Thanks for consistently promoting active living💪🏻 Getting out in nature on f.ex a hike is one of the most physically/mentally rewarding things we humans can do if we are able to - and looking at the big picture it’s a very low impact and sustainable hobby compared to a lot of other popular leisure activities people engage in👍🏻
One small note about micro spikes… be very wary of the heel slipping off. I nearly died on black ice near a frozen waterfall while hiking in Iceland. It wasn’t steep at all (about 20 degrees and then flat ) but I was was about 5m from the edge of a waterfall. My spikes had slipped off my heel and when I put a step forward onto what I thought was grass on soil but was actually grass poking through black ice, my leg went from under me and I was headed toward the waterfall wi5 no way of stopping, fortunately there were two rocks at the edge that I managed to brace against.. I now use a strong Velcro strap to lift the back of the heel up.. also, unless sharp they won’t grip well on hard ice without a good stamp
In fact microspikes are not meant for use on inclines, product directions clearly state that. They're good on ice if it's almost flat (maybe a few degrees but not even up to 10°). It can be a bit more on snow or mud but still they will slip off if enough later force is applied.
@@pedroclaro7822 the river next to where I was went under the ice before going over the falls and then back under the ice… I would maybe have been found in the summer
Certainly good advice with the layering concept. As a farmer, most of my hiking time is in the winter so I’ve had to dial in the layering. I also happen to be one that sweats a lot and that makes moisture management more critical. The base layer that works best for me is the Brenja (Norway) merino/poly mesh. A poly sun hoodie and I’m good down to freezing. Under freezing I add an Alpaca hoodie- I find alpaca is superior to merino as it breathes better and hold far less moisture, not mention surprisingly warm. Temp control is with alpaca neck gaiter which I find is as important as the beanie. I can regulate head heat loss with the sun hood and alpaca hood- more than enough down to windy 20deg F. This works so well for me I left my puffy coat at home when did 10 days early season in the Icelandic Highlands. Gloves and socks as you described. I have been a fan of SilverLight since they came out. However, below freezing I find I need to add a thin poly sock liner- makes a huge difference. If there is going to be water crossings etc I take a pair of waterproof socks because my trail runners are not waterproof.
Pretty much the same system I use. Thin wool blend base layer and a sun hoody, keeps me warm until freezing like you said. I do still carry a puff jacket with me even though I never use it. They're light and pack small, and they're good to have for when shit hits the fan and the weather conditions get bad unexpectedly.
I would add gaiters for deeper snow and I always like trekking poles. A buff around the neck is always nice as well. I sometimes bring a pad to sit on in winter and rain. And great content as always.
Yep, gaiters in deep snow are mandatory for me. I always had snow come in without gaiters, even with high boots. Melts and soaks your feet cold from above, no good.
I found one of those micro puff jackets on clearance at REI and it’s the best winter jacket I’ve ever owned. So warm and light, and love that blue. Now you’re tempting me with that yellow backpack, even though I don’t need another pack.
Thanks. I use Buffalo Systems Gear from the U.K. I use the Teclite shirt in damp cool weather down to 30F with no layers underneath. Or just cold weather while hiking. On the outside, at times, I use the Buffalo wind shirt. In colder weather,
Vivobarefoot’s trail shoes are all great. I have both the Primus Trail and the Tracker FG. For winter hiking it is imperative that you get a model with the thermal insole though. Of course I prefer to take out the insole on warmer days to maximize ground feel.
I laughed at how joyful you were about snow! In Montana, I am ready for spring but we still have two months to go of off and on snow. I wear my Altra sneakers all winter in Montana. I put gorilla duct tape over the fabric toe box to keep air out, and by itself this helps with warmth and snow, but if it’s really cold, I stick a toe warmer on top of my socks at the toes. The tape reduces the air which keeps the toe warmers from over activating. If it’s really cold I can wear two pairs of socks. Lastly, I can slip on rubber grippers from Costco or Amazon to keep from falling on ice. Thank you for sharing your gear!
Microspikes are one of the best inventions for winter hiking. The popular trails in the North Shore mountains near Vancouver are so well trodden that snowshoes are almost never needed. They're great for firm snow or flat(ish) ice, not so good in softer or slushy snow (learned that the hard way). I don't have too many issues with grip on ice but my wife does as she weighs less than me. I find layering difficult in winter as I overheat so easily on the uphill. I'm often down to my t-shirt, which I supplement with the pull-on sleeves that cyclists sometimes wear if it's cold. A mid-weight fleece and puffy jacket are always in my bag to cover up when I stop moving. I have insulated winter boots but it has to be well below freezing for me to want to wear them so I often wear my summer hiking boots, although they can wet through if the snow is wet (as it often is here on the BC coast). As someone else mentioned, gaiters are invaluable for off-trail travel in soft or deep snow. A Thermos of hot water (or tea or hot chocolate) is also one of our mandatory items for winter hiking. Even if we don't drink it hot from the Thermos, it's useful for warming up the water in our water bottle. Definitely going to get one of those electronic hand-warmers though.
