I bought a pair of leather Scarpa hiking boots, but I'm having trouble breaking them in. The soles feel too rigid and it hurts to wear them, even for a short hike. I think they are too sturdy for my weight of 116 pounds. Some people have told me to get them wet and then hike in them. What do you suggest? Janet Payson, Arizona

You have mentioned in the past that you are lukewarm on single-wall tents as in some circumstances they are neither as warm (winter) or as cool (summer) as double-wall tents, and prone to condensation issues. But you have also recommended the single-wall Bibler Ahwahnee, especially when weight is an important factor. I'm also curious if single-wall tents make a similar two-way compromise to that of modern membrane clothing—neither letting perspiration out perfectly nor keeping very heavy rain out perfectly. You have mentioned half of the clothing equation as an issue with single-wall tents. What about the second half—do they also leak in very heavy rain? Stephen Piper Alexandria, Virginia

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 say: buy all and be ready before I go, or rent equipment once I'm there? Grant Washington, D.C.

Can you wash waterproof gear? I was taught long ago that when I come home from a camping trip, I should wash and air out my tent and backpack, wash my sleeping bag, and wash the dust and grime off my boots (I usually wax them, too). That way the items would last longer. My boyfriend, on the other hand, thinks that washing things like waterproof gear, his bike trailer bag, or even his CelBak will "ruin" the waterproofing. As a result, his gear is smelly and dirty and I don't want to share it. Miriam Boise, Idaho

I have read that wool clothing is better than any synthetics made. Is that true? Smartwool is coming out with a 5.2-ounce lightweight shirt in August-could this be possibly the best shirt out there for backcountry travelers? Also, is there a pair of lightweight pants that perform well in a wide range of climates? I would prefer convertibles, but regular pants are okay as long as they breathe well. Peter Portola Valley, California

Here's a tough one for you: For personal reasons, I have recently switched over to the "organic" lifestyle. I trying to apply this to all aspects of my life, including my love of the outdoors. I an avid hiker, climber, and mountaineer and was wondering if there are any outdoor products (sleeping bags, tents, backpacks, boots, etc.) made from organic materials. Jeff Anchorage, Alaska

What are the pros and cons of jackets made with Ventile? Is this material worth the money? What about Nextec? Alex Strongsville, Ohio

Have you heard about the latest craze in the U.K.? It's called Paro clothing, and the claim is that you'll be throwing away all of your Gore-Tex outerwear when you start using it. What gives? A friend of mine who is a guide in Scotland lives by the stuff. Do you have any thoughts on the stuff? Is it all that it says it is? Arthur Long Valley, New Jersey

I interested in purchasing a multi-functioning watch, such as the Suunto Vector, something with an altimeter, barometer, and the like. I'd be using it when hiking, camping, or mountaineering; I'd even like to swim with it on. Is Suunto the only company that makes these watches? Is there a hiking watch that can do it all, even when it's freezing and underwater? Tony Detroit, Michigan

Is there anything wrong with using a regular detergent like Tide to wash fleece, instead of gear-specific products like Nikwax? Are there any other fabrics that shouldn't be washed with regular detergent? Joe Edison, New Jersey

I'm going to the Himalayas in March for a mountaineering course. I wear glasses and want to know what the best options are for eye protection. Prescription glacier glasses are a little expensive, and besides, I might need goggles at some point also, right? Apoorva Bethesda, Maryland

I have been looking for a paddling jacket in a waterproof-breathable fabric. It seems not so long ago that the choice was either Gore-Tex or Sympatex. Now it appears every manufacturer has its proprietary fabric (Xalt, WaveTex, H2NO, etc.) Are you aware of any side by side comparison of these fabrics available? Joe DuRant Newport, Virginia

I need a thin, lightweight, and durable jacket to keep me warm over a Canadian winter. Problem is I hate fleece and cannot stand to wear anything heavy or puffy, ruling out any down-filled or fleece-lined jackets. I short, too, so no big and bulky jackets either. I know that this is a hard one, but this winter I really don't want to be shivering 99 percent of the time. Tracy Winnipeg, Manitoba

