The Hoka Pokey: That’s What It’s All About

If you’ve never worn Hoka One Ones before, be warned: they’re weird. And I’m not just talking about the way they look; they feel funny, too. You might as well be wearing a hovercraft strapped to each foot: you’re cushioned, … Continue reading

Ramblings of Spring and Cute Shoes – KEEN Haven CNX

Is Spring here yet? I’m sure some of you across the country are enjoying springtime, say in northern California where it’s dry and 60 degrees for much of the year. But for us in the upper Midwest, spring this year … Continue reading

Pair the KEEN Revel With the KEEN Olympus Sock

Although the snowshoe season is still going strong, I’ve given myself a few months to properly test and review the KEEN Revel Winter Hiking Boot.  They still look and feel brand new after months of wear and abuse.

I have … Continue reading

Tested: Salomon Snowcross CS

Winter is often a time when most of us reduce our training. The cold, wet and dark evening runs after work play on our minds. The subconscious needs only a little prodding to make us lose our ambition when the … Continue reading

Gear Review: Chaco Men’s Basin Shoe

If versatility, reliability and comfort are high on your priority list, then the Chaco Basin Shoe will fit the bill perfectly.

Designed and built for more than just an active lifestyle, the manufacturer has done its part for the planet’s … Continue reading

Gear Review: Hi-Tec Sierra Lite I WP Hiking Boot

If you’re in the market for a hard-wearing multi-purpose boot designed for both a Sunday afternoon stroll as well as major league hiking, then the Hi-Tec Sierra Lite is ideal for both. This is one rather eye-catching piece of footwear, … Continue reading

Gear Review: Kamik KeystoneG Men’s Boot

Reputation and reliability are always strong points when it comes to choosing the best in outdoor footwear. A company with huge amounts of both, as well as a long history, is Kamik. A family business, they’ve been around for more … Continue reading

Gear Review: Teva Chair 5 Men’s Boot

The practicalities of packing bulky items like hiking boots into your case or rucksack has often been seen as a spacious issue. Well, that issue is now vanishing in the rear view mirror thanks to the smart thinking and design … Continue reading

A Cold-Weather Boot Bout: KEEN vs. Kamik (and some Sorel, too.)

By sheer accident, KEEN and Kamik sent some of their boots to the right place for some serious cold-weather testing.

When KEEN sent me a pair of their Summit County II boots around the same time as Kamik sent a … Continue reading

Elite Barriers for Fleet Snowshoers: Pearl Izumi Feet Snow Covers

Completing the Tuscobia Winter Ultras on snowshoes—their shortest option, 35 miles—taught me a good lesson: throw away my shoe covers, start over. I chose Pearl Izumi’s Elite Barrier Shoe Covers.

Ostensibly for bikes, the cover works perfectly for a snowshoer … Continue reading

Gear Review: Vasque Snowblime Ultradry – Men’s Winter Boot

The keenest of backpackers doesn’t usually view the seasonal changes as a hindrance, merely a challenge. Part of that challenge is seeking out a rugged boot which will see him through all weathers from autumn to spring. The Vasque Snowblime … Continue reading

Gear Review: Vasque Snow Junkie Ultra – Men’s Winter Boot

Let’s be honest. Winter can be one harsh beast. Rain, hail, sleet, snow – and sometimes all on the same day. So, just what does the keen outdoor enthusiast do when it comes to keeping those feet well protected? Simple … Continue reading