[philmont] Hiking Boots

Mike
Just a few points from a guy who admits after two treks to still being a
novice at Philmont.
First there are three pieces of personal equipment that I would never shop
for an inexpensive brand 1) boots, 2) rain gear, and 3) back pack. They are
all too essential while on the trail.
As to boots I suggest hikers get the most comfortable fit not the cheapest
and not the most expensive. I went to Campmor ( a great store here in the
east) and I tried on about 5 or 6 pairs. I thought I was happy with a pair of
Solos - great boot and not cheap. I took them home and put a couple of hours in
them on the tread mill and decided they were not for me. As they were never
worn outside I was able to return them. I ended up with a pair of Hi Tec's
which I bought at Ramsey Outdoor on sale for less than a $100.00. I have worn
twice to Philmont.
I will add for us older guys you might consider a pair of orthotics for your
boots. I did not the first trek and I spent some time each day on foot care.
I did the second time with same pair of boots and spent almost no time on
foot care.
Last word about boots. Breaking in is essential. There is not magic day to
start and no magic amount of time that equal the boots being broken in. So
start now! Better more worn in than less! Also if you are flying into Philmont we
make the boots wear the broken in boots on to the plane. If the duffle is
lost everything else can be replaced ( oh what a nightmare but it can be done.)
You can't break in a new pair of boots on the trail.
 
There was a thread a few weeks ago on rain gear and I don't want to re hash
all of it but I ended up with a very good jacket( Mountain wear) and an OK
pair of pants. I needed them a lot on both treks.
 
Finally if the pack does not properly fit and does not allow for proper
adjustment it will break your back and your spirit. Please pay attention to the
fact that you will need to make adjustments while on the trail. Loads change as
 the crew gets settled. We had to redistribute equipment due to loss of a
crew member due to injury. No amount of shake downs can make adjustment of the
gear and packs not necessary. Food is eaten and later replenished. Packs
that do not adjust are simply out of place in Philmont. I do not engage in the
arguments between an internal vs. external frame. I think you go with what you
are comfortable with both on your back and in you budget. There are high
quality packs in both versions.
 
I hope this was helpful. There are items the parents can save money on but
in my opinion none of these three.
 
Ted Cotter
2006 trek 32
2007 trek 28
2008 SEA BASE
"more sail please"

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Received on Thu Mar 6 20:40:38 2008