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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

10 Best Water Enhancers (for Flavor & Electrolytes)

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Rows of plastic water bottles.

March 17, 2021/Riley Draper Table of Contents

Water is one of the most important things on the entire planet. It makes up our oceans, it feeds all of the plants in the world, and it’s the thing our bodies rely on to keep our bodies functioning. It also doesn’t really taste like anything. Sure, there’s nothing like a glass of water in the middle of the night when you wake up feeling thirsty, and downing a full bottle when you’re gasping for air at the end of a long run is like pure electricity.

But water is boring, and it doesn’t have all of the nutrients a body needs to keep itself running, water is just the beginning. A good water enhancer can fill in the gaps that water is missing if you’re trying to get your electrolytes, a little bit of flavor, or just something to break the monotony of yet another glass of the good stuff, especially when you’re out camping, then read on, and maybe we’ll find something for you.

In a hurry? Here’s the test winner after 10 hours of research:

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10 Best Water Enhancers in 2021 – Overview

Here are the top 5 picks (keep scrolling for more details and picks 6-10).

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1. Trace Minerals Research – Concentrace Trace Mineral Drops

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Sometimes what you’re looking for in your water additive is something substantive and tangible. You want your vitamins and minerals, and you want them directly in your water bottle. If that sounds like you, then Trace Minerals Research’s Concentrace is what you’re looking for. It’s a water enhancer that puts exactly what you’re looking for directly inside of your bottle. You don’t have to trust that the word of a bottled water brand, you don’t have to cross your fingers and hope that your local tap water source is giving you what your body needs, and you don’t have to carefully pick through your diet to make sure you’re getting the minerals your body needs.

This is the water enhancer you should be reaching for if you’re trying to keep your body in tip-top shape, and it’s great when you’re out on a hike and you need a boost. It’s a no-frills enhancer that does more than satisfy a sugar craving and change the color of your water. It’s the kind of enhancer that actually enhances your water experience. You’re getting the minerals your body craves and tangibly improving your health.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • Actually adds nutrients to your water
  • Great for long backpacking treks, keeping your body topped up on nutrients you might be missing out on by being on the trail for so long
  • Takes the guesswork out of getting your nutrients

CONS

  • Doesn’t impart a lot of flavor to your water

Check Latest Price

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2. Pure Hydration Coconut Water Drops

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These water drops from Pure have all of the pageantry and high-class frills you’d expect from a water enhancer that turns all of your drinks into fresh-seeming coconut water. The bottle and dropper is a nice touch, and sometimes when you’re looking for a water enhancer, it’s nice to find something that’s not just a powder in a sack or concentrate in a cheap plastic bottle.

These water enhancers are made from natural sugar substitutes like stevia and Lo Han fruit, giving them a nice fresh-tasting edge over similar additives. It’s also made from coconut juice extract and has all of the benefits that coconut water seems to have, just on a much smaller scale. If you’ve been looking for something more natural feeling than water enhancers tend to be, then this is an excellent option. The flavor is subtle, and it’s a much more cost-effective way to enjoy coconut water than going out and finding those cartons in the grocery store every week.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • This is a delicious alternative to water enhancers that tend to overdo it on flavor
  • All around, just a nice water additive to splurge on
  • A great alternative to buying a container of coconut water

CONS

  • Coconut water, to some, is just a luxury without any real benefits

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3. MiO Energy

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MiO has a wide range of drink enhancers, if you have a craving, they’ve got a flavor for you. They have options for getting a little bit of flavor in your water bottle, options for giving you a little caffeine to get you through the day, and MiO additives that are full of vitamins you might be missing in your diet. These water enhancers have a little something for everybody, and it’s really hard to go wrong with a single one of them. We’ve picked the MiO Energy because it’s a great representation of all of those aspects of their water additives.

