Geared for life

Making the most of Alaska's seasons means gearing up properly—knowing what to wear, what to carry and what to leave behind. 61˚N caught up with Alaska adventurers to find out what they bring and how it's helped. Sometimes it's as simple as the right shoes or a tool they can slip into a pocket before a hike.

TOM ROBINSON, Hunter

When it comes to roughing it during a hunt, there are a couple gear rules Tom swears by. Cotton kills. Synthetic fiber or a blend is the way to go; it helps wick moisture and retain warmth. Buying boots? Leather lasts the longest.

TRAVIS MORIN, Competitive Cyclist

An avid cyclist, Travis grew up in Alaska, where he learned a few very important lessons: There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. The forecast can change in the blink of an eye, so traveling on two wheels means preparing for wind, rain and everything in between. Treks between Anchorage and Girdwood require frequent stops to rehydrate. And don't forget your helmet.

CATALINA DENGEL, Competitive Human

One of the first presents Catalina's now-husband bought her when they first started dating was a pocket knife. A pink one. She knew she was in for a lifetime of outdoor adventures when she married her gift-giving husband last year. Fortunately, a lifetime of competitive running has made her a force to be reckoned with, whether she's on foot, back country skis or a fat tire bike.

NATHAN LYNCH, Hiker

After a recent miserable 17-mile trek involving lots of rain and a cheap Walmart sleeping bag, Nate can also attest to the importance of having quality gear. Go ahead, spend the extra money on the "Patagucci." In the end, it will mean the difference between heaven and hypothermia.

BRITTNEY CORNELL, Runner

These shoes don't last long on Brittney's feet. She puts hundreds of miles on them, so the lighter, the better. Her favorite pair of Salomon Speedcross 3s carry her down trails and up mountainsides around Southcentral Alaska. Trail running wears the soles down to nothing on rugged Alaska terrain, so she always has a pair on order.

TANNER DEWALT, Off-Hours Adventurer

Tanner doesn't let his day job keep him from getting into the mountains nearly every day. His Subaru is full of trail-tested gear and he can be ready to gain elevation in 15 minutes. Catching a sunset (or sunrise) from his camp hammock is a new favorite pastime. While he's not yet developed Paul Bunyan skills, his folding pocket saw can turn felled trees into firewood to keeps things toasty.

A version of this story first appeared in the June 2016 Adventure Issue of 61°North. Contact the editor, Jamie Gonzales, at jgonzales@alaskadispatch.com.