The First 40 Miles: Hiking and Backpacking Podcast

Show Notes: Episode 064 Today on The First 40 Miles, is backpacking just a summer fling? We’ll talk about the challenges of winter backpacking, and how to remain thermally neutral. Then, if you’ve ever dreamed of wrapping your legs in merino and baby alpaca fiber, then your dreams are about to come true on today’s SUMMIT Gear Review. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, the forest has no lost and found, but it does have some handy free stuff laying around that you can use if you lose some gear. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the hills and fells, Chris Townsend. Opening * Challenges of winter backpacking: * more chance of rain/snow/high wind * lower temps * use lamp more * less daylight hours * trail obscured * hardest hiking conditions 34 and rain (cold + wet) * risk of hypothermia * risk of falling trees * However, if you go out when no one is out, you’ll see things that no one else will see Top 5 Tips for Dealing With the Cold Stay Dry * Don’t sweat * Don’t wear cotton * No t-shirt, jeans, or cotton socks Wear Layers * You’ll naturally heat up as you walk * Wool and alpaca: great for layering * Down vest or down puffy * Waterproof shell * Better to layer several than to have one big jacket. * Include base layers (top and bottom) plus a thin base layer sock * If your feet are cold, put on a hat or a buff! Use Warmers * Disposable hand warmers * Foot warmers that slip into shoes * Patch * Zippo handwarmer that uses fuel Move * So hard, but will keep your core temp * Tempting to tighten your shoulders and keep your extremities tucked in close * But you need to move: Jumping jacks, jog in place Acclimate * Importance of feeling cold, how it strengthens us SUMMIT Gear Review™: Woop!Wear Alpaca Field Pant Structure * 70% baby alpaca/30% merino wool * Belt loops Utility * Double layer in the knees * Small coin pocket on right side * Secure zipper inseam cargo pocket on right side * The fit is relaxed enough to allow comfortable movement and the hidden inseam zipper pocket allows storage without bulk for a great looking fit. Mass * Pant weight: 10-12 oz. Maintenance * Machine wash, air dry Investment * $169 for women’s sizes * $189 for men’s sizes Trial * Exceptional warmth, water resistant, durable * Makes winter hiking a pleasure * Feel of the pants Backpack Hack of the Week™: Wooden Stakes * If you’ve lost a tent stake, find a stick and that can work as a tent stake. * Might help if you whittle it just a whittle bit on the end so it goes into the ground easier Trail Wisdom “It is good to escape the rush of the modern world and for a period of time to live a quieter, more basic life. Problems and worries subside as the days go by; they are put into perspective by the elemental activity of putting one foot in front of the other hour after hour, day after day. And on returning from the wilds, restored and revitalized by the experience, I find civilization can be much easier to deal with; indeed, aspects of it can seem very desirable.” –Chris Townsend

Show Notes: Episode 063 Today on The First 40 Miles, what happens when thousands of outdoorsy people get together in one place? A city full of happy and healthy people. Then, on today’s top 5 list, we’ll share the top 5 themes that have tree-huggers, peak-baggers and hill-hikers all excited. Next, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, you’ll find out which knife replaced the heirloom that Josh has been carrying since he was a scout. On the Backpack Hack of the week, you’ll learn how to use your fuel can to track fuel consumption. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, again, Mr. Emerson. Opening The Outdoor Retailer Show is a twice-yearly show in Salt Lake City, UT where Funniest line from the keynote speaker, someone asked her as she was walking down the street, “Do you know what’s going on here? Everyone looks so healthy and happy!” Top 5 Themes at the Outdoor Retailer Show The Next Generation * Every organization always wonders in the back of their mind, how they will be relevant to the next generation. * Trees, dirt, sunshine and fresh air are just as appealing to the rising generation as they were to the past generations! * Every Kid in a Park * Parks4kids.info * You can search by state and donate to a project that will affect your community. Our Collective Narrative * Power in the collective narrative. Patterns begin to emerge, we feel closer as a country and as a culture, and we connect. * That’s what the National Parks Service is doing this year as they collect stories that celebrate our love for America’s National Parks. It’s called “Find Your Park.” * About Find Your Park and how to share your story. Environmental Tiptoeing * It doesn’t make sense to produce an item that is intended for outdoor use, and then dump chemicals from production of that gear into streams. * It seemed to be a topic that came up more as I spoke with European companies. The standards for environmental waste are very strict in Europe. Being an Activist * The Keynote speaker for the Winter Outdoor Retailer Show was Terry Tempest Williams. And she spoke about the importance of activism. * You don’t have to chain your kayak to a bridge to be an activist. * An activist is someone who actively lives what they believe…so if you believe that public lands are important, you are an activist just by using them. Purpose of Public Lands * To make us happy * To recreate * To have fun * To play SUMMIT Gear Review™: Gerber US1 Pocket Knife Structure * Jimping on spine for better grip and more control when using * Black blade * Handle material 30% glass-filled nylon with rubber overmold * Blade style: Fine edge with a drop point blade * Made in the USA * Has a finger choil * Ergonomic handle design * Folding pocket knife Utility * Thumb grip or nail nick, in center of spine, not too far down * Large finger notch * Lanyard hole Mass * Weighs 1 ounce * Blade length: 2.6˝ * Overall length: 6.1˝ * Closed length: 3.5˝ * Thin and lightweight Maintenance * WD-40 Investment * $25 * Lifetime Warranty Trial * Lightweight, great details that you would expect in a much more expensive knife * Replaces Josh’s big knife * Size: big enough to actually use on the trail

