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| Source: smartertravel.com |
Hiking can take you to some of the most beautiful areas in the world. It can give you a feeling of freedom and rejuvenation. However, you must be equipped with the proper clothing for your chosen terrain and environment. There are many different types of hiking equipment that it can be overwhelming when deciding what's important to bring, and what's not necessary. For example, being too hot is just as bad as being too cold if you plan on hiking all day. So, how do you begin to figure out what will work best for your trip?
Weather Appropriate Hiking Clothes
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It can be hard to know what to wear when you are hiking in the wild. There are various kinds of weather, and different clothing is appropriate for each. A good rule of thumb is to dress warmly, but not so warmly that you find yourself sweating. In hot weather, you should be prepared for rain (and maybe even a thunderstorm). And if it's cold, you should be prepared for snow.
The right kind of clothing depends on the kind of weather you expect and your own comfort level. For example, if the temperature is expected to be below freezing at night or very cold during the day but it doesn't look like rain or snow is coming, don't wear heavy synthetics-you'll sweat too much. Instead, wear something breathable-something like nylon or wool that will shed moisture well. And if possible, carry an extra pair of gloves-they're a good idea any time you're outside with your hands.
Hiking Footwear
Hiking footwear is something you should never skimp on. It's guaranteed you will regret it if you do! The main thing to look at when shopping for hiking shoes is the level of support it provides. A good pair of hiking boots will provide support for your ankles. This is important because uneven terrain and rocky paths can be hard on your ankles, straining them and potentially even causing injury. Hiking boots are also made to take a lot of abuse and last a long time as you trek through all sorts of weather conditions.
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| Source: outdoorgearlab.com |
Hiking Boots vs. Hiker Shoes vs. Trail Runners
It's important to note that a pair of hiking shoe is different from trail running shoes, which are designed to be lightweight and breathable, but they don't offer the same level of support or durability as hiking boots. They're really only ideal for shorter hikes in well-maintained areas where you won't have to deal with rocks and uneven terrain. And since they won't last as long as hiking boots, they're not ideal for long-term use or serious expeditions. You may have heard the terms "day hikers" and "backpackers." Day hikers are people who go on day trips, while backpackers go on overnight trips. The type of boot that is best for you will depend upon how much weight you plan on carrying and what kind of terrain you'll be covering.
For example, if you're a day hiker or if your backpack will be relatively light, a midweight or lightweight pair of hiker shoes should be sufficient for your needs. If you're planning a backpacking trip that will cover long distances over difficult terrain, then you should opt for a heavy-duty pair of hiking boots (aka backpacking boots) instead. Hiking boots generally provide more ankle support than standard hiking shoes.
Waterproof Gear
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Rainwear, jackets and pants that are lightweight and durable should be part of every hiker's wardrobe. Waterproof clothing will keep you dry if there's rain or you have to cross a stream or river along the trail. It's also useful as an extra layer of warmth on a chilly day.
Waterproof clothing and water-resistant clothing are two different items. If water drips onto the fabric, it may not immediately soak through. But once your body produces enough heat to create perspiration, the fabric will become damp. So if you're shopping for waterproof gear, choose breathable fabrics such as Gore-Tex or eVent.
If your budget is tight, a rain poncho may be all you need in terms of outerwear protection. Ponchos made from lightweight plastic or nylon are inexpensive and easy to carry in a backpack. They're also versatile since they can cover your entire body, including your pack and gear, to keep everything dry. If you prefer more coverage and want to wear pants and a jacket, look for coated materials that offer some degree of water resistance but won't break the bank. For example, polyurethane-coated nylon offers decent protection at an affordable price.
Sun Protection
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| Source: greenbelly.co |
The sun's rays can be particularly intense at higher elevations. Though it may not seem like it when the wind is blowing and you're surrounded by snow, you can still get an awful sunburn at high altitudes. If you're planning on spending any time above the tree line during your hike, be sure to pack a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
A good hiking hat should offer shade for your face and neck while keeping your head cool and allowing moisture to escape. Look for a lightweight hat with a wide brim that curves up in the back to protect your neck from the harsh rays of the sun.
You'll also want to make sure that you have a good pair of sunglasses with UV protection to help prevent damage to your eyes. Remember that most of us squint when we're in bright light, which can cause wrinkles around our eyes over time; wear sunglasses and you won't have this problem!
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