I bought a Sawyer inline water purifier about a month ago, hoping it would replace my General Ecology First Need water filter which is about 12 ounces heavier. Both the Sawyer and the First Need are the only EPA approved filters on the market capable...
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This weekend I took another section hike on the Appalachian Trail from Lee, MA to Dalton, MA, a distance of 20 miles. Unlike my last trip, this section was infinitely easier. The snow had all melted and the daytime temperatures were a lot higher. I was...
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When I started using the Platypus hydration system (collapsible bladder and hose), I periodically had leaks where water would seep out of the system and get the contents of my pack wet. The source of these leaks was the connection between the hose adapter...
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Ultralight backpack manufacturers cut down on pack weight by removing a lot of creature comforts that you will normally find on heavier or mainstream backpacks. For example, hip belt pockets are not available as an option on my new Gossamer Gear Mariposa...
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When you go backpacking you need to take care of your feet. This may sound obvious, but people don't do a very good job of it. Blisters, plantar fasciitis, athletes foot, bunions, broken toenails, etc. can sideline you for days, weeks, or even an...
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I started breaking in a new pair of boots today. My current pair of Asolo TPS 520's (left) is in need of resoling and some repair work by a qualified cobbler. I've hiked at least 1000 miles in them over the past 2 years and they've served...
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It was a beautiful day today and I finally got a chance to try out the Gossamer Gear Mariposa Plus backpack I purchased a few weeks ago. This is an ultralight pack that is similar in some respects to the Starlite from Six Moon Designs. Both packs reduce...
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