Good info. You've applied a lot of experience. I've got a Patagonia puff jacket. I can't think of any other piece of kit I have that stinks faster and stays stinky until it's washed. I leave it in my car just in case. Buying it was a mistake. I'm not just being cranky. I just spent a month sailing across the northern Pacific (Japan to Canada) bathing about every five days, wearing the same t shirt and underwear for those five days, but over these, layers of merino wool (two on top, medium and heavy; leggings on the bottom) - I wore these for 30+ days 24 hours a day. They still do not stink. I keep sneaking up on them thinking that I've just gotten used to the stinky. and if I come in from a day out I'll be able to catch a whiff. Nope. They are still good to go. No synthetic can do this (especially the junk that claims it can.) Over this I also wore a dense wool sweater from the Aran Islands. It too doesn't stink. I did find that a cheap plastic Japanese rain jacket was warmer, blocked the wind, than my much nicer goretex Berghaus rain jacket. And it did pick up some stink (with all that wool between it and my body. ) Mostly I just wore both jackets. Berghaus outside, it was bigger and had more and better pockets, and it is more versatile. (Tip you can buy clothes in Japan. Montbell has really good stuff. Right now I'm wearing some nylon pants I got there that I just love. I'm 5'8" most sizes Large. In Japan I'm XXL and the arms and legs are often just a bit short. I think you can find one size bigger, 2XXL but not everywhere.) Nylon as you know you can wash in the sink, wring out, then put on and it'll dry in an hour. My apple green nylon travel shirt is at least 15 years old. It was in China in 2004 and it went to Vietnam to pick up the boat. (And my students had a good laugh when I showed them photos proving I'd been to the Great Wall - and five years later I was wearing exactly the same clothes, including that shirt.) Hoods are all great. Sometimes you just wear them all. I have a Mustang drysuit that has no hood. And could use more pockets. I got a thin merino buff on Amazon that was too impossibly small. I sewed a spandex patch. I regret having thrpwn out a polo shirt style wool sweater a couple of months ago. It was a 40+ year hand me down (cigarette burn holes). That would've made a terrific buff. On my legs after the leggings was cheap thick fleece sweat pants, then cheap plastic Japanese fisherman pants and then a better, softer pair. Gil sailing boots, about 1.5 sizes too big. There's not a lot of hiking on a sailboat, so probably not for the mountains. The extra room allowed me to add another layer of socks. If I can't freely wiggle my toes my feet get cold and numb (I"ve got bad circulation hands and feet.) I would've worn this winter hiking and in the rain. I'll always put on a cheap rain poncho. Rain jackets like the Berghaus do keep you dry, but it I expect a lot of rain, I try to keep it dry. On the boat rain is not a problem. What's a complete drag is having to do something forward and get hit by a saltwater wave. It takes three days for the raincoat to dry enough to wear and it never really does dry it just gets kind of greasy damp. Good point about the flat shoes. I used to buy all those inserts. Then I read about the Tarahumara Indian runners in Mexico. Everything flat since then. My feet have never been better. The bindings on my expensive snowshoes just rotted away (stretchy plastic good for about two years.) So I made new bindings out of webbing, and then I found out that my shoe size had gotten bigger. My new hiking boots didn't fit the bindings. (I made some mistakes in this process). So I just put on my knee length SealSkinz and my rubber/neoprene kayaking boots. Worked great, feet warm. And everything was higher and tighter so snow getting in wasn't an issue. And most importantly -- I could wiggle my toes.
Solid advice. One thing I'd change. Barefoot shoes should not be an easy recommendation for most people. Anecdotally I've had lots of friends end up with chronic plantar fascitis after swapping to a low drop shoe. If you're going to use a shoe of this style I recommend you build into them slowly over a couple of years.
It's best to wear them to work or something for a while before starting to use them for strenuous activity. I started out running in my regular running shoes, but wearing my MT10s around town, then began doing short runs in my MT10s. Workouts barefoot can be a good thing, too, depending on your situation. I've been wearing low-drop shoes for so long that it's actually hard to go to my big winter boots.
@@ChaseMountains Hey Chase, thanks for your awesome videos and hard work. You are leading the charge of shaping the new industry of healthy and smart hiking and I am right behind you. I will be hiking in Kyrgysztan for 5 weeks in August and I was wondering if you could do a video about long term hiking, where you will be away from civilization for extended periods of time. Cheers. Keep it up!
Climbing this mountain with nobody near you and in wide open environment wouldn't be a problem at all during covid years. I used to jog a daily 5k walking my dog, and lockdown days were the best. Almost zero traffic, so no urban noise or pollution, and I even let the dog off leash in part of the route 😊
I nearly bought a dog just so I could go out hahha. I didnt want to be the guiri in the small town breaking the rules. The only problem really is if you were to need rescue or help. Then your screwed. Looking back now I should have just gone out.
@@ChaseMountains I have a whippet so daily runs are non negotiable 😂 In the first days my mom complained that I was going outside, but I said it was safer out there (0 proximity with others) than in my own 3 ppl household 🤷
@@ChaseMountains keep an eye out only if you're ever in Brazil :D Easier to see me than the dog, I'm usually way slower 😂 I mainly switched to mountain biking so I can catch up and do longer "dog walks" in less time.
Based in Scotland, I'm a fan of the combination insulation-windshell, to replace that 'midlayer' you have - examples like the Buffalo Mountain shirt or Rab VapourRise jackets (my favourite) - as they're warm but breathe well enough to prevent overheating. I don't know if I'm as open to an insulated shell that traps moisture.
I'm always looking for good gear that can fulfill two duties: like as a sun-protection layer and a winter base layer, or can work well as a cycling garment and a hiking garment, or that I can wear as regular street clothing. If it's airplane-friendly (pants that don't need belts, hoodie without zipper, or packs into a small space), that can be a nice second purpose.
I like lambswool and cashmere jumpers. I find they are superwarm, flexible and not bulky. I tried to avoid having non-natural fabrics next to my skin. I also wear a cashmere beanie. A solid investment and should last years. I know some don't recommend them but a wool scarf can be good too. warm but not as restrictive as a buff. I wouldn't wear if going technical climbing.
I'm really bad at layering so i always appreciate seeing what other have to say in order to figure out what's best for me! Also i saw that while you talked about the Magna's, you also showed the Tracker Deacons at 10:47. Have you tried them out? What did you think?
ever considered Pertex jackets? ultra lightweight, pack away tiny, windproof (not waterproof), but the thing is, in snow conditions, it wont rain. but the real good thing is with Gortex you can get Ice forming inside the jacket, however with Pertex Ice cannot form.
Last week while doing the Gokyo Ri hike , we started hiking at 5 am , I make a rookie mistake …( I can say that I had some experience after doing the Thorang La + the tour du Mont Blanc to name a few ) , I wore my rain hard shell jacket as insulation due to the very low temperature , my base layer and my merino wool liner ended up getting very wet with sweat .It was too late ! 😅 I was soaking wet underneath …
Nice video, I'm always wearing my vivobarefoot when going for long hikes in the beautiful mountains here in Catalunya. And indeed, seeing show on Montserrat.. very cool
I find it crazy that people actually didn’t leave their houses during Covid. I logged more miles in the mountains during Covid than any other time in my life.
At the start, when we knew very little about the disease, lockdowns were deemed prudent. Obviously we learned that outdoor spread was unlikely, but at first, it wasn't so clear. And depending on your situation, _getting_ to the mountains might not have been wise. Where I was, we were still allowed outside to exercise during lockdown--you just didn't want to be around other people while doing it. FWIW, Spain did better than the EU on average at controlling COVID, though it still killed over 100,000 people there.
For me is impossible to not sweat during high activity. I have a merino base layer and I want to change to a fleece mid that I can open during the activity , to get rid of that excess moisture. However when it’s cold and windy I’m not sure about completely open the mid layer. Since I started to do some hiking here in Switzerland, this is my hardest task to overcome. The right layering…
I am flying in from Canada and starting the GR11 in August of this year. Just wondering where I can source Isobutane for my Soto Windmaster along the trail?
