Getting to know my gear. Gear choices are difficult. There are an inordinate number of reviews out there. What to believe? Early analysis:
Salomon boots: Super. Comfortable. Easy to break in. Look no further (unless you have cloven hooves like Doris does…).
Leki hiking poles: Super. Invaluable. Easy to pack away. These are extendable, spring-loaded and take a huge amount of strain off the legs, particularly uphill. Be prepared for a pec workout though. Adjust the height to be about 5 degrees lower than forearm parallel to the ground. Note that the baskets seem to separate easily but can be replaced by rubber knobs (much better) at €4/pair.
Ortlieb transparent map carrier: Super. You get almost everything in it that you need. It’s waterproof and versatile. Put your iPhone in there and the plastic is touch-sensitive. Cons: the material is rubberised so anything rubberised that you try and slip in there (careful, Vicar), is likely to stick – makes it a bit tricky, but once in, watertight and protected. Nice, tight fit.
Osprey 50L AG pack: Super. Very comfortable. More than enough capacity for this mission. Cotswold Outdoor will help measure you. Well worth the 5 minutes getting close to the affable beardy guy at the Piccadilly store with the modest under-arm fugue. Not waterproof even with cover, as I discovered to my dismay. Suspect this is a weakness shared with other gear.
Rohan thin travel sox: Super. Easy wash. Insect repellent. Odorless. Sizing matches label.
Rohan travel shirt: Super. Drop it on the floor when you shower. Piss on it. Kick it about. Rinse. Rinse. Rinse again. Hang out. Odourless and color-fast. Little long-sleeve into short-sleeve doo-hickies are great.
RavPower polar panel: Great idea but jury out so far. Says “not charging”, but worked at home. A bit heavy. Questionable utility. My bad.
