Wild Texas Forums: Parks, Travel & Recreation - View Single Post

11-23-2004, 10:54 AM

My husband and I backpack together. I have noticed that there are significantly more men than women interested in putting on a pack.

I think there are a number of factors to blame. First is the lack of appropriate gear (this is slowly being remedied). I am 5'3" and weigh 103lbs. Gear is nearly impossible for me to find even now that women's gear is becoming more available. I have a great, highly-adjustable back pack (jansport) that fits better than any of the pricier brands and has toughed out many trails. I'm still stuck choosing baggy thermals or children's thermals with short arms and legs, gloves with fingers an inch too long, etc. I think as more women become involved in backpacking, the manufacturers will begin producing more appropriate gear.

Second, women aren't quite as anatomically suited to backpacking - but it really isn't that big of a deal.

Bottom line is, the women I know who backpack (including myself) are absolutely in love with it and are every bit as resilient as the men we hike with. Oh, and as for the tent - tell her to dig an indention under the tent for her hip and shoulder. It'll take pressure off her spine and make for a cozy night's sleep.

11-23-2004, 10:54 AM	#2
campcookie Posts: n/a	Re: Hiking Wife My husband and I backpack together. I have noticed that there are significantly more men than women interested in putting on a pack. I think there are a number of factors to blame. First is the lack of appropriate gear (this is slowly being remedied). I am 5'3" and weigh 103lbs. Gear is nearly impossible for me to find even now that women's gear is becoming more available. I have a great, highly-adjustable back pack (jansport) that fits better than any of the pricier brands and has toughed out many trails. I'm still stuck choosing baggy thermals or children's thermals with short arms and legs, gloves with fingers an inch too long, etc. I think as more women become involved in backpacking, the manufacturers will begin producing more appropriate gear. Second, women aren't quite as anatomically suited to backpacking - but it really isn't that big of a deal. Bottom line is, the women I know who backpack (including myself) are absolutely in love with it and are every bit as resilient as the men we hike with. Oh, and as for the tent - tell her to dig an indention under the tent for her hip and shoulder. It'll take pressure off her spine and make for a cozy night's sleep.