Review: Gossamer Mariposa 60
I have gone through backpacks in the recent couple of years. Not from wearing them out, but due to them just not working out – fit, comfort and usability on my hikes. I sent back an REI “old fashioned” pack … Read More
I have gone through backpacks in the recent couple of years. Not from wearing them out, but due to them just not working out – fit, comfort and usability on my hikes. I sent back an REI “old fashioned” pack … Read More
After my Granite Gear Crown failed to live up to expectations last year, I replaced it with an Osprey Exos 58 Pack. After 2 test runs (hikes) of >15 miles each, I am rejecting the Exos as well. What I … Read More
If one is to hike in OR during ‘wet season’ – really anytime between October 1 and June 30 – then being prepared to get wet is very important, especially if like me you hate to get wet to the … Read More
Ok, i’ll admit it, I have serious feet / toes issues. I was blessed with genetic bias for bunions, hammer toes and corns (calluses). Those are usually enough to give serious hikers an issue. In addition, I have run (and … Read More
Following the success of Topo trail runners (summer shoes), and a need for wet and muddy hiking shoes, a new hiking boot was tested. The Topo Trailventure (REI link) Here’s REI’s snippet on the shoe Full eVentĀ® waterproof inner-bootie construction … Read More
After around 800 hiking miles this season, the final ‘go-to-gear’ list is ready to be baselined and improved for next season. Weight goals: Day Hiking – as light as possible, but weather dictates (OR weather can demand 2 rain shells, … Read More
After 4 days (and ~65 miles, and a South Sister summit), the current backpacking gear set review is much more accurate. Gear Type For this Hike Pack Granite Gear Crown2 (REI link) Good: – No serious pain, blisters or unexpected … Read More
To test out backpack gear for next week’s Sisters’ Loop, a good ramble up, down and around Mary’s Peak hit the mark. Planning for the test had me going back and forth between Hardesty to June or Mary’s Peak. Mary’s … Read More