There are basically two types of material that trekking poles are made out of, aluminum and carbon fiber. The biggest difference between aluminum and carbon fiber trekking poles are the weight, although there are other factors to consider. If you are wondering which type of trekking pole is best for you, here are some considerations to help you choose the right set of poles for you and the difference between the two.
Aluminum Trekking Poles
Aluminum trekking poles are more durable than carbon fiber, will generally last longer and are not affected in high heat or frigid cold temperatures.
The only real con to aluminum poles is the heavier weight. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a nice set of Aluminum Quick Lock poles at 20.8 ounces per set. There are times where a heavier pole will perform better, when carrying a heavy load or hopping rocks. The type of hiking and trails that you enjoy will help to determine the right set for you. Carbon Fiber Poles
Cascade Mountain Tech offers carbon fiber poles ranging from 11.2 ounces to 16 ounces per set. This is advantageous to the weight conscious hiker looking to go further, faster with less weight.
If you are looking for a lightweight, yet durable carbon fiber pole, check out the 3K Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole with many features and accessories to see you through the most challenging of trails. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of trekking poles and will help you choose the right set for you to reap the maximum benefits. Trekking poles significantly reduce stress and tension on your knees, legs, feet and ankles and help propel you for a smoother hike. Check out our camp bedding, lightweight folding camp chairs, and quality rotomolded coolers which are Bear resistant and hold ice for up to 10 days. Cascade Mountain Tech has your outdoor hiking and camping gear and expert tips on how to get the most from your hike. We will help you evaluate and choose the right type of trekking poles for you. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of trekking poles and our new favorite, the 3K Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole. Hiking with a friend can be a more enjoyable experience and that includes our four-legged, furry friends. If you want to take your trusted companion along with you when hiking some trails, there are rules you should be aware of when hiking with your dog.
Follow these tips from the American Kennel Club for proper Trail etiquette when hiking with your dog to have a fun-loving, enjoyable experience for the both of you. Follow the rules of B-A-R-K for a fun hike with your dog: 1) Bag your pet’s waste It is important to pick up after your dog, even in remote locations. While your dog’s waste might seem natural, it can impact the water supply or cause problems for local wildlife. 2) Always have your dog on a leash Even a well-trained dog must be on a leash when on a trail. This is important for their own safety as well as courtesy to your fellow hikers. A dog that is not on a leash can quickly disappear out of sight and may encounter dangerous wildlife or a skunk. Even in areas where off-leash is allowed, only let your dog run free if you have control with verbal commands. 3) Respect wildlife Always keep your dog on the trail with you to protect plant and animal wildlife, except when stepping off the trail to allow others to pass. 4) Know where you can hike with your dog Always check a reliable source to know the rules regarding pets in the Park or on the Trail you want to hike. Some National Parks do allow dogs and some have restrictions for which trails they are allowed on. This is for the protection of your pet, other hikers and the environment. Dogs can have an impact on delicate ecosystems and a difficult trail may put a dog in harm’s way. Know before you go by calling the ranger station or checking a reliable trail source. Follow these rules whenever hiking with your dog and also make sure your dog is healthy enough for a safe hike with regular vet checkups. Avoid hiking in overly hot weather and know the signs of a dog overheating. Dogs do not sweat like people do, panting is how they keep cool. Bring your own water so your dog does not have to drink from streams and risk getting parasitic infections. Always check your dog over after a hike and it is a good idea to give them a bath and check for ticks. Cascade Mountain Tech encourages dog friendly hiking, it is good for the pet and the owner. Just make sure you follow the rules for the safety of your beloved canine friend and your fellow hikers. Contact Cascade Mountain Tech for all your hiking and camping gear such as quality rotomolded coolers that keep ice for 10 days, a wide selection of lightweight, durable hiking trekking poles, packable camp chairs, camp bedding and more. Cascade Mountain Tech was founded by avid outdoor enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest. We aim to provide affordable outdoor adventure to everyone. Contact us with any questions and for assistance in selecting the right hiking gear for you and for more tips on hiking with your dog. Hiking and immersing children in nature is a wonderful way to burn some energy and instill a deep appreciation for nature from an early age. Hiking teaches children many lessons and offers a world of opportunities for educational experiences. Whether you are looking to spend some fun time outside and unplugged with your kids or searching for educational outdoor experiences, hiking provides both.
