New Gear for An Older Hiker

[@kathya3442]

The CNOC bag is available in the size for the BeFree filter - just be sure to select the 42mm thread.

[@akwild1]

Thank you! I’ve been happy with mine on the CT so far. What’s your best filter cleaning method?

[@guadalupeskitchen3734]

Cutting the distance as we get older is key. Less pack weight also helps.

[@akwild1]

Yes, I wish I could carry lighter camera gear.

[@miken7629]

I bought ankle compression sleeves for support, I am 70 and they help running. Best change I got a year ago was zero drop shoes (no raised heels), took 6 months for my feet to adapt and after 11 months I am running again without knee pain. I am switching to Red Cross 3 stage filter bought for $20 at Walmart.

[@akwild1]

Thank you. Your experience is the reason I don’t make specific show recommendations. I did well in Hoka trail runners during the PCT, but now on the CT I’m hiking in mid weight hiking boots. I love your Walmart anecdote.

[@ronaldrose7593]

Great informative video my friend, thank you for sharing. Stay safe out there. 😊

[@akwild1]

Thanks, you too!

[@DPM-dp9on]

I don’t go anywhere without DEET, Darn Tough socks and some way of making real coffee. Good luck on your hike.

[@akwild1]

Sounds like sage advice, especially the coffee. My Titanium French Press beckons me. Instant coffee rarely cuts it.

[@BrendaKitchens-x3n]

Great video, thank you. I have the flextail pump and consider it essential.😅

[@akwild1]

Sorry about that. I’m out hiking but I’ll see if I can fix it. Thanks for watching

[@DrOrna]

I completely agree about hiking boots versus trail runners. I have never regretted the ankle support, ever. But I was very disappointed with the flexes zero pump. I have a big fat pad for car camping, even though it’s a single person, I’ve never gotten to full inflations from the pump.

[@akwild1]

Hmm. That’s too bad. I use a x-therm for backpacking and I like the pump especially at the end of a long day at high altitudes. It’s served me well on the CT.

[@outdoorroving9648]

These are great suggestions. Thanks for sharing; I like how you put all the info together. Be safe out there.

[@akwild1]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate it.

[@juanbackpacks]

I’m still on trails runners at 58 years old but I hear you about shoe selection being very individualized. I went through a number of brands and models to land on Speed Goats. All I tried were high end popular shoes but it took a while to dial in the best shoe for me.

[@akwild1]

I landed on the same brand for the PCT. Now on the CT, I’m glad I switched to mid-weight hiking boots with solid ankle support. They just work for my feet at this time.

[@ILC6476]

I made the switch as well. Still use trail runners according to conditions but I was tired of falling on rocks and roots. My ankles have never been strong. And I also carry a brace.

[@akwild1]

I do the same. It’s the best decision I made for my CT hike. No aches or pains at the end of a long trail day.

[@kathtrina]

I would still recommend back flushing the be free mine plugged up last season

[@akwild1]

Yes, great advice. Cow water on the CT has taken its toll on my filter.

[@bobv7753]

Thank you AK for your gear review. As I age & hike I find that some of the latest gear trends aren't fitting my needs. A couple of notes. I have both the Sawyer squeeze and Katadyn BeFree. I have to say the BeFree advantages are hard to ignore. Also, you can get a CNOC bag for it now. I have also use a durable Hydrapac bladder with mine. As for socks I've used DarnTough & Farm to Feet. I've opted now for Silverlight socks. The fit, wear, comfort & odor resistance has been excellent. Thanks also for the bug shirt recommendation. I was so glad to have my bug head net on the PCT in Washington a couple of weeks ago. A bug shirt would have been even better. As always thank you for your useful content. Best wishes to you & Flash on the Colorado Trail! BobV

[@akwild1]

Thank you Bob. I was thinking the same thing when hiking through Oregon last year. Thanks for the recommendation on Silverlight socks. I’ll check them out.

[@tiger2too18]

I have chosen several of those mentioned. Thanks for the tip on bug shirts. I look forward to your CT hiking videos. I wanted to do this with my wife and son, but I may coax them into doing the Camino de Santiago first as that is a little lower of a learning curve. Enjoy your act together with Flash.

[@akwild1]

Thank you. I have many positive comments I’ll share about the CT, and of course, I plan to make a documentary about the experience.

[@danidaskam1027]

I have the BeFree. So far, so good 👍 Thanks for the info.

[@akwild1]

Thanks. I like mine. Been using it on the CT.

