Showing posts with label hiking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hiking. Show all posts

1/28/2012

Boy Scouts of America's Be Prepared Hiking and Backpacking Review

Boy Scouts of America's Be Prepared Hiking and Backpacking
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This is a wonderful new resource book on camping, written by one of our best camping authors today. It should be a must for every, Scoutmaster, Boy Scout and every troop. Meeting Boy Scouts or Pathfinders on the trail is an experience. If they are good, they are very good, but if they are bad they are the very worst you want to camp near! This book should be a wonderful help for leaders who try and for Boy Scouts or Pathfinders alike.

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Be Prepared while always associated with the Boy Scouts, this motto and way of life is now the focus of a major product release from the BSA. Headlining this launch is the Be Prepared book series from DK, beginning with Complete Wilderness Training, released April 2007. Though applicable to any outdoor enthusiast, these two new titles are a perfect match to the core Boy Scout values of outdoor activity, safety, and of course, preparation for life s journeys. This concise and informative visual guide offers practical advice on all aspects of backpacking and hiking, from choosing the appropriate gear, to pacing yourself and accommodating for difficult terrain, to making a campsite, to overcoming unexpected difficulties, such as injuries, severe weather or getting lost.

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11/19/2011

One Best Hike: Yosemite's Half Dome Review

One Best Hike: Yosemite's Half Dome
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When I first saw this book advertised on Amazon, I was a bit surprised. An entire hiking guide devoted to a single trail? But Half Dome is more than just a trail. It is for many people the hike of their lifetimes and probably the single most popular adventure in Yosemite. A trip to the top of Half Dome is more of a pigrimage for those who relish hiking and this book is the guide to get if you want to prepare for this journey.
The author, Rick Deutsch, has climbed Half Dome 17 times by his own account and certainly knows the route. I found most of his advice pretty sound. You should leave early, drink lots of water (filtering on the way is an excellent suggestion) and try to get to the cables before noon. I strongly agree with his suggestion that, as you ascend the cables, you breathe deeply and focus on the rock 10 feet in front of you rather than take in the "scenery" on the 45 degree ascent. Speaking as someone who does not enjoy vertical relief, I can attest that I would not have made it to the summit had a ranger not given me similar advice. The trail description was also well written.
On the whole this is a great little book. Obviously its narrow focus will mean that the book is not for everyone, but even casual readers will find the first portion of the book useful for trip planning. Deutsch includes a lot of helpful information on how to get reservations on the valley floor and some general history of Yosemite. In all, this book does what it sets out to do very well and the author should be commended. So should Wilderness Press for taking a chance on a book that is focused on a very specific audience. I hope they will consider expanding the "Best One Hike" series to include the Mt. Whitney Trail, the summit of San Gorgonio, and similar trails worthy of a guide like this one.

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Of all the hiking adventures in Yosemite National Park, probably the single most compelling to visitors from all over the world is the hike to the summit of Half Dome, the 8842-foot granite rock that stands as the Park's signature landmark. For many, it's a much anticipated once-in-a-lifetime achievement. The most popular route to Half Dome's summit is a grueling 16-mile round-trip trek with 10,800 feet in elevation gain and loss. Although the hike is non-technical, with hikers climbing fixed cables up the granite side of the rock, many would-be hikers are hesitant about this potentially risky trip. How fit should you be? What preparations do you need beforehand? What should you bring? How should you pace yourself during the day? From pre-trip advice to on-the-trail tips, this guide is aimed at both casual and experienced hikers. An estimated 50,000 people attempt the Half-Dome hike each year--up to 800 per day during peak season.

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11/07/2011

Nordic Walking (Outdoor Adventures Series) Review

Nordic Walking (Outdoor Adventures Series)
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The book helped me decide which poles and shoes to buy.
Very helpful in showing the correct way to use the poles.


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Adaptable, effective, and fun, Nordic walking is an outdoor adventure with something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a new way to spend time outdoors or want an enjoyable new workout, Nordic walking is the perfect activity for you. Developed in Finland, Nordic walking incorporates specially designed poles and specific techniques to enhance the action of walking. It's an ideal low-impact cardio activity that can be practiced in a variety of outdoor settings.Nordic Walking presents an easy three-step method for learning the basics so you can get started right away. The book provides information on walking correctly both with and without the poles to ensure an injury-free experience as well as using the poles correctly so that you can reap all the physical benefits of the activity. You'll also learn techniques for climbing and descending during your walk. Once you've mastered the basics, you will build your skills so you can move on to more challenging walks.Nordic Walking offers information on fitness fundamantals, etiquette and safety considerations, and tips for selecting the correct gear and apparel. The book also provides a list of Web sites that will help you plan trips in the United States and around the world and find Nordic walking instructors, organizations, and events.

