Activity for xpda
| Type | On... | Excerpt | Status | Date |
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A: What's the best way to self-arrest on a sandy slope? If you have a hiking pole you can use it for self arrest. Keep the strap around your wrist. When you fall, hold that hand away from the ground. With your other hand, grab the pole a few inches from the point and jam it into the ground. It's a little like using a cumbersome ice axe. (more) |
— | over 8 years ago |
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A: How do I achieve/maintain optimal hydration? Too much water is better than too little. It's a good idea to drink before you're thirsty if you know you're going to need it. You can guess how much, and then drink more or less depending on the frequency of urination. Higher altitude, warm weather, and physical exertion all cause more water loss, s... (more) |
— | over 9 years ago |
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A: How do I keep my shoes from rolling around my feet while trail running? Trail runners, cross trainers, and court (tennis) shoes have better side support that will help prevent this. (more) |
— | over 9 years ago |
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A: Tackle for catching bass on live bait Rod, reel (with line), hooks, sinkers, and probably bobbers. Landing net is optional. (more) |
— | over 9 years ago |
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How long should you leave a synthetic sleeping bag compressed? How long can you leave a synthetic sleeping bag in compressed its stuff sack before you lose insulation? 2 days? 2 weeks? 2 months? The manufacturers say "long periods", but don't define it. (more) |
— | almost 10 years ago |
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A: Walking up the slopes. To walk brisk or to walk slow? A slower, steady climb is better for me, because it takes energy when I stop to: (a) stand with the pack on, (b) remove and re-load the pack, or (c) sit and standup with the pack on. Taking shorter steps going uphill will help a lot. You have better leverage with your leg muscles. A walking motion i... (more) |
— | about 11 years ago |
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A: How safe is drinking distilled water? Distilling water is a just about as pure as you can get it, better than filtering. You theoretically end up with zero dissolved solids and zero bacteria, viruses, etc. It is possible, if the water has the right chemistry, for some dissolved chemicals to condense along with the water (like methanol ca... (more) |
— | about 11 years ago |
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A: What to do when a black bear got a hold of an open bear can? If the bear is eating, let it eat. If you try to scare it off it may defend its food. If it just wanders up to your campsite, then you can make some noise to try to scare it away. But don't get too close. (more) |
— | over 11 years ago |
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A: Alternatives to retreating quickly when caught in a lightning storm when rock climbing? It's risk management. The best way to handle a storm is to get down before it starts. Check the weather and be down by noon or whenever the weather normally gets genned up. If you're in a thunderstorm and you're very high, it is probably more dangerous to rush a technical descent than to wait out th... (more) |
— | over 11 years ago |
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A: old windfinder forecast googlemap The data from the old wind forecasts probably came from NOAA, and it's available here. The raw data is in the form of GRIB files. You can do a search for "GRIB Viewer" and find some apps that will work. You can also search for "GRIB KML", and might be able to download grib files in a KML/KMZ format ... (more) |
— | over 11 years ago |
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A: Washing dishes with seawater or freshwater? Seawater typically has more organisms growing in it than a flowing stream of clear water. However, it's a good idea to use something (boiling, wet ones, clorox wipes, etc.) that kills giardia, microspiridia, and other protozoa or bacteria than can give you the diarrhea. (more) |
— | over 11 years ago |
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A: What should you be aware of when planning late-season or summer skiing? The snow melts some days (or most days) in the late season. If it refreezes at night, it will be icy in the morning, making icy or rough skiing. When the snow gets slushy in the afternoon, you will get much wetter than in the cold weather. The skiing will be a little slower, too, and you may be surp... (more) |
— | over 11 years ago |
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A: Do cross-country skis need to be broken-in? XC skis don't need to be broken in. Older skis may grip better because they are more scratched up, but they also won't glide as well as new ones. Wax doesn't seem to hurt waxless skis unless you put tons on so it fills in the cavities behind the scales. (more) |
— | almost 12 years ago |
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A: Do bag liners add the same warmth value to all sleeping bags? It's not reasonable to assume that it would add 15 degrees to all bags. Every bag is different, and the ground (snow? type of pad insulation?) and amount of air flow makes a difference. Incidentally, some bag liners are waterproof and not breathable. This can cause condensation and make it feel col... (more) |
— | almost 12 years ago |
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A: What would be the coolest summertime baselayer? A light, white running shirt made of synthetic fabric is the coolest I've found -- something similar to Nike dri-fit. A white or very light color is important if you're in the sun. (more) |
— | almost 12 years ago |
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A: Can I replace Dish soap? I use "Wet Ones" instead of soap (if there's no convenient place to bathe). There's not a lot of weight advantage, but they're good for washing yourself in the tent. Since they are antibiotic, they're also handy to clean cuts, scrapes, and spoons. (more) |
