November '15 Highlight Reel

They said variety is the spice of life, and if what they say is true, this month’s Cairn is sure to please. From a tool for dog owners to a tool for water purification, socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable while you’re out, and a few specialty snacks and drinks, there’s plenty of fun for everyone.

Ruffwear Quencher Collapsible Dog Bowl

If you indicated you're a dog owner on your subscriber survey, this month's Cairn includes something special for you. We know how important it is to have your canine trail companion along on your adventures. We also know that keeping your canine companion fueled and hydrated when you're out playing in the woods is just as important as keeping yourself fueled and hydrated.

Ruffwear's mission is to create products that "enhance and inspire outdoor adventures for dogs and their human companions." They designed the Ruffwear Quencher to give you a way to provide your pup with food or water while on the go without adding too much weight to your pack. It's durable, long-lasting, machine washable, and can be easily stashed away when you're not using it, making it ideal for just about any outing.

Aquamira Frontier Pro Ultralight Water Filter

When it comes to personal safety, having access to clean water in the backcountry is a must. Though there are a variety of filtration options available, not all can protect you from bacteria, giardia, icky-tasking water, and more without taking up too much room in your pack.

Aquamira's Frontier Pro Ultralight Water Filter is a part of the company's "Grn" line of water filtration devices, and it's specifically designed to protect you from bacteria found in natural water sources like lakes, ponds, and rain water. The Frontier Pro easily connects to water bottles, hydration bladders, and gravity flow systems for ease of use. There's also a straw attachment if you can't wait to get your vessel filled, or if you just need a quick drink. The filter itself is easy to replace after you passed the specified 50 gallon limit. Give this incredibly versatile filter a try on your next outing.

Injinji Trail 2.0 Midweight Mini-Crew

Don't believe toe socks are better than traditional socks at tackling dirt paths and rocky trails? The Injinji team aims to change your mind with the Trail 2.0 Midweight Mini Crew socks.

Toe socks can help properly separate and align your toes while you're walking or running around, and the lack of skin on skin contact can protect your toes from blisters. Also, given each tow is wrapped in its own layer of wicking material, moisture management is more efficient than traditional socks. The Injinji Trail series is specifically engineered for uneven terrain, and the double elastic cuff helps keep debris out. The Trail 2.0 Midweight Mini Crew socks offer just the right amount of cushion without being bulky. Tell us what you think of toe socks in the comments, whether you're a strong advocate or a skeptic!

Nite Ize Betterband 12"

Long-time Cairn subscribers received an introduction to Nite Ize back in December 2014, but this time, we're going bigger.

The 12" adjustable BetterBand stretch bands included in this month's box gives you a way to organize, bundle, and wrap small and medium sized items for easy storage and transport. The BetterBand is adjustable and made with stretchy, durable TPU material. The KnotBone Cord Lock keeps everything locked into place and makes adjustments a cinch. Wrap up a tarp, secure items to your backpack, even keep household cords organized with the BetterBand.

Little Red Wagon Geo Coffee

Java lovers rejoice! Instead of lugging your entire home brewing system with you on a trip or resorting to instant coffee, there's now a way to get a steaming hot cup of joe when you're in the backcountry.

The team behind Montana-based Little Red Wagon Coffee Roasters are coffee enthusiasts and purveyors, but they're also adventurers. And for them, the perfect pour-over brew needs to be accessible no matter where they are. Enter the GEO, real coffee in a single serve pour over vessel packed with freshly roasted coffee. The best part? Aside from how easy it is to use, if you order your own packs of GEO, they'll accommodate special varietal requests if they can. Read more about their sourcing and roasting methods, and relish in the joy of a beautifully brewed cup of java on your next trip.

Rip Van Wafels Traditional Waffle or Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Waffle

Let's be honest - when it comes to sweet standard breakfast foods, waffles are about as good as it gets. And thanks to Rip Van Wafels, you can enjoy a waffle just about anytime you'd like in a convenient, easy to carry package.

Rip Van Wafels founder and Amsterdam native Rip Pruisken was dismayed to find his traditional mid-morning coffee break, complete with a wafel (waffle, as we know it), wasn't so much a thing enjoyed in America. The solution? Start a company that makes wafels. From a traditional blend of bourbon vanilla, cinnamon, and molasses to a recipe including dark chocolate with a hint of salt. Rip's wafels are great as a treat, or as a tasty trail snack.

Subscribers, let us know what your favorite item in this month’s box is in the comments below, and don’t forget to check to see if you got an Adventure Upgrade from prAna! Not a subscriber? What item would you most like to try?