Here are some tips for a successful hiking adventure with your kids: 1) Choose an appropriate trail or area You can hike almost anywhere, depending on the age of your children. Toddler aged children cannot maneuver through wooded, forest terrain so a paved path would be better and they may not last very long. School age children love to climb over rocks and play in the creek. Older kids that can handle trekking poles will love to have their own set and it could help them to keep up with the grown-ups. 2) Offer rewards along the way Challenge your kids to reach a certain destination like the creek or the picnic area and offer a reward for reaching their goal. You can play a game like “I spy” and challenge your kids to find plants and wildlife, keeping track in a notebook or smartphone app. 3) Document your hike Take a camera and a journal and encourage your children to take pictures, explore and document their journey. 4) Let them carry their own gear Kids love to feel helpful and giving them a small job or something to carry heightens their feeling of importance. Let them carry a small backpack or just a few items like a whistle or some snacks. Older children can carry their own trekking poles or binoculars. 5) Teach kids to respect nature and the principles of Leave No Trace It is never too early to teach the younger generation how to respect the land. Leave No Trace™ offers educational materials for kids to help them learn the principles of respecting nature and wildlife. Our children are the stewards of this great planet, teaching them to be considerate of others, leaving things where they found them and disposing of trash properly can be instilled at an early age. Cascade Mountain Tech Has Your Outdoor Gear Cascade Mountain Tech believes in outdoor adventures at any age and encourages you to get your kids involved in nature early on. We offer a wide variety of outdoor camping and hiking gear to make your outing a huge success. With our roto-molded coolers, you can rest assured your snacks and beverages will be cold when you need them and not soggy from melted ice. Our coolers keep ice for up to 10 days. Our trekking poles come with a variety of options in lightweight, ultra-lightweight, carbon fiber and 3k carbon fiber, adjustable with quick-lock options, cork handles for comfort and more. We can help you determine the best size for your child and give you pointers on the best way to use your trekking poles. Take along some folding camp chairs in case your children need to stop for a few minutes. Lightweight, foldable camping chairs can easily be packed in your carry bag and will give you a reprieve if you need to take a break with kids or if you find a great spot to sit and watch nature, birds or the beach. Cascade Mountain Tech offers high-quality outdoor camping and hiking gear made to last. Our company was started by outdoor enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest, dedicated to offering outdoor adventure to everyone. Contact us with any questions and for more advice on camping and hiking with kids. Avid campers and hikers know that there is nothing better than being at one with mother nature while taking in spectacular scenery and fresh mountain air. You can make sure that you have an amazing outdoor adventure without unexpected, unpleasant surprises by planning ahead and following these five safety tips.
1) Choose the best trail for you. If it’s been awhile since you’ve hiked, choose a trail that matches your abilities where you can pace yourself. Consider everyone in your group including children, pets or beginners. Evaluate the full trail first for any crossings you may not feel comfortable with like crossing a stream with children. Make sure everyone’s trekking poles are adjusted properly to give the right support through your trail. 2) Check the conditions on your chosen trail. You may think you have done your homework by finding the perfect trail, but there is nothing worse than arriving at your destination to find it closed. Trails can close suddenly for a number of reasons such as washed away bridges, downed trees, obstacles on the trail, snow or weather related closures. Call the ranger station first and check trip reports for hiker posted information when hiking in the Pacific Northwest. This is an important step to ensuring a safe hike. 3) Check the weather forecast. This might seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people get caught in dangerous situations, either in the wrong place at the wrong time or stuck without the gear they need. You can check the weather including the mountain forecast, avalanche watch and snow depth report, even see live views on official Mountain Webcams at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA. The weather in the mountains can be quite different than the weather at sea level. Be sure to plan ahead for an enjoyable, and safe hike. 4) Give a friend your hike itinerary. Washington Trails Association offers a Hike Itinerary Form, that you should complete and leave with a friend who will contact authorities if you do not return when expected. Your itinerary will include pertinent information such as your trail plans, color of tents and clothing, parties in your group, type of vehicle and license plate, etc… Be sure to call your friend when you return. 5) Don’t forget to pack the essentials. There are some items than you should always take with you on a hike such as:
Cascade Mountain Tech has essential gear for the avid hiker such as:
Cascade Mountain Tech was founded by avid outdoor enthusiasts who care about your safety and enjoyable experience on the trail. Cascade Mountain Tech offers quality camping and hiking gear combined with exceptional customer support. We offer durable, long-lasting products and trekking pole repair parts to save you time and money. Contact us for quality hiking gear that improves your safety on the trail. Your camping days do not have to come to an end with the turn to autumn. Camping in the fall is one of the best times to see stunning landscape as well as enjoy fewer crowds on the trails. So grab your trekking poles and pack your super cooler to hit some of the best spots for fall camping in the Northwest.
Washington boasts some of the most beautiful fall camping sites available, such as Illahee State Park located on a prime stretch of beachfront on Port Orchard Bay, open year round for day use and camping. Bay View State Park and Beacon State Park also offer year round camping. Check out the Winter Schedule for Washington State Parks and phone first to confirm accessibility. The Oregon Coast is famous for beautiful, breathtaking landscape. There are a number of State Parks that offer year-round camping, several amenities, daily activities and spectacular views. Here are a couple that top the list for fall camping at Oregon State Parks. Beverly Beach State Park Beverly Beach State Park near Newport, Oregon is one of the state’s largest Creekside campgrounds, hidden between Yaquina Head and Cape Foulweather. Enjoy beach access to one and a half miles of beautiful sands on the crashing Pacific from Yaquina Head to Otter Rock. Beverly Beach State Park offers year-round camping, features a playground, a Welcome Center and is central to excellent whale watching viewpoints and the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Silver Falls State Park Silver Falls State Park offers boundless majestic beauty, featuring scenic trails and waterfalls you can walk behind. Open for camping and daily activities year round, this is top of the list for fall camping. The Trail of Ten Falls is a spectacular 7.2 mile loop with views of ten waterfalls, four that you can walk behind and five that are more than 100 feet tall. Bring your horse or take a guided horseback ride, enjoy a playground, horseshoe pits, picnic and barbeque areas and spacious lawns. Get Ready for Fall Camping with Cascade Mountain Tech Cascade Mountain Tech has just the fall camping gear for you, with quality mummy sleeping bags with 0° ratings and camp bedding to keep you warm at night. Pack your super roto-molded cooler and don’t worry about getting more ice for up to 10 days! Enjoy cozy nights around the fire with the most comfortable, durable camp chairs available. The folding, high-back camp chair is lightweight and compact, with a weight limit of 250 lbs. Packable camp chairs with sand feet keep you comfortable without sinking into the sand so you can take in the breathtaking view all night if you wish. Cascade Mountain Tech is your one stop for quality camping gear at an affordable price. Our goal is to make outdoor adventure available to everyone, with high-quality hiking and camping gear that will last. Contact us to learn more about the perfect camp gear and get ready for some spectacular fall camping in the beautiful Northwest. Everyone enjoys the feeling of getting away from the daily hustle bustle and relaxing with family and friends in the great outdoors. We all enjoy that camp outing a little more when we are comfortable, relaxing in some nice comfortable camping chairs. There are different types of camping chairs and you should evaluate a few options to make sure you get the right chair with the right features for you.
