On one of the Facebook groups I belong to, the members were discussing the differences between Kahtoola K·10 Hiking Crampons and Hillsound Trail Crampon PROs. Since I own both, I snapped a few pics of them. Also, here are some notes of the key differences I’ve noticed. Binding system (not pictured, will get more pics later) I prefer the Hillsound … Read More
Why Buy? Merino wool is an amazing material. After using it throughout the spring and summer, I was convinced of it’s antibacterial (odor preventing) and wicking properties. Testing mostly socks and shirts in temperatures ranging from the 30s to 90s, I was continually impressed how well merino regulated my body temperature and was especially impressed with how much merino could be worn … Read More
To celebrate a great year of hiking and product testing, I’m giving away gear from some of my favorite manufacturers! This week, Woolx is teaming up with HikingGeek and Tales of the Trails to give one (1) lucky winner a Woolx Heavyweight Merino Wool Hat & Long Neck 3 In One Gaiter! The winner will decide what color they want.
Why Buy? When I head to the mountains, I carry a beanie. It doesn’t matter if it’s 90 degrees at home or if the forecast is clear. I never know when I could spend an unplanned night on the trail or when the weather will take a turn for the worse. While I am concerned with pack weight, my safety take precedence. … Read More
Typically, I’d want to get out with a new piece of gear more than a couple of times before dedicating a full post to it, but since I have several friends already asking about my experience with the High Sierra Sniveller and Jacks ‘R’ Better is also having a sale right now, I decided to post my first impressions of the quilt right … Read More
Why Buy? I bought my first hiking backpack on a whim. I had been using my wife’s old Camelback and had intended to carry it on Mt. Whitney hike I was preparing for. Through an online sale, I was able to buy a backpack with a suspended back panel for $60 (REI Venturi 30). After three years of abuse, it was time … Read More
Why Buy? Back in June, I went on my first multi-night backpacking trip in eight years, covering 60+ miles in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park on the High Sierra Trail (HST). It may sounds ridiculous, but one of my concerns leading into the hike was figuring out what socks and how many pairs of socks I needed to carry. Here are some … Read More
Why ‘Buy’? Quality hiking and backpacking gear is expensive. This cost can grow exponentially when you’re inexperienced and unsure of what gear is going to work for you. It is not uncommon for individuals to buy gear, find out it doesn’t work well for them and then find themselves repurchasing gear. Others buy gear, then find out they don’t like backpacking … Read More
Why Buy? Taking photos is an important part of hiking for me. I enjoy writing trip reports and sharing my experience through photos. In an effort to reduce weight, I’ve tried using my smartphone, as well as point & shoot cameras, but I’ve been unsatisfied with the results. In order to get the photos I desire, I need to carry something … Read More
Why Buy? Back in June, I went on my first multi-night backpacking trip in eight years, covering 60+ miles in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park on the High Sierra Trail (HST). One of my primary concerns leading into the hike was figuring out what I was going to bring for clothing. Here are some of the things I was thinking … Read More