First Impressions: Deuter Futura Pro 44 EL (Extra Long) Backpack

posted in: Gear Reviews

Why Buy? For the last couple of years, I’ve been very happy with my current inventory of packs. Since my time on the trail and time to write reviews has been quite limited since my move to NH, I haven’t paid much attention to the new packs coming out, or pursued review opportunities with manufacturers. That is until, I read … Read More

Northside USA Unboxing Photos and Boot Giveaway!

posted in: Gear Reviews

Why Buy? As a GearRat and bargain bin shopper, I have lots of boots … too many boots … in fact, I could go a number of years without buying a new pair. As the founder of this blog though, I try to seek out gear from lesser-known brands to see what they have to offer and to determine if it is something my readers … Read More

Gear Review: Trew BeWild Jacket

posted in: Gear Reviews

Why Buy? I’ve been looking for a versatile jacket… something that could serve as lightweight rain protection on backpacking trips in the High Sierra and White Mountains, but also be used as a wind/waterproof shell for winter hiking and snowshoeing. With the high cost of quality gear, it is a huge plus if gear is versatile and can be used during different seasons. Trew … Read More

First Look: ioMerino Vital Crew Neck and Pinnacle Zip

posted in: Gear Reviews, Hiking Gear

Why Buy? In my 18 months of testing merino wool clothing, I’ve worn merino on cold, snowy mountains with sub-zero wind chills, in the hot and dry climate of Southern California, for intense cardio sessions at the gym, and lounging around the house.  I’ve been continually impressed with how well it regulates my body temperature, wicks moisture, and how many times merino can be worn between washes (odor resistance). … Read More

Gear Review: Ibex W2 Sport Tank and Hooded Indie

posted in: Gear Reviews, Hiking Gear

Why Buy? In June of 2015, I started testing my first merino wool products in preparation for my 60+ mile backpacking trip on the High Sierra Trail (HST). During this time, I began to realize that merino wool is an amazing material. After finishing my trip, I was convinced of merino’s antibacterial (odor preventing) and wicking properties. I continued to test various products from several manufacturers through the … Read More

Unboxing Photos: RoamProof SOS20K Portable Solar Powerbank & Package

posted in: Gear Reviews

I haven’t used this unit much yet, but since I’ve seen lots of questions regarding solar chargers and powerbanks lately, I wanted to get some information and photos posted. The RoamProof SOS20K Portable Solar Powerbank & Package includes: SOS20K Solar Charger 20,000 mAh IP67 Dust and water proof rating (dust tight and waterproof up to 1 meter and 30 minutes … Read More

Gear Review: Seek Outside Divide 4500 Ultralight External Frame Backpack

posted in: Gear Reviews, Hiking Gear

After their first big trip, it seems that many backpackers put some thought and energy into reducing their pack weight. My first couple of overnight trips were miserable, a direct result of carrying too much weight. After keeping track of the gear I carried on several hikes versus what gear was actually used, I was able to reduce pack weight by simply leaving unused items at home. The … Read More

First Look: Hi-Tec V Lite Flash Force Low I Trail Shoe

posted in: Gear Reviews, Hiking Gear

Why Buy? In early March I was contacted by Hi-Tec to see if I was interested in testing anything from their hiking line. Coincidentally, I was looking for a pair of low top hiker/trail runners to use in conjunction with a set of sole-stiffening insoles. Over the last several years, I’ve tried to transition from my heavy backpacking boots to trail runners … Read More

Transitioning From Heavy Backpacking Boots to Trail Runners, Part I

posted in: Gear Reviews

Why? As with any sport or activity, hiking has it’s adages that you’ll hear over and over once you’re spending time with participants of that activity. As a hiker, two things that you’re likely to hear are “cotton kills” and “1 pound on your feet equals 5 pounds on your back.” While “cotton kills” immediately made sense to me, I didn’t … Read More

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