Bearfoot Theory

Hello! I’m Kristen, and I appreciate you visiting! If you enjoy exploring new places and being in nature, you’re in the right spot. My goal is to encourage you to embrace the outdoors and assist you in planning your next journey. I founded Bearfoot Theory to challenge the misconceptions that keep many from enjoying nature. As someone who started exploring later in life, I understand how intimidating it can be to see adventure websites and magazines showcasing extreme activities like cliff skiing or navigating tough rapids. You might think, “That’s not for me!” But I want you to know that you don’t have to be a thrill-seeker or an extreme adventurer to have a fantastic time outdoors. You also don’t need top-of-the-line gear, extensive planning, or to push yourself beyond your comfort zone. With Bearfoot Theory, my mission is to provide inspiration and guidance for everyday individuals seeking genuine outdoor experiences. I’ll demonstrate that living an outdoor lifestyle can be simple, affordable, accessible, and enjoyable. I’ll share my favorite hidden gems in the West (and sometimes beyond), give you tips on what gear is truly necessary, and help you build confidence in your outdoor skills.

International

English

Blog

Outlet metrics

Domain Authority

Ranking

Global

#364900

United States

#105376

Travel and Tourism

#2542

Traffic sources

Monthly visitors

Articles

Rossmonster Baja Trail LX Adventure Truck Review

1 month ago | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I started van life in 2016 and have since lived in three different Sprinter Vans, logging thousands of days on the road. But after attempting full-time travel with my newborn and two dogs, it quickly became clear that we needed more space to make this lifestyle feel sustainable. When searching for the perfect adventure vehicle, I wanted something that would give our family of three more functional living space without sacrificing off-road capability or driveability.
170" Sprinter Camper Van Tour - Awesome Floorplan for 2 People

2 months ago | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I started van life in 2016 and since then, I’ve owned three different Sprinter Vans. My second Sprinter Van was converted by Portland-based Outside Van, a well-known industry expert, and out of all my vans, this one – designed for 2 adults -had my favorite floorplan. Built on a 170″ chassis, this 4×4 Sprinter easily handled everything I threw at it – whether that be rough 14,000-foot mountain passes in Colorado, icy roads while chasing powder, or driving across the country for the fall colors.
How to Get a Havasu Falls Permit: My Step-by-Step Guide

Nov 19, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I’ve been to Havasu Falls (formally known as Havasupai Falls) twice now, so I know how difficult it can be to get a Havasu Falls permit. While it may not be as tough as Taylor Swift tickets, Havasu Falls permits sell out immediately for the entire year, so you need to do your research on how to get a permit ahead of time. That way when they go on sale, you’re ready to go and will have the best chance of success.
Havasu Falls Hike: Your Complete Trail Guide (with map!)

Nov 19, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

I’ve been lucky enough to hike to Havasu Falls twice, and each trip was an unforgettable adventure. The waterfalls are absolutely magical and worth every ounce of effort it takes to get there. This iconic Havasu Falls hike, located on Havasupai tribal land, is a bucket list destination for many outdoor lovers. The trail is 10 miles each way, departing from Hualapai Hilltop in Arizona where you descend into a steep canyon and travel through a dry sandy wash all the way to paradise.
2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals!

Nov 14, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

Every November, the REI has a huge winter sale that I think is one of their best sales of the year. This year’s sale is taking place November 15-25, and it’s a great time to stock up on winter gear, holiday gifts, or outdoor products that you want for next summer. In this post, I’ve scoured the REI website and handpicked the best REI Winter Sale deals with discounts up to 40% off. Everything I recommend here I’ve personally tried.
How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony

Nov 5, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

When my partner Ryan and I first moved into a van together, we quickly learned that living in a tiny space together — just the two of us and our stuff (plus a dog)— brought new challenges to our relationship. Privacy became a rare luxury, and at times the van, though cozy, felt very cramped. Navigating van life with a significant other is both beautiful and challenging. There are amazing moments—like watching sunsets from bed and laughing over quirky van life mishaps—but it also takes effort.
20 Ultralight Gifts for Hikers and Backpackers

Oct 31, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

Are you looking for an awesome gift for your favorite hiker or backpacker? I’ve been hiking and backpacking for the last two decades, and in this hiker and backpacker gift guide, I share my most used gear of 2024. Whether it’s a new ultralight tent, a water filter, or important safety gear, the gifts featured here are lightweight, practical, and well-made so they will last many seasons of adventuring. This post may contain affiliate links.
Arc'teryx Beta SL Rain Jacket Review: Is it worth the price?

Aug 25, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

Arc’teryx just released the brand new Arc’teryx Beta SL rain jacket – their lightest Beta rain jacket to date. This summer I’ve been testing it while hiking in heavy thundershowers, and it’s performed beautifully. It’s kept me bone dry, is comfortable to wear, and has all of the features that I look for in a solid rain jacket. Arc’teryx is also making environmental strides with the Beta SL by eliminating the use of forever chemicals (PFCs) that are almost always present in rain gear.
Kula Cloth Review: A Pee Rag for Outdoor Women

Aug 7, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

Back in 2014, I spent 22 days hiking the John Muir Trail. Prior to that, the longest backpacking trip I had been on was 5 days, so there was a lot I didn’t know. One of those things was knowing how to deal with peeing and wiping on the trail. Using toilet paper and packing it out was not a good option since I’d have to carry a ridiculous amount of TP for 22 days. So it seemed the only practical thing to do was to drip dry. Now let me be real.
13 Tips to Stay Cool in Your Camper Van (Without Air Conditioning)

Jul 31, 2024 | bearfoottheory.com | Kristen Bor

One of my least favorite parts of van life is being too hot in my van while sleeping, working, or worrying about leaving my dogs in the van while I run errands. I don’t have a roof top AC unit, which means I’ve had to find other solutions to keep cool during the scorching summer months by doing a combination of things like using window covers, cooking outside, running my fans, and planning my travels carefully.