Please explain the new REI One Jacket! I saw it advertised as a single-layer jacket to replace multiple layers, so I tried one on the last time I was in an REI store. Problem was that it comes with no hood and the pockets are so low in the hip belt area. It doesn't seem comfortable enough to wear without a light layer, or waterproof enough to ditch the rain layer. So, what exactly does it replace? Chris Silverdale, Washington

I need a very lightweight tent for extended hiking trips on the Appalachian Trail. I carried the Marmot X-Racer last week and ended up with knee problems, so I'd like to shave off three to four pounds if possible. Is there a single-walled tent weighing around three pounds that uses trekking poles for supports? Matt Chattanooga, Tennessee

I have a year-old Marmot Swallow that I really love. I spent about 60 nights in the tent last summer and wondering when I might need to think about resealing the ses. I spent a good bit of money on the tent, and want it to last forever. How often is resealing necessary, and can you recommend a sealer? Thanks for your help. Carter Grant Alexandria, Virginia

Do you know where I can get a bike rack for a Montero 2002 SUV? I don't want it place it on the roof and need it to carry two kid bikes and a mountain bike. Alvin Joaquino Parlin, New Jersey

I've recently started using the MSR Pocket Rocket, in place of my trusty Whisperlite, going through $25 worth of fuel in three weeks, compared to a gallon of white gas per season—a pricey switch, I'm sure you'll agree. Today I happened upon a Glowmaster fuel cartridge, almost half the cost of the Primus and MSR cartridges. Will it work as well as its more expensive cousins, and should I burn this instead of my greenbacks? Allen Tumwater, Washington

Being from California, I do the majority of my hiking in the Sierra Nevada—"park bear" country. As bears become smarter, hanging food becomes exponentially less effective. I hate to carry those heavy canisters. Does anyone make a titanium canister, or an ultralight canister, being that Ursacks are not allowed in Yosemite or Sequoia National Parks? Michael Santa Clara, California

All-Knowing Gear Guy, I'm looking at buying a Marmot Pinnacle down sleeping bag and can't decide whether I should get it with the regular shell or with Dryloft. I enjoy sleeping outside (on a pad) when I can, and concerned about dpness if I were to do this over many days. Yet if I were to use it (unzipped!) in humid environments, I'm afraid a Dryloft shell might not provide enough breathability for the bag to stay dry and mildew-free over time. Any suggestions? Zach Isaacs Glendale, California

I 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 does the warmth of the Belay compare to a high-quality down piece such as the Frontpoint? Which would you recommend for New Hampshire winters? S Portsmouth, New Hampshire

I know you're not supposed to store your sleeping bag stuffed, but I need something to contain it in while I not using it. Will a garbage bag work, or should I buy some kind of mesh bag for it? Sarah New Canaan, Connecticut

So, after a year or so of ultra-light backpacking, my wife and I are starting to bring my son along, which means I need a huge pack to haul accommodation for three. Should I splurge and get a high-volume expedition pack like a Bora 95 or Gregory Denali, or are one of the new generation of external-fre packs (like Kelty's 50th anniversary edition) better value? We'll be mostly on trail, but I'm not sure if the lower-priced packs will provide enough comfort over a few days. Robert Granada Hills, California

I guess this might be more of a biological or physiological question than a straight gear question, but I notice that when I sip water from a CelBak, I have to "go" less than if I take bigger yet less frequent gulps from a water bottle. It seems that even drinking a full 70 ounces from my CelBak, compared to a quart from a bottle, is easier on my bladder. I just imagining this? Does the body better optimize water that's sipped slowly? Bill Bedford, New Hampshire

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 any Web sites with a good selection of trail recipes, especially vegetarian? Melissa Greenwood, Delaware

I'm planning on through-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail and would like to keep my pack weight as low as possible without sacrificing comfort. When I through-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 1990, my pack weight was around 50 pounds, including food and water. I have heard that ultralight packs are not very comfortable with loads over 20 pounds. Can you recommend a lightweight backpack for my hike? Cliff Ashford, Alabama

I'm gearing up for an ascent of Denali in May 2002. Could you advise for clothing and size of compression sacks appropriate to bring? I weigh 114 pounds so I want to minimize what I have to pack. Jeanne Stawiecki Charlton, Massachusetts

