Gear I Want To Try In 2024 (+ Garmin SAR Insurance STILL Hasn't Paid and a cardiology update)

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Update: Soon after this video came out Garmin did pay the $50k insurance policy I had with them 🎉 I will be posting a video update soon about the process! I am upping my coverage to $100k, because the $50k didn’t cover all of the expenses and I don’t want to be in that boat again (and Garmin doesn’t offer the $50k plan to new customers anymore).

[@foxtookmysox]

For sun hoodies, I would highly recommend the acteryx Cormac. I've tried bamboo and found it was warm and sticky to me. However, the Cormac protected me, while feeling actively cool and airy in a breeze.

[@Greghikes1]

Have you looked into allergy desensitisation? It involves getting needles with slowly increasing levels of the allergen. Worked really well for my dust allergy!

[@CrazyCranker]

My vote goes to the Catalyst, as it has the best support for heavier weights that I have experienced. While the new Ultra fabric is new and Intriguing, If I was going to use a liner, I would just go with the 400D ROBIC material and save a $100.

[@user-rn9kp7hf7g]

Look into waterproof motorcycle gloves. I have a pair that I use and they keep my hands warm while riding in cold wet weather. I will have to check to see what brand that I have now.

[@natehikes]

I had no idea you used the Pocket 2. Cool. Let us know what you think about the 3 if you get it 🙂

[@fitflowerchild9784]

Outdoor Vitals

[@jeffhokit5046]

Thank you for the Garmin insurance update! So many of us carry those devices, it will be good to know if they honor their insurance.

[@Henning_Rech]

I am sure they honor the insurance - only that illness as a reason for a rescue is explicitly excluded in the conditions. And even if Jessica would be covered in this special case - I hope so - I don't believe I would be, too.

[@skye1212]

Ins Co's dragging rheir feet...big surprise.

[@I..cast..fireball]

Garmin gonna lose a lot of business when word gets out when someone actually uses the service they don't pay.....

[@marclaliberte5491]

I've looked at Garmin SAR insurance, and my understanding is that it covers accidents, not "sickness, disease or infections". If you break a leg or get attacked by a bear and you need evacuation, you're covered, but if you get pneumonia or a heart attack and need evacuation, you're not. The certificate of insurance makes that very clear, but the web site, not so much.

[@stanbyme7874]

I’ve got one. Glad Dixie was okay & helped. But the BS on Insurance is a worry. I’ve never used mine. It’s buttons are too damn small. I’ll sell if they don’t pay up. I’m glad she explained the delay due to name.

[@kevinstarski1598]

No kidding...I was just going to upgrade mine to 100k based on exorbitant prices these days and have my hiking buddy sign up too but maybe I will just follow Dixie and see what happens...

[@timothydurkan]

lose*

[@stanbyme7874]

@@marclaliberte5491I’d claim a bear scared me causing heart attack 😀

[@robinsmith9734]

Bless you, Dixie, for moving on in your new married life. Your continuing example to the gear used and its faults failures and successes is invaluable. Thank you again.

[@beckyumphrey2626]

The Garmin insurance seems to be a scam. It is for accidents and not health emergency situation. Sad.

[@hersheybarsam]

Dixie! You’ve got to check out the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake sun hoody. I absolutely LOVE mine. I don’t feel like I overheat, it’s SPF 50, nice a buttery, and super light. Also the hoody is wonderful!

[@thepandaknows]

I second this! The Crater Lake Active has an even better fit (raglan sleeves, more fitted shape/longer.) I've gotten 2 on super clearance and I love them so much! Cool when it's hot, a great running layer for any temps above ~45 F, soft fabric...I'm obsessed.

[@MrsStevenBrown]

I second this one! Excellent feel! ❤

[@kelbysappington]

I love mine! Took it on an overnighted last summer, and it kept me cooler in 90+ degree heat (+ humidity) than a regular tank top that I usually wear. My only issue is the pattern. The darker parts made it look like I had totally sweat through the material. But that’s a very small price to pay for such an fantastic shirt

[@hersheybarsam]

@@kelbysappington they have different patterns and colors now, but I think we have the same one 😂 my friends were so confused how my hands were sweating while I was using the thumb holes.

