Everything
We're going to show you how to find your flow. The place where everything clicks and comes easy.
French chef Auguste Escoffier was a founding father of haute cuisine and a serious lover of wild game. In Outside‘s January 2004 feature story, “If You Are What You Eat, He’s Dead Meat,” Steven Rinella snags an old Escoffier cookbook and tries his hand at preparing a multi-course meat feast…
Outside‘s January 2004 cover package, “Fit to the Core,” is chock full of advice on how to find the Whole Athlete within. From downtime at spas, to Pilates, to meditation, we show you how to integrate your mind and body for optimal performance. Here, five great outdoor athletes share…
Ed Lucero became the owner of a new world record for the highest plunge in a kayak last summer when he dropped over Canada’s 105.6-foot Alexandra Falls. He was held under the thundering flow a full four seconds before emerging safe and sound, and dethroning record holder Tim Gross, who…
LISTEN UP: There's way more to achieving peak fitness than strength and cardio training. Here's how to unite body, mind, and soul to transform yourself into a Whole Athlete
Put your hands together for the newest crop of toasty, weatherproof winter gloves
In a stunning final letter, Timothy Treadwell speaks out on naysayers, fear, and what he believed was acceptance into the clan of the bear
Ready to take up the challenge of reviving the bloody old days of classic haute cuisine? Steven Rinella bites.
Famed naturalist Charlie Russell argues that Timothy Treadwell's work was both crucial and sane
A bear expert's risky research ends in disaster. Should anybody get so close to grizzlies?
It seems like all God's creatures have lost their way in the Holy Land. But a few hopeful Israeli and Palestinian conservationists are tracing a new path along the flyways and wildlife corridors of the Jordan Valley—and rediscovering an ancient road map that leads from terror to peace.
Bode Miller has everything you could want in a World Cup ski racer. He's fast, fearless, and frequently out of control. He can drink like a sailor and swear like a snowboarder, and he's got the talent to take it all from those grim Austrian cyborgs. Most amazing, he's American. Can we make this guy a hero already?
When Ed Lucero plummeted 105.6 feet over Canada’s Alexandra Falls, he set a new world record for the highest plunge in a kayak. What was he thinking? John Galvin finds out. Seeing is Believing CLICK HERE to watch the video clip of Ed…
When an Army psychologist sent us this letter from deep in the Iraqi battle zone, we couldn't resist posting it. Outside salutes his work, and offers the men and women of our armed forces best wishes for a safe return.
Ten North American spas that will recharge your mind, body, and soul
When the frost bites hard, fight back with the latest winter hydration systems
Ramp up your winter repertoire with new skiing and snowboarding skillz, brought to you by the pros who know.
Instead of buying all-new gear with the requisite bells and whistles attached, I'd just like to have my old stuff upgraded. I do remember hearing about a company that will restore or fix your old gear as well as upgrade it; you know, putting new straps on a backpack or adding new zippers to a rain shell. Have you heard of any companies like that? Evan New York City
When I got into motorcycling, I bought a nice standard bike, learned to ride it really well, and in a few years had to trade up to a more interesting, high-performance machine. Now I'd like to get into kayaking. Is there any way for a beginner like me to buy a kayak that will remain interesting even if I become a pretty good intermediate kayaker? Patrick Copley, Ohio
I'm looking for a rack to hold a couple of bikes inside the back of an SUV. What do you suggest? A friend has one from Rhode Gear that’s heavy and holds two bikes, and because of the weight of the rack, it isn't necessary to bolt it to the interior of the truck. However, I'm not able to find it anywhere. Laura San Antonio, Texas
I'm looking for a pair of high-waisted waterproof-breathable pants for snowshoeing and skiing this winter. The Arc'Teryx Theta LTs are ideal, but at $350 the price is prohibitive. I did find a pair of Flight Pants from Mountain Equipment Co-op for about US$200. I've always been tempted by MEC's gear, but I worry about the relative durability of an equivalent piece that saves $150. Do you have any experience with the quality of the LTs' construction? Matt Seattle, Washington
I'm after a wool cycling jersey that's comfortable, visible, and practical (i.e., machine-washable, non-shrink). By comfortable, I mean not scratchy and not too form-fitting. I tried the Kucharik jersey made from merino wool but found it quite itchy, particularly around the neck. I would really love to try wool for all its reported benefits, but I can't find a jersey, or even a shirt, that is comfortable, conspicuous, and practical. Is this a hopeless quest, meaning I'll forever be stuck with clmy, stinky synthetics? Richard Oak Ridge, Tennessee
I'm in search of a three-season sleeping bag for under $350 that is down-filled, is rated to about 15 degrees, weighs under three pounds, has a durable weatherproof shell, and includes a full-length zipper. I was going to buy the REI Sub Kilo but all the reviews say it rips easily. I've been considering the Mountainsmith Vision, the Mountain Hardwear Spectre SL, and the Marmot Hydrogen, too, but can you help me narrow the field? Philip Berkley, Massachusetts
Last year in Breckenridge, my 14-year-old son was having a hard time snowboarding because his hands were so cold. What can I get him to help? Do you suggest mittens or gloves for snowboarding? Gale Savannah, Georgia
I actually have a two-part question. First, what do you think is better for vertical, technical, and mixed climbing: leashed or leashless ice tools? Second, what are your thoughts on putting a leash on a leashless tool? Anthony Anchorage, Alaska
I going on a ten-day whitewater rafting and kayaking trip this winter. I've just spent the last several months training for a marathon, but have virtually ignored my upper body. Can you offer me a good strengthening regimen so I'm not ready to cry after each day in the rapids? Alissa Mears Washington, D.C.
