Frequently Asked Questions
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Foam Sleeping Pads vs Inflatable Pads on the Appalachian Trail
One of the biggest questions when choosing a sleeping pad for the Appalachian Trail (AT) is deciding between a closed-cell…
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Best Types of Rain Pants for Hiking and Backpacking
Hiking and backpacking rain pants are designed to protect you from the chilling effects of rain or wind. If you…
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Trail Runners vs Hiking Shoes: Age and Experience Choice Factors
Trail runners and hiking shoes each have strengths, but age and hiking experience can make one option feel safer, more…
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Short Sleeping Pads for Ultralight Backpacking
Switching to a shorter length sleeping pad is a good way to reduce the weight of your ultralight backpacking gear,…
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How Long Should You Boil Snow in Winter?
If you melt snow in winter for drinking water, you still need to purify it before you can drink it.…
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How to Keep Your Ski Goggles from Fogging on Winter Hikes
Winter hiking above treeline often means dealing with strong wind, blowing snow, and extreme cold. In these conditions, you may…
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How to Melt Snow…Without Burning a Hole in Your Cooking Pot
Winter backpacking requires the development of many new skills, particularly in the area of hydration and stove use. Chief amongst…
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10 Winter Hiking and Backpacking Hacks
There is really no substitute for experience when it comes to winter hiking, backpacking, and camping. You can read about…
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Winter Hiking FAQ: Beginner Questions Answered
If you don’t hike in winter, you’re missing out on a lot of great hiking during half of the year.…
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How to Tip a Mountain Guide
Mountain guiding is a service industry, and a mountain guide is really no different from your taxi driver, your waitress,…
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Hiking Gaiters and Footwear Compatibility
Gaiters are an essential clothing and footwear accessory for hikers and backpackers that provide moisture protection, extra insulation, and protection…
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Softshell Jackets for Winter Hiking: Pros and Cons
A softshell jacket is a stretchy, breathable outer layer, well-suited for winter hiking, that balances weather protection with comfort and…
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Can You Winter Hike or Snowshoe in a Puffy Insulated Jacket
A lot of people wear lightweight puffy jackets as outer or mid-layers when winter hiking and snowshoeing, so it’s obvious…
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Hiking Traction Aids for Shoulder Season Conditions
As winter approaches, it’s often prudent to carry hiking traction aids for shoulder season conditions when sections of trails are…
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