[@Longtrailside]

Over 3 months to pay the bill is unexceptable. Should have taken less than a week to resolve. If it was the other way around they'd be screaming for their money or have taken you to court.

[@lisawoodward1892]

Hey Dixie! I highly recommend the Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro hoodie for warm weather. It has generous pit vents and 1/2 zipper for great ventilation! I love the zippered chest pocket and thumb holes, as well. I plan to wear it for warm/hot weather on my ‘24 AT thru! (Congrats on your marriage! Your wedding day video was precious. ❤️🥰) Happy trails! Lisa

[@stevendavis4508]

Highly recommend Outdoor Research Astroman Sun hoodie. Has UPF of 50 and there is a womans version. Has silky feel and super comfortable.

[@PeterSmith-is8cj]

Hi Dixie, I have a question about the DJI Pocket 2/3, and how it fits into your overall hiking outfit. I have seen some of your videos when you are carrying what looks like a full-size DSLR camera with a bulky lens. Have you left that behind now, and rely only on the DJI Pocket for your trail photography? Put another way, what other devices besides the DJI Pocket do you film with while you're on the trail?

[@SCSlimBoiseID]

You certainly have given Garmin a TON of free advertising on your channel. Seems like they would expedite your claim, since you have nearly half a million subscribers who might be wondering whether Garmin or some other emergency satellite communicator will be their best bet. If I were Garmin, I'd want to maximize the chances that they'd pick mine over a competitor's. I'd take a zippered fly/door anytime on a tent. Wind isn't the only thing that might want in on a cold night. There's plenty of critters out there, as you know. Wishing you a joyful and healthy New Year, filled with good news on the backpacking front. Cheers.

[@Henning_Rech]

Yes and no. The insurance is just resold by Garmin Insurance Services who hold a group policy, it is backed by Starr Insurance Companies who decide on the claim.

[@SCSlimBoiseID]

@@Henning_Rech If Garmin puts their name on it, THEY need to follow-through, iMO. Not knocking the In-Reach line of products - I'd probably buy one if I were still into back country hiking and primitive area hunting, but those days are pretty much in the rear-view. I own a Garmin hand-held GPS that I used to use back in the day. It was quite handy back then and it still works, but it's nowhere near as sophisticated as today's offerings. Anyway, if I had my corporate name on or associated with something, I'd sure as heck be interested when things don't go smoothly for my customers.

[@Henning_Rech]

@@SCSlimBoiseID It is quite clear in the ordering process that you do not do business with Garmin. "SAR 100 and SAR HR can be purchased during your inReach activation or after device activation. Garmin Associates are not able to purchase this SAR Insurance coverage on behalf of the customer. SAR purchases must be completed online by the customer." - If you buy stocks through a broker, do you expect him to care if you loose money? The real problem is deeper anyway - the insurance only covers accidents in recreational activities. Accidents - not sickness, disease or infections.

[@thruknobulaxii2020]

So typical of insurance companies. The only time they’re quick to act is when they’re taking _your_ money. You would need one of those slo-mo cameras to catch their hand reaching into your pockets.

[@thejman1323]

Hey Dixie. Regarding your search for a sun hoodie, I would definitely take a look at the REI Co-op Sahara Sun hoodie. I’ve been very happy with mine and actually bought a second one on sale for about $35. It’s a UPF 50+ rated sun hoodie that fits loose and I’ve been cool enough wearing it here in the southern California heat.

[@reneehawkins4732]

I did the same thing and I agree.

[@RachandDanOutdoors]

The sun hoodie Mountain Hardware Crater lake has UPF 50 and thumbholes! Super light weight and dries very quickly

[@susankaempfer8427]

Outdoor research echo Sun hoodie. I absolutely love mine, it’s so breathable and works great in combination with any baseball type cap because it has a hole in the back for my braid, so braid goes through the cap then out the back of the hoodie. Take care of yourself, Dixie.

