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The 4 Best Backpacking Lanterns

Best Backpacking Lanterns of 2019. Top-rated lightweight and super compact choices to illuminate your backpacking fun. Discover the best-value picks here:

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A backpacking lantern is a handy essential for any outdoor adventure. Not only will a quality lantern help you set up camp in the dark, but this nifty accessory can also illuminate your campfire fun with a lovely glow. But did you know a backpacking lantern needs to meet different criteria than just any regular camping lantern? Don’t make the mistake of packing the wrong gear and getting weighed down by a heavy, bulky lamp that misses the mark. Instead, pick a superb option that caters exactly to your backpacking needs.

To help you find the top-rated products on the market, we’ve created a comprehensive overview of the Best Backpacking Lanterns. Each lantern on this list is compact, lightweight, and durable. Requiring minimal packing space and offering maximum functionality.

We’ve also ensured there is a match for every budget. Fortunately, backpacking lanterns come at all price-points, meaning that even those with less to spend can find a perfect light source for their backpacking treks.

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

[amazon box=”B01L4WHOTC”]

Discover the rest of the best-value, top-rated products below and upgrade your gear with this practical backpacking essential! 

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Best Backpacking Lanterns – Overview

 


SUAOKI Collapsible LED Lantern 

[amazon box=”B013UCC65G”]The SUAOKI Collapsible LED Lantern is an innovative, ultralight choice in backpacking lanterns. This futuristic-looking lantern only weighs a mere 0.37 pounds (168 grams). Making it the most lightweight option in this overview. And not only is it super light, but the clover-shaped lamp also folds down into a super compact little bundle, even smaller than a smartphone. 

The SUAOKI Collapsible LED Lantern is both solar charging, and USB-charging. Before you leave for your backpacking trip, you can charge the battery to full capacity in just 3.5 hours by connecting it to a USB-wall adapter (micro USB-cable included). Once you’re on your outdoor trip and don’t have access to power outlets, simply extend the lanterns 3 individual solar panels for a top-up of battery life. 

This ultralight, compact lantern gives you the chance to choose between 3 lighting modes: low, high, and ‘SOS blinking’. Enjoy soft, dimmed light when relaxing in your tent after a long hike, use the high setting for extra visibility when setting up, or packing up, camp at night. And benefit from having the option of its emergency SOS option to attract attention when needed. 

Mounted or freestanding usage

You can use this backpacking lantern as a handheld lamp, position it on a flat surface, or even mount it to the roof of your tent or shelter using the handy hanging hook. The design also comes with a smart protection chip that prevents overcharging and overheating. 

Outdoor enthusiasts give the SUAOKI Collapsible LED Lantern a big thumbs up for its convenience, ultralight appeal, and collapsible, compact dimensions. Customer reviews also praise the option to use the solar panels to give the battery an extra boost. Which comes in handy on multi-day hikes and campsites without electric outlets.

Some minor cons mentioned are that battery life is quite limited. On a full charge, the lantern provides approximately 2 hours of light on the highest setting and 4 hours on the low setting. Other reviewers also report that the lantern feels a bit flimsy and isn’t the most durable. However, we think that due to its ultralight weight and construction, that’s a fair trade-off.

Pro

  • Handheld, mounted, and freestanding usage
  • Collapsible and compact
  • Rechargeable (solar & USB)
  • Very lightweight

Con

  • Battery life is quite limited
  • A bit flimsy

 


 

IMAGE Portable LED Camping Lantern with Fan 

[amazon box=”B016HM7QRE”]The IMAGE Portable LED Camping Lantern with Fan offers double the functionality. Besides providing you with ultra-bright light, the design can also be used as a fan. Enabling you to not just see everything clearly after dark, but also enjoy a cool breeze during your camping adventures.

The product weighs approximately 1.8 pounds. It’s not the lightest lantern, but for its 2-in-1 versatility, we reckon that’s still lightweight enough for daypack storage. When not in use, you can also collapse the top part of the lantern, folding it to a size of 6.25 x 6.25 x 7.25 inches.

The lantern features 18 individual, low-powered LED bulbs to provide bright illumination. Do note that this product is not USB- or solar-rechargeable, and instead requires 2 D-cell batteries to operate. When you only use the light function, the batteries last up to 37 hours. If you only use the fan function, the batteries will last approximately 30 to 50 hours, depending on the fan mode (lowest setting vs highest setting). A minor downside is that when you use the light function and the fan function at the same time, the 2-in-1 functionality does drastically reduce the battery life to approximately 16 hours.

