Fall's new casual boots feature a tried-and-true friend: durable leather. X-Ray 'em, however, and you'll find athletic-shoe cushioning and the sole and support of a hiker. Because you know what they say: real beauty is more than skin-deep.

Like travel itself, the latest gear for the road is full of wild surprises

Dear Gear Guru, I'm thinking about bringing my Labrador camping with me, but don't know if he needs special gear. I have a two-person tent, and there's no way my wife and I could fit him in there with us. I don't think he'll be satisfied sleeping in the tent's vestibule either. What should we do to make sure he's happy and safe? John Bloomington, Indiana

For the last five years, I've been lugging around a seven-pound Dana Design Stillwater pack. But recently, I've seen the "light" and have gone lightweight. Can you recommend a solid, 4,000-cubic-inch pack that weighs less than four pounds? I was looking at the Osprey Aether 60 and the Mountainsmith Auspex, but which would you recommend? Thanks for always being the "go to" guy when it comes to gear. Jake Irvine, California

I do quite a lot of bushwalking in the Japan Alps and have been carrying my Canon SLR with standard lens, and occasionally an extra telephoto lens—all told, a hefty load. I'm not such a serious photographer to need all that extra weight, but I would like better photos than a disposable or compact can produce. After some research I had decided to splurge on a Contax T3, but then I saw a new Pentax SLR—the "*ist"—that weighs only 335 grs (presumably that's the body only). So, with a matching lens, it still comes in at about half the weight of my current camera. I presume the optics are plastic, hence the low weight. Which would you choose? Excellent fixed lens or zoomable plastic? Dian Tokyo, Japan

During a week's hiking around the High Sierra Cps of Yosemite, my backpack began to reek! Even though I washed myself and my clothes regularly, my husband, who is normally a very sweet man, insisted I hike behind him so as not to be asphyxiated. How, oh how do I get the stench out of my backpack straps?

If a guy was headed to Denali in May, and asked you to compare the Marmot 8000 Meter Parka with the Feathered Friends Rock & Ice Parka that you used, what would you say? And, since I very good-looking, would you like to use my photo at the head of your column and tell people it was you? Bob Reno, Nevada

I recently completed a two-week, 96-mile trek in Alaska's Brooks Range. I thought that I was traveling as light as possible until I encountered a couple of wandering hikers who were carrying external-fre backpacks fashioned with titanium fres and Kevlar fabric. Their packs, from Cp Trails, weighed at least half of my Longbed pack, and mine was smaller. After returning to civilization I immediately visited the store where they told me such packs could be purchased, but the sales staff gave me that "what planet are you from?" look upon hearing my tale. Assuming they are the ones from another planet, can you help me find a super-lightweight pack weighing less than four-and-a-half pounds, with up to 6,500 cubic inches of capacity? Is there such a creature still being made out there? Fred Kodiak, Alaska

What's the deal with "fly-only pitching" options with tents? My partner wants a roomy, comfortable double-wall tent for two (she likes The North Face's Roadrunner 2). However, I also want a lightweight single-wall tent that's easy to pitch for solo camping and just traveling light (something like a Bibler Megid or GoLite Den 2). Will a tent with fly-only pitching meet both needs? Jes Sydney, Australia

I have some questions about a backpacking trip around India, where weight will be a consideration. We need a unit for recharging digital camera batteries (possibly with surge protection), as well as a lightweight but intimidating-looking lock and chain to secure our packs to seats and poles on trains. One more thing: I'm looking for a multi-climate sleeping-bag liner. Thanks much! Sue Boston, Massachusetts

I'm headed to the Okavango Delta in Botswana for six months through a job with Conservation International. I not a very experienced photographer, so can you recommend a reasonably priced camera that'll take great wildlife photos? Todd Baltimore, Maryland

