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How to Make Your Backpack Lighter

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Ever wish that backpacks in real life could be like those in video games that hold tons and weigh ounces? Most backpackers dream of the day when those bags become a reality. Magical bags might not be available today, but light, well-prepared travel is still very possible. Fortunately for you, this guide has all the backpacking savvy you’ll need to do just that. 

The Problems with Heavy Backpacking

You probably know someone that fits the description of a “closet packer”: they stuff bag after bag with “essentials” until almost their entire closet is packed. It might be news to them, but well-prepared and traveling heavy do not have to be synonymous! In fact, the most experienced backpackers tend to pack the least. 

Ask a seasoned backpacker why they emphasize traveling light and they will have a multitude of answers:

  • Avoid back pain. We peak biologically in our early twenties. Medical science might be advancing, but it definitely has not come far enough to prevent aging. Injuries, especially those of the lower back, become more likely for older backpackers.
  • Mobility. Unless you figure out a way to pack a car, you will be walking or pedaling every day. Too many trips are ruined and turned into marathon haul-struggles by cumbersome bags. Backpacking should be liberating and fun!
  • Transportation. Transportation companies, especially airlines, place weight limits on luggage and backpacks. If you travel with extra weight, you might find yourself denied boarding. Airport and train station waiting areas are not optimized for a good night’s sleep!
  • Unnecessary and expensive. To put it simply: a heavy packer will not use everything they pack. Backpacking is a game of ounces. Even experienced backpackers end up shedding weight throughout a trip. Additionally, some adventurers need to camp on a budget so there is no room for excess spending.

Quite frankly, a seasoned backpacker will never run out of reasons to travel light. Bodyweight alone is enough for legs to endure on a longer trip – there’s no need to amass in vain.

How to Slim Down a Heavy Backpack – the Essentials

Slimming down a heavy backpack is like developing a smartphone: there will always be something to improve. Even as you pack for your 37th backpacking trip you will find a new way to slim down.

The best way to learn how to pack light is by simple trial and error. Fortunately, the backpackers before us have done plenty of that, so we won’t have to! Exactly what did the mad packing scientists before us find? Let’s start with the essentials.

The Pack on Your Back

Choosing the right pack is half the struggle of traveling light. Choose one that is too big and you will probably end up stuffing it with items that you will not need. On the contrary, choose one that is too small and you will be underprepared for the trip (unless your name is Les Stroud or Bear Grylls). Follow these easy steps to select the best pack for the trip:

  1. Choose the right size. Thirty-liter packs will be enough for anything lasting a weekend or less. Fifty-liter packs are the minimum size for anything longer than five or six days, but keep it below seventy liters. Seventy-liter-plus packs need only be used for expeditions lasting longer than a week.
  2. Get the right fit. Backpacks are not always “one size fits all”. Make sure to get a pack that secures flat against your back (for proper posture) and has adequate shoulder strap cushioning. Few things will annoy more than strap chafing during a backpacking trip.
  3. Choose the right material. If the destination and budget permit, invest in an ultralight backpack. These packs are made of light, durable materials that perform just as well as traditional models. Some ultralight materials also have moisture-wicking and weatherproofing features that add value to the investment.

PRO TIP: Be wary of gimmicky features. A simple black trash bag can be more waterproof, lightweight, and cost-effective than some of the fanciest covers and linings. Backpacking is all about spending wisely!

Gimme Shelter (and Sleeping Accommodations)

Tent setups, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads can go from being the heaviest items you pack to practically weightless. Traditional tents feature poles and tarps made of heavyweight materials such as canvas, plastics, and metals. Tent setups nowadays can fold down enough to fit in a fanny pack. Sleeping pads and bags followed the same trend and also come in space-saving, ultralight varieties today.

The right setup for your trip depends almost entirely on the destination. These are the most popular options available today, along with their most effective use:

  • Trekking/Ski pole compatible. Tents that use trekking or ski poles for support are all the rage right now. Most of you will already have some of these poles on your journey. Using them to prop up a tent eliminates the weight of additional tent poles. Additionally, you can use rocks to tie down a tent instead of stakes to shed even more weight.
  • Ultralight tents. Just like backpacks, tents come in ultralight, weatherproof varieties. These will usually be more expensive than a standard tent but entail a lighter load. You get what you pay for, right? If weatherproofing is not imperative where you are headed, the next two options will be the best for you.

