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Everything You Need on a Backpacking Trip

altaidev on February 7, 2020

If you want to travel far from home through the wilderness or in distant regions, backpacking is a great way to do this. You can strip down what you take with you to the bare necessities and explore to your heart’s content. But this brings up an important question—just what should you bring? Here’s a list of everything you need on a backpacking trip minus the backpack itself.

Sleep Supplies

As you’ll most likely be traveling through areas where there isn’t readily available shelter, having a tent and sleeping bag is important. But carrying around big, bulky items is going to prove tiresome and will slow you down. When choosing your tent and sleeping bag, you should, therefore, get easily packable and lightweight versions. Some of the best tents only weigh around four to five pounds. You should also make sure that your tent is waterproof to protect you from the elements as you sleep. If you’re backpacking in an urban setting, you may forego the tent and stay in low-cost places such as hostels.

Safety Gear

The unexpected can happen when you are traveling alone, and you should prepare for as much as possible. For this reason, you should have a sturdy watch so you can keep track of the hours passing. Additionally, a first-aid kit will help you treat any minor wounds or injuries you might sustain. Though less evident, a headlamp can come in handy when you need to move around or set up camp in the dark with no electricity nearby. Finally, carry a phone, compass, and map to prevent you from getting lost.

Food

When it comes to food, stock up on varieties that have high-calorie content and are easy to eat on the go. You could take dried fruits and vegetables and prepackaged foods for example. All the walking that you are doing each day will use up a lot of energy, so you need these kinds of foods to keep you properly nourished. Getting food that you can eat with minimal preparation will also save you from having to lug around cooking equipment and lots of utensils. You should also bring a water bottle and a water filter to replenish it.

Clothing and Boots

As with your tent, you should wear clothing that protects you from rain. Bring a shell jacket that will block water and wind. Get a packable down jacket for when you feel cold and a hat to protect you from the sun. Your base layers should consist of synthetic material to wick away sweat and dry quickly as you move around. On your feet, you should wear socks that will keep you comfortable in warm and cool conditions and remain dry. Merino wool is a good material that does all these things. Over these, you should have durable hiking boots that provide traction and support in all terrains and weather. AltaiGear’s tactical performance boots will fulfill these requirements and keep you going over many miles.

Important Camping Trip Essentials

altaidev on January 27, 2020

When you get an itch to venture outside, camping allows you to reconnect with nature. You can travel out to a location mostly untouched by human hands and appreciate wildlife and vegetation there that you wouldn’t normally see. However, to venture outside of the realm of houses and hotels, you’re going to have to pack the right supplies. Here are some important camping trip essentials you should bring with you.

Food and Water

Before you think of anything else, you should take care of your basic needs. Water and some provisions of food are thus essential for camping. When you are in the middle of a long hike or you set up your tent far from any grocery store, food and water will carry you through your days and nights. You may even choose to get a water filter or purification tablets so you can make water from nearby streams or ponds drinkable.

Shelter

The next necessity you should bring is a shelter. In most cases, this means a tent and a sleeping bag. When you lay down to rest at night, the tent will help to keep insects and maybe even animals from disturbing you. The sleeping bag and tent will work together to keep you warm and comfortable as well.

First Aid Kit

You never know when an accident may occur throughout of a camping trip. Having a first aid kit of some sort may save you in dire moments when you sustain a major injury. It can also come in handy when you get small scrapes while you are walking.

Knife

A multipurpose knife made for outdoor use is another highly beneficial item to have. You can utilize it for all kinds of tasks including cutting through rope, wood, or even a catch of fish. Make sure to get one that is sturdy enough to survive rough handling; a regular pocketknife is probably not going to be adequate for everything.

Navigation

When you’re traveling away from the convenience of roads, items to help you navigate correctly are vital to prevent you from getting lost. Bring along a compass and a map of the area you are camping in. Nowadays, you can also get a GPS that you can use instead of a map. Armed with your navigational tools, even if you start to lose your bearings, you can refer to them to correct your direction.

Fire Starter

Campfires provide you with warmth and light as the sun sets, and you can also use them to cook food. For this reason, you should have a fire starter with you so that you don’t have to depend on nearby materials on the ground (which you can’t always reliably find). It’s also a good idea to bring some dry kindling in an enclosed container for the same reason.

Proper Clothing

Weather is often fickle, and it can quickly change from sunshine to a downpour and back again without your anticipation. To stay dry and avoid succumbing to hypothermia in colder temperatures, you should bring the proper clothing. Pack a breathable rain jacket and layers that you can put on or take off as the temperatures fall and rise. If you are camping in a warmer climate, consider wearing a hat to cover your head and neck against sunburn. The right boots will also get you through the rough terrain and possible wetness unscathed. AltaiGear supplies some of the best military –grade boots available on the market that are perfect in a camping context. Our SuperFabric material makes them breathable yet waterproof, and the soles come treaded with Vibram rubber for maximum traction.

