Unlike sneakers, hiking boots can withstand the wear and tear of walking on abrasive granite. Their grooved soles provide better traction on rough surfaces. Over the years we have found that good hiking boots more than pay for themselves, and we recommend them highly. Thousands of our customers agree. As much as you comfortably can.
People often take too little water.
Two liters per person per day is a good rule of thumb, depending on the length of the hike, the weather and your level of fitness. Take a lesson from athletes. You will feel much more energetic and can better tackle those mountain ridges when you are well hydrated. You will also have a fresh supply of water waiting for you when you return to the vehicle. No one likes hiking a trail littered with other people's trash.