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ALTAI™ Adventure: Camping With Your Dog

altaidev on September 25, 2019

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

Camping With Your Dog: The Do’s, the Don’ts, and What to Bring

37 percent of American campers aged 18 and above take their pets along with them on camping trips, according to the 2017 American Camper Report. Dogs are an important part of people’s lives, and for many, a camping trip wouldn’t be complete without their furry friend. Camping is a great way for your dog to get some exercise, explore nature, and spend some quality time with you. To ensure that you and your pet have a blast on your camping trip, there are some things that you must get right, especially during the planning process.

Find an ideal camping site for you and your dog

First of all, you need to find a campsite that allows dogs. You don’t want to drive hundreds of miles to a campsite, only to find out that your furry friend is not allowed in. A few minutes of research online will help you find many pet-friendly campgrounds in different areas. For instance, the United States Forest Service (USFS) office in your area will have plenty of primitive camping opportunities for you and your dog. If you are going to a private campground, call ahead to confirm that your pet is welcome. Keep in mind that just because a campsite allows dogs does not mean that your dog is allowed. Some campgrounds have limits on the size of dogs allowed or the number of dogs per campsite so always familiarize yourself with their pet policy before you go there.

Bring your dog’s essentials

Just like you, your furry friend likes to have some of the comforts of home at the campsite. You need to bring all the things you need to ensure that your dog is safe and comfortable on this trip. Some of the basics you must bring include food, a dog first aid kit, a kennel or dog bed, a poop bag, and any items required by the specific campground you’ll be visiting such as a leash. When considering sleeping arrangements, make sure that you have a tent that is big enough for you and your dog’s bed or kennel. If your dog sleeps outside he will be cold, unsafe, and probably barking the whole night. For extra safety and your peace of mind, you should bring a collar with a tracker to help you trace your dog or one that lights up at night so that you always know where your pup is.

Mind your pup’s health

Some campgrounds might be dangerous to the health of your dog depending on where you go. Before going on your trip make sure you visit your vet to ensure that your dog can handle the new environment and to get any necessary vaccinations. If your dog is taking any medication or supplements, make sure you have enough for the whole trip. You should also have a flea and tick preventative, especially when camping in forests and woodlands where your dog can pick up unwanted parasites. In case of anything, it’s always a good idea to find out where the nearest vet is.

Camping is a great way to spend more time with might your dog. It will require more planning and effort on your part, but if you get it right, it will be a highly rewarding experience for you and your furry friend.

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ALTAI™ Pro Tip: Sizing Guide

altaidev on July 9, 2019

We had a few specific questions regarding sizing and we know what a pain buying footwear online can be, so we created a measuring chart for your convenience. With a more accurate reading of your foot size, you can make a better informed purchase.

Remember to be mindful of whether you intend to use your boots for summer hiking, winter hunting, fall trekking, or spring ATVing. Keep in mind what type of socks you plan to wear; consider the thickness and how much extra room is required for maximum comfort.

So go ahead, measure up and see what ALTAI™ size is right for you! And as always, feel free to contact us directly with any specific questions about sizing and fit.

ALTAI™ Insight: Exploring the Wilderness

altaidev on March 26, 2019

Today’s ALTAI™ Insight has been brought to you by our fabulous guest writer, Katlyn Spade.

Untether and Recharge: What to Know About the Joys of Traversing the Wilderness

The idea of camping is one that is immensely popular and has a special place in American hearts. Around 77 million households in the US have a member that goes camping at least occasionally, according to the 2018 North American Camping Report. Exploring the wilderness is something that often invites thoughts of campfires, toasted marshmallows, and incredible outdoor hiking adventures. If you happen to be one of the individuals who’s thinking of going out to enjoy the bounty of nature, you should be suitably prepared. That said, what do you need to know

Study Your Destination

There are a lot of different areas to enjoy nature in the US, like the states of California, Wyoming, Alaska, and Michigan, to name a few. Each of them has its own particular landscapes, topography, wildlife, and weather conditions. If you are going to enjoy nature through camping, it is important to find out more about your chosen campsite. Studying your destination beforehand lets you know what facilities are available or what sort of camping etiquette should be followed. After all, you can’t just pitch your tent or park your RV anywhere–there are rules to follow, and you’ll even have to register beforehand.

Gear Up

Venturing out into the wilderness puts your body against conditions you may not normally encounter in your daily life. So it’s only natural that you will need the proper equipment to help you fully enjoy your trip. There can be rough terrain, so make sure you gear up with ALTAI™; a pair of boots that are comfortable, lightweight, quick drying, and even waterproof, will take you a long way. For camping, you need the proper items to make a camp, like a tent, cookware, bedding, blankets, and so many other things. Investing in quality camping gear can help you enjoy the outdoors in relative comfort and safety.

Be Responsible

Irresponsible campers have been known to have dire negative effects on the great outdoors. Roughly 84% of the wildfires that have ravaged parks were caused by irresponsible individuals, based on a study by the University of Colorado. To avoid adding to that ecological problem, it would be wise to know how to be a responsible camper. Critical yet simple things like not littering, tending carefully to your fire, not leaving food out, and using existing campsites can help a lot.

Prepare to Be Flexible

As well prepared as you come, there will still be elements out of your control like the weather, the availability of your campsite, and even the presence of other campers. To better enjoy your trip, it’s good to prepare to be flexible. Set back-up plans in case your first option doesn’t go through. If you can’t do the full camping, consider glamping options. If around other campers, it’s good to know how to bask in the glory of nature and be respectful of others.

