thebackpacker.tv

Winter Tarp Tenting

Admin — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:00:35 +0000

I get asked a lot about Tarp Tenting. But one of the weird looks I get is when I mention I even use my Tarp in the Winter. In fact, if you have the right gear, you can be as comfortable under a tarp in snow, than any other regular camping trip in the Winter.

I use the Equinox 10 X 12 tarp. It takes about 20 minutes to dig a 3′ deep pit and pitch the tarp above it. There are many options including burying the sides under snow to fully prevent wind vs keeping it somewhat open to help with condensation. If you use your poles to support the tarp (and choose a flat site or a slightly rougher nylon tarp–snow really slides off of silnylon) you can cover your tarp with snow for insulation much like a snow cave but without the 2 hour time needed and guaranteed wet-through gloves.

However, tarp tenting in the Winter is a bit different from just pitching it anywhere. I usually look for a place out of the wind. Under a huge pine tree. Or even next to a rock crop. If you get a heavy snowfall, the extra protection will keep your tarp from falling in. One time it started sleeting, and sleet is heavy. Understanding how your tarp reacts to different weather issues may help you when that crappy weather moves in at night.

Tarp tenting in the snow is as much fun, and enjoyable than without snow. Looking out in a panoramic view underneath your tarp worth it.

Admin

I created TheBackpackerTV because of my passion for the outdoors and seeing nature up close and personal. To share my experiences, and the experiences of others for everyone to enjoy. We go watch hundreds of videos each month picking the very best for you. Enjoy!

MSR Lightning Axis Snowshoes

Admin — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:33:24 +0000

[tab name="Description"]Looking for the right snowshoes can be a daunting task. However, I really like these snowshoes that MSR has put out.

Along with MSR’s quickly-becoming-legendary 360-degree traction system and easy-peasy SpeedLock Comfort bindings, the MSR Men’s Lightning Axis Snowshoe features the Axis Gait Efficiency System. This system adjusts to your extra-wonky walk to make snowshoeing as natural as strolling down the beach.

Bilateral binding adjustment neutralizes variances in foot positions to give you the most natural-feeling stride possible
360-degree traction frames for added support and stability in varied terrain
Modular flotation tails (sold separately) allow you to use the shorter snowshoe alone for maneuverability or attach the tails when added flotation is necessary
Climbing wires come standard and can be activated with a flick of your pole

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[tab name="Specs"]

22	25	30
Color	Orange/Red	Orange/Red	Orange/Red
Weight per pair	4 lbs / 1810 g	4 lbs 3 oz / 1890 g	4 lbs 12 oz / 2160 g
Width	8 in / 20 cm	8 in / 20 cm	8 in / 20 cm
Length	22 in / 56 cm	25 in / 64 cm	30 in / 76 cm
Binding type	SpeedLock	SpeedLock	SpeedLock
Televator	X	X	X
Gait	Unisex/normal width	Unisex/normal width	Unisex/normal width
Footwear size range	4.5 M – 13 M / 35.5 – 48	4.5 M – 13 M / 35.5 – 48	4.5 M – 13 M / 35.5 – 48
Load	Up to 180 lbs / Up to 80 kilos	120 – 220 lbs / 54 – 100+ kilos	150 – 280 lbs / 68 – 127+ kilos
Load w/ tails	Up to 250 lbs / Up to 114 kilos	120 – 280 lbs / 54 – 127 kilos	180 – 300+ lbs / 82 – 136+ kilos
Country of Origin	Made in Seattle, USA	Made in Seattle, USA	Made in Seattle, USA

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Admin

Tales From The Trail Part 2 Episode 2

Admin — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 20:52:19 +0000

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a thousand-mile footpath — entirely within Wisconsin — that highlights these Ice Age landscape features while providing access to some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas.

This episode focuses on the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit.

The Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest is 30 miles long, extending from the village of Dousman, Wisconsin, almost to the city of Whitewater. Forest Headquarters is 3 miles west of the village of Eagle on State Highway 59.

