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The 9 Best Camping Spots in Florida

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Girl reading in a camping spot in florida

Florida is famous for its nature, so it’s no surprise you’re looking for the best camping spots in Florida.

From the Everglades to the northwestern panhandle, the diversity of the ecological regions in the Sunshine State are truly extraordinary. In South Florida alone, there is a mind-boggling range of ecosystems, such as pine-lands, dunes, marshes, swamps, coral reefs, and mangroves. The stunning, complex and unique landscape of Florida has even been recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. 

So, you’re considering venturing into the great outdoors, and in Florida no less! At Outdoor Command, we are well aware that the most exciting part about camping getaways is really diving into a natural habitat, opening your tent door in the morning to watch the sunrise over the sea or sleeping soundly after a dinner of your fresh catch cooked over a fire. ”

So, to help you plan the best camping experience possible in Florida, we’ve rated our top ten recommendations for camping spots, divided by the most exciting natural habitats or features: caves, forests, beaches, and wildlife viewing.

Read on to discover the best camping in Florida experience for you!

The 9 Best Florida Camping Spots

We’ve rounded up the 9 best camping sites in Florida to help you plan your adventure (click to jump to detailed information):

  1. Ginnie Springs Outdoors
  2. Florida Caverns State Park
  3. Hillsborough River State Park 
  4. Little Lake Bryant Primitive Camp
  5. Fort Pickens Campground
  6. Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina
  7. Flamingo Campground 
  8. Manatee Springs State Park Campground 
  9. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park 

#1-2: Florida Camping Spots Near Caves

A backpacker inside a cave.

A backpacker hikes inside of a cave.

1. Ginnie Springs Outdoors

Ginnie Springs Outdoors is a privately owned park in Gilchrist County, just northwest of High Springs. It boasts seven natural springs, all with crystal clear turquoise water, surrounded by woodland. The surroundings of this campsite are truly magical, with many of the tent sites just on the side of the river or the spring sites, scattered amongst Ginnie Springs 200 wooded acres. The most exciting part about this option is the freshwater cave diving you can do on location. It’s open to novices, and there are many certified divers from the Dive Centre to guide you through the process. It’s also a great option for certified divers, with 30,000 feet of passageways to explore in the Devil Spring System.

Prices at Ginnie Springs are more than some camping options: starting at $22 per night for each adult. However, there are a large number of facilities which make this price worth it, such as a general store, volleyball courts, playgrounds, covered pavilions for groups and parties, picnic tables and grills, laundry services, bathhouses, a playground, and Wi-Fi access. However it can get noisy and a bit busy during the summer months, so we wouldn’t recommend a family trip here except for in fall and spring. This option is perfect for a group who are looking for a camping experience with all the bells and whistles and to try deep water diving in the most magical woodland setting.

Pros: 

  • 30 AMP electric
  • Water
  • Good mobile connectivity
  • Restrooms and showers
  • Camp store
  • Playground and recreation area
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater cave diving

Cons:

  • Very popular, so can be quite busy – book in advance
  • Not very motor-home friendly, better for tents

2. Florida Caverns State Park

Florida Caverns State Park is the only park in Florida with dry caves, with regular tours for the public. These dry caves are truly astounding, with stalagmites and stalactites as far as the eye can see, so it’s worth visiting the park just to witness this geological wonder. This 1,319-acre state-owned park has 35 campsites with electric and water hookups for RV and tent camping. All 35 campsites are well equipped, with restrooms, showers and laundry facilities, and there’s even a camp store and a playgoing for family groups.

Touring the magical dry caves is not the only outdoor activity at Florida Caverns State Park. You can also swim in the Blue Hole swimming area, paddle on the Chipola River, canter along the Horse Equestrian Trail, and hike along the scenic trails viewing natural wonders such as floodplains, sinkholes, and rivers. All of the 35 campsites are scattered amongst this astoundingly varied natural landscape; the main pull to this site is nature, nature, nature. The campsites themselves, despite the many amenities, sometimes come into problems when it rains, as most of the sites are just sat on mud. But while being surrounded by all of this incredible nature, we don’t think you’re going to mind a little bit of dirt on your boots.

