the GearCaster

Rain Pants That Look Like Jeans

Vaude has come up with some new bike rain pants that the hipster set will absolutely love. The Homy Rain Pants give the illusion that you are wearing jeans, meaning you don't have to sacrifice on style during your bike commute in nasty weather. 

Recycled Softshell Jacket For Winter Fun

Along with the Earthtec Laurel Softshell Pants, Vermont based outdoor retailer Climb High sent me the Water Lily Hooded Softshell Jacket. I have worn the jacket almost all winter now, across Colorado, Utah, and even in the cold and wet winter weather of San Francisco.

Biodegradable Barefoot Shoes For Outdoor Activities

Looking to ride the barefoot shoe movement, Spanish company OneMoment (01M) has created a new shoe similar in concept to the Inov-8 EvoSkin but without the toes. Completely biodegradable, the 01M shoes behave like a second skin, protecting your feet while giving you the freedom of going barefoot. 

Where To Sell, Swap, Or Donate Your Old Gear

We all have that one closet or corner in the garage that is stuffed with gear we don't use anymore. But what can you do with all this unwanted gear that still has a useful life? Many online sites are popping up to help you sell, swap, or even donate your gear to a good cause, giving all that stuff hidden away in your closet a chance at a second life. 

Reuse, Recycle, And Now Compost Your Outdoor Gear

Patagonia has been at the forefront of the eco initiative with not only telling you to buy less or used outdoor gear, but finding ways to recycle your gear that has seen better days. Last week, The Guardian announced that Puma is taking it one step further with a plan to create gear that you can shred and compost along with your food leftovers.