Ask Kristin

Do you know of a boot maker who makes really wide boots that are true to size?

Are the fuel canisters for backpacking stoves refillable or recyclable? Or are we just creating more waste when we purchase these stoves in the quest of lightness?

Is there a multipurpose helmet out there I can use for skiing, climbing etc. or should I just plan on getting one for each season/sport?

I'm confused about the capacity figures that backpack manufacturers claim. With daypacks it seems that the figures advertised are always about 20 percent higher than what the pack actually holds. What gives?

Is it true that mummy bags should not be stored in a stuff sack, but rather hung in closet between trips? Seems like a waste of space.

When camping in frigid temperatures, what's the best way to keep my food warm long enough to eat it? And how can I clean my pot once the food has frozen itself to the sides?

I plan on backpacking Europe for about a month. What is the most suitable backpack for me to use?

I just returned from a trip to the High Sierra and found a 1/2 inch tear in the bottom of my Big Agnes tent. The fabric is silicone treated nylon. How do I fix it?

What is the best way to wash my fleece so that I get longer use out of it?

I do a bit of camping on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. I am looking for a 3-person tent that can withstand the howls and gusts of the winds without collapsing or flapping so loud it keeps me awake. No $3,000 tents please.

Are there any companies that make packs for bigger guys, and a 54" waist?

In your video on <a href="http://backpacker.com/videos_2007_editors_choice_award_winners_msr_reactor_and_primus_etapower_camp_stoves/gear/gvideos/3">Camp Stoves</a>, why do you keep one of the gas canisters in a pan of water?

What's the difference between cheaper and more expensive trekking poles?

The plastic buckle on my pack's hip-belt slips. Is there a way to make it stay in place, or a better buckle?

If there are no trees to hang a bear bag, what is alternative food storage option?

What is your mileage recommendation for novice hikers spending their spring break on the AT?

They look nice, but do hammocks really work?

What is the best way to get rid of leftover white gas, before I get on the plane to fly home?

Do you have any suggestions on camp shoes?

What causes&ndash;and how do you prevent&ndash;air bubbles from showing up in liquid filled compasses?

Over the years I've hoarded a lot of dehydrated food. Does this stuff ever go bad?

What does the 650-fill or 700-fill label on a down jacket mean?

Does what color your tent is effect whether bears are attracted to it or not?

How good are the alcohol stoves at high elevations and/or any elevation?

What's the best way to re-attach seam seal tape that is pulling away from waterproof fabric items such as a waterproof stuff sack or tent fly?

Down versus synthetic sleeping bags: What's the deal?