Highly-rated consumer favorite

The IMAGE Portable LED Camping Lantern comes with a handy hook to attach it to the ceiling of your tent, RV, or cabin, whilst the design also works as a freestanding light/fan. 

With over a thousand 5-star customer reviews, the product is a favorite amongst outdoor enthusiasts. Backpackers praise the design’s 2-in-1 functionality. And say it’s the perfect little gadget to boost air circulation and prevent a tent from getting stuffy. Other confirm the LED light is bright and provides plenty of illumination. Plus, at the price listed, reviewers agree it’s simply a great deal in camping gear. 

Minor cons are that battery life is a bit limited. And since the lantern is not rechargeable, you will need to pack extra batteries if you’re planning a multi-day hike. Also, reviews mention that even though the top part of the lantern is collapsible, the product still feels a bulky due to the rounder, fan surface. Making it more challenging to fit it into smaller daypacks. Though we reckon with larger backpacks, you should be able to comfortably slot it in with your other gear. 

Pro

  • 2-in-1 functionality
  • Light and fan
  • Mounted or freestanding usage
  • Attached hook for easy hanging

Con

  • Not rechargeable (uses 2 D-cell batteries)
  • Short battery life on the highest setting
  • A bit bulky to fit into a backpack

 


 

Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern 

[amazon box=”B01L4WHOTC”]The Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern is a budget-buy in backpacking gear. But don’t be fooled: even though it’s cheap, this super-compact lantern is also very cheerful. The multi-functional design can be used as a camping lantern, but also as an emergency power bank to charge your phone or camera. And it even works as a flashlight when you’ve collapsed the frame. 

The affordable lantern by Kizen is the perfect match for backpackers who are looking for a compact, lightweight option that takes up minimal space and weight in their packs. The collapsible silhouette enables you can compress the lantern up to 2.4 times smaller than its extended size. It’s compact dimensions and modest weight (12 oz) mean it even fits in the trouser pocket of your hiking pants; giving new meaning to the definition of traveling ‘light’. 

You can charge the Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern either by USB or sunlight. It takes about 4 hours to fully charge when connected via USB. The solar-charge option will take longer, and may further fluctuate in charging time depending on the intensity of the light. 

Multiple intensities and power bank functionality

The Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern has 3 light modes: low, high, and SOS (blinking light for emergencies). The battery life of the design depends on what setting you are using. According to actual customer reviews, and not just the manufacturer’s sales pitch, a fully charged battery should provide up to 10 hours on low, 5 hours on high, and 6 hours on SOS-mode. 

The power bank functionality of this lantern also allows you to recharge a phone. Simply connect your iPhone/smartphone to the USB-port to revive battery-life or make a phone call. Do note, this will quickly drain the battery of the lantern, and is not a ‘key’ function of the product. But it is a handy option to have in case of emergency.

Customer reviews on the Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern are very positive. Backpackers rate the design as a top-choice based on its affordability, functionality, and compact dimensions. The clever collapsible silhouette truly makes it ideal for slotting into any backpack pocket. Whilst the bright LED light is more than sufficient to find your way around a campsite in the dark. 

Minor cons mentioned are that the plastic ‘accordion’ middle section can be prone to ripping/puncturing when not handled with care. Also, some consumers report it may take very long to charge the battery using merely solar power. Therefore, it’s recommended to ensure the battery is fully charged via USB before you leave home. Ensuring you can enjoy the lantern’s convenience, even on cloudy days!

Pro

  • Rechargeable (solar & USB)
  • Foldable and super compact
  • Affordable
  • Can be used as a power bank for mobile phones
  • Can also be used as a flashlight when collapsed

Con

  • Plastic accordion-style middle part quite prone to ripping/damaging
  • Battery life is a bit limited
  • Solar charging of the battery may take longer than expected

 

E-Trends 2 Pack LED Lantern (Emergency Lights)

[amazon box=”B01KW22VAM”]If you’re looking for a novel alternative to traditional camping lanterns, the E-Trends LED Light Bulb could be the solution you’re looking for. This innovative and affordable product may look very gadget-like, but it’s surprisingly functional in outdoor settings. Energy-efficient, water-resistant, compact, budget-friendly, and ultralight (2.7oz): it ignites our interest. 

The E-Trends LED Light Bulb features a slim, streamlined silhouette with a hook at the end. This allows you to mount them easily to a tent roof, or rope. However, it does mean they’re not suitable for freestanding usage. 

