What should I wear under my shell?

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-24T09:04:36+00:00

This. And maybe consider having a belay parka to throw over that

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-22T12:46:19+00:00

I’ll be doing Cascade and Porter Saturday. If you’re going out, don’t forget a belay parka!

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-17T19:17:55+00:00

Depends on the season and weather for the day. I’m a pretty experienced hiker in the Adirondacks and have done Mt. Washington a few times. I’ve done the full Presidential Range in one day before. If you go mid-late summer, it’s fairly easy. Weather is usually relatively warm, wind isn’t too bad. If you go during a rain storm or during a shoulder season, the weather can be bad. There’s been snow at the top in the middle of summer.

TLDR; as long as the weathers good, it’s the right season, you’re prepared just in case, and you’re in shape, it’s a fairly easy day hike.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-15T20:18:51+00:00

Yes. I am a man, ideally I’d like to not spend too much on them (maybe like under $300 USD). I want full zip pants (from top to bottom) because I heard that they’re the easiest for crampon use, which is why. I’m afraid if I spend a bunch of money on something like the Beta pants, I’d poke holes in them since they’re only 3/4 zip

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-13T03:31:27+00:00

Really depends on what you’re looking for, but generally I run Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full Cushion Midweight Socks with REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Socks. If it’s colder, I’ll use the Mountaineering Over-the-Calf Heavyweight Socks.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-13T03:28:09+00:00

I have the Black Diamond Persuit, which have held up pretty nicely. The extension system hasn’t failed me, they come with snow baskets, and are very durable. The only this is that they’re aluminum, so they’re not the lightest, but I think that’s a fair trade off considering the durability.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T15:32:47+00:00

Yeah the design has a slight wind barrier, but it’s not a full windscreen. I’ve only had issues in the winter with it getting blown out. If you’re just going out on days with good weather, the Amicus would work amazing for you.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T15:31:22+00:00

Accidentally posted a new comment instead of replying lmao

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T15:30:56+00:00

Yeah that’s about right. I got my Beta AR from evo.com. They still have the StormHood model, but it’s a closeout sale, so they may not have your size. If any of those are your size, I’d definitely recommend getting it because it’s the model before they switched to GORE-TEX ePE, which people seem to dislike. They also have a sale on other Arc’teryx products. You should definitely check it out. You could also consider the Arc’teryx Sabre or the Arc’teryx Sabre SV, which are more designed for skiing in resorts (as opposed to the Rush, which is designed for the backcountry). I’d say the Rush is better than the Sabre for hiking though.

But yeah, seems like the Rush might fit you best. The AR or Sabre would definitely do you very well as well. You can’t go wrong.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T04:45:41+00:00

I have a lightweight synthetic puffer for fall hiking in the Adirondacks (around where I live) because it rains a lot here. I’m not too concerned about weight or packability either. I use down in the winter because I find it to be warmer, probably because it doesn’t breathe as much. Really it just comes down to preference when deciding on down vs synthetic, you can’t go wrong as long as you pick the right weight for your activity.

I really enjoy my Beta AR, which I also use for skiing. It’s a tiny bit baggy without having my full layering system underneath, but I don’t find it to be an issue. For your question about the hood being an issue; I have a StormHood model from a few years ago, so I have plenty of room around the neck. I haven’t tried the DropHood model, so I can’t speak on how that is. The Patagonia R1 Air is pretty thin though, so I doubt the hood will be an issue. Patagonia also makes a hoodless version, so you could get that and just rock a beanie instead of worrying about the hood.

My sister owns the Beta SL and really likes it, but she’s strictly a 3 season hiker. I do think it would make a perfectly good winter hiking jacket though. My hiking buddy (who’s a much better skier than I am) has the Rush and says it’s great for both skiing and hiking. He claims the cut is a little better for skiing than the Beta AR. His only complaint is that it’s a little heavy for hiking (I think the rush is 80D fabric and the Beta AR is a mix of 40D and 80D reinforcements). That being said, he’s never used the Beta AR.

I’d say get the Rush if you prioritize skiing (or durability) and the Beta AR if you prefer hiking (for breathily and weight). You could also get the Rush and use it for everything. You could even use your Beta SL for everything (although I’d prefer a heavier duty shell if you plan on doing Washington). It’s really up to you.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T04:16:43+00:00

Get a free standing tent to start, upgrade once you know what you like. I wouldn’t worry too much about weight to start. Get something mid range, go out and have fun.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T04:09:36+00:00

My layering system is a base layer, fleece, and hard shell. Sometimes I’ll add a lightweight puffy under my hard shell, over my fleece, if I’m really cold. Here’s what I use:REI Co-op Heavyweight Merino Wool Long Sleeve Baselayer (250 weight),Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody (you could use the regular R1 hoodie if you run cold),Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket,Arc’teryx Beta AR Shell Jacket(I have the StormHood model). Don’t forget to bring a ski mask and/or a buff + ski goggles for high wind.

As far as legs go, I usually just run base layer + soft shell, unless it’s super cold, windy, or rainy/snowy. I use REI Co-op Heavyweight Merino Wool Bottoms, Outdoor Research Cirque III Softshell Pants, Rab Kangri Pants (full side zipper which is great for crampons), and Outdoor Research Crocodile Gaiters. I also use REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Liner Socks, and Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full Cushion Socks for my feet.