Show Notes: Episode 062 Today on The First 40 Miles, is the pack half full or half empty? How you answer that question may determine your experience on the trail. We’ll share five tips for new backpackers that will help ensure that your next trip will be even better than your last! Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a solution for hikers who don’t want to waste a minute fumbling with shoelaces. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, an “Oh Duh!” solution to keep your homemade meals from tipping over. And we’ll leave you today with a little trail wisdom from our good friend Henry. Opening * Is the Pack Half Full or Half Empty? * Optimism on the Trail * Heather vs. the Mosquitos Top 5 Ways to Have a Great Time Backpacking, Even if You Didn’t Like It the First Time Figure Out What’s Normal * If you had a rough experience, listen to what others are saying * Words like: unseasonable, freak, swarm, stampede, torrent, uncharacteristic, brutal * That may be your clue that it was tough for everyone * It doesn’t give you an open season pass to complain, but it may just give you a glimmer of hope that things can and will be better next time. Write Your Experience * Make it raw, unfiltered, detailed, and descriptive * It can be as simple as an email written to yourself, or a bulleted list that you keep in a notebook as you hike. * That way you can see your personal growth * Perspective: Was it really as hard as I remembered? Could I do it again? Would it be better next time? How could I make it better? Increase Your Preparedness * Study the map so you feel confident on route * Read trail reports, so you have a heads up on what other people have to say about the area * Know the weather Zip it * I’m not saying there’s no room for an honest breakdown of what went wrong and what to do different next time, but maybe next time you feel like pointing out the obvious negative, maybe try looking for the gem of hidden beauty that you might have missed. Laugh * Yeah, squatting by a tree may not be the most glamorous way to use the bathroom, but I think there are lots of funny things about hiking and backpacking. * You don’t have to laugh while it’s happening * Remember, bad experiences make great stories SUMMIT Gear Review™: Hickies Responsive Lacing System Structure * Memory-fit performance elastomer * Expands and contracts responsively * One end of the Hickie has a knob, and the other end has a loop.   When you pull the stretchy loop over the knob, the little tab at the end tucks behind the knob, so you have a seamless look that is quite secure. Utility * Three different lacing techniques * Regular fit: Just insert the Hickies from the eyelet on the left to the eyelet on the right, and attach the ends. * Tight Fit: Take two Hickies and criss-cross them. Then attach the ends. * Loose fit: Insert the Hickies vertically through the eyelets, but connect them horizontally. Tricky to explain, but very easy to do. This is the fit that Heather found most comfortable. * You may not even need all the Hickies that come in the package. Mass * A Hickie is about 4 1/2 inches long * A box of Hickies weigh .5 ounces (14 grams) for 14 Hickies—which is almost equivalent to a set of shoelaces. * Here’s something you gram weenies can appreciate: traditional laces weigh around .4 ounces, however when they get waterlogged, they more than double in weight to 1 ounce!

Show Notes: Episode 061 Today on The First 40 Miles, are you looking to persuade a friend or family member to come backpacking with you? We’ve got the perfect gateway activity to start them off with. Then, if you haven’t found the perfect knife from the wagon of the village peddler, we’ll give you an even better place to start. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, a multiuse piece of gear that can go from pack to trail and right back to pack. Then on the Backpack Hack of the Week, 420 calories and no mess. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from our good friend on the trail, William O Douglas Opening * The many pleasures of dayhiking * Dayhiking: The Gateway Activity to Backpacking * Local trails, access roads, logging roads (wide enough for groups and families, more open) The Top 5 Case Knives That Backpackers Might be Interested in Checking Out Caliber® Lockback * $18.99 * Our small lockbacks provide extra portability without sacrificing knife durability or function. Each is amply equipped to serve as an everyday carrier or part of a collection. * Stainless Steel * Texturized handle * Really easy to open because 2/3 of the blade is showing. It’s not hidden. Don’t have to use the thumb grip to open , can easily be just pinched and flipped open. * Only downside to this knife it there’s no hole for attaching a carabiner or rope. It’s a pocket carry * Lockback * Clip Blade * 3 3/4 in * 2 oz. Sod Buster Jr. * $33.99 * Love that the thumb grip on the sod buster jr is higher up toward the tip of the knife. * Makes it easy to open. * If you’re looking for a knife that’s easy to find when you dig through your 10 essentials or if you drop it on the on the ground, this is a good one. Comes in demure yellow and hunter orange—the orange is great. * Strong spring…does that vary from knife to knife? Some seem easy to open, some are tough * Not a lockback. Closes when you put pressure on the blade from the other side * Very smooth synthetic handle. * Stainless Steel * Skinner Blade * 3 5/8 in * 1 oz. Jr. Scout * $106.99 * A classic * Amber Bone color and Peach Seed Jig are signatures of the Case brand * Stainless Steel * Spear Blade, Can Opener, Screwdriver and Leather Punch with Bail * 3 3/8 in * 2 oz. * Crossover knife, if you’re wanting something that you can use in other outdoor rec settings—not just on bp trips, this is it. * Light weight with a classic feel. Camo Caliber XX-Changer® * Has Clip, Fillet, Saw and Drop Point Blades * Lightweight Zytel® Handle * Genuine Leather Sheath * 5 in closed * 12 oz. (with sheath plus other blades) * However only 3.8 oz. if you bring just the knife with the drop point blade. * Has a hole on the end of the knife you you can attach it to a rope or paracord * $81.99 * Stainless Steel * “Worth the Weight” Knife for some, or not for others * Gets the job done, tough, strong, and great grip Carbon FiberLockback (also known as the “Executive”) * As Ground Drop Point Blade * Smooth Black Carbon Fiber Handle * 3 1/8 in / 7.94cm closed; 0.6 oz. * Straight thumb grip, not curved like thumbnail * The thumb grip is a little further toward the pivot point, which makes it a little less convenient to open.

