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The Pacific Crest Trail Gear Guide: Class of 2019 Survey

By Mac 55 Comments

In the second chapter of the Pacific Crest Trail Thru-hiker Survey, we take a deep dive into Pacific Crest Trail hikers' gear. PCT gear lists can vary wildly between hikers and (spoiler alert) it's impossible to find a perfect PCT gear list. That said, we can try.

I've organized this post in a way that I hope will give a comprehensive picture of what gear PCT thru-hikers are using. This post covers the highest-rated gear, most common gear, gear statistics based on different groups of hikers, the lowest-rated gear, hiker comments on gear, and finally, gear advice. The gear covered here includes backpacks, shelters, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, down jackets, rain jackets, bear canisters, stoves, water treatment, and snow equipment.

Previously, I also included women-specific gear, but in the interest of both organization and getting this post published (and to keep this post from being absurdly long), I am going to be publishing follow-up posts on gear broken down by gender as well as gear used by couples hiking the PCT.

I am sure that some of you will come up with comparisons you would like to see that I have overlooked. My hope is to make this a useful resource for PCT hikers, so if there's anything that you think is missing, please leave a comment or get in touch.

That being said, I hope you enjoy this year's PCT Gear Guide brought to you by the PCT Class of 2019.


Jump to a section

  • Notes on the data
  • The highest-rated gear
  • The most common gear
  • Highest-rated vs. common gear
  • The gear stats
  • The luxury items
  • The lowest-rated gear
  • The gear comments
  • The gear advice
  • The other PCT surveys
Sunrise in the desert

Notes on the data

  • This year we had 846 completed surveys – that's a 68% increase vs. last year and the most respondents in the history of the survey.
  • Some responses have been sorted and colored to present the data in a friendlier manner (e.g. northbound vs. southbound responses).
  • Not all PCT hikers meticulously document the stats of their thru-hike (yes, I'm weird). Therefore, the data is not going to be 100% accurate. That said, it should be fairly close to the reality of the trail this year.
  • I refer to survey respondents collectively as this year's “class“. Remember, this is a sample and not a comprehensive survey of every single PCT hiker on the trail this year.
  • If you find a small and meaningless discrepancy in the data, congratulations. However, if you find a large or obvious error, please let me know and it will be corrected.
  • If you're wondering what this symbol – σ – is, it's the symbol for standard deviation. If you don't know what that is, I invite you to use the Google.
  • If two pieces of gear have the same rating, the higher ranking is given to the piece of gear that had a higher number of users.
  • For stats requiring the length of the PCT for a calculation (e.g. average mileage per day over the course of the trail), I use 2,660 mi / 4,280 km.
  • I will be releasing more detailed survey posts focused on PCT Resupply, PCT Demographics, PCT Horror Stories, and PCT Advice in the coming weeks. If you would like to be notified of new surveys, click here.

LABELS differentiating hiker segments:

  • THRU: Thru-hikers (all)
  • THRU-0: Thru-hikers who did NOT complete the PCT
  • THRU-1: Thru-hikers who completed the entire PCT
  • NOBO: Northbound thru-hikers (all)
  • NOBO-0: Northbound thru-hikers who did NOT complete the PCT
  • NOBO-1: Northbound thru-hikers who completed the PCT
  • SOBO: Southbound thru-hikers (all)
  • SOBO-0: Southbound thru-hikers who did NOT complete the PCT
  • SOBO-1: Southbound thru-hikers who completed the PCT

If NO LABEL has been appended to a data point, then I used all data collected (i.e. it also includes section hiker data).


HIKING THE PCT NEXT YEAR? ENTER YOUR EMAIL BELOW TO TAKE NEXT YEAR'S PCT SURVEY!


The Highest-rated PCT Gear

In addition to asking each PCT hiker what gear they used, I also ask hikers to rate each piece of gear. No point in doing what everyone else is doing if they're all doing it wrong, right? I use this information to arrive at a top-five-pieces-of-gear list for each of the categories surveyed.

NOTES ON THE DATA:

  • All weights (and for backpacks, capacity) for products below are for products in a size medium and/or regular unless otherwise noted. For ice axes, I used whichever available length was closest to 60 cm.
  • I only included items here that were used by AT LEAST twenty hikers. Why twenty? Because that's the number I arbitrarily decided on – I already told you, this isn't scientific. That said, most of the items listed here had closer to 50 hikers who used them.

The Highest-rated PCT Gear List

So what does our “Highest-rated PCT gear List” backpack have in it? And, on that note, what is our backpack?

  • Backpack: ULA Circuit
  • Shelter: MSR Hubba NX
  • Sleeping bag: Western Mountaineering Versalite
  • Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm
  • Insulated jacket: Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket
  • Shell: Arc'teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket
  • Stove: SOTO WindMaster
  • Water treatment: Sawyer Squeeze
  • Trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
  • Ice axe: Black Diamond Raven Pro
  • Traction device: Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon
  • Bear canister: Bearikade Weekender
  • Shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat

Total weight – Big 3 (pack, shelter, sleeping bag): 7 lbs 7 oz / 3.374 kg
Total weight – Big 4 (Big 3 + sleeping pad): 8 lbs 6 oz / 3.799 kg
All PCT gear (outside Sierra*): 10 lbs 6.7 oz / 4.726 kg
All PCT gear: 13 lbs 12.06 oz / 6.239 kg

*The Sierra includes ice axe, traction device, and bear canister.

These base weights are missing gear (headlamp, extra clothing, electronics, etc.), and they get us within striking distance of the AVERAGE STARTING BASE WEIGHT (total weight not including consumables such as food, water, and poop paper) of this year's thru-hikers: 18.12 lbs / 8.219 kg. Also, note that the stove included in this list, the SOTO WindMaster, does not include the weight of a pot.

The total price of all this gear? $2,968 (this includes one pair of shoes). The average amount hikers spent prior to beginning their hikes? $1,529.74 (σ = $977.01). Clearly, most hikers had some of their gear prior to beginning their hikes.

Now, let's take a detailed look at the top five highest-rated pieces of gear in each of the following categories: backpacks, shelters, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, insulated jackets, shells, stoves, water treatments, trekking poles, ice axes, traction devices, bear canisters, and shoes.


HIGHEST-RATED PCT BACKPACKS
The ULA Circuit was the highest-rated pack on the PCT this year. It is a 41 oz / 1.162 kg pack capable of carrying up to 68 L and 35 lbs / 16 kg. It's largely customizable and you can even have your name embroidered on yours for an extra $15.

ULA Circuit
ULA Circuit
ULA Catalyst
ULA Catalyst
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider
Osprey Eja
Osprey Eja
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest
BACKPACKPRICERATINGWEIGHTLITERSMAX LOADACCESS
ULA Circuit$2554.60/541 oz / 1.162 kg6835 lbs / 16 kgTop
ULA Catalyst$2804.55/548 oz / 1.361 kg7540 lbs / 18 kgTop
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider$3454.50/531.82 oz / 902 g5540 lbs / 18 kgTop
Osprey Eja$2204.40/541 oz / 1.162 kg5840 lbs / 18 kgTop
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest$3454.32/532.11 oz / 910 g5540 lbs / 18 kgTop

HIGHEST-RATED PCT SHELTERS
The MSR Hubba NX was the highest-rated shelter on the PCT this year. It's a one-person, free-standing shelter weighing in at 46 oz / 1.304 kg. It has a single, side-entry door and has a minimum trail weight of 39 oz / 1.106 kg.