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10/31/2011

Nordic Walking for Total Fitness Review

Nordic Walking for Total Fitness
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In "Nordic Walking for Total Fitness," Suzanne Nottingham and Alexandra Jurasin have created a compelling and comprehensive guide to a variation of a fitness favorite - walking. By implementing their suggestions and tools everyone, from the novice to the athlete, can achieve a variety of levels of fitness. Unlike many fitness genres which might be isolating, expensive, and hard on the body, Nordic Walking can be a social event with friends, families, and loved ones. The authors include clothing and gear requirements, skill development, warm-up and strength exercises, and address injury prevention and rehab. As a professional in the fitness field, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a great fitness program that can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime, and for your entire life. As an added bonus they've included easy to follow programs and advice for how to design your own programs.
Liza Forster - r.y.t
Western Regional Group Fitness Director/Plus One Health Management


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Take the next step toward a stronger, leaner, healthier physique with Nordic Walking for Total Fitness. From selecting equipment to creating your own personalized workout, it is your complete guide to the power of Nordic walking. In Nordic Walking for Total Fitness, Nordic walking experts Suzanne Nottingham and Alexandra Jurasin show you how to make the most of every walk. You'll learn how to choose the perfect pole, master proper form and technique, and supplement your routine for the ultimate total-body workout. Nordic Walking for Total Fitness includes six essential workouts from short, quick walks to longer, more challenging workout excursions. You can tailor each workout to achieve your fitness goal, or you can select from a menu of sample programs developed specifically for cardio health, strength, power, flexibility, sport cross-training, and full-body fitness. If you're ready to hit the path with power and purpose, Nordic Walking for Total Fitness is for you. It's like having a personal trainer striding alongside you every step of the way.

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9/08/2011

The Ultimate Nordic Pole Walking Book Review

The Ultimate Nordic Pole Walking Book
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One would think that the title of this book is an exaggeration, but it isn't. I read books and articles prior to this book, but this book has it all. Whether you're a beginner (like me) or you're really into competing or you just want a great physical outdoor workout, this is the only book that you will need.
You get everything "from soup to nuts": the history, choosing all the equipment, the techniques of nordic walking, a weight loss program, encouragement about fighting diseases, a total exercise program, and ten(!) fitness programs. It's very well written by a top track and field coach, an excellent educator, and a fitness pioneer.
Buy the book, then head out for a wonderful time; guaranteed.

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If you are a walking beginner, an advanced walker or just walk with friends - this is the right book for you. Based on 400 scientific studies about walking and Nordic Pole Walking this book gives a deep, easy-to-read, comprehensive insight into the benefits of Nordic Pole Walking and walking exercise. It teaches the correct Pole Walking technique and explains the body's physiological adaptation to achieve your fitness and health goals with this easy to perform, low impact exercise. It describes how Nordic Pole Walking can prevent and help to cure most common health disorders, like being overweight, back pain, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and more. Scientific proven self-testing tools help to check your actual fitness status and potential health risks. Practical weight loss concepts, nutrition advice and guidelines for lifestyle-changing lead you to a new quality of life. Detailed training plans from beginner to marathon level make it easy to achieve continuous success.

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8/17/2011

Trango Squid Review

Trango Squid
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I have used a regular stick-clip before but mine was in bad shape. I decided to upgrade to the Squid Clip and bought an inexpensive painters pole to attach it. I have followed the instructions as have my climbing buddies. We can not seem to get the gate to fully open and stay that way for the clip. By the time we get the clip to the hanger, the draw falls as the gate was not open far enough.
I am open to suggestions........please.

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The Squid a is a stick clip which does an elegant job of clipping out-of-reach bolts and allows you to UN-CLIP 'biners from those same bolts. If you don't believe in karma, the Squid can pay for itself in recovered draws in just a few days: for the karma conscious, the Squid will load up your karma bank faster than you can help a little old man across the street. "Fingers" at the end of the pivot-arm grab the gate and open it with a pull, letting you take the 'biner out of the bolt. If the draw is already hanging, a clever set of arms will hold your rope so you can clip it into the draw. Be careful though; in some states you could be busted for possession of burglary tools.The Squid will work with any standard paint pole. We recommend the 8' 2-piece Mr. LongArm ProPole. The pole needs to be stiff; the Squid will not work with a tent pole. Patented.Weight: Doesn't matter Material: Polycarbonate Color: Assorted Patented # 6,510,599

