Gear Guy

Friday, February 11, 2005

What's the safest portable raft for wilderness travel?

My buddies and I are planning a return trip this summer to some rather large wilderness lakes in Wyoming's Wind River Mountains. Fortunately, these lakes have...

Wednesday, February 09, 2005

Where can I find gaiters compatible with ski boots?

Back in the day, we used to ski in Levi's with big nylon gaiters—but now, despite trying on every brand out there, I can't find a pair that will fit over...

Tuesday, February 08, 2005

Is there a touring kayak that can handle Class IV rapids?

I want to purchase a kayak that'll handle a four-day river tour in Utah, one that can carry a load and maneuver in Class II-IV rapids. What do you suggest?

Thursday, February 03, 2005

What solo tent will cover me year-round in the Rockies?

Your Most Exalted Gearness: Please help me pick out a tent, ideally sub $200, that would be suitable for year-round solo backpacking in the Rockies. Do I really...

Thursday, February 03, 2005

What do I need to ride my bike indoors?

I'm looking for an indoor trainer for those cold, gray days when I don't want to head outside but want to sit on my bike for a while. With so many choices, I...

Thursday, February 03, 2005

Will a GPS unit bonk in sub-zero temps?

Which manufacturers make a portable GPS that will operate at sub-zero temperatures? Garmins work to plus five degrees Fahrenheit, which doesn't cover most of...

Wednesday, January 26, 2005

Which sleeping bag's best for a cross-country bike trip?

A friend and I are doing a cross-country bike trip from May to July this summer. What kind of sleeping bag would you recommend?

Wednesday, January 26, 2005

Are there battery-heated socks I can wear with ski boots?

Do you know of any battery-heated socks that I can wear with ski boots? If not, can you recommend the warmest possible socks? I love to ski, but my feet freeze,...

Wednesday, January 26, 2005

What's a killer pair of birding binoculars?

I'm looking for compact binoculars that I can carry for various activities, such as kayaking where size and access counts. Mostly, I'll use them for birding.

Wednesday, January 26, 2005

How can I get a running shoe to fit comfortably?

I've been unable to find a pair of running shoes that don't hurt my feet when I go jogging. Do you know where I can order a pair of good running shoes that can...

Thursday, January 20, 2005

What is the best backpack for a tall guy?

What is the best multi-day backpack for a tall guy (1.97 meters)? Thanks!

Thursday, January 20, 2005

What footwear's best for winter mountain biking?

What type of footwear do you recommend for winter mountain biking in northern Wisconsin? I don't have toe clips on my bike, just straps. Right now I'm using...

Thursday, January 20, 2005

Can you help me pick a kick-ass sports watch?

I'm looking for a kick-ass sports watch for my boyfriend who's into lots of sports, currently mountain biking. What do you recommend among those that show heart...

Thursday, January 13, 2005

Can you help a gearaholic get a mitten fix?

Oh Great One, I am a proud gearaholic. Before my wife forces me to enter into a 12-step program, I need some new mitts for layering. So I was thinking an...

Thursday, January 13, 2005

Film or digital camera for a Peace Corps posting?

Can you recommend a quality camera to use while spending the next two years in the Peace Corps? I'm open to either digital or film, but am not sure which would...