Hi Chase, I live in Alberta Canada and am just getting in to barefoot shoes. Winter is coming and I am looking to find a nice winter/fall/spring boot. Would you recommend the Magna Forest ESC or the Magna Leather with less tread? Have you used gaiters with these boots and how have they been? Thanks for you time and keep up the great videos and encouraging everyone to get outside
I just wish more companies would make high quality no-water-in-or-out-jacket that has zippers for letting moisture out. This, together with a light breathable wind jacket should be all you need for the mountains in my view (20+ years of experience). This goretex trend is getting out of hand and we all know that rain gear will wet out eventually ... so the trick is to have best of both worlds by actually having the two worlds in your pack -- one breathable and one non-breathable.
12:33 After few years I think Vest + SoftShell + Poncho RainCoat on is way better then hard shell . hard shell appears to me as overpriced compromis it does not work well against hard rain (ponoch wins) and is not so breathable (softshell wins), there is one advantage it looks better than Poncho RainCoat . I don't climb so my view may not fit yours.
I transitioned over to barefoot shoes last year and use them all the time except when backpacking. I'll probably plan some lighter load trips so I can take them out. Those Magma FG's look nice. I like how Vivobarefoot switches up the colors.
@@m7rayven195 I'm fully transitioned now. It took around 4-6 months. I use Altras Lone Peaks when I go backpacking. It's the only time when I don't wear barefoot shoes. It's pretty rough with 25+ lbs on my back but with around a 20lb load I'll probably take out the Xero Mesa Trail.
@@rodoutdoorsgreat to hear... Im probably in the same stage as you. Altras for harder routes. Primus Trail for easier. Although I still have to wear semirrigid boots when crampons are a need...
I stay within my limits during winter in the mountains so not doing anything extreme, but I’ve found Vivobarefoot tracker Forest ESC + micro spikes are a great combo. Even without spikes, actually find them grippier than my old ridged Scarpa ribelle as the softer flexible sole is less likely to glance off icy rocks. Increased surface area also seems to help in deeper snow.
What do you think of a soft shell jacket for hard scrambling/ easy rock pitches? I’m thinking it’s more durable than a thin rain layer but should still keep the worst of the weather off you when belaying up the second if you need to pitch things out. Easy rock climbing can be quite abrasive on your clothes
Hello Chase. How you doing? I have a question for you. I know you usually wear Vivobarefoot shoes in the mountains and have tested different models. I recently made a couple of hikes with a Primus Trails II FG and i was pleasantly surprised, but winter is coming and Im looking for a better suited option for the season? What is your experience? Which model do you think will be good for winter hikes (I doesnt count the ones when you need crampons and a rigid boot too)? Have you tried another good brand apart from Vivo? Xero seems to have some interesting models too. Thank you in advance mate. Your content has helped me a lot
I'm a bit newer to your channel and looking for some advice. I am going to be doing a backpacking trip up Pikes Peak in CO this year, do you have a video on safety advice, or general advice, for summiting a 14er?
Chase what are your thoughts on hand straps on poles? - I’m thinking of cutting mine off - in case of a fall whilst wearing resulting in dislocated shoulder or broken wrist
Hand straps are actually very important! They allow you to use the poles for support without wearing out your grip strength. (I actually think Chase has a video on how to use the straps in this way)
So after a weekend in UK Lake district I have come up with a plan to put some kind of elastic band over straps to hold them down when not using so they don’t annoy me but still there if I do need them. I defo would not put hand through straps on a technical decent. My poles defo saved me from rolling an ankle a few times on a steep wet rocky section. Also on another forum someone advised to use the rubber tips on rock. This could be a good call will try this next week 😀 Oh and by the way my goretex shoes turned out not to be so waterproof after all 🤣 I think you have to embrace the wet here in UK.
Re your 5 beginners gear video. Please, hope it's okay to ask here. Hi Chase. Can you tell me, why not Spon battery banks? I assume you mean Toospon? It's what I use. A 30000mAh.
Cortazu are in the range of performance for Arcteryx, maybe even better in some cases. But sure, you often pay 20% more for these brands for a 2% increase in performance
I had experienced hiking in snow before. and one big problem I had was my toes would get really cold and even got some burns on the skin from the cold which got a really long time to heal. I loved hiking on mountains though and really want to go back, but I'm in this never ending search for which boots/socks I should use. I did use some north face hiking boots which were water proof but ventilated and used merino wool socks. I still got really cold toes. Any tips? please
Mylar reflective insoles with possum merino blend socks or alpaca sheep wool blend socks. Lees nylon/polyster in there the better. Also make sure there is extra room in the toe box for air to trap heat if your toes are too close to the shoe it will feel cold.
Im planning on hiking the Chimborazo 6 months from now, what kind of shoes, clothing will you recommended? Looking forward to get the Mountain Proof knees program.
That’s boot and crampon territory I think. I assume it’s permanently snow capped. So even in summer it’s probably still beyond the level of micro spikes.
@@ChaseMountains that’s correct, I have 5 to 6 months to be ready. Is a 20000ft hike. Hopefully with your program, ice bath and Wim Hof techniques I’ll be ready.
I own a pair of kahtoola microspikes, but I've recently learned "hillsound" does their own in an interesting design I'd also like to try at some point.
Likewise - one of the best purchases I've ever made. I believe the Hillsound ones have slightly more aggressive and longer points (they market them as trail crampons).
Hey Chase any thoughts on barefoot style shoes for an Aussie backcountry fisherman? I typically hike blue mountains in colder months with many river/stream crossings with water up to waist. Have tried many styles of footwear over the years. Hiking Boots, Trail runners, wading boots but yet to find something I’m comfortable with. I do like the idea of being able to feel a lot more with the barefoot style but do understand that no specific type of footwear works in every situation. Absolutely love your channel mate and your wellness insights have helped me immeasurable
Thanks so much- always love your videos! Quick question, I live in Pennsylvania and it is notorious for small rocks that stick out of the ground and are often pretty brutal on the feet and ankles (see how many people curse Pennsylvania on the Appalachian Trail lol)... do you feel the vivo's would be thick enough? I do love to feel the trail but trying to find a good balance in dealing with the spikey rocks. Thanks so much
This is great and, as ever, very helpful - THANKS. However, for so many (me included), winter and early spring is not snow; it's cold and wet; it is rainy, soggy and muddy. It looks like most of your gear would transition to that, apart from the boots. In that event, how might you amend your boot choice for days of rain?
Worth clarifying that I'm talking about Europe; far more of us get rain than snow to deal with. I've tried Vivo boots, but sadly they've repeatedly failed in the wet.
I appreciated your content and the advice on the handwarmer/battery is something I'll seriously consider but on the microspikes I'd like to know how much did you put those "no-brand" chinese imitation to the test. I personally wouldn't trust my safety to anything which I can't check the safety standards and quality. There are quite a.few reputable brands out there, I own Nortec spikes and they're amazing, quite strong yet lightweight, fast to wear, rustproof... but CAMP for example make very good if slightly heavier (and cheaper) ones. Please let us know.
