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Go-fast gear for your next adrenaline-fueled run-climb-bike-hike-paddle through the woods
For the last four years I have gone camping in Idaho and Montana in mid-May. In the mornings, my sleeping bag鈥檚 covered with condensation whether I sleep in the tent or under the stars. Would a bivy sack eliminate this problem, or should I just live with it? Richard Erie, Colorado
My husband and I would like to be able to communicate while riding our bikes. What would you suggest for a hands-free experience? Dotty Boulder, Colorado
I used a zero-degree sleeping bag in 32-degree weather and froze all night. I was wearing sweatpants, a thermal shirt, and a sweatshirt with a hood. I also wore socks. What did I do wrong? Joe Danbury, Connecticut
This July, I’ll be doing a five-day, 50-mile hike on Oregon’s Pacific Crest Trail. I need to purchase a good water filter for the trip—one that’s very reliable in removing giardia and crypto, and durable enough to be used everyday by multiple people. Also, if I need water-purifying pills, it would be nice to have a filter that removes the iodine or chlorine taste. Is there such a beast? Henry ity, Oregon
I going climbing this summer in Switzerland and looking to shed a few pounds off my gear. My idea is to dump all my fleeces (except maybe a vest) and heavy-duty shells in exchange for a soft shell. I’d like to find one with a hood that actually moves well with the head and allows for a helmet, too. What would be a suitable soft shell for Alpine mountaineering and rock climbing that is warm enough to not need fleeces, and waterproof enough to handle a Southeast Asian monsoon? Matthew Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Can you recommend a digital camera that is durable enough to survive the rigors of an extended trip covering a variety of terrain and weather conditions, is small enough to fit into a pocket, yet will still produce high-quality pictures of everything from landscapes to wildlife to action shots? All for $500 or less. Ryan Winnipeg, Manitoba
My five-foot-tall wife has decided to support a sick relative by doing a 100-mile ride for the erican Cancer Society this fall. She has zero experience with this kind of thing, she has no gear, and it's not clear that she'll ever want to ride again when this is finished. Hence, she wants gear that is functional for the ride and the training, but that's not too expensive in case she doesn't fall in love with cycling. Do you have any advice about a bike for a petite woman, plus other gear items? Michael Baltimore, Maryland
I have a friend who is interested in a wetsuit for recreational swimming in New England's cold offshore waters. She's not a scuba diver or a triathlete—just someone who wants to stay comfortable while swimming in cold water. What should she look for, and what's out there that's reasonably priced? John New York City
I'm about to take on the Long Trail in Vermont for my end-of-high-school trip. My previous experience is short three- or four-day hikes, so nothing compared to the month-long excursion I'm about to undertake. What's the ideal long-distance boot for the Long Trail terrain? Tim Clifton Park, New York
Cut the rope or a rug with the same knife. The VICTORINOX S. BEAT integrates a one-gig audio player in the classic blade-scissors-tweezers-file model. The 1.1-ounce unit comes encased in stainless steel, and the player detaches for air travel. $200; www.victorinox.com Victorinox S. Beat Victorinox S. Beat…
We never knew that the world needed another polycarbonate water bottle until we wrapped a hand around CamelBak’s 750ml splash-, spill-, and shatterproof beauty. The bottle mates ‘Bak’s bite valve with a plastic straw for no-head-tilt hydration. Just try to find an easier way to suck down agua in the…
With Burning Time II, world-class kayaker and filmmaker Scott Lindgren is back doing what he does best—scouring the world for the most intense rapids, and shots, on the other side of sane.
Do I really need a tent footprint? I've used a piece of plastic in the past (actually a clear plastic tablecloth), which turned out to be really light and durable. Now I have a brand-new tent and have bought its footprint for $35, but I'm wondering if I should just go back to my $2.99 plastic tablecloth. What does the footprint do? Protect the bottom of the tent, keep moisture off the bottom? Jo-Jo Victoria, British Columbia
I have a Giro bike helmet I bought back in 2002. I have never crashed in it. After it gets to be a certain age, should I replace it regardless of whether or not I have crashed in it? Justin Salt Lake City, Utah
I looking for a rainproof jacket, light enough to wear during south Florida's humid, rainy summers, and still be able to use it as outerwear for a spring Yosemite trip. I was considering the Patagonia Ready Mix. Is that too heavy? Any other ideas? Jorge Mii, Florida
I do a lot of trail running and hiking and need a watch with an altitude function, but the faces of all the ones I've found are larger than my wrist, which is very uncomfortable for running. Is there an altimeter watch designed for the slimmer wrists of women? Killaine Vancouver, British Columbia
After pulling my large backpack out of storage in my attic, I was dismayed to find that it stinks to high heaven. Are there some big guns that I can pull out to deodorize it without daging the pack?
