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Expert’s Picks: Crash Pad

  • How to Dyno

    In rock climbing, a dynamic move, or "dyno" for short, is one in which the climber launches up to a hold that is out of normal climbing reach. Dynos are common in bouldering and are also useful for getting past the crux, or the hardest part, of a climb. In a dyno, you propel yourself upwards using your feet and extend your hands to grab onto the hold. Dynos… read more

  • How to Avoid Knee Problems

    Among the many risks of bouldering--or ropeless rock climbing--causing long-term damage to the knees may seem the least of one's concerns. But jumping or falling from boulders, day in and day out, adds some serious strain to the knees. Incorporate these steps into your bouldering routine if you want to walk when you're 90. read more

  • Tools Used in Rock Climbing

    On the surface, rock climbing seems to be a fairly straightforward sport--you find a rock, then make your way to the top of it. As with any sport, however, there are wide variations on the initial concept, and with those variations come a wide range of necessary tools. At its most basic, the sport requires only a pair of climbing shoes and a bag of chalk, an… read more

  • The Best Rated Nike Stability Running Shoes

    Aside from stability, running shoes are also rated for features like flexibility, comfort, fit and durability. Nike, among many other competitive shoe brands, specializes in crafting the most advanced and versatile running shoes in the market. Before choosing a pair of running shoes, consider your personal needs and attributes like running gait, performance… read more

  • How to Climb Boulders

    Climbing boulders, or "bouldering", is an activity that allows people to try rock climbing without having to commit to learning how to use ropes, climbing harnesses, carabiners, and other related rock climbing safety equipment. However, bouldering does require a decent level of physical fitness and advance preparation on the part of the climber to ensure the… read more

Related Crash Pad Articles & Videos

  • Mountain Climbing Gear

    With few exceptions, mountain climbing gear can be separated into three categories: protective gear, essential gear and accessories. Protective gear keeps you safe while you are climbing the mountain. Its function is specifically to pr… read more

  • Walking Shoes for Women With High Arches

    The arch of your foot is the area on the inner side of the foot that is shaped, more or less, like an arch. Some people have lower arches or relatively flat arches, while others have high arches, which require more support. This often… read more

  • Comparison of Women's Nike Running Shoes

    Nike running shoes are developed with high regards to comfort, support and agility. Some offer ample support for those with joint issues while others have been developed for those who need a lightweight shoe for sprinting. Prior to p… read more

  • Safety Equipment for Climbing

    Athletes participating in the sport of climbing accept that the sport has inherent risks, including but not limited to death. Correctly using proper safety equipment helps manage these risks, making what seems like a risky activity rel… read more

  • The Best Running Shoes for Overpronation

    Pronation is the inward rolling motion your foot and ankle make when running. It's a natural part of your stride to accommodate movement. Overpronation happens when this rolling motion occurs more than normal. This means that when runn… read more

  • The Best Running Shoes for Underpronation

    Underpronation is a condition in which the foot does not roll inward enough during a runner's stride; it usually results from a tight achilles tendon or high arches. Telltale signs of underpronation, also known as supination, are shoes… read more

  • The Best Athletic Shoes for Women With High Arch

    Women with high arches in their feet need a protective, flexible, cushioned shoe to promote inward motion. In a high-arch foot, the plantar fascia---the tissue connecting the forefoot and heel--tends to be thin or worn out. This causes… read more

  • Homemade Rock Climbing Wall

    Rock climbing is an endurance sport that tests your strength and agility. Rock climbers climb either up or across rock structures or artificial climbing walls. With the appropriate materials, build your own artificial rock-climbing wal… read more

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  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

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  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

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  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

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