Tumblers keep your drinks at the right temperature. It is also non-spill, making it the best container for working environments, outdoor places, or gyms. If you happen to be looking for a premium tumbler, here are two of the best tumblers available in the market:

The Katadyn Hiker had been the go-to water filters of many hikers in the past years. But with the introduction and release of the Katadyn Hiker Pro, people are making hard choices on which of these filters is safer to use. With this, let us discuss down further which one is better and safer for the outdoor enthusiasts out there:

Not many people recognize the advantages of an external frame backpack. Its design is rooted in history and is now still being used by hikers and military alike. If you want more storage flexibility, the external frame backpack is the way to go.

Just like most hikers, I’ve been using an internal frame pack for my trips. A friend who went hiking with me recently used an external frame backpack. Seeing one in actual use, it got me curious, so I borrowed it for my next trip.

You must be thinking that a backpack is a backpack, but after trying it out, I can tell you that there are differences. One of the things I struggled with was keeping the bag’s weight well-distributed. A haphazardly packed bag will seriously throw off your balance, which is very dangerous when hiking. That’s why I’m sharing this step-by-step how to pack an external frame backpack guide.

Hiking is a relaxing and fun activity, but sometimes the long trek can be lonely and boring. However, with a furry companion on your side, you can certainly ease this loneliness and improve the quality of your hiking trips. 

If you are planning on a hiking trip soon, it’s high time that you get yourself a dog. For starters, a small dog is ideal as they are easier to control. So, to give you some ideas as to what dog to get, here are 15 of the best breeds for hiking: 

When buying portable water purifiers, there are plenty of things to consider. I personally have tried multiple portable water purifiers in the past few years, and there were a lot of wrong purchases along the way. I’m into portable water purifiers because my family spends a lot of time outdoors. We go hiking, fishing, biking, and other types of outdoor sports together. Thus, portable water purifiers are really handy for us. I will be discussing which portable water purifier is best for each type of situation. Plus, I will also be discussing its different features. So without further ado, here are some of the best portable water purifiers together with their pros and cons.

It’s been years since my first hike. From then on, I have met friends, tracked nearby trails and gained the skills and experience that any backpacker should have. Yet, my heart never stops longing for more. That’s when I joined my group for another epic adventure.

Are you ready to tread on the famous Appalachian Trail? The trip won’t be easy, but conquering it sure is worth every sweat and penny I’ve saved. If by any chance, you are planning to go, let me share with you some facts on Appalachian Trail thru-hike planning. 

I did it, I’ve been there!

To perform well in your outdoor activities under changing climatic conditions, you will need additional gears. One of the essential pieces of equipment which you need to have is your glove. 

In this article, let's find out the best hiking gloves that are on the market that can help you to have a better outdoor experience.

It has been years since this trip was on my bucket list. I cannot believe I just did it! I hiked the rough terrains of the Yosemite National Park and came out victorious. I am glad for the hiking Half Dome Tips that my backpacking mates gave to me. My outdoor experience just hit another high mark!

I never said it was easy. In fact, it was terrifying and exciting at the same time. When I was about to give up, the beauty of the waterfalls along the path gave me the strength to go on. Moreover, when I reached the top, the scenery was breathtaking.

On that very day, as a hiker, I made it to the top!

When it comes to hiking, preparedness can make or break a trip. No matter how stable the weather or how familiar you are with the area, it’s always advisable to pack for the worst.

One thing that I’ve always contended with is unexpected moisture. Rain, fog, or mist could form suddenly. There’s also a chance of passing through a surprise water supply. You could also encounter puddles left by previous precipitation.

Before, I did not know about duck down or goose down. I wear my down jacket and appreciate its warmth. Yet, as I become so engrossed in hiking and camping, I became so particular about the quality of the clothes I wear.

As a backpacker, I am a bit obsessed with the comfort my jackets brings since I often camp in the wild and sleep outdoors. Eventually, I learned about the down clusters as insulation in my favorite winter jackets.  Now, on Duck down VS Goose Down, which one is better?

I tell you, it is best that you know what you need to pick.

The Difference between Duck down and Goose Down

Down traps the heat and flows warm air all over my body serving as a shield between the cold and me.  It matters a lot to me since it is the most comfortable, warm and light of all insulation I have tried.

• Fill Power

Goose clusters are naturally bigger than the duck. The goose being literally larger than the duck may be the reason behind. Because of this, the goose fill power is famous for being more robust and long-lasting than those of the duck’s.

The age of the bird is also a factor to consider. The older the birds, the more fill power they can give. The longer the bird lives, the better developed the cluster becomes.

I can imagine manufacturers sorting out the different type of clusters to provide different range fill powers and content. When it comes to outdoor gear, average fill power starts at 500 while top-end gears are about 900.

Do you want to learn more about fill power? Here is a video explaining its details.

• Odor

Goose only eats grass and other types of leaves. Ducks, on the other hand, almost eat anything. Because of this difference, goose tends to have less problem regarding odor compared to ducks.

Down are organic materials, and the presence of fat and oil is the reason it smells. No matter how clean the jackets will be, you cannot avoid sensing some slight scent.

• Price

The price is actually dependent on the quality of the product. Because of the fill power and the odor issue, goose down is expensive than ducks. However, when by chance I get a high-quality duck down, it could be the other way around.

Besides, price tends to fluctuate because of the availability of the clusters. In seasons that that bird consumption is low, there is not enough supply so the price will naturally go up. As I realize, people eat ducks more that goose. Another reason why ducks are cheaper than a goose.

Of course, I must also consider price factors like budget and your specifications.

• Durability and Insulation

Goose and duck down provide the same comfort when it comes to insulation. Literally, the feathers have an equal physical structure that is important for a useful insulator. If I take good care of my jackets, for sure, both type will last very long.

Nevertheless, do you know that the fat and oil content of the down affects its durability? There must be enough fat and oil to trap the heat and ensure warmth. Therefore, if it happens that the down is “over-washed” during production, it will drain the oil along with it. The result will be a brittle and dry output that is vulnerable to break down.

Besides the goose or duck down, you also need to consider a reliable brand to ensure durability.

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The Truth Behind Down Jackets

I told you that I am hooked with down jackets. I got a collection of them. It is warm and light, perfect for a backpacker.  I often go to extremes while camping, so I need them.

However, the controversy behind live plucking to support the industry is too inhumane for me. I cannot take the cruelty the birds are suffering because of my down jackets. I guess this issue is still open until now and whatever the truth comes out, I still hope that it would be in favor of the birds.

Final Thoughts

Now that I have learned the facts behind when I think about Duck down VS Goose Down, I do not see a big difference in contrary to what I expected. I am most particular with the insulation and the price when it comes to decision making. As I have discovered that goose and down can be equal about their quality of insulation, it all goes down to price.

With the right manufacturer, I believe that duck down is practical to buy than the goose. With the same warmth, it can offer, I still pick the product that can fit into my budget. However, we have different priorities. My choice may contradict yours.

I am curious on how it goes with you. Can you post some comment and tell me what you think about duck down VS goose down?