There are a lot of different reasons why you should go camping or take part in activities out in the wilderness. Nature has in her safekeeping sights and experiences that only the brave and respectful get to enjoy fully. Arming yourself with the proper knowledge on how to respect and thrive in the outdoors can help you have a more enjoyable time.

ALTAI™ Pro Tip: 3 Simple Tips On How To Prevent Hiking Injuries

altaidev on October 10, 2018

Prevention is the first step to enjoying long hiking excursions injury free. And while we build our boots to be incredibly lightweight and no break-in period to help, here are a few exercises and stretches to get you even more prepped and keep you trekking comfortably.

Ankle Strengthening

Heel raises are an easy way to strengthen your ankles. Using a chair, or similar sturdy object, for balance, slowly raise one heel up, standing on your tiptoes, then slowly lower the heel to the ground. Repeat for each leg 10 times and try to do a set at least a few times throughout the day.

Taping

With quality athletic tape, you can add extra support; especially for those with previous injuries that may hinder full stability while on the trail. Some basic taping techniques can be found here or speak to a physician about what would be a suitable application for you.

Calf Stretches

Facing a wall, place both hands on the wall and bring one foot backwards 6 inches, knee bent, then slowly bring the heel down to the ground. You should feel a pull all along the lower and upper calf. This is also a recommended stretch for post-hiking or related activities.

23 Ways Hiking Makes You Healthier

altaidev on May 2, 2018

Hiking is one of the unique ways in which you can explore or get to know about a new place. It is also the best way to stay healthy and the one which does not include any kind of whiskey bar clash with the bikers. Besides the crowded city environment, hiking will help you to engage the entire senses. Once you are into hiking, the internal monologue inside you will go away and you will start noticing your environments.

There are several studies which proved that being close to nature will help to relieve your stress levels, thus lowering the incidences of depression. Hiking not just improves your day-to-day positive feelings but also helps in offering a non-pharmacological approach to certain strong conditions such as depression and anxiety. Apart from all these, hiking will help to give or create your own space. It helps a lot in balancing the mental as well as emotional factors which you will be facing in your personal and work life.

On the other hand, if you are hiking with someone important to you, then you can be with them in a deeper level and it would be supportive to your partner or sibling or friend or any human you are with. In short, hiking provides you with much mental pleasure along with enjoying being in the Mother Nature, breathing the cool and fresh air out there.

You can check out the below mentioned 23 health benefits of hiking. Find more detailed benefits of hiking from https://www.riderstrail.com/

ALTAI™ Insight: Winter Camping Tips

altaidev on March 6, 2018

Some of us get ‘cabin fever’ a little easier than others. Snow, ice, and wind won’t stop your appetite for adventure and exploration. While winter camping is an appealing way to escape The Winter Blues, it is also just as important to remember these key tips for an enjoyable, fulfilling adventure.

Check Weather Forecasts

We all know that winter weather can change at the drop of a hat, so don’t forget to check your local weather forecasts before packing up. This way, you won’t be stuck with inadequate apparel, equipment. Even better, you can avoid taking too many things beyond your needs that contribute extra weight and space.

Hot Water Bottles

If your winter camping adventure will include snow, be sure to get your hands on a hot water bottle to stay warm overnight. Melt snow in a pot on your propane stove or over a fire pit at the end of evening and fill your hot water bottle with the hot water. Place it in your sleeping bag and reheat more water to refill when needed! It’s also not a bad idea to have several hot water bottles, so you can strategically place them in all the right areas of your body you will want continued warmth. If there is a lack of snow or water access you can always opt for hand warmers instead.

Pack Down The Snow

Before setting up your tent, pack down the snow where you would like to set it up with your skis, snowshoes, or boots if you must. Creating a firmer surface for your tent ensures you won’t discover a surprise soft spot and avoid risking making a tear in your tent floor. Plus, an even surface is always more pleasant to sleep on!

Bring Extras!

Depending on what elements you will be facing, keep in mind that if you pack a hat, pack a spare. Especially in snowy areas, you may surprise yourself with how soggy these kinds of necessities can get. You’ll want a back up pair of gloves and hat, scarves, socks, and such, so you are not stuck with cold, wet hands and feet!

Get The Proper Sleeping Pad

While you certainly need to be mindful of adequate layers on top for your sleeping arrangement, you will also want to make sure you have a sleeping pad that will keep the cold out from underneath you. If your sleeping pad isn’t keeping you warm enough, you can line the bottom of your sleeping bag with extra clothes (another reason to bring some extras!) to help trap heat from escaping too quickly.

Gauge The Best Location

While every desired campsite will be different, there are some “ideals” to look for to ensure a comfortable, safe outdoor adventure. Try to find a location that has accessible firewood. You can eliminate the need to haul in firewood and it is always nice to know there are more supplies should your own run out. And even though melting snow is a technically fine way to get drinkable water, try finding a campsite near open water. Melting snow takes more fuel and energy than bringing water to a boil.

These little bits of advice are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to perfecting winter adventuring outdoors. As with any adventure, do your research on the area, weather, and it often helps to check conditions with the local ranger station. Enjoy the rest of the season and stay safe out there!

Boots for Hiking in Water

altaidev on December 19, 2016

Are you looking for incredible boots for hiking in water? ALTAI™ has the footwear that will keep up with you and push you to the extremes during any climate. Our waterproof material keeps your feet dry as the water beads away back to where it belongs, off and away from your body. You no longer have to worry about or suffer through the uncomfortable feeling of swamp footed socks! Our breathable yet waterproofing technology makes for an all around amazing selection of backpacking boots. Read Full Post