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8/15/2011

Wenzel Lone Elk Hiker 6.5 X 4-Feet One-Person Tent (Light Grey/Blue/Gold) Review

Wenzel Lone Elk Hiker 6.5 X 4-Feet One-Person Tent (Light Grey/Blue/Gold)
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Wenzel Outdoor Products has recently made a change in their product line, replacing their Starlite model with the Lone Elk Hiker/Biker tent. The tents in this range are lightweight, and compact for hiking or cycling. Will this transition in products show improvement?
FEATURES
Model #: 36418
Base: 6.5 ft. x 4 ft.
Center Height: 36 in. F / 24 in. R
Area: 23 sq. ft.
Sleeps: 1
The new Lone Elk tent is one of the lightest tents in its pricepoint, and rivals other more expensive tents in features. In fact, at 1470g (3.25lbs), this tent is ideal for cyclocamping, s240's, or weekend backpacking... as long as the weather is fair.
Wenzel Lone Elk Hiker/Biker Tent
The tweaked design of the Lone Elk has increased weight by four ounces, but has also included an additional bit of length and width for added comfort. While these attributes are key, a tent needs to be durable too. Keep on reading, in order to see how it stood up to its predecessor.
Once again, this tent is not a self-standing structure. The two shockcorded fiberglass poles are easily guided through the tent supports and mount to the base with a pin and ring system. Three guy lines are used to allow the tent to stand. A complaint of the Starlite tent was that the guyline setup made entering the tent less than optimal for taller or larger users, this tent allows easy entrance without complications.
The tent itself comprises of three different materials, not including the mesh vents. The top part of the dome is a thin, grey nylon which does well at keeping heat in, and blocking wind. The seams are in places which are at optimal angles in the event of rainfall. The second material is a thicker batch of nylon, and lends itself to maintaining the support and tension of the tent. The tarp material used at the base of the tent is thin, but clearly waterproof. I still use a footprint under the tent to keep another layer between the ground and I; this may not be necessary depending on what kind of pad you use under your sleeping bag.
Inside the rear of the tent, there is a vent flap which can be zipped open or closed. The three nights that I spent in the tent for testing, I noticed with both the rear vent flap and front door vent (front only slightly open) open, condensation did accumulate, and took about two hours to evaporate after awakening. I attribute this to the nature of sleeping in a backpacking tent, not a flaw in design or architecture of the vents. The tent kept me considerably warm, and did everything else it was intended for.
Review:
This tent is 3lb4oz, and can be found for $20-25 online. It fits one person, and a backpack inside, and has a small vestibule-type overhang for a pack or shoes at the rear. It does not have a rain fly, therefore is solely meant for fair weather conditions. Tent setup takes ten minutes when done casually, and is quite sturdy with the design.
Pros:
* Lightweight
* Inexpensive
* Well Stitched
* Small Pack Size
* Availability
Cons:
* Lack of true Vestibule, Porch, or Rainfly.
* Tent Pole Length of 23' makes them awkward, but not difficult to pack.
Once again, if you are not in the market for a $200 tent, this will do you well as long as you understand and accept its limitations. Since February, I have spent five nights in this tent provided to me by Wenzel since February, in weathers as cold as 20*F, and even bailed out on a sixth night that a thunderstorm sneak attacked me. As stated before, this is an ideal cyclocamping or backpacking tent for people who are already light in the wallet. The Lone Elk tent fills a very important role/genre in the area for people who are not yet willing to invest big money in camping gear, but still want to get their feet wet, figuratively... not literally.
4 / 5 Stars.
Photos and full review @ [...]
P.S. - I was provided this tent pro-bono to review.

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Lightweight and compact, the Wenzel Lone Elk one-person tent is ideal for solo hikers and cyclists. The Lone Elk is made of rugged, weather-repellent Weather Armor polyester and includes a sonic-sealed, welded polyethylene floor, helping it keep water out and warmth in. The tent is also well ventilated, with a closeable mesh front door and a foot vent, both of which are protected by rain flaps for added weather protection. And setup is a breeze thanks to the shock-corded fiberglass poles and pin-and-ring system. The tent, which comes with poles guy-out ropes, stakes, and a storage duffel, weighs only 3.8 pounds.
Specifications:
Base: 6.5 by 4 feet
Center height: 36 inches (front), 24 inches (rear)
Area: 23 square feet
Capacity: 1 person
Door: Arch style
Frame: Fiberglass
Floor: Welded polyethylene
Stakes: Steel
Carrying weight: 3.8 pounds

Amazon.com Tent Guide Selecting a Tent Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Expect the Worst In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all-purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in. If you're a backpacker, alpine climber, or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to buy something designed to handle more adversity.
Three- and Four-Season Tents For summer, early fall, and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three-season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are specifically designed for summer backpacking or other activities. Many premium tents will also feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain fly for enhanced waterproofing.
For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four-season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.
Domes and Tunnels Tents are broadly categorized into two types: freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and tents that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floorplan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it by being lighter. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.
Size Matters Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.
Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.


