My Outdoor Gear & Gear Philosophy

[@myeyesarewaiting]

Hi Brooke, greetings from Scotland. Just started watching stuff like this on KZbin as outdoorsy things will be our family holidays from now on. Dear God, your channel is a breath of fresh air. So many channels out there full of macho bull and endless discussions about knives, even more endless gear reviews laden with pedantry... So great to find a channel which is so much more about getting out there and doing things. Totally brilliant.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thanks so much I totally agreee- it should be about getting out and getting happy, as my catchphrase states- WELCOME!

[@careenaalexis]

This is why I love your videos. No one needs all the fancy expensive gear to get out and enjoy the nature! Thanks for sharing :)

[@crearley]

Love your down to earth view for gearing up. When you're in the outdoors it's function , not fashion that counts. It's always fun to find a real bargain at garage , yard sale or thrift stores. Saving money is never out of fashion. You rocked it Brooke !!

[@MadderMel]

I think it's really cool that you go to thrift stores and that you modify your own clothing and accessories ! It proves that you don't necessarily need to go to camping gear stores and pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars to be safe and comfortable in the woods ! There are many campers and outdoors channels on KZbin , your channel is the real deal !

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thanks much yeah we don't really like all that new stuff- appreciate it!

[@springthyme1352]

Easy does it. MY best stuff was things I put together, pieced together. Once I got older and able to upgrade some, was never the same. I still go back to the old. When stressed, I always pull up one or three of you and Dave's videos. Calms me right down. Thank you. Vicki Walden

[@Myn6211]

Finally, a voice of reason and someone sticking up for the tried and true. This video made my heart sing.

[@jonesey65244]

Thank you for this. Answers a few questions I had, and was very interesting. Your philosophy of "buying cheap" is awesome.

[@jaksilver3656]

I LOVE your philosophy on stuff, sooo many people out there are doing videos using EXPENSIVE stuff. a whole lotta people can't swing the expensive stuff.

[@jonNH123]

Nice! I love the "old school" approach: the best stuff often found in thrift stores and yard sales.

[@TallGamer111]

Your enthusiasm for the outdoors is what grabs me. Love your vids keep it up.

[@Julian-bq9qv]

And love how Maizee (sp?) came trotting out from the woods behind, just like she was on cue! Love that dog! Love ALL dogs.

[@Kat-iy8ng]

Brooke you got it together!! Your a true survivalist.

[@pamaladarsow2763]

I love your clothing so much ! Customizing your cloths . I want pockets inside my coats . Now you have inspired me to customize my stuff too. Thank you 🙏🏻 I save drier lint to start fires .

[@donnavictorian8810]

Thank you so much for making this video👍🏽 because I was really wanting to know what kind of gear I would need when I begin to camp. 🎣 I have never gone camping before but I have been so inspired to try this and watching your videos really gives me encouragement and a sense of maybe I can do this ❤️ Thank you 🌻

[@rayclair2642]

Wool is best...The Lord put wool on the animals for a reason...

[@tjtran1987]

Love the simplicity brook. You go girl:)

[@joycebarnett5813]

Wool has always been the best for keeping warm with. This is a great informative video. Job well done. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on what works and what you like the best.

[@TheBorderRyker]

That Lynx fur hat is amazing. Your philosophy is spot on Brooke.

[@nicholaspullen7261]

"You can't go wrong with a ferro rod...you get it wet and it will still give you a spark....as long as you don't lose it." A well played Joe Robinet barb. Excellent humor, great vids.

[@annpeet4334]

Love that you adapt your gear to suit you.

[@chrislonsberry4571]

Great video! Thanks! Love your opinions on fabric. Your gear choices are great.

