacker-Friendly: Its compact design fits easily in a pannier or bikepacking bag, perfect for the avid cyclist. There are built-in straps on the carrying bag giving options for varying ways of mounting it to your bike.

Accessories: The Nightlight Pocket allows your headlamp to illuminate the inside of your tent, diminishing the presence of blue light to create a soft and consistent ambiance. Equip your vestibule with Landing Zone's waterproof, removable storage tub for extra protection of your gear from dirt and moisture.

Sustainable: This tent is created with recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Win for Mother Earth!

Specifications of the Nemo Dragonfly Osmo 2P Bikepack Tent:

The Nemo Dragonfly Osmo 2P Bikepack Tent is an awesome choice for bikepackers in search of a lightweight, long-lasting tent that is able to endure any kind of weather. It is designed to be set up quickly and its sustainable materials make it a sensible choice for individuals seeking to make minimal environmental impact while enjoying the great outdoors. It's loaded with features, super easy to set up, has some special design features for mounting to a bike, a low profile colorway and a viable option for backpackers as well!

View through the door of Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack Osmo 2P

How Does it Stack up Against the Nemo Hornet 2P

If you've been following along on this site, you know that I am a huge fan of the Hornet 2P. I have used that tent more than any other tent I have ever owned, in many different weather conditions and climates. It's the jam. I will be honest, the first time I set up the Osmo, I knew that this was likely going to replace my Hornet. Why? It's completely freestanding which is something that I love, especially living in the desert where oftentimes the ground is incredibly hard.

The 2 tents are very similar in size and shape, but the Osmo is built to be a bit more durable and easier to setup, breakdown, and carry. However, it comes at the price of weight - not much, but noticeably heavier. So, if you are a stickler for keeping those grams down, the Hornet would be better suited for you.

I built this comparison table so it’s easy to see the differences side by side. I put the spec in BOLD when it is the winner. It’s a pretty tight battle, so choosing which tent works best for each person is going to be a personal preference.

Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack Osmo 2P without rainfly

Nemo Hornet Osmo 2P without rainfly

Royal Robbins Men's Alpine Mtn Pro Pant Review

Comfortable and durable with 4-way stretch – Super Comfortable trail pants rich with features.

When I first put on the Alpine Mtn Pro Pant, I thought that was it. I'm done. I have found the perfect pant. They are extremely comfortable with a fantastic fit, and feature a cinch ankle closure that so many outdoor men's pants neglect. These will be one of my favorite pants that will get a ton of use, just not on my more active adventure days. Keep reading to find out why.

UPF: UPF 50+ | Inseam length: 32 in | Weight: 13.3 oz | Fit: Active fit ||| Material: 88% polyester, 12% elastane

Overall Verdict

Oh man did I love these at first. They actually made me reconsider Royal Robbins as an adventure brand when I first started wearing them. I had always considered them an outdoor lifestyle brand, but not anything that I would wear during active adventures. I would rock their gear at camp. But quickly I realized that they were missing some of my major points and therefore they are delegated to stay in Camp. That is in no way put-down, though, as they are one of my favorite pants for that occasion.

Pros: Super Comfortable, very versatile. Great Style & Fit. Ankle Cinch. Great Stretch and Mobility.

Cons: Do not breathe well. Not Great for warm weather. Fabric Stretches too much.

(I am 5'8" and 160lbs wearing a 30" Waist with a 30" Inseam). If you're an Amazon shopper, you're in luck because they do sell them.

Great Stretch & Mobility although they tend to stretch too much after some activity.

Comfort & Mobility

Their stretch and articulation provide freedom to stride and climb, and their durability withstands miles of scrambling and bushwhacking. Meaning, that these things move with you no matter how aggressive you get. They are the opposite of restrictive which is their biggest strength, but also a downfall. Why? because they stretch pretty quickly and then lose a lot of their structure. I personally like slimmer-fit pants and tend to feel like I am swimming in more "regular" fit pants. Within an hour, these pants go from a relatively slim fit, straight into a loose regular fit.

Breathability

This is a downside to these pants, and for someone who runs hot like me, almost a dealbreaker. But please listen, I will say this about almost every single pant I wear. I run super hot. What can I say? I will say these do breathe better than most, but I feel like they tend to hold the heat in once it builds up more than I would like.

I do love that they have thought about ventilation features and have added in the ankle cinch. This is something that most other outdoor pants lack.

Versatility

From everyday casual wear to the office, these pants will fit right in. I have worn these in a professional setting and didn't look out of place at all. I love to wear these at camp, at a picnic or BBQ, or after a long adventurous day. With the ankle cinch, they pair best with some Chacos.

Water Resistance

The Alpine Mtn Pro Pant is water-resistant. They will shed a LIGHT rain, but that is really it. These will wet out relatively quickly. Once they do, you can expect them to become quite baggy and heavy. I found them also to be pretty slow to dry out or wick moisture.