This is unrelated to this video but do you have any suggestions for patellar tendonopathy? I hurt my back recently and started walking more to soothe it. I went from 10000 steps a day to 14000 in a few weeks and my knees began to feel worse and worse. Turns out my 6 year old running shoes and my well loved hiking boots were causing poor walking mechanics that ultimately contributed to my knee pain and also my continued back pain. I had brand new shoes and boots sitting in reserve so I’ve switched them out now and am walking less. I also do the cracr hamstring stretching 3 times/week and the daily movement for hikers routine. Any suggestions of something I should add or subtract from my routine?
I have also recovered from climbers elbow in the past so I know I need to load my tendon but less often and at a lower intensity for a while to give it time to recover in a way that maintains strength.
I’m trying replace my use of poly fleece with lambs wool jumpers as they don’t stink but my old poly fleeces just won’t die (which is the ecological issue)
Fantastic video! I live in Pyrennes too (Huesca side) and Im using barefoot style shoes for my everyday hehehe although I still have my rigid boots for Alpinism... Im wondering if you have tested any brand or model which is at least wider than others, so we can get that aspect of barefoot shoes...? Im currently using one model of Kayland too, but man, my feet get so tired after the kilometers...I am trying now Altras Lone Peak for less winter mountaineering... But in winter with the need of crampons... Idk. Thanks mate and keep going!!
Oh man, the dream would be to have a mountaineering boot that’s not made on a last from the 1960s 😂 they’re all too skinny in my opinion. Word on the street is that Meindl a Germany company has a wide last although I’ve struggled to find them in my size
@@ChaseMountainsthanks for the answer man. I expected that 😂 It is what It is.. I will check that brand anyway. What about your experience with barefoot shoes + microspikes on high mountain? Its enough? Did you ever have to turn back because of it ?
@@bmccook14 not tights but just polar fleece pants. Cheap ones I bought literally 10 years ago or more and they are still going. I can hike in them if it’s cold and I can sleep in them and be comfortable at camp as well.
How does one actually learn ice climbing and stuff like that? I get how you learn hiking and get used to mountaineering, but how do people learn how to climb up a mountain is out of my scope.
"Just vent and you don't sweat." Who are these people? I can be butt naked there doing a hike and still sweat. More useful for people like me Use stuff that keep you warm even when you sweat. Merino Or even better The fishnet merino shirts Looks dumb but works amazingly under a normal merino shirt. Quite common in the nordics
I wish I could find a barefoot shoe that was shaped anything remotely sensibly for a my feet. All the barefoot brands make such a big fuss about how they have so much toe space, but this only applies to a very specific food type since the space is only lateral not vertical. The shoes are soooo flat at the front: why? If you have duck feet that are very broad and flat, then yes, you will have plenty of toe space. However, my feet are not broad and I have high arches and "tall" big toes. There just isn't enough vertical space; they pinch over the arches and press down on my big toes (you can see the shape of my toenails pressing against the upper).
? One pic shows you wearing a shell 5 yrs ago, and now a Patagonia puff coat? Micro spikes? Patagonia and micro spikes go very very well together, but neither have an iota of use in the mountains, forest, camping, hiking, and I'll now add just one personal note... They both do belong in the garbage.
Yeah it’s complex but we weren’t allowed out. It sucked big time. Basically if you got into trouble in the park and you needed help you would be using emergency services resources and putting them in danger.
Doesn't know what he's talking about. Base layers shouldn't be loose fitting. They're designed to have as much contact with skin as possible to wick away sweat.
Couldn't visit a mountain because of a so-called seasonal respiratory virus. Nonsensical statement. Perception is everything. But I appreciate the gear and kit review.
You should really be carrying an ice axe when doing winter hiking with any significant snow. I saw you had two climbing axes but they're not appropriate for that still of hiking. Self arresting is no joke
True, but It’s not my first bbq. It was one of those situations were I came across the couloir unexpectedly and made the decision to descend because I was 100% comfortable. End of season old snow. Super stable, no dramas. Solid advice tho.
@@ChaseMountains fair enough, part of the fun of hiking is exploring and pushing your comfort zone so I can't really complain about that. Perhaps you could do a video on winter traversing safety etc
Thanks for consistently promoting active living💪🏻 Getting out in nature on f.ex a hike is one of the most physically/mentally rewarding things we humans can do if we are able to - and looking at the big picture it’s a very low impact and sustainable hobby compared to a lot of other popular leisure activities people engage in👍🏻
Yes❤
Absolutely correct
One small note about micro spikes… be very wary of the heel slipping off. I nearly died on black ice near a frozen waterfall while hiking in Iceland. It wasn’t steep at all (about 20 degrees and then flat ) but I was was about 5m from the edge of a waterfall. My spikes had slipped off my heel and when I put a step forward onto what I thought was grass on soil but was actually grass poking through black ice, my leg went from under me and I was headed toward the waterfall wi5 no way of stopping, fortunately there were two rocks at the edge that I managed to brace against.. I now use a strong Velcro strap to lift the back of the heel up.. also, unless sharp they won’t grip well on hard ice without a good stamp
Wow. That’s a hell of a story. Worth noting that micro spikes aren’t great on hard ice, even on low angles.
Thanks for sharing this definitely worth bearing in mind. Glad you were ok, sounds like a ‘one day, two pairs of underpants’ kind of day. 😊
Near death experience… gosh! Had you fallen in, even with people around you likely wouldn’t have been recovered…
In fact microspikes are not meant for use on inclines, product directions clearly state that. They're good on ice if it's almost flat (maybe a few degrees but not even up to 10°).
It can be a bit more on snow or mud but still they will slip off if enough later force is applied.
@@pedroclaro7822 the river next to where I was went under the ice before going over the falls and then back under the ice… I would maybe have been found in the summer
Certainly good advice with the layering concept. As a farmer, most of my hiking time is in the winter so I’ve had to dial in the layering. I also happen to be one that sweats a lot and that makes moisture management more critical. The base layer that works best for me is the Brenja (Norway) merino/poly mesh. A poly sun hoodie and I’m good down to freezing. Under freezing I add an Alpaca hoodie- I find alpaca is superior to merino as it breathes better and hold far less moisture, not mention surprisingly warm. Temp control is with alpaca neck gaiter which I find is as important as the beanie. I can regulate head heat loss with the sun hood and alpaca hood- more than enough down to windy 20deg F. This works so well for me I left my puffy coat at home when did 10 days early season in the Icelandic Highlands. Gloves and socks as you described. I have been a fan of SilverLight since they came out. However, below freezing I find I need to add a thin poly sock liner- makes a huge difference. If there is going to be water crossings etc I take a pair of waterproof socks because my trail runners are not waterproof.