Show Notes: Episode 060 Today on The First 40 Miles, if you’re scared to take your brand new gear out into the rough and wild wilderness because you think it might get damaged, have no fear! This episode is dedicated to making sure your gear stays in top form, regardless of the elements. You’ll learn the top 5 things you can do when good gear goes bad. Then, the SUMMIT Gear Review turns into the SUMMIT Gear Hospital, as we search and rescue gear that has flatlined. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, learn the critical pieces of a DIY Custom Repair Kit. Opening What better thing to do in the winter than gear repair and maintenance! You may not be getting out as much, but that means you have a little extra time to finish your taxes and spend some quality time with your gear—even if it’s indoors * Knife sharpening and maintenance (WD-40 and sharpening stone) * Check your warranties * Check to see if your clothing fits (good to do with kids clothing) * Determine if your gear still meets your needs (bigger or smaller tent?) * Do a once over on your gear (sniff test, pocket shake out, airing out gear) * Has gear been solarproofed or waterproofed? It will extend life of gear! Top 5 Things to Do When Good Gear Goes Bad Read * Sometimes, gear isn’t necessarily faulty, it’s just that maybe the learning curve is higher than what we expected. In this case it helps to READ. * This includes reading the instructions that came with your gear. Or, in some cases, getting on a backpacking forum to see if anyone else has had the same issue. * Maybe the issue you’re experiencing is normal—maybe it’s not. Return * Retailer: If you’ve just opened your new stove and there is a part missing, take your receipt and head back to the store. This works for recent purchases where the item has never been used. If it has been used, and you’re not sure if the gear is working the way it should, so ahead and go to the retailer with your receipt and find out. * Manufacturer: Tell them the story, and be very polite. Replace * If you purchased a piece of gear years ago and you’re just itching to try something with a few more upgrades, then it’s time to replace it Repair * Sometimes, no matter how old a piece of gear is, it’s been such a great friend along the trail that the best option is to repair it. * Patagonia Worn Wear Review * If you’ve had an experience with a brand, or a piece of gear, share your story. It will help others to make informed decisions. * SmartWool purchase and great customer service * Enlightened Equipment, great gear and great customer service SUMMIT Gear Hospital™: Gear Maintenance and Repair Horrible Smell * Gear Aid MiraZyme (a microbial digestant) * So safe it can be used on pets and people * Gets rid of a HUGE laundry list of smells * You can add it to your washing machine, dip it in a solution or spray it on Mattress/Pad Puncture * Inflatable pads come with a patch kit * Looks like a throw away freebie (kind of like the free button that comes with shirts) * Do not throw it away! * Put it directly into your ten essentials or keep it in the stuff sack with your inflatable pad. Zipper Fail * Long term/short term fixes * Take a $200 down puffy with a faulty zipper and all of a sudden you have a pit in your stomach! * FixnZip * How to Use (

Show Notes: Episode 058   Today on The First 40 Miles, if eating more bacon is your 2016 New Year’s Resolution, we’re here to support you with five creative ways for you to achieve your goal! Then, if leaving your sleeping bag in the morning is a real challenge, we have a unique solution for you. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, vegan bacon is not as gross as it sounds—we promise! Then we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a guy who enjoys the good life. Opening * No School, time off, kids at home, cold, short days * Get Out! The power of stepping outside. * What keeps us from getting out? * Getting used to being cold * Acclimation/Adaptation vs Thermal Neutrality 5 Ways to Eat More “Bacon” REAL Bacon Bits (NOT Bacos) * Cheap, easy to find on the salad dressing aisle at the grocery store Precooked Bacon Strips * Requires no refrigeration * Perfectly portioned on little pieces of wax paper in a zip top pouch * May SEEM more expensive than uncooked bacon, but if you cook a pound of bacon, you really just end up with a lot of fat and water that you just paid for. * 140 calories/ounce Smoked Almonds * Easy to find at any convenience store * 170 calories/ounce Homemade Coconut Bacon * We’ll share the recipe in the episode * 180 calories/oz * Uses only 4 ingredients Smoked Gouda * 101 calories/ounce (It makes the cut!) * Gouda is usually one of the more reasonably priced cheeses SUMMIT Gear Review™: ExPed DreamWalker Structure * Shape Fit: Mantel-Schlafsack (German “Coat Sleep Bag”) * Goose down * Shell: 20 D Texped PA35 Ripstop Nylon * Liner: 30 D Texped PR46 Polyester * Foot opens up all the way and can be cinched closed * Pockets on outside, pockets on inside. * Zipper inside and outside accessible, hood with brim * Goes right below knees when cinched up * Can be worn around nightly campfire or morning breakfast Utility * Incredibly versatile * If you use this as a jacket, be sure to have appropriate rain gear to protect the down. You don’t want to be without your insulation!! * With the ExPed DreamWalker 450: 35-45 degrees F * With the ExPed DreamWalker 650: 25-35 degrees F * This will probably be best as a shoulder season or summer bag Mass * 450: 30 ounces or 1.89 pounds * 650: 40 ounces or 2.5 pounds * Length: 82.7 in * Shoulder Width: 29.5 in * Foot Width: 25.6 in * Slightly narrows at foot, but not much—pretty roomy Maintenance * Hand or machine was with gentle cycle. Use lukewarm water and down detergent. Rinse thoroughly. * Dry extremely thoroughly: * Lay out to dry or use a large volume tumble dryer at low temperature. When down gets wet it clumps up, so if you do wash your bag, toss in a few balled up pair of socks to knock the filling out of the clumps. * Store your sleeping bag open or in the included mesh storage bag Investment * $349.00-449.00 * 5 year warranty Trial * It’s for people who have a hard time with the whole asleep/awake transition thing. This makes it so the transition is just a little bit smoother in the morning, and takes the chill off at night. * If you want to minimize your gear, this might be a great piece of gear to look into Backpack Hack of the Week™: DIY Coconut Bacon (a.k.a. “Smokanut”) 3 cups large, unsweetened coconut flakes (not regular shredded coconut) 3 Tbs soy sauce or tamari 2 Tbs REAL maple syrup

