5 Advantages of an LED Backpack Light Up

Backpacks have undoubtedly become a staple for all outdoor adventures. With the ever-increasing need for safety during outdoor excursions, users are looking for new ways to stand out from the crowd and increase visibility in dark conditions. One way this could be done is by wearing a light up backpack with LED lights. Yes, you could literally make your hydration pack RAVE while you are wearing it. Not only will you have a vibrant electroluminescent LED backpack on display, but moms all around the world can feel safe sending their kids outside all lit up. This is why a cool light up backpack would be perfect for any festival, theme park, or other outdoor adventure. No need to worry, most LED backpacks are water-resistant by design. Let us take a look at all the other benefits of rockin’ a light up backpack on your next adventure.

5 Advantages of an LED light up backpack

1) Safety

Being safe is omnipotent when venturing into any outdoor activity. Having an LED light up backpack is the best was to do so. With a color of your choice flashing on your backpack, cars and other automobiles will be able to spot you much easier than if you were to be without a light up backpack. This gives you peace of mind when going out for a run or crossing a busy road during a hike. Additionally, LED backpacks like this one do not emit any heat. This decreases the concern for a fire or burn hazard to the user.

2) Uniqueness

Having a light up backpack will enable you to (literally) stand out from the crowd in any scenario. Light up backpacks are a relatively new design that not many people have seen, let alone heard about. So, don’t be surprised if people come up to you ask where you purchased such a sweet backpack with LED lights.

3) Light Up Backpacks are Easy to Use

You are probably thinking that a light up backpack is super complex and annoying to put together or operate. We are happy to say, you are wrong. Adding batteries is just like putting 2 AA Duracell’s into your TV remote after you have watched too much Netflix, it is simple. To place the lights in your desired area, all you have to do is thread the light string wire through the loops of your RaveRunner Hydration Pack, and voilà.

4) Easily Spot/locate a Light Up Backpack

The greatest benefit of a backpack that lights up is being able to find whoever is wearing it. Even if you are in one of the most crowded events of all time, if you jump onto your friend’s shoulders and peer into the crowd, there is a great chance you will find your buddy hoisting that light up backpack. From losing your friend at a festival to trying to find them in line at Space Mountain at Disney World, the LED backpack will ensure that you never lose sight of anyone again.

5) Creative Outlet

With an LED backpack, you can get in touch with your creative side and thread the wire any way you desire. Some people make cool designs while others do their best to ensure the luminescent wire is attached securely. In theory, you could add more and more wire until your backpack is cover in LED lights. Being able to customize your light up backpack makes it uniquely yours and one-of-a-kind. Not too many people can say that…


Conclusion

With all that being said, it is without question that a backpack with LED lights will brighten up your next outdoor experience. If you are still uncertain if a light up backpack will benefit you, just look at the reviews and see what people are saying for yourself. We can almost guarantee that you will not be disappointed. If you are interested in an LED Lightup Backpack, I would highly recommend checking the review on the RaveRunner Hydration Backpack as many people can confirm it is the best that money can buy.

How do Solar Panel Backpacks Work? – And Why You Need One

Solar power, and solar power backpacks, have become a large part of the sustainability discussion in today’s modern world. Many people are still unsure about them because they do not understand how they work or if they are effective. Based on the statistics, more and more people are beginning to utilize backpacks with built-in solar panels.

How often is your phone dying (or dead) when you are out on an outdoor adventure? It’s frustrating, right? If you have experienced this problem, let us break down what a backpack with built in solar panels is and how it can benefit you.

What is a Solar Panel Backpack?

A solar backpack is a basic backpack or bag, with a build in or modular solar panel charger. A solar panel charger is a small device (about the size of an iPhone) and it collects sunlight that gets turned into energy for charging our personal electronic devices.

Most people hear this and instantly think solar panel backpacks are extremely expensive, but that is not the case. This solar panel charger is only $24.99 and can be Velcro-ed onto your backpack. Other solar chargers may run you more, but with that higher prices comes more features.