I planning a climbing trip to the Yosemite Valley in a few weeks, and I was wondering if you have any recommendations for a hydration pack I could use while climbing. I would use it to also carry a small headlp, rainjacket, and a few energy bars. I looking for something low profile that will not get in my way while climbing. Anything fit the bill? Alan Locust, New Jersey

Last year I bought a Specialized Sirrus Sport hybrid for road biking, with which I'm very happy. My brother's looking for a new bike, so how does something like the Marin ALP line of bikes, particularly their Highway One, stand up against the likes of my Specialized Sirrus? A bike mechanic told me that Marin's star is waning, and that you are paying for their ne. Thanks for your insight. I've actually set up my Internet browser to open your column as my personal homepage, and have used your advice more times than I can remember! Patrick Chicago, Illinois

Lieber Ausrüstungmensch: Looking at the change of seasons and your report on the latest and greatest in the gear world, I'm trying to come up with a clothing strategy that maximizes economy of budget and weight. I'm a keen hiker currently living in Germany (near the Alps), but who will be moving back to the East Coast of the U.S. (Smoky Mountains!) soon. I want a system that will cover me when it's warm, cool, and wet. Should I go with a fleece-plus-shell combo, lugging around the deadweight when I'm not using it, or should I buy one of the do-it-all soft shells? Patrick Frankfurt Main, Germany

So everyone I know agrees the Marmot Oracle is a fantastic storm protection jacket. But sometimes you have to take the advice of longtime friends... and throw it away because they are not the Gear Guy. I want an ultralight jacket to throw in my pack while hiking. I bought my wife the Marmot Oracle, which she loves, but what do you think about products using PacLite such as the GoLite Phantom Jacket, or the Marmot Osprey? I already have an Arc'teryx Beta AR, but is that light enough, or would PacLite be worth it? Jeremiah Eugene, Oregon

Now that the venerable Patagonia Ice Nine ski bibs have been discontinued, what do you recommend in their place? I want something similar: waterproof-breathable, light but durable, great features. However, I've read not very complimentary things about The North Face's Gore-Tex XCR bibs. Richard Oak Ridge, Tennessee

Which do you think would be better for a backcountry winter camping trip in Yosemite: snowshoes or a ski like the Karhu Morph (which looks like L.L. Bean's Boreal and features a built-in climbing skin)? Tom Marina del Rey, California

I have a medical condition known as Raynaud's, which basically means that I have real problems staying warm in temperatures below 50 degrees. This past winter was a killer for me. Unfortunately I can't hole up inside during the winter as my 100-pound insulated dog needs to walk (and loves the cold). What do you think would work best for me? I assume down, but the women's down parkas don't seem to be that warm. Faith Reston, Virginia

What does one do when his hero lets him down? Last fall you spoke highly of the St. Moritz Pathfinder TI watch. Well, let me tell you, the Gear Guy is fallible. This watch has been a huge letdown. The "glow factor" of the numbers is terrible, the alarm is barely audible, and the service is less than acceptable. I sent it in for warranty repair for its water resistance, being sure to mention the other factors, and the service was very slow and they never even addressed my other concerns. I think you may have made an error! (I know, hard to believe.) Tim Moose, Wyoming

My husband and I are having an argument about our 20-year-old down sleeping bags. The bags in question are Blacks Icecap XL mummy bags. I've recently being doing some fall camping and find that I get quite cold some nights, leading me to surmise that these sleeping bags have reached the end of their days. My husband says it's just my age, as he doesn't find them cold. Now I know I shouldn't bother arguing with him and just go out and buy myself a new sleeping bag, but I want you to tell him that down sleeping bags do "die" eventually. Can you back me up? Carol Port Moody, British Columbia

I was rock climbing in Australia earlier this year when I fell and wrecked a lumbar disc. I'm having surgery to decompress the spinal nerve in a couple of weeks (a lumbar microdiscectomy), and I'm itching to get back into trping (you call this "hiking") and climbing and so on. Since physiotherapists don't know much about backpacks, I'm wondering if you can help me: Is there a backpack that is better for your back (i.e., one that doesn't compress your lower back too much)? I currently use a fairly simple 60-liter New Zealand-made pack by Cactus Climbing. Karen Wellington, New Zealand

