Kit Advice

Choosing the right kit can not only ensure you are happy and comfortable during the trek, but can also help you to avoid getting injuries or soreness.

In this section

• Clothing and accessories
• Shopping for shoes
• Socks
• Visit the Equipment Store
• Can I hire equipment?

When training or packing for the trek consider the loose-layered look. Clothing can be removed as needed, and put back on as you rest, or as the temperature drops. Loose clothing that permits free airflow is good. Consider synthetic-blend materials that wick away moisture and dry quickly when the weather is hot. During winter training make certain that your walking attire keeps you both warm and dry on the inside.

Rain gear should be breathable, waterproof and lightweight. There are a number of manufacturers that produce garments that meet all of these criteria. For wet weather protection look for articles that have sealed seams to prevent leakage. Examine wrist and ankle closures to make sure they are durable.

For less than High Street prices why not visit our equipment store for specially selected items.

Sunscreen
You must protect your skin. Sun damage can be painful and long-lasting, so purchase a waterproof, sweat-proof sunscreen with a high SPF number. Always wear a sun hat.

For more information on sunscreen visit Cancer Research UK's SunSmart page here.

In every sport, having and using the right equipment adds to the enjoyment of the activity - long-distance walking is no exception.

Your feet consist of 26 bones, 56 ligaments and 38 muscles - an engineering wonder that will operate best when encased in a shoe that allows them the freedom to do what they do best, i.e. support, balance and carry your entire body.

Go to an outdoor equipment store and ask them to suggest options that match your particular needs. There is no need to buy a boot suitable for Everest if a lightweight pair of desert boots is the most suitable and economical. Of course, your choice will depend on your budget, but remember that boots are one of your most crucial pieces of equipment.

There should be at least a thumbnail’s distance between the end of the boot and your toe. Your heel should not slip upwards in and out of the shoe when you lift it up. Avoid shoes that have too many layers, straps, etc., as most of the time they do little else but add weight.

Shoes often come in different widths. Choose the one that is best for your foot. Some shoes contain a built-up arch support, an extra feature that is not needed by everyone.

It is best to shop for shoes in the afternoon. Your feet can swell by up to half a size over the course of the day. Make sure that you try the shoes on with the type of sock that you will be using when you are walking. Lace the shoes evenly and snugly. You should try to get the feel of the shoe under similar conditions to the ones you will be walking in. If possible, road test the shoes on a hard surface, not on the store’s carpet. Take about 15 steps at a good pace, travelling back and forth, twist your ankles left and right to make sure the heel support does not dig into your ankle too much. Notice how your foot feels and try several different models for the sake of comparison.

There are many different types of socks available. We would recommend, however, that you avoid tube or one-size-fits-all socks. Many walkers opt for cotton socks, but cotton easily absorbs moisture and can lose its shape. That said, if you have trained with cotton socks over long distances and had no problems, then stick with what you have. Alternatives to cotton are cotton/synthetic blends, which can help to wick away moisture – the benefit being dry feet and the maintenance of sock shape as you walk.

Feet can sweat up to a cup of water a day. If you can avoid it, never wear socks more than twice without washing them. During your training, and the trek itself, your feet are likely to perspire more than normal. On the trek, we recommend that you bring sufficient socks to be able to wear a clean pair every day. When on the trek itself, make sure that you remove any dirt or sand from your feet during lunch/drink stops. Dry, air and massage your feet to keep them comfortable and, if necessary, put on a new, dry pair of socks for the afternoon.

On long distances, cotton socks can leave your feet feeling sore and sweaty. Ask your local outdoor shop for socks especially designed for trekking, that wick-away moisture helping to keep your feet dry.

We have negotiated a special deal with Trekhire UK - you can see what's on offer here just let them know that you are on a Across the Divide Challenge and they will take care of the rest, what could be better?