MSR Hubba NX
MSR Hubba NX
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Tent
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
MSR Hubba Hubba NX
MSR Hubba Hubba NX
SHELTERPRICERATINGWEIGHTPACKED SIZEHEIGHTFLOORDOORS
MSR Hubba NX$3804.74/546 oz / 1.304 kg6 x 18 in / 15 x 46 cm36 in / 91 cm18 ft² / 1.67 m²1
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3$5004.68/562 oz / 1.757 kg6 x 21 in / 15 x 53 cm43 in / 109 cm41 ft² / 3.81 m²2
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2$4004.64/540 oz / 1.133 kg5.5 x 18 in / 14 x 46 cm39 in / 99 cm28 ft² / 2.6 m²2
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2$4504.61/550 oz / 1.417 kg6 x 19.5 in / 15 x 50 cm40 in / 101 cm29 ft² / 2.69 m²2
MSR Hubba Hubba NX$4504.56/562 oz / 1.757 kg6 x 18 in / 15 x 46 cm39 in / 99 cm29 ft² / 2.69 m²2

A NOTE ON SHELTERS

For the weight of each shelter, I have used the packed weight – that is, the weight of the shelter including stuff sacks, guy lines, and stakes.


HIGHEST-RATED PCT SLEEPING BAGS
The Western Mountaineering Versalite was the highest-rated sleeping bag on the PCT this year. The top three highest-rated sleeping bags this year were all Western Mountaineering bags. The Versalite uses 850-fill down insulation and has interlocking draft tubes with a down-filled collar.

Western Mountaineering Versalite
Western Mountaineering Versalite
Western Mountaineering UltraLite
Western Mountaineering UltraLite
Western Mountaineering Alpinlite
Western Mountaineering Alpinlite
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10
REI Co-op Magma 15
REI Co-op Magma 15
SLEEPING BAGPRICERATINGWEIGHTTEMPERATUREFILLFILL WEIGHT
Western Mountaineering Versalite$6054.94/532 oz / 907 g10°F / -12°C850-fill goose down20 oz / 565 g
Western Mountaineering UltraLite$5254.87/530 oz / 850 g20°F / -6°C850-fill goose down16 oz / 453.6 g
Western Mountaineering Alpinlite$5854.85/531 oz / 879 g20°F / -6°C850-fill goose down19 oz / 539 g
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10$3254.53/525.95 oz / 736 g10°F / -12°C850-fill duck down13.63 oz / 386 g
REI Co-op Magma 15$3704.44/528.2 oz / 800 g16°F / -8.9°C850-fill goose down15.9 oz / 451 g

HIGHEST-RATED PCT SLEEPING PADS
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm sleeping pad was the highest-rated sleeping pad of PCT hikers this year. The 2.5 in / 6.4 cm thick pad comes in either regular or large sizes (there's no small because this is a four-season pad), and it has an R-value of 6.9.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite (Small)
NEMO Tensor Insulated
NEMO Tensor Insulated
SLEEPING PADPRICERATINGWEIGHTR-VALUETYPEPACKED SIZETHICKNESS
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm$2154.82/515 oz / 425 g6.9Air9 x 4 in / 23 x 10 cm2.5 in / 6.4 cm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite$1854.402/512 oz / 340 g4.2Air9 x 4.1 in / 23 x 10 cm2.5 in / 6.4 cm
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol$454.400/514 oz / 397 g2.6Foam20 x 5 x 5.5 in / 51 x 13 x 14 cm0.75 in / 2 cm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite (Small)$1454.33/58 oz / 227 g4.2Air9 x 3.5 in / 23 x 9 cm2.5 in / 6.4 cm
NEMO Tensor Insulated$1604.25/515 oz / 425 g3.5Air8 x 3 in / 20 x 8 cm3 in / 7.6 cm

HIGHEST-RATED PCT INSULATED JACKETS
The Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket was the highest-rated jacket among PCT hikers this year. The jacket uses 750-fill-power, RDS-certified (Responsible Down Standard) European goose down with a hip-length back and a nylon shell. It has two hand-warmer pockets and a single zippered chest pocket.

Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket
Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket
Enlightened Equipment Torrid APEX Jacket
Enlightened Equipment Torrid APEX Jacket
Arc'teryx Cerium SL Down Jacket
Arc'teryx Cerium SL Down Jacket
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Down Hoodie
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Down Hoodie
Feathered Friends Eos Down Jacket
Feathered Friends Eos Down Jacket
JACKETPRICERATINGWEIGHTINSULATIONHOODPOCKETS
Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket$2154.93/515.1 oz / 428 g750-fill goose downYes2 zippered hand / 1 zippered chest
Enlightened Equipment Torrid APEX Jacket$1704.88/58.4 oz / 238 gClimashield APEXYes2 zippered hand
Arc'teryx Cerium SL Down Jacket$3304.79/56.9 oz / 196 g850-fill goose downNo2 zippered hand
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Down Hoodie$3804.75/510.9 oz / 309 g850-fill goose downYes2 zippered hand / 1 zippered internal
Feathered Friends Eos Down Jacket$3404.73/510.6 oz / 300 g900+ fill goose downYes2 zippered hand

HIGHEST-RATED PCT SHELLS
The Arc'teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket was the highest-rated shell (that's a fancy name for rain jacket) among PCT hikers this year. It's a 12.3 oz / 349 g jacket made with Gore-Tex Paclite that includes pit zips and two zippered hand pockets. Men's / Women's

Arc'teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket
Arc'teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket
Marmot Minimalist
Marmot Minimalist
Montbell Versalite
Montbell Versalite
Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket
Marmot PreCip Jacket
Patagonia Torrentshell
Patagonia Torrentshell
SHELLPRICERATINGWEIGHTFABRICPIT ZIPSPOCKETS
Arc'teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket$4004.41/512.3 oz / 349 gGore-Tex PacliteYes2 zippered hand
Marmot Minimalist$1904.29/514.9 oz / 422 gGore-Tex PacliteYes2 zippered hand / 1 zippered chest
Montbell Versalite$2004.15/56.4 oz / 182 gGore-Tex Infinium WindstopperYes2 zippered hand
Marmot PreCip Jacket$1004.09/511.39oz / 322.9gMarmot NanoPro Waterproof/BreathableYes2 zippered hand
Patagonia Torrentshell$1304.07/512.1 oz / 343 g2.5-layer H2No Performance Standard shellYes2 zippered hand

HIGHEST-RATED PCT STOVES
The SOTO WindMaster was the highest-rated stove on the PCT this year. It's a 2.3 oz/ 66 g canister stove that has an optional pot support and that can (reportedly) boil 2 cups of water in under 2.5 minutes.

SOTO WindMaster
SOTO WindMaster
MSR PocketRocket Deluxe
MSR PocketRocket Deluxe
Jetboil MiniMo
Jetboil MiniMo
Jetboil Flash
MSR PocketRocket 2
MSR PocketRocket 2
STOVEPRICERATINGWEIGHTTYPEDIMENSIONSINTEGRATED POTSIMMER CONTROL
SOTO WindMaster$654.94/52.3 oz/ 66 gCanister2.5 x 1.3 x 1.8 in / 6.4 x 3.4 x 4.6 cmNoYes
MSR PocketRocket Deluxe$704.77/52.9 oz / 82 gCanister3.3 x 2.2 x 1.8 in / 8.4 x 5.6 x 4.6 cmNoYes
Jetboil MiniMo$1454.63/514 oz / 397 gCanister5 x 6 in / 12.7 x 15.2 cmYesYes
Jetboil Flash$1004.62 / 513.1 oz / 371 gCanister7.1 x 4.1 in / 18 x 10.4 cmYesYes
MSR PocketRocket 2$454.57/52.6 oz / 74 gCanister7.25 x 5 x 4 in / 19 x 12.6 x 10.2 cmNoYes

HIGHEST-RATED PCT WATER TREATMENTS
The Sawyer Squeeze was the highest-rated water filter on the PCT this year. It's a 3 oz / 85 g hollow fiber filter that rids your drinking water of protozoa and bacteria. The Sawyer comes in two smaller sizes as well, but most thru-hikers will agree that they aren't worth the weight savings and that the original Sawyer is best.

