 How To: Waterproof your CoatsWe’ve got a winter storm today, so that means I’m going to catch up on my waterproofing! I’ve been pushing it off but today's the day!
Did you know there’s great products out there to help waterproof your gear so you don’t have to get rid of them?! Today, I’m using one of the top brands NIKWAX ! I’m waterproofing my coats and my husband's coats since they have started to lose their waterproof capabilities. You know you need to waterproof them when guess what they stop repelling water and start soaking all the water in. Believe me, it’s no fun when it happens and you end up feeling like a cold, wet puppy dog! So let’s walk through the steps so you know how to waterproof your jackets and coats… 1. Pick 1-3 Garments that you need to waterproof (No more than 3 at a time) 2. Start with the NIKWAX Tech Wash and follow the instructions on the back of the bottle depending on what kind of washing machine you have and how many garments you’re cleaning. 3. Once your cycle is done, keep your garments in there and now use NIKWAX TX.DIRECT Wash-In and again follow the directions on the back of the bottle. 4. After that cycle is complete you can hang dry your garments or if the care label allows you can dry it on a low setting. (To be on the safe side, I’m going to hang dry mine) And Tada! You have officially waterproof your coats or jackets! It’s just that simple! So if you’re like me and have been pushing this off, use a snow day to get some of those extra house chores done! Happy waterproofing day! xoxo Kimmy
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Do You Know When to Wear Spikes VS. Snowshoes?Today, I went out to hike because there’s a big winter storm coming tomorrow through Saturday. What I didn’t realize is the trail that I was just on not too long ago is already a snowshoe trail! The last time I was on it, it was compact and all you needed were spikes. Lesson learned, always come prepared and guess what I’m human so we all make mistakes! I should have read recent reviews or just bring extra gear just in case, but I took my normal equipment and went for it. I still made the best of it and did as much as I could but figured I’d share this knowledge if you’re curious!
Use Spikes When:
It’s crazy how quickly a trail can change within a week but now I know! There’s no shame in turning back and adjusting plans. I tried as far as I could with wearing spikes in a snowshoe trail, but unfortunately you know you have to turn around when your feet are falling deep into the snow, you start to lose your balance, and the trekking because very difficult. (You wouldn’t want to roll an ankle!) I’m still learning a lot from moving out here and I’m realizing you need a bit of gear too, but all in all as long as you stay calm and can laugh at silly moments like this you’re gonna make it just fine! XOXO Kimmy Did You Know Your Hand Warmers Can Expire?Last week, I was out hiking with my friends when I noticed my fingertips starting to get really cold in the middle of our hike. I reached into my pack and grabbed one of my hot hands. I shook it to activate it and put it in my pocket. A few minutes went by and I noticed my hot hands still weren't getting very warm at all. I had mittens with me but the temps in the canyon were much colder than I thought.
