Merrell has always been my radar when shopping for shoes, thanks to its reputation for quality and durability, but for a while I thought they fell behind their competition. For the past 6 weeks, I've had the chance to try out four of their popular shoes: the MTL Skyfire 2, Moab Speed, Hydro Moc, and Agility Peak 5. Here's my personal take on each shoe, based on my experiences using them in various outdoor settings.
Read MoreBlue Bear Is The Ideal Sleep Drink for Van Lifers
Where the road is both your companion and your home, a good night's sleep is a treasure beyond measure, especially during van life. The constant hum of tires on asphalt, the glow of city lights through the van windows – it all conspires to keep you tossing and turning. But fear not, fellow nomads, for there's a sleep elixir that has become our secret weapon on the road – Blue Bear.
Read MoreBest Van Life Refrigerators and Freezers
Vanlife has become a popular way to explore the world while maintaining the comforts of home. Whether you're a full-time nomad or enjoy weekend getaways, having a reliable fridge in your van is essential for keeping your food fresh and your beverages cold. In this article, we'll explore the best fridges for vanlife, considering factors like size, power source, energy efficiency, durability, and even a budget-friendly option to help you make an informed decision.
Read MoreWhiskey, Tequila, and Beer Go Head-to-Head-to-Head on the Summit
Ladies and gentlemen, adventurers and connoisseurs, welcome to the most epic high-altitude showdown of all time! We've gathered here today on the majestic summit of Mount Booze, where we'll engage in a high-spirited debate over the three most iconic beverages: whiskey, tequila, and beer. As we sip and savor, we'll explore the pros and cons of each and determine which one truly reigns supreme at the top of the world.
Read MoreWrangler's ATG Line the Ideal Wardrobe for Van Life and Overlanding
In the world of overlanding and vanlife, where getting stuck in the mud, digging yourself out of the thick Baja sand, and fipopped tires are a reality, having the right gear you can count on is essential. Wrangler's All-Terrain Gear (ATG) line has been gaining recognition for its durability, functionality, and adaptability. In this article, we'll guide you through the ideal wardrobe suggestions from Wrangler's ATG line for various scenarios that overlanders and vanlifers often encounter, while also weighing the pros and cons of this gear.
Read MoreWestern Aloha Just Changed the Aloha Friday Game
Western Aloha just changed the Aloha Friday game! This brand is on the rise and I know why, their shirts are amazing! Are they an aloha shirt with a western flare? No, wait. They are western shirts with an aloha flare? Hmmm... I can't decide, but what I do know is that these shirts just became an instant classic for me and they are durable beyond belief. How durable? I took them rock climbing in Yosemite Valley and they didn't even scuff.
Read MoreThree Hiking Gloves Perfect for Cold Days
When the crisp, cold air calls you to the great outdoors for a hike, having the right gear can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment. One essential piece of gear for cold-weather hiking is a good pair of gloves. Hiking gloves not only keep your hands warm but also provide protection and dexterity for handling various tasks on the trail. In this blog, we'll explore three hiking gloves that are perfect for cold days: the Arc'teryx Venta, Icebreaker Merino, and Mountain Hardwear WindLab.
Read MoreUnleash Your Inner Trailblazer with Nike Trail Running Shoes
In the world of running, few brands are as iconic and revered as Nike. Known for their innovation, style, and performance, Nike has consistently delivered top-notch athletic footwear. But, what about their trail running shoes? Well, when it comes to trail running, Nike is no exception, offering a range of trail running shoes that cater to both beginners and seasoned trailblazers.
Read MoreStay Warm This Winter With These 5 Merino Wool Layers
Winter is upon us, and as the temperatures drop, staying warm and comfortable is a top priority. Merino wool is renowned for its exceptional insulating properties, moisture-wicking abilities, and comfort. It's a natural choice for those seeking to stay cozy and stylish during the winter months. In this article, we'll explore five excellent Merino wool layers that you should consider adding to your winter wardrobe.
Read More"Friendly Reminders" Might Be The Best Self-Care Book For Outdoor People
For the few of you who do not follow Scott Tatum on Instagram, you are missing out. But, that is okay, because he just released his first book, Friendly Reminders: Lessons From A Self-Care Savage, which condenses his wisdom from IG into a beautiful book with illustrations of your favorite places, like Yosemite and the American Southwest.
Read MorePureboost is Amazon's #1 Antioxidant Energy Drink... But is it good?