[@richiebeard994]

I was stationed in South Dakota during my time in the Air Force (Early 80's). My duties were in the wide-open spaces of the grass-lands but, we trained a lot in the Black Hills and my saving grace was a pair of WOOL long-john pants. Even in below-zero temps and nothing to stop the wind I never had to put on my bunny-pants. Glad to hear someone with your vast experience in the Great White North keeping WOOL on people's minds. The other trick is a pair of silk panty-hose as your base layer! ( I had jokes for the fellow that taught me this trick until I tried it)

[@sharonmariejohnson2578]

I think that old stuff is the best because it was about quality not quantity like it is now and I like people who aren''t so hung up about labels, thanks for the handy tips too never know when your going to need them and one more thing the feather in your hat looks so cool. :)

[@gabi1342ful]

Hi Brooke, thanks for this video. I don't like buying new outdoorsy stuff every year either (but many ppl do, it's like a competition of lightest, bestest, nicest, fanciest gear). I have some tech-clothing (shirts, fleece jackets, soft shell pants) but also a lot of wool, leather and canvas stuff. I love my 20-something-years old backpack and I wont replace it because I took it with me on so many hikes. Kinda nostalgic thing. Same with my Trangia cookset.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

awesome

[@DawnStr8]

Loved this video! Thank you!

[@ryanpalenzuela9329]

The inside of your jacket is CLASSIC!!!!! Holy Cow I laughed so hard...

[@toddb930]

I had a good laugh from the Laser Kittens and Leopard stare too.

[@bobashmore6442]

Watching you and Bushradical is really giving me a hankerin' to get back out into the woods. Alas my "into the woods" gear is so covered in dust I'm actually afraid to disturb that eco system. Like yours my gear was purchased primarily at garage sales, thrift stores, and flea markets, I just love the old stuff too. I do believe once it gets a tad warmer I'm going to dust my stuff off and take a trip. Another great video, thanks for the inspiration.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

Awesome! I hope you do!

[@pcz5233]

You are too cool Brooke!... I love thrift stores too, work shirts, pants, goodies others don't see uses for. What works for you is all that matters. The add on's are a neat idea, the cat patches are a little concerning though..lol...joke! Another awesome reason your husband is a super lucky guy! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@boydgood]

I am proud of my ragged Carhartt jackets, and stuff. Nice video. Tell it like it is.

[@christinaoklaohio7926]

You are so fun I sure love your energy Brook. Wool is my choice to keep warm. I like your purchases. I use to get a lot of my cloths the same way. I still don’t buy new often. Salvation Army is my place to buy because they are fair and kind and you help with so many things. Food kitchens and people in need. I love you vlog Brook God Bless.

[@scarborosasquatchstation1403]

Thanks Brooke ! This was a very informative video of great interest of what works , in the great outdoors !

[@chefvaleriewilson8738]

Brooke, if I did not love your channel enough already, you just flashed LAZER CATS!!!! Love Lazer Cats! Love that you have that sown in your jacket! (I know I am watching this 5 years after you released it). Love your channel!

[@susanstoltz2555]

Love your philosophy on gear. It’s refreshing to hear you go through your list of gear that’s not all the pricey name brand stuff. Am remembering the older video about your great finds from the Fairbanks dump. So cool! I’m using a lot of old camping gear too. Love thinking of all the places they’ve been when I see all the dings and bashings they’ve taken. Still use my old fuel bottle that was crushed by a hungry bear and my first cook kit from 35 years ago, same old blackened coffee pot that smells like balsam. Great memories...Thanks for the great share.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thanks susan- you get it!

[@susanstoltz2555]

Really like the way you like to personalize your gear. I’m the same way because camping and canoeing are my passions and the memories are most awesome. Love the eyes and cats you have sewn into your coat! Also innovative to see another coat inside. Lotsa great ideas I’ve gotten from you. Have my Steger Mukluks on every day lately with all the snow here. So glad I asked you about them! Now I really need a pair of weasel tail earrings. Gotta learn how to trap them first!

[@andreapecoraro6972]

Excellent explanatory video. I put the wool next to the skin, and over the fleece to dispel the water. Producing and dissipating water always gives me the well-being in the exit, the comfort I need to enjoy the exit. Of course, there will certainly be colder there. Thanks for the beautiful video. Bye Bye...

[@lemayelaine]

great video! thanks for the down to earth, low cost advice. making it accessible! ♥️

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

Brooke you are a trip!! made me grin with the coat patches.Good solid gear choices, having been in the outdoor driven lifestyle ,I also have and use gear from long ago,,sometimes a little needed maintenance,,but will outlast most of what is produced today.Can't have video without Maysie having a cameo appearance,,she's awesome. Until next time...Stay safe and God Bless....