Sawyer Squeeze
Sawyer Squeeze
Aquamira
Aquamira
Katadyn BeFree
Katadyn BeFree
Sawyer Micro Squeeze Water Filtration System
Sawyer Micro
Sawyer Mini Water Filter
Sawyer Mini
WATER TREATMENTPRICERATINGWEIGHTTYPEDIMENSIONSMEDIUMREMOVES
Sawyer Squeeze$354.55/53 oz / 85 gSqueeze/Straw2 x 5 in / 5 x 13 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria
Aquamira$154.42/53 oz / 85 gDropsN/AChlorine dioxideProtozoa, bacteria, and viruses
Katadyn BeFree$254.13/52.3 oz / 65 gBottle11.3 x 3.5 x 2.8 in / 29 x 9 x 7 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria
Sawyer Micro$283.73/52.5 oz / 71 gSqueeze/Straw15.5 x 6 x 1 in . 39 x 15 x 2.5 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria
Sawyer Mini$203.53/52 oz / 57 gSqueeze/Straw1 x 5 in / 2.5 x 6.6 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria

HIGHEST-RATED PCT TREKKING POLES
The Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork were the highest-rated trekking poles on the PCT this year. They have an aluminum shaft, cork handles, and an external lever lock (for collapsing and expanding the poles). A pair weighs 18 oz / 510 g and they collapse down to 27 in / 69 cm.

Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
Leki Corklite Trekking Poles
Leki Corklite
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles
Black Diamond Trail
Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber
Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber
TREKKING POLESPRICERATINGWEIGHT (PAIR)SHAFT MATERIALHANDLE MATERIALCOLLAPSED LENGTHLOCKING MECHANISM
Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork$1304.73/518 oz / 510 gAluminumCork27 in / 69 cmExternal lever lock
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork$1804.68/517.1 oz / 485 gCarbon fiberCork24 in / 61 cmExternal lever lock
Leki CorkliteDiscontinued4.51/519.1 oz / 541 g6.5 HTS aluminumCork / rubber24.4 in / 62 cmExternal lever lock
Black Diamond Trail$1004.42/517 oz / 482 gAluminumFoam25 in / 63.5 cmExternal lever lock
Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber$504.39/516 oz / 454 gCarbon fiberCork26 in / 66 cmExternal lever lock

HIGHEST-RATED PCT ICE AXES
The Black Diamond Raven Pro was the highest-rated ice axe on the PCT this year. It comes in four different sizes (55, 60, 65, 70 cm) and has a straight shaft. It has a stainless-steel head and spike with an aluminum shaft and costs $110. The Pro weighs 2 oz / 57 g less than the original Black Diamond Raven.

Black Diamond Raven Pro
Black Diamond Raven Pro
Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe
Black Diamond Raven
Grivel G1 Ice Axe
Grivel G1
Petzl Glacier Literide
Petzl Glacier Literide
C.A.M.P. USA Corsa Nanotech
C.A.M.P. USA Corsa Nanotech
ICE AXEPRICERATINGWEIGHTMATERIALLENGTHSSHAFT SHAPE
Black Diamond Raven Pro$1104.57/513.8 oz / 392 gStainless-steel head and spike/aluminum 7075-T6 shaft55, 60, 65, 70 cmStraight
Black Diamond Raven$854.44/515.9 oz / 452 gStainless-steel head/aluminum shaft60, 65, 70, 75 cmStraight
Grivel G1$754.44/515.8 oz / 449 gCarbon steel/Ergal 7075 aluminum58, 66, 74 cmStraight
Petzl Glacier Literide$1004.43/511.3 oz / 320 gHeat-treated steel/aluminum 707550 cmStraight
C.A.M.P. USA Corsa Nanotech$1604.43/58.8 oz / 250 g7075-T6 aluminum steel alloy shaft/Sandvik Nanoflex steel50, 60, 70 cmBent

HIGHEST-RATED PCT TRACTION DEVICES
The Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon was the highest-rated traction device on the PCT this year. They come in three sizes and are made with stainless steel and elastomer. They are 40% lighter than the Snowline Pro Chainsen.

Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon
Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon
Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampons
Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampons
Hillsound Trail Crampons
Hillsound Trail Crampons
Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons
Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons
TRACTION DEVICEPRICERATINGWEIGHTMATERIALSIZES
Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon$604.69/58.57 oz / 243 gStainless steel, elastomerS, M, L
Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System$704.51/513.1 oz / 371 gStainless steel, elastomerS, M, L, XL
Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampons$1004.47/521.5 oz / 610 g4131 Chromoly steelOne size
Hillsound Trail Crampons$654.22/517 oz / 482 gCarbon steel, stainless steel, elastomerXS, S, M, L, XL
Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons$1303.92/528.5 oz / 808 gStainless steelOne size

HIGHEST-RATED PCT BEAR CANISTERS
The Bearikade Weekender was the highest-rated bear canister on the PCT this year – it's also insanely expensive at $288. It's made of carbon fiber, has a 10.6 L capacity, and weighs 31 oz / 879 g. One difference between the Bearikades and other bear canisters is that the Bearikade's lid does not completely come off.

Bearikade Weekender
Bearikade Weekender
Bearikade Expedition
Bearikade Expedition
BearVault BV500
BearVault BV500
Garcia Bear-Resistant Container
Garcia Bear-Resistant Container
BearVault BV450
BearVault BV450
BEAR CANISTERPRICERATINGWEIGHTCAPACITYMATERIALDIMENSIONS
Bearikade Weekender$2884.84/531 oz / 879 g10.6 LCarbon fiber10.5 x 9 in / 27 x 23 cm
Bearikade Expedition$3504.64/536 oz / 1.021 kg14.7 LCarbon fiber14.5 x 9 in / 37 x 23 cm
BearVault BV500$804.08/541 oz / 1.162 kg11.5 LPolycarbonate12.7 x 8.7 in / 32 x 22 cm
Garcia Bear-Resistant Container$753.74/543 oz / 1.219 kg10 LABS polymer12 x 8.8 in / 30 x 22 cm
BearVault BV450$703.66/533 oz / 935 g7.2 LPolycarbonate8.7 x 8.3 in / 22 x 21 cm

A NOTE ON BEAR CANISTERS

Bear canisters must be carried north of Lone Pine, but most hikers begin carrying them at Kennedy Meadows. They can stop being used at Bridgeport – accessible via Sonora Pass. However, they must also be carried in Lassen Volcanic National Park if you plan on camping there.


