Heading out for a day of hiking is a great way to disconnect from your everyday life and to enjoy some quality time with friends and family. After a few months of quarantine and a summer with so many travel restrictions, hiking is definitely an activity we’d recommend. Nature can be super relaxing and some physical activity will definitely make you feel better.
However, it is important that when you go hiking, you go prepared and have appropriate hiking gear. The weather can be extremely unpredictable up on the mountain and your safety and comfort should be among the first things you think about when you plan a hiking trip. Well-chosen equipment comes hand in hand with comfort and safety.
Here are a few items that will help you get the best out of your hiking experience:
1.Backpack
If you think about going hiking, consider investing in a hiking backpack. A good hiking backpack is first on the list of experienced hikers too because it makes a huge difference in your overall hiking experience.
It is very important to have a comfortable backpack which supports your back and is not too big/small for your hike. Your backpack has to be big enough to fit everything you need for your hike but not too big to make you uncomfortable.
Make sure you fill your backpack with plenty of water and snacks for your hike.
2.Non-slip Boots
It is extremely important to have the right shoes when you go hiking. You can often see people going hiking without the right hiking gear and it can be dangerous. A good hiking shoe will ensure both your safety and comfort on the mountain.
You can easily slip or twist your ankle if you’re not used to walking in the mountains, so make sure you prioritize your hiking shoes. The more you go hiking, the stronger your ankles become but until then, consider buying ankle-high hiking boots.
Another important thing to consider when you’re choosing your hiking shoes is their sole. The hardest is the sole of the shoes, the safer it is for you to walk in them on the mountain without slipping.
3.Jacket
Choose a jacket that is insulating and rely on layers because the weather in the mountains can change easily as you move up. If you are not going on a super-high peak, you can choose a lighter jacket that feels comfortable, is easy to move in and it is made of quality materials.
When you buy your jacket, make sure to choose one made of waterproof, moisture-wicking and windproof fabric to protect your health and keep you cosy. Don’t let your hiking gear get in the way of your hiking experience.
4.Hiking Pants
Yes, hiking pants, they play a big role in your comfort and overall hiking experience.
Quality hiking pants are made of an elastic material to fit your diverse range of movements on the mountain and are more comfortable overall. Your hiking pants should be always long enough to cover your ankles and boots to stop dirt and dust from ending up in your shoes and making you uncomfortable.
Generally, wearing shorts isn’t recommended because, if the weather gets bad, they won’t protect your knees and ankles from the cold. However, if you don’t want to wear long pants the entire hike, you can choose to buy a pair of supra pants which you can easily put on if you’re starting to feel cold.
5.Sun protection
You might not realize how strong the sun is shining when you’re hiking and it might not even feel like it, but you can get sunburned if you’re not careful.
Make sure you apply sun protection half an hour before you go outdoors and reapply it every two hours when you’re exercising. To protect your lips from getting sunburned you can use a lip balm with SPF protection.
Don’t forget to take your sunglasses (will be very helpful if you go through areas with snow) and wear a hat. If you can, choose clothes that have UPF protection to avoid getting burned by the UV rays from sunlight.
6.Know where you go
Before you actually go hiking, make sure that you choose the trails accordingly. Read a little about the place you are going to so that you know what is expecting you. Check the weather beforehand, make sure that the trails aren’t too advanced and that you know which trails you have to follow.
It’s great to have some apps for hiking on your phone, they can definitely help and offer lots of info about the trails, weather and much more. However, your phone might not work anywhere in the mountains so if you can, bring a map.
Hiking is a great way to exercise and spend some quality time in nature but fashion comes second to comfort and safety. Make sure that you choose your hiking gear carefully in order to ensure a great experience.
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