Dan’s Top 5 Pieces of Gear for a PCT Thru-Hike

In this video, Dan shares his top 5 favorite pieces of gear that he carried with him on his SOBO PCT thru hike. His list is comprised of no-fuss, no-frills, dependable essentials. Gear made the list if:

  1. He genuinely enjoyed using it! The item did its job and Dan didn’t have to fuss with it or think about it while hiking.
  2. He wouldn’t hesitate to bring it with him on the PCT again.

#5: Outdoor Research Sun Runner Hat

This hat provides excellent coverage all around. The long drape protects your neck from brutal desert sun, and an adjustable tie near your chin allows you to keep the drape secured around your face if the wind is blowing. You can take the drape off and use it as a bandana. Find this versatile, functional piece of gear here.

#4: Outdoor Research Echo Long Sleeve Zip Tee

The gridded polyester fabric of this long sleeve is lightweight and breathable, providing extra protection from the sun in the California desert. After testing out several different hiking shirts, Dan dubbed this one as his favorite. Find it here.

#3: Altra Superior 3.0 Running Shoe

The Altra Superior 3.0 running shoe, known for its wide toe box, carried Dan for 900 miles on the PCT. The zero-drop shoe features an aggressive tread that is great for the changing terrain.

#2: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Pole

Dan has used his sturdy and durable Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles for over 4,000 miles of hiking. Despite a close calls, these adjustable poles have remained intact.

#1: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad

Despite spending the first two weeks on the PCT with a cut-down, torso-length foam pad, Dan finally traded in for this inflatable pad. Finding that great sleep supported his recovery and hiking, Dan put this Therm-a-Rest pad at the top of his list. Find Dan’s #1 item here.

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