5 Tips to Hiking in the Rain
Hiking in the Rain
Despite some hot weather recently, the 2011 summer, has been a mixture of rain, showers, drizzle and fog. Here are 5 tips to help you hike in the rain :
1) Equipment – a) daypack with a rain cover. If your daypack doesn’t
have one, invest in one, b) rain gear – pants & jacket, c) gaiters – great for
keeping grass and branches from scratching or irritating your legs plus
water from entering your boots after the rain stops, d) goretex or
waterproof hiking boots to keep your feet dry, e) Poles – trekking or hiking poles will help you with your balance in wet conditions and cross in
streams or wet areas. They will also be great in ascending and descenting
hills or mountains.
2) To be on the safe side put all your items in your daypack in clear ziplock bags or different colored small drybags.
3) Clothes – a) wear a base layer – merino wool or polyster – it wicks the
moisture away from your skin. Do not wear cotton, b) Have a mid- layer with you – polyster or fleece jacket. Put on for any long stops or breaks especially on high elevation. ie. lunch or snacks. c) wear smart wool socks or liners with other socks on top. They will wick the moisture away from your skin …helps avoid any blisters or hotspots. Always carry an extra pair of socks in your daypack and blister kit, d) wear waterproof or water resistant gloves to keep your hands warm.
4) Ventilation – Rain gear is not always breathable even though it says so
on the label. . Often you get wet from condensation inside the jacket. Important to open zippers under armpits for ventilation as well open the
zipper on the front. b) Important to open t and zippers on your base-
layer and mid-layer to allow you to cool-down.
5) Drink water and eat food ….you will need your energy while hiking in
the rain.,. Body & outside temperatures changes require more energy
while hiking and staying warm.