Clothing

What Walking Gear Do You Need?

Planning for a walk requires organisation and method – and that also goes for the clothes and gear that you intend taking with you. One of the attractions of a walking is that it requires such a low financial investment to get kitted out: little more than a pair of comfortable supportive shoes and clothing suitable for the weather and time of the year.

Hot weather.

During hot weather, wear light-coloured clothes to reflect the heat and light. Go for synthetic fibres, such as polypropylene, that wick moisture away from the skin and dry quickly. Moisture-wicking fabrics help prevent chafing and keep you comfortable during long walks. CBMW sells T & Polo shirts from time to time, that are light and comfortable. These are sold to members at cost price.

Cold weather.

On cold days the trick is to make sure your extremities are kept warm. Cover your head and neck, and wear gloves. And wear several light layers of clothing that you can add or remove while you walk.

Base layer. Start with an inner layer of synthetic wicking materials (such as the ones used in hot weather).
Insulating layer. Follow the base layer with a lightweight fleece material, with a zipper to warm up or cool down during your walk.
Outer layer. Should be water and wind resistant . Water-resistant fabrics such as Gore-Tex or Sympatex are light, they breathe, and they work.

Headwear.

Hot weather. If you’re walking in the sun it’s an idea to wear a wide brimmed hat. Tilley are a good brand with a built in SPF.
Cold weather. It’s also recommended to wear a hat in cold weather. The mountains can be quite cool in the winter.

Footwear.

Probably the most important bit of kit that you will buy. CBMW do not insist on you wearing boots but they do give you better ankle support. Walking shoes tend to be more comfortable in the warm weather, but ensure that they have a good non-slip sole such as ‘vibran’ as even in dry conditions the going underfoot can be very treacherous.

The following tips will help you buy the right shoes:

Try them on late in the day – your feet tend to swell as the day wears on
Wear socks similar to those you will be walking in – perhaps you like wearing thicker socks
Do they feel flexible – do they support your weight?
Is there enough space in the toe-box for you to wiggle your toes? When you push off, your toes will want to expand and spread. Consider a half size up from your regular fit.
Is the heel firm enough? It should be firm but not rigid
Walk around the shop. If they are not comfortable, don’t buy them.

Socks

Socks are essential to protect your feet from injury,

Look for socks that:-

Disperse or ‘wick away’ perspiration
Provide cushioning and which draw perspiration away from your feet l
Blends of synthetics with cotton or all-synthetic socks such as orlon, polypropylene and stretch nylon, or a mixture of these.
Socks that are padded in high-impact areas like the heel and toe and others with additional cushioning on the sole and top of the sock.