Features of The Alpine Mtn Pro Pant

The Alpine Pro Pant has some unique features. My favorite feature is the ankle cinch which allows for some ankle breathing and also a different style look depending on how high you cuff them. They also feature a zip pocket just above the left knee which I find completely unusable. It is a strange placement that places whatever you put in that pocket on the knee as it bends. I could see it being used for soft items only - think face mask or lens wipes.

My favorite feature of these pants is the ankle cinch.

Value

The Alpine Pro pants aren't cheap. Royal Robbins is an elevated brand. They use premiere fabrics that cost more in the manufacturing process and therefore the price tag ends up being higher. They retail at $95 and in my experience, don't go on sale very often. I have only had them for about 4 months so I can't speak to the longevity of these, but if they are anything like other Royal Robbins pants, they will last for a long time.

Royal Robbins Alpine Mtn Pro Pant Conclusion

I do love these, just not for technical adventures. Because of their fit and stretchability, these will be one of my go-to pairs of pants for everyday wear - even in the business casual work environment. I absolutely love the ankle cinch feature and the initial fit but I am not a fan of how quickly they loosen up and retain heat.

If you're looking for a great looking, super comfortable and pretty durable pair of pants, these are spot on. If you need more of a technical pant, I would look elsewhere, like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi.

Want Remember This for Later?

Pin This to Your Favorite Board!

Prana Brion Pant Review for Men

The Prana Brion Pant is almost the best all-around pant for the adventurous man.

They are extremely comfortable, highly durable, and feature a simple, crossover design that makes them super versatile. These will look and feel perfect climbing at the local crag and still be stylish back at the pub you hit up afterward.

Overall Verdict

These are solid pants that deserve their place amongst the best of the best. Due to their versatility, I have owned a few pairs of these in multiple colors. Admittedly though, I don't wear these as much for adventures as I do for casual outings due to their biggest downfall for me: breathability. Keep in mind, I live in the desert, so heat is kind of inevitable. More on that below.

Pros: Super Comfortable, extremely versatile & durable. Great Style & Fit

Cons: Do not breathe well. Not Great for warm weather.

(I am 5'8" and 160lbs wearing a 30" Waist with a 30" Inseam). I'm a sucker for a sale, so I would recommend keeping an eye on these at Backcountry.com. They go on sale all the time. If you're more of an Amazon shopper, you're in luck because they do sell them.

The Prana Brion Pant has great mobility with a fit bordering on Slim Fit.

Comfort & Mobility

Arguably the most comfortable outdoor pant on the market. The Brion is made from a comfortable and durable stretch fabric blend (97% nylon, 3% spandex), but it wears and feels like cotton. The stretch allows you to move freely without any constriction or pinch points.

As with most pants, these will loosen up as you wear them, especially on multiday trips when some sweating or any moisture is in play. The waist will hold, but the legs will flare out. This could be great for larger individuals, but for someone with a slimmer frame, it may feel like you are swimming a bit.

The Brion is made from a comfortable and durable stretch fabric blend (97% nylon, 3% spandex) which means when you move, they roll right along with you.

Breathability

This is the only major downside to these pants, and for someone who runs hot like me, almost a dealbreaker. They lack ventilation features that other outdoor pants have such as venting or roll-up cuff snaps. The fabric itself is a bit heavier and tends to trap the heat making the Prana Brion a great pant for cooler weather, but not so good for warm weather adventures.

Versatility

From everyday casual wear to the office, these pants will fit right in. I have worn these in a professional setting for years and didn't look out of place at all. This is the strongest asset to these - wherever you go, they will blend in and perform well (unless it's really hot). With the simple cuts, slimmer fit, and minimal pockets, the Prana Brion is one of the most versatile pants for the outdoor enthusiast who has an affinity for post-adventure beers at the local brewery.

Water Resistance

The Prana Brion are finished with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating which is meant to help shed water droplets before they soak into the fabric. I found that this coating does a fantastic job at minimal sprays or drops when the pants are new. After a few washes, the coating starts to break down, but even after a couple of years, these pants retain a bit of DWR protection. However, it's important to reiterate that I am speaking about light mists and minimal water. These pants will wet out and become quite heavy with any decent amount of water, so these are not the best in rainy conditions.

The Prana Brion Pant has simple design features such as wast belt loops, 5 pockets and a gusseted crotch.

Features of The Prana Brion Pant

The Prana Brion is as basic as it gets when it comes to features. Aside from the gusseted crotch, belt waist loops, and 5 pockets, these are a simple design. I believe this was very intentional in order to appeal to a wider demographic.

Value

The Brion finds itself in the middle of the market with its price point. They are not necessarily cheap, but hefty enough to make your wallet a bit lighter than you would like. You can keep your peace of mind knowing that these pants do last a very long time. Some of mine are over 6 years old and look brand new (including these used in the photos).

