When I started hiking and backpacking long ago, wool was seen as fuddy-duddy. What was in style then were the newer fabrics, all created in labs by scientists. And it best had "tec" in its trademarked name back then. And overall, this hasn't changed in the past 20 to 30 years. Maybe the biggest change… Continue reading An Ode To The Wool Sweater
Tag: Hiking Gear
Gear Review: Farmer’s Defense Protection Sleeves
Years ago, I started wearing hiking sleeves in summer. I was tired of starting at sunrise when it was chilly at the trailhead (in the 30s), and within an hour, I was so hot as the sun came up over the ridge. Before, I found that I'd be in a long-sleeved top to stay warm… Continue reading Gear Review: Farmer’s Defense Protection Sleeves
Gear Review: Cirkul Metal Bottle
Last year, I reviewed the standard 22-ounce Cirkul water bottle on the blog. Recently, they debuted a new 32-ounce Cirkul bottle in stainless steel. It comes in a variety of very trendy colors. The small Walmart 30+ miles away had the hit pink, light pink, and chameleon colors in a setup in the aisle. Who… Continue reading Gear Review: Cirkul Metal Bottle
Spring Cleaning The Outdoor Kitchen
WTA (Washington Trails Association) posted a good article on "Prep Now, Eat Well Later" the other week about getting ready for the warmer months. And truthfully, late winter is a great time to shake down all your hiking and outdoor gear, including your backcountry kitchen. And Spring is fast approaching. What should you do? Get… Continue reading Spring Cleaning The Outdoor Kitchen
For The Love Of Women’s Gear
As I read an article this morning by Backpacker Magazine (You May Have Bought Your Last Women's Sleeping Bag) I was both angry and very sad. For what I feel may well anger some, who will tell me I am the problem, a dinosaur in a changing world. I will be called an angry Terf,… Continue reading For The Love Of Women’s Gear