WALKING KIT ESSENTIALS
Whether you’re a short-route ambler or an adventurous trekker, here are the key items of kit to consider.
1 AMBLER: SHORT ROUTES
A fair-weather wanderer, you like to take your time soaking up the sights and scents of the countryside. You don’t need much gear for your short gentle walks: grippy boots or shoes; a water-resistant jacket to keep off the worst of a downpour, and an affordable backpack for a bottle of water and – as always – a map. You may own all these already. Happy days.
Optional extras: Binoculars, camera, ground sheet.
2 RAMBLER: MEDIUM ROUTES
You’ve really got into your stride with this walking thing, and you’re tackling fair distances. Time to invest in a fully waterproof rain jacket and a grippy, comfortable pair of hiking boots (see our guide on page 96). Stretchy leggings or walking trousers allow you to flex your knees freely, and dry quickly after a soaking. You can layer up with the fleece in your pack if you feel chilly.
Optional extras: If you like to feel sure on your feet, trekking poles can offer welcome stability.
You don’t need much kit to start rambling short distances. When you get the bug and your walks get longer and more challenging, it’s worthwhile investing in some other bits of gear to keep you comfortable and safe on the move
Words: Joe Pontin | Illustration: Sam Chivers
3 HIKER: LONG ROUTES
You’re a committed walker who loves to roam for miles, in fair weather or foul. You’ve invested in a raincoat you can trust. Your base layer feels dry when you perspire. Your boots are robust enough to protect your feet and give you plenty of wear. Goodquality walking socks protect your feet from blisters. A case shields your map from the elements, and a compass keeps you on the path. A quality backpack with a belt harness keeps your shoulders comfortable. Your pack contains a water reservoir with drinking tube, waterproof trousers, a warm midlayer and a small first aid kit. Optional extras: Trekking poles to take the stress off your knees; GPS device, head torch.
4 TREKKER: DEMANDING ROUTES
Your love of adventure leads you over mountains, down dales and along remote coast paths, sometimes for days on end. Gaiters keep your lower trousers dry and clean. Trekking poles boost stability and reduce the stress on your knees. Your big backpack contains a change of clothes, food, a head torch, waterproof trousers, warm midlayer, first aid kit, emergency bivi bag and other useful items. If you are camping, there’s also a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, comfy self-inflating mat and stove.
Optional extras: GPS device, water filter, portable solar panel.