6 THINGS I wish I KNEW as a BEGINNER BACKPACKER

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[@HikingHarter]

One tip - don’t get hung up on miles. Know when to call it a day. The trail will always be there.

[@john_kelley]

Great tip!

[@benicsakp]

Best lessons for me were: second shoe for camp, warmer socks for sleeping, earplugs and smaller towel...etc.

[@josephbrown-ut9ty]

My first trip out reminded me I was not a teenager anymore. I'd just turned 50 and that 45lb pack dam near killed me lol. Vowed right then to cut weight and gear. Since then I've lost 20 lbs and my pack is now 15lbs.

[@john_kelley]

Yep. It’s amazing what cutting weight will do.

[@4potslite169]

I’ve learned that I’m not an ultra light hiker...I’m much happier and more successful on my long hikes if I carry a few creature comforts that I want. For me that’s a coffee thermos instead of a cup, face moisturizer, a small washcloth for a daily “bath” before getting into my bag, and antiperspirant (not because of odor but because I can’t stand wet itchy pits!)

[@katieharrison9281]

haha! I totally agree with the deodorant! It has to come

[@themightiness]

I like overpacking food because I like to smoke a lot of weed throughout the day and it's so satisfying to have variety in snacks. But I will admit most people bring too much food and I always do.

[@hikertalk9032]

Man I love the way you talk about gear for new backpackers. That’s something that’s content I’m looking to get into in the near future and I love the way you make it so personal and relatable. I’ve been backpacking for five years and your videos hit home.

[@inthewoodsintheword2182]

In the 1980s my first backpacking experience was a 2 week walk on the AT. I started in February with a foot of snow on the ground. I had a dog with me. My clothing was cotton. My pack was an Alice 80 pounds. I have learned a few things. Now for a 2 week trip the pack is 20 pounds. The main thing for a new hiker is to survive and adapt.

[@john_kelley]

There’s always a learning curve.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

How about ham radio for communicating out where there is no cell coverage? :D

[@ronaldrose7593]

Great video John, thank you for sharing it. All the best to you. Stay safe out there. 🤗

[@cameronward9443]

To add to the GPS tip... It's a good idea but consider the following; imagine if you told someone that you were going to walk for 25km and to pick you up at an exact time. What are the chances you will be able to be spot on accurate with your rendezvous time? The backcountry doesn't work on a strict time schedule and neither should you. You're just setting yourself up for added stress instead of just enjoying the trip.

[@john_kelley]

True story. Great point!

[@wendingourway]

Such great advice...yes indeed, the groundsheet, been there done that, a wet sleep...thanks so much for sharing. Got to share this one with some friends of mine....

[@john_kelley]

Please do! Thanks for watching.

[@northernswedenstories1028]

Can relate to the shoe issues. If you are on a nice even trail then trail runners can be ok (even for me at 6ft and 15stone), but that only works on a nice trail and for a weekend maybe. Anything longer and more varied terrain like we have in Sweden I just go with a big old pair of pure leather Lundhags boots. Massive toe box, rugged as hell and completely protected from the elements. No problem on even week long hikes through bog, rocky terrain, snow, whatever. Always wear one thin pair of wool liner socks and one old pair of quite baggy/loose wool socks over the top (even in summer). Do my feet get a bit hot? Yes but I never ever ever have blisters. I think if you're a big guy old school big boots can't be beaten.

[@RealLifeNursing3]

One of the best "tips" videos I've seen! Very accurate and helpful tips. Thank you! Happy Trails!

[@john_kelley]

Thanks!

[@DadBodBiker]

I’m actually just getting into it. Actually just went for my first hike today. Was super short but mainly just wanted to see if my ol’ knees and ankles could handle it. I think I passed the test. I’m learning so much from all of you that put out these type of videos. Thank you.

[@1busyrn]

Great video! I purchased a zoleo last year and am pretty happy with it as it gives me a great piece of mind. It goes with me no matter what type of trail I'm doing. I broke my ankle on trail during a solo day hike on a trail that was not popular and no one knew I was out there. Also, no cell service. So many lessons learned that day! I wrapped my ankle and hobbled out the 3 miles back to my car safely but it was a long recovery.

