A group of us went on a fishing and hunting trip to Alaska – we packed in all of our supplies as the float plane dropped us off on the tidal flats of Kadake Bay about two miles from the cabin.   About 500 yards away from the cabin was the main artery river lined with bear tracks, rotting, half-eaten salmon and other indescribable stuff.  We dipped our buckets and hefted them across the tall grass, over rocks and up the steep incline to the cabin.  That is when we pulled out the MIOX.  We continued this routine twice a day for four days – until I discovered the spring right behind the cabin on day 5.  Did the MIOX work?  Absolutely!  No one got sick from drinking the crazy germ infested water from the main river.  I will always have one of these water filters with me whenever I am camping.  We would also recommend having one of these in your 72 hour kit!  Be prepared with this MIOX.

If you want large forearm muscles buy a pump water filter – I already have big forearms and prefer the gym for my work outs, that is why I own the MSR MIOX.

The Mountain Hardwear Light Wedge 3 person Tent has been redesigned with Atlas Scandium SL poles, the Light Wedge 3 offers over 44 square feet of living area for three adults–and that doesn’t include the vestibule space for packs and other gear. Mountain Hardwear recently revised this backpacking tent, reinforcing the pole design with Atlas Scandium SL, a hard alloy built to withstand over 109,000-psi of intense pressure. This enhanced strength allows for thinner pole walls that reduce weight without compromising structural integrity. The Light Wedge 3 has a full-size mesh, D-shaped door and two top vents plus a rear window for 4×4 venting on muggy summer nights. The outer fly has a non-yellowing window made from UV-resistant and tear proof UVX film, a proprietary clear material that’s been tested at 27,000 feet and resists clouding like PVC or plastic film. It even stays flexible all the way down to -66 F, not that we’re saying that you should use this durable, three-season tent in those frozen conditions. The durable brow pole over the vestibule adds strength while increasing headroom above the single D-shaped door. Large pockets along the walls and suspended webbing loops help keep your gear in order. This is a great buy for what you get.  Buy the Light Wedge 3 Tent

In fact the shoe made the list for the top ‘light-duty” shoe for 2008. The Soft shell upper has no seams for a smooth, no-chafe fit “S3″  for shock, suspension, stability exterior Heel Support Structure is engineered to support the foot on impact, dissipating shock and reducing the chance of ankle twisting. Tri-density anatomical footbed supports the unique structure of your feet Midsole protection plate Specifications:

Upper: Synthetic Outsole: Rubber Lining: Nylon

Weight: 1 lb 1 oz

Cost: $100

1. Grease up. Reduce the friction by applying antiperspirant, anti-fungal power or a skin lubricant such as Sportslick, BodyGlide, or Hydropel before you hike. Reapply every few hours on the trail.

2. Ventilate. Wear the most breathable footwear appropriate for the conditions.

3. Keep them dry. If your feet perspire heavily, remove your boots and socks during rest breaks, apply more anti-fungal powder, and let them air out!

4. Rotate socks. Thats right, pack an extra pair of socks. Change your socks at lunch – or whenever they get soaked-and dry sweaty ones with body heat (in your jacket or pocket) or by hanging them from your pack as you hike.

5. Act early. As soon as you feel a hot spot developing, wrap or cover it with duct tape or moleskin (use tincture of benzoin with the latter to improve stickiness.)

If there is something we can review (or do for that matter) let us know.

Enjoy.