So, you've got that old familiar ache in your kneecap again. Or maybe it's the dull aching pain you get on the downhill descent. Whatever it may be, your bad knee is becoming the pampered pest of your backpacking excursions. I'm no stranger to this silent hitchhiker, and for years have dealt with this burden from below the belt. Over that time, I've tried numerous tactics to improve the way my knee responds to the demands of backpacking. What I've came up with is a solid set of guidelines to improve my backpacking experience. These tips extend beyond the bum-knee crowd and apply to anyone ready to streamline their backpacking experience.
1) Trek-on with trekking poles: Who knew that two aluminum poles, commonly seen in the ski industry, could revolutionize the world of hiking. Trekking poles soothe the instability of an un-sturdy backpack. They support you horizontally and when used properly, can provide significant propulsion uphill. More importantly, they provide downhill support when your knees necessarily can't.
2) Hi-top's weren't lost in the 8O's: Trail runners and backpackers share the same turf, so it's no wonder their shoes have crossed the playing field as well. Low-top cross-training and trail running shoes have become popular with long-distance backpackers, and it seemed at one point that traditional hiking boots had lost their bout with modern technology. Until recently though, a new breed of hiking boots has hit the market. They're rugged, lightweight, and best of all...available in a hi-top! Hi-tops provide considerable ankle support that translate upward into moderate knee stability. It may not sound like much, but for the hiker prone to knee instability, it's much needed relief.
3) Lighten up a little: What separates hiking backpacking is, obviously, the backpack. The extra burden on your back translates into additional stress on the the shock absorbing joints of your body, mainly your knees. There are essentials you must have in the back country, but the rest of your gear can go on a diet. Scrutinize every aspect of your pack; every ounce of weight you're carrying should be accounted for and serve a purpose (or two). Start with the big items: tent, sleeping bag, pad, etc. and work down the scale. Think of unnecessary weight as undue pain. Ultralight equipment is now cheaper than ever and investing in quality, lightweight equipment should be considered a bargain.
Now take these tips and get outside! Do whatever you need to do to keep your knee from hampering your hobby. An achy knee after a day of backpacking is still better than a normal knee after a day on the couch.
Some of my favorite gear:
ULA Backpacks
Big Agnes Tents/Sleeping bags/pads
Solomon Boots/clothing
1) Trek-on with trekking poles: Who knew that two aluminum poles, commonly seen in the ski industry, could revolutionize the world of hiking. Trekking poles soothe the instability of an un-sturdy backpack. They support you horizontally and when used properly, can provide significant propulsion uphill. More importantly, they provide downhill support when your knees necessarily can't.
2) Hi-top's weren't lost in the 8O's: Trail runners and backpackers share the same turf, so it's no wonder their shoes have crossed the playing field as well. Low-top cross-training and trail running shoes have become popular with long-distance backpackers, and it seemed at one point that traditional hiking boots had lost their bout with modern technology. Until recently though, a new breed of hiking boots has hit the market. They're rugged, lightweight, and best of all...available in a hi-top! Hi-tops provide considerable ankle support that translate upward into moderate knee stability. It may not sound like much, but for the hiker prone to knee instability, it's much needed relief.
3) Lighten up a little: What separates hiking backpacking is, obviously, the backpack. The extra burden on your back translates into additional stress on the the shock absorbing joints of your body, mainly your knees. There are essentials you must have in the back country, but the rest of your gear can go on a diet. Scrutinize every aspect of your pack; every ounce of weight you're carrying should be accounted for and serve a purpose (or two). Start with the big items: tent, sleeping bag, pad, etc. and work down the scale. Think of unnecessary weight as undue pain. Ultralight equipment is now cheaper than ever and investing in quality, lightweight equipment should be considered a bargain.
Now take these tips and get outside! Do whatever you need to do to keep your knee from hampering your hobby. An achy knee after a day of backpacking is still better than a normal knee after a day on the couch.
Some of my favorite gear:
ULA Backpacks
Big Agnes Tents/Sleeping bags/pads
Solomon Boots/clothing