Gear
I always try and pack as light and efficient as possible when I go hiking or camping. This collection isn’t exactly what is in my recommendations nor is it in any way the best gear out there, its just simply what I find cost-effective, easy to find, and low-maintenance.
Pack
Marmot Aspen Mountain 30 – Perfect sized pack for my needs. I can easily attach my tent, sleeping bag, and carry all of my food and clothing.
Eureka Apex 2 – Awesomely light tent, kept me warm during the rain and wind storms.
Magnum M017 – This knife fits a special purpose: to hack away twigs and branches for firewood. Its price makes it more disposable, but its manufacturing has kept it in my list for the past 2 years. Its great for a quick sharpening and a thorough hack-job on some wood.
Attire
Kershaw Blur – I love this fucking knife. Its super-light weight, heavy duty, and the rubbery/plastic grip is the greastest thing when you need a good blade and the weather is absolute shit. The blade keeps it’s sharpness pretty well and takes quick to a good sharpening.
Timberland Conway Trail Mids – I have the grey pair, and I literally drove to RES Memorial State Forest, took the boots out of the box and set foot to trail. They felt as if I’d been wearing them for months. The comfort was better than my shipboard boots, the breathability was phenomenal and the grip was the best I’d ever worn. A big necessity for this kind of region is waterproofing due to all the marshes and close to no elevation, these kept my toes dry and comfortable.
Reactor Full-Zip Jacket by Marmot – Fleece on the outside, kept me nice and warm while I was readying things for my campsite. Being lightweight its nice to hike in during the morning and nap in at night.
Khaki Trousers – Lets face it, they’re just trousers. Nothing special, no hi-tech/lightweight composite material. They take dirt well, clean well, and so far have proven to be quite fireproof (knock on wood).
Smartwool Hiking Crew – My feet are important, I need em to walk and such. Can’t have them all torn up and stinking. These fix all problems from too wet-wont stay up during a hike.