Pretty much the same system I use. Thin wool blend base layer and a sun hoody, keeps me warm until freezing like you said. I do still carry a puff jacket with me even though I never use it. They're light and pack small, and they're good to have for when shit hits the fan and the weather conditions get bad unexpectedly.
I would add gaiters for deeper snow and I always like trekking poles. A buff around the neck is always nice as well. I sometimes bring a pad to sit on in winter and rain. And great content as always.
That's a great idea! I need to get some new trail gaiters
Yep, gaiters in deep snow are mandatory for me. I always had snow come in without gaiters, even with high boots. Melts and soaks your feet cold from above, no good.
I found one of those micro puff jackets on clearance at REI and it’s the best winter jacket I’ve ever owned. So warm and light, and love that blue. Now you’re tempting me with that yellow backpack, even though I don’t need another pack.
Thanks. I use Buffalo Systems Gear from the U.K. I use the Teclite shirt in damp cool weather down to 30F with no layers underneath. Or just cold weather while hiking. On the outside, at times, I use the Buffalo wind shirt. In colder weather,
Vivobarefoot’s trail shoes are all great. I have both the Primus Trail and the Tracker FG. For winter hiking it is imperative that you get a model with the thermal insole though. Of course I prefer to take out the insole on warmer days to maximize ground feel.
I laughed at how joyful you were about snow! In Montana, I am ready for spring but we still have two months to go of off and on snow.
I wear my Altra sneakers all winter in Montana. I put gorilla duct tape over the fabric toe box to keep air out, and by itself this helps with warmth and snow, but if it’s really cold, I stick a toe warmer on top of my socks at the toes. The tape reduces the air which keeps the toe warmers from over activating. If it’s really cold I can wear two pairs of socks. Lastly, I can slip on rubber grippers from Costco or Amazon to keep from falling on ice.
Thank you for sharing your gear!
Yeah snow is rare here. Same where I grew up, so every time it snows I’m 😍
Gorilla Tape over the toe box! I'm going to try that this week on my next run.
Microspikes are one of the best inventions for winter hiking. The popular trails in the North Shore mountains near Vancouver are so well trodden that snowshoes are almost never needed. They're great for firm snow or flat(ish) ice, not so good in softer or slushy snow (learned that the hard way). I don't have too many issues with grip on ice but my wife does as she weighs less than me.
I find layering difficult in winter as I overheat so easily on the uphill. I'm often down to my t-shirt, which I supplement with the pull-on sleeves that cyclists sometimes wear if it's cold. A mid-weight fleece and puffy jacket are always in my bag to cover up when I stop moving. I have insulated winter boots but it has to be well below freezing for me to want to wear them so I often wear my summer hiking boots, although they can wet through if the snow is wet (as it often is here on the BC coast). As someone else mentioned, gaiters are invaluable for off-trail travel in soft or deep snow.
A Thermos of hot water (or tea or hot chocolate) is also one of our mandatory items for winter hiking. Even if we don't drink it hot from the Thermos, it's useful for warming up the water in our water bottle. Definitely going to get one of those electronic hand-warmers though.
Cycling arm warmers really are the bomb for those on-the edge temps. And sunsleeves are about my favorite invention ever.
Really beautiful images and good choices for gear. Always looking to see what other people are using. Been liking your videos.
This is a really inspiring and informative video.
Good info. You've applied a lot of experience. I've got a Patagonia puff jacket. I can't think of any other piece of kit I have that stinks faster and stays stinky until it's washed. I leave it in my car just in case. Buying it was a mistake. I'm not just being cranky. I just spent a month sailing across the northern Pacific (Japan to Canada) bathing about every five days, wearing the same t shirt and underwear for those five days, but over these, layers of merino wool (two on top, medium and heavy; leggings on the bottom) - I wore these for 30+ days 24 hours a day. They still do not stink. I keep sneaking up on them thinking that I've just gotten used to the stinky. and if I come in from a day out I'll be able to catch a whiff. Nope. They are still good to go. No synthetic can do this (especially the junk that claims it can.) Over this I also wore a dense wool sweater from the Aran Islands. It too doesn't stink. I did find that a cheap plastic Japanese rain jacket was warmer, blocked the wind, than my much nicer goretex Berghaus rain jacket. And it did pick up some stink (with all that wool between it and my body. ) Mostly I just wore both jackets. Berghaus outside, it was bigger and had more and better pockets, and it is more versatile. (Tip you can buy clothes in Japan. Montbell has really good stuff. Right now I'm wearing some nylon pants I got there that I just love. I'm 5'8" most sizes Large. In Japan I'm XXL and the arms and legs are often just a bit short. I think you can find one size bigger, 2XXL but not everywhere.) Nylon as you know you can wash in the sink, wring out, then put on and it'll dry in an hour. My apple green nylon travel shirt is at least 15 years old. It was in China in 2004 and it went to Vietnam to pick up the boat. (And my students had a good laugh when I showed them photos proving I'd been to the Great Wall - and five years later I was wearing exactly the same clothes, including that shirt.)
Hoods are all great. Sometimes you just wear them all. I have a Mustang drysuit that has no hood. And could use more pockets. I got a thin merino buff on Amazon that was too impossibly small. I sewed a spandex patch. I regret having thrpwn out a polo shirt style wool sweater a couple of months ago. It was a 40+ year hand me down (cigarette burn holes). That would've made a terrific buff.
On my legs after the leggings was cheap thick fleece sweat pants, then cheap plastic Japanese fisherman pants and then a better, softer pair. Gil sailing boots, about 1.5 sizes too big. There's not a lot of hiking on a sailboat, so probably not for the mountains. The extra room allowed me to add another layer of socks. If I can't freely wiggle my toes my feet get cold and numb (I"ve got bad circulation hands and feet.)
I would've worn this winter hiking and in the rain. I'll always put on a cheap rain poncho. Rain jackets like the Berghaus do keep you dry, but it I expect a lot of rain, I try to keep it dry. On the boat rain is not a problem. What's a complete drag is having to do something forward and get hit by a saltwater wave. It takes three days for the raincoat to dry enough to wear and it never really does dry it just gets kind of greasy damp.
Good point about the flat shoes. I used to buy all those inserts. Then I read about the Tarahumara Indian runners in Mexico. Everything flat since then. My feet have never been better. The bindings on my expensive snowshoes just rotted away (stretchy plastic good for about two years.) So I made new bindings out of webbing, and then I found out that my shoe size had gotten bigger. My new hiking boots didn't fit the bindings. (I made some mistakes in this process). So I just put on my knee length SealSkinz and my rubber/neoprene kayaking boots. Worked great, feet warm. And everything was higher and tighter so snow getting in wasn't an issue. And most importantly -- I could wiggle my toes.