Thanks for asking the Gear Guy a question. Stay tuned to the Gear Guy’s column for your answer. He should get back to you in about a week. Of course, while he’d love to answer everyone’s questions, he’s so busy testing equipment that he…

What's a good, moderately priced tire for mountain biking in the snow? I'm not looking to spend a fortune for a studded snow tire, just something with better traction that I can use in the spring as well. Paul Patterson, New York

Your Gearness, I planning to drive cross-country this summer, hiking and camping wherever the road takes me. For the driving portion, I was thinking of investing in a GPS system to help with the "figuring-out-where-the-heck-I-am" moments. Do you have any advice as to the value of GPS for this? (I will not need it for hiking, using the old-fashioned technique of map, compass, and trail blazes) Realistically, I'd like to stay under $300, but will go higher for an exceptional device—one that does the navigating, driving, AND laundry. Charles New York City, New York

With all the high-tech lenses out there, I'm looking for a pair or two that will provide good protection in a variety of situations. I would be using them for downhill skiing, water sports, motorcycle riding, driving, hiking, mountain biking, roller blading, etc. The three brands I considering are Revo, Oakley, and Serengeti. I was also told by someone a long time ago, that it is not a good idea to wear polarized lenses when riding a motorcycle, as they will hide oil spots on the road, causing a potential slide. Can you tell me if there is any truth to that? Tom Player Toronto, Ontario

My girlfriend has had problems finding a boot for her narrow foot. In particular every boot she has tried so far has caused blisters on her heels due to slippage. Can you suggest a backpacking/hiking boot for women with narrow heels? Jon Rauer Charleston, West Virginia

I have an opportunity to buy a Tempest 23 tent from The North Face (retail $675) for $400. It is brand new and it looks bombproof. I have asked all over and searched the net for info about this tent and have come up empty. I heading to Mount Shasta in June and would like a good mountaineering tent. On the other hand, I also need to upgrade my old duct-taped, three-season tent. I not sure what to do, buy this single-wall tent and buy a good three-season, or look into a convertible tent. I don't want to miss out on a good deal. Brian Holt Detroit, Michigan

Do you have any recommendations for headlamps? I'm a casual camper intrigued by the new LED lights. The battery-/bulb-life is amazing, but are they bright enough to be worth the purchase? Michael J Ogden, Utah

I planning a trip to Belize this spring. I own a MSR Superfly and have already used it many times. Can I bring the stove—minus fuel canisters—on an airplane? I really don't want to purchase another stove. Brett Skraban Chicago, Illinois

I preparing to go on a seven-day backwoods trip to Glacier National Park, and I'm trying to determine what stove to use. As I like white gas (I have an old Optimus), how much fuel do I need if I'm cooking three times a day? I will probably upgrade to a Simmerlite or possibly a Zip Stove depending on your answer. John Cden, Maine

What's a good trail-running/adventure-racing shoe for an over-pronating runner like myself? I need to buy a new pair of shoes quickly! Rob Indianapolis, Indiana

My trusty 35-year-old Svea stove is in need of a new gasket for the cap. I've made one, but the material I used is too hard to effect a good seal. Is the real thing still available? I also need the cleaning needle. Is that available? Kent Tracy, California

In September I'm headed to a lodge in the stey Amazonian rainforest, so I'm looking for a poncho or raincoat that will be light, packable, waterproof, breathable, and cool. But everything I've looked at so far has liners and seems more suited for warmth in mountain winds than for a humid rainforest. What's my best bet to stay both dry and cool? Patrick Jonesboro, Arkansas

I need a waterproof tent. I spend most of my time outdoors in fall and winter, and two REI tents and one from The North Face have failed me. The problem isn't water coming in through the ses; it is coming through the fabric itself, including the rain fly. I've even tried, unsuccessfully, to spread silicone caulk on the rain fly. Can you recommend a tent that will stay dry even if a fire hose is turned on it? Jeff Moscow, Idaho

