If going on a run is intimidating (it should NOT be, but I know how it can be) then I'll make a suggestion, take a course on driving off pavement. My wife was new to driving off pavement and we didn't jive in the instructor/student roles so I got her a class with https://www.4x4training.com/ They are SoCA local and I was impressed. I took the class too, figuring that I had blind spots even after ~30 years of experience. I was right, I learned some things and had other concepts clarified or made more concrete. The other students accused my wife of having a ringer in the truck, but other than offer advice when asked I stayed quiet and in the passenger seat. I did squeal a little on the Side-Hill test, but no one heard me so it didn't really happen....
The best part is that I was the very rare exception in the class. Everyone else in the class was new to driving off pavement. It was great to see the lights go on when something clicked, I totally get why Tom offers these classes. He is patient, professional, and friendly all at the same time.
Anyway, some food for thought from an Old Guy.
EDIT: It need not be this particular instructor, but a class from someone with a good rep can shorten the learning curve and instill confidence.
FWIW I'm not affiliated with Badlands, we paid for our classes like everyone else.
The best part is that I was the very rare exception in the class. Everyone else in the class was new to driving off pavement. It was great to see the lights go on when something clicked, I totally get why Tom offers these classes. He is patient, professional, and friendly all at the same time.
Anyway, some food for thought from an Old Guy.
EDIT: It need not be this particular instructor, but a class from someone with a good rep can shorten the learning curve and instill confidence.
FWIW I'm not affiliated with Badlands, we paid for our classes like everyone else.
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