The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide: Tools & Techniques to Hit the Trail
$19.95
A backpacking trip consists of two distinct activities: hiking and camping. In this how-to guide, I’ve shared the gear, supplies and skills that will allow you to love hiking, while still remaining safe and comfortable while camping.
The book will begin shipping on February 21, 2012, when it is officially released.
I will sign all copies purchased from AndrewSkurka.com.
Thanks for purchasing this book directly from the author.
Product Description
Supreme long-distance hiker Andrew Skurka shares his hard-earned knowledge in this essential guide to backpacking gear and skills. Described by National Geographic as “one of the best traveled and fastest hikers on the planet,” and named “Adventurer of the Year” by Outside and “Person of the Year” by Backpacker, Skurka recounts what he’s learned from more than 30,000 miles of long-distance adventures, most recently a 4,700-mile 6-month loop around Alaska and Canada’s Yukon.
Whether you’re a first-time backpacker, an occasional weekend warrior or a seasoned long-distance trekker, you’ll love this guide. Learn exactly what you need to carry – both on your back and between your ears – for all seasons and circumstances through a show-and-tell of clothing, footwear, backpacks, shelter and sleep systems, and more, as well as through detailed articles on foot care, campsite selection and hiking efficiency. Skurka’s practical and priceless recommendations give you all the tools and techniques you’ll need to hit the trail.
Details
- Publisher: National Geographic
- Release date: February, 21 2012
- ISBN-13: 978-1426209208
- 224 pages
- Full color
- About 75 images
Structure
Each chapter has a strong narrative and consistent flow. For example, in the chapter on trekking poles I discuss their pros and cons, materials, adjustability/collapsibility, grips & straps, and baskets. To avoid making this text feel textbook-y, however, I broke it up with many ordered and unordered lists. Further, we added many stand-alone components, including:
“Versus” charts, where I summarize the similarities and differences between key materials and product types, e.g. down versus synthetic insulation, and water-resistant versus waterproof-breathable shells.
“How2″ boxes, which provide step-by-step directions, e.g. how to make my four favorite dinners.
“Tips,” a short but helpful bit of advice that is related to but not covered in the text.
“Tried & true” techniques, which I think provide some of the most insightful text of the entire book, e.g. how to choose a campsite, care for your feet, and pack your backpack.
“Skurka’s Picks,” where I offer my exact recommendations, focusing on product types and also listing specific products that I prefer.
Personal anecdotes, where I give the text some color, character and historical context.
Shipping Rates
- United States. 1 copy via First Class, or 2+ copies via Media mail, for $3.50.
- Canada & Mexico. 1 copy via First Class, or 2+ copies via Priority, for $6.
- Rest of World. 1 copy via First Class, or 2+ copies via Priority, for $12.
Rating by Phil Barton on :
Wow. Andrew empowers the rest of us to have fun by applying his fusion of skills and gear on the trail. The ideas are practical. I
gained a better understanding of the best gear available and how to use it. Plus this is the best looking gear guide I’ve ever seen.
I like the tables that Andrew uses in each chapter to clarify the advantages and disadvantages of different gear. Each section also highlights “Skurka’s Pick” with an explanation of what works for him.
I’ve already used this book (an early e-book version) to help me, Boy Scouts, and Scout leaders carry lighter loads on the trail.
I’ve been on a trip with Andrew. He has captured the important ideas and tools that he uses in the backcountry.
Rating by Steve on :
Best book on hiking/backpacking gear I’ve seen!
Concise, right to the point discussion on every aspect of the gear you need to hike in the back-country.
I think anyone looking for guidance on trekking gear, novice or experienced will benefit from reading this book.