Some of the most important features when buying a camping chair include: Size and weight - size and weight are important especially if you are backpacking. If you are car camping you have a little more leeway in this area although foldable, lightweight camping chairs are very popular just for the convenience. Cascade Mountain Tech offers some lightweight, packable camping chairs which are also durable and immensely comfortable. Construction material - quality materials are important when looking for a camping chair that will last. Most camping chairs have legs made of aluminum for lightweight yet durable construction. Camping chairs from cascade Mountain Tech come with a one-year manufacturer warranty so you can have confidence in quality construction and material. Weight capacity - the weight capacity of your camping chair is an important consideration. If you need comfortable seating for a big and tall man or woman, make sure your chair will accommodate you or your guests. Low profile - if you want a chair to prop up near the beach and put your feet in the water you might want a low-profile beach chair. Some outdoor concert venues require a low-profile chair for the viewing pleasure of all guests. High-back chair - if you want to sit around the campfire with full back support you might want a high backed chair. This gives you more room to sit back with a blanket and cuddle up by the fire. Sand feet - if you want a chair for the beach make sure it comes with sand feet to support your chair in the sand without sinking. Quality Camping Chairs with a Warranty Cascade Mountain Tech offers high-quality camping chairs for any outdoor adventure, all available with a one-year manufacturer warranty. Our knowledgeable staff can help you evaluate the features to choose the right camping chair for you and your outing. We offer everything you need for an enjoyable hike or camping trip such as rotomolded coolers that keep ice for up to 10 days, hiking trekking poles or comfortable camp bedding. Cascade Mountain Tech is your one-stop for hiking, backpacking and camping gear. We believe in making outdoor adventure accessible to everyone. Contact us for more information on our high-quality products and for choosing the right camping chair for you. Whether you are backpacking solo or with a few friends, or car camping with the family, you need comfortable seating when it is time to rest after a busy, active day. Camping chairs have come a long way with many features available to provide comfort in any setting. Foldable, packable chairs make it easy to pack light and still have a nice place to sit and gather around a fire or take a load off.
When choosing the best, most comfortable camping chair for you, here are a few of the most important factors to consider: Packability - consider the end-use and purpose. For example if you are backpacking, a foldable and lightweight chair are going to be the most important factors. If you're car camping you can shop for the most comfortable chair with a little more leeway in terms of weight or size. End Purpose - the end-use is important as far as the terrain you want to pitch your chair on. Are you going to be in the woods or the beach? Do you need a low-profile chair for an outdoor concert? Examine the features and the options such as sand feet if you are looking for a beach chair. Design features - do you want a low-profile chair, a high backed chair or a reclining chair? Does it need to be packable? Examining these factors will help you to choose the right camping chair for you and provide the most comfortable seating possible during your outing. Comfortable Camp Chairs for Any Outdoor Adventure Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of comfortable, durable, compact and packable camp chairs for any situation. Whether you want to pop up comfortable seating on the beach, cuddle up in a high-backed chair near a fire or sit back and recline, you can find an affordable chair that you look forward to relaxing in. Cascade Mountain Tech offers all your camping and hiking gear including quality hiking trekking poles, super rotomolded coolers, camp bedding and more. Our camp chairs are durable and built to last, made with high quality fibers and components and come with a one-year manufacturer warranty. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of packable and comfortable camping chairs for any outing. We offer everything you need for a successful camp or hike, making affordable adventure accessible to everyone. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about our high-quality camping chairs. When fall is in the air, you can enjoy some beautiful hikes on some nice sunny days without the high heat of summer, although nights can be a little chillier. Be sure to pack a good quality sleeping bag with the right camp bedding for a nice and cozy good night’s sleep. Planning ahead, checking the weather forecast and choosing a mummy sleeping bag with the right temperature rating is key to enjoying your autumn hike.
