Venture Tree http://virb.com/venturetree Sometimes we can't go out there so we write about it.... Thats what this is about... Hope you likey. --------------------- >To kill more time at work go to: venturetree.blogspot.com >To see our Ad infested myspace go to: myspace.com/venturetree >To complain about why we even have a myspace, submit comment below. > Now log off and go outside. (oh and, take some photos) >> ANNOUNCEMENT<< We are now VentureTree.net Changes are happening so come and check out our site and reviews about Outdoors. Gear. Life. ]]> Virb 2.0 (@venturetree) en bones.MPG http://virb.com/venturetree/videos/1736571 I was hiking in the Sonaran Desert in Mexico when I stumbled on a cool surprise.

]]> Thu, 14 Jun 2007 05:34:14 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/videos/1736571 backtoLF.MPG http://virb.com/venturetree/videos/1736564 A hike back to Laurel Falls Camp in the Virgin Falls Wilderness.

]]> Thu, 14 Jun 2007 03:38:41 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/videos/1736564 Bentley http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1343592 ]]> Sun, 08 Jul 2007 17:31:22 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1343592 Bentley 2 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310748

Mammoth Cave. Bentley.

]]> Thu, 14 Jun 2007 04:56:02 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310748 PKA http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310747

Me at Virgin Falls. Backpacking Trip 2007

]]> Thu, 14 Jun 2007 04:53:14 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310747 Bentley http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310745

Bentley at Virgin Falls. Backpacking Trip

]]> Thu, 14 Jun 2007 04:51:13 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310745 Virgin Falls Waterfall http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310734

The water fall at Virgin Falls Wilderness Area

]]> Thu, 14 Jun 2007 04:16:30 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1310734 Mammoth Cave National Park http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306764

It's much larger than you'd think! Lot's of area for exploration in any skill level.

]]> Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:15:53 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306764 l_cc15970fca379350e10834df8977d701 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306762

Lee & Greg practicing their tough faces- in case of any banjo screetches in the distance.

]]> Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:11:10 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306762 l_541b469698da7322545225bfc96d0f5e http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306761

above the caves on one of their many great trails.

]]> Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:11:02 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306761 l_256698937ef549cb78f675f768e040a7 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306758

The moist end of the cave where you'll find some of the largest formations in the world, called Frozen Nigra.

]]> Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:10:55 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/photos/1306758 sales http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1069938 Hey guys...I heard that there was a SALE going on at Blue Ridge Mountain Sports. I visited the store (in Nashville) and got a chance to check it out. The way I see it...there still might be some goodies left for you to get! Go now before you come to your senses and use that hard earned money to get a #5 at Mickey D's. and a Snuggie.


Check them out also online at: http://www.brmsstore.com/

- Pikka venture tree team]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:34:46 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1069938 Winter is here let's go outdoors!! http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1052586

alt


Good Day everyone,

It's that time to head outdoors and to enjoy the great sights with out those pesky bugs smacking you in the face or buzzing in your ear. Yes, it may be cold but after packing on that gear and hiking down that trail you get hot and this weather helps to keep things in check. But in order to do this check the list below.


Things to watch out for in the winter weather.

1. Dehydration

2. Bad weather

3. Hunting seasons: Know what is going on when and be aware of your surroundings. Some say were orange in certain areas or parks, others say just wear something bright colored.

4. Be prepared for weather and terrain to change quickly

5. Beanies, stocking hats, scarfs, and neck gaiters are your friend.

6. Let some one know were you are in case winter storm blows in unexpected.

7. Pack more supplies (food, fuel, etc.) Winter is a time were you do not want to pack lightly.

8. If you are packing electronics (camera, Ipod, etc.) sneak them in a pocket and take them into your sleeping bag at night to protect them from the elements. I prefer to put my sony cybershot in my chest pocket of my fleece that I use to wrap over my face and pillow.

Winter hiking and camping can be a great time. Just be aware of the changes of weather and hike with a friend. This time of year you can great shots of snow, ice, and sunrise shots. If the weather works to your advantage you may be able to bring home some great pictures.
Have a safe and warm trip.