[@jeremybullen5741]

Good stuff. Really enjoy all your videos and podcast. Keep it up.

[@john_kelley]

Thank you, Jeremy! I appreciate it!

[@KUEHLKUEST]

Always on point!!! We just love ya!! Cheers Colleen and Jonny

[@john_kelley]

Thanks guys!

[@stronglikemonkey]

Keeping it real as usual JK! That is good advice you are doling out. Please keep this awesome content coming!

[@john_kelley]

Thanks, man!

[@yannchambrier]

Spot on observations, especially with regards to WP boots and the Altras. I hiked up Annapurna base camp a few years ago and can definitely relate on most of the comments. Also switched to Hoka SG from the Altras, and as a heavier hiker, I have learned to love the SGs.

[@MoldingLegends]

Great video!

[@Smokeybeesnatural]

Great info buddy! Too much food has always been my struggle!

[@john_kelley]

You definitely aren’t alone!

[@sk-wx1cf]

Nice video. I also had to learn about the waterproof boots. One more thing is trying out sleeping bags -- lie in one in the store. The shoulder girth varies. I'm somewhat claustrophobic and found that I needed a bag with the most shoulder girth that I could get. Once I learned this, I would always check the shoulder girth measurements to help me select or rule out a bag. Happy hiking!

[@gregoryash395]

Awesome as always!

[@john_kelley]

Thanks Gregory!

[@1TiagoGH]

Man... spot on! Thank you! Especially, if there's one thing I learnt from your mistake (because I have yet to hike on very rainy conditions), is to tuck the groundsheet entirely under the tent. I always left the spare out to keep some stuff from the dirt, but I didn't realize water could get between it and the tent floor.

[@john_kelley]

It’s pretty awful when you wake up in a puddle. 😂

[@bdlsmoran]

Great info! Been there done that on all these. Another one to add, water sources. Plan where you can get water. Water is heavy and if you plan well you won’t have to carry as much. My first backpacking trip I took 5 liters of water and no filter.

[@john_kelley]

Very good one! That's such a true statement. Finding water, when you are a beginner, can feel daunting.

[@sandradanen8738]

I am a boot hiker/backpacker 😇 If I use trailrunners I really can't hike well. My feet hurt way more than they do in boots and I get a lot more blisters so after buying serveral trailrunners and wasted the money I decided to stay with my boots. Sometimes it lookes very weird here in the flat netherlands, but I can deal with that😉

[@john_kelley]

To each their own. Hike your own hike.

[@SingaSongandMaketheChili]

You are not alone! I traded my boots for trail runners to try them out one day, slipped on mud because they didn't have the traction I was used to, fell backwards in the mud with a full pack on, knocked my knee caps out of alignment because of the way I landed, and am now, two months into the physical therapy exercises, finally able to (almost) use my knees properly without a loud "snap" whenever I straighten my lower leg. I am sticking with my boots forever and ever. :-)

[@damnitman3170]

I’m patiently waiting for my Limmer boots to come in. Not because they’re waterproof, because they will be there at the end of the day.

[@cliftonselent4625]

Love the comment about shoes for big guys. Heel spurs and low arches make fancy low stack height shoes a no go for me. First big hike coming up the June. Trying research out many of the mistakes.

[@epicelements5528]

Dude you’re hilarious! 🤣🤙🏼 Love the video. Thanks for the beginner info

[@john_kelley]

Thanks!!!

[@bretthikez6567]

The learning curve is hella steep out there thats for sure. ..but once you figure it all out and get in a groove out there it's so fun and rewarding..camping in the winter and having fun and not freezing is the toughest thing for beginners...love the video dude..well done..

[@john_kelley]

Thanks, Brett!

[@markpanarese2452]

Great video Jk. Great tips. If I start getting out this year as much as I want to then I may be able to justify a satellite device, making more and more sense. My biggest tip would be just to get out there, come back and then get out there again! Keep up the great work!👍

[@john_kelley]

Thanks, Mark!

[@Heritage3911]

I agree with everything you said. All of that is really good advice.

[@john_kelley]

Thanks!

[@markcummings6856]

Spot on! Great info.