The LED Light Bulb by E-Trends generates approximately 150 lumens of clean white light. Which should be sufficient for most camping scenarios. We like that the light can be dimmed. Allowing you to choose the perfect intensity, without having to settle for pre-set brightness settings. This nifty bulb-style lamp is also water-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor usage even in bad weather conditions. 

Energy-efficient LED lighting

We would have loved it if the LED Light Bulb by E-Trends was rechargeable, but, unfortunately, that is not the case. Each bulb requires 3 AAA-batteries to operate. However, as the design is super energy-efficient, it doesn’t drain batteries as quickly as other lanterns on this list. According to reviewers, the battery lasts at least a full week even if you have the bulb on all night long. Which serves as a testimony that even though you’ll need to replace batteries eventually, you’ll get plenty of usage out of your light from a single batch. Nevertheless, we do recommend packing some spare AAA-batteries, just to ensure you won’t suddenly be left the dark. 

The LED Light Bulb by E-Trends is available in a 2-pack, and a 4-pack, and also comes in different colored fittings including blue, red, and yellow (though all options feature white LED light). 

With hundreds of 5-star ratings, the LED Light Bulb by E-Trends has made many consumers happy campers. The design is praised for its affordability, value, ease of usage, lightweight appeal, and its compact sizing. Minor cons mentioned are that to turn the light off, you’re forced to cycle through the SOS/strobe function, which can be annoying. Also, some reviewers report that the lights are quite cheaply constructed and feel slightly flimsy. However, for the price listed, we think you can’t expect the highest quality standard and durability. Plus, the bulb comes with a 5-Year Product Warranty and a 45-day Money Back Guarantee, which makes it a risk-free purchase (simply contact the manufacturer if you encounter any manufacturing defects). 

Pro

  • Fun, gadget-style design
  • Ultralight
  • Easy to mount on the tent ceiling/ropes
  • Very energy-efficient
  • Product Warranty and limited Money Back Guarantee

Con

  • Not rechargeable (uses AAA-batteries)
  • Construction may feel a bit cheap
  • No suited for freestanding usage

 

 

Verdict

Every option on this Best Backpacking Lantern overview is a great option to illuminate your backpacking adventures. Which is the ‘best’ lantern, depends entirely on your requirements. Do you want an extra lightweight option? Would you prefer extra functionality, for example, a power bank option or a fan? And how much are you willing to spend? The choice is yours! The good news is that you can’t make a bad choice. Every product on this list has excellent customer reviews and scores highly on value, convenience, and portability: ensuring they al tick the most important boxes for backpacking lanterns. If you’re still unsure which option is your best fit, our Best Backpacking Lantern FAQ at the bottom of this post might shine some extra light on the matter (sorry, we couldn’t resist the pun). 

 

Winner

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If we had had to pick a winner, the Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern would be top of our list. When it comes to backpacking gear, 2 things matter to us most: weight and size. We’re always looking for ways to minimize the weight and bulkiness of our pack. That is exactly why a collapsible, lightweight option like the Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern is right up our alley. Plus, for the super affordable price listed, it is quite a steal.

Yes, admittingly, it is not the most durable or premium quality choice in camping gear, but we simply don’t need that when we go hiking or backpacking. As long as the lantern has sufficient lumens to light-up our tent/campsite, and offer the option of a low-intensity setting for nighttime reading, we’re already pretty pleased. Plus, the option to use the Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern as a power bank to charge our iPhone in case of emergency is pretty nifty too. It’s not a feature we’d use a lot, but at least the option is there. Oh, and did we mention the foldable design can even be used as a handheld flashlight when collapsed? That’s a whole lot of functionality from such a cheap and cheerful, compact product. That is why it’s our top choice in affordable, lightweight backpacking lanterns.

 


Best Backpacking Lantern FAQ

 

What types of backpacking/camping lanterns are there?

Camping lanterns can generally be divided into 3 specific categories: electric lanterns, fuel-burning lanterns, and candle-lit lanterns. Each category also has different subgroups:

Electric lanterns

Electric lanterns include battery-operated lamps, solar-charged lanterns, USB-rechargeable lanterns, and more. Basically: everything that has a battery and uses electrical or LED lighting to illuminate your camping adventures. Electic lanterns are our preferred option in backpacking lanterns. Not only are they lightweight, but they also come with additional perks, such as built-in fans, power bank options, or can double as flashlights. Electric lanterns are also compacter than fuel-burning options and take up minimal space in backpacks and gear pockets. Plus, as they often come with multiple light settings, you can adjust the brightness to your desired intensity. 

