Recycling is nothing new, with evidence from ancient waste dumps indicating that humans were recycling as far back as the fourth century BC. Scrap bronze and metals were collected throughout Europe and melted down for reuse prior to the Industrial Revolution while beverage bottles were recycled by some drink manufacturers as early as 1800.
But the surge in plastic production following World War II has given recycling new importance, with plastic waste accumulating in landfills, littering our landscapes, and being washed into our oceans. Single-use plastics such as drink bottles and takeaway containers have been the “pinups” of the problem but waste from the fashion industry is also a significant contributor.
More than 60% of fabric fibers are now made from fossil fuel-derived synthetics, meaning that once they end up in landfills, they will not decay. It’s been estimated that around 10,000 items of clothing are being sent to landfill every five minutes, with around 85% of textile waste in the United States ending up in landfills, incinerated or washed into the ocean as synthetic microfibers.
The results have been devastating, with toxic chemicals being leached into our soils and marine life killed as they struggle to compete against our plastic addiction. Initiatives such as the Ocean Cleanup and 4Ocean have played a vital role in removing plastic waste from our ocean, but recycling provides an effective way of preventing plastics from ending up there in the first place.
Discarded plastic can be used to create recycled PET or rPET and given a new lease of life as clothing, shoes, and bags. It’s an industry that’s still in its early years but is gaining momentum as consumers become aware of the negative impacts of fast fashion and the resource requirements for manufacturing clothing from scratch.
So, what exactly is rPET and how can it be transformed into sustainable clothing that you can wear with pride?
What is PET?
PET stands for Polyethylene Terephthalate, a thermoplastic polymer of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid that’s renowned for its mechanical, thermal, and chemical resistance. Also known as polyester, it’s the most common type of plastic resin, favored for its strong and lightweight properties. Chances are the peanut butter in your cupboard or the cleaning solution for your laundry is in a bottle made from PET.
While PET is widespread, it’s also easily recyclable and can be converted into everything from backpacks to shoes, sleeping bags, and clothing. PET bottles are instantly recognizable thanks to their “#1” recycling label and are accepted by most recycling plants in the United States. When recycled correctly, excessive amounts of plastic are prevented from ending up in landfills or breaking down into microplastic pieces that are devastating for our oceans.
In recycling facilities, plastic bottles can be mechanically broken down into tiny flakes, which are then melted and spun into yarn. This is then woven into a recycled fabric that can be used to create sustainable products. It takes around 10 bottles to create a new T-shirt, 63 bottles for a sweater, or 114 bottles to insulate a sleeping bag.
The manufacturing of rPET fabrics reduces the need to create new polyester textiles to satisfy the insatiable demands of the fashion industry. While it does take energy and water to recycle plastics into new forms, including clothing, it takes significantly less energy (up to 85% less) than manufacturing them from scratch. This results in less extraction of oil and natural gases, as well as less carbon being emitted during the production process.
rPET fabrics are not only a sustainable option but start the conversation about where our clothing is coming from and the impact our consumer fashion choices are having on the environment.
What can you do?
Aside from purchasing sustainably produced rPET products, it’s essential that we all play our part by recycling all recyclable products. Despite everything we know about the detrimental effects of plastic waste, less than half of plastic bottles purchased each year end up in recycling facilities. Of those that are recycled, only around 7% are transformed into new bottles.
Check your local guidelines about what can and can’t be put in your recycling bins to avoid anything unnecessarily ending up in landfills. When plastics end up in landfills, they take thousands of years to break down, all the while leaching toxic chemicals into the subsoil and groundwater reserves.
Whenever possible, look for alternatives to single-use plastics, such as straws made out of steel, glass, biodegradable plastic, or bamboo. There are so many exciting innovations taking place in the alternative plastic industry, with everything from corn to mycelium and the byproduct of sugarcane processing being transformed into compostable and biodegradable containers.
Purchasing rPET products is a great way of supporting the market for recycled plastics, which is essential for recycling facilities to stay in business. If there’s no profit in collecting, sorting, and recycling materials, then they’re likely to close their doors. When you support businesses that are promoting sustainability, it also sends a strong message to companies who aren’t that they need to up their game!
]]>“This felt like the right time to launch our newest trail collections. People may not be able to hike the trails, but they are still thinking about them, planning future trips on them and wanting to support them. These collections, with our donations, give people a new way to support the trails and receive a really great product in return,” says our owner and co-founder, Amanda McMahon.
Show your support of both these amazing trail organizations as well as small business by shopping the collections below today!
]]>Since we aren't out adventuring as much as we'd like, why not get our stoke on with some outdoor/adventure films?! You know, those films that make our hearts race with excitement, anticipation and a little fear. The ones that make us want to get right outside or think twice about the complexities of our next adventure.
We recently looked back in the archives to find some of our most favorite outdoor and adventure films/movies. Our list contains a mix of documentaries, full-feature films, classics and newer debuts.
Did your favorite not make the list? Let us know what it is in the comments!
Follow adventurer Jeff Johnson as he retraces the 1968 journey Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins took to Patagonia.
Find it on: Amazon (rent or buy)
American rock climbers, Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson, attempt a first ascent up the 3000' Dawn Wall of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park.
Find it on: Netflix (free) and Amazon (rent or buy)
This documentary follows three elite rock climbers, Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin and Renan Ozturk as they attempt a first ascent on the "Sharks Fin" route on Mount Meru and work through feelings of loss and obsession.
Find it on: Amazon (free for Prime members)
A beautifully filmed documentary of a group of surfers searching for the perfect wave during winter in Iceland, who find themselves trying to stay safe during the biggest storm in decades.
Find it on: Amazon (free for Prime members)
We get all the feelings of adventure, solitude and loss as we watch a young man's journey from his prestigious upbringing to the Alaskan Wilderness.
Find it on: Amazon (rent or buy) and YouTube (rent or buy)
We all need a little comedy right now. Watch as John Candy and Dan Aykroyd take a summer family vacation that goes anything but as planned.
Find it on: Amazon (rent or buy) and YouTube (rent or buy)
This one's a classic adventure film- A plane crash. $100 million dollars lost in the Rocky Mountains. Sylvester Stallone.
Find it on: Amazon (rent or buy) and YouTube (rent or buy)
Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon star in this white-water rafting adventure film that takes place in Montana. Think: raging river, hostages, armed killers and a badass river guide.
Find it on: Amazon (rent or buy) and YouTube (rent or buy) *plus, it's free for anyone with a Starz subscription
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Hiking/Snowshoeing
Your favorite warm-weather trails are still accessible in the winter! If there's no snow, layer up and hit the trails. If there happens to be snow on the ground, just strap on a pair of snowshoes and get outside. The peacefulness of the trail with snow all around is something not to miss. Plus, it adds a new look and feel to the trails you may already know. In Wisconsin, the Ice Age Trail has lots of great segments for a winter snowshoe. Check out your own local county or state parks for open times and details.
