Brooks Cascadia 14 Trail Running Shoes Review

The Cascadia is Brooks’ signature trail running shoe. A well-cushioned, neutral support shoe with reliable traction, I’ve hiked in every version of the Cascadia since the 3rd edition was released in 2008. Over the years Brooks has made a lot Read More …

Gear Review: Patagonia Baggies Shorts

Since 2014, I’ve used three different pairs of Patagonia Baggies (both the 5″ and 7″ models), all of which are still going strong at the time of writing. During this period I’ve covered more than 5,000 hiking miles (8,047 km) Read More …

Sleeping Bags and Quilts for Thru-Hiking (2019 Edition)

When it comes to thru-hiking its important to have a sleeping bag (or quilt) that meets both your individual needs, as well as the dictates of the environment/s into which you are venturing. The challenge is finding a model that Read More …

Gear Review: Tarptent Aeon Li

Since receiving a prototype of the Tarptent Aeon Li in December, 2018, I’ve put about 550 miles (885 km) on the shelter. Most of these came on the Australian Alpine Walking Track (AAWT), but additionally I’ve also done some shorter Read More …

Time-outs and Tarptent Aeons

In recent times I’ve been back in Australia catching up with family and pottering around the rainforests of South East Queensland. A few weeks ago my personal and professional stars aligned, and a two to three week ambulatory window opened Read More …

Reveiw: Mountain Laurel Designs SoloMid XL

Over the past two years, I have used the Mountain Laurel Designs SoloMid XL in a wide range of environments around the world. Testing grounds have included Bolivia’s Altiplano and Cordillera Real, multiple trips in Tasmania’s rugged Southwest Wilderness, Wyoming’s Read More …

Review: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Sleeping Pad

I recently returned from a two-month hiking trip to Peru and Bolivia. Due to the subfreezing conditions, I was going to encounter, before setting out I decided to leave behind my beloved Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, and opt instead for its thicker Read More …

Gear Review: MLD Burn Backpack

Between 2010 and 2015, I hiked more than 19,000 miles (30,577 km) carrying a Mountain Laurel Designs Burn. This included multi-week trips in Australia, New Zealand and the calendar year triple crown of 2012 (plus eight of the other 12 Read More …

Gear Review: Tarptent ProTrail

A few months ago I posted about a prototype tent that I was taking to the Peruvian Andes. The ProTrail is a one-person, single wall silnylon shelter. It represents the latest offering from Henry Shires and the folks at Tarptent. Read More …