Get to know Gear Abby hosted by Shawnté Salabert!

Are you sick of the outdoor establishment old guard who think their way is the only way? Do you crave honest, no-holds-barred gear talk that’s not tied to affiliate links, influencer dollars, or editorial bias? Do you wish you had an outdoor bestie who could answer your deepest, darkest questions about everything from outdoor sex to outdoor tech, pooping outside to perfecting your backpacking setup?

Well - you’re in the right place! 

Welcome to Gear Abby, where we tackle the controversial, weird, obscure, and taboo topics that other outdoor podcasts refuse to touch.

Because remember, my outdoor loving pals, there are no dumb questions - just smart advice.

Are you looking for some advice or would like your question answered by Gear Abby? Send your questions, comments, and conundrums to myrockfight@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC. Please follow Gear Abby on your favorite podcast app.

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Shawnté Salabert and producer Colin “P.I.G.” True are back with another round of Gear Abby, where the gear questions get real... and sometimes a little gross.

This week’s adventures include:

• The Triple Crown of Hiking – Do you really need to hike the AT, PCT, and CDT to earn your stripes, or is the whole “Triple Crowner” thing kind of overrated?
• Chafing in the Wild – From sticky thighs to “fire crotch,” Shawnté breaks down how to prevent, treat, and laugh about the outdoor chafe life.
• Strava Love & Hate – Is tracking your runs and hikes inspiring, or just another way to feed the ego monster? Shawnté shares her thoughts on “Kudos culture.”
• Cutting Switchbacks – The eternal debate: is it really that bad if you shave a little distance? Abby has some strong words for the shortcut crowd.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever chafed, bragged on Strava, questioned the Triple Crown mystique, or been tempted by a too-good-to-ignore shortcut.

Click here for Gear Abby's footnotes and even more from this episode!

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Gear Abby is back! Host Shawnté Salabert and producer Colin “P.I.G.” True tackle another round of listener questions about the gear and decisions that make (or break) your time outside.

This week’s lineup includes:

• Boots vs Trail Runners – Abby helps settle the debate over whether “real hikers” wear boots, and why trail runners may or may not be the superior option.
• Pee Funnels – What works, what doesn’t, and why Shawnté thinks practice makes perfect (but beware of splashback).
• Running Watches – Listener Jeff wants to know: are GPS watches worth it, or just a fancy distraction from the trail? Shawnté’s answer might surprise you.
• Cowboy Camping – To tent or not to tent? Shawnté shares the pros, cons, and creepy-crawly considerations of sleeping under the stars.

It’s another round of honesty and hard-earned outdoor wisdom from Gear Abby.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Welcome to the very first episode of Gear Abby! Host Shawnté Salabert and producer/partner-in-gear Colin “P.I.G.” True dive straight into the big outdoor questions you didn’t even know you needed answered.

This week’s burning topics include:

• Best & Worst Places to Poop Outdoors – from Leave No Trace rules to Shawnté’s personal tales of unfortunate slopes, bracing trees, and run-ins with bears.
• Running Vests vs. Handhelds – Jason R. from Tahoe wants to know: does wearing a running vest for shorter trail runs make you “look stupid”? Spoiler: no, but Shawnté’s love affair with sweet potato tots might make you rethink your fueling strategy.
• Favorite Outdoor Books – Shawnté and Colin trade picks that go way beyond Wild, from Steinbeck to Blair Braverman to The Last Season.
• Biodegradable Soap & Leave No Trace – Is soap in the backcountry really “LNT-approved”? Shawnté breaks down myths, greenwashing, and why she only uses soap for one thing (hint: it’s butt-related).

This episode is equal parts hilarious, gross, and surprisingly useful. If you’ve ever worried about where to poop, what to carry, what to read, or how not to ruin pristine places with soap bubbles this is your show.

Click here for Gear Abby's footnotes and even more from this episode!

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Host Shawnté Salabert and producer Colin “P.I.G.” True return with another round of outdoor gear confessions and advice in Gear Abby! The podcast where no question is too weird, petty, or controversial.

This week’s questions include:

• Solo Female Hiking – How do you get past the fear of hiking alone, especially when your brain is full of true crime podcasts? Abby shares stories, strategies, and a reminder to “fuck politeness.”
• Whitewater Raft Pack List – Backpacking and rafting trips are not the same. Abby explains what’s different when your whole life is strapped into a boat (hint: dry bags, Croakies, and maybe a watercolor kit).
• Traction Devices – Microspikes vs. crampons: the Facebook debate that will never die. Abby lays out what actually works for different snowy conditions.
• Remaining Optimistic – With climate change and industrialization shaping our future, how do we stay hopeful about the outdoors? Abby offers a mix of realism, action steps, and stubborn optimism.

