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My Hiking Gear & Fitness Equipment
NordicTrack Commercial Series
When I started hiking as an exercise, I purchased this one because of the incline capability. When I purchased they gave me a year subscription to iFIT which I used very little and choose my own workouts. I know friends who have the membership and love it.
It will put you out $1500 or so depending on the model you choose. With good credit, I put it on a 0% interest for 36 months. Free money!
NordicTrack Commercial Series has been such a reliable convenient way to get workouts in when I'm unable to get outside!
High Sierra Pathway Internal Frame Hiking Backpack, Black/Slate/Gold, 70L
This is my main pack I use on all hikes. Being 6'4" I like the 70 liter version. However, you have 30L, 40L, 50L, 60L and 90L for those giants out there.
There are also 5 different color schemes to choose from. Click the link to see the options.
The "ergo fit" or EZ fit adjust is easy while getting ready or on the go.
The extra handle shown here with the hand grasping it would have been a nice addition, but they did not come with that on my version when I bought it.
This High Sierra pack has been such a comfortable pack, if I ever need to replace, I'll get another High Sierra!
Osprey Hydraulics Water Reservoir / Hydration Bladder (2-3 Liters)
This open top type is my new go-to bladder for hiking!
Osprey Hydraulics Water Reservoir / Hydration Bladder I started off with screw on caps for water bladders. Too many fights with lid not screwing on correctly, too much time spent. This bladder was an excellent switch. Easier to use, maintain, and clean.
Koviti Trekking Poles - Collapsible Hiking Poles 2pc Pack, Lightweight Walking Poles with 8 Season Accessories, Aluminum Alloy 7075 - Adjustable Quick Lock for Hiking, Camping
- 【Ultralight Aluminum】Crafted with 7075 aluminum is more durable and light. Over the course of a long hike, this means less fatigue.
- 【Comfortable Handles】Ergonomic EVA foam handle precisely accommodate your palm, absorb sweat and keep your hands comfortable throughout your hike.
- 【Compact Design】These trekking poles collapse down to 33.7cm (13.3 inches) and weigh around 9 ounces each. When not in use, they could be folded up small and light enough to fit well in any suitcase or backpack.
- 【Satisfy Your Thirst For Adventure】They come with a carrying bag for trekking, hiking, camping, walking, snowshoeing, mountaineering and backpacking, etc. We are quite sure that you will be super impressed with the durability, portability, versatility and high quality of our trekking poles.
- 【Trusted Choice】We put a lot of thought and care into the design and functionality of our products to make sure they are of the highest quality. We value every single customer. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. We'll give you a best solution.
I've had these poles since 2019 prepping for our hiking groups Grand Canyon trip in 2020 during the beginning of the pandemic.
My poles are great, however, upon this writing, Amazon was out of stock. You can select any collapsible poles there under these if they aren't stocked yet.
I've not heard any pole complaints from our group and they all have different brands.
Tilley Authentic T5
No, I'm not from Australia, I just like the style. You can select any style you like. However, you should know that the Tilley brand has a lifetime guarantee. "Replaced FREE if it wears out" taken from the inside of the hat below.
I've replaced mine twice due to washing trauma even though I had it in a protective net bag. Perhaps my washer is a killer.
- 100% Cotton
- Imported
- Pull On closure
- Hand Wash Only
- Guaranteed for life and Made in Canada
- Maximum sun protection fabric is certified UPF 50+, the highest given
- Keeping dry water-repellent finish keeps off the rain
- Extra storage – Keep valuables safe in the secret pocket
- Front & back wind cords system secures hat in gusty conditions
Tilley Authentic T5 Sun exposure is good for vitamin D, however, not too much. Protect yourself with the Tilley. Available in women's styles from same.
Under Armour Men's HeatGear Compression Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
These compression shirts are indispensable no matter the outside weather conditions. They are excellent body warmers in winter, and excellent sweat wicking for hot summer days. Available in many colors.
