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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

The 6 Best Solar Chargers for Backpacking

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A hand holding a black smartphone.

Backpacking is an invigorating way to travel. Not just for outdoor adventures, backpacking can open up worlds of possibilities, introducing you to a light and nomadic way to see the world. With backpacking trips, you get a true feeling of independence, as all you need is packed away neatly and taken with you. One option for charging your devices while backpacking is to take a battery pack or power bank, which you can charge using a USB. However, although usually compact, these products can be very heavy, so aren’t ideal if you’re going on long walks or hikes with your backpack. The best solar chargers for backpacking are super lightweight, and can attach to your backpack, conveniently charging your devices as you adventure. Backpacking just got even more freeing!

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

[amazon box=”B008AZP0SE”]

And here’s an overview of the best solar charger for backpacking on the market today:

[amazon table=”14681″]

 

Man carrying hiking bag outdoors.

Many solar chargers attach to your backpack for ease of transport.

 

Best Solar Charger for Backpacking – Overview

1. Powertraveller Solarmonkey Portable Solar Charger

[amazon box=”B008AZP0SE”]

Many solar chargers for backpacking provide just enough juice to charge your smartphone while you hike. For many of us, this is all we need on a backpacking trip, as with all of the useful hiking apps around, and GPS and cameras on our phones and other gadgets can be cut down. However, many very adventurous outdoor enthusiasts want to take devices like GoPros to document their activities like climbing, skiing or mountain biking, or to travel with a GPS or flashlight for extra safety. This product has a feature called maximum power point tracker, meaning you can charge any device super fast, rather than waiting all day for it to charge completely. 

If your solar charger needs are more basic, then this option may be unnecessary for you. At over $100, only consider investing in this product if your charging needs are more varied. With an internal battery voltage of 3.3, and a USB voltage output of 5v, this solar charger will keep you safe, and your devices charged, even on really long backpacking trips. The 2500mAh internal lithium polymer battery is an especially useful feature, meaning you have power output to keep charging your devices even if it’s not a sunny day, or there’s cloud coverage. The solar panels will charge the internal battery in just 12 hours in optimum light conditions. 

Another feature that makes this product perfect for backpacking is that it’s extremely light and portable. It folds up neat and small, to be carried in your backpack while not in use. It also has hanging loops at the top of the case and belt loops at the rear, meaning you can easily tie it to your backpack and charge as you hike. This product is suitable for all-year-round use. The thermal insulation battery protection giving an operating temperature range of -10 to 90 degrees C. The durable design and materials mean you can take this portable charger with you on any backpacking adventure, and it will never let you down. 

 

Pros:

  • Maximum power point tracker, super-fast charging
  • 2500mAh internal lithium polymer battery
  • Durable: operating temperature range of -10 to 90 degrees C
  • Charges almost any device

 

Cons: 

  • Quite expensive 
  • Not as light and portable as some other options 

 

2. IBose Solar Phone Charger

[amazon box=”B07796QMQB”]

This solar panel by iBose has a unique, concertina design, that is attached to an iPhone case. 4 solar panels fold up, to the size of the phone, for ultimate portability, perfect for any backpacking trip. This design of solar panel is unique and makes this product stand out from the crowd. The 4 foldable solar panels are equipped with 4 monocrystalline solar panels (total 3.5W) for higher solar power absorption. For backpacking trips, this option combines lightness and portability with reliable power supply, meaning it’s a fantastic option for you if you’re looking to shed a few extra pounds but still invest in a durable product. 

But despite its unique design, that fits with your iPhone, it doesn’t just charge that product. You can also use this portable solar panel to charge GoPros, Samsung, iPad Mini’s, GPS, or wireless speakers, and many other devices. One great feature of this dual-USB solar power phone charger is the Smart IC technology which automatically identifies your mobile phone, digital camera or any other device and adjusts its charging speed in order to prevent over-charging or short circuit; meaning you can have one charger for all your devices. 

With its huge 10.000mAh Li-Polymer Battery, this model is a great option if you’re looking for a combination of portability and power. Another benefit of this model is that it comes with Dual USB 2.1 Solar Quick Charging Ports, so you can charge two devices in lightning quick time from USB output. For backpacking trips, we need kit which is durable, reliable, and withstands all weather conditions. This product fits the bill. It’s waterproof to suit any climate or weather condition. This charger also has an emergency torch, so doubles up to act as survival gear, an invaluable aspect of backpacking kit. 