[@texmexia49]

Hoodie-Outdoor Research Echo. I wear the Alpha Direct right next to my skin and wear a light layer over it if needed.

[@Klatubarada1979]

A tripple crowner is having a hard time finding the right gear. What chance do I have?

[@davidtate166]

I love packs .pack rat I am .🐭

[@stanbyme7874]

Goodness. I think I’ve got 12. Different packs for different situations. Six bikes. Same thing. *Had 3 husbands, 6 kids, 8 dogs, 14 birds, 9 cats… 🤔 maybe it’s just me

[@DavidJonesWalksFar]

I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned this, if so apologies. I’m allergic to down. Bought the EE revelation. Hate that bulky SOB. so here’s what I did. The top baffles and hood of my western mountaineering terralite I cut slits in and replaced down with apex insulation from Ripstop By the Roll. If I keep the down away from my face I’m good. And I love down for its packability and lightweight warmth. I have a vesper quilt will do that too and am on the fence with purchasing katabatic alsek or feathered friends flicker to do this to. Of course this depends on your sensitivity. Anyway helped me and so glad I’m not having to tote that clamy, bulky, heavy, awkward EE around. I even bought a hmg 70 liter pack to accommodate it but now have returned to my 40 liter. Yaaa for me! Anyway to good health.

[@doloresfranke8991]

Outdoor Research Echo Sun Hoodie....very lightweight, breathable, thumb holes! Used on Catalina when temps were 100 and also in the Sawtooths in hot summer. My son uses this as well and is out by water all the time.

[@KatieL]

Sounds fun! Sadly insurance payments are never as fast as we think on anything from my experience. At least they're keeping you updated

[@michaelharrison9445]

Gramxpert make good synthetic quilts, based in the EU however they ship to the US.

[@ChristopherMarshburn]

I have the REI GTX rain mitts. Used them this year in my work as the AT ridgerunner in the Smokies. Love them. When it was very cold wore them over some wool gloves.

[@mclostinthewoods]

Been using the regular ULA Catalyst for 5 years and still my favorite pack. I have several others, but the Catalyst is the most comfortable pack I own with that kind of carrying capacity.

[@campingforge]

Try a fishing shirt instead of the sun hoodie. I have worn a Columbia fishing shirt for 4 years in outdoors here in Texas. I burn in the 70s. I have never been burned wearing a fishing shirt. It's well ventilated.

[@charlesarmstrong-smyth7516]

Have you tried or heard anything about Zenbivy?

[@stoicodysseys6352]

Arrowhead Equipment makes decent synthetic quilts that utilize climashield.

[@dejure9178]

The only people that have never had problem with insurance are those who’ve never had to use it.🙄 Congrats J. (Dixie)😊. Many prayers for a beautiful and prosperous marriage!

[@matthewmchenry9331]

They do make it very convenient to pay your premiums.

[@peterjones4180]

Hi as far as waterproof gloves go i have been using a pair of Outdoor Research coyote brown Gore-Tex waterproof gloves for about seven years now and have been very pleased with their performance.. While that name glove is no longer in their catalog the new Firebrand gloves appear to be identical. They also make Gore-Tex Firebrand trigger finger mitts as well if these are of interest.

[@terryburrow6129]

I just finished building my own backpack a couple of months ago and I used polyethylene too. Polyethylene is basically the material that is used for roof tarps. As you can imagine, it is completely water proof. To test it I put it out in a downpour that lasted about 45 minutes. It was drenched outside, but completely dry inside. The difference between my pack and all other packs is that there are no seams and no shoulder straps. I would love to have the opportunity to show you this pack.

[@robertbriggs6371]

Polartec Alpha Direct not only keeps you warm when a shell is added, but on a crisp morning/or day when you don't need a shell, it helps to regulate warmth so that you don't overheat. Just use it over your base layer. Be bold, start cold!

