Gear Guy

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is there a gear maker that sells good maternity duds?

Just wondering if you know of any companies that do any sort of maternity outdoor wear, the actual technical garb. I realize that a pregnancy only lasts so long...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Any ideas for a comfortable road bike?

I want to buy a bike to ride the two miles to work and head downtown on the weekends, about a 15-mile ride. Thing is, I have an attachment to big comfy...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Any thoughts on worthy base layers?

I sweat a ridiculous amount and have no problem staying warm, having nordic skied in sub-zero temps wearing only a thin nylon T-shirt and XCR shell. So, I'm in...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can you help me pick out some raingear for a canoe trip?

My son and I need to purchase raingear for an eight-day canoe trek to Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area this July. Do I need to get a Gore-Tex parka like...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can you help me pick out some raingear for a canoe trip?

My son and I need to purchase raingear for an eight-day canoe trek to Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area this July. Do I need to get a Gore-Tex parka like...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What sunglasses can be fitted with prescription lenses?

I've collected the very best ensemble of outdoor gear, but I still require one last item: sunglasses! Price is no object, but quality is. I need the best...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can you help me find a fishing rod?

I'm looking to buy a fly-fishing rod for some of the smaller Rocky Mountain streams. Any suggestions on where I can get a decent rod that will break into small...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What jacket will keep me warm through some shoulder season camping?

I am looking for a parka for winter camping in New Hampshire. I have narrowed it down to the Feathered Friends Frontpoint and the Wild Things Belay Jacket. How...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Why shouldn't I wear jeans when hiking?

I wear Levis to hike and camp in. (I'll pause here while you gasp in horror.) I'd cheerfully purchase better pants, but all the ones I've looked at feel like...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Should I pack my kayak bow- or stern-heavy?

Last summer, I bought a Shaman light touring kayak from Wilderness Systems (based largely on your recommendation, O Great and Wise One). After some great day...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Must I sacrifice load suspension for the sake of a lighter pack?

I'm curious to hear your opinion about Osprey's line of Ariel backpacks, particularly their Ariel 75. I can't seem to find any reviews on anything other than...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Must I sacrifice load suspension for the sake of a lighter pack?

I'm curious to hear your opinion about Osprey's line of Ariel backpacks, particularly their Ariel 75. I can't seem to find any reviews on anything other than...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will a homemade alcohol stove be enough for the AT?

I have been contemplating hiking the Appalachian Trail. Having spoken to a number of through-hikers, I'm told that many are using homemade alcohol stoves made...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is pre-packaged trail food a waste of money?

Not really a gear question, but can you tell me about all the pre-packaged trail food on the market? What have you tried? What's the best? Also, do you know of...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What are the advantages of a shortened sleeping pad?

I'm looking for a decent sleeping pad to use when backpacking. Cascade Designs' Therm-a-Rest seems a good buy, but I'm not sure. Does the three-quarter pad mean...