Backpacks
John's first backpack is now a museum piece. Sandra went through a parade of packs before settling on an Zpacks Arc Blast. Here's what we carry and why.
Big Agnes Cabin Creek double
For a couple of backpackers that want to share a sleeping bag, the Big Agnes Cabin Creek turns out to be an economical but bulky solution.
Columbia Omni-Freeze Zero T-shirt
John trail-tests the Columbia Omni-Freeze Zero T-shirt after being introduced to the new fabric by a Columbia rep at the grand opening of REI Jacksonville.
Dirty Girl Gaiters
If it's tick season, or if it's going to be wet and muddy, we break out our Dirty Girl Gaiters. Here's why we don't leave home with this piece of gear.
Hydrapak
Hydrapak has served us well as an extremely compact day pack and hydration for both hiking and bicycle rides. Whenever one of us wants to "go light," we pull the Hydrapak from our wall of packs and go.
Jetboil Stoves
After trying an array of camp stoves over the years, from Whisperlite to Zip and Esbit, I found the Jetboil. Now I feel comfortable cooking in the woods again.
Lightheart Gear Tents
A fan of lightweight backpacking tents (not tarps) since they first became available, my favorites are those produced by Lightheart Gear. We have two. Here's why
Sawyer Micro Squeeze Field Test
On a field test along a long stretch of the Florida Coast to Coast Trail with no potable water sources, the Sawyer Micro Squeeze proves itself a worthy backup plan
Tilley Hats
When we met, both of us owned Tilley hats and wore them for most of our outdoor activities. Sandy's had the same one for years; I've gone through several. Here's why.
Xmas with Zpacks
A field trip, Florida Hikes style, to a lightweight backpacking gear manufacturer creating great products - and jobs - on Florida's Space Coast.