Pros: 

  • Full hookup and electric (30 and 50 AMP)
  • Good mobile connectivity
  • Restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities
  • Camp store
  • Playground
  • Recreational trails 
  • Dry cave tours

Cons:

  • Mainly mud flooring in campsites, so can get slippery or dirty under heavy rain – not great for RVs
  • Bring mosquito spray!

#3-4. Florida Camping Spots in the Forest

A natural forest in Florida.

A natural forest in Florida.

3. Hillsborough River State Park 

Only a short distance from Tampa, this location brings you into the great outdoors, without the inconvenience usually attached. Hillsborough River State Park boasts one of the few sites in Florida where you can go white water rafting, and we think the best: here you can go canoeing or kayaking on class II river rapids. There are also 7 miles of trails, like the Wetlands Restoration Trail, so you can go hiking and biking to your heart’s content under cabal palms, live oaks, and hickory. The campsites available here give you all the basics and then some: not only is it convenient to reach, but these sites come with showers, laundry facilities and a camp store for you to get your groceries and necessities.

Hillsborough is also a historical park: opened in 1938, this park hosts the Fort Foster Historic Site, a reconstructed fort that stood during the Second Seminole War. So you’ll not only be surrounded by nature but also living history. From the park, you also have easy access for fishing, for bream, catfish, and bass. So if you’re looking for a site that has a variety of different activities, and to be stimulated not only physically but intellectually, then this could be the perfect site for you! However, as with many campsites, the roads leading to the sites are narrow and could deal with being replaced. This also is maybe not the best option for RV as there is no full-hookup. However, these are small prices to pay for the variety and beauty of the expire you’ll have at Hillsborough River State Park.

Pros:

  • Good mobile connectivity
  • Restrooms, showers, laundry facilities 
  • Camp store
  • Recreational trails, nature trails, and white water rafting
  • Fishing

Cons: 

  • No full hookup for RV
  • No Wi-Fi
  • Roads are narrow and need to be repaved

4. Little Lake Bryant Primitive Camp 

Little Lake Bryant Primitive Camp is located in the Ocala National Forest, which is known for its huge areas of sand pine scrub forest. There are also hundreds of lakes and ponds, such as Lake Kerr and Lake George, most of which have stunning crystal blue waters and are surrounded by pine and palms. The Little Lake Bryant Primitive Camp is really what it says on the tin: primitive. With no amenities and a 4-day maximum stay, this isn’t the right option for those wanting a VIP nature experience.

Situated right on the side of Lake Byrant, this site is popular amongst backpackers, campers, anglers and family groups alike. Under the cooling shade of live oaks, you can look out to the stunning lake from your tent, where you can even go fishing for free. There are many stunning trails in Ocala National Forest, such as the Yearling Trail, which passes by a sinkhole and the remains of some nineteenth-century homesteads. So although this is definitely not luxury camping, this is a great option for the more adventurous camper and could be a great pit stop for you on your camping journey if you’re wanting to save a bit of money.

Pros: 

  • Free
  • Boat ramp
  • Lake and pond fishing (need a permit)
  • Close to towns Forest Corners and Moss Bluffs, for groceries
  • Great for camping alone or families

Cons: 

  • No facilities

#5-6. Camping Spots Near Beaches and Islands

A beach camping spots in Florida

A beautiful Florida beach accessible from the nearby campground.

5. Fort Pickens Campground

Fort Pickens Campground is located in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, or the Gulf Coast, on a barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay. Pensacola Beach is a stunning place to hang out, swim and sunbathe, with dunes and views as far as the eye can see. This is a great camping spot for RV, and with the town of Gulf Breeze nearby, you’ve got gas, groceries, and nightlife just around the corner.

Fort Pickens is also just a mile away from the campsite, for all the history lovers out there. This fort was used during the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World War II. It has regular tours for the public – and even a very large cannon! There’s also a Naval Museum on the base of Pensacola, which is only a bridge away, for further context. This site is a great option for those looking for a varied and titillating stay, not only the best beaches: you can not only learn about history but also absorb the surrounding natural landscape of white sand beaches, blue water, and coastal marshes.

