 Contact Us:
admissions@alaskapacific.edu 907.561.1266 4101 University Drive Anchorage, AK 99508 Request Information Advanced Search Site Map Log In |
 Outdoor Studies DepartmentWhat equipment do I need?By David McGivern 
Many of you have asked what outdoor equipment you should arrive with. Before I answer that question, let me explain what our expectation is regarding equipment. We expect you to outfit yourself with your own personal gear. That includes sleeping bag, boots, pack, and all the personal gear in between. We'll provide all the group gear like tents and stoves and all the specialized gear like ropes and skis. We require students to supply their own personal gear because:
Now, what you should bring is really very simple: bring everything you have and purchase what you need up here. That way we can help you avoid costly mistakes. Nevertheless, we realize and appreciate that equipping yourself is a big expense, and that you might want to take advantage of sales or opportunities in your hometown to purchase gear. To keep your expenses down figure out exactly what equipment you need and what brand or style you want, then look for that piece of gear used or on sale. Generally, you're better off buying what you want the first time instead of wasting money on something that you're unsure of and might decide later you don't like. Remember, used gear works just as well as new gear. Wool pants work as well as the high tech stuff. If you can, take advantage of factory seconds. Here are a few guidelines for purchasing the essentials: FeetIf you are an avid outdoors person, you will eventually end up owning four or five different pairs of boots. Wind and Rain GearThis is an important and complicated purchase because your rain gear needs to double as your wind gear. There's a lot out there on the market. I recommend a wind shirt. It's not critical, but a nice alternative to wearing the larger, heavier jacket while hiking. Lower Body Layers (2 layers of insulation).Just a note about insulation: there are lots of different types of material out on the market. What's important is that it wick moisture away from your skin.
Upper Body layers (3.5 - 5 layers of insulation).
 HandsIn order to take care of yourself your hands need be fully functional. You will need lightweight synthetic gloves to wear while hiking or paddling and heavy synthetic gloves or mittens with outer shells for severe weather.  Sleeping SystemThere is nothing better than knowing you have a sleeping bag that will work no matter how wet and nasty the conditions may be.In Alaska, during the fall and winter, there isn't enough thermal energy to dry out a down sleeping bag. A synthetic bag rated to about fifteen degrees above zero will work in most conditions except the dead of winter. Much of it depends on how warm you sleep and what extra clothing you have to sleep with. For example, if you invest in a synthetic parka you might get away with a lighter sleeping bag. You will also need a full length Therma Rest or full length closed cell foam pad. A crazy creek chair is nice but optional. PackLike boots, you will probably end up owning more packs than you care to admit. Personal Repair KitWe have students carry their own mini first aid/repair kit. Keep it light. This is one of the places where students tend to load up with extra weight. Remember, each course is supplied with a full sized first aid kit and repair kit.
IncidentalsHere's a tip to keep track of things like water bottles and spoons: mark your gear.
|
 Employment APU News |
 |
||
| Copyright © Alaska Pacific University website-related comments | disclaimer | print-friendly | ||
But the first pair of boots you should buy is a good pair of lightweight hiking boots. Chose a boot that is a combination of synthetic and leather with an ankle high top and a sole that is not too stiff but not too soft. Do not buy full grain leather hiking boots; they will eat you feet up once they get wet. In general, over size your boots by one whole size or more. Fit them with an extra insole for added cushion under your foot. Buy the inexpensive insoles unless the more expensive orthopedic types enhance the boot fit. Remember, there are lots of ways to make a bigger boot smaller or more comfortable, but there is little you can do for a boot that is too small. Don't forget gaiters.
But what you need first is a properly sized internal frame pack with a volume around 6,000-7,000 cubic inches. Don't confuse pack size with pack volume. They are separate things. Vollume is what the pack will hold; size refers to body type. Packs come in sizes from small to extra large. Be sure you size your pack so it fits you well. Most people chose a pack size that is too large for them which forces the hip belt down below the waist where it constricts the hips.