I recently saw The Seat from ERGO, LLC advertised. The makers claim that this seat does away with numb-butt syndrome and sexual dysfunction (real important). Can you confirm or deny these assertions? Dennis Hilton, New York

I'm looking to buy a fly-fishing rod for some of the smaller Rocky Mountain stres. Any suggestions on where I can get a decent rod that will break into small packable pieces? Matt Albuquerque, New Mexico

How can Limmer and other high-quality boot manufacturers send your boots to you sight-unseen, without ever seeing your "dogs," let alone sizing them? Jim Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

I contemplating through-hiking the Pacific Coast Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Appalachian Trail in succession and need info on the packs made by GoLite (based on Ray Jardine's designs) and Wild Things, and the tents by Warmlite. I have not had the opportunity to test any of this ultralight gear. I know you have answered before about the philosophy behind the "Ray Way," but I after actual gear tests of these products. I feel GoLite's packs (the Gust or Earth for me) would be high quality but haven't heard anything about them. The Wild Things AT may give the Earth or Gust a good fight but the price is higher. Any thoughts as always would be absorbed and contemplated. Scott Running Springs, California

What's the best handheld altimeter for mountaineering? I have looked at the Suunto, Brunton, and Thommen models, but not sure which has the best features for high-altitude Alaskan climbing? Ron Toronto, Ontario

Checking out this season's gear, it's clear outdoor clothing is becoming truly high-tech; we can travel lighter and more comfortably than at any time in history. To tell the truth, I feel kinda sissy not having to grin and bear the cold and wet anymore. Are we reaching a point where technology only offers incremental returns beyond what it can do today? Will we ever see paper-thin insulating jackets, or do the laws of physics prevent a future of sci-fi outdoor clothing? Ross Reading, California

How do I get the nasty smell out of my old footwear? I like to buy quality boots and shoes that will last a long time, but inevitably, long before they are worn out, they start to stink (my feet tend to sweat a lot). Any suggestions as to removing the offensive odors and bringing these old friends back into service? Bill Charlottesville, Virginia

I currently own a pair of Tecnica backpacking boots that should be well broken in after 200-plus miles of use. However unless I pre-treat my heals with second skin, I end up getting heal blisters. I think this maybe due to my high foot bridge and the boot's lacing system. Any recommendation on a boot that might work better for me? No Name Given

After straining our eyes for years (and believe me, the years have gotten to me) my wife and I have decided to consider a spotting scope for our field trips. I new to scopes and confused at to the benefits between a straight versus angled lens and as to what optical power is most beneficial for nature viewing. Can you recommend a few bombproof spotting scopes (we take our fair share of spills and falls on the trail) with quality optics to view and appreciate nature with. Mr. Magoo Galveston, Texas

I need to buy a pair of boots that will work well on Mount Rainer and Mount McKinley. They need to be waterproof and crampon compatible. I don't need them to be overly heavy but they have to keep frostbite away in a storm. What are some options for both plastic and leather boots? Jeremy

Are soft shells for real, and can they adequately replace a 300-weight fleece as an insulating layer for mountaineering? Would they give me the benefits of a windproof, waterproof, and breathable layer before the hard shell is donned when the weather gets really nasty? Matt San Ron, California

What's the deal with siliconized nylon? Smaller companies like Integral Designs, Six Moon Designs, and Wanderlust Outdoor Gear are making extraordinarily light tents and tarps out of this stuff, yet the Sierra Designs and Mountain Hardwears of the world aren't using it. I understand it doesn't breathe well and thus condensation can be a problem, but is that a big deal? In other words, what are the arguments for not using it? Kevin Larkin Blacksburg, Virginia

