Selecting the very best Clothes and equipment for Walking

Thank you Darwin! Which kind of Buff? The merino wool one or the cheaper one?

Wasn’t sure if I caught that sponsored advertisement in the middle… wait, was this whole video an ad?

I follow very few people but have to say you and Homemade Wanderlust are my favorites.

Has anyone used Patagonia baggies pants for the PCT desert/thoughts?

Wow, loved your content until you sold out with those shameless product plugs. The first few were sneakily executed, but the tacky and disgraceful coffee club plug… dude. Ya lost me.

waw����
Welcome to my channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTXffzU3RB836JYmpJNGAgw

Would love to get a lit of the clothing Snuggles brings along on through hikes too!

Cool to hear you are going for PCT 2018, hope to see you on the trail, I’m also doing a thru hike this year! Now about the ghost whisper, would you consider that a necessity and about from what point on? That is the one thing on this list that I don’t have a substitute for although my normal jacket is a bit heavier and might keep me a bit warmer I imagine (arcteryx beta ar), what do you think?

Great video,as usual Athena ��just a quick question if you don’t mind,I gotta small tear in my rab generator jacket it’s got a pretext shell what’s the tape you use to patch up ya Patagonia micro puff jacket��

Great Vlog Anthena, I have just bought a down jacket by mountain equipment and I’m now looking for a lightweight waterproof jacket to put over the top when the weather turns. Woukd you recommend buying a larger size or stick to the size you are?

Hi Athena, I just wanted to say what an excellent guide this is. I’ve been walking in the hills (mainly in the Lake District) for a good while now and feel like my layering system is pretty well sorted by now, but it can be really challenging for people who are new to the outdoors to get their head around. You’ve made it accessible and simple here, and hopefully many people will learn a lot from your experience. I’m certainly going to try a couple of synthetic insulation jackets in place of my down stuff on the back of this. Thanks!

Thanks Athena. Really helpful and interesting episode. Would like to hear your thoughts on poles. I’m thinking of getting some and have no idea where to start.

Haha, You go hiking with next to nothing, thin hoodies and you dont even take much food but you take some massive camera and drones with tripod? LOL is it because if you didnt film it, it didnt happen?
How horrible it must be to be out there and being a slave to ‘content’.. What a shitty mindset to have

hey thank you ive been watching ur video and interested about ypur gears s thank you for this

I want to start doing a hiking where and how i should start i leave in newyork:( can some one help me

Kraig, congratulations for your crossings.What is the weight of this gas cartridge shown? Thanks

Fantastic!! Thanks so much for making this video — it’s super helpful!

I’m sorry about your car window. My brother got his truck stolen. It broke his heart and I felt that in my soul. We don’t have much but what we do have is God given. I like to think thru-hiking heals the heart and serves the soul.

I love how you call a ‘walk’. Here in Canada that is something we do around the neighborhood. ����

I’ll be heading to Scotland this fall for photography and enjoying some ‘walks’. Planning to spend some time to start in Glencoe.

Did you consider wearing shorts and a UV-protection leggings? Should be lighter than the pants…I also would think about taking this in the sierras. I haven´t been on the PCT, but from all that I´ve seen you won´t find much shade up there + reflection from the snow…There is still a big risk of getting sunburned…especially if you wear the pants all the time before. Good luck for your hike!!!

Good video man! I have never been using long johns under my shorts,do you think it is better to go with a pair of classic long johns or running tights? I would say running tights have a smaller holes in the fabric, so they can be better in a stopping wind? Thanks

Thank you for all of the gear tips. I appreciate it greatly.

Outdoor research has an infinity guarantee to replace your jacket if it falls apart.

hey Kraig, do you use something to keep you camera protected in your bag? I been looking for a light weight solution for a while now with no luck, thanks

Hi athena Enjoyed that its always interesting to see what gear other people use I am like you i always buy the best kit i can if you buy cheap it costs you more in the long run Thanks for that athena atvb chris

Is the helium ll worth the money? I’ve seen folk love it and others complain about it’s breathability.

Try out the Kuhl Radikl pant. I used to wear Renegade, but now the Radikl is all I have. Lighter, better movement, same cut, just as tough. Gusset (and sides) is full tough mesh. It’s amazing huge range of motion. Find them and try on a pair. They’re awsome.

