AboutMatt Wertman Expertise You`re thinking of hiking the infamous Appalachian Trail and now you`d like to get the important information on everything and anything from someone who`s actually done it. I completed my hike October 8th, 1999 taking a total of 5 months and 8 days. I can help you by giving constructive feedback on gear, trip cost, people, and general expectations.
Question My scout group and I are in the process of training for a 10 day backpacking trip to Philmont, New Mexico next summer. I am new to hiking with anything more than a simple daypack, and now find myself learning how to navigate a trail with a pack which will eventually weigh up to 45 pounds. On our last hike, a 7 miler with an overnight on the M & M trail in the Amherst/Pelham area of Massachusetts, carrying a pack weighing about 32 pounds, I started having some trouble with my feet. The outer parts, along the pinky toe area, started going numb, then cramping, and eventually all of my toes felt like they were on fire...not fun! After a brief rest, they started feeling better, but unfortunately the sensations returned. This has happened once before, on a 5 mile hike, with a 25 pound pack. My question is, do you think this is a boot problem or a foot problem? My boots are about 4 years old, Garmont, and are in good shape, as far as I know. I appreciate any insight you could give me!
Answer Probably a boot problem, but I'm no expert.
If you don't have liner s-oks, get them. And if you're doing cotton - sock, don't. Get wool socks- any EMS or gen outfitter would have them.
I'd also find a good back packing outfitter - niche store, not a box and look at their gear.
Vasque is always a good brand and they're easy to break in.
But make sure that they aren't to big.'
Also if they're heavy monsters, go with lighter weight boots, even hiking shoes if possible.
Check into some ultra lightning books for more assistance. I find that boyscouts as a rule of thumb are caring to much and in a lot of cases equipment not suitable for your trip. ( I mean no offense)
Go to the Appalachian Trail web site for good links.
Pack - Mountain Hardware - great company to minimize weight.
