October 12, 20105 Million Steps – Sleepy Time

After over a month and a half on the Appalachian trail, I feel like enough of an expert for an initial equipment assessment! I think I have accumulated enough trekking experience to give an enlightened critique of the various items that supplement my Appalachian life.

For this first article, I chose the category "sleepy time": tent, sleeping bag and ground mattress. My tent (North Face Mica 12) has served me well so far. However, since the weather has been on my side from the beginning, it has yet to be truly tested under extreme conditions. Strengths: its weight (2.5 lbs, it is lighter than most models I've seen on the trail), the difference (many hikers have the MSR Hubba; I like doing things differently), design (vestibules on both sides, two inner pockets, more shoulder space and room to sit). Weaknesses: its length (I am 6 foot 4 inches tall and I barely fit; I wouldn’t recommend this tent to people taller than me), stakes (I would have included one more, in order to properly stretch the fly). Neutral point: the window (it can be useful for getting an idea of the weather but it is often misty, obstructing the view of the outside. Sunlight or the sound of rain is usually sufficient to gauge whether it’s nice out or not regardless of the window, and some would criticise the lack of privacy).

A lived-in The North Face Mica 12

In terms of the sleeping bags, in my opinion, The North Face Orion -7C is a good buy. Interesting design (shape, color, stuff sack...), good insulation and comfort all wrapped into one. However, on the coldest nights (around -3C or -4C), I happened to shiver a little. Apparently the -7C inscribed on the sleeping bag ensures your survival up to that temperature, but not necessarily your comfort. Be that as it may, the nights are getting warmer so I will probably need a lighter sleeping bag from May to July.

Regarding the ground mattress, my Thermarest ProLite is perfect for this kind of hike. It’s lightweight, durable and does not take up much space. It also offers good insulation between the ground and sleeping bag. The 3/4 model would have definitely been too short for me.

So that’s it for my “sleepy time” review! I will be back soon to talk about "walking", "clothing", "cooking", and "the rest". In the meantime, you can delight in all my adventures at 5millionsdepas.com.

Christian "The Crusher"

Intro - 5 Million Steps

Sleepy Time - 5 Million Steps

Walking - 5 Million Steps

Cooking + - 5 Million Steps

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