As always, you’ll get equal parts useful advice, oversharing, and outdoor comedy gold.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

HELLOOOOO THERE, outdoorsy friends! Shawnté Salabert and Colin “Partner In Gear” True are back with another wild ride of Gear Abby! The podcast where we answer your burning, weird, and sometimes awkward outdoor questions with advice that doesn’t suck.

This week’s questions include:

• Trail Running 101 – Angry Rae wants tips for new trail runners. Shawnté shares why dirt > pavement, when to walk the uphills, and why biffing it is basically a rite of passage.
• $100 at REI – If you had a gift card, would you blow it on chocolate bars, Hokas, or apocalypse prep? Shawnté and Colin reveal what they’d do with Daddy Warbucks’ generosity.
• Backpacking With Your Boo – Sam wants to get her boyfriend hooked on backpacking. Shawnté breaks down how to plan, pack, and make it magical.
• Climbing in Yosemite – Not Honnold is nervous about joining experienced friends in the Valley. Abby’s advice: say yes, manage expectations, and soak it all in.

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

Just in time for fall Shawnté and Colin dive into listener questions about some of the most peculiar, practical, controversial outdoor dilemmas and whole bunch of mating tarantulas.

This week’s questions:

• Naming Peaks – Can the average hiker name a mountain? Shawnté breaks down the tangled history of U.S. place names and what it takes to get one officially recognized.
• Thru-Hiking & Trash – Do long trails make us garbage monsters? Sustainability journalist and backpacking expert Kristin Hostetter joins the show to share practical tips for cutting down waste, rethinking packaging, and embracing a zero-waste trail ethos.
• TP & Leave No Trace – Should you bury toilet paper or pack it out? Shawnté explores the official LNT rules, the gray areas, and why personal ethics matter when it comes to backcountry bathroom breaks.
• Gravel Shoes – Do we really need another shoe category? Shawnté and Colin debate whether gravel running shoes are brilliant crossover tools or just another gimmick.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

This week on Gear Abby Shawnté and Colin tackle outdoor ethics, bear safety, true confessions, and real-food fueling you’ll actually eat. Here's the rundown:

• More Michelino: What should happen when athletes break trail rules (education > prosecution).
• Bear cans: When to carry them even if not required (+ quick gear picks).
• Confession booth: Gear Abby reveals her biggest on trail sin: A very real wag-bag fail on Whitney.
• Fuel without gels: Do you really need to eat power food when you're riding mountain bikes?

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

This week, Shawnté dives deep into the strange, useful, and occasionally awkward corners of outdoor life from rattlesnake etiquette to National Park wedding logistics, backcountry inflatable flamingos, and proper trail repair kits.

In this episode:

• Trail Encounters: What to do when a rattlesnake blocks your path.
• Merino Undies: Outdoor writer Sam Schild joins to talk durability, chafing, and the best underwear for every climate.
• Say “I Do” in Yosemite: How to legally get married in a national park (and avoid unwanted bear guests).
• Lake Life Etiquette: Are inflatable flamingos ruining the backcountry—or making it better?
• Trail Repair Kits 101: What to pack to fix your gear (and save your buns) on a long run or hike.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com and they might make it onto a future episode!

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Please follow and subscribe to Gear Abby and give us a 5 star rating and a written review wherever you get your podcasts.

This week Shawnté welcomes the Kilian Jornet to Gear Abby (yes, seriously).

They cover mountain running, mindset, and how to lighten up both your pack and your attitude.

This weeks questions cover:

• Kilian’s Beta: How to safely merge trail running and climbing, build mountain confidence, and stay humble in the peaks.
• Bidet Bonanza: Gear Abby's definitive backcountry butt-care guide
• Tick Talk: We talk about repellents for humans and dogs that might actually work and ponder if ticks get it on.
• What’s In My Pack: Why Polartec Alpha might be the best weird-looking fabric you’ll ever wear.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté celebrates hitting double digits with stories that prove adventure takes many forms. From near-death river crossings to, uh, 'creative' trail recreation.