What is the best type of footwear to wear when snowshoeing? Do I wear my hiking boots (kind of stiff but durable)? Or my low-cut trail hikers (comfortable but less durable)? Or something else? Katie Gold Boston, Massachusetts

Oh, Gauis Gear Guy (bet you haven't heard THAT one before), I have a multitudinous problem. I wrote to you years ago about detached toenails, and you delivered the goods shiningly. My problem is still with my feet. The last two trips I've taken in my Zberlans boots have left me hobbled, with huge Susan B. Anthony pus-bubbles on either heel. I went to a clinic and was informed that my feet were "problematic" and that I was wearing the wrong boot. My right foot while standing is about a quarter inch longer than the left. My feet are wide and low profile, with anemic arches and narrow heels. Oh yeah, I also have weak ankles. Now I have June trips planned in the Grand Canyon and the Sierra. I've bought the Superfeet shrink-to-your-dogs prosthetic insoles, but I need a new boot. What do you recommend, outside of foot-transplant surgery? Thanks, Thomas Perkins Alexandria, Virginia

I looking for a two-way radio. I don't know much about them and need some advice on a dependable and weatherproof model for outdoor activities such as camping and boating. So it would need to be. I hear you need a license for anything that has range of over five miles and would like to avoid that. KJ San Diego, California

I was recently in New Zealand and purchased some Merino wool (Icebreaker brand) shirts and tights. They seem to have the se properties as polypro but are more windproof and don't smell after hard work. Can you purchase this azing stuff in the U.S.? What is your take on it? Nick Kelly Omaha, Nebraska

I have just purchased a new road-racing bicycle and now searching the market for some pedals. As you know, pedals are extras on most models, but what to buy: Time, Look, Shimano, Cpagnolo? The choice is a little overwhelming. Do you have any suggestions on some good, reliable pedals that will last and not cost a fortune? Weight's not an issue, nor is the latest, greatest technology. Wayne Luleå, Sweden

My son returned from a Scout backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail just as we were loading the truck to move. In the midst of settling in the new home, we completely forgot about the tent and it sat in its dp stuff sack for weeks. What do we do with the tent now that it has mildewed? Is there any way to clean it without dage? Andy John Jacksonville, Florida

Since my boyfriend is useless regarding backpacking info and only cares to remember such things as hockey stats, I come to you for advice on a pair of Kayland 1700s that I want for extended backpacking in the Canadian Rockies. These boots come with Proof, a factory waterproofing similar to Gore-Tex. Do I need to apply an after-market treatment like Nikwax to the boots, or will that inhibit the ability of the lining to do its job? Jessica Alberta

I'm hiking the Chilkoot Trail next fall with two companions. What's the lightest three-person tent available? Mike Doherty North Vancouver, British Columbia

Which boot liner is better: leather or Gore-Tex? Personally, I've never had any Gore-Tex-lined shoes, but shop assistants keep raving about them. Some of my friends aren't so enthusiastic, though, complaining about getting sweaty feet on warm summer days. (I'm talking here about the "middle" category of mountain boots, like the Lowa Baffin.) Gerhard Innsbruck, Austria

Enlighten me, as I confused. We are planning a 12-month trip and I still looking for the "ideal" water filter. And I in doubt. Which to buy, the MSR Miniworks or the Katadyn Pocket Filter? Aside from the obvious differences (price, weight, flow rate, capacity), the carbon-core element of the MSR is the main difference. But why would I need a carbon-core element? Hans Janssen

What's the best two-person tent for under $300? Tom Ireland

Your Gearness, what boot do you think I would need for a four-month trek across the Indian Himalaya? I have a pair of Montrail Torre GTXs, but will these suffice? Tony Baltimore, Maryland

Can I use a standard tarp as a footprint instead of the manufacturer's footprint? Are there any significant differences between the two options? Ne Withheld Bangkok, Thailand

I'm so frustrated by how much boot sizes vary, even within the se model! I'm a woman, narrowing my options to begin with, and I'm a woman with narrow feet. I've tried several different La Sportiva and Salomon models, but still can't find the perfect fit. I don't have the option of trying boots on in stores as nobody around here has anything in women's sizes, so I've been mail ordering, to no avail. Can you help me? BJ Guilderland, New York

