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How to Waterproof a Backpack

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Person in orange shirt and backpack walking through a river.

No matter what kind of outdoor adventurer you are, a waterproof backpack is an important requirement. Whether you’re flying down white water rapids, on a mountain expedition in the snow, of simply trekking through a rainy day, you need to keep your equipment dry. Every outdoorsman should know how to waterproof a backpack, at some point everyone will get caught in the rain. If your backpack doesn’t have good enough water resistance, your gear could end up soaked or even ruined. 

Just like knowing how to attach a sleeping bag to your backpack, adding some weather resistance is basic backcountry knowledge. Some backpacks are available for purchase with a strong waterproof coating already applied, but these can be costly, more expensive than the alternatives. It’s also common for backpacks to be sold as “waterproof”, but in reality, they are only water-resistant. Anyone who’s been caught out by this before knows what a difference there is between these terms. Many backpacks come with rain covers to keep the worst of the moisture away, but this certainly isn’t a perfect seal, and most of the time your stuff will still get wet. A rain cover is ideal for trekking in light to moderate precipitation, but anything more will require more water protection. 

Waterproofing doesn’t only apply to chemical sealants; it refers to any process by which you protect your gear from moisture. This includes the use of dry sacks and ziplock bags, which we’ll also explain. There are different ways to optimize protecting your gear, whether you’re hiking in drizzle or tackling white water rapids, we’ll explain your best course of action. 

If you learn how to waterproof your backpack and other belongings, you’ll increase their life dramatically. Waterproofing is a part of the general care and maintenance of your gear, doing so properly means your equipment will serve you better, for longer. As well as preventing the destruction of your belongings if your bag gets soaked, it will improve the overall durability of your pack, and make you a better backpacker overall. 

 

Man with a red waterproofed backpack on a trail in the forest.

From simple rain covers to marine dry sacks, there’s a lot of options for waterproofing your backpack.

 

Waterproof v.s. water-resistant

In order to fully understand the level of protection you need for your backpack, You’ll need to understand these terms. There’s an important distinction between “water-resistant” and “waterproof” and it can mean the difference between a soaked backpack or safe and dry gear. 

If a backpack, or any item, is labeled as waterproof, then it’s about submersion. This means your bag could fall into a river and go underneath the water, without letting any moisture inside. A level of protection this intense goes beyond rainstorms, it’s for extreme conditions and water-related activities. A truly waterproof backpack could follow you through a waterfall without letting any of your gear get wet. It’s important to notice that backpacks made from waterproof materials aren’t necessarily fully watertight. The fabric and zipper could be waterproof, yet the bag classed as “water-resistant”. 

Water-resistance however, is an ambiguous term. The meaning is vague, so the level of protection you’ll get is also questionable. A water-resistant backpack might just about keep your gear dry in a drizzle, or it could be strong enough for a downpour. Look out for rain-coated zippers, a sign that the waterproofing is more serious. Very few backpacking situations require a fully watertight bag, and often water-resistant gear is protective enough. Of course, it depends on your backpack’s true capabilities, and the weather you expect on your trip.  

 

Different ways to waterproof your backpack

Like anything, there are a few different ways you could go about waterproofing your backpack. In theory, just putting your backpack in a large trash bags could count as waterproofing, however, we don’t recommend this as your best course of action. The level of waterproofing you require must be determined by your planned trip. If you’re expecting to cross a number of rivers or streams, or the weather forecast calls for heavy rain or snow, then you’ll need to put in some serious effort to prevent all your stuff from getting soaked. When you only expect sun or light rain on your trip, then your weatherproofing doesn’t need to be as intense. However, it’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected rather than suffer a nasty surprise. 

 

Using a rain cover

The most common form of waterproofing is to use waterproof material to cover your whole pack. This is usually in the form of a rain cover, which could either come built-in to your backpack or be purchased separately. This is a simple solution, but not the most effective. Even putting your entire backpack inside a waterproof bag or trash bag isn’t effective; if there’s a single gap in this material then water can enter and nothing inside your pack will be protected. You’ll need to judge whether this waterproofing is adequate for your trip. If light rain conditions are all that’s expected, then a rain cover is an ideal, lightweight solution. However, if you decide to go kayaking, for example, this option is completely inappropriate.

If you were to participate in watersports without an adequately waterproofed backpack, it could actually be seriously dangerous. If you fell into the water, your backpack would be completely soaked upon submersion, making it incredibly heavy. Aside from ruining everything inside, this holds a threat of drowning. This is why waterproofing your backpack in an appropriate way is so important.

 

Man standing in the forest in the rain.

Rain covers are a simple and easy way to keep your gear dry when hiking in the rain.

