I recently purchased a new day pack for those fast and longer day hikes. Research was focused on the following features / requirements: The search took several weeks while reading reviews and exploring different options. I discovered the Yar Gear … Read More

After two hikes, this is my ‘go-to’ water purification system for ‘flowing water’ sources (contrasted to ‘still water’ sources, e.g., ponds and lakes). Katadyn BeFree (Rei page) This is so light and easy to make small, I carried it in … Read More

For the last two years, Topo Athletic has been my go-to shoe for hiking and training. Nothing has changed; they are the best shoe so-far for my odd-ball feet. With this spring season closing and summer starting, different shoes take … 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

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 eVent® 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