I'm recovering from a ruptured disc and have an extended backpacking trip planned this summer, with doctor's approval granted! What's your opinion on the best packs for those of us with back problems; if not specific models, maybe manufacturers that build the best support systems? Andy Charlotte, North Carolina
What cycling computer would you recommend to use interchangeably between my mountain and road bikes? What functions do you think are necessary? John Santa Fe, New Mexico
My girlfriend and I are going backpacking for a few days. She wants to buy a female-friendly backpack. Any suggestions? Bill Cobb, California
My friend, not in a proper state of mind, decided it would be funny to completely fill and lather my Gore-Tex hiking boots in baby oil. I'm going on a hiking trip this summer in the Canadian Rockies, and I'm just wondering if these definitely need to be replaced or not. It seems like the oil would wreak havoc on the breathability of the Gore-Tex. Josh Grand Rapids, Michigan
I'm running adventure races and I don't know what kind of clip shoes to buy for my bike. Could you help me with that? Juan Bogotá, Colombia
I'm looking for a hydration pack with two bladders and a toggle switch to let me move back and forth from one to the other while cycling. Is there such a thing? Scott Corvallis, Montana
What's the best way to waterproof a pack? Mike Bethany, West Virginia
I looking for some tough raingear for summer trekking through the Canadian wilderness, where I'll be portaging gear and experiencing sudden changes in weather. My priorities are something that's durable, light, and that will keep me dry and windproof. I normally go for top-of-the-line brand nes, but not in this case. It's just got to last and get the job done. John Beckley, West Virginia
From sleek and sexy road machines to mountain-taming single-speeds, the big news about this year's best bikes is trickle-down technology that makes cutting-edge performance accessible for every rider and any budget
Shield your eyes with the season's coolest shades and be primed for action anytime, anywhere
My son insisted on growing up and moving on, so I now find that I have to carry everything by myself when backpacking. As our three-man tent is just too big and heavy for me to lug, any ideas for a solo shelter that's not too pricey? I've looked at the REI Chrysalis and Kelty Teton 2, both freestanding and under five pounds. Joe Raleigh, North Carolina
I'm doing a science project and need to know if tires with bigger knobbies grip better in mud. Jason San Ron, California
Where can I find a trail-running shoe that does not look like a space shoe or some exotic bird? I want something that looks at home outdoors while serving the needed function. Doug Pocomoke City, Maryland
I'm training as an emergency medical technician for wilderness search and rescue, so looking for a backpack that will give me compartmentalized access to my medical supplies. Any ideas? Daniel Patterson, New York
I currently ride a Specialized Rockhopper, but I want to upgrade to a full-suspension rig. I've looked at Giant's Trance and Specialized Enduro, trying to keep under $2,000. I ride two to three times a week. You have any other ideas? Paul Howell, New Jersey
My friends and I are in the middle of a debate about the insulating qualities of single-wall tents versus those with a separate rain fly. We're strictly talking winter tents, and really the only single-wall tents in question are from Bibler. However, none of us has one, especially given the hefty price tag (I currently own a Sierra Designs Omega). I think a Bibler single-wall would carry enough thickness and protection, but my friends think a tent with a rain fly can keep a layer of warm air in between the tent and fly. So, overall is a four-season tent with fly warmer than the best four-season single-wall tent? Brian Fort Collins, Colorado
How much difference is there between gender-specific sleeping bags? Is it possible for a guy to sleep comfortably in a bag designed for women? John Sydney, Australia
As someone who kayaks on Quebec's waterways, I torn between the durability of plastic and the speed and efficiency of Kevlar. Also, as my skills improve, I hardly ever use the rudder system, and skegs seem less prone to mechanical failure, anyway. My father has a Seaward Chilco, which is my yardstick for comparison. Nicholas Westmount, Quebec
Can you help me in my quest to find a multi-sport helmet? I looking for one helmet that I can use for a variety of sports such as cycling, skiing, climbing, sledding, skydiving, and any other activities that require a brain bucket. As my wife is on first-ne terms with the UPS man, it seems prudent to find one helmet that does it all. Bill Buffalo, New York
Oh Glorious One, I have a riddle for you: Being of little monetary wealth, I have sworn off new fangled soft shells and gone with the traditional three-layer system. So what is a good, breathable windbreaker? And by that I mean a light layer to ward off wind and the lightest of rain. Also could it have pit zips and mesh pockets? John Athens, Georgia
The new road-warrior electronics embrace the adventurer's creed: Do more with less. From a pocket cinema to an MP3 watch, these ten ultra-portable gadgets let you get lost in style.
