My Gear

When it comes to discussions about "the right gear for walking" I'm always in two minds.

Firstly I want to point out that walking is the most natural exercise there is, that it's not a technical sport and that we should spend our time walking rather than worrying about what we wear.

Secondly I have to accept that given the amazing choice, people do wear some weird things and, compared to mountain bikers and runners, walkers don't exactly have a good look.  I'm not sure if there is a collective noun for walkers but I would nominate "drab" - as in a "drab of walkers"

Now I'm not going to pretend that I started with, never mind sustained a "good look" as I tramped 5,000 kilometers across Europe on the E4 but I think I learnt a few things which might help if you're planning any sort of long trip.

Firstly keep everything as light as possible.  It might seem obvious but weight costs when it comes to long distance and getting your bag down to a target (say 7 kilos without food and water) will pay dividends at the end of a 9 hour trek across the mountains.  Slightly more challenging to some of us, I think the rule applies to body weight as well.

Secondly plan for the extremes.  If you're travelling long distances you have to expect some of the  extremities associated with the season and the altitude - unfortunately that means taking stuff you will hardly ever use.

Thirdly think layers.  Layers trap air which keeps you warm - and if each layer, like a Russian doll, is an incremental step up from the previous layer you can end up with a "look" that can be flexed for a range of different circumstances.

Fourthly think synthetic.  Modern synthetic fibres have the necessary "wicking" quality, are very light, and are easier to wash and dry than natural fibres.  I'm even a fan of synthetic fibre socks, particularly in the summer.

Fifthly think trainers.  Hiking boots have got lighter and lighter over the last 30 years or so but most of us are still attached to the notion of a boot.  I walked all the way across Europe in trainers (I can now predict how long they will last to the day) and as well as saving on weight, my feet got stronger and I became positively gazelle like on the mountains.  Boots have their place (when its very cold and very boggy) but for most of the time it should be in a cupboard under the stairs - they certainly last longer that way.

Finally find a rucksack you can love.  I have several rucksacks - one for day trips; one for short multiday trips when travelling on a budget airline and trying to avoid the luggage hold; and one for serious trips when the trade off between genuine comfort and the avoidance of the luggage hold tips the decision in favour of the rucksack I love.  Strapping on my serious trip rucksack (apparently the lightest rucksack you can get with a frame) and tightening the straps is like firing the starting pistol for a real adventure.

For more nonsense about walking gear please go to the links below.

Farewell to my Osprey Exos 44
My Gear  on the E4 - Good, Bad and Ugly
Solar Powered
Dalesway Postscript - Gear Review