Choose the right things for outdoor activity
It’s really important to have the correct clothing - as you never know how the weather conditions and terrain might affect your walk. Taking some time to prepare and buy the right kit and gear beforehand will save you lots of headaches in the long run. Start with your footwear...
Hiking Shoes
Nothing can ruin your walk more than an ill-fitting pair of boots! If you are taking up hill walking for the first time then it is best to choose comfort over durability. You can then invest in a tougher, longer lasting pair once you know you enjoy hill walking and once your feet have toughened up.
Fabric boots offer great comfort, are lightweight and are also fully waterproof, but will not be as durable or long lasting as traditional leather ones. Make sure you take the time to visit a reputable outdoor retailer who offers a specialist service. There is a bewildering array of boots available and experienced staff will guide you to the right choice based on your intended walking activities. From the point of view of budget, it can pay to to select a good ‘all year round boot’. Always ‘wear your boots in’ gradually by going on short distance walks first and then increasing the distance.
Jackets
It is essential to choose a jacket that is waterproof, while still allowing the sweat generated by your body to escape.
Gortex is by far the most popular choice of fabric and is available in different forms. Gortex Paclite is extremely thin, creating extremely lightweight garments which also allow sweat to escape very efficiently. Paclite garments are highly suited to activities where weight is crucial and you break out into a real sweat, for example, adventure racing, orienteering or mountain biking. But remember that for activities other than day walks with very light day rucksacks, Paclite is not very durable and won’t withstand heavy backpacks on the shoulders.
For general hiking, select a jacket made from standard Gortex, Gortex XCR or similar material from another manufacturer. When selecting a hiking jacket, consider features such as reinforced shoulders to avoid abrasion from backpack straps.
Other features to consider include location of hand pockets — if you will be wearing a harness for scrambling or mountaineering then select a jacket with chest pockets that will still be accessible. The hood is a very important feature of any jacket and you should ensure that it is easily adjustable and will accommodate a mountaineering helmet if you are likely to use one.
Also look out for ‘pit-zips.’ These are zippers located in the underarm area of the jacket which allow you to let out heat and sweat and regulate your temperature.
Hats and gloves
Pay particular attention to protecting your extremities (your fingers, nose and ears), from the elements. Approximately 60 per cent of body heat is lost through the head, so in cold conditions put a hat on. Also, remember in hot conditions it is just as important to wear a hat to protect your head from the sun.
For the hands, mitts offer better insulation and warmth than gloves but offer limited movement. However, some mitt designs have a movable flap allowing fingers to be exposed for dexterous work. Invest in an insulating pair of fleece gloves that can be protected by a thin pair of weatherproof outer gloves or mitts.
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