The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Hit the Shore this Spring in a Cool Collab by Chaco and United by Blue

By Austin Parker May 9, 2017

Chaco — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The days are finally starting to feel a little longer and warmer, so that can mean only one thing: spring outdoor adventuring. Whether you’re hitting the local river to paddle board or heading to the beach to catch the surf, this spring it’s time to upgrade your shoreline kit. Two of our favorite brands, Chaco and United By Blue put together a small collaboration collection to do just that.

Chaco x UBB Z2 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

We’ve been big believers in Chaco’s river sandals for a long time. The webbing uppers and Luvseat footbed they’re known for have been staples for decades among river guides, desert hikers, and dirtbag hippies everywhere. The secret is in the simplicity. Easy adjustment, comfortable wearing, and classic design are all hallmarks of every pair of Chacos. It’s not uncommon to see a pair last the better part of a decade of hard use. The Chaco x UBB Sandals ($130) keep to that award winning formula, with a limited edition webbing pattern. The Z2 style means you get a snug big toe loop that easily slides tighter for a custom fit. Overbuilt Vibram soles are incredibly durable, and have great grip – perfect for wading through rivers with your fly rod, or spending an afternoon on your paddle board.

Chaco x UBB Open Sea — Image used with permission by copyright holder

On the apparel side of things, United By Blue’s Open Sea Boardshorts ($68) are quickly becoming our favorite new pair of shorts. The cotton-polyester fabric is treated with a DWR coating, so it sheds moisture and dries very quickly. They are soft to touch, and the cut is flattering on any body type. We’re taking our pair on a river trip down the Colorado soon, and couldn’t be more excited.

Chaco — Image used with permission by copyright holder

If you’re looking to haul your gear to and from your favorite river picnic or fishing spot, the Summit Tote Pack ($88) is as at home hauling a blanket and bottle of wine as it is getting packed with a few beers and lashed down to your board. Stowable shoulder straps help you carry it comfortably. The recycled polyester pack fabric is complemented nicely by webbing that matches your sandals, and full grain leather accents.

Topics

Fashion & Style

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Austin Parker is a former contributor at The Manual Parker is a powder skier and sport climber and is no stranger hauling…

Outdoors

Ditch the GPS: How to navigate using a map and compass

Don't worry, it's really not that difficult to find your way or location the old-school way

Fingers holding a map and compass in the outdoors

GPS devices and GPS apps for your phone and even navigation watches with GPX files are nearly foolproof today. But what about when you run out of battery or your waterproof device isn't as waterproof as you had hoped? Even worse, what if you spend your entire trip with your head buried in your GPS without taking the time to get to know your surroundings?

Here at The Manual, our number-one backpacking essential for every outdoor adventure is the humble map and compass. It's no use just buying these items and stuffing them into your backpack. First, you need to learn how to read a topographic map and know what all the twisting bits do and what the numbers mean on your compass. It can all look quite confusing, so we're going to demystify the art of how to navigate using a map and compass and let you go old school, ditch the GPS, and get to know your surroundings intimately.
Know the parts of the compass

Outdoors

A beginner’s guide on how to read a topographic map

Learn how to read and navigate with a topographical map from an expert

Reading a topographic map

Before you’ve packed your bags and before you’ve gassed up the wagon, there’s the little issue of figuring out where you’re actually going to go and -- more importantly, if you're going to be outdoors -- the type of terrain that's there.

One of the best ways to do that is to peruse a map of the region that goes a little further than just showing you a layout of the park. A topographic map introduces you to the peaks and valleys and gives you an understanding of how difficult the terrain might be in the area where you’re headed. It was originally developed as a way to depict counties and cities before the U.S. military used it in World War I.
Where to begin

Outdoors

These are the essential outdoor knots every outdoorsman should know

A well-versed arsenal of knots is a must-have for any outdoorsman

A reef knot is tied against a tree

There's almost no end to what you can achieve armed with a length of rope and an arsenal of outdoor knots to tie it together. If heading into the backcountry, you should always be prepared for survival. While part of that is carrying the right gear, you must know how to use it effectively. You wouldn't take your woodcutting axe without giving it a few practice swings at home, so why would you expect to tie the right knot without practice?

There is an adage among those who don't know what to do with rope: if you can't tie knots, tie lots. If you don't know what you're doing, keep tying until your rope feels secure. It works, sometimes. But in a significant way, these people are missing out. Knots, like backcountry navigation skills or making a fire, are part of being an outdoorsman. Outdoor knots come in different shapes and perform various tasks; some are quick, some secure, and others are designed to be untied quickly. These eight are the essential outdoor knots to learn first, so grab a rope and upskill your outdoor self.
Bowline knot