Show Notes: Episode 058 Today on The First 40 Miles, if you’ve ever listened to the Christmas story from the Bible and felt some connection, we’ll share some good reasons why you may feel that way. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, we’ll show you a simple way to deal with the moody weather of December. For the Backpack Hack of the Week, find out where we dig up all our best backpacking stories. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little Christmas yuletide. Opening Our family’s hiking plans for Christmas What happened on our Black Friday hike Weather? Timing? Day events? Top 5 Elements of the Christmas Story in the Bible that Hikers and Backpackers Can Relate To Best place to find the Christmas story of the birth of Jesus Christ is in the Bible in Luke chapter 2. “On earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14) * Trail Kinship * Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. * I think if backpackers have one anthem, or creed in common, it’s this—“On earth peace, goodwill toward men” * On the trail we are all equal. The trail is the great equalizer. We’re all trying to find something—whether it’s achievement, adventure, clarity or connection. It’s not about competing with each other, but encouraging each other. “Let us now go” (Luke 2:15) * After hearing the angels announce the birth of Christ, they wanted to be part of this miracle. * We don’t know how far they walked, but it was probably a few miles from where they started. Nice night hike! * Has anyone ever told you about a trail that was so miraculous, so amazing, so breathtaking, that you wanted to leave right away? Then you know how the shepherds felt when they said, let us go now! “…and wrapped him in swaddling clothes” (Luke 2:12) * And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. * We sleep differently in the wild than we do in our beds at home. At home we tend to sprawl under our comforters, surrounded by air that remains at the constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit. * But on the trail, we sleep a little more like a swaddled infant, in primitive conditions, far from sterile. * This is a part of the birth of Christ that every backpacker can relate to. Rustic and rough, yet complete and enough. “And when they had seen it, they made known abroad” (Luke 2:17) * The shepherds were probably the kind of people you would love to have on the trail with you. I imagine that the long hours on the hillside, tending sheep, made them pretty good at the art of storytelling. It probably helped the time pass. * In fact, the bible says that all who heard their recounting of the angels and the birth of the baby marveled as they listened to the retelling of the events. * And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. * And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. * And every adventure that a backpacker goes on, has a story. With some stories, it doesn’t matter how many times someone tells it, it’s still just as enchanting as the first time. We love to hear stories, we love to tell stories. Just like the shepherds. “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19) * When Christ was born, Mary experienced a singularly miraculous event. How do you put that into words? What do you even say? * Have you ever seen or experienced something that you couldn’t put into words? * So many times on the trail, we have these moments of pure joy, reverence, gratitude, or awe. Those are the moments we can’t put into words—because there are no words...

