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The 7 Best Camping Spots in New England

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With both beautiful shorelines and breathtaking mountains, New England is an excellent choice for your next camping trip. There’s a huge range of recreational activities to try, including hiking, boating, fishing, and cycling, so you know you’ll get the complete camping experience. Beautiful Cape Cod offers stunning beaches and tons of monuments and sightseeing, but we encourage exploring a little further into the region, as there’s plenty of hidden gems to be discovered.

The White Mountains in New Hampshire offer nearly 800,000 acres of state forest, with a massively varied ecosystem. No matter the time of year, the White Mountains always have plenty of activities on offer, including multiple ski areas. If you’re there to enjoy the scenes but don’t feel like a monster hike, the Mount Washington Cog Railway goes all the way to the summit, where visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of four states and Canada! Read on to discover some of the best camping in New England, whether you’re looking for primitive camping, glamping, forests or lakes, there’s plenty of options for your next getaway. 

 

1. Bear Creek Campground

 

Camping in the woods.

A trip to New England would never be complete without a little outdoor adventure.

 

In Connecticut, we recommend Bear Creek Campground, just next to Lake Compounce. Bear Creek is an excellent family camping destination, and there’s endless fun for the kids in one of New England’s best theme parks, right next door. With spaces for RV’s and plenty of sites for tent camping, full hook-up, wifi, and great facilities, Bear Creek is the perfect location for your next family getaway.

If you want to get some nature in as well as all the amusement park fun, just above Lake Compounce is Compounce Mountain. Here you’ll find the 4.6-mile Compounce Ridge Trail, which runs along the eastern rim of the 954-foot-high mountain. It’s a steep climb, but the views are some of the best in Connecticut, with spectacular visions of Meriden’s Hanging Hills and Rattlesnake Mountain.

At $30 a night during the week and $40 at the weekend for a tent, it’s not the cheapest campsite on this list but the proximity to Lake Compounce is invaluable. If you’re there with the kids, Bear Creek is a great option.

 

Pros:

 

  • Close to theme park
  • Spotless facilities
  • Full hookup

 

Cons:

 

  • Expensive
  • Busy

 

2. Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Campground – Freeport, Maine

 

A picture of the woods.

Wolfe’s Neck offers some great camping and trail hiking opportunities.

 

If you want to camp in Maine, it doesn’t get much better than Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Campground, where the forest meets the bay. Located on a working saltwater farm, Wolfe’s Neck boasts 626 acres of land and 4 miles of shoreline. There are 130 oceanfront, inland and wooded tent sites available, so you can find the perfect spot.

Wolfe’s Neck State Park is a wonderful place to spend the afternoon, with plenty of hiking trails and scenic views, why not go for a picnic by the ocean? Not too far off the beaten track, the well-maintained trail system is the ideal place to introduce the kids to the joys of nature holidays. We recommend the 1.5-mile Harraseeket Trail, which leads to the other side of the peninsula, overlooking rocky cliffs and Maine’s Harraseeket River.

Acadia National Park is just around the corner, its landscape marked with luscious woodland, characteristic rocky beaches and peaks like Cadillac Mountain, which is the highest point in New England, and in fact the US east coast. Split into three areas, Wolfe’s Neck Campground caters to all styles of campers. In the East Bay, sites with electric and water hookups are available for tents and RV’s. For those who want to disappear into the forest, the middle bay offers shady spots for tents only. In the West Bay, trees and open pastures make a perfect spot for a family campsite, with plenty of space for the kids to run around and play.

 

Pros:

 

  • Plenty of space
  • Oceanside camping

 

Cons:

 

  • Busy
  • No Sewer

 

3. Camden Hills State Park – Camden, Maine

 

An eagle flying through the sky.

Camden Hills State Park is home to many varieties of bird species.

 

Just a few minutes north of Camden on US Route 1, Camden Hills State Park is the ideal camping day-tripper destination. Known for its panoramic view of Camden Harbour and closely situated to Mount Battie, it could be the perfect getaway spot for you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and be humbled by nature. There’s even winter camping in a rustic shelter available, for the more adventurous campers. 

The campground and surrounding area are scenic and wooded, this state forest makes an ideal base camp for hikers. The camping fee here even includes access to the auto road to Mt. Battie’s summit. The Mount Battie trail offers a relatively short but rewarding hike up the southern side of the mountain, with an excellent view of Camden and the islands of Penobscot Bay making the climb well worth it. In a stunning forest location, the sites here are well spaced and mostly separated by trees, so your site will be private and fairly well secluded from neighbors. One thing to note is to check the site map when making a reservation, as some sites are quite far out, however, this can be a bonus if you’re looking for a more peaceful and natural experience.

 

Pros:

 

  • Free Wifi
  • Access to nature trails

 

Cons:

 

  • No pull-thru sites
  • Spotty mobile signal

 

4. Sweet Water Forest

 

A campfire by a lake.

