Welcome to episode 60 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.

They'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 this is the first 40 miles.

Today on the first 40 miles, fix the gear maintenance and Repair episode.

If you're scared to take your brand new gear out into the rough and wild wilderness

because you think it might get damaged, have no fear. This episode is dedicated to making sure your

gear stays in top form regardless of the elements. On today's top five list, you'll

learn the top five things you can do when good gear goes bad.

Then the Summit Gear Review turns into the Summit Gear Hospital as we search and rescue gear that has flatlined.

On the backpack Hack of the Week learn the critical pieces of a DIY custom repair kit. All this and that's about it. Today on the first 40 miles.

Well as we've talked about in past episodes, sometimes it's a little bit trickier to get out in the winter.

If you're going to be hiking around, that's one thing.

But backpacking in the snow and sub-freezing temperatures requires a little extra in terms of gear and insulation.

Plus it's dark for long hours.

You get a few hours of sunlight and then you're in the dark all not only for the night but for dinner and most likely for breakfast that can be tough

...