5 Pieces of Gear I Won’t Leave Home Without
No need to scroll through the whole post just to find out the top 5 items, let’s skip to the good stuff.
Here’s the list:
Now, let’s talk about WHY these pieces of gear come with me on trail (and are often used off-trail!).
Reason why these items made the list:
1. Altra TIMPS
The first 3 listed are all about your feet. The Altra TIMPS have a wide toe box, which is not common to find in shoes. Normal runners become more narrow towards the toes, which does not allow them to splay out as they naturally would and can lead to blisters more easily.
The TIMPS also have a lot of cushion! Their design makes it feel like the shoe actually helps propel you forward from heel to toe.
The downside is that these shoes do tend to blow at the edges of your toes, creating little windows between the base of the shoe and the mesh. I’ve had this happen within the first day or two, and I’ve had them last 3 weeks before it happens (walking an average of 25 miles/day). Of the 4 pairs I’ve had, all of them have had this happen, but it makes no difference to the functionality of the shoe. In fact, I would say it was beneficial on really hot hiking days, because the holes acted like a vent to reduce how much heat is trapped in your shoe. You will get the odd rock in your shoe, but that’s bound to happen at some point anyway.
Altra trail runners are commonly used for thru-hiking, and the Altra Lone Peaks are a good alternative. If you are interested in giving these shoes a chance, I would recommend trying both styles to see which is best for you.
2. Injinji Toe Liners
Blister prevention hack #1 right here: injinji toe liners. It feels a little strange to wear toe socks at first, but you get used to them.
They do add an extra layer, but the socks are very thin so it doesn’t feel bulky. The little bit of additional heat retention is worth it for the functionality.
3. Darn Tough Socks
You will LOVE these socks. They can take quite a beating and will be with you for many miles.
Something special about this brand is that they provide a lifetime guarantee. The socks do cost ~$30 CAD/pair but when they get a hole you can get a new pair for free. You can contact Darn Tough and they will arrange an exchange for you. Also, some retailers have a deal with the brand so they can do the exchange for you within the store.
If you are into thru-hiking, then being able to switch out old, DIRTY socks (they don’t require the socks to be washed to be returned anymore) is extremely valuable. These socks are an investment that will pay off in the long run.
4. Sea to Summit Alpha Light Spork
Want a lightweight tool that allows you to eat pasta or soup? It’s the Sea to Summit Spork Alpha Light Spork.
Weighing only 0.3 oz, it definitely lives up to the “light” descriptor in it’s name. The mini carabiner makes attaching it to your pack possible for easy access, or you can remove it if you prefer to store your spork in your pack.
Even if you’re not on trail, it’s also great to take with you to work or school in your lunch kit!
5. Kula Cloth
A pee cloth is so much better than packing out toilet paper – SO much better – not only for you, but for the environment.
Kula cloth’s are silver-infused and antimicrobial, to prevent bacterial build-up. The cloth also has a clip, which allows you to attach it to your pack. It also allows you to fold/open the Kula cloth while attached. You can open it in the sun to let it dry and dose it with UV rays (to help sterilize).
By using a pee cloth, you reduce the amount of waste you use and the amount of hassle to pack out (and dispose of) toilet paper. If you take care of it, a Kula cloth is a one-time purchase that can also save you money down the line.
I have found cheaper alternatives on Amazon, but I have never personally tried any of them. If you are looking to get a feel at a lower cost, you may be able to find a deal with a quick search.
Socks, shoes, sporks; these are all things we could use everyday. The pee cloth is something you can use in your home, as well. As I transition into van life, I do hope to try using them in order to reduce waste. It’s good for the environment and reduces the frequency with which I would have to dump my garbage. Pee cloths are also very useful on roadtrips, if you don’t feel like stopping at a gas station (even if you don’t have a portable toilet in your vehicle).
I hope you enjoy these items as much as I have! If you have any questions, leave a comment or send me an email through the contact page!
Happy hiking,
Slaughterhouse
