Hiking Gear

What You Do and Do Not Need in Hiking Gear

You may be asking yourself:

Well, yes and no.

If you are taking a two-hour hike with your children over easy terrain, then you really don't need anything more than a first-aid kit and the basics (for more ideas, see the Hiking with Kids page). But if you're planning a hike in the mountains or other remote wilderness area, then you definitely need the right hiking gear.

Backpacks

Are you a mule? Neither am I!

Yes, carrying extra weight on your back gives you a great workout. You may even appreciate the extra training value. But let's face it, nobody actually likes hauling weight - especially uphill!

Backpacks are an essential part of your hiking gear. Getting the right pack will help you be a happier, more comfortable hiker.

• Start with these tips on fitting a backpack. A proper fit is critical to your comfort.

• What is a daypack? How does it differ from an alpine pack? What about an expedition pack? Get the right type of backpack for your needs.

• Another consideration is the general weight of the backpack - we're not mules remember! There are many ways you can lighten your load.

Trekking Poles

If you are going to be pounding the trails on or off mountain, trekking poles (also called Nordic Poles) are another essential part of your hiking gear. They are similar in appearance to ski poles, but are adjustable and are designed specifically for walking.

Trekking poles involve your upper body in the workout by engaging your shoulders, arms and pectoral muscles. They help relieve tension and pain in the neck and shoulder region - you'll especially appreciate them if your pack is heavy. When used correctly, they also help improve posture,making you stand upright helping you breathe better.

Nordic poles can also significantly reduce stress to your hips, knees, lower back, ankles and feet. They make uphill climbs easer too, because you're climbing with all fours instead of just two. Poles also give your more stability in crossing streams, traversing steep slopes, and crossing rough sections of trail. Here is a quick summary of how to use your trekking poles correctly.

Hiking Clothing

When you are hiking, your personal comfort is very important. Clothing, therefore, becomes a very important part of your hiking gear in keeping your body within comfortable temperate ranges.

The best way to accomplish this is to use a layering system - preferably made of wool or synthetic (polyester) fabrics.

Base Layer: This is the innermost layer next to your skin. Look for close-fitting (but not tight), moisture-wicking, quick-dry synthetic long and short-sleeved t-shirts and tanks.

Insulating Layer: Often called a soft shell, this middle layer provides warmth when needed. Polyester fleece jackets are highly recommended. They are available in different weights (warmth factor) and some are also able to block the wind.

Outer Layer: This is your protection layer against rain, snow, cold wind, etc. Look for waterproof breathables (such as GORE-TEX) and finished (taped) seams in both jackets and pants.

Synthetic hiking clothing wicks perspiration away from your skin, keeping you warm, even when wet. And it dries quickly. Even your underwear should be partly synthetic, and sport bras should be entirely synthetic. As a bonus - this type of underwear is usually seamless, which means no chafing, bunching or binding! Also look for long underwear and tights in synthetic fabric with a bit of lycra for stretchiness.

Why the layers you ask?
Because your body temperature changes constantly depending on whether you're going uphill, downhill, in wind, or in the hot sun. If you've only got one extra layer, it's either on or off, and you're either roasting or freezing. Bring two shirts, one thin and one thick. Wear the thin one while hiking, and the thick one when you're stopped. Always keep the thick one dry in case you really need to stay warm. You can pack a down vest for warmth, but don't hike with it, it will be useless if it gets soaked.

Hats and Gloves:

You lose most of your heat through your head and extremities, so keep them warm. A thin pair of synthetic gloves are great while hiking on cooler days. Keep a pair of thicker fleece gloves with leather palms nice and dry in your backpack. You could also consider a waterproof glove for rainy days.

Fleece hats or thick headbands will add a lot of heat, without adding a lot of weight. On sunny days, a hat with a wide brim, such as the world famous Tilley Hat is a must.