Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
have a wide brimmed cover to retain a layer of hot coals on top to promote even heating from
all sides. Heavy-duty, cast-iron pots spread the heat of a fire evenly, but are too heavy for most
backpacking needs. For backpacking, I prefer lightweight spun stainless steel cookware. It
weighs about the same as aluminum cookware, but does not leave traces of aluminum in your
food (aluminum has been linked to Alzheimer's disease). It's not a bad idea to have both
heavy-duty and lightweight cookware on hand—one set for your backpack and one set for your
home or car.
Figure 3-7. The two-burner propane or white-gas stove is convenient to use.
Photo courtesy of Eastern Mountain Sports
(EMS)
Footgear
For support, durability, warmth, and heavy-duty use, it's hard to beat a full-grain leather boot
with a Vibram-type, rubber-lug sole. These types of boots are heavy and should be worn for
several days to break them in (and harden your feet) prior to leaving on a backcountry trip.
Leather boots must be preserved and waterproofed with an appropriate boot grease or synthetic
sealer. New, modern lightweight hiking boots can provide waterproof materials and support
with considerably improved comfort and reduced weight, but will not usually offer the durabil-
ity and protection of a heavy, full-grain leather boot or a heavy-duty plastic boot designed for