Useful! What brand micro spikes? I need some for regular hiking boots like Taylor Stitch or Danner.

How about a list of the items mentioned in the vid, I’m old, lol.

Could you do a similar video for climbing? Like what you wear on the wall and on the ground but maybe also some basic gear such as harness, helmet, approach shoes? I went climbing Outside a lot more this spring and found it sometimes difficult to dress for the weather (I‘m from Northern Germany)and fit the gear and everything into my 35 liter backpack. Would be really interesting how you deal with this.
Just recently found your account and love your content! Will definitely watch all your (old) videos, keep them up!

Taking the mindset of the urbanite influencer e-thot/consumer into the outdoors

hello im planning the pct in 2019 what kind of permits do you need for the hike and i heard you have to put in an application for the pct any type of maps that would help thank

My tips for care of all of the items Athena mentions: never put it in the dryer (with heat). Hang dry or machine dry without heat. For socks: wear one (good) pair inside boots only and remove them immediately after hiking so as to not contaminate them on floors and allow them to dry as quickly as possible. Same goes for base layer if you are camping.

The particular boots in this video are the Meindl Burma, which has recently been replaced with the Meindl Bhutan. They’re quality boots, but anything similar with good support and grip will do!

Buffalo for warm kit, been using it for the last 30+ years (in both the military and civi street) and has never failed me

Wow another youtuber who just loves coffee, you shouldn’t be drinking it, it’s an addictive substance and people often can’t stop drinking after they start. You shouldn’t depend on it.

I been wearing leggings for my walks more lately their fab I really like them.

Do you have a link for the sun hoodie, I can’t seem to see it in the description

Hi Athena, thanks for the video. I might try wearing 2 base layers of marino wool. Also, my wife and I have started carrying a small half sponge and at the end of every hike. We wash our boots in the last stream we pass. In the Peak District this is usually quite near the end point of the hike as there is plenty of water around. So the boots end up cleaner than would normally be the case and mostly good enough to leave to dry as is for the next time. I love my 4-season Altbergs all year round.

Just curious as I noticed you didn’t show food or how much water you carry. I take it you aren’t normally doing extended hikes? i.e. 3-5 days, week long? That’s just me assuming though from what I saw on the video. I’d like to see your pack fully locked and loaded if you do those types. I’m always dredging new ideas from fellow hikers I do like the idea of the collapsible water bag in case you come across a source.

Can I ask you how you deal with ticks. I got bitten last year..I had trousers on so not sure how it got in. Anyway three weeks of antibiotics later and I am unsure how to wild camp but stay safe from the ticks

Have you ever tried doing what they did on Jeremiah Johnson where they had a bonfire and then buried the ashes and then slept on them? It would be like sleeping on an electric blanket in the wild.

New to the channel Athena caught it by chance, but absolutely loving the videos. Great content and the added bonus of playing catch up. Very inspirational and I’ll define be looking to do more walking around the peak district. Cheers.

Thank you, it’s always so hard to find women’s hiking clothes for younger people! Sherpa adventure gear does great outdoor gear with good ethics too! They also sell the nepalese headbands!

I use frogg toggs for rain protection and I’m a huge fan, they’re cheap and shed water like a beast, I know people complain about the durability but if you’re cautious they’ll do fine, usually only cost 20-30$, my jacket only weighs 5.5oz so theres some potential weight savings for ya!

Oh so I gotta go to Nepal for one of those sweet hats?! Deal.

#MountainIndonesia #EygerIndonesia #Reyindonesia #TnfIndonesia Enjoy The Height Of The Night

Hey Darwin…thx for the solid video update.

On the OR Helium 2…you have happily had it for years yet I keep seeing reviews that people write saying it “wetted out” on their first hike rainstorm.

Any thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated as I prep for the JMT 2019.

Good luck with the course! I think you are the perfect person to become a mountain guide.

Awesome video loved it keep up the good work inspiring people I’ve liked & subscribed to your channel please check out my channel can do sub for sub much appreciated

Rucksack Adventures

This was such a great video:) I would love to see a video about how you plan your walks and picking good routes/following a route. Looking forward to the next video:)

Planning on doing a 200km hike when I lose 15kgs. In my state WA, Aus.

Can i ask your age please Darwin? I find you very inspiring �� keep it up.