Thanks for the terrific reporting. Very helpful.
Thanks for showing us Montserrat!
I can't keep but admire Bestard mountaneering boots. Their FF series is the lightest in class
Solid advice. One thing I'd change. Barefoot shoes should not be an easy recommendation for most people. Anecdotally I've had lots of friends end up with chronic plantar fascitis after swapping to a low drop shoe. If you're going to use a shoe of this style I recommend you build into them slowly over a couple of years.
It's best to wear them to work or something for a while before starting to use them for strenuous activity. I started out running in my regular running shoes, but wearing my MT10s around town, then began doing short runs in my MT10s. Workouts barefoot can be a good thing, too, depending on your situation. I've been wearing low-drop shoes for so long that it's actually hard to go to my big winter boots.
Hey chase, could you make a similar video for summer hiking please
Absolutely
@@ChaseMountains awesome, thank you!
@@ChaseMountains Hey Chase, thanks for your awesome videos and hard work. You are leading the charge of shaping the new industry of healthy and smart hiking and I am right behind you. I will be hiking in Kyrgysztan for 5 weeks in August and I was wondering if you could do a video about long term hiking, where you will be away from civilization for extended periods of time. Cheers. Keep it up!
Happy to see you wearing it! 💪🏻
Climbing this mountain with nobody near you and in wide open environment wouldn't be a problem at all during covid years.
I used to jog a daily 5k walking my dog, and lockdown days were the best. Almost zero traffic, so no urban noise or pollution, and I even let the dog off leash in part of the route 😊
I nearly bought a dog just so I could go out hahha. I didnt want to be the guiri in the small town breaking the rules. The only problem really is if you were to need rescue or help. Then your screwed. Looking back now I should have just gone out.
@@ChaseMountains I have a whippet so daily runs are non negotiable 😂
In the first days my mom complained that I was going outside, but I said it was safer out there (0 proximity with others) than in my own 3 ppl household 🤷
@@Eduardo1007 maybe I’ll see you around in El Bruc some time, I’ll keep an eye out for a whippet!
@@ChaseMountains keep an eye out only if you're ever in Brazil :D
Easier to see me than the dog, I'm usually way slower 😂 I mainly switched to mountain biking so I can catch up and do longer "dog walks" in less time.
Based in Scotland, I'm a fan of the combination insulation-windshell, to replace that 'midlayer' you have - examples like the Buffalo Mountain shirt or Rab VapourRise jackets (my favourite) - as they're warm but breathe well enough to prevent overheating.
I don't know if I'm as open to an insulated shell that traps moisture.
I'm always looking for good gear that can fulfill two duties: like as a sun-protection layer and a winter base layer, or can work well as a cycling garment and a hiking garment, or that I can wear as regular street clothing. If it's airplane-friendly (pants that don't need belts, hoodie without zipper, or packs into a small space), that can be a nice second purpose.
I like lambswool and cashmere jumpers. I find they are superwarm, flexible and not bulky. I tried to avoid having non-natural fabrics next to my skin. I also wear a cashmere beanie. A solid investment and should last years. I know some don't recommend them but a wool scarf can be good too. warm but not as restrictive as a buff. I wouldn't wear if going technical climbing.
I'm really bad at layering so i always appreciate seeing what other have to say in order to figure out what's best for me! Also i saw that while you talked about the Magna's, you also showed the Tracker Deacons at 10:47. Have you tried them out? What did you think?
ever considered Pertex jackets? ultra lightweight, pack away tiny, windproof (not waterproof), but the thing is, in snow conditions, it wont rain. but the real good thing is with Gortex you can get Ice forming inside the jacket, however with Pertex Ice cannot form.
RAB make some great stuff. Really well thought out gear. Btw, that's not old gear, it's character and memories.
That artifact at 6:18 scared the daylights out of me lol
Last week while doing the Gokyo Ri hike , we started hiking at 5 am , I make a rookie mistake …( I can say that I had some experience after doing the Thorang La + the tour du Mont Blanc to name a few ) , I wore my rain hard shell jacket as insulation due to the very low temperature , my base layer and my merino wool liner ended up getting very wet with sweat .It was too late ! 😅 I was soaking wet underneath …
Stellar video! Thanks
Nice video, I'm always wearing my vivobarefoot when going for long hikes in the beautiful mountains here in Catalunya. And indeed, seeing show on Montserrat.. very cool
Babe wake up, new gear video dropped
Anymore feedback on that Cortazu Insulated Hard Shell? How does it compare to Gortex alternatives?
I find it crazy that people actually didn’t leave their houses during Covid. I logged more miles in the mountains during Covid than any other time in my life.
@AlvaroRC96 you think climbing mountains is unhealthy?
At the start, when we knew very little about the disease, lockdowns were deemed prudent. Obviously we learned that outdoor spread was unlikely, but at first, it wasn't so clear. And depending on your situation, _getting_ to the mountains might not have been wise. Where I was, we were still allowed outside to exercise during lockdown--you just didn't want to be around other people while doing it. FWIW, Spain did better than the EU on average at controlling COVID, though it still killed over 100,000 people there.
For me is impossible to not sweat during high activity. I have a merino base layer and I want to change to a fleece mid that I can open during the activity , to get rid of that excess moisture. However when it’s cold and windy I’m not sure about completely open the mid layer. Since I started to do some hiking here in Switzerland, this is my hardest task to overcome. The right layering…
I am flying in from Canada and starting the GR11 in August of this year. Just wondering where I can source Isobutane for my Soto Windmaster along the trail?
Amazing informational vid! 😎👍
Cheers man
Hi Chase. I really like the Blue Ice Firecrest 28. Would you see this for day hiking in Europe, during summer? Thanks
Why are you differentiating between Catalan and Spanish products?
Would you still recommend the Magnas in really wet conditions? I have some concerns about the wool upper being less waterproof.
Yeah if you’re hiking around in wet bog and torrential rain all the time there is probably a more suitable boot. Tracker would be better
What base layer weight level would you recommend for weather in the 30s with high winds. The job would be a air port ramp agent
Hi Chase, I live in Alberta Canada and am just getting in to barefoot shoes. Winter is coming and I am looking to find a nice winter/fall/spring boot. Would you recommend the Magna Forest ESC or the Magna Leather with less tread? Have you used gaiters with these boots and how have they been? Thanks for you time and keep up the great videos and encouraging everyone to get outside
I just wish more companies would make high quality no-water-in-or-out-jacket that has zippers for letting moisture out. This, together with a light breathable wind jacket should be all you need for the mountains in my view (20+ years of experience). This goretex trend is getting out of hand and we all know that rain gear will wet out eventually ... so the trick is to have best of both worlds by actually having the two worlds in your pack -- one breathable and one non-breathable.
