I am 53...and ride an old man 10 speed, 39/53 & 13/26 double. I ride with a few people that have triples on the flats and no matter what gear they use, they feel like they're unable to keep up with me.

I also live in a foothill area with some hills that are long and can really hurt... I had found myself walking the last portion of a steep 1/2mi hill up to my home a few times at the end of long rides... I knew once my climbing muscles were in shape, I wouldn't be walking. My ego doesn't drive my character that much, commonsense does. On my last 3 rides, I've staying in the saddle to the top...

What would be the best combination on a double in the foothills?