Don't have snowshoes? Many local outdoor shops, REI or places like Milwaukee's Urban Ecology Center rent them for adults and kids throughout the winter.
XC Skiing
Want to move a bit faster? Cross country skiing is the way to go. It's a great workout too, if you want to push your speed/distance. Lots of state and county parks have special cross country ski trails open throughout the winter. Some even have lights set up for night skiing, like Lapham Peak in Delafield, WI. Details and open times are available on park websites or by calling their visitor center. Similar to snowshoes, you can rent skis/boots/poles directly at some of the parks or from shops like REI and the Urban Ecology Center (in Milwaukee), etc. for adults and kids.
Apostle Island Ice Caves
For some, the Apostle Islands may be a long drive but it's worth every minute. Located at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in the very north-west corner of Wisconsin, the beautiful caves turn into an ice castle fairyland in the winter. To access the Ice Caves, you hike at least 2-miles (round trip) on the ice of Lake Superior. Once there, you can explore around the caves and take photos. Call the Apostle Islands Ice Line at 715-779-3397 Ext. 3 to get current ice conditions. You can also go to their Facebook page to keep up to date on closures and other important information.
Downhill Skiing
While the Midwest is not known for its mountainous landscapes, there are plenty of great places to spend the day on the slopes. In fact, there are over 20 ski resorts in Wisconsin and over 30 in Michigan! The UP (Michigan's Upper Peninsula, just north of Wisconsin, for those who don't know) can get quite a bit of snow each winter and has some slightly larger ski resorts to check out like Ski Brule, Mount Bohemia and Blackjack & Indianhead.
Snowmobiling
Not feeling the human-powered winter activities? Try snowmobiling! There are tons of rental locations, specifically in the Northern Midwest like Minnesota, Michigan's Upper Peninsula and Wisconsin. Most places offer trips from 2-hours to an entire day or even an overnight trip for the adventurous folks.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is another activity that's more popular in the northern Midwest. While you'll be outside, you will be cozy and warm wrapped in blankets in your sled. There are half-day, full-day or even overnight trips where you'll get to learn about the dogs and history of dog sledding from experienced guides. Some facilities with great reviews include: Wolfsong Adventures in Mushing in Bayfield, WI; White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures in Isabela, MN; Nature's Kennel Sled Dog Racing and Adventures in McMillan, MI
Weekend Getaway to Door County, WI
If you're a Wisconsinite, you've at least heard of if not been to Door County- the north-east "arm" of Wisconsin with its variety of little lake towns, breweries, wineries and state parks. While it's known as a summer destination, there is still plenty to do and see in the winter. First off, you won't be fighting the typical summer crowds (yay!). Many shops and restaurants remain open throughout the winter as well. There are the candlelight hikes, fat tire biking, cozy fires and so much more. The town of Fish Creek also hosts an annual Fish Creek Winter Festival at the end of January with fun games and activities for the whole family.
Curling
Sliding 42-pound granite stones across a sheet of ice towards a target area... this is the gist of curling! You may have seen the sport on tv and wondered about how it all works. Well, lucky for you there are Curling Clubs located all around the Midwest that offer "learn to curl" sessions, open play time and team leagues! If you're in Wisconsin, there are three clubs near Milwaukee: in Hartland, Wauwatosa and Cedarburg.
Rock Climbing Gym
Indoor rock climbing is a great activity for all ages. You can spend an hour or the whole day climbing to your heart's delight. Rock gyms have memberships like regular gyms where you can pay a monthly fee for anytime access or pay for just the day. They also offer rental equipment so you don't have to buy everything before you've even tried the sport.
For first timers, most gyms have an "auto-belay" system that they'll quickly train you on how to use. This way, you can start climbing even on your first day. If you want to learn more about the sport and fine-tune your skills, gyms offer group and private lessons as well. Whether it's your first time or your are a seasoned rock climber, a day at the rock gym will give you some great exercise and lots of fun.
Indoor Water Park
These are ALL OVER Wisconsin, but the majority of the state's major indoor water parks reside in the Wisconsin Dells. There are also a handful in northern Illinois and a few splattered throughout the remaining Midwest states. The water parks have something for everyone from kiddie pools/slides to adult pools and even swim-up bars. Spend the day or the whole weekend at one of the big resorts and pretend it's still summer!
Let us know if you try any of these. If your favorite Midwest winter activity didn't make the list, share it with us in the comments!
]]>In the last decade, we have visited 10 countries around the world and countless cities and states throughout the United States. Based on all of these, here's a list of our most favorite destinations for food, culture, people and more! If you haven't been, add them to to your own travel list. If you have, let us know what you thought about them in the comments below!
Imagine this: Wake up every morning to crisp mountain air and views of the Alps in all directions. All you have to do that day is put on your boots/pack and hike. You'll be rewarded that evening with a warm home-cooked meal and stories of the day's adventures from your fellow hikers. That's just a normal day on the TMB. The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 100-mile hike that circles around, you guessed it, Mont Blanc in a small corner of Europe. The full trek takes you through sections of France, Switzerland and Italy as you hike over a new mountain pass with varying views of the Alps each day and covering about 40,000 feet of elevation gain/loss. Most people complete the full trek in about 10 days, but you can adjust based on your personal preference.
There are various ways to book this trek. 1) Plan it all yourself: there are plenty of blogs, books and resources to help you plan and book an amazing trip. This is how we did it and couldn't have been happier with the entire adventure. 2) Hire a company to book it for you, but handle all of the logistics once you arrive in Europe. This is great for those who like to keep to your own schedule once you arrive, but don't want to spend the time planning/booking/etc. 3) Hire a company to book, plan and transfer you. This one is more hands-on. There are many companies that will do the entire planning and logistics for you so all you have to do is show up. Some will even carry your bags throughout the trek so you just need a daypack each day of hiking. Others will also drive you past some of the more difficult sections to your day's endpoint.
Trekking the Tour of Mont Blanc is a great resource (click link to see it on Amazon) for planning your trek as well as a must-have guide when you're on the trails.
In recent years, Vietnam has been talked about more and more as its tourism scene grows and people from around the World visit this amazing country. Looking at Vietnam's past, it has been through a lot. Vietnam was a dynasty for many years, but in the 19th century it became a French colony. Then after World War 2 the country became divided as a communist movement sought after independence. The Vietnam War came shortly after and by the time it ended, the country was unified again. It wasn't until the 1980's that Vietnam's government opened itself up to a more open economy.
We deemed this our "Foodie" destination for good reason. Food is major part of their culture, religion, festivals and balanced daily life. The Vietnamese focus on a balance of texture, flavor and appearance in every dish. Ingredients are very healthy and fresh, mostly consisting of vegetables, rice or noodles, eggs and meat. Each balanced dish includes a bit of sweet, salt, acid and spice. You can feel the love that goes into every meal through its flavors.
