Gear Guy

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is there one mountaineering boot that can do it all?

I just recently got into mountaineering and am amassing all the gear needed to pursue my different interests. I have a lot of the basics and now its time to get...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

How do I wash the sweaty odor from my hat?

How do I wash the sweaty odor from my polypropylene toque? I used Wisk liquid detergent without success. The toque is clean but it still smells badly. I need...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Are cheaper down jackets reliable?

As a thrifty person with only occasional needs for real cold weather gear, I'm tempted by the down jacket that Land's End sells for $70. Pretty simple design,...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can I hang my stove in a tent?

Is it sometimes desirable to hang your stove, for cooking in your tent? If so, who makes the devices to do this, and is it specific to stove model or is there a...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can I trust gear made with Paclite?

I am considering purchasing a jacket and pants made of Gore-Tex Paclite that are on sale. Some of the garments I'm considering (Devil's Thumb Jacket and Ama...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Do I need plastic boots to climb Mount Whitney?

Most highly exalted Gearness, I humbly bow and await your faultless advice. In February of 2002 I will be attempting Mount Whitney via the Mountaineers route....

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Does super-light gear hold up in the long run?

I am contemplating through-hiking the Pacific Coast Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Appalachian Trail in succession and need info on the packs made by...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What's the deal with "directional clothing?"

Oh Great Gear Guru, I have a simple question. I recently came across "directional clothing" by a manufacturer called Paramo. Have you heard of it, and more to...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What would you pack for a Denali ascent?

I'm gearing up for an ascent of Denali in May 2002. Could you advise for clothing and size of compression sacks appropriate to bring? I weigh 114 pounds so I...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can three-season tents be used in the snow?

Can three-season tents be used in the snow? Is it necessary to have a "mountain" tent for snow camping? With a full cover fly, what is wrong with using a...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is DryLoft on a down sleeping bag worth it?

Is DryLoft on a down sleeping bag worth it? I've noticed that it's not appearing as often as it used to on down winter sleeping bags.

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What's the best waterproof-breathable fabric available?

I have been looking for a paddling jacket in a waterproof-breathable fabric. It seems not so long ago that the choice was either Gore-Tex or Sympatex. Now it...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Are any synthetic jackets as warm as down?

Recently, I became aware of the cruel process of obtaining down feathers and I don't want to buy down products if I can help it. Please recommend a synthetic...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will a vapor barrier liner keep me warm and dry?

Because I sweat at a moderate activity level in cold temperatures, my insulation gets damp and looses it effectiveness. Layering and reducing exertion does not...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is there a perfect boot for alpine scrambling?

Hey Gear God, Help me find the perfect scrambling boots! I love my old Asolo backpacking boots. They never needed breaking in, and after years of conforming to...