Podcast: Download (Duration: 18:00 — 17.4MB)
Show Notes: Episode 151
Today on the First 40 Miles, the Legler kids are on the mic to provide the kids perspective on backpacking. They’ll share some fun memories from past trips. For today’s gear review, our youngest child reviews his kid-sized pack. Then some friends join us and share their experience backpacking. And we’ll wrap up the show with a little trail wisdom from the Far East.
Opening
- How long have you been backpacking?
- Was it always fun?
- What surprised you when you first started?
- What’s the best age to start backpacking?
- Hardest part? Funnest part?
- Is it hard to carry a pack?
- Why do you think your parents take you backpacking?
Top 5 Family Backpacking Memories
SUMMIT Gear Review™: Deuter Fox 40 Liter Pack
Structure
- The Deuter Fox 40 is an internal frame pack for kids
- It will probably fit ages 6-12 (unless you’re a really small 6 year old or really tall 12 year old)
- It’s made of ripstop and ballistic nylon
- It has all the features of an adult pack, like compression straps, lid pockets, gear attachment loops, and a hip belt– but it’s sized for kids
Utility
- The area where your pack is on your back has air mesh so your back won’t get sweaty and hot.
- The Deuter Fox 40 has a sleeping bag compartment just for your sleeping bag…
- This pack has an adjustable torso, so I can still use it if I get taller
- It has 2 side mesh pockets for water bottles
- Other pockets?
Mass
- Weighs 2 lbs 14 oz
- The pack I have is a 40 liter, but the Deuter Fox also comes in a 30 liter
Maintenance
- What do you do to keep it clean?
Investment
- $109
Trial
- Great pack for kids beginning to backpack
- Fully featured
- Rugged
- Not a “dumbed-down” version of an adult pack
- This pack is also a great option for petite adults
Listener Story: The Giecek Sisters
- Reggie and Raichel Giecik share some backpacking memories
- Daughters of the Cascade Hiker Podcast Host, Rudy Giecek
Trail Wisdom
“When you drink the water, remember the spring.”
–Chinese Proverb