My girlfriend wears ronhill running tights to walk in. They’re cheap as chips so your not as bothered if you snag them on something. I imagine those fjallraven you wear are alot more hardwearing though.

i would love to know what is the length of small gadge blue rope attached to i’ve just seen the video “Wild Camping at Angle Tarn, Lake District” where you had this under your left arm it’s here again at 2:49 under your partners arm im guessing it either the map or compass???

Hello Athena. I bet you needed a cup of tea after all that talking! Great informative video. I totally agree it’s worth investment in kit. I bought a Buffalo Mountain Shirt about 20yrs ago and it’s still in great active use today. It was around £100 at the time and I thought that was a lot….but as you say it will last a long time if you look after it. ��

I am really surprised how you got here from filming weddings. Your evolution is palpable. I admire your search for essentialism. Congrats, Kraig!

Hi Darwin, I apologize if you already answered this question, but have you considered a longer gator to provide more protection against snake bites? Would that be something that you’d recommend, particularly for the desert mies?

Hi Athena we love your videos and wonder if you would consider making another similar video to this maybe with different clothing options for different seasons. Also as many of your items are not available or out of our price reach, could you consider recommending clothing just a little cheaper than Patagonia? Mammut haglofs etc? Just a thought but obviously it may not fit in with your sponsors? No idea! Anyway thank you!��

Great video. Would love to see a Wild Camping gear setup & how you pack it. Especially for UK weather. If you use 1 pack liner or individual dry bags or a pack cover. Do you get it all into your 40 litre. What your typical base weight is. Do you carry Multi-tools, Cooking pots & the kitchen sink or keep it simple. Cheers.

Thank you so much for this thorough video, it was super helpful.

That was quite possibly the smoothest transition to a video sponsor plug ever conducted.

I have a Patagonia fleece that is 30 years old and still in good shape. I don’t like how they make the collars on their clothes now.

Another great video athena keep up the great work….Stewart

Thanks Athena! Been loving your videos and feeling inspired to get out an explore. I know you mentioned bike packing in some of your past videos. Would love to hear your tips for packing what you need for a multi-day bike adventure. ��

Also hiking the PCT in 2018 what time frame are you starting the trail? Maybe ill catch you there i would love to meet you

A 20 year old Patagonia Jkt? That’s not old! I’m still wearing mine that I bought in 1989 lol

Good video with loads of detail, clear explanation and visuals. I have a couple of pairs of Fjallraven trousers and will check out the Abisko Leggings

Major fault with your pack and other similar ones is lack of Monofilament mesh and foam to reduce sweating. Since each liter of water weighs 1kilogram the mesh and foam back more than makes up for the minimal weight increase.

This video covers well how I feel about layering using merino and mid / insulation waterproof layers. I walk a lot in the Peak District and it provides lots of options for ascent, descent and the plateaus where weather changes quickly. I also like how the video shows how it’s good to open up to other types of gear that may fit your purpose like the longer snowboard jacket as a waterproof layer. Personally I like Howies merino long sleeve tops for layering. I also like merino long johns for layering. I will need new boots in the next year or so so will be looking into the Malhams. It’s always good to see other people’s perceptions of kit for hiking in the damp cold northern uk. The need differs from the west coast us and alpine vlogs.

The Kuhl Radikl is a great long pant for hot weather hiking. They have synthetic stretch panels in different areas which do a great job keeping you cool. Honestly, I’ve never worn more comfortable pants.

Really great video again and I totally agree on buying one or two good quality over lots of cheaper options. I read your blog post a while back and bought the Fjallraven tracking trousers after doing much research (because yes… they are expensive) but have loved them so much AND the “open” pocket fits the large iPhone which was important to me. I am quite short so I do have to fold the bottoms over, but as you said… not a big deal. I love Patagonia but only have their undergarments so far LOL as I have a pretty good setup at this time for hiking. I am in the UK a lot walking/hiking with my BF and it definitely is a different environment than Arizona so I have my favorites for each part of the world:))) Looking forward to your next video!

Hej,
Thanks for your video. Very inspiring to watch like the others of yours I’ve seen so far.One question: don’t you use waterproof pants, Gore-tex or something like that?
If no, why not and how do you manage in cold, rainy weather?
With best wishes for the next hike.

I always take an umbrella. Works great if it’s not windy. And remember you can always take a layer off, but can’t add it if it’s not there.
Are there any brands that don’t harm animals in the making? So any vegan brands?

