North Face for all seasons

North Face seems an obvious choice for winter, but as one of the most widely recognized outdoor brands in the world, it’s a really great choice for all seasons. Launched in San Francisco in the 1960’s, The North Face mission partly lies in outfitting extreme alpinists and rock climbers, skiers and boarders, hikers and trail runners.

Even though their roots are in rugged gear, the casual adventurer is not forgotten. The North Face also outfits adventure travelers with apparel, footwear, tents, packs and sleeping bags that survive any conditions, any activity, any location. In particular, North Face offers a number of fleece and shell products that perform as well as other more technical garments at a great price.

A popular choice for a softshell/windproof jacket is the WindWall Fleece which packs in great features & quality. The genius of the WindWall Fleece – which is North Face’s exclusive fabric – is it allows a little bit of air through for breathability, but not so much that you can feel it, resulting in a seriously comfortable jacket whether climbing, hiking or walking. Insulation wise, WindWall Fleece is an excellent partner to a base layer or underneath a shell for when things get a bit nippy.

Another great choice is the North Face Resolve Jacket – a classic waterproof shell garment. If you’ re just starting to get outdoors on a regular basis, and want to have a jacket that doesn’t break the bank, but will let you perform well and keep dry, the Resolve Jacket is ideal. It does this by using North Faces’ own HyVent fabric which ensures water stays away and keep you comfortable when out in the elements. The technology utilizes a three-layer construction to stay simultaneously breathable and waterproof in a variety of conditions.

A fully adjustable hood folds neatly away into the collar for convenience while travelling and exploring. The Resolve also features a mesh lining that protects the interior surface from snagging. Overall this is a light and versatile shell which is best suited to Summer or Fall use but works well in the Winter for general urban use.

Both these jackets are all-purpose favorites of girls everywhere. They’re fashionable and functional for everything from walking to school  to weekend hiking.  And they’ll  look good even after a summer backpacking trip or camping adventure.

Take a hike (with the right footwear)

Hiking shoes or boots are an essential part of any outdoor wardrobe. From waterproof sandals to lightweight walking shoes or protective boots, choosing the right footwear may be the most important decision you make as a hiker or backpacker. The shoes or boots you choose must be comfortable and rugged, mile after mile.

Outdoor footwear can be divided into a few basic categories. Begin your search for the right shoes or boots  by focusing on the category that best matches your hiking or backpacking plans.

• Light hiking—Pick footwear designed principally for day hiking. These are usually  light-weight and  flexible, and allow for comfort and breathability. As a result, they may be less supportive and durable than your other options.
• Hiking and backpacking— Pick shoes or boots designed for on- and off-trail hiking with light to moderate loads. These are more durable and supportive than lightweight shoes, but they are still intended primarily for short to moderate trips over easy to moderate terrain.
• Extended backpacking and mountaineering—Pick mid or high cut boots designed for on- and off-trail, multiday hiking with moderate to heavy backpacking loads. Durable and supportive, they provide a high degree of ankle and foot protection.

Which is the right cut for you?

• Low-cut —These shoes are fine for lightweight travel, but they provide less roll-resistance for ankle joints. Plus, on muddy routes or trails filled with  grit or sand, it’s tough to keep debris out of your shoes. They’re a good choice for lighter loads on maintained trails.
• Mid-cut —These boots wrap around your ankles and offer some cushioning and protection from debris and hazards. They’re a smart pick for shorter multiday trips with moderate loads.
• High-cut —These boots give you leverage and ankle support on irregular trails or cross-country routes. If you routinely carry heavier loads, high cuts make good sense. Be sure, however, to take the time to break them in before a long-distance trip.

Hiking sandals have become really popular and are useful on those hot summer days and  evenings. If you plan to hike and wearing boots or shoes seem to be too heavy for your feet, then opt for a pair of sandals and keep your feet protected without the unnecessary bulk. They’re ideal for extended trips on the river or easy hiking where your feet are sure to get soaked.

Hikers  also like newer, lightweight shoes and the comfort factor they offer over traditional boots. They’re really great for long and short walks or even just messing around. However, walking shoes are no replacement for hiking boots when the ground is poor and distance is great.

Waterproof boots are always a good choice as well, whether taking an outdoor stroll or  a serious trek.

Know Your Materials

The materials used in a  boot or trail shoe will affect its weight, breathability, durability and water resistance. Since boots made of different fabrics can be similar in performance, personal preference is often the key when choosing between them.

• Full-grain leather—This is your best choice for durability and abrasion resistance. It resists water well and is used primarily in backpacking boots built for extended trips, heavy loads and rugged terrain. Full-grain leather is not as lightweight or breathable as nylon/split grain combinations and it usually requires a break-in period.
• Split-grain leather—This material is usually paired with nylon or nylon mesh to offer lightweight, breathable comfort. Split-grain leather tends to be softer on your feet, takes less time to break in and is lighter than full-grain leather. These boots also cost less. The downside is that they are a bit less resistant to water and abrasion than full-grain leather boots).
• Nubuck leather—Nubuck is full-grain leather that has been buffed to resemble suede. It is very durable and resists water and abrasion. It usually requires a break-in period.
• Synthetic materials—Polyester, nylon and so-called “synthetic leather” are all commonly used materials. They are lighter than actual leather, break in quickly and usually cost a bit less. The downside is that they may show wear sooner.

