Tom Gathman aka Jabba is @TheRealHikingViking. He is currently attempting a southbound winter thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. In 2013 he thru-hiked the AT with fellow combat veterans in the Warrior Hike and in 2014 the 3,100 mile Continental Divide trail. In this interview, we talk with Tom about his progress thus far, faulty headlines, and whether his beard has contributed to his success as The Real Hiking Viking.
What else would you hope for out of your life than to be able to call it your own?
Gear Recommendations
Neoprene Socks
Tom Gathman (@therealhikingviking) uses neoprene socks to separate his sweaty feet from his boots so his boots don't freeze. Neoprene or polychloroprene is a family of synthetic rubbers that are produced by polymerization of chloroprene. Neoprene exhibits good chemical stability and maintains flexibility over a wide temperature range.
Additional Resources
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