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DIY Gravity Water Filter System Update
A few years ago, I wrote about using a Sawyer Squeeze as a DIY gravity filter. Simple modifications using CNOC Vecto bags reduced complexity but filter one less liter per fill.
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What to do with the canoe and kayak plans?
Over the last couple of years, I’ve been punting on a decision about the canoe and kayak plans. I haven’t been able to decide whether or not to remove them from my website. I’ve made the decision. The sales of these plans is leaving PaddlingLight. What I haven’t decided is, do I continue to sell them at all? There are various reasons that I’m doing this, but the primary one is that I don’t want to have to handle all the payments, orders, problems, etc. of running an online store anymore. I’m just not interested in doing it, and the revenue has dropped significantly in the last couple of years.…
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Kayak Skeg Stuck? A Simple Fix
If your sea kayak skeg gets stuck, use a cord to free it; alternatives include wire or household items. It's a simple fix that should be standard on sea kayaks. Act Now and Get the Fix.
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Eezycut Trilobite Knife First Look
The Eezycut Trilobite Knife is an effective, easy-to-use tool for cutting ropes and webbing, offering safety and versatility.
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KÜHL’s The One: Best Jacket for Canoeing?
I find KÜHL The One jacket incredibly versatile, comfortable, and well-insulated, suitable for many activities and weather conditions, and highly breathable.
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Guide to Staking Out Tents on Rocky Ground
Camping on rocky ground is possible with the right preparation. Use durable cord for the stake out points and utilize rocks for secure tent staking.
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Lake Superior Circumnavigation Speed Records
A kayaker falsely claimed a Lake Superior speed record due to lack of easy access to existing records. Despite his correction, inaccurate news persisted. Reliable tracking of such achievements remains difficult due to limited record-keeping in the paddling community.
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Paddle On, Dan Cooke
Dan Cooke, a beloved member of the Minnesota paddling community and creator of quality canoeing gear at Cooke Custom Sewing, passed away last night. His death is deeply mourned by friends and community members.
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Outdoor Sports Rescue Shaming
The post discusses "rescue shaming" in outdoor sports and highlights several cognitive biases, like the Dunning-Kruger Effect and FACETS heuristics, which impact decision-making and can lead to dangerous situations. Emphasizing education and empathy is encouraged.
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Cross Bands by Grifiti: When is a stuff sack not a stuff sack?
The Cross Bands by Grifiti, costing $1.79, are heavy-duty rubber bands that hold a pot and lid together, reducing weight by 0.3 ounces. They prevent lid rattle and fit items like the Vargo Titanium Ti-Lite 750 Mug. This gear enhances efficiency and reduces small annoyances on trips.
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Sea Gull Lake Trip Report
Last weekend, we camped at the Trail’s End Campground at the end of the Gunflint Trail. It’s near several entry points into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a great place to camp and photograph. If you’re into photography, check out my photography map for the campground area. It’s a popular campground due to its closeness to popular entry points and its remoteness, so you’ll likely need to reserve a spot if you plan on going. This trip, we stayed at campsite #25 and found that it was a lovely place to stay. #24 would have been slightly better, but we had great neighbors there and in #26…
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Sea to Summit Spark 15°F Sleeping Bag First Look
I’m excited that I get to test the Sea to Summit Spark 15°F (-9°C) sleeping bag this season. They sent it for review. If you haven’t heard of this bag, it’s an lightweight down sleeping bag made by Sea to Summit. It’s claimed weight is 1 pound 9.7 ounces (730g). At that weight, it is in the weight range of quilts. This is my initial impression after using it for two short trips. Later this year, I’ll post a final review after I get about 30 nights on it. Unboxing When I pulled this bag out of the shipping box, I got excited just from the storage bag. Usually, sleeping…
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Tripods for Canoeing and Kayaking
The author, a professional photographer who also teaches photography, evaluates three tripods ranging from 1 to 3 pounds. They discuss the pros and cons of each, focusing on factors like weight, stability, and height. The author recommends using Kirk L Brackets for better camera support and shares purchase links for the tripods.
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Sea Kayaking Grand Marais’ Harbor
Each summer, I enjoy sea kayaking from Grand Marais’ harbor, exploring up to four miles, including Artist's Point and the campground area. Notable sights include the old Coast Guard station and Hjordis schooner. Accessibility features at the harbor such as a kayak launch, walkway, and changing room were influenced by my suggestions.
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Simple Plate for Front Country Camping
The 10" Plastic Kids' Square Divided Plate by Pillowfort, sold at Target, costs $1 and is now $0.85 on sale. It’s lightweight, BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and microwave safe for reheating. Available singly or in sets, it effectively separates food. Its limited colors and separate spork purchase are drawbacks. Highly recommended for camping.