How does Solar Charging Work?

First, sunlight must strike the surface. That photons from the sunlight then excited the electrons inside the silicon part of the battery. These charged electrons essentially create an electric force that is pushed into the battery. This energy is then stored inside and can be used whenever you please by plugging a device into the USB port.

Why you need a backpack with built in solar panels:

1) Sustainability

Blue Claw RageRunner® Hydration Pack

Solar energy is inexhaustible. There will never be a time that we run out of it. So why not charge our devices from it whenever we can? There’s never a bad time to reduce our carbon footprint. Solar cells do not put out any toxic gas or waste into our environment, making them an ideal source of energy. Finally, you won’t have to deal with any bad smell from gasoline or the annoying noise that comes along with it.

2) Solar Panel Backpacks are Easy to Use

Backpacks with built-in solar panel chargers are not only energy-efficient, but they save you time when operating them. In fact, there is not much operating to do. Most solar panel backpacks have the charger affixed to the top of the bag (right below your neck). This faces the charger up, facing the sun all day long. To access this energy stored in the battery, you simply plug your device into the USB port, and voilà your device is charging. The RaveRunner Hydration Pack’s Solar Panel Charger is affixed with Velcro. This allows you to fully remove the solar battery to charge it via wire or charge your device somewhere other than right on your bag.

3) Water-Resistant

Most Solar chargers are water-resistant. The USB port commonly has a rubber flange that goes into the hole to prevent liquid from entering. The actual panel that absorbs sunlight is completely water-resistant. This makes it a perfect addition to your weekend at a music festival or day at the theme park where all weather elements are possible. Especially when you are riding Splash Mountain at Disney over-and-over again.

4) Versatility

Backpacks with built in solar panels can charge many more things than just your phone. I was able to charge my Garmin Spot Tracking device so that my parents could track me while out in the wilderness on a run. Additionally, I was able to detach the battery and let a stranger borrow it so that they could call an Uber home after a festival. Another time I used my solar panel backpack was before a run when my headphones were dead and I needed to charge them fast. These are just some of my personal examples, if you leave your solar panel backpack in the car or around the house it will undoubtedly come in handy.

Conclusion

Solar panel backpacks have a wide array of usage. There is no reason not to take advantage of these benefits just because you don’t understand how it works. We hope after reading this you too will enjoy the benefits of having a charger on all of your outdoor adventures.

The Best Phone Tether for your Next Event

Y­­ou are looking for the best phone tether, huh? Well, you’ve found the best recommendation because we have tried them all.  From retractable phone tethers to the kind that come with that generic loop cord that is attached to your grandmother’s phone from the 80’s, we put each one to the test.

Phone tethers are a new product and quite honestly, they are overdue. With theft running rampant at live events and traveling abroad. People need a new option to keep their valuables safe. Additionally, cracked phone screens happy to just about everyone that has ever owned one. This product stops both theft and cracked screens from happening.

Without a doubt the ClutchLoop phone tether is our #1. And before we go into detail as to why, we want to tell you that we have putting each product into a multitude of situations. From testing the strength of the wire, to assessing the quality of the product, we wanted to make sure we chose the best product from all around, not just convenience or quality.

  1. Retractable – Many of these phone tethers come with a long string that hangs around when you don’t have the phone pulled up to your face from the belt loop pocket. Quite honestly, it is super annoying to have all of that dangling. The ClutchLoop is retractable. It is the same system that you’ll find all IT tech employing attaching to their ID. The feature is quite simple, but something that was yet to be made until this past year with festival theft running rampant.
  2. Re-enforced metal cord – We put this metal cord to the test. First we tried our best to break it. We pulled it hard, tried to cut it with scissors, and even tried to twist it and knot it to see if it would cut itself. None of that worked with this phone tether, it was dope. Not many other phone tethers have a cord that is made of re-enforced metal. Some others that we tried were even made of plastic… boring!
  3. Compact – This phone tether was also super small compared to other phone tethers we tested. This is in part thanks to the retractable cord that is incorporated into the phone tether system itself. We were able to clip these on our pants without our styles or outfits being ruined. It was great.
  4. Easy – The final aspect that made the clutch loop our best and most favorited phone tether, was because of how easy it was to setup. If you are using a case, you can anchor the small plastic piece the ClutchLoop includes, inside of the case. Or, if you don’t use a case, you can peel off the sticker and use the 3M tape on the back of it. Although, you are pretty nuts to not be using a case these days…

