Summer Gear Reviews: Edge of the Map, Hiking Pants, Clogs and a Radical Pan

Edge of the Map

Johanna Garton’s newly published book, Edge of the Map (Mountaineer Books) tells the story of an amazing mountaineer, Christine Boskoff, who distinguished herself in the male-dominated world of expedition climbing. Boskoff’s accomplishments—and laid-back, understated persona—make for fascinating reading. Edge of the Map follows her audacious ascents in some of the planet’s most remote places, details her personal triumphs and tragedies and eventual leadership of Seattle-based Mountain Madness, an elite guiding company, where she took the reins after previous owner Scott Fisher was lost on Everest, a mountaineering disaster made famous by Jon Krakauer in Into Thin Air. Garton weaves a compelling narrative and paints vivid pictures of Boskoff’s devotion to a life well lived. Edge of the Map  is a noteworthy addition to the canon of mountaineering literature.

More info: mountaineers.org/books

Arc’teryx Palisade Woman’s Hiking Pants

Guest review by Nikki Schormann

Whether summer or winter, I wear pants (not shorts) when hiking, to keep the sun, dirt, bugs, and brush off my legs. After my last pair finally wore out, I was on the lookout for breezy but durable pants that would keep me from overheating as I trek up hills this summer. I found the right fit in the Arc’teryx Palisade. I noticed the luxuriously soft waistband right away (why can’t all pants have this!?). With just enough stretch and a gusseted crotch built into these pants, I can climb over downed trees, and stretch my legs hopping from rock to rock at stream crossings. Four zippered pockets keep my phone handy for photos, and a snack close by when I need just a little more motivation to power up to the summit. Three lengths to choose from ensure that my pants reach my boots, but don’t drag on the ground. They’re lightweight, but sturdy, and the adjustable belt will accommodate an extra pair of long underwear when staying up late on chilly mountain nights.

More info: arcteryx.com

 

Stegmann EcoWool Clogs

When it comes to comfort, the artisans at Stegmann have been delivering since 1888. The EcoWool Clogs are no exception. Slip your feet into these anatomically-shaped clogs after a day on the trail and experience tootsie nirvana. They’re made from all natural wools, minimally processed, and are dye and chemical free. They last forever. And your conscience will feel good too: Stegmann, based in Tirol, Austria is carbon-neutral and supports small European farms practicing sustainable and cruelty free farming.

More info: stegmannusa.com

 

Radical Pan

Cooking in the woods is a unique joy. When car-camping, preparing—and eating—a fine meal can elevate the spirit. As the old saying goes, everything tastes better when you’re camping. The Radical Pan is ideal in two ways. It makes meal preparation ultra-easy with its high-rise lip and non-stick surface and it makes clean-up a snap. And guess what? It’s toxin-free. No PFOA, PFO, lead or cadmium. Bon Appétit!

More info: radusa.co

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