007: When It Rains, You’re Covered

Recent research by a Kansas State physicist proves that petite folks have the advantage on the trail.  Next, be sure to pack an umbrella (is this a joke?) on your next backpacking trip.  On the SUMMIT™ Gear Review, we review a basic hat that left Heather’s ears out cold.  And you’ll learn how to make a simple breakfast that will take you back to your idyllic childhood in the Swiss Alps. Show Notes: Episode 007 Opening * When backpacking, it pays to be small * Research from Michael O’Shea, a physicist at Kansas State University (http://scitation.aip.org/content/aapt/journal/tpt/52/8/10.1119/1.4897584) * Smaller animals and people can carry a greater percentage of their body weight * Heather has a hard time figuring out the metric system… * We don’t recommend packing more just because you can, but it’s nice to know that petite folks may have an advantage on the trail The Top 5 Ways to Use an Umbrella While Backpacking Rain Protection * Benefits: instant rain protection for all-of-a sudden downpours * Don’t take it as your only rain protection. * Intermittent rain vs. sideways rain Sunshade/Parasol * The weight of the umbrella is less than the extra weight of the water you’d have to carry Windscreen * Starting fire/cooking * Preparing meals Temporary Micro Shelter * Rain gear covers your body, but an umbrella can cover a map, a match, injury Privacy Screen * Perfect for potty breaks * Just remember to take your umbrella with you when you’re done SUMMIT™ Gear Review: SmartWool “The Lid” Hat Structure * Classic winter hat * 50% Merino Wool, 50% Acrylic * Hat is sewn together at the top to form a six pointed star (makes for nice rounded top) * Has very little stretch, so don’t expect to be able to pull this one down around your ears Utility * It’s a hat * Has a built in 2 1/2” headband liner that doubles the warmth around the ears and head * Didn’t quite cover ears… Mass * 2 ounces * Fits head size 21.6 - 23.6 inches Maintenance * Machine wash cold * Tumble cool * “Cool iron when needed” * Hand wash/flat or line dry Investment: * $30 * I thought I was paying for a 100% Merino wool hat (actually 50% acrylic) * Read tags before you buy—regardless of the brand’s reputation * Part of investment is value * $30 is too much cost, not enough value… Trial: * If it were 100% merino wool it may have repelled water better and would have been even warmer when wet than a 50/50 blend * Pleased with other Smart Wool products * Excellent customer service from SmartWool  Backpack Hack of the Week™: Swiss Muesli 1/2 cup regular oats 2 Tbs NIDO 2 Tbs chia seeds 1 Tbs. brown sugar 1/4 cup chopped cashews Mix and store in plastic bag. When ready to make, add water. Eat your Swiss Muesli from plastic bag or empty peanut butter jar. * 642 calories, 5.6 ounces = 115 calories/oz * Full of fiber, long lasting carbs, protein * This breakfast requires no cooking Trail Wisdom “There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” -Ranulph Fiennes