Review

Happiness

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Sometimes we act like little kids. Its the happiness that a hobby or interest should bring to you. After receiving a nice sale item from REI the Dash 2 – I had to set it up in the front yard. I have several tents but was wanting something that gave me a bit less leg room and a bit more rain fly and ease of assembly. The price was right, its certainly adequate in the heat and rain as I had both on its inaugural outing. It was hot, lots of flies, and it poured almost all night. I was warm and dry. The rain fly works great and gives you ample room to protect your backpack. I really liked the 1/2 moon entrances on both sides. This tent has since had a few modifications and the newest version is “Quarter Dome 2”. I sleep on a fold out pad, as well as, a blow up – inside a sleeping bag. I was snug as the preverbial bug in a rug. Ez to setup, ez to take down and ample room for two folks as long as you’re both not over 200 lbs. There is much to be said for an light tent. What you sacrifice in durability you certainly make lighter. up for in weight. Compared to my previous 2 man (I have to have a bit of room – can’t do a one man – I like to stretch out) this tent was 1 1/2 lbs lighter. That is huge in packing weight. That’s 2 days worth of food, extra clothing, the list is only limited by your needs and imagination. So pack light … get it on sale and happy trails.

Injinji

Injinji

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Toesocks?  Who the hell wears toesocks?  After countless trips to the Podiatrist … I do.   It finally dawned on me that all the toenail fungus, blisters between my big & hammer toes, callouses, corns ad infinitum … that maybe my socks were causing some of these problems.  I was reluctant to believe that anything so simple could resolve so many maladies.  I know this -> My feet have never been in such good shape.  After years with UPS and on my feet all day in the rain and heat I finally took the plunge.  My wife’s badgering helped as well.  Born on Okinawa and no stranger to two and five toe socks she finally talked me in to trying them out.  But let’s ask the experts.

What does Injinji have to say?

“WHY TOESOCKS?
The Answer Is Surprisingly Simple

We created a sock anatomically designed to your foot, and the five-toe sleeve design allows your toes to splay naturally and align properly, enabling greater stability and more comfort.”

I won’t wear anything else on the trail now.  They come in cotton, synthetics & Merino wool.  Couple these with the right type of shoe and you’ll be one happy camper.

Altra Lone Peak 3.5

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The Altra Lone Peak 3.5

“Altra’s take on their shoe.”

“Updated and improved to make a best-seller even better. With drainage holes to keep your feet dry, a 4-point gaiter system to keep dirt and rocks out, and an upgraded mesh upper for enhanced durability, this shoe is ready to tackle the trail. Run with confidence and conquer the gnarliest terrain with the fully cushioned Zero Drop™ platform, FootShape™ toe box, and MaxTrac, TrailClaw outsole.”

What’s my take?

My daddy always told me … if you buy the best – it’ll last. His anecdotes are as true today as they were 50 years ago. Stand on any trail and take a poll of the shoes folks are wearing. Altra will be at the top of the list. IMHO Their shoes are more durable, more comfortable, and they’ll give you the best length of service.  I’ve tried so many brands of shoes from the $30 to the $200 range.   For my money, there is no better shoe out there. Whether its hiking or running … Do yourself a favor … save up and buy several!

Your feet will love you for it. Mine regularly send me movie tickets!

What’s the Hiking Nerd’s take?