This was so useful! Could you also do a video on how you plan your walks? I’m new in the uk and I know there are tons of nice walks around me (I’m in the north east) but I don’t really know how to find them and plan for them. Thanks!

I live in Sonora about a hour or so away from Kennedy meadows plan on doing the at in a couple years

have you tried any arcteryx? found them a few years ago and all been super epic stuff, bit pricey, but as you said good gear is an investment, but the cuts and fits work awesome for me

Hi I know Darwin isn’t ur real name. I have many questions as ur 1 of my first three subscriptions. I very much appreciate what you do. But is there a less public way to reach you. I want to offer YouTubers like u support but I’m a very private person. I don’t wanna criticize anyone on public formim but I also have the up most respect for keeping as private as possible. Is there a way u prefer pple contacting on public formim

Patagonia are no better, (environmentally), than most of the other quality brands, Mountain Equipment, Rab etcthey use similar factories and tent to be signed up to the same programs, (blue sign, fare ware foundation)Patagonia marketing is just great at pointing it out and this helps green washing their less than ethical areas �� compared to most clothing brands, (non-outdoor), they are all pretty goodthe best however, by some margin, (especially historically), is Paramo ���� this is the ethical outdoor clothing brand, but been a small U.K. indy they just don’t get the platform to shout about it �� Enjoy your walking, Andy ��

Waterproofs are the items you buy the most, they eventually wet out even after numerous treatments no matter how much you spend.

That sucks!  I worry about a break-in every time I’m parked at a trailhead.  So far I’ve been lucky.  Now I probably just jinxed myself.

I ripped my down top almost on a overgrown right of way and i also find them not much use most the time in the wet British mild weather mostly maybe ok for the Cairngorms. For a backpack i go for tough one rather that light weight as i often pass thorns on rights of way often. Richard

I think there should be a major campaign to install Athena to be the new Queen of Britain ��

0:11
Kraig: “I’ve been using a hyper lite “

Also Kraig: Swings a boulder-like backpack on him

I’ve been using the or tantrum jacket and it’s the best I’ve ever had. it doubles as a shirt and offers sun protection without being to hot.

Hey guys! I hope you enjoy this video:) It ended up being really long as it turns out I had a lot to say. I have also done an accompanying blogpost with some more information here: https://wildandwords.com/blogpost/what-i-wear-for-hillwalking. Next week I’ll make a video about what I pack in my bag also. Thanks for watching!

Have you ever used a waterproof sock, like the sealskinz? I’m thinking a pair to put on after my shoes get wet might be handy.

I just got my OR rain jacket. I love it. Im getting ready to hit the north country trail here in michigan. Im doing 1300 miles. Cant wait. You really have helped me a ton Darwin. Thanks brotha.

takes copious notes im going to look like a Darwin clone out on the trail

I Loved this video, so incredibly helpful! I bought all of my gear second hand except for socks and footwear. This way I was able to afford quality items from some of the pricier brands… I am going to break the cardinal rule and wear some cotton though, everything I own is cotton and I don’t want to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe at once haha. Hopefully I’ll be ok!

Hi, fantastic and informative video! I couldn’t agree more on your top two most important items: boots and an insulating layer are a must!
Here’s a tip that worked out for me, regarding gloves: I always pack a pair of latex gloves (like the ones used by doctors), and if it starts raining I put them on over my gloves. They are super light, small and completely waterproof (the only downside is that they’re not breathable at all)!
Cheers from Italy!��

You may have mention this somewhere, but I haven’t heard. Why isn’t Snuggles going on the PCT with you? I thought the lifestyle change was to allow you both to go…

Hi Darwin, thank you for all the awesome videos. Noob question here, I love the flexibility of the layering system, during cold spell you will be wearing the thermal tights, what do you do when its cold and then starts raining? Do you wear rain pants over your thermals? Or is your thermal pants is of a material that stays warm when it rains? Thanks again, love your channel.

No, not the Exofficio briefs! Normally thru-hikers don’t smell very good but you’ll have even the other thru-hikers avoiding your funk if you wear those! After five days on the Chilkoot trail, I burned mine. They started to smell bad after one day.

do you travel only with carry on luggage? if yes is it okay to keep microspikes and trecking poles?