The country of Vietnam is long and narrow, with the majority of major cities/towns along the coasts. Also, food is very different in the North compared to that in the South. For example, Northern Pho (probably Vietnam's most famous dish) has a different flavored broth and does not come with any add-ons; while Southern Pho is what you traditionally see in the United States- a big bowl of soup with a side plate of thai basil, jalapeno, sprouts, lime, etc. Even better are the prices! Food is very inexpensive in Vietnam. For example- you can get 2 bowls of pho, 2 Vietnamese coffees and a side dish for under $8! We even found beer for $.05 in one city.
To get a true foodie visit to Vietnam, we recommend visiting three key sections of the country (oh- and drink their amazing and strong coffee everywhere!):
1) The North. Hanoi is the largest city in the North of Vietnam. It has a lot of history and museums to check out as well as some amazing food. Spend some time here, trying street food, pho, fresh seafood, vermicelli noodles and just walking/exploring. Also consider taking the train to see the rice paddies in Sapa or doing a boat cruise in Ha Long Bay.
2) Central. Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang are the larger central cities here. Our most favorite town in this area was Hoi An. It's a little beach town with a HUGE foodie scene. The town itself is about 5km from the beach with windy streets, clothing shops and tons of restaurants. We highly recommend starting your visit with a walking food tour to get a lay of the land and some recommendations on where to eat. The Original Taste of Hoi An was amazing with over 40 tastes in 4-hours! Hoi An is known for quite a few dishes. One in particular is the Cao Lau. It's a special noodle and pork dish made with a yellow noodle that can only be made in Hoi An due to the type of water available in the city. Other food highlights: Quang noodle, White Rose Dumplings, Banh Mi (go to Banh Mi Phuong for the BEST EVER), Pho (duh), and oh so much more!
3) The South. Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) as many know it is the largest city in Vietnam. The motorbikes are abundant and a bit scary as they don't slow down when you cross the street! Also, the food is just wonderful here. With so many restaurants, we again recommend a food tour to get an understanding of what's available and to find some of the hidden gems. Food to try: Pho (Pho Hoa Pasteur is super authentic and you have to get their coffee and banh bao too), Banh Xeo, Bun Bo Hue, and really any safe-looking street food or the Food Market!
Spain is a beautiful country and pretty easily accessible from the United States. Known for its wine, cava (sparkling wine), tapas, beaches and architecture, Spain has a lot to offer. Each region has its own dialects, culture and food which makes it fun to travel around.
There's something special in every section of Spain. In the North, go to San Sebastian for amazing Michelin-starred restaurants, pinxtos (tapas on a stick) and beach. Visit cities like Madrid, Seville, Malaga, and Barcelona for each of their own history, architecture, museums, etc. See things like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Plaza Espana in Seville, Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and so much more.
If you're a beach lover, plan a few days in Costa Brava on the south eastern coast near Barcelona. There are countless beach towns from touristy hot spots to smaller more local towns to medieval villages. The beaches hear are crystal clear and amazing for snorkeling, diving and kayaking. Get a way from the beach for a day and explore the medieval city of Girona.
There are various wine regions throughout Spain, where you can spend a day or even a few days in an old farm house or B&B. Well known regions like Rioja, Andalusia, Catalonia and other small regions amass the country. If you don't have time to visit any of these regions, most restaurants carry local wine at under $20 a bottle!
If you love mountains and hiking, there is plenty for you to see in Spain as well. Near Barcelona, Montserrat is a rocky massif seeming to come from nowhere. There's a beautiful monastery built into the mountain and cable cars to take you near the top if hiking isn't your thing. Then there are the Sierra Nevada, Pyrenees, Picos de Europa and more. Depending on where you are staying in Spain, you shouldn't be too far from one of the many mountain ranges.
Burlington, VT is a little college town located on Lake Champlain. It is very walkable, has tons of shops and restaurants, and is near some gorgeous hiking trails in summer and ski resorts in winter. Go here any time of the year, but we highly recommend Fall. The leaves in Vermont in the Fall are something else. The vibrancy is incredible and the weather is just delightful. Go for a hike along the the Appalachian Trail and/or Long Trail. Take in the view of the lake. Enjoy the many local breweries like Long Trail Brewery. Drive around the small towns. So much to do!
Telluride, CO is on its own magical universe. We were here in the summer, so we focused our time on the hiking, mountain biking, lake swimming and river running. Winters are a whole other adventure when the town turns into a skiers paradise. If you're lucky enough to get on a flight into Montrose, CO then you have it easy. Otherwise, it's a 6+ hour drive from Denver. BUT we can tell you the drive is worth it. Try the Thai food at Siam, Brown Dog Pizza or one of the many cute coffee shops as you stroll around town. There are plenty of places to stay- hotels and bnbs or you can camp walking distance to town.
Santa Fe, NM is a gem of a city. We can't even really call it a city because it feels more like a little town. Santa Fe is known for its art scene, with Friday evening gallery openings on Canyon Road for anyone who wants to visit. The food here is not your typical "tex-mex." Try anything with Hatch green chili sauce or go "Christmas" style with a mix of green and red like the Christmas enchiladas at Maria's. Santa Fe is surrounded by desert, mountains, Native American lands and more. Bandelier National Monument is a must-see with ruins and history from over 11,000 years ago!
Camper, RV, Mobile Home, Van, #vanlife... the names are all different, but the mentality is the same. The trend of owning a home on wheels is ever growing these days. We decided to get in on the movement and now we want to share our van with you!
]]>It sounded so great that back in Fall, 2017, we (Amanda and Larry, Seek co-founders) had to jump in on the movement. We became the proud owners of a 2015 Ford Transit diesel high roof with the standard 148" wheelbase length! Since then, we've shared occasional #vanlife post or story on Instagram. We even started "Van Conversion" blog on seekdrygoods.com that details out our entire van conversion build. However, we haven't shared much of the fun stuff. The main uses for the van are for weekend/holiday adventures as well as for Seek events. That being said, we do still have a home base where we live full-time.
And with all that, here's the Seek Van Tour!
I'll keep things pretty high-level (if you want more details, check out the Van Conversion blog OR comment below with any questions)....
The van was completely gutted when we bought it, which made the initial work pretty easy. In the first month, we gave it a thorough cleaning, installed a fan and side window, added an insulated floor and built a lofted bed. We then set up a makeshift table and drawers for temporary use, which allowed us to use the van through the remaining Fall and into Summer to test out where we might want our final fixtures, light switches, etc.