HIGHEST-RATED PCT SHOES
The HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat was the highest-rated shoe on the PCT this year. They have a 4 mm heel-to-toe drop, weight 10.8 oz / 306 g each, and have lots of cushion. On average, thru-hikers who finished the trail used 4.81 pairs of these shoes over the course of the entire PCT. Men's / Women's

HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat
HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat
Merrell Moab 2 Vent
Merrell Moab 2 Vent
Brooks Cascadia 14 Trail-Running Shoes
Brooks Cascadia 14
Altra Olympus
Altra Olympus
La Sportiva Wildcat
La Sportiva Wildcat
SHOESPRICERATINGWEIGHT (PAIR)HEEL-TOE DROPWATERPROOFAVERAGE NUMBER USED
HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat$1454.62/521.6 oz / 612 g4 mmNo4.81
Merrell Moab 2 Vent$1004.56/531 oz / 879 g—No4.25
Brooks Cascadia$1304.52/521.4 oz / 607 g8 mmNo4.69
Altra Olympus$1504.48/521.4 oz / 607 g0 mmNo4.81
La Sportiva Wildcat$1104.30/525 oz / 709 g12 mmNo4.9

A NOTE ON SHOES

Even if you knew for certain that each pair of your shoes would last you 700 mi / 1,125 km, buying yourself four pairs of shoes at the start of the hike would be a risky decision – what if the shoes aren't as comfortable as you thought? What if your feet swell? What if you die?

Remember, you can buy shoes using this thing called the internet and have them mailed ahead on the trail (to a post office, hotel, local outfitter, trail angel, etc.) once you know that you're going to need a new pair. If you encounter an emergency situation, you can always buy locally or simply wait around for your shoes to show up in the mail.



The Most Common PCT Gear

Now that we've looked at which pieces of gear hikers liked best, let's examine which pieces of gear were the most commonly used by PCT hikers. Remember, this is the most commonly used gear – simply because something was common, this does not necessarily translate to it automatically being the “best” (or even good).

The only piece of gear to occupy both the highest-rated and most common position is the Sawyer Squeeze. That said, there is still a lot of overlap between the highest-rated and the most commonly used pieces of gear.


The Most Common PCT Gear List

What about the most commonly used gear on the PCT this year? What did the average sheep waddling down the trail look like? What were they carrying?

  • Backpack: Osprey Exos
  • Shelter: Zpacks Duplex
  • Sleeping bag: Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20
  • Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
  • Insulated jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (Hooded)
  • Shell: Outdoor Research Helium II
  • Stove: MSR PocketRocket 2
  • Water treatment: Sawyer Squeeze
  • Trekking poles: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
  • Ice axe: C.A.M.P. USA Corsa
  • Traction device: Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
  • Bear canister: BearVault BV500
  • Shoes: Altra Lone Peak

Total weight – Big 3 (pack, shelter*, sleeping bag): 5 lbs 3.94 oz / 2.380 kg
Total weight – Big 4 (Big 3* + sleeping pad): 5 lbs 15.94 oz / 2.720 kg
All PCT gear* (outside Sierra**): 7 lbs 4.74 oz / 3.310 kg
All PCT gear*: 11 lbs 3.37 oz / 5.085 kg

*The shelter, a Zpacks Duplex, requires trekking poles and eight stakes to be set up which are not included in this weight
**The Sierra includes ice axe, traction device, and bear canister.

These base weights are missing gear (headlamp, extra clothing, electronics, etc.), and they get us within striking distance of the AVERAGE STARTING BASE WEIGHT (total weight not including consumables such as food, water, and poop paper) of this year's thru-hikers: 18.12 lbs / 8.219 kg.

The total price of all this gear? $2,440 (this includes one pair of shoes). The average amount hikers spent prior to beginning their hikes? $1,529.74 (σ = $977.01). A side-by-side breakdown of the highest-rated and most common PCT gear will follow this section.

Now, for a detailed look at the top five most common pieces of gear in each of the following categories: backpacks, shelters, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, insulated jackets, shells, stoves, water treatments, trekking poles, ice axes, traction devices, bear canisters, and shoes.


MOST COMMON PCT BACKPACKS
The Osprey Exos was the most widely-used pack on the PCT this year. It is a 42 oz / 1.190 kg pack capable of carrying up to 58 L and 40 lbs / 18 kg. It's also available in a 48-liter version. The fifth most-popular backpack on the PCT was the Osprey Eja – the woman-specific version of the Exos.

Osprey Exos
Osprey Exos
ULA Circuit
ULA Circuit
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider
Gossamer Gear Mariposa
Gossamer Gear Mariposa
Osprey Eja
Osprey Eja
BACKPACKPRICERATINGWEIGHTLITERSMAX LOADACCESS
Osprey Exos$2204.15/542 oz / 1.190 kg5840 lbs / 18 kgTop
ULA Circuit$2554.60/541 oz / 1.162 kg6835 lbs / 16 kgTop
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider$3454.50/531.82 oz / 902 g5540 lbs / 18 kgTop
Gossamer Gear Mariposa$2254.16/530.5 oz / 865 g6035 lbs / 16 kgTop
Osprey Eja$2204.40/541 oz / 1.162 kg5840 lbs / 18 kgTop

MOST COMMON PCT SHELTERS
The Zpacks Duplex was the most widely-used shelter on the Pacific Crest Trail this year. It is the only non-freestanding shelter on the “most common” list and it requires two trekking poles to be set up (which is why it appears to be so much lighter). It's made from .51 oz/yd² Dyneema Composite Fabric and required eight stakes to be set up (not included in the $600 price tag).

Zpacks Duplex
Zpacks Duplex
Nemo Hornet 2P
Nemo Hornet 2P
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2
Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
TENTPRICERATINGWEIGHTPACKED SIZEHEIGHTFLOORDOORS
Zpacks Duplex$6004.14/519.4 oz / 550 g7 x 13 in / 18 x 33 cm48 in / 122 cm28 ft² / 2.6 m²2
Nemo Hornet 2P$3704.32/538 oz / 1.077 kg5.5 x 19.5 in / 14 x 50 cm39 in / 99 cm27.5 ft² / 2.55 m²2
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2$4504.61/550 oz / 1.417 kg6 x 19.5 in / 15 x 50 cm40 in / 101 cm29 ft² / 2.69 m²2
Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2$3503.98/537 oz / 1.048 kg4 x 19 in / 10 x 48 cm39 in / 99 cm28 ft² / 2.6 m²1
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2$4004.64/540 oz / 1.133 kg5.5 x 18 in / 14 x 46 cm39 in / 99 cm28 ft² / 2.6 m²2

A NOTE ON SHELTERS

The weight provided for the Zpacks Duplex does not include the two trekking poles or the eight stakes that are required to set it up. All the rest of the shelters have their “packed weight” provided – this includes poles, stakes, and stuff sacks.


MOST COMMON PCT SLEEPING BAGS
The Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 was the most common sleeping bag on the PCT this year – and it's a quilt. It's made with 850 DownTek treated down with a 10D nylon shell. There is also a 10-degree version – the third-most-popular bag this year – which received higher ratings than the more-common 20-degree version.

Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20
REI Co-op Magma 15
REI Co-op Magma 15
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10
Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20
Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20
Western Mountaineering Versalite
Western Mountaineering Versalite
SLEEPING BAGPRICERATINGWEIGHTTEMPERATUREFILLFILL WEIGHT
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20$3004.21/522.54 oz / 639 g20°F / -6°C850-fill duck down16.08 oz / 456 g
REI Co-op Magma 15$3704.44/528.2 oz / 800 g16°F / -8.9°C850-fill goose down15.9 oz / 451 g
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10$3254.53/525.95 oz / 736 g10°F / -12°C850-fill duck down19.31 oz / 574 g
Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20$3154.40/521.19 oz / 601 g20°F / -6°C850-fill duck down15.46 oz / 438 g
Western Mountaineering Versalite$6054.94/532 oz / 907 g10°F / -12°C850-fill goose down20 oz / 565 g

MOST COMMON PCT SLEEPING PADS
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite was the most common sleeping pad on the PCT this year. It comes in four sizes – small, regular, large, and regular/wide/ The 2.5 in / 6.4 cm thick pad has an R-value of 4.2 and is made with 30D rip HT Nylon in the USA (if you're into that).

