If you're new to backpacking, or if you’re hopelessly in love with someone who wants you to love backpacking, then this podcast is for you. We’ll talk about the essentials, how to lighten your load, and how to make the most of your time on the trail.
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007: When It Rains, You’re Covered
Recent research by a Kansas State physicist proves that petite folks have the advantage on the trail. Next, be sure to pack an umbrella (is this a joke?) on your next backpacking trip. On the SUMMIT™ Gear Review, we review a basic hat that left Heather’s ears out cold. And you’ll learn how to make a simple breakfast that will take you back to your idyllic childhood in the Swiss Alps.
Show Notes: Episode 007
Opening
* When backpacking, it pays to be small
* Research from Michael O’Shea, a physicist at Kansas State University
* Smaller animals and people can carry a greater percentage of their body weight
* Heather has a hard time figuring out the metric system…
* We don’t recommend packing more just because you can, but it’s nice to know that petite folks may have an advantage on the trail
The Top 5 Ways to Use an Umbrella While Backpacking
Rain Protection
* Benefits: instant rain protection for all-of-a sudden downpours
* Don’t take it as your only rain protection.
* Intermittent rain vs. sideways rain
Sunshade/Parasol
* The weight of the umbrella is less than the extra weight of the water you’d have to carry
Windscreen
* Starting fire/cooking
* Preparing meals
Temporary Micro Shelter
* Rain gear covers your body, but an umbrella can cover a map, a match, injury
Privacy Screen
* Perfect for potty breaks
* Just remember to take your umbrella with you when you’re done
SUMMIT Gear Review™: SmartWool “The Lid” Hat
Structure
* Classic winter hat
* 50% Merino Wool, 50% Acrylic
* Hat is sewn together at the top to form a six pointed star (makes for nice rounded top)
* Has very little stretch, so don’t expect to be able to pull this one down around your ears
Utility
* It’s a hat
* Has a built in 2 1/2” headband liner that doubles the warmth around the ears and head
* Didn’t quite cover ears…
Mass
* 2 ounces
* Fits head size 21.6 – 23.6 inches
Maintenance
* Machine wash cold
* Tumble cool
* “Cool iron when needed”
* Hand wash/flat or line dry
Investment:
* $30
* I thought I was paying for a 100% Merino wool hat (actually 50% acrylic)
* Read tags before you buy—regardless of the brand’s reputation
* Part of investment is value
* $30 is too much cost, not enough value…
Trial:
* If it were 100% merino wool it may have repelled water better and would have been even warmer when wet than a 50/50 blend
* Pleased with other Smart Wool products
* Excellent customer service from SmartWool
Backpack Hack of the Week™: Swiss Muesli
1/2 cup regular oats
2 Tbs NIDO
2 Tbs chia seeds
1 Tbs. brown sugar
1/4 cup chopped cashews
Mix and store in plastic bag. When ready to make, add water. Eat your Swiss Muesli from plastic bag or empty peanut butter jar.
* 642 calories, 5.6 ounces = 115 calories/oz
* Full of fiber, long lasting carbs, protein
* This breakfast requires no cooking
Trail Wisdom
“There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.”
-Ranulph Fiennes