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8/01/2011

Kelty Teton 2 Two-Person Tent Review

Kelty Teton 2 Two-Person Tent
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I just returned from a 6-day/5-night camping trip and this is the tent I used. I did quite a bit of research before making my purchase and these were the requirements of what I was looking for in a tent:
1.) reasonably priced
2.) well made (duh--but you know what I'm talking about...something that doesn't rival one of those CHEAP 30-dollar wannabe-tents from Target and other places)
3.) easily assembled by one person--and quickly
4.) small and light
5.) could manage under high winds and torrential downpours.
Well, after whittling down my list of possible tents, this is the one that remained. Here's why I'm happy with my choice:
-At $100 (understandably, a steep price for some), for those that know that a cheap tent is nearly as bad as no tent at all, this was definitely a price that was reasonable.
-Many seams on the tent and rainfly had a pretty nice factory seal and the stitching seems tight and strong. The tent has excellent ventilation with much of the tent comprised of the fine, breathable mesh allowing air to easily come in and out.
-Excellent design for one man assembly. There are no annoying sleeves to slide the two press-fit poles through; they simply and sturdily attach to clips lining down to the four corners of the tent. I was able to set everything up within 5 minutes.
-While this can be used for two people, it would be cramped (31-sqft). It is perfect for one person and the extra gear (The previous reviewer's comment on the paltry vestibule was spot-on). The tent barely weighs over 4 lbs. which is outstanding!! In fact, on my final day right before tear-down, when I picked up the entire assembled tent to carry to another spot so it could dry in the sunlight, I was amazed at how virtually weightless it seemed to be.
-Two of the days and nights were clear with lots of sun of stars. The others were filled with a windy lightning storm--a slow, long and perpetually annoying drizzle--and a few unrelenting downpours. The tent held up extremely well allowing only a small amount of water in at the corners...which was entirely my fault (See below).
I'm very pleased with this purchase. For the purposes of my trip, viz., solo, weeklong camping--where weight, quality, and price were the major concerns--if there is a better tent out there, its existence must have snuck past me. I'm planning an anniversary backpacking trip for next spring for me and the wife, so a new tent will be necessary (for which price will become less of a factor and where ultimate quality will be of paramount importance); however, for everything else involving just me, this will definitely be my tent of choice.
A few suggestions if purchasing the Teton 2. I would strongly advise purchasing the special Kelty Teton 2 footprint along with the tent. While $30 may seem like a very expensive accessory (maybe this is why the previous reviewer opted not to purchase it), it was a tremendous improvement on other materials I've used in the past under previous tents. It will protect your tent floor against minor damage as well as keeping it dry--and because it is specially made for this tent, it is extremely light (easily packs with the rest of the tent) and you never see it when the tent is set up (as opposed to using annoying and heavy tarps). Finally, a word on seam sealing. While all of the seams on the rainfly are adequately sealed and a few on the actual tent, the seam connecting the floor to the rest of the tent MUST BE SEALED!! I recommend using Seam Grip made by McNett (others more experienced than me have spoken of simply using silicone mixed with mineral spirits)...but the one thing I ignorantly failed to do was completely seal the vertical seams of the four corners--which led to a little water seeping in at the corners during heavy rain. If one seals the tent properly, however, the first time, the tent should keep all water out.

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Lighten your load and not your wallet with the high-value Kelty Teton 2 two-person tent. The simple, easy-to-pitch three-season tent is made using Kelty's Water Tight Wall (WTW) construction, which keeps the doors and windows from leaking even in driving rain. In WTW tents, all exposed walls are constructed of coated fabrics with the seams shingled downward to shed water. In addition, the edges of all exposed windows and doors are covered with wide flaps, keeping water from leaking in at the zipper even in high winds. The Teton 2 enjoys further water resistance via the ArcEdge floor, which includes edges that rise a few inches up the sides before connecting with the tent walls. The ArcEdge floor is a superior waterproof design because none of the seams are in contact with the ground where water might seep in.
As with any good tent, the Teton 2 also keeps the interior tidy while you sleep, with mesh organizer walls, bookshelves, and storage pockets for your camping accessories. And to make setup easier, the tent includes DAC press-fit poles and color-coded clip construction. The DAC poles are used in all Kelty tents where strength is more critical than weight. The poles feature a ferrule that's pressed in rather than glued, with an extremely precise interference fit to hold it in place. This system ensures that the poles will be strong and reliable for many years to come, with no slippage or corrosion. The color-coded clip construction, meanwhile, provides great fly separation and increased air movement. The clips connecting the poles to the tent are color-matched with the poles themselves, making setup easier and quicker in low-light conditions. Other features include noiseless zipper pulls that resist jingling when it's windy; an aerodynamic venting system that regulates temperature and reduces condensation; and a side-release buckle tent-fly connection.
Specifications:
Seasons: 3
Capacity: 2 people
Minimum weight: 4 pounds 2 ounces
Packaged weight: 4 pounds 10 ounces
Floor area: 31 square feet
Vestibule area: 7 square feet
Dimensions: 88 x 40 x 54 inches (W x H x D)
Number of poles: 2
Pole type: 9mm DAC press-fit poles
Number of vestibules: 1
Number of doors: 1
Packaged diameter: 7 inches
Packaged length: 22 inches
Wall material: 68D 190T polyester taffeta
Floor material: 1800mm PU polyester taffeta
Fly material: 75D 190T, 1800mm PU polyester taffeta

About Kelty Kelty has been building affordable, reliable outdoor gear since 1952, helping everyone--from the first-time camper to the experienced mountaineer--embrace the outdoor experience with confidence. Dick Kelty launched the company after years of making backpacks in his home or garage for friends, hand forming and welding each of the frames while his wife sewed the pack bags. The original Kelty packs included aircraft-aluminum contoured frames, padded shoulder straps, waist belts, clevis-pin attachments, nylon pack cloth, zippered pockets, and hold-open frames. Dick Kelty quit his carpentry business in 1956 to focus full time on Kelty Packs, and turned an old Glendale, California, barbershop into his first retail store and factory. In the ensuing years, Kelty expanded its product line to include daypacks, luggage, waterproof clothing, child carriers, jogging strollers, and more.


