January 12, 2001


What's you head-to-toe advice for hiking the Appalachian Trail?

Three years ago you gave "head to toe" advice for the Appalachian Trail. I was wondering what you would change or how you would update that list, taking in consideration new and updated products. Thanks,

— Wayne San Francisco, California

I'm not sure how much I'd change from that list other than choosing a few newer products that I think advance the state of the art a little. Here goes:

Boots: Montrail Vercors ($190). These are great, tough boots for heavy backpacking. A little lighter and more comfortable than the same company's Moraine AT, which is I bet what I initially listed.

Pack: A Dana Designs Terraplane ($439) would remain my first choice.

Tent: A new one here — Marmot's Equinox ($289) is my current favorite in three-season tents. But stand by for spring -— some lighter models are on the way.

Stove: I'd probably switch here to an MSR Dragonlfy ($99). The Dragonlfy takes liquid fuel, so I'd miss the convenience of butane/propane, but it's a hot burning stove that simmers nicely.

Sleeping bag: Marmot again —- their down-filled Arroyo ($249). Integral Designs' Renaissance ($200) if I thought rain and moisture were going to be real problems.

Clothing: Not many changes here. I'd probably upgrade to Gore Paclite for a rain shell and pant. Example: Mountain Hardwear's Borealis Jacket ($380) and pant ($280). Oh, and probably a pair of Mountain Guide Pants ($115) from L.L. Bean, made with Schoeller Dryskin.

That's about it.