Gearing Up

I figured that in order to do this climb properly, I will need to get the right sort of equipment. To start things off, I did a bunch of research on recommended footwear for climbing 14ers. I read lots of reviews and eventually decided on the Saucony Men's Peregrine ISO Trail Running Shoes. I think this is the first time I ordered shoes online but I am quite pleased with them after just wearing them for a couple of days. The heel support does not come up very high, so I don't think I'll be able to wear my usual orthodics which have a 3/4" lift at the heel. The uppers are super light and the sole is wide and has great grip.

My second purchase was trail socks. My research showed that socks with 70% merino wool are both cool in the heat and warm in the cold. The Kirkland Signature trail socks provide some cushioning and will help prevent blisters.

I looked into getting a hydration pack thinking that would be a good way to go. However I also realized that a backpack style carrier would be hot at times and more tiring, so I opted instead for an Everest waist carrier. I need to be able to carry 3L of water with me, so the options that allow for two 1L bottles were fairly limited.

The water bottles that came with this pack were too small so I went with the widest 1L (32 oz) bottles that would fit into the carrier. The Nalgene bottles are not too tall and should give more room for my elbows.

I spotted these trekking poles at the local thrift store for $5. They look to be in great shape and should definitely help save my knees on the way down.