Joan West – Page 2

Gear we liked for 2023

Posted onNovember 25, 2023January 27, 2026AuthorPaul Mags4 Comments

Our annual look at the pieces of gear and clothing we enjoyed over the past year. A mix of high-end, cottage, budget, and even surplus. Read More …

Completion of a dream

Posted onJuly 21, 2023July 21, 2023AuthorPaul Mags5 Comments

“I finally completed all 2650 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. I started in 2014, and this was my last of five long section hikes” . Joan continues to amaze me. A dream fulfilled. Looking forward to seeing her Saturday. Read More …

Gear review – Lightheart Gear Base Layer Shirt

Posted onJanuary 17, 2023January 30, 2026AuthorJoanLeave a comment

Joan looks at a base layer shirt designed by a woman for women and made in the USA. Read More …

New gear we liked for 2022

Posted onNovember 30, 2022January 27, 2026AuthorPaul Mags7 Comments

A look over the pieces of gear and clothing that served us well in 2022. Read More …

Gear Review – Squak Mountain Co. fleece hoodie

Posted onNovember 22, 2022January 27, 2026AuthorJoan1 Comment

Joan reviews the $60 Squak Mountain Co grid fleece hoodie. Based out of Utah, it’s a Melly-style hoodie for active use. No appointment is needed to purchase! Read More …

New gear we liked for 2021

Posted onDecember 14, 2021April 27, 2025AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

We did not buy or have a chance to try out much new gear or clothing this past year. Instead, we replaced worn-out items with a few exceptions. Read More …

Pee rag – Kula Cloth vs. cotton bandanna

Posted onSeptember 14, 2021April 27, 2025AuthorPaul Mags2 Comments

With over six months of active use, Joan looks at the well-known Kula Cloth and compares it to the more budget-minded bandanna from the past decade-plus of use. Read More …

Right on Trek Meal Planning – Two Views

Posted onApril 27, 2021April 29, 2021AuthorPaul Mags5 Comments

Looking at the RightOnTrek meals and meal planning shopping. I loved the logistic part; Joan liked the variety. Includes a code for a free meal and discounts. Read More …

Dealing with Reynaud’s Syndrome – Gear and techniques

Posted onNovember 23, 2020December 3, 2020AuthorJoan17 Comments

Joan shares some thoughts on gear, techniques, and skills she uses to deal with Reynaud’s Syndrome while in the outdoors. Read More …

How to make staying local into a #epicadventure

Posted onSeptember 15, 2020October 8, 2020AuthorJoan2 Comments

Joan shares five tips on how to find joy in the local areas. Read More …

Sleeping systems – Joan’s Picks

Posted onAugust 31, 2020April 25, 2025AuthorJoan4 Comments

Joan’s thoughts on sleeping systems for winter, cowboy camping, hammock camping, and more and what works best for her. Read More …

Thoughts on hiking solo

Posted onJanuary 24, 2020April 26, 2025AuthorJoan17 Comments

Joan shares some thoughts on her solo hiking experience. Read More …

What’s in your mail drop?

Posted onOctober 30, 2019October 30, 2019AuthorJoan5 Comments

Joan details what she places in her maildrops for long hikes and why. With a focus on her cold food (no stove) strategy.

Hands-free umbrella rigging

Posted onSeptember 23, 2019December 18, 2024AuthorJoan12 Comments

Joan shares her techniques for using an umbrella hands-free. Bonus: She also shares some unique, and colorful, alternative uses for an umbrella, too! Read More …