[@john_kelley]

Thanks, Mark!

[@BuddhaOutdoors]

I’m a big guy. Right around 280 and I’ve been using the lone peak 5’s and I honestly love them. Mind you, all of my backpacking and homes are around 5-10 miles as of right now but I’m setting up a trip for October that should be between 32-40 miles. Hopefully I don’t come back with blisters. Stay safe everyone.

[@thegreatitiswhatitis]

I only use waterproof shoes for going to work now when it's the rainy season. I never use them for hiking anymore because it's pointless. Half the time we end up wading through ankle to shin high streams and rivers whenever there's a water crossing. In the Philippines the term we use for waterproof shoes is "tabo," which roughly translates to water ladle. You get water in them and you end up just transporting water from one place to another.

[@mackjenkins7721]

Hey man how's it going Happy New Year to you. Man this was a great video. I shared this with my coworker! Me and him wish we had known that when my coworker bought his hiking waterproof boots that there was not going to keep his feet dry. We went on a Day hike and at the end of the trip is feet was soak and wet. I had my flip-flops on cuz that's all that will fit my very wide feet but my feet were dry at the end of the day. The bottoms of my foot was dirty but that was okay cuz I was going home to get cleaned up anyway. My coworker was upset for the money that he paid for waterproof boots to keep his feet dry and they did not do the job. And the fact that he had closed toe shoes and I had open toe shoes and my feet were dry made him more upset. But we had a good time and we look back at that day and just laugh.

[@john_kelley]

What’s up, Mack! Great attitude. Just laugh off days like that.

[@hike2bhuman110]

Very sound advice, once you've think you've dial in gear, you're wrong, everything changes, change is constant. happy hiking .

[@john_kelley]

It can definitely feel like that sometimes.

[@edwarddemedeiros3607]

Awesome advice!

[@john_kelley]

Thanks!

[@minkekj]

Oh man, that ground cover story really hit home. I've had a few soggy mornings because of those.

[@john_kelley]

No fun at all!

[@jeffpeters5347]

I've learned: 1) That on days 3 & 4 of my hike I feel terrible (body, feet, mentally), but on days 5 & 6 of my hike I start to adjust and feel a lot better. 2) The value of antibiotic ointment. 3) I've learned a little extra comfort on the trail goes a long way. 4) The value of being a member or REI & their return policy. I won't try a new pair of hiking shoes unless I get them at REI first.

[@john_kelley]

Great lessons!

[@PisgahGravelProject]

Little extra comfort go SO far!

[@BohemianAdventurers]

I've been pondering the Zolio since your first video on it. Glad to see you still like it!! I may finally pull the trigger. I also have to say that dew is my biggest enemy in my area so many hikes I DO go with waterproof trail runners. I bring good old crocs for moist situations. 😀 Also, my first backpack purchase was an REI 85L!! Good video bud!!

[@john_kelley]

Thanks! I really like the Zoleo. It’s been a great addition to my load out.

[@gregvanpaassen]

Love your presentation style. Like a chat with a knowledgeable, more experienced friend who can still relate to being a beginner. Subscribed! On footwear, until recently I'd never heard about the rule of thumb that one pound on your feet is the equivalent of five pounds on your back. It's so true! Another reason not to buy those heavy waterproof boots, or if you already have them, reserve them for formal wear at home. On the tent flooding thing, back when I was a kid if it looked like rain--or was raining--we'd dig a small trench around the tent walls and lead it off downhill a few feet. This was when tent floors were separate and you pegged the floor down inside the tent, but it would still work today if your tent floor is getting a bit old. A few inches deep and wide is plenty. That trowel is not a single-use item!

[@JohnVianneyPatron]

The construction of hiking boots has changed considerably over the years. My boots are not *significantly* heavier than my hiking shoes as manufacturers are increasingly designing boots to be rugged in some areas (toe box, ankle) and more supple in others.

[@swashfrogsailor]

You should distinguish between GPS and satellite communicator. They’re not synonymous. A satellite communicator may include some GPS functionality (like a few watches, smart phones, etc...), but strictly speaking, a GPS does not communicate. Zoleo, InReach, and Spot are satellite communicators.

