Now that you’ve done a lot of thinking on going outdoor and hiking, it is time that you give some thoughts on the things that will help you ensure that you will have a great time backpacking. It is time to shop for hiking gear!
The gear of all gears – the number one, most important item on your list is backpack. When shopping for one, consider the size. It is imperative that the size of your backpack can carry everything you need for the trip. Your backpack is your closet, your toolbox, your car trunk, your cupboard, and your pantry all at the same time. Look for a backpack with thick shoulder straps for better comfort and less strain on your shoulder. Also, consider a backpack with extra padding for support. Belt straps that go around the waist and chest can help you with weight and stability. Popular brand of backpacks include: Arc’Teryx, Gregory, CamelBak, The North Face, Osprey, Deuter, Granite Gear, Mountainsmith, Marmot, and Mountain Hardwear. Price ranges from $50 up to $500. If you are planning for a serious hiking, dont focus the price and get the most durable one.
Another hiking gear you should invest your money on is a pair for quality and durable hiking shoes. You can get mountaineering boots, backpacking boots, hiking boots, trail shoes, approach shoes, trail running shoes, climbing shoes, water shoes, or casual shoes. Select from different brands including Lowa, Merrell, Montrail, Inov8, La Sportiva, Asolo, Scarpa, Vasque, Keen and Chaco. The price of a good pair of hiking shoes range from $50 to as much as $400. Tip: Break your new shoes in before you use them at the hike.
Do not forget the proper clothing and outwear. Outerwear provides maximum protection against rain, sun, and cold. They should provide maximum comfort too. Try to invest on good hiking jackets, pants, and shirts. Recommended brands include: Arc’Teryx, Mountain Hardwear, MontBell, Marmot, The North Face, Icebreaker, GoLite, Patagonia, JanSport, and Ex Officio. Start with one set of clothing and outerwear and shop more if you want to do some serious hiking.
Sleeping bags and pads are important if you are planning to stay outdoor all night. Choose one that can fit you and can protect you from cold temperature and will keep you dry during rainy nights. Pacific Outdoor Equipment, Therm-A-Rest, Marmot, MontBell, The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Kelty, Big Agnes, Sierra Designs, and EMS are some brands that manufacture sleeping bags and pads.
Navigational tools like GPS will keep you on track while you are out on the woods. Try Garmin, Silva, Suunto, Highgear, Brunton, Magellan, Polar, Nike, Timex, and Lowrance for your selection of navigational tool. Do not forget to learn how to read compass and map if GPS is unavailable
One very important thing to take note of is the image you are projecting to other hikers while wearing or carrying these gears. It is advisable not to use your new gears all at once for the reason that you will look like an amateur trying to impress others that you have expensive gears. New gears are also hot to the eyes of crooks. The point is: try to stay on low profile. Act like you have been hiking before. This way, you have a great chance of going home will all your gears with you.