1) Plan Ahead and Check the Weather Forecast Checking the weather forecast goes without saying, but do not forget to choose your camp bedding on the assumption that the weather can fluctuate at least 10° in either direction. Plan ahead and take a mummy sleeping bag with the temperature rating of at least 10° cooler than what you think you might need. 2) Temperature Ratings for Sleeping Bags Temperature ratings are given to sleeping bags with the assumption that a sleeping pad is also in use. A mummy sleeping bag will keep you warmer on cooler nights as there is less wiggle room which generates more body heat. Extra clothing layers do not always keep you extra warm at night. Raise your body temp a little by jumping in place and then get in your bag so the insulation can do its job. 3) Always use a Sleeping Pad Using a sleeping pad with your camp bedding is especially important to provide an extra insulating layer in between the cold hard ground and your sleeping bag. Sleeping pads provide added comfort and warmth which is important for a good night’s sleep. Cascade Mountain Tech All Your Hiking Camping Gear Cascade Mountain Tech offers all your hiking camping gear, with high-quality 0° and 30° mummy sleeping bags. The Adventure 0° mummy bag provides a comfortable sleep when hiking in any season and comes with many desirable features. All mummy sleeping bags from Cascade Mountain Tech feature a full-length zipper for easy access, and a hood cinch cord with a full draft collar. We offer a wide selection of camp bedding, comfortable camping chairs, hiking trekking poles and a high-quality rotomolded cooler to keep ice longer for up to 7 to 10 days. Cascade Mountain Tech was founded in the Pacific Northwest by avid outdoor enthusiasts. We are committed to offering affordable outdoor adventure to everyone. Contact us to learn more and with any questions about our mummy sleeping bags and camp bedding. Hiking trekking poles give added support and stability to hikers in all kinds of terrain, whether trekking through wooded trails, uphill or down steep slopes. Even backpackers who travel light will find room for their favorite trekking poles. 3K carbon fiber trekking poles are known for providing strength in a lightweight material so even the most weight conscious packers will not mind including their favorite poles on every hike.
Three Sections of Lightweight 3K Carbon Fiber Cascade Mountain Tech offers a 3K carbon fiber trekking pole which is lightweight at only 8-ounces each. 3K provides a more pliable shaft to handle more stresses from all directions, giving added strength in a truly lightweight hiking pole. All three sections are designed with the same woven carbon fiber in a telescoping design with a tried-and-true quick lock easy locking system. This superior trekking pole from Cascade Mountain Tech measures only 26 inches when collapsed and 54 inches when fully extended. Trekking Pole Cork and Foam Hand Grips Breathable cork handgrips allow your hands to breathe while still maintaining a firm grip with high-quality wrist straps. A lower foam grip sits right underneath the cork grip for support and comfort when trekking uphill on steep slopes. Durable Carbide Tip with Accessories Never lose your footing with the durable tungsten carbide tip. Each 3K carbon fiber trekking pole from Cascade Mountain tech comes with a bonus five-piece accessory kit and a carry bag featuring a zippered front pouch to store your tip cover options. Additional Tip covers include mud baskets, snow baskets, small tips, and boots. We know how much you get to love your favorite pole, and love to save money, which is why we offer replacement sections so you do not have to buy a whole new pole. You can buy just the part you need such as a new upper section featuring the cork grip, the middle section or the lower section which is recommended if your tungsten carbide tips should be replaced. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of high quality hiking trekking poles including 3K carbon fiber, ultralight carbon fiber, aluminum, and aluminum folding options. We offer everything you need for a great outdoor adventure with quality camp bedding such as mummy sleeping bags, comfortable camp chairs, and quality rotomolded super coolers. Cascade Mountain Tech has the hiking trekking poles to allow you to reach new heights. Improve your endurance and stay your course with hiking poles to suit any outdoor enthusiast. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about our quality hiking and camping gear. After Labor Day, people still want to go camping but may not want to rough it on cooler nights outside. If you choose to still enjoy the outdoors but within the confines of your car, here are some tips for successful car camping and how to get the most out of your cooler. Start with a high quality rotomolded cooler like the 45-quart super cooler from Cascade Mountain Tech.
High quality rotomolded coolers will keep ice for 7 to 10 days, which means you do not have to lug your cooler out of your car and go search for new supplies of ice. Follow these tips for a more enjoyable autumn car camping trip: 1) Chill your cooler first Put some bags of ice in your cooler the night before you pack it up to start with a nice chilled icebox. This will help to make your ice last as long as possible without wasting time on cooling down a hot cooler just brought in from outside or a stuffy garage. 2) Freeze water bottles and use for ice packs Freeze some water bottles with a little bit of water dumped out to leave room for expansion. Throw these in your cooler and then you will have water to drink as they start to thaw out. 3) Make a heater for your sleeping bag with your Nalgene water bottle If you have leftover boiling water from making your meal, pour it in your Nalgene water bottle, seal it tight and toss it in the bottom of your mummy sleeping bag to make a nice little heater on a cold night. Cascade Mountain Offers Quality Rotomolded Coolers Cascade Mountain Tech is your one-stop for a high quality, certified Bear resistant rotomolded cooler. The 45-Quart Super Cooler is a popular choice among avid campers and hikers, with rugged, ultra-tough construction made with 3-inches of insulated foam walls. Rotomolded coolers from Cascade Mountain Tech also feature a freezer quality lid, durable rope handles, heavy duty rubber latches, built-in bottle openers and non-slip feet. Consider adding accessories like a cupholder, a divider which can also double as a cutting board, and a dry food basket. The Super Cooler from Cascade Mountain Tech is also available in a larger, 80-quart size. Both the 45-quart and the 80-quart are available with accessories designed for a perfect fit, they are not interchangeable between the sizes. When you are looking for superior chill time from a cooler on your next camping trip, take along the Super Rotomolded Cooler from Cascade Mountain Tech. We offer all your camping and hiking gear including high quality camp bedding, hiking trekking poles, comfortable camping chairs and more. Contact us with any questions and experience the difference of a high-quality rotomolded cooler. Maintaining courtesy towards others and to the natural wonders of the great outdoors is one of the most important components of hiking ethics. Most people hike in the outdoors to enjoy the quiet and just listen to nature. Hikers who behave loudly, damage property or bring uncontrollable pets can ruin an otherwise peaceful hike for everyone else on the trail.