[@Jewelmind]

Yes, love your choices in clothes. And gear

[@cherylt8590]

Awesome video, ty for taking the time to show us your stuff you like and use👍💙😊...

[@rld1278]

For those interested, her fire grill looks exactly like coghlan's pack grill which I have. I believe they had a slightly larger version for car camping, at least they used too. It wasnt that expensive, certainly under 20.00, most likely less. Thanks Brooke! I also have the Stanley pot and their frying pan. Am looking at their coffee pot as well. Their stuff is well made.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

yes that's what it is- very cheap and love it!

[@pilgrimcarolee7294]

Brooke, I totally agree with your whole likes & dislikes on fabric & old stuff. I do not know if you said this but I REALLY prefer old stuff to New ! If I end up with something with a name or logo I will put something over it. I am Not being paid to advertise for that company!

[@lindasands1433]

Wow! Good find! (the feather) I believe they're left as gifts for us 💕

[@glendacrouch1877]

Loving watching these over and over!

[@MannsAdventures]

Nice gear. I’m like you, use what you like and don’t worry about brands. Thrift stores are my go to for camping/trail clothes as well. Have a blessed day, and thank you for your wonderful videos.

[@angiesullens2126]

You crack me up and I love your style mostly I love that you don’t give a crap what people think you do your own thing and that’s awesome

[@helenescandor672]

Very informative video. That's a mighty big ax. I never realized a shemach could be used in multiple ways. That feather looked kinda nice on your hat. Thanks for sharing.

[@KyraRane]

Thank you for sharing this!! Love this information. As someone who wants to venture into more hiking and backpacking, and on budget, this is really helpful. More about using what you have, and just get outside :)

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

That's right Kyra!

[@survivalcomms]

Excellent practical choices ! Thanks for sharing !

[@DanoLXF]

I share your philosophy on old stuff Brooke, you have great taste.

[@robinletourneau9917]

Your a breath of fresh air! I'm so tired of hearing you can't survive if you don't own these 400$ pants and 500$ knife. Thx for making it real again. Rob from alaska

[@kjonesy4142]

Solid logic on the durability and use of the more traditional materials, I prefer a mix of items myself. You are a woman of many skills...had me crackin' up with laser kitties! See you on the next one...😄

[@judyschepp8748]

BAM!!! BAM!!!😁😁😁😂

[@ralph9768]

thanks for sharing. nice video and I like the philosophy around gear.

[@SurvivalTheory]

I prefer army surplus and thrift store products also....there is much merit in the old saying "don't make them like they used to". I use my grandfather's tools and buy thrift and garage sales when I can, though where I am now the thrift stores are mostly new worn out junk. Great video, keep up the good work!

[@abelincoln95]

SO funny! You "always carry" the kindling, but, there was that one time you didn't have a "starter"... Serious lessons learned! Love your gear!!!

[@gregpenny4384]

Thanks for a great video, showing you don't need to spend big bucks to get out and have fun, most of what my wife and I use mirrors yours, keep it coming you make us happy after watching your work.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

awesome

[@bballmomma5900]

Ok, you’ve inspired this southern girl to try camping. I think it’s gonna be great!

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

awesome go for it!

[@lindaA65513]

Agree! Love the old stuff... quality with some character. I do have some synthetic clothes because, like you said, there is a place for them. When I did my hiking trips, the light weight and quick drying pants were the way to go but for warmth and durability, you can’t beat wool and canvas. Those must be some quality pants you got at the thrift store. The fact that you were wearing those before, during and after the Alone show, says a lot ( mainly, that I am sure they weren’t made in China). Nowadays clothing is made so cheaply. After one washing, it can already look worn and starts falling apart after very little usage. Some clothes that I bought in the late 80s and early 90s is still going strong... that’s because it was still made in the US. It’s really a shame that is no longer the case. Have you ever gone to any army surplus stores? I haven’t but would like to. I am sure I can find some quality stuff but not sure about the prices... may be a little high. Thanks for the video. You’ve been killing it lately, keep up the good job. 👍

