Author: Cole Mercer

Cole Mercer is a gear specialist, moto journalist, and environmental advocate based in Bozeman, Montana. With a background in mechanical engineering from Montana State University and a decade of field-testing riding gear across the Rockies, Pacific Northwest, and Alaska, Cole brings rigorous, hands-on analysis to every helmet, boot, and GPS unit he reviews. He has logged over 80,000 miles on everything from a vintage Honda XR to a fully loaded Ténéré 700 and is passionate about responsible riding practices and the ecosystems riders pass through. Cole has contributed gear reviews to Rider Magazine and Cycle World and serves as a volunteer trail steward with the Backcountry Horsemen of Montana. His gear and culture content on RedSky Adventures is grounded in real-world durability testing and a deep respect for the landscapes that make moto travel worth doing.

Clothing

The Complete Guide To Wool Socks For Men
ByCole Mercer July 7, 2026August 30, 2026

From fieldwork to long motorcycle trips, learn how to choose, care for, and get the most from wool socks for men. Expert tested across 500+ miles.

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Clothing

The 6 Best Running Base Layers of 2026
ByCole Mercer July 6, 2026August 31, 2026

Running base layers compared on fabric weight, moisture transport and fit, and how a base layer differs from a compression top.

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Travel Gear

The Complete Guide to Spring Shoes Ladies Need in 2026
ByCole Mercer July 6, 2026August 30, 2026

From mud to pavement, find the footwear that handles spring transitions. Cole Mercer breaks down tread patterns, waterproofing, and safety.

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Clothing

The Complete Guide to Choosing a White Long Sleeve Thermal
ByCole Mercer July 5, 2026August 30, 2026

From backroad breakdowns to cold-weather riding, a white long sleeve thermal is more than just a layer. Learn how to pick the right one and care.

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Travel Gear

The Best Women’s Shoes Water Resistant of 2026
ByCole Mercer July 5, 2026August 31, 2026

Water-resistant shoes for women compared on upper treatment, outsole grip and drying time, and where water-resistant stops and waterproof starts.

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Clothing

The Best Airport Outfit for Women: Top Picks
ByCole Mercer July 3, 2026August 31, 2026

Airport outfits judged on what a terminal day demands: wrinkle resistance, layering for cabin temperature, and security-line practicality.

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Travel Gear

Ua Boots: Your Complete Guide for 2026
ByCole Mercer July 3, 2026August 30, 2026

Learn what ua boots are, how to choose them for adventure riding, and why they matter for your comfort and safety on long trips. Expert advice.

Read More Ua Boots: Your Complete Guide for 2026
Clothing

The Best Lightweight Capris for Travel in 2026
ByCole Mercer July 2, 2026August 30, 2026

Discover why lightweight capris for travel are essential for motorcyclists who value comfort and mobility. Cole Mercer shares expert tips on.

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Travel Gear

The Best Footwear for the Pool: Top Picks for 2026
ByCole Mercer July 2, 2026August 31, 2026

Pool footwear compared on the three things that decide whether a shoe works on wet tile: grip, drainage and durability.

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Travel Gear

Are Hiking Boots Good in Water? A Complete Guide
ByCole Mercer July 1, 2026August 30, 2026

Wondering if hiking boots handle water well? I test gear across 500+ miles of rain, gravel, and desert. Here’s what actually holds up and what.

Read More Are Hiking Boots Good in Water? A Complete Guide
Clothing

The Complete Guide To A Weatherproof Rain Trench Coat
ByCole Mercer June 30, 2026August 30, 2026

Understand what makes a weatherproof rain trench coat truly effective. We break down the safety ratings, materials, and real-world testing that.

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Clothing

The Best Merino Hoodies of 2026, Reviewed
ByCole Mercer June 30, 2026August 31, 2026

Merino hoodies compared on fabric weight, blend and construction, and where a wool midlayer beats a synthetic one on a cold, damp day.

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Travel Gear

Who Makes Hoka Shoes? A Complete Brand Guide
ByCole Mercer June 29, 2026August 30, 2026

Find out who makes Hoka shoes, the parent company behind the brand, and how their unique design philosophy holds up after hundreds of miles of.

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Clothing

The Complete Guide To Warm Shirts For Men
ByCole Mercer June 28, 2026August 30, 2026

From layering for cold-weather rides to choosing fabrics that breathe, this guide covers everything you need to know about warm shirts for men on.

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Travel Gear

The Best Extreme Cold Weather Boots of 2026
ByCole Mercer June 28, 2026August 31, 2026

Extreme cold boots compared on insulation rating, waterproofing and fit, and why sizing for thick socks matters more than the rating.

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