I was on vacation last week and one of my many projects was to break in a new pair of Asolo TPS 520 hiking boots. My old Asolos finally died and I wanted to get the new ones ready for my next section hike on the Long Trail, over Mt. Mansfield, the highest peak [...]

read more from this topic.....

I’ve tried a bunch of different bug net shelters this year, in order to find a bug net that could be used in a shelter or under an ultralight tarp to protect me from black flies and mosquito bites. One of these, the Sea to Summit Mosquito Net shelter did not make the [...]

read more from this topic.....

One of the most versatile pieces of gear I’ve tried this year are Buff Bandanas. They make excellent hats, headbands, scarves, potholders, bug masks, and so on.
A buff is a tube of polyester fabric. If you slip it over your head, it will form a hat that will keep you warm or keep the sun [...]

read more from this topic.....

On my past two backpacking trips, I’ve brought along a Gossamer Gear bug canopy to keep the bugs of my face when I sleep in open shelters. Weighing only 2.3 oz., this bug net can be hung underneath a tarp or in a shelter. Setting it up requires a little practice however and it’s best [...]

read more from this topic.....

Illiotibial Band Syndrome (ITB) can really slow down hikers and backpackers. I know, I’m suffering from it this sumer.

But about 2 months ago, I bought myself a Protec Illiotibial Band wrap from Footsmart that has kept the condition under control and helped me hike some of the hardest miles on the entire Long Trail. In [...]

read more from this topic.....