 

Using a pack liner

A backpack or rucksack liner like the Osprey Ultralight Packliner is essentially a large plastic bag, which goes inside your backpack to hold all of your belongings. Usually, these bags are made from a thick and durable but lightweight waterproof plastic material. When you use a pack liner, you must always put the liner in your backpack first, then fill it with your belongings. Filling the liner bag first and then stuffing it inside your rucksack can cause tears, destroying its waterproof purpose. 

Once your bag is packed, push the extra air out of the liner and twist to close. You can use a rubber band, or a bungee if there’s one built-in, to secure the closure. This isn’t a perfect waterproof seal, but it’s perfectly adequate for your purposes. Again, the main issue with this method is that a single puncture or failure leaves all your gear soaking wet. 

 

Using individual waterproof bags

Rather than relying on a single waterproof element to protect all of your backpacking gear, you can use dry dags to protect your belongings. By taking each piece of gear you have in your backpack, or at least the most important, and placing them inside waterproof bags, you can minimize the damage. Prioritize electronics and other items which would be destroyed if wet, as well as clothing and towels which would soak up a lot of water. This is the most reliable way of ensuring specific items don’t get ruined. 

There is a range of products you can use for these purposes, ranging in effectiveness and price. The easy version is just Ziploc bags, which are made from waterproof materials but not very durable. Ziploc bags come in a huge range of sizes, they’re uber convenient for storing smaller items. It’s worth noting that while these bags will keep out moisture, they might not actually be waterproof. Grocery bags can be used in the same way, a more economical approach that can be just as effective if you’re careful.

Heavy-duty high-capacity garbage bags can function as pack liners, but they aren’t nearly as durable as the real thing. It all comes down to the type of expedition you have planned; for light rain and wet weather, a ziplock bag is perfectly adequate to protect your phone from minor damage. Conversely, if you end up falling in a river, you’ll be buying a new cell phone. 

On the other end of the scale, watertight stuff sacks called dry bags are designed to safely and efficiently pack your gear into waterproof bags. These are usually designed for watersports such as kayaking and canoeing, so they’re extremely waterproof. For example, Granite Gear Drysacks Stuff Sacks are ultralight sacks with roll closures to reduce the bulk of your gear, they’re extremely waterproof so perfect for protecting your gear while making it easier to pack as well! 

The downsides to this method are that usually, it’s a bit over the top. Unless you’re fully submerged in water at any point on your trip, then this extreme waterproof packing technique is a waste of money and energy. However, if you’re setting off on a longer expedition where you may need to cross rivers or lakes, then this is definitely recommended.

You should at least ensure your most important items such as your mobile phone and wallet are in a completely protective watertight bag. The sealing mechanisms included in dry sacks are always more reliable than a simple plastic bag or pack liner. Backpackers on long-distance hikes might appreciate the extra peace of mind, knowing the equipment they rely on is protected. 

 

Red waterproof fabric.

Any plastic bag or waterproof material can be used to help protect your backpack.

 

Using a wax or spray sealant

In the same way that you can waterproof a tent, you can use a spray or wax sealant to waterproof your backpack. Not many people use this method as it won’t fully waterproof your backpack, only add a degree of water resistance, or moisture-proofing. The level of weather resistance this method depends not only on the product you use but the material your backpack is made from too. This makes this method less reliable, but still worthy of consideration due to its practicality. Using a waterproofing agent is the most space and weight-efficient option, as it doesn’t require you to carry any extra gear. 

A waterproofing spray is easy to use, just apply an even coat and allow it to dry. Waxing is a more involved and traditional way to add water-resistance to materials, and you could also seam-seal your backpack for maximum effectiveness. Unfortunately, there will always be weak points such as the zippers where water can enter, no matter how many sealing methods you apply. We recommend using a waterproof spray or sealant in conjunction with our other methods as a secondary measure. It’ll help keep moisture out of your backpack, but in a downpour, it’s not enough to keep your gear dry. 

 

Using a dry sack

If you want an entire backpack that’s truly watertight, you can put the whole thing inside a large dry sack. Huge waterproof bags like the Sealline Boundary 115-liter Dry Pack can hold your whole backpack and has straps for carrying itself. At this point, you may as well abandon the backpack altogether, but again this isn’t necessary unless you’re at risk of completely submerging your bag. 