- 100% Other Fibers
- Imported
- Pull On closure
- Machine Wash
- Super-light HeatGear fabric delivers superior coverage without weighing you down
- Mesh underarm & back panels for strategic ventilation
- Material wicks sweat & dries really fast
- Ergonomic design keeps seams off high abrasion areas & increases durability
- Hybrid raglan sleeve construction for added range of motion & comfort
- Write-in locker tag on back of neck for your initials or number
- Compression: Ultra-tight, second-skin fit.
Under Armour HeatGear Compression T-Shirt are an essential gear for any outdoor adventures!
Columbia Men's Silver Ridge Convertible Pants
I have to be honest here, when I first started hiking in 2019, I went cheap. And then never wanted to wear what I bought. Columbia are a wee pricey, but they convert for cool weather starts, they have the zip up pockets for wallet safety, and they breath. Hands downs the best I've tried.
- 100% Nylon
- Imported
- Button closure
- Machine Wash
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pant features our signature UPF 50 fabric for protection against harmful UVA and UVA rays as well as breathable, wicking fabric that pulls moisture away to keep you cool and dry.
- HANDY FEATURES: This men's durable convertible pant features one zip-closure security pocket, side pockets with hook and loop closure, and mesh pocket bags for ultimate convenience and security.
- ADJUSTABLE FEATURES: This men's convertible pant features a partial elastic waist, gusset detail, and zip-off legs for the ultimate comfortability.
- CLASSIC FIT: This pant is crafted of a classic fit for ultimate comfortability while active days outside.
- OMNI-SHADE: Be safe and protected. Omni-Shade blocks UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage. The tight weave construction with UV absorbent yarns block the full spectrum of harmful UV rays.
Columbia Men's Silver Ridge Convertible Pants After switching to Columbia, I'll never go back!
Salomon Men's X Ultra 3 MID Gore-TEX Hiking Boots
These hiking boots have been a game changer for me!
- 100% Synthetic
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately mid-top from arch
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: Whether you are hitting the trails or looking for a solid work shoe, these extra durable, waterproof, mid hiking boots are designed for maximum traction on all terrains
- A Better Way Down: Designed with Descent Control Technology, the X Ultra 3 GORE-TEX mid hiking shoe efficiently tackles technical hikes and really shines during tough descents, even in wet conditions
- Adventure Awaits: Whether you love a local day hike or hitting the trails for a multi-day adventure, Salomon makes innovative hiking and backpacking shoes and boots for men and women to help you go the distance
- Time To Play: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for kids, men and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event
- Since 1947 Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear; From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing and more, our shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help make any path your own.
ONKE Merino Wool Low Cut Socks for Men Outdoor Trail Running Hiking Hiker All Season Quarter with Moisture Wicking Control
Select these for summer hiking. First rule in hiking is #1No Cotton! These wool socks work great for hiking, with plenty of padding, and wicking capability
ONKE Merino Wool Low Cut Socks These wool socks are less expensive than Smart Wool brand sold at REI, and Outdoor stores.
80% Merino Wool Hiking Socks Thermal Warm Crew Winter Boot Sock For Men & Women 3 Pairs
Select these wool socks for winter use. I was so amazed by the comfort of these babies. Love them!
80% Merino Wool Hiking Socks Thermal Warm Crew Socks are the most comfortable socks I own!
Welnove 10Pack Toe Caps Closed Toe Surface Fabric Sleeve Protectors with Gel Lining, Prevent Pain Relief for Corns, Blisters and Ingrown Toenails (Size Large + Size Medium)
For some odd reason, my toe next to my great toe always seems to have problems. Black and blue, under the toenail fills with blood and falls off in months. These fabric covered protectors are great.
BUFF Multifunctional Neckwear Coolnet Uv National Geographic Design Worn 12+ Ways
I've had many types of these neck gators. This brand is extremely useful, light for summer use, and cover enough for your neck and face in winter. There are many colors available. You can spray and smear sunblock if you wish, I'll wear my UV barrier thank you very much.
BUFF Multifunctional Neckwear Coolnet Uv National Geographic Design This neck gator is very flexible and can be worn in many ways!
PAIR - Sports Farm - Compression Elbow Arm Sleeves
These are great for sun protection in the summer, and combo warmers, protectors in winter.