Bentley - Venture Tree Teamalt


FYI: I have found that in rough times while winter camping. When I packed Swiss Miss hot chocolate that it became very useful when food or preparing hot meals was a hassle. Swiss Miss has an ingredient in it that suppresses hunger for a short period of time. Good ole Swiss Miss has saved me a few times when I did not pack enough food or just eat all of it. I have also found out that it is good hot or cold.
]]> Sun, 25 Jan 2009 18:01:17 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1052586 Kershaw Centofante Knife http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1025169 altMy first impressions on this little guy: Its very small. When I first held it I kinda felt that it was going to be one of those "fancy schmancy" knives. Boy was I wrong. The Centofante is very durable and very sharp. Stout almost. The assisted opening blade is very fast and it locks very solid. The liner lock knife uses a torsion spring to open this assisted opening knife and can be opened using the thumb stud or the little "nib" that you can push through on the spine of the handle.

I've been able to test out the Centofante designed Warren-Cliff blade out on the field and I really liked how strong the blade is for its size. It didn't even flinch as I cut mayon (soft plastic) tubing and though I try not too use it for opening boxes, it seemed to grab and split them open with finesse. This made easy because of the shape of the blade My only gripe is that I wish it were about and inch larger as I like to have a good hold on a knife while I'm working. It does, however, fit well in my hand and is a great utility style knife for the field or just to add to your collection. The knife features a pocket clip and a safety lock to lock the blade when closed. The knife runs about $40.

check out www.kershawknives.com


pikka | venturetree team]]> Sat, 10 Jan 2009 18:01:52 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1025169 Great News!!!! http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1004065
I have some great news to inform you about. My wife and I opened a Christmas card on Christmas Day to find out that our baby is a BOY!!!!

I hope everyone is having a great a wondrous holiday even with the economy issues going into the gutter.

FYI- KB toys is 50% off and soon will be going out of business. Rock Creek, Patagona, Seirra Trading post are having gear deals on shipping and discounts on sale merchandise.

Bentley - VentureTree Team]]> Sun, 28 Dec 2008 23:28:51 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/1004065 The Great Shoe Hunt Part 3 of 3 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/982918 The Great Shoe Hunt Part 1 of 3 and The Great Shoe Hunt Part 2 of 3 check our blog. http://www.venturetree.net/


Let the elimination round begin. This is were I take the long list of shoes that were listed in The Great Shoe Hunt Part 2 of 3 and narrow them down. The first shoes to hit the chopping block are the North Face Purgatory, Salomon 3D Fastpacker, and Vasque Aether Tech SS. These shoes were on the shoe company's websites, but no retailers in the area. This proved to be a bad thing if you want to try them on for fit.

The next shoes to be eliminated are the ones that have an outer layering consisting of any type of mesh. I understand most of these shoes are made to be quick drying and for summer weather but for some of us, we enjoy wearing these shoes year round. The next ones to hit the chopping block are the North Face Hedgehog, North Face Rucky Chucky, Salomon XT wing, Salomon XA Pro Ultra, and Vasque Velocity VSD.If you happen to have a wide feet and are a road runner I would highly recommend the North Face Rucky Chucky.

The Montrail Hardrock 08 had great reviews and lots of research was out there to be found. I found that the reviews of the shoe were for the previous model dating pre-2008. Upon trying on the Hardrock 08 I found that it had little to no lateral movement which placed the Hardrock on the elimination list.


The Garmont Eclipse III was bulky and heavy. The shoe appeared to be very durable and supportive. The down side for me was that it was very hot. I just had the shoe on for a few moments to walk around the store and my feet were on FIRE! Due to wanting a trail running shoe and not a stiff day hiker this is what put the Eclipse III on the elimination list. If my Montrail Morianes was to have a bad day, I would love to have the Eclipse III as a back up.



alt

The last three styles of shoes that had similar outside layering were the Salomon XT Wing WP, Salomon XA Pro Ultra GTX, and Vasque Velocity. The ultra got eliminated becuase it only came in Gore-Tex and not having an equal without it. I stated eariler (paragraph 5 of The Great Shoe Hunt Part 2 of 3) that the XT Wing WP and Ultra GTX had similar tread patterns. On closer observation, I found the XT Wing WP to have a weak spot on the soul. I will have two pictures posted to with this article to show the bottom of both shoes and the weak spots are made of soft foam and colored bright orange. The soft foam, in my opinion, would get punctured relatively easily and this confirms the XT Wing WP is not a complete equal to the Ultra GTX. The XT Wing WP picture will be posted above this article and the Ultra GTX picture will be posted after. altThe only pair that survived the intense elimination process was the Vasque Velocity.The shoe was actually in the researching process and put on the chopping block, but Vasque has a small surprise for me. I originally tried on the Gore-Tex version of this shoe at Outdoors Inc. in Memphis. After researching by word of mouth and the internet, I found out that Vasque made a non-Gore-Tex model of the same exact shoe. BINGO! We have a winner. The Velocity comes with a nice and heavily guarded toe guard, wide toe box, no Gore-Tex, no mesh, and lateral movement. I am so greatful that I am awaiting on my shoes to arrive via mail after ordering them from a online site. I can not wait to hit the trail with them.


