Equipment Reviews

Winter Hiking. Now What?

2/13/2021

How do you traverse slippery slopes in the winter? I have experienced great success using a device called Kahtoola's Micro Spikes. They worked so well, I bought a pair for my wife, my kids and their spouses, and even friends. They fit on your boot nicely, and bring traction to your feet using 1/4" V-spikes.

I've used these extensively for the last several winters, and they are worth every penny. We have hiked in so many places that simply were not accessible any other way. I've had more than a few times wearing them was my only way out.

Slipstream Canoes

2/7/2019

We had been kayakers now for a number of years and have loved every minute of it. But we were feeling a bit ‘old'(er) every time we have to load them up. It seemed they were getting heavier and heavier. My wife struggles with it more than I as we tried to load them together. It was time to change things up.

Our ultralight paddling pursuit
Looking at various canoe manufacturers, we ended up at Slipstream Ultralight Watercraft. The price was reasonable, and the weight loss amazing! But we fell in love with the concept for a number of reasons:

They are light. A fraction of the weight of their kayak counterparts
There were options in materials and colors.
You sit in these like a kayak, so you have a low center of gravity... not a typical canoe.
You can paddle with a double sided paddle, or a traditional canoe paddle.
They are open front and rear for more camping gear, or just stuff. No more expensive gear... practically anything will fit for paddle camping!
They track extremely straight, yet you can tip slightly for quick corner paddling.
Usually only one person is needed load.
Easier portage: just put it on your shoulder.

I believe these are the best choice for light weight and price. And since I no longer dread loading them, I paddling more... so I really get my money's worth.

Trade Secrets of DIYing

2/7/2019

For those of us who enjoy the custom side of camping/backpacking, we have all types of resources to acquire the supplies to get things done. I’ve got a items here that you might be interested in:

Ripstopbytheroll.com These guys have all kinds of ripstop material, webbing, and ‘stuff’ you might need to get the job done.
UScargocontrol.com To buy webbing, and various tie down objects.
Rockywoods.com These guys seems to have the right stuff at the right time, particularly Gutermann Tera 80 thread in black!
Dutchwaregear.com These guys have some really interesting things and gadgets, along with the typical ripstop material, etc.
Theultimatehang.com This is the place to go to have all your DIY hammock questions answered.
Dreamhammock.com Has answered some the harder questions on DIY hammocks, especially regarding fabric choices.
Gearreport.com Hey, got a question? They might just have the answer.

Winter Hiking. Now What?

Slipstream Canoes

Trade Secrets of DIYing

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