Sweet Water Forest Campground is located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

 

Sweet Water Forest Campground is located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The campsite has been family-run since 1958, welcoming campers and RV’ers to Sweet Water Forest and the town of Brewster, which many consider to be the heart of Cape Cod. Cape Cod is an amazing location to visit from the campsite – it’s a hook-shaped peninsula just off the coastline, containing quaint villages, lighthouses, seafood shacks, ponds, bay, and ocean beaches. You can also visit the John F. Kennedy Museum in the town of Hyannis, the first stop of the Kennedy Legacy Trail down to downtown, where you can catch a ferry to the famous resort islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. So for a wonderful variety of experiences, from quaint seaside jaunts to historical trails, and with both forests, seasides and islands to explore, your trip to Sweet Water Forest will be far from boring!

Family-owned, this campsite has stood the test of time, with new amenities and features being added every year. Although some signals need updating, and some of the roads are tight and winding, this campsite will provide for most of your needs – especially if you’re a family group. They even have a little fishing and paddling pond, called Griffiths’ Pond, for you all to potter around in. The campground is also huge, with 250 level sites for tents and RVs, spread throughout over 80 acres of peaceful woodlands. Not only do you have many sites to choose from, but there is also a range of activities and features that will keep you amused, such as an 18 hole miniature golf course, a fishing dock, canoe rentals, and in-camp recreational activities. Which easy access to beaches, nearby attractions, and Cape CodRail Trail, the Atlantic Cedar Swamp Walk at Marconi this is the ideal location for campers to explore Cape Cod.

 

Pros:

 

  • Wi-FI (mainly just in the office area)
  • Full hookup for RV
  • On-site activities like a miniature golf course and fishing pond

 

Cons:

 

  • No laundry facilities
  • Can be very popular – book in advance to avoid disappointment

 

5. Beartown State Forest

 

A lake in the woods.

This 12,000-acre forest is perfect for swimming, boating, or fishing in Benedict Pond.

 

The Berkshiresprovide some of the most breathtaking scenery in New England, so this list wouldn’t be complete without a campsite option for this area. Beartown State Forest offers 12,000 acres of dense forest and greenery. There are only 12 sites available at Beartown, but if you manage to get one its worth it for the scenery, with options amongst the woods and along the lake.

The campground has a well-maintained beach, with boat ramps for kayaking. In this area, there’s also plenty of great hikes to check out, including the Pond Loop and of course the legendary Appalachian Trail. If you can make it to the top of the climb there are gratuitously rewarding views to enjoy. Beartown is the recommended destination for primitive camping in New England- there’s no showers, minimal toilets and little access to electricity. If your aim is to truly reconnect with nature, Beartown State Forest is the perfect destination.

 

Pros:

 

  • Scenic
  • Great location

 

Cons:

 

  • Few amenities
  • Only 12 sites

 

6. Lafayette Place Campground

 

A forest.

In the heart of Franconia Notch State Park, Lafayette Place Campground is the camping and hiking hub for the park.

 

Lafayette Place Campground is one of our favorites. Perfectly situated in the heart of Franconia Notch State Park, there’s so much nature to see in this area. There are hiking and biking trails up in the White Mountains leaving straight from the campsite, where the peaks reach up to 4000 feet. The Appalachian Trail passes right by Lincoln, so take the opportunity to see a bit of this 2,200-mile trail, which is the longest hiking-only trail in the world. There’s easy access from the I-93, this campsite is private and convenient, the perfect place for a quiet retreat to nature in New Hampshire.

This lovely site fils up fast, especially in summer, so it’s a good idea to reserve a spot. Situated at the bottom of two mountains in a notch, there are a nearby creek and a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Sightseeing is easy with this camp as your base, with wildflower meadows filled with Oxeye Daisies, Orange Hawkweed and Lupine are all around, and plenty of day trip destinations including the lush Echo Lake. The beach boasts a direct view of Franconia Notch, and here you can try canoeing or kayaking, with equipment available to rent at the Lakeside General Store. We also recommend checking out Flume George and the Pimigewasset trail, where you can see huge expanses to the south on a clear day.

Although the Lafayette Place Campground brings you into close quarters with some beautifully varied natural experiences – you might not feel like you are totally out in the sticks. The I-93 is quite close to the campground, so sometimes you can still hear some background noise. So for the more adventurous campers, you might want to search for somewhere a little more remote.

 

Pros:

 

  • Good mobile connectivity
  • Access to nature trails

 

Cons:

 

  • No hookup, water or electric
  • No Wi-Fi

 

7. Fisherman’s Memorial State Park and Campground

 

A man fishing.

Whether you are looking for a place to pitch a tent and enjoy a campfire, or park your RV and play some basketball or tennis, Fishermen’s can accommodate you.