Keep Your Distance Especially during these times of social distancing and keeping groups to a minimum, consideration for others is vital and that goes for hiking and camping areas as well. It’s important to be considerate of others and keep contact infrequent and behavior unobtrusive. Planning your trips during times other than busy weekends or holidays will help to maximize the privacy of your group. Common rules on the trail are for downhill hikers to step aside to let uphill travelers pass through easily. Common courtesy also extends to yielding to allow bikers or horseback riders to easily pass. If you are a mountain biker, make sure that you have control of your bike, always announce your presence before passing hikers and proceed with caution. Be Considerate with Technology Some people view their cell phone as an appendage they can’t leave home without, while others could take it or leave it and prefer to leave it when hiking. If you are a tech junkie who also loves the outdoors and you want to snap beautiful pictures, that’s okay just consider others’ privacy. If you like to listen to music while hiking, earbuds give you a private listening option although you must be aware to hear hikers coming up from behind you and make sure your music doesn’t seep out to bother others. Pets on the Trail There is nothing wrong with taking your four-legged companion on a hike with you, as long as you have complete control of your animal. Any animal brought on a public trail must be well behaved, not bother natural areas and it goes without saying that you have to clean up any of your dog’s messes. Speak softly to other hikers with pets or on horseback as some dogs and horses can get spooked easily. Check the rules in the areas you want to hike as some trials prohibit dogs or require them to be on a leash. Cascade Mountain Tech for Quality Hiking Gear Cascade Mountain Tech offers high-quality camping and hiking gear to meet the demands of the avid hiker as well as making life easier for a beginner. We want to make outdoor adventure accessible to everyone through high quality gear such as trekking poles, super rotomolded coolers, quality-rated camp bedding including mummy bags and comfortable chairs. Cascade Mountain Tech is your one stop for quality camping and hiking gear. We provide assistance in selecting the best trekking poles, camp bedding or super coolers to make your outing a success. Contact us with any questions and continue to show the love to your fellow hikers and mother nature. Choosing the best sleeping bag for your hike is a critical decision whether hiking alone, with friends or family. Quality sleep is important and staying warm is critical to health and survival. When evaluating sleeping bags for your next hike, it’s important to consider the temperature rating as well as the comfort, packability and weight.
Benefits of a Mummy Sleeping Bag With the weather starting to turn a little cooler, it’s important to plan ahead and know what the expected coldest temperature will be during your hike. You should err on the side of caution and choose a bag that provides at least a 10° cushion for any swing in temperature. A mummy sleeping bag keeps you warmer at night with less wiggle room that generates more body heat. Packability and Weight A mummy bag provides a great balance between packability and weight. The sleeker style and less bulk make them a great choice for the weight conscience backpacker. Use a Sleeping Pad for Comfort A sleeping pad is a very important part of camp bedding, providing not just an added cushion for comfort but always a layer of insulation in between yourself, your bag and the cold, hard ground. Cascade Mountain Tech for Quality Camp Bedding Cascade Mountain Tech is your one stop for quality camp bedding such as mummy sleeping bags rated for 0° or 30° to keep you warm on chilly nights. We recommend always using a sleeping pad and offer camp pillows as well, which are weight conscience and easy to pack in the included compression sack. Check out our full line of products for comfortable camp chairs, high-quality rotomolded coolers and trekking poles with options to suit any hiker. Cascade Mountain Tech offers all your outdoor camping gear including trekking poles, camp chairs and bedding and high-quality rotomolded super coolers. Our experienced staff is available to help you review your options and choose the right gear for your hike or camping adventure. Contact us with any questions and for help in choosing the right mummy sleeping bag for you. Packing a cooler is one of the most important parts of your outdoor excursion, whether camping with the kids or taking a long hike with a small group. Food and beverages are critical to enjoying your time in the wilderness. Making sure that you have fresh food and water will give you the sustainable energy you need for hikes and to enjoy time by the campfire.
If you will be far away from civilization, it’s important to choose a high quality cooler that will keep your food cold for days and hold ice as long as possible. Hiking can increase an appetite and the last thing you want is soggy, spoiled food on your trip. Here are some considerations when evaluating coolers:
A durable cooler should last you for several years. Rotomolded coolers are manufactured by rotational molding, which constructs the cooler as one continuous piece poured around a very thick layer of foam insulation. These types of coolers are proven to keep ice for days, alleviating any worry about fresh food when there is no ice to be found for miles. Make sure that your cooler provides enough storage space for the length of your trip. Coolers that have additional storage baskets to keep some food up and out of the ice itself will help to keep it fresher, longer. Having a drain plug is important so you can drain out any melted water. This helps to keep your food from getting soggy, will alleviate some weight and makes your ice last longer. If you’re in the wilderness where bears are known to roam, make sure that you use a lock on a cooler that is certified as bear-resistant. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a high quality, roto-molded cooler that meets the bear-resistance qualifications from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee. Cascade Mountain Tech Offers Super Coolers The rotomolded super coolers from Cascade Mountain Tech provide all of the features to make your camping trip a total success with fresh food and beverages. Choose from a 45 qt. or 80 qt. option to have plenty of food for the whole group. Always chill your cooler before packing it by placing some ice in it ahead of time. Packing your food into an already chilled cooler is the best way to make your ice last and keep you food fresher, longer. Cascade Mountain Tech offers all the critical hiking gear from high quality coolers, to comfortable camp chairs, camp bedding and trekking poles. Cascade Mountain Tech is your one stop to prepare for an awesome outdoor adventure. Our coolers are proven to hold ice for up to 10 days with durable construction and convenient features. Contact us with any questions on selecting and packing your cooler for success. Trekking poles are an important part of any hiker’s gear, providing support and increasing endurance and speed. Using trekking poles properly will add much needed stability on rough terrain, when ascending uphill or downhill, or give some relief to your joints even on a long steady hike. Here are some tips from the experts on how to get the most value from your trekking poles.