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite (Small)
Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated
Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated
SLEEPING PADPRICERATINGWEIGHTR-VALUETYPEPACKED SIZETHICKNESS
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite$1854.402/512 oz / 340 g4.2Air9 x 4.1 in / 23 x 10 cm2.5 in / 6.4 cm
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol$454.400/514 oz / 397 g2.6Foam20 x 5 x 5.5 in / 51 x 13 x 14 cm0.75 in / 2 cm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm$2154.82/515 oz / 425 g6.9Air9 x 4 in / 23 x 10 cm2.5 in / 6.4 cm
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite (Small)$1454.33/58 oz / 227 g4.2Air9 x 3.5 in / 23 x 9 cm2.5 in / 6.4 cm
Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated$1304.13/516.9 oz / 479 g3.3Air9 x 4 in / 23 x 10 cm2 in / 5 cm

MOST COMMON PCT INSULATED JACKET
The Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (Hooded) was the most common puffy on the PCT this year. It weighs 8.8 oz / 250 g and is stuffed with 800-fill goose down. The Ghost Whisperer without a hood was the third-most common jacket and it received a slightly higher rating from hikers.

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (Hooded)
Patagonia Micro Puff Insulated Hoodie
Patagonia Micro Puff Insulated Hoodie
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 Down Jacket
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoodie
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Hoodie
Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket
Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket
DOWN JACKETPRICERATINGWEIGHTINSULATIONHOODPOCKETS
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (Hooded)$3254.51/58.8 oz / 250 g800-fill goose downYes2 zippered hand
Patagonia Micro Puff Insulated Hoodie$3004.57/59.3 oz / 264 gSyntheticYes2 zippered hand / 2 internal drop
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer$3004.75/58.3 oz / 235 g800-fill goose downNo2 zippered hand
Arc'teryx Cerium LT Down Hoodie$3804.75/510.9 oz / 309 g850-fill goose downYes2 zippered hand / 1 zippered internal
Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket$2304.58/513.1 oz / 371 g800-fill goose downNo2 zippered hand / 1 zippered chest

MOST COMMON PCT SHELLS
The Outdoor Research Helium II was the most common shell (that's a fancy name for rain jacket) among PCT hikers this year. It is also the lowest-rated piece of gear to top a most-common list. It only weighs 6.4 oz / 182 g, but it doesn't sound like (according to hikers) the 2.5-layer Pertex waterproof breathable laminate held up to serious rain.

Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Jacket
Outdoor Research Helium II
Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Rain Jacket
Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2
Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket
Marmot PreCip Jacket
Montbell Versalite
Montbell Versalite
Patagonia Torrentshell
Patagonia Torrentshell
SHELLPRICERATINGWEIGHTFABRICPIT ZIPSPOCKETS
Outdoor Research Helium II$1603.77/56.4 oz / 182 g2.5-layer Pertex waterproof breathable laminateNo1 zippered chest
Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2$253.88/59 oz / 255 gThree-layer polypropyleneNoNone
Marmot PreCip Jacket$1004.09/511.39oz / 322.9gMarmot NanoPro Waterproof/BreathableYes2 zippered hand
Montbell Versalite$2004.15/56.4 oz / 182 gGore-Tex Infinium WindstopperYes2 zippered hand
Patagonia Torrentshell$1304.07/512.1 oz / 343 g2.5-layer H2No Performance Standard shellYes2 zippered hand

MOST COMMON PCT STOVES
The MSR PocketRocket 2 was the most commonly-used stove on the PCT this year. The 2.6 oz / 74 g canister stove can (reportedly) boil a liter of water in 3.5 minutes and it packs down to 7.25 x 5 x 4 in / 19 x 12.6 x 10.2 cm (included with the stove is a hard-shell carrying case).

MSR PocketRocket 2
MSR PocketRocket 2
BRS-3000T
BRS-3000T
Jetboil MiniMo
Jetboil MiniMo
SOTO WindMaster
SOTO WindMaster
Jetboil Flash
Jetboil Flash
STOVEPRICERATINGWEIGHTTYPEDIMENSIONSINTEGRATED POTSIMMER CONTROL
MSR PocketRocket 2$454.57/52.6 oz / 74 gCanister7.25 x 5 x 4 in / 19 x 12.6 x 10.2 cmNoYes
BRS-3000T$174.44/50.88 oz / 25 gCanister1.97 x 1.18 x 1.3 in / 5 x 3 x 3.3 cm NoYes
Jetboil MiniMo$1454.63/514 oz / 397 gCanister5 x 6 in / 12.7 x 15.2 cmYesYes
SOTO WindMaster$654.94/52.3 oz/ 66 gCanister2.5 x 1.3 x 1.8 in / 6.4 x 3.4 x 4.6 cmNoYes
Jetboil Flash$1004.62 / 513.1 oz / 371 gCanister7.1 x 4.1 in / 18 x 10.4 cmYesYes

A NOTE ON STOVES

Less than 1% of hikers used alcohol stoves.


MOST COMMON PCT WATER TREATMENTS
The Sawyer Squeeze was the most commonly-used water filter on the PCT this year and is also the only piece of gear to occupy both the highest-rated and the most-common spots in the PCT Gear Guide. It weighs 3 oz / 85 g and will freeze (and break) if left out in cold-enough temperatures – what more could you ask for?

Sawyer Squeeze
Sawyer Squeeze
Katadyn-BeFree-Water-Filter-500x500
Katadyn BeFree
Sawyer Micro Squeeze Water Filtration System
Sawyer Micro
Aquamira
Aquamira
Sawyer Mini Water Filter
Sawyer Mini
WATER TREATMENTPRICERATINGWEIGHTTYPEDIMENSIONSMEDIUMREMOVES
Sawyer Squeeze$354.55/53 oz / 85 gSqueeze/Straw2 x 5 in / 5 x 13 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria
Katadyn BeFree$254.13/52.3 oz / 65 gBottle11.3 x 3.5 x 2.8 in / 29 x 9 x 7 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria
Sawyer Micro$283.73/52.5 oz / 71 gSqueeze/Straw15.5 x 6 x 1 in . 39 x 15 x 2.5 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria
Aquamira$154.42/53 oz / 85 gDropsN/AChlorine dioxideProtozoa, bacteria, and viruses
Sawyer Mini$203.53/52 oz / 57 gSqueeze/Straw1 x 5 in / 2.5 x 6.6 cmHollow fiberProtozoa and bacteria

MOST COMMON PCT TREKKING POLES
The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles were the most common poles on the PCT this year. They are the most expensive poles at $180 and sport carbon fiber shafts with cork grips. They collapse down to 24 in / 61 cm and are available in a women's version as well.

Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber
Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles
Black Diamond Trail
Black Diamond Distance FLZ
Black Diamond Distance FLZ
TREKKING POLESPRICERATINGWEIGHT (PAIR)SHAFT MATERIALHANDLE MATERIALCOLLAPSED LENGTHLOCKING MECHANISM
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork$1804.68/517.1 oz / 485 gCarbon fiberCork24 in / 61 cmExternal lever lock
Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork$1304.73/518 oz / 510 gAluminumCork27 in / 69 cmExternal lever lock
Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber$504.39/522 oz / 624 gCarbon fiberCork26 in / 66 cmExternal lever lock
Black Diamond Trail$1004.42/517 oz / 482 gAluminumFoam25 in / 63.5 cmExternal lever lock
Black Diamond Distance FLZ$1403.93/516 oz / 454 gAluminumFoam15 in / 37 cmCollapsing

MOST COMMON PCT ICE AXES
The C.A.M.P. USA Corsawas the most common ice axe on the PCT this year. It is available in three sizes (50, 60. 70 cm), and is the lightest option of the most common. That said, it's also the lowest-rated ice axe of the top five.