If you’ve been trying to ween yourself off of coffee, you’re not really a tea person, and you’re trying to get some caffeine to get you through a long day, then their caffeine additives are an incredible substitute. These drops aren’t so full of caffeine that you’d be jacked up after adding a decent squeeze into your drinks, but they’ll give you a nice boost. Plus, if you really do need a ton of energy, then you can just add more to your drinks. They’re a win-win, and once you start using them in your water, it’s hard to want to go back to anything else.  It’s not as abrasive or chock-full of sugar as an energy drink, they don’t require the ritualistic fussing of a cup of nice coffee, and there’s no time spent waiting for your drink to steep and cool down before you can reap that sweet sweet caffeine.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • A wide array of flavors
  • Almost as much caffeine as a cup of coffee per serving
  • A great way to get an extra bit of energy when you’re on the go

CONS

  • All of their additives are made with sugar substitutes, so if you’re looking for a quick glucose spike, this won’t do it

Check Latest Price

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4. Stur Natural Water Enhancer

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The flavor option Stur offers are all pretty inoffensive as far as water enhancers go. They’re a line of stevia-sweetened fruit flavors that give you water a nice extra kick. They don’t go very far in the way of gimmicks, and that’s their strongest suit. These water enhancers focus on using natural sources for their flavors. This is going to give you a much less offensive water drinking experience.

Their coloring comes from fruit and vegetable juices, so you don’t have to worry about whether your dyes come from bugs or anal glands or anything weird like that. Their flavors are all made from real fruit extracts. It’s the combination of concentrated fruit juice and natural fruit and vegetable dyes that make these water enhancers truly remarkable in the face of their competitors. There’s no funny business, they’re going to leave you with refreshing aftertastes and they’re going to be a delicious way to keep yourself hydrated. 

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • All-natural flavors and food colorings make for a delicious and healthy water enhancer
  • They’re a great way to cut down on sugar in your diet while still getting a tasty beverage
  • Great source of vitamin-C

CONS

  • The natural flavors make for a limited range of flavors, if you’re looking for something that tastes more like the sugary beverages you might be used to, then these aren’t for you

Check Latest Price

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5. Bubly Sodastream Drops

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These water enhancers are more geared towards folks with an at-home beverage carbonator, but they deserve a place among these other water enhancers. They’re a great way to get your sparkling waters to taste more like the sparkling waters you can go out and purchase at the grocery store. They’re a great way to save money, and since they’re the same flavors that Bubly uses, they’re going to be just as delicious without sacrificing flavor or quality when you make your own bubbly water at home.

While these are meant to be used for sparkling water, you can just them in still water just as well. If you love the flavors this brand offers, but you wish you could get them in a less carbonated environment, then grabbing yourself a set of these might be a good option for you. It’s all of the best things about a bottle of sparkling water with the added benefit of customization.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • Great way to save money on flavored sparkling waters
  • Just as good for still waters
  • If you’ve wished your sparkling waters had a touch more flavor, then you can finally fulfill that urge

CONS

  • They’re best paired with a beverage carbonator

Check Latest Price

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6. TRUE LIME Water Enhancer

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A lot of water enhancers on the market have started drifting towards the concentrated liquid model, but you lose out on a little bit when you start heading in that direction. You get a little bit more customization, but you lose out on precision. These crystalized pouches of flavor from True Lime are a great way to make sure your drinks are the same every single time. Take the guesswork back out of the equation with these delicious lime-flavored packages.

These are a great way to get a kiss of lime in your drinks without having to slice open a fresh fruit. Because they’re a simple lime flavor, you can also use them in places you’d use a lime, like in your salsas or any other cooking that asks for a little bit of lime juice. They’re versatile and delicious without becoming complicated or drifting too far into the world of strange tasting soda substitutes.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • Great for getting lime into your beverages without dealing with limes
  • Perfect for substituting lime juice in cooking
  • Premeasured packages are great for getting your drinks to taste the same every single time

CONS

  • If you’re looking for something subtle, these might have too much flavor for you

Check Latest Price

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7. Crush, Variety Pack, Liquid Water Enhancer

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If you love Crush sodas but you’re trying to cut down, then rejoice. They’ve thought of everything and brought the taste of Crush to the water enhancer arena. These are zero-calorie versions of all of the Crush soda flavors you’re used to. They’re an amazing alternative to the sugary calorie-dense sodas you’re probably trying to make your way away from. They’re liquid water enhancers, so you can customize the amount of flavor you’re imparting to your water.

If you’re just looking for a shadow of the original, then squeeze in just a touch, but if you’re trying to relive the glory of a fully flavored orange soda fresh from the vending machine, then go hog wild. The beauty of the water enhancer version of these flavors is the freedom you’re given to enjoy Crush without having to commit to a full bottle.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • The perfect alternative to Crush soda. Great for diets
  • Zero calories and zero sugar, unlike the real deal
  • Great for reaching hydration goals or making sodas at home

CONS

  • They’ll never be as good as an original Crush soda

Check Latest Price

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8. Jelly Belly Drink Mix

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Jelly Belly is more well known for their jelly beans, obviously. But they’re experts in isolating and celebrating a flavor. These water enhancers are some of the most flavorful ones you’ll find. They’re all sugar-free variations of some of Jelly Belly’s most famous flavors, and they’re a great way to make your water more exciting. Especially if you’re trying to cut sweets out of your diet.

