Equipment

My training walks are also an ongoing experiment for shoes, socks, backpacks vs daypacks, kinds of snacks, amounts of water, walking sticks vs no walking sticks, etc. etc. As I mentioned last month, I am settled on Solomon's Speed Cross 6 trainers and Darn Tough Socks. I used both in Montana and Iceland and saw no reason to change. I quickly learned though I don't like anything hanging off my back or shoulders, finding even the lightest weight uncomfortable on my neck. So, Cotopaxi bags to the rescue. I have one that sits low on my stomach/midriff and is super easy to reach into for glasses, nose wipes, phone, etc. and then another (a real fanny pack) that sits on my low back or just on top of my hips. This one is a bit larger with a great secret compartment for passport, identification, etc., a sleeve for holding a hoody or thin rain coat and pockets for snacks, a small water bottle, etc. My most recent addition is - despite everything I said above - a water bottle holder with extra pockets and a sling for carrying over my shoulder. Maybe there is a more complimentary balance with the Cotopaxi packs?

Walking sticks. The jury is still out. I haven't found them particularly useful except when I am very tired. Taking them also means I would have to check my luggage rather than doing carry on. One option is shipping them ahead to our starting location and I will check that out this week.

And finally, compression knee sleeves which I just ordered.