Hiking tips | Columbia Sportswear®

Hiking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, get close to nature and spend quality time with friends. And the great thing is with the right comfortable hiking shoes, the world (or trail) is your oyster. At Columbia Sportswear®, we have a great range of men’s or women’s hiking boots designed for every trail and hiking condition. So whether you want to enjoy a casual stroll in the countryside or tackle a challenging, rocky mountain trail, we have just the men’s and women’s hiking shoes you need. But what if the trails are wet and muddy, or there’s the threat of rain? Don’t worry. Our waterproof all-terrain shoes will keep your feet dry and comfortable from start to finish.

But while we may be experts in hiking, we know that it can be a daunting experience for beginners. These top three tips will set you on the right path for your hiking adventures. From how to plan a hike to what hiking shoes you need, Columbia Sportswear® has you covered.

How to plan a hike ?

Start by deciding how long you want to hike and the difficulty level you’re most comfortable with. If you're a new hiker, it’s a good idea to keep your first trip short and gradually increase the distance over subsequent hikes. You can then research trails by asking your local walking groups or looking online for hiking maps near you. Check the weather several times before and on the day of your hike. It will tell you what type of hiking clothes you need and whether the conditions are safe. Be prepared to postpone if the weather isn’t viable. Pack your hiking kit well in advance to ensure you have everything you need. While it’s good to travel light, you will need some essentials for a successful hike, including waterproof hiking shoes, a first aid kit, and a water bottle.

Planning a winter hike or worried about chilly toes spoiling your enjoyment? Our winter shoes and hiking boot feature an Omni-Heat™reflective lining and 200 grams of cosy thermal insulation. So, even on cold winter days, your feet can stay toasty.

What should I wear for hiking?

What you wear on a hike, from mountain shoes to hats, can make all the difference between having a great time and a not-so-great time. Layering is a great way to adapt your clothes to the changing weather and terrain while on the move. Here's our what-to-wear checklist:

Hiking shoes: Wear sturdy hiking footwear, such as leather hiking boots or walking shoes, that provides good protection and support for your feet and ankles. They also need to have good grip and stability across all terrain. Consider a pair of our comfortable men's walking sandals for lighter hikes or when you’ll be in and out of water.
Hiking socks: Good-quality hiking socks provide a valuable extra layer of cushioning on walks and treks. They are the perfect match for a good quality low hiking shoe or boot. We recommend packing a spare pair in your rucksack.
Waterproof jacket: This is essential for those inevitable rainy and windy days. Choose a hiking jacket with a breathable style and hood, especially for those more strenuous hikes.
Warm jacket: A fleece will work great for this job, but a puffer jacket is ideal for colder conditions.
Walking trousers: Look for comfortable and sturdy trousers made from flexible, moisture-wicking material. If there's a chance of a heavy downpour, pack a pair of waterproof trousers to keep everything underneath warm and dry.
Base layers: These help regulate your body temperature while hiking. An ideal base layer is a wicking or quick-drying material. During colder weather, consider leggings underneath your waterproof trousers.
Hat: Important in summer for protecting your head from the sun and keeping you warm in winter.
Gloves: They will keep your hands warm when temperatures drop and protect your hands from blisters and scrapes.

What essentials do I need on a hike ?

Whether you’ll be tackling easy or more challenging terrain, you must ensure you have the essentials to keep you comfortable and safe for a successful hike. Some of these things will depend on the specific conditions, so be ready to don the appropriate gear for different hikes.

Backpack: You’ll need a good sized backpack that’s comfortable to carry.
Portable charger: Helps you stay connected if there’s an emergency.
Sunscreen: Protects against sunburn even when it’s cloudy.
First aid kit: Essential if you sustain a minor injury or an accident along the trail.
Insect repellent: Helps you avoid painful bug bites.
Torch: Crucial if the light conditions change.
Water bottle: Essential for keeping you hydrated.
Healthy snacks: To keep you fuelled for the trail.
Trekking poles: Can help with balance and stability, especially on trails with significant elevation gain.
Rubbish bag: Always take your rubbish home and leave no trace.

What other hiking tips do I need to know ?

Always plan your hikes according to your fitness level and experience, taking into account the people who will be hiking with you. If you’re unfamiliar with the terrain or it’s your first hike, consider opting for guided tours. They will ensure your safety and provide you with interesting information about the area. If you are heading out on a long trek, be sure to bring enough food, especially if you’ll be in more remote parks or mountains.

Columbia Sportswear® has everything you need for a successful hike. Shop our range of mountain hiking shoes and hiking clothes for women and men and start planning your next adventure. The great outdoors is waiting for you.

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