 

How to waterproof a backpack

We recommend using a combination of all these methods in order to adequately waterproof your backpack. You’ll need to assess the expected weather conditions, and consider how many rivers and lakes you might cross. It’s always a good idea to protect your most valuable items in a watertight dry sack. Items also worth saving are paper maps and other items easily ruined. We advise that you pay special attention to the following items:

 

  • Mobile phones
  • Cameras and video recorders
  • GPS unit
  • Lamps and flashlights
  • Wallet including money and ID documents
  • Maps and guidebooks
  • Paper documents such as park passes 

 

If your main waterproofing fails due to a tear or puncture, then at least these items will be safe. Some mobile phones are manufactured to be waterproof, the same goes for other items, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. If your rain cover, pack liner, or plastic bag lets water in, you’ll be glad of more reliable protection for your valuables. 

Whenever you find yourself hiking in the rain, make use of your rain cover. Whether it’s built-in or separate, a rain cover is a super-easy, lightweight, and effective way to waterproof your pack from most bad weather. If you have the time, adding weather resistance to your backpack with wax or a spray is always worth the extra protection. 

If you need more water protection, for example, while kayaking or if the weather forecast is particularly bad, then you’ll need to waterproof the majority of your gear. In this case, dry sacks make the most reliable choice, however, they can be a pricey choice. Plastic grocery bags, Ziploc bags, and garbage bags can all serve as less-expensive options. This is a great choice if you need medium-duty waterproofing on a budget. 

 

An assortment of electronics.

By waterproofing your backpack, you can make sure you protect your most valuable items.

 

Extra tips for waterproofing your backpack

There are endless tricks that every hiker develops over time to optimize their system, in time everyone develops their own. We’ll share a few additional tips to help you make sure your backpack stays watertight!

 

1. Although soft items like your clothing and sleeping bag won’t be ruined by water, they sure will soak a lot up. If your backpack takes on water in any way, chances are, your clothes will soak it up. Although this has the benefit of perhaps saving more breakable items, it means your bag will become very heavy. Some items could take a very long time to dry in this circumstance, so put absorbent items in waterproof bags as well. 

 

2. Towels fall under the category of absorbent items, but you can skip the long drying time at least. Use one of our best backpacking towels for a fast-drying and lightweight solution. 

 

3. Remember that water can damage anything electronic. Don’t forget to protect your portable charger, cables, headphones, and any other tiny items. 

 

4. If you’re using household plastic bags like grocery bags, keep an eye out for thicker material bags. Don’t be afraid to double bag it, and use twist turns for maximum waterproofing. 

 

5. Keep your water bottle on the outside of your backpack. Obviously, you don’t want to introduce any water into your bag on purpose, so prevent spillages, and watch out for other liquid items like cosmetics too. 

 

Final Verdict:

There are many different methods you could use to waterproof a backpack, some highly effective, others are completely free. We recommend you combine a few different methods from our range of options, so you gain the setup that best suits your needs. A rain cover will shield your back from most bad weather, it’s super lightweight and easy to use. We recommend using a dry sack for your valuables in addition to this, for the extra protection in a rainstorm. A cheaper option would be plastic or ziplock bags, which can be just as effective. 

A pack liner is a good choice in bad weather, and if you’re expecting particularly wet conditions combine it with extra dry sacks and grocery bags. If there’s a chance of full submersion at any point, make sure to keep anything absorbent in a waterproof bag. Clothing gets very heavy when wet, so avoid this added complication. Waterproofing your backpack is easy, it’s just about being prepared. Follow our tips and instructions and you’ll never be caught out in the rain again!

 

Bonus tip: Check out this video for some tips on using a dry sack!

 

 

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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.

Also: Sleeping bags for tall people

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

 

A man climbing on rocks.

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

 

Why Duck Boots might not be the best choice

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

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

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

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The materials from which Duck Boots are made make them excellently waterproof. However, rubber and full-grain leather aren’t the most breathable of materials. Although they may do a good job of not letting in water from the outside, they also keep it in.

The lack of breathability here can be very uncomfortable, leading to hot and sweaty feet. This can cause blisters, and for this reason, we would not recommend them as a hiking shoe. All hikers need waterproof boots, but there are others available which won’t make you suffer.

Blisters are something which all hikers have to deal with at some point, but if your boots aren’t breathable then they’re much more likely and threaten to ruin your hike. The best hiking boots keep your feet dry while staying breathable and comfortable, so don’t make an exception here.

If you’re keen on mountaineering, then your hiking boots need to be crampon compatible, which Duck Boots are not. Crampons help with grip when scaling rocky terrain, so having a boot they work with is necessary for safety reasons.

We have no choice but to conclude that L.L. Bean’s Duck Boots are no good for hiking. Although they are comfortable and highly water-resistant, the lack of extra support and breathability means they aren’t the best hiking boot.

A boot specifically designed for hiking could offer the same level of comfort while giving you much more support on the trails. Hiking boots made from Gore-tex would provide the same level of excellent waterproofing while still maintaining breathability, so there are better options out there.