[@RaaRaaSeattle]

If you’re prone to arthritis, gravity filters are fantastic. I’m using the Cnoc system. Not as light but easier on the joints.

[@akwild1]

Yes, I like how my hiking partner uses his CNOC/ Sawyer system to gravity filter his water. It allows you to multi-task.

[@mobius9818]

I have the Topo Pursuit 2s, and while they are like walking on clouds, I also have the Merrell Moab3s and my feet feel super secure and supported. I think the Merrells are great for more rocky terrain, where a turned ankle could happen easily. They are just....SOLID. Heavier, yes, but who needs a strained ankle on the trail?

[@akwild1]

I’m 350 miles into the Colorado Trail and your words are spot on. I’m glad to have solid hiking boots on rocky terrain. My ankles appreciate it.

[@mtadams2009]

I have used that exact show for multiple years and hiked, AT, Long Trail and they have worked great. I could never use most of the trail runners because of the zero drop. They caused issue with my Achilles, which I injured decades ago. I go one size up and use Super Feet insoles. To be honest I think they were fine without the insoles. I pick them up for sale at REI for a good price when they are on sale. I hope you are enjoying the CT. Take care

[@akwild1]

Yes, zero drops killed my feet. I am hiking the CT in my Moab’s without designer insoles and doing great. I love the CT. Awesome hikers, trail conditions and people along the way.

[@safromnc8616]

Outside of Altras there are plenty of options that aren't zero drops. I used Salmings for years & I'm currently wearing mostly Topos (although I wish they had better side support).

[@dwaynestewart6095]

well brother I would say you made some good changes. hopefully they work out like you want. By the way , if we ever meet on the trail you will get a cup of coffee from a French press. my biggest luxury is a French press and a moka pot that is ALWAYS in my pack😂😂😂. the product of a coffee junkie. we are all nice and dry now and I am in the woods having breakfast. enjoy your hike. Dwayne

[@akwild1]

Coffee junkies unite! Man we have a lot in common!

[@dwaynestewart6095]

@akwild1 Yes, my brother , I believe we do. brothers from different mothers.

[@sbaerman]

I’ve been using the Katadyn BeFree water filter for a few years now. The water bag seems bombproof. My filter start to clog up and I had to squeeze “really” hard and the bag takes it. If I was going for a really long trip I might consider taking an extra filter, the swishing technique helps, but the water flow will eventually slow down.

[@akwild1]

I’ve experienced everything you said with the Katadyn along the CT. The bag had held up remarkably well, and I purchased a 42 mm CNOC backup just in case. The filter has slowed, and I’m trying to figure out the best flush/clean method.

[@HuangXingQing]

Will try the FtF sox. Ordered a FTail but it arrived after I hit the PCT. I used the BFree exclusively for two weeks and like it. Ordered an entire skeeter suit but haven't used it. Carried the SSqueeze but never had to use it. Consider the BFree a section filter, meaning if it lasts an entire section it has 'served it's time'. Had an extra bladder in OR since I'd heard they 'don't last long'. IINM, the SSqueeze is better with some water types and BFree with others. I'm interested in hearing how the heavier footwear works out since I just, finally, got off heavier footwear myself so plan to use lighter ones unless I have trouble. Have a great time you two!

[@akwild1]

Hopefully the BeFree will work well for the entire 485-mile CT. My mid weight hiking boots are working like a dream so far. I love the ankle support and sole strength.

[@HuangXingQing]

@@akwild1 I just found a place to store my rig and a real Trail Angel to ferry me back/forth so I should be back on the PCT next month ala it cools down.

[@safromnc8616]

I own several pairs of Merrells including a hiking shoe. I don't know about the Moab, but I tend to steer clear of waterproof or Gore-tex shoes. That may differ when I am in Ak, but when they do get wet, you can seemingly never get them dry.

[@akwild1]

Yes, same here. My Merrells take awhile to dry out but they get there.

[@skyblue-lb9kr]

french press thermal commuter cup works great :)

[@akwild1]

Thank you. I have one just never taken it backpacking. Worth considering.

[@sierrajohn47]

Some good suggestions, AK. Thanks.

[@akwild1]

You bet. Thanks for watching!

