The Complete Walker IV
by Colin Fletcher, Chip Rawlins

List Price: $24.95
Our Price: $11.99
You Save: $12.96 (52%)
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Buy Used: from $2.50 (click here)
Category: Book
See more book details and other editions

Book Summary Information

Book Reviews of The Complete Walker IV

Book Review: everthing old is new again
Summary: 5 Stars

Some years back I picked up a copy for fun and on sale. Now at 47 and still an avid camper and climber, I just ditched Walker III for Walker IV. Why? While similar in many aspects, it is indeed worth the $20 in additional information. After sifting through many titles on the camping and climbing [topics] this is one of the BEST single volume versions covering many topics, giving practical as well as theoretical advice. What distinguishes it from other excellent books is its plain language and examples. You need not be a techy to digest this book. It is a good read on its own if you have even a modest interst in the topics of hiking and camping.

I might add that while there is more thorough coverage of topics such as Mountaineering and first aid, for the neophyte, the impatient, frugal, or generalist, this is the place to start. Jack of all and master of some trades.

I personnaly feel that gear is a large part of the practice, by interest and by necessity. Thus the reviews are worthwhile, and while disclaimed to be what the authors found to fit thier needs, it is safe to assume they have the breadth of experience most of us lack. It is somewhat clear to me that the reviews are impartial and not the focus in least of the book.

The sections on tents, clothing, food, lights, survival, and many old and new anecdotes give life and readability to this tome.

Checklists are great and thorough. If you know a lot or nothing there are tips and suggestions that will help. As an example I was interested in improviing my food on trips, as I stick to a regimine established in the early 70's. While I am an avid and competant cook at home, I prefer simple, clean, and quick on the trail. After perusing gourment trail guides and the like, and finding some to be more intricate and involved than I feel practicable, Walker IV has great ideas which are easily implemented without multiple pots, dehydrating, etc., and using supplies from the grocery store as well as mountain shops. When looking to lighten my load, the information is there as well, and less evangelistic that the pamphlet that I examined on extreme light camping.

This book is a great way to have a reference akin to an experienced friend /outdoorsman to talk with on a subject whenever you like. After thirty years of gear and hiking myself, I find the advice to be solid and verifed in my own experience. It gives a perspective to, as well as outside of, high tech, high fashion, and other recent marketing trends which are changing the gear available.

Summary of The Complete Walker IV

Running & Jogging Books

• Books > Subjects > Sports & Outdoors > Individual Sports
• Hiking & Camping > Excursion Guides