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Monthly Archives: March 2019
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A handful of stalwarts may still prefer the tried-and-tested wooden hiking stick, but these days many hikers and backpackers absolutely swear by modern adjustable trekking poles.
These support aids take strain off your lower body and can reduce overall fatigue, allowing you to hike farther and faster with (hopefully) fewer aches and pains. They also provide a critical extra pair of legs when you're dealing with tricky terrain: river-crossings, boulderfields, slushy snow, severe slopes, and the like.
A fine choice for a reliable pair of trekking poles is this offering from Alpine Summit: remarkably inexpensive for the quality. Read on for more details!
Alpine Summit Explorer Edition Trekking Poles are meant for just about anybody who spends much time on the hiking trail--day hikers, backpackers, hunters, mountaineers navigating to the start of their climbs--as well as people who might want or need walking support for paved paths or sidewalks.
Certainly backpackers and climbers who carry heavy loads will appreciate the reduced strain on hips and legs that can result from using trekking poles.
Casual day hikers, though, can also get plenty of benefit: not least when contending with steep ascents or descents, hard switchbacks, or simply unstable footing, from mud to gloppy snow.
This package includes a pair of telescopic Alpine Summit Explorer Edition Trekking Poles as well as accessories for the tungsten tips:
The whole shebang comes with a 30-day return window and a one-year warranty against manufacturer defects as well.
The Alpine Summit Explorer Edition Trekking Poles are telescopic poles made from 7075 aerospace-grade aluminum.
Though aluminum is the slightly heavier of the two most common trekking-pole materials--carbon-fiber is the other--these Explorer Editions are quite lightweight at 8.8 ounces each, and they're less prone to shattering than carbon-fiber alternatives.
Two telescoping sections allow you to adjust the length of these Alpine Summit poles between 25 and 53 inches. This means you can collapse them for compact storage inside a pack or strapped on the outside of one, and adjust the length to respond to different grades.
The locking mechanism is lever-based: a fliplock you snap open and closed and adjust with an easy-to-twist nut. This provides quite a reliable lock as compared with those telescoping poles that twist to tighten or loosen.
The Alpine Summit Explorer Edition poles' handles are made from cork, which makes for an ergonomic grip that wicks away perspiration and insulates your hands.
The handle straps are adjustable as well so you can support your wrist in a comfortable position; a poor grip may not seem like a big deal, but across extended hikes it can lead to major hand and wrist soreness.
These trekking poles boast tungsten tips for firm traction as well as a variety of tip accessories for different substrates.
The shock-absorbing rubber tips cushion the poles (and your arms) when you're using them on hard-packed surfaces, bare rock, or pavement.
The rubber Monster tips serve as a more beefed-up anti-shock option.
Broad baskets provide a snowshoe effect on snowpack, while the solid mud and snow combo baskets improve purchase on muddy or sloppy trails.
While choosing the proper trekking-pole length is partly about personal preference and a bit of trial-and-error, there are certainly some basic principles to it.
Generally you'll be lengthening them when going downhill, shortening them when going uphill. On level trails, you'll usually want to keep the poles at a length that sees your forearms in parallel with the ground--your elbows at a right angle, in other words.
The most natural way to use Alpine Summit or any other trekking poles is via an alternating pattern, with the left-hand pole advancing with the right leg, and vice versa.
When going uphill or downhill, you may end up double-planting the poles and then taking steps braced by both pole-tips on the ground.
Besides serving as general walking aids, trekking poles provide all kinds of additional uses in the wilderness: from probing the depth of streams and snowpacks to supporting tarp shelters.
As we've mentioned, carbon-fiber poles tend to weigh less than aluminum ones, which is a particular advantage for ultra-light hikers and backpackers.
For these pared-down ultra-light trekkers, the Alpine Summit Explorer Edition poles, light as they are, may be unreasonably heavy.
While we tend to find lever-lock poles more reliable than twist-lock versions, you may prefer the latter.
You might also opt for trekking poles with handles of different construction than the Explorer Edition cork: Rubber is another possibility--a great insulator for cold-season hiking--while foam can be ultra-comfortable and moisture-resistant.
Alpine Summit Trekking Poles are a super-solid and enticingly inexpensive option for any hiker, backpacker, or around-the-town walker looking to improve their balance and footing while reducing lower-body strain.
Their relatively light weight, easy adjustability, comfortable cork grips, and various tip accessories make them a great choice for everything from front-country rambles to extended wilderness adventures.
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If it is time to upgrade to a new set of walking sticks, you may be interested in looking at Cascade Mountain's Tech Foldable Trekking Poles. They are built to last, deliver user-friendly features, and offer excellent portability.