A daring upriver expedition gets back on the water after a deadly attack
Whether you and your posse are catching the train out of Santa Fe or heading into the Australian outback this spring, you owe it to yourself锟絘nd your fellow passengers锟絫o ride with style
YOU KNOW HOW SOME STARS get all the attention, when it’s really the supporting characters who carry the show? In the quest for better health, strength, and vitality, calcium is one nutrient that’s been hogging the spotlight, but the fact is, vitamin D does most of calcium’s heavy lifting. Vitamin…
What skis would you recommend for me? I five-foot-four, 122-pound intermediate skier who skis mostly groomed blue runs in Colorado, as well as lots of places in the East. I want a versatile ski that's appropriate for my level but will help me advance to harder runs. Elizabeth Mii Beach, Florida
I hear there is a new Arc'teryx backpack looming on the horizon this April that is supposed to be a huge step forward in backpacking technology. Is there any truth to this? Kolby Vancouver, British Columbia
Do backpackers make lifetime investments? I'm 21 and just got into backpacking last year. I didn't have any gear, so I bought the cheapest of everything, which was a mistake! In my second round of purchases, can I realistically expect that boots, tents, packs, and sleeping bags will last a lifetime if I buy good quality? What about proper gear maintenance? Kate Wooster, Ohio
What's the best point-and-shoot film camera? I entering the Peace Corps in a few months and know that I will be in rural Africa. I need a small camera that will have a long battery life, will be durable enough to withstand life on the continent, and will take high-quality pictures. I usually use Nikon digital cameras and at a loss as to which point-and-shoot to choose. Katie Chico, California
I'm looking for a backpacking stove for a two-person, ten-day trip, so weight and fuel are the big issues. We will have only one stove and will use it to boil water only for oatmeal and dehydrated foods. Can you help? Brady Pleasant Grove, Utah
My girlfriend and I are planning to hike the John Muir Trail this summer (starting late June). Do you recommend a three- or four-season tent? Any specific recommendations for a six-foot-two guy like me, hopefully with two decent-sized vestibules? Joshua Denver, Colorado
I have recently heard talk about a new insulation from NASA, called Aeroloft or Spaceloft. It supposedly weighs less than air and three millimeters of it can keep you warm down to 50 below. Burton apparently used it in a jacket called the Ronin Katana. Do you know anything about this material? Will it be possible to make expedition-worthy sleeping bags that weigh eight ounces? John Atascadero, California
Is there a tried-and-true product I can apply to my sleeping pad and bivy bag to stop slippage? Just spent a lousy night sliding around on a nylon groundsheet (seldom can I find an off-trail flat spot in the Superstition Wilderness). Tom Arizona
I totally confused by the number, types, prices, and brands of performance T-shirts. I simply want a shirt that is comfortable in warm-hot weather and will stay comfortable when I sweat. Can you help? David Tpa, Florida
I'm getting into photography for the first time and need a decent camera for taking wildlife shots. Can you point me in the right direction? Warren Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Why have high-end gear manufacturers like Patagonia and The North Face completely dropped bibs from their alpine climbing and skiing lines? I couldn't imagine skiing in deep powder or mountaineering in anything but reinforced, technically oriented Gore-Tex bibs. Have bibs gone the way of the one-piece 1970s ski suit? Michael Vancouver, British Columbia
I planning a year-long trip to Central and South America and seek your opinion on water purification. What is the best purifier or filter combo? We need super-durable, convenient, and compact. Landon Rifle, Colorado
I'm trying to sift through the trillion cyclocomputers out there. Got a good recommendation for a wireless, waterproof unit that'll work on a mountain bike? Preferably one that's rugged, too (I crash a lot). Love your column, site, page... hell, whatever you call it. Shan Kansas City, Missouri