PRO TIP: Make sure to dry out your gear! Moisture like dew, fog, and rain collects easily on surfaces. Stretch it out in the sun and give it a good shake to shed any unwanted weight.

  • Tarps! According to Ron Swanson from Parks and Recreation, a canvas sheet is the most versatile tool known to man. He might just be right! Consider using a simple tarp (canvas or otherwise) for shelter. If the weather permits, it will be more than enough.
  • Hammocks! When the weather is friendly, nothing beats sleeping under the stars. A lightweight hammock and a mosquito net, if necessary, will provide for a great night’s sleep. Hammocks also eliminate the need for sleeping pads, which makes them an even more attractive option.
  • Ultralight sleeping pads. No need to carry rolls of memory foam around. Inflatable varieties will usually be the lightest and offer decent support. Down-filled sleeping pads can also compress to a nice size and offer better ground insulation and heat retention. Lightweight foam hybrids have also grown in popularity as of late. Your local outdoor goods store will probably have these different types available for you to try!
  • Ultralight sleeping bags. Down-filled bags are the way to go – they are comfortable, compressible, and affordable. Go for outer linings versatile enough to reuse on multiple trips, such as hydrophobic or tear-resistant.

PRO TIP: Always compare product warranties. When multiple choices fall within the same price range, choose the one that is guaranteed to last the longest. A savvy backpacker knows how to balance quality with price.

Food and Water

Fact: it takes a few trips to figure out your ideal balance of food, water, and weight. Myth: there is nothing you can do to make the process easier.

If you carry too much food and water you will end up needing more energy from each to carry the extra weight, plain and simple. While you zone in on the right balance, the best policy is to keep packaging and equipment as light and compact as possible.

Backpackers have come up with several ways to minimize food and water weight over the years:

  • Dry foods. The humans of yore were hunter-gatherers. They took only what they needed and respectfully ignored the rest. Their diet serves as an example of what you should pack. Try to get all your energy from dry foods that do not require cooking, such as nuts, grains, and jerky. Fruits carry too much liquid weight and raw foods require cooking equipment.
  • Ultralight equipment. If a Michelin-Star-worthy cuisine is absolutely necessary (no one blames you!), carry the lightest cooking equipment you can. Some manufacturers sell all-in-one stoves the size of a thermos that you can eat directly out of. Those are perfect for morning coffee and oatmeal, and can probably cook anything else you bring along.

PRO TIP: Hot rocks are a great grilling surface for any freshly caught game. They eliminate the need for cookware and people swear food tastes better!

  • Minimize packaging. You will learn many tricks to compact food as you collect backpacking experience. Open any packaging with air inside, like chips and trail mix, and let the air out to save space. Use a pillbox to take single servings of condiments and spices. Avoid boxed packaging of any kind and take only what you need.
  • Collapsible water bottle. Hydro-packs have extra parts that take up space and add weight – exactly the opposite of what we need. Instead, pack a collapsible water bottle and a filter. If water will be abundant on your trip, a liter-sized bottle should be more than enough. Try to drink as much as you can at water sources to avoid running out in between them.

That’s it for the essentials! You will need food, water, shelter, and something to carry it all with on any backpacking trip. Other things you carry will be all about making the trip more comfortable and fun. How do you know what to take and what to leave behind? Let’s discuss.

Gotta Have Vs. Wanna Have – the Non-Essentials

We live through the struggle between wanting and needing even when we stay at home. It does not matter nearly as much at home, however, as it does when backpacking. To determine which description (gotta have or wanna have) fits an item the best, follow these simple steps:

  1. Rank everything. Pack everything in order from absolutely essential to hopeful luxury and take whatever fits. This process not only ensures that you pack responsibly – it also helps to realize just how little we need to survive. After all, that is what backpacking is all about: stepping back, minimalizing, and refocusing on what really matters.
  2. Shed as you go.  You should clean out your backpack periodically on longer trips to shed some weight along the way. Dispose of any unused items (including personal waste) responsibly!
  3. Analyze surpluses. As you return from a backpacking trip, take time to sort out everything you never used. Nothing will help to know what to pack in the future more than this process. Most times, some forgotten relic will come out from the bottom of the pack as a testament to minimalism.