This July I climbing Mount Rainer. My climbing partners have told me that a synthetic bag is necessary because of the rain. They recommended a 25- to 40-degree bag. We are going light and fast, and plan on using open-air bivys, so I think a bag with a microfiber shell would be a good thing. Unfortunately, I not having any luck in my search for the perfect bag. I have stumbled on only a few bags that are synthetic and have microfiber shells. Integral designs makes one, but it uses Primaloft2 as its insulation material. I have been warned to stay away from short-staple fibers because the bags don't last very long. Do you have any suggestions? Mike Ads Newark, Ohio

My wife and I are going bike camping this summer. Are there any light two-person sleeping bags, or single bags that zip together? We need the bag(s)—preferably down filled—to also fold down as small as possible. The cheapest we've found is about $500 for two. Do you have any better suggestions? Harvey Davis, California

My family and I enjoy car camping in Alaska's interior. However, as I get older, I'm finding that my back gets stiffer using my old sleeping pad and that my air mattress doesn't give enough insulation. What type of pad or combination of pad and air mattress do you recommend to minimize back pains, provide insulation, and allow for a comfortable night's sleep? Shane Juneau, Alaska

Is DryLoft on a down sleeping bag worth it? I've noticed that it's not appearing as often as it used to on down winter sleeping bags. David Morlock St. Paul, Minnesota

As a bowman on a racing sailboat crew, I called upon to climb various things. The usual practice is to wear a climbing harness rather than use a bosun's chair as it saves time on the racecourse. My problem is that salt water is corrosive, and our usual sailing area off the south coast of the U.K. is particularly so. I'm not too comfortable going up the mast wearing a harness where the buckles are showing signs of corrosion. Is there a harness with buckles made of stainless steel? Or what other solution could you suggest? Edward London, England

I just bought new ski boots and I love them. Next on my list is buying new skis. I a solid level-nine skier and can ski anything on the mountain (New England or Rockies), although not always as gracefully as I would like. I love moguls but don't want a ski that submarines in powder. I was looking at the Salomon X-scres but heard that their tails were too stiff and therefore a lot of work in the bumps. Do you have any recommendations for top-of-the-line skis? Will New York, New York

I'm an Australian looking to travel in North America from December to February. Can you recommend a good trekking tent for the season that will house two to three people and their gear? I would like to use the tent year-round and for it to be fairly roomy. Rod Sydney, Australia

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

Yes, as an overpronate runner weighing in at 210 pounds, I probably should take up a less impact-prone sport. But I'm still running, so I need some shoes with torsional stability and impact-absorbing capability. For the past year, I have been running in a pair of Brooks Beasts, which have worked pretty well, but not perfectly (Spenco insoles helped some). Can you recommend several running shoes that are suited for a runner of my build? Charles New York City

I'm taking a two-day bike tour with a friend. We are both concerned about the camping stuff we need to be carrying. Can you give some advice on what we should carry on our bikes? And which sleeping bags would you suggest? Ali Serefli Hartford, Connecticut

I'm dumbfounded by all the choices with regard to heart rate monitors. Should I stick with the well-respected Polar or try other brands? Tracy Los Angeles, California

On extended backpacking trips, does it make sense to pack both a soft shell and a waterproof jacket? Or just take along the rain jacket? Also, since I come from Europe, I'm a little bit confused about what exactly cross-country skiing is. I know what telemarking is (those graceful people on the piste) and also langlauf (with the thin skis), but what is cross-country? Karl Cottenie Leuven, Belgium

I'm looking for a good underwater and above-water digital camera. Any suggestions for what I should look for? Margaret Hilo, Hawaii

Are there any materials that can offer reasonable rain protection and still breathe well? I can't use Gore-Tex in anything but the coldest conditions without getting significantly dp. How does REI's Elements line stack up? Ken Johnson Hollister, California

I'm going hiking on the West Coast Trail and I have boots with Vibr soles. They are very slick on wood in wet weather. Since it constantly rains on the West Coast and you have to traverse many wooden bridges, ladders etc., I was wondering if you could suggest a boot with a more water-friendly sole. Dan Anstey Ottawa, Ontario

