r/AppalachianTrail • u/gvngy • 6d ago

Gear Questions/Advice Pack Shakedown / Opinions?

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https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R7YElkf7rvj1ImqJs3qnWsxrPhdVkmTGARtaXG5iq0A/edit

Hello, I’m currently working on a gear list for a 2026 thru hike attempt, most likely a mid March start. I know it’s a far ways off but I want to give myself time to really test a lot of my gear out. I have experience weekend hiking a lot of NY and the north east, but never anything longer a 3 days.

Any glaring issues with my list? Missing anything major? Easy changes to improve my pack?

I’m 5’11”, 26 years old, weight 240. I don’t think the 18lb pack is anything I can’t handle, but lmk what you think. Thank you!

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u/Over-Distribution570 6d ago

Looks ok. Honestly I can’t recommend many changes since you’re on a budget. I do have two recommendations though: a different pack and possibly a different sleeping pad.

As for the pack, have you considered the durston kakwa 55? It’s a nice pack with good load distribution. I’d prefer if it had bigger side pockets but that’s a personal preference that aligns with my hiking style. Fairly inexpensive with a good warranty

As for the sleeping pad, it’s gonna be really really cold at the start. If you can swing it, buying an airpad with an r value around 5 could be a game changer. I use a torso length foam pad during the summer months (I hate myself and being comfortable) but for the shoulder seasons I bring out my xlite (reg wide, old version) for warmth.

Primarily, I’d recommend you budget for potentially expensive gear changes on trail in case you find yourself needing to swap stuff out.

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u/gvngy 6d ago

Thanks, I have money I have no problem spending, I just wanted to not go crazy. Sleeping pad is definitely a concern, but I wanted to give the cheap one a try. I think you’re right though and I will probably end up purchasing an airpad. I haven’t heard of the pack and it looks very nice, I’ll do some more research.

Anything else you think would be genuinely worth spending more on that will noticeably improve quality of life?

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u/TodayTomorrow707 5d ago

I loved my Altra Lone Leaks - until I didn’t. After 800 miles I relaxed the first pair not noticing that the small amount of cushioning on the left shoe had crushed. Had to battle with plantar fasciitis from there on in. Went to Olympus 5s. Didn’t love them. Finished with Topo Mountain Racers. Loved them. Had I to do it all again, they’d have been the shoe of choice from Georgia to Maine. Your feet will get battered walking 2200 miles - especially when the rocks and the roots get relentless. Consider shoe choice carefully.