What to take on a hike with you: clothes and equipment?

hike with you clothes and equipment

Nothing so disturbs the imagination as the fear of the unknown. Especially if you are going hiking/trekking/hiking as a beginner. And photos of tourists with huge heavy backpacks only exacerbate the image of a real traveler. One gets the impression that taking so many things with you is simply vital for survival, and the weight of the backpack will equalize with personal weight. In fact, everything is much easier and simpler than it seems, and in order to go camping, you do not need to spend huge amounts of hard-earned money. But I assure you that the emotions received in the campaign are worth every penny spent. And the acquired high-quality equipment will serve you faithfully for many years.

What to take on a hike, hiking, mountains, nature? 

Trekking sneakers or boots

Mandatory requirements for shoes: lightness, the presence of a waterproof membrane, good foot fixation, a protected toe. For stability and protection against injuries, a shock-absorbing sole with developed lugs is important. For example, LOMER produces boots with a multidirectional tread that is not afraid of rocky roads, slippery grass, or steep climbs.

Jacket, warm sweater

The best hiking jackets are made from softshell material with a waterproof membrane. The fabric retains heat, does not let moisture in, does not retain sweat, weighs a few grams. In the mountains, the weather changes often, so it is better to give preference to multifunctional models. Pay attention to elements such as a high and loose collar or detachable sleeves. Similar can be found at the Rio Grande. By the way, when it gets cold, a warm sweater will come in handy.

Pants or shorts

Choose lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants for men with a water-repellent finish. The fabric should be smooth so that plants do not cling to it. Some brands specifically for hiking release comfortable models for the summer, which turn into shorts with a flick of the wrist. For example, Mountain Hardwear.

Long-sleeve shirt. It is best to find a shirt with a crossed-out mosquito icon. It will be more difficult for mosquitoes to “bite through” special fabric. The collar protects the neck from insects and the sun. The same function is performed by long sleeves, in addition, they save from branches that strive to leave, scratches on the skin.

Headdress

In the mountains, you have to hide your head from the scorching sun. You can use a regular hood or baseball cap. But multi-bandanas (or buffs) are considered the most convenient for such walks. They can be worn like a bandage, hat, scarf, and even as a balaclava.

What to put in a backpack?

You will definitely need sunglasses. It is desirable that they have side and bottom protection against wind and glare. You can bring alpenstocks with you, they are also trekking poles. The load on the knees will be reduced, it will become easier to climb or descend slippery slopes. For a one-day hike, an ordinary sports backpack or a small hiking backpack is enough. The main thing is that it should contain everything you need, be light, durable and waterproof.

What else might be needed:

  • Mosquito spray
  • Rain cape
  • Sun cream
  • Snack, thermos, water
  • Bandages or elastic knee pads
  • Plaster, medicines
  • Geographic map
  • Compass, GPS navigator
  • Knife 

You will definitely need sunglasses. It is desirable that they have side and bottom protection against wind and glare. You can bring alpenstocks with you, they are also trekking poles. The load on the knees will be reduced, it will become easier to climb or descend slippery slopes. For a one-day hike, an ordinary sports backpack or a small hiking backpack is enough. The main thing is that it should contain everything you need, be light, durable and waterproof.

Hiking shoes

Hiking boots can be purchased at specialized sports stores. The main characteristics of the shoes are:

  • soft fixation of the lower leg and foot;
  • reliable sole protectors;
  • availability of shock-absorbing technologies;
  • lightweight;
  • wear resistance / strength;
  • hardback;
  • protected toe;
  • product material – waterproof;
  • membrane inserts for ventilation.

Running shoes are often used to move over rough terrain, but they are completely unsuitable for hiking on broken trails, in this case, heavy types of mountain trekking boots are chosen.

The season also affects the choice of shoes. So in summer, models with ventilated areas are preferable, which will ensure the removal of excess moisture and heat. For easy trails, special sandals can be purchased.

Trekking poles

Trekking poles will become important accessories that can simplify the conquest of hills. They help to evenly distribute the load on all muscle groups, as well as move faster and push off, thanks to removable tips (for various types of surfaces). The main material for the manufacture of sticks is aluminum or its alloys.

When going on a long journey through the mountains and rough terrain, you need to prepare and purchase everything that an athlete may need (specialized clothing, trekking poles, and other equipment)