What is the stiffest material that a road-racing bike can be made of? Also, what's a good compromise between a really stiff bike and a really light bike? Justin Seattle, Washington

Oh Gear God, I've eschewed "wind-blocking" fleece over the years in the belief that something like Marmot's Driclime Windshirt is more efficient. But then I went to Patagonia and discovered their oh-so-tempting R4 jacket. Of course, having disdained wind-blocking fleece for so long, I know nothing of the advantages and disadvantages of Gore Windstopper, Polartec Windbloc, and Windbloc-ACT. Can you enlighten me? And, while you're at it, do you think the ever-so pricey Patagonia version is worth the extra dough? Finally, is it gilding the lily to put a windbreaker over one of these wind-blocking whatchacallits to keep them dry in a light rain? Mark San Francisco, California

Tent versus tarp? Scott Gillette San Jose, California

My wife and I are looking for a canoe, to use mainly during weeklong trips on flattish water: something sturdy enough for rocks and beaver ds, yet light enough for long portages; large enough to carry our packs, yet small enough to be nimble in narrow creeks; stable in wavy conditions without feeling as though we're paddling a tugboat. Can you help us navigate these compromises and suggest some good all-round tripping canoes? Rob Calgary, Alberta

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

OK, call me a masochist, but I love winter camping. However, when I try to convince some members of my family to go with me, the answer is always the same: "Too cold." So I spy the Zodi Hot Vent II ($135), which uses a propane cylinder to provide heat to the tent. This could be just the ticket! But does it work, and is it safe? Only the great Gear Guru knows for sure. Jeff Minneapolis, Minnesota

Up until now, I've been content with either picking a wilderness that allows backcountry campfires for cooking dinner, or eating cold food for the duration. Now I'm starting to feel like my choices are limited and/or my dinner sucks. What kind of backcountry stove should I be looking into, and what is the difference between the different fuels? For the stove, my most important prerequisites are that it's lightweight and reliable. Mark Brick, New Jersey

What's the advantage of wearing mountain bike-style shoes with pedal clips, versus regular, all terrain-type shoes? Also, how does one escape from the clip? Jes Greene, New York

My wife's extremities get very cold on winter backpacking and ice climbing trips. I'd like to get something to help her out. I was looking specifically at the Moonstone Sauvage Glove. Any other recommendations? Chris Ralph Mountain View, California

Oh Great Gear Guru, I have a simple question. I recently ce across "directional clothing" by a manufacturer called Paro. Have you heard of it, and more to the point, have you had the opportunity to try it out and rate it? I would like your opinion on this stuff. Andrew London, England

During the winter I run in the early morning hours when it's dark and cold. What do you recommend for a good reflective winter running outfit? Lance Delafield, Wisconsin

We recently acquired a German shorthaired pointer who loves to swim in the ocean—not just play around in the surf, but really get out there and swim past the waves. Trouble is that with her short hair, she is freezing cold before she's tired out. We'd like to purchase a "doggie wetsuit," so to speak. Since we live in the self-proclaimed surf capital of the world, it seems a logical idea. Should we purchase one of those hunting-dog neoprene vests? Or are we just acting like overly-protective, wussy Californian dog owners? Thanks for not laughing too hard. Deb Encinitas, California

My husband and I are neophyte campers who need a tent that is reasonably priced, waterproof (Florida's thunderstorms are sudden and legendary), roomy, well ventilated (humidity here reaches 99 percent most of the year), and useful for both forest and beachside camping. Did I mention that we have only $150 to spend? Lynn Orlando, Florida

With "just in case" in mind, I like to pack extra food when preparing for a day hike. Pound for pound and calorie for calorie, what's the best emergency trail food? Carrol Phoenix, Arizona

In case I get a big heel blister, what should I pack in my first-aid kit? Charity San Diego, California