Gear Guy

Monday, April 04, 2005

Are trekking poles just one more thing to carry?

I'm planning some two- to three-day hikes on the Ouachita Trail and would appreciate your recommendations on trekking poles. Friends tell me I should get a...

Monday, April 04, 2005

What sub-$300 digic is burly enough to take climbing?

I'm looking to purchase a digital camera for a road trip that my girlfriend and I will be taking this summer. Apart from being able to take nice photos (five...

Monday, April 04, 2005

What's the best hydration pack for the Grand Canyon?

What is the best-value hydro pack for day hikes in places like Bryce and/or the Grand Canyon?

Monday, March 28, 2005

What backpack can handle Micronesian island-hopping?

I'm going on a two-month trip to Micronesia, where I'll be taking weeklong trips away from the main islands to some outer islands. I'm after a suitable daypack...

Monday, March 28, 2005

Are headlps that combine LED and halogen bulbs worth the money?

What kind of headlamp is better for hiking in the dark: LED or halogen? Are lights that combine both LED and halogen bulbs worth buying?

Monday, March 28, 2005

How can I cp without a tent?

I'd like to do some lightweight backpacking without a tent. What type of sleeping system/setup would you recommend to keep me warm and dry?

Thursday, March 24, 2005

What gear is needed for heli-skiing?

What gear is required for heli-skiing? What works best, from a pack to shovel and survival equipment?

Thursday, March 24, 2005

Is it true you should pick the bike shop before the bike?

I am buying my first mountain bike and am trying to decide between a couple of bikes and bike shops. Is it true you should pick your bike shop first and then...

Thursday, March 17, 2005

I need a watch for smokejumping. Can you help?

I've looked for a year now to find a sturdy watch for my smokejumper. Money isn't the object. I'm looking for simplicity in functions: time, waterproofness,...

Thursday, March 17, 2005

What's a freestanding tent?

What kinds of tents are there other than freestanding, and what is the difference between them all? I keep hearing "freestanding tent" and I don't know what...

Thursday, March 17, 2005

What's the perfect boot for an avid middle-distance hiker?

I blew out a pair of much-loved, ten-year-old Asolo AFX 530 boots this past weekend. While hiking, the soles fell off and upon inspection I found dry rot....

Thursday, March 17, 2005

Any good excuses to keep my wife from borrowing my expensive tent?

What's the best excuse to keep my wife from borrowing my expensive backpacking tent when she takes a group of teenagers to a four-day music festival this...

Monday, March 14, 2005

Which boot will handle heavy loads off trail?

I'm seeking a recommendation for backpacking boots that will provide support when carrying 60- to 80-pound loads in backcountry conditions. I'm after something...

Monday, March 14, 2005

Know any good European bike makers?

I just moved to Paris and want to buy a road bicycle. Do you know of any good brands in Europe?

Friday, March 11, 2005

What gets your vote for best all-around water filter?

Gear Wizard, what's the best backpacking water filter on the market these days? If reliability, ease of use, speed, and size trump price, what's the best?