With summer in full swing, it’s a great time to get outdoors and enjoy your favorite activities. Even if you’re not the outdoor type per se, hiking is a wonderful chance to enjoy nature while getting some valuable exercise to boot (no pun intended)!
The first place to start, obviously, is with your feet. Low top sneakers or flip flops will NOT cut it for hiking. Take care of your feet with hiking boots that offer foot, ankle and back support when you’re walking the trails. Water-resistant boots are also recommended in case you get caught in the rain or you come across a stream or river. For men, check out the
great selection of boots from popular manufacturers like Columbia and The North Face. There are great selections of women’s hiking boots online as well, offering a bit more style to go along with all that rugged toughness. For the budget-friendly shopper, check out the Hi Tec’s line of boots for men, women and kids.
Socks are just as important as your boots when hiking, because the right pair will cut down on blisters. Nevertheless, keep some band-aids or moleskin padding in your backpacks to cover blisters that flare up while you’re still out hiking.
Now what? Well before there were GPS systems, there was the compass. And you should have one with you on every hike to keep your bearings.
Finally, you need your energy when out hiking. Forgo the sugary energy drinks and sodas for your hike and stick with water. Nothing hydrates you better and you don’t have to worry about a crash! If you don’t have a water bottle already, go “old school” and pick up a canteen. They hold plenty of fluids and most fit nicely over your shoulder or attached to your backpack. And for a little extra boost, throw in some energy bars or trail mix before you leave.
Happy hiking!
Very informative article. It is nice to experience a blog utilizing the written word, rather than letting a camera do all the work. I thought this was “wordpress”, not a freaking camera club, although I definitely take copious photos while afield when I get the chance. You are correct in your choice of equipment. Nothing fancy is needed. I have been hiking for three decades and never used trekking poles or a GPS system. Have fun in the woods.