Show Notes: Episode 057 Today on The First 40 Miles, we’ll tackle an issue that no presidential candidate has had the courage to tackle—and we have the numbers to back it up. Then on Today’s Top 5 list, a whimsical wish list of impossible gifts. On the SUMMIT Gear Review, a 100 year old piece of paper that can withstand a winter rainstorm or blizzard. Next on the Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple, kinda embarrassing way to keep your feet dry. Opening Importance of Thermal Neutrality Clothing and bedding contribute to stabilizing core body temperature Three Point Plan for Thermal Neutrality: * Proper clothing that can be used for layering. * A proper EN rated bag taking into consideration if you sleep cold or hot, and if you’re male or female. * A pad with a corresponding R value to match the outside temperature. To remain thermally neutral at the following temps the corresponding r values must be used with a proper EN rated bag and a light baselayer. 0 degrees=7.0r 10 degrees=6.0r 20 degrees=5.0r 30 degrees=4.0r 40 degrees=3.0r 50 degrees=2.0r Top 5 Gifts That Don’t Exist Step-charging batteries * Batteries that use the energy you expend on the trail with each step to recharge * Wires hooked up to your feet Heated footbox sleeping bags * Closest is the Enlightened Equipment down quilt with foot box * Big Agnes has developed the technology to make light up tents, so can someone please start working on sleeping bags with a heated footbox? Peanut butter bladder * A bladder that is filled with PB, with a tube that goes straight to your mouth. * Filled with a less viscous peanut butter * Versatile…can also be used as a maple syrup bladder Helium Filled Pack * Klymit is working on air-filled frames * Maybe just replace the air with helium * Is there really a helium shortage? Area wildlife scanner * Works through tent walls * Scans and projects onto a screen * Set to ounces or pounds * Would show every little mouse, badger, woodchuck or skunk within 100 yards SUMMIT Gear Review™: Rite in the Rain Many hikers like to journal or take notes. If you’ve ever had your journal soaked by a sudden down pour or have accidentally dropped your journal in water or have had a leaky bladder soak your journal, you know how frustrating that can be. Traditional paper just cant hold up to damp conditions. Structure * Waterproof Paper * Lots of sizes, lots or layouts, small * Special coating with a moisture shield * Pads and notebooks can be looseleaf, spiral bound, stapled Utility * Writing in the rain * Durable, tough, easy to write on * Works when wet * All Weather Pen * Pencil * Ballpoint pen will work unless you’re writing under water, then it skips Mass * Smallest: 3×4.5 * Largest: ream of copy paper , 11x 17 (or A3 and A4) Maintenance * Can’t use gel pens * Archival paper used by universities. Amazing stuff! Investment * A few dollars…I found some at our local Ace Hardware Trial * My favorite was the Mini Stapled Notebook * $7 for a 3-pack * Perfect size, fits in pocket, sturdy, small Backpack Hack of the Week™: Waterproof ShoeTopper “Shoebrellas” Need: Two thin pieces of plastic large enough to cover the top and sides of shoes Two hair bands Trail Wisdom

Show Notes: Episode 056 Today on The First 40 Miles, ’tis the season for Christmas parodies! Then on today’s Top 5 List, we’ll share some fun ways to present your gifts. Next, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a piece of gear that will leave you feeling as fresh as a snowdrift. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, a one dollar solution that will help you feel a whole lot smarter and lighter! And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from one of the most quotable men in history. Opening Read St. Nick on the Trail Top 5 Creative Ways to Give Backpacking Gifts! GPS Coordinates that lead to a trail head or an in town hike * Typically on Christmas, we spend all day inside. * What better gift for an outdoor person, than to receive their gift outside! * Hide it ahead of time, and map the GPS coordinates Wrap With Gear! * Instead of curling ribbon, use paracord, or another type of cordage * LoopAlien, or NiteIze Gear knot bone laces * Tag with an inspirational quote (pick any Trail Wisdom Quote!) * Stuff sack * Something Small? Use a bandana. Place your small gift item in the center. Then, tie the opposite corners, then with the corners that are left, tie those. Set up the Hammock or Tent inside and stow presents in there! * Be sure to light a fire in the fireplace to give your Christmas scene that outdoor feel…kind of. Ask Mother Nature for Some Help * Wrap in brown kraft paper, with a small fir bough or pinecone cluster attached to outside, or bright beautiful winter berries Steal a French Tradition * In France, the children leave out their shoes filled with carrots and goodies for Father Christmas’s donkey. * Maybe we need to start a new tradition here where we leave out our hiking shoes, and they get filled with granola bars, new wool socks, a watch, some Band-Aids and first aid ointment. SUMMIT Gear Review™: Gold Bond Medicated Body Powder Structure * 1 ounce net weight plastic bottle * Perforated top that twists shut * Made with zinc oxide and menthol Utility * Powder your feet (friction prevention, blister prevention) * Powder your armpits * Powder your undies * Powder your scalp (use as a dry shampoo–although it turns your hair whitish) * Uses: temporarily relieves the pain and itch associated with: minor cuts, sunburn, insect bites, scrapes, prickly heat, minor burns rashes, minor skin irritations. Mass * 1 ounce net weight Maintenance * Top can pop off so you can refill with more powder * Most stores have a house brand that is a little more economical Investment * $1-2 at your local drugstore in the travel section Trial * Solves so many problems * It’s consumable, lightweight, multipurpose, cheap and it feels great. * Baby powder also works, but it’s not as “refreshing” Backpack Hack of the Week™:1 liter Ultralight Waterbottle * SmartWater water bottle (comes with FREE water inside!) * Clear (so you can see your water level) * Skinny and tall so fits in any waterbottle pouch * Recyclable and reusable * Squeezable * Cheap (about a $1) * Works with Sawyer water filters * Only downside is the Steripen won’t fit into it * Workaround: bring a widemouth waterbottle or a Gatorade bottle and transfer

