A few months ago, I received the Gregory Packs Paragon 58 backpack from the iconic American brand in return for an unbiased review. Since then I used it on one backpacking trip and on several short hikes where I focused on testing its performance in terms of functionality, comfort and features. I really wanted a…
When it comes to hiking, most people wear either hiking pants or shorts. Both garment types can be great for outdoor activities. Hiking pants are very versatile because they protect your legs against vegetation, terrain, insects and sun. Since they completely cover your legs, they are a great option for hiking year-round, although in winter…
In the beginning of the year, I received the Woolona Remus long sleeve base layer for testing and since then I’ve been regularly wearing it for hiking, running, travelling and even bike commuting. Woolona is a Turkish company, established in 1952, which specializes in wool clothing. Many of their products are Woolmark certified which means…
We spent the last week of December 2022 at the Tyrrhenian coast of Italy, and decided to explore the incredible picturesque villages and landscapes which make up the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The five villages are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterossa al Mare,…
I got my first neck gaiter in 2008 as a part of the promotional stuff you get in marathon bags. At first, I didn’t know what the tube-shaped piece of fabric was supposed to be used for but after a little bit of research I figured out that it’s a neck gaiter. I checked how…
It is nothing short of wonderful to take your kids, big or small, with you out in nature for a hiking trip. All children are different, but there are still some common traits and needs for the different age groups when venturing out in the blue. Previously I wrote the article Hiking with a Baby:…
If you need a jacket for protection against rain and wind, you can choose between a hardshell or a softshell jacket. While there are many similarities between hardshell and softshell jackets, the two garment types are ultimately made for different weather conditions. They also differ by breathability, weight, drying time, price and more. I own…
In summer I received two t-shirts from Ibex Merino, while Blaz got a pair of hiking boxers in return for unbiased reviews. I previously reviewed the Ibex Merino Tencel t-shirt which was particularly great for hot weather, while the Ibex Journey t-shirt is a more classic Merino-Nylon blend (89%/11%). Nevertheless, it is actually my first…
In October 2022 we went on our honeymoon to Sicily, Italy’s largest island, which is home to the notoriously active volcano Mount Etna. Already in Catania airport you will be flooded with commercials and options for guided trips to the mountain, but these are quite pricey, and we wanted to be able to walk at our own pace, with…
A pair of good hiking boxers makes hiking more comfortable and reduces the chance of your skin getting chafed and rubbed in sensitive areas. In the summer we got activewear from the American brand Ibex for testing. Ibex specializes in Merino wool clothing and is known for producing top-notch hiking apparel. I received the Ibex…
