3 Brands I Don’t Hit the Trail Without

This isn’t a gear list.

It’s a short collection of things that have proven themselves over time and stand out as a must have.

I’m picky about what I rely on out on the trail. I’m not one to skimp and use a product that breaks, doesn’t hold up or just doesn’t live up to its expectations. If something earns a place here, it’s because I actually use it. Long days on the trail, changing weather, and the kind of situations where you don’t want to be second-guessing your setup.

These brands help simplify life on the trail. They do their job quietly and let me focus on my horse, the ride, and being present out there.

1. Teton Hammock Company

I have probably researched every quilt company out there before I stumbled upon Teton Hammock Company. Overstuffed for warmth. Excellent customer service. Quick turnaround time for custom quilts and absolute quality. These quilts compress, puff back to life and keep you perfectly warm and cozy. Find your perfect quilt here.

2. Easycare Protective Hoofwear

Composite shoes are a no brainer to me but for ultralight packing they are game changers. No more lost boots. No heavy tools to pack just in case a steel shoe comes off. Our EasyCare shoes have held up to every type of terrain we’ve crossed and gives Moqui the comfort he deserves on long rocky trails. See how they held up on the 60-mile Sisters Loop here.

3. Garmin InReach

A required item for anyone venturing into the wilderness and especially on horseback. As any rider knows, even the best horse can have a freak accident and adding wilderness to that equation means you need to be prepared. Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind to explore, have a safety net and stay in touch back home.

My Latest Posts

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• Copper Canyon – Paria Canyon-Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness, UtahApril 14, 2026
  Copper Canyon is a short slot canyon located in Southern Utah. This 2.6 mile route can be ridden from the White House Trailhead & Campground within the Paria Canyon-Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness. This ride is a great add on to Paria River Trail, and has much easier access compared to Buckskin Gulch for those wanting to experience a slot without the long approach or rock and mud hazards that Buckskin is known for. Look out for the super clear petroglyphs too!
• Moon Rocks – Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument, UtahApril 13, 2026
  This 6.7-mile ride in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is quite out of this world looking. With hoodoos, rocks that look like their from another planet and big wall views to admire, put this one on your list when visiting the area. This ride also doubles as an option on days when slot canyons cannot be accessed.

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