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Posted by Fred on March 10, 2008 at 8:15:24 am EDT
In reply to Gear For '09 AT Thru-Hike posted by wildthing13 on March 3, 2008 at 7:26:47 pm EST

There are shelters along the length of the AT - if you don't value privacy using them can be a great way to save on weight (eliminate the tent). You do, however, need to be prepared to shelter yourself when the shelters themselves are full to overflowing - so a bivy or light tarp would be ideal. You might also consider a mosquito net - even if it's just one that covers your head - a good nights sleep is paramount when you're backpacking (in my opinion at least).
As for trail runners, I know some folks love 'em and have thru-hiked in them, but be warned - the trail through Maryland and Pennsylvania (especially the Southern PA section - which is about the 1/2 way mark) sees a lot of people abandon because their feet get the snot beat out of 'em. It is very rocky - and a lot of the rocks are sharp - routing the trail over them is not deliberate by the way. I've seen otherwise strong hikers humbled because the muscles on the undersides of their feet just couldn't stand the pounding.

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