Oasis 2100 Hydration pack by Teton Sports

   I recently upgraded from my Camelback hydration pack to the Teton Sports Oasis 2100. I can have to say this is the best day pack that I have ever used. Plenty of storage space, a 3 liter hydration bladder, a safety whistle built into the chest buckle, a large internal compartment with a couple of quick compartments and 2 waist zippered pockets. It even has a built in rain cover, and clip for your keys.

This pack is not only stylish, but incredibly comfortable and has a well thought out design. The padding on the back is not only designed for comfort, but airflow.  A mesh pocket on the back is perfect for those wet socks or in my case the dog bowl allowing the contents to dry while you are on the move.

I would recommend this pack to anyone who hikes, walks, trail runs, or is just looking for an excellent pack for family outings. 

  

Specs

• Dimensions: 19.5" x 12" x 9.5"
• Shell: 600D Dobby / 210D Polyester
• Hydration Capacity: 101-Ounce (3 Liter) Large Mouth Bladder Included
• Capacity: 1200 Cubic Inches / 20 Liters
• Color: Blue | Black
• Pack Weight: 2.45 lbs (unfilled)
• Waist Belt: Expandable up to 60"

Backpacking season is right around the corner, and Chris Simmons would like to take a moment to remind you of all the stuff you won’t be needing when you head into the hills.

1. Mugs/cups. Everyone wants one, but these things are a pain to pack efficiently, are useless if they aren’t insulated, and weigh something if they are. More often than not, they don’t have a lid. A good compromise: Find a half-liter Nalgene bottle. It’s the perfect size for your morning coffee or evening tea, and with the lid screwed on, it can tuck into your jacket or sleeping bag, doubling as a hot-water warmer.
    
2. Pillows. Great for car camping, and inevitably inadequate for the backcountry. Most of the time, I drop all my extra stuff into my backpack and use it to prop up my head. I’ve also been known to use the climbing rope, or my boots.
    
3. Extra Clothes. You’re going out for a weekend—not climbing Mt Everest. Seriously, extra shirts, pants and underwear should be tossed out. It makes packing a ton easier, and eliminates the (perceived) need for #4. On a 21-day Denali expedition, I bring a single change of long underwear, which is only put on when we leave the 14,000-foot camp for the final summit push. I’ll bring an extra pair of socks per three days in the backcountry, maxing out at three pairs total.
    
4. 100 Stuff sacks/Ziploc bags. Does everything have to go in a bag? And then into another bag? And then into the backpack, which is a big bag all by itself? Seriously? Yes, it makes it more organized, but why are you carrying so much stuff that you need to be that organized? If it’s smaller than your hand, it goes in the lid. The hike or approach into the mountains is often hotter than the climb and time spent sitting around camp, so use your pants, jackets, hats, gloves and your share of the tent or shelter (but see #9) to stuff around the sleeping bag, stove, food and climbing gear.  Afraid it’s going to rain, and your pack isn’t water proof? See #5.
    
5. Pack Covers. The most clever —and useless—piece of equipment that the outdoor industry every convinced the public was necessary. Maybe it dates back to canvas packs. Your stove can get wet and still work. The tent is designed to get wet and still work. If you’re hiking in the rain, you’re probably wearing rain gear, so you shouldn’t notice the difference between a wet backpack and dry one. Often these overpriced pieces of fabric are held on with just some elastic and a draw string, making them the 2nd most commonly blown-away item (in between trucker hats and poorly-anchored tents).  Worried about your sleeping bag getting wet?  A waterproof treated stuff sack, not necessarily dunk proof, will work 90 percent of the time, unless you’re in the Pacific Northwest. For the other 10 percent (or 30 percent in the PNW) of the time, simply line your pack with a plastic trash bag. Voila.

See more HERE

What have you used it for?

I made the switch from Duct Tape to Gorilla Tape a few months ago and I love this stuff. I have used it to fix shoes and an iPhone, to place over blisters, as support for joints. If McGyver was still in action he would never be without this stuff. I wrap it several times around a used plastic gift card, and keep it in my med kit. Some people wrap it around their trekking poles just below the grip.

What have you used it for? Please share with us below!

Can I wear trail runners for hiking?

The answer is yes. This is a very common practice among experienced hikers who know their limitations and what would be considered safe for them. For day hikes or even some long distance thru-hikes, trail runners are great. Trail runners are design differently that regular running shoes, from a more aggressive tread, to a specially designed shank to protect your foot from pounding on the rocks.

There are several things that should be taken into consideration before deciding to buy and wear trail runners for hiking.

