Whether you're a Sunday hiker or a true Indiana Jones of the trails, the right equipment can make all the difference between a memorable adventure and an unmitigated misery. Nobody wants to end up soaking wet in the rain or with blisters after 5 km! To avoid unpleasant surprises and make the most of your outing in the great outdoors, here's everything you need to know about getting the right equipment before setting off on your trail adventure. Here's everything you need to know about choosing the right clothing, rucksack and essential accessories, so you're well prepared.


randonnée


Hiking clothing: comfort and protection above all else

The choice of hiking clothing is crucial to your comfort and safety. The three-layer rule is a good one to follow, especially in autumn or winter:
  1. A breathable layer (synthetic or merino wool t-shirt) to wick away perspiration.
  2. An insulating layer (fleece or light down jacket) to retain heat.
  3. A waterproof, windproof jacket to protect you from the elements.
Bottoms should not be neglected: soft, water-repellent hiking pants are preferable to jeans, which are heavy and uncomfortable when wet. In summer, hiking shorts may be a good option. Don't forget a hat or cap, and gloves if you're going to be hiking at altitude or in winter.


Shoes: the key to a good hike

A good pair of hiking boots is essential to avoid blisters and ensure good grip on the trails. For easy strolls, low boots may suffice, but for rugged terrain or in the mountains, high-top shoes with good ankle support are recommended. And don't forget to wear technical socks made from merino wool, which reduce chafing and wick away moisture.

To find out more, read the blog article on : How to choose the right pair of hiking boots?


The backpack: choosing the right capacity

A good backpack is the foundation of any hike. Its capacity must be adapted to the duration of your outing. Discover all our hiking backpacks available on AlpinStore.

The backpack must be adapted to the duration of your hike:

  • 10 to 30L for a day hike.
  • 30 to 50L for an overnight hike in a refuge.
  • 50L or more for an autonomous trek.

Make sure it has comfortable shoulder straps, a waist belt to distribute weight more evenly, and practical pockets for storing small accessories. To find out more, read : how to choose the right hiking backpack?

randonnée


Essential hiking accessories

For a safe and comfortable trip, here are a few essential accessories:

- Hiking poles: useful for relieving pressure on joints and improving balance.

- Water bottle or water bag: Hydration is essential when hiking. We recommend that you carry at least 1.5L of water per person, or even more in hot weather. A filtering water bottle (such as LifeStraw or Katadyn) can be useful if you need to draw water along the way.

- As for food, energy snacks such as cereal bars, dried fruit or chocolate will keep you energized throughout the trip. For longer hikes, pack a light but nourishing meal, such as a sandwich or a freeze-dried dish.

- Headlamp: essential if you leave early in the morning or are likely to return late.

- IGN map and compass or GPS: even on marked trails, it's important to have something to guide you. An IGN map and a compass are classics, but a smartphone with a hiking app (Visorando, Komoot) can also be useful, provided you have an external battery to avoid running out of power.

- Multifunction knife: handy for all situations.

- First-aid kit: bandages, disinfectant, tick tweezers, etc. to deal with minor injuries.

- Sunscreen and sunglasses: especially in the mountains, where UV rays are more intense.

- Survival blanket: a lightweight item that can be vital in the event of the unexpected.

- Emergency whistle

in case of emergency, many hiking backpacks have a built-in whistle.

BONUS: for added comfort

For those who like to combine hiking with comfort, an ultra-lightweight ultra-light folding seat Helinoxfolding seat, an inflatable pillow or a Jetboil compact stove for a hot meal in the great outdoors.

randonnée


When it comes to hiking equipment, the most important thing is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Adapt your equipment to the terrain and weather conditions, and set off with peace of mind to discover the most beautiful trails!


hiking