 

Fisherman’s Memorial Campground offers a “seaside village” atmosphere and is a great destination for family fun. At 91 acres, this campground offers 147 trailer and 35 tent sites. Located in close proximity to the state beach areas, this site can get pretty busy during the summer, so it’s recommended to book in advance. On Sundays during the summer you can find a wonderful farmers market, right at the main entrance, so you can pick up some fresh and delicious local ingredients.

Like a lot of Rhone Island, this campground actually comes with a bit of history and is actually an old fort. There are several World War II bunkers around, one of which you can climb for a fabulous view of the area. Most sites have thick hedges, providing plenty of privacy. The top sites within the camp are in Area 1, which is available to book a year in advance. This is really worth planning ahead for, as here you’ll find the best facilities and most spacious campsites. If you can make it over, the Cliff Walk hike in Newport is gorgeous. Closer by the whole of Fishermans Memorial State Park is at your disposal.

 

Pros:

 

  • Full hookup for water and electric
  • Very quiet

 

Cons:

 

  • No Wifi
  • No sewer

 

8. Smuggler’s Notch State Park

 

A couple walking in the woods.

Smugglers’ Notch State Park is not confined to the campground. Just outside the gates lies a scenic corridor full of adventure.

 

There are so many things to do near Smuggler’s Notch State Park- before we even start talking about the gorgeous nature. You’ll be right next to the Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream factory, to break up your camping trip with a sweet treat, and the Lake Champlain chocolates. There’s also an array of activities for booze enthusiasts near the park: Boyden Vally Winery and Farm, Burlington Brew Tour, Magic Hat Brewing Company and Performing Arts Center, and Shelburne Vineyard and Wine Tasting. So for those of you who are looking for a varied stay, or maybe even a boozy weekend away, Smuggler’s Notch State Park might just be the option for you.

The Park itself is an oasis of natural beauty, situated near Stow in Lamoille County. At an elevation of 2,119 feet near Mount Mansfield (the highest peak of the Green Mountains), and with Mt Mansfield Ski Area (the best ski area in Vermont) nearby, this is also a great option for mountain and hill climbing and exploration. The park is named for Smugglers Notch, which separates Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak and the Sterling Range. Smugglers Notch is named after the smuggling which happened in the area; that was prompted by a request of President Thomas Jefferson to stop American involvement in the Napoleonic Wars. So if you visit Smuggler’s Notch State Park, you’ll never be bored, with a whole range of activities from wine tasting, brewery visits, sweet treats from ice cream and chocolate factories, skiing and mountain hiking, and nerding out about the history of smugglers.

Smugglers Notch is a State Park, so we would recommend visiting one of the state-owned campgrounds here. However the amenities are quite basic: although they have a brand new set of bathrooms, there is only one shower and you have to pay to use it in some sites. When camping, though, this is not your only option – check out our reviews of the top camping showers here.  There’s also no full hookup for RV, and some of the campsites are difficult to back into or are not level. The campsite is on a mountain, after all! Although the campsites are basic they provide all you need unless you’re looking for a glamping experience. The most exciting parts of your stay will most definitely be in what you can experience outside of the campsite- but there’s no harm in having a few days sleeping on the side of a mountain, with those stunning views too!

 

Pros:

 

  • Huge array of local attractions and activities
  • Good Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Bathrooms and showers

 

Cons:

 

  • No hookup for RV
  • A mountainside location which is not convenient for campers over 30 feet
  • Limited amenities

Final Verdict:

New England is home to countless beautiful natural features, just waiting to be discovered. Maine, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire hold over 20 National Parks and recreation areas, so why not explore a new one on your next trip. While you’re in the area, the city of Boston offers a huge contrast to the tranquil natural scenery mentioned here, so you may want to consider making a stop there as well.

If you’re trying to choose which campsite is best, the following questions can help you decide:

 

  • What environment are you looking for? Forest or lake?
  • What amenities do you need?
  • Do you need a family campground or a quiet secluded spot?
  • Which would be the most convenient state for you to reach? 

 

The United States is home to endless beautiful camping destinations. You can determine what you’re looking for in your ideal camping experience, using our questions above, but no matter your requirements or dreams for your camping holiday – our options have got you covered. So if you’re looking for the best camping experience in New England, one of these campgrounds is just waiting to welcome you, so you can arrive, set up camp, and let the good times roll. 

 

 

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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

How to have amazing experiences camping in Alaska?

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

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

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

  1. Be ready for the varying types of weather

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

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

  1. Pick a campground mindfully

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

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

  1. You will have the option to relax or unwind

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

  1. Keep the bears at bay

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

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

 

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

 

 

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Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides

Why Duck Boots are Good for Hiking

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are duck boots good for hiking

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

 

A pair of Bean Boots.

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

 

What are Duck Boots?

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

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

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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.

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 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.

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

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

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

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

 

A pair of boots in the grass.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Top 7 Best Microspikes for Hiking

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

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

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

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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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