Pros:

  • An electric hookup (30 and 50 AMP)
  • Good mobile connectivity
  • Restrooms and showers
  • Playground
  • Recreational trails
  • Fishing

Cons:

  • No laundry facilities
  • No Wifi

6. Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina

Fiesta Key RV Resort is a haven for RV and tent camping: a 28-acre resort on a privately owned island. If you’re looking for tropical waterfront camping on the Gulf of Mexico, then look no further!   This island offers all you could need, including Wi-Fi, spa (including a whirlpool and hot tub), swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, boat ramps, dog park, onsite marina, onsite store, and restaurant. There’s also the Long Key State Park nearby and the Dolphin Research Centre to give you more activities during your stay.

From this incredible beach-side location, one of the best out of the options of RV parks or RV sites, you can view an amazing array of wildlife, even manatee spottings! But the biggest pull factor to this location is not the best RV park, but the beautiful white sand beaches with their incredible views: imagine beachfront paddling here and looking out to the ocean. Easily accessible by a highway, this is a great choice for those of you looking for a more luxurious stay, and to chill, swim and sunbathe on the beach to your heart’s content!

Pros: 

  • Full hookup 
  • Wi-Fi
  • Restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities 
  • Camp store
  • Pool and spa
  • Basketball and volleyball courts

Cons:

  • Some sites are better than others 
  • Power and freshwater connections are on the wrong side of the site

#6-9. Florida Camping Spots with Great Wildlife Viewing

7. Flamingo Campground 

The Flamingo Campground is located in the stunning Everglades National Park. This gorgeous landscape provides a haven for protecting numerous rare and endangered species like the American crocodile, the Florida panther, and the manatee. The park’s uniqueness doesn’t stop there, it’s also a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve and a Wetland of International Importance. It’s also a mecca for bird watchers with over 300 avian species.

With acres of mangrove forests, canals, and canoeing trails, and manatee and crocodiles in the marina, this really is an excellent option to dive headfirst into a unique natural habitat. However, this doesn’t guarantee luxury! With an ecosystem, this diverse, expect to be joined by lots of critters, bugs, and even snakes while you camp. Remember your mosquito spray, and keep a brave face on if this isn’t your cup of tea, and we’re sure you’ll be fine! But, of course, this is not an option for the faint of heart. This campsite also isn’t the cheapest option – if you’re looking to save money then check out some of the state-owned campsites. However, for nature lovers, this is an opportunity you can’t turn down!

Pros: 

  • Good mobile connectivity
  • Restrooms and showers
  • Access to recreational trails and fishing

Cons: 

  • No Wi-Fi
  • No Laundry facilities

8. Manatee Springs State Park Campground 

This campsite is located in the Manatee Springs State Park, located close to Chiefland. Manatee Spring is a first magnitude spring that flows directly into the Suwannee River. There’s a lot of gorgeous natural habitat to be seen in the park, including swamps, hardwood wetlands along the Suwannee and lots of sinkhole ponds – one even includes a cave 90 feet below ground that connects to the catfish hotel, a popular divers destination. The springs and the river boast beautiful clear water for boating, scuba diving, and fishing.

The Manatee Springs State Park Campground provides all the necessary amenities needed for campers – but not if you’re looking to go “glamping”. The campsites are not uniformly well maintained, with some people complaining about the sand sites and roads which can quickly become dangerous if it rains. However for the more experienced gamers out there, this should not be an issue, all of the basic amenities are provided.

But we think the most exciting thing about staying at the Manatee Springs State Park Campground is the natural sights. Visitors in the winter can view the migration of the West Indian manatee to the springs. If you want to get up close and personal with a unique and unparalleled natural experience, then look no further than Manatee Springs State Park.