— | about 12 years ago |
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A: How to estimate current speed and direction while swimming at sea? You cannot estimate the current speed and direction on the open ocean without a fixed reference or navigation aid. But you can watch a star behind the rig to make sure your track is toward the oil rig. If you can swim faster than the current, you can always swim directly toward the oil rig and get t... (more) |
— | about 12 years ago |
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A: How to set up a tent in deep snow I usually stomp the area with snowshoes until it's reasonably packed, and that's good enough. If it's windy and very cold I may dig down 3-4 feet for protection from the wind. (If you're in the mountains you should have a snow shovel for safety.) A thicker sleeping pad (or two pads) will definitely ... (more) |
— | about 12 years ago |
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A: How do I reduce bow string travel on a bow drill? Wrap the string around the shaft in the opposite direction. Then it will tend to go down, but your uneven pushing and pulling will counteract it. If that doesn't work, try cutting a slot in the shaft and putting a keeper (such as a star washer) on it. You can also try this. (more) |
— | about 12 years ago |
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A: Will any filter/pump purifier last through longer hikes? I've use a Katadyn Hiker (not sure which model) on several multiday trips, pumping more than 20 liters per day. It holds up well. It is possible to break the plastic and clog the filter on any water filter, so you should have a backup plan in case it fails -- spare water filter, iodine tablets, enoug... (more) |
— | over 12 years ago |
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A: Tent and sleeping bag: pack inside or strap outside a backpack? If it fits, it's better to put it inside. That way it stays dry and is protected. If you put down your pack on rocks or small limbs, it can poke holes in the tent cover or sleeping bag cover if they are strapped to the outside. (In some conditions, a wet sleeping bag can be a safety issue.) The more ... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Which knot for climbing: figure eight, yosemite bowline, bowline on a bight? Most climbers use a re-threaded figure 8. The knot is not that important, though. In reading many accident reports, I have never seen one where the knot came untied or where there was a rope failure due to the knot on the harness. Pick a knot you're very familiar with, check it, and you're done. Spen... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What clothing would be appropriate for hiking in -18°C with up to 30 km/hr wind? You need to have clothes for the coldest part of the trip, at the mountaintop. For that temperature and wind, I would recommend more layers. I would carry or wear at least one more fleece top and one pair of fleece pants. It may be easy to stay warm in the trees, but if you want or need to stop on ... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What kind of canteen material will have the least effect on the taste of water? Run the canteen through a dishwasher a time or two and it will get rid of the odd taste. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How to carry water in freezing temperatures? 500 ml and 20 oz water bottles from a convenience store will freeze without breaking. You can carry them inside your clothes, in your pack next to your body, and keep them inside your sleeping bag to help keep them from freezing. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How to keep water cold in hot weather? Freeze the bottles, then keep them together if possible. Any insulation around them will help. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How bad do circumstances need to be before activating a PLB? A PLB should be activated when search and rescue is required for an emergency with the danger of serious injury or loss of life, and when other emergency response methods are not available. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What are the options for kayak self-rescue without a paddle float? You can usually lay the paddle across the kayak as if you had a paddle float and use it for stability to climb in. It's not as stable as a paddle float, but it's better than nothing. If there is another kayaker with you, they can pull up along side you and hold the floatless end of your paddle on the... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: If I cross paths with a bear, what should I do? Back away calmly. Be SURE not to separate a mother from her cubs. Other than that, the bear probably won't be too interested in you. (Except a polar bear, which may consider you food.) If you see bear cubs, look for the mother and stay away. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Time of high / low tide In general, the time from high to low tide or vice versa is a little over 6 hours. This varies by location, of course, but it will get you in the ballpark. 12 hours and 15 minutes from high tide to high tide is little more accurate, because some places the low tide is early or late relative to the hi... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: When should you repair rock gouges in skis? If it is deep and near the edge where it can cause the metal edge to bend under use, it should be fixed. Other than that, skis (and snow boards) can handle a lot of gouging. The main problem is that it slows down the skis a little, and might affect turning if it's pretty bad. Luckily, gouges are rea... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Why do shin splints happen? Shin splints (tibial stress syndrome) can be cause by tendons, muscles, or stress fractures. It's an "overuse" injury, with multiple causes, so there's not a single treatment. Some things that might help: Step softly. If you pound your feet when you hike, it can aggravate shin splints. Ease up on r... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How do you remove mold from a tent? Tilex or bleach will get rid of mold. It might also affect the water resistance of the tent fabric or change its color, so you might want to test it on a small area first. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How can I get rid of mold on climbing skins for skis? Bleach or Tilex will get rid of mold, but you should try it on a small piece first to make sure it doesn't ruin the sticky glue. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How do I find known and documented trails for trail running in New England? American Trail Running Association keeps a list for every state. It's not an exhaustive list, but it has some details for running. http://www.trailrunner.com/trails/mainstatepage.htm (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Resources for finding public hunting land Ask Google. "public hunting land statename" will get some good references. Also, most vacant property administered by the Corps of Engineers is open to hunting. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Crew requirements for sailing a ketch Every boat is different, and every crew is different. There is no set standard. Some people go single-handed on a ketch, some have fairly large crew. Bernard Moitessier used to sail a 39-foot ketch single-handed and with his wife. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Does eating snow help dehydration? Yes, but it will really make you cold. It takes about 30 times more heat to heat water (melt ice) from 31 to 33 degrees (F) than it does to heat it from 33 to 35 degrees. That heat comes from your body if you eat snow. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: When sailing, how do I rescue a man overboard? If there is another person person onboard, have them do nothing but watch the person in the water. They should point a finger at person in the water and never take their eyes off. Toss out life buoys, life slings, floating cushions, etc. If you have it, hit a man overboard button on your GPS. If not... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What are the most important indicators of an high-risk avalanche zone? 25-45 degrees of slope. If you can avoid this, you'll avoid most avalanches. New snow or newly wind-loaded snow. Unstable snow that collapses under your feet with a "whump". Pillowy or wavy looking snow. Recognize an avalanche chute -- an area with missing trees, messed up snow, etc. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What are the downsides to sleeping in a hammock on a multi-day hike? Hammocks are cold. The weight of your body compresses the clothes or sleeping bag, and air circulates underneath you, as opposed to a tent where you usually have a pad and the ground for insulation. It seems like it would be tough to stay dry in the rain in a hammock. It's nice to have a tent to get... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What are the different materials for ski climbing skins and advantages to each? Mohair is lighter and glides better than nylon, but does not grip the snow as well going uphill as nylon does. I have used rubber skins before, which will really climb steep stuff, won't glide very well at all, and weigh a ton. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What are some proven methods of training for week long backpacking trips at high altitude? Aerobic conditioning will help a little with the altitude. You can practice walking / running on a treadmill at 15% incline. You can practice walking with a loaded backpack. Bonus points for doing it on an inclined treadmill. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How can I signal for help in the wilderness? Use a cell phone. Use a Spot satellite tracker. Use a sat phone if you have one. Use the methods that Roflcoptr outlined above. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Will glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate prevent or repair damage to climbers’ fingers? Glucosamine is for cartilage, and finger pain from climbing is probably tendon problems. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How do I Eskimo roll a kayak? There are a few methods of rolling a kayak upright. You can find the most popular on Youtube -- they're a little odd to explain in words. Rolling a kayak is more common with whitewater kayaks, where you may need to do it immediately, and the kayak is smaller. With a sea kayak you can usually jump o... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: Gas or liquid fuel lighter? I prefer multiple gas lighters. They're light, they don't leak (and even if they do they don't make a mess), and they're cheap. If you buy one for a safety back up and leave it in the cellophane, you'll always have a dry one if you need it. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What are some good ways to waterproof a geocache / letterbox? A gallon size water jug like this works well, too, although I did have a bear tear apart one in a geocache because it apparently associated that kind of plastic with food. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: How to deal with wet feet? Carry extra socks and a couple of kitchen-sized trash bags. When you soak a shoe or boot, squeeze out the wet sock and let it start drying on the back of the pack. Put on a dry sock. Then put the trash back over the dry sock, and put your foot, sock, and trash bag inside your wet shoe. After a while ... (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |
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A: What is the difference between single and double wall tents? Double wall tents keep most of the condensation from forming on the inside of a tent, and they're warmer. In general, they do a better job keeping the rain out. Double wall tents are preferable in colder or rainy weather, and I consider them a necessity for snow camping. (more) |
— | almost 13 years ago |