Adjust Length to the Right Height In order to get the most from your trekking poles, it is important to adjust the length to the right height for you and your hike. You should always have your arms bent at a comfortable 90° angle with the tip of the pole on the ground. You’ll want to make a quick adjust when hiking downhill or uphill, lengthening your pole for downhill and shortening a bit for uphill treks at about 5-10 cm to get the right amount of support. Use the Wrist Straps The wrist straps, when used properly, will help to support your weight without exerting too much energy to grip the handle. Quick and Easy Pole Locks You’ll want to make sure that your trekking poles are easy to adjust so that you can quickly get the right height for hiking different terrain. Find Your Rhythm With just a little practice, you’ll quickly learn how to get the most from your trekking poles. By swinging your arms in a natural rhythm, your poles provide support while propelling you forward. Consider Trekking Pole Material Cascade Mountain Tech offers a variety of trekking poles in various materials such as:
Each type of material provides benefits to your individual style and type of hikes you have planned. Select a trekking pole with the material and collapsible options that meet your needs for hiking and packing. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of trekking poles and expert assistance for help in evaluating all the options to find the right poles for you. Our hiking gear includes comfortable camp chairs, camp bedding with sleeping pads and mummy sleeping bags and high-quality coolers that keep ice for up to 10 days. Cascade Mountain Tech offers quality gear and experienced assistance for all your hiking needs. We believe in making outdoor adventure and exploration available to all. Contact us with any questions and to learn how to select and get the most from your hiking trekking poles. Trekking poles provide great stability while hiking, improving your endurance and taking some pressure off the joints on long hikes. If you are preparing for a hike, you may be wondering if it’s time to upgrade to a stronger or lighter hiking trekking pole, or maybe you just want to compare some features. Hiking trekking poles come with various options such as the material they are made of, the material on the grip and whether they are two or three sections.
Trekking Pole Material Hiking trekking poles may be constructed out of different material, mostly affecting the carrying weight and the strength of the pole. Cascade Mountain Tech offers hiking trekking poles in various materials such as:
Ultralight Trekking Pole The Ultralight carbon fiber trekking poles weigh 5.6 oz. each, which is about 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber. Cascade Mountain Tech offers the ultralight poles in two-sections which measure 30” when fully collapsed and up to 52” when fully extended, with both the upper and lower section measuring 26.4”. 3k Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole The 3k carbon fiber poles weigh 8 oz. with the 2 x 2 weave of the carbon fiber providing additional durability to withstand force horizontally and vertically. The 3k carbon fiber poles from Cascade Mountain Tech come in three sections, measuring 26” when fully collapsed, 54” when fully extended, and fold to convenient carrying measurements of about 20” per section when fully disassembled. The two section models are a bit longer when stowing in your pack, so depending on how you want to pack them will affect your choice on a two or three piece section pole. Each type of trekking pole comes with a set of 4 additional tip covers including small tips, boots, mud and snow baskets. Trekking Pole Grip Material The Cascade Mountain Tech trekking poles come with either a cork grip or an EVA grip, which is really just a preference. Some people like the cork grips and feel that they absorb sweat from your hands a little better without becoming slippery. The trekking poles from Cascade Mountain Tech include an extended grip area for comfort when ascending uphill or maneuvering on your hike. Cascade Mountain Tech for Quality Hiking Gear Cascade Mountain Tech is your one stop for all the best in hiking gear. Our super roto-molded coolers come in two different sizes to suit your trip, with accessories for convenience and the strength to be rated Grizzly Bear resistant. Check out our full line of mummy sleeping bags to keep you cozy on chilly nights with 0° and 30° options along with sleeping pads, pillows and quality camp bedding. Cascade Mountain Tech offers expert assistance in choosing the right type of trekking pole for you. We offer a great balance between cost and weight with many options to suit any hiker. Contact us for more information and to learn more about the many features of our hiking trekking poles. Using a set of trekking poles can make a huge difference in the comfort and enjoyment of your next hike. Using them correctly, however, is important to realize the maximum benefits that hiking trekking poles are designed for. It might take a little practice and experimenting to feel comfortable in using your hiking poles to achieve full benefits.
