that you may come across delicious wild berries on your hikes. These are generally safe to eat, but it’s a good idea to wash them off with filtered water if you are unsure of their cleanliness. Remember, however, you may be doing yourself more harm than good if you rinse them off in rivers or lakes, as such water can carry giardia.
Gear
As much as I appreciate a good pair of lederhosen, I can’t blame modern hikers for outfitting themselves in more practical (if less stylish) attire. Modern mountain fashion has evolved to be both functional and fashionable. Gone are the days when your average alpinist resembled a threatening, grizzled version of Jim Henson (with fewer teeth). Advances in gear technology are a big reason why more and more people keep heading to the hills.
You don’t need to have the latest and greatest in everything to enjoy the mountains, but I highly recommend not skimping on two vital items: boots and sunglasses. Boots are going to be what physically connect you with the mountain. Because you will be on your feet for many hours, you owe it yourself to get the most comfortable and functional footwear you can. Likewise, high-quality sunglasses will keep your eyes safe in the optically hostile environment of high-altitude sunlight. As a hiker on a budget, I’m reluctant to spend big bucks on trendy new gear, but keeping my eyes and feet in top shape is worth every last dollar.
Good gear makes for happy hikers.
Footwear/Boots/Gaiters
Boots are the most important pieces of gear for hikers. Proper fit, durability, and “grippy” outsoles (the tread) are essential qualities in a good boot. Different boots perform well in different settings, though with enough time on the trail, you’ll begin to develop a penchant for a particular type of boot. Here’s a rundown of mountain footwear.
Trail Runners Pros: Trail runners are running shoes that have been beefed up to handle trail duty. These shoes are lightweight and offer a bit more foot control, thanks to their lack of bulk. Many hikers (including me) like to use trail runners on mountains where there are established trails, dry terrain, or semitechnical scrambling. Cons: Trail shoes fare poorly in snow, mud, or other wet conditions. Avoid off-trail hiking and bushwhacking in trail runners. Talus fields and rocky gullies can awkwardly twist ankles; trail runners do not provide good support on such uneven and loose terrain.
Light Hiking Boots Pros: Light hikers are the perfect all-around boot: light enough to keep your feet from getting fatigued, tough enough to stand up to burly mountain conditions. A good light hiking boot starts with a solid outsole (such as Vibram or similar rubber blends) and is flexible yet supportive. Some brands use a Gore-Tex lining to make the boot waterproof without adding excess weight. Cons: Many light hiking boots compromise on outsoles; imitation or cheap outsoles wear out quickly and slip on rocks. Look for good outsoles and you’ll be in good shape. Light hikers lack support when you’re carrying a heavy backpack, and like trail runners, they may not be adequately protective on rocky scree slopes or in snowy conditions.
Backpacking Boots Pros: Backpacking boots are obviously great when you’re lugging heavy loads; their sturdy design is intended to offer superb durability and excellent support. Traditional backpacking boots are made of hard-wearing leather, though newer models have cut off a few ounces by using ultraresilient synthetics such as Kevlar. Backpacking boots have great ankle support and are perfect for off-trail terrain as well as loose rock slopes and talus fields. Cons: Backpacking boots can be heavy, slow to dry, and tough to break in. Some hikers feel clumsy when trying to scramble or climb in bulkier boots, though climbing rock in boots is a skill that comes with practice. Ventilation is compromised, and hikers with hot feet may feel uncomfortable as their little piggies roast on long trails.
Mountaineering Boots Pros: These specialized boots are made for the harshest conditions. Most models are leather, leather blends, or plastic. They are extremely stiff and protective, thanks to sturdy shanks that reinforce the foot bed. Nearly all models have notches to accept crampons. Their rigidity is essential when climbing ice or technical snow with crampons. Plastic boots include insulated liners, and many leather boots have built-in insulation to keep feet warm. Cons: Mountaineering boots are made for snow, ice, prolonged mixed routes, and cold weather. As a result, they are very bulky, heavy, and require extended break-in periods. They are also quite expensive. These specialized boots are only required if you plan to attempt winter or early-spring ascents. Note that many backpacking boots and even some light hiking boots will accept certain crampons for basic snow travel. Ask at your local outdoors store if you’d like to try a lighter solution for simple snowfield travel.
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