It’s time again for me to send out the info for testing gear through BackpackGearTest.org. They’re always looking for new testers, and the new round of cool goodies is about to hit the streets! Right now I’m involved with several tests including: Montrail boots, Luna Sport food items, a really cool microfiber accessory (Mental Head Case),…
I needed to get Beau a new jacket since the one I had for him was actually Lucy’s and didn’t fit him properly. I also have a hard time finding a commercial jacket that fits since he has a deep chest and skinny waist. I found this pattern for Greyhounds–also deep chested and skinny waisted. I used…
I’m gearing up for a couple of trips this month, provided my vacation time gets approved. I’ve got a 10 day trip planned for the last week of August and the first week of September.As such, I’ve got my dehydrators working ’round the clock to crank out some tasty trail foods. I’m doing something a…
First Aid Kit I have tailored this to fit my needs since I usually hike either completely alone or with just a dog. I don’t carry things like splints because I haven’t had the need for one, even after badly spraining my ankle while hiking or even after breaking my leg not on the trail….
These are a couple of files I created when I was still planning to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 2004. Since I never did that trip they’ve been sitting on my laptop’s hard drive ever since. I believe they would be useful for many types of trips, not just hiking. For instance, a cross-country bicycle…
Hey! This is the new site. It’s been a long time coming, but it’s here. This will make it much easier to update and add content. Take a minute to tool around the site and see what we’ve got. For new visitors it’s easier to find things, for the regulars you might find some new…
Formerly the 10 Essentials, now up to 15. 1. Map- A map of the area will let you know what type of terrain you will be travelling through. Study it before you go out. Make sure you know how to read it, especially if it is a topographic map. 2. Compass- Will help you know…
What’s the best breed for hiking and packing? As with any activity, there is no best breed. Some breeds tend to be poorly suited for hiking and carrying a load- long backed breeds such as Bassets and Dachshunds for instance. Some have coats that pick up burrs and debris, or coats so thick they can’t…
Lucy Tested and Approved. Now entering the SECOND Generation of testing with Beau. All prices are in US dollars but are subject to change without anyone bothering to tell me Detailed Reviews for much of this gear is available at BackpackGearTest.org
A small request: The patterns are free, but if you’d like to see more, please support this site by visiting the Online Store or click the “Make a Donation” button at the top right of every page. More patterns are coming soon! The Patterns have been used to outfit dogs, hikers, assistance/therapy dogs, SAR teams,…
