Basic Hiking Gear to get You Going
You don't need the most expensive and technically advanced gear to enjoy hiking, unless of course you're heading for Everest Base Camp or crossing the Gobi Desert.
But you are going to be using your feet, so hiking footwear is important, as is a backpack to carry some essentials, even just a waterbottle and a lightweight rainjacket.
We're going to be focusing on basic hiking gear - footwear, backpacks, safety equipment - that are necessary to ensure your hiking is enjoyable and safe. We aim to concentrate on products that will do the job for you while not breaking the bank.
What Makes Hiking Great
What's great about hiking is that it gets you outdoors, away from the clutter, clatter, and stress of urban living.
People are making a concerted effort to screw up our planet and spoil what's left of pristine areas where Nature still has a precarious foothold.
Fortunately there are still forests and mountains, lakes and seashores - plus beautiful national parks - where one can walk and camp and enjoy the more simple pleasures.
Hiking is also great because there are few barriers and nearly anyone can participate, irrespective of age, wealth, or degree of fitness.
Obviously some hikes and trails are more demanding than others, requiring different levels of experience and equipment. But that only adds to the appeal, giving everyone the chance to take on fresh challenges and aspire to see new places.
Life is too short to see and do it all but we can still explore many many magic places where the sounds and smells, textures and colors, expansive vistas and arching sky can enrich and revitalize the soul.
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