Triad Hiking

Do I really need all the latest gear before I hit the trail? Isn’t hiking supposed to be a simpleton sport? If I don myself in all that gear, won’t I look like a geek? While there are some goodies you’ll need before you hit the trail, much of that techy stuff that you can spend hundreds of dollars on can be helpful but it is by no means necessary. When it’s all said and done, you’ll have to make your own decisions on what you’ll need and what you won’t. Here, we’ll do our best to keep you looking like a genius rather than a geek on the trail.

Assuming you’ll be doing just a day hike with no overnight camping, you can be quite the minimalist. If the weather will be nice with no chance of changing, then be sure to have a daypack with first aid, water, food, energy snacks and cell phone (if there will be reception). Moreover, be sure you’re outfitted in worn-in hiking shoes or boots and pants. You should layer a breathable shirt and an outer long sleeve shirt that can double as a light rain guard. Gortex is the best, but the most expensive breathable gear you can buy out there. Today, cheaper Gortex-like gear exists and does just as well. It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen and a sun hat or visor for the day as well. As you climb higher in altitude, the sun will become stronger and more intense, though you won’t know it if the temps seems to fall. (Nature is a bit tricky like that.)

Backpack: It’s a good idea to carry a backpack unless you want to carry a twiddled stick and handkerchief tied to the end. You won’t necessarily need a pack that has a hip belt, but you will want a pack that is comfortable and light. Often, backpacks today have a breathable meshing set away from the backpack fabric that allows for more comfort while walking. You won’t be a geek because you carry a backpack.

Gaiters: Gaiters are a good idea if there’s a chance you’ll have to be picking rocks and other trail debris from your boots or shoes. There are different types of these for the various types of weather you could hike through as well. If you wear gaiters for no apparent reason, it may be considered a bit geeky, to be sure. If the path is free of debris, paved or of the interpretive variety, then gaiters will not be necessary.

GPS: These little gadgets have gotten more colorful, more functional and can do everything save dig a hole for going number two. However, this doesn’t mean you need one. If you’ve got a trail map, and the trail is well marked with tags, trail blazes or numbers, then buying or brining a GPS may seem a bit haughty, or even geek-like. Technology has its place in the woods, but to think that your life depends on this gadget is not true. You’ll get on fine with a little intuition and paying attention.

Two-Way Radios: If you do not like to hike with your group, then you may want to doll out two-way radios, just to make sure everyone stays in contact. However, two-way radios are not worth your weight if you’re going to be in sight with fellow hikers. These radios only have a range of perhaps a couple miles. They are in no way, then, a lifesaver. Be sure to pack other precautions in case of an emergency. You really won’t need the two-way radios unless clipping one to your belt makes you feel less the geek.

Hiking Poles: Though those who hike with hiking poles look sort of geeky (or even yuppie-ish) from a distance, rest assured that these do make the day go a lot easier. They, too, have their place however. If a simple scoot around the flat lake makes up the day’s itinerary, you can leave the hiking poles in the car. If you plan on tackling some ups and downs, then the hiking poles will save some suffering when used correctly.

She-Nis Penis: Yes, women can now stand up to pee with the She-Nis. This funnel can be used to help you stand up to pee, behind the tree, just like the fellas. However, you may have to repack it in your backpack or clean it up after use. Though geeky and strange, the gadget it a really neat invention when the ladies don’t want to get caught with their pants down. The stares you may get, however, when standing up to wiz may not be worth it. Unless you’ve had some unfortunate run-in with poison ivy, it may be best to squat rather than squirm the She-Nis into place mid-hike.

August 12th, 2009 | Tags: hiking gear | Category: gear | Subscribe to comments | Leave a comment | Trackback URL