Tweets Keep the Sharks Away

sharkShark attacks are rather rare, but when they do occur they can be deadly. Now researchers in Australia have developed a system that could use social media to not only warn when a shark attack is imminent but actually monitor the movement of sharks near beaches.

It could be the next best thing to having the sharks sign up on Twitter to announce their presence. Since that would be difficult – as sharks don’t have mobile phones or the thumbs to type out tweets – the researchers have attached transmitters to more than 320 sharks, including great whites. When the sharks get close to the beaches the sensors trigger an alert, which is picked up on a computer.

From this a short message on Surf Life Saving Western Australia’s (SLSWA) Twitter feed is posted giving details on the approximate location of the shark, as well as its size and breed. This might just make it safe to go back into the water.

[Via Sky News: Australia: Sharks Use Twitter To Warn Swimmers]

SHOT Show: Hit the Bullseye

BullseyeAt this week’s SHOT Show Bullseye Camera Systems showed off its iPhone/iPad application that builds on its Bullseye Target Manager Software. This is the first-ever software-supported, wireless target camera system that shows shooter’s their last shot flashing on a screen no matter how many times the target has been hit.

This unique patent-pending system provides a wireless target camera to be placed two to eight feet from a target and allows shooters to view the shots wirelessly from their shooting location, up to one mile away, directly on a laptop, iPhone or iPad. The Bullseye Target Manager software provides shooters with easy viewing of each last shot blinking on the screen, whether shot individually or in groups, safely from the firing position.

In addition, the software allows developing of shooter profiles, to include information such as: particular firearm and ammunition, hand-loading data, and measuring shot groups. This data is stored with each shot and can be retrieved at any time for later review. Video after the jump

SHOT Show: Shields Up

SHIELDSAKLoksak has made a serious business out of providing serious protection for today’s digital devices. This includes waterproof bags, and at SHOT Show this week the company is looking to increase the shields as well by introducing the SHIELDSAK R.F. Fortress.

While it won’t protect a device from a drop or extreme conditions it will ensure that the device is adequately shielded and practically takes mobile devices off the grid by blocking incoming and outgoing R.F. signals with an average attenuation of 30MHz to 10GHz: 72 9dB). This has been tested by Keystone Compliance using the Mil-DLT-83528C. It is currently be used by all branches of the military so it can more than stand up to almost anything you can digitally throw at it.

Loksak Official Website

SHOT Show: Wiley X Changes Up

Wiley-XOur friends at Wiley X are changing it up again with their Changeable Series eyewear family for hunting and shooting enthusiasts. The new style is making its debut at SHOT Show this week in Las Vegas. Designed to be comfortable for all-day wear during even the most strenuous outdoor activities the WX Vapor features an ultra-lightweight, double injected frame that provides increased comfort by reducing pressure on the nose of the bridge and ears.

The eyewear system is thus perfect for shooting sports, and it meets the stringent ANSI Z87 High Velocity and High Mass Impact Safety standards, providing occupational grade protection. As a member of Wiley X’s battle-proven Changeable Series, the WX Vapor also meets the updated MIL-PRF-32432 (GL) MCEP Standard (superseding the GL-PD 10-12 MCEP Standard) for ballistic eye protection and EN-166FT for high velocity impact standards at temperature extremes. It also offers 100 percent UVA/UVB protection and distortion-free clarity.

Wiley X Changeable Series protective eyewear is designed so wearers can easily switch lenses, for optimum vision and accuracy in changing light conditions, situations and environments. The new WX Vapor is offered in four configurations. Shooters can choose a Matte Black Frame packaged with changeable Grey and Clear lenses or changeable Grey, Clear and Light Rust lenses. A Tan Frame is also offered paired with changeable Grey and Clear lenses or changeable Grey, Clear and Light Rust lenses.

Wiley X Official Website

Cargo Bike Race in Rio Needs Crowdfunding

copenhagenizeIn Rio de Janeiro, Brazil deliveries don’t happen on trucks, most goods are delivered via cargo bikes. The riders get little recognition though they keep the vibrant city thriving. This mirrors the scenario in Copenhagen 80 years ago, and a race for those who ride cargo bikes brought the riders into the spotlight. Now one race organizer is hoping to get his plans to organize a race for cargo bike riders in Rio off the ground. Continue reading Cargo Bike Race in Rio Needs Crowdfunding

SHOT Show: Stormr is Coming

STORMRSTORMR brand clothing is ready to take the outdoor world by storm with its line of foul weather gear. These provide warmth and mobility and at this year’s SHOT Show the company is looking to go clandestine of sorts with its STEALTH Series.

STORMR products use Neoprene Core Technology to adapt the benefits generations of divers have used to fight the elements to land-based and amphibious activities. STORMR is owned by Henderson Sport Group, which has manufactured neoprene for half a century and understands the material’s unique abilities. The resulting gear provides maximum comfort and maneuverability, along with superior thermal benefits, in a thin, soft, flexible, windproof and waterproof shell which also provides positive buoyancy.

While it is unlikely the next trip to the woods will require such protection from the elements you’ll be glad STORMR has you covered.