PRETTY TOUGH TIP: The waterproofness (or water resistance) of your hiking boots depends significantly on how well you treat them. Be sure to follow all care instructions  so that they can perform well and last a long time.

Get the Right Fit

Once you’ve narrowed down your options to a handful of boots or shoes, the best way to decide between them is to try them on and give them a test drive.

Different brands and styles will fit differently. A good fit allows you to easily wiggle your toes inside the footwear. Feet should not slide around inside footwear. Good-fitting boots hold feet firmly without binding.

When trying on shoes, walk on inclines and declines. If you detect heel-lift on inclines, adjust the tension of your laces atop the instep and try the incline again. On declines, toes should not feel too compacted in the toebox.

PRETTY TOUGH TIP: Bring along a pair of your own hiking socks when trying on shoes in store. And it’s best to try on footwear later in the day; feet tend to swell a bit during the day.

Boot Care Basics

Keep your boots and trail shoes clean between uses by brushing off dirt and mud as both can ruin leather over time. Most fabric boots and shoes can be washed on the outside with mild soap and water.

If your boots get drenched, stuff them loosely with newspaper and dry them in a warm place. Never rush the drying process by placing them near a fire or heater.

Boots need to be conditioned from time to time, especially if they’re made of leather. This is true whether you hike in dry, hot conditions or wet, temperate ones.

So now that you know how to treat your feet right —  get moving!

One day hiking trips

If you love the outdoors, you know hiking is the best way to see nature.  Hiking over long distances or over difficult terrain requires both physical ability and knowledge of the route.  But not every hike has to be a multi-day trek involving lengthy distances in the countryside or wilderness.

One day hiking trips have a number of advantages. They are great for the recreational hiker. Minimal gear is required and you can take pleasure in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings without distractions.  Short day hikes are also a beneficial form of exercise allowing you to control the speed and terrain elevation.

Since one day hikes commonly take place on easily accessible trails in your area,  you can discover hidden nature treasures  in your own backyard. You can venture out for a day of leisurely or extreme hiking. Instead of setting up camp for the night, you can return to the comforts of your own home.  Living in SoCal,  there are a plethora of day hikes to enjoy; I can literally hike a number of trails in the Santa Monica mountains from my house and within a short drive are beach hikes and trails with vistas from Catalina to downtown.

Even if you’re away from home, a one day hike is a great idea.  So  many beautiful places can only be reached overland by hiking so it makes sense to do some research whenever you’re on the road to discover what  the local environment offers. From nature trails  to lake and river hikes, hikes to viewpoints and mountain summits, urban hiking trails and backcountry treks, there’s  something for hikers of all abilities and experience levels.

What hiking gear is necessary for a one day trip? It depends on the weather, terrain, and experience level of the hikers. However, there is basic hiking equipment that you will need. When choosing a hiking backpack, opt for a smaller pack. You don’t want to spend your day trip lugging around a heavy backpack. It is a good idea to bring extra clothes in case your clothes become wet or the weather gets cooler. The key is to dress in layers and have the proper outdoor clothing.

It is vital to keep well hydrated, especially in the hot summer months. Pack water in a strong, resealable plastic bottle. You will need at least a quart for a day-long walk but best to bring more.   Bring snacks including carbs and protein such as fruit,  nuts and granola. and  extra food just in case you spend a longer time on the trail then expected.

Safety should be high priority on any hiking trip.   The following items will help combat most hiking emergencies: map, compass, and flashlight, waterproof matches, whistle, fire starter, and space blanket.  A first-aid kit is also a good idea.

Also make sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Nothing can ruin a hiking adventure like bug bites and an aching sunburn. Always wear sunscreen even if the weather is overcast. Find a waterproof and sweat resistant sports sunscreen and reapply sunscreen every 4-5 hours or more frequently if you are prone to sunburn.

One day hiking trips are a great way for recreational hikers to experience new and familiar trails and exercise at the same time. You can even start a one day hiking group with your friends as a social get-together.

Remember to leave no trace, and  hike in a way such that future hikers cannot detect your presence. Now, go take a hike!

Winter Hiking & Camping

There might be a few good reasons to hang up your hiking boots during the Winter but I can’t think of one. If you love being outdoors and wish you could extend the hiking season, you’re in luck. Hiking, backpacking and even camping are no longer just three-season activities.

With some specific gear and training, you can be hitting the trails all Winter as well as the rest of the year. Just be sure you’re not heading out in summer trail shoes, a light weight pair of cotton pants and a fleece jacket. As long as you have appropriate outdoor clothing there’s no reason not to get outside and enjoy the winter wonderland.

Many public parks, cities, and towns maintain trails that are accessible for Winter hiking and even snowshoeing so check local resources if you’re not sure where to go.

