BOATS, GEAR and GIFTS

ALPEN BINOCULARS

For 2005, Alpen Optics is adding two top quality, affordably priced compact porro prism models to the Shasta Ridge family of waterproof binoculars. Fully waterproof with rubber armoring, they are nitrogen filled for fog-proof performance, and available in 8x26 and 10x26 configurations. Shasta Ridge compact binoculars deliver a super bright and sharp image through large, 26mm objective lenses. They also feature a durable carrying case, wide comfortable neck strap, are backed by Alpen’s lifetime warranty and retail at well under $200 US. To find a dealer nearest you, visit www. alpenoutdoor.com or call 877-987-8370.

AQUABOUND RAY SERIES

The new Ray Series from Aquabound further expands the performance gap in paddle technology. By meticulously blending several thermo-plastics, Aquabound has created a superior material called ABX. ABX possesses all of the outstanding characteristics of each of its source ingredients, without their inherent weaknesses. The result is a resin material that is both lighter and tougher than anything to come before it.

Sting Ray

Sting Ray is perfect for general paddling and is offered in several ABX constructions or full carbon epoxy composite. Two shaft sizes are available too—standard, and a small diameter shaft because the perfect paddle should fit your hand perfectly. Carbon ABX blades, carbon shaft Weight 29.25 oz

Manta Ray

Manta Ray is designed for a high-angle paddling style and will suit kayakers pursuing athletic touring, rough-water play, workout paddling or racing. The beefy face and cross-sectional shape of the ABX blade generate great ‘bite’ on the plant, and lots of power on every stroke. Carbon ABX blades, carbon shaft Weight 31 oz.

Eagle Ray Eagle Ray is a highly refined, low-angle touring paddle. Its elegant, long ABX blades feature a soft dihedral power-face, which is easy on the shoulders and wrists, but retains good bite and the flutter-free strokes needed to cover serious mileage. Eagle Ray exemplifies the efficiency that defines performance kayak touring. Carbon ABX blades, carbon shaft Weight 30.75 oz Suggested Retail $239.99 Cdn, $179.99 US

KAYAK TRAX

Getting your fully loaded kayak or canoe across a rocky, barnacle covered beach can be a real pain in the back. Now you can slide your boat up or down most beaches without damaging your boat’s bottom, or your back. Kayak Trax consists of ultra slippery skids that fold out to form a track which enables your boat to glide above the beach like it’s on ice. Light and compactly folded, the Kayak Trax is easily carried, bungeed to the deck until needed. See it in action at www.boatslider.com. $160 US.

MEC SWELLIES

Patterned after classic, pull-on Wellington b boots, M EC Swellies feature soft neoprene uppers that allow unhindered use of kayak foot pedals and painless kneeling in canoes. The ankle cuffs feature webbing- and-slider cuff seals to help keep out boot- topping waves as you land or launch. While these ‘semi-dry’ seals aren’t as watertight as the latex seals on a drysuit, they’re a lot more comfortable and durable. Hard vulcanized rubber sole with sole and heel caps make for good protection on rough beaches. Available at MEC’s ten stores across Canada. See www.mec.ca. $35 Cdn.