Made in America: Ironcompany.com

When it comes to weight lifting, strength equipment, barbells, flooring and more there is no reason to cut corners. That is why Ironcompany.com looks to American made products, not only because it good for the nation’s manufacturing sector but also assures users that they are purchasing quality as well.

The online supplier offers a USA Made exercise equipment page so users can browse products and compare what is good for the nation and good for their fitness regime. Products available through Ironcompany.com include Body Solid, Iron Grip, GP Industries, Hampton USA, Ivanko and T-Grip Barbell; as well as numerous flooring companies and even cardio. Continue reading Made in America: Ironcompany.com

A New Bike Mirror

Most of us don’t have eyes in the back of our head, as a result while riding a bike we often turn to see what is coming at us from behind. This can be a problem because just as with a car, it isn’t advisable to take the eyes off the road.

There have been efforts to make helmet mirrors, but many actually get in the way and look a little silly. Now a pair Canadian inventors, Greg Maxwell and Richard Seck, have come up with a potentially game-changing design with the Isoteko mirror.

While it still leaves a bit to be desired with as far as how it looks, it does provide a better way for wearers to see what’s behind them. And when not in use can flip up. As the video shows it can be used on just about any helmet and is even designed to be repaired should that become necessary. Video after the jump

Yuba Boda Do

While we don’t think Fred Flintstone was much of a cyclist we know he appreciated pedal power and he’d like give this new cargo bike an approving “yabba dubba do,” which is fitting as it is Yuba’s Boda Boda. The bike is now available in two options including the step over apple green for taller riders and a step thru model for those shorter riders.

Both feature a rear rack that can be used to haul some stuff, while the bike even offers a carrying handle so it can be carried as well, making this an idea ride for urban dwellers. It also features a SRAM X-3 8-speed drivetrain so it can climb hills and deal with other rolling terrain.

Boda Boda Official Website

Kinetic(Mis)Shift: Aqua-Xtracycle

httpv://youtu.be/D_K0xz5t_IY

There is the old saying “sink or swim,” but frankly the Aqua-Xtracycle is all wet. Seeing it in action sort of evokes a greener version of the jetskis from Waterworld. In the future if the world is covered by water we probably will let our bike sink and we’ll grab things like tomato plants or just bags of dirt since it seems to be worth more than gold in the post-apocalyptic wet lands.

Now the concept itself isn’t bad. You need to cross water, here is a way to do it. But this doesn’t really seem all that safe, or efficient. It is one of those novelty things that just is looking for a solution where a problem doesn’t really exist. During World War II there were systems designed for floating a Jeep as well – but they proved just as impractical. Our bigger concern is that if this isn’t used correctly it could result in a bike at the bottom of a lake – and we just hope it doesn’t take a rider with it.

This one just gives us a sinking feeling.

Kinetic(Mis)Shift are products that we think deserve to be called out for their utter lack of fitness benefits

 

FollowMe Bike Lets Kids Ride Connected Bike

There are a few specialized bikes that are designed to allow children to ride behind their parent’s bike – but these systems typically lack a true front wheel. This can actually make it harder for the child to keep balance and is reported at times to be somewhat disturbing for the child. Imagine how you’d feel riding without a front wheel.

The other issue is that the geometry can be affected depending on the size of the parent’s bike. And it also is impossible for the child to actually ride the tandem without mom or dad because again there is no front wheel! Continue reading FollowMe Bike Lets Kids Ride Connected Bike

Made on America: Survival Straps

We first heard about Survival Straps about a year ago, and at this month’s Outdoor Retailer Summer Market Show the company announced that has strapped on deals with 36 universities, the PGA Tour, all five branches of the military, and The Wounded Warrior Project. Most recently, the company became one of the few small businesses selected by the U.S. Olympic Committee to license official Team USA gear. Survival Straps also provided all Team USA athletes with a Survival Straps bracelet and gear tag to wear and use at the London games. Continue reading Made on America: Survival Straps

SkiMotion Scooter Gets Whole Body in the Action

The traditional scooter requires one leg to push the device, which in our minds doesn’t provide a lot of exercise. But the SkiMotion actually requires a “butterfly leg motion” that includes the hips and upper body. This isn’t exactly a new concept and this is far from ideal for commuting – and probably will have you walking it up hill – but it is another one of those workout devices for those with a bit of money to spend. Video after the jump

Trek CEO to Offer Keynote at Interbike

We know where we’ll be on the morning of September 19. We’ll be in Las Vegas at the Interbike Trade Show, and more specifically we’ll be at the Industry Breakfast, presented by Bikes Belong and NBDA. For this year’s inaugural industry breakfast John Burke, CEO of Trek Bicycle Corporation will be on hand to deliver the keynote address.

Burke’s keynote presentation is expected to address a clear plan to get the U.S. bicycle business from $6B to $10B a year by 2020, and what the industry needs to do to make it happen. He plans to describe the crucial role that the industry—retailers and suppliers–must play to create an effective movement that links bike businesses and consumers to shape a cycling-friendly future. This call-to-action presents the pathway to doubling the size of the U.S. bike industry and dramatically increasing IBD sales. Continue reading Trek CEO to Offer Keynote at Interbike

Outdoor Retail Show Future in Jeopardy

The Outdoor Retailer Show, which drew 27,000 people and more than 150 exhibitors this year, came and went too fast – much like many of the summertime products that were on display. And while summer will return year the show may not. Organizers have yet to announce next’s dates and while Salt Lake City has a contract to host next year’s event it is still very much up in the air. Continue reading Outdoor Retail Show Future in Jeopardy

RUNNUR – The 21st Century Bandoleer

For those who need to carry a few things while on the go, but don’t want to use an actual bag or pack the RUNNUR could be the answer. Worn like a bandoleer – as in over the shoulder – it is can hold a mobile phone, water bottle and other must-have items. While it would have been a belt instead, the designers wanted to provide a messenger bag without the bag. Video after the jump

River Crampon so the River Doesn’t Run Over You

When fishing in a fast moving river you don’t want the river to send you down stream. The Patagonia River Carmpons are worn over wading boots and offer traction in fast moving river currents. The aluminum treads are reportedly sharp enough to cut through river slime while still being able to dig into the riverbed. These are removable and fast-drying as well, but best of all ensure that you don’t end up being swept away by a river that runs through it.

Patagonia River Crampons Official Site

Orvis Lets you Cast Off Indoors

As a musician or performer the way to Carnegie Hall is practice. The same thing could be said is needed if you’re looking to properly cast when fly fishing. Developing an effective cast requires skill. You can practice it even when water isn’t around, and now the Orvis Practicaster makes it easier to work on the casting. At just four feet, the two piece rod can even be used indoors.

It makes for an excellent learning tool helps improve casting stroke and develop technique for loops.Are you ready for the casting call?

Orvis Practicaster Official Website

Soccer Armor

While you can’t use your arms in soccer (what the rest of the world calls football), it just means your legs not only do a lot of the work but also in harm’s way. The shins can only take so much – especially if the opponents, or is it the opposition is wearing cleats. That’s enough to call in some protection.

The Storelli BodyShield LegGuard is more than just shinguards. It is like up-armored soccer socks that feature high-performance XRD polyurethane foam that includes an antimicrobial treatment to boot. These LegGuard will offer protection to the ankle and leg and further fight infection.

Storelli Official Website