The Rock Fight x Geartrade Takeover #4: EPILOGUE
We did it! We got stuff. We went outside. We formed opinions. High fives all around. When I first opened the box the crew at Geartrade sent me, I realized this was not just a straight-up gear review, but a challenge. Could I make their ‘eclectic’ choices work with my regular outdoor activities? The answer is a resounding YES! No matter what kind of kilt they threw at me, we hiked, biked, and surfed our way to UnNew Nirvana. With that, I’ll leave you with my final thoughts on the GearTrade 5. Like any of my half-baked opinions, if you think otherwise, hit me up at myrockfight@gmail.com.
#1. O’Neill Cotton T-Shirt
Well done O’Neill. You made a t-shirt, and I bet you made it like everyone does. I’m excited to wash it and add it to the stable of other cotton t-shirts. This O’Neill t-shirt simply reaffirms my belief that cotton does not have to kill, and even in a world of tech tees, is a viable option for outdoor pursuits.#2. SegSac Traveler Gear Bag
I see the potential. This item is intended to be an organizer inside of a backpack. At first, I was dubious that I’d even want to revisit this. What I can tell you: I was able to load a wetsuit, surf leash, solar panel, and a variety of small items like keys, phone, and wallet and have it cinched up nice and tight. This kind of forced Tetris was actually pretty impressive. I will definitely take this backpacking at some point.#3. Goal Zero Solar Panel
This was my first experience with a portable solar panel and call me a convert. Super lightweight and easy to use even on a cloudy day. This thing is joining the ranks of multi-tools, headlamps, and water filters in the ‘just take it with you because you might need it’ camp.
#4: Nite Ize Light Up Dog Collar
Full disclosure: My buddy Jay works for Nite Ize. So when Geartrade sent me this item (completely independent of Jay or anyone else at Nite Ize), I hoped I would hate it so I could genuinely make fun of him. But the joke's on me. This thing rules. Most dog lighting items I’ve used in the past have been clunky and cumbersome. This collar goes on easily and the striped lighting solution is elegant, beautiful, and does its primary job well- lighting up the dog to be visible after dark. Nice job Nite Ize (and by extension you too Jay… though the Yankees still suck).#5: Amerikilt Adventure Kilt
Upon opening the package from GearTrade, I swore I could hear the sounds of laughter escaping from the box. And not the laughing with me kind.
This item showed why. They were testing me with the Adventure Kilt.
To be fair, kilts of any kind are an acquired taste, and the Adventure Kilt is no exception. But truth be told, I’m not a fan. I can’t shake the idea that kilt people are probably also Crocs people (arguments for utility be damned). That said, this thing was clutch when I forgot my surf poncho, so maybe I am being a bit too harsh. In fact, don’t listen to me. Let your freak flag… drape?
Well, that covers it, if you know what I mean. Thanks to Geartrade for letting me guest host their blog, and big thanks to you for reading this far! I hope you’ve enjoyed a little Rock Fight hot sauce on your Geartrade burrito. If you want more outdoor ideas that aim for your head, check out the THE ROCK FIGHT podcast. It's a different take on typical outdoor pods, but that’s the point. Available on Apple Podcasts at the link below or wherever else pods are baked fresh daily and served with coffee. Have fun out there, rock fighters! Click here to listen to THE ROCK FIGHT!