New hiker, need help!

[rnadeline]

During the beginning of march I am going to hike the start of the AT. I really need help determining what I need to bring and where I can find good hiking clothes or gear. It will be a week-long hike, and I'm going in a group. The only problem is that I'm the only girl in a group of guys besides the hike leaders wife. So I need to know exactly what I need to wear and what kind of weather I should expect in the appalacians in march. I've looked into some ex officio undies and I'm thinking about purchasing, but other than that I'm completely lost. Any tips or advice is greatly appreciated.

Also, hammock or tent? And are running leggings good? Hygiene tips?

[Weather-man]

Madeline, Take a look at this thread: http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/show...EASE-look-over!

Don't let the "thru hiker" title throw you. It's at least a start and will give you some ideas as to what other folks see as AT "essentials". An early March start will mean some colder weather, definitely some rain and maybe a bit if snow/ice. Plan for a 20 degree bag or even a warmer one if this weather trend keeps up.

Edit: just realized this wasn't the thread that I thought it was. Still a good thread but the OP has some of the more high end, expensive gear. You can perform the same functions much cheaper if you're willing to carry a few more pounds.

If it were me I'd steer away from a hammock unless you have some chances to rehearse set-up of the entire system. A small one person tent like a Big Agnes Fly Creek one would be ideal. Easy to set up and provides decent shelter in the conditions you'll face.

If you're new to hiking I'd say it's be best to find a local outfitter and solicit advice.

Some other useful threads:

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/show...iking-clothing

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/show...ve-I-forgotten

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/show...2014-Gear-List

[Meriadoc]

Much of it is the same for men and women. One area that is slightly different is sleeping bags - women tend to sleep slightly colder and sometimes can use extra insulation on the upper body.

Check out http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advi...ckpacking.html
REI's articles are fairly good about the fundamentals although they often do not have the lightest options.
And, rent or borrow before you buy if you can.

I will leave the rest of the issues for others. I've hiked with enough women to know the issues quite well but it will probably be better coming from someone of that gender. :P

Cheers and good luck!
-Merry

P.S. Ex officio underwear is fantastic. I have 2000 miles on a pair and they are still going strong.

[4eyedbuzzard]

Would agree to avoid hammock as a new hiker, especially in colder weather. Bigger learning curve than tent, harder to learn to set up, etc. Running leggings are fine as a "base layer" as long as they are wool or synthetic (NO cotton). Lots of cheaper options out there for many items - think Walmart for things like polypro long underwear (base layer) if needed, fleece top, stuff sacks (they have a 3 pack of Outdoor Products roll top stuff bags), ground pad, "wool hat, gloves, etc. Beg and borrow more expensive gear if possible - 40 to 50 liter pack, 20° or warmer sleeping bag. Look here in gear for sale forum and ebay. Can you get help from the leader's wife if she is experienced? Borrow any gear from her?