Ski goggles work great for most people, but they are not the only option on the mountain. After skiing for over 15 years and testing alternatives across Colorado, Utah, and Vermont, I have found several viable options depending on your needs. The best alternatives to ski goggles include OTG (Over the Glasses) goggles for prescription […]

Standing at the top of the mountain, staring down that pristine run, your eyes are about to face their toughest test. The snow doesn't just reflect sunlight, it amplifies it. At altitude, UV radiation increases by about 4% for every 1,000 feet, making proper eye protection non-negotiable. I've spent 15 seasons skiing across Colorado, Utah, […]

I learned this lesson the hard way on a spring camping trip in the Tetons. Despite sleeping in a 20F rated bag, I spent the night shivering on what I thought was a decent sleeping pad. Come morning, I discovered the uncomfortable truth: my uninsulated air pad had been actively cooling me from below. Here's […]

Standing at the entrance of a pitch-black cave, your helmet becomes the difference between an adventure and a disaster. I've spent years exploring both vertical shafts and climbing walls, and the helmet choice isn't just about protection, it's about survival. Caving helmets and climbing helmets may look similar at first glance, but they're designed for […]

Standing in the gear aisle at REI last spring, I watched a couple debate for 20 minutes over two backpacks that looked nearly identical. The husband insisted on the internal frame pack for support. The wife wanted the frameless version to save weight. They were both right - and both wrong - because neither had […]

After 15 years of camping and countless nights spent in everything from backyard tents to backcountry shelters, I've learned that the difference between a miserable wet night and a comfortable dry morning often comes down to what's underneath your tent. Putting a tarp under your tent creates a protective barrier that prevents ground moisture from […]

I've spent years sleeping outside in everything from 20-degree nights to mild autumn evenings. After testing both wool blankets and sleeping bags across dozens of camping trips, I can tell you the answer isn't as simple as one being better than the other. The choice depends entirely on how you camp, where you camp, and […]

Nothing ruins a camping trip faster than waking up in a puddle. After spending 45 soggy nights in the backcountry, I learned that waterproof protection starts from the ground up. A bathtub floor tent is the difference between dry sleeping bags and miserable mornings. A bathtub floor tent features a waterproof floor material that extends […]

There is something special about sleeping under a simple sheet of fabric, open to the sounds and smells of nature while staying protected from the elements. Tarp camping strips away the walls between you and the outdoors, creating an experience that traditional tents simply cannot match. I have spent over 15 years backpacking and camping […]

The better choice depends on how you plan to use it. Rain ponchos excel in breathability and emergency protection while covering you and your backpack. Rain jackets provide better wind resistance, mobility, and all-day comfort for active pursuits. Choose a rain poncho for short-term use, festivals, emergency backup, or when carrying a backpack. Choose a […]