How to Dress for Hiking in Cold Weather

altaidev on January 10, 2020

When it is winter or you are visiting a northerly region, hiking presents a way to stay active despite the weather. It also presents an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the landscape as unblemished blankets of freshly-fallen snow cover it. But to keep yourself safe and comfortable, you need to wear the appropriate clothes for the conditions. Here’s how to dress for hiking in cold weather.

Tops

Believe it or not, it’s not a good idea to simply pile on as many layers as possible and only think about warmth. You still generate sweat as you hike, and you can end up losing heat even more rapidly if moisture covers you under all your clothes. For this reason, you should wear a base layer that can wick away your sweat and dry quickly. Choose synthetic materials or merino wool over cotton, which retains water for long periods.

Over this base layer, you should have an insulating mid-layer that retains warmth, such as a fleece or a puffer jacket. Again, be careful of moisture here. Though down-filled jackets will insulate you, they lose that capability if they become wet. Synthetics are preferable if you experience exposure to water or high humidity.

On top of everything else, you should have a water-resistant or waterproof outer layer to protect you from precipitation and wind. Many refer to the jackets that serve this function as shells, and you should try to find one that not only repels water but is also breathable.

Bottoms

Unlike with the tops, your legs usually only need two layers: a base layer and an outer layer. The base layer should serve the function of wicking sweat and warming you a bit if needed, and it should, therefore, consist of synthetic fabric.

Your outer pants should be of a shell material that stops water and wind just like your outer jacket. If you go for inner pants that you could wear alone, you may also look for the ability to zip the outer pants at the sides. This will allow you to put them on and take them off easily as you get colder or warmer throughout your hike.

Footwear

The state of your feet is of great importance when cold-weather hiking because they are in the closest contact with the frozen surfaces and snow. Outdoor hiking boots that combine breathability, durability, and waterproof qualities are thus a must to prevent your feet from freezing due to moisture and low temperature. Look at the materials of boots to find a pair that includes all these elements. AltaiGear’s boots accomplish this by combining a SuperFabric® outer with a polyester inner lining. This allows them to block environmental moisture from entering while also wicking sweat away from your feet. Besides paying attention to materials, it can further help to find boots with a higher height. This way, water has even less chance of getting inside and defeating the purpose of the water-blocking properties.

Additionally, you should make sure the sole has rugged traction to prevent slipping on the uneven wet or icy terrain that you will be traversing. A high-quality sole material to look out for is Vibram, as it is slip-resistant, durable, and flexible.

For waterproof outdoor boots that push the limits of technology to bring you comfort and utility for your cold-weather hiking needs, call AltaiGear today. Our emphasis on exceptional materials and construction offers full support for your feet and protects them even in the most rigorous treks you embark on.

The Main Benefits of Having Waterproof Work Boots

altaidev on December 30, 2019

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]If you spend most of your professional time outside and exposed to the elements, you know just how important it is to keep yourself dry and warm. One of the most difficult areas of your body to do this, however, is your feet. Since they are always in contact with the ground, it’s easy for water to get into your boots or shoes through small openings around the stitching and tongue. Before you know it, your feet will feel drenched and numb, severely inhibiting your ability to work and possibly causing serious risks to your well-being. What you need is some waterproof footwear in these situations. Here are the main benefits of having waterproof work boots. Read More about The Main Benefits of Having Waterproof Work Boots

ALTAI™ Holiday Sale 2019

altaidev on December 4, 2019

This month, we’re spreading holiday cheer with savings for you and a loved one. Through 12/31/19 only, take $30 off 1 pair of boots OR $70 off 2 pair!* So you can Treat Yourself or Share The Love with either of these seasonal deals. Waterproof, breathable, lightweight, super durable… who doesn’t want all that in one gift? ????????

Shop Now

*Offer only good through 12/31/19 on any style and combination. Cannot be used with any other existing offer, discount, gift card, or sale.

ALTAI™ Thanks You! Happy Thanksgiving

altaidev on November 28, 2019

We can’t say it enough: Thank You, Thank You… THANK YOU! Every year, around Thanksgiving, we are reminded of how grateful we are to all our customers and hardworking boot teams. From wicked paintballers to the quality inspectors that keep our boots Born To Outperform, we at ALTAI™ want to thank each and every one of you for the steadfast support. Without you, we wouldn’t be where we are today. So three cheers to you and Thank You for being a part of the ALTAI™ experience.

ALTAI™ Pro Tip: Sketch Your Way To Becoming A Better Hunter

altaidev on November 26, 2019

Today’s blog post is brought to you by our fabulous blogger and outdoor guru, Katlyn Spade.