Pros: 

  • Wi-Fi
  • Restrooms, showers
  • Playground
  • Recreational trails
  • Camp store

Cons: 

  • No laundry facilities
  • Sites are all sand, and there are potholes on the roads, be careful if it rains
  • Lots of ticks, remember to check yourself often

9. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park 

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers. With both tent and RV camping available, you can enjoy your trip surrounded by coral reefs, mangrove swamps, and seagrass beds. There’s an incredible number of activities to be done here, such as snorkeling, scuba diving and glass-bottom boat tours to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. So we can guarantee that your trip to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park definitely won’t be boring.

Situated on Key Largo, this state park contains roughly 70 nautical square miles of Atlantic Ocean waters. Interestingly, it was the first underwater park in the United States! There are three designated swimming areas, and picnic areas with grills, so you can all relax together after a long day exploring and swimming. Furthermore, you can also go snorkeling at Canon Beach, to see the remains of an early Spanish Shipwreck 100 feet offshore.

Pros: 

  • Wi-Fi
  • Restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities
  • Recreational trails and fishing
  • Full hookup
  • Coral reef

Cons: 

  • Sites are a little tight, recommend to go in a less popular season
  • Nature trails are quite short

Final Verdict:

So, did you know about the incredible eco-diversity of Florida? The state is not just Orlando and Miami, but so much more.

We’ve presented you here with our favorite tried and tested spots. But you might also want to consider checking out Bahai Honda State Park, Cayo Costa State Park, Anastasia State Park, George Island State Park, St George Island, Rainbow Springs State Park, Grayton Beach State Park, and the list goes on and on…

With such an amazingly varied list of options for where to camp in Florida, it can be difficult to know where to start. Ask yourself the following questions: 

  • How much can I pay? 
  • How adventurous do I want to be? 
  • How many luxuries do I need? 
  • RV or tent camping? 
  • Beach, forests, caves or animals? 

Whatever your needs and desires, we’ve provided you with the options for the best camping in Florida. Now all you need to do is choose, and start planning!

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How to have amazing experiences camping in Alaska?

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Do you want to make the most of your camping experience in Alaska? Camping is the best way to cherish the mesmerizing Alaskan scenery and be in proximity to Mother Nature with your friends and loved ones.

Are you wondering where to camp, where to go, and what items to pack for an Alaskan camping trip? This article has all the answers regarding camping in Alaska! Moreover, this place comprises a few amazing bewilderments that make it different than other camping locations.

If you’re ready to explore Alaska and be immersed in its camping, here are the top 4 tips for a seamless camping experience in Alaska.

  1. Be ready for the varying types of weather

The temperature of Alaska is unpredictable. Hence, if you’re camping in summer in blisteringly hot weather, it would be great to carry something waterproof and warm clothes. In your Alaska travel and camping, it’s required to carry your bibbed waterproof rain pants, raincoats, and hip boots.

This is how you don’t worry about the sudden rain and catch fish all day. Moreover, camping without a bathing suit doesn’t seem right! Camping and cruising go hand in hand; hence, a trip to Alaska will help you get the most out of your Alaska trip.

  1. Pick a campground mindfully

Although you are not mandated to stay at a campground run by the federal government if you wish to go tent camping, it may be the best bet if this is your initial camping trip. Establishing your individual camping place in the bush might feel more adventurous. Still, when camping with small children, you should remain closer to society in case a bear visits your campsite.

When you opt to lease a camping site, you must make your booking ahead because the more renowned campsites might fill up rapidly. Look on the internet for campgrounds near the events and routes you want to visit.

  1. You will have the option to relax or unwind

Although some corporate Alaska campers provide cable TV and Wi-Fi facilities, none of the federal campsites do. Whether you come here expecting to remain up to date on all the accouterments of technologies (or your beloved TV show), you may feel frustrated. But what if you treat your camping vacation as a time to relax and enjoy the unique stunning scenery surrounding you? It feels exciting.

  1. Keep the bears at bay

Bears are amazing animals, which doesn’t imply you should invite them with welcoming hands inside your camp. You must be capable of keeping bears away from your campground if you wish to enjoy the woods with them without causing mishaps. Below are a few suggestions:

  •     You can bypass bear highways by not camping along riverbanks or pathways.
  •     Do not even camp alone: for your safety, striving to remain close to others would be better.

