Thanks for all the info! I like the idea of shooting for between 20-30% of my body weight. Im used carrying a lot of weight, in the army my weapon alone weighed 22 lbs not including my combat load of 800rounds, water, food, med kit, knife, side arm.... so Im going to tend to want to carry more weight.

I weight in at any where from 175-180lbs so my target pack weight is going to be any where from 35 lbs to 45 lbs. I know a lot of people like to be under 30 lbs at the trial head but I just don't have a lot of the super light weight stuff that some people have. I will get there some day but not yet. That and 6 lbs of my weight is water.

As for shoes I always wear boots, I like the feel and the support. I've never been a fan of sandals or even regular running shoes unless I'm actually running.

Its good to know that I don't need to be counting my clothing thats on my back as packing weight.

Thank you for your guidance. I will post my packing list for review and comments.

My apologizes for post jacking kievalina