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No uniform or elitist gear is needed if you want to go for a hike. But heading out in safe footwear can mean the difference between a glorious commune with nature and suffering damage to life and limb. Flip-flops, running shoes you bought solely for their low, low price or jellies made of plastic will not carry you into a day of magnificent serenity. A comfortable pair of running shoes can be just right for the right kind of hike. Depends on the type of terrain though, and the type of debris you'll be kicking through. For something a little less laid-back, and a little more rugged, hiking shoes or hiking boots will offer better protection and greater stability for your ankles.
Tim Southam, public affairs manager for Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) in Vancouver, said in an article on Canadianliving.com that the gamut runs from trail running shoes which would be at the lightest end of the spectrum, to light trail shoes, on up to day hikers, and then at the far end of the spectrum backpacking boots.
What are these items of footwear? Trail running shoes offer solid traction for uneven terrain. They are light in weight and act as shock absorbers due to their lugged rubber soles. If you want something a bit more substantial, consider light trail shoes. Day hikers will support your ankles when you are walking smoother trails, carrying a backpack containing 15 kg or less. Ankle support and a good non-slipping tread are the most important features you're looking for.
To make your shoes work hardest for you, make sure you get the right socks for this business. You want socks that will wick that moisture away from your feet. You'll be less likely to get blisters if you get socks with blends of polyester and wool. If your road will be a long one, pick your socks accordingly. And think about putting on warm wool socks over a thin synthetic sock. If you want to splurge, look into something a little more expensive but also more protective, like Gore-Tex socks.
As we continue to work our way up from the ground, next let's consider the versatility of layering. Temperatures can change markedly, wind can pick up and drop and all of this is going to make you hotter or colder than you want to be, sooner or later. The more layers you're wearing or have on hand, the better chance you'll have of finding a comfort zone once more.
Synthetics are favored over cotton because they dry so much faster. Cotton was previously the out-of-doors darling because it performed wicking magic, but so do hiking synthetics. Synthetic soft-shell pieces of clothing can also help to keep you dry in that sudden downpour of rain that caught you by surprise -- but obviously, not unprepared.
Top off your synthetic repertoire with what may seem like the height of luxury while you're out there roughing it, by wearing synthetic underwear that feels like silk. Enjoy your hike.
Jody Smith is a freelance writer for EmpowHER.com.
Sources:
How to start hiking
http://www.canadianliving.com/health/fitness/how_to_start_hiking.php
Hiking Your Way to Better Health
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=51002