• Scariest Moments Outdoors: Shawnté relives a terrifying Sierra river crossing that dethroned her mountain lion encounter.
• Hikers With Benefits: Advice for couples looking to, ahem, elevate their outdoor experiences—respectfully and comfortably.
• Winter Thru-Hikes: Trails you can tackle after quitting your job (or before seasonal affective disorder hits).
• Gear Care Corner: How, when, and why to wash your backpack—and why your washing machine is not invited.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté and Colin take on everything from trail etiquette to mountain-town elitism with a heavy dose of laughter, crankiness, and wisdom.

Special guest Katie Burrell (comedian, skier, and Weak Layers creator) joins the show to talk about mountain-town culture, toxic coolness, and how to actually find kind people to ski and bike with.

• Angry Rae Returns: Should you call out bad outdoor behavior or just let it go? Shawnté breaks down when to educate, when to ignore, and when to just walk away.
• The Enforcer: Colin lands his first official voiceover role. (Kind of.)
• Cool Kids Only? Katie Burrell joins to unpack mountain-town hierarchy, ski-bum gatekeeping, and how to find genuine, low-ego adventure partners.
• Urban Nature FTW: Shawnté makes the case for New York City as a legitimate outdoor town (yes, really).
• Tent Therapy: The eternal question: should you ditch your trusty Big Agnes for an ultralight Dyneema trekking-pole tent? Shawnté’s tent monologue might just convert you.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles three very different outdoor dilemmas and reviews a new meal replacement. From embracing your inner luxury camper to surviving bad backcountry water to a new edition of 'What's in my pack?!'

• Can Bougie Be Outdoorsy? Shawnté helps a listener navigate the tension between high-end comfort and dirtbag authenticity with tips for easing into the outdoors and glamping guilt-free.
• The Dysentery Demons Are Real: REI’s Bubble Gut Boris writes in about water filters and algae. Gear Abby breaks down what your gear can’t remove (looking at you, toxic bloom) and why sometimes the smartest move is just don’t drink it.
• The 'Code Brown' Chronicles: A listener's question prompts Shawnté’s definitive guide to shart survival. Complete with wipes, bidets, smooth rocks, and emotional resilience.
• What’s In My Pack: America's new favorite podcast segment returns as Shawnté reviews Rec Pak meal pouches, a 700-calorie, shake-and-chug meal replacement. Is it something you should try? Listen to Gear Abby to find out!

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear, Gossamer Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté explores outdoor etiquette, gear hot takes, and how to get creative outside without losing your mind or your tent floor.

• The Permit Problem: A listener’s “asshole brother” hates paying for permits, but Shawnté lays out why those fees matter (from protecting wildlife to funding trail crews) and why caring for public lands means ponying up.
• The Ground Cloth Debate: Pup Tent Pat writes in to declare ground cloths “bullshit.” Shawnté disagrees (strongly), explaining how a cheap layer of Tyvek can save your $500 tent and your sanity.
• Painting in the Wild: Artist and outdoor educator Latasha Greene joins to share her minimalist plein-air setup, tips for letting go of perfectionism, and why getting dirt in your paint is basically a rite of passage.
• Bougie Hikers Unite: Shawnté and Colin field a question about U.S. hut-to-hut trails that scratch the luxury itch.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear, Gossamer Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

On this weeks episode of Gear Abby Shawnté celebrates Women-Led Wednesday with adventure book recs, a beginner snowshoe deep dive, and what to do when you stumble into an elk harem.

• Women Adventure Writers You Need to Read: Memoirs from river guides, thru-hikers, and survival badasses
• Snowshoeing 101: How to pick the right snowshoe deck size for your weight + conditions.
• Wildlife Etiquette: What to do when you encounter elk, moose, or other large ungulates. The “Horny Animal Power Rankings” make its debut.
• What’s Worth Carrying in the Backcountry: Shawnté’s essentials beyond the phone.

Click here for full Gear Abby Episode Companion including all of the bings (aka footnotes) and even more from this episode!

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear, Gossamer Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles four wildly different but totally relatable outdoor questions: from scattering ashes in national parks to finding love on trail, staying safe on frozen lakes, and picking the right rain shell without losing your mind.

In This Episode:

• Scattering Ashes in National Parks: Yes it's legal in most parks (with a permit).
• Trailside Romance: Myth or Magic? Love can happen out there (PCT marriages are real!)
• Ice Fishing 101 (w/ special guest: Stepdad Mike!): Warmth tools range from mittens to full-on heated shanty palaces.
• Rain Shell vs Poncho vs All the Fancy Fabrics: Don’t overcomplicate materials. Match the jacket to the activity, not the marketing hype.