 

These are the top 4 tips to enjoy camping in Alaska. What are you thinking of? Dive into the best experiences of camping, and cherish the moments forever. Happy camping! 

 

 

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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

Why Duck Boots are Good for Hiking

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are duck boots good for hiking

The quest to find the perfect hiking shoes is never-ending, so the next option we’re going to explore is Duck Boots. Duck Boots have been around for more than 100 years and they’re used for all sorts of outdoor activities, so we can’t discount them as a hiking boot. Let’s dive in a little deeper into what duck boots are, and whether they’re an ideal choice for your next hike.

 

A pair of Bean Boots.

The legendary Maine-made L.L.Bean Boot was designed by “L.L.” himself in 1912 and has been keeping feet dry and comfortable ever since.

 

What are Duck Boots?

Duck Boots, also known as Bean Boots, were created by Leon Leonwood Bean, who founded the company L.L. Bean. Bean, who got sick of wet feet during hunting trips, wanted to create a boot that would keep his feet dry while still being ideal for the outdoors. He theorized mixing together two types of boot, combining the rubber sole of a work boot with the leather upper of a casual or hunting boot.

The rubber sole would provide all the necessary protection from the elements, while the leather upper would retain the flexibility and comfort of a regular leather boot. Thus, the Duck Boot was born and became a huge success. Other brands now produce this style of boot, but you can never forget the original waterproof boots.

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A pair of Duck Boots in a puddle of water.

When choosing which hiking boots you should buy, Duck Boots should be considered for their weatherproof design.

 

What makes a good hiking shoe?

If you’re considering Duck Boots for use as a hiking shoe, you should first know what you’re looking for. There are so many elements to consider when searching for the perfect boot, as there is no one size fits all. Different shoes are optimized for different conditions, different situations you might encounter on the trail, so finding the right shoe isn’t an easy task.

Various terrains put different pressures on your shoes during hikes. This is why hiking boots are usually split into three main categories, each optimized for a different sort of hike. Lightweight hiking shoes (trail shoes), which resemble trainers, are essentially reinforced running shoes. They provide some support, but their main purpose is to be light and breathable while still protecting your foot.

These shoes are designed for day hikes, but they’re actually a favorite among long-distance backpackers. A sturdier shoe would provide more support, but trail shoes are a popular choice long-distance as they aren’t as heavy or constricting as other boots, while still providing enough protection to keep your feet safe and happy during a hike. The only downside of trail running shoes is their lack of ankle support, which leaves you at risk of twisted ankles and other injuries.

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 On the other end of the scale are mountaineering boots, designed for terrains which present more of a challenge to traverse. If you’re hiking through rocky territory or icy glaciers, this type of boot provides all the necessary extra protection. They’re much more heavy-duty than hiking shoes, often warmer, water-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and provide much more support to your foot.

Backpacking boots make a compromise between the two, as they aim to keep you prepared for any terrain. For multi-day treks, this type of boot is ideal as it’s durable and supportive enough to carry you through most challenges in the backcountry.

The materials used to construct a hiking boot define it, as the wrong fabric can cause so much suffering for your feet. Finding the right combination of waterproofing and breathability, while still being a comfortable shoe, can present a challenge. That’s why we’re going to break down the material considerations you’ll need to remember when deciding is a shoe is right for hiking.

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Full-grain leather is a very durable and versatile material, so many mountaineering boots are made using this fabric. For rigorous hikes which pass through rough terrains, full-grain leather is fully protective while remaining very comfortable. It has excellent waterproof properties, as well as being warm and highly durable. However, in return for this protection, you have to deal with the increased weight of these heavy-duty boots.

You may have heard the saying “one pound on your feet equals five on your back” and this applies to full-grain leather boots. They may not feel too heavy when you try them on, but five miles down the trail you might find yourself wishing for a lighter shoe. Of course, over rough terrain, the valuable protection full-grain leather provides is well worth the weight, but you don’t need such a heavy shoe for casual hikes.

