Is Nylon Good for Hiking? A Practical Guide to Trail Fabrics

Hi, I’m Oscar. If you have ever stood in an outdoor store looking at rack after rack of trail shirts and pants, you know how confusing synthetic fabrics can be. You turn over a tag, see “100% nylon,” and wonder: Is nylon good for hiking, or will it leave you sweaty, chafed, and uncomfortable three … Read more

Are Hiking Boots Good for Walking? What You Need to Know

Are Hiking Boots Good for Walking

Hi, I’m Oscar. If you just bought a great new pair of trail shoes, you might be wondering, are hiking boots good for walking? It is a fair question. Maybe you want to break them in around the neighborhood. Maybe you are taking a trip that mixes city streets with dirt paths. Or maybe you … Read more

Are Combat Boots Good for Hiking? A Practical Trail Guide

Are Combat Boots Good for Hiking

I get asked this question a lot by beginner hikers: “Oscar, can I just wear my old combat boots on the trail?” It makes sense. If you already have a pair of military surplus boots sitting in your closet, buying expensive new hiking shoes feels like a waste of money. Plus, combat boots look incredibly … Read more