Tracking animals and landing a kill requires a creative mindset, but 78% of workers feel they lack creative abilities. One way to improve your hunting is by honing this skill, so consider combining the hunt with a creative activity like drawing. You may already impose certain obstacles, such as limiting your weapons, to make the hobby even more fulfilling, but by adding the act of drawing into your hunting trip, you can increase your performance. Here’s how sketching can take your enjoyment of hunting to the next level.

Calming Your Pre-Hunt Nerves

When you’re sketching your environment, you’re forced to take the time to examine it more closely. This is actually a form of mindfulness meditation. You are becoming more present and in tune with the world around you, leaving you feeling calm. Hunters can be negatively affected by feelings of anxiety or anger, so using drawing as a form of meditation can calm your nerves and increase your chances of landing a kill. It doesn’t matter how good your drawings are. This part of the sketching process is more about observation than creating art. Rather than trying to draw what you think something looks like, closely observe the subject and draw what it really looks like. You will then be able to feel a sense of focus and calm so that you can respond quickly and effectively when there is something to hunt.

Forming Deeper Bonds With Nature

Many people hunt because they love being out in the wild and feeling like a part of the ecosystem. However, as humans it’s easy to feel disconnected from all that. Spending time drawing the plants and animals you find helps you to feel more connected to them. By being in tune with wildlife, your prey becomes more predictable, and you will be more likely to land a kill. If you’re not a confident artist, begin with basic shape outlines of birds or animals before adding the detail. If you’re drawing a bird then you’ll have to make yourself still and quiet so as not to scare it off while you add the finer details. Ordinarily, the bird would be alerted to your presence and would flee, allowing you no opportunity for connection. With a sketch pad in hand, you will get to know wildlife more closely through observation. More importantly, however, you are becoming more efficient at stalking and tracking your prey without them noticing.

Enhance Cognitive Capabilities

There is another benefit to performing creative tasks while out hunting. Drawing or sketching will actually improve your performance in this sport. This is because it keeps your mind stimulated so that your cognitive performance improves, and you can bring home more impressive kills. Firstly, sketching requires patience and focus, which are both essential to a successful hunt. Secondly, it is creative so it uses a different part of the brain to solve problems. This means that when you head out into the woods, you will be able to come up with more original and effective hunting techniques.

Hunting and sketching may not be an obvious combination, but it makes sense when you think about it. You are surrounded by beautiful countryside, so why not capture it? Doing so will help you to become a better hunter by calming down nerves or anger, while also being less likely to disturb prey and improving your cognitive performance. Creative hunters have more original techniques, along with the focus required for a successful hunt.

ALTAI™ Pro Tip: Choosing The Right Socks

altaidev on November 21, 2019

Behind every great pair of boots, is a great pair of socks. We’ve all experienced a horrible mismatch between the two: too hot, too ‘slippery,’ blistery, the list goes on. Finding the right match between which socks to wear with your boots can mean a world of difference while you’re on your feet for extended periods of time.

Some sock materials will be better for certain temperatures, wetness, or sometimes just come down to personal preferences. Here’s a general guide to the typical socks materials to consider:

Synthetic Fabrics: There are a huge array of synthetic fabric socks. From cooling polyester fibers for the summer, to fabrics that “trap in” heat, without the bulkiness of thicker materials.

Wool: Known for its incredible insulating abilities, wool is one of the most popular types of socks for many adventurers. Synthetic blends of wool or merino may be preferable, since wool can be considered scratchy for some.

Cotton: Although the most common sock material, cotton socks are not recommended for hikes or long excursions. Cotton is extremely absorbent (imagine foot sweat!) and tends to dry very slowly.

Silk/Wicking Materials: Other kinds of socks, like silk, can be used as a liner inside your sock. These materials can help wick away moisture, keeping your “main sock” comfortable and dry.

Among these sock options, you will also want to consider whether your adventure will require lightweight, middle-weight, or mountaineering socks. Choose based on the temperature, dry/wet environment, and weather you will be facing. And it’s never a bad idea to have a back-up pair, for the unexpected.

ALTAI™ Pro Tip: A Clean Hunt

altaidev on November 14, 2019

Today’s blog post is brought to you by our fabulous blogger and outdoor guru, Katlyn Spade.

Keeping Your Hunting Gear Clean And Bacteria-Free

With the recent warning from the CDC that a hunter may have contracted tuberculosis from a deer, many hunters are paying particular attention to their health and hygiene practices this season. An important part of hunting safety is keeping your clothing and equipment clean, and part of preparing for a hunt is making sure your equipment is cleaned from your previous hunt. Moreover, since many people, including hunters, are growing increasingly concerned about the way their leisure activities might be impacting the environment, it’s important to know how to keep clothing, game bags, and boots clean and free from disease in an environmentally-friendly way.