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear, Gossamer Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

Do thru-hikers lose their “trail cred” if they car camp? What’s the most responsible way to offload extra outdoor gear without sending it straight to a landfill? And how do you train for a spring trail race without freezing your ass off all winter?

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté Salabert tackles outdoor gatekeeping, gear hoarding, and cold-weather running with equal parts honesty, humor, and practical advice. Reminding us all to hike our own hike, stop judging each other, and maybe invest in better gloves.

Got a question? Send it to DearGearAbby@gmail.com... no trail cred required.

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear, Gossamer Gear

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles three absolute heaters: the ethics of climbing chalk, the surprising brilliance of ponchos (and the even more surprising brilliance of rain chaps), and what to do when nature calls in the dead of winter and the ground is frozen solid.

Also: curling, scuba fears, PVC tubes full of poop, and a love letter to wind shirts.

• Chalk Ethics 101: Hidden cost: the environmental toll of chalk manufacturing.
• Poncho Town, Population: You. Final verdict: wear whatever keeps you dry — fashion is between you and your god.
• Winter Poop Protocol: Emergency snow option: dig deep, break it up, bury responsibly (last resort only).
• What’s in Shawnté’s Pack?: A full ode to the humble wind shirt.

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear, Gossamer Gear

Got your own question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com and it just might end up on the pod.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Sign up for NEWS FROM THE FRONT, Rock Fight's semi-weekly newsletter by heading to www.rockfight.co and clicking Join The Mailing List.

It’s a special holiday episode of Gear Abby!

This week, Shawnté and Colin turn the mics on each other to reflect on the year in the outdoors. They cover the weirdest listener emails (including a truly unforgettable deep dive into elk mating habits), the biggest outdoor stories of the year, and their favorite gear picks from trail shoes to backpacks and sandals.

They also look ahead to 2026, talking consistency over clout, favorite adventures, recovery from injury, and why sometimes the best outdoor goal is simply getting outside with people you love.

Come for the gear talk. Stay for the elk erotica.

Got a question? Send it to DearGearAbby@gmail.com.

Support those who support Gear Abby: Fjallraven, Garage Grown Gear, Gossamer Gear

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

On this episode of Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles four listener questions that range from trail life to public lands policy:

• Do brick-and-mortar outdoor retailers still matter in an era of DTC everything?
• What’s the best outdoor-themed true crime to read when you’re not alone in the woods?
• Is the Kula Cloth actually hygienic? Shawnté is joined by Kula Cloth founder Anastasia Allison to break down the facts.
• And finally, Shawnté digs into the controversial decision to raise national park entrance fees for international visitors, unpacking the equity, logistics, and politics behind the policy — and why the math (and the vibes) don’t add up.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Are there any truly ethical outdoor brands or is sustainability mostly marketing?

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté Salabert digs into what “ethical” and “sustainable” actually mean in the outdoor industry, how to spot greenwashing, and which brands are genuinely trying to do better.

Then, Shawnté mounts a passionate defense of Death Valley National Park, breaking down why the desert is far more alive (and beautiful) than its name suggests and exactly how to convince a skeptical travel partner.

Finally, a thru-hiker weighs the classic dilemma: sleeping bag or quilt? Shawnté explains how quilts work, why the bottom of your sleeping bag isn’t doing much anyway, and whether making the switch is worth the weight savings.

We wrap things up with another edition of "What's In My Pack?!" This week's item: The Sunbrella.

Got a question? Email deargearabby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

What should you actually eat on a long trail? Is there a way to learn downhill skiing without blowing your entire budget? And how do you find a sports bra that truly supports a bigger chest for high-impact sports?

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté Salabert breaks down trail food favorites and regrets, shares realistic advice for trying to ski on the cheap, and welcomes sports bra expert Dr. LeJean Lawson for a deep dive into fit, fabric, and why “divide and conquer” matters when it comes to breast support.

Practical advice, real talk, and plenty of enchilada dreams.

Got a question? Send it to DearGearAbby@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Is it ethical to have a campfire anymore? Do you really need electrolyte drinks on every hike? And what happens if you don’t win a coveted thru-hike permit?

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté Salabert tackles campfire ethics in the age of mega-fires, breaks down hydration myths (spoiler: pickles beat Pedialyte), and walk a hopeful thru-hiker through the very real logistics of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail without a long-distance permit.

Practical advice, a little tough love, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.