My husband had given me some extra hot hands laying around the house to keep in my pack but we never thought about them expiring or having issues since the package was never opened. Luckily, our group turned around on the hike and once we picked up momentum my hands got warm again and I was okay. It was when we stopped and were admiring the waterfall when my hands were getting really cold. When I got back home, I checked the packaging and sure enough...on the back of the package it says EXP Date 1/2020!! These handwarmers do have an expiration date, who knew?! These handwarmers were 5 years expired; no wonder why they didn't work anymore. I was curious to know their shelf life and did some research and I am happy to share with you what I found out... Hand warmers typically have a shelf life of 3 to 4 years from the date of manufacture. The expiration date is usually printed on the packaging. Over time, the iron powder inside may lose its ability to oxidize properly, which reduces heat output. If you have older hand warmers, they might still work but could produce less heat or last for a shorter duration. Storing them in a cool, dry place helps preserve their effectiveness. So go into your hot hand/hand warmer stash and look at the expiration dates to make sure you don't pull a KIMMY (haha)! Stay safe out there and warm! Happy Winter Hiking Y'all! XOXO Kimmy What NOT to Bring on a Day HikeWhen embarking on a day hike, it's essential to pack light while still ensuring you have the necessary supplies for safety and comfort. Here's a list of things you should avoid bringing on a day hike:
What to Wear for Hiking in the HeatHiking in hot weather can be exhilarating, but it also presents challenges in terms of staying cool and protected from the sun. The right clothing plays a crucial role in keeping you comfortable and safe during these adventures. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to wear when hiking in the heat: 1. Opt for Lightweight and Breathable Fabrics: Choose clothing made from lightweight and breathable materials that allow air circulation and moisture-wicking properties. Fabrics like nylon, polyester, and merino wool are excellent choices as they dry quickly and help evaporate sweat, keeping you cool and dry. 2. Wear Moisture-Wicking Base Layers: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer that pulls sweat away from your skin. Moisture-wicking shirts or tank tops are ideal for hot weather hikes, preventing discomfort caused by sweat-soaked clothing. 3. Consider Ventilated Clothing: Look for hiking shirts with mesh panels or ventilation zippers to enhance airflow. Shirts with roll-up sleeves or those designed with UV protection offer versatility and sun protection while allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures. 4. Choose Lightweight and Quick-Drying Bottoms: Opt for lightweight and quick-drying hiking shorts or pants made from similar breathable materials as your top. Convertible pants that can be transformed into shorts provide flexibility as temperatures fluctuate. 5. Protect Yourself from the Sun: Wear a wide-brimmed hat or a cap with a neck flap to shield your face, neck, and ears from the sun's harsh rays. Sunglasses with UV protection are essential to protect your eyes. 6. Consider Cool Accessories: Bandanas or neck gaiters soaked in water and worn around the neck can provide instant relief from heat. Consider using cooling towels or wristbands that retain moisture and offer a cooling effect when worn. 7. Footwear Matters: Opt for lightweight, breathable hiking shoes or trail runners that provide ventilation and support. Ensure they are comfortable and offer good traction for different terrains. 8. Additional Tips:
Hiking in hot weather demands careful consideration of clothing choices to ensure comfort, protection, and safety. Dressing in lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking clothing, along with proper sun protection, will keep you cool and prevent heat-related issues during your outdoor excursion. Remember, staying comfortable and safe on a hot-weather hike largely depends on your clothing selection. By choosing the right gear and considering factors like breathability, sun protection, and comfort, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy your hiking adventure even in sweltering temperatures. Happy summer hiking y'all! Essential Clothes for Cold Weather HikingHiking in colder temperatures can be a rewarding and invigorating experience, provided you're properly prepared. One of the most crucial aspects of enjoying a cold-weather hike is wearing the right gear. Dressing appropriately can make all the difference between an enjoyable adventure and a discomforting trek. Here's a guide on what to wear when hiking in the cold: 1. Layering is Key The foundation of staying warm during a cold-weather hike is layering. This technique involves wearing multiple clothing layers to regulate body temperature and manage moisture effectively. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer designed to keep sweat away from your skin. Materials like polyester, nylon, or merino wool work well for this purpose. 2. Insulating Layers: On top of your base layer, add insulating layers like a fleece jacket or a down jacket to trap body heat. Fleece provides excellent insulation and retains warmth even when damp. Down jackets offer exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility, making them ideal for colder conditions. 