By Fall 2018, we had run all of the electrical work (lots of wires for lights, fans, and future things we may need), installed a roof rack and 2 solar panels, ladder, added new speakers and digital stereo with back-up camera and enjoyed countless road trips. We again paused on doing more work for the Winter months (Wisconsin is SO COLD), but started the finishing touches in March 2019: full wool insulation, cedar paneling on walls/ceiling, built-in cabinet with locally sourced black walnut counter top, stainless steel sink, stone backsplash and a cabinet along the driver's side wall. We still need to finish the back doors, but will get to that in 2020!
Right now, the van is about 90% finished. It took many hours, a few arguments (and make-ups), a broken thumb and lots of sweat/tears/laughs to get here. We are really happy with how it came out and are still finding little projects and adjustments (because that's what makes it fun, for us anyway!). Next up are rear and side-window insulation covers.
Since we got the van in late-2017, we have been to 19 states, driven over 15,000 miles, attended various van meet-ups/outdoor expos (like the Midwest VanLife Gathering and Dayton's Outdoor Experience) and spent countless days/nights enjoying our little home on wheels. We can't wait for what next year has in store!
Are you looking to buy and convert a camper van? Do you have a van and have any recommendations for us? Comment below and let us know your thoughts/questions!
Check out our Van Conversion blog for all the build-out details!
]]>Where are you from?
Salt Lake City, UT
What is your Instagram account name?
@lovelyndi
My favorite outdoor activity is camping, there really is nothing like being in the middle of nowhere with no one near you and being able to soak up as much silence as possible. Along with kayaking, I can’t seem to go camping without it anymore and am hoping to try packing in on it sometime this summer!
My dream adventure would be being able to explore all of Hawaii, each and every island. The beauty there is like nothing I have ever seen in person and I’m hoping to make it there soon.
Learn more about our Seek Brand Ambassador, Gabaccia and her love for the outdoors!
Where are you from?
Encinitas, CA
What is your Instagram name?
@gabaccia
Backpacking. There's just something about getting away from a crowded trail and into a place of solitude. While I love being around people and empowering them to take care of nature, I also love spending time with just me and nature.
It's a place that I am unable to share publicly, but I will tell you some things about it. It's the sacred piece of a desert where sound doesn't travel very far, where your mind would be forced to slow down and just be. You go there to discover or to heal, but you will never hear much about this place unless it's in your life's path to pass through.
I don't know if anything has impacted me negatively in the long term scope of things (I am very lucky and privileged to say that). As I write this I have just begun my term of service with Americorps as a Trails Crew Member, my body is tired but my mind is very awake and excited to continue to learn. I'm sure this summer in Montana will be one of those experiences I talk about for the rest of my life.
Meet Celeste, one of our new Seek Brand Ambassadors!
We want you to get to know her a bit better, so we have put together this Q&A.
Where do you currently live?
Milwaukee, WI
What is your Instagram name?
@captcza
Does karaoke singing count as a hidden talent? I sporadically make pottery and origami on spurts of time.
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Meet Anna.
She's one of our new Seek Brand Ambassadors. We'd like to share a bit more about her, like her love for art and adventure in the outdoors.
Where do you currently live?
Salt Lake City, UT
What is your Instagram handle?
_annabernard
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Imagine the dream adventure: a 10-day, 100-mile breathtaking hike through a corner of France, Italy and Switzerland. Hikers are awarded with gorgeous views of the Alps and the satisfaction of completing a challenge consisting of 7-20 miles and 4,000+ feet of elevation change each day. After braving such a feat, Seek Dry Goods Co-founders Amanda and Larry were full of adrenaline and yet couldn’t find a single commemorative t-shirt of their Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) for Amanda to bring home and show off. This got the wheels turning.
“There’s a miss in the market for high-quality yet affordable t-shirts,” says Amanda. “With our love for the outdoors and a combined 25+ years in merchandising/marketing experience, why couldn’t we create something new that the outdoor community would love and appreciate?”
And thus, Seek Dry Goods was born.
So who is a Seeker? Someone who is passionate about the outdoors and always seeking their next adventure. It is an attitude, a feeling, a mindset. Each Seek Dry Goods product is instilled with this passion, whether it be the graphics, the fit/feel of the t-shirts, or the responsibly- sourced materials. Seek Dry Goods works in partnership with 1% for the Planet to donate 1% of all sales to nonprofit organizations that support the environment.
“We’re not looking just to be another one of those companies that “gives back.” It’s important to us to keep our standards high when it comes to all aspects of our brand and products. The basis of our brand is the outdoors and we believe in doing our part to protect it,” says Larry.
More and more people are becoming aware of the negative impact certain products have on the environment, which has inspired a period of growth for the outdoor industry. Larger populations are getting outside to explore, hike, and travel. Younger demographics are spending more money on outdoor experiences than ever before and are willing to invest in quality gear at competitive prices for these experiences. The goal of Seek Dry Goods is to provide responsibly-sourced outdoor-inspired t-shirts, hats and accessories. All products are designed by and for people with an affinity for adventure, travel, and the outdoors.
What’s up next for Seek Dry Goods in 2019? Exciting partnerships and events to introduce new people to the brand while doing good for the environment in the process. Amanda and Larry recently finished converting a 2015 Ford Transit 250 diesel into an adventure van and will be driving it around the US for various adventures and trade shows.
“We’re planning a couple weeks on the road exploring, hiking,” says Amanda, “and just being part of these gorgeous places. The anticipation and excitement for our next adventure gets us up and going every morning. Whether it's an overseas vacation, weekend getaway, or new project, having something or someplace to see and do motivates us each day.”
Learn about how we changed our travel mentality when we took a Colorado Vanlife road trip test in our recent Journal post HERE.
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The whole trip was about 700 miles through some of the coolest little mountain towns. Over the course of 4-days, we made a big circle throughout the Rocky Mountains with our first stop in Aspen. Think: perfectly warm air with a slight breeze, sunny skies, and THOSE VIEWS! We spent an afternoon checking out the town and doing a little hike. The post-hike beers at Aspen Brewing Company are highly recommended :) We met up with a couple of friends at a local campsite for the evening and enjoyed a dinner and beverages by the fire.
On the morning of Day-2 we waved good-bye to Aspen as we headed to the North Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This was a new National Park for us and the views of the canyon were spectacular. We hiked the North Vista Trail, a moderate 3 mile round trip trek with some great look-out points. We would have loved to spend more time here, but still had a bit of driving to do to get to our next campsite in Cimarron. The campsite was just off the highway and nothing special other than easily accessible. However, a storm rolled in around 8pm and brought with it the most AMAZING sunset!
Day-3: We took our time this morning to make our favorite breakfast: avocado toast with soft boiled eggs (recipe HERE) and of course lots of coffee. We stopped in downtown Gunnison for a beer at High Alpine Brewing Company (YUM!). From there, we made a last minute decision to drive to Crested Butte for the afternoon since it’s only a 35 minute drive. In Crested Butte, we walked around town, had a snack at Brick Oven Pizzeria & Pub and explored the fun little shops/boutiques. This town was lively and fun, with a true mountain-town atmosphere. We had been here before to ski, but the whole area had a different feel without the cold and snow!