[@callienash1798]

Hi Brooke! Thanks so much for sharing all your camping gear and information with us! Your channel is so informative and so cool at the same time! I love your outdoors and chipper personality! I'm always excited to learn new things on your Channel about camping and hiking Etc. And I really thought that those were some kind of store bought pants that you wear on your shows. I was wondering where you get them... LOL! Well, now I know! You did such a great job with them they really look super cool! And you could probably sell that design on your pants, and your philosophy regarding the material to a company that might be interested in that... Just saying. Because I really think they look super cool and I like them! But anyway as always, I'm so glad I caught you video. Thank you so much for sharing with us viewers! God bless you! And may you have a wonderful day. With warmest regards, Callie from California. P.S. I like sharing your videos on Facebook as well! You're simply the best! My hat's off to you ..., girl in the woods!

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thanks callie!

[@callienash1798]

@@therealgirlinthewoods awesomeness! 👍👌

[@QuantumPyrite_88.9]

After a few thousand years - Wool is still the answer . Great video Brooke and Thanks .

[@judyrobinson5044]

Love it all! You SEW! Thats just cool. When your second hand wool under shirts wear out(lol) I found great wool with a bit of spandex on Fabric Depot online. Fleecy inside, smooth outside. Just search for wool knits. Very economical. I make wool turtlenecks for our nasty damp Oregon winters. But otherwise I am TOTALLY on board with your gear! Go girl!

[@carmenmasood8477]

I love the way you model your coat, that was hilarious 🤗...have you done videos on a rainy day...I love rainy days too... I'm your new fan now so I'll be checking your other videos as well...now I understand why your not afraid to stay alone in the woods... because you're a well protected lady...(gun) love that. God bless you stay safe... your new fan from Chicago. Hugs and kisses to Macey...I hope I wrote her name correctly... oxoxo

[@phillipbruce2741]

Great clothing combos. Can't beat a good bowsaw. Good defense options...and I want that hat.

[@zRockin1]

Hi Brooke, good ideas, love the garage sale and thrift shop mentality, Rock On!

[@chuckhiccox8086]

I can't agree with you more Brooke . A couple of years ago I started to switch my bow hunting gear over to wool , warm when wet & very quite . It's getting harder to find the old army surplus gear for the cheap , we're talking Korean War after that we went synthetic. Check out Carhart Loggers . Awesome pants heavy duty cotton with a double yoke front and brass rivets . The double yoke is great in the brush and a plus when chainsawing as well. I swear by these pants , 12 yrs as a arborist , 25 yrs + wood framing have me SOLD ! I get up to 3 yrs + per pair not saying they look good towards the end but they're worth every cent. ( $50.00 / $60.00). As always a pleasure and keep up the good work.

[@patv1271]

Love that old school trebark camo jacket. Reminds me of my youth. Love this girl

[@Casey1pj]

Those laser cats scared me to death Brook. Talk about hilarious. Awesome review. I loved it! Thanks.

[@cillaloves2fish688]

I like the older stuff too! Sometimes I hit the antique stores... but most of the time it's thrift stores, yard/estate sales, swap meets and surplus stores! Love finding gear at low prices!

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

Awesome cilla!

[@soisitimpossible]

I agree wool is the best and it lasts! I've had my wool bush coat 15+ (free for lending a helping hand)years and my hunting coat 10+ years(1$ second hand). Both have served me so well. It is too hard to replace a good pack. Finally, my old pack fell beyond the point of repair. Good vid. Do take care.

[@SouthernPatriot1]

I have the same philosophy of “buying inexpensive “ or non name brand bc it’s not the equipment you have that makes you, it’s what’s in your noggin’ . I love wool, leather and canvas. As far as diy’ing your gear and adding your own personalization to it, I’m for that all the way. I believe the older stuff was made better with more quality, not knocking the new fangled items at all tho. Really like all my Stanley cook sets as well. Between you and Lonnie I have that corner nailed. Brooke, thanks so much for sharing what you carry. Here’s to a really great 2019 and wishing and your family an awesome year! Get outside and get happy! Take care friend, Nikki.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

Thanks much Nikki you too!

