Hiking in bad conditions is something we all must learn to do. Why? We must learn to do this because learning to overcome obstacles in our path helps us to have the determination to do a long hike. The PCT will be a very long hike. I must get out my snowshoes and learn how to use them correctly but also learn how to travel in snow on my feet and also learn about the conditions of the snow itself, it is wet and cold, and can make you miserable.
Wind is usually found everywhere. A wind jacket helps to deter the wind away from you, thus making you warmer, tons of great clothes out there now to keep you safe and comfortable.
Rain is here now that it is fall. You can always use an umbrella to keep you out of the rain and also even from the wind. As a thru-hiker, I have ordered an umbrella with a mylar finish to use in the desert from the hot sun and the wind and the rain.
Hiking in sand is something I have never done before. I have been to the beach where there is sand but never hiked in it. It is gritty and can wear down your equipment fast. Socks must be cleaned out every once in a while to get rid of small rocks and other pesky things like sharp cactus. I will be wearing "Dirty girl Gaiters". These little gaiters attach to your shoes and keep all of the little stuff out. They have really cool colors too.
No matter what the weather holds, you can still get out in it if you just prepare. So having said that, I will go and grab my umbrella. Enjoy the fall weather, embrace the winter.