It was about a two hour drive to our next campsite, which was located down a long and winding dirt road. Picture a slow rolling stream, high aspen trees and distant mountain views. This campsite was tucked away and felt very remote. There was still some daylight, so we explored a bit of the area before grilling up some burgers and enjoying a few beers we had picked up at the brewery that morning.
Our last day of the trip was a long drive, but we managed to make two stops: Buena Vista and Salida. First off- Salida is the coolest little mountain town with the Arkansas river running right through it. We walked around the shops here, got coffee and chatted with a few of the locals. (We loved it so much, we actually traveled back for a weekend a few months later!) The town has a lot of character and is surrounded by the Collegiate Peaks (a grouping of some of the most gorgeous 14,000 foot mountains in CO). Buena Vista’s downtown is quite smaller than Salida, but it has a similar mountain/whitewater kayak chill vibe.
Our arrival back in Denver came all too soon. This trip taught us a lot about travel. Prior to our #vanlife adventure, all we wanted to do was fly places. It seemed the easiest and most logical option. However, after this short trip in the van, we learned there’s something special about slowing down. In a van, you’re forced to travel through, not over, places. You get to experience small towns, big mountains and the various cultures/personalities of those that live in between each major destination. There’s something really special in this. I’m not saying we never fly anymore; sometimes it is necessary. But when we are able to sit back and take a few extra days on the road, we seek the road.
Vanlife for us is currently saved for weekends and vacations. Maybe someday we'll go full time, but for now it's a fun way to travel and explore in our own tiny little home. Check out our van and how we built it on our Van Conversion blog.
]]>We LOVE snacks. We especially love sweet and salty, but we know most packaged items are made with unhealthy and processed ingredients. Even many of the healthier options are high in sodium or just too sugary. Energy bites are a great source of... yes, energy... while not overfilling or overloading you with the bad stuff. They're the perfect pre or post workout snack. We'll often bring some on day-hikes for a quick boost. After many test batches and varieties, we created our favorite recipe for Chocolate Chip Energy Bites!
Our recipe is pretty simple the best part is that it leaves room for you to add your own personal touch too. If you're looking for a snack that's small yet filling, go no further...
NUT BUTTER ENERGY BITES
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup dry oats (we use organic ole fashioned rolled oats; quick oats work too!)
2/3 cup coconut flakes
1/2 cup natural/organic nut or seed butter (we rotate between either almond or peanut butter)
1/2 cup ground flax seeds
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or vegan chocolate chips
1/3 cup agave nectar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)
1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all ingredients in a medium size bowl until combined. Cover and place in refrigerator to chill. After about 30 minutes, remove from refrigerator and roll mixture into about 25 1.5" balls. Store in an airtight container (in refrigerator) for up to 7 days.
Enjoy!
While single-use items like plastic/paper plates and silverware may seem like the answer at first, they really are not your best option. First off, they create TONS of trash. Not only will you have more items filling your trash bag/dumpster, you're adding unnecessarily to landfills. Second, over time it is going to cost you a heck of a lot more money buying these throw-away items. Sure, you have to clean your reusable plates. But what's a 5-minute cleaning sesh to thousands of years of waste in a landfill?! If each of us individuals do our part, even something small like using reusable plates/utensils will add up to a big help to the environment. It's a no brainer to us and we hope this list will make you a believer too.
Whether you are car camping or setting up a van conversion kitchen, this list is for you. Below are our kitchen essentials that will be sure to up your camp cooking game! We recommend having these items dedicated to your camp cooking setup to avoid the moments of "oh no, I forgot to grab the..." *All links are to Amazon.com unless otherwise noted.
Cooking
Cook stove - Camp Chef Everest 2 burner stove
Propane (either a large tank with adapter hose or small cylinder)
Non stick fry pan - 8" or 10" GSI Outdoors Fry Pan
Cast iron skillet - Loge 10.25" Cast Iron
Small sauce pan w/ lid -MSR 2-Pot Set
Chopping Knife - 8" Multi-purpose knife
Tongs - OXO 9-inch stainless steel tongs
Wooden Spoon - Handcrafted Teakwood Spoon
Metal Spatula/Turner - OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Turner
Can Opener - Stainless Steel Can Opener
Corkscrew/Bottle Opener - Professional Waiters Corkscrew
Cutting Board - EcoSmart Recycled Plastic & Flax Husk 12"x16"
Extra virgin olive oil or Avocado Oil
Spices - Salt, pepper, garlic powder, chilli powder
Coffee
Kettle - Pour Over Kettle - Fixed Thermometer
Dripper - Hario V60 Metal Coffee Dripper, Size 2, Silver
Filters - Hario Size 02 coffee filters
Eating/Drinking
Re-usable plates - Picnique Reusable 9" Plate Melamine Plates, BPA Free - Set of 6Silverware - 4-Piece Stainless Steel Silverware (Fork, Spoon, Knife, Chopsticks)
Re-usable bowls/storage jars - Nalgene 16oz Jars
Insulated drinking mug (OUR mug!) - Seek Dry Goods 8oz insulated mug
Unbreakable Stemless Wine Glasses - Govino 16oz Wine Glasses (set of 4)
Cleaning / Storage
Soap - Dr. Bronners Pure Castile Liquid Soap (we prefer Peppermint)
Sponge/Wash Cloth - Refresh Scrubber Sponge -earthhero.com
Quick-dry Towel - Rainleaf Microfiber Towel (we like the 12x24 size)
Food Storage Wraps - Bee's Wrap Eco-Friendly Food Storage Wraps 3-pack
Compostable trash bags - 13 gallon Trash Bags 12-pack -ifyoucare.com
Collapsible sink - FlexWare sink
Aluminum Foil
Paper Towels
The initial launch includes two t-shirt designs and stickers that showcase the trail and its significance. The ongoing collection is reasonably priced at $24.50 per t-shirt and $4 per sticker. Additionally, the t-shirts are responsibly made and printed in the USA with organic cotton and recycled polyester. “At Seek Dry Goods, we have very strong opinions about the materials that go into our t-shirts. As an outdoor focused brand, we strive to use materials that are less harmful to the environment,” says Larry McMahon, co-founder.
The Continental Divide Trail provides joy, sweat and sometimes tears to many people around the world. At 3,100-miles, it spans from Canada to Mexico and runs through five States. “The CDT holds a special place in my heart,” says Seek Dry Goods co-founder and owner, Amanda McMahon. “My first ever remote backpacking trips were along sections of the CDT in Colorado. I remember some tough climbs at high altitude, but the immense views at the top were always worth the extra push!”
