Blogs

The best weather apps for mountain weather and thunderstorm tracking

When it comes to hiking in the mountains, having access to the best weather information can be the difference between a great adventure and a dangerous situation. Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable, and thunderstorms can roll in suddenly, putting hikers at risk. This is why it's essential to know which weather apps are best suited for tracking weather changes and thunderstorms in mountainous areas.

Gear review: Gregory Focal Ultralight Backpack

Discover the ultralight Gregory Focal backpack in this in-depth review. Learn about its features, comfort, durability, and trail performance on long-distance trails. It’s the perfect lightweight backpack for multi-day hikes.

Gear review: LOWA Renegade EVO GTX Mid

The LOWA Renegade EVO GTX Mid Hiking Boot delivers on all fronts—comfort, durability, waterproofing, and stability. It’s a well-rounded boot suitable for tough hikes and can hold its own in different terrains. While the price may seem steep, its performance and longevity justify the investment. It’s for good reason that it’s Europe’s best-sold hiking boot on the market.

Gear review: Pinewood Abisko 3L Jacket

The Pinewood Abisko 3L Jacket is a reliable and sustainable option if you’re looking for functional outdoor gear with a lower environmental impact. It performs well in challenging conditions, offering both comfort and durability. While the price point reflects its eco-friendly materials and advanced design, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious hikers but also suits other outdoor sports.

Gear review: Rab Latok 38L Mountain Pack

The RAB Latok 38L Mountain Pack is a versatile and robust choice for climbers and mountaineers who need a reliable backpack for challenging alpine environments. Designed by outdoor professionals, the Latok prioritizes durability, functionality, and comfort. Its weather-resistant fabric, lightweight frame, and ergonomic features make it ideal for long ascents or multi-day trips in tough conditions.

Gear review: MSR FreeLite 1 Ultralight

The MSR Freelite 1 stands out in the ultralight tent market for its combo of low weight and functional design, making it a top choice for solo hikers who prioritize minimalism without sacrificing comfort. It’s a perfect tent for a long-distance trail or even a thru-hike. Although a lot of thru-hikes choose for even a lighter tent, this is still a great option if you want a bit more comfort.

Gear review: Soto WindMaster

The SOTO WindMaster stands proudly as a maximalist canister stove that promises high power and unparalleled performance in the wind.

Gear review: Gregory Jade 24 LT

Designed for day hikes, the Gregory Jade 24 LT pack is the perfect balance between functionality, comfort, and style. As someone who loves trying new gear, I was excited to see how this pack would perform on my adventures. With a 24-liter capacity, it’s just the right size for a long day out or a hut-to-hut tour, whether you're tackling a tough trail or enjoying a leisurely hike.

A Visit to Bridgedale

We had the pleasure of touring the Bridgedale factory where we had a firsthand look at the processes and dedicated people behind their socks.

Gear review: HOKA Speedgoat 6

The HOKA Speedgoat series is named after famed ultramarathoner Karl "Speedgoat" Meltzer and has become one of HOKA’s flagship models for trail running.

MSR and Therm-a-Rest Factory Tour: Comfortable nights, more joy on the trails

This is a blog about the MSR and Therma-Rest factory Tour during our last visit to Ireland earlier this year.

Darn Tough Women’s Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Socks

The Darn Tough Women's Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Socks are high-quality, durable socks designed to provide comfort and performance on the trail. I found that the merino blend has excellent moisture management, durability, and a comfortable fit. While the higher price point and potential fit issues may be drawbacks for some, the overall performance and durability of these socks make them a great investment for serious hikers.