Welcome to episode 14 of the first 40 miles. If you're new to

backpacking or if you're hopelessly in love with someone who wants you to

love backpacking, then this podcast is for you. We'll talk about the essentials, how to lighten your load, and how to make the most of your time on the trail. I'm your host Heather Legler.

And I'm Josh Legler. And I'm Josh Legler.

And this is the first 40 miles.

Today on the first 40 miles, the top five reasons to stop complaining on the trail.

And if today's top five list doesn't work,

then maybe some well-placed duct tape over the mouth will.

The Summit Gear Review will review the weatherproof paper that wasn't weatherproof. The backpack

hack of the week is a simple solution that will keep your muddy shoes from

deteriorating your valuable gear and we'll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom

from a doctor known in his field for creating subtle satires of political events

and encouraging children to consume off-color eggs and pork products.

All this and that's about it today on the first 40 miles.

Well, when you're about to make a big purchase,

like a new sleeping bag, a tent, or a pack,

it helps to remember this simple axiom.

You pay for good gear, you pay for bad gear.

So when I was growing up, my mom would play this little game.

Whenever she bought a new item of clothing,

she would take the price that she paid for it

and divide it by how many times she wore it.

...