Gear Review: Montbell Rain Trekker jacket
A sub-10oz three-layer jacket that works very well for constant precip and rougher conditions. Read More …
Category: Gear
The most popular topic of the outdoors it seems.
Stove Comparison – Real World Use
An overview of backpacking stove types with their pluses and minuses. No such thing a the “best stove”…just what is best for you. Revised October 2018. Read More …
Industry Terms, Outdoor Gear, and Marketing Buzz
Some musings on how industry terms for outdoor gear become marketing buzz. And how people use buzzwords to purchase gear without thinking what the terms mean. Read More …
Gear review: NatureHike Foam Pad (Z-Lite clone)
Here’s a $27 alternative to the $45 Z Lite or the new $50 Nemo Switchback. Similar specs and performance at about half the price. Read More …
Quick Tip: Psuedo Deadman Anchors
Deadman anchors are the way to secure a shelter in soft sand or snow. But there is a happy medium between a true deadman anchor and hoping your stakes hold. Read More …
Sleepings Pads – A grounded view
An overview and comparison of sleeping pads for backpacking and camping. Updated October 2018. Read More …
Gear review: Altra Superior 3.5
A very comfortable and light shoe that fits wider toe-boxes well. Not durable, however, and best for maintained trails and non-rough terrain. Read More …
Gear Review – Atlas Guides GDT app
A review of the Atlas Guides (Guthook) Great Divide Trail app for Android and iOS-based devices. More than just navigation, it works as a guidebook, too. Read More …
Gear Review: Montbell Versalite
A light, functional, and effective jacket that packs a lot of features in a 6 oz package. Including pit zips! Read More …
Rain Gear – What To Wear?
Which rain gear or shell to wear? Depending on the conditions, one piece of gear may be better than another. Updated October 2018. Read More …
Gear review: Salomon X Ultra 3 Hiking Shoes
An all-purpose hiking shoe good for rough trails and conditions in addition to off-trail jaunts. Reminiscent of the old Montrail Hardrocks in many ways. Read More …
Quick Tip: Baking Soda and Vinegar for stains
Nasty dirt, oils, sweat, and salt in your outdoor clothing and gear? Grab some white vinegar and baking soda! Read More …
Ground Cloths : A quick overview
An overlook at some options for ground cloths when backpacking or camping. Updated for 2018. Read More …
Long term review – Aqua-Tainer
A sturdy, reliable, and easy to use water container. Should be a simple item. But most aren’t good. The Reliance Aqua-Tainer is a 7-gallon wonder that works! Read More …
Gear Review: Greenbelly Meals-2-Go
A review of Greenbelly meal bars that prompted a discussion on food, nutrition, dollar to calorie ratio, and why we enjoy the outdoors. Read More …
Desert Rat Sartorial Splendor
Clothing and some gear I’ve been using since October in the desert or desert-like environments. Read More …
The Scamp: A Nickel Tour
I’ve received a surprising amount of interest in this little travel trailer. Here’s an overview for the curious. Read More …
Gear Review: Montbell Frostline Parka
A well-rounded, all-purpose winter backpacking down parka that is under-$300. But has many of the features of more expensive winter parkas. Read More …