[@glenloewen7507]

Thanks for sharing your changes in this video! It’s always great to see what people are doing for our own consideration. I’ve always been a “boot guy”, but I’m trying to make the transition to Speedgoats in an effort to get the added lightness, coolness, and drying abilities. I *just* bought that exact same pump, and thus far I’m loving it. I’ve been a bugshirt guy almost all of my hiking life because I experience extreme bugs, similar to what you describe. I’ll look at the one you just mentioned since I do believe mine is too hot for the PCT. The BeFree is interesting. My backpacking partner bought one, and tried it for the first time this season. When he tried using it, the water “appeared” unchanged from how it started, so we were scared to drink it. Have you found that it makes your water clear after filtering?

[@akwild1]

Luckily I’ve been filtering clear water. I haven’t noticed any problems so far. I am worried about the bag ripping although that hasn’t happened yet. I might buy a 42 mm CNOC bag as a backup. I can also bum Flash’s Sawyer if I have a problem with the BeFree.

[@susiebennett6953]

Thank you for this video . Just got the Katadyn filter as a gift . I’ve always used sawyer . Katadyn is great, any ideas on how to get plastic taste to go away ?

[@akwild1]

I haven’t noticed a plastic taste. I wonder if running a few liters through it will eliminate the problem. So far the Katadyn has held up on my CT thru hike.

[@timmo971]

My experience says if you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis you need a big toe box shoe. I used to be a merril fanboy but boy oh boy I had problems that took a really long time to put two n two together

[@akwild1]

Last year on the PCT, I wore Hoka Speedgoats with arch supports. That system served me well for more than 2000 miles the year before, yet I got PF in 2023. Now I’ve hiked more than 100 miles so far on the CT with my Moab’s, wide toe box and without arch supports, and my feet are rocking, although they get hotter and sweatier. I especially like having strong ankle support. The only “safe” advice I feel confident in giving, is to try a variety of shoes/boots over long distances with a 20-30 pound pack, and narrow in on the shoes/boots that feel right for your particular style and anatomy.

[@rockcrest6906]

Great video!! I do have a Q about plantar fasciitis. After a couple of day hikes a month ago I realized my left heel was sore when I got up in the am. I was told u have PF. I'm getting ready to hike Mt. Katahdin in Maine in Sept. R there any exercises/stretches you would rec? I have been told about rolling on a golf ball until u can't stand it (says its breaking up the scar tissue ect that has happened in your foot) then put in cold water, seems to help but just thought I would ask. Thanks for your time Michael

[@akwild1]

Sounds like what I experienced last year. I would recommend the book Happy Feet, Happy Hike by Jessica Llach. She gets through hikers.

[@juanbackpacks]

I still have my 4 year old BeFree bag. I’ve done the JMT, HST, TRT and part of the Uinta Highline with the bag plus many other miles…. I don’t baby it and it is still holding up.

[@akwild1]

Great to hear. Mine has been holding up well on the CT. What method do you use to clean your filter?

[@RedSmitty]

Farm to Feet socks, i haven't heard of those. I'm a die hard SmartWool Sock guy, in my opinion, "best socks ever". I recently tried some Alpaca wool socks and wont go there again.

[@akwild1]

I like Darn Tough, also, but I’m willing to expand my foot repertoire.

[@tanvach]

Hi, thanks for these tips. Do you mind sharing what ankle brace you are using? I am prone to twisting my ankle and having tried few options they tend to be too large to feel comfortable in my shoes.

[@akwild1]

I have a Sleeve Stars Ankle Brace for backup. I haven’t needed it so far on the CT.

[@tanvach]

@@akwild1 thanks!

[@Andy-ku3jy]

Oh PCT in 2022 ! How old were you then and did you finish the whole trail ?

[@akwild1]

I was 62, and in 2023 we completed all but the last 30 miles due to fires and smoke.

[@Andy-ku3jy]

@@akwild1 epic! and inspiring, from a fellow old guy hiker. Can I ask, did you get any repetitive strain injuries, blistering, or injury from falling/tripping - while on trail ?

[@Live_Wild_Outdoors]

Just food for thought, if the BeFree freezes, the filter is no longer good.(so Ive heard). I had 1 freeze during elk season last year. Once it froze. it didnt allow any more water through the filter even after it thawed.

[@akwild1]

Excellent point. If I think it might freeze at night I place it in a plastic bag and place it near my feet in my sleeping bag.

[@josephbastian3204]

Did you try socking it in clean water?

[@davesanders9203]

First time visitor. I've beem wearing Merrell Moab Mid's all this century! Is you shoelace knot the "hikers knot"? It's a "shoelace" version of the "Surgeons knot".

[@akwild1]

I’ve used a surgeons knot in fishing, but not on my boots. I’ll look it up. Thanks.

