Winter Hiking

Kahtoola KTS Crampons Review

Kahtoola K10 Ultralight Crampons

Kahtoola’s KTS Crampons are a winter traction aid designed for use with soft-soled shoes. This is important in spring when the base of peaks have no snow, but you need to bring along traction to deal with lingering ice on high ledges …

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Winter Hiking Glove Systems

Winter Hiking Glove Systems

Most winter hikers carry several pairs of gloves and switch between as their needs for breathability, dexterity, wind resistance, waterproofing, or warmth change during the day. No one pair of gloves can satisfy all of these needs, so it’s best to carry …

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How to Safely Cross Streams in Winter

How to Safely Cross Streams in Winter

Winter stream crossings can be dangerous if you slip off a rock or fall through an ice shelf and get your boots and clothing wet. However, you can often cross safely with a little extra planning or by bushwhacking along the bank …

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Dachstein Arctic Boiled Wool Gloves Review

Dachstein Arctic Boiled Wool Gloves Review

Dachstein’s Arctic Boiled Wool Gloves are very warm, three-ply, boiled wool gloves (more on this below) that make exceptional liners in waterproof shell mittens. When the mercury drops to near zero or below, these are the gloves you want to be wearing. …

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Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters Review

When you’re hiking through snow, gaiters are an essential piece of gear because they help keep your socks dry. Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters are so-called because they’re built tough like the skin of the animal. Toughness is important, especially around the ankles when wearing …

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Winter Bivy Sack Guide 2021-2022

Winter Bivy Sack Guide 2021-2022

Winter bivy sacks were first developed as solo shelters for mountaineering and climbing where participants were interested in lightweight and highly compressible camping gear. Bivy Sacks are also an attractive option for backpacking hunters, backcountry skiers, and winter backpackers who want the …

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Winter Hiking Safety Tips

Snowshoeing up the Polecat Trail

Winter can be a dangerous time to hike or camp in the backcountry, but with planning and proper preparation, a winter hike can be a safe and enjoyable experience. Please keep the following in mind when planning an outing: For safety, never …

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Wolverine ShiftPlus Polar Range Boots Review

Wolverine ShiftPlus Polar Range Boots Review

Wolverine ShiftPlus Polar Range Boots are winter boots rated down to -40F with 400-gram Primaloft Aerogel insulation.  They’re not specifically designed for winter hiking and lack some of the features found on good winter hiking boots like a curved rockered sole designed …

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Vapor Barrier Socks Using Reynolds Oven Bags

Reynolds Oven Bags make excellent vapor barrier socks for very cold winter hiking

Reynolds Oven Bags can be used as vapor barrier socks for cold winter hiking. They prevent foot perspiration from degrading the insulation inside your boots and freezing overnight when winter camping. This is especially valuable if your insulated boots do not have …

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