[@redwhiteblue7831]

Great topic... Many great points made. My advice to a beginner backpacker... Buy once, cry once... or you'll have a bunch of gear that you'll probably never use again, and will save a ton of money in the long run. Oh yeah, don't eat yellow snow. Thank you for sharing, take care.

[@john_kelley]

Agreed. You end up spending a lot less in the end.....as long as you can find the money up front.

[@olgaguer6443]

Thank you!!!

[@CLH126]

Charming chap!

[@john_kelley]

Thank you!

[@nathancavallo7240]

Been listening to you for about two weeks just realized we live in the same state! Maybe I'll see you on the trail one day

[@john_kelley]

If we do, please say hi!

[@andrewleach8046]

First trip...Chicago Basin outside of Silverton Co. 60lb pack weight. So yeah, I made a few changes. Hammock camp now and always keep pack under 28lbs. Much happier. Keep up the great work on the vids!

[@john_kelley]

Great job getting that weight down. It really makes a difference on trips.

[@Outsideville]

Love my waterproof trail shoes (not boots). Keeps my feet dry from the morning dew. Yes, mostly day hiking.

[@unpavedexplorer338]

Hello John Kelley, this was some good information. I wish I would have known what type of hiker I was before I bought my gear: day hiker, weekend worrier, through hiker, bushcrafter, survivalist, etc. I bought so much gear that I really don’t need. Take Care and Keep Exploring The Outdoors.

[@john_kelley]

Gear sure is fun, though!

[@JohnVianneyPatron]

Problem is that a person may be a multiple of day/weekend warrior/multiday endurance hiker (I am). The challenge is to know what gear each type of scenario requires and prepare only for that.

[@JoshP05]

Great advise.

[@Greggsvlog]

Great advice 👍

[@john_kelley]

Thanks!

[@HikingHarter]

Great info, even for someone that has miles under their belt. Thanks brother.

[@john_kelley]

Thank you! Glad this was useful.

[@vipvip5356]

Great work with this video John :-) Everytime I am watching one of your video, I feel like I am sitting next to a campfire talking to a super nice hiker (my kind of people ;-)) about gears and things I can really only talk about with someones passionated. Kind of people who are not making a face when they realize I know the weight of every item in my backpack, pretty much wherever I go ...?! LOL I also like the tone of your voice. It feels very calming to me. I am not stressed or anything, but after a day of work, I want to hear JUST about the stuff I WANT to hear about ;-) I am sure a lot of people can relate here ! Keep it up my friend , you are doing amazing !

[@john_kelley]

Thank you so much for the kind words!

[@logancowell5858]

I was hiking in the cranberry backcountry a few weeks back and when I was setting up my tent I left a few inches of my ground sheet sticking out. I thought about what you said but rather than taking the time to tuck it in I left it out. Regretted that at about midnight when a sudden downpour came. Always listen to JK😂

[@denakelley4363]

I mostly agree with your points, except I love my Altra Lone Peaks and My Altra Timps. The wide toe box really helps me not get blisters. Here are the things I've learned over time: 1) Buy shoes 1 size larger to give feet room to swell 2) Toe sock liners under a good pair of Darn Tough merino socks are the key for me not to get blisters 3) Leukotape is the best blister prevention out there. It's fine as a cover for a hot spot or existing blister (with something between the tape and the blister) but pre-taping any areas prone to hot spots is better. I've also used it to tape my hip bone area where my pack's hip belt had begun chafing me.

[@john_kelley]

Most of my friends use Altras. I really wish my feet liked them. They’re really nice, but just didn’t work for me. Great tips, too! Especially the pretaping one. On long miles, that’s a must for me.

[@kathycasey9153]

I have heard the same about going up a size, but I find myself tripping over my feet when my shoes are too big. Ugh.

[@ErnieB573]

Saved the best for last, tip #6 is GOLDEN

[@john_kelley]

Thanks!

[@csicrawlspace]

It is very interesting to watch these and other backpacking videos and think back to the 70's when we used a combination of topo maps, park provided trail maps, compass, honking all leather vibram soled 6 inch european made hiking BOOTS (that we waterproofed ourselves). Nylon tarp, topline, bivy bag with corner grommets for unlevel terrain, and sleeping bag or in warmer weather a camo army ponch liner.