C.A.M.P. USA Corsa
Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe
Black Diamond Raven
Black Diamond Raven Pro
Black Diamond Raven Pro
Grivel G1 Ice Axe
Grivel G1
Petzl Glacier Literide
Petzl Glacier Literide
ICE AXEPRICERATINGWEIGHTMATERIALLENGTHSSHAFT SHAPE
C.A.M.P. USA Corsa$1204.37/58.8 oz / 250 g7075 aluminum alloy50, 60, 70 cmStraight
Black Diamond Raven$854.44/515.9 oz / 452 gStainless-steel head/aluminum shaft60, 65, 70, 75 cmStraight
Black Diamond Raven Pro$1104.57/513.8 oz / 392 gStainless-steel head and spike/aluminum 7075-T6 shaft55, 60, 65, 70 cmStraight
Grivel G1$754.44/515.8 oz / 449 gCarbon steel/Ergal 7075 aluminum58, 66, 74 cmStraight
Petzl Glacier Literide$1004.43/511.3 oz / 320 gHeat-treated steel/aluminum 707550 cmStraight

MOST COMMON PCT TRACTION DEVICES
The Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System was the most common traction device on the PCT this year. It was the second-most widely-used piece of gear in any category and more than 50% of respondents reported having used them. Apparently, the elastomer harness will stay supple down to -22°F/-30°C – well below PCT minimums.

Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
Hillsound Trail Crampons
Hillsound Trail Crampons
Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampons
Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampons
Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon
Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon
Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons
Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons
TRACTION DEVICEPRICERATINGWEIGHTMATERIALSIZES
Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System$704.51/513.1 oz / 371 gStainless steel, elastomerS, M, L, XL
Hillsound Trail Crampons$654.22/517 oz / 482 gCarbon steel, stainless steel, elastomerXS, S, M, L, XL
Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampons$1004.47/521.5 oz / 610 g4131 Chromoly steelOne size
Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon$604.69/58.57 oz / 243 gStainless steel, elastomerS, M, L
Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons$1303.92/528.5 oz / 808 gStainless steelOne size

MOST COMMON PCT BEAR CANISTERS
The BearVault BV500 was the most common bear canister on the PCT this year. It was also the most popular piece of gear overall with nearly 70% of PCT hikers opting to use this bear canister. It weighs 41 oz / 1.162 kg and carries up to 11.5 L of food (or drink?) with an $80 price tag.

BearVault BV500
BearVault BV500
BearVault BV450
BearVault BV450
Bearikade Weekender
Bearikade Weekender
Garcia Bear-Resistant Container
Garcia Bear-Resistant Container
Bearikade Expedition
Bearikade Expedition
BEAR CANISTERPRICERATINGWEIGHTCAPACITYMATERIALDIMENSIONS
BearVault BV500$804.08/541 oz / 1.162 kg11.5 LPolycarbonate12.7 x 8.7 in / 32 x 22 cm
BearVault BV450$703.66/533 oz / 935 g7.2 LPolycarbonate8.7 x 8.3 in / 22 x 21 cm
Bearikade Weekender$2884.84/531 oz / 879 g10.6 LCarbon fiber10.5 x 9 in / 27 x 23 cm
Garcia Bear-Resistant Container$753.74/543 oz / 1.219 kg10 LABS polymer12 x 8.8 in / 30 x 22 cm
Bearikade Expedition$3504.64/536 oz / 1.021 kg14.7 LCarbon fiber14.5 x 9 in / 37 x 23 cm

MOST COMMON PCT SHOES
The Altra Lone Peak was the most popular shoe on the PCT this year – used by nearly a third of PCT hikers. It's a zero-drop shoe and, on average, hikers who completed the trail used 4.65 pairs – nearly $600 in shoes (at full retail price).

Altra Lone Peak 4.5 Trail-Running Shoes
Altra Lone Peak
Altra Timp 2 Trail
Altra Timp
Brooks Cascadia 14 Trail-Running Shoes
Brooks Cascadia
Merrell Moab 2 Vent
Merrell Moab 2 Vent
Altra Olympus
SHOESPRICERATINGWEIGHT (PAIR)HEEL-TOE DROPWATERPROOFAVERAGE NUMBER USED
Altra Lone Peak$1204.21/521 oz / 595 g0 mmNo4.65
Altra Timp$1404.14/517 oz / 482 g0 mmNo5.08
Brooks Cascadia$1304.52/521.4 oz / 607 g8 mmNo4.69
Merrell Moab 2 Vent$1004.56/531 oz / 879 g—No4.25
Altra Olympus$1504.48/521.4 oz / 607 g0 mmNo4.81

A NOTE ON SHOES

Even if you knew for certain that each pair of your shoes will last you 700 mi / 1,125 km, buying yourself four pairs of shoes at the start of the hike would be a risky decision – what if the shoes aren't as comfortable as you thought? What if your feet swell? What if you die?

Remember, you can buy shoes using this thing called the internet and have them mailed ahead on the trail (to a post office, hotel, local outfitter, trail angel, etc.) once you know that you're going to need a new pair. If you encounter an emergency situation, you can always buy locally or simply wait around for your shoes to show up in the mail.



Highest-rated vs. Most Common PCT Gear

How do the highest-rated and most common PCT gear lists stack up against one another? It appears that most hikers opted for lighter gear, but that those who carried heavier gear were often happy with their choices. The eternal struggle between comfort and weight in the world of thru-hiking marches forward.

HIGHEST-RATED PCT GEARMOST COMMON PCT GEAR
Total cost$2,968$2,440
Total weight – Big 37 lbs 7 oz / 3.374 kg5 lbs 3.94 oz / 2.380 kg
Total weight – Big 48 lbs 6 oz / 3.799 kg5 lbs 15.94 oz / 2.720 kg
All PCT gear (outside Sierra)10 lbs 6.7 oz / 4.726 kg7 lbs 4.74 oz / 3.310 kg
All PCT gear13 lbs 12.06 oz / 6.239 kg11 lbs 3.37 oz / 5.085 kg

NOTE: The shelter used in the “Most Common PCT Gear” list requires two trekking poles and eight stakes to be set up (not included in the base weight). The highest-rated tent is freestanding and does not require trekking poles.


