Equipment

The recommendations we provide here are merely indicative. Each person will be able to choose what suits them best.

However, bear in mind that ensuring you have the right equipment is fundamental to the comfort and safety of your walk. It is also essential to ensure that you can fully enjoy the experience of walking. Remember that the main items of your equipment include: footwear, clothing and a backpack.

Never go into the mountains with shoes that you are wearing for the first time. Whether it’s a good pair of sneakers or new hiking boots, they should be tried on and worn for a while, whether at home or on a short hike, to adapt the shape of the shoes to your feet and anticipate any problems. If you feel any pressure on your feet, consider changing your footwear and you can always protect yourself with appropriate bandages, available in pharmacies, which are designed to protect the skin in more sensitive areas or even to apply to blisters that may appear.

On most hikes, in dry weather and on relatively flat terrain, comfortable sneakers are all you need. However, you should wear hiking boots that keep your ankle firm and have rubber soles with good traction and grip, like VIBRAM. For those who are used to it, military boots or high-top boots can be worn. Shoes with leather soles, high heels and gym shoes with thin soles are strongly discouraged.

Clothing should be comfortable and appropriate for the season. The first layer, next to the body, should be breathable clothing made of chlorofiber, such as a Lifa thermal T-shirt (cotton clothing can be inconvenient as it takes a long time to dry when sweaty). The second layer should be a sweatshirt or fleece-lined jacket. For cold weather, you can also use a wool sweater (never use synthetic fibers like viscose). The outer layer should be a waterproof jacket, with or without a lining, but with a zipper.

Waterproof jackets with “Gore-Tex” fiber are the most suitable, as they allow the steam from perspiration to escape. It is advisable to take a poncho (lined because of perspiration). There are very light ponchos that take up almost no space in your backpack. Pants should allow freedom of movement and be light, durable and flexible. Jeans are not recommended as they are very uncomfortable due to their lack of flexibility.

The best way to carry your equipment is in a backpack. There are various models and sizes available. A backpack is a bag with two straps, the weight of which is borne by the shoulders. For greater comfort, the straps should be padded and there should be a belt to fasten the front. The main compartment should be organized with extra clothing (if any) at the bottom and food at the top. Water should be placed in this compartment (if it’s a bottle) or on the sides if you opt for small canteens. Other external pockets should be reserved for additional small equipment. Valuable or fragile items (wallet, keys, glasses case, binoculars) should be stored in the main compartment, between clothing and food. Water can also be carried in a canteen outside the backpack.

Don’t forget to take water with you. The amount depends on the route and the temperature. Sunglasses protect you from direct sunlight and wind. Sunscreen and lipstick are essential. For those who suffer from migraines or severe pain, appropriate analgesic medication is recommended. Don’t forget your camera/mobile phone and binoculars. A small flashlight, toilet paper, a penknife, a whistle and a small first aid kit can also be useful options.