Perfect for trekking and hiking, these poles help you to maintain your balance while protecting your joints. How do you know if their features are going to provide exactly what you need?
Our in-depth review tells you who the poles are designed for, what type of support they deliver, and essential details needed to help you make an informed purchase.
Cascade Mountain stands firmly behind the quality of its equipment. Parts under warranty are readily replaced, allowing you to step out on your next adventure with ease. Moreover, Cascade Mountain Tech Folding Trekking Poles are affordable and portable.
These trekking poles are perfect for people of all ages, including men, women, and children. The easy-to-use quick lock allows you to adjust the pole height, enabling anyone to fit them to size.
You'll discover this lightweight option offers stability and support.
Cascade Mountain's Tech Folding Trekking Poles offer excellence in performance, even if you have past knee injuries. They deliver quality support, minimizing the impact felt while trekking on difficult terrain.
If you need portability, these trekking poles are ideal for easy travel and have been used for long thru-hikes too. They weigh less than nine ounces each and readily collapse to fit in the travel case.
This set of foldable hiking poles comes with everything you need to make your adventures outdoors a memorable and fun experience.
The poles ship with:
These trekking poles are built to deliver exceptional strength, durability and value. Their carbon-fiber construction provides the kind of strength that allows you to wedge your poles in between rocks for stability without needing to worry about damaging them.
Despite their light weight, they are strong and durable.
An easy-to-use folding mechanism and carry bag make it easy to travel with your poles via car, train, plane, or boat. You can easily fit them into your backpack when you aren't actively using them, because they easily fold up to a length of 17 inches using a compact mechanism.
The adjustable length of the poles ranges between 44 inches and 54 inches, promoting their use by individuals of different heights. This feature also allows you to easily switch the length of your poles to accommodate for a change in terrain or slope, allowing you to choose adventures of varying difficulty levels.
The EVA Grip is well-known for its non-slip hold as well as its easy grasp. These grips provide a comfortable fit for your hand, and the adjustable wrist strap complements this scenario (see recommend way to utilize the wrist straps in the video below).
The bonus kit delivers all of the accessories trekkers may find themselves needing as they take on new challenges. It includes a variety of baskets, rubber feet, and boots, each of which meets the most commonly needed upgrades in trekking poles.
Your new trekking poles are going to be easy to use. Simply refer to the included instruction manual for set-up details.
Once your poles are assembled, it is time to adjust the height for a comfortable fit.
If you are unsure of the height you should set the poles at, keep in mind that the pole length should reach to your shoulder height from the ground.
To figure out the position of the handles, hold your hands so that they are near your body and set the top of each handle so that it fits in your upper palm.
If you prefer to buy a more expensive option with similar features, you may want to consider Black Diamond's Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles.
The Alpine model offers a 100% carbon-fiber build and cork grips. A pair weighs about the same as Cascade Mountain's Tech Foldable Trekking Poles.
Of course, you will pay more than three times the price, but you'll definitely stand out in a crowd.
Cascade Mountain Tech Folding Trekking Poles provide an affordable option for novice to experienced hikers.
The sturdy design promotes stability and support for all types of terrain. Men, women, and children can easily adapt these trekking poles for their height.
When you are searching for trekking poles that offer a low price along with high quality, this style is exactly what you need.
The poles ease of assembly, user-friendly design, and carbon fiber core provide everything you need to enjoy your next trekking adventure from start to finish.
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When you're ready to go hiking, it's important to choose the right hiking or walking sticks for the job. Proper gear ensures that you'll stay safe while you're on the trail. Whether you're an expert hiker or you're just starting out, you'll want quality poles you can count on.
OUTZIE Trekking Poles offer adjustable sticks you can use to hike or walk with total ease. These particular poles are designed for both casual and serious hikers who want durable hiking accessories they can use on any surface they come across when out on a trekking adventure.
This model is designed to be easily adjustable and offers high-performance grips that comfort no matter how long you're going to be hiking.
You'll also enjoy using the easy twist lock mechanism that ensures you're able to customize your sticks for your height.
Hiking is a wonderful way to stay fit and healthy, which is why these poles are designed for anyone who enjoys getting out and exploring the world around them.
These poles offer support and comfort for anyone who wants to walk long distances but who needs a little extra support.
The easy-to-use adjustable poles are ideal for adults who may need additional assistance standing or walking, especially hikers who may have muscular discomfort or pain.
These may also be used by senior citizens who wish to stay active.
The OUTZIE high performance trekking pole set comes with two lightweight trekking poles that are designed to offer support and comfort as you walk.
In addition to the two poles, you will also receive a carrying bag that provides an easy way to transport the poles.