Split grain leather offers reduced protection, but is more breathable than full-grain leather. It’s still a durable material, but it’s less heavy-duty and has reduced water-resistant properties. It’s often used in combination with synthetic materials, creating a compromise between protection and comfort, and this combination is the most common choice for casual hikers.

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Various synthetic materials are used in the construction of hiking shoes, such as nylon and polyester. One benefit of synthetic materials is that they are much easier to break in than leather. These shoes feel lighter and also dry faster, but lack the water-resistant properties of leather. Of course, you can improve the water-resistance, but this can affect the breathability. Check out how to waterproof hiking boots for more information.

 

A pair of boots in the grass.

Different hiking boots are better suited for different terrains and it’s best to find a pair of boots that fits your adventure.

 

Also, depending on the type of trekking you do, hiking boots are available in different cuts and heights. Lightweight trail running shoes are often low cut, meaning they end below the ankle. This allows for a wider range of motion but leaves your ankle vulnerable to injury.

Shoes like this are best worn on well-maintained trails, where there’s less risk of trail debris and uneven terrain. Mid-cut boots offer more ankle support and better balance and protection, but the most protective style of boot is high-cut. These boots reinforce your ankle fully and are necessary for off-trail adventures.

Many hiking boots are equipped with devices that provide extra internal support, the purpose of which is to protect both your feet and the soles of your shoes on uneven terrain. One option is shanks, which are 3-5mm thick inserts sandwiched between the midsole and outsole of your boot. These add load-bearing stiffness to hiking boots, which is important to ensure you stay stable and balanced.

Shanks vary in length, some running the whole way down the boot, others just half-way. This feature makes the sole of a hiking boot less flexible, keeping your feet in a mostly flat position.

This may seem counterintuitive balance-wise, but a flexible sole allows your foot to wrap around every root and rock you step on, which can be painful, and tires you out much faster. Having a reinforced sole is a big benefit, but it could make your boot heavier; it all depends on the material the shank is made from.

Related: Top 7 Best Microspikes for Hiking

Some hiking boots feature plates as a form of internal support, which are thin and semi-flexible. These can be used in conjunction with shanks, and they protect your feet from getting bruised by anything you step on.

All hiking boots have rubber outsoles, the part of your boot which spends the most time in contact with the ground. Some have additives such as carbon, which increases the hardness of the material. This is most commonly seen in mountaineering boots for extra durability, but the extra harness of the outsole can mean they feel slick if you go off-trail.

Traction is very important in a hiking boot for obvious reasons, so make sure you get a boot with enough traction to keep you comfortable. If you’re constantly trying not to slip, the increased pressure on your muscles can be painful and even damaging, whereas a boot with a good grip will make your hike so much easier.

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So, what makes a good hiking shoe? The ideal footwear for hiking finds the right balance between comfort and protection, and this depends on your own personal hiking preferences. In general, you need a degree of protection from the elements, water resistance, comfort, and breathability. A good hiking boot should protect your foot without hindering your process, and if you make the right choice then your hikes will be so much better for it.

 

A girl hiking in the mountains.

Duck Boots are well-known for their water resistance and ability to be easily cleaned, but are they the best hiking boot option?

 

Are Duck Boots good for hiking?

Duck boots are constructed using a rubber sole and lower shoe, whilst incorporating a full-grain leather upper. This means Duck Boots have excellent water resistance. Full-grain leather is highly waterproof, as is rubber, so with these shoes, you’ll never have to worry about wet feet.

Of course, Bean Boots claim to be the “original antidote to wet feet”, so water resistance is one thing we know they’re good for. A good hiking boot should always be water-resistant, as there’s a high chance of encountering puddles, streams, and other wet terrains when you’re on the trail. There’s also always the possibility of rain, so even if you step around the puddles, your boots always need to have a good degree of water resistance. If there’s one thing Duck Boots are, it’s waterproof.