If you missed the first Tales from the Trail Season. You can watch all of them on TheBackpackerTV.
Part One Episode One
Part One Episode Two
Part One Episode Three

Admin

Tales from the Trail Part 2 Episode 1

Admin — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 20:39:38 +0000

This episode focuses on the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit.

Tails from the Trail was Directed by Paul Sheehan.

Its hard to imagine that many Americans are unaware of the natural landscapes that abound across our great nation. Its even harder to believe were not doing all we can to protect them. For just that reason, former producers of MTVs The Real World and National Geographic Adventure bring you Tales from the Trail. A new breed of outdoor programming, Tales from the Trail teaches the methodology of leave no trace trekking, seeking to challenge the most experienced packers while revealing just how accessible these locations are to the novice.

Well hike alongside Blaire Carson, an athletic California girl with a penchant for nature trail medicines and comedic relief, and Chris Abel, a stuntman and accomplished Appalachian Trail thru-hiker. Together, Blair and Chris are certain to appeal to a diverse audience as they lead the way through an American backcountry ripe with mountaintop vistas, whiskey jug trios, haunted quarries, and untold history.

If you missed the first Tales from the Trail Season. You can watch all of them on TheBackpackerTV.
Part One Episode One
Part One Episode Two
Part One Episode Three

Admin

Lowa Tibet Pro GTX Hiking Boots

Admin — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 02:07:22 +0000

[tab name="Description"]Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it.

The Tibet Pro GTX Hiking Boot for Men by Lowa is the ideal backpacking boot for extended periods when carrying a heavy pack. Tall ankle shaft for extra supprt and protection. GORE-TEX® lined for wet weather conditions and four season use. It features a Climate Control System for added comfort as well as lightweight alloy lace loops with sprung lace hooks.

“ALL TERRAIN: From New Hampshire’s White Mountains to southeast Alaska, testers hiked this burly, all-leather, waterproof boot through miles of rain, mud, creeks, and found it’s waterproofing infallible.
This boot may need mention in your will.

Ably handled unstable, rocky terrain and the worst bushwacks. Super supportive. The Tibet Pro will carry as a big a load as you’re willing.
After a rough traverse of the Presidential Range, one tester said ‘They barely look used.” – Backpacker Magazine Gear Guide[/tab]
[tab name="Specs"]

Taller ankle shaft of 2.6 mm thick Nubuck leather upper
‘C4′ Comfort Tongue
GORE-TEX® lining: waterproof and breathable
Patented AWP: Asymetric Walking Position
High rubber randing for durability
New Vibram® ‘Masai’ backpacking sole unit with performance PU midsole
Limited strap on crampon use, if necessary
Weight: 4 lbs

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Admin

Black Diamond Firstlight Tent

Admin — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:27 +0000

[tab name="Description"]Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it.

At a ridiculously low 2lb 11oz weight, the single-wall has become an incredibly popular choice for a wide variety of weight-conscious mountain travelers. Black Diamond designed this tent with ultralight, breathable EPIC fabric for weight-conscious backpackers. But dedicated alpine climbers have pushed it into use on the world’s highest, hardest mountains.

The single-wall free standing design allows the Firstlight Tent to be pitched very quickly, and a small 82 x 48-inch floor lets you pitch it in a tiny clearing or small ledge.Your tab contest[/tab]

[tab name="Specs"]Series : Superlight Series
Season : 4
Capacity : 2
Doors : 1
Average Packed Weight : 1.5 kg, 3 lb 5 oz
Minimum Weight : 1.28 kg, 2 lb 13 oz
Dimensions : 208 x 123 x 123 x 107 cm, 82 x 48 x 48 x 42 in
Area : 2.5 m², 27.3 sq ft
Packed Size : 15 x 23 cm, 6 x 9 in [/tab]

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Admin

Continental Divide Trail Alliance Ends

Admin — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:10:22 +0000

[tab name="Articles"]The Continental Divide Trail Alliance (CDTA) was formed in 1995 to assist federal land management agencies in the completion, management and protection of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Since that time, CDTA volunteers have dedicated nearly $7 million worth of labor while individuals, foundations, and businesses committed millions to the effort. As of 2011, of the 2,268 miles of the Trail completed CDTA volunteers are responsible for 525 of those miles, and to date only 832 miles remain to be constructed.

