Man isn’t meant to stay indoors — our weekly “Trekking” column can attest to that. It’s a column dedicated to the adventurer inside of all of us, the one pining to ditch the office humdrum for a seven-week jaunt in the Grand Tetons, or fiending to catch some waves someplace other than the North Shore. One day we may highlight a new ultra-light camping stove or minimalist water filter, and the next you may find us getting wrapped up in a set of Norquayco’s handmade canoe paddles. Life doesn’t just happen inside the workplace and home, so get outside and live it.
Having grown up along the shores of southern California, the mere mention of the word “summer” evokes thoughts of sprawling sands and warm waters — so much so that it’s easy to forget people take to surfing in less ideal conditions. Thankfully, the Finisterre Cold Water Surf Knife ($150) is specifically designed for said conditions, whether you need to cut your way out of a dangerous kelp bed lining cooler climates, or simply crack a beer after your afternoon session.
Featuring a 2-inch blade constructed of high-carbon stainless steel, the sleek folding knife aims to alleviate the problems one faces when confronting the pains of stage-two hypothermia, such as contracted blood vessel, muscle mis-coordination, and other ailments that might hinder a surfer’s ability to use their hands in frigid waters. Cutler Joseph Rodgers and Sons have been building knives in Sheffield, England, for more than 300 years, crafting refined blades for the likes of Royal Army and the British Family before helping to expand Finisterre’s offerings beyond its outdoor clothing line into the realm of tactile equipment.
Each blade is laser-cut, hand-shaped, and finely polished with the utmost precision, while sporting a handle of fine Spanish oak and an accompanying 3/32 fin key. Once constructed, each blade is also oiled, treated, and laser-marked with its respective number for authenticity. Finisterre’s collaboration with Joseph Rodgers and Sons was intended to be a one-off, but given the Cold Water Surf Knife’s resounding success, the company is looking into extending the partnership for future projects. Best of all, every knife features an “easy pull” loop for quick access in harshest conditions, along with a flathead screwdriver and a bottle and tin opener for convenience outside the water — which, hopefully — is the only time you’ll be forced to use it. Then again, there’s always sharks.
Check out the main Finisterre website to peruse the United Kingdom-based company’s wears or to make a purchase. The Finisterre Cold Water Surf Knife also comes bundled with a reusable aluminum tin, but unfortunately, the knife is currently exclusive to a limited-edition run.
