Grab and go – Pantry tote
Organization is not glamorous, but it buys us more time outside. Our pantry tote is a key part of that system. Read More …
Category: Gear
The most popular topic of the outdoors it seems.
Budget overlook – 32 Degree Heat light puffy
An inexpensive, functional puffy jacket for outdoor work, go bags, day hikes, and starter backpacking kit. Not fancy, but useful. Read More …
Avenza: Enshittified. Sigh.
Another victim of enshittification – Avenza Maps Read More …
Ultralight as an auto hobby
Ultralight hobbyists reminds me classic car aficionados. Some thoughts. Read More …
Backpacking and Car camping – Two tools in the timebank kit
We often treat backpacking and car camping as separate categories. They’re not. They’re two tools that add to the overall time outside. Some thoughts. Read More …
Gear Review – Hywell Merino Wool Boot Socks
An alternative sock to Darn Tough that does not quite work well for trail runners. Read More …
Western Snap shirts vs. Sun Hoodies- Hot and Dry Weather
I’ve tried several sun hoodies over the years. I still find my poly-cotton Western snap shirt works better in hot, dry weather. Here’s why. Read More …
One Year Review – OYGSieg Sun Hoodie
A look at some effective sun hoodies for cool to cold weather use. Read More …
Standard vs Grid vs Alpha vs Octa Fleece for Backpacking: Real-World Pros and Cons
Solid, grid, Alpha, and Octa fleece for backpacking and hiking. Real-world durability, breathability, cost, and when each layer works best. Updated Feb 2026. Read More …
Gear Review – Nalgene Ultralite Wide-Mouth Bottle
A look at the Nalgene UL widemouthed bottle that has a place in our cold weather kit. Read More …
Gear pick of the year 2025 – Cider, rum, and chocolate
Gear pick of the year for 2025? Cider, chocolate, and rum. Read More …
How to get ultralight?
Going ultralight with your gear is a Holy Grail of sorts for many new to backpacking. Here are some thoughts on achieving that goal. Read More …
The Quiver – Top Shelters of all time!
What began as a parody of “top ten” gear lists has grown into a reflection on how real shelter choices evolve with trips, partners, seasons, and the simple goal of sleeping well and walking on. Updated 2025. Read More …
Gear we liked for 2025
Our annual roundup of the simple, effective gear that served Joan and me well in 2025 — from shelters and stoves to daypacks, pans, and a few DIY touches. Read More …
Shoulder Season – The Time in Between
You’ll often see publications and experienced outdoors people talk about “shoulder season.” What is it? And what adjustments do you need to make? Read More …
Flying with backpacking gear
Some tips, pointers, ideas, and caveats about packing backpacking gear when you’ll arrive by plane, train, or bus. Read More …
A properly attired hiker: Blaze orange in hunting season
Different options for the wearing of blaze orange and other hi-vis colors while hiking during peak hunting season. Updated Fall 2025. Read More …
Cold and Wet: The Hardest Hiking
What to wear in what many people consider to be among the most difficult of conditions: cold and wet. Updated Sept 2025. Read More …