Tents
Single-wall Tents There are two types of single wall tents. The first is made using waterproof (or water resistant) breathable materials. These are typically free standing shelters designed for mountaineering, and have very similar designs such as those from Bibler, Rab, or Black Diamond. I like … “Tents”
Read MoreWinter Shelters
Actually, this should really be called shelters for extreme conditions with snow since there are many places where “winter” could be handled with a traditional “three season” tent. When I think “winter shelters” I am thinking something that can survive 50+mph winds, and a foot … “Winter Shelters”
Read MoreShelter Fabrics
Shelters are made from a variety of materials which have a variety of strengths and weaknesses. One of the important properties of a shelter is being able to keep you dry. Many fabrics, even those that aren’t “waterproof” can keep you drive in moderate conditions. … “Shelter Fabrics”
Read MoreSelecting Campsites
Some brief notes by other sectionhikers campsite selection Look for someplace with soft ground. Not only is this more comfortable to sleep on, but if it rains, the water will more quickly soak in. Look for someplace that has good drainage: slightly higher than the near … “Selecting Campsites”
Read MoreStakes
Most shelters need something to keep them from blowing away. Most people carry metal or plastic stakes, though it is often possible to improvise using local material. Ultralight backpackers often use titanium stakes because they are strong and reasonably light. There is no one best … “Stakes”
Read MoreBackpacking
The following posts can provide a good overview for someone who is thinking and trying backpacking for the first time. Getting Starting Gear You Will Need Food on the Trail Getting a Good Night Sleep Survival skills Additional Resources… books, websites, etc I have some … “Backpacking”
Read MoreBackpacks for Kids
The general rule of thumb is that people shouldn’t carry more than 1/4 of their body weight. That means that a 60 pound child shouldn’t be carrying more than a 15 pound pack for an extended period of time, a 100 pound child shouldn’t be … “Backpacks for Kids”
Read MoreSurvival Skills
Remember the 3s You need air in 3 minutes (and to stop severe bleeding), to get warmth in 3 hours, water in 3 days, and food in 3 weeks. The Wisdom of Abo Dude touches on most of the survival principles I learned growing up. Cody also has … “Survival Skills”
Read MoreOutdoor Gear
My recommendations are focused on backpacking gear, but most of the observations are applicable to a variety of outdoor activities. Clothing Backpacks Sleep System Shelters (tents, tarps, hammocks) Kitchen Gear: Stoves, Cookwares, Water, Food Storage Other Items: Knives, Lights Ultralight Approach The key to ultralight is to use your head… … “Outdoor Gear”
Read MoreGetting a Good Night Sleep in the Outdoors
Many people under estimate the value of a good night of sleep. If you don’t cherish your sleep, you might want to read The Problem of Sleep which does a good job of documenting the value of sleep, what interferes with good sleep, and what the negative … “Getting a Good Night Sleep in the Outdoors”
Read MoreSleeping Pads
Sleeping pads provide comfort which can enable a good night of sleep. Waking up in the morning feeling worse than when you went to bed is no fun. Some people can sleep on the bare ground or maybe 1/8″ foam pads for some insulation. I … “Sleeping Pads”
Read MoreSleeping Bag & Quilt
Having the right amount of insulation and comfortable surface to sleep on top of can be the difference between a restful night and a night that you can’t wait to end. Sleeping bags and quilt are the most cost effective ways to insure you have the right … “Sleeping Bag & Quilt”
Read MoreInsulation Materials
Historically the three best choices are Down, Polarguard (especially 3D and Delta), and Primaloft, though Climashield sounds pretty good and will likely replace Polarguard as the most commonly use synthetic in the next few years. Each of these materials has different performance characteristics. You will … “Insulation Materials”
Read MoreShaped Tarps
Shaped tarps can be exceptionally light weight while providing excellent storm protection. The downside of many shaped tarps is that they way you pitch them is limited compared to a classic flat tarp. Shaped tarps come in a variety of sizes and shapes. I have … “Shaped Tarps”
Read MoreSykes Hot Springs
Sykes Hot Springs is one of my favorite places to take first time backpackers who are reasonably fit. The destination has some nice hot springs and a trout filled stream. The hike is pretty. The trip is long enough that people have a sense they … “Sykes Hot Springs”
Read MoreBackpacking: Getting Started
One of my joys has been introducing people to backpacking and wilderness experiences. I have seen a wide range of reactions. I have seen some people who just couldn’t adjust. They were just too used to climate controlled environments, were scared of wild life, hated … “Backpacking: Getting Started”
Read MoreWhat is Percent of Naked?: Patagonia on Technologies and Testing
The following was Patagonia’s response to some questions about materials and testing which was posted in 2005 to a public forum. Most of this article matches my personal experience and still seems valid today. Mark Verber Innovation, that steamroller of change, has, over the past five … “What is Percent of Naked?: Patagonia on Technologies and Testing”
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