The BLT Guidebook

Everyone needs their favorite gear to feel comfortable on the trail or at home- whether it’s a mountain bike, a pair of your favorite sunglasses, or that t-shirt that fits just right.

Here’s a list of the gear I used the most in 2021. This gear is based on my personal preferences.

The North Face Aphrodite Motion Shorts

• What I like about them: These shorts are lightweight and breathable, and they have pockets! I use them for running, hiking, backpacking, and sometimes everyday wear. They have a drawstring waist band that fits perfectly around my waist.
• What could be better: I haven’t owned too many running shorts, but the shorts are not as fitted on the leg portion, which feels baggy to me at times.

REI Co-op Active Pursuits Tank Top

• What I like about it: It’s a light-weight muscle tank that’s loose-fitting. It’s also in a great shade of orange. I’ve worn this under a nice sweater and have worn in on backpacking trips- perfect for everyday use.
• What could be better: I live in this tank top, BUT if you are a person who likes fitted clothing, this may not be for you. I also thought the price was high for this type of active tank, but I’ve more than made up for it by the number of times I’ve worn it.

PrAna Transform High-Waist Leggings

• What I like about them: I’m 5’11 and I don’t feel like these leggings are too short on me. I’ve worn them as an under-pants layer, an under-shorts layer, and as part of an everyday outfit with a sweater. The versatility is endless.
• What could be better: I have worn these on backpacking trips (long days, hot weather) and have felt that the fabric is not as breathable as I would like it to be for an athletic legging. I cringed at the sticker price of these, too, but the higher quality is worth it.

ALTRA Superior 4 Trail Running Shoes

• What I like about them: These trail runners are lightweight and are perfect for short walks, jogs, trails, and overnight backpacking trips. I have backpacked 20+ miles in these shoes on one trip and they’ve held up. They are also zero-drop, which means your heel and toes are level, which mimics your natural barefoot position on a flat surface. (There are supposed to be numerous benefits of zero-drop shoes. I’m not an expert, so I would do your own research on them.)
• What could be better: Your feet will literally feel everything- you have a very thin layer between your foot and the ground. I’m not a fan of rocky trails in these shoes, but they do get the job done.

iPhone 11–Green

• What I like about it: I like the size of the screen and was amazed at how well the camera took photos. A cell phone camera will never replace a camera like a DLSR, but if you are someone who loves taking photos with your phone, this is perfect for you. The battery life is also good if you make sure to charge it correctly (side note: I don’t use apps on the phone that much, so I don’t know what the battery is like if the phone is your main source of personal or work use.)
• What could be better: At first, the phone itself seemed like it was too big. I have since then gotten used to it. It depends on your preference.

Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer

• What I like about it: I love this base layer! I have used it on many trips and as a light-weight pullover at the beach in the summertime! It’s a go-to when packing light. It also looks more like a long-sleeve shirt and not a thermal, which I appreciate.
• What could be better: The price of quality base layers can be high, so shop around!

Nikon D7100

• What I like about it: This Nikon is only my second DSLR. It’s easy to use and it is also extremely portable with the right lens. I have gone to Europe with this camera and kept it in my small cross-body purse, so I didn’t need to bring a camera bag around with me.
• What could be better: I’m not sure- I haven’t experienced too many camera types. I do know that focusing on your lenses will yield greater results (just a tip.)

Patagonia Tropic Comfort Hooded Shirt

• What I like about it: This sun hoody is light-weight and can be layered with athletic shirts and puffy jackets. I’m a fan of the simple design and the ability to cinch the hood to keep the sun out of your face. The hood also blocks the wind, which makes it more efficient than a UV Buff on its own.
• What could be better: I’ve worn this countless times, but it could be more breathable. The material is thicker because it is a 50+ UPF sun shirt. I try not to wear layers underneath if I don’t need to.

Peak Design Camera Clip

• What I like about it: I was surprised to find how much I use this clip! You can clip is easily to most backpacks within seconds, it’s sturdy, and it’s almost like it’s not even there. I have gone through a few overnights and short day hikes with my camera attached to one of my backpacks and I barely notice it. It makes for easier access to your camera without having it hanging in front of you.
• What could be better: I was shocked at the price for such a small piece of equipment, but it’s worth the investment. You also need to buy the clip and camera mount separately, so make sure you are getting both and not just the clip only.

A hat or beanie like United by Blue Protect and Preserve Trucker Hat (all seasons) or Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie (winter)

• What I like about them: I think it’s important to have a hat of some kind for sun protection or to cover your head on days when you have been out on the trail and haven’t washed your hair. I have a few hats in my collection, all similar styles, but this United by Blue is my backpacking hat. I love its rugged look. I wear beanies when the weather is cold and switch them out, but I am loving my newer Carhartt beanie for outside and inside wear- it goes with everything.
• What could be better: Carhartt beanies are affordable, but I can already see the wear-and-tear. I can compare them to more expensive beanies that I’ve had for years.

Daypack- like the Quest 2L Hydration Pack

• What I like about them: In general, it’s nice to have some sort of backpack when travelling around- I even use a small one as a “purse.” I have the older version of the link listed, but for a 30 dollar backpack, I have taken it on countless hikes (through rain even) and it has held up!
• What could be better: I would make sure you keep a dry-bag in your backpack (especially with light-weight gear) just in case. On my version, the front pocket doesn’t open all of the way, but the bigger pocket is very roomy. Designs like this can be annoying, so check out all of the bells and whistles before you purchase gear and see if it’s right for you.

Thoughts on Gear for 2022

• I don’t change up or switch out gear very often, but I think I would trend toward purchasing a new sun hoody to have an extra one in the summertime, trying out a different DSLR (or even mirrorless) camera body to become familiar with the differences from a Nikon, and upgrading my Altra 4 trail runners to a 4.5 or 5 to have that extra layer when using them.

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What gear has been a lifesaver for you in 2021?