My Ultimate Hiking Gear Guide

It’s been four years since I’ve first written about Capitol Peak, and I never imagined that hiking wouldn’t be a part of my life. Thanks to the fantastic team at the Mayo Clinic, it still is! I'm back to climbing mountains after making incredible progress since my gluteus medius tendon repair, and I’m loving every minute of it. I have always trained hard to take part in endurance sports and satisfy my "taste of the top,” leading to many remarkable mountain expeditions for the past several decades. 

Exploring the great outdoors has given me a tremendous appreciation for life and all the adventure this world has to offer. My inspiration for mountains first began when I was ten. I saw a documentary of Martin Luther King Jr. speaking about having been to the mountaintop, and it sparked a passion in me. When I was almost 17, I took a road trip with a friend to California down Route 66 and passed through the Donner Pass and Nevada, where the wagon train ruts are still visible. However, the Colorado mountains captivated me the most, and so began my fascination with Mother Nature’s many landscapes. 

Through my pre- and post-surgery excursions and after reflecting on my 2020 Capitol Peak climb, I've compiled a revamped list of gear that has significantly improved my hiking experience. Here are a few amazing recommendations for products that get me through the day: 

CLOTHING

• KÜHL Renegade Rock Pants: KÜHL pants are my favorite for their durability and comfort during long hikes. They’re tough enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures and flexible enough to keep you comfortable all day. Plus, they're weather-resistant, with plenty of pockets for all your other needs. Whether climbing steep trails or navigating through dense forests, KÜHL pants have never let me down.‍
• Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail Running Shoes: The first thing I tell hikers, regardless of their skill level, is to try Salomon Speedcross 5 trail running shoes. These shoes are superior in terms of grip, comfort, and durability. They have an aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent traction on various terrains. I've tried the newer Speedcross 6, but the higher heel can cause rolling, and they didn’t work well for me. Stick with the Speedcross 5 for a reliable and comfortable hiking experience.‍
• Darn Tough Socks: Get yourself two pairs of these high-quality socks! They are comfortable and durable, keeping your feet dry and blister-free. New Zealand Natural Clothing Possum Socks are also a comparable option!‍
• Mechanix Wear Gloves: These durable gloves protect your hands from wear and tear with their durability and are ventilated to keep you cool. ‍
• Arc’teryx Waterproof Shell: Durable and highly versatile mountain shell. ‍
• MacPac Puffer Jackets: This is another key item for staying safe, warm, and dry while traversing any terrain.

TOOLS 

• Black Diamond Trekking Poles: Lightweight and strong, these poles are vital for balance and support on tough terrains. I recommend brands like Black Diamond or Leki for their strength and reliability.
• CamelBak Hydrobak Hydration Pack: Never underestimate the need to stay hydrated!
• Platypus GravityWorks 4.0L Filter System: Instead of lugging around big water bottles, use a water filter. They’re easy to use, ensure safe drinking water from natural sources, and are a huge boost for sustainability. This pump-free system is gravity fed and offers a high-flow capacity for 4L of clean water in under 3 minutes!
• Samaya 2.0 Tent: This tent allows for optimal comfort in extreme conditions, and is lightweight and compact enough to easily fit into one of my recommended backpacks.
• Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad: Not only does this sleeping pad slim down to about the size of a 1L water bottle, but it is a quieter option than many on the market and helps keep you warm at high altitudes.
• Jetboil Flash Cooker: Perfect and simple for outdoor cooking – just make sure you have the right attachments!
• Osprey Exos 48 Backpack: This super light backpack is my go-to. It weighs less than 3 pounds, is extremely sturdy, and has plenty of space for all your items.
• Hyperlite Mountain Gear: I recommend this brand for a range of ultra-lightweight products, including backpacks, tents, and accessories.
• Mammut Lightweight Helmet: Lightweight and a good fit. It also has a place to attach your much-needed headlamp.

MISCELLANEOUS

Here is a diverse assortment of items that I highly recommend and realized that I needed through trial and error on my treks.

Stay prepared with a toilet trowel, cup, eye drops, sunscreen, Chapstick, sleeping pad, headlamp, synthetic wicking clothes (tee, shirt, pullover), 30-degree lightweight sleeping bag, one-person shelter/tent, high-quality night sandals, Pop-Tarts, nuts, and granola bars. 

BEYOND ‍

The right gear can make all the difference, ensuring safety, comfort, and enjoyment on the trails. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting, investing in quality equipment plays a crucial role in your successful ascent and safe return. I hope that my insights and recommendations support you well on your next adventure. Here's to reaching new summits and hurrying up every chance we get. 

Happy hiking!