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L.L. Bean’s Duck Boots use a steel shank for additional support, and this is a great feature for a potential hiking boot. Reducing the flexibility of the sole means more protection for your feet, so this feature of Duck Boots is a big benefit. Remember, this only applies to L.L. Bean’s branded Duck Boots, as there are many other boots of the same style available which might lack this additional internal support.

Duck Boots are known for being very comfortable. Boots are the number one most important piece of equipment for a hiker, and comfort is paramount. If your hiking boots are uncomfortable, it can make you hate every minute you wear them. On the other hand, finding a pair of boots that are comfortable for you is a big first step towards having the right shoe, so regarding comfort, Bean Boots get a pass from us.

Another benefit of Duck Boots is that they’re easy to clean. This isn’t as important as other factors, but after a long hike through muddy and dirty conditions, these boots only need a quick spray from a hosepipe and they’re clean and ready to go.

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We’ve covered the benefits of wearing Bean Boots for hiking, and there are a number of reasons you might think they’re a good choice. Duck Boots are highly waterproof, very comfortable, and feature shanks which are a big help towards stability. However, there are some elements of these shoes which might mean they aren’t the best choice for hiking.

 

A man climbing on rocks.

While Duck Boots offer great water resistance, their ankle support is not the best which may deter some people from using them for longer hikes.

 

Why Duck Boots might not be the best choice

Ankle support is a big deal when it comes to hiking boots; as we explained before it can be the difference between a successful hike and a painful injury. Duck Boots are high cut, meaning they rise above your ankles. This means they do provide some support, but it’s minimal, and ideally, a hiking boot would offer more structure around the ankle. For hikers traversing rough terrain, more protection is needed, as if you miss a step in Duck Boots there isn’t much to save you from injury.

Another important thing to consider is traction. Duck boots are designed specifically to handle wet weather, and they do it very well. If you’re in wet, muddy, slushy or otherwise slippery conditions, Duck Boots are ideal, as they have plenty of traction and grip.

However, mud isn’t the only thing which hiking boots have to put up with. On the trails, the traction Bean Boots provides is considerably reduced compared to hiking boots, the difference is noticeable and unfortunately, the traction on the soles of Duck Boots just isn’t strong enough for any sort of serious hiking.

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The materials from which Duck Boots are made make them excellently waterproof. However, rubber and full-grain leather aren’t the most breathable of materials. Although they may do a good job of not letting in water from the outside, they also keep it in.

The lack of breathability here can be very uncomfortable, leading to hot and sweaty feet. This can cause blisters, and for this reason, we would not recommend them as a hiking shoe. All hikers need waterproof boots, but there are others available which won’t make you suffer.

Blisters are something which all hikers have to deal with at some point, but if your boots aren’t breathable then they’re much more likely and threaten to ruin your hike. The best hiking boots keep your feet dry while staying breathable and comfortable, so don’t make an exception here.

If you’re keen on mountaineering, then your hiking boots need to be crampon compatible, which Duck Boots are not. Crampons help with grip when scaling rocky terrain, so having a boot they work with is necessary for safety reasons.

We have no choice but to conclude that L.L. Bean’s Duck Boots are no good for hiking. Although they are comfortable and highly water-resistant, the lack of extra support and breathability means they aren’t the best hiking boot.

A boot specifically designed for hiking could offer the same level of comfort while giving you much more support on the trails. Hiking boots made from Gore-tex would provide the same level of excellent waterproofing while still maintaining breathability, so there are better options out there.

 

A pair of Duck Boots on a ladder in the snow.

While Duck Boots may not be the best option for hiking, they are still a great overall winter boot.

 

What are Duck Boots good for?

Although we cannot avoid the conclusion that duck boots are no good for hiking, they’re still an excellent outdoor shoe. Bean Boots are ideal for making your way through snow and slush, so we do recommend this style as a general winter boot.

For any outdoor activity in cold weather, these shoes are ideal, as their warmth and waterproofing will keep your feet happy, while their traction is perfect for walking in the snow. Duck Boots are much closer to snow boots or rain boots than they are hiking, so for these weather conditions, we can whole-heartedly recommend these high-quality shoes.

