Gear Guy

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Is it dangerous to use unleaded gas as stove fuel?

I have a 15-year-old Peak 1 stove that still works great. I was wondering if I could use cheaper unleaded gasoline (about half the price of Coleman fuel)...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will leather boots hold up on Denali and Everest?

Are there any leather boots that will hold up on the "big peaks" like Denali or Everest? I am planning a trip to Denali and would really like to go with leather...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What pack will survive a round-the-world trip?

My son graduates eighth grade next year and we're planning a yearlong around-the-world adventure with him. My wife and I have both done lots of traveling in...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What pack will survive a round-the-world trip?

My son graduates eighth grade next year and we're planning a yearlong around-the-world adventure with him. My wife and I have both done lots of traveling in...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What pack will survive a round-the-world trip?

My son graduates eighth grade next year and we're planning a yearlong around-the-world adventure with him. My wife and I have both done lots of traveling in...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What jacket will keep me dry in the rainforest?

In September I'm headed to a lodge in the steamy Amazonian rainforest, so I'm looking for a poncho or raincoat that will be light, packable, waterproof,...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

How can I reduce condensation inside my tent?

Can you recommend some easy ways to reduce condensation inside a tent? In what sort of conditions should I expect the most condensation?

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will a hybrid bike be comfortable on longer rides?

I plan to buy a bike for my wife, a long-overdue birthday present, to be used mostly on backcountry roads (gravel, dirt, or tarmac) but not on trails. I'm...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can you recommend a good boot for tackling a U.S. fourteener?

I'm looking for a mountaineering boot for tackling some of the Lower 48's fourteeners. I've reviewed the Koflach Degre and the Asolo Guide, but I'm also...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Will wearing too many clothes affect a sleeping bag's insulation level?

To revisit the sleeping naked debate [June 12, 2003: "Is it true that it's warmer to sleep naked?"], I'd like to point out that while sleeping with a lot of...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Can I retrofit a backpack with a hydration bladder?

I'm looking for a hydration pack that I can use for cycling. But, I also want to be able to stick the bladder in my Gregory backpack for extended hiking trips,...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What parka's warm enough for Everest's Khumbu Icefall?

My sweetie and I are going to Everest's Khumbu Icefall this December, where it's likely to be numbingly cold. I'd like to buy her a toasty parka for this trip...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

What binoculars should I buy for an African safari?

I am wondering what binoculars you'd recommend for game viewing in Africa. This will be for use on open plains and in thick bush, both when I'm on the go and...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Should I rent or bring my own gear when scuba diving abroad?

I'm trying to decide whether or not to shell out on a bunch of new equipment for a scuba diving course in Turkey this summer. What does the all-knowing Gear Guy...

Thursday, September 18, 2003

Why are cycling shorts so bulky these days?

I'm beginning to think that today's trend toward Assos-esque padded cycling shorts—padding formerly being the saddle's job—has left me with more...