Got a question? Send it to DearGearAbby@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles a salty question about whether trail running has lost its “cool factor” now that it’s gone mainstream and whether gatekeeping the sport is just aging-contrarian energy.

Then things get real: a listener shares how sobriety is changing his ski season and friendships. Shawnté digs into ski culture, alcohol pressure, and how to protect your joy on the mountain without compromising your recovery.

Plus: in What’s In My Pack?, Shawnté tests a new handheld hydration system (yes, with actual freezer science) and admits when she’s wrong about insulated bottles.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles one of the most thoughtful (and emotionally charged) listener questions yet: how outdoor folks can show up when politics, safety, and public spaces collide. Joined by Garage Grown Gear founder Lloyd Vogel, the conversation digs into why the outdoors has always been political and what real allyship can look like.

Then, things take a sharp (and familiar) turn back to trail reality with a listener question about poop emergencies; including etiquette, survival tactics, and how to handle the most awkward moments imaginable.

Shawnté also answers questions about Alex Honnold’s high-profile Netflix skyscraper climb before wrapping things up with a listener question about permits.

Heavy topics, hard truths, and yes… poop. Just another day at Gear Abby.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Should we rip down the railings in national parks and let natural selection take over? This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles a heated question about safety features on public lands and debates where personal responsibility ends and park management begins.

Then, a Camino hopeful writes in with a blister crisis after breaking in new boots. Shawnté dives deep into fit, heel locks, insoles, trail runners vs. boots, and yes… a little strategic lubrication.

Finally, a retail worker wonders if attending the outdoor industry trade show, Switchback, on their own dime is worth it. Is it career growth, industry networking magic or just crashing the party?

Risk management, foot management, and trade show strategy... only on Gear Abby!

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Do you really need an InReach if your phone has SOS? How worried should paddlers be about alligators? And what’s that strange building on top of Mount Whitney?

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté Salabert breaks down backcountry communication devices and whether your smartphone is enough, explain how to paddle safely in alligator country, and dig into the surprisingly wild history behind the hut on the summit of Mount Whitney.

Our listeners create our podcast! Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

What should you do if a storm rolls in while you're backpacking with no shelter in sight?

How do you convince a partner to join you on a longer backpacking trip if they’re worried about trail hygiene?

And how exactly do you get comfortable… going to the bathroom outside?

This week on Gear Abby, outdoor educator Shawnté Salabert tackles lightning safety and storm strategy in the backcountry, offer relationship advice for hikers dating non-through-hikers, and return to everyone’s favorite Gear Abby location: Poo Corner.

Send your questions about outdoor gear, trail etiquette, relationships, or the weird stuff nobody else wants to talk about to deargearabby@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Should you geotag your favorite outdoor spots on social media or keep them secret?

Do compression socks actually help runners, or are they just a glorified shin hug?

And if your gear closet is full of old-school backpacking equipment, what ultralight innovations are actually worth upgrading?

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté Salabert and producer Colin True tackle the outdoor internet’s favorite argument about geotagging and “gatekeeping,” break down the science (and hype) behind compression socks for runners, and dive into the world of ultralight backpacking with Garage Grown Gear founder Lloyd Vogel, who shares some of the gear innovations that have reshaped modern backpacking.

Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Why do you actually need a bear canister in the Sierra? Shawnté breaks down the wild (and very human-caused) history behind food-conditioned bears and why proper storage matters more than ever.

Then: what do you do when a climbing gym regular crosses the line from annoying to straight-up creepy? Gear Abby delivers a no-BS guide to shutting it down and standing your ground.

Plus, what’s in Shawnté’s pack? A deep dive into the ultra-hyped Norda 002 trail shoes! Are they really worth the price, or just another expensive flex?

Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Do beautiful outdoor photos actually help protect wild places or is that just something we tell ourselves to feel better? Gear Abby digs into the surprising history of photography, conservation, and whether social media really makes a difference.

Then: what happens when your hiking partner bails right before a dream trip? Shawnté shares honest advice for tackling fear, finding courage, and starting a big trail solo especially if you’re nervous about going it alone.

Our last listener is heading to the desert! Gear Abby tells them how to avoid (and survive) an encounter with cholla cactus, one of the Southwest’s most infamous spiky hazards.

Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Is flying across the country for adventure worth the climate impact—or should you stay closer to home? This week, Gear Abby tackles a big question about balancing outdoor travel dreams with environmental responsibility.

