Hiking is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and nature of the Yorkshire Dales. But before you head out on your next hike, it’s important to make sure you have the proper equipment. Here are a few things to consider before setting out hiking, it’s important to be prepared for the hike.

Best Clothing for Hiking

Wearing the right hiking clothes is important when hiking. Make sure to wear comfortable, breathable clothing that will protect you from the elements. Wear clothing made of synthetic materials that can wick away moisture, like polyester or nylon. Make sure to dress in layers so you can easily adjust to changes in temperature.

Hiking Boots

Good hiking boots are another important piece of gear. – They should be comfortable, able to grip the terrain and provide good support for your feet and ankles.

When choosing hiking footwear, it’s important to consider the type of hike you will be doing. If you will be hiking on rough terrain, you will need boots with good traction. If you will be doing a lot of climbing, you might want to invest in a pair of hiking shoes, which have thinner soles and provide more traction than regular trainers.

Make sure to break in your boots before going on a long hike. Otherwise, you might end up with blisters.

What to Pack

Your backpack is another important piece of equipment. It should be big enough to carry all your gear, but not too big or bulky that it’s difficult to carry. 10 litres for under a day and 70 litres for multi-day hikes with no accommodation. A good rule of thumb is to pack light, especially if you’re hiking in a warmer climate. You may also want to invest in a hiking backpack with a built-in rain cover.

In terms of what to pack, water and snacks are essential, as well as a first-aid kit. A map and compass are also a good idea, even if you have the latest GPS, just in case you have technical difficulties you can still navigate.

It’s important to think about the type of hike you’re going on and the climate you’ll be hiking in. If you’re hiking in a wet or colder climate, you’ll need to pack a warm, breathable, waterproof jacket, hat and gloves. If you’re hiking in a hot climate, you’ll need to pack factor 50 sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

More equipment to consider:

• Hiking poles
  • Aid balance and gives walkers more stability on rocky or uneven trails, but also helps build up your neck, shoulders, and arm muscles. Increase endurance and reduce fatigue when climbing hills.
• Gaiters
  • Shield the entire lower leg from water, dirt, scratches and stings.

• A navigation tool
  • Smartphone with maps
  • Local map
  • Compass
  • Altimeter
  • Hiking GPS
  • GPS watch
• First aid supplies
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency blanket
  • Multi-tool with a knife
  • Headlamp
  • Torch

Stay Safe

When planning a hike, it’s important to map out your route and know the terrain. Make sure you have a good idea of how long the hike will take and plan accordingly. It’s always better to overestimate the amount of time it will take to complete the hike. That way, you can enjoy the scenery and take your time, rather than feeling rushed.

No matter what type of hike you’re planning, it’s always a good idea to make sure to tell someone where you’re going before you set out – that way, if something happens, they’ll know where to look for you. In case of emergencies, using What3words app could save your life, allowing you to communicate your location within three meters, however remote, to the emergency services.