Thinking about taking up hiking

[neovan]

I was talking to a coworker who goes hiking every weekend and he made it sound very fun and a great way to exercise. I talked to him about what kind of gear I needed and he suggested a good backpack with lots of dry foods and good hiking shoes. Any other suggestions?

I'm planning on hiking in the Malibu state park which he suggested to me since its only a 5 mile hike and would be a great way to start.

 

[alien42]

when looking at backpacks i highly recommend mountainsmith

you also need a tent, sleeping bag and a stove if you plan on camping also.

 

[blackdogdeek]

depending on the weather and time of day i will wear a hat to protect myself from the sun.

depending on the terrain i might look into hiking poles.

i usually wear wicking materials so that i don't get too sweaty.

 

[Chunkee]

NEVER EVER EVER skimp on footwear

get the best you can afford

that is the only place to start

jC out

Hiker o plenty

 

[aceO07]

Good hiking shoes. A trail map! Flashlight is usually good. Food, water. Cellphone w/ local police#. Firstaid. clothes (layers, so you can add on or take off if too cold or warm). There's probably more stuff, but mostly common sense.

 

[ragazzo]

compass?

 

[DougK62]

Good boots. Trekking poles will really save your knees if you're working with elevation.

 

[HomeBrewerDude]

go out with more experienced hikers before you spend too much money on gear.