 

Other branded duck boots

L.L. Bean was the original creator of the duck boot, but other brands have made their own version. Sperry offers a shoe called the Watertown Duck Boot, and its design is very similar to the original. Sperry’s version boasts a rubber lug outsole with no-slip traction, which could mean improved grip compared to L.L. Bean’s shoe. However, this is still not a hiking sole, so it’s not ideal for outdoor adventuring.

 

Final Verdict:

So, are Duck Boots good for hiking? The short answer; no. Although Duck Boots make an excellent winter boot, ideal for cold and wet weather, they just aren’t up to the same standard as hiking boots in other areas. The traction Bean Boots provide is optimized for wet conditions, such as snow and slush, but it’s simply not good enough for hiking in the backcountry.

The ankle support is admittedly better than trail running shoes, but more protection is needed if you do anything other than light and easy hikes. For your next hiking trip, Duck Boots aren’t the best choice, even though they’re comfy. If you’re still looking for an outdoor shoe, you might wonder, are Timberlands good for hiking? Read our article on the subject to find out if Timberlands might be the answer you’re looking for.

Bonus tip: To learn more about L.L. Bean’s original legendary boot, check out this interesting video we found below!

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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun Review/The Best Massage Gun for Sports Lovers

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Massage guns have become popular in recent years as a way to help people relax and ease pain. They are especially popular among those who enjoy sports, as the massage guns can help to reduce muscle soreness after a workout resulting in faster recovery and improved performance. 

Some other benefits associated with the use of massage guns include:

 

Increased blood flow– Massage guns can help to improve circulation by increasing blood flow, which helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles. This is especially important for those who are involved in sports or exercise, as increased blood flow can help to repair damaged tissue faster.

 

Improved flexibility– Massage guns also help to improve flexibility by loosening tight muscles and tendons. This allows the body to move more freely, resulting in improved performance during physical activity.

 

Reduced stress– The massage gun can also help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Massaging the muscles helps to release endorphins, which are hormones that act as natural painkillers. By releasing these endorphins, people can feel less stressed and relaxed after using a massage gun.

 

Relieves pain– Massage guns are great for relieving pain and discomfort, as the vibration helps to loosen tight muscles and release tension. This can help to reduce pain caused by inflammation, arthritis, or other aches and pains.

 

Enhances performance– Massage guns can help to improve performance when it comes to physical activities, as they help to reduce muscle fatigue and soreness. This helps people perform better in their chosen sport or activity.

Why Choose the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun 

It’s well known that massage guns are a great way to relieve tension and soreness after a long day or workout. But with so many different massage guns on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. In this Bob and Brad C2 Massage Gun Review, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of this popular massage gun to help you decide if it’s the right one for you.

 

If you are an athlete or just someone looking to soothe sore and aching muscles, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is an ideal choice. This powerful massage gun is designed to provide deep tissue relief through its variety of adjustable speed settings and interchangeable massage heads. The ergonomic design allows for comfortable use during longer sessions, and the lightweight body makes it easy to transport and store. With its powerful motor, the C2 Massage Gun is capable of providing up to 3200 revolutions per minute. With five different intensity levels, this strong force helps to penetrate deep into muscle fibers and provides effective relief from soreness and pain.

 

The Bob and Brad C2 Massage Gun is designed to help athletes and active individuals recover faster after strenuous activity. It provides a deep-tissue massage that can reduce soreness, improve flexibility, and increase the range of motion in the body. This massage gun also comes with four interchangeable heads for various massaging techniques including a flat head for larger muscle groups, a round head for deeper tissue work, a U-shape for joint relief, and a conical head for smaller areas like the neck or hands. With this variety of massage heads, the C2 helps to target specific areas of discomfort and provides customized relief.

Conclusion

 

Overall, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and powerful massage gun that can provide effective relief from muscle soreness after exercise or long days. With its adjustable speed settings and interchangeable massage heads, it is sure to meet your needs. So if you’re an athlete or just someone looking to give their muscles some well-deserved love and attention, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is a great investment.

 

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