Fuel-burning lanterns

Fuel-burning lanterns can be divided into propane, butane, and kerosene options, or dual-fuel products such as the Coleman Powerhouse Lantern. Basically: everything that uses gas-powered fuel sources to cast its light on your campsite. We wouldn’t recommend a liquid fuel-burning lantern for backpacking and hiking. Not only are they often quite a bit heavier and bulkier than electric options, but they also require you to pack/bring fuel canisters with you. And that could turn your backpack into one big fire hazard when containers leak. Plus, liquid fuel canisters will weigh you down even more. For car campers and truck campers, these lanterns are a great option. But for trails and multi-day hikes, our advice would be to leave them at home (or your fixed basecamp). 

Candle-lit lanterns 

Candle-lit lanterns are a traditional, vintage choice in outdoor lighting, though their popularity has faded drastically over the years. They are simply frames where you insert a candle, without any fancy bells and whistles. As these products provide ambient light, we would rate them more as decorative than practical (they only really come in handy when there’s a power outage). 

Disclaimer: as this post focusses on lanterns, we’ve chosen to not feature any headlamps. Though headlamps (such as the Black Diamond Apollo, Black Diamond Spot, and Black Diamond Cosmo) are a great choice to illuminate your trails, we think of them as a separate category of outdoor gear. Therefore, we’ll dedicate a separate overview specifically to the Best Headlamps – instead of mixing them in with our best camping lanterns overview.

How do I find the best backpacking lantern?

Well, our comprehensive overview of products in this post should already get you halfway there. But in case you need any additional pointers, we’ve listed the most important criteria for camping lanterns below:

Size & Weight

The compacter and lighter a backpacking lantern, the easier is it to fit it in a daypack. For us, size and weight are two of the most important factors when shopping for backpacking gear. We’d also prefer a compact, foldable and/or collapsible design over a bulky lantern. Collapsible backpacking lanterns take up minimal space and can sometimes even be clipped on the exterior of your pack. The larger your lantern, the more you have to compromise on other camping gear you may want to bring. 

The actual weight of the lantern will make a big difference to your comfort when on the trail. An ultralight lantern won’t weigh down your pack, or arms, and is much easier to carry on longer trails and hikes. We realise that when you’re car camping or traveling by RV, the weight of a lantern is less of a determining factor. But for backpackers, just remember the golden rule: the lighter, the better. 

Type of battery

Electric backpacking lamps, our preferred type of lantern, are available with various battery options. Most common are either rechargeable batteries, or disposable batteries (for example AA-batteries, AAA-batteries or D-cell). 

Solar lanterns are a great choice in camping gear as these allow you to top-up the battery’s charge on the go. However, we would advise you to choose a solar-powered lantern that also has a USB-charger option. Because the solar-charging of batteries can take a while and be hampered on bad weather days, a second USB-charge option is a big plus. Simply charge the lantern’s battery via USB before you leave on your trip. Then you can always use the solar-charging function later if you need to extend battery life whilst exploring the backcountry without an electric power source.

There are also backpacking lanterns that can be charged via a built-in hand crank when you need to instantly revive battery life. For example, the Goal Zero Lighthouse 400 Lantern. Though these are ideal in case of a power outage or sudden loss of battery, the hand crank feature only really comes in handy in case of emergency. And we wouldn’t determine it as a deciding factor when shopping for camping lights on Amazon.

Amount of lumens

The lumens of light refers to the brightness of a lantern. The higher the lumens, the more a lantern will illuminate your campsite. However, more isn’t always better. Too many lumens can make lanterns ‘too bright’, hurting your eyes, and casting a harsh light on your backpacking journey. 

So, how many lumens is ‘enough light’? Though it differs on how and where you plan to use your lantern, somewhere in the 100 to 200 lumens should be more than sufficient for your camping requirements. If you have a larger campsite or want improved visibility during night hikes and trails, pick a lantern around 200 lumens. If you want a ‘softer’ light, for example, to read a book in your tent, somewhere around a 100 lumens of light should tick the box. 

Tip: Many backpacking lanterns come with multiple brightness intensity settings or can be dimmed. Pick an option with a higher lumen that allows you to change between intensities, or has a dimming mode. This offers more flexibility in usage and adds to your camping convenience. Setting up a tent in the dark? High setting. Nighttime reading? Low Setting. Want to set the mood for some tent-based snuggling with a partner? Hit the dimmer. Seriously, don’t settle for a lantern with just a single ‘on-off’ lumen setting. Because there are plenty of high-quality products that do offer you the opportunity of picking your brightness during a camping trip. 

 


 

Best Backpacking Lantern – Overview Recap

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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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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.

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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.

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.

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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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