[@john_kelley]

Those honking hiking boots are still useful, and I think we all started off with that gear you're talking about. I'm definitely thankful for modern technology.

[@cyprant]

Good tips!

[@john_kelley]

Thanks, Tom!

[@SnoringVids]

Would love to see you compare in reach to your GPS. Seeing you use them both out on trail and explain the differences/plan options/interface for phone/battery life/packability. Really give La Sportiva boots a try! Heavier and not as breathable as trail runners but with leather you don't get soggy feet you don't have to worry much about rolling an ankle or drenching your feet in a puddle. Once you get a pair worn in right they can be more comfortable than tennis shoes.

[@flowerchildvee]

The sit pad, yessss!

[@JourneyontheTrail]

"Backpacking is very personal"... Well said sir. I think the biggest thing I learned is shelter weight truly does matter lol. My first backpacking tent was over 8lbs and my buddy kept trying to talk me out of it. Took two trips to get me to see the light lol.

[@john_kelley]

Lol. Yeah. Cutting 5lbs or more from your base weight feels like 20.

[@CascadeBackcountry]

I LOVE my satellite communicator! Saved my ass once plus it's just nice to say hello to the fam n tell em you're not dead somewhere 😀

[@john_kelley]

Yes to all of that. My wife likes it more than I do.

[@1xayekim]

For seat pads I like to buy the cheaper accordian pads that look like the thermarest seats but they are the full size cheaper ones and cut them in half. I find way more use out of those sizes especially for a bigger 255 lb 6 foot fellow like myself. I becomes my ground pad, my seat... I also find I can sort of unfold it and lay against a rock or tree with it as a backrest and Im a slide sleeper so I roll that up and put it on my hip for comfort while sleeping.

[@john_kelley]

Great idea!

[@JoshP05]

When I started my pack was so heavy, full of things I just did not need. Shed that weight real quick. Haha. Thanks for the videos!

[@spudsdj8384]

I use boots all day everyday. But I have a bad ankle from an old military injury and that added support on it helps. On food I bring beans and rice with instant potatoes and instant coffee with 3 chewy bars. I bring more than I should need so if shtf I ha e it

[@jasonmorrow216]

Even though I've watched so many backpacking videos and have only day so long day hikes , I have enough gear that would work for like 5 people lol but looking forward to getting in some over nights in the RRG soon.

[@john_kelley]

Yes! Me too! 😂.

[@mikeroy6713]

I’ve tried trail runners and they are comfortably light weight. You immediately feel like you can pack on more miles. But after a few root kicks and an ankle turn I was limping. So I’m back to boots but occasionally wear the trail runners for day hikes.

[@john_kelley]

For some people, boots are just a better choice.

[@mtn_manhills3688]

hey, So im planning a Backpacking trip to the Foothill trails sometime in March between the 19th and the 26th, it will be a 5 day hike averaging about 15 miles aday and maybe a 20 day, Man id love for you to come and go with us!

[@john_kelley]

I wish I could, but I’m not able to add anymore long trips to what’s already planned.

[@charleseden5246]

I made that ground sheet mistake when I was younger car camping with friends....go good rain and was rolling around on a squishy water bed with all the water collected under me and soon enough some came thru lol

[@john_kelley]

That's the worst!

[@sawyerandjackfucking]

I couldn't possibly agree more with the sit pad. They weigh nothing, and they are super useful. I often use mine as a wind shield for my stove!

[@scottburkhart6953]

GPS piece is spot on! If you have told loved ones that you are going to arrive at a certain destination at a certain time and you don't make it, it causes no end of stress. PLUS, there are times you need to extend your trek an extra day for a variety of reasons and having the ability to let someone know is invaluable. Not to mention if you need assistance in the backcountry. These little things can be a little pricey but how much is your life and your loved ones' peace of mind worth?

[@john_kelley]

Definitely. GPS is as much for your loved ones as it is for you.

