So, I’ve never felt the need to proclaim the awesomeness of a pair of sunglasses before. That is, until I got my latest pair. The Smith Rambler is a piece that seems like it was made just for me.

I’ve been wearing the Super Methods until a tragic dropping accident one day teaching on the pond. I was skeptical about trying another pair after believing I was as pleased as I could be with the Super Methods. The one major thing I never really thought about when picking out sunglasses in the past was how well they really stick to my head. All glasses fit on my head but do they really grab on? The Rambler has Smith’s “Hydrophilic Megol Nose and Temple Pads,” in english, that’s good rubber that sticks to your face even when you’re sweating and getting soaked kayaking.

I always thought I would have to sacrifice style if I wanted a functional piece like that. The Rambler has the full size body that really covers my eyes and sticks. So, if you are thinking about upgrading your current shades, I would give the Rambler a shot. This is a fully independent review.

About a month ago John O’Neill and I headed down to the Shoshone section of the Colorado river for some SUP action. Luke Lubchenco came along to document the spectacle. Going into the evening John had only Stand Up Paddled once on the pond in his neighborhood. Why not just go straight for some class III?! Giving him the Liquidlogic Versaboard I knew he would do just fine.

Here are the photos from Luke, thanks again for coming along and enjoying the laughs. For those of you still unsure about SUP; it’s here to stay. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it. It’s impossible to not smile and have a good time when you’re on one of these.

Here I am entering the first rapid.

John close behind.

The first couple rapids can be a little stressful with all the rock dodging.


The Wall is by far the hardest rapid for me of the section. John and I are both in combat mode here.

John recovering.

The Versaboard even surfs! “All Day Wave” domination.

Next up was the last two rapids. I haven’t been that nervous on Shoshone since I was 15 years old! So much fun.

Now get out there and get after it. Summer is almost coming to an end.