What do you think of the MIOX water purifier? Jeff Moscow, Idaho
This question may seem dumb, but an old dog needs to learn new tricks! Having used external-fre packs since the late '60s, I've made the switch to an internal-fre one. I've studied all the diagrs about the best way to load internal-fres, but I'm still none the wiser. Bearing in mind I carry a fairly standard gear list, how should I pack for a five- to seven-day trip? Charles Cape Girardeau, Missouri
My daughter has moved from the desert of Arizona to Seattle. Apparently, by the time she layers for warmth and closes out the rain for her walk to work, she's become a cold, dp sauna after only five minutes. For a holiday gift, I would like to get her an undergarment that can wick away the moisture, but I don't trust everything I see tagged onto the garments. I want to get her something that really works, but I'm getting baffled by the marketing folks. Ken Tucson, Arizona
An overview of Outside articles that made the cut and were included in The Best American Travel Writing 2003
Twelve value-packed Caribbean resorts where your room comes with a view—and killer perks, too
I run trails. At night. Any bright ideas without weighing me down too much? Scott Hickory, North Carolina
I'm interested in replacing my older pair of heavy, all-leather Vasque hiking boots. So far I've been unsuccessful in locating anything close! There must be someone somewhere in Europe, Canada, or the U.S. that still makes a high-quality, heavy all-leather boot. I've looked at Dunh's excellent Mountain Masters, but I'm not fond of their tongue design. Art Cayucos, California
Many years ago there were companies that took your old down-filled articles, reclaimed the down, and made you a new sleeping bag. I have an old army two-piece down bag and a down parka that I'd like to reconstitute into a new sleeping bag. I hate to throw away this good down, so do you know of any company that does this kind of work? Keil Endwell, Maine
With the downhill ski season quickly approaching, I'm looking for a new shell-type jacket to replace my current insulated jacket, one that will work in almost any weather with appropriate layering (to be worn primarily in Vermont and New Hampshire, where rain is an occasional factor, but not a daily occurrence). Basically, I'm wondering if the $400-plus Gore-Tex jackets (like the Arc'Teryx Javelin SV or XCR Sidewinder SV) are really worth it, or if I'd be just as happy 99 percent of the time with a soft shell. Erik Hoboken, New Jersey
I want to buy a new pack for my husband for Christmas. Is it possible to use his measurements to find the right size without taking him with me, or is this the sort of thing he has to try out for himself? Any recommendations on a good pack to take out on weekend backpacking trips? Sally Athens, Ohio
With the downhill ski season quickly approaching, I'm looking for a new shell-type jacket to replace my current insulated jacket, one that will work in almost any weather with appropriate layering (to be worn primarily in Vermont and New Hampshire, where rain is an occasional factor, but not a daily occurrence). Basically, I'm wondering if the 400-plus Gore-Tex jackets (like the Arc'Teryx Javelin SV or XCR Sidewinder SV) are really worth it, or if I'd be just as happy 99 percent of the time with a soft shell. Erik Hoboken, New Jersey
I recently purchased an Integral Designs Endurance Bivy made of Pertex Endurance fabric, as I wanted a lightweight bivy sack to protect my down sleeping bag from drips and condensation in tents, tarps, and snow cave situations. So I've used my bivy sack in humid Pacific Northwest conditions inside a tent with temperatures in the 30s and 40s, and each time have been disappointed to find my sleeping bag glistening from head to toe with condensation. My question, then: Does Pertex Endurance live up to its hype as a highly breathable waterproof fabric? My experience suggests that it doesn't, but I'm curious to know what others think about this fabric. John Seattle, Washington
Outside celebrates 15 legendary women who paved the way for our 2003 XX Factor all-stars�and for female athletes and adventurers everywhere.
