New Winter Gear: How Do These Perform?
Lots of us walk and hike outside all year, so we love good cold-weather gear that keeps us warm through our long Minnesota winters! Snow, wind and cold temperatures are …
Gear Reviews
Outdoor gear reviews for products and services we use and trust. Some are from local outdoor businesses.
Gear Review: Waterproof Phone Cases
One of my favorite gear items for kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding is a waterproof phone case. I’ve owned three different cases from three different brands, and I definitely have some …
Gear Review: Hybrid Beach SUP-Yak by TAHE
I’ve used my TAHE 10′-6″ Beach SUP-Yak for one season so far, and am happy with my purchase. This inflatable paddle board doubles as a kayak so you get a …
Traction Devices Keep You Safe(r) on the Ice
Winter hiking is amazing—until you have to make your way over ice! That’s when traction devices come in—no more slipping and sliding. I took a nasty fall early on this …
Gear Review: Women’s Hiking Shorts
Here in Minnesota we’re known for our cold winters, but we also have hot summers. Shorts season can run from April into October, depending on your personal thermostat and the …
Gear Review: Aqua Bound’s “Sting Ray Hybrid” Kayak Paddle
I’ve been using Aqua Bound’s Sting Ray Hybrid kayak paddle since 2019, and can tell you—I know why it’s their best-selling kayak paddle. Before I go any further, you should …
Review: “Metabolic Renewal” Diet & Exercise Program for Women
Metabolic Renewal is a diet and exercise program intended to help women optimize their metabolism so we can get to a healthy weight, sleep more soundly, eat healthier and just …
Gear Review: Seirus NeoFleece® Combo Scarf
The NeoFleece® Combo Scarf by Seirus is probably my most-recommended winter gear item for our Minnesota climate. If you love the outdoors and want to keep getting outside year-round, you …
How to Choose Snowshoes
So you’re ready to buy a pair of snowshoes to get outside more in our Twin Cities winters. How do you know which ones to choose? We’ll go over some …
Bike Rentals Options in the Twin Cities
The Minneapolis/Saint Paul metro is loaded with bike trails, and there are many options for bike rentals for both residents and visitors.