3. Outer Shell Protection: Shield yourself from wind, snow, and rain by wearing a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Look for jackets or pants made with breathable materials that offer both weather protection and ventilation. Gore-Tex and similar fabrics provide excellent waterproofing while allowing moisture to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable. 4. Don't Forget Your Extremities: Keep your extremities warm by wearing appropriate accessories. Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens are essential to protect your hands. A hat that covers your ears, along with a neck gaiter or scarf, helps retain body heat. Wool socks are excellent for insulation, and waterproof, sturdy hiking boots are crucial for keeping your feet dry and warm. 5. Consider Your Bottom Half: Layering isn't exclusive to your upper body. Wear moisture-wicking thermal leggings or pants as a base layer for your legs. Insulated pants or hiking trousers that are water-resistant and windproof can be worn as an outer layer for additional warmth and protection. 6. Additional Tips:
Hiking in cold weather can be a breathtaking experience, but it requires adequate preparation, especially in terms of clothing. Dressing in layers, focusing on moisture-wicking fabrics, insulation, and weatherproofing, will help you stay warm, dry, and comfortable throughout your cold-weather adventure. Remember, the key to a successful cold-weather hike lies in dressing appropriately for the conditions. By choosing the right clothing and layering effectively, you'll be ready to embrace the beauty of winter landscapes while staying cozy and enjoying your outdoor expedition. Happy winter hiking y'all!  10 Essential Hiking Gear for DogsJust like humans bring essential hiking gear for the trail; it is critical that dogs have special gear for the trails too. Their items may be a little different, but they are just as important to bring with you so your dog has a great time and you're prepared for any emergency situation. Below are my top essential gear items that I recommend to bring for your furry friend! Hiking Gear for Dogs 1. Dog Collar or Harness with Leash Ensure your dog wears a comfortable harness or collar with ID tags and a leash for safety. 2. Dog Backpack Consider a dog-specific backpack to allow your pet to carry its water, food, and small items, but don't overload them. Ensure it fits properly and doesn't cause discomfort. The pack should only weigh about 10 % of their body weight. 3. Water and Collapsible bowl Carry enough water for both you and your dog. Bring a bowl that can collapse so that it's easy to pack and can hold your dogs water when they need a sip. 4. Dog Booties Protect your dog's paws from rough terrain, hot surfaces, or sharp objects with booties deigned for hiking. They come in different sizes so pick one that works best for your dog. 5. First Aid Kit for Dogs Include items like vet wrap, antiseptic wipes, tweezers for removing ticks, and any other medicine your dog may need. 6. Dog Food and Treats: Pack enough food and treats to sustain you dog throughout the hike so their energy levels stay up! 7. Doggie Bags Always clean up after your dog and pack out the waste to keep the trail clean for everyone to enjoy! 8. Reflective Gear For hikes during low light conditions, consider attaching reflective gear to your dog's collar or harness to enhance visibility. 9. Dog Bell You may want to attach a bell to your dogs collar or harness to help alert animals and keep both you and your dog safe from any encounters. 10. Tick Prevention Use tick prevention methods recommended by your veterinarian to protect your dog from ticks while hiking. Lastly, I would assess your dog's fitness level before hitting the trails. Consider their breed and age to make sure they can handle the hike. Also, check trail regulations as some places might have specific rules regarding pets on the trail. A lot of places we have been require dogs to be on a leash at all time so do your research ahead of time and pack what you need so both of you can have a great experience! Happy hiking y'all! 16 Essential Hiking GearThere are certain hiking gears that my fiancé and I always bring on our hikes. Now, depending on the length of your hike, the terrain, and weather conditions there may be a couple of items that you would want to bring in addition to these listed below. For this article, we are just going to talk about the basics. So here is my list of must haves for every hike! Essential Gear Items 1. Pack that holds a water bladder or water bottles 2. First aid kit 3. Hiking shoes or boots 4. Appropriate hiking attire for the conditions you'll be hiking in 5. Hat 6. Sunglasses 6. GPS system, Park Map, or AllTrails app (Free to download) 7. Snacks 9. Flashlight or headlamp 10. Multipurpose tool 11. Whistle or bell 12. Trekking poles 13. Matches or Firestarter 14. Phone and backup chargers for emergencies 15. Bug repellent 16. Toilet Paper (You never know if ya gotta go!) This may seem like a lot, but you never know what kind of situation you may encounter out on the trail. It is always better to be over prepared than underprepared. So add these items to your list and if you need more or less adjust accordingly to your trip. If you have any questions about why I put a certain item on our list, send me a message! Happy hiking y'all! |
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