 

A pair of Duck Boots on a ladder in the snow.

While Duck Boots may not be the best option for hiking, they are still a great overall winter boot.

 

What are Duck Boots good for?

Although we cannot avoid the conclusion that duck boots are no good for hiking, they’re still an excellent outdoor shoe. Bean Boots are ideal for making your way through snow and slush, so we do recommend this style as a general winter boot.

For any outdoor activity in cold weather, these shoes are ideal, as their warmth and waterproofing will keep your feet happy, while their traction is perfect for walking in the snow. Duck Boots are much closer to snow boots or rain boots than they are hiking, so for these weather conditions, we can whole-heartedly recommend these high-quality shoes.

 

Other branded duck boots

L.L. Bean was the original creator of the duck boot, but other brands have made their own version. Sperry offers a shoe called the Watertown Duck Boot, and its design is very similar to the original. Sperry’s version boasts a rubber lug outsole with no-slip traction, which could mean improved grip compared to L.L. Bean’s shoe. However, this is still not a hiking sole, so it’s not ideal for outdoor adventuring.

 

Final Verdict:

So, are Duck Boots good for hiking? The short answer; no. Although Duck Boots make an excellent winter boot, ideal for cold and wet weather, they just aren’t up to the same standard as hiking boots in other areas. The traction Bean Boots provide is optimized for wet conditions, such as snow and slush, but it’s simply not good enough for hiking in the backcountry.

The ankle support is admittedly better than trail running shoes, but more protection is needed if you do anything other than light and easy hikes. For your next hiking trip, Duck Boots aren’t the best choice, even though they’re comfy. If you’re still looking for an outdoor shoe, you might wonder, are Timberlands good for hiking? Read our article on the subject to find out if Timberlands might be the answer you’re looking for.

Bonus tip: To learn more about L.L. Bean’s original legendary boot, check out this interesting video we found below!

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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

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

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Massage guns have become popular in recent years as a way to help people relax and ease pain. They are especially popular among those who enjoy sports, as the massage guns can help to reduce muscle soreness after a workout resulting in faster recovery and improved performance. 

Some other benefits associated with the use of massage guns include:

 

Increased blood flow– Massage guns can help to improve circulation by increasing blood flow, which helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles. This is especially important for those who are involved in sports or exercise, as increased blood flow can help to repair damaged tissue faster.

 

Improved flexibility– Massage guns also help to improve flexibility by loosening tight muscles and tendons. This allows the body to move more freely, resulting in improved performance during physical activity.

 

Reduced stress– The massage gun can also help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Massaging the muscles helps to release endorphins, which are hormones that act as natural painkillers. By releasing these endorphins, people can feel less stressed and relaxed after using a massage gun.

 

Relieves pain– Massage guns are great for relieving pain and discomfort, as the vibration helps to loosen tight muscles and release tension. This can help to reduce pain caused by inflammation, arthritis, or other aches and pains.

 

Enhances performance– Massage guns can help to improve performance when it comes to physical activities, as they help to reduce muscle fatigue and soreness. This helps people perform better in their chosen sport or activity.

Why Choose the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun 

It’s well known that massage guns are a great way to relieve tension and soreness after a long day or workout. But with so many different massage guns on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. In this Bob and Brad C2 Massage Gun Review, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of this popular massage gun to help you decide if it’s the right one for you.

 

If you are an athlete or just someone looking to soothe sore and aching muscles, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is an ideal choice. This powerful massage gun is designed to provide deep tissue relief through its variety of adjustable speed settings and interchangeable massage heads. The ergonomic design allows for comfortable use during longer sessions, and the lightweight body makes it easy to transport and store. With its powerful motor, the C2 Massage Gun is capable of providing up to 3200 revolutions per minute. With five different intensity levels, this strong force helps to penetrate deep into muscle fibers and provides effective relief from soreness and pain.

 

The Bob and Brad C2 Massage Gun is designed to help athletes and active individuals recover faster after strenuous activity. It provides a deep-tissue massage that can reduce soreness, improve flexibility, and increase the range of motion in the body. This massage gun also comes with four interchangeable heads for various massaging techniques including a flat head for larger muscle groups, a round head for deeper tissue work, a U-shape for joint relief, and a conical head for smaller areas like the neck or hands. With this variety of massage heads, the C2 helps to target specific areas of discomfort and provides customized relief.

Conclusion

 

Overall, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and powerful massage gun that can provide effective relief from muscle soreness after exercise or long days. With its adjustable speed settings and interchangeable massage heads, it is sure to meet your needs. So if you’re an athlete or just someone looking to give their muscles some well-deserved love and attention, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is a great investment.

 

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