Practical Backpacking™ Podcast

PBP Episode 49 - Outdoor Research Handwear

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:27:20 -0800

In this episode I interview, Ammi Borenstein, the Director of Design and Development for Outdoor Research.

Ammi answers use-specifc questions regarding the company's wide-ranging line of gloves and mittens. He provides thorough details regarding the technical materials included in various handwear models, for protecting the hands in a variety of wilderness situations.

PBP Episode 49 - Outdoor Research Handwear

PBP Episode 48 - Eddie Bauer First Ascent

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 14:18:57 -0800

This episode features details regarding cold-weather insulation clothing in the First Ascent line from Eddie Bauer.

To get the facts on layering, insulative clothing, and insight into the history and outdoor gear offerings of Eddie Bauer, I speak with the company's Director of Technical Outerwear and Technical Sportwear: Andrew Turner.

Andrew has extensive knowledge of Eddie Bauer products and the technology that goes into making them. He's both experienced in and enthusiastic about getting out into the backcountry.

PBP Episode 48 - Eddie Bauer First Ascent

PBP Episode 47 - Trail Designs Ti-Tri Sidewinder

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 17:08:29 -0800

In this episode, I talk with Russ Zandbergen about the Trail Designs Ti-Tri Sidewinder stove system and inferno wood-burning insert.

Russ is the President and Co-Founder of Trail Designs LLC and maintains the innovative manufacturing company along with fellow-founders Lee Zandbergen and Yosemite-resident Rand Lindsly.

With detail and pride, Russ explains the Ti-Tri's multi-fuel capabilities and function. I ask him questions regarding the use of alchohol, solid fuel (Esbit), and wood in this unique stove system.

PBP Episode 47 - Trail Designs - Ti-Tri Sidewinder

PBP Episode 46 - Exped DownMat

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:05:56 -0800

This episode presents a conversation that I had with Kaj Bune. Kaj is the Director of Marketing for Exped LLC in North America.

Our talk centers on the company's DownMat - Exped's popular goose-down backcountry sleeping mat that features an integrated pump.

Kai shares detailed information about the DownMat's design and its wide range of practical benefits - including its superior ability to protect the user from conductive heat loss.

PBP Episode 46 - Exped DownMat

PBP Episode 45 - Hammocks 101

Sat, 13 Feb 2010 13:14:05 -0800

This episode is all about hammocks. I've asked Brandon Waddy of Warbonnet Outdoors to help answer some basic, introductory questions regarding camping hammocks and hammock accessories.

Brandon and I discuss the types, benefits, and features of hammocks. And offer some practical tips for the use of hammocks in the backcountry.

Whether you're a curious beginner needing a little more information, or a seasoned hammocker who just loves talk about hammocks, this episode is likely to capture your interest.

PBP Episode 45 - Hammocks 101

PBP Episode 44 - RailRiders

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:54:49 -0800

This episode features my conversation with John d'Arbeloff - the President and Founder of RailRiders.

Our talk focuses primarily on the company's popular VersaTac pants and Eco-Mesh shirt. However, there's a generous overview of several other RailRiders products.

John tells us about the fabric, features, and function of his tough and practical outdoor clothing line.

PBP Episode 44 - RailRiders

PBP Episode 43 - Blue Mountain Heritage Trail

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:41:08 -0800

In this episode I talk with Dick Hentze. Dick is the Chairman of the Board for the Blue Mountain Heritage Trail Association [501(c)(3)].

Dick amd others are working hard to establish a new, long trail for backpackers and other outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy year-round. The Blue Mountain Heritage Trail (BMHT) is a loop trail of approximately 870 miles of remote, scenic wilderness located largely in northeastern Oregon.

The BMHT provides a footpath through one of America's greatest treasure troves of majestic scenery - complete with a wide variety of wildlife such as antelope, elk, moose, and wolves. Dick presents an open invitation and an exciting opportunity for listeners to get involved in the beginnings of a wonderful new wilderness trail.

PBP Episode 43 - Blue Mountain Heritage Trail

PBP Episode 42 - Walking the Amazon

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:28:37 -0800

This episode features my interview with former British Army Captain Ed Stafford. Ed is in the midst of an expedition of a lifetime - backpacking the entire length of the Amazon River.

Driving himself through constant obstacles and denying fear's hold on him, Ed's spending over 2 years trekking thousands of miles of dense jungles, wading chest-deep swamps, and experiencing interesting encounters with various insects, reptiles, fish, indigenous tribes, and more.

What drives him to do this? What gear does he use? How dangerous is this expedition? Listen in for answers to these and other probing questions.