I like to take my silk weight balaclava. I probably use it like your buff but the buff likely has more uses.

I was at this years Outdoor Retailers show and found a company ‘Compass 360’, you said you may need to replace your rain jacket soon. They have a new product/rain jacket called the Ultra-Pak Jacket, 7oz. and has a self stuff storage pocket. Check them out.
Thanks for taking the time to help us less experienced hikers, great and needed info.

I see you have a link that says Helium 2 that goes to a Helium HD. In your video you say Helium 2 HD which I think are 2 separate jackets. Would you take the lighter Helium 2 on the PCT or do you think the heaver HD is needed?

I’m doing 4 days and 3 nights in the Grand Canyon in Oct. Would any of this stuff you wear be good for that? I’m only con earned about staying warm at night and early am. I’m betting it will be dry. Great vids and I look forward to more.

Hey Kraig! Love your videos, great work mate! But how come you did not mention your pocket knife Opinel? =) I ve seen you using one during your trip to Spain. Was wondering which number Opinel do you use. Stay safe and keep up the good work bud.

Hey Darwin, love your videos, is your rain jacket waterproof enough? I have a Patagonia Houdini and I’m worried it might not be waterproof enough under sustained rain. Thanks and keep ’em coming!

Love those Kuhls. I’d leave the briefs at home. Go commando and save some weight while increasing ‘breathability’ and cooling. Sock liners, yes. Crotch liners, no!

I prefer a wide brimmed hat for high sun conditions. Keep that sun off your neck and ears.

I think outdoor Research has a lifetime guarantee on those jackets

Looks good. For Pants I prefer the Prana Zion Stretch pant. You could also save a few ounces in the desert by carrying a good wind layer such as Patagonia Houdini in place of your rain Jacket. That would also save wear and tear on your Rain Jacket until you get to KM. I hope to be back out there NOBO from Walker Pass mid June. Good Luck.

Recommendations for shoe inserts? Durable, comfortable, and fast drying!

Looks like Nike no longer offers the Pro Combat Thermal Tights, any recommendations?

hey just out of curiosity do you take your bracelets and ring off when hiking? have you had any trouble with it in the past etc? i would like to hear more on this if theres anything to tell

I just received my Hyperlite 2400 yesterday! Can’t wait to use it in Colorado this week! Namaste! ����

Love this. I used to do gear reviews for a very popular outdoors mag. I always argued that you dont need a woolly hat that cost £40 and has the right label.

I’m ex forces. Good pair of quality boots. Decent trousers that can dry quickly. Waterproof, warm jacket etc. Keep it basic.

I’m happy that you encouraged that it’s not just about clothing. Fitness, ability to use a map and compass, mental ability too.

Top chic. Great vid x

Great video again always like to know what clothes people are selecting. Mostly because I think I tend to overpack clothes. Although I do need to cut down personally, I think that I would end-up with a few more items than your kit.

I wear SAXX underwear which are available in merino wool and like to change out every couple days so that’s determined by the duration of my planned hike (7-day hike would be 2-3 pairs). I’m also one of those folks that like extra socks one pair on, two pairs in the pack.

For pants, I like the Prana Stretch Zion convertible pants. They are “technically” a climbing pant, but I love the pair I have for hiking. Converts to shorts, but can also be a full pant. They come in at 412g and are quite durable. I’m probably going to get a second pair to have two. (one in pack)

Shirts: I just picked-up an Outdoor Research Astroman long-sleeve sun shirt and LOVE it. I have a couple Columbia sun shirts that I also like as well. Again, I have one on and one in the pack. Basically, I like to have a full change of clothes in the pack in case I get wet. My old Scout Leaders made me super-paranoid about hypothermia.:)

Again, depending on the hike, I also sometimes bring a pair of work gloves. This is for areas when I’m climbing up cliff faces, barnacle covered rocks, or root systems.

I’m very interested in your picks for camp jacket and rain jacket. Mine are FAR too heavy.

The pants I use are the Wrangler Performance Outdoor Pants from Wally World (Walmart). They are 34/30 and weigh 10.2oz. They have a little bit of elasticity and great breathability. I’ve hiked through a lot of briers and the pants have held up well. I hardly sweat in them and that’s saying a lot considering I live in Florida. Front and back pockets as well as a zippered cargo pocket on the left leg. Excellent hiking pants for under $25.