[@alisonauton4064]

Just scored a wee cast-iron pan at a yard sale, similar to yours! Bring on the steak-fry!

[@markreynolds3850]

Thanks for sharing!stay safe and well.

[@Uniquelyyours1]

Cool video, Brooke. Never boring and always fun. Keep being you. Crystal:)))

[@73FORGE]

Great gear & philosophy! Love that burl kupilka you carved, very cool Brooke! Cheers

[@TacticoolCraig]

Great video again Brooke . Can't wait for the next one. You should do merch lol

[@kevinbungles]

Stanley system is awesome, I have the flask type unit with 3 of those green cups. Nice video, well explained and good presentation skills - natural

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

Yeah I have the flask too- take it every time!

[@temmihoo]

I'm very much with you on equipment, except that I'll never leave home with frameless backpacks. My favourite pack is Savotta 1200 I got some 30+ years ago and it's still going strong. Indestructable, solid, always the same comfort to carry no matter how much or little you got in it. Oh also, it allows for super good back breathability as there's space for wind to blow between the pack sack and back. Wool, oh glorious wool in all of its forms. I cannot give enough praise for wool.

[@polishpicl]

I thought you were me talking about all your stuff...it's almost identical to what I take and wear,,minus the boots...we all have our own boots,,and with size 12 men's..I gotta have sturdy water proof boots...and take a "walk in the water" type boot in my pack..you keep going girl....proud of you.and hey have fun outdoors

[@kellwng]

you're my favorite goofball, keep it up.

[@kellwng]

Of course you realize this means war---- Bugs Bunny

[@mcgillicuddy4008]

Hello Brooke, Another mighty fine wool clothing is the L.L.Bean cotton lined wool/nylon union suit! It sells for around $60 but is well worth it. I have had this set for 4 years and it still keeps me warmer than any 2-piece set of long johns, and much warmer than cotton or any of those fancy synthetics. I never understood when supposedly some of the modern synthetic cloth will "wick away moisture!" It never did for me. I just try to not get too hot in the winter, and I can always take off a layer.Happy Trails~ Steven of SW Virginia

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

sounds great but one piece suits don't work well for girls when they have to go!

[@mcgillicuddy4008]

Well, Brooke, the L.L.Bean one piece wool union suit has a large overlapping flap in the back. Plus go to: >ms.whiz.com< for your relief and entertainment!@@therealgirlinthewoods

[@mcgillicuddy4008]

@@therealgirlinthewoods Plus, check out the Bulbhead-ms.whiz in KZbin.

[@leahveal9501]

This is a great video! Very helpful as I'm putting together my first ever set of gear!

[@rlbone1]

I like what you had to say about bear protection. I saw a video today which really surprised me. It was a fight between a bear and a tiger. Now this wasn’t a great big grizzly bear, it was just an ordinary black bear, but it kicked the Tigers butt. The fight ended with a tiger running in the bear chasing it. In North America we are way more likely to run into a bear in the woods than a tiger. Looks like luck was against us on that one.

[@burningsails]

I laughed way too hard when i seen the laser cats, 10/10 😂😂

[@sharonhammonds7769]

Yeah for thrift stores! I frequently shop at thrift stores for most anything I need from clothing, books, shoes and outdoor accessories. You answered a question I was going to ask you - where did you get the pants? I thought maybe you had to special order them. Ha! Thank you for all the great tips on outdoor clothing and gear.

[@andriim2432]

I found your video is very good also for those people who are learning English. thanks. very good.

[@SurvivalTheory]

Looking forward to your next parody also!

[@judithrnorris2047]

thanks brooke including your getttt haaaapy

[@LeeWolfLittle]

I loved that show Yukon River Run, wished they would do another season or two

[@1rdgrnnr]

like your ideals on earlier materials, i have bunches of it . Good video !!!!!

[@trailspark1002]

Hey girl. You are a lucky girl. That feather you just found is a feather from an adolescent Bald Eagle. There are no other feathers like it. Excellent natural treasure find.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

I know it was a cool find!