I've been considering getting a helmet for downhill skiing. Given the expense, I was wondering if it was possible to buy one helmet to cover several outdoor activities, in addition to skiing. I do a fair bit of skiing in the winter, but in other seasons I also go bicycling, do a little rock climbing, and may try inline skating this summer. I've rented them in the past, but would like to save the money on rentals -- as well as the expense of buying a helmet for every sport. Is there truly a helmet for all seasons? Some years back a similar question was asked, and the answer was "no," though the Petzl Meteor was mentioned. Wondering if this is still the case. Shawn Vitt Portland, Oregon

Recently, I bece aware of the cruel process of obtaining down feathers and I don't want to buy down products if I can help it. Please recommend a synthetic fill jacket that can keep me as warm as a regular down jacket does. Megan Singapore

For a four-week section hike on the Appalachian Trail in March, should I get a full-leather waterproof boot like the Hi-Tec Excursion, or the lighter Amazon that's also waterproof and made with both leather and nylon? Matt Chattanooga, Tennessee

What's the difference between Atlas Dual Trac snowshoes (they appear to cater to racing) and the all-purpose 10 Series that is designed for hiking? Can you use dual track shoes for hiking, or are they simply a high-performance marketing gimmick? Stephen Seattle, Washington

I desperately trying to find a bright hand torch that does what the manufacturers claim—I've bought three torches this year all because they told me they were bright, only to discover, to my disgust, that they were hopelessly poor. Can you recommend a very bright hand torch that doesn't take six batteries like the Maglite and doesn't weigh a ton? Kevin England, United Kingdom

I'm someone who gets rather sweaty when doing anything active, like mountain biking, hiking, or snowshoeing. During warmer weather, it's not a big deal, but in cold weather it becomes an issue. Whatever combo of base layer, fleece, or shell I try, I still get really sweaty when on the move, especially on my back where the pack sits. Is there some other scenario or clothing combo that I should try to wick out extra moisture Keith Millwood, New York

I'm looking for a new lighter tent as I'm going to be doing some extended backpacking this summer. I'd like one that is freestanding, has a vestibule, and has enough interior space for two people to sleep comfortably. What are the lightest tents in this category? Jim McCreary Cazenovia, New York

Hopefully you can settle a debate regarding the use of climbing harness belay loops. When rappelling, a climbing guide said that the carabiner should be clipped through both the leg loop and waist belt where the rappel loop was threaded, not to the rappel loop itself. Others have told me that the 'biner should be clipped through the gear loop, not the leg loop and the waist belt. What's the correct answer? Tim Glastonbury, Connecticut

Your Gear Excellence, What would be your recommendation for footwear to run in the rain? Living in Mii, and especially at this time of year, it's a pain to have to cancel my morning runs. However, I concerned that hitting the asphalt sidewalks under pouring rain with my regular Asics or New Balance running shoes will give me blisters. Are my concerns well founded? Do I need special footwear to run under the rain? Gotta go for my run. Andres Biernat Mii, Florida

Dear Gear Guy, I longtime winter outdoorsman, but a winter and alpine camping beginner. I bought a -5-degree Polarguard 3D bag that I've slept in at temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees in high-quality tents and on a (cushy) RidgeRest/Therma-Rest combo, albeit on snow—and I always freeze, if not right away, then definitely by 3 A.M. I wear at least two layers, often my third, hat, etc. Short of wearing my outer layer (!!) or my belay jacket/pillow to bed, what gives? I just in kick-ass shape (no insulation layer) or just a total wimp who needs to buy a warmer, heavier bag? Or is there something about temperature ratings that I'm missing? Bill New York, New York

I'm looking for a sleeping bag to use mainly for summer backpacking in the Northeast, something that's less than two pounds with a temperature rating down to about 30 degrees; I'd also really like a full-length zipper, so I can unzip the bag on those warmer nights. I've always enjoyed your gear wisdom, so I'm looking forward to any suggestions you might have. Kevin Boston, Massachusetts