The Continental Divide Trail collection is now available for sale HERE with free shipping on all US orders. The CDTC will have t-shirts for sale at their annual Trail Days event April 26-28 in Silver City, New Mexico. The collection will also become available in stores along the trail in the upcoming weeks. Retailers interested in adding the collection to their stores can contact co-founder, Amanda, via the email address below.
Sign up for our mailing list at www.seekdrygoods.com or follow @seekdrygoods on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know when additional collaborative products become available and where you can find them!
Start Shopping the Collection NOW!
About the Continental Divide Trail
The CDT is one of the world’s premiere long-distance trails, stretching 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada along the Continental Divide. Designated by Congress in 1978, the CDT is the highest, most challenging and most remote of the 11 National Scenic Trails. It provides recreational opportunities ranging from hiking to horseback riding to hunting for thousands of visitors each year. While 95% of the CDT is located on public land, approximately 150 miles are still in need of protection.
About the Continental Divide Trail Coalition
The CDTC was founded in 2012 by volunteers and recreationists hoping to provide a unified voice for the Trail. Working hand-in-hand with the U.S. Forest Service and other federal land management agencies, the CDTC is a non-profit partner supporting stewardship of the CDT. The mission of the CDTC is to complete, promote and protect the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, a world-class national resource. For more information, please visit continentaldividetrail.org.
About Seek Dry Goods
Seek Dry Goods is a Wisconsin-based outdoor lifestyle brand, committed to developing responsibly sourced clothing and accessories. Partnering with artists from around the world, who share a passion for the outdoors, Seek Dry Goods creates authentic and inspiring outdoor adventure designs. The name Seek was derived from the company’s core customer, known as “Seekers.” A Seeker is someone who is passionate about the outdoors and always seeking the next adventure.
Event will include live music by Midwest band, Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers with proceeds supporting the Ice Age Trail Alliance of Wisconsin.
Hartland, WI – April 18, 2019 - Seek Dry Goods announced this week that they will be hosting an anniversary celebration on August 1st at Company Brewing located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s Riverwest neighborhood. The event will be from 5-9pm (doors open at 4pm) with various activities throughout the evening. This is the brand’s second annual event, which includes live music, adult beverages (for ages 21+), shopping, and a raffle. The Anniversary Celebration is a fundraiser, with proceeds supporting Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail Alliance.
Live music will be performed by Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers, a Michigan based band whose sound is a mix of rock, soul, folk rock, funk (this list goes on) and promises to “shake the dust from your wildest expectations.” The band will take the stage at 7pm and close out the evening.
For the second year in a row, Seek Dry Goods will be supporting the Ice Age Trail Alliance. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Alliance, a nonprofit organization based in Cross Plains, WI with the mission to protect and maintain Wisconsin’s 1,000+ mile National Scenic Trail.
Event tickets cost $20 through June 29th (then $25 July 1 until the event) and will include the live music performance, free drink tickets, buffet style food offerings and a raffle. Seek Dry Goods will be showcasing their merchandise with special event promotions throughout the evening. Tickets can be purchased starting today via the Events page at seekdrygoods.com.
Sign up for the Seek Dry Goods mailing list at www.seekdrygoods.com or follow @seekdrygoods on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know about new product launches, collaborations, brand ambassador stories and more!
About Seek Dry Goods
Seek Dry Goods is a Wisconsin-based outdoor lifestyle brand, committed to developing responsibly sourced clothing and accessories. Partnering with artists from around the world, who share a passion for the outdoors, Seek Dry Goods creates authentic and inspiring outdoor adventure designs. The name Seek was derived from the company’s core customer, known as “Seekers.” A Seeker is someone who is passionate about the outdoors and always seeking the next adventure.
About Joe Hertler & the Rainbow Seekers
Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers will make a sprightly young groove doctor out of anyone. With spectacular energy pulsating from every member of the band, the Rainbow Seekers could illuminate the very chambers of Heaven. Lead singer Joe Hertler splashes through lyrical puddles of golden rain, leaving his audience wearing flowery crowns and bubbling smiles. A ride on the Rainbow will take you across the mountains of Motown, through the fjords of folk, over the archipelagos of Americana, and-at last-into a funky firth, where only the fiercest of friendships can be found. Learn more at https://joehertler.com/.
Based in Wisconsin, the brand’s primary beneficiary was the Ice Age Trail Alliance, an organization that creates, supports and protects Wisconsin’s 1,000+ mile National Scenic Trail. Seek Dry Goods will continue to support the Ice Age Trail in 2019 through their apparel and accessory partnership, donating a portion of all Trail related sales to the Association.
Seek Dry Goods worked with a handful of other outdoor nonprofits throughout 2018. They led the Ragnar Northwoods (group trail run race) team for Big City Mountaineers, raising money to support under-resourced youth. The brand also held a holiday "Season of Giving" campaign in which they featured four nonprofits over four weeks and donated four times their standard give-back on all purchases.
“Being an outdoor-focused brand, I believe in doing all we can to support and protect the outdoors” said co-founder, Amanda McMahon. “It’s very humbling to be able to give back to our local and broader nonprofit organizations.”
Moving into 2019, Seek Dry Goods will continue to raise money and volunteer time to various outdoor nonprofits.
Seek Dry Goods is an outdoor-inspired lifestyle brand based just outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They produce responsibly sourced t-shirts, headwear, blankets and accessories for adults of all genders. Their products feature designs created by outdoor-enthusiast artists around the United States for an authentic look and feel. Shop Seek Dry Goods with Free Shipping on all US orders and learn more about them at www.seekdrygoods.com.
The nonprofits supported in 2018 are listed below with links to learn more. Each organization provides a variety of opportunities for volunteers or groups to participate within the United States (and beyond), whether it be special events, donations or activities.
The Ice Age Trail Alliance creates, supports and protects Wisconsin's 1,000+ mile footpath - the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. In 2018, they celebrated the 60th anniversary as a National Scenic Trail. The organization provides ongoing events to educate people about the Trail and ways to get involved.
Big City Mountaineers instills critical life skills in under-resourced youth through transformative wilderness mentoring experiences. They help over 800 youth each year by improving self esteem, sense of responsibility, group communication and decision-making skills in a wilderness setting. You can get involved via their Summit for Someone program or as a Ragnar Trail race series and more.
The United States has 30 National Scenic and Historic Trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, etc. The purpose of PNTS is to promote and support the efforts of National Scenic and Historic Trail organizations, to secure public and private resources and to serve as a collective voice for policy and action that supports National Scenic and Historic Trails.
Operating in downtown Wausau, WI since 1974, Wausau Whitewater Park is a one-third mile long whitewater kayak park enjoyed by people of all ages and experience. The course is used for both slalom and freestyle events at local, national and international levels. The organization relies on donations in order to maintain and improve the park each season.
