From the Andes to Awareness: How Kryptek Gear Helped One Woman Take on a 40-Mile Trek for Prostate Cancer Awareness
In June 2026, I took on a challenge I never imagined I would complete: a 40-mile trek through the Andes Mountains to raise awareness for prostate cancer.
My family has spent the last 17 years advocating for prostate cancer awareness and searching for better treatments since my dad was first diagnosed. When the opportunity came to hike across glacial mountains and trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, I knew I had to make it happen.
The only problem? I wasn’t a hiker.
I wasn’t a biker. I wasn’t even someone who regularly walked around the neighborhood.
I knew I needed to prepare my health, understand the demands of the environment, and find gear that could handle the extremes of the Andes. Thankfully, my husband is a hunter and pointed me toward Kryptek gear, telling me it was some of the best equipment available.
He was right.
From intense sun exposure at elevation to freezing temperatures, wind, snow, and unpredictable weather, Kryptek gear became an essential part of my journey. In fact, the 20-year veteran guide who led our expedition was so impressed with the functionality and performance of the gear that he purchased it from me before I headed home.
He was especially impressed with the details built into each piece and how the Obskura Skyfall pattern blended perfectly into the high-desert glacial environment of the Andes—an area where he guides and hunts regularly.
Built for Extreme Conditions
I burn easily and typically avoid prolonged sun exposure. I also prefer to minimize my use of chemical sunscreens whenever possible. On this trek, there were no trees for shade and no easy way to stop once we began. Having reliable protection from the elements wasn’t optional—it was necessary.
The right gloves, sun protection, rain gear, and insulation layers made the difference.
Kryptek Gloves
The Kryptek gloves were one of the most valuable pieces of gear I brought.
Unlike many other hikers, I finished the trek without a severe hand sunburn. The grip was exceptional, allowing me to comfortably use trekking poles without wasting energy constantly squeezing them.
They also made everyday tasks easier—from grabbing a water bottle and taking photos to using my phone without removing my gloves. The touchscreen-compatible fingertips worked flawlessly, and the adjustable Velcro closure provided a secure fit without restricting circulation.
They offered warmth when temperatures dropped and remained comfortable when my body temperature rose during climbs.
ML Tech Hoodie
The ML Tech Hoodie quickly became my most-used piece of gear.
At 17,200 feet of elevation, intense UV exposure and changing temperatures made protection critical. The design gave me coverage without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
The integrated hood provided protection for my head, ears, and neck while still accommodating a ponytail. The built-in neck gaiter added additional coverage when needed, while front ventilation helped regulate breathing and prevented my glasses from fogging.
The thumb holes allowed the sleeves to extend over my hands for additional sun protection, and the longer body length kept the shirt tucked comfortably under my backpack without riding up.
The zippered bicep pockets were another thoughtful feature, giving me easy access to essentials like lip balm, tissues, and other small items without stopping to dig through my pack.
Jupiter Rain Pants
At high altitude, weather can change quickly.
The Jupiter Rain Pants were an essential piece of my pack because they combined lightweight portability with reliable protection. The full-length leg zippers allowed me to put them on quickly over my hiking boots, while the adjustable cuffs helped keep rain and moisture out.
Eldax Jacket
The Eldax Jacket was something I didn’t know I needed until I experienced the conditions firsthand.
This lightweight, packable jacket provided incredible warmth and protection during 50 mph winds, temperatures below 30 degrees, and snow and hail conditions.
When I wasn’t wearing it, it packed into itself and disappeared into my backpack—taking up almost no space while providing critical protection when conditions turned harsh.
Know Your Risks. Protect Your Future.
This trek was about more than reaching Machu Picchu.
It was about raising awareness for a disease that has impacted my family and countless others.
One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Many cases are connected to risk factors such as genetics, age, and other contributing factors, including increased risks among some military populations due to exposures and service-related factors.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Before you have warning signs, talk with your doctor about getting your prostate checked with a simple PSA blood test. Symptoms can often mean the disease has already progressed.
When detected early, prostate cancer has some of the highest survival rates among cancers, and early diagnosis provides the best opportunity for successful treatment and recovery.
Join the Fight Against Prostate Cancer
To support families affected by prostate cancer, join us at the free Treasure Valley Prostate Cancer Awareness Walk on September 19 from 10 AM–1 PM at 5963 Avimor Dr.
The event will include raffles, games, a bounce house, food, and family activities.
You never know when prostate cancer may impact your own family.
If you would like to support my fundraising efforts, donations will be accepted until I reach my goal of $15,000:
https://tinyurl.com/DrCynthia-ZEROPeaksMachuPicchu
Author: Cynthia Wilson
