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Category Archives: Gear Review
Darn Tough Socks. Are they REALLY “Unconditionally Guaranteed for Life”? A personal experience.
Before I get into my unsolicited review of Darn Tough Socks, let me tell you a story about a younger and less experienced version of myself. When I first got into backpacking and hiking, I went and spent a lot … Continue reading
New Day Pack – ALPS Mountaineering Baja 20 Review
After using the same daypack for approximately 10 years, it was time for a new one. On my old day pack, the elastic on the side pockets had worn out, so every time I bent over, my water bottles would … Continue reading
Posted in Backpacking, Beginner Series, Gear Review, Hiking
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Updated (again) Water Filter System
My water filter system has been improved and simplified. Again. Here is what what I have have been been using for the past couple of years. I don’t know what I would change EXCEPT bringing the backflush syringe for longer … Continue reading
Posted in Backpacking, Beginner Series, DIY, Gear Review, Hammock Camping, Hiking
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Blue Ridge Overland Gear Tool Bag
I purchased a 2020 Toyota Tacoma SR 4×4 last year and I’m loving it. I have run into a few instances of other people not being prepared with basic tools or “self recovery” type of items. Over the past year, … Continue reading
Initial Impressions of Big Agnes Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad
I recently had my first recent section hike of the Appalachian Trail. A portion of the trail (over 70 miles) passes through the Smoky Mountains and section hikers are required to make reservations and sleep in the shelters. I’m primarily … Continue reading
Posted in Backpacking, Gear Review
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Initial impressions of the Thrupack Summit Bum – Pocket
One of my goals in the past few years has been a lighter pack weight and to hike more efficiently. I am pretty happy with my pack weight and gear. My base weight (everything except food and water) for cold … Continue reading
Posted in Backpacking, Gear Review, Hiking
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Track my progress real-time on my SPOT GPS Messenger
I’m leaving tomorrow (10/5/2019) morning to drive to Elkmont, Tennessee and begin a 4 day, 35 mile backpacking trip. To show how a SPOT GPS Messenger works, I am sharing my public page where you can track my progress. There … Continue reading
LightHeart Gear Rain Jacket initial impression
My gear list is always being refined. While looking at a spreadsheet I use for planning what to pack and where I can improve my pack weight, one area that has stuck out recently is my rain jacket. I have … Continue reading
Posted in Backpacking, Gear Review
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Initial impressions of the Outdoor Vitals LoftTek (TM) Insulated Jacket and compared to the Patagonia Nano-Puff Jacket
Yes, it has been several months since I’ve posted. Life has been busy. However, I received something in the mail and thought I’d share! You may have seen the OutdoorVitals jacket for sale on Kickstarter. If not, the link is … Continue reading
Posted in Backpacking, Gear Review, Hammock Camping, Hiking
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Dirty Girl Gaiters (Initial impressions)
All quotes are from https://dirtygirlgaiters.com/ I finally gave in to peer pressure and purchased a pair of Dirty Girl Gaiters to wear when I’m hiking. For the unknowing, Dirty Girl Gaiters are lightweight gaiters that fit from just above your … Continue reading
Posted in Backpacking, Gear Review, Hiking
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bad biscuit 