Show Notes: Episode 055 Today on The First 40 Miles, GIVE: The Gift Giving Episode! If you’ve ever wanted to give the 12 Days of Christmas, we have the whole thing planned out for you—minus the Lords a Leaping and other weird gifts! Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a pad that can take you through all four seasons of backpacking! On the Backpack Hack of the Week, a simple way to wrap a gift for the backpacker in your life. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a little girl who loved adventures. Opening + Top 5 List 12 Days of Christmas (Santa’s Prerogative) 1: A tent for our next adventure 2: Sleeping bags 3: Mini Bics 4: Pair of socks 5: Golden Trails (maps!) 6: Fun size snickers 7: Feet of duct tape 8: 8-ounce umbrella 9: Fire starters 10: Freeze dried dinners 11: Miles of hiking 12: Strong and Kind bars SUMMIT Gear Review™: Thermarest NeoAir XTherm Structure * Top 30 Denier Ripstop nylon * Bottom 70 Denier Nylon * Soft, textured no-slip fabric * No crinkly like past models Utility * 5.7 R Value, which means this mattress is good for all your winter backpacking trips. * You can inflate this mattress with your own breath, but we recommend using the NeoAir Pump Sack * There’s nothing wrong with inflating it with your breath (it won’t ruin the interior) * We do not recommend using it as a toboggan Mass * 15 oz. (430 grams) * 20 inches wide * 72 inches long * 5 inches thick * Packed: 9” x 4” Maintenance * Comes with patch kit * Larger holes and tears take 24 hours to dry * For storage: leave the valve open and store mattress in a stuff sack to protect it * It’s small enough to fit inside your pack. When pads are put on the ouside of the pack (typically at the bottom) there’s a lot of abrasion that can happen every time you set your pack down. Investment * $200 * You are paying for four-season warmth and lightweight gear Trial * 30 breaths to inflate…or use the NeoAir Pump Sack * NeoAir Pump Sack- purchase separately (also doubles to create a Jembe, or, camp seat) Backpack Hack of the Week™: Old Map Gift Wrap * Old Maps make beautiful wrapping paper for backpackers. * Find old maps at thrift stores in the books section or used book stores * Maps are frequently updated because land changes, trails get washed out, development… * If you’re giving a small gift, you can easily find topo maps online to print for free. OR stitch a few together to make a larger piece of wrapping paper. Trail Wisdom “I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says ‘Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.’” -Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland & Through the Looking-Glass

Show Notes: Episode 054 Today on The First 40 Miles, if you’re looking for a way to avoid eye contact with raisins, we may have the perfect breakup option in our Top 5 List today! Then, the SUMMIT Gear Review turns into the SUMMIT SMACKDOWN…which is kind of dangerous this time because there are knives involved. For the Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn about a great resource for cheap backup eyeglasses to bring on the trail. And we’ll leave you with a little trail wisdom from someone who tries to make the road a little smoother for everyone. Opening * Six Word Memoirs * What is your dream Backpacking trip in six words? * Taking time to think long thoughts * Leaving the house, but coming home. * Didn’t forget to bring my soul * Everything I need, on my back * Fight or flight? I choose flight. Top 5 Weird Superfoods to Take on Your Backpacking Trip! Yacon Slices * Taste like the world’s mildest apple, just a subtle hint of sweetness * This root vegetable is native to Peru * It’s naturally high content of inulin, a complex sugar that breaks down slowly * Chewy and weird…the same sweetness level as gum you’ve been chewing for 45 minutes. Cacao Nibs * Made from pure cacao beans that come straight out of the tropical cacao fruit. * “Food of the Gods” * Great source of magnesium, also an excellent source of iron and dietary fiber * Cacao is one of the most antioxidant-rich foods on the planet! * Crunchy! Awesome! Chocolate with all of the benefits! Goji Berries * Also known as the wolfberry * Tastes like a mix of sun dried tomato and dried strawberry * 18 amino acids, free-radical fighting antioxidants, carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and more than 20 other trace minerals and vitamins including zinc, iron, phosphorus and riboflavin (B2). * Amazing: Ounce-for-ounce, goji berries contain more vitamin C than oranges, more beta-carotene than carrots, and more iron than soybeans and spinach. Dragonfruit * Tropical superfruit, harvested from a night-blooming cactus that grows in tropical regions including Thailand, Vietnam and South America. * Also known as Pitaya, the large delicate fruit that sprout from the arms of the cactus have a strange and colorful appearance. * These chewy, purple slices are low in calories and contain vitamin C, magnesium, protein, antioxidants and iron. * Just sweet enough, the texture was outstanding, gorgeous fruit!! * Source of omega 3 essential fatty acids, vitamin C, protein, fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and is known to contain several B Vitamins including Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), and Niacin (B3), amongst others. Goldenberries * They are chewy are equally and intensely sweet and tart * Goldenberries contain a high amount of carotene and bioflavonoids, along with vitamins A and C. * They also provide dietary fiber, pectin, protein and phosphorous, carotene, bioflavanoids, vitamins A and C as well as potassium. SUMMIT Smackdown™: Leatherman Multitools Leatherman is a company which is famous for their multi-tools. And while most multitools are pretty heavy and loaded with features, we found two lightweight, versatile options that still have features that make sense to bring on the trail.    