altHunting for shoes and gear can be extremely difficult. Some retailers are limiting their inventory to have smaller selections to choose from. This is turn makes us, the consumer, have to search far and wide to find what we are looking for. We the consumer should try to encourage retailers to carry a wider variety, so we can get the right item for our needs. If I chose not to stop at Outdoors Inc. while in Memphis I would have never known about the shoes that I really wanted and meet my needs. Retailers in my area did not carry them. This simple problem grows into a much bigger one. Why should I have to settle for something that I really do not want because I can not find an alternative? Should I settle for a shoe that fits but after a week gets shredded? Better yet, should I buy that shoe that kinda fits and spend twice as much buying moleskin and other items to repair my feet. The point that I am trying to get across is go out, try on, ask questions, research, and do not settle. Our shoes warrant more attention do to the mileage we put on our feet.






-Bentley VentureTree Team











]]> Mon, 15 Dec 2008 01:51:23 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/982918 Blog Posting Delay http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/963130
I am sorry for the lack of post. I have had some recent family crisis that came up and have not been able to focus on Venture Tree.

Hope all our readers and their families have a great and wonderful holiday.alt Bentley - VentureTree Team]]> Thu, 04 Dec 2008 01:01:56 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/963130 The Great Shoe Hunt Part 2 of 3 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/920619 The Great Shoe Hunt Part 1 of 3 check our blog. http://www.venturetree.net/

I am going to answer the above questions. I was struggling to narrow down the type of shoe. I first was focusing on day hikers but found that lots of them are really bulky and a little to stiff for my needs. They did have really strong leather and other features to keep the abusive trail from shredding them. I through out the approach shoes because I prefer to change into my climbing shoes at the climbing location. I also had a pair of approach shoes that really were uncomfortable to hike in no matter how loose I left the laces. This really narrows down the field of types of shoes to pick from. I thought about mulitsport for a time frame and found that a majority of them were too soft under the toe box area on the tread. I am a little heavy and tend to get stone bruised in this area. I need something with a little more toughness without the weight and this left me with the trail running shoes.

Like I stated from earlier, I like to stay with certain companies and brands that I have history with. I've tested and worn quite a few brands, and being an old weathered dog, it's difficult to show me new brands and companies.

The type of hiking I plan to do these days mostly consist of day hikes with a sprinkle of trail running. I like to venture out with the my hounds to find trails around my area and I usually carry around 25 pounds worth of gear that gets stowed in my trusty Camelbak. I tend to do a lot more base camping than I use to, and I found that my wife also enjoys coming with me on those little spur trails that are around most camping areas.

The features that I am looking for and must have are: durability, comfort, and support. I have had lots of injuries in the past any my left ankle is on the top of that list. I have to have support a in the ankle region of the shoe. I mentioned earlier that I tend to get stone bruised in the balls of my feet and this is something that adds to other injuries making a hike to be less desireable. My knees play a role in the type of shoe that I choose. I have found in order to keep my knees from hurting or spasming in certain terrain I need to have lateral movement as well as forward and backward movement in the design of the shoe. The durability is the biggest one for me. I am Captain Destructo! If there is mesh Iwill snag it, if the lining is oderless I will make it smell and so on. I want to have a shoe that will last me and the elements because, after all, it's not so cool when gear goes out on you on the trail.

The shoes that I am looking at are best represented in the list below:
Garmont Eclipse III
Montrail Hardrock 08
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR
North Face Purgatory
North Face Rucky Chucky
Salomon 3D Fastpacker
Salomon Xt Wing
Salomon Xt wing Wp (waterproof)
Salomon Xa Pro 3D Ultra
Salomon Xa Pro 3D Ultra GTX (gore-tex)
Vasque Aether Tech SS
Vasque Velocity
Vasque Veocity VSD

Yes, I know, I have some shoes on the list that have Gore-Tex in them. I have them on the list because there were some features that I like and will explain those in a little bit. I tried on some Gore-Tex layered shoes to see how they fit. My reasoning to this is some shoe companies have similar shoes that have Gore-Tex and then make the same shoe without. Retailers only carry the Gore-Tex or vice versa. This is why I tried on some Gore-tex shoes on for fit and then later went looking for the same shoe without it. An example of this is the Salomon Xa Pro Ultra Gtx and Salomon Xt Wing Wp. The ultra has just a slight different and more durable tread pattern than the XT Wing WP, but besides that, they are basically the same shoe.

