Connect with us

Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

How to Put Out a Fire Pit

Published

on

A campfire.

There’s nothing quite like sitting around an open fire, whether it’s a fire pit in your backyard or a campfire out in the backcountry. Toasting marshmallows around the fire is a time-honored family tradition, which creates memories that last a lifetime.

However, with wildfires being such a serious threat to the forests and nature of our country, campers must be responsible when putting out their campfires. Whether you’re primitive camping and cooking over your campfire or just sitting around one in the backyard at home, everyone should know how to put out a fire pit correctly.

Step 1: If possible, let your fire pit burn down completely until the wood had turned almost fully to ash.

All this takes is a little planning ahead, just stop adding fuel to the fire about an hour before you plan to leave, this way the fire can burn down naturally, making your job much easier.

To speed up the process, you can put out the remaining chunks of wood using a shovel or stick. We understand it’s not always possible to wait until a fire has completely burned down, but it’s much easier this way, so when it comes time to extinguish the fire you’ll be ready.

Step 2: Spread out the remaining wood or coals with a shovel or stick.

They will extinguish much quicker if they’re not touching, as the fire will hold less heat. Just watch out for any red embers, and pay special attention to larger chunks of wood. They may look cool on the outside, but they could still be holding some substantial heat in the center. 

Step 3: Douse the fire with a bucket of water.

When you do this, be careful to hold the bucket several feet above the fire when pouring water on, to avoid any scalding from hot steam which might rise. You may hear sizzling sounds from any embers that may still be ignited, just remember to cover all the ashes in water, not just parts that are red. Pour until the sizzling sounds have silenced completely. 

Step 4: Using your shovel or stick, stir around the ashes to make sure every element that was your fire is now completely soaked in water.

Stir up all the remaining chunks of wood and embers, and also check the surrounding rocks for embers. If necessary, you can always add more water. 

Step 5: Check your fire pit and its surroundings, look for any wood or ashes that might have blown away or fallen.

Before leaving, always check the entire campsite, garden, or area, for sparks or any heat, even a tiny ember can start a forest fire in the right conditions. 

A campfire.

The perfect campfire will help you cook your food and stay warm while out on the trail.

Step 6: Do a temperature check on the area where your fire was.

You should be able to touch it with no pain and without feeling any heat. Ensure that the fire pit and surrounding area is completely cool, if it’s not, repeat the previous steps until you are sure that the fire is fully out.

  • If you don’t have water to extinguish the fire, you can use dirt. Just use the same method as you would with the water, mix it with the embers until the fire pit is fully cooled. 
  • Never wait until the last moment before you leave to extinguish the campfire or fire pit. You should start the process once you start packing up so that you can be sure the fire is fully out by the time you vacate the area. Putting out your fire as a last-minute task before you leave is dangerous, as if you don’t take the time to do it right, there could still be hot embers around.
  • Always check the whole area for sparks and embers. In the dry season, this is all it takes to start a wildfire. 

Tips for making your fire pit last

Fire pits have been around since the stone age, with early humans using them as their main source of warmth and cooking. Back then they generally consisted of nothing more than holes dug in the ground, basically just a bonfire, but nowadays our fire pits are a little more sophisticated. Fire pits are now the second most popular outdoor furnishing, and if you plan on buying a fire pit (or already have one) you’ll need to know how to maintain it. 

