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Journal Emory Wanger Journal Emory Wanger

Stop Thinking So Much

Stop obsessing over the perfectly planned adventure. Discover why letting go of expectations can lead to your best backpacking adventures yet.

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Inside the Design Philosophy of Mystery Ranch

Alex Rich from Mystery Ranch reveals the thought process behind designing packs built for extreme conditions. From the groundbreaking overload system to the meticulous choice of materials, we explore how the company merges innovation with practicality. Whether for hunting or hiking, discover what makes Mystery Ranch packs stand out in the world of outdoor gear.

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Gear Emory Wanger Gear Emory Wanger

The Must-Have Mid-Layer for Every Adventure

Finding the right lightweight mid-layer for outdoor adventures can be challenging. After nearly two years of using the Outdoor Vitals Ventus Active Hoodie, I’m convinced it’s one of the best lightweight, versatile, and warm mid-layers available.

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Podcast Emory Wanger Podcast Emory Wanger

Thru-Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with a Baby: Lesson from Jack McClure’s Family Adventure

In an inspiring adventure, Jack McClure and his wife Alana thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail with their nine-month-old daughter. From managing gear and handling medical emergencies to overcoming emotional challenges, their journey was filled with valuable lessons. Jack’s story offers practical tips and inspiration for families looking to embrace the outdoors together.

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Podcast Emory Wanger Podcast Emory Wanger

The Untold History of Mount Everest Guiding

Everest has long been a symbol of human challenge and adventure, but the story behind its guiding industry is often misunderstood. Dive into the evolution of Everest guiding, the rise of Sherpa leaders, myths that surround the world's tallest peak, and discover how Everest continues to inspire adventurers while balancing accessibility and preservation.

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Gear Emory Wanger Gear Emory Wanger

Behind the Design with Exo Mountain Gear

Steve Speck and Mark Huelsing of Exo Mountain Gear join me for a behind-the-scenes look at their newest pack design; the K4. After over three years in development and a decade of pack-building experience, the K4 is a finely tuned design and the best pack Exo has designed.

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Gear Emory Wanger Gear Emory Wanger

Choosing The Right Shelter Size For Your Backpack Hunt

Shelter size is a big deal for backpack hunters. Go too small and waiting out a storm for a few days will drive you crazy, but go too big and you might not find a suitable place to pitch it. Choosing the right sized shelter for your hunt will impact your overall comfort and capability so let’s get it sorted out!

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Gear Emory Wanger Gear Emory Wanger

Floorless vs. Floored Shelters for Backpack Hunting

Floorless vs. floored shelters; the new “age old question” that has floored backpack hunters since the beginning of time. Depending on where you live, where you’re hunting, what your willing to sleep with or not sleep with, and what weather is headed your way, you’re going to find yourself considering which type of shelter to haul with you into the backcountry. In recent years, floorless has become a staple in the backcountry for a number of reasons, yet traditional floored shelters still have their place in the backcountry. If you’re caught trying to decide which is right for you, this article is going to help you out.

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Knowledge and Skills Emory Wanger Knowledge and Skills Emory Wanger

How To Prevent Blisters

We’ve all seen those pictures floating around the internet of toes and heels blistered so bad it turns your stomach inside out. Blisters happen to the best of us, but they are preventable and treatable if you know what you’re doing. There’s no perfect solution to blister prevention because each boot, foot, and skin type is different. It’s an exercise in finding the right combination of treatment and prevention to make your life on the mountain enjoyable for your feet.

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Knowledge and Skills Emory Wanger Knowledge and Skills Emory Wanger

How To Manage Trash On Your Backpack Hunt

You’ve probably prepared your gear, your meals, your weapon of choice, and your body for your upcoming backpack hunt, but are you prepared for the trash you’re going to create while you’re out there? All those meals and snacks come with a wrapper of some sort so have you thought about what you’re going to do once you’re done with them?

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