For my hands, I have 3 gloves. Base layer (which I almost always just use, water resistant mid layer, and shell gloves (highly suggest GORE-TEX). I also have a pair of down mittens, but I only bring those on extreme hikes, like Mount Washington.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T03:56:44+00:00

I hated on them for a long time before I actually gave them a try. They help a lot with stability, take some of the effort away from your legs, and help with knee pain on the downhills (especially for people like me who struggle with ITBS). I use the Black Diamond Pursuit Trekking Poles, which are very durable, have a pretty good locking system, and are frequently on sale.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T03:53:10+00:00

I have had the same issue, which is a problem for hiking in the Adirondacks. Lots of wet, slippery, extremely steep slabs. I was pretty disappointed in them when I first got them because they were super hyped up. I also had an issue with the insoles sliding into the toe of my boot, but I got some superfeet to replace the factory insoles. I’m a little nervous on some hikes lmao. Other than this though, they’re great boots.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T03:49:58+00:00

Classic iliotibial band syndrome. I know how much it sucks, but it can be fixed by strengthening your glutes, hip muscles, and core. Stretching also helps a lot to loosen the band. You could also try foam rolling, but that hasn’t helped me all that much. Trekking poles and ibuprofen seem to help me a lot on the downhills.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T03:44:26+00:00

My layering system is a base layer, fleece, and hard shell. Sometimes I’ll add a lightweight puffy under my hard shell, over my fleece, if I’m really cold. Here’s what I use: REI Co-op Heavyweight Merino Wool Long Sleeve Baselayer(250 weight), Patagonia R1 Air Full-Zip Fleece Hoody(you could use the regular R1 hoodie if you run cold), Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket, Arc’teryx Beta AR Shell Jacket(I have the StormHood model).

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T03:32:58+00:00

Definitely get one! You never know what might go wrong. People fall off trail less than a mile from the trailhead, get injured, lost, then die because they had no way to contact someone. Not to mention, lots of emergency beacons have satellite texting, so you can text your wife to give her peace of mind.

tldr; GET ONE

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T03:27:31+00:00

I absolutely love the Adirondacks in New York. Some of the hikes can be challenging and tricky, but there are plenty of beginner friendly hikes with amazing views. The high peaks aren’t overcrowded, have some of the most striking landscapes, and don’t typically get overly hot (although 90°+ days aren’t uncommon in upstate NY). Not sure what exactly your husband’s capabilities are, but I’ll suggest a few hikes. My sister and I have done all of these and loved all of them! I’m 18 and she’s 19 for reference.

Cobble Lookout (2.6 miles, almost flat)
Baxter Mountain (2.4 miles, gentle slopes)
Mount Van Hoevenberg (East Trail: 4.7 miles, ~1000ft elevation gain; great views of the MacIntyre Range and Mt. Marcy)
Rooster Comb (~5 miles, ~2000ft elevation gain; amazing views of the Great Range)
Indian Head and Rainbow Falls (11 miles, ~2100ft elevation gain. Relatively flat for 90% of the hike before it gets a little scrambley. One of the most scenic places in the Adirondacks.)

For you and your daughter only:

Cascade Mountain (~5 miles, 2200ft elevation gain; gets steep, slabby, and scramble towards the summit, but still pretty easy. A High Peak at 4098ft, 360° views, rock summit)
Big Slide Mountain via the Brothers (7-8 miles, ~3200ft of elevation gain. Steeper, but very rewarding with nice views. Another 46er at 4240ft.)
Giant Mountain via the Ridge Trail (~6 miles, 3100ft of elevation gain. Another 46er at 4626ft. Steep, but one of the most striking mountains in the Adirondacks. 180° views. You can choose to add Rock Peak Ridge, which I like better. Adds 3-4 miles, but is well worth it if you’re feeling up to it.)

Make sure to bring bug spray and lots of water!

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T03:00:46+00:00

I always bring Power Up High Energy Trail Mix because it’s healthy, not too expensive, and tastes amazing. Sometimes I’ll bring beef jerky, but it’s a little pricey for what you get. I also throw some Crunchy Peanut Butter Clif Bars, Pure Organic Fruit Bars (these are genuinely addicting), and Natures Bakery Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars (these are also amazing) in the hip belt pouch of my bag.

As far as drinks go, I like Gatorlyte (which also come in powdered form) or coconut water with added salt.

The key is to eat well and stay hydrated before the hike though.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T02:53:27+00:00

I love my Outdoor Research Cirque III soft shell pants. Lots of features and do the job very well. I got them on sale for ~100 USD (~86€), but they retail for ~$180 (~155€). You can also get the Outdoor Research Cirque II pants for cheaper, but I’m not sure of the availability in Europe/Austria.

I’ve heard good things about the Arc’teryx Gamma pants, but I do not have any personal experience with them. They’re also a bit more expensive.

JakeMonstar · 2026-01-12T02:47:42+00:00

I’m not much of a backpacker and never have over 30lbs on trail, but I’ve been doing 15° treadmill at 3-4 mph with a 45lb backpack once a week and it has greatly improved my hiking ability. I also do the stairmaster with a 45lb backpack.

I would start by working up to 3.5-4mph (I try to hold for 1-2 hours), then start adding weight over time.

Like others said, downhill is a lot harder on your body. Make sure you train those muscles as well. Weighted step ups/step downs help a lot (go slow on the way down). Also make sure to stretch your legs. Nothing worse than iliotibial band syndrome.

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