One dollar. One tree. One Tree Planted plants trees in North America, South America, Asia and Africa. Most projects help with restoration from forest fires and floods, as well as creating jobs, building communities and protecting habitats for biodiversity.
Kula eradicates poverty in Rwanda through the development of entrepreneurs. Their fellowship for men and women provides industry training, business investment and life & leadership skills. Fellows are empowered to build profitable businesses, raise healthy families and send their children to school.
The Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters is leading the effort to ensure permanent protection for the Boundary Waters Wilderness, America's most visited Wilderness and Minnesota's crown jewel, from proposed sulfide-ore copper mining.
We woke up hearing soft chatter from outside of our van. Poking our heads through the door, there were dozens of people gathering their gear for a new day of climbing. Their chatter slowly got louder as they made plans for the day- which area to start, which wall to climb.
We were at Miguel’s Pizza in Red River Gorge Kentucky. It’s a climber’s paradise, with fields for tent camping, parking lots for vans, bathrooms, a space to store gear and indoor/outdoor areas to eat and mingle. Even better, they charge only $6 a night!
This morning was our second morning at Miguel’s. Our first day rained (actually, poured) ALL DAY LONG. Rather than get soaked and cold, we explored some of the area shops. Most of our afternoon was spend in Daniel Boone Coffee Shop eating freshly baked warm banana bread and playing board games with new friends.
On this day, we decided to go to Muir Valley for our first day of climbing. It’s less than a 20 minute drive from Miguel’s on mostly main roads (after a week of rain, we weren’t about to test our 2-wheel drive van). It was a cool and hazy fall morning, with a light mist falling through the trees as we hiked to Bruise Brothers Wall. There were already a few groups climbing, so we found a spot to settle in just next to the wall. Some sections were damp from all the rain, but one great part of Bruise Brothers is that it has plenty of dry routes due to an overhanging roof.
Being our first outdoor climb in over a year, we started easy with a couple of short 5.7s to get into the swing of things. Larry would lead and Amanda cleaned. It was a routine we easily got into throughout the day. By around 1pm, the sun FINALLY came out! The mood throughout Bruise Brothers was instantly brightened as the sun warmed us and started drying out sections of the wall. Our last route was a super fun four-star 5.9 called Send Me on My Way. It started with a few challenging moves, but was overall a great way to end our day of climbing.
Instead of calling it a day, we decided to do a short hike to the Natural Bridge, which is only a half mile from Miguel’s. It was a 2 mile out and back hike and moderate in difficulty with 650 feet of elevation gain. You pass through sections of damp old forest with low vines, moss and tall trees. It was a mix of eerie and surreal as we passed through.
The Natural Bridge looms above the trees when you arrive. It’s very beautiful and much bigger than we had expected (it’s actually 65 feet high and 78 feet long). On the left side of the bridge we shimmied through a stone wall and up some stairs to the top of the bridge… What a view! You can see for miles to the north and south of the gorge! There are options to hike a few additional miles from here, but it was nearly 6pm and our stomachs were growling. Down we hiked; back to the van to officially end our day.
Arriving home at Miguel’s, we settled in with two slices of their freshly made-to-order pizza each and our Red River Gorge South climbing book to find the next day’s routes.
]]>This movement was started by Cassie Abel, co-founder of Wild Rye Mountain Apparel and the head of White Cloud Communication. She saw the facts about women leaders and while not surprised, she recognized a need to shed more light on the topic and take action.
Some important facts:When Seek Dry Goods co-founder and owner, Amanda McMahon, learned about the movement she immediately contacted Abel asking to partner. "I am honored and proud to be a supporter of Women Led Wednesday. As a female co-founder, I have endured the same struggle as many other women out there. I hope this movement sheds more light on the power of women in business and all that we have an can accomplish."
Seek Dry Goods is one of nearly 100 female-led brands to take part in this first Women Led Wednesday. We are proud to be female-led and anticipate that this is just the beginning for women leaders across the country.
]]>Our very first stop was in East/Central Kentucky, where we got to explore a world below ground. Huge. Gigantic. Massive. Mighty… All great ways to describe the cave system in Mammoth Cave National Park. With over 400 miles of explored caves and tunnels, this National Park is something very special and unique. Actually, the entire area around Mammoth Cave is known for its cave systems. There's even a town down the road called "Cave City."
Tours of Mammoth Cave began over 200 years ago and many of the early artifacts are still in their original locations. We chose to take the 2-hour History Tour, which led us through some of the main sections of the cave, narrow passageways and past multiple waterfalls. I won’t get into much of the History or tour details, but I can tell you that it is entertaining, insightful and very cool (the cave remains in the mid-50’s year-round, which feels a lot colder when the outside air is in the 80’s). Amanda found herself pulling her Seek Headband over her ears about halfway through the tour to keep warm!
Getting into the cave is easy enough, as there is a manmade walkway and stair system. Once inside, you’ll walk over a mix of flat cement floors, very narrow tunnels and then back up about 200 stairs. The Park Service recommends you know your limits before entering, since once you’re in the cave there are very few ways back out.
Our favorite part of the tour was the low and narrow passageway. At 5’6” (Amanda) and 6’ (Larry) both of us had to duck and shimmy for about a quarter mile through the winding path. It was eerie and dark, with just enough ambient light to guide the way.
The History Tour cost (in Fall 2018) was $17pp. Other tours range from under $10 for the self-guided tour all the way up to $60 for a 6-hour adult only caving tour. There seemed to be something for everyone in the caves.
If cave exploration isn’t your thing, the park also has mountain bike trails, hiking, canoeing/kayaking on the nearby river, and horseback riding that are all worth checking out. We did a very short hike around the Visitor Center, but did not have time for much more on this trip.
For those spending the night, we highly recommend the Mammoth Cave Campground. It’s only ¼ mile from the Visitor Center and has very well-kept campsites. The bathrooms were clean (always a plus!) too. The best part, it was only $20 per night for a standard site.
If you ever find yourself in southwestern Kentucky, we very much recommend Mammoth Cave National Park!
]]>The Ice Age Trail Alliance in Wisconsin did something different this year. They partnered with us at Seek Dry Goods to offer new products and designs that celebrate and support the Trail. Today, we are thrilled to announce the arrival the first official Ice Age Trail tee shirts and stickers!
All tee shirts from Seek Dry Goods display hand-drawn graphics, are USA made and are responsibly sourced (50% organic cotton / 50% recycled polyester). The use of responsibly sourced materials requires almost 70% less water and energy to produce than conventional fabric. This means your tee shirt purchases not only support the Trail, but the Earth as well.
There are currently two designs available in both Men’s and Women’s fits. These shirts can be found at Seek Dry Goods or at the retail locations listed below beginning April 10th.
A special third design will be released at the Annual Conference this April and be available for sale both at the Conference as well as through Seek Dry Goods online store following the event. A portion sales from Ice Age Trail products will go to directly support the Alliance!