[@stribonit2]

I keep my hands warm and dry with waterproof gloves from Sealskinz. They also have waterproof all weather lightweight insulated mittens. It is an english brand.

[@youflatscreentube]

I bought an Alpha Direct fleece from Superior Fleece. It totally replaced my puffy. It dries very fast, is 6 ounces (for a size large). It was US made and cost less than $85. I’m sold on it.

[@jfl0rez]

Hi Dixie! Love this gear video. I'm also looking forward to the DJI Pocket 3. I have the original pocket, and love the form factor vs other gimbal options. I didn't upgrade to the 2 because it didn't really fix the issues I had with it. But, the 3 has answered all of the issues and introduced some great unexpected features like the D-LOG M 10bit color grading, 1" sensor, and they continue to deliver with firmware upgrades (like D-LOG with 120fps). Lastly, congrats on the wedding!

[@wanderer418]

If you contact the insurance commisoner of the atate you live in He will get Garmin straight real fast

[@Henning_Rech]

May not help because her case (illness) is explicitly excluded in the conditions. She can only hope for some celebrity bonus. BTW it is not Garmin, they just resell the insurance from Starr.

[@rodoutdoors]

Nice one. I love the Senchi Designs Wren as an active midlayer. For sun hoodies, I like the Outdoor Research Echo and Astroman. I'll use the Astroman in warmer temps since it fits looser. I just upgraded to the DJI Action 4 and really like the battery life.

[@girldboro9834]

If you can't get your medical bills paid, you may want to reach out to your local congress person. I had tremendous success once their office got involved.

[@charleytodd5792]

I’ve tried a couple sun hoodies and the most comfortable when it is hot is the Outdoor Research Echo. Super lightweight and breathable, silky smooth, thumb holes. I’m picky about the fit of hoods and like this one the best. Might not love it if you get cold though! 😃

[@jackiel.1241]

I second the Outdoor Research Echo, very breathable and not too expensive either.

[@rookiemoves]

Echo is my favorite, but it’s UPF 15-20 depending on color and not super durable. One lasted half a thru hike for me (replaced it in Tahoe on the PCT) and another only lasted a single climbing season. Still the lightest and best fit I’ve found though.

[@r-3675]

Yep, this is my favorite too. I've got a bunch of sun hoodies from all over and the OR Echo is my favorite. Best feeling material and lightest. Love the smooth finish they seem to have. Also takes the longest to get smelly compared to the other synthetic shirts.

[@millerhoo]

I am a big echo fan too. I also have their t shirts. I also like the rei Sahara but it is less ventilated. I am curious about the new Darwin on the trail hoodie at evolved supply co.

[@adventurebythemile]

I still go back and binge watch you thru hike videos. I am unable due to health problems to do a thru hike and you really show what it’s like. Thx!!

[@BeefNEggs057]

Try keto/carnivore. Fixes a lot of problems that veggies caused. Beef is best. Worth a try unless it’s a cult thing.

[@Not.Satoshi]

The next step up from your Ohm at 63l 30lbs, is the Circuit at 68l 35lbs. The Catalyst is 75l at 40lbs.

[@lisaphikes]

Rain mitt recommendation- REI Minimalist GTX mittens (1.5 oz). I tried a few mitts from the UL companies, but I liked the shape of these best. Pair those with your glove liners of choice. I too have really cold hands, and for really cold days, I loved a third mitten for between the two (or just over the glove liners with no rain mitt if it was dry and not very windy)- Dachstein Boiled Wool mittens (4.5 oz). Heavy, but worth it to me to keep my hands warm!

[@Colby168]

As an Arizona hiker, I’ve found that the Ketl Nofry Sun Hoodie works best for me at 30+ SPF but its super thin and feels almost like your not wearing anything.