HIGHEST-RATED PCT GEAR

  • Backpack: ULA Circuit
  • Shelter: MSR Hubba NX
  • Sleeping bag: Western Mountaineering Versalite
  • Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm
  • Insulated jacket: Rab Microlight Alpine Down Jacket
  • Shell: Arc'teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket
  • Stove: SOTO WindMaster
  • Water treatment: Sawyer Squeeze
  • Trekking poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
  • Ice axe: Black Diamond Raven Pro
  • Traction device: Snowline Light Chainsen Crampon
  • Bear canister: Bearikade Weekender
  • Shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat

MOST COMMON PCT GEAR

  • Backpack: Osprey Exos
  • Shelter: Zpacks Duplex
  • Sleeping bag: Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20
  • Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
  • Insulated jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (Hooded)
  • Shell: Outdoor Research Helium II
  • Stove: MSR PocketRocket 2
  • Water treatment: Sawyer Squeeze
  • Trekking poles: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
  • Ice axe: C.A.M.P. USA Corsa
  • Traction device: Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System
  • Bear canister: BearVault BV500
  • Shoes: Altra Lone Peak

The Base Weights

THRUTHRU-1THRU-0NOBOSOBO
BASE WEIGHT (START)17.78 lbs / 8.06 kg16.94 lbs / 7.68 kg18.94 lbs / 8.59 kg17.97 lbs / 8.15 kg16.18 lbs / 7.34 kg
BASE WEIGHT (END)15.77 lbs / 7.15 kg14.91 lbs / 6.76 kg16.95 / 7.69 kg15.92 lbs / 7.22 kg14.45 lbs / 6.55 kg
% CHANGE11.30%11.98%10.50%11.41%10.69%
SLEEPING BAG TEMPERATURE16.91°F / -8.38°C16.81°F / -8.44°C17.02°F / -8.32°C16.68°F / -8.51°C18.88°F / -7.29°C
BACKPACK SIZE54.89 L54.17 L55.97 L55.18 L52.60 L
% USING FREESTANDING SHELTER50.95%50.95%51.27%52.81%36.71%
% STOVELESS14.09%17.37%9.75%13.83%16.05%
$ SPENT ON GEAR (PRE-TRAIL)$1,555.96$1,477.02$1,663.92$1,562.18$1,502.67

Nothing too surprising here. Base weights dropped over the course of the trail for all categories, the average sleeping bag temperature was under 20°F / 6.6°C for all categories, and average backpack size hovered at just under 55 L overall.

Just as we saw last year (and the year before), the data again makes a(n unscientific) case for getting your base weight down (before starting your hike). That does NOT mean that you have to have a crazy sub-five-pound (2.3 kg) base weight. You don't even need to have a sub-ten-pound (4.6 kg) base weight. Just don't bring things you don't need (the cheapest and most effective way to cut your base weight). Don't fall into the trap of thinking you need to spend another $300 to cut 2% off your shelter's weight; it's better to just not bring that fifth pair of socks.

If you're a first-time, would-be thru-hiker, take this information to mean that you're probably bringing too much with you and that you should take a hard look at your pack before setting off on the trail (hikers who didn't finish had, on average, higher base weights than those who did). That said, this could be due to experience. Experience? Yeah, you know, like hikers who completed the trail went into it having already hiked? Good point – let's look at how hikers with experience stack up with those on their first thru-hikes.

FIRST-TIME HIKERSEXPERIENCED HIKERS
BASE WEIGHT (START)18.40 lbs / 8.35 kg16.35 lbs / 7.42 kg
BASE WEIGHT (END)15.92 lbs / 7.22 kg15.42 lbs / 6.99 kg
% CHANGE13.48%5.69%
SLEEPING BAG TEMPERATURE16.50°F / -8.61°C17.94°F / -7.81°C
BACKPACK SIZE55.56 L53.33 L
% USING FREESTANDING SHELTER54.20%42.65%
% STOVELESS7.45%15.42%
$ SPENT ON GEAR (PRE-TRAIL)$1,597.60$1,452.48

Plenty of people have happy and successful thru-hikes with super-duper-uber-crazy-xtreme ultralight gear. However, people also have happy and successful thru-hikes with packs much heavier than the averages we've arrived at here (and others fail miserably). Gear selection is personal. Ultimately, you're the one carrying your pack and you're the one who will suffer the consequences or reap the benefits of your gear selection.

If you're happy to carry something and/or it improves the quality of your hike, then nobody has the right to tell you that you shouldn't have it (and if they do, tell them Mac said to get fucked).

Think about what you NEED on the trail; not what you want. Don't say I didn't try to warn you when you decide to bring extra weight and end up sending everything home (because most of you will ignore this advice – I would – and bring a bunch of unnecessary gear; if you don't, I've done my job). Also, don't bring a Sawyer MINI – just get the Sawyer Squeeze. There, I said it.


The luxury items

Pacific Crest Trail hikers obsess over their gear lists and what goes into their packs, but most everyone has something that could be considered a luxury item by someone else. Some people believe their phone to be an essential and multifunctional piece of gear while others may scoff at the idea of using one to take photos, listen to music, and use GPS in the wilderness.

The most popular luxury item on the trail this year? A pillow. A total of 20% of survey respondents listed their luxury item as a pillow. Some of the most popular pillows?

Exped Air Pillow
Exped Air Pillow
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium
Klymit Pillow X
Klymit Pillow X

Personally, I just use clothing I'm not wearing stuffed into a stuff sack as my pillow, but perhaps I should invest. What else was popular (and not so popular) among this year's thru-hiking luxury items?

  • Massage balls or foam rollers (take a look at Rawlogy for these)
  • Many hikers listed their cameras as their luxury items (for some, this is probably mandatory despite not being required for hiking)
  • Camp shoes (personally, I like Batman sandals)
  • A journal or notebook (and one would assume a pen, as well)
  • Kindles were a (surprisingly) popular response

The lowest rated gear

Now that we've looked into what gear PCT hikers liked best and what the most common gear was on the PCT This year, let's look at what hikers DIDN'T LIKE. What should you avoid (or at least think about carefully) before purchasing?

NOTES ON THE DATA FOR LOWEST RATED GEAR:

  • Similar to the highest-rated gear above, here I only included gear that was used by AT LEAST 20 hikers.
  • To be considered for the “lowest-rated” list, a piece of gear needed to have a rating of BELOW 80% (4 out of 5 and below).
  • If no item in a particular category met the 20-hiker and under 80% criteria, that category has been omitted below.
  • I've attached comments from hikers to each piece of gear.
GEARRATINGNAMECOMMENTS
Backpack3.33/5Zpacks Arc HaulUncomfortable with heavy loads / Not durable
Backpack3.97/5Zpacks Arc BlastUncomfortable with heavy loads / Not durable
Shelter3.98/5Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2Zippers failed / Not stormworthy
Sleeping Bag3.96/5REI IgneoNot warm enough / Too heavy
Shell3.77/5Outdoor Research Helium IIThis was the most widely-used/lowest-rated item of any item in the survey with a reported 187 hikers having used this jacket.
Shell3.88/5Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite 2This jacket was the second-most-common shell on the PCT this year behind the Outdoor Research Helium II.
Water Treatment3.53/5Sawyer MININearly 75% of hikers who used the MINI reported that the flow rate diminished significantly over time.
Bear Canister3.74/5Garcia Bear-Resistant ContainerThis bear canister is both heavier and smaller than the BearVault BV500 – the most popular bear canister on the PCT this year.
Bear Canister3.66/5BearVault BV450This was the second-most-common bear canister on the PCT this year (and the bear canister that I used).
Traction Device3.92/5Black Diamond Contact CramponsThese are both the most expensive and the heaviest traction devices on the most common list.
Trekking Poles3.93/5Black Diamond Distance FLZThese were the fifth-most-common trekking poles on the PCT this year.
Trekking Poles3.96/5REI Flash CarbonThese poles are $130, have foam grips and carbon shafts.


Controversial brands on the PCT

There are some brands that you may have never heard of if you've yet to step foot in the thru-hiking (/#extremewalking) community, but that you'll learn quickly once you find yourself out on the trail. Three of these brands are at the top of the most common list for shelters, water filters, and shoes – Zpacks, Sawyer, and Altra.

These three brands came up more frequently than any other brands in the “free response” section of the survey. This is where hikers are given the opportunity to comment on their gear and/or espouse wisdom for future PCT hikers (more wisdom to follow in the section to follow).

