Backpack maker Osprey has come out with a new ultra-lightweight pack. The new Exos series comes in 34, 46, and 58 litre sizes. At 2.3 pounds for the Exos 46, this certainly isn’t a heavy pack. Osprey uses quite a few tricks to get the weight down including die cut shoulder straps, using as little…
Monthly Archives: February 2009
How to Choose the Right Hiking Boots
Picking out a pair of hiking boots is one of the most important decisions we make as hikers or backpackers. Here are a few areas to consider when choosing the boots that are best for you.
Gore-Tex Comfort Mapping
W.L. Gore, makers of the famous Gore-Tex fabric recently announced a newer version of their comfort mapping technology. Essentially, Gore has found a way to bond different fabrics directly to the standard Gore-Tex fabrics. The obvious downside to this is that the bonded fabric is more bulky and does not breathe as well. So, what…
Energy Gels vs Chews
Energy gels are a popular way for athletes and mountaineers to keep energy levels up on days of high exertion. However, the texture of the average energy gel can be best described as drinking thick syrup. After a few gels, one begins to long for something that requires chewing. This is where energy chews come…
Soft Shell vs. Hard Shell Jackets
Confused by the plethora of jacket options at your local REI? Wondering what a soft shell is and why exactly is that jacket worth $200? Read more and find the answer.
Origami Dishware: Orikaso vs. Fozzils
When backpacking, space is always at a premium; tableware takes up precious pack space and weight. Two companies, Orikaso and Fozzils, have created an innovative solution to this problem: flat, foldable dishware.
Mountain Hardwear Xenon Stretch Gaiter
The Xenon Stretch Gaiter is Mountain Hardwear’s answer to the venerable OR Expedition Crocadile Gaiter. How do they compare? Read more to find out.
OutDry comes to the US
Long time king of the outdoor fabric world, Gore-Tex has a new competitor. In the past year, eVent has been making inroads in the US market with claims that it is more breathable than Gore-Tex Pro Shell. Now it seems a third player is emerging. Clothing maker Mountain Hardwear has announced that they are partnering with the Italian company Nextec, maker of OutDry.
Black Diamond Alpine CF Trekking Poles
The Alpine CF trekking pole is the top of Black Diamond’s Mountain line of trekking poles. Touted as the quietest and lightest trekking pole that the company offers, it has a lot to live up to.