READERS COMMENTS

I will also say that no matter what fabric you choose, a shirt that fully buttons is going to be cooler in summer than a pullover shirt, even a T-shirt. Also, a longsleeve, lightweight, light color button shirt is better than a shortsleeve shirt, as the long sleeves protect you from the sun and actually keep you cooler, and you can roll em up if you want.
Posted: Jan 12, 2012 Mark

I agree that "never wear cotton" is too rigid a commandment. Never wear cotton socks, that's for sure, because they are a perfect recipe for blisters, but in the heat of the summer down South here a cotton shirt is just fine. Even the lightest wool and synthetic shirts aren't going to be as comfortable, and there is no risk of hypothermia in the flatland south in the summer.
Posted: Jan 12, 2012 Mark

Anyone have any fvaorites for boots. I live in Kentucky and hike the knobs. Short hikes 4 to 13 miles. Keep in mind snakes.
Posted: Oct 31, 2011 sam

Posted: Jul 25, 2011 Anonymous

I like to use a lightweight fishing vest as my daypack. It has lots of pockets and room for my camel. As it warms up latter in the year I switch to my day pack as the vest gets to warm. The vest is great for winter hikes as it fits nicely under my heavier coat.
Posted: Mar 19, 2011 Steve

I carry an Altoids container in my shirt pocket with water proof matches, 4 very small doggie waste bags (to collect & carry water, Iodine tablets, 2 bandaids, 4 small saftey pins, and a whole container of dental floss (removed from the dispenser). This is in addition to the clothes, trail fooe and junk in my camelback. Just think... Fire, and water
Posted: Mar 06, 2011 Jim Cheney

Ditto to Jerry's comment:

"...add category "IN YOUR POCKET: Spare light source, spare fire-starter, pocketknife, bandanna."

I learned in the military that you cannot assume your pack will stay with you during an emergency. There is a subset of survival aids that must remain on your body--at least when you're on the move.

Rick


Posted: Aug 31, 2010 ~jerry
Posted: Nov 14, 2010 rrcaniglia

I carry a $10.00 tarp tent. This item is small, light, and great if you need a quick shelter or ground cloth to sit on.
Posted: Oct 01, 2010 larrsland

Everyone is diff. No two ppl carry the same exact things BUT since batteries fail, I always carry old school compass and glow sticks. Rain poncho and at least 10' of cord. I always have trekking pants and tshirt in my daypack no matter how long/short of a trip Im going to be on. Being able to change into dry clothes can brighten any situation.
Posted: Sep 03, 2010 Grunt

Cotton in the summer, synthetics in the cooler climate and fall. To the one guy: it's the two hour hike alone people you see on I shouldn't be alive.
Posted: Sep 02, 2010 Rootie

Cotton wet is the most miserable feeling in the backcountry...stretches, will not return to form, hangs like three sizes too big...just what you need to kill the mountain buzz. Get a clue...wicking wear, period! Cotton is for the three "B's"...briefs, blue jeans & bandanas...keep on trucking...'nuff said.
Posted: Sep 01, 2010 the buckaroo

All of these comments exemplify that our list of needs is subject to the conditions, our objectives, and our personal preferences. In my opinion, if there is nothing else you remember when packing for any excursion, short or long, cold or hot, remember the Ten Essentials and adapt accordingly. Navigation, Sun Protection, Insulation, Illumination, First-aid, Fire, Repair, Nutrition, Hydration, and Shelter.
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 John I. Gutierrez

All of these comments exemplify that our list of needs is subject to the conditions, our objectives, and our personal preferences. In my opinion, if there is nothing else you remember when packing for any excursion, short or long, cold or hot, remember the Ten Essentials and adapt accordingly. Navigation, Sun Protection, Insulation, Illumination, First-aid, Fire, Repair, Nutrition, Hydration, and Shelter.
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 John I. Gutierrez

All of these comments exemplify that our list of needs is subject to the conditions, our objectives, and our personal preferences. In my opinion, if there is nothing else you remember when packing for any excursion, short or long, cold or hot, remember the Ten Essentials and adapt accordingly. Navigation, Sun Protection, Insulation, Illumination, First-aid, Fire, Repair, Nutrition, Hydration, and Shelter.
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 John I. Gutierrez

my 2 cents worth (only 40 years of trail experience)
add category "IN YOUR POCKET:
Spare light source, spare fire-starter, pocketknife, bandanna."
add to category IN YOUR PACK:
Multi-tool w/ knife, 25' of cord, space blanket or tarp, signal mirror AND whistle.


Posted: Aug 31, 2010 ~jerry

I always carry a pocket knife and will toss in a short length of cord (8' or so). Also, many times I opt for a trusted wool Pendleton shirt. They are light weight, take less space than some fleece jackets, comfortable in a wide range of temps, and give me that warm fuzzy feeling.
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 Steve Cash

These comments are funny; one person has a perfectly rational reason for wearing cotton in the summer and another uses bold print to say 'never wear cotton' as if it's a commandment from (whichever god you choose).
It's a gear recommendation checklist no one is going to be checking and obviously use common sense and use what works for you.
Personally, I like to get a flask of sipping whiskey into my pack, even better if it's locally made, but that's not mandatory either. ;)

Posted: Aug 31, 2010 Don

Bandana, waterproof matches or disposable lighter, whistle. Signal mirror? Stick in an old CD if you must.
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 Wayne

Not compass or GPS - compass AND GPS
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 big-T

Why no mention of wool shirt or underwear on your body? Wool is much more comfortable, cooler, and doesn't stink as bad as synthetic IMO.
Posted: Aug 31, 2010 Schwill

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