The Old Farmer’s Almanac is predicting a snowier than average winter in early 2007–so clean off your snowshoes, or go and buy a new pair. Associate editor Jason Stevenson explains how snowshoes work, and why they’re so fun in a preview for the December 2006 issue of Backpacker Magazine.

Is your hydration bladder collecing mold? Here are 3 new solutions for common backcountry drinking problems–as explained by Backpacker editor-in-chief Jon Dorn. Learn more from Backpacker’s Gear School in the March 2007 Gear Guide, and at www.backpacker.com/video.

BACKPACKER magazine editor-in-chief Jonathan Dorn joins photo editor Jackie Ney for an on-the-road display of the incredible speed of the processor in this portable auto GPS. Learn why it’s our pick for navigating remote forest roads and finding trailheads all over the United States. For more details, see the review in the December 2006 issue. Specs: 7, 9 oz.

Backpacker magazine’s editor-in-chief Jonathan Dorn demonstrates the inflatable “air beams” that form the structure of this innovative new tent. For more details, see the review in the December 2006 issue. Specs: 5, 6 lbs. 4 oz.

Backpacker magazine shows you how to build a plastic footprint for your tent–a skill taken from the Jan/Feb 2007 issue. Associate editor Jason Stevenson explains the nine steps to create a footprint, including how to cut webbing and punch grommets. Learn more Skills at www.backpacker.com.

Finding out your torso length is half the battle. Backpacker’s Gear editor Kristin Hostetter explains all the strategies to you need to find a good-fitting backpack–from how to simulate a fully-loaded pack, to what to look for in hip belts and shoulder straps. Learn how to find your perfect pack at Gear School – straight from the pages of the March 2007 Gear Guide.