025: AHEAD OF THE CURVE: The Women + Backpacking Episode

Today on The First 40 Miles, it’s our Women + Backpacking Episode! We’ll share the top 5 questions about Women and Backpacking and what to do to prepare for a successful trip. On the SUMMIT™ Gear Review, we’ll teach you the Mayan name for Bonefish and why it matters! On The Backpack Hack of the Week™ we’ll share a $1 solution to the most common female complaint on the trail. Then we’ll answer a question that applies to folks with long hair. Show Notes: Episode 025 Opening *  Data about women on the trail * Advantages women have * Trail is a great equalizer * My first backpacking trip Top 5 Questions about Women and Backpacking Is it safe for women to backpack alone? * Should any backpacker travel alone? * Weapon: false sense of security * Trekking Poles (provide extra support, extension of arms, some protection if an animal encounter occurs) * Safe option for women who want to backpack “alone”: Tandem Solo Hikes * There is value and safety in travelling together Is backpacking gear for women really different or is it just purple? * Notice difference: packs, sleeping bags, clothing (cut is different) * Heather’s experience with a women’s pack Girls can’t just find a tree…so what options are out there that can help? * Female Urination Device or STP * pStyle (http://www.thepstyle.com/) * Try in shower before you try on the trail * Overcoming bathroom anxiety (the more you go, the more you know) What is the best solution for feminine hygiene products on the trail? * Pads and tampons are still an option, however they must be packed out * MaskIt (http://www.maskit.us/) for packing out feminine hygiene * Some women prefer to use shots or pills to modify their monthly cycle * Menstrual Cups: No waste involved, lightweight, not associated with toxic shock syndrome * Use with a backup washable menstrual pad Where can I find like-minded women backpackers who can share stories and give advice? SnowqueenandScout.com (http://www.snowqueenandscout.com/) SUMMIT Gear Review™: Macabi Skirt Structure * Supplex Nylon (Cottony-soft, breathable) * Pant Clip (fully adjustable length): Lets you adapt to changes in weather, activity or mood * Wading Snaps: Lets you go amphibious without changing your clothes * Fabric (SPF 25+) resists wrinkles, dries fast and wicks away moisture * Oversized, self-draining pockets * Zippered security pocket. Cell phone pocket. Tiny pocket within one of the main pockets * Elastic waistband, drawstring and belt loops * D-ring on side * Available in multiple lengths, colors and sizes * Inspector Gadget Skirt Utility * Skirt, Pants, Shorts * Dries in 2 hours * You can stuff the whole skirt into the zippered security pocket Mass * Hiking pants 13.8 ounces * Macabi Skirt Small/Regular Length weighs in at just 10.5 ounces Maintenance * Machine wash or hand wash * Dry * No special maintenance Investment * $77 Trial * This skirt is convertible in every sense of the word. It changes easily from skirt, to pants to shorts. And goes from survival mode to dressy mode. * Women have the culturally acceptable option of wearing clothing on the trail that allows them to be a little more versatile * Regular length was perfect hiking length * Feminine, functional, comfortable, durable, versatile--a skirt when I want a skirt, and pants or shorts when I want pants or shorts Backpack Hack of the Week™: Dollar Store STP Device In the bathroom department, women have a few challenges. It’s potentially messy, it’s a skill that has to be learned, and it requires some balance $1 DIY STP device options Cut 8”x8” piece of flexible cutting board Round corners Flexible cutting board 8X8 cut, then roll it diagonally and use as STP device. Backpackers Q + A: What’s the best way to keep my hair out of the way on the trail? Also, should I wash it or just let it go? Braids