What clothes should you sleep in when backpacking? I mostly go in southern California during spring or fall, so temps can dip to 30 degrees at night, but not much lower. Generally, I wear whatever I change into once we make cp, but I've begun to wonder if I should dress more warmly to bed and rely less on a heavy sleeping bag. Christopher Simi Valley, California

I'm fairly well equipped for three-season travel with a Lowe pack, Merrell boots, a Sierra Designs down bag rated to -5, a 3/4-length Therm-a-Rest, and two tents: Mountain Hardware's Glacier and the Slickrock from The North Face. But on a recent June trip in the B.C. backcountry, I pitched the Slickrock on a snowfield and the down bag got wet. What do I do to remedy the situation? Buy a synthetic bag, or a down bag with at least a partial waterproof shell? Buy a full length Therm-a-Rest, which keeps the whole bag off the ground? Get a person four-season tent? Where do I throw my hard earned (and continually depleting) gear dollars? Scott Nelson Vancouver, British Columbia

I'm looking for an internal-fre backpack in the 4500- to 5500-cubic-inch range for less than $250. I need one with a torso length of at least 23 inches. Do you have any suggestions? Dennis McAllister Cleveland, Oklahoma

My husband and I just got a camera with a timer and remote control. We have a regular tripod, but need a good, compact tripod for hiking and backpacking. We've seen some that fold down to about cigarette-pack size, but are they any good? It's just a regular 35mm point and shoot camera, any recommendations? Linda Neve Incline Village, Nevada

I wear Levis to hike and cp 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 slacks. Slacks are for dress up, Levis are for work and play. This was drilled into my synapses many years ago and I'm too old to change. Is there a wool or synthetic pant out there that has the weight and feel of denim, which I can wear comfortably without offending the sensibilities of right-thinking outdoors folk everywhere?

When it comes to packing a backpack, I get lots of varying answers. What's correct, the weight at the top of the pack or at the bottom? Kristen San Diego, California

I have gotten into section hiking the AT and whenever I go and carry a fair load (more than 30 pounds) I come home with strawberries (abrasions) on my hips from the waist belts. HELP ME! Jeff Hatcher Mcleansville, North Carolina

What's your take on the soft-shell craze if the activities are both ascent and descent in nature? In other words, I very interested in the breathability for aerobic activities, but concerned about warmth for activities like downhill skiing. Question is, can I have my cake and eat it too? Second, if I can have it both ways, what is your first choice and why? Brad Peacock Medina, Ohio

I looking for a cold weather running jacket that is extremely breathable and wind-resistant (waterproofness is not a necessity). I've been using Lowe Alpine's Adrenaline jacket, which is great for hiking but stes up quickly when I running hard. I usually buy The North Face and Patagonia products but I not sure that they make the best stuff for running. What do you think? Nick Kogevinas Washington, D.C.

Much of my clothing made with high-performance fabrics, such as Coolmax, states that you should not use fabric softeners or dryer sheets. Why is that? If they are accidentally dried with a dryer sheet will they return to normal after the next wash or are the performance aspects ruined? Joe Helm Canal Winchester, Ohio

I travel consistently for my job and like to hike and cp when I home. Could you recommend a digital camera that holds up to the abuse of travel and camping but still takes great pictures? I'm looking for something around the $500-mark. I have looked at some Nikon products, but what else would you recommend? Matt Minneapolis, Minnesota

Is it 100 percent necessary to dry a tent in the sun after a few days of camping with heavy mildew? Miles Rowland Adelaide, South Australia

What are the differences between the gas combinations of various isobutane canisters sold by different companies (MSR, Snowpeak, Brunton, Gaz, Primus)? And how do they affect the performance of various stoves and lanterns? Garrett Tempe, Arizona

I moving to Switzerland for two years, and I want to buy a stove. I've heard that white gas cannot be found in Europe. Then again, if I buy a canister stove, how can I be sure I can buy the right type of canisters? I have considered getting the MSR Superfly because it's compatible with almost every type of canister. What's your take on my situation? Jay Springfield, Massachusetts

I'm looking for a raincoat that is lightweight and very packable, while also being waterproof and fairly breathable. I travel internationally a lot and need something that will look decent while in a major city yet also work while on the trail the next day. I'd like a jacket that doesn't have huge zipper covers or too many excessive components. I want something simple in a neutral or dark color so I don't stand out in foreign countries as much. Any suggestions for a durable, multi-functional, and ultra-packable raincoat that is lightweight and not terribly expensive? Jonathan Achter Minnetonka, Minnesota