[@meganv1735]

I absolutely LOVE my Mountain Hardwear sun hoodie. It is super lightweight, breathable and has thumb holes! Columbia also has some with a new technology called Omni Freeze which is touch and sweat activated cooling. I have one but haven’t tried it yet. 😁

[@Rance120]

You can’t go wrong with the ULA Catalyst. I’ve used the same Catalyst since 2017 in the Robic material. It does not have a single rip or tear in it. I just upgraded to the Ultra version, and man it feels bulletproof!!! I have carried 42 lbs comfortably on the AZT….6.5 liters of water is heavy 😂

[@stoicodysseys6352]

Why upgrade if the other one was working fine? The new gear urge?

[@Rance120]

⁠ I had been eyeing the pack for awhile, just needed a reason to pull the trigger. Then, I convinced a friend to go hike the JMT with me and a few others in August. I was able to help him with a lot of gear that I already had. So I purchased the Ultra version and now he can use the other one. We just had to order him a little bit bigger hip belt, but other than that, we have same torso size. Plus, new version is waterproof and half a pound lighter.

[@jsog6]

The trail will ALWAYS be there, your body is the most precious important tool. So take the time and see a Cardo doctor you are comfortable with, the. Follow what your gut tells you.

[@stevewright2241]

If you’re having a hard time with compression of your synthetic quilt, try out a compression stuff sack from either Granite Gear or Sea to Summit. I think you will be impressed how much smaller it becomes and how much less space it takes up in your pack perhaps down to the size of a cantaloupe.

[@newsnowtammylynnlynn484]

I love watching your channel you are great

[@kassieopea]

Outdoor Vitals Sun Hoody

[@MikeWD9JJV]

On the sleep apnea topic from earlier, I bought the OTC boil and bite oral device from Amazon that pulls your lower jaw forward. It's cost was in the $70 range. For me, it is a good second choice compared to carrying CPAP batteries etc.

[@blkkrow8341]

Check out SWD packs. I switched from HMG to SWD, I carry 40+ lbs for mountaineering and the SWD Wolverine is a game changer. For a sun hoodie, look at NW Alpine. I use their sun shirts around Arizona in the summer its breathable and protects me against the sun.

[@Henning_Rech]

Hope I can agree soon. Ordered my Wolverine 4 weeks ago, because of the good design of its carrying system, but will have to wait until next year.

[@NYcornfield]

I’m a redhead and I have a huge collection of sun shirts. My favorite is the Patagonia tropic comfort with a hood. I wore it on a blistering hot Grand Canyon hike. It was perfection. I also have the REI rain mittens and they work great

[@jonsanford2515]

I have a pair of REI rain mitts, and they work as advertised. They’re pretty wind proof as well. Paired with liner gloves, they make good winter mitts. It might be hard to find a more breathable sun hoodie that isn’t lower UPF. As the fabrics get more breathable, they tend to have a looser weave. That allows air to flow, but also lets in more UV rays. The lighter weight sun hoodies are usually UPF 15-30. Most shirts that are UPF 50 are going to have a tighter weave to block more sun, but will be a little warmer too.

[@oh-brothers]

Not a gear comment... but for allergies and especially sleep apnea try going all seed and seed oil free for a trial and see if anything improves... that would include avoiding things like corn starch as it is a product from seeds, all nuts, beans, etc...and eating whole foods.

[@jr.7302]

Bread bags, thoughts on bread bags as rain mittens? You can see through them, they're 'free' since you are buying the bread, they're light weight. Con would be not breathable, but you could cut a hole in the bottom to help vent.

[@Sandy-nl1eq]

What is the pack you like most for female comforts? Did the zpacks not work? Have you tried Durston ones and not like them? Also have you come to decision on zpacks vs Durston single wall tents preferences yet?

