Hiking Information And Tips For Preparation
Quite a good suggestion for hikers - how to choose suitable equipments for hiking!
DON'Ts:
Cotton Kills! Don't wear cotton clothing, they take way to long to dry.
Don't wear jeans, they are heavy, restrictive and again do not insulate when wet.
Don't wear heavy jacket even if it's cold. (wear layers instead, see below)
Don't bring coffee, tea and any caffeine drinks, they dehydrate you! No pop or other sugary and carbonated drinks.
DO's:
Wear light synthetic fabrics, they are good insulations even when wet and dry very fast. (e.g. Fleece, dry fit material, etc.)
Wear shorts underneath if you're starting out in colder atmosphere, because you will get warmer as you continue to hike. (No places to change while on trail!)
Wearing layers is better than one "thick" jacket so that it'll be easier to adjust to many temperature changes as you hike. The following is a suggested guide line.
Wear first layer of light comfortable shirt like "dry-fit" types, short sleeve and shorts.
2nd layer a fleece long sleeves or fleece vest. Pair of long pants.
3rd layer a light water proof rain gear and a toque or hat to shade from cold or the sun. The light jacket is a good way of protection from rain and wind when you have 2 layers underneath.
Sometimes, you may want to wear "biking" gloves or similar as you may grab hold of tree branches or rocks and boulders.
Sun glasses are a good idea especially when it's a great hot and sunny forecast but don't wear super dark lenses as in parts of the forest you won't see very well where you're taking your steps. Make sure they are secured (by eyeglass strings or bungee so you won't lose them if they drop or moving around while you're hiking).
For thirst quenchers bring lots of water! A suggested volume for our length of hike is at least 2 liters. Some juice or sport drinks are okay in addition to the water. You can add ice cubes in the containers (it's better than bringing juice boxes or drink bottles as you have to carry all garbage with you!) It's always good to drink water BEFORE you start your hike.
Sometimes for long hikes, 2 layer socks are very good, first layer should be snug fit and thin, second layer thicker wool or synthetic blend, also snug fit. (remember no cotton!)
Sunscreen is also very helpful to prevent sun burn. Insect repellent is a plus, but be conservative in use as "deet" is a chemical harmful if used too much.
Hiking boots... should feel and fit right, even when new. You can never "break them in".If they don't fit well the first try, find another pair that does.
High cut, ankle support is a good idea. Make sure it has good "grip" soles and patterns and light weight.
DON'Ts:
Cotton Kills! Don't wear cotton clothing, they take way to long to dry.
Don't wear jeans, they are heavy, restrictive and again do not insulate when wet.
Don't wear heavy jacket even if it's cold. (wear layers instead, see below)
Don't bring coffee, tea and any caffeine drinks, they dehydrate you! No pop or other sugary and carbonated drinks.
DO's:
Wear light synthetic fabrics, they are good insulations even when wet and dry very fast. (e.g. Fleece, dry fit material, etc.)
Wear shorts underneath if you're starting out in colder atmosphere, because you will get warmer as you continue to hike. (No places to change while on trail!)
Wearing layers is better than one "thick" jacket so that it'll be easier to adjust to many temperature changes as you hike. The following is a suggested guide line.
Wear first layer of light comfortable shirt like "dry-fit" types, short sleeve and shorts.
2nd layer a fleece long sleeves or fleece vest. Pair of long pants.
3rd layer a light water proof rain gear and a toque or hat to shade from cold or the sun. The light jacket is a good way of protection from rain and wind when you have 2 layers underneath.
Sometimes, you may want to wear "biking" gloves or similar as you may grab hold of tree branches or rocks and boulders.
Sun glasses are a good idea especially when it's a great hot and sunny forecast but don't wear super dark lenses as in parts of the forest you won't see very well where you're taking your steps. Make sure they are secured (by eyeglass strings or bungee so you won't lose them if they drop or moving around while you're hiking).
For thirst quenchers bring lots of water! A suggested volume for our length of hike is at least 2 liters. Some juice or sport drinks are okay in addition to the water. You can add ice cubes in the containers (it's better than bringing juice boxes or drink bottles as you have to carry all garbage with you!) It's always good to drink water BEFORE you start your hike.
Sometimes for long hikes, 2 layer socks are very good, first layer should be snug fit and thin, second layer thicker wool or synthetic blend, also snug fit. (remember no cotton!)
Sunscreen is also very helpful to prevent sun burn. Insect repellent is a plus, but be conservative in use as "deet" is a chemical harmful if used too much.
Hiking boots... should feel and fit right, even when new. You can never "break them in".If they don't fit well the first try, find another pair that does.
High cut, ankle support is a good idea. Make sure it has good "grip" soles and patterns and light weight.