This set also comes with adjustable straps, as well as two sets of rubber tips and mud baskets. One of the rubber tip sets is made specifically people who want to use the poles for Nordic walking (see below unpacking video for details).
Additionally, purchasers will receive a lifetime replacement guarantee for this product.
The OUTZIE Trekking Poles 2-pack is designed with your comfort in mind.
The poles features aircraft grade aluminum that is lightweight, which makes it perfect for bringing on trips and travel adventures.
You won't have to stress about hauling heavy hiking equipment when you use these poles--each pole weighs in at 9.8 ounces. They are easy to carry and easy to adjust, which makes them a convenient choice.
You'll also be able to enjoy the high performance grips that come with this model. They're designed to prevent you from slipping or losing your leverage as you move.
Many hikers struggle to keep their balance. Whether you struggle with a knee or ankle problem, you'll find that the grips make keeping your balance easier than ever.
This model is designed with the on the go hiker in mind, which is why it comes with a convenient carry bag.
When you're finished hiking, simply adjust your poles to collapsed position and carefully place them in your bag for easy transport. You can bring them in your car or even in your suitcase since this particular model is compact and can fit in your luggage or brought on the plane in your carry on.
Some hikers are concerned about having to adjust their poles, but this model makes adjustments a breeze. It features twist locks, which let you carefully adjust the height of the poles and then snap the lock into place.
You will not have to fumble with screws or tools in order to lock your poles in place. This makes modifying or adjusting your pole height while you're on the trail easy, too.
Before you begin walking with your trekking poles, make sure you adjust it properly to ensure it is optimized for your height.
You should hold the poles upright while standing with your elbows at a right angle. Make sure the poles allow you to stand comfortably.
When you place weight on the poles as you walk, you want them to feel as natural as possible, which is why you should properly adjust them before you begin hiking.
When you are walking, hold onto the grips at the ends of the poles for support as you move.
If this style of pole doesn't feel quite right for you, rest assured that there are many other options available.
You might choose a carbon filled pole style, such as Foxelli Trekking Poles. Another option would be to consider an aluminum alloy pole from Covacure.
It's important to take your time choosing the perfect pole for your life so that you're certain to end up with something you truly adore.
If you've been looking for a way to enjoy hiking or walking in comfort, it may be time to consider OUTZIE Trekking Poles. These poles are designed to make walking easier than ever. Whether you want to start getting in shape or you're simply looking for a way to enjoy your favorite hobby, it's time to get the equipment you need to succeed.
I’m sure you are already familiar with the words espresso, cappuccino and latte by now, as are most people around the globe.
Italian coffee drinks have now gained worldwide popularity, especially because of international coffee shop chains such as Starbucks, Lavazza and Costa Coffee.
But when you travel to Italy, will you be enjoying your daily brew in the same way as you would back home? Chances are you won’t.
Italian coffee culture is unique to the world, and an integral part of Italian everyday culture.
Before you go and sip an espresso in a Milan coffee shop, there are some very interesting things you should know about Italian coffee culture:
How did coffee become so popular in Italy in the first place?
Coffee was first introduced to Italy in the 16th century via Venice from Istanbul. It was at first only consumed by the wealthy, who viewed it as an exotic treat.
However, coffee was seen as a subject of controversy for religious reasons, as it had originated from Muslim countries. Only after being reviewed and approved by Pope Clement VIII, did it see a large boost in popularity.
Coffee houses started to pop up in the late 17th century, and it became more and more common to go out for coffee.
Italians only consumed regular brewed coffee until the evolution of the espresso in the early 20th century.
The espresso machine was patented in 1903, and since then the modern day coffee culture has evolved and flourished throughout the 20th century until today.
Italian coffee drinks are limited to a few fundamental choices.
These are the most common choices:

Italian coffee shops include both a bar area and a seating area, and the price you pay for your coffee will depend on whether you sit down at a table or have your coffee standing by the bar (by the way, the word barista literally means bartender!).
Sitting at a table will incur a higher price than standing, so if you’re a budget conscious person you might consider sipping your coffee by the bar. But, why standing you might ask?
Unlike the typical Italian food culture of slow and relaxed eating, it’s coffee culture emphasises finishing your drink quickly and moving on. So if you’re standing by the bar while having your shot of espresso, you’re likely to finish it in 2-3 sips and be on your way.
While the culture of international coffee shop chains has enabled you to bring your coffee with you out in a paper cup with lid, the coffee in Italy is meant to be consumed in the coffee shop.
Since it’s also meant to be finished quickly anyway, there would be no point of bringing the same cup of coffee around all day.
According to Italian coffee norms, you’re only supposed to consume one coffee during your visit to a coffee shop. If you crave more caffeine later in the day, you can just have another coffee then.