[@nstockham7]

Ridge Merino sun hoodie for living/hiking in the southwest. Great to wear for a week + and not get filthy. Large hood which, especially with a ball cap, keeps the face out of sun better than others. I've worn it up to 119 degrees and in the snow, and would recommend it for any hiking weather. OR astroman is a sturdy nylon for activities where snags or abrasion is a concern. OR echo, the UPF varies by color and OR is not clear on which colors have which rating. Columbia makes a lightweight sun hoodie which reflects sun, seems to be the next lightest option after the echo (my small is 3.9 oz). Not sold on the "technology," but it does work for hot days and have thumb holes. The REI is a great budget option, which i wore regularly before discovering the Ridge Merino. All of the above often run 25% sales around holidays.

[@megeshom729]

I also really like the Ridge sun hoody. Wore it for hiking the desert section of the PCT this last spring. I really appreciated the hood. It fits over a wide brimmed hat or ball cap and shades my face and neck so well. Nice and loose under the arms. I wear it a lot at home too. Super comfy.

[@lauraelliott6909]

I've been using Netdraw bamboo/cotton sun hoodies off Amazon, both for backpacking and for everyday use in the South Florida summer. They have thumbholes, and they're super soft. They are breathable, a little warm, but bearable. One tip if it's really hot is to wet it down and wring it out before putting it on. I do wish they had pockets, though.

[@hanwagu9967]

UPF not SPF for clothing. You would ultimately want something 50+ UPF for sun hoody. My go to is Black Diamond Alpenglow Pro hoody (not to be confused with the regular alpenglow hoody, non-pro). I also like patagonia capilene cool daily hoody, but Patagonia doesn't specify UPF currently for those after their debacle in claiming 50+ UPF when it wasn't. They claim they are still around 34 UPF, though, even though they don't specify the rating. I just find the capilene cool daily to be very comfortable material, but as I wrote, the BD alpenglow pro hoody is my go to. It's served me well from moutnains to deserts. I donated all my OR sun hoodies because they don't work and they just fall apart. I do like OR sun sleeves though. In lieu of a sun hoody, I will wear a 50+ UPF t-shirt, sun sleeves, and a 50+ UPF buff. You could cover your hands with sung gloves. I just don't find merino or nuyarn or combo to be all that effective as a sun hoodies, since I've found they just trap too much heat. I'm a TNF fan, but I just hate some of their stuff like the wander hoody. I've been a very big fan of polartec alpha. The whole concept behind polartec alpha is that it will dump heat during exertion but keep you warm when you stop. so don't let the holes fool you. the filaments overlap to actually provide better wind protection than your normal fleece. I don't wear regular heavy fleece anymore and swear by polartec alpha, primaloft evolve, TNF futurefleece, Eddie Bauer Super Seven fleece, and the like. I think you'll find your senchi alpha 120 or any alpha 120 to be very warm, probably too warm especially during exertion. Even though I run warm, I've been perfectly comfortable hiking in a lightweight long sleeve or short sleeve base layer under my Senchi alpha 60 in mid-teen farenheit. I may put on a shell or puffy when stopped, but when moving alpha does a very good job regulating temp and it just keeps you warm. Bang for buck, the eddie bauer super seven fleece is pretty good, even though i've had to sew up some holes. But I wear the heck out of it. Beyond the Trail (BTT) alpha rip back hoodies are well made, and I like the hoody enclosure and the pockets. He makes 90, 120, 190 versions, which is disappointing since I'd really like a 60g version because I like the BTT design. If you want more wind protection or don't want to snag bushwacking, I would go with the north face summit futurefleece. It's great stuff, and much better than patagonia R1 techface both in comfort and performance. The only negative is TNF summit futurefleece hoody (they make zip and crew, too) doesn't come with hand pockets. You may still be able to find on ebay or the like TNF Summit L2 future fleece jacket (no hood) that does have hand pockets if those are important to you.

[@markstokes1401]

Awesome gear info. Amazing how Jeremiah Johnson made it without them.

[@sheilahenry7279]

And, Grandma Gatewood

[@Rin22730]

Outdoor Research Astroman Sun Hoodie!! UPF 30-50+ & thumbholes! :)

[@randyholloway920]

Alpha is breathable. You can hike without over-heating like down or synthetic puffy.

