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Getting back to nature with a picnic in the park can be truly good for the soul. Becoming one with nature by taking a five or ten-hour hike is good for the mind, the body and the soul. Hiking is a great way to get your body moving and clear your mind as you quietly journey nature’s path.
Experienced hikers know that nothing can be expected along the trail, whether you’re trekking for weeks or simply on a daylong excursion. Conditions can change, accidents can occur, and hikers of all levels must be prepared for anything. Packing and wearing the right hiking gear can mean the difference between a dreamy date with Mother Nature, and your worst nightmare.
Here is a list of must-have hiking gear for any excursion:
Raingear and Backpack
A backpack is, of course, as essential to hikers as the air we breathe. However, not just any backpack will do. Your pack, in fact, needs to have enough room to accommodate all of your gear–and then some. Everything needed for wilderness survival needs to fit into a lightweight, and preferably waterproof pack. Speaking of waterproof, of course, don’t forget the raingear. Rain protection to wear and another to duck under should be top on your packing list.
If you’re thinking, “I only hike when it’s clear and sunny”, think again. Conditions can change in just a matter of minutes. Besides, hiking on a rainy day is a great way to become get used to rains that will catch you unaware sooner or later. Buy a raincoat, set out for a muddy hike, and you’ll be ready for anything Mother Nature can send your way.
Food
Perhaps you’ll only be hiking for a few hours, so you don’t need to pack food. Or, perhaps you’ll find a piece of paradise that you can’t bear to leave right away. Or, maybe you get lost in the woods for seven hours. Worst yet, maybe you’ll hurt your ankle and have a painfully slow hike home. Expect the unexpected, and be ready with extra food. Sooner or later, you’re bound to really get hungry. Tuck some granola bars, trail mix, fruit and water into your pack. Consider it an important part of your hiking gear.
Boots
Hiking boots have become a fashion statement, however, don’t be fooled by a pretty face. Chances are, the hiking boots you purchased at the department store don’t give you the traction and support you need to tackle rough terrain. The boots you pick should be lightweight, as every pound of boot equals five pounds of added weight to your back. If you place too much weight on one part of your body, another part will complain, and you’ve got to compensate to make your whole self happy. Choose your boots based on the type of trailblazer you are. Other trails can be hiked in a pair of sneakers, while others should only be traversed in proper hiking boots. Ask an associate at your outdoors supply store for tips on the best boots for you.
Gaiters
Okay, these can seem goofy, but your choice of hiking gear should be about function, not fashion. Gaiters usually keep water from running down your legs and into the tops of your boots, something you’ll appreciate when the rains come. Waterproofing your boots won’t make sense at all if you’ve forgotten to seal the hole where your feet and legs go in. Consider gaiters an important part of your raingear package, and pack them in.
Socks
It’s advised that hikers wear two pairs of socks. Combining an outer wool sock with an inner polypropylene sock will certainly drain moisture from your feet. This is an important practice that all hikers should get in the habit of doing. Making your feet more comfortable will make your hike absolutely more enjoyable.
A hike is the perfect way to experience the best of nature, and the right hiking gear is crucial in getting the most out of your hiking experience. Pick up gear that is designed for hikers and made by reputable manufacturers. Proper hiking gear is created to take on Mother Nature and made to last, so your investment today should take you over plenty of terrain.
Tagged with: hiking gear • mountain hiking tips
Filed under: Hiking Gear