Joeyajames - Appalachian Trail Journal - 2022

Gear Trial #1

I did a 35 miles 2-days hike to try out some of my new gear. The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 backpack was excellent - light and comfortable, it rides well and water is easily accessed. The hip pouches are handy for small items. My new cooking set (MSR Pocket Rocket and 750ml Toaks titanium pot) worked great except that you do have to shield it from the wind. I was barely warm enough in my 30 degree REI Marmot sleeping bag. I think I'll make do with that. The Sawyer Squeeze water filter is extremely easy to use. I love it. I got a couple foot blisters on day 2. I wore my Merrell Moab Ventilator shoes, and I think my feet swelled up a bit on the hike back so my toes were too tight. I decided to upgrade to a more padded shoe and get a half size bigger, so I just bought a pair of Hoka Speedgoats that I haven't tried out yet. They appear to be lighter, more padded, very stable, great Vibram treads, and since I got a slightly bigger size my toes should have more room. I will try them out soon. So other than shoes, no gear issues on this trial. My base weight was about 12 pounds, plus 8 pounds of food and water for a 20 pounds pack.
I plan to do another similar long 2-day trial hike in a week or two with the new Hokas and see how my feet feel.

Entry 3 of 5
First  :: Previous  :: Next  :: Last