Hiking is a one-day nature walk that starts in the morning and ends in the evening. This activity, done either for enjoyment in nature or as a form of exercise, is considered one of the easiest outdoor sports. Hiking typically takes place in areas featuring natural beauty such as valleys, forests, trails, and artificial walking paths.The hiking route is determined in advance, and the approximate duration of the walk is known. Hiking trips are conducted on nature trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These walks can be either half-day or full-day excursions.
For all types of outdoor sports, your clothing should maintain your body temperature at an optimal level, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience. Additionally, the features of your clothing should protect you from temperature changes in nature and help you adapt to them. Clothing should be comfortable, functional, insulating, quick-drying, lightweight, and compact. Therefore, a three-layer clothing system should be chosen for outdoor sports.
Purpose of Clothing:
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Create insulation
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Ensure comfort and safety
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Maintain stable body temperature
Three-Layer Clothing System:
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Base Layer (Thermal Lining) - Wicks moisture away from the body.
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Middle Layer - Provides thermal insulation.
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Outer Layer - Protects against rain and wind.
Hiking boots:
A good hiking boot should provide adequate support for the foot and ankle, ensuring stability on slippery or uneven terrain. It should protect the foot from rocks while being flexible enough for comfortable walking. Waterproofing is essential. It is recommended to wear and test the boots in urban conditions before going on a hike. Regular sports shoes may not be sufficient.
Socks:
We recommend using hiking socks instead of regular socks when going on a hike. Socks should have reinforced toes and heels, be longer than the top of the boots, not bunch up inside the shoes, dry quickly, wick moisture, keep feet warm, and be durable.
Gaiters:
Gaiters prevent snow from getting into boots and keep pant legs dry during snowy hikes. They are also useful in dense bushes and dusty areas. Gaiters protect the ankle area between boots and pants, preventing debris and dust from entering. Additionally, they help keep water out when crossing shallow streams quickly.
Thermal innerwear:
Does not retain excessive sweat. The best fabric choice for base layers. Does not cause itching or unpleasant odors. High-quality thermal underwear efficiently wicks sweat away.
Hiking pants:
Choosing pants specifically designed for hiking will make movement more comfortable. Hiking pants should be made of breathable and quick-drying materials.
Fleece:
A middle-layer garment that helps protect against the cold. Lightweight, warm, and quick-drying even when wet.
Windbreaker or Raincoat:
You may be exposed to the wind while sweating, making a windbreaker essential. The weather can change suddenly, so carrying a raincoat is recommended. A poncho is the best option as it can also be used as a shelter. There are no guarantees in nature—be prepared.
Outher jacket:
The final layer should be water and wind-resistant. Additionally, choosing a bright-colored jacket is recommended to enhance visibility when needed.
Hat and Bandana:
Required in both summer and winter. In extremely cold conditions, a hat minimizes heat loss. Wide-brimmed hats are ideal for all seasons.
Cap:
Essential for both summer and winter. A cap allows you to stay under the sun for at least two more hours and minimizes heat loss in extremely cold environments. Wide-brimmed caps are ideal for all seasons.
Backpack:
A smaller backpack is used in summer, while a larger one is preferable in winter. Since summer requires fewer supplies, a 35-liter backpack is sufficient. In winter, a backpack of at least 40 liters is more suitable. Your backpack should have side pockets to hold a water bottle or thermos.
Headlamp:
Always carry a flashlight. If camping, it is essential. Don’t forget extra batteries. A headlamp is preferable as it keeps your hands free, ensuring safety and ease of use. If you need to hike at night, holding a flashlight in one hand and a trekking pole in the other can be challenging. Free hands are crucial to prevent falls.
Poles:
Essential for hiking. Modern telescopic trekking poles are widely used by hikers and mountaineers. They help reduce fatigue on long hikes and balance body weight, making them indispensable for carrying backpacks over long distances.
Pocket knife:
Necessary for various tasks such as cutting food or ropes.
Matches or lighter:
Even if you don’t plan to start a fire, always carry matches or a lighter as a precaution.
Whistle:
A whistle’s sound carries farther than your voice. In emergencies, using a whistle conserves vocal energy. Attach it to your backpack with a cord for easy access.
Lipbalm – Sucscreen:
Exposure to sunlight not only causes burns but also exposes the skin to harmful UV rays. To minimize the drying effects of heat and UV damage, protect your lips and skin with high-SPF sunscreens. Sweat can create a lens effect, leading to dark spots on the skin. High UV protection lip balms and sunscreens help prevent this.
Sunglasses:
Hiking under the sun or in snow strains the eyes. Both sun and snow reflect harmful UV rays, causing eye fatigue. Always carry sunglasses with the highest protection rating. Eye fatigue can lead to headaches and overall exhaustion.
Water Bottle (Preferably Aluminum):
Your carried water supply may run out. When you find a clean water source, having a bottle is essential. Carrying an aluminum bottle is better than using disposable plastic bottles, which contribute to pollution.
Nutrition and Hydration:
Nutrition:
Consume energy-rich foods such as dried fruits, nuts, chocolate, and sandwiches.
Energy balance:
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60-65% carbohydrates
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25-30% fat
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10-15% protein
Water:
A minimum one-day water supply should be ensured in advance.
Safety and Preparation:
First Aid Kit:
A small first aid kit should always be available at home, in the car, or at the workplace.
These tips will help make your hikes safer and more comfortable! There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. Be prepared for all weather conditions in nature. Waterproof, insulating, and lightweight clothing will allow you to feel secure and comfortable outdoors.