Things to consider:

• Your weight
• Your pack weight (under 30lbs is best)
• The trail (rough terrain or going off trail is not recommended)
• Trail runners will not last as long as hiking boots.

A trail running shoe (bottom) has a more aggressive tread than a regular running shoe (top)

With so many manufacturers, materials, tread design, and even colors it can seam overwhelming. Which ones do I choose?!  Well unless you have unlimited fun funds, cost can certainly be one of the top considerations. 

But the one that trumps them all is how do they fit you? Some trail-running shoes cater to certain foot types, due to their design and their type of sole construction. The key is try a bunch of different brands and see what fits you the best. Break them in, and have fun out there!

Hiking boots or shoes?

An avid outdoors person all my life, I have always worn boots when it came to camping and exploring in the outdoors.

As a relatively new hiker the game changes a bit. With more miles, differing terrain, it seams that making the correct choice can really help keep the dogs from barking too much. I know ultimately its whats best for me given a number of factors, but I wanted to hear from some of the more experienced trail hounds.

What do you prefer and why? 

How to use Bear Spray!!!

Check out this how to use bear spray from Backpacker Magazine and don't forget to visit their site!

How to stay safe in the wilderness

How to stay safe in the wilderness

1. Know the area you are going or at least do some homework. Talk to people who have been in there, or go with someone who knows the area.
2. Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. Use programs like Yodel that can send check in messages or emergency notification to your contact(s) allowing them to see where you are on a map and relay GPS coordinates to emergency crews. If you rely on cell phones etc make sure they are charged, and possibly have a pocket sized solar charger.
3. Bring the 10 Essentials minimum
4. Pay attention to your surroundings. Time of day (allow plenty of time.  Round trip, or in and back), weather changes, other people, animals and equipment.
5. Pay attention to what your body is telling you. How you are feeling: Tired, thirsty, sick, nervous. Maybe its time to rest or turn back.
6. Don’t take unnecessary risks and know the dangers: What animals might you encounter, and what should you do? What if there is an uncontrolled fire? Am I in a potential flash flood area and what should I do if it starts to rain?
7. Stick to the trails. Don't go off trail unless you are an experienced hiker and know the area.

Some of these may seem like common sense, but you would be surprised at how many times I read about lost hikers/runners and see how many of these were broken. It’s not usually the one mistake that gets you; it’s a series of small mistakes that leads to disaster.

My 15 Essentials For The Outdoors

Some of these are probably familiar to you others may not be. This is just what I carry; let me know how yours differs in the comment section. Always looking to improve and learn!

1. First aid kit- Gauze, rolled gauze, butterfly bandages, emergency blanket, tape etc. Also any prescription medications that you may need if that day hike becomes an oh my gosh I got lost or injured multi-day hike.
2. Filled water bottle- 1 liter a day is recommended for moderate climates. I also recommend carrying water tablets, a filter straw, Sawyer Filter, or a UV light etc. These are smaller, lighter, and maybe more economical than most water filtration devices.
3. Flashlight- I like a hands free option, don’t forget extra batteries and bulb.
4. Food- You’re burning calories and will get hungry, especially if you end up staying longer than expected. Pack food that takes no preparation and can be eaten on the go. Calories are important here, as they are energy.
5. Sunscreen and sun protection- A bad burn can lead not only to skin cancer but to dehydration. Keep some sun screen and a hat in your pack, and don’t forget to use them!
6. Bandanna- Better yet a Shemagh- See post on uses of a Shemagh
7. Whistle- I would couple this with a signal mirror
8. Map and Compass- Also know how to use alternate methods, a sundial etc.
9. Rain gear- A poncho can keep your dry, helping to prevent hypothermia, and it can also be used as an improvised shelter
10. Knife- More than just a Swiss army knife, I like a fixed blade. My go to is SOGs Seal Pup. The sheath even has a place for a Multi-tool…see next.
11. Multi-tool- You know, for doing MacGyver stuff
12. Matches or fire starters- I recommend both. Always have more than one way to start a fire. Fire can be used to sterilize water, cook food, keep you warm and signal for help with.
13. Tender- Dryer lint, cotton balls slathered with petroleum jelly, whatever you like, have some tender to get that fire going even in the worst conditions.
14. 550 Paracord- I lace my boots with paracord, as well as carrying some extra. Paracord can support 550 lbs, individual strands 50lbs. Great for lashing, fishing line, bow cord etc. Don’t leave home without it.
15. Gorilla Tape- Its Duct tape on steroids. There is nothing you can’t do from fixing a ripped tent, to taping up blistered feet. Wrap around an old gift card or wrap a few times around your trekking poles near the top. It will come in handy!

Bottom line: You are responsible for you, be prepared, and have fun!