Fontana Sports
231 Junction Rd
Madison, WI 53717
Performance Running Outfitters
2205 N. Calhoun Rd
Brookfield, WI 53005
Sign up for our mailing list at www.seekdrygoods.com or follow @seekdrygoods on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know when our collaborative products become available and where you can find them!
About the Ice Age Trail
Sculpted by retreating glacial ice, The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,000-mile footpath that features an amazingly diverse landscape through the heart of Wisconsin. More than 1 million people use this trail every year as they hike, ski, snowshoe and backpack along the route.
The Ice Age Trail is one of 11 recognized National Scenic Trails, which is supported and maintained by the Ice Age Trail Alliance, and is funded through a cadre of supporters including foundations, corporations and governmental partners. The Alliance has attracted a vibrant community of over 2,700 volunteers across the state, who volunteer their time and resources to improve and maintain the trail network.
About Seek Dry Goods
Seek Dry Goods is a Wisconsin-based outdoor lifestyle brand, committed to developing responsibly sourced clothing and accessories. Partnering with artists from around the world, who share a passion for the outdoors, Seek Dry Goods creates authentic and inspiring outdoor adventure designs.
The name Seek was derived from the company’s core customer, known as “Seekers.” A Seeker is someone who is passionate and obsessive about the outdoors. Seekers are never satisfied and are always seeking the next adventure.
]]>In celebration of the men and women who have served in the US military, it's only fitting that we kick off our first Artist Spotlight this Veterans Day weekend with Jonny.
We first discovered Jonny about a year ago on Instagram (via his @drawntosketching account). We loved his sketch art and knew we HAD to work with him. Since then, we've partnered on multiple designs for Seek Dry Goods and will be hosting him at our booth at Outdoor Retailer this January in Denver.
Jonny Bobgan | Graphic Designer & Illustrator: Seekfire Creative, @drawntosketching
Veteran, Artist, Dad, Seeker
SDG: In what branch of the military did you serve and for how long?
Jonny: Marine Corps, 4-years
SDG: What role did you hold?
Jonny: Infantry Squad Leader
SDG: Where do you get your creative inspiration?
Jonny: In the mountains, of course! But also from the incredible community of outdoor artists on Instagram. I’ve made some good friends who set the bar high with quality work on a regular basis. It’s so fun to witness their growth as artists, and it motivates me to grow in my own ways.
SDG: Favorite type of art to create?
Jonny: I actually love to create a variety of artwork. I only post my outdoor-inspired pen sketches and acrylic paintings to @drawntosketching, but my portfolio, jonnybobgan.com, highlights some of the other artwork I love to do when it supports brand strategy for my design clients.
SDG: What are you most excited about going forward?
Jonny: This year, I transitioned to working from home as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator, so it’s been a year full of ups and downs and establishing processes for business development and project management. I’m excited to move into the next year with a solid system in place and an established client base, so I can focus more on creative work.
SDG: Favorite place to hike?
Jonny: I’ve been battling some chronic injuries from the Marine Corps, but when I’m healthy, I love running the trails around my home in Maple Valley, WA, as well as around Tiger Mountain. When I can get further from home, my favorite adventures have been around Mt. Hood and the Mt. Margaret Backcountry at Mt. St. Helens.
SDG: Most essential piece of outdoor gear?
Jonny: My Salomon Speedcross 3 trail running shoes. I’ve been running and hiking in them for 6 years (obviously a few different pairs) and they dominate the trail. They’re especially effective when trails are wet and muddy here in the northwest.
SDG: Favorite book?
Jonny: So many great ones! But the best book I’ve read recently is Wind, Sand and Stars, by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.
SDG: What is your favorite Seek Dry Goods product?
Jonny: Definitely the 8-ounce Alpine Glow travel mug! It’s my little sidekick. It’s excellent quality and I don’t drink a lot of coffee at once, so it’s perfect for me.
]]>1. Coffee Gator 1L Kettle w/ Thermometer
We chose the 1L size as it was much easier to fit into our camp kitchen box. The thermometer is a great touch, as you want to heat the water up to exactly 185 degrees when doing a pour over. 5 stars on Amazon with 1,200 reviews is not bad either!
2. Hario V60 Metal Coffee Dripper with Hario #02 Filters
Perhaps the most widely used and highly reviewed pour over dripper. We opted for the metal version over the ceramic as we were nervous about the ceramic getting broken in the van or at the campsite.
3. Seek Dry Goods 16oz Travel Mug
Our travel mugs are outstanding for both hot and cold drinks. The low profile design makes them easier to hold than our competitors, they fit great in a cup holder and the graphic is hand drawn exclusively for Seek Dry Goods by our good friend @drawntosketching.
Don't just settle on your coffee the next time you are car camping and make the switch to pour over now!
This is a jacket you really have to try on to believe. Using a new proprietary fabric called Proflex, Rab has designed a soft shell, breathable, waterproof jacket with built in stretch properties. The jacket truly moves with you to the point where you only realize it's on when the weather moves in and you're still dry!
In the weeks leading up to this adventure, it seemed like everyone had the same comment "you're both going to be in the same canoe, that's not going to end well!" As we reflected on our previous "co-canoe" trips we did recall, amongst the serenity of the river, a ::bit:: of arguing over who paddles when, what side, etc. (If you just smirked, you know what we're talking about!)
We headed to the river determined to unlock the tips and tricks to a successful paddle with your significant other. Day 1 was a breeze; we seemed to be working really well together. However, few hours into day 2, Amanda misjudges a rock and we're swimming! Oops, I'm already breaking rule number 1. In the end, here's what we learned:
1. You're in this together...literally. Leave the finger pointing on shore and approach the river as a team.
2. You both don't always need to paddle. In calm water, let someone take a break and alternate padding. This technique to sure to lead to a straighter line.
3. Talk, Talk, Talk. Never assume your partner is seeing what you see. Be vocal and loud enough for your partner to hear you.
Happy Paddling !
]]>We created this meal a couple of months ago. To be specific, it was back in May while on a 600 mile, 4-day road trip through Colorado in our friend’s Dodge Sprinter van...but that’s a whole other story we’ll share in a later post!
Going back to Avocado Toast- Our original recipe included rosemary sourdough bread (A-MAY-ZING), but really any sourdough or your favorite fresh bread will work. I also included a couple variations of eggs. We prefer soft boiled, but you could do a hard-boil or poached too!
It has become a staple in our house, probably on the weekend brunch menu a couple of times a month. We hope you love it! If you have any of your own variations or questions on this recipe, let us know in the comments!!
Ingredients (for 2 people):
Recipe:
While the water heats and eggs cook:
Optional additions/substitutions: Drizzle Cholula or other hot sauce for a little spice. For a vegan option, you can forego the egg. Replace radish and arugula for your favorite veggies/greens.
]]>