Increasing pressures from development in the West, rising land costs, and challenges with the longstanding down cycle in the economy threaten the completion of the Trail. Despite the strong level of financial support from so many of you, overall contributions and other revenues in recent years have significantly declined. These revenues are the life blood of nonprofit organizations like the CDTA.

Consequently, the CDTA Board of Directors has made the very difficult and painful decision to cease operations of the CDTA. The financial condition of the organization has been unstable and deteriorating for a number of years. We have not been able to raise the necessary financial resources to sustain the continued operations of the organization.

We are taking the actions necessary to complete our outstanding contracts for work on behalf of the Trail. We are retaining the services of our committed and outstanding staff to meet our current obligations, to the extent financially possible, as we complete closing down CDTA over the next few weeks.

This is a sad day. But the Trail is still here, and it continues to inspire us all. We are confident this inspiration will lead people to start a new and stronger organization to continue the work on the Trail.

The Board and dedicated staff of the CDTA would like to thank each and every one of you for your tremendous commitment and support of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and theCDTA. We are truly humbled by the selfless actions of so many and hopefully this will inspire another group of people to continue the mission of CDTA.

Stay Tuned . . . In the meantime watch this video about backpacking the CDT[/tab]
[tab name="Videos"]Your tab content[/tab]
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Admin

THE FIRST 70

Contributor — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:50:49 +0000

By July 1, 2012, California plans to close 70 state parks. Gray Whale Cove State Park, Portola Redwoods State Park, Castle Rock State Park, and 67 other of the state’s 278 parks will close. Twenty percent of state park rangers and all seasonal lifeguards working state beaches will lose their jobs. All of this is one step to help reduce a $9.2 billion state deficit. The cuts to California’s Department of Parks and Recreation will account for a savings of $22 million.

What does all this mean? To get a feel for the changes, check out the video above. It’s a documentary we found on the Prana blog, picked up from a Kickstarter project called The First 70. After the state park cuts were announced, a group from Heath Hen Films packed up a converted airport shuttle bus and took off to document the 70 parks.

“As we connected dots on a map, a pattern emerged,” the groups says on their Kickstarter page. “No one knew exactly what the conditions of closure would be, nor could they see how the state would ultimately benefit.”

While some say the cuts may help the state budget, others point out that local communitites that depend on the parks for tourism will lose out because of the decision. Online complaints about a lack of safety and education in wild places have led some citizens to start a movement for keeping the parks open.

“This governor has gone where no governor has gone before with state parks,” says Elizabeth Goldstein of the California State Parks Foundation. “Californians are frustrated with their state parks being held hostage in the budget process, especially when the claims of “budget savings” from closures are unlikely to materialize, but are likely to end up costing the state and local communities.”

To learn more about both sides of the cuts, check out the following:

A podcast from 89.3 KPCC on privatizing the parks.
California’s announcement of the funding cuts back in May 2011.
The California State Parks Foundation statement about the closing.

Tell us in the comments section below, what will be the effect of closing 70 state parks in California?

written by – Joe Spring

Rab NEOSHELL Jacket Gear Review

Contributor — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:17:02 +0000

Dan reviews a Jacket from Rab that uses a brand new fabric called Neo Shell. This newly developed fabric from Polartec is supposed to be the most breathable, yet waterproof fabric on the market.

Lightweight mountain jacket made from eVent three-layer fabric, abrasion resistant fabric on high stress areas including shoulders and hips, helmet-compatible hood with wired peak, single water-resistant, double-ended front zip with internal storm flap and rain drain, three outer map-sized pockets with water-resistant zips, adjustable cuffs and hem drawcords

How It Performs

Normally the pay-off with a lighweight jacket – and the Super Dru is genuinely sub 400 grammes on our scales – is a certain flimsiness and a short, minimal cut, – often too short – for the sake of saving a few grammes.

