Katie Kommer

Hi! My name is Katie (Gallon Smash) Kommer. I recently completed the John Muir Trail, and am already hungering to find my way back to my truest, stinkiest self.On the trail, I'm known as gallon smash for my exceptional ability to fall headfirst into a bush or a river, and in the "real world" I'm known as the recent grad who's trying her best, okay?

Posts

Gear Wars: Merino Wool vs. Synthetic Base Layers

Gear Wars: Merino Wool vs. Synthetic Base Layers

I'm not going to pretend that I can get through a "merino wool vs. synthetic base layer" article without saying "it's all about that base" at least

Feb 18, 2021 : Katie Kommer
Jetboil Stash Ultralight Backpacking Stove Review

Jetboil Stash Ultralight Backpacking Stove Review

On the JMT, I had the pleasure of meeting a hiker who was eating cold-soaked ramen with M&Ms mixed in. Though I admired his dedication to the

Jan 27, 2021 : Katie Kommer
Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Review

Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Review

I ditched my hiking boots for trail runners a long time ago. Though some hiking boot die-hards still tout the benefits of ankle support and

Dec 3, 2020 : Katie Kommer
10 Accessories Under $100 to Winterize your Backpacking Setup

10 Accessories Under $100 to Winterize your Backpacking Setup

Making the jump from three-season to year-round backpacking may not be as daunting as it seems. With the addition of a few simple winter hiking

Nov 23, 2020 : Katie Kommer
Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim: Backpacking Guide to the Best of the Grand Canyon

Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim: Backpacking Guide to the Best of the Grand Canyon

In 2018, the Grand Canyon slapped me upside the head. I was attempting a Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim hike in two days, in freezing weather, without a sleeping

Nov 6, 2020 : Katie Kommer
Gossamer Gear The Two Ultralight Tent Review

Gossamer Gear The Two Ultralight Tent Review

I will probably be forever lamenting the fact that I carried a five-pound tent on the JMT. Though I didn't have much money to spend before the trip,

Nov 2, 2020 : Katie Kommer
Outdoor Research Trail Mix Cowl Pullover Review

Outdoor Research Trail Mix Cowl Pullover Review

I'm about to experience my first "real" winter. As a California transplant now happily living in Salt Lake City, I'm counting on fleece to get me

Oct 30, 2020 : Katie Kommer
Greenbelly Meals Ultimate Nutrition Bars Review

Greenbelly Meals Ultimate Nutrition Bars Review

My old backcountry morning routine: roll out of my tent, choke down a chalky protein bar, throw my pack together and shuffle onto the trail. Or,

Oct 21, 2020 : Katie Kommer
The Uncomfortable Truth About Thru-Hiking and Weight Loss

The Uncomfortable Truth About Thru-Hiking and Weight Loss

"You're so skinny. Did you even bring food with you?""I can feel your bones when I hug you—let's get you some pasta!""Man, I should consider

Oct 19, 2020 : Katie Kommer
Smokies Hikes for Healing: Conversations on Racial Justice

Smokies Hikes for Healing: Conversations on Racial Justice

Hiking has a powerful way of shattering our guards and inviting our most authentic selves into the world. The trail breaks down barriers in a way

Sep 28, 2020 : Katie Kommer