Many of these phone tethers come with a long string that hangs around when you don’t have the phone pulled up to your face from the belt loop pocket. Quite honestly, it is super annoying to have all of that dangling. The ClutchLoop is retractable. It is the same system that you’ll find all IT tech employing attaching to their ID. The feature is quite simple, but something that was yet to be made until this past year with festival theft running rampant.
We highly recommend that you invest in a phone tether. Not just for large events or for traveling, but for everyday life. It has saved me a few times from dropping and cracking my phone, which probably happens even more than theft. If you want any more information, you can hop over to the product page to review the specs and read more reviews.

First Time Snowboarding Checklist

Preparing for a snowboarding or skiing trip may be overwhelming, especially if you have not done it before. You will need to make a decision between buying and renting the snow equipment. Renting may be a better option if you are new to either sport. It will also open you up to many other brands. Afterward, you will be able to settle on the best brand

I would also highly recommend taking some lessons if you have never hit the slopes before. I promise it will make your time out there much more enjoyable. Snowboarding or skiing lessons will come in handy to help you avoid unnecessary injuries. Both sports are a highly demanding physical activity so you will need you to know how to maneuver, and when to take a break. Getting the newbie lessons from an expert is your best option for avoiding injuries.

When it’s time to make a decision on snowboarding gear, a guide or checklist is essential. The following first time snowboarding checklist will make your snowboarding experience worthwhile.

Snowboard Equipment

This should be your first checklist. There are a few necessities when it comes to gear. Therefore, being keen on your brand selection is key to a successful snowboarding event. Your set of snowboarding gear should have the following:

  • Snowboard– There are 3 main types of board shapes. Camber, which is a very stable, controlled ride. Flat, which gives great control while remaining to feel like you are floating across the snow. And rocker, which provides a very surfer feeling and enables high-level riders to utilize the terrain parks better.
  • Bindings– Bindings vary in flexibility. Flexible bindings will provide more versatility to do tricks, which is why they are more-so for advanced riders. Stable hard bindings provide great support and a stable ride if this is your first time on the snow.
  • Boots– Both of these items pair to be omnipotent when going onto the mountains. Make sure your boots fit snug. Boots that are loose will be tough to control your ride in. Boots that are too tight will put you in the lodge rubbing your in-soles very fast, not fun.
  • Socks– Don’t underestimate the importance of quality snowboard socks. Choose moisture-wicking, cushioned pairs and make sure they’re long enough to fully extend above your boots. This prevents rubbing and sore feet, keeping you warm, dry, and comfortable all day on the slopes.

Snowboarding Outwear

Looking good on the mountain could not only feel good but also come in handy when looking for friends. I wear a retro onesie that my dad wore in the eighties. It is quite flashy with colors of yellow, purple, and teal. There’s no way anyone loses sight of me. Along with nice style, it’s important to have all other essential gear:

