Morsel Munk: Gifts for outdoor enthusiasts

WINSTED — If there’s anything you have to know how to handle in Connecticut, it’s the changes of season, which can sometimes be a major pain, as was the case with October’s statewide “snowpocalypse.” But dealing with those changing seasons also brings a sense of joy, as winter in New England makes for some of the best Christmases in the world, along with opportunities to explore the outdoors in new ways.One place in Winsted that is showing people how to do just that is Morsel Munk, the oddly-named sports shop located in the old Canton Cycles building on Main Street, near the corner of routes 8 and 44, where you can learn a lot about avoiding seasonal affective disorder by embracing a world of outdoor fun. From hiking and camping to snowboarding and surfing, this store has something for everyone to enjoy, no matter how cold it gets outside.Being one of those people who consider themselves summer folk, I called Morsel Munk co-owner Brigitte Rouleau recently to find out what she might have for me to beat the winter blues. One of the first things she recommended sounded a bit exotic, but cool — strap a camera to your head and go careening down a mountain, paddling down a river or snowmobiling through the woods.Yes, that’s right, the Morsel Munk gang is so into the outdoors that they are still paddling down rivers that have not yet iced over. “I’ll keep paddling until they freeze,” Rouleau said. “I wear a wetsuit, and it’s really not that cold.”But getting back to the cameras, Rouleau said the new GoPro high-definition helmet cameras are now in stock at Morsel Munk and they are some of the most sophisticated and effective high-speed cameras on the retail market right now. With all the gear you need to strap one to your body, or to the top of a helmet, these cameras will help you re-live all of your death-defying experiences in still images and video that you can watch on your flatscreen at home, provided you make it back. The GoPro HD Hero2 Outdoor Edition isn’t cheap at $299.99, but it’s not exorbitant either, especially for experienced daredevils.Seriously, though, the gang at Morsel Munk doesn’t want you to risk your health or life while you’re out sporting, but to simply enjoy the outdoors, and there are lots of products that are simply made to keep you warm, no matter what you’re doing. From high-quality sweaters and sunglasses to Vermont-made Darn Tough seamless wool socks that are guaranteed for life, you will find there are plenty of ideas to keep you toasty.For those who are shedding pounds and want to keep them off this winter, Morsel Munk is launching its first season of snowshoe rentals this year. “Some people may just want to try it, or you might have friends in for the weekend who need to rent a pair,” Rouleau said. “It’s a good way to get started.” Anyone who rents gear from Morsel Munk can apply the cost of their first rental to the cost of the item if they decide to purchase.Another sweet deal is a $5 gift card for every $50 in purchases you make. The gift cards can be added together or split up any way you choose and used as stocking stuffers. Little gifts like lip balm, brain-teaser games and emergency kits for athletes are featured throughout the store. “We want people to embrace the outdoors,” Rouleau said, noting that no matter how cold it gets outside there is always something to do. The overall mission of Morsel Munk is to help people of all ages to stay young at heart, and choosing the right gear is a great way to start.People are always invited to stop in at Morsel Munk to see the wide variety of outdoor products available, but you can also peruse items online at www.morselmunk.com. The store is also encouraging people to get involved in social media for information on special discounts and freebies. In the near future, the store plans to set up in-store clinics to teach people how to register with social media sites and take advantage of those deals. All will be welcome to drop in and take a look.Morsel Munk is located at 70 South Main St., Suite 2, Winsted. Visit the website or call 860-238-4466 for information.