I second that!  Also, I can find pants for plus sizes and pants for short inseams but not both! For real!  Apparently, short plus sized women either do not exist or do not need hiking pants.  I gave in and got plus sized pants and had the tailor shorten them (adding $11 to the cost of the already not inexpensive pants) ... View more

I'm on Team Canoe because that's what I have, so that's what I'm experienced with. Also, kayaks seem to be the fashion, and I like to go against the grain. 🤓 ... View more

Hi guys. Finally, the first episode from our two week packrafting and hiking in North of Norway summer 2020. https://youtu.be/G95KB2BqP-k ... View more

Thank you so much for the kind words! ... View more

All of these years and I only find out now that I have been underdressed ... View more

This may be too generic an answer, but anything in serious Grizzly territory is an immediate “nope!” from me.  I know there are ways to mitigate the risk in bear country... but sheesh those bears are BIG.  No thanks!  ... View more

I have paddled in 50 degreeish ocean water in southern California.  /a wetsuit will probably come in handy.  A two piece outfit will give you more versatility....  A vest  will free your arms and may work quite well for you. ... View more

@rricha2  I would recommend setting up a Virtual Outfitting appointment here. This way we can make new recommendations and discuss fit. A Virtual Outfitter can narrow down a couple of options, and then you can always go try those options on instore. A advantage of going into the store is the ability for REI green vests to swap out shoulder straps and hip belts to adapt to your body. It sounds like you may need a medium size frame but smaller shoulder straps to adapt to your smaller torso. The Osprey Aether and Gregory Baltoro are two options that have these adjustable parts.  Hope this helps!   ... View more

And YES, thank you for specifying where to put your wet straps, you shouldn't put wet straps with your sleeping bag! I was so excited about the post I skipped over some important explanations haha 🙂 ... View more

@HoughtonLikeTheLake those pictures work! Thumb-press would be horizontal across your toes (which is actually a good fitting tip for running and hiking shoes and boots) so the fit looks okay on your Chacos although you wouldn't want them any longer! Some folks find they aren't able to wear Chaco sandals because their arch length and foot length are too different... In terms of a return, we have a two-fold answer: If you are thinking about the REI return policy, shortening the strap would not impact your ability to return or exchange the shoes within one year of purchase If you are thinking about Chaco's warranty, we would recommend connecting with them directly - it looks like they offer a strap-shortening service for a small fee Hope this helps - let us know if you have any more questions! ... View more

Chacos are the best!  I used to be a Teva guy, but I converted a few years ago.  Enjoy! ... View more