Prana Brion Pant Conclusion

I love these pants, but I am not in love with them. WTF does that mean? They tick almost all of my important boxes (Fit, Versatility, Style, Value, Comfort), but with the poor ventilation and breathability, they don't take the cake for me. If Prana incorporated some breathing ports or a cuff system to let some airflow around the ankles, these would get closer to the adventure clothing checklist, but for now, they stay in my Let's-Get-Some-After-Trail-Beers while rocking my Brions!

Want Remember This for Later?

Pin This to Your Favorite Board!

Prana Brion Photo Gallery

Review of the Nomadik Welcome Box with Hammock - Worth it?

Gear. We all love gear. Some of us a little more than others - maybe even to the point that it could be considered a problem, or an obsession. Is it truly even possible to have too much gear? I don't think so, and neither does anyone that has received a Nomadik Subscription Box.

If you want to subscribe, get loads of gear and save even more money while doing it, Nomadik gave an exclusive 10% discount to Adventure Dispatch Readers! Click here and use the code "Adventure10" at checkout!

Nomadik is a super take on the subscription mail idea that caters to outdoor gear lovers (Yes, I am looking at you!). When you subscribe to the Monthly Subscription, you will receive a bonus Welcome Box.

https://youtu.be/KBOx-2xhf24

The contents change slightly, but for the most part, the items which we individually go through in this article remain the same. You also fill out a personal profile to start that they will use to cater the boxes to your interests. Though you don't get to choose exactly what you want, this helps point them in the right direction.

As is the case with many popular subscription boxes, the longer you sign up for, the less you spend per box. Prices range from $30 for one box, payable monthly, to $26 per box, billed semi-annually, for a total of $158.

Each box is has a guaranteed $50 retail value in each box. Most boxes also offer coupons for pretty hefty discounts from major (and not so major) brands. This brings up a super cool thing about what Nomadik is doing. Sure, they partner with some of the largest brands and include items from them, but they also include items from smaller companies, helping them to get more exposure for their quality items.

What is in the Nomadik Welcome Box?

Everyone that signs up for a Monthly subscription will receive the Nomadik Welcome Box. It's a great introduction to the process and a great teaser of the goodies that you will be receiving. Let's see everything that came in my Nomadik Welcome Box.

Grand Trunk Starter Hammock

This is their ultralight hammock and is a really good "starter" hammock. It packs down well and is pretty lightweight making it ideal to throw in your backpack for any adventure, or just a nap in a nearby park. Hanging straps are included so all you have to do is find the nearest pair of shaded trees to hang from!

Gear Aid Tenacious Tape Mini Patches

I love these things and should be a staple piece of gear for any backpacking adventure. In fact, I think these need to be added to our 3 Day Backpacking Checklist. These are used to repair holes and tears in down jackets, tents, rain gear. They are pre-cut patches of ultra-strong adhesive tape that permanently bond to nylon, polyester, GORE-TEX fabric, and vinyl.

UCO Hurricane Matches

These light up quickly and consistently in driving rain, heavy winds and falling snow—and will relight even after being submerged in water. Each box includes 25 matches that burn for up to 15 seconds each, plus 3 extra strikers. I default to carrying a lighter, but most of my adventures take place in normally dry conditions. I would pack these up as emergency backup if I went to more humid or wet areas.

Ursa Major Essential Face Tonic

This is a great example of Nomadik introducing some new products to even the most seasoned outdoors lover. This 4-in-1 natural face toner cleans, exfoliates, soothes and hydrates - leaving your skin feeling refreshed, firm and alive. I'm not sure it would make my longer backpacking treks where I am weighing every ounce, but for quick overnighters or car camping, why not? At home I have a nighttime routine to wash and clean my face, so why not take it to the backcountry?

Nomadik Welcome Box -

Nuun Instant Electrolyte Hydration Powder Mix

I became an instant fan of Nuun a few years back when I used them during and after a few major hikes. They are relatively clean and work really well. These packets are an electrolyte powder that you add to water to rehydrate you faster than water alone. They are delicious and easy to throw in your bag for any adventure.

Wrapping up the Nomadik Welcome Box

You will also get a cool sticker to slap on your cooler and a pamphlet that talks about each item. They also have some incentives such as offering a $15 credit if you share your feedback. This means that they WANT to hear from their customers, and are actively listening. You will also find discount codes for many of the Brands that they work with.

Inside the Nomadik Welcome Box brochure, you will find the "Nomadik Challenge." Basically, if you post on IG and use the hashtag, they select 5 people to win a $50 gear bundle every month!!

Is it Worth it?

It's a bit too early to call it (sorry). This Welcome box is only a bonus gift and not the actual boxes that we will be receiving, but don't worry, there will be a follow-up! That being said, just the fact that Nomadik includes a Welcome Box with a Monthly Subscription in the first place with a value of around $50 is pretty cool. If I had paid the lowest tier amount of $30, and this was my box, I would be OK with it. I definitely received more than $30 worth of gear, so from a money standpoint, it is worth it. I am looking forward to the next box to get a true impression of what Nomadik is all about!