This week on Gear Abby, Shawnté tackles a salty question about whether trail running has lost its “cool factor” now that it’s gone mainstream and whether gatekeeping the sport is just aging-contrarian energy.

Then things get real: a listener shares how sobriety is changing his ski season and friendships. Shawnté digs into ski culture, alcohol pressure, and how to protect your joy on the mountain without compromising your recovery.

Plus: in What’s In My Pack?, Shawnté tests a new handheld hydration system (yes, with actual freezer science) and admits when she’s wrong about insulated bottles.

Send your questions to [email protected]... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.