Expedition: Surfing the closed coast Team: Ross Garrett, Keith Malloy, Dan Malloy Location: Central California Objective: Surf 40 miles of off-limits coastline Duration: Three days FOR SURFERS, the stretch of empty central California coastline beginning some 40 miles south of San Luis Obispo at Surf…
Adventure meets Old World charm in this adrenaline-filled sea kayaking journey around the island of Crete.
A wave off Rincón isn't the only wild ride in Puerto Rico. Here's an action primer on the island's untamed side.
It's ok—relax. We've got your big holiday score all wrapped up: the latest shiny new toys, sharp tools, and smokin' threads to help you keep you adventure resolutions.
Two dozen high school seniors from the Nebraska flatlands roadtrip to the peaks of Colorado for their first winter trip to the Rockies. It's an all-American rite of passage, complete with gangsta rap, debauchery, and terror on the bunny slope.
A journey to the cradle of climbing reveals a strange new alpine environment, where glaciers are melting, mountains are falling, and nothing is as it was
In the nearly 30 years I've been hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, and kayaking, I've gone through a lot of gear. Most of it has been pretty good (like my Eureka Sentinel tent of a dozen years ago—heavy, but sturdy and roomy). Some of it has been pretty awful (like the…
I have a Canon Rebel 2000 that I want to take when I go skiing, but I'm worried about it not being able to handle the cold or the impact if I fall on my back. I will be carrying it in a medium-sized daypack. How can I keep it safe and warm? Matt Glastonbury, Connecticut
As someone who's five-foot-two and 104 pounds, I'm looking for snowshoeing clothing that I don't disappear into! I have several pairs of insulated pants, but they are really bulky (snowboarding-type pants). I see tons of form-fitting "pants," but there are so many different kinds I don't know where to start. Any advice on layers and brands that will keep me warm but fit closer to my body? BJ Guilderland, New York
I'm thinking of buying a GPS system for my son. What's the best value out there (good quality at a reasonable price)? Hir Buffalo, New York
As a beginner skier living just one hour from Mount Hood, I'm trying to decide whether I should buy or just rent skis when I go; if I do buy, what equipment won't zero out my bank account? John Portland, Oregon
I'm looking for a bike to do a bit of everything: commuting year round, several short rides in spring, and some off-road racing in early fall. What's your opinion of the Gary Fisher 29er bicycles, and how exactly do they differ from other high-end hybrids (for exple, the Cannondale Bad Boy HeadShok or the Kona Dr Dew)? I currently own a Trek 1200 road bike for racing and a worn hybrid for commuting and bad-weather training, but would like something fast, comfortable, and durable for all-around use. Can one bike do it all? Jarle Bergen, Norway
What's the deal with Ex Officio's Buzz Off shirt and pants? They claim to ward off skeeters. Does this really work? Does the protection wear off after repeated washings? Mark Chantilly, Virginia
Any recommendations for a beginner's telemarking setup (skis, boots, skins, bindings) to use on groomed downhill runs and backcountry trips? I also recently bought a used Mountainsmith sled in the hope of taking my toddler up and down some trails at a local ski resort. Can this sled handle this type of use or I putting my kid's life in danger? Wayne Cleveland, Ohio
Trekking hut to hut along South Africa’s shore is just what the witch doctor ordered
9. Ancient Crumbles in the Jungle Tikal, Guatemala Why I’m bounding up the steps of Tikal’s Temple of the Masks predawn on a chilly March morning is still not clear to me—let’s chalk it up to barroom advice that sounded completely rational after a few beers. But I…
After a decade of nursing apartheidÂ’s hangover, South Africa is finally coming into its own as an adventure-travel destination. An influx of outdoorsy Europeans, a good exchange rate, and South AfricansÂ’ growing interest in the outdoor lifestyle have fueled a boom in the past two years. About three times the…
Way back in the late '70s, like many of my generation, I put aside my trusty old Kelty pack in favor of one of those newfangled internal-fre packs: first a Lowe, later a Gregory, and currently a Dana ArcLight. But as geezerhood creeps up on me and I spend more time on trails than off, I'd like to return to my roots and enjoy the better weight transfer and coolness of an external-fre again. My choice is between the Kelty 50th Anniversary Pack and the Dana Loadmaster Terrafre, discontinued but still available on closeout on the Web. Price is not an issue. There's no way I can try them side by side—if you've used them both, which did you think was the better pack? David Portland, Oregon