Are Galibier boots still made? If so, where can you get them? No Name Given

Oh great and powerful gear wizard, I've gone and done it now. I have mildew—the brown spots AND the powdery green stuff—on my Bibler tent and Marmot sleeping bag. Please tell me I didn't just sink $1,500 worth of gear in the course of one monster rainstorm. Is there anything I can do? Julie Collinsville, Connecticut

It is better to have a full-suspension mountain bike or will a hard-tail with a suspension seat post be sufficient enough for a smoother ride? Paul G. Fort Wayne, Indiana

What's the best two-person tent for under $300? Tom Ireland

I recently purchased an Annapurna tent from Mountain Hardwear, because I'd like to start getting outdoors on more than day trips. However, the guy at the shop was reluctant to sell it to me, saying it was "junk" because it's a single-wall tent. What's the difference, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of this style tent? Lucas Denver, Colorado

Man, I confused! I want to purchase a synthetic-fill jacket for an upcoming canoe trip in Big Bend National Park. But it seems that all the major brands employ a different type of fill, running the gut from Polarguard HV and 3-D to Heatshield and Primaloft. So, Doug, I turn to you for expert guidance. Which is the best synthetic fill for warmth and compressibility? If there is not a "best", then what are the advantages of each? Finally, what jacket would you take? Steve Hurst, Texas

I'm so frustrated by how much boot sizes vary, even within the se model! I'm a woman, narrowing my options to begin with, and I'm a woman with a narrow foot. I've tried several different La Sportiva and Salomon models, but still can't find the perfect fit. I don't have the option of trying boots on in stores as nobody around here has anything in women's sizes, so I've been mail ordering. Can you help me? BJ Guilderland, New York

I bought a Canon Rebel 2000 kit in July to take with me to Alaska. I fully expected the picture to be crystal sharp—you know, the azure sky with white clouds and glacier and stuff. But after I came back and got them developed, I was very disappointed. Seems like the pictures are pretty grainy (like those taken using an APS camera), especially those sky/clouds and glacier ones. I used 200 speed Kodak Gold and the weather was sunny, but not too bright. What can I do to make the pictures turn out better when I go to AK again next year? Should I change the lens, the film, or the camera? If so, could you make some affordable suggestions? I'd rather not change the camera, unless of course, it'll give me great advantage. Oh, I got them developed at Ritz Camera, if that helps. Maybe their equipment just can't handle it. Please help me out here, I'm desperate! No Name Given

Because I sweat at a moderate activity level in cold temperatures, my insulation gets dp and looses it effectiveness. Layering and reducing exertion does not eliminate the problem. I a human fire hydrant. I have heard that vapor barriers could really help. Any suggestions on what to look for and brands? Ed Eugene, Oregon

I have a weakness for eggs. Love 'em. Don't care what they'll do to me, I have to have them. In the Navy, eggs are coated with a thin wax layer that will keep them fresh for about a month. Can I get these eggs somewhere, or can I do this myself? Also how long will a raw egg stay good when unrefrigerated? I would love to enjoy my eggs no matter how long I may be on the trail. Jes Russellville, Arkansas

I have a Gore-Tex Mocha jacket, which is about seven years old and seems to repeatedly lose its water repellency. I have treated it with Gore Revive-X several times, but there are only a few areas on the coat where water beads up, and even then not for long. As a result, I often feel clmy if it's raining hard, although I don't think I'm actually getting wet from the outside. Does Gore-Tex have a lifespan, after which it's not that great even if you keep treating it? Basically, is it time for the old Mocha to be replaced? Karen Wellington, New Zealand

When I was getting ready to apply mink oil to my two-year-old Asolo boots, I found the inside lining around both heels had split and the fo lining was coming through. These boots haven't seen extensive service, only being worn for school. The store where I bought them is out of business, so whom should I contact to get them fixed or replaced? Dennis Cedar City, Utah

So, what exactly is Scotchgard, and can I spray it on fleece? Terry New Kingston, New York