Been testing this duffel bag from Brooks Range Mountaineering as well as a few other items related to hiking, backpacking and other methods of getting awesome in the outdoors. Hope everyone is gearing up for Fall. Thanks for lurking with us.

Eureka is known for making outdoor gear at reasonable prices for the casual outdoor enthusiast. We’ve tested a few of their tents before and we decided to give their sleeping bag a run through the gauntlet. We used the bag on a few different trips. The first trip was couch surfing at friends homes and sleeping on floors. The other trips were backpacking and car camping trips and here’s what we thought: Read Full Post

Arc’teryx released a new series of backpacks this season and the one that has been creating some buzz is the Altra series (65 and 75). The 75 won Backpacker Mags Editor choice award. The Altra bags are a combination of an Arc’teryx classic, the Bora and the innovative Naos. I was able to snag the smaller 65 (3967-4577cu) and put some trail miles on it to give you some additional insight into this award winning design. Read Full Post

Oh whiskey, how I love you after shouldering 40lbs through our lovely wilderness areas. You make backpacking that much more enjoyable. When there are no fires allowed, you warm me. When I’m a bit spooked in the middle of no where, you comfort me. Oh the adventures we share in the back country, here’s to you ol’ friend.

Last year I was laid off and spent most of my days hustling freelance for various companies, hiking (a lot) and dreaming of making my own gear. I began the journey after coming home from a recent backpack trip and realized I wanted my pack to do specific things and be more simple and light. I figured having been forced into freelance I could embark on an adventure of tinkering on the side. I don’t want to discourage anyone from making their own stuff, I suggest everyone try it but instead of going big, start small and work your way up cause it’s hard. I started making a pack but ended up making a zippered side pouch after all was said and done. I might try again later but I realized I should leave the pack making to the pros. I did however get a ton a of info and a few links you might find useful if you decide to go on this journey:
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I’ve been working on making my own backpack. I’ve done research online and have watched countless “make your own gear” videos on youtube (ie: how to sew). Awaiting a few things to come in the mail and once that arrives look for an article as well as links to making your own backpack. In short, you are better off buying some thing already made…damn this project has been hard. Here’s the tally of what I’ve used or cannibalized:

1- Arcteryx day pack. Removed waterproof zippers, buckles and shock cord. Also was curious on how they built the pack.
1- Really old Special Blend backpack (probably a school bag). Removed all buckles. I took this apart to see how they built it and what seam allowances they used.
5- Yards of 210D ripstop. Got this on ebay really cheap and most of the bag will be made up of this.

Total cost so far: $20 in materials (not counting the old bags that I broke apart)

More to come with pics of the bag and resources I used.

I had feeling these devices would cause some issues. Instead of relying on technology just cover the basics: 1) Let some one know your route and when you plan to return 2) Research the area you are visiting by talking with rangers and visiting websites related to the area (cross reference) before your trip 3) Carry the 10 essentials to wilderness survival 4) Don’t go alone if you can help it 5) Use maps and learn to use a compass and stick to the trails 6) Know your limits and your groups limits (you are as strong as your weakest buddy). Stay safe and travel smart.