There’s none of that with this jacket. It’s cut slim and fitting, which is excellent for technical use, but also long enough to provide full-on butt coverage and a reassuringly protective feel. It’s also nice knowing that the ravages of hungry pack straps are likely to be withstood by the tougher grey fabric used in high wear areas. All in all it’s one fo the best cut jackets we’ve seen for a long time.

That extends to the hood as well. It’s easy to adjust, comfortable even when snugged down, moves with the head and accommodates a climbing helmet without problems, plus we found w
e could indeed take the hood on and off without undoing the main zip. A real boon if you’re wearing gloves.

The eVent fabric is as effective as ever, the most breathable we’ve tried. You can overwhelm it working hard, but the fug will clear quicker and it takes longer to give up in the first place. There are no vents, which may be an issue if you run really warm, but you can always roll up the easily adjustable sleeves to expose your forearms.

Backpacking GSMNP Fontanna to Spence

Contributor — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:59:08 +0000

I love watching AT videos and this is not exception bkh940 puts together a nice video with great scenery. The trip is from Fontanna Damm to Spence field on the Appalachian Trail. Hiking right in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Visit more of his video’s on his YouTube Channel

Almost There – The Muir Project

Contributor — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:25:02 +0000

During the summer of 2011, a group of multimedia artists spent 25 days hiking the 219 mile long John Muir Trail. The intent was to capture their experience on the trail and bring it back to the general public in the form of a gallery exhibit including photographs, video installations and hands-on displays that allow visitors to truly get a feeling for the beauty and majesty of the trail without the burning lungs and blisters. Alongside the exhibit will be a feature length documentary chronicling their adventures on the trail.

This is the first glimpse into their epic journey, accompanied by the single, ALMOST THERE by Opus Orange.

themuirproject.com

JMT: The Muir Project key players/hikers: Jason Fitzpatrick (Co-Director/DP), Ric Serena (Co-Director/DP, ricserena.com), Jennifer Serena (Still Photographer/Producer, jenserena.com), Durand Trench (Location Sound Recordist), Zee Hatley (Camera Operator), Paul Bessenbacher (Music Composer) and Bernard Chadwick (Musician & Installation Designer) and David & Kelly Finlay (Colorado-based teachers)

Color Graded by Bob Curreri bobcurreri.com/

Equipment Used:
Nikon D3S (for stills and timeplase)
Nikon D7000
Nikon Lenses shared between D3S and D7000
Nikkor 24-70mm/f2.8
Nikkor 105mm/f2.8
Tokina 17mm
Canon 5D MarkII equipped with EF 24-105 f4
Canon Vixia HF10
Kessler Pocket Dolly 27″
GoPro HD
Sound Devices 302 mixer
Sound Devices 744 recorder
Stereo pair of Sennheiser 8040′s
2 Sennheiser 416′s
Aquarian Audio hydrophone
Goal Zero Elite Solar Panel and Battery

Music Accreditation
song: “almost there”
artist: opus orange
courtesy of emoto music
opusorange.bandcamp.com

Katadyn Hiker Microfilter Video Review

Contributor — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:16:15 +0000

BackpackersReview puts together a video on The Katadyn Hiker/Hiker Pro filter series is very popular among backpackers because of it’s small size, light weight and ease of use. Dan takes a look at this little filter and gives you the details.

The Katadyn Hiker water filter, however, offers you at least a tiny victory in the war against chemicals, at the cost of 11 ounces. Using a .3 micron glass fiber filter, the Katadyn pumps out clean water without adding any chemicals to the mix.

Keep Your Water Pure

Easy to Use
There are, as always, a few things to keep in mind.

First, filtration is effective only against bacteria, protozoa, and other living organisms.

Viruses (ie, hepatitis) will pass freely through the filter—they’re just too small to be trapped.