- 80% Polyester / 20% Lycra
- Youth Medium 15" Long - Bicep 7"
- Youth Large 15.5" Long - Bicep 8"
- Adult Small 17" Long - Bicep 9"
- Adult Medium 17.5" Long - Bicep 10"
- Adult Large 18" Long - Bicep 11"
PAIR - Sports Farm - Compression Elbow Arm Sleeves
These arm sleeves have been game changers for me as I don't like putting chemicals on my skin repeatedly. Even in the Texas triple digit temperatures these sleeves feel fine and cool.
Athlos - Arm Warmers for Cycling, Running, and Sun Protection - For Men & Women
Wapiti Designs Go-Long Gaiters Trail Running Shoe Gaiters for Running, Hiking, or Long Distance Backpacking
I put up with little rocks getting into my shoes and books when I finally bought these. Freedom from rocks!
Hikenture Leg Gaiters with Waterproof Zipper, Anti-Tear Water-Resistant Hiking Gaiters, Breathable Shoe Gaiters for Men & Women, Adjustable Snow Boot Gaiters for Hiking, Hunting
I purchased these for a recent hiking trip to Alaska (2022). They work great with no issues that I could report. If you click into the Amazon page from buy link, 1200 people reviewed them 4.3 out of 5!
Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats for Walking on Ice and Snow (1 Pair)
These little gems kept us on our feet on slick snow and ice!
About this item
- Durable traction cleats fit over shoes and boots to provide superior traction on snow and ice on all surfaces
- Patented Diamond Beads are made from case-hardened steel alloy strung on steel aircraft cable; hundreds of biting edges grip in all directions
- Natural rubber sling remains elastic and secure even in sub-zero temperatures; easy to put on and take off; comfortable for prolonged use
- Beads swivel independently, preventing buildup of snow and ice making them ideal for transitioning between surfaces like gravel, dirt, and concrete
- Available in S, M, L, XL, and 2XL to fit most shoes and boots, including insulated footwear
CRKT M16-02KS Folding Pocket Knife: EDC Lightweight Pocket Knife with Stainless Steel Handle, 3 Inch Tanto Blade, Flipper Opening, and Frame Lock
My son recommended this blade because of it's usefulness in preparing kindling wood for a fire or any other use on wood! On first hiking trip, had the chance to try it out. Cut down larger kindling like an axe, only smaller ;-)
About this item
- Fast Opening: The flipper deploys the blade fast
- Brute Strength: Frame lock utilizes a thick lock bar to secure the blade.
- Ultimate Durability: Stainless steel handle withstands hard use
- Designed by Kit Carson in Vine Grove, Kentucky
- Limited Lifetime Warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship, see company site for details
BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel-Quick Dry Towel, Soft Lightweight Microfiber Camping Towel Absorbent Compact Travel Towel for Camping Gym Beach Bath Yoga Swimming Backpacking (M:40''x20''-Nblue)
Cutting weight when hiking is the name of the game. More space for water.
About this item
- Microfiber & Friendly to Skin: BOGI microfiber travel towel is made of high quality microfiber, which is smooth and compact, more soft, friendly to skin, no faded. BOGI quick dry towel can be also used as a sports towel, travel towel, yoga towel or as a mat for beach, bath, pool, swimming, water park, mountaineering, fitness, camping, hiking, picnic, etc. The camping towel can also be a sun shade and a cape to protect your skin against the sun. Very useful for all the year round.
BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel-Quick Dry Towel
- 4 Sizes & Multi Use: BOGI microfiber towel set has 4 sizes in 8 colors. S: 16"x32" (2Pcs) is suitable for daily use, right size for your face, neck or hands to wipe the sweat off. M: 40"x20", best for backpacking, travel, camping, swimming, yoga, gym. L: 60"x30"+16"x16", good as a bath towel, microfiber towel for body or as a cape, blanket to keep warm, cover your deck chair. XL: 72"x32"+16"x16", an excellent pack towel for beach blanket, picnic mat, wall blanket or fashion as a tablecloth.