Winter Hiking Tips
When participating in outdoor activities, dress in layers so you can easily adjust your clothes to regulate body moisture and temperature. Three types of layers are considered normal : a base layer against your skin (longjohns), an insulation or middle layer (fleece), and an outer layer (water-proof shell or windbreaker). As you hike in winter you’ll learn that staying cool can be as much of a challenge as staying warm

In the winter, COTTON KILLS. Cotton loses its insulating qualities when it gets wet, whether from rain or sweat. Cotton also takes a long time to dry out. Wool or synthetic materials are much better suited to winter camping in cold weather conditions.

Adjust your layers of clothing by adding or removing to prevent heat buildup and sweating. Too much moisture in your clothes will make you cold as it evaporates.

If you stop for a long break or at the end of the day, put on insulation layers before you cool off too much, otherwise your body will have to work harder just to warm you back up.

Protect against heat loss through your head by wearing a hat or balaclava (ski mask). Over half of your body heat can be lost through your head.

Instead of stopping for a long lunch, snack on food all during the day at short breaks. This will keep you from cooling down too much and having to adjust your layers of clothing too many times.

Carry a small insulated thermos-type bottle full of a hot drink or hot soup. If you get cold or just want a warming snack, you will already have something hot prepared.

Be aware of the signals your body is sending you. Cold fingers or toes indicate you should stop and address the cause of the problem if possible.

Hike with experienced companions and always leave a copy of your itinerary with family members who are staying behind.

Caution:
If you are going to be in mountainous backcountry, beware. Understand avalanche tendencies and be sure to check local avalanche conditions in your area before going out.

Related Posts:

Frostbite: Cold Weather Health Tips
Winter Fun: Wanna Try Something New?

Camp/Hike: The first truly portable potty

For all you hikers, campers and other outdoor adventurers comes perhaps the most useful piece of gear ever – the $hit Box, aka the Cardboard Crapper.

The Cardboard Crapper is just what you guessed – an environmentally friendly porta-potty for those times when even a rest stop is out of the question. All you have to do is pop up the box, unfold it, and insert a biodegradable poo bag to get up and running.

The charmingly named creation is made specifically for outdoor use and ideal for festival fans, campers, Portaloo-less builders, fisherman and anyone caught short on long journeys.

So, the next time you go camping and don’t want to squat in the bushes, you’ll be forever grateful for this not exactly hi-tech invention.  Available in two sizes, the 14” original and a smaller ‘Little Jack’ version that comes pink for girls and a blue for boys. (about $23 USD).

Pretty smart!

Tree climbing – not just for kids

Tall oaks from little acorns grow.   -Anonymous

You don’t have to look far to find a tree worth climbing. And tree climbing isn’t just for kids. It’s an adventure, but it’s also a great workout. Climbing exercises the upper torso by using many of the muscle groups not often worked.

Anyone who’s young at heart and ready for the enjoyment trees can provide will find tree climbing fun (as long as you’re not afraid of heights). It is at once a thrilling, enchanting, and calming experience. 

Tree climbers love being aloft and, with advances in technique and equipment, large trees that were once considered too big to climb can now be scaled with ease and safety. Although if you go back and try to climb the bad boy that terrified you when you were six, chances are it might not seem so big anymore.

If you want to really explore tree climbing, or see what’s new since you were a kid (a lot), check out Tree Climbers International, Inc. In addition to promoting tree climbing, they teach the sport of “rope and harness” climbing so that everyone can experience the joy and wonder of seeing the world from the heights of the treetops!

What are you waiting for? Go climb a tree!

Taking an incredible leap

November 12, 2008 – Last month, British skydiver Holly Budge made history by becoming the first woman to skydive over Everest (29,500ft). Talk about a leap of faith.

Holly has worked in the adrenaline sports industry for over eight years as a skydiving camera flyer and rock climbing instructor. She has over 2000 skydives, including 1200 camera jumps.

Check out Budge’s interview with “The Early Show” where she tells what it was like on the top of the world free falling into the record books.

The Gear Junkie’s Adventure Sweepstakes

October 15, 2008 – Armchair travelers, weekend warriors and everybody who’s ever picked up a copy of Outside magazine and said to themselves, “My life is so lame.”, should enter the Choose Your Adventure Sweepstakes.

Hosted by Gear Junkie, a site devoted to the outdoors, health, fitness, adventure travel, and all the gear and equipment associated with those pursuits and written by freelance journalist Stephen Regenold, the sweepstakes offers a bevy of great prizes.

Not only does the winner get to pick from a list of REI Adventures including a Mount Washington Winter Climb, Sequoia Winter Mountaineering Clinic, Yosemite Snowshoe Trip, Ice Climbing Basics in New Hampshire or a White Mountains Hut-to-Hut Snowshoe  but they’re outfitted from head to toe with new gear.

Just because one of the sponsors is LazyMan (tagline — “Earn your Lazy” ) doesn’t mean gals can’t enter (at least I don’t think that’s the case). Twenty-one years or older; deadline is Dec. 17th. Check out the Link!