PBP Episode 42 - Walking the Amazon

PBP Episode 41 - Backpacking Couple

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:54:07 -0800

In this episode Lawton Grinter (Disco) and Felicia Hermosillo (P.O.D.) share what it was like to backpack as a couple for over 5,000 miles.

In recent years, the couple hiked both the Continental Divide Trail (see Walkumentary) and the Pacific Crest Trail, living on love, patience, trial and error, and whatever they could fit into their modest backpacks.

Having spent nearly every minute and mile after mile with mere paces between them, the two learned a lot about each other, themselves, and even how to yogi a thing or two. Listen in to laugh, learn, and dream as this adventurous duo shares their memorable journey.

PBP Episode 41 - Backpacking Couple

PBP Episode 40 - Backpacks 101

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:23:15 -0800

This episode is all about backpacks! Those with questions such as "Which pack should I get?" or "Is this pack big enough?" will be provided a wealth of information to help them with their decision making process.

Brian Frankle of Ultralight Adventure Equipment ( ULA) in on board with me to talk about a full-range of topics related to backpacks. Listen in for a generous overview of pack attributes, usage tips, and problem solving.

Whether you're planning a dayhike or a trek across country, this episode is likely to touch on something that will be of interest and practical application.

PBP Episode 40 - Backpacks

PBP Episode 39 - AMK Emergency Blankets and Bivvies

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 16:36:24 -0800

This episode features my discussion with the President of Adventure Medical Kits, Chris Gubera.

Chris answers my questions that are focused on the company's Heetsheets Blankets and Bivvy and the Thermo-Lite 2 Bivvy Sack.

These increasingly popular products are lightweight, durable, and quiet - and may just be what keeps you alive in an wilderness emergency.

Also in this episode is a little AMK company history and a few interesting stories regarding these survival products in use.

PBP Episode 39 - AMK Emergency Blankets and Bivvies

PBP Episode 38 - SPOT Satellite Messenger

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:01:38 -0800

In this episode I talk with Derek Moore of SPOT LLC about the SPOT Satellite Messenger.

Derek is the Public Relations Manager for SPOT, and he's enthusiastic about sharing the wonders of the company's proven, life-saving device.

If you travel into the wilderness, you may want to consider taking a SPOT Satellite Messenger along to send Check-In (I'm OK), Help, or 911 messages out via satellite to others.

Listen in to learn about the SPOT's lightweight design, easy-to-use features, and communications functions.

PBP Episode 38 - SPOT Satellite Messenger

PBP Episode 37 - Wilderness Cooking

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 17:23:30 -0800

This episode features my conversation with author and wilderness cooking enthusiast Laurie March.

Laurie talks with me about her recently published book A Fork in the Trail, and shares some of her wisdom and tips for making backpacking meals more enjoyable.

If your questions aren't answered in this episode or if you're just hungry for more, Laurie's an active member in the Practical Backpacking Forums and is excited about discussing wilderness cooking with you.

PBP Episode 37 - Wilderness Cooking

PBP Episode 36 - Big Agnes

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:17:26 -0800

In this episode I talk with Len Zanni, one of the co-owners of Big Agnes - a manufacturer of outdoor equipment that prides itself in being "The Mother of Comfort."

Our conversation specifically focuses on the new Copper Spur tent line. However, I ask Len to share a concise overview of the other tents, bags, pads, and accessories that the Colorado-based company has to offer.

Listen in to learn about Big Agnes gear - including recent product changes and a few hints on what's to come.

PBP Episode 36 - Big Agnes

PBP Episode 35 - Tarps 101

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 13:13:27 -0800

This episode is all about tarps. I've asked Ron Bell of Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD) to help me address concerns that some may have about using a tarp as their primary backpacking shelter.

Ron and I also discuss the many benefits that tarps provide as well as helpful tips on selection and pitching.

PBP Episode 35 - Tarps 101

PBP Episode 34 - GoLite Ultra 20

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 15:08:23 -0800

In this episode, I interview Andy Burgess, the Vice President of Development for GoLite, regarding the Ultra 20° down sleep system.

Andy shares all the details regarding the Ultra 20's design, materials, sizing, weight, and more. Listen in to discover the advantages of using this lightweight quilt for your outdoor adventures.

PBP Episode 34 - GoLite Ultra 20

PBP Episode 33 - New at Gossamer Gear

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:05:15 -0800

This episode is a double-feature in which I interview the executives of Gossamer Gear. First up, I talk with Grant Sible, the company's President, about new products and those that are soon to be released. Grant shares the details regarding new ultralight backpacking accessories and the changes and upcoming additions to their pack lineup.