[@_Chris390]

Helly Hansen Solen sun shirts, crews, polos, and hoodies are nice. No zips or thumb loops but good quality and UPF50+.

[@chromedome1975]

Congrats on getting hitched and becoming a parent. Best of luck to you guys.. JSYK The ULA Circuit is the next pack up from the OHM 2.0. It has a 35 lb. max capacity, 4200 cu Inches, and weighs 33.8 oz.

[@Andy-Mesa]

Ultra is so 2022, the new thing is ALUULA Graflyte 😛 I'm excited to get my Durston Wapta 30 this spring. The two most beloved sun hoodies on the market are the Outdoor Research Echo (by far the most popular) and the REI Sahara Shade.

[@wanderworm]

If you’re getting rain mitts it’s worth considering lobster or three fingered mitts which will increase dexterity but still keeps your fingers grouped together.

[@glengullickson6538]

I just ordered a new pack from Decathlon. They are like REI in Europe, I guess. They might have some of the things you are interested in trying. So far, the price and customer service are great. The reviews of the pack I ordered are also great. Just an idea.

[@elisaadams2292]

Off subject but I wanted to let you know I finally got out on trail with my new “Homemade Wanderlust Neck knife” and I love it! Question… how do you sharpen it. It doesn’t need it yet but I’d like to be prepared and do it right so I don’t ruin it.

[@claycalvert4254]

Hey, Dixie. As with others in this thread, I would be interested in your review of the Zpacks Offset Duo, better yet, the Offset Trio. The latter is only 3.2 ounces heavier and has enough room for three people and a dog. I think the Offset might be better than the the DupleXL zip for your needs.

[@gingerpinoadventures]

Your videos are very informative and fun to watch! Thank you for sharing your experience with all of us!

[@patrickjones8255]

I've been looking at some Primaloft Gold synthetic bags. Can't personally attest to them though yet.

[@susietopspin]

Hey Dixie. I have the Enlightened Equipment insulated booties and mits, and love them both. The Torrid mits I purchased were the generic black with flip tops so you can poke your fingers out when needed. I wouldn’t say waterproof but repellent and I love them by themselves or with gloves underneath. Happy trails.🤘🏻🥾⛰️

[@penultimateh766]

I've owned a couple of alpaca items and I'm not really that impressed. It's soft but it doesn't seem to wick nearly as well as regular wool.

[@texmexia49]

I can only speak to the socks, but those are a game changer for me. I used to have to change my socks like every five miles. I can hike all day in my alpacas and my feet still feel dry. I love them!

[@mcbrooke1358]

Hey Dixie! I have tried both the Ridge Merino & Appalachian Gear Co Alpaca wool sunhoodies in size small. I absolutely LOVE my Ridge hoodie. It is breathable, roomy, quick drying, and super soft! I first wore it for a 21day Grand Canyon raft trip and it held up perfectly. It is still my go too! The Alpaca hoodie is definitely a thicker material, almost fleece like and not as breathable, so I only wear hiking in cold weather. It also runs a bit small so I wish I would have sized up to a medium. Hope that’s helpful!

[@MiguelGomezMountainRunner]

I’ve successfully use Generali travel insurance, but don’t know how well they would’ve worked for your situation. I also have an Amex platinum card, which supposedly has unlimited emergency evacuation insurance (might test it on my Everest three passes trek in a couple months 😬).

[@bellad.3435]

Outdoor Vitals has a nice, lightweight sun hoodie (unfortunately, no thumbholes, though). Switched from the Mountain Hardwear as I found it more comfortable in hot weather.

[@kristyoneill601]

I love the Smartwool Active Ultralight for sun protection. I find it breathes so much better than any synthetic fabric I've tried

[@DaveK385]

I'm pretty happy with my Zenbivy and they do have a synthetic setup now (don't know anything about it). I've also got a set of Vertice rain mittens on order but haven't received them yet. Got a pair of merino undergloves to wear with them.