STORMR Official Website

Touching a Nerve

Boa-nerveBooq has touched a nerve so to speak with its new Boa nerve messenger bag. It features water-repellent 1680 denier ballistic nylon exterior that will protect the value contents inside. With intelligently designed pocket-packed interior everything will have its proper place during a daily commute to work by bicycle – or just a ride on the subway. The interior is further lined with herringbone nylon to optimize storage space and keep gear from getting scratched, while a magnetic strap system shifts from a loose to secure fit in a cinch, so you won’t feel a pinched nerve from having this pack on your back.

Booq Boa nerve Official Website

SHOT Show: Ground Pounders

RebokWe know Reebok for it fitness and running shoes, but at SHOT Show this week the company proved again that it can stand up to the most rugged terrain there is. The company looked to break ground this week with a new line of military style boots. The official Reebok licensee, Warson Brands, know for occupational and duty brands that include Rockport, Florsheim, and Iron Age, is showcasing the entire Reebok duty uniform line of footwear for men and women at the show, along with prototypes of new products in development .

“The Reebok brand is being well received in the military and tactical markets,” says Warson Brands CEO Jim Maritz. “As one of the top athletic and fitness brands in the world, Reebok is a strong brand for “athletes in uniform,” professionals who rely on footwear that is not only comfortable, but also suits their active performance oriented lifestyle.”

At SHOT Show the company is showing three lines of Reebok military boots, available now, including the Rapid Response RB series (left), which was proven in combat in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Rapid Response RB series features an aggressive mountain trail rubber outsole and is loaded with features such as removable athletic cushion insole, shock eliminator heel cushion, nylon mesh lining, and offers side zip and waterproof options. It is available colors: desert tan, black, and sage green.

The Reebok Dauntless Series (center), a new line of all terrain hot weather boots that are lightweight and flexible, and built on a TPU bruise plate for superior stability in rugged terrain, extra rebound with every step, and bruise protection on any surface. Side air and drain ports and AEGIS Shield™ anti-microbial lining ensure dry feet in both arid and wet conditions. Available colors: desert tan (8” & 6”), black (also available in waterproof and seamless construction, 8” & 6”), and sage green (8” only).

The Reebok Fusion Max Series (right) features Reebok’s TCTTotal Cushioning Technology – a full 1-1/2 inches of cushioning and impact resistance in the heel, and ½” in the forepart, five layers of cushioning and shock absorption for remarkable comfort. Available colors: desert tan and sage green. Made in the USA and Berry Amendment compliant.

Reebok Warson Brands Official Website

DeFeet Warms the Toes with Thermeator Winter Cycling Socks

DeFeet-ThermeatorYou can wear all of the appropriate clothing to arm yourself against the cold, but if your feet are cold, it’s all lost. That’s why we’re excited to see the new Thermeator cycling socks from DeFeet. The Thermeator sock is lighter in weight than knit socks, and actually claims to be 30 percent lighter than comparable merino wool socks. It has a faster drying rate, and quickly wicks moisture away from your feet. DeFeet says the Thermeator is flexible and thrives in cold, damp climates. While we will use these on any winter rides, we may take a few more opportunities to wear these warming socks this winter. Such as when we go for a hike, shovel the driveway, or even just go out to the store.

DeFeet Official Website
via [Bike Rumor: Found: DeFeet Thermeator Winter Cycling Socks]

SHOT Show: Wipe it Clean

SpudzWhen out hunting, hiking or just away from home optics – as in the lenses on scopes, cameras and binoculars can get dirty. The Spudz Classic will help ensure you maintain a clear view. This microfiber cloth safely removes smudges and fingerprints from expensive optics, but can be neatly tucked into a neoprene shell and clipped to a bag so it is always within reach.

Alpine Innovations will unveil a line of hunting accessories at this week’s SHOT Show including the latest update to the Spudz Optical Accessory line. Video after the jump

With Cat-Like Eyes

CatEye-PadroneGilbert and Sullivan suggested that pirates – specifically the Pirates of Penzance – may have had “Cat Like Tread” but CatEye is providing a cycling light for those who have eyes that aren’t quite as good as our feline friends. The Padrone computer is for those riders with aging eyes and provides larger numbers.

In addition it has seven basic functions that include current-, average- and maximum-speed, as well as trip distance, total distance, elapsed time and clock.

CatEye Official Website

SHOT Show: Powered Up

COAST-HP314Coast will be showing something that likely would be hard to miss at this week’s SHOT Show in Las Vegas. The company is introducing its high powered HP314 LED Flashlight, which can shine a bright spot up to 683 meters (2,2,40 feet) – or well over a third of a mile. It is powered by only 4 D cell alkaline batteries but can still blast out 1,132 lumens. If you’re adventure involves going out at night this flash light will certainly help you find your way. Video after the jump

SHOT Show: Ear Here

SportEarWe often think of products that provide better audio quality, such as sports headphones, but sometimes silence is better. Sometimes hearing protection is just as important as audio fidelity. This week at SHOT Show SportEar will be offering attendees some quiet via its new XP earplugs, designed to protect the hearing of sport shooters. SportEar’s products are used by the likes of Jim Hanson and Andra Olson, mounted shooting champions and Colt spokespersons as well as hunters and sport shooters around the world.

We’ll be happy to check them out and hear what they have to say at this week’s SHOT Show.

SportEar Official Website