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7/08/2011

Twisted Aromatic Cedar Review

Twisted Aromatic Cedar
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Anyone that does any real hiking at all knows the value of having a good walking stick along. To see someone just strolling up an easy walking path with the stick keeping time it may seem like its just a decorative and nostalgic item. But in truth a walking stick evolved from its many uses that one encounters when walking or hiking a wilderness trail. It helps one keep their balance on uneven trails, crossing a stream, traversing hillsides, and can even help with taking some of the weight off your feet when carrying a heavy load. Anyone who hikes with a stick will easily fill in a number of good uses that they will naturally encounter. Everything from brushing aside briars and thick foliage to preventing a fall and being the centerpiece of your tent. Over the years I have owned perhaps a dozen or more walking sticks, all of which have been made from good strong branches I have found along the trail. I enjoy stripping and sanding the sticks myself, and then varnishing them to a high tough shine. I never considered actually buying one for real use on hikes.
This past Christmas I got this cedar stick as a gift. Usually I would consider any store bought walking stick to be of a decorative nature. I have another one that I picked up years back that is nice to look at but not very functional. This cedar stick is definitely an exception. It is a very handsome looking and solid staff, as well as strong enough for actual use on a real hike. Unlike some of the other walking sticks available here on Amazon, this stick is completely stripped where you grip it and buffed down to a very smooth surface. (An absolute essential when doing rugged hiking since the slightest bump or imperfection where you grip the staff will become terribly irritating over time). It is just thick enough for most people to form a good solid hold on without it being flimsy, and it takes a good amount of pressure to bend it. Indeed, its twisted design actually offers the benefit of giving it added strength over a straight stick. Cedar never rots, so even if you use this stick for some very heavy wilderness hiking and the finish wears off, it will not deteriorate and lose strength. So feel free to refinish it many times over. At the time of this writing it came in 3 different lengths, so you can tailor it to yourself or for the recipient. (I recommend purchasing the 55" stick for most folks. Better to be too long than too short).
In conclusion, whether you are in the market for a rustic addition to your den, or actually are interested in a store bought stick for everyday use or hiking, I highly recommend this cedar stick. It is in my opinion that it is very much worth the price asked, and that you will be very pleased with its looks, strength, and usefulness...

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The Twisted Aromatic Cedar Walking Stick is easily one of the most resplendent hiking staffs in our line. Its red and purplish hues, often coupled with cream-colored sapwood, swirl beautifully down this staff, while our trademark twist, with its subtle elegance, accentuates the natural beauty of this unique hiking stick.To bolster its stability, we make the Twisted Aromatic Cedar Walking Stick from three pieces of 3/8-inch, laminated aromatic cedar board. Each stick is then carefully cut to size, sanded, and sprayed with a protective clear coat lacquer. The resulting staff is lightweight, beautiful, and highly functional.The Twisted Aromatic Cedar Waking Stick's unique characteristics make it an ideal companion for general walking and hiking. (One caveat: the Twisted Aromatic Cedar is not a hardwood and tends to be softer than most woods.)

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7/04/2011

Free form Hickory Review

Free form Hickory
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I really was. I'm crafty and generally will make this sort of thing, but we don't have hickory in the NW...and Cedar isn't hard enough to take the abuse of my 6 year old. Sure it smells nice, but can it handle fighting off imaginary bears and sasquatch, or helping to save mommy from an ogre? No...but, Hickory can. I was concerned because the pith beneath the bark looked a little green...and therefore, raw and unseasoned. But I think it's just the wood...maybe someone else can ellaborate.

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Hickory is a strong, durable wood that is able to withstand the most strenuous conditions. Its unparalleled strength has made it a wood of choice for tool handles, bows, and baseball bats. Whether you're trekking through miles of wooded terrain, or walking casually around your neighborhood, the Free Form Hickory Walking Stick is the perfect choice for those seeking timeless, rustic appeal coupled with legendary durability

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6/25/2011

Eureka Juno 3 XTA 7.5-Foot by 6.5-Foot Three-Person Rectangular Dome Tent (Amazon Exclusive) Review

Eureka Juno 3 XTA 7.5-Foot by 6.5-Foot Three-Person Rectangular Dome Tent (Amazon Exclusive)
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We had been looking for a light-weight backpacking tent with enough room for two. That seems simple enough, unless you've actually been inside of some of the "two-person" tents. Some of the expedition tents meet the size requirements, but are too heavy to be considered backpacking tents. We have just used this tent for the first time, and we are so far pleased. Plenty of room inside for two adults with large sleeping mats and sleeping bags, and a bit of gear. A large vesitibule on each side provides plenty of room for packs. I believe this will be a great warm-weather tent, with all of the mesh. The night we used it, it dropped below freezing. We woke to a ceiling (rainfly) covered in ice (on the inside). Didn't really expect that, with all of the ventilation, but as it was ice, it didn't drip on us. I'll chalk this experience up to extreme conditions until we use it in warmer weather. One thing that I don't like, although thus far it has not been an issue, is a seam running through the middle of the floor. It has been taped and sealed at the factory, but I just don't like the looks of it. I will seal it again before spring use, and edit this report, as we are sure to end up in a downpour here in south Texas. The tent is in fact lightweight and roomy, and so far, I am pleased. I will amend this report after having enountered weather with it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Eureka Juno 3 XTA 7.5-Foot by 6.5-Foot Three-Person Rectangular Dome Tent (Amazon Exclusive)