[@samueljlarson]

Love the sock rec. May I ask what sunglasses you are wearing?

[@akwild1]

I wear the biggest, ugliest, toughest frames Costco has on hand. Transition lenses. I also have a prescription pair of sunglasses I carry backpacking.

[@meljane8339]

The CNOC looks perfect for urban travel. Do you guys start amazon stores, or some other similar registry ?

[@akwild1]

I post links to Amazon products in my description, but I don’t have a store.

[@meljane8339]

@akwild1 one of my other subscriptions, " Doing Things Dan's Way " had a couple tutorials on how to create an Amazon store, contemporarily; so, you could make any money on things you buy and advertise, and not via sponsorships, etc

[@timothyreed8417]

What type of after market foot support inserts (ie: arch supports) are you using? You mentioned you had plantar fasciitis…

[@akwild1]

I used Superfeet with arch support last year and got PF. It took 4 months for my foot to recover. Now, I’m hiking in Merrell Moab’s without after market insoles and my feet are doing very well on the Colorado Trail.

[@timothyreed8417]

@@akwild1 Did you get measured for them? What color?

[@davidstefani1]

FYI. The link for the flex tail is the same for the bug shirt.

[@akwild1]

Sorry. I might not be able to fix it, but I’ll try.

[@timgrogan883]

When you did the pct what was start date and how long did it take you to finish ? I’m going to be 62 in 2025 and I’m hoping to hike the pct .

[@akwild1]

We started March 18, 2022 and completed 2005 miles that year, and were turned back due to fires. In 2023, we completed the trek with the exception of the last 30 miles from Hart’s Pass to the border, again turned back by smoke and fires. This adventure took about 6 1/2 months. I was 62 when I started, and this year I’m hiking the Colorado Trail. Good luck, Tim.

[@timgrogan883]

@@akwild1 I just watched the video of y’all hiking again and lessoning to your reasons for hiking and it was like you were ready my mind . Thanks for sharing your experience and I hope I get to experience the trail like you did.

[@olivern4784]

If you are concerned with the durability of the cnoc Vecto water container, you could get the VectoX. "The VectoX is Cnoc's true and tested Vecto, but eXtra: more durable, thicker and tougher, for adventurers who demand more from their gear. The VectoX is light, extra durable and easy to handle. It is easy to fill with just a couple of scoops, carry to a dry camp or filter on the spot with a 28mm or 42mm compatible filter." Weight: 3.25oz | 92g (2L)

[@akwild1]

Thank you. I’ll try it out.

[@middleagednzbackpacker7168]

Befree sports caps break often, then it leaks or can’t be used to store water (take a spare cap). I use it for cleaner water areas, I use the sawyer when I need a more robust filter system Tks for the video

[@akwild1]

Thanks for the tip. So far I’m happy with the Kathryn on the CT. I’ll carry an extra cap as you suggest. Thank you.

[@middleagednzbackpacker7168]

Love the video's thanks, I am 55 so relevant and inspiring - got me out of the office and one of your earlier videos on training got me to drop alcohol. I am based in New Zealand, so slightly different conditions (wetter and rough trails).

[@hope2someday691]

I was warned about wearing high top boots as they provide too much rigidity on the ankles. This forces the knee to perform the flexing that the ankle is supposed to do and is adapted for. So in short, your knees endure more stress when your ankles don’t.

[@akwild1]

I understand what you’re saying. I really appreciate my mid weight hiking boots during the rocky sections of the Colorado Trail. They’ve saved my ankles, and my knees seem strong. It took about 300 miles for my trail legs to form.

[@bernielamont825]

Am from PA (the land of rocks and roots) at 66 yrs old they make my feet and legs sore. Do the high ankle shoes help? As far as airpads go, the horizontal baffles make my back sore after about an hour, the vertical ones don't seem to bother me. Have you heard of this or is it all in my head? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[@akwild1]

Mid weight hiking boots have helped me a lot this year. My ankles are not sore, and the beefier sole has helped protect my arches. I’m not sure the cause of the pain you feel. Many serious hikers undergo a gait analysis to identify best practices for their feet.

[@marnieandnoelle]

For me, an air mattress pump is necessary. There's no way I could blow up my air mattress with my own breath without keeling over!

[@akwild1]

Yes, it’s come in handy in the CT, especially at higher elevations.

[@jimc386]

pump and bug jacket seem to have same link

[@akwild1]

Please try the link now. I think I fixed it: amzn.to/3AnVw1e