[@Duckeezilla]

I did have a chuckle at the comment about ferro rods always producing a spark as long as you don't lose it. Poor Joe Robinet, he'll never live that down haha! Maybe there's a parody vid - bam son! ;) Also just want to say I've just recently discovered your channel and I love it! Your pure love of the outdoors is an absolute joy to watch. You have an infectious personality and you and Dave both have such a natural gift for story telling, it makes me want to listen to a yarn every night before bed.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

nah i like joe and you can't put yourself in his place at that moment

[@Duckeezilla]

@@therealgirlinthewoods Oh I absolutely agree. I was gutted for him, and I know he was very down about it after. I've seen him have a sense of humour about it since, which is a great way to be.

[@YankeesOutdoorAdventures]

Awesome video 💪I truly enjoyed it! Excellent advice and awesome camera personality keep up the good work👍

[@axerxes3981]

Brooke.... Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! Just what I've been hoping you'd share with us. Excellent video on your 'stuff". I'm impressed you wear cotton pants, in the COLD. But with your experience in Alaska and the NE USA, I guess you know what you like. I carry a Shemagh too.... what's Surong with that :)) I discovered some years ago that if you fill your canteen or water bottle with HOT water and put it in your sleeping bag at night, it sure helps keep a body warm!! I like your leather gloves too. I have recently bought a pair of pilot's flight gloves at a flea market that' have a soft leather palm and Nomex (fire retardant) material. They are warm and comfortable and you don't lose a lot of feeling in your fingertips. I"m glad too that you carry the bear spray, etc for a little extra security. Now I can worry a little bit less about you, LOL. Love your videos... thanx for sharing.... Ax

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

Awesome Ax! thanks much

[@RobFarrell17]

Didn’t know you were in Michigan. Cool! Me too, maybe I’ll see you out on the trail! All the best and keep making vids.

[@steveontiveros5425]

Brooke you are truly a remarkable lady . Your hubby has to be thanking God for you every night . How long have you been an outdoor person? The reason I ask is because you are so comfortable being in the woods . 👍

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

My whole life... thanks much!

[@steveontiveros5425]

Girl in the Woods 👍

[@underthecarolinasky2363]

I would love to find a vintage Mackinaw Cruiser! Always wanted one. I have an old bow saw too. I still have the garage sale price tag of $1.00 on it! Cool vid Brooke! PS: Those laser eyed cats - scary!!! lol

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

LOL thanks much!

[@conniewaite1371]

I think woolrich has cruisers

[@margaretpholmes2570]

Sept 2021. Love your videos. 💖

[@lisaarcher6091]

Brooke, Thanks so much for doing this in-depth video about your various gear. I had thought that, in previous videos, you had been wearing a special type of pants by Fjallraven. Do you have a pair of that brand as well? Also, really loved that part where you got up close and personal with the camera (12:45 ?) ..."Gimme the stuff with History. I love it." Made me LOL. Great info on your cooking gear as well. I had been wondering about that folding camp fire grill for months now. Keep up the great work. "Inspired to GOAGH!" -Get Outside and Get Happy. I think this need to be a "Sticker"! I'll buy your first one...whenever you make 'em. Blessings on you and your Family & Fur Babies. :)

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

LOL thanks much Lisa I don't own any fjallraven- very expensive! No stickers yet... will see. Let ya know!

[@LeeWolfLittle]

Tractor Supply makes a pair of canvas pants I LOVE! kind of like carhart but much softer

[@Mismatch_Monday_Mayhem]

Didn't know you were from Michigan, that's pretty neat! Do you mostly go camping in the UP? That's the Upper Peninsula for non-Michiganders. We found a lot of good places about mid state and higher are nice, then Atlanta and further north is where it really gets "woodsy". The UP though is very beautiful and scenic, definitely worth the drive. Anyways another great video as always! Loved the "guest star" appearance of Maize. Your dog cracks me up! Thanks for the work that you put into doing these videos.

[@garyharmon1155]

Great attitude, the laser kittens are awesome.

[@KaylynnStrain]

NOW your hat is complete with the addition of that feather