Whether I’m consulting a map, shining light on a camp sign, reading late into the night, or searching the bottom of my backpack, this sturdy little flashlight is what I use to light my way. I like it so much that we have one for home and one that lives in my travel bag.
And it’s not just me. Last month a houseguest used the ICON to light a path each night to our patio so she could sit beneath the twinkling magic of the New Mexico night sky. Her first phone call to me after returning home was to ask “What’s the name of that amazing little flashlight? I want one!”
Equipped with an ultra bright LED, the Rogue is über efficient, at least ten times more efficient at converting energy into light than regular bulbs. Better yet, its aerospace aluminum body means it can be dropped, thrown and rattled around in the trunk without any damage. And the waterproof O-ring seals, mean I can use it in the rain in London, a Utah snowstorm or drop it in a Panama puddle and it keeps on working.
Favorite feature: I love that fact that it’s powered on one (Rogue 1) or two (Rogue 2) AA batteries, something I can purchase virtually anywhere, anytime.
Not-so-favorite feature: Not available on Amazon - my go-to source for nearly anything - but you can get one at Radio Shack. Go figure.
Bottom line: It’s a handy little powerhouse that’s built to last.
Available in two compact models, Rogue 1 (4.5 inches) and Rogue 2 (6.5 inches) and three stylish colors: silver, green and black. Comes with a handy lanyard so you can wear the light or attacht it a backpack.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
As I pack for a European walking tour with The Wayfarers, I’m astounded by the obscene pleasure I derive from planning what gadgets and goodies to bring. While my eldest sister, Kathy, who will join me for the trek, preps with language lessons and historic research, I get ready in true Gadget Girl form. I purchase a digital pedometer, download French music to iTunes, upgrade to the new BlackBerry Tour and the latest Flip video UltraHD.
But, it’s not only the techy toys that have me as excited for the adventure as my sister’s French lessons. It’s also the chance to put my favorite gear to work. Out comes the Outdoor Research rain hat I bought in Alaska last summer that has languished unused in my sunny New Mexico closet. Then there’s the Keen hikers I’ve been breaking in on the mountain trails near home. And, the Naneu camera backpack that’s just begging for a walk through southern France.
So, fellow gadget and gear addicts, if you were looking for an excuse to invest in a few more toys, read on….
Keen Targhee II hiker shoe: The Keen Targhee II waterproof cross-training shoes deliver tenacious traction, stability and comfort. Perfect for a French walking tour, a stroll around the neighborhood or wherever your multisport needs might take you. www.keenfootwear.com
Montbell cargo short: These stretch Cargo shorts serve me well during high mileage days on the trail or back home running weekend errands. www.montbell.us
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".