HIKER COMMENTS ON ZPACKS

  • Zpacks Arc Haul (backpack) was junk.
  • Don't get a Zpacks backpack.
  • I started with a Zpacks Triplex (shelter) and it was terrible for the conditions. Swapped it out for a Big Agnes UL3 and was very happy thereafter.
  • Most people who were carrying Zpacks gear were frustrated by its lack of durability.
  • My Zpacks Duplex tent got a hole in one of the seams in the first 200 miles (320 km), but when I contacted them, they refused to replace it, saying that it looked like a critter had gotten in (it hadn't) or I snagged it on something spiky (I didn't).
  • Overall I was happy I got the lightest gear possible, but my Zpacks Duplex lost its waterproofness on the floor.
  • Switched from Zpacks tent to big Agnes, best change I made. do not bother buying Zpacks products. I spoke to multiple people who hated both tents and backpacks.
  • Zpacks always breaks! Everyone I knew went through 2 or 3 packs and isn’t easy to get them replaced.
  • Zpacks Arc Scout (backpack) fell apart and needed to be replaced.
  • Zpacks backpacks are trash.
  • Zpacks is awful, I had both a backpack (under 300 mi / 480 km) and a tent (under 200 mi / 320 km) from them fail and still have no response from the company.
  • Zpacks sucks, Osprey and Darntough have awesome warranties – comfort is worth a couple of extra pounds.
  • Zpacks backpack began absorbing water.

HIKER COMMENTS ON SAWYER

  • I started with the Sawyer Micro and traded with a section hiker for their regular Sawyer. The flow rate was so much better.
  • I swapped my Sawyer Squeeze for Aquamira tablets.
  • Liked Platypus Gravity Filter much better than squeezing a Sawyer.
  • The Sawyer mini and micro are literal garbage.
  • Sawyers are garbage. They clog up easy and the squeeze bags are always breaking. A lot within the first five uses which put me in some real compromised situations.
  • Started out with the Sawyer Micro water filter. I really wanted it to work. However, I went back to the Sawyer Squeeze. It just worked better over a longer period of time.
  • Started with slow shitty Sawyer Micro. Switched to Squeeze.
  • Switched from Sawyer Mini to Squeeze.
  • Switched from a gravity filter to the Sawyer Squeeze. The gravity filter was good for camp but not for filtering on the go. I was much happier with the Squeeze.
  • Switched from Sawyer to Katadyn BeFree.
  • Switched out my Katadyn BeFree for a Sawyer Squeeze and was very pleased with the Sawyer.
  • Only use the Sawyer Squeeze, never the MINI or Micro.
  • I switched to the Sawyer Squeeze after my BeFree broke.
  • Do not buy the Sawyer MINI.
  • Do not get the Sawyer MINI or micro unless you like squeezing a bag of water for an hour every day.

HIKER COMMENTS ON ALTRA

  • Altra shoes are crap.
  • Altra shoes are the devil, they fucked mine and every person I met's legs.
  • Altra shoes are trash. I wasted so much money buying them and having them completely fall apart on me by mile 300. After switching to the Hoka Speedgoats my feet and bank account were much happier.
  • Altra shoes suck.
  • Altra Timps RUINED my feet.
  • Altras are overrated in my opinion, they wear out easily.
  • Altras are the sexy thru-hiking shoe, but I saw more people have bad feet problems with those shoes than any others.
  • Altras aren't all they're chalked up to be.
  • Altras gave me Achilles tendinitis and hurt my feet when it was rocky.
  • Altras gave me tendentious in my alkalis tendon switched to Solomons loved them.
  • Altras wear too quickly.
  • Altra Lone Peaks were RUBBISH.
  • Altra shoes were a total disappointment. I've never worn worse shoes ever in my entire life.
  • Check out Topo Athletic shoes for a more durable substitute to Altras.
  • I didn't really like Altras.
  • Don’t drink the Altra Kool Aid! Hokas worked much better for me after much needless suffering.
  • Done with Altras.
  • Altra Lone Peaks lasted about 200 mi / 320 km.
  • I am in love with my Topos! If you like the concept of Altras but also like the idea of a shoe that provides a semblance of support, has an actually grippy outsole, and lasts 600+ mi (965 km) rather than 200 (320 km), try Topos!
  • Altras suck.
  • Altra Lone Peaks gave me severe plantar fasciitis.
  • I started with Altra Lone Peaks, had nothing but problems even though I followed all instructions and trained in them.
  • Started with Altra, they destroyed my feet and I changed to Topos.
  • I started with Altras and I did not like them.
  • Strongly recommend considering Topos if you are looking for an alternative to Altras.
  • Switched from Altras to Salomon Triple Crown.
  • The fabric on The Altra Lone Peaks wears out pretty quickly.
  • Changed shoes after 3 pairs of Altra Timps, to Keen mid-rise hiking boots. So much better for foot protection from rocky sections. Much less foot pain.


PCT thru-hiker gear advice

To wrap up this portion of the gear breakdown (posts on couples' gear and gear broken down by gender are on the way), I have advice from this year's PCT Class on gear choices and gear lists for future PCT hikers.

  • Don’t be afraid to swap gear during your hike. Also, your base weight does not define you. If you want to carry a few extra things, do it! You’re out there for a whole season and one extra pound isn’t going to slow you down.
  • Order gear and have it shipped to the next town ahead of you (especially if you have Amazon Prime). I did this a couple of times – definitely good to make sure it goes to a place that doesn't charge you for pickup.
  • It's very cold and rainy in Oregon/Washington by late September onward. Be ready. I was very happy to have a new rain jacket (that didn't wet out) and a synthetic puffy.
  • The Outdoor Research Helium 2 Rain Jacket was inadequate. It's a great rain jacket for light misting but was not able to keep me dry during heavy rain.
  • I would've gotten a smaller pack. 65 L was never necessary.
  • Buying expensive gear just because everybody else uses the well-known brands will not guarantee you successful thru-hike. I had basic yet good equipment from lesser-known and less expensive brands and I made it all the way to Canada from Campo without any issues.
  • Solar chargers aren't great, crampons are unnecessary and inconvenient.
  • Less is best! Comfort on the trail is better than in camp because you'll be spending more time on the trail.
  • Get a bigger tent than you think you need. It’s so nice to unwind with some extra room every evening.
  • Comfort counts for a lot. Be prepared for weather!
  • Often times ultralight really means barely functional. When the weather got bad, it was the extreme ultralight people that bailed or needed help from others (e.g. stayed in someone else’s shelter). Ultralight only works well in benign conditions, be it weather or trail conditions (snow). Minimalism is great – carry only the essentials, but you want those essentials to be effective pieces of gear. Compromising their effectiveness to save a few ounces is fucking stupid.

For more on gear, check out the Ultimate Pacific Crest Trail Packing List.


The Pacific Crest Trail Survey Collection

  • Pacific Crest Trail Survey Results
  • Pacific Crest Trail Survey: The Resupply Guide
  • Pacific Crest Trail Survey: Hiker Breakdown
  • Pacific Crest Trail Survey: Suffering & Despair
  • Pacific Crest Trail Survey: Advice For The Future
  • All PCT Hiker Survey Posts

If there is ANYTHING you can think of that would make this information more useful (or any more gear-related cross-referencing you would like to see), then please LEAVE A COMMENT and let me know.


HIKING THE PCT NEXT YEAR? ENTER YOUR EMAIL BELOW TO TAKE NEXT YEAR'S PCT SURVEY!


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