[@homatekk]

Another vote for the Black Diamond alpinglow pro!!

[@camillecck]

I reaaaally recommend the Montbell Cool Parka as a sun hoodie! I've been backpacking with it for 3 years now, including in very sunny and warm environments, and I absolutely love it. I am very sensitive to the sun and the heat and I find it very well ventilated, you can even unzip it for ultimate ventilation. Plus it is available in a very light colour, helping with the heat. It also has thumb holes, and is very durable. Apparently now Montbell has upgraded it to the Cool Full-zip Hoodie, which seems very similar. I highly recommend!

[@toadevergreen2561]

No water port? I'm out. Hydration packs all the way for me. HYOH

[@CrossoverGenius]

I am SO looking forward to your review of sun hoodies. Here in AZ I just do not believe fabric opaque enough for SPF 50 is breathable to not wind up overheated as it warms up here.

[@musingwithreba9667]

I tried editing my other post and KZbin wont let me 😝 I have the Decathlon rain mitts. They work great and are actually affordable!

[@20Hikecdt23]

I don’t know if you continue to look at tents but don’t remember you looking at Six Moon Design tents. Just a suggestion.

[@DavidDavis-fishing]

I am unaware of any insurance that pays for life flight. Life flight is a out of pocket expense.

[@TheSingularity2]

Any update on the Garmin insurance payout? Wondering if they're denying due to a medical condition and not an accident? Are they allowing you to comment on it while their decision is in progress? A lot of people want to know how this is working out.

[@donrossi277]

With your allergies, have you tried any alpaca insulated products?

[@mikemiranda6523]

I just ordered the zenbivy light quilt and sheet 10 deg set up. I’ll let you know how it goes

[@janefreeman995]

I have a merino sun hoody from Ridge merino . . Very basic. Bamboo tends to dry slowly in my experience. The ultra material is wonderful pared with a windbreaker. I also felt the ultra material regulated my temp well when sleeping in it.

[@wyomtnhippie]

Try kifaru for your sleep system. I run there woobie and doobie as my quilts depending on the weather

[@MountainBen29]

I've tried a few, but my favorite sun hoodie is the Outdoor Research Echo. Good sun protection, keeps you cool, has thumb loops, and something I find important, the hood fits snuggly over my head so the wind doesn't blow it off. I also have the Zpacks Vertice rain mits. They work well, but when I bought them I had to seam seal them myself (included with purchase). But once that's done, they work great.

[@josiebones1]

I'm really interested in the Zpacks offset Duo. It looks like it solves almost all of the problems I've had with my Duplex , except I do prefer the rainbow zipper. Just a suggestion but you could probably just buy the stick on pockets, magnet closures or toggle closures from Z packs and try them on the Durston tent instead of selling it (if those are the only problems you had with the old version). I love my Alpha Direct clothes. They have replaced my base layers because they are warmer for the same or similar weight of a traditional base layer. As far as sun hoodies go I've tried a few and by far the most ventilated/breathable is the Patagonia cool daily. The versions I have don't have thumb holes and I'd size up if you are between sizes or want a looser more airy feel. Good video as always.

[@AdventuressAli]

For a sunhoodie - I've absolutely LOVED the Under Armour ones that are said to be cold to the touch, make you cool. Used on TMB & Europe summer, and then 6 months thru Egypt, Jordan, Cyprus, Turkey, Georgia, Armenia.. Not only really breathes well but as far as these shirts go, it also didnt stink so fast! I've been looking for a replacement as mine is stretched out now, so I'm hoping they bring them back this spring.

[@davidcolinstillman5585]

HI DIXIE 👋 CONGRATULATIONS 🎊 THANK YOU FOR KEEPING US UP DATED ! BE SAFE ! HAVE FUN ! ENJOYED 😉 GOD BLESS YOU BOTH ALWAYS ON YOUR ADVENTURES 🙏

[@chriscon8463]

I hope you & your family had a Merry Christmas, Dixie! Happy New Year, too!