Also featured is a detailed introduction to Gossamer Gear's new solo 1-pound shelter, The One, by Founder and Chairman Glen Van Peski.

PBP Episode 33 - New at Gossamer Gear

PBP Episode 32 - New Hilleberg All-Season Tents

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 14:50:15 -0800

This episode features my conversation with Petra Hilleberg, President and CEO of Hilleberg (USA), about the company's new Soulo, Allak, and Kaitum 3 shelters.

Petra shares details regarding the construction and features for each of these new models. Listen in to learn about Hilleberg's light and durable Kerlon fabric, their spacious tunnel and sturdy dome designs, and other real-world-tested features that go into every Hilleberg tent.

PBP Episode 32 - New Hilleberg All-Season Tents

PBP Episode 31 - CDT Yo-Yo

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 15:08:37 -0800

In this episode, Francis Tapon shares the exciting details of his extraordinary Yo-Yo of the Continental Divide Trail.

Francis hiked north on the CDT from Mexico to Canada and immediately turned around at the Canadian border and hiked southbound back to Mexico. This first-ever trek covered nearly 6,000 miles and took over 6 months to complete.

Listen in to hear Francis tell his inspiring story, and to learn how he accomplished such an amazing journey. Why did he do it? How did he manage the cold, bears, loneliness, and seemingly endless miles? Which gear worked for him and which didn't? What life-lessons did he bring back? This episode is packed with candid answers to these and many other questions.

Warning the information in this episode may be lead to a hiking addiction -- but if you want more, be sure to check out the journals, photos, and videos on Francis Tapon's website.

PBP Episode 31 - CDT Yo-Yo

PBP Episode 30 - Clark Jungle Hammock

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 13:31:52 -0800

This episode features an informative conversation with Spencer Clark of Clark Outdoor Products. The company manufactures full-featured camping hammocks in the USA from its Utah-based facilities.

Spencer is the Director of Public Relations for the family run operation, and he is intimately familiar with the details and use of the Clark Jungle Hammock models.

Listen in to hear how hammocking made its way into backpacking, and to discover if the practical and weight-saving advantages of a Clark Jungle Hammock are right for you.

PBP Episode 30 - Clark Jungle Hammock

PBP Episode 29 - Sierra Designs

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 16:59:11 -0800

In this episode I "talk gear" with Kristine Carey - Brand Manager for Sierra Designs. For over 4 decades the Colorado based company has been enabling backpackers and other outdoor enthusiasts to venture into the wild equipped with innovative and reliable clothing and gear.

Kristine answers a variety of questions regarding a selection of outerwear, sleeping bags, and tents from the Sierra Designs product catalog.

Listen in to see which of these durable and feature-rich products may be right for you.

PBP Episode 29 - Sierra Designs

PBP Episode 28 - Western Moutaineering

Sun, 03 Jun 2007 12:04:25 -0800

This episode features the Western Mountaineering line of sleeping bags. I recently interviewed Gary Peterson, the company's knowledgeable (and very busy) production manager. Gary wears many hats. He's directly involved in Western Mountaineering's sourcing of raw materials and research and development - among other things such as sales and human resources management.

Gary answered an hour's worth of questions regarding the down, fabric, sleeping bag models, care and cleaning, and even repairs and warranty issues. If you're interested in the company's history (over 35 years), you'll have to visit their website or contact them directly. This podcast is about sleeping bags - excellent ones - and all that goes into making a comfortable, feature-rich bag for people of all shape, sizes, and needs.

PBP Episode 28 - Western Mountaineering

PBP Episode 27 - Gossamer Gear

Thu, 19 Apr 2007 16:34:40 -0800

In this episode I had the pleasure of interviewing Glen Van Peski, Founder and Chairman, of Gossamer Gear.

For more than a decade, Glen and his ultralight manufacturing company has been helping an ever-growing number of weight-conscious backpackers move closer to the "light."

Gossamer Gear is headquarted in Austin, Texas, and produces innovative and affordable ultralight packs, shelters, sleeping gear, and backpacking accessories.

Listen in to pick up some of Glen's useful tips and lightweight backpacking knowledge, and to learn the finer details of Gossamer Gear.

[This episode features an extended testimonial section that immediately follows the interview.]

PBP Episode 27 - Gossamer Gear

PBP Episode 26 - Pacific Outdoor Equipment

Thu, 22 Mar 2007 14:12:56 -0800

This episode features the Pacific Outdoor Equipment line of sleeping mats. Greg Garrigues is the company's General Manager who is directly involved in product design and development.

