Mega Equipment

I am a novice to serious hiking. But I have done a lot of long distance walks through the Avon two day, 40 mile walks. I have completed six walks and plan to do two this year in Boston and Santa Barbara. One thing I have learned, you have to have good equipment, mostly shoes and socks. The other thing is that you don't want to be trying anything for the first time on event day. So, here are some notes on what I plan to try for the Megatransect. I will update later with how things are going.

I have been going to A Snail's Pace in Monrovia for awhile for my shoes. They have done a great job in fitting me for shoes, inserts, socks. Now that Jenny works there, I am definitely going back.

Ask for Jenny. She will do a great job of helping you out.

Shoes are probably the most important thing for me. I have been using the Brooks Ravenna's for my Avon walks, but I need something with more grip for hiking. I wanted to stay with Brooks since they work for me, so I am trying the Cascadia. It is a men's shoe, but so far so good. I will update once I have put in more miles.

Hydration will be a big deal on this hike. I didn't have enough on my first 10 miler. Jenny has recommended this Nathan Intensity Women's hydration vest. The fit is specific to women, it holds lots of water, has room for a few items, and is light weight. I may copy Jenny and swap out the bladder for a Camelback because the mouth piece is easier to use. Again, I will update when I use it.

A couple of people have recommended we try some hiking pools. So I ordered these Black Diamond collapsible trail poles. We'll see how useful they are.