Keela DSP is decent
12:33 After few years I think Vest + SoftShell + Poncho RainCoat on is way better then hard shell .
hard shell appears to me as overpriced compromis it does not work well against hard rain (ponoch wins) and is not so breathable (softshell wins), there is one advantage it looks better than Poncho RainCoat .
I don't climb so my view may not fit yours.
I transitioned over to barefoot shoes last year and use them all the time except when backpacking. I'll probably plan some lighter load trips so I can take them out. Those Magma FG's look nice. I like how Vivobarefoot switches up the colors.
I use Xero hiking shoes for my light hiking trips and I love them. Barefoot all the way 🙌🏻
Altra can be a transition. Take a look. Wide toe box and zero drop, but cushioned
@@m7rayven195 I'm fully transitioned now. It took around 4-6 months. I use Altras Lone Peaks when I go backpacking. It's the only time when I don't wear barefoot shoes. It's pretty rough with 25+ lbs on my back but with around a 20lb load I'll probably take out the Xero Mesa Trail.
@@rodoutdoorsgreat to hear... Im probably in the same stage as you. Altras for harder routes. Primus Trail for easier.
Although I still have to wear semirrigid boots when crampons are a need...
I stay within my limits during winter in the mountains so not doing anything extreme, but I’ve found Vivobarefoot tracker Forest ESC + micro spikes are a great combo. Even without spikes, actually find them grippier than my old ridged Scarpa ribelle as the softer flexible sole is less likely to glance off icy rocks. Increased surface area also seems to help in deeper snow.
I have those boots, crazy grip and because your foot moulds to the floor I think that make the grip even better. Easy to maintain with dubbin as well.
What do you think of a soft shell jacket for hard scrambling/ easy rock pitches? I’m thinking it’s more durable than a thin rain layer but should still keep the worst of the weather off you when belaying up the second if you need to pitch things out. Easy rock climbing can be quite abrasive on your clothes
Hello Chase. How you doing?
I have a question for you. I know you usually wear Vivobarefoot shoes in the mountains and have tested different models. I recently made a couple of hikes with a Primus Trails II FG and i was pleasantly surprised, but winter is coming and Im looking for a better suited option for the season? What is your experience? Which model do you think will be good for winter hikes (I doesnt count the ones when you need crampons and a rigid boot too)? Have you tried another good brand apart from Vivo? Xero seems to have some interesting models too. Thank you in advance mate. Your content has helped me a lot
hey friend, vivo just recently bought out some new winter models. really nice. they send me a pair so i will test them out for a new video soon
I'm a bit newer to your channel and looking for some advice. I am going to be doing a backpacking trip up Pikes Peak in CO this year, do you have a video on safety advice, or general advice, for summiting a 14er?
Chase what are your thoughts on hand straps on poles? - I’m thinking of cutting mine off - in case of a fall whilst wearing resulting in dislocated shoulder or broken wrist
Hand straps are actually very important! They allow you to use the poles for support without wearing out your grip strength. (I actually think Chase has a video on how to use the straps in this way)
@@cameronmccanless2248 indeed I do. Your choice what you do with straps but I want to keep mine!
Hmmm I don’t think straps are a problem if they are worn the correct way. Chases video on the topic is as good as any I’ve seen on the topic.
So after a weekend in UK Lake district I have come up with a plan to put some kind of elastic band over straps to hold them down when not using so they don’t annoy me but still there if I do need them. I defo would not put hand through straps on a technical decent.
My poles defo saved me from rolling an ankle a few times on a steep wet rocky section.
Also on another forum someone advised to use the rubber tips on rock. This could be a good call will try this next week 😀
Oh and by the way my goretex shoes turned out not to be so waterproof after all 🤣 I think you have to embrace the wet here in UK.
Re your 5 beginners gear video. Please, hope it's okay to ask here. Hi Chase. Can you tell me, why not Spon battery banks? I assume you mean Toospon? It's what I use. A 30000mAh.
Cortazu is very expansive, would take other brand name that are as good, Columbia, North Face, OR, Rab, Arc'teryx but that one also is expansive!
Cortazu are in the range of performance for Arcteryx, maybe even better in some cases. But sure, you often pay 20% more for these brands for a 2% increase in performance
I had experienced hiking in snow before. and one big problem I had was my toes would get really cold and even got some burns on the skin from the cold which got a really long time to heal.
I loved hiking on mountains though and really want to go back, but I'm in this never ending search for which boots/socks I should use.
I did use some north face hiking boots which were water proof but ventilated and used merino wool socks. I still got really cold toes.
Any tips? please
Mylar reflective insoles with possum merino blend socks or alpaca sheep wool blend socks. Lees nylon/polyster in there the better. Also make sure there is extra room in the toe box for air to trap heat if your toes are too close to the shoe it will feel cold.
How do you like the Magna FGs vs the Magna ESCs?
What's been the pros and cons of the different outsole/lug styles in your experience?
I honestly I think they’re more or less the same. Not a massive difference
What was the temperature? How cold would you take these layers before swapping with warmer layers?
It was a bit below zero C in the morning. If it was likely to b that cold in the middle of the day things would be different. Namely wool base layers
Merino wool glove liners-same concept as your two hats.
Im planning on hiking the Chimborazo 6 months from now, what kind of shoes, clothing will you recommended? Looking forward to get the Mountain Proof knees program.
That’s boot and crampon territory I think. I assume it’s permanently snow capped. So even in summer it’s probably still beyond the level of micro spikes.
@@ChaseMountains that’s correct, I have 5 to 6 months to be ready. Is a 20000ft hike. Hopefully with your program, ice bath and Wim Hof techniques I’ll be ready.
I own a pair of kahtoola microspikes, but I've recently learned "hillsound" does their own in an interesting design I'd also like to try at some point.
Likewise - one of the best purchases I've ever made. I believe the Hillsound ones have slightly more aggressive and longer points (they market them as trail crampons).
Whats the toplayer in 8:12?
Hey Chase any thoughts on barefoot style shoes for an Aussie backcountry fisherman? I typically hike blue mountains in colder months with many river/stream crossings with water up to waist. Have tried many styles of footwear over the years. Hiking Boots, Trail runners, wading boots but yet to find something I’m comfortable with. I do like the idea of being able to feel a lot more with the barefoot style but do understand that no specific type of footwear works in every situation. Absolutely love your channel mate and your wellness insights have helped me immeasurable
Thanks so much- always love your videos! Quick question, I live in Pennsylvania and it is notorious for small rocks that stick out of the ground and are often pretty brutal on the feet and ankles (see how many people curse Pennsylvania on the Appalachian Trail lol)... do you feel the vivo's would be thick enough? I do love to feel the trail but trying to find a good balance in dealing with the spikey rocks. Thanks so much
Hi man, i’m going to iceland in late october and wasn’t sure on what type of pants i should get, what’s your recommendations
This is great and, as ever, very helpful - THANKS. However, for so many (me included), winter and early spring is not snow; it's cold and wet; it is rainy, soggy and muddy. It looks like most of your gear would transition to that, apart from the boots. In that event, how might you amend your boot choice for days of rain?
