Gear Guy

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will any boots fit my "problematic" feet?

Oh, Gauis Gear Guy (bet you haven't heard THAT one before), I have a multitudinous problem. I wrote to you years ago about detached toenails, and you delivered...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Does anybody make synthetic briefs?

This past summer I started running and now have continued into the winter. On the longer runs my privates get awful cold. Is there any underwear out there made...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Any recommendations for top-of-the-line skis?

I just bought new ski boots and I love them. Next on my list is buying new skis. I am a solid level-nine skier and can ski anything on the mountain (New England...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Should I get zoom binoculars?

My wife and I will be hiking in the Canadian Rockies this summer. We'd each like to carry a pair of compact binoculars for birding and the occasional vast vista...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can I get a good internal-fre pack for under $250?

I'm looking for an internal-frame backpack in the 4500- to 5500-cubic-inch range for less than $250. I need one with a torso length of at least 23 inches. Do...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Which roof rack will work with my car?

I own a 1994 Isuzu Trooper SE that has a moon roof and a factory luggage rack. I am looking for a roof rack system to carry bikes. I've looked through Thule and...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will fabric softeners destroy performance fabrics?

Much of my clothing made with high-performance fabrics, such as Coolmax, states that you should not use fabric softeners or dryer sheets. Why is that? If they...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Where can I find a waterproof video camera?

Where can I find a waterproof video camera, for filming surfing and other stuff?

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Do I need an "expedition" tent?

I am looking to buy a new tent for canoe tripping in the barrens of Canada's Northwest Territories. I expect lots of wind and rain so an expedition tent would...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Do I need a microfiber sleeping-bag shell?

This July I am climbing Mount Rainer. My climbing partners have told me that a synthetic bag is necessary because of the rain. They recommended a 25- to...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Should I go to Italy to buy a bike?

Have I got an expensive proposition! I'm planning a trip to Italy and thinking it might be the perfect time to buy a new road bike straight from the factory,...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What's a durable two-way radio for outdoor activities?

I am looking for a two-way radio. I don't know much about them and need some advice on a dependable and weatherproof model for outdoor activities such as...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can I get inserts custom-built into ski boots?

I am interested in buying a quality set of boots and skis, primarily for Vermont and New England skiing. Problem is, I wear a two-centimeter orthotic insert in...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What's your take on the Outback Oven?

What's your take on Backpacker's Pantry Outback Oven? Does the Outback Oven really bake well and also conserves fuel for cooking traditional grub? After a...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Does anyone make waterproof tights?

Does anyone make a waterproof tight for inclement weather running/cycling? InSport used to make one, but I guess it went the way of Activent. A European company...