  • Snow Jacket/Onesie– Your jacket must be waterproof, have a considerable number of pockets, and is snow specific. If you can get one with a hood and vents that would be awesome. Importantly, the jacket must be able to fend off snow from getting into your pants, thus, it has to be long enough. This is why we recommend a onesie. When you fall, there’s no way for snow to go up your back.
  • Hydration Pack – A proper snowboarding hydration pack with extra pockets and an easy-access bladder is essential to prolonging a day on the slopes with minimal downtime.
  • Snow Pants– If you’re not going to go with a onesie, the pants must be waterproof and able to keep off snow from entering into your boots. Perfects pants are the ones which have inner boot gaiter.
  • Hat– Carrying a hat or a beanie will help cover your head. If you wear a helmet, which you should (get past the “dork” label), wearing a balaclava maybe be more beneficial than a hat.
  • Mittens or gloves– They must be waterproof and can keep you warm for as long as you will spend your day out. I highly recommend mittens as they will certainly keep your hands warmer.
  • Facemask– It is an optional outwear. However, by having it you will shield your face from snow, sun rays and wind as you slid down the mountain. Nothing is worse than your nose freezing and not being able to do anything about it until you stop.

Snowboarding Safety gear

Your safety is paramount during snowboarding. Safety gear will help you avoid injuries, but will also give you the confidence to do more which is critical in snowboarding. You will need the following safety gear for your snowboarding activity.

  • Helmet– Having a helmet will help you avoid head injuries in an event of a fall while on the slopes. Snowboarding falls can happen, even if you consider yourself experienced. Get a helmet which will stand multiple impacts without damage, this will save you some cash. Also, be sure that your helmet is comfortable. This is something you’ll be wearing all day.
  • Goggles– Your eyes are precious, thus, you will need to protect them from snow, sun, and wind. You do not need a very expensive pair at all, but a nice pair with an anti-fog coating on them would be worth the extra cash.
  • Knee pads– They will help protect your knees if you fall on your knees. You don’t really notice them when riding either.
  • Butt pads– As a beginner, you will more than likely spend most of your time on your butt. It is inevitable.
  • Wrist guards– My dad bought these for me as a kid and I fought him on wearing them. Now I wear them every time I hit the slopes. They more than likely have saved me from a sprained wrist once or twice.

Now that we have highlighted the must-have items before you set off for a snowboarding event for the first time, here are some optional ones you may consider to have.

  • Earphones– If you are a music enthusiast, they will help you find a rhythm as you will be snowboarding. Be careful though, as you may not be able to hear other riders.
  • Lunch– If it is a nice powder day, you won’t want to waste much time not riding. Bring a small meal with you that provides some good energy to keep going.
  • Extra Phone Battery – The cold will only drain your phone battery even more. Getting caught without your camera for a nice picture, or the ability to find your friends on the mountain is not fun.

Now that you are familiar with the necessities as a beginner for a snowboarding activity, it is time to get out there and shred. Have fun!

Top Ski Resorts in Colorado

Looking for the top ski resorts in Colorado? Denver locals got you covered. 


Take a look down our list of top ski resorts in Colorado and decide for yourself where you want to go to next.

10) Eldora Mountain Resort

Eldora is a highly trafficked top Colorado ski resort that is beginner-friendly and close to the city. It is a popular spot for those looking for a nearby ski option, but it may not be the most exciting mountain to ski on. Eldora is a convenient option for skiers and snowboarders, but it may not offer much excitement for those looking for challenging terrain. It’s mainly aimed at beginners and can get busy during peak times.

eldora trail map

9) Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a polished ski resort that balances world-class skiing with a laidback culture. Breck is known for its excellent customer service, manicured slopes, stunning backdrop, and well-developed infrastructure. It was also the first ski resort in Colorado to permit snowboarding and continues to have a strong commitment to terrain parks. Despite its many benefits, Breck can get very windy. Additionally, it is highly trafficked and the slopes can become congested and worn out from excessive traffic. The restaurants and town are also often crowded, and lift lines can be long.

Breck Trail Map

8) Winter Park

A shuffle shWinter Park has a long history, starting in 1939 when it was opened by the city of Denver to provide a “winter park” for the residents. Today, it has transformed into a major ski destination resort with first-class facilities. Winter Park is famous for the Mary Jane Mountain and its moguls, which have reached cult status. The town scene may not be the best, but Winter Park is still a great option for those who love moguls and want to ski on a highly trafficked mountain.

