Gear Guy

Thursday, September 18, 2003

How can I make my pack more comfortable?

Gear Guru: I am six-foot-four, weigh 200 pounds, and have an Arcteryx Bora 80 backpack. When I carry heavy loads, the waist belt becomes uncomfortable and...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

How can I make my pack more comfortable?

Gear Guru: I am six-foot-four, weigh 200 pounds, and have an Arcteryx Bora 80 backpack. When I carry heavy loads, the waist belt becomes uncomfortable and...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

How can I make my pack more comfortable?

Gear Guru: I am six-foot-four, weigh 200 pounds, and have an Arcteryx Bora 80 backpack. When I carry heavy loads, the waist belt becomes uncomfortable and...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is a heavy boot a bad thing?

The principal of "one pound on your feet equals five on your back" seems to be treated as Gospel, but I don't buy it. I am moving in the direction of an...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is it safe to cook inside my tent vestibule?

Everything I read about tents says not to cook in the vestibule, but then I read gear reviews that say it is large enough to cook in. What's the scoop-is it...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can I use my hiking pole instead of an ice axe?

I've heard that under non-extreme conditions my hiking pole can be used as a self-arrest tool when crossing steeply inclined snowfields. As much as I would love...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What's a good rubber boot for the rainforest?

Hola Señor Gear: After ten days of tromping in the Peruvian rainforest in borrowed rubber boots, my insteps are bruised from roots and stumps and my toes...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will cheaper fuel work in my stove?

I've recently started using the MSR Pocket Rocket, in place of my trusty Whisperlite, going through $25 worth of fuel in three weeks, compared to a gallon of...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will cheaper fuel work in my stove?

I've recently started using the MSR Pocket Rocket, in place of my trusty Whisperlite, going through $25 worth of fuel in three weeks, compared to a gallon of...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Are my 1994 sunglasses in need of an upgrade?

Do I need to replace my 1994 Oakley sunglasses? I am wondering if the 100 percent UV protection in the lenses breaks down over the years with repeated exposure...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

How should I rig my harness for rappelling?

Hopefully you can settle a debate regarding the use of climbing harness belay loops. When rappelling, a climbing guide said that the carabiner should be clipped...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is there a windproof, breathable, and cheap fleece?

I'm looking for a fleece that is both windproof and breathable, for use when cycling, hiking, and maybe skiing. What fleece would you recommend for someone who...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What's the deal with waxed raincoats?

What's the deal with waxed cotton raincoats manufactured by Barbour in England and Filson in Seattle? Although they don't breath well and would not work for...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can you help me choose a family-friendly winter tent?

My family of five—myself, wife, and three decent-sized kids—plus the dog would like to go snow camping, and I think I've got everything covered except...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What wind pants will keep me warm and dry when the weather turns?

O Most Knowledgeable One, what wind pants should I get: the L.L. Bean Guide Pants, made of Schoeller Dryskin, or the Marmot DriClime Stretch Pants? Your pearls...