Gear advice for a newbie, by a newbie

So you decide you want to take up hiking.  That means it’s time to buy the proper gear.  With countless outdoor companies all vying for your dollar, buying the right gear to suit your needs can be an enormous undertaking.

So, how much to spend on gear?

Personally, I believe in buying the best gear you can afford.  It’s easy to hit Walmart, drop $200 on some boots, pack, flashlight, rain jacket and hit the trail.  But, can you rely on that gear?  Hiking out in the wilderness has its hazards and you want gear you can feel safe with and can depend on.  Ripping a strap 10 miles into a hike is no fun.  On the other hand, it isn’t necessary to buy all full price, top shelf either.  Most hikers don’t need a custom made McHale backpack.  Search out gear sales at your local gear store, or watch online for sales and close out specials.  Also buying off-season can help.  September is a good time to look at snowshoes and see if any models are on sale.

When deciding on how much money to spend on gear, remember the old saying, you get what you pay for.

What kind of gear is the best?

There are many outdoor gear companies that make very fine products.  What brand of gear is the best is mostly personal taste, and brand loyalty can lead to some spirited debates on hiking forums.  Research the gear you are looking at.  There are several Web sites that review hiking and backpacking gear.  Ask questions about gear on hiking forums.
Whatever gear you choose, keep in mind that MSR, REI, Big Agnes, Black Diamond, Leki, Osprey, Gregory, Western Mountaineering, Feathered Friends, Marmot, Smartwool and Mountain Hardware all make great products.  But, there’s one stove, sleeping bag, jacket, tent, pack, trekking pole, or pair of boots that’s right for you.

Final thoughts on gear

Despite your best efforts on researching, asking questions, and searching for sales, you will make mistakes on your gear purchase.  For instance, I bought a Katadyn Hiker water filter, every gear review I’ve read raved about the Hiker.  Out on a backpack trip however, I discovered I just didn’t like it.  I later bought the MSR Miniworks water filter.  I’ve also taken a “bombproof” Gregory pack on a backpack to the Pacific coast during a storm and had a strap come off in my hand.  That pack went back to the store with an Osprey taking its place.

When it’s time to upgrade gear, used gear can be put up for sale on hiking forums, kept for a spare, or lent out to someone who may be short on gear.

When you are fully outfitted with your shiny new gear, it’s time to hit the trail and you can do so with confidence.

Happy trails, divas!