My name is Jerry Shulman and I specialize in knowing camping gear over more than 40 years in the industry.  I write for many web sites and publications as Jerry – The Gear Guy.   The question is, “What do I need to get started in backpacking?”  Simple answer: buy the best you can afford, but be realistic.  Our Company, CampingMaxx, sells just about all prices and qualities from WalMart to custom-made gear, so here are basic ideas:   Footwear:  I prefer tennis shoes for all but serious …

Carol and I just returned from China.  This was the first time which we believe we received honest answers to some of our questions. Question: Many backpack look like the ones we have made, but are selling in the US below our cost in China ? Answer: While all Chinese factories are faced with the same soaring labor cost issues, the raw materials have become a significant factor to control the price.  Our backpacks have very high specifications, which we call “Expedition Quality.”  These backs are…

Many of you have called to ask about stocking stuffers, so, here is my response: Of course, a stocking stuffer MUST be fun and entertaining, but these small items have become fairly expensive. It is difficult for me to comprehend spending $10 on one of several items just for it to be left behind with the trash. Another component is that I do not like to stuff a stocking with items which are themed exclusively for Christmas and then thrown in a drawer to never be seen again. I have been asked wha…

Question: How are sleeping bags rated and what does the rating mean? Almost all sleeping bags have a temperature rating. Often, the temperature provided, is totally random. On one of my trips to China, I viewed the final packaging of sleeping bags at one of the factories. What I saw bothered me; the finished bags were coming down a long assembly line. At the terminus were five fingers, of which three were in use. These identical sleeping bags were being boxed; one box stated 20 degrees Fahrenhei…

There are very important differences between a three season and a four season tent, especially depending upon the geographic usage. To start with, the majority of tents purchased at your “box” stores are engineered for only a couple of set-ups and breakdowns. We do stock some of these and these are priced appropriately for their limited application (under $60). A true three season tent probably has fiberglass poles and open ventilation. Fiberglass can start to splinter after as little as two hou…