In the spirit of man amplification, I thought I would list two of my current favorite backpacking/hiking gadgets. The first is a bag, the other is a shoe.
I bet you were expecting something less mundane.
The WXTex Pneumo, from Pacific Outdoor Equipment is really cool.
First it is waterproof and tear resistant. Waterproofing is in part from the rolled seal at top, not a ziplock mechanism. So it does need to be partially full to work.
Second, the compression valve lets you squeeze all the air out of the contents. Very handy for clothing, especially cool/cold weather gear, that tends to take lots of space. The reverse is just as useful, after sealing the bag, you can inflate it into a pillow. I can't overstate the satisfaction one gets from hearing the 'oh man' moan from your tent partner when they see why you just inflated your stinky clothes bag.
Next is a recent purchase. The Merrell Chameleon II Gore-Tex XCR.
I've been a long time Merrell fan. This is my fourth pair of Merrell hiking boots/shoes in the last 6 years. Actually, I've only bought boots before, this is my first shoe. I'm slowly moving towards light(er) weight backpacking, and the first piece of standard equipment for me to leave behind were my boots this last weekend.
Something to note, my Merrell's are usually a full size larger than my running shoes. In part due to sock choice. I also have replaced the footbed with a pair of Downunders (verdict is still out on them).
Other things that matter. I didn't get a single rock in my shoe. The soles are fairly stiff, so my feet didn't get rock weary. I was able to 'drag' my feel a little, unlike my boots where I have to take slightly higher steps. I still need thick cushiony socks on multi-day trips, Smart Wool not doing it for me. I did turn my foot a few times, no sprains. But I have decided to buy trekking poles to help prevent injury.
Of course the day after I bought my pair, I looked down at Bill's feet and he had a pair on.
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