[@elruesta280]

Wish I had gotten my gear before my pack. Grabbed an Osprey 65 L Ariel cause I thought I needed the size and support of the zero gravity. Big mistake. Pack was huge and didn't sit right on my hips. So I traded it in and purchased a 42 L framless pack from Gossamer Gear; so much better! Love my pack. Just enough room and it rides well over long hikes.

[@john_kelley]

Nice! Some people really love those frameless packs.

[@DetraDearmas]

My biggest mistake for me was tents. Specifically tents for more than one person. I also needed to update from 20 years ago. Alot has changed over the years that i wasnt aware of. I've found ultra lite, hammock, just a tarp, or just plain cowboy camping works best for me. I'm also fixing to try thick hiking sandals cause I do great with thick crocs. As a heavy senior I understand how different hiking equipment needs to be for the larger hiker. Especially if they're a side sleeper.

[@john_kelley]

Nice. Gotta love the simplicity.

[@OutdoorsWithShawn]

Over packed by about 5 to 10lbs. Didn't need a full change of clothes; just fresh socks. Didn't need a backpacking quilt; too warm for it. Didn't need 2/3 of the water I brung; I got dehydrated years ago and I always overpack water. Didn't need my tripod chair; but it sure was comfy. Didn't need as much food; but I have a tapeworm some people say. Didn't need my JetBoil; I could have brought my pocket rocket.

[@john_kelley]

It’s better to have too much water as opposed to not enough

[@lisaray6493]

I have wide feet and sausage toes. Only hike in Injinjis and I haven’t had a blister or hot spot ever. I’m am on the stouter side so I love the Olympus. Souconys are great and I love their toe box, but they are less stable as they narrow in the arch area.

[@john_kelley]

My buddy, Jason Wish just did a review on the Olympus shoes. He’s a big fan of them.

[@OutLan]

Nice points, man. You need an OutLan sticker in the background, there.

[@john_kelley]

Heck yes I do!

[@Tali-Khammael]

Thankyou

[@baird329]

The Indians used smoke signals and ships used blinking lights before radio. If the technology was possible 19th century people and before would have used sat radio's and GPS. Even before GPS people had distress beacons and flare's. At around 20 a month a GPS emergency system service is no worse than 1970's campers and hikers carrying flares and whistles just in case. Plus you can text people once a day so if everything is good no one worries when you are out in the woods for a week.

[@mysterious.hiker.x]

The overpacking food is always an issue for new and veteran backpackers alike. Spot on JK. I have struggled with getting the right balance e of food for trips for a decade now.

[@tankbennett7]

Kudos 👌

[@modestadventurers]

I wear boots dude because I know I’m right but to everyone else I’d recommend trail runners 😋

[@bonniecreevy2642]

How do you know which shoes to start with when you’re brand new? I also bought waterproof boots and HATE them. So I need something else. I’m just a day hiker, no overnights. But I’m 50yo, out of shape and heavy set. I’m thinking decent tread would be good because I’m clumsy. I was going to try those Altas everyone uses. How do you know what to try? I mean, shoes are expensive to keep getting new ones. Any advice?

[@HikeRx]

I found Altra Olympus to work really well for me. The lower stack height of Lone Peaks and even Timps don't protect the bottom of my feet.

[@john_kelley]

Agreed

[@leekayne]

Loving my Olympus 4’s 👍🏻

[@eldiabolico3750]

Many folks like me, can’t hike in running shoes because of ankle strains and other past injuries. I have to wear a boot.

[@anthonymotley7709]

I had a new pair of leather boots that got wet. I hung them upside down on sticks, near the fire to dry them out like I have done a dozen times. The leather bubbled inward on the heel of one of the boots so badly that I could not wear them. Thankfully I always bring an extra pair of running shoes. I finished the weekend in those. Always bring backup shoes.

[@john_kelley]

I've been on trips with buddies that have melted their shoes. Never fun.

[@mathews0618]

I am not hungry until a day after a weekend trip.

[@DoYerBest]

I love coming home with no food, its rare but I feel so efficient when it happens

[@john_kelley]

I definitely enjoy the hike out when I do that.

[@lakorai2]

Shopping at REI and paying full retail is a major mistake for newbies. There are many other retailers that compete and have much lower prices than REi.