While viruses aren’t normally a problem in the backcountry, international travelers will need to find other solutions for maximum safety in populated areas.

Compared to the nearly-weightless Aqua Mira (the current chemical treatment darling), the Katadyn filter adds a non-trivial 11 ounces to your pack weight.

After use, the cartridge does hold a little water, which boosts the weight up another ounce or two. And, in winter, that water is likely to eventually freeze, rending the Katadyn Hiker unsuitable for 4-season use.

You may find pumping water a little tedious at first, but with practice you can treat about a liter per minute, making this a fast way to purify a lot of water.

One microfilter cartridge will last for about 200 liters of water or so, which does introduce the issue of maintenance costs. However, for your troubles, you’ll be rewarded with clean and clear water, with no chemical aftertaste and no sediment or other nebulous floating debris to worry about.

I’ve used the Katadyn Hiker extensively for many years now. It is absolutely my preferred method of water treatment. Compared to the current available options, the Katadyn offers the most compelling set of benefits with the least amount of negatives. Ultralighters won’t like the extra weight, but for everyone else, this is a easy pick.

Happy New Year 2012

Contributor — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 20:26:41 +0000

Happy New Year 2012

From TheBackpackerTV

Louie Schwartzberg is an award-winning cinematographer, director, and producer whose notable career spans more than three decades providing breathtaking imagery for feature films, television shows, documentaries and commercials.

This piece includes his short film on Gratitude and Happiness. Brother David Steindl’s spoken words, Gary Malkin’s musical compositions and Louie’s cinematography make this a stunningly beautiful piece, reminding us of the precious gift of life, and the beauty all around us.

As a visual artist, Louie has created some of the most iconic and memorable film moments of our time. He is an innovator in the world of time-lapse, nature, aerial and “slice-of-life” photography – the only cinematographer in the world who has literally been shooting 24 hours a day, 7 days a week continuously for more than 30 years.

Louie was recognized as one of the top 70 Cinematographers for the On Film Kodak Salute Series. He is a member of the Directors Guild of America and the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.

Louie is credited by many with pioneering the contemporary stock footage industry by founding Energy Film Library, a global company with a network of 12 foreign offices, which was acquired by Getty Images in 1997. Motion picture clients of his cinematic artistry include Sex in the City, The Bourne Ultimatum, Die Hard 4, Syriana, Crash, Men in Black and classics such as American Beauty, Koyaanisqatsi and E.T. among others.

Louie went on to found BlackLight Films, a creative production company specializing in producing original theatrical feature, large format films, HD and TV programming.

In 2004, BlackLight Films completed production of the theatrical feature film, America’s Heart &Soul, distributed theatrically by Walt Disney Pictures. In 2006, BlackLight Films completed a series of HD shorts, Louie Films, for the launch of Buena Vista Home Entertainment’s Blu-Ray DVD releases. In 2007, the company produced a 1-hour special, Chasing the Light, which aired nationally on PBS.

Past projects include the 35mm film Seasons of the Vine for Disney’s California Adventure Theme Park and a 26-half hour series, America!, for The Hallmark Channel.

Louie has won two Clio Awards for Best Environmental Broadcast Spot, an Emmy nomination for Best Cinematography for the Discovery Channel Special, Oceans of Air, and the Heartland Film Festival’s Truly Moving Picture Award for Walt Disney Pictures’ feature film release America’s Heart & Soul.

Louie completed production on a feature length nature documentary, Wings of Life, to be theatrically released worldwide, under Walt Disney Pictures’ new production banner, Disneynature. The film was released in France (March 2011) under the title Pollen and won the Roscar Award for Best Cinematography at the 2011 Wild Talk Africa Film Festival.

Louie spoke at the TED 2011 conference in Long Beach, CA and has been a regular presenter at the annual Bioneers Conference in San Francisco. Currently, Louie is in production with National Geographic to produce Hidden Worlds, a 3D Imax film.

How to Deep Fry Donuts and Corn Dogs

Admin — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 19:09:09 +0000

I’ve seen some creative recipes in the backcountry. But never have I seen deep fried donuts. Can’t wait to try this out in the backcountry.

