I am over 70 now and I have carried about the same base weight for backpacking for as long as I can remember. I carried about 16 lb on a 1954 hike of the John Muir Trail and I will carry about 14 lb now (plus bear cannister) for my repeat attempt this summer. I carried a lot more on my many climbing trips however.

Of course now, I carry more stuff that adds to my comfort. On the 1954 JMT hike, I didn't carry a mattress; I slept on my clothes and pack. I used a sweater rather than an insulated jacket; I didn't carry a stove, I cooked over a fire; I used an Army surplus poncho for a shelter and rain gear. I also spent a lot of cold nights. A lot of things have changed since those days but my pack weighs about the same.

I have done some experimenting with pack weights and have gone out for 2-3 days with a pack as light as 10 lb. That is not light by SUL standards but is light for me. I honestly couldn't tell the difference between that pack and the standard 14 lb base weight I use for the western mountains. I was less comfortable with the lighter pack and so have added in a bit of decadent comfort-inducing fat.

Rather than spend a lot of time and money fussing with lighter gear, I spend a fair amount of time trying to stay fit. I generally get at least an hour of aerobic exercise a day and do some weight work as well. I sure don't go as fast as I used to but I can still go. Any way you can accomplish that is a good way! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />


Edited by Pika (04/13/08 04:23 PM)
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May I walk in beauty.