A variety pack of Pureboost antioxidant energy drinks arrived at the door in one of the unmistakable smiling boxes. I cracked open that smiling box and found my 30-pack with three flavors; acai alert, citrus sunrise, and berry boost.
I have to say, the naming is on point, and a plus point for the alliterations!
Read MoreHow to Properly Layer for Winter Camping
Winter camping offers a unique opportunity to experience the serene beauty of nature in its frozen state. However, to fully enjoy the experience, it's essential to stay warm and comfortable in the chilly conditions. Proper clothing is the key to surviving and thriving during a winter camping trip. The secret to staying warm in the frigid outdoors is layering your clothing effectively. This strategy allows you to regulate your body temperature, manage moisture, and stay comfortable throughout your winter adventure. In this article, we'll guide you on how to properly layer for winter camping.
Read MoreHow to Make the Best Cup of Coffee While Traveling
The quest for the perfect cup of coffee is a journey that coffee enthusiasts know well. It's a journey filled with exploration, discovery, and a lot of trial and error. The notion of the "perfect" cup of coffee can vary from person to person, but there are a few key elements that contribute to achieving that ideal brew, especially when you're on the road. In this article, I'm going to share some insights into different coffee-making options and the importance of selecting high-quality coffee beans. So, whether you're a globetrotting traveler, an outdoor adventurer, or someone who simply enjoys a good cup of coffee away from home, read on to learn how to make the best cup of coffee while you're on the go.
Read MoreMy First Week With WHOOP
WHOOP is unavoidable at this point. If you haven't heard an ad on a podcast, seen a friend rock'n their WHOOP, or passed by somebody on a run tracking their life through a WHOOP, you must live under a rock.
I know the peer pressure of sitting at a table and missing out on a conversation as friends talk about their sleep score and their day's strain was foreign to me, yet I was the only one at the table without it. So, I wanted to give it a try, to see if the buzz was worth it.
To do this, I tracked my daily thoughts about my life with a WHOOP.
Read MoreDid Patagonia Just Change The Wetsuit Game... Again?
Patagonia just dropped their new Yulex Regulator, a stretchier, softer (even though that's hard to believe), and more durable wetsuit line when compared to its predecessor, the OG Yulex.
Read MoreGood To-Go Just Made the Best Road Trip Meal
For the adventurers, road trippers, and vanlife wanderers among us, the pursuit of culinary delight on the open road or remote trails can be quite a challenge. Fast food and convenience store snacks often leave us longing for something more substantial and flavorful. But what if you could enjoy gourmet meals on your vanlife journeys without the hassle of cooking elaborate dishes in your mobile kitchen? That's where Good To-Go's cup meals come in, designed to be the ideal companion for those on the move.
Read MoreOutlander VS Rav 4, It Isn't Obvious
If you were to choose between the Mitsubishi Outlander or the Toyota Rav 4 what would you choose? To be honest, I would have picked the Rav 4 but that is because I had not heard of the Outlander, let alone driven one. Yet, last week I sat my butt in a Mitsubishi Outlander and drove it all around the Nashville area, took it off-roading, and shred some rubber along a race track (no lie).
Read MoreChris Burkard Drops Newest Book "The Oceans"
Renowned outdoor photographer Chris Burkard has just unveiled his latest masterpiece, a captivating coffee table book titled The Oceans. This stunning collection of photographs transcends traditional oceanography and ushers us into a realm of awe and reverence for the world's oceans.
Read MoreGraham Zimmerman Releases First Book "A Fine Line"
Graham Zimmerman, one of the world's best alpinist, has unveiled his captivating memoir, A Fine Line. In this well-crafted book, Zimmerman candidly shares his remarkable journey from a budding climber to one of the best alpinists in the world. Yet, A Fine Line is more than just a recounting of remarkable expeditions, summit views, and thin air. It's a story of resilience, loss, and the quest for a balanced and meaningful life in the unforgiving realm of high-risk mountain sports.
Read MoreThree Must Have Travel Recovery Tools
Travel can be exhilarating, but it can also be physically taxing. Hours spent cramped in planes or cars, exploring new terrains, and carrying heavy luggage can leave your muscles tense and weary. However, there's no need to let travel-induced fatigue put a damper on your adventures. I want to introduce you to three remarkable recovery tools that have become my travel companions, helping me to reinvigorate my body after long, even short, travel days.
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