Prep Week #2 ~ Boots, Stove and Guidebook

Three pieces of essential gear purchased this week.  I selected Vasque Wasatch GTX for my boots.  I was torn between the two schools of thought regarding thru-hike footwear.  Many folks nowadays are leaning towards light trailrunners because of their quick drying properties and light weight (2 lbs total typically).  But, one sacrifices ankle support, stability under pack load and underfoot protection.   I have very flat feet and have always responded well to firm ankle and arch support, so I went with the heavy duty backpacking boots (3lbs 6oz).  If I find the boots aren't working, either during the break-in period, shakedown hikes or the thru-hike itself, i can always switch.

Next, I picked up a MSR PocketRocket canister stove.  These stoves are almost perfect... especially for thru-hiking.  They are easy to light, control, maintain, store and carry.  Their performance is stellar... they can boil 16 oz of water in 1 1/2 minutes to 4 minutes depending on the ambient temp, wind and fuel level.  Plus, the whole setup... the 3 oz stove and 11 oz fuel canister can turn out about 14 of these cooks.  So, if I boil water twice a day, I'll have about 7 days of fuel per canister.  My buddy Shawn's endorsement on this one clinched it.


Lastly, I have read through a bunch of the AT guidebooks.  This one here... "The Thru-Hiker's Handbook 2010" is my favorite.  It just came off the press and I pre-ordered two, one for me and one for my folks.  With this, I can pre-plan food and gear re-supply points, mail drops, lodging and most importantly, locate shelter and water.

Training continues.  I am stretching 30 minutes a day and lifting 4 days a week.  Donning my new boots, I also began a daily walking program that will increase in distance, pack weight and terrain over the next 6+ weeks.

I also met up with some old friends on Wednesday night in Boston and the talk about the trail just kept heaping on the excitement.  I'm so anxious to get out there.  It was great to reconnect with them.  Thanks guys!

Nate