A deep frying method for donuts and corn dogs on the trail by wawhiker using peanut oil with a backpacking cook kit. Visit wawhikers blog site for more cool stuff.

Admin

Best of 2011

Admin — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:26:00 +0000

As we close out 2011 and bring in the New Year, so many new and exciting hiking opportunities for 2012. Last year I relocated from Illinois to Georgia. The main reason for this was to be closer to Southeast where I could explore the North Georgia Mountains, and the Smoky’s. Although, I could do without the Atlanta traffic.

Northern Georgia has so much to offer. Whether it’s camping, hiking or backpacking.

Hopefully 2012 will be filled with new opportunities to explore this part of the Country. My goal is do much more in the Smokey Mountains and North Carolina.

Hope you enjoy the video. Hope it motivates you to want to get out and appreciate the awesomeness of nature. Sometimes right in your own backyard.

Have a great 2012, and I’ll see you on the trail.

Admin

Merry Christmas 2011

Admin — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 19:46:27 +0000

Wanted to wish everyone that visits TheBackpackerTV a fantastic Holiday Season. Also, a huge THANK YOU for all the support you have given us over the last 4 years. After relocating to Atlanta Ga this year, I have to say, I do miss the snow…..a little. Here’s a short clip to make to put a smile on your face this Christmas.

Merry Christmas!!!

Sincerely,

Scott (ficade 03)

Admin

A Visionary Footpath

Admin — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 20:36:48 +0000

“A Visionary Footpath” is an hour television and DVD documentary about hiking the International Appalachian Trail (IAT) of North America. In order to complete this project Flagler Films needs to raise the appropriate funds using KICKSTARTER, the world’s largest funding platform for creative projects.

For more information or to donate please visit
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/41031405/a-visionary-footpath
or go to http://www.flaglerfilms.com

The program will take viewers on a 1,800-mile journey along the International Appalachian Trail (IAT). As the host of the program, I will visit the most spectacular places found along the IAT in Northern Maine, New Brunswick, Quebec, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador. This magnificent trail connects countries, provinces, mainlands and islands.

I will introduce audiences to locals, walkers and other knowledgeable individuals who will share their valuable insight about the local region and the many recreational opportunities available to visitors. The program will also highlight the unique heritage and customs of the places and people that can be found along this long-distance route. I will visit the nearby towns to experience the food, lodgings and culture and have a bit of fun while trekking along this visionary footpath. The program will capture the majestic scenery, cultural treasures and natural wonders that make the IAT so special.

In August 2011, I hiked some of the key sections of the IAT in Newfoundland to film the trail, icebergs and spectacular scenery. Some of this video footage will be used for the one-hour program. I will return to the IAT at the beginning of June 2012 where I will spend four months capturing the true essence of this long-distance trail. The project is scheduled to be completed by December 2012.

You can find “Walking the Great Divide” on the backpacker.tv also

Admin

How to Choose Snowshoes

Admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 22:16:04 +0000

REI put’s together a great article on how to choose Snowshoes. Of course one of the important things to consider is; what am I going to use the snowshoes for.

With a little knowledge, buying the right snowshoes is a walk in the park.

Flat Terrain

Designed for easy walking on flat to rolling terrain; ideal for families.
Includes entry-level models that offer good value.
Easy-to-adjust bindings and less aggressive traction systems.

Rolling Terrain

Designed for hiking on rolling to steep terrain; suitable for all but very steep or icy conditions.
A step up from entry level, good for hiking off the beaten track.
Designed with more aggressive crampons and beefier bindings.

Mountain Terrain

Designed for icy, steep terrain.
Aimed at snowshoers who want to blaze their own trails for day hiking, winter summiting, backpacking or backcountry snowboarding.
Made with climbing-style crampons and rugged bindings that can withstand harsh conditions and terrain.

While most snowshoes fall into these 3 categories, a few models are designed specifically for trail-running, fitness or climbing.

