Hiking Essentials (Part 3)
Climbing Carrauntoohil the highest mountain in Ireland on a very wet day
Whether you are going for a short half-hour hike, or a long 4–5-hour hike, there are a few essential pieces of hiking gear to bring. The most important factor to consider is your own comfort. You don’t want to be too hot or cold on your hike and getting wet will definitely put a damper on your experience. This blog will serve as a general overview of gear with only brief descriptions. We will go more in depth for the more complicated pieces at a later date.
1. Footwear. This is an important one. There are so many variables when choosing your hiking shoes or boots. I would suggest going to a store where they have a large selection(REI) to choose from and try them on and make the selection that works for you in regards to comfort and budget. I like shoes when doing short local hikes where the trail is even and not to rocky. I do boots for longer hikes and when I know the terrain will be rocky or uneven, as boots offer much more support for ankles and grip the trail better especially when wet.Your trail footwear should be comfortable, weatherproof, give good support and grip. If you have new shoes or boots break them in first for a few walks or around the house to ensure they are comfortable. When you find a brand that suits (mine is La Sportiva for boots and Salomon for shoes), buy them on sale so you have a second pair as back up.
2. Socks. Good socks are as important as good shoes. Socks help prevent rubbing and blisters. Choose the right height to prevent against abrasion from your footwear. I suggest crew or higher if wearing boots and anything from no show up for shoes. Cushioning in something to consider when buying socks and they can go from no cushioning to heavy cushioning. It’s a personal preference for which one you choose. Type of fabric is also a consideration and now most socks are a blended can include a mixture of any of these, wool, nylon, silk and polyester. Moisture wicking is important as well as keep feet warm and if out hiking for several days quick drying may be an important consideration.
3. Backpack. This is lifesaver and needs to be comfortable and something you can wear for several hours. It should be light weight and strong and have the straps positioned correctly for your body size and shape. Again, trying it on in store before purchasing is ideal and asking for some professional advice for fit is suggested. If it is waterproof that is best, but you can buy a waterproof cover if not as you want to keep its contents dry. I use a garbage bag inside my backpack to keep stuff dry if there is rain forecasted.
4. Head Gear. Depending on the weather a sun hat or a warm beanie should be on the list. Also, a balaclava could be helpful.
5. Gloves or mittens. Essential if the weather is cold. Having them waterproof and insulated is a good suggestion
6. Sunglasses. Anywhere you need to keep your eyes protected is a reason to have some.
7. A base layer of clothing and an insulating layer. The base layer that is moisture wicking and can be a wool or synthetic material. A fleece jacket is great for the insulation layer.
8. Waterproof jacket and pants. These are necessary if you are hiking in the rain or snow. Pants should be easily put on over pants and shoes quickly so having snaps on the sides in a great option. A hooded jacket is ideal.
As you expand on your hiking adventures you will know what you will need, and you can buy on a needs basis. If you never hike in the cold or snow, you will not need those pieces. I find that I’m always adding to my gear and buy it on sale:)
Happy trails