Greg is quite knowledgeable about the materials and technology that goes into making comfortable sleeping mats. And he explains the season, gender, size, and genre-of-user specific features that are available in the Pacific Outdoor Equipment line of sleeping mats.

Whether in need of a new backcountry mattress or not, you're sure to gain some helpful insight and tips from this episode.

PBP Episode 26 - Pacific Outdoor Equipment

PBP Episode 25 - Andrew Skurka - Great Western Loop

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 13:48:33 -0800

In this episode Andrew Skurka answers questions about his long distance hikes and wilderness experiences. Andy became widely known in the backpacking community after the completion of his 11-month, 7,778-mile Sea-to-Sea hiking journey in 2005.

This spring (2007), Andy will begin a 7,000 mile Great Western Loop hike comprised of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT), Continental Divide Trail (CDT), Grand Enchantment Trail (GET), Arizona Trail (AZT), and a self-made route across the Mohave and Sonoran deserts of Arizona and California.

Andy put this hike together so that he could set out to see some of the best that the West has to offer. He will journey though 12 national parks and over 75 wilderness areas along the way.

Someone who hikes this many miles certainly has something to say about backpacking gear, experience, and technique. Listen in to hear about Andy's extraordinary adventures.

PBP Episode 25 - Andrew Skurka - Great Western Loop

PBP Episode 24 - Gear Mix 1

Sat, 10 Feb 2007 14:37:46 -0800

In this Gear Mix episode, I've included concise interviews with 4 cottage industry gear manufacturers: Brian Frankle of Ultralight Adventure Equipment, Ron Bell of Mountain Laurel Designs, Joe Valesko of Zpacks, and Henry Shires of TarpTent.

Gear Mix 1 features: the new ULA Amp pack, the recently released SUL products of Mountain Laurel Designs, the newly updated Zpacks Z1 pack, and the latest edition to the TarpTent shelter lineup - the TarpTent Contrail.

PBP Episode 24 - Gear Mix 1

PBP Episode 23 - PCT Thru-Hike Planning

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 13:08:36 -0800

Are you considering a Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike or wondering what it takes to accomplish this 2,650 mile journey? If so, you'll want to listen in to Robert Francisco answering important questions regarding this hike through the beautiful and challenging wilderness areas of California, Oregon, and Washington.

Robert is an active volunteer advocate for the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA). And he frequently speaks on topics related to and in benefit of the Pacific Crest Trail. Robert also serves as a mentor - helping others succeed in their goal of hiking this spectacular National Scenic Trail.

The focus of this episode is on the detail-packed planning that is necessary to complete a PCT thru-hike.

PBP Episode 23 - PCT Thru-hike Planning

PBP Episode 22 - Six Moon Designs

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 14:43:22 -0800

This episode features a conversation that I had with Ron Moak. Ron is a long-time lightweight backpacker who's taken his passion for hiking and gear and invested it into an ultralight packs and shelter manufacturing business: Six Moon Designs.

Ron shares some of his personal hiking experience on popular national trails, and gives detailed information for his company's unique gear designs.

There are some time-tested tips to be learned from Ron. He's been backpacking and making gear for decades and has gained a wealth of practical insight from trial and error along the way.

PBP Episode 22 - Six Moon Designs

PBP Episode 21 - Snowshoeing with MSR

Fri, 29 Dec 2006 18:10:19 -0800

In this episode I talk with Jon Almquist and Lee Getzewich of Mountain Safety Research (MSR). MSR designs, manufactures, and markets innovative adventure gear for outdoor enthusiasts.

My conversation with Jon and Lee is focused on snowshoeing and the MSR line of snowshoes. Jon is a MSR Global Brand Manager and Lee is a Product Manager who specializes in MSR's winter gear. Both are experienced snowshoers and full of helpful information about snowshoeing as it relates to winter backpacking.

Want to know more about snowshoeing and the MSR line of snowshoes? Listen in. This episode features a thorough introduction to setting out on a winter backpacking trip - equipped with the traction and advice you'll need to float (hike) safely on the snow.

PBP Episode 21 - Snowshoeing with MSR

PBP Episode 20 - Buck Tilton - Winter Backpacking

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 12:46:57 -0800

This episode features my talk with Buck Tilton. Buck is the co-founder of the NOLS Wilderness Medicine Institute (WMI). He has authored 24 books, including NOLS Winter Camping, and written more than 1,000 magazine articles.

Buck has also been awarded the Paul Petzoldt Award for excellence in wilderness education and the Warren Bowman Award for contributions to wilderness medicine.

Listen in and pick up some of Buck's useful tips for winter backpacking gear and safety.

PBP Episode 20 - Buck Tilton - Winter Backpacking