Remarkably lightweight with a compact pack size, Eureka's Juno offers top-performance features and makes a great option for three-season backpacking treks to the backcountry. Sized to sleep three campers comfortably and weighing less than six pounds, the freestanding design boasts two doors for convenient entry and exit and two large vestibules for an additional 13.4 square feet of storage space to stashing your gear out of the way.
The Juno offers superior ventilation--with its mesh side panel and mesh doors--to maximize air circulation for ultimate camping comfort. A no-see-um weave will keep out even the tiniest insects. while a poke-out vent at side of tent promotes cross ventilation. All major seams and reinforcements are factory sealed to prevent water entry through stitching. The wrap-up bathtub floor minimizes ground level seams to keep water out and the floor dry, ensuring a dry and comfortable adventure. In addition, the full-coverage fly provides great rain protection while side-release buckles attach to the tent body and frame, allowing for incremental adjustment.
Designed with Eureka's StormShield features, this two-pole tent is quick and easy to set up with its durable shockcorded fiberglass frame, taffeta rod pockets, clip attachments, and pole sleeve attachments. The pole pocket captures the frame on one end while a locking post and grommet is used at the other end to attach the tent's body and frame at the base. Pole sections are interconnected with shockcords for quick set-up and to prevent lost parts. A ball end helps guide the pole effortlessly through the rod sleeve and prevents wear and tear to the pocket end.
Lightweight and durable, the frame is constructed of 7000 aluminum, shockcorded poles for easy set-up. The tent's fly and floor is made of UV-resistant polyester fabric. With a nicely sized footprint measuring 7 feet, six inches by six feet, six inches, the Juno is ideal for a weekend camping trip for two or three adventure seekers.
Specifications:
Style: Two-pole rectangular dome
Seasons: Three
Sleeps: Three
Footprint: 7 feet, 6 inches by 6 feet, 6 inches
Peak height: 4 feet, 2 inches
Area: 48.75 square feet
Vestibule area: 13.4 square feet
Weight: 5 pounds, 15 ounces

Materials:
Floor: 70D 190T nylon taffeta, 800mm polyurethane coating
Fly: 75D 185T polyester taffeta, 800mm polyurethane coating
Walls: 70D 190T nylon taffeta, 800mm polyurethane coating
Mesh: 40D Nylon no-see-um
Frame: 9.5mm 7000-series aluminum

StormShield Construction Details:
Double-wall construction minimizes condensation build-up inside tent by allowing air to circulate between the mesh tent roof and waterproof fly.
Doors vent from the top and/or bottom, providing options for moderating air flow; warm air exits from the top and cool air enters at the bottom.
Cross ventilation through breathable interior fabric, large windows, and roof vents allows fresh air to enter and moist air to escape the tent.
High perimeter seams of the bathtub floors couple with factory taped floor seams and fly seams to keep water out.
Self-supporting frames flex to absorb and dissipate stress from strong winds.
Fabric reinforcements add an extra layer of protection to high wear and high stress areas.
Anchors for harsh weather include storm guyout rings, loops, and webs.
Nickel sliders on self-healing nylon coil zippers keep windows and doors working smoothly.
Shockcorded poles take the guesswork out of assembly, save time, and prevent lost parts.
Ring and pin assemblies make setup easy and reduce stress and abrasion where the frame and tent floor connect.
Post and grommet attachments speed set up and augment the tent’s structural integrity.
The twin-track zipper system allows door windows to operate independently of doors for convenience and ease of entry and exit.

