The down jacket has become a symbol of outdoor professionals and enthusiasts: from climbing to backpacking to skiing and more. Providing excellent insulation from the cold and the wind, it is considered an essential item for anyone venturing out into the elements. However, the emergence of synthetic insulating jackets leaves many people wondering: What’s the …
Backpacking
I can remember with complete clarity the first time I hiked 20 miles in one day. I remember because it was agony. I was not accustomed to walking this distance with weight on my back, and quite simply it ruined me. So, can you hike 20 miles a day? Yes, you can hike 20 miles …
Yosemite is is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all calibers. With its ancient sequoia trees, the iconic Bridalveil Falls and majestic granite cliffs of Half Dome and El Capitan, there are so many wonders to enjoy. With over 800 miles of trails in the National Park, it entices thousands of holiday-makers, amateur hikers and …
On a backpacking trek, mainly an ultralight venture, every ounce counts. Sometimes we become hyper-focused on gear like packs, sleeping bags, and tents we forget about other essentials like stoves and headlamps. There are so many backpacking stoves to choose from on the market today that it can be a challenge to narrow down the …
Woolen socks are an essential item for many avid hikers and backpackers. They are breathable, sturdy and much more odor-resistant than your typical cotton socks. A decent pair can set you back a few dollars, so it is essential to wash and care for them properly if you want them to last. With the right …
If I told you it was possible to get fit and strengthen your legs and core while enjoying stunning scenery – would you believe me? What if I said it would improve your balance, help you to lose unwanted pounds, lower your blood pressure and improve your mood? You would be asking me for a …
Thru-hiking is an increasingly popular activity among outdoor enthusiasts, athletes and those who feel the call of the wild. 100 miles is often the first major target that multi-day hikers will set for themselves, and there are a good number of well-marked long distance trails all over the world which entice savvy hikers year after …
Many of us enjoy hiking in the great outdoors, sometimes for days at a time. But could you imagine doing it for weeks and even months at a time, perhaps, for example, to walk the length of an entire country – almost three times? That is, if you can believe, what some people do. Thru-hiking …
Trail mix is that wonderfully nutritious combination of foods designed to give you the energy needed to conquer the trail. However, you will quickly find that there are good things – and bad things – in store-bought products. We have found it is best to make your own trail mix at home, or to purchase …
Choosing the right type of clothing is vital when preparing for any time in the great outdoors, particularly when it involves activities like hiking and backpacking. Having the wrong gear can make or break your experience – being cold or wet in the outdoors is far from enjoyable. Your base layer is one of the …