Investing in Gear

[FreespiritAZ]

So I have been an avid day hiker for the last 5 years, but am now looking to invest in gear so I can hike AND camp. I am wanting to get quality gear without it costing me an arm and a leg.

Does anyone know of any quality places other than REI or Cabella's? Both places seem so pricey to me. Are there any good websites you could refer me to? Are there any brands that you prefer? If so, why do you prefer them?

Until now I have also always just used tennis shoes for my hikes even though I could have probably used a pair of boots. Any tips or suggestions for footwear would also be appreciated

[DarthStiller]

a Magellan Triton 400 for $40

I'm hoping to dump my Triton 400 on Craigslist after I buy a new one. I was hoping I could get more that.

[sneakySASQUATCH]

Have I invested in too much gear when Sierra Trading Post rewards my loyal patronage by buying me a year subscription to backpacker magazine? I'm just wondering if I am the only one?

[FreespiritAZ]

@bart01
Yes. Yes you have But I understand the addiction. If I had the funds I would have purchased so much more than I have. Instead, I go online and walk through REI and just drool :B~

[Nighthiker]

Visit Campmor at http://www.campmor.com among other outdoor gear vendors.

[Jeffshadows]

I really want a pair of Vibram Five Fingers but they are a little out of my price range. Talk about cool!! Everyone should take a look at this new shoe technology. I saw them at a one of the weekly Phoenix farmer's markets.

http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/indexNA.cfm

I made the mistake of trying a pair on this weekend. I didn't want to take them off! I'm going to start transitioning to them for the trails for sure...

[xthine]

Get most of my gear (clothing, shoes) online: Summit Hut, Sunny Sports, Mountain Steals, Mountain Gear, Camp Saver, Back Country, Moosejaw, Amazon and if I can't find the gear I need I go directly to the brand's website i.e. Fjallraven, La Sportiva, Arcteryx, Salomon.

[tincanbits]

Here is the gear I currently use. I hike in Brooks Calderas, carry ankle and knee braces over rugged terrain.

Lightweight Gear List

Big Three:

Gossamer Gear Mariposa w/ Large Belt - 31.11 oz.
ZPacks 10º Down Sleeping Bag - 17.8 oz.
Cuben Fiber Roll Top Bag - .9 oz.
Pillow X Recon - 2.23 oz.
Static V Recon Sleeping Pad 18.6 oz.
Tyvek ground cloth -

Kitchen:

GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug - 3.5 oz.
MSR Titan Titanium .85 L Kettle 4.2 oz. (118 g)
REI Ti Ware 1 L Pasta Pot - 4.6 oz.
Snow Peak 600 Double Wall Mug - 5.1 oz.

MSR Microrocket Stove 2.6 oz. (73 g)
MSR Heat Reflector with Windscreen - 2 0z.

MSR IsoPro Canister 3.9 oz. - 6.8 oz.
MSR IsoPro Canister 8 oz. - 12.89oz.
MSR IsoPro Canister 16 oz. - 22.7 oz.

Solo Stove w/ stuff sack - 9 oz.

MSR Titan Titanium Tool Spoon- .79 oz.
Toaks Titanium Spoon - 0.65 oz (19g)

Cold Weather Gear:

Feathered Friends 0º Puffin Sleeping Bag - 2 lbs. 12 oz.
Sea to Summit Event M Waterproof Drysack - 5.2 oz.

Bearikade Weekender serves two adults for a long weekend. 10 1/2″ tall w/ 656 cu. in. Volume - 31 oz.

Cheers, MEB

[chumley]

@MEB


A feature here on haz allows you to keep and save lists of your packs and weights.

https://hikearizona.com/x.php?I=3&ID=45&UID=0

That opens some that other people have shared. Just click the link for pack planner to make your own.