What's in the Box? Eureka Juno tent, fly, two shockcorded aluminum poles, stakes, stuff sack
Manufacturer's Warranty Limited lifetime warranty
About Eureka Though the exact year is unknown, Eureka’s long history begins prior to 1895 in Binghamton, New York, where the company still resides today. Then known as the Eureka Tent & Awning Company, its first wares were canvas products--most notably, Conestoga wagon covers and horse blankets for nineteenth century American frontiersmen--as well as American flags, store awnings, and camping tents.
The company increased production of its custom canvas products locally throughout the 1930s and during the 1940 and even fabricated and erected the IBM "tent cities" just outside Binghamton. The seven acres of tents housed thousands of IBM salesmen during the company’s annual stockholders meeting, which had since outgrown its previous locale. In the 1940s, with the advent of World War II and the increased demand for hospital ward tents, Eureka expanded operations and began shipping tents worldwide. Ultimately, upon the post-war return of the GIs and the resultant housing shortage, Eureka turned its attention to the home front during the 1950s by supplying awnings for the multitude of mobile homes that were purchased.
In 1960, Eureka’s new and innovative Draw-Tite tent, with its practical, free standing external frame, was used in a Himalayan Expedition to Nepal by world renowned Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person documented to summit Mt. Everest only six years earlier. In 1963, Eureka made history during its own Mt. Everest ascent, with more than 60 of its tents sheltering participants from fierce 60+ mph winds and temperatures reaching below -20°F during the first all American Mt. Everest Expedition.
For backpackers and families, Eureka introduced its legendary Timberline tent in the 1970s. Truly the first StormShield design, this completely self-supporting and lightweight backpacking tent became one of the most popular tents the entire industry with sales reaching over 1 million by its ten year anniversary.
Eureka tents have also traveled as part of several historic expeditions, including the American Women’s Himalayan Expedition to Annapurna I in 1978 and the first Mt. Everest ascents by a Canadian and American woman in 1986 and 1988. In recent history, tents specially designed and donated by Eureka sheltered Eric Simonson and his team on two historic research expeditions to Mount Everest, this time in a quest for truth regarding the 1924 attempted summit of early English explorers George Mallory and Andrew Irvine. During the 1999 expedition, the team made history finding the remains of George Mallory, but the complete mystery remained unsolved. Returning in 2001 to search for more clues, the team found amazing historical artifacts which are now on display at the Smithsonian.
Amazon.com Tent Guide Selecting a Tent Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Expect the Worst In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in! If you're a backpacker, alpine climber or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to take something designed to handle more adversity.
Three- and Four-Season Tents For summer, early fall and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain-fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are more specifically designed for summer backpacking and other activities. Many premium tents will feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain-fly for enhanced waterproofness.
For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.
Domes and Tunnels Tents are broadly categorized into two types, freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and those that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floor-plan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it by being more lightweight. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.
Size Matters Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.
Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is also available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.


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6/17/2011

Twisted Hickory Review

Twisted Hickory
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I just received my walking stick from Brazos. It is a wonderful piece of work. It has a great "feel" to it. Mine is made out of hickory. It will last forever and just get better as it gets older. A walking stick gives me a feeling of protection as I walk. I can defend myself against 2 and 4 legged annoyances and if I were to twist my ankle, I would not be helpless. If I could, I'd give this product ten stars.

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The Twisted Hickory Walking Stick is our top-selling stick, and for good reason. Hickory's unparalleled strength has made it a wood of choice for tool handles, bows, and baseball bats. Couple that strength with hickory's innate beauty, accented with our distinctive twist, and the result is a wildly popular walking stick that is able to withstand even the most rigorous hiking treks.

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6/15/2011

Stoney Point Chub's Choice Monopod, Grey Review

Stoney Point Chub's Choice Monopod, Grey
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The SPP Chubbs Choice consists of three sections held together with shock cord. Each piece fits loosely into the next. After one week of use, the shock cord broke at the point where it secured inside one end section. No field repair was possible.
The length of the SPP Chubbs Choice is set by a telescoping section that is locked by elaborate maneuvers involving turning one piece inside the other and sliding a third piece into place. No directions were given, and no useful advice was available from technical support on the telephone. I eventually figured it out, but I will not bother to explain because the whole thing disintegrates.
Save your money and, more important, do not rely on this product.

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Chubs Choice instantly unfolds and telescopes to fit users from 5 to 7 feet tall. Synthetic antler hand grip is comfortable for all day use. Simply twist off the grip to attach all types of optical gear to the camera stud and take-up spool. Everyone who sees this unique staff seems to want one as a gift for someone else, or to keep for themselves. Chubs Choice 4-section Folding & Telescoping Staff with Antler Handle. Telescopes to 38". Folds down to 14".

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6/04/2011

59" Hickory Hiking Staff - Tall (for people 5' 9" - 6' 2") Review

59 Hickory Hiking Staff - Tall (for people 5' 9 - 6' 2)
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I ordered a Hickory Walking Stick and got something made of Bianbai Wood. What??? Try doing a search for Bianbai Wood. I'm not even sure there is such a thing. And even if there is, I bought hickory. The product information states that they are the "largest supplier in the U.S." and that the product is "handcrafted from wood in the U.S." In truth, the product is shipped from Canada and Made in China. "Handcrafted from wood in the U.S"...I've never seen, much less heard of a tree called a Bianbai...oh wait, the back of the tag says it is made from "All New Material"...hmmm, maybe that's it. It's a brand new tree, but again, I paid for hickory. Like the other reviewer said, the bottom isn't finished either. He said they skipped finishing his under the tip, on mine it's the bottom 10 inches. it goes from a nice, dark brown finish to blonde bare wood. To be fair, it does seem sturdy and it has a good feel to it. Lightweight also. I just expect to get what is advertised, as I'm sure you do as well. I will keep the staff because I'm leaving on a hiking trip next week. However, I will not buy anything from this company again. Companies need to learn that we can just as easily buy our things from others. This is false advertisement at best. Oh, I almost forgot, it does come with a flower etched into it. Wish I would have read that review before I bought it, because the pic doesn't show it and it isn't mentioned in the description. I'm a guy. I don't like flowers on my stuff. If you wanna buy a walking staff that is nothing like it is portrayed in the description, made of bianbai wood, and made in china, well then this is perfect for you.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 59" Hickory Hiking Staff - Tall (for people 5' 9" - 6' 2")

