- Hiking
Have the right gear when setting out on treks
Clothing
Three layers of clothing provide optimum protection. The first layer, in direct contact with your skin, allows sweat evacuation and quick drying so that you do not get cold after an effort (no cotton for this layer). The second layer must be breathable but retain body heat (polar fleece). And the top layer must be windproof and waterproof.
Shoes
Hiking shoes are the main gear needed for trekking. The type of shoe differs according to the type of trail, terrain, and weather conditions. Nevertheless, high-cut boots that protect your ankles are the best.
Poles
Not everyone needs trekking poles, but they can be of great help when hiking as they help spread out your muscle work with 20% of your body weight supported by the poles and not your (fragile) knees. In addition to sparing your joints, poles also create more stability to limit falls.
Rucksack
Rucksacks help you carry everything you need when hiking, but they become heavy quickly. So that it’s not too heavy on your back, remember to distribute the weight with the heaviest items in the centre of the pack and the two sides balanced. Adjust the waistbands and shoulder straps to make it snug on your back to help distribute the bag weight across your body.
A closer look at rucksack contents
(not including a picnic)
Windcheater and bivvy bag, hat, breathable t-shirt, warm attire, and a change of clothes.
Granola bars or cookies to help with keeping energy up and lots of water.
Survival blanket, plasters, blister prevention tape, sterile gauze dressings, crepe bandage, roll of surgical tape, a few safety pins, disinfectant, scissors, tweezers, venom extractor kit, and first-aid guide.
High SPF sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and toilet paper.