What's the deal with trekking poles? I seem to be the only one hiking without them. Are adjustability and shock absorption really worth the extra money? Or can I get away with using the beat-up downhill ski poles I bought at my neighbor's garage sale for $2? Kristen Seattle, Washington
During a recent backpacking trip my friend insisted that we all wear blaze-orange vests to prevent hunters from mistaking us for ge. My faith in a hunter's ability to correctly ID a target is a bit stronger than my friend's and I resisted his suggestion. I have no desire to be mistaken for an elk and shot by a high-powered rifle, but I also did not want to wear that vest. How valid were my friend's concerns and was I putting myself at risk by not wearing blaze orange? Pete Littleton, Colorado
My friend and I are planning a one-week ice climbing trip north of Lake Superior to an area known as Agawa Canyon, where the mean daytime temperature is less than zero degrees Fahrenheit. I would like to get a pair of mountaineering boots for the trip that will keep my 41E feet warm, so I was considering either the Scarpa Invernos or Alphas (both plastics). Is my foot width too wide for the Alphas? Having the extra feel of the lighter boot would definitely be a plus in my book. Are there any single-boot alternatives that might suffice, or are doubles my best bet? John Toronto, Ontario
I a strong trail/road runner and interested in doing some snowshoe racing this winter. I would like to buy something that I can use for training as well as racing. Could you give me a few options? Robert Grandville, Michigan
I'm planning on climbing Mount Rainier, so I'm trying to find the best clothing setup. I'm interested in combining a soft shell with a lightweight hard shell, but having a hard time sorting through all of the options. I'm partial to gear from Patagonia and Marmot, so is there anything I should consider between these two companies? Is Marmot's PreCip enough for this type of climb if I use it in combo with a soft shell, or do I need to go with a more substantial waterproof-breathable jacket? Bob Sterling, Colorado
Slicing through powder at Copper Mountain Q: Can you tell me which ski areas open the earliest? Would it be worth making a trip to snag some early turns or am I better off waiting? — Heidi Hagemeier, Bend, Oregon Adventure Advisor:…
I will be going hiking and kayaking in Hawaii next summer, but I concerned about the sun because of my very fair complexion. What are some good choices for clothing to help protect me from the ravages of the sun? Jeff Minneapolis, Minnesota
Last year I separated my left shoulder while taking a test run on my son's mountain bike (after "fixing" his front brakes). The physical therapist said I could only use an external-fre backpack in the future. Other friends, and some outfitters, disagree. What's your opinion on the external- versus internal-fre issue? Any specific packs of either ilk that will help keep the weight off my injured shoulder? Michael Front Royal, Virginia
As anybody who's been hiking on the West Coast knows, getting "poison oaked" is a miserable experience. So, have you ever heard of Zanfel? According to the company's Web site, this soap is supposed to remove the urushiol from poison oak even after you get the rash. Unfortunately, it's really expensive—about $40 for a one-ounce tube! Does this stuff really work, or is it just snake oil? Rusty San Francisco, California
I've bought the upper-body clothing in preparation for some winter backpacking near the SoCal beaches, followed by Yosemite next summer. But what should I get by way of pants? Would The North Face's Apex's or Arc'Teryx's Gma LTs be too warm? Or should I just pick up some plain or convertible nylon pants? Matthew Claremont, California
I'm trying to find a pair of cross-country skis that I can use on and off groomed trails. Does such a pair exist? Thanks! Jenni Juneau, Alaska
Sage Cattabriga-Alosa is Outside‘s November 2003 Rising Star—and for good reason. The 23-year-old Utah native is one of the hottest names in fusion skiing, an extreme style that crosses freeskiing with terrain-park tricks. Below, watch a video clip of Cattabriga-Alosa performing high-flying stunts in Teton Gravity Research’s latest film, High…
Outside Online’s Specialized Bike Giveaway Contest, coming October 17!…
With exploding ratings and a new book—not to mention a wardrobe makeover!—can anything stop wildlife-show host Jeff Corwin?