Find the Right Snowshoe Size

Aluminum-frame snowshoes come in multiple sizes, usually 8″ x 25″, 9″ x 30″ and 10″ x 36″ or something similar. Composite snowshoes come in one size (typically 8″ x 22″) and offer the option of adding 4″ to 8″ tails to help you stay afloat on snow. Why does size matter? It’s a key factor in getting the right amount of flotation.

Step 1: Narrow by Gender (or Age)

Snowshoe sizes and shapes vary as follows:

Men’s snowshoes are designed to accommodate larger boots and heavier loads.
Women’s snowshoes tend to feature narrower, more contoured frame designs and sizes down to 8″ x 21″. Their bindings are sized to fit women’s footwear.
Kids’ snowshoes vary by intended age. Smaller sizes are intended for casual snow play, while larger models offer the same technical features found on adult snowshoes.

Step 2: Consider Snow Conditions

Recommended loads are based on light, dry snow conditions. But consider that on powder snow you need bigger snowshoes to stay afloat than you would on compact, wet snow. In other words, a powder-happy Utah snowshoer may want a larger size than a same-sized snowshoer in the wet snow of the Pacific Northwest.

Packed trails, brush and forest call for more compact shoes, which are easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Steep or icy terrain is also best explored with smaller snowshoes. Open areas with deep drifts require larger snowshoes.

Tip: Get the smallest size that will support your weight for the snow conditions and terrain in your area. As long as you have adequate flotation, smaller snowshoes will be much easier to handle.

Step 3: Determine Your Weight with Gear

Your weight, including equipment, is referred to as the recommended load or carrying capacity on snowshoe specs. This is a major factor in determining the right size. In most circumstances, a heavier person or one with a heavily loaded pack will require larger snowshoes than a smaller person or one carrying gear just for the day.

Read the rest of the article at REI.com

Admin

Winter Survival Shelter Video

Admin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 20:11:01 +0000

Survival in winter is a whole different game than during the warmer months. December and January in the mountains is typically the coldest month of the year. Temperatures routinely go down to minus 20 F, sometimes much lower. When combined with winds that can be gale force, the situation can turn deadly fast. That is, if you are unprepared to meet the outdoor survival challenges of this beautiful mountainous landscape.

Many people have died in cold weather conditions when just a little knowledge on how to build a simple winter survival shelter would have saved them. Unexpected things can happen – lost hunters, downed aircraft, hikers caught out at night when they underestimated the time it takes to get from point a to point b. Perhaps someone has been injured and you are faced with going for help, leaving them alone in subfreezing weather with little chance of survival in the open.

What many would be survivors do not realize is that in cold environments snow is your friend. That cold white stuff can be used as an excellent insulator. If you can use snow to your skillful advantage, you can probably survive just about any winter weather mother nature can dish out. This video teaches you how to protect yourself from the some of the winter elements.

For more info on survival techniques visit WillowHavenOutdoor.com

Admin

Arc’teryx Alpha SL Jacket – Men’s

Admin — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:12:15 +0000

Designed for ”light and fast” fanatics, the streamlined Arc’Teryx Alpha SL delivers complete weather protection without excess weight and bulkiness.

Appointed with all the essential backcountry features, this compact jacket provides take-anywhere storm security
Gore-Tex® PacLite® is durably waterproof and highly breathable
The lightest, most packable fabric from Gore-Tex, PacLite uses a durable, unlined membrane to keep you dry in the wettest conditions
Micro seam allowances are sealed with narrow Gore seam tape
Underarm zippers allow ventilation and have WaterTight™ zippers that eliminate the need for zipper flaps
Helmet-compatible laminated hood includes a one-hand-adjustable cinch system for easy fitting
Includes a hem drawcord, a quick-dry chin guard and laminated, die-cut rip-and-stick closures on cuffs
Features two hand pockets placed so they won’t interfere with pack straps
Includes laminated WaterTight front and pocket zippers
Features no-lift gusseted underarms and a hip-length cut

Admin