Worth clarifying that I'm talking about Europe; far more of us get rain than snow to deal with. I've tried Vivo boots, but sadly they've repeatedly failed in the wet.
I appreciated your content and the advice on the handwarmer/battery is something I'll seriously consider but on the microspikes I'd like to know how much did you put those "no-brand" chinese imitation to the test.
I personally wouldn't trust my safety to anything which I can't check the safety standards and quality.
There are quite a.few reputable brands out there, I own Nortec spikes and they're amazing, quite strong yet lightweight, fast to wear, rustproof... but CAMP for example make very good if slightly heavier (and cheaper) ones.
Please let us know.
This is unrelated to this video but do you have any suggestions for patellar tendonopathy? I hurt my back recently and started walking more to soothe it. I went from 10000 steps a day to 14000 in a few weeks and my knees began to feel worse and worse. Turns out my 6 year old running shoes and my well loved hiking boots were causing poor walking mechanics that ultimately contributed to my knee pain and also my continued back pain. I had brand new shoes and boots sitting in reserve so I’ve switched them out now and am walking less. I also do the cracr hamstring stretching 3 times/week and the daily movement for hikers routine. Any suggestions of something I should add or subtract from my routine?
I have also recovered from climbers elbow in the past so I know I need to load my tendon but less often and at a lower intensity for a while to give it time to recover in a way that maintains strength.
I’m trying replace my use of poly fleece with lambs wool jumpers as they don’t stink but my old poly fleeces just won’t die (which is the ecological issue)
Fantastic video! I live in Pyrennes too (Huesca side) and Im using barefoot style shoes for my everyday hehehe although I still have my rigid boots for Alpinism... Im wondering if you have tested any brand or model which is at least wider than others, so we can get that aspect of barefoot shoes...? Im currently using one model of Kayland too, but man, my feet get so tired after the kilometers...I am trying now Altras Lone Peak for less winter mountaineering... But in winter with the need of crampons... Idk.
Thanks mate and keep going!!
Oh man, the dream would be to have a mountaineering boot that’s not made on a last from the 1960s 😂 they’re all too skinny in my opinion. Word on the street is that Meindl a Germany company has a wide last although I’ve struggled to find them in my size
@@ChaseMountainsthanks for the answer man. I expected that 😂 It is what It is.. I will check that brand anyway.
What about your experience with barefoot shoes + microspikes on high mountain? Its enough? Did you ever have to turn back because of it ?
Altberg, a UK brand has traditional style boots in very wide fittings
Do you ever wear shorts and when it get cold throw on some tights? If so .. do you have any you recommend?
@@bmccook14 not tights but just polar fleece pants. Cheap ones I bought literally 10 years ago or more and they are still going. I can hike in them if it’s cold and I can sleep in them and be comfortable at camp as well.
Busted! Your pack contained the basics- clothing, some food, thermos of hot hydrating goodness,......where's your first aid kit?!? Ack!
How does one actually learn ice climbing and stuff like that? I get how you learn hiking and get used to mountaineering, but how do people learn how to climb up a mountain is out of my scope.
You lost me when you said don't fill your thermos with coffee! Madness
If Buff is from Catalunya, then Rab is from Yorkshire, Blue Ice from Haute-Saboye and so on...
check out Ridgeline from NZ - excellent gear
Cataluña is part of Spain, just in case you didn't know
"Just vent and you don't sweat."
Who are these people?
I can be butt naked there doing a hike and still sweat.
More useful for people like me
Use stuff that keep you warm even when you sweat.
Merino
Or even better
The fishnet merino shirts
Looks dumb but works amazingly under a normal merino shirt.
Quite common in the nordics
gracies per catalunya i no cataluña (soc gabatxo da igual)
I wish I could find a barefoot shoe that was shaped anything remotely sensibly for a my feet. All the barefoot brands make such a big fuss about how they have so much toe space, but this only applies to a very specific food type since the space is only lateral not vertical. The shoes are soooo flat at the front: why? If you have duck feet that are very broad and flat, then yes, you will have plenty of toe space. However, my feet are not broad and I have high arches and "tall" big toes. There just isn't enough vertical space; they pinch over the arches and press down on my big toes (you can see the shape of my toenails pressing against the upper).
Funny how you include the country of each of the mountains you show (France, USA, Sweden..), and forget to mention that Montserrat is in Spain.
my OG viewers know I live in Spain 🤪
❤
Hello Chase,
how can I contact you to have more information about one to one training?
Do you have a work email adress?
Thank you.
No sponsors in this vid.
Chase have you watched Dominion 2018? It shows how Wool and Down are harvested
Too effing cold here
Chase, you cut off your beautiful curls, didn't you? Damn!
I did!
? One pic shows you wearing a shell 5 yrs ago, and now a Patagonia puff coat?
Micro spikes?
Patagonia and micro spikes go very very well together, but neither have an iota of use in the mountains, forest, camping, hiking, and I'll now add just one personal note...
They both do belong in the garbage.
You couldn't go outside during Covid? 😮 that seems unreasonable and unscientific.
Yeah it’s complex but we weren’t allowed out. It sucked big time. Basically if you got into trouble in the park and you needed help you would be using emergency services resources and putting them in danger.
Doesn't know what he's talking about. Base layers shouldn't be loose fitting. They're designed to have as much contact with skin as possible to wick away sweat.
Couldn't visit a mountain because of a so-called seasonal respiratory virus. Nonsensical statement. Perception is everything. But I appreciate the gear and kit review.
You should really be carrying an ice axe when doing winter hiking with any significant snow. I saw you had two climbing axes but they're not appropriate for that still of hiking. Self arresting is no joke
True, but It’s not my first bbq. It was one of those situations were I came across the couloir unexpectedly and made the decision to descend because I was 100% comfortable. End of season old snow. Super stable, no dramas. Solid advice tho.
@@ChaseMountains fair enough, part of the fun of hiking is exploring and pushing your comfort zone so I can't really complain about that. Perhaps you could do a video on winter traversing safety etc
Can't level the house 🤣
Heh?
This channel is just a whole load of nothing
Believe in Jesus Christ, trust in Him for your eternal salvation and repent of your sins!
One big thing about barefoot shoes... they suck and are bad for you feet.