Coffee drinks that contain milk, such as cappuccinos and caffè lattes, are usually only consumed in the morning. Ordering one of these drinks in the afternoon might be seen by the locals as a bit unusual.
While we’re on the topic of milk: If you want to order a latte, make sure you specify that you want a caffè latte, as the word ‘latte’ by itself in Italian just means milk. If you actually do want a cup of milk, feel free to just ask for a latte.

When in Italy don’t forget latte means milk, while caffe latte is espresso with milk.
People around the world can’t get enough of Italian coffee these days, which is why we now have a growing number of coffee machines for home use.
Why go outside (or travel to Italy) to get a great cup of coffee, when we can now get it as soon as we roll out of bed and step into our kitchens?
Modern coffee machines, such as the Nescafè Dolce Gusto have made coffee preparation even easier, with the use of coffee pods or capsules instead of ground coffee beans.
When you’re travelling somewhere where you do not have easy access to a good caffè, there are now portable, travel sized espresso makers you can bring with you on your travels!
An example of this is the NowPresso, which is compatible with Nespresso® capsules (and other reusable coffee pods) and can boil water during coffee making.
The NowPresso is the the world’s first portable coffee machine that runs on a rechargeable lithium battery, which is detachable for air travel. The battery takes 2.5 hours to fully charge, and one charge can make 100 cups of espresso when using hot water and 3 cups when using cold water.
Italian style coffee is here to stay, and it’s now accessible almost anywhere in the world.
No matter if you’re lucky enough to be in Italy to enjoy a caffè corretto standing by a bar, or when you happen to be somewhere else in the world where they only drink tea, a good cup of Italian style coffee is something to be enjoyed every single day.

Will Travel For Coffee…
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Lots of people are appreciative of the insulated stainless steel bottle’s workings. In fact, many people have replaced their standard water bottles with this kind of container. And why is that?
This is because insulated water bottles can retain the temperature of the beverage inside.
However, not all stainless steel bottles are made in the same manner—some stainless steel bottles are better than others.
When you have yet to try out insulated stainless steel water bottles, continue reading to find out why this Fluid Sports Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle is a great choice in the category.
If you haven’t tried insulated stainless steel covers just yet, allow us to explain the benefits.
When you are concerned about safe materials, eco-friendly attributes, and quality, then you should give insulated stainless steel bottles like this one from Fluid Sports a spin.
A stainless steel water bottle is designed from natural materials. Thus, they can in turn be recycled. Making stainless steel products are more eco-friendly compared to making and recycling plastic.
Plastic water bottles can be flimsy and vulnerable to cracking and breakage. This is not the case with insulated stainless steel bottles. Stainless steel can be deployed under any condition due to the material’s durability and versatility. Water bottles made from this material have been endorsed by lots of athletes and on-the-go personalities.
This Fluid Sports insulated stainless steel bottle is completely BPA-free and non-toxic. The plastics that are included in recyclable plastic water bottles have been believed to contain health risks. Dangerous chemicals are leaked from certain plastic bottles, and these chemicals can lead to health conditions. If you make use of stainless steel, you can avoid acquiring hazardous carcinogens from entering your water.
Insulated stainless steel bottles are also known for their excellent temperature-retaining properties. Recyclable plastic bottles are not capable of maintaining the temperature of cold or hot drinks longer compared to the ability of stainless steel ones. The insulating power of the Fluid Sports Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle means you can take in cool water of beverages for up to 24 hours more. Hot water or beverage inside the container can stay warm for up to 12 hours.
Another excellent thing about this water bottle from Fluid Sports is that it does not absorb tastes and odors thus you can use the item for a variety of drinks at different occasions without worrying about the odor and taste of the beverage you have packed the day before. Cleaning is a breeze when it comes to this product, and you can easily take away odors just by rinsing the item well with water. It does not stain easily either.
Even though this Fluid Sports model was able to perform several of its tasks well especially when it comes to retaining its contents’ temperatures, it did display a few drawbacks. It has a flip-top lid which has a rather erroneous design.
While its wider mouth can readily accommodate putting in other ingredients like ice on the bottle easily, adding more ice, unfortunately, will oblige users to tug on the bottle back and forth just to budge the ice away from the front of the lid so you can get bigger sips from it. This is the only part that’s unfavorable about the product. You have to just fully open the lid just to get decent sips. Very inconvenient especially if you are in the middle of an activity.
Fluid Sports’ Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle did very well when it comes to insulation.
Hot drinks stayed hot for a solid amount of time, and it did exceptionally well for cold drinks.
However, this is not a water bottle for on-the-go, active folks due to some erroneous components which made drinking from the bottle inconvenient. This is a nice insulated water bottle to have in the office or in school.