How are tents, and the way you pitch them, best designed to withstand wind? Last weekend my husband and I cped on the tops of the Ruahine Ranges here in New Zealand, but we were up all night worrying gale-force winds were about to blow us over the nearby precipice. I wanted to re-stake the tent (we'd done a sloppy job) but my husband insisted that the slacker the pitching, and the more flapping, the better. He argued that making it more taut would put us at more risk. Surely tents aren't designed to be pitched badly. Can you help settle our dispute? Karen Wellington, New Zealand
What type of jacket would you suggest as an all-season shell for somewhere like North Carolina? I would like to buy one that could be used in the winter as a shell for skiing but that is not too hot to wear in a summer downpour. Art Chapel Hill, North Carolina
In a month I will be visiting southern Utah and hiking to and around the Wave area of the North Coyote Buttes. I'm interested in buying a nice pair of hiking shoes for this trip and for future trips of this nature. I also interested in buying a nice pair of hiking boots for hiking in the mountains and general wilderness hiking. The problem is that I’m a poor college student and can not afford two kinds of shoes for two kinds of hiking. Is there a shoe or boot out there that would work equally well on both terrains? I don’t think support as much as traction is an issue on slick rock, but support is a huge issue when hiking up mountains. Kristen Provo, Utah
I'm looking for a lighter backpack around 1,000 cubic inches to hike several 100 miles. I'm right now using a REI Flash UL Pack which is good for a four-day hike but its weight is 10 oz. I know there are lighter packs. Is there any that you would recommend? Keith Waynesboro, PA
I'm after a down jacket or sweater that could replace a fleece jacket in my pack, hopefully adding lots of warmth for only a few ounces extra. I'd hope it would keep me warm by itself to about 45 degrees, and be a layer after that. I don't want it to be too warm or heavy—California isn't usually very cold. I was looking at the EMS Super Sweater, for exple. Any thoughts? Jonathan Thousand Oaks, CA
Do you have any recommendations about footwear (boots, covers, etc.)? I've seen these nes used a lot for climbs: Koflach Arctis Expe, OneSport Everest, or Scarpa Inverno. Any "new" kids on the block? I'm looking to summit McKinley. Greg Allentown, PA
My back always gets wet then cold when I skiing, snowshoeing, or doing other activities that get my heart pumping. Is there any clothing that will take away the moisture? Bari Edmonton, Alberta
I'm looking for an inflatable kayak and folding bicycle to hit some Class I-II creeks in Alaska, float them, and then bike back to my put-in. I would need some kind of inflatable capable of fitting in a backpack or on the bike somehow, and a bike that is capable of being transported (in a folded position most likely) on the craft. Any ideas? Jeremy Anchorage, Alaska
A couple years ago I saw an ad in 国产吃瓜黑料 for a pack which was basically a strap that went over one shoulder and had several pockets on it for gear. I think it was called something like "strapack." Can you help me find it? David Washington, Missouri
A few buddies and I are planning a five-day trip on the Clearwater River in northern Saskatchewan. We plan on hitting some whitewater, though nothing too outrageous. We want kayaks that will track well on flatwater but also be able to bomb down some whitewater. What would you recommend? Rob Lloydminster, Saskatchewan
I'm getting back into mountaineering and I want to know whether I should be using steel or aluminum crampons? I've used steel in the past, but looking at the newer ultralight crampons, I'm wondering if they're actually tough enough to take all the abuse I deal out. So, which is it: steel or aluminum? Bob Salisbury, North Carolina
How do I find the best GPS receiver for my needs? I looking for a GPS that can provide detailed trail information as well as city information. I want something reasonably priced but flexible enough for long-term use. Do I need one with a PC connection or SD card compatibility? I going to the Grand Canyon later this year and want a unit that will help us safely navigate the trails. Grant Chicago, Illinois
I have a road bike but I'm looking for something to haul a baby trailer. I used to have a hardtail MTB, so should I look for another? How about a hybrid/commuter bike? How does the Trek SU200 look? Greg Van Nuys, California