Here are some tips in how to properly use your hiking trekking poles to achieve the most benefits: How to Use the Trekking Pole Straps Using the trekking pole straps correctly will allow you to let go of the pole briefly without it falling to the ground. You should put your hand through the strap and grip the pole, with the strap over the back of your hand without being twisted. Put your hands through the straps when adjusting the length for a 90° bend at your elbow. How to Grip the Pole You should grip the pole in a relaxed fashion without gripping tightly. Gripping your poles too tightly will wear out your wrists and hands. You will naturally grip a little tighter when you need to for stability. Try using only your thumb and forefinger to fling the pole forward with little effort with your other fingers loosely closed around the pole. Arm Motion Swinging your poles with opposite leg / arm motion is important while you keep your elbows close to your sides. Bring the opposite arm forward with each step and bring your pole forward with a slight flick of the wrist. A loose grip will bring your pole forward correctly. Planting Your Pole When using your trekking poles for stability, plant the tip lightly before flicking forward with your next step. When trekking uphill you may want to plant your pole with a bit more pressure to give you more thrust or brake a little harder when hiking downhill. This push / pull technique will give you a little more stability when hiking uphill or downhill and gives your upper body more of a workout. Trekking Pole Baskets and Tips Trekking poles usually have a carbide tip for planting into soft trails or ice and a rubber paw is better on pavement or asphalt. Snow baskets and sand baskets will help to keep your trekking pole from sinking into soft surfaces. For more tips on how to use your trekking poles with the most advantageous techniques, contact your friends at Cascade Mountain Tech. We offer a wide selection of aluminum, carbide fiber and 3k carbon fiber poles with adjustable lengths to suit any hiker. Ask about our other camping gear to plan the perfect outdoor excursion such as our mummy sleeping bags, super rotomolded coolers, camping chairs and additional camp bedding. Cascade Mountain Tech is your one stop for the perfect outdoor excursion. We offer high quality hiking and camping gear with pro tips for planning a successful and enjoyable adventure. Contact us with any questions on how to choose and effectively use hiking trekking poles. Choosing the right mummy sleeping bag for your outdoor expedition is critical to having a successful, enjoyable adventure. There is nothing worse than realizing that your bag will not keep you warm at night or that you forgot to include a sleeping pad or other camp bedding that provides some comfortable shut-eye. Many factors impact your warmth at night in addition to outdoor temps, thereby impacting the type of mummy bag and camp bedding best for you.
Sleeping Pads: Do I Need One? While selecting your mummy bag with the appropriate temperature rating for your outing is important, other factors play a critical role in impacting your warmth. Ground temperature is an important factor in the warmth your sleeping bag will provide, in spite of the air temp and your body temp. This is where a sleeping pad could be your best friend. Not only does a sleeping pad provide a barrier between frigid ground temps and your mummy bag, a sleeping pad will add comfort with some cushion between you and the cold, hard ground. Without the barrier of a sleeping pad, cold ground temperature will seep up into your bag and your body attempting to bring your temperature closer to the ground temp. A sleeping pad puts a layer of air between you and the ground to keep you much warmer and dryer in moist climates or grassy hills. Mummy Bag Material: Down vs Synthetic The two options you will most commonly hear about are down material vs. synthetic. Here is a snapshot of the two types of sleeping bag material with the pros and cons of each. Down Material Down filled sleeping bags will compress a little more than synthetic making it nice to pack into smaller spaces for the weight conscience backpacker. One of the biggest drawbacks of down material, however, is that if it gets wet it will immediately lose any insulating power. Some people also have ethical issues with way down feathers are sourced. Here is a snapshot of the pros and cons of down:
Synthetic Material Mummy bags with synthetic insulation provide warmth without worrying about moisture ruining your camping trip. Synthetic material is more durable than down, although may not provide as long of a lifespan when used and packed repeatedly. Synthetic material provides a great, affordable sleeping bag for the average camper and will last quite a long time with proper care. Cascade Mountain Tech offers some great options for high quality synthetic mummy bags in either 0° or 30° temp ratings. Here are some of the pros and cons of synthetic material:
The perfect sleeping bag for you will depend on the temperature and the season of your outdoor expedition, the ground temperature, potential moisture, and backpack weight restrictions. Contact the outdoor experts at Cascade Mountain Tech for more pro-tips on selecting the right mummy bag and camp bedding for a good night’s sleep in any outdoor environment. Cascade Mountain Tech offers camp bedding with various temp ratings for mummy sleeping bags, super rotomolded coolers, trekking poles, camp chairs and more. We help to make sure that you enjoy your outing safely and comfortably. Contact us with any questions on choosing the perfect camp bedding with sleeping pads and mummy bags for anyone. Sleeping bags today offer a lot of choices with various materials, weights, shapes, and temperature ratings. Unless you are an experienced backpacker, it may be a bit intimidating to evaluate all your options and get the right sleeping bag for you. When backpacking or camping in high altitude or even slightly chilly nighttime weather, a mummy bag will keep you warmer.
EN Temperature Ratings for Mummy Sleeping Bags The temperature rating on a mummy bag is the main factor which will indicate to you the warmth the mummy bag will provide. Most sleeping bag manufacturers use the EN temperature rating system, which indicates the lowest temp that you can expect your sleeping bag to keep the average camper warm at night. For example, if your mummy bag says it is rated for 30°, you should expect the average person would be comfortable if the temp got as low as 30°F, but they may not be warm at a temperature less than that. A good practice is to choose a bag with a rating of 25° less than what you expect the coldest weather to be. In spite of the direction these ratings can provide, the United States currently has no standard to measure these ratings and many variables can affect how warm a person will feel that just cannot be replicated in a testing lab. For example, a person with a high metabolism may not feel as chilled as someone else and most women sleep colder than men. Other factors include whether you are using a sleeping pad (highly recommended), the clothing you wear and the material of your mummy bag. Mummy Sleeping Bag Temp Ratings for Different Seasons You should always keep your regional climate in mind as the temperatures across the U.S. vary widely during the seasons. This is a rough seasonal guide to mummy bag temp ratings for the average person in average seasonal temps, all listed in °F:
It is important to evaluate each outing and compare to the seasonal temps and any expected variations such as an exceptionally cold winter or warm summer. For additional questions on choosing the right mummy bag for your adventure, contact the outdoor experts at Cascade Mountain Tech. Here you will find a large selection of high quality mummy sleeping bags, rotomolded coolers that keep your ice for several days with bear proof ratings, and a wide selection of hiking trekking poles to suit any hiker of any size. Our camping chairs are the best in quality with a wide selection for any setting. Cascade Mountain Tech believes in providing affordable adventure to anyone, with a wide selection of hiking and camping gear. We offer expert tips from experienced outdoor enthusiasts and high quality gear for a successful camping trip. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about how to choose the right mummy sleeping bag. Hiking trekking poles are sold in tandem and used as a pair compared to using a single hiking staff. Hiking trekking poles improve your balance and stability while hiking and reduce the amount of force impacted on your knees. Most hiking trekking poles are adjustable to get the perfect height while hiking uphill, downhill or across rugged terrain.