  • Always choose what you burn carefully. Avoid burning trash or pressure-treated wood. Instead, opt for a traditional wood-burning fire pit, and use only dry (never damp) locally sourced firewood. Burning anything else can release toxic fumes and chemicals, and aside from the dangers, this poses to your health, these chemicals can damage your fire pit over time. 
  • If you’re using dry firewood, you should have no need to use lighter fluid. Building your fire using proper techniques, you should be able to easily get it started using tinder and kindling. Again, the lighter fluid actually threatens bodily harm, and it can also damage the finish on your fire pit, and this can lead to degradation over time. If you struggle lighting your fire pit without, we have a few tips later in this article on starting your fire using only natural materials; firewood, tinder, and kindling. 
  • Allowing your fire to extinguish naturally is much better for the fire pit itself. Sure, dousing it with water is much quicker and easier, but the sudden change in temperature could cause damage to the materials your fire pit is built out of. Unless it’s an emergency situation, try to sit with your fire until it completely burns down, and of course, you’ll need to verify that its completely cool before you leave the area. A 1000 degree fire being suddenly cooled can damage the structural integrity of your fire pit, and this could potentially be dangerous down the line.
  • If you, like many owners of fire pits, use it for cooking, you should clean the grate before and after use, every time. Once you’ve finished sizzling your burgers, allow the grate to cool completely, then use a wire brush to scrub your fire pits grate and remove any food or debris. Failure to complete this every time can lead to hardened pieces of food stuck to the grate, which is not very appetizing to see next time you want to use it. Consider adding cooking oil to the grate before using it. This will discourage rust and erosion, and actually, make it easier to cook. 
  • When you’re not using your fire pit, always keep it covered. Leaving it exposed to the elements day in and day out will definitely leave it prone to damage. Rain can cause rusting and serious damage to the structure, which can actually make it unsafe for use in the future, and also ruin its appearance.
  • Remove the ashes from your fire pit after each use. We recommend waiting 24 hours after the fire pit has gone out, to make sure its completely cooled, then using a shovel to transfer any ashes and debris to a safe non-flammable container to be disposed of. Never attempt to remove the ashes while they’re still hot. 
A campfire.

Because of their extreme temperature, it’s always important to use fire safety precautions when necessary.

Fire pit safety

When discussing outdoor fire pits, there are plenty of safety issues that everyone should be aware of. Although they’re lots of fun and can provide a lot of enjoyment on those chilled out summer evenings, safety must always come first, as fire pits, like anything involving an open flame, can be dangerous. 

  • Fire pits should always be at least 10 feet away from any structure, flammable surface, or any combustible materials.
  • Don’t overload your fire pit with fuel, be careful that it doesn’t flare up suddenly.
  • Keep it on a flat surface in an open area, never under trees, roofs or patio covers.
  • Always check the weather forecast, to avoid lighting fires in windy conditions. This can blow embers all over your garden.
  • Check to make sure there are no burn bans in effect.
  • Pick up leaves, dry vegetation, and anything else flammable within a 10-20 foot radius around your fire pit, to make sure your fire won’t accidentally spread.
  • Use a spark screen so embers and sparks can’t escape the confines of your fire pit. This is especially important if there are children or pets around.
  • Always keep a bucket of water, fire extinguisher, or garden hose nearby. You should always be prepared for an emergency before even starting the fire. 
  • Keep all flammable liquids as far away from the fire as possible. Even without contact with the flames, extreme heat can cause these liquids to ignite, so make sure there is absolutely no lighter fluid or gasoline in the area.
  • Don’t use any sort of aid like lighter fluid to start your fire. These can cause your fire to behave unpredictably and can be incredibly dangerous. Use kindling to start the fire and build it up in a manageable and controlled manner, using only seasoned dry firewood and charcoal.
  • Protect yourself by keeping a safe distance from the fire at all times. Use a poker or log-grabber if you need to move anything around, and never move your fire pit when it isn’t completely cold.
  • Keep a first aid kit nearby to treat any minor burns.
  • Never leave any sort of fire unattended, even the smallest fire can grow quickly and become dangerous without supervision. 
  • If you have a fire that escapes your fire pit or becomes out of control, call 911 immediately. 

Fire pit safety do’s and don’ts

Do: Build your fire pit on a level surface.

When the ground is level and even it reduces the risk of fire escaping beyond your pit. 

Do: Keep your fire at a safe distance, from your home, trees, fences, and of course yourself, to avoid doing damage. 

Don’t: Use gasoline or lighter fluid, such fuels can cause your fire to become out of control in a matter of seconds. Instead, always use dry wood as kindling, and never build beyond the confines of the edge of your fire pit. 

Do: Monitor any guests around the fire pit. Maintain that any visitors keep a proper distance and aren’t doing anything which might be considered unsafe- and always keep close tabs on children and pets. 

Don’t: Use river stones to built your fire circle. Smooth stones originating from river beds may look pretty for building your fire circle, but they absorb moisture over time and the rapid heating of these with an open fire can actually cause them to explode. Instead of this dangerous option, use rough, dry stones from the ground around you.

Do: Check the weather report, every time before deciding to light a fire. Always avoid using your fire pit on windy days, since the flames or embers could spread to your home, or surrounding trees, endangering the wildlife. This is how many wildfires or forest fires can begin. 

Don’t: Leave the fire unattended at any time. Fire pits should be closely monitored by a responsible adult so that everyone can remain safe.