Winter Park Trail Map

7) Keystone

 Keystone is a great option for a day trip, offering something for a wide range of skiers and snowboarders. The ski resort has excellent terrain parks, intermediate terrain, diverse advanced terrain, and some of the best night skiing in the US. Keystone receives significantly less snow than nearby ski resorts and the town is a purpose-built village lacking in quaintness, but it has well-designed amenities.

Keystone Trail Map

6) Copper

Copper Mountain has outstanding beginner and intermediate terrain, making it a very family-friendly option. The ski area has nice high alpine bowls and fantastic views, making it a great destination for those looking for a ski experience with a little bit of challenge. However, the lifts are very slow. Also, the nightlife is lacking at Copper Mountain as well. Hard to find parking and lodging sometimes too. The village is delightfully quirky although it still lacks the charm of a real Colorado ski town.

Copper Trail Map

5) Arapahoe Basin

Arapahoe Basin – Arapahoe Basin, also known as “The Beach,” is known for its long ski season, often staying open into June. The resort offers over 1,400 skiable acres and is a popular destination for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Therefore, it is open pretty much the entire year. However, it only has expert terrain and does not offer insight lodging

Arapahoe Trail Map

4) Aspen

In the 4th place we got Aspen. However, its really far, so not a lot of people are going to go there compared to Breck, Vail, or Keystone. Aspen Mountain, or Ajax, is one of the 4 resorts that make up the Aspen Snowmass. It is also the easiest to access if you choose to stay in the city’s downtown. The town of Aspen alone is reason enough to visit. From a collection of restaurants to incredible nightlife, you will never feel more entertained.  Unfortunately, the mountain does not offer beginner terrain and only a few expert ones. Additionally, it shocks you with the combination of high price and slow lifts, which can be agitating.

Aspen Trail Map

3) Vail

At number 3, we have Vail. Vail Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States, with 5,289 skiable acres. The ski resort is renowned for its pristine slopes, large variety of terrain and challenging expert runs. Vail has a world-class ski-in, ski-out village and is home to numerous restaurants, bars and shops. With three base areas, Vail has a wide variety of ski terrain for all skill levels, from easy cruisers to the famous Back Bowls. Despite the crowds, Vail’s ski slopes are well-groomed and the snow is usually reliable.

Vail Back Bowls Trail Map
Vail Front Trail Map
Vail Blue Sky Trail Map

2) SteamBoat Springs

At number 2, we have Steamboat. Steamboat Ski Resort is a favorite among skiers and snowboarders for its world-famous powder snow. Steamboat offers a wide variety of terrain, including beginner, intermediate and expert slopes. The ski resort is well known for its large amount of snow, high elevation, and top-notch ski facilities. The ski resort’s base village is a lively hub of activity, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and après-ski activities to keep you entertained. The terrain is well-maintained, and the ski runs are well-groomed, making it an ideal ski resort for families.

Steamboat Trail Map

Ski Chest Pack

Before you check out the #1 Ski resort be sure to check out our top Selling Snowboard Chest packs.

Onyx Rave Chest Bag

1) Snowmass

And topping it off at number 1, we got Snowmass. Aspen and Snowmass are owned by the same people, and it seems like they are putting way more money into Snowmass. Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is a collection of four interconnected ski areas. It offers a wide variety of terrain for all levels, from easy cruisers to steep, challenging terrain. The ski resort is well known for its beautiful slopes, high-end amenities, and lively nightlife. The town of Aspen is famous for its glitzy atmosphere, attracting celebrities and high-end shoppers, but it’s also a fantastic ski resort for families and ski enthusiasts alike.

Snowmass Trail Map

So there you have it, the top 10 ski resorts in Colorado. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a ski resort in Colorado that’s perfect for you. From the stunning scenery and high-end amenities of Aspen Snowmass to the challenging terrain of Arapahoe Basin, Colorado has something for everyone. Be sure to get a RaveRunner® Snowboard Chest Pack and we will see you on the mountains.

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