A Hunter’s Laundry

Taking an eco-friendly approach to your laundry is particularly advantageous to a hunter. Often, the finishes applied to camouflage gear contain UV brighteners for aesthetic reasons, but animals can see the brighteners, as well as smelling the fragrances in laundry detergents, which alerts them to the hunter’s presence. For this reason, it’s a good idea to use detergents that are fragrance-free and don’t contain UV brighteners. Most detergents that are labeled ‘eco-friendly’ don’t contain these, but some do, so check the label before you buy. Additionally, some commercial detergents contain sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), which can be absorbed into the bloodstream through contact with your skin, and can cause health problems; most eco-friendly detergents are free of this chemical. Adding a cup of baking soda to the wash can eliminate odors without the need for chemical fragrance, and will also help remove harmful bacteria. Make sure your clothing is washed after every hunt to prevent bacteria build-up, and once it is completely dry, store it in a sealed bag to prevent it from picking up odors.

Cleaning Your Game Bags

A clean game bag is important for ensuring that your catch is safe to eat, and should be free of bacteria before each hunting trip. While being eco-friendly is important, in this instance, using a safe laundry bleach is wise. Rinse the bags after a hunt to remove solid debris, and then wash them thoroughly using an unscented detergent. Add a mild solution of laundry bleach and very hot water during the rinse cycle, and then allow the bags to air dry. If the bags are heavily stained, it may be necessary to soak them in hot water and fabric bleach overnight before washing. Ensure they are thoroughly dry before putting them away, as this will ensure the safest storage of meat for your next hunt.

Cleaning Your Hunting Boots

Cleaning your boots is important for removing harmful bacteria, but it will also keep them in good shape for as long as possible. The good news is that ALTAI™ waterproof hunting boots are particularly easy to clean. Remove solid debris with a brush or a soft, damp cloth, using a toothbrush for the lace hooks. While it’s tempting to clean only the outside of the boots, bacteria can thrive inside the boot, so an occasional deep clean is advisable: use warm water and baking soda, and brush around the inside of the boot with a nylon brush. As well as removing any bacteria present, the baking soda will help remove odors naturally. Allow your boots to air dry completely before putting them away, but be aware that this could take several hours if you’ve also cleaned the inside. Store your boots in a bag with some tea bags or bags of baking soda to absorb any moisture and prevent further bacteria or odor from developing.

Cleaning your gear thoroughly is an important part of the hunt to ensure safety and prevent potential diseases from spreading. By taking an eco-friendly approach as far as possible, the bonus is that you can also up the chances of a good hunt by minimizing artificial smells that alert animals to your presence.

ALTAI™ and Donut Boy: National Boot Giveaway

altaidev on November 7, 2019

“12-year-old Florida native is traveling the country to show appreciation to the men and women of Law Enforcement.”

Tyler Carach, aka: “The Donut Boy,” has been on a cross country mission to thank Law Enforcement for their service since August 1, 2016. He has thanked Officers in all 50 states and served them over 90,000 donuts, aka “Power Rings.”

Recently, Tyler, with the assistance of Minnesota based company, ALTAIgear™, hosted a National Boot Giveaway contest. Law Enforcement teams from across the nation competed to win Police Department approved boots for their agency. The winning team, collecting 1000 public votes first, was Princeton, MN Police Department/Shorewood Hills, WI Police Department.

“The ALTAI™ team would like to thank Tyler for his commitment to his mission and we are proud to have been a part of this journey with Tyler,” -ALTAI™.

This weekend, November 9-10, Tyler, along with representatives of ALTAIgear™, will personally deliver the boots to the winning team members, just in time for a Northern winter.

November 9, 5:30 PM Princeton PD: 305 21st Ave. South Princeton, MN
November 10, 9 AM Shorewood Hills PD: 810 Shorewood Blvd. Madison, WI

Attending: Tyler Carach and Mother, ALTAIgear™ Representatives, Representatives from Princeton Police Department/Shorewood Hills Police Department, City Officials from Princeton MN/Shorewood Hills WI

About “I DONUT Need A Reason To Thank A Cop Inc.” Tyler is an amazing 12-year-old boy who loves cops. He developed a program called “I DONUT need a reason to thank a cop” in August 2016 after meeting 4 officers in a local store and asking if he could buy them donuts with his own money. After seeing how happy the Officers were and learning that Police across the nation were having a hard time, he decided he wanted to thank every Officer in America and give them each their favorite treat… A DONUT! To date, he has visited and thanked Officers in all 50 states and served over 90,000 donuts and thanks. He has raised money to purchase a K9 vest, held multiple free raffles for Law Enforcement, worked to raise support for Police, and partnered with multiple organizations to show appreciation to Officers. To learn more about Tyler’s mission and accomplishments follow him on Facebook I DONUT Need A Reason To Thank A Cop, Twitter @donut_boy07, and Instagram @tyler_donutboy.