- Lightweight, Compact & Portable: Space saving and without the bulk. Our microfiber towel for sports is small in the pouch, but big in the towel! Come with a carabiner for easy to carry. Gift pouch is also suitable for storage phones, sunglasses, swimming cap, etc. The fast dry towel is perfect to use while exercising or to simply dry up your face, neck or hand. The lightweight towel quick dry is suitable for hair drying, cleaning cloth, wiping dishes and as a beach towel or a gym towel.
- Fast Drying & Ultra Absorbent: The microfiber towel for camping is 4 to 6 times faster than usual towel, and microfiber fabric absorbs 3 to 6 times. The quick-drying fabric has an excellent performance in water absorption and diffusion, which can shorten the drying time of water. So this microfiber sport towel is great for gym, yoga, travel, camping, hiking,etc. The backpacking towel is so soft and ultra absorbent. BOGI microfiber camping towel is an ideal sports or travel companion.
- Bonus a Gift Bag & Carabiner: BOGI towel comes with a breathable gift bag, easy to carry and hanging loop to protect your towel. When you go out or travel, you can put it into the bag. Our microfiber travel towel set is so compact and space saving. The snap loop is great for hanging up. And without worrying about it flying away. Daily lifestyle, less trouble for travel. A love gift for your family, lover and friends. If you have any questions about our towels, please feel free to contact us.
QXCSF Camping Sleeping Pad, Extra Thick Waterproof 2 Persons Sleeping Mat with Built-in Foot Pump, Ultralight Compact Inflatable Camping Air Mattress Dual Color with Carrying Bag (Blue)
This thin mattress is very unassuming and comfortable at the same time. Cutting down on weight is a plus when hiking.
About this item
- 【GREAT MATERIAL & EXTRA THICK】This camping mat has extra width and length compared to others. The sleeping mattress has enhanced strength and constructed with high-level material, which provide superior support and comfort to you and avoid any leaking problems. This mat enables you to sleep comfortable for whole night even on rugged ground or unleveled surface. With dual color design, it can properly fit your favor, and also help you to avoid using wrong side next time.
QXCSF Camping Sleeping Pad, Extra Thick Waterproof 2 Persons Sleeping Mat
- 【LIFE SAVER & FAST INFLATATION】Our inflatable sleeping air mattress has upgraded the inflating air pump and valves. With our built-in foot pump, you do not need to use mouth or extra pump to inflate your mattress, all you need to do is to tread on foot pump for about 1-2 minutes. Safe, clean and easy to inflate your mattress. Pump valve and leak valve are anti-leak and separately designed on different sides, so you do not need to worry about wrong operates.
- 【ULTRALIGHT EASY TO CARRY】This lightweight comfort sleeping mat only weights 4 lbs and can be folded into a carrying bag(included). It is also waterproof and durable, flexible enough for you to take to anywhere, especially for trip, hiking, camping or car traveling. The inflatable sleeping pad suits almost all the places including tent, ground, home, office, etc.
- 【LARGE SIZE FOR 2 PERSON USE】This large champing sleeping mattress is 77*49*3.54 inch size and 440 lbs weight capacity, which suits 2 persons use. The height after inflated is 3.54 inch, which allows you to have better sleeping experience and keep distance from ground. This mattress is waterproof, tear-proof and puncture-proof, suits for most scenes even for rock terrain. However, please keep it away from solid and sharp items during use.
- 【ERGONOMICS COMFORTABLE DESIGN】The maximum loading capacity for laying is about 440 lbs. Bubbles on its surface can distribute pressure and fit human body more appropriate. They can also help you to stay warm and keep your body further away from ground, so as to avoid heat loss during sleep. The attached pillow is properly height for your neck and head, which can provide enough support when you sleep.
About the author
Hi,
I'm Scott Carson
As with any sport or exercise, equipment can make or break the experience. Many of these listed are game changers, others are adequate.
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Don’t let small obstacles be in the way of being victorious, Remember you are stronger than the challenges you face.
Cristiano Ronaldo
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“Defeat is a state of mind; no one is very defeated until defeat has been accepted as a reality. To me, defeat in anything is merely temporary, and its punishment is but an urge for me to exert greater effort to achieve my goal. Defeat simply tells me that something is wrong in my doing; it is a path leading to success and truth.”