[pct-l] Number 1 Recommendation for Noob Thru Hikers

[ruffwork]

I've been hiking on the PCT for a while now and I'd like to suggest to all you class of 2012 thru hikers who are
going out and getting all your new cool gear and stuff that the #1 thing you can do is

PLEASE DO NOT LEARN TO USE NEW GEAR ON-THE-HIKE.

Take your stuff out on a test drive!  Just even over night but better if it's 2-3 days and one will include rain!
In that short hike you'll find all sorts of stuff that does not work on the trail that you thought would work when you were at the keyboard ;-/
When I get a new stove I cook with it at home for a week or so (yum, it's freeze dried Chili Mac tonight!).
When I get a new sleeping bag or tent I set up in the back yard in a storm and camp in it several nights (my cats think I'm crazy).
Please do not learn how to use the new gear on-the-job...please?

ruffwork