Review: NoBox – A two knife review
A look at two knives from NoBox. NoBox makes camping equipment suitable for the outdoors, everyday use, and those who tend to not make a distinction. Read More …
Category: Gear
The most popular topic of the outdoors it seems.
Review: Ventury Silverlight Socks
The Ventury Silverlight socks are an alternative to the well-regarded Darn Tough socks with claimed anti-microbial properties. Read More …
Gear Review: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm MAX
A one year+ review of the NeoAir XTherm MAX (rectangular) for cold weather backpacking. The non-WingLock version can be bought at a discount as of 1/2020. Read More …
Jack of All Trades gear
Limited budget, space, or time? Here is a Jack of All Trades gear kit for backpacking, camping, trail work, day hikes, and mild winter activities. Read More …
Top gear of the decade
Items of gear and clothing that I used consistently over the decade. Read More …
Gear review: TSLA 1/4 Zip HyperDri shirt
A light layer excellent for cooler three-season conditions. And only $17. A women’s version is also available for $14. Read More …
Gear pick of the year 2019 – A beat-up Coleman cooler
Utilitarian, effective, it stood the test of time, and cheap – a beat-up 28 qt Coleman Cooler Read More …
Review – Zoner Photo Studio X
If you want an affordable Abode Lightroom alternative or better support and smoother operation than GIMP, get Zoner Photo Stuido X. Read More …
The Joy of Car Camping – Base Camping for the active outdoors person
An extensive guide to car camping. Includes suggested equipment, clothing, gear and a gear checklist. Read More …
Long Term Review: Champion Brand Wind Pants (Target)
Some “shell” pants for winter use. Discount store wind pants are inexpensive, light, and effective. And I’ve used the same pair for nearly a decade. Read More …
Quick Tip: Firearms oil for pole maintenance
With oil used to lubricate and clean firearms and some simple scrub brushes, you’ll keep your hiking and ski poles in optimal condition. Read More …
STCT USB Headlight – The poor person’s Nitecore
The STCT USB Headlight is a $17 headlamp with 145 Lumens and high water resistance that boasts similar features of more expensive models. Read More …
The Budget Backpacking Kit
A sequel of sorts to my $300 gear challenge. A little under $800 for a kit that is light, functional, and easily, assembled. Read More …
Communication technology options: A vendor neutral view
An overlook at various options for communication technology in the backcountry for personal use, emergency, commercial, or search and rescue applications. Read More …
Getting organized, some light construction, and a sewing room
What I’ve been up to and answering the occasional questions of how we organize all our gear and clothing. Read More …
What’s in your mail drop?
Joan details what she places in her maildrops for long hikes and why. With a focus on her cold food (no stove) strategy.
My day pack – what I have prepacked
Rather than accidentally forget the gear, I always have my ~3 lb daypack pre-staged. Here’s what’s in my day pack. Read More …
Lightweight Backpacking: BassPro and Cabela’s
Going lightweight (sub-20lbs) with gear and clothing from BassPro and Cabela’s. Yes, the 8 billion dollar company sells “real” outdoor gear not in camo! Read More …
Quick Tip: Dishwashing gloves for rain
A budget item that is readily available for keeping your hands warm and dry in cold rain. Read More …
Hands-free umbrella rigging
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 …
Gear Review: Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow carbon umbrella
Joan reviews this 6.8 oz (193g) carbon fiber shaft umbrella after many miles of hiking in Utah, Nevada, and on the PCT. Read More …
Gear Review: Toaks titanium alcohol stove cook system
A light and efficient stove system suitable for solo use. But it is the Siphon Stove itself that most impressed me. Read More …