Kit Advice
KIT ADVICE
Choosing the right kit will not only ensure that you are happy and comfortable during your charity challenge, but can also help you to avoid getting injuries or soreness. We have a teamed up with one of the best outdoor clothing manufacturers in the country, Montane, to recommend items of clothing best recommended to your challenge - see our online shop for more details and some great prices.
In this section
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 when 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.
Rain gear should be breathable, waterproof and lightweight. There are a number of manufacturers that produce garments that meet all of these criteria, some of which are available in our shop. 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.
- Suncreen
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.
- Bags
Main rucksack or holdall bag – it’s good to go for one with also a holdall strap so you can grab it easily. Choose one that opens up to access the whole bag, rather than trying to find something at the bottom with a top loader bag. Hip belt is useful so evens out the weight. The bag needs to weigh, when full, no more than 15 kg.
Day pack recommended 25 litre capacity. You may well be using your day pack for a number of hours per day so try and get one with a back system, with reduced mesh panel - it provides greater comfort, air circulation and heat dispersion. Also available are day packs with breathable shoulder straps. Best thing to do with day pack is go to an expert and try on a selection.
- Tips
Get advice before you buy – talk to Across the Divide, or go to specialist shops for their guidance. Keep your kit light – don’t forget you’ll have to carry it! If you are buying on a budget, don’t try to save money on essential items – it could lead to discomfort and even injuries. Bring lots of layers – you can peel things off (or add them on) as the temperature changes.
In every sport, having and using the right equipment adds to the enjoyment of the activity. 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 the freedom to do what feet 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 an Everest Climb 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
It is important that trekking shoes are comfortable and well-worn before commencing the trek.
Choose the shoe that is best for your foot – different styles suit different people.
Socks are an often neglected but nonetheless essential piece of kit. Ill-fitting socks can cause serious blisters.
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 you’ve had no problems, then stick with what you know. 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 on 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.