Stirling Hillwalking Club
Guide to Equipment
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BootsThree main types according to their flexibility
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Comfy Togs
The ideal way to keep comfortable is to use a flexible system of layered clothing.
Base Layer: The best material to wear next to the skin is one that will "wick" sweat away from the body, keeping you warm and dry. Avoid pure cotton. It soaks up sweat, but won't let it go. For trousers: polycotton, fleece, cord, tracksuit materials are suitable but not denim. Never. When wet denim becomes heavy and very, very cold. Mid Layer: Worn on top of the base layer to provide insulation and should also "wick" or it will become damp from sweat, and its insulating properties will be reduced. These are usually fleeces, thick, thin or a combination of both. Outer Layer: The Scottish weather is predictably unpredictable. Your waterproof jacket and over trousers are your very best friends. Never leave home without them, even in summer. Most effective if made from breathable materials. There is a bewildering array of these on the market, but they all work in the same way – they let water vapour escape, but don't let raindrops in. Non-breathable materials like nylon allow condensation to build up inside, creating your own private pool. This can result in you becoming very cold, not to mention miserable. If you intend to be out in all weathers your jacket should have a stiffened hood visor to protect your face. |
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Small TogsHats: A massive 30% of your body heat can be lost through your head so a hat is a must.Waterproof/windproof versions are available, and also balaclavas. Fleece headbands are useful if you just need to keep your ears warm.
Gloves: Some people like to wear thin glove liners with a thick/waterproof glove on top. Socks: Thick/thin, short/long, wool/synthetic and yes, wicking. You may have to experiment to find out what suits your feet best. Small items have a habit of being whipped out of your hand in high winds and disappearing over the horizon, so it's a good idea to carry spares. This may seem like a lot of fuss, but the appropriate clothing can mean the difference between an enjoyable day out or a battle with hypothermia. |
Rucksacks
You should be able to meet your needs in the 25 to 35 litre range. As different makes vary in style try a few on. A rucksack that's too small will be an endless source of frustration. There are adjustable versions as well as those designed for women. A waterproof liner is useful. Similarly, a brightly coloured waterproof cover also helps – and can be a useful safety aid in terms of 'on hill' visibility.
You should be able to meet your needs in the 25 to 35 litre range. As different makes vary in style try a few on. A rucksack that's too small will be an endless source of frustration. There are adjustable versions as well as those designed for women. A waterproof liner is useful. Similarly, a brightly coloured waterproof cover also helps – and can be a useful safety aid in terms of 'on hill' visibility.
Food and drink
How much to take is a matter of trial and error as everyone's energy needs are different. Take more than you think you will need . You will obviously require more calories for a seven-hour walk than a four-hour walk.
A hot drink: A glass flask is inexpensive but if it gets broken that's your hot drink gone for the day. Stainless steel flasks are more expensive but they will last forever. Well, a long time anyway.
A cold drink: it is vital to carry plenty of liquid, especially in summer, to replace fluid lost through exertion. Though perhaps during winter walks 760ml may be sufficient, two litres minimum would be recommended in hot weather. Again, too much is better than running short. Dehydration is not pleasant.
How much to take is a matter of trial and error as everyone's energy needs are different. Take more than you think you will need . You will obviously require more calories for a seven-hour walk than a four-hour walk.
A hot drink: A glass flask is inexpensive but if it gets broken that's your hot drink gone for the day. Stainless steel flasks are more expensive but they will last forever. Well, a long time anyway.
A cold drink: it is vital to carry plenty of liquid, especially in summer, to replace fluid lost through exertion. Though perhaps during winter walks 760ml may be sufficient, two litres minimum would be recommended in hot weather. Again, too much is better than running short. Dehydration is not pleasant.