 

Pros: 

  • Emergency torch 
  • Can charge multiple electronic devices 
  • Unique concertina design makes it uber portable 
  • 10.000mAh Li-Polymer Battery
  • Smart IC technology adjusts its charging speed in order to prevent over-charging or short circuit

 

Cons: 

  • May be more suited for AC charging
  • The cables sometimes need to be replaced 

 

3. iClever USB Solar Charger 

[amazon box=”B06XQYYGTV”]

Some camping solar panels on the market don’t come with a battery: they use the power from the sun directly to charge your phone. These models can sometimes be a bit unreliable, as you cannot always guarantee you’ll get consistent, strong sunlight. However, this product, and the previous two, have inbuilt batteries. The great thing about this feature for backpacking trips is that you can attach the solar panel to your backpack as you’re hiking, so the battery can charge during the day, and then you can use it to charge your devices once you reach your campsite. This built-in 8000mAh battery can be recharged within 8 hours under strong sunlight or by USB Charger. 

In terms of charging, this product is top of its game. It has a high conversion efficiency, meaning that, with its’ sun-power mono-crystalline solar panel, this solar charger has a 28%-30% high conversion rate. It provides you with 12W of power for recharging the external battery, while you work on your device simultaneously! This product is also built to protect your devices. The SmartID port detects your device intelligently and offers the maximum charge current allowed by your device and stable 5V voltage, to avoid overcharging or short circuit. 

When backpacking, we have to be prepared for all eventualities and weather conditions. Backpacking solar chargers need to withstand multiple trips into nature, in different seasons and weather conditions, and days being lugged around in your backpack. This solar panel is designed to withstand all the elements, temperatures, rain or dust: it has a wide temperature range of -20℃ to 80℃, is IP63 water-resistant, and is housed in a dust-proof canvas case. Another benefit of this model for backpackers is that it comes with eyeholes, so you can easily hook it to your backpack or tent to charge, with carabiners or paracord. 

 

Pros: 

  • Heavy-duty material built for the great outdoors
  • 28%-30% high conversion rate, double that of some other models
  • Cheap 
  • Can recharge the battery in 8 hours under normal sunshine
  • Compact and portable, the same size as a tablet

 

Cons: 

  • Isn’t that sturdy as a stand
  • Have to rotate/ move it for optimum solar charging
  • The cord does not fit an iPhone 6

 

 

4. Anker 21W Dual USB Solar Charger

[amazon box=”B012YUJJM8″]

When it comes to buying tech products on Amazon, Anker is one of our favorite brands. Although they’re not always specifically designed for outdoor use, they use incredibly durable materials, and represent really good value for money. Although this is one of the more expensive solar chargers out there, you can consider it as an investment piece. One feature of this solar panel, which makes it ideal for backpacking, is the durability of the materials. The industrial-strength PET polymer faced solar panels are sewn into a rugged polyester canvas. This weather-resistant product will last you all of your outdoor adventures, whether rain or shine, for years to come. 

If you’re looking for fast charging, and reliable power outlets, look no further. This solar charger offers fast charging technology, that really makes the most of any minute of sunlight. Anker’s PowerIQ technology delivers the fastest possible charge up to 2.1 amps under direct sunlight. 15W SunPower solar array is 21.5-23.5% efficient, which is a lot more than the average camping solar panel, which is usually at about 15%. Thus, this product provides enough power to charge two devices simultaneously, without needing an extra battery. And because there’s no inbuilt battery, it’s a lot more compact and portable than some of the other options we have reviewed. 

This product is super lightweight at only 13.2 oz, and has an ultra-thin design (0.7 in. when folded, and 0.2 in. when opened). But it’s large enough unfolded, to cover your entire backpack, giving you reliable charger on the go, no matter how remote your location, and protecting your backpack from the elements too! If you’re a backpacker or hiker, then this is the ideal solution for you. It has a compact size and elastic loops on each corner allow easy attachment to backpacks, trees or tents. It even has reinforced holes at the corners too, so you can attach it firmly to trees or kit with a carabiner.

 

Pros: 

  • Super compact and portable
  • Industrial-strength PET polymer faced solar panels
  • 15W SunPower solar array is 21.5-23.5% efficient
  • Provides enough power to charge two devices simultaneously
  • Short circuit and surge protection technology keep you and your devices safe

 

Cons:

  • Expensive

 

 

5. Goal Zero Nomad 7 Solar Panel

[amazon box=”B00D2SPZAM”]

This solar panel by Goal Zero is a durable, rugged solution for a solar charger, ideally suited for outdoor adventures and backpacking trips. It’s totally weather-resistant and has 9 super useful ties on the outside, which means you can attach it to your backpack no matter the size or shape. Because of this weather-resistant material, it means that there’s an added benefit for backpackers: it will not only charge your devices as you’re hiking, but also protect your backpack and belongings from light rain. It folds down to a similar size and shape to a tablet or iPad, making this a really portable, light option for solar charger. 

