Menu / Gear Changes & Additions

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Trying more durably constructed hiking and mountaineering boot this year. Will let you know how they work out soon!

I typically don't like digging in single large-compartment bags so wanted to try the Mystery Ranch Blitz where I can have segmented pockets for items that may be needed throughout hike

I mainly purchased this year for the larger interface and upgraded navigation, health, and elevation tracking and monitoring.

Bought additional color to match a few of the other clothing additions.

Since I am largely solo-hiking opted for a more high visibility lightweight jacket.

A harness for those just-in-case chain climbing scenario's where a little extra care and caution is needed. Not needed for all hikes.

Via Ferrata system to pair with the repel/climb harness. Not needed for all hikes.

Acquired this glove for chain climbing scenarios where stickier grip is a welcome enhancement.

I picked this van up which has room for sleeping and plenty of room for storage in April of 2024. This is my starter van!

Had to add an ETC Card for tollway and will add rear cam and a few other accessories in October 2024.

Active Spine Technology ensures greater comfort supposedly however I found the straps to be very uncomfortable unlike the Mammut Lithium. I did enjoy the meshy pockets on the straps for holding the bear spray can.

Upgraded to the 15 Pro last year and love the enhanced image and cinematic quality. I've only had less than a year though and my battery is draining quite a bit.

Photography and video are amazing but disappointed in RTH, distance, and communication. I'm fearful to fly long distances. DJI states these can go up to 42 KM and are satellite connected however my drone lost signal while less than 1 mile away and would not return-to- home (RTH). I don't trust DJI as their support stated my setting was to land instead of RTH when I never changed the factory setting. Screenshot your settings before flight!

This light jacket is actually very warm. The only feature I don't like compared to the women's jackets is no ponytail rear hole exists for those that have long hair. All Mammut women's hooded jacket have a ponytail exit hole.

Upgraded from standard joggers to more of a soft-shell hiking pant. I found the lower waist for this pant to be more uncomfortable and prefer a higher waist for comfort and support feeling.

Upgraded from standard joggers to more of a soft-shell hiking pant.

Lightweight "disposable" boot, BUT cheaply made, soles start breaking apart and wear down very quickly. After 3 hikes the toe molding was coming off. The best feature is the "rockered" cushioning. I bought a second pair once back in the US and the same exact issues I had with pair I bought in Japan, also happened with the additional pair. Key here is "disposable". They may have a premium brand to some but given this is my first engagement with their products, my review is they are cheaply made.

Made mainly from recycled materials and the durable water-repellent treatment is PFC-free. The very lightweight and breathable shoulder padding makes it feel very comfortable to carry. Air channels in the 3D EVA foam provide good ventilation. The padded hip belt has a fold-out pocket for your smartphone. Great overall light pack for short day hikes!

T-GRIP trekking pole with ANTI-SHOCK. Internal springs absorb shock from the ground when you walk, reducing the strain on your shoulders and arms. With TELESCOPIK LOCKING SYSTEM, you can adjust the pole to any length you like depending on your height and the field condition with non-step screw threads.

This is the MVP of all my hiking gear especially for steep and sometimes rocky downhills where after a long day hiking helps take some of the downward momentum and weight off your descent.

Great gloves for general warmth with pop-off thumb and pointer finger holes. Likely you can only get these in Japan.

Great durable little camera for video with lots of settings and capabilities. Can get up to 5.3K.

This was an upgrade back in 2020 from my older iPhone 6.

Trail mapping and guide app. Options through the web application to design custom trail paths.

Basic Series 3 watch. My first but had great overall experience even with just the Series 3. No complaints.