Most unnecessary items discovered through that simple three-step process fall in the realm of clothing and hygiene. Spend a night in a hostel or group camp and you will realize just how little western hygiene standards matter to adventurers.

Heavy Hygiene

Embrace the outdoors! Deodorants, conditioners, perfumes – they all weigh too much and contribute too little to a backpacking adventure.

For those hygienic substances that feel absolutely essential, bring only as much as you need. Odds are you will not need an entire tube of toothpaste or sunscreen for a trip less than a week long. Outdoor sites and stores sell products that allow you to carry the right amounts of these substances compactly.

Cumbersome Clothing

The same idea goes for clothing. One set of clothes is enough for up to five days when you learn to embrace the trademark backpacking smell. Two sets of clothes are all you will ever need for any trip. Just wear one while you wash the other! You can also use one set to sweat in while you hike and another to wear at gatherings. That will keep you smelling fresh when you need to.

PRO TIP: Layers, layers, layers. Dressing like an onion is the easiest way to regulate temperatures and make sure that you can handle any kind of weather. Underwear should be moisture-wicking and outerwear should be weather-resistant. Everything in between should provide insulation.

As far as footwear goes, trail-runners are the best option. They are lighter than boots and function as effectively. Make sure to take two pairs of socks. Wet socks act like incubators for bacteria and disease – and they are just plain uncomfortable.

Tools, Games, and Everything Else

There is no limit to the kinds of items people will try to bring on backpacking trips. There is a limit, however, to how much fits in an online article. Below are the most common miscellaneous backpacking articles and how to most effectively pack them. Some of these are must-packs!

  • Cameras. The quintessential item of the aspiring Nat Geo photographer. Absolutely bring them along if you have room, just avoid any unnecessary equipment and cases.
  • First Aid. Any seasoned backpacker has an injury story and a first aid kit in their backpack. If you plan to travel in a group, only one person has to carry a kit. Furthermore, try to pack it in a resealable plastic bag as opposed to a plastic box to save space.
  • Rope. Rope is a useful tool for any trip but you do not need to carry enough to climb El Capitan. Thirty feet should be more than enough for most common uses.
  • Knives. Just one will do. Try to find a lightweight knife or multitool that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. Anything bigger is too much.
  • Sewing kit. Simply bring floss and a needle. Floss is stronger than regular sewing string and also keeps your teeth clean!
  • Books. Avoid paper books! An e-reader like a Kindle can carry thousands of books at a fraction of the weight. Do not even think about a hardcover book or textbook.
  • Games. Fun to have, hard to carry. Anything other than a card game will take up too much of the all-important space in your backpack.

PRO TIP: If you plan to travel as a group, try to avoid duplicate items. Only one person needs to carry a group game or a set of tools. Alternate carrying duty to spread the workload evenly!

The Best Backpacking Policy

There is one general rule that will help you with any backpacking problem. Simply ask yourself: “do I really need this?” The answer to that question will tell you whether you need to pack something or not. Also, make sure to completely understand the trail and conditions you will be facing; that often determines the answer to the question of necessity!

All in all, backpacking is one of the most rewarding experiences around. Make sure to give yourself the best shot at a great time by packing efficiently. Trust your fellow backpackers, too, especially those with more experience than you. Chances are they have made many mistakes, just like you will…and you can all learn from each other. Here’s to all the journeys to be had and all the stories to be written. Happy trails!

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How to have amazing experiences camping in Alaska?

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

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

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

  1. Be ready for the varying types of weather

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

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

  1. Pick a campground mindfully

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

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

  1. You will have the option to relax or unwind

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

  1. Keep the bears at bay

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

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

 

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

 

 

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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.

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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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