Hickory Hiking Staff, complete with rubber tip and leather wrist thong. Just like your Grandfather would have made, each is hand-crafted by woodmen with a character all its own.Profile: We are one of the largest suppliers of hiking and walking sticks in the U.S., and we have been in the stick business since 1985. Best selling of all of our sticks is the rustic Hickory hiking stick, famous for its strength and durability. Whistle Creek makes sticks "like grandpa would have made." These are products that you would be proud to display in your home, yet not hesitate to use on the trail every day. We have avoided going to aluminum poles (lightning rods) or other mass-manufactured techniques. We have stayed with time-tested traditional methods that have been around since before Moses. Each Whistle Creek product is hand crafted from wood in the U.S. by skilled craftsmen who value the importance of a sturdy "friend" on the trail. Whether you use your stick for arduous mountain treks, strolls in the forest or just for "wandering 'round the block," you will soon benefit from the comfort and security that a good walking stick can bring to your outings. Hopefully you will decide to collect all of our sticks for you and your family to use for generations. What Size and Weight? When selecting a staff, it should be at least 6" above your elbow to allow for plenty of staff going down hill. Hickory is our "Man's stick" weight wise because it is heavier and a little

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5/17/2011

Komperdell Contour Titanal Trekking Poles Review

Komperdell Contour Titanal Trekking Poles
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Excellent poles at a good price. I have used them on 14ers out West, including Rainier, and on hikes in the East. Get the rubber bottoms if you plan on hiking dry ground or rocks.

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Add the four-wheelor should we say four-appendagedrive to your hike with the Komperdell Contour Titanal Trekking Poles. These lightweight, telescoping hiking poles maximize your stability and efficiency on the trail without adding much extra weight. Made from a high-grade aluminum alloy, they resist corrosion and stand up to years of wear. The Duolock height adjustment mechanism locks the three sections together to form one rigid unit. The poles' EVA grips form-fit to your hand and absorb moisture for comfort and safety on warm-weather hikes; they also feature an extended area for when you need a grip lower on the pole. Padded neoprene wrist straps add further comfort and support.Product Features
Usable Range: 55 in
Collapsed Length: 27 in
Shaft: Titanal HF aluminum alloy
Grip: EVA foam
Tip: Tungsten-carbide flex tip
Integrated Probe:
Probe Length:
Locking Mechanism: Duolock system
Included Baskets: 1 pair
Weight: [pair without baskets] 15.7 oz
Recommended Use: hiking, backpacking
Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year


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Swix Nordic Walking Rubber Tip/asphalt Paws - Boot Shaped Nordic Walking Rubber Tips/paws for Pavement, Indoor/outdoor Tracks, the Mall and Other Hard Surfaces Review

Swix Nordic Walking Rubber Tip/asphalt Paws - Boot Shaped Nordic Walking Rubber Tips/paws for Pavement, Indoor/outdoor Tracks, the Mall and Other Hard Surfaces
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After trying a different type of tip/paw that wore out super quick, I was a bit hesitant to try again, but I am glad I did! I walk at least 6 miles 5x a week and these tips have been great. The seller sent the product quickly and I would definitely purchase them again. Hopefully not for a few months though. :)

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Boot-Shaped Natural Rubber Nordic Walking Tips from SWIX of Lillehammer, Norway. These quality tips fit Nordic Walking Poles from SWIX, EXEL and LEKI. These are NOT cheap rubber tips from China! Always keep the toe of each boot shaped tip angled back behind you when Nordic Walking. For use on pavement, indoor/outdoor tracks, the mall and other hard surfaces. These Nordic Walking tips fit most SWIX, Leki and EXEL Nordic Walking Poles.

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5/15/2011

Tracks Sherlite Staff Review

Tracks Sherlite Staff
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Excellent relief for the hiker who also carries a camera. This one's price and construction are well matched.

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This adjustable-length walking staff is built with the same features as the Sherlock staff, but without a foam sheath so the length-adjustment push-button holes are exposed. It has an adjustable Wedge Lock wrist loop, a removable walnut knob with a universal camera mount, and a spike tip beneath a removable rubber foot. Tracks walking staffs and trekking poles help you walk smarter. They reduce the impact of each step you take so that weight which is normally carried by your lower body is transferred to your arms and torso, lessening the stress on your legs by 5�10 pounds or more. This means you get more power and traction going uphill, and save your knees and ankles when coming back down. All Tracks staffs are hand-built with high-strength, lightweight anodized aluminum tubing. They are available as single walking staffs and paired trekking poles. Their soft foam handgrip stays comfortable hour after hour, while their adjustable wrist straps aid transfer of weight when walking.

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