The best way to test for lateral movement is to find one of those big, hunky, hiking boots at the top of most displays. Hold the shoe in your hands and push in on the toe box as if you were squatting in the shoe. These hiking boots are mainly built for forward and backward movement only and they can be really stiff so bending them is hard to do by hand but you have to remember they are built to be carried with more than 30 plus pounds. Now go back to the display and pick up a North Face Hedgehog or Salomon Xt Wing and to the same test above. Can you see and feel the difference? Now the test for lateral movement begins, to test this twist the shoe as if you were trying to wring out a towel. This is how to show the difference between lateral and the traditional forward and backward movement. The only variations that you will encounter will depend on the shoe, sole, layering, and tread make up used by the shoe company. Some of the shoes in the same category witl lateral movement may be softer or stiffer in the lateral twist test. Now when I stated twist, I meant to bend the shoe from side to side as if you were side stepping.

Look for The Great Shoe Hunt Part 3 of 3 were I start to eliminate shoes from my long list of potentials and get down and dirty on what meets my standards.

Bentley - VentureTree Team]]> Sun, 09 Nov 2008 20:20:00 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/920619 The Great Shoe Hunt Part 1 of 3 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/910627 altd I really liked the more aggressive look with the tread and full wrap around leather outer layer. The leather took a beating and continued to hold up until the seams started to tear around both sides of the toe box. I bought another pair and tried to pamper them but they died with the same outcome. My Garmonts are still somewhat alive not for the hiking trips, they are doomed to being used for only yard work now. This is where "The Great Shoe Hunt" begins.

Gear no matter what style, brand, or company that you love from time to time changes their ways of producing, selling, or may revamp a gear product to make it better or worse. For a person that loaves the outdoors it is our job, the consumer, to let those gear companies know what we like and prefer. This is what makes gear better and more specific for the activities that we enjoy.

Researching the different brands of shoes becomes really hard when local retailers limit their selection. I f you are either researching on the internet or by word of mouth you eventually need to head into a retailer to try on that specific type of shoe. If the retailer does not have a vast selection of shoes than you may be forced to settle for something that may or may not be exactly what you wanted or need. This is why when I am researching I check with both retailers, online, by word of mouth, and I go on trips to browse different retailers' inventories of shoes. I have learned by checking out retailers and outfitters that I have been able to try on shoes that may have not been sold near my home. I am a small, 6 foot 3, 250 pound gear junkie that likes to know what is out there to purchase that will fit my needs. I blaze through a trail and sweat mere buckets. This means when on the shoe hunt Gore-Tex is out. I can not afford the extra cost and have not had any good experiences with this product. Now, hold on a minute. I am not saying that it is not a good product but just trying to say from my years on the trail and out in the great outdoors it has not worked for me.

Here is a list of questions that helped to focus my researching efforts.

What type of shoe are you looking for? (approach, multi-sport, trail-running, day hiking)

Is there a particular brand or company that you like more than another?

What type of hiking or use are you going to use these shoes for?

Are there certain features that you need to have and can not live with out?

What shoes are you looking at?

Look for our The Great Shoe Hunt Part 2 of 3 were I will answer the above questions in detail.



Bentley - VentureTree Team]]> Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:15:37 -0800 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/910627 Nite Ize S Biner Review http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/893372 alt















Let's face it, it's not often that you find one of those doo dads that make it in your list of things you just gotta have... At least not nowadays when everything marketed is a doo dad craving for your attention. Sometimes its the simple things that really speak to us.

When I saw the Nite Ize "S" Biner I just had to grab a few. There's instant versatility crammed in each of these and it still maintains a simple design. Does that even make sense? Probably not, but get one or a handful of these and maybe you'll understand what I'm talking about.

I could give you a list of things you can use these for but I'd really rather let you create your own uses for these handy little guys. They come in different sizes and colors. There's even a plastic model available. You can find them at just about any outdoor shop or sporting goods store. More info at www.niteize.com

go stock up.

BTW. if you have some already, leave us a comment on what you think of these.

Pikka | Venture Tree Team]]> Sun, 26 Oct 2008 08:51:02 -0700 http://virb.com/venturetree/posts/text/893372