If you’re backpacking and you want something more delicious than the water you’ve just filtered out of a lake, then these Jelly Belly flavors are going to be more than enough to get you a nice treat. They’re not much to speak of in terms of nutrition, but they’re also not going to jack up your blood sugar and give you one more source of glucose to monitor. They’re just a nice way to give yourself something to drink that’s more exciting than your eighth glass of water in a row.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • Great for folks looking for a way to spruce up their water
  • Some of the more flavorful water enhancers out there right now
  • Great for still or sparkling water

CONS

  • Not much to speak of when it comes to nutrients

Check Latest Price

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9. Gatorade G Zero Powder

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Gatorades are one of the best ways to rehydrate, replenish your electrolytes, and get a little bit of glucose in your body after some strenuous exercise. If you’re a fan of Gatorade, but you don’t like how much Gatorade is usually in one of their massive bottles, you’re not partial to the amount of sugar, or you’d just prefer to carry around some water enhancers because they’re easier to manage, then these are a great choice. These water enhancers condense the Gatorade experience into a tiny package ready to be unleashed when you’re sitting in the office or waist-deep in a backpacking trail.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • All of the benefits of a Gatorade, while becoming much more compact
  • Perfect for replenishing on a long trip

CONS

  • If you’re wanting to replicate a normal Gatorade, these might fall flat

Check Latest Price

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10. Crystal Light Pure Peach Iced Tea

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Crystal Light’s Peach Iced Tea is a sleeper hit. It’s mild and simple to throw together, but it really hits the spot. These little packets have just a touch of sugar in them, just barely enough to give you a little bit of a mid-afternoon kick when you’re trying to make it through a dull day, and they’re just a delight to have in your water. 

If you’re a fan of iced teas but you’re not ready to dedicate yourself to the gargantuan amount of sugar it takes to make a proper iced tea, these will hit the spot just fine. They’re not the most explosive thing in the world, but a good pack of Crystal Light will take a drab drink and make it just a little bit more exciting.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com.

PROS

  • More delicious than they would appear
  • Great for satisfying a sweet tooth

CONS

  • They’re not sugar-free like a lot of other water enhancers

Check Latest Price

Winner

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What this water enhancer lacks in spectacle it makes up for with functionality. A lot of water enhancers want to just load you up with flavor and fake sugar and call it a day. This one from Trace Minerals Research takes a totally different angle and actually attempts to add something to your day. You’re going to be taking a load off of your brain by using this water enhancer. A lot of the nutrients your body wants are found right inside of a couple of drops of this water enhancer.

If you’re the type of person looking for the best water enhancers, you’re probably looking for something that’s going to be a healthy addition to your diet, something that will help you fine-tune the complicated machine of your human body. This is the perfect way to do that. They’re not exactly the most flavorful thing on the water enhancer marketplace, but honestly, it’s nice to just have the refreshing feeling of a cold glass of water crashing down into your stomach.

These enhance your water without overwhelming you and turning your drink into a neon Slurpee or trying to mimic the taste of something much more delicious like a fresh root beer. Sometimes the simple answer is the best one, and this water enhancer is simple, useful, and the perfect option for you.

Bonus tip: This video is a great reminder of why it’s so important to get the right amount of water in your body.

See more: [wpbb post:terms_list taxonomy=”category” separator=”, “] Riley Draper

Riley Draper

Riley Draper is a writer and entrepreneur from Chattanooga, Tennessee. As a world traveler, he has been to more than fifty countries and hiked some of the most elusive trails in the world. He is the co-founder of WeCounsel Solutions and has published work in both national and global outlets, including the Times Free Press, Patch, and Healthcare Global. When he’s not writing, he’s probably on a hiking trip or climbing in the mountains.

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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

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.

Related: The 7 Best Two Person Tents

 

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.

Related: The Top 10 New Hampshire Camping Sites

 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.

Also read: The 7 Best Louisiana Tent Camping Sites

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.

Read more like this: Top 10 Outdoor TV Antennas for Rural Areas

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.

Also: 5 Best Pop Up Canopy Tents

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.

Related: Best Gun Brands 

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.

Also: Sleeping bags for tall people

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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