[@john_kelley]

I also tell people to check out Facebook flea markets and look for used gear.

[@frostriver4547]

I’m a boot guy. 🥾 usually carry something light to cross water if it’s too deep. Otherwise Hoka KAHA boots are on my feet and have honestly made backpacking so much more enjoyable for me.

[@gregvanpaassen]

Interesting bit of cultural abuse there in the name. In Māori, in this context hoka (the "o" is pronounced as in "or", not as in "hoe": "hoh kah") means aloft or sticking up sharply (like a bare tree), and oneone ("or ney or ney") is dirt. Kaha (ka ha, the "a" as in "car") means energetic or strong. (Hoka is also a species of fish, among other meanings. Kaha also has other meanings.) "Hoka" would mostly be used for static soaring like a seagull against the wind, or a kite on a string. For moving (flying, gliding, racing), "rere" would be used more often. Pity they didn't ask for advice. Or maybe they did mean to call their company "piled-up dirt".

[@frostriver4547]

@@gregvanpaassen well, the company was started in France. Not sure why you assume “cultural abuse”. Why don’t you ask the company about the origins before you haul off and make accusations founded on your limited knowledge. Maybe you’re the abuser

[@artmercer7465]

Your tips are right on. My feet have blistered more times than I care to admit. Also, lost many big toe nails over the years back packing. So here the related tips. Over size length of shoe or boots to keep your big toenails. If prone to blisters be aggressive in prevention. Spray blister prone areas with liquid band-aid, then put on injini socks followed by darn tough. Change socks mid-day. Yes spray your areas prone to blisters when you change socks and when you get to camp.

[@john_kelley]

Sounds like some experienced advice.

[@christinae30]

Re: when feet and legs feel tired and heavy, compression knee socks could help.

[@jamesthornton3339]

I wish someone would have explained the difference between comfort rating, and survival rating. I spent some uncomfortable nights on a trip in my "30 degree" mummy bag.

[@john_kelley]

That's something that gets a lot of people.

[@IgnacioGlezCllo]

comfort vs comfort limit, as well. Most bags are advertised at their 'comfort limit' rating; you might manage to catch some zzz but won't necessarily be comfortable. small difference, but important never the less.

[@rachescakes]

I wish someone had told me to bring ear plugs! I also wish I had spent more on my initial sleeping pad. I went budget knockoff, medium priced decent lightweight pad, then Nemo Tensor. Fortunately my kids like the pads I hated. I do like my trail runners, but I would have to say that of the backpackers I know, it’s about 50/50 boots. I feel like they both have their place.

[@john_kelley]

Ear plugs are a necessity for sure!!!

[@rachescakes]

@Chris I think my comment is worded weird, I really like the Tensor. The previous pads I bought were awful and passed down.

[@LWilli5]

I have learned that expecting to keep up on the up-hill climb with 6’ 2” runners when you’re a chubby 5’ 6” is not a reasonable expectation.

[@john_kelley]

It’s the same when you’re overweight and 5’8”. 😂

[@youragronk6208]

Your the best

[@markfreeman7839]

I wish I knew how warm an empty peanut butter jar can keep you when winter camping, or really how it prevents getting cold needing to go "out" for a midnight pee in the snow.

[@john_kelley]

😂😂😂

[@williamvarner1406]

Great advice, wish someone would have told me to avoid poison oak at all cost.

[@john_kelley]

Thanks!

[@sammyjudeh1117]

My ASICS trail runners are SO comfy....like on a cloud. One time i went hiking with a tactical bag in the louisiana humid heat. It sucked since it didn't have the airflow like osprey, etc.

[@john_kelley]

I’ve never used ASICS on trail. Hmm.... 🤔

[@sammyjudeh1117]

@@john_kelley Asics gel-venture 7

[@sammyjudeh1117]

@@john_kelley although, I'm not sure how they rate in terms of weight

[@BackcountryPilgrim]

Agreed on all except footwear in snow. Waterproof boots plus gaiters or I don't go!

[@john_kelley]

To each their own.

[@shelleyrochelle7596]

I get hiker hunger 5 minutes into a backpacking trip 😂