Sawyer Squeeze Mini: A comparison with the original Sawyer Squeeze


You’ve probably heard about the Sawyer Squeeze filter. It’s been making waves through the backpacking and thru-hiking worlds since its debut several years ago. Unlike the heavy, fragile dinosaurs of…


Quote of the week: Aldo Leopold


We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect. -Aldo Leopold


My top 5 thru-hiking books


While guides and maps may be essential reading during your thru hiking adventures, you'll likely want a little more entertainment for your off trail reads. What follows is a list of some of my…


Backpacking tips: Frequently adjust your pack!


Think about the last time you were out backpacking. How often did you adjust and readjust your pack? Once, before you headed out to the trailhead? Maybe you readjusted once just before heading down…


How I shoot video on trail


I've had some requests to show how I film my trail videos, so I figured I'd give a little rundown of my setup. I've worked hard to find a lightweight,  space efficient, and trail-proof method with…


Choosing YOUR backcountry eating utensil


The shelves at your local outfitter are likely loaded with a vast selection of eating utensils designed for use in the backcountry. Sporks, spoons, forks, knives, chopsticks, aluminum, titanium,…


Critics questioning John Muir’s legacy and relevance in modern times


Take a look at this recent article published by the LA Times (Linked to here). To briefly sum it up, a group of environmentalists are questioning whether John Muir's ideas and conservationist mindset…


Quote of the Week: Emerson


"Nature says thou shalt keep the air, skate, swim, walk, ride, run. When you have worn out your shoes, the strength of the sole leather has passed into the fibre of your body. I measure your health…


Gear Review: La Sportiva Wildcat Shoes


Let's face it, shoes may not be the most interesting piece of gear to talk about, but they are essential to your outdoor pursuits. I'd even go as far as saying that they are the most important gear…


Welcome To Backcountry Banter!


Hello and welcome to Backcountry Banter!