Tonight, Patagonia and eBay announced a new partnership, the Common Threads Initiative. Together, they asked owners of fleece and Gore-Tex everywhere to pledge to reduce consumption, reuse old gear, recycle, repair what's broken, and reimagine a world where people don't stress the earth with purchases.  - Source

If you know me a bit, then you know that I value sustainability. You also might be aware that I value a few outdoor companies who do so as well. So as I read this news, and checked out the Patagonia Common Threads Initiative page I didn't think long to make the pledge. And with the pretty good selection of used Patagonia gear up for grabs I also am tempted to make a purchase or two (am still looking for a comfy climbing pants). If you need a new baselayer, a puffy jacket or a shell, check out the selection and buy it there instead of getting it new. Your children, grandchildren and nature will thank you.

I, personally, applaud Patagonia for making this step - it is the ultimate commitment for a better future, against the bottom line. Respect.

In the market for a backpack? Making your own backpacks? Maybe you're even a cottage manufacturer? Lets see if you can spot the difference in those backpack designs.

We don't have square shoulders. Yet everyone is sewing their shoulder straps on at 90 degrees. This kind of configuration, and the resultant weight distribution, can cause unnecessary soreness, numbness, and even permanent nerve damage.

Source.

The majority of my shoulder straps are sewn on at an angle. A comfortable angle. Two cottages and three major players get it right. Two cottages fail. But you only learn from failures, so now is a good time to learn how to properly attach shoulder straps.

My readers rock.



The winner takes it all. In this case we do have three winners. Tendon swag winners, that is. Though first I'd like to thank all who participated, there were some very fine photos there, and it is sweet to know that there's a bunch of active climbers reading here - a big thank you goes out to all of you! All readers do well in checking out the photos and stories posted, I had a good few chuckles. Anyway. Who's gonna wear a cool shirt in the future?

- Daniel Sandström
- Tomas
- tryggve

Please contact me with your address so I can send you your shirt and stickers =)



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