Then things get spicy: what outdoor gear or trends instantly give you the ick on a hiking date? Shawnté and Colin weigh in with their personal red flags and invite listeners to send in theirs.

Finally, thinking about becoming a ski patroller? A special guest joins the show to break down what it really takes to get started, what skills you’ll need, and whether the job is worth the commitment.

Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabbymail.com.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Ever wondered where those summit trail registers actually come from and where they go when they disappear? This week, Gear Abby digs into the surprising history behind those iconic peak notebooks.

Next, a listener questions whether spouses should be allowed to assign trail names and whether there’s an official appeal process when you get stuck with a mediocre nickname.

Finally, things get serious (well as serious as Gear Abby gets anyway): what should you do if your climbing partner wants to use a rope that looks worn out? Shawnté breaks down how to inspect climbing ropes, when to retire them, and why trusting your gut matters when safety is on the line.

Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

What do you do when your favorite adventure buddy suddenly turns every outing into a full-on GoPro production? This week, Gear Abby helps a listener figure out how to set boundaries when social media starts getting in the way of real-life fun.

Next, we tackle a question many people are too embarrassed to ask: how do you handle your period on a backpacking trip? Shawnté breaks down practical tips, myth-busting (no, bears aren’t hunting you), and how to stay comfortable and confident on trail.

Finally, turning 50 sparks a big adventure goal: trying new outdoor group activities despite a lifetime of anxiety about being judged. With help from a special guest, we talk about building confidence, finding the right group, and why it’s never too late to try something new.

Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabbymail@gmail.com—because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC

What’s the deadliest national park in the United States?

This week on Gear Abby, we kick things off with a dark-but-fascinating question about where people are most at risk in our national parks and why the answer might surprise you.

Next, a listener needs help convincing her stubborn boyfriend to use trekking poles on a Grand Canyon hike even though his knees suggest he absolutely should.

Finally, Shawnté's favorite segment, What's In My Pack?! returns! Shawnté makes the case for one of the weirdest but most versatile pieces of gear around: the rain skirt.

Got a question for Gear Abby?

Send it to deargearabby@gmail.com—because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Are those random stairs in the forest actually haunted or just leftovers from long-forgotten buildings?

This week on Gear Abby, we dig into the eerie legend of “stairs in the woods,” exploring where the spooky stories came from and why your brain reacts so strongly when you see them on trail.

Next, one ski-trip debate gets settled once and for all: does alcohol really hit harder at altitude? Shawnté breaks down the science behind blood alcohol levels, dehydration, and why mountain drinking can feel rougher than expected.

Finally, a first-time backpacker worries that deodorant, sunscreen, and moisturizer might attract bears. Gear Abby explains what really draws bears in and why you can probably keep your face lotion without becoming bear bait.

Got a question (or a spooky trail story) for Gear Abby?

Send it to DearGearAbby@gmail.com... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

This week on Gear Abby, we tackle one of the toughest trail dilemmas yet: what should you do when you come across a hiker who clearly looks in distress but refuses help?

Then it’s time for an extremely important backpacking discussion: how many pairs of underwear should you bring on a trip, really? Gear Abby dives into trail hygiene, dirty chonies, wet liners, and why changing underwear at the trailhead can feel like a spiritual experience.

Finally, Shawnté welcomes Rawlogy founder and fitness coach Marek Bowers to talk about building strength in midlife, why protein suddenly matters so much, and what active women over 40 should focus on to keep hiking, climbing, and adventuring strong for years to come.

As always, send your questions to DearGearAbbyMail@gmail.com because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice!

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté and Colin tackle some truly important outdoor questions:

Why does the PCT seem to have a norovirus outbreak every year? Should beginner climbers always wear helmets outside? And if you were abducted by the Ice Planet Barbarians and taken to their frozen world, what three pieces of gear would you bring?

Along the way, they discuss AI-generated Ansel Adams prints, shirtless climbers, trail hygiene, college outdoor clubs, and why hand sanitizer isn't enough when norovirus comes calling.

As always, there are no dumb questions... just smart advice.

Send your questions to deargearabby@gmail.com!

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Big Titty Mountain. Mushroom poop tabs. No-drop bike rides that definitely drop people.

This week, Gear Abby explores weird outdoor place names, the science behind mycelium-powered bathroom kits, and how to handle a cycling group that isn't living up to its promises. Plus: thru-hiker drama, Poo Poo Point, mastodon boners, and a (not-so) shocking amount of poop-related expertise.

Send your questions to DearGearAbbyMail@gmail.com. There are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.