CHOOSING THE RIGHT STUFF
BEST FOOT FORWARD
ALL OUTDOOR CLOTHING is important, but your walking shoes need to work perfectly or you’ll be quite literally stopped in your tracks. If you’re going to be tackling more rugged terrain, you’ll probably need a dedicated hiking boot over a sports shoe to provide more support for your ankles, better overall protection (especially waterproofing) and increased durability to withstand the heavier wear and tear. Go for strength and sturdiness over absolutely lightness, but comfort is critical so make sure the sizing is spot-on, including taking into account the type of socks you’ll be wearing. Then do some test hikes to see if you need to add inserts or change your sock type to ensure comfort is maintained over longer distances. Lighter walking trails can be tackled with lighter footwear, but go for the best quality shoes you can afford – it will pay off in terms of both comfort and durability.
SLEEP TIGHT
SLEEPING BAGS ARE VERY high-tech these days in order to obtain a maximum warmth-toweight ratio, and combine wind and moisture resistance with breathability. The classic goose or duck down is still hard to beat for optimum insulation and packability, and is combined with modern synthetic materials to create a windproof and water-resistant shell. Check the minimum temperature rating suits your requirements, remembering that many places can get very cold at night, even in the summer months. The temperature rating indicates the lowest air temperature at which the bag will still keep you warm, which isn’t an entirely precise measure given all the other factors likely to be at play. It usually assumes that you’re using a sleeping mat to insulate you from ground chill, and the general advice is opt for a slightly lower temperature rating than you think you’ll actually need. This allows you to sleep in less clothing and then add more if you still feel cold. Alternatively, if you’re getting too warm, it’s easy to vent the bag to increase the air circulation.
As with your walking shoes, a good-quality sleeping bag is a major asset, making the difference between waking up fresh the next morning or grumpy after an uncomfortable night.