Andean Adventure Selva Tambo October 16, 1997 Dinner preparations begin at the jungle refuge in Selva Tombo Somewhere in Martha Stewart’s guide to social etiquette must be a line warning against cooking untried dishes for guests. But here we were, courting faux pas, balancing lukewarm tequilas…

Polarization: A lens technology that cuts glare created when light reflects off materials like plastic and glass.

Week of January 9-15, 1997 Hut-to-hut skiing in the Adirondacks Family adventure, high in the saddle Options for climbing Kilimanjaro Kayaking South Padre Island Reliable Boundary Waters outfitters Kayaking South Padre Island Question: I am interested in sea kayaking in the Padre Island…

Week of September 14-21, 1995 Making the most of Baja’s Cabo San Lucas Choosing the right guide service for a Himalayan expedition Best autumn day hikes near Winter Park, CO Do Mexico right: Head straight for the Yucatán The Land of Enchantment knows no seasons…

What is the best hat for summer backpacking? Cotton baseball hats are too hot, too sweaty; synthetic caps are a little cooler. But how about a straw hat? In particular, the L.L. Bean Summer Straw Hat that supposedly folds up and packs easily? By the way, your reviews are probably more useful and readable than all the others. Congratulations, and thanks! Marshall Atlanta, Georgia

By Stephen RegenoldThe twice-annual Outdoor Retailer trade show, which will take place this summer in Salt Lake City from August 3 to 6, is a peek at the future of gear. The items displayed on the trade-show floor are what you'll see at shops this winter and in the spring…

Jackson Hole has always been a hideaway for the more unique characters in skiing. Wild Bill is no exception.

I bought a Marmot Massif XL sleeping bag because I'm somewhat claustrophobic and wanted a high-quality down bag with ple room. While it indeed has plenty of room, the extra space makes it far less heat efficient—it's rated at ten degrees and I'm barely warm enough at 25 degrees. What kind of liner would you recommend to add warmth for colder nights but not defeat the purpose of getting a larger bag? Neal Pratt Portland, Maine

Week of December 5-11, 1996 Holing up in the Georgia hills Exploring Hot Springs National Park Planning adventure trips with kids Snorkeling the Nohoch cave system Whitewater river-running in the East Exploring Hot Springs National Park Question: I’d like to travel to Hot…

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