When it comes to a serious backpacking trip or even a small multi-day trek, you will want to test your gear. \u00a0Going out with a new setup that is completed untested is poor choice for multiple reasons. \u00a0There are several ways you can test your gear in small but revealing break in runs that you can learn from. \u00a0The idea here is to make sure that the entire setup works prior to going out and discovering that something doesn’t. \u00a0Having a piece of gear fail in your backyard is a much better scenario than 15 miles from the trailhead with no cell signal.<\/p>\n
Let’s say you have a brand new pack that has never been used at all and you are excited to use it on your next trip. \u00a0To know how it will handle your load and gear is something you want to do before relying on it. \u00a0Break in periods will show you a lot about how durable it is and whether your gear is a good match for the pack design and\/or it’s materials.<\/p>\n
Taking multiple hikes with your load out will show you several things. \u00a0Strap settings, weight distribution, clothing choices, etc. all are things that will be impacted by your pack. \u00a0If it is a brand new pack it will need to be broken in and tested for durability. \u00a0You will also be able to see if you have enough capacity in the pack for your intended future trips. \u00a0Take note if the pack is not comfortable over a few hours times to determine how to change it for the long haul.<\/p>\n
Footwear is a big part of your gear. \u00a0It is the connection most of us have with the ground on the trail. \u00a0You are not constantly using other parts of the body in the same way you are with your feet. \u00a0Whether you decide to wear boots, trial shoes or trail sandals you need to make an informed decision. \u00a0This choice needs to be based on where you will go, what type of hiking you will be doing and for how long.<\/p>\n
Choosing a pair of lightweight trail sandals may seem like a great idea, but not when the temperature is going to be low. \u00a0Similarly, heavyweight steel toe boots are not a great fit for peak temperature summer months on the Western Slope of Colorado. There is a time and place for everything including footwear. \u00a0You need to weigh your needs with your footwear capabilities and pick a good medium that covers what you need them to.<\/p>\n
If you decide on a pair of boots there are a few things you need to keep in mind. \u00a0Do not go out on a long trip the first time you wear new boots. \u00a0They will need to be broke in first. \u00a0Your feet will need to form wear inside to become comfortable with the boots. \u00a0Also, you don’t want to wear certain types of socks with all boots. \u00a0A good pair of wool socks is a godsend on a long trek, multiple other pairs for each day is also key. \u00a0A good boot-sock combination will eliminate most of the risk of blistering and hot spot development. \u00a0Always be prepared for blisters and carry band aids or moleskin just in case.<\/p>\n
Choosing the correct clothing is another vital aspect of personal comfort and capability. \u00a0Taking stock of what your activity will demand and knowing what conditions you are likely to face should not be overlooked. \u00a0This will help you to make an informed decision on what you will need to wear. \u00a0When you go out and test your pack and footwear, don’t forget to wear the clothing you would on the trail as well. \u00a0This will also be a test run for it as well.<\/p>\n
Wearing weather appropriate clothing is important. \u00a0Don’t bring that heavy weight wool sweater when it is 90 degrees F outside. \u00a0You will only be weighed down and more uncomfortable if you don’t need that extra warmth. \u00a0If you plan to wear shorts, wearing a longer sock may be a good idea to protect your lower legs from branches, other plants or insects. \u00a0Check to see if your clothing is riding up, chafing or otherwise uncomfortable on the short hike to predict long distance performance.<\/p>\n
While you are testing the fit of your clothing, pack and footwear also take advantage of the opportunity to test your other gear. \u00a0Knowing how to work your stove, water filter, GPS, compass, map, tent, hammock, sleeping bag, etc. is second to making sure you have everything you need. \u00a0What good is a stove if you can’t make it work to use it? \u00a0Why carry around anything you don’t know how or cannot use? \u00a0There is no practical reason.<\/p>\n
After you have decided what you will need to bring, the next step is how to pack it all. \u00a0Knowing how much space you have at your packing disposal and how much space your gear occupies is important. \u00a0Weight distribution comes into play as well. \u00a0Keeping the heavier gear low and close to the back provides more comfort. \u00a0However, you want to be able to access your gear without a complete unpacking of everything if you can avoid it. \u00a0Put items you won’t use much in the lower parts of the bag. \u00a0Do not forget food and water when packing your gear. \u00a0This seems like a crazy (and it is) thing to do but it has been done before on trial runs.<\/p>\n
When testing and planning your load, you should view it as a system of components which come together as a whole. \u00a0Each component comes into play with other components. \u00a0A change you may make in your clothing component may also influence how your pack feels or fits. \u00a0Proper break in of your equipment will minimize discomfort and possibly injury. \u00a0Knowing how to operate your gear is a non-negotiable must. \u00a0Finally, being able to pack everything well will keep your physical pain to a minimum and thus allow you to enjoy your surroundings much more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"