Show Notes: Episode 053 Today on The First 40 Miles, is it possible to pack an entire Thanksgiving Dinner in your pack? Nope. But there are a few things you can pack that’ll get you pretty close to it. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, you’ll learn about a unique way to light your camp space. On the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll share a secret ingredient that will make all of your backpacking dinners palatable. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from Roethke. Opening * Thanksgiving: November 26th, 2015 * Pilgrim Journals * Entry written by William Bradford in 1620 (Edited by Heather Legler) “Monday, the 13th of November, we unshipped our shallop (small boat) and drew her on land, to mend and repair her. Our people went on shore to refresh themselves, and our women to wash, as they had great need. But whilst we lay thus still, hoping our shallop would be ready in five or six days, some of our people, impatient of delay, desired to travel by land into the country, which was not without appearance of danger, to see whether it might be fit for us; and so with cautions, directions, and instructions, sixteen men were set out with every man his musket, sword, and corslet (piece of defensive armor covering the torso), under the conduct of Captain Miles Standish, William Bradford, Stephen Hopkins, and Edward Tilley. “Wednesday, the 15th of November, they were set ashore, and when they had ordered themselves and marched about the space of a mile, by the sea they espied five or six people with a dog, coming towards them, who were savages, who when they saw them, ran into the wood and whistled the dog after them. First they supposed them to be Master Jones, the master, and some of his men, for they were ashore and knew of their coming, but after they knew them to be Indians they marched after them into the woods, lest other of the Indians should lie in ambush; but when the Indians saw our men following them, they ran away with might and main and our men turned out of the wood after them, for it was the way they intended to go, but they could not come near them. “They followed them that night about ten miles by the trace of their footings, and saw how they had come the same way they went. At length night came upon them, and they were constrained to take up their lodging, so they set forth three sentinels. And the rest: some kindled a fire, and others fetched wood, and there held our rendezvous that night.” Thus it begins… The Top 5 Foods to Bring on Your Thanksgiving Backpacking Trip Turkey Jerky * You can also take a turkey pepperoni stick (cal/oz) 90 cal/oz * Can’t bring a whole turkey… Thanksgiving Trail Mix * Dried cranberries (fruit native to North America) * Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) * Reese’s Pieces for festive fall look * Candy corn—or—corn nuts (for more cal/oz) * Pecans/black walnuts (also native to North America) * Mini marshmallows if you’re feeling nostalgic for yam/marshmallow dish Pumpkin Pie Fruit leather * 1 large container of full fat Greek yogurt * Some pumpkin puree (for color) * 1 Tbs cinnamon (along with some ground cloves, nutmeg, allspice) * Vanilla * A couple squirts of honey (for pliability) * Pour onto parchment paper and dehydrate Stovetop Stuffing with added olive oil * Package of stovetop, add hot water, drizzle with olive oil (240 cal/oz) * Cheap, can be rehydrated with cold or hot water Dehydrated mashed potatoes * Lots of different flavor options * Low cal/oz, so adding full fat milk powder like NIDO helps bump calories * Add hot water SUMMIT Gear Review™: LuminAID PackLi...

Show Notes: Episode 052 Today on The First 40 Miles, there are times when shortcuts are a bad idea, and times when they’re a great idea! We’ll help you figure it all out in today’s Top 5 List. Then, on the SUMMIT Gear Review, a light, lightweight way to deal with microorganisms in your drinking water. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, we’ll show you a great resource you can take advantage of that will improve your outdoor skills and knowledge. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a guy named Woody who wrote the handbook on Trail Construction and Maintenance. Opening * Cutting the Switchbacks * Americans are big fans of trail blazing, making our own path…but there are times on the trail when that is not such a good idea * http://www.backcountryattitude.com/switchbacks.html * Trails are graded and sloped for ideal drainage, if people do “cut throughs”, the land is changed and major sections of trail can be wiped out if vegetation isn’t in place to hold the dirt to the earth. Top 5 Gift Subscriptions for Backpackers The Feed: Food for Athletes (Three-day Backpacker Box) * 3 meals (theFeed) * Fun mix of high quality food * You can subscribe * $66 * Great mix of sweet and savory StrideBox * $15 to sign up, and $15 on the 26th of each month (which you can pause) * or $50 for 3 month gift subscription * Items in box: most are items that would appeal to BPers and runners alike. * Great if you have a recipient who is a trail runner NatureBox * Don’t let the name fool you, this is not organic * Calorie-dense snacks * 3 snacks for $14 * 5 snacks for $20 * Free shipping within US * OPTIONS: Once a week, every two weeks, once a month * Change, pause or cancel your membership at any time. * These are not desk snacks–these are burn it as you hike snacks! Campbox * Their gear is curated based on: Durability, Pack-ability, Seasonal Relevance, and Social Impact * $35 a month plus shipping * Will soon be offering a Trail Package Service * Gift giving is a wee bit awkward in that you have to give gift cards * They have plans to roll out CBX Kids—which is a camp box for the younger crowd. YouBar * 13 bars for $47 (that’s with shipping included in the price) * You pick from a long checklist of bar bases, mixins, sweetners, and infusions. SUMMIT Gear Review™: SteriPen Freedom Structure * UV light (purification works as the cells of microbes absorb ultraviolet energy emitted by the lamp so they can’t reproduce) Utility * Rechargeable! Yay! * USB rechargeable – no batteries needed. Power up via wall outlet, computer or USB compatible solar charger. Full charge lasts for 40 treatments * Easy-to-use: just remove lamp cover, place lamp in water and stir. In 48 seconds up to a half-liter of water is purified. Lamp automatically shuts off when treatment is complete. * Includes water sensors safety feature so the UV light only turns on when safely below water surface. Mass * 2.6 oz. Maintenance * Comes with carry case, instructions and 3-year limited manufacturers warranty * The UV lamp provides up to 8,000 one-liter treatments. * Use when nodes are submerged

