Tips For Using Hiking Equipment

The very human trait of wanting to go up and explore, to push the human limits of endurance has led to some fantastic discoveries in the past.

However hiking can be a dangerous sport, and whether one is a professional mountaineer or just a backpacker, one needs special hiking equipment and gear to be able to indulge in this activity. Hiking Equipment and gear consist of special clothing and boots, accessories including walking sticks or hiking poles, several types of packs, and water bottle, first aid kit, and emergency rations. That apart, one could carry whatever one deems necessary- items like hammocks, note-pads, and perhaps a mobile phone.

Getting into specifics of EQUIPMENT, hiking boots are the number one piece of hiking equipment, as it protects your feet from damage. There are all types of hiking boots available. From water proof ones to plain hiking sandals. Choose one in accordance with the degree of difficulty of your climb. A pair of well chosen hiking boots will give you immense joy. Wrongly chosen ones on the other hand can cause immense grief.

A walking stick or the more evolved hiking poles are an immense asset in hiking as they practically function as extra limbs by taking the load off your tired legs, though they require some getting used to. The clothing you will wear while hiking is of critical importance too and can sometimes, save you from dangerous situations. Hiking clothes should be able to keep you warm, dry and comfortable. It is important that your clothing is commensurate with the weather conditions expected to prevail on the hike. You should opt for the three layer system of clothing that consists of a base layer, a layer comprising of insulation and the outer shell. Apart from this there are hiking socks, hiking pants, hiking vests, shirts and jackets as well as hiking rain gear that you can choose from.

A good backpack in which you can carry the necessary items of food, drink and accommodation is an absolute must. Or the hike will be grounded even before it ever began. Backpacks come in different sizes and shapes. While buying or hiring one the ground rule to observe is - maximum capacity, minimum weight.

After a hard and exhilarating day of hiking there is nothing you desire more than to get some really restful sleep. That is only possible if you are carrying outdoor sleeping gear comprising of a hiking tent, and a comfortable sleeping pad as well as sleeping bag.

Once you have all these issues resolved, there is a beautiful world out there waiting to welcome you with open arms.