Do: Put out your fire safety. We’ve already outlined how to do this, so you should be an expert on properly extinguishing fires. 

Do: Have an emergency plan in place. Always have a water or sand bucket, fire extinguisher, or garden hose close by at all times. The more prepared you are, the less likely something is to go wrong.

People around a campfire.

Not all fire pits are created equal but with the right ingredients and best practices, yours can be exactly what you needed on your trip.

How to safely light a fire pit

As you now know, using lighter fluid, gasoline, or any other chemical fire starter can be both bad for your safety, and bad for your fire pit. Follow our steps to safely and effectively light your fire pit, and then you can get on with the fun and revelry that comes along with it.

Fire pits provide an excellent means of staying warm, cooking food, and are a great way to pass the time, sitting around one on a summer evening. Once you know the basics of laying a fire and keeping it burning, it should blaze happily while you sit back and watch it crackle. 

Step 1: Gather the tinder, kindling, and firewood or fuel.

Some great things you can use for tinder include old newspapers, dry pine needles or straw. Kindling usually consists of thin sticks and twigs, but if you don’t have these you can use splinters off larger pieces of wood.

For your main fuel, dry locally sourced firewood is best, this is what will actually keep your fire going once it’s lit. You’ll need approximately one armful of each kindling and tinder, and enough firewood to keep your fire going as long as is desired. One substantial dry log will burn for 45 minutes on average. 

Step 2: Lay down one or two handfuls of tinder, in the center of your fire pit.

On top of this, place four or five pieces of kindling, try to arrange them in a teepee fashion, so they meet in the center above the tinder. 

Step 3: Light a match and hold it to the tinder.

Watch as the flames reach up to the kindling and they begin to light on fire. If the flames look like they struggling, you can blow very gently on them from a safe distance to add more oxygen, but make sure to do this very carefully so as not to spread around any hot embers or ash. 

Step 4: If you feel like you need it, add a little more kindling, to ensure the flames are fully established.

The next step is to add the smallest pieces of firewood or fuel. Carefully place them on top of the burning kindling. You can expect the kindling to collapse over the top of the tinder- this will begin to create the embers you need to keep your fire going. 

Step 5: Gradually add additional pieces or fuel and firewood- here you can slowly increase their size.

If the flames begin to wane, simply add some additional pieces of tinder and kindling to give the fire some easy fuel, until the larger pieces of firewood fully catch fire. You can keep adding firewood until your fire is as big as you require, just be careful to keep it under control, and of course under supervision at all times. 

Step 6: When you’re done having fun with your fire pit, safely extinguish it.

By using the instructions above, and always follow proper fire safety guidelines

Final Verdict:

Now you know how to put out a fire pit safely, you’re ready to enjoy your next backyard camping trip. There’s so much enjoyment to be had from fire pits and outdoor fireplaces, and many life-lasting family memories to be made. Remember the safety guidelines, and always be prepared for an emergency. Forest fires in the US cause so much wildlife devastation every year, so read up on the fire safety guidelines to make sure you’re doing everything you can to protect our beautiful environment. 

Wait a few extra minutes when extinguishing your campfire rather than leaving straight away. You can take the time to eat the last leftover s’more and this way you can leave with peace of mind rather than having to worry if you put out your fire pit properly. Remember, fire safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Continue Reading

Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

How to have amazing experiences camping in Alaska?

Published

on

 

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! 

 

 

Continue Reading

Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

Why Duck Boots are Good for Hiking

Published

on

are duck boots good for hiking

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

 

A pair of Bean Boots.

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

 

What are Duck Boots?

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

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

Related: The 7 Best Two Person Tents

 

A pair of Duck Boots in a puddle of water.

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

 

What makes a good hiking shoe?

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

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

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

Related: The Top 10 New Hampshire Camping Sites

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

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

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

Also read: The 7 Best Louisiana Tent Camping Sites

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

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

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

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

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

 

A pair of boots in the grass.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Top 7 Best Microspikes for Hiking

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

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

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

Also: 5 Best Pop Up Canopy Tents

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

 

A girl hiking in the mountains.

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

 

Are Duck Boots good for hiking?

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

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

Related: Best Gun Brands 

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

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

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

Also: Sleeping bags for tall people

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

 

A man climbing on rocks.

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

 

Why Duck Boots might not be the best choice

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

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

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

Related: Best screen houses for camping

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!

Continue Reading

Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

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

Published

on

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.

 

Continue Reading

Trending