Hiking poles are properly sized when your elbows are bent at a 90° angle when holding the poles with the tips on the ground at your feet. This is easy to achieve with adjustable length hiking poles. Here are some additional tips to adjust your poles to the right length in various environments. Choosing the Right Hiking Poles for Your Height If you are shorter than 6 feet, most adjustable hiking poles should allow you to shorten to the right height for you in any hiking scenario. If you are 6 feet or taller, you will want to choose a trekking pole that provides a maximum length of at least 51 inches. Adjust Your Trekking Poles for General Hiking When hiking or backpacking, it is important to adjust your trekking poles so that your elbows are bent at a 90° angle. This prevents undue stress on your back, neck, shoulders and arms. If your hiking trekking poles have three sections, adjust the top section in the middle of the range with some room for movement. Then you can adjust the bottom section to put your arms at the right bent angle. This allows you to adjust the top section only when hiking which is quicker and more convenient. Adjust Hiking Poles for Uphill Treks If trekking uphill, you will want to shorten your trekking poles about 5 to 10 cm. This allows you to plant your pole more securely and provides greater leverage when hiking uphill. If you feel like your poles are pushing up into your backpack straps or if they feel unnatural and uncomfortable, it may cause strain and fatigue on your shoulders and they should be adjusted even more. Adjust Hiking Poles for Downhill Hikes When hiking downhill, you will want to do the opposite and lengthen your poles by 5 to 10 cm to help keep your body more upright and provide greater balance and stability. If traversing a long section, you will want to lengthen your trekking poles on the downhill side and shorten your poles on the uphill side as needed to improve stability. You can learn more about how to effectively use your hiking trekking poles from the outdoor enthusiasts at Cascade Mountain Tech. Here you’ll find high quality hiking trekking poles, mummy sleeping bags, super rotomolded coolers that keep ice for several days. Cascade Mountain Tech believes in providing accessible outdoor adventure to everyone. We offer a wide selection of the most comfortable camping chairs, mummy bags, super coolers, and various adjustable hiking trekking poles. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of aluminum, carbon fiber and 3k carbon fiber trekking poles. Packing a cooler is a big part of any camping trip as it is important to make sure that you have plenty of food and drinks for family and friends. A lot of thought often goes into planning out the meals and making sure that you’ve got all the right food and condiments as it is often not feasible to run to the store. Just as much thought should go into choosing the best cooler for your trip to keep your food fresher and keep your ice as long as possible.
No one wants to drain melted water and keep filling a cooler with ice every day, hoping your food did not get soggy or ruined. Coolers are available today that provide long lasting freshness without breaking the bank. Stop wasting time re-organizing your cooler and searching for more ice to keep your food fresh throughout your adventure. Here are some of the most important considerations when evaluating the best cooler for your camping trip: Rotomolded Cooler Construction Learn about the high-performance, rotomolded coolers that let you enjoy the outdoors without worrying about your food or replenishing ice. Coolers manufactured with rotational molding, rotomolded, are more durable than other types as the entire outer shell is made with durable, consistent wall thickness to keep in the cold. Rotomolded coolers from Cascade Mountain Tech are proven to keep ice for days! Cooler Storage Capacity The capacity of the cooler you need depends upon your adventure and the number in your group. Ideally, start with a cooler that fits in your car or truck and can fit the food items you will need for the length of your trip. It will not hurt to pack your large rotomolded cooler with a lot of ice and take a smaller, portable one for a quick hike or dip in the lake. This way you will always have ice. Drain Plug A cooler with a drain plug is a must if you do not want to remove all your food items and turn your cooler upside down to re-pack it. Draining out excess water keeps your food from getting soggy, makes your ice last longer and reduces the weight of your cooler. Bear Resistant Seal Depending on where you plan to set up camp, you need to be sure your food is protected from wildlife and especially bears. Rotomolded coolers from Cascade Mountain Tech carry the Bear Proof Seal from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, certified bear resistant when using a lock. Cascade Mountain Tech offers high quality rotomolded coolers with durable rope handles and rubber latches, built-in bottle openers, non-slip feet and are certified Bear-Resistant. Check out all the camping and hiking gear from Cascade Mountain Tech such as mummy sleeping bags to keep you warm in any climate, high-quality hiking trekking poles for a fun and safe hike and camping chairs for any occasion. Cascade Mountain Tech offers high-quality hiking and camping gear to make the most of any camping trip. We believe in making outdoor adventure accessible to anyone. Contact us with any questions and to learn more about the benefits of our super rotomolded coolers. |
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