By Shelby Sheehan-Bernard
McClatchy-Tribune
If you’re a fan of real off-the-grid adventures, cell reception is going to be sketchy at best, which makes investing in a quality GPS tracking device good practice. The SPOT Gen3 satellite personal tracker allows you to send for help to local emergency response teams, check in with friends or family members and let them track you in near real-time to ensure you’re safe.
The pocket-sized device requires a subscription to operate, and plans vary from basic to unlimited tracking. The basic service plan includes S.O.S. notification to an emergency response center, a help button to request non-emergency help, a check-in button and automated message to let contacts know you’re safe; GPS tracking that you, friends and family can access, and motion-activated tracking, which instructs the device to enable tracking only when you’re on the move. Depending on plan upgrades, you can customize tracking from 60 minutes to 2.5 minutes.
The device has a rugged design to hold up to the elements and is powered by four AAA batteries with a USB connection. It measures 3.43 x 2.56 x 1 inches (height, width, thickness) and weighs 4 ounces with lithium batteries. Operating temperature is -22 to 140 degrees F; operating altitude is -328 feet to 21,320 feet.
Price for the SPOT Gen3 device starts at $149.95. Annual subscriptions start at $99.99 per year.
Lightweight, flexible glove keeps you warm
The term “fits like a glove” is a relative phrase, especially when it comes to finding a pair that keeps you warm and dry in the winter. Many provide the necessary coverage, but they’re bulky and don’t allow good hand movement. The Seirus Xtreme All Weather Glove for women is different; it’s lightweight and flexible yet keeps hands warm and safe just like a heavier 200-gm ski glove.
The Xtreme glove has a durable outer shell that stretches for full functionality and resists both water and wind. Its seams also are sealed to keep the elements out. With all of that protection, sweat is inevitable. To compensate, the glove has a micro fleece liner that wicks sweat and offers comfort without irritation or chafing during heavy activity. The palm, thumb and index finger have a textured surface to maintain good grip on outdoor gear like ski poles.
The Seirus Xtreme All Weather Glove is available in black and in sizes small through large. Also available in men’s sizes. To purchase or find retailers, visit www.seirus.com. Price is $49.99.
