Welcome to episode 98 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. this is the first 40 miles.

Today on the first 40 miles new improved ultral waterproof, breathable and loaded with functionality.

These are words that you might read on the packaging for backpacking gear.

But where does the hype end and the honesty begin?

Right here.

Then on today's top five list, the top five pieces of gear

that ensure that you won't get flustered on your next blustery trip.

For today's backpack Hack of the Week, Gilbert from the Patagonia Warnware Program

shares a hack for revitalizing a corroded zipper and we'll wrap up the

show with a little trail wisdom from the son of an organist and an anarchist.

All this and that's about it. Today on the first 40 miles. Walk through any outdoor store and you are going to see some of the most incredible innovation to hit the outdoors since the first Flint made the first spark.

You'll see stoves that boil water in two minutes,

sleeping bags that can keep you warm in sub-negative 20 degree weather,

shoes that can let the moisture out but won't let the moisture in,

duck down that floats on water like a duck, repair tape that gets stronger with time, and communication devices that use alien

spaceships, aka satellites, to communicate with all of your friends back home.

What kind of sorcery is this?

I mean, should I believe it all?

...