Show Notes: Episode 051  HEEL TO TOE: The Sock Episode Today on The First 40 Miles, HEEL TO TOE: The Sock Episode! On the Top 5 List, we’ll share the top 5 non-traditional hiking socks. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, the socks have invited a special guest to join them on the show. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, what to do if a forest creature takes off with your socks. We have a Backpacker Q+A about compression socks. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a Russian who probably knew a thing or two about Portyankis. Opening What to look for: * Blend of materials to increase durability, stretch, and wicking * Wicking * Reinforced heel and toe (durability) * No toe seem (comfort) * Cushioning (if desired) * Arch band (helps keep sock in place, decreases fatigue) Top 5 Non-Traditional Hiking Socks Waterproof Socks * If you’re interested in waterproof socks, check out the Hanz Lightweight Waterproof Socks (great for winter backpacking) (They also make gloves) * Takes a bit of getting used to because it’s not going to fit like a traditional sock and have stretch in all the places you’re used to. * The Hanz Waterproof Socks have a wicking layer so it won’t feel like you’re wearing a plastic bag, and a stretchable waterproof membrane, and a cover for that membrane. They’re all fused together. No ridges or seems, but like I said it still takes some getting used to. * Great if you’re going to be doing some slogging and all you want at the end of the day is dry feet. Compression Socks * We’ll talk about this in more detail in our Backpacker Q+A later in the show * Vim & Vigr makes some really nice wool compression socks, as well as wicking nylon socks. Great looking stuff that you may not see at the outdoor store, but is performance gear for sure. Appeal more to women backpackers… Silk Liner Socks * Liner socks are ultralightweight * Not meant to be used alone, but they can be * Used silk liner socks along with body powder for extra friction protection * Great option for hot weather Toe Socks * Injinji is the brand you’re probably most familiar with. * Toe socks are like gloves for your feet. You put your toes in first, then slide the rest of the sock up your foot. * Toe socks are designed to keep toes from rubbing against each other—which can form blisters. Double Layer Sock * The brand you may know best is Wrightsock * Some people love double layer socks * Rather have two pair of socks, than one with two layers. SUMMIT Gear Review™: TELIC Recovery Shoes Structure * Four different styles: Flip Flop, Z Strap (z across the top of foot), Slide (house shoe), Dream (top of foot is covered with the exception of side air vents) * Contoured to support the arches of your feet, all styles feature a deep heel cup with great medial arch and metatarsal support. * Novalon, which is a proprietary material that is extremely durable, * Made in USA * Soft, yet supportive * Lightweight * Not much tread on bottom of shoe, so wouldn’t recommend for river crossing Utility * Completely waterproof * Heat-activated * If you get the Z strap, Slide or Dream then you can wear them with socks. * Textured footbed, but not deeply textured like those massage shoes * The perfect recovery shoe for strenuous activity Mass * Roughly 8-12 ounces a pair, depending on size and style

Show Notes: Episode 050 Today on The First 40 Miles, how to hoard massive amounts of simple carbs for your next backpacking trip. On the Top 5 List, we’ll share the top five secrets you should never keep from your trail mates. Then on the SUMMIT Gear Review, an ultralight backpacking staple that will cut both your pack weight and your pack volume. Next, on the Backpack Hack of the Week, you’ll learn how to dry your fly. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from a man who loves adventure. Or maybe he doesn’t. Opening * In the ideal diet, we focus on lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, lean meat in small quantities, and small amounts of fats and sugars. * But, backpackers need calorie dense food that can be accessed quickly and that provides energy. * Halloween= Simple carbs + Fat * Great time to get some prime backpacking trail snacks * Snickers * Payday bars * Hard Candy or Chewy Candy (esp. if sealed completely, not just with the ends twisted) * Mounds or Almond Joy * Raisins in boxes * Be sure to grab any spider rings. They make for great pranks in about 6 months… Top 5 Secrets You Should Never Keep From Your Trail Mates Bad Trail News * Washed out bridge that changes the route * Avalanche warning * Thunderstorms, snow storms * Predatory Bear * Wildfire * Especially if you’re the one planning the trip * You need to communicate to your group * Everyone needs to do their homework before a trip If You Have an Intuitive Gut Feeling * If you have the uncanny ability to sense when things aren’t right, you need to share that—even if it’s wrong! * When the hair on your arm stand s up, or you get that nagging pit, say something * Share your thoughts then let the group talk it out If You’re Recovering From an Injury * Most of us don’t want to be the one that’s holding the group back * But going full speed ahead as if nothing happened, may make things worse * Take it slow * For a heart attack, there are early warning signs (although these may differ depending on the person) * Chest pain, shortness of breath, light-headedness http://www.thesurvivaldoctor.com/2012/11/06/what-to-do-if-having-a-heart-attack/ * Chew up and swallow an aspirin. It could help keep the clot in your artery from getting worse. Heart meds, too. * Lie down and try your best to relax. Reduce the amount of physical and mental stress on your heart. Increase oxygen if you can. This may mean going down in elevation. * Try to stay warm. The body doesn’t function as well and uses more energy if you’re cold. * Send for help, but don’t leave anyone alone (in camp or on the trail) If you have Broken /Lost/Forgotten gear * Don’t suffer needlessly * Even if it’s a major piece of gear and you know you’ll never live it down * Backpackers are ingenious creatures, and something can be rigged up using combined resources, skills and ideas. * Backpackers are famous for helping out friends and strangers equally * Not letting your buddies know is just irresponsible… BONUS! If you are a vampire or werewolf * One full moon, or one first aid incident can really wreak havoc on your campsite and lead to trust issues on future trips. SUMMIT Gear Review™: Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Dry Sack Structure * Unique compression idea – allows air to be pushed out to compress, but water can’t get in because of the water...