Can You Drink Too Much Water When Hiking?
I have written about this as part of another post (here). But let’s take a look at the science behind hyponatremia (aka water intoxication). Hyponatremia (aka water intoxication) is lethal Drinking too much water can lower sodium in the circulating blood to critically low levels, causing mild to life-threatening medical situations. People who take part in activities, such as endurance hiking or backpacking, are at elevated risk. Let’s watch the video from Authority Nutrition and get a handle…
Review: Sawyer Mini Water Filter System
We have been using the Sawyer Mini Water Filter System for almost a year now. Like all our reviews we use the equipment for an extended period of then critique it. Makes no sense to use it for a month and offer an opinion. The Sawyer Mini Water Filter System is an ultralight, ultraportable, and very useful tool. The Mini lives up to its name, weighing in at about 2 oz. this beats other water systems. The Mini…
The Biggest Problem in “Waterborne” illness Comes Down To This Word That Starts With “W”
I bet if you ask 10 people how you prevent “waterborne” illness nine would say treat, filter, and/or boil the water. Guess what, they would be right. However, what if we change the question a bit. How do we prevent backcountry gastrointestinal illness? Now, what do you think? If we look at gastrointestinal diseases contracted in the backcountry, we don’t have good consensus that it’s from the water you drink. In the journal “Wilderness and Environmental Medicine”, Thomas…
Clothing Materials for Hiking and Backpacking
I’ll open with – modern-day technical clothing will not complete your trip or climb. It will not determine success. Having said that, it won’t hurt. If you look back in the history of hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering clothing choices would be considered cumbersome and maybe dangerous today. However, many successful expeditions were completed using natural materials, such as canvas, silk, wool or leather. This is important as you need to understand that you must depend on…
Outline for a Beginner Hiker
Below are some simple things to keep in mind when getting ready for hiking. Motivation What are your motivations for hiking? They may change over time and as you gain more experience in the backcountry. Matching your motivation to your trip goals will increase your pleasure and increase the likelihood you will continue this as a lifelong activity. Enjoy nature Challenge Solitude/relaxation Fitness Have fun Enjoy friends and family Peak bagging Others? Matching your motivation to…