Alfredo Ramses
Founder and Lead Editor of The Hiking Tribe. I've spent over a decade researching hiking gear, trail conditions, and backcountry techniques—working with our network of field testers to find what actually performs on the trail. I don't just write about hiking; I obsess over the details so you can focus on the summit, not the gear. Every trail guide and product recommendation here has been vetted, tested, and debated before it earns a spot.
Distribute Pack Weight to Center of Gravity
Stop the "turtle hunch." Learn to distribute pack weight center gravity by packing heavy items in Zone 2 (Core). Stop fighting torque. [Safety Guide]
Test Handholds for Stability Before Committing Weight
Stop "shock loading" loose scree. You must test handholds stability rock using the S.T.A.P. method. A hollow "boom" sound = imminent wedge failure!
Transition From Hiking to Peak Bagging Safely
Stop getting "Cliffed Out" on Class 4. Master the transition hiking peak bagging safety rules: The Noon Rule & 3 Points of Contact [YDS Guide].
Tape Ankles to Prevent Sprains on Unstable Ground
Stop using stretchy KT. It fails to tape ankles prevent sprains on loose rock. Master the rigid "Stirrup" technique + Benzoin glue [Guide].
Read Terrain Features to Orient Without a Compass
Stop fighting hills. Bushwhacking burns 3.5x energy. Here is how to read terrain features orient map & use the 'Rule of Vs'. [Save Energy]
Identify Animal Scat to Know What Is on the Trail
Steam means a predator is minutes away. Help identify animal scat trail safety by spotting "Tapered Ends" (Meat) vs. blunt fiber [Safety Matrix].
Stake Your Tent in Sandy Soil Using Deadman Anchors
Vertical anchors slice sand like knives. Learn to stake tent sandy soil deadman style using the T-Slot & Clove Hitch methods [Stop losing tents].
Deep Lugs Provide Traction on Muddy Slopes
Stop sliding. Safe deep lugs traction muddy slopes require 5mm+ to cut the "Slip Layer." Do your boots pass the Coin Test? [Safety Check]
Nubuck Leather Breathability vs Full Grain Durability
Stop killing nubuck leather breathability durability with wax. It fills pores & creates a "sweatbox". See the Salt-Rot failure risk (Warning).
Dry Wet Footwear Overnight Without Melting Glue
Radiators kill $300 boots. See how to dry wet footwear overnight safely by staying under 45°C. Prevent irreversible glue failure [Expert Tips].