With this product you can use the USB ports and 12V ports at the same time, to charge most USB and 12V devices, however, despite its shape, this charger can’t charge tablets. However, you can charge more than one device at one time. The Nomad 7 splits the incoming solar power between the two ports to charge devices simultaneously. And it charges fast. In about 4 hours of direct sunlight, this solar panel can fully charge your smartphone. 

If you want to buy a whole tech set for the great outdoors, then this product is perfect to use with the following devices: Goal Zero Switch 8 & 10 Recharger, Flip 10 & 20 Recharger, Guide 10 Plus Recharger, Venture 30, Rock Out Portable Speakers, and Lighthouse Lanterns. You could charge a party with this solar panel and associated products, bringing your own tunes and customized lighting to your campsite, making this a great option for a group. 

 

Pros: 

  • Rugged, weatherproof design
  • Lots of attached loops, so you can attach it to your backpack with ease 
  • Quick charge
  • Collects an impressive 7 wattage from the sun
  • Works with most USB and 12V devices

 

Cons: 

  • Works best with Goal Zero products and rechargers
  • Doesn’t charge tablets

 

 

6. RAVPower Solar Charger 

[amazon box=”B06XBGSS2R”]

This product is a great option for backpackers, who need to keep portability and weight in mind at all times. Unlike the other models, it has a handy pocket for the charging cables and your devices, perfect for keeping your backpack organized. This charger is half the weight of similar solar chargers but equal in power. It folds up to a small rectangle, but when folded out, it can be configured as a 3D pentagon-shaped solar panel, able to fully catch the sun’s rays at different angles. It can be used to cover the whole of your backpack as you’re hiking, optimizing the amount of energy you can harness from the sun. 

We wouldn’t recommend this for use on campsites primarily, as you have to be careful not to set this product upon rocks, sand or concrete, otherwise it can overheat. It’s much better used on your backpack, to conveniently charge your devices as you hike throughout the day. Using the solar charger in this way makes storage a breeze, and your devices will charge as you concentrate on the more exciting things. Although this product is water-resistant, it could be more so, so we would recommend to only use it on sunny days for optimum effect. 

This model will charge your devices very quickly. Its 24W solar charging technology increases the efficiency of charging by up to 21.5% – 23.5% compared to some other models. It also has three ports, so this is a much better option for you over the last two models if you’re going camping with a group, or have multiple devices you want to charge while you’re camping. Similarly to the other models, this solar panel has iSmart technology, which means the right amount of charge is delivered to your device to avoid overcharging or short circuit. 

 

Pros: 

  • 24W solar charging technology increases the efficiency of charging by up to 21.5% – 23.5%
  • 3D pentagon-shaped solar panel, for more surface area
  • Can cover your backpack and charge as you hike
  • Super light and portable 
  • Has a handy pocket for the cables and your devices
  • 3 charging points

 

Cons: 

  • Can’t set it up on rocks, sand or concrete, otherwise it can overheat
  • Better used for backpacking 
  • Could be more water-resistant

 

Man wearing blue shorts standing on a rock formation by a waterfall.

Now that you’ve found the perfect portable solar charger, it’s time to harness the sun’s energy to charge your camera, GoPro, or smartphone.

 

Our Winner: 

[amazon table=”14682″]

 

Depending on the style of design you’re looking for in your portable charger, we have two winners for you. The first is Powertraveller Solarmonkey Portable Solar Charger. Consider investing in this solar charger if you’re looking for a compact solar charger, that folds up to about the size of a smartphone. This is the perfect option for you if you’re looking for a gadget that has an inbuilt battery, which you can charge up as you hike, and use it to charge your devices once you set up camp for the night. It’s also especially useful if you want to charge multiple types of devices, such as a GoPro, as well as your smartphone. 

If you’re looking for a design that covers your backpack, and charges your phone and devices as you’re backpacking, directly from the sun, then look no further than the option from Anker. Without an inbuilt battery, some models aren’t hardy enough to fully charge your devices. However, this is not a critique you can use of the model by Anker. It’s heavy duty enough to charge two devices simultaneously just from solar energy. And, because it doesn’t have an inbuilt battery, it’s even lighter and easier to backpack with than most other solar chargers on the market. 

For some camping trips, you might be staying at a campsite with hookups, where you can use the mains to charge your smartphone or other devices. However, if you’re going backpacking, harnessing solar energy is a far more sustainable and convenient option. Check out our top picks for the best solar charger for backpacking, to find the product that’s just right for your trip and budget! And to help you plan your trip, have a look at our recommendations for the best countries to go backpacking in

 

Bonus tip: Check out this useful video to learn how to keep your devices charged while backpacking!

 

 

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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.

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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.

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.

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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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