Gear Guy

Thursday, July 08, 2004

Can you equip me for backpacking around Europe?

I know this is a huge question, but I'm going on a six-month backpacking trip across Europe and was wondering if you could give me some suggestions for a good...

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

What's the best bike for a cross-country ride?

I am in the very early stages of planning a cross-country bike ride, and plan to purchase a bike designed for long-distance touring. What do you recommend?

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Any thoughts on a good baby stroller to use when hiking?

Has Outside Online tested any jogging strollers lately, and where might I find the reviews? I'm looking for a jogging stroller to use mostly for hiking and...

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Are water-borne nasties only a problem in other countries?

I've been backpacking several times borrowing other people's equipment, but now I'm getting ready for a trip in the Adirondacks and need to get some more gear...

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Do I need full-on boots for a supported trek in Bhutan?

I am going on a five-day trek in Bhutan at altitudes of around 12,000 to 13,000 feet. We won't be carrying our packs, just our daypacks. Should I be looking for...

Monday, June 28, 2004

Which tent will keep me dry when it's raining hard?

Oh Great One, name for me several tents that keep out the weather. I'm not talking a drizzle, but an almighty downpour of hail, sleet, and snow. The best...

Thursday, June 24, 2004

How is down-fill calculated in sleeping bags?

All-knowing gear guru, I need you to confirm or dismiss a rumor I've heard about how down-fill is determined. The claim is that gear manufacturers have rooms...

Thursday, June 24, 2004

What's the coolest (venting) bike helmet?

I'm tired of sweaty, hot bike helmets. What is the coolest, as in max ventilation, helmet on the market within a reasonable price range that can be used for...

Wednesday, June 23, 2004

Should I buy specialized water shoes for a kayaking trip?

I’m planning a nine-day, 24-mile canoeing expedition to the Boundary Waters in early July. As for footwear, would it be better to purchase a pair of hiking...

Monday, June 21, 2004

Is separate sleepwear essential for backpacking?

I learned most of my wilderness know-how from experienced paddlers, who taught me that you should always have a set of dry clothes set aside for sleeping. Now,...

Monday, June 14, 2004

Any ideas for cleansing ticks from my backpack?

I just got back from camping in Tennessee and Kentucky's Big South Fork NRA (which you should check out, by the way!) and had some fun pulling ticks off my legs...

Monday, June 14, 2004

What's your pick for an intermediate rock-climbing shoe?

I'm a casual rock climber and want to upgrade my entry-level rock shoes. I see there are both cambered and fairly flat models available, but why would you ever...

Monday, June 14, 2004

Is a single-wall tent a worthwhile investment?

I am interested in purchasing a Bibler Fitzroy tent. Do you know anything about this tent, or have any experience with it? Is a single-wall tent breathable...

Monday, June 14, 2004

Are any water filters compatible with a hydration bladder?

I have looked all over the Web for the SafeWater Anywhere filter, with no luck. Are they out of business or did they change their name? If so does anybody make...

Friday, June 11, 2004

What gear do I need for beach camping?

We are going beach camping for the first time. What do we need to bring that we probably don't already have?