The matter of selecting equipment is one that is of utmost importance but is also one of those things that you could forget about. The importance of this matter will become apparent when you face a trek of demanding requirements on the Mount Rinjani and that is why it should never be compromised in any way.
With any kinds of trek, easy or difficult, experienced or amateur trekkers need the best gear and the following guidelines may help in a lot of ways.
A. Footwear
This subject falls under two classes: Trekking/backpacking boots and trekking/hiking shoes.
Boots are naturally heavier but they are also more durable. They also cost more than shoes. In essence, boots should be worn when the trekking trail is difficult and there is a lot more loads to carry while shoes do the job very well when there are little loads to deal with.
When you plan on purchasing a pair of shoes or boots, check the following list:
- Weight
A kilogram of footwear adds 5 kilograms to your back. Lightweight then becomes a crucial matter to take into consideration when thinking about purchasing footwear.
2. Traction/sole
Choose footwear that comes with a rubber sole. Vibram rubber performs better than regular one as it grips on a surface better and helps with walking on different types of terrain.
3. Support
More supports can be expected out of a pair of shoes of mid or high ankle. They can help with walking on loose boulders or down a descending trail. You need to protect your feet from twisting and do not forget to also inspect the shoes’ heel support.
4. Breathability and waterproof resistance
Mesh shoes have poor water resistance. Shoes with higher breathability levels can provide you with ventilation and keep your feet dry all the time. If possible, get a pair of footwear that comes with Gore-Tex lining inside it.
B. Clothing
It is recommended that you wear quality clothing on the mountain. Your getup should incorporate a base layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer. Depending on the cases, the middle and outer layer can be replaced with a thick jacket instead.
1. Base layer
In lower altitudes, a trekker can use a base layer only in the form of a t-shirt (either short- or long-sleeved). The main idea is to wear something that gives comfort, breathability, and warmth. A long-sleeved t-shirt, however, can offer you comfort and keep you dry, plus you will be protected against the sun.
2. Down jacket
A down jacket of good quality is typically expensive. A jacket of fine wool can pack easily inside the backpack and is totally warm when worn. But it cannot withstand the rain. If you wish to purchase a jacket of this type, make sure it has a Fill power of 700 or above.
3. Insulated jacket
This type of jacket comes with synthetic insulation. Air would be trapped within the insulation layers. An insulated jacket of good quality will keep you warm and protected from wind. The price is reasonable but it is the heaviest among all jackets thus perhaps not suitable when it comes to light-packing.
4. Fleece jacket
A fleece jacket has a middle layer of synthetic material. It works better when paired with an outer layer with wind and water resistant property. It is stretchable and more flexible.
5. Windproof and waterproof jacket
Coldness from the wind chill on the mountain can be tackled with windproof jackets. Some of these jackets come with a coating of waterproof ability. This type of jackets can be worn as an outmost layer of the trekking getup as it protects against wind, drizzle, or light rain.
6. Trek pant
The lower section of your trekking getup needs to be comfortable and fit your body so as to accommodate movement. The trekking pant of good quality is typically made of nylon and polyurethane or spandex, the latter of which provides stretching. The pant must be durable, quick to dry, and weather resistant. It should help you defend against light rain, air circulation in hot environment, insulation against coldness, defense against strong winds, and protection from UV lights. Convertible pants can be worn in varying conditions of weather. A thermal base layer should be worn underneath the trek pant when walking in cold environment of snowy surfaces.
C. Backpack
A backpack is arguably the most crucial item you need to own and quality backpack helps with those who do not want a horse or a porter to carry their belongings for them. Problems may rise from having to carry a backpack through a difficult trail. As such, choosing a backpack that allows the carrier to go through any kinds of trail becomes important. A backpack should always contain lifesaving items such as a sleeping bag and a jacket for when the time demands. You should not carry a total weight of 12 kg of backpack (and its contents) even for a trek of long duration (10 days, for example).
1. Size
The backpack you need varies in size depending on the duration of the trek. For a 10-day trek on the Himalayas, a backpack of up to 60 liter of volume would suffice. Too large a backpack will add to the entire weight you have to carry—even without the contents.
2. Internal frame
It is important for you to choose a backpack that is supported by a metal or alloy frame from the inside. The frame prevents the backpack from sagging and throwing everything off-balance. It will also help spread the load evenly across the waist belt and the shoulder straps and to your torso.
3. Shoulder straps and hip belt
Get a backpack with adjustable shoulder straps and hip belt, padded with foams.
4. Ease of packing
Top and front panel access is possibly the most common feature in a backpack. Larger backpacks come with additional separate compartment for a sleeping bag. Yet other backpacks also come with another backdoor to help access the main compartment quickly.
5. Rain fly/dust cover
It would be wise if you also consider buying a rain cover for your backpack. Get a waterproof one as it protects your belongings dry inside the backpack.