Hiking Guide Part 5 Backpacks

Hiking Backpacks

All about Backpacks

On a hike, everything you need and want, you will have to carry. So if you feel it necessary to bring along that 6 pack of beer, bottle of wine, huge camera, tripod and the kitchen sink, remember you must carry it all the time. It is always good to keep in mind that you want to be as comfortable as possible.

There are so many hiking backpacks on the market today. They come in all sizes and colours, in a range of materials and with enough add-on extras to satisfy the most demanding hiker. I have found three sizes work well for me and this depends on the length of the hike, size of the group, weather and extra stuff (gear) for activities on the hike. After considering all of that, choose the smallest pack required.

·        Moon Bag / Waist Bag / Fanny Pack

These small packs are normally used to carry personal belongings on day hikes. These bags are normally carried in the small of your back, but most of us turn them to the front so that our belongings are easily accessible. Most of these are categorized by size (volume typically), measured in litres. But remember it refers to space, not necessarily the amount of liquid something holds. Be careful not to overload this bag, it could start bouncing around while walking and be very uncomfortable. For short hikes, they can do just fine. Then you should rather move up to the larger day hiking bag.

·        Day Hiking Bag

This bag only has shoulder straps and no waste strap. It carry’s more, so be careful not to overload this bag. It does not have a waste strap and can put strain on your shoulders. They are anywhere from 12 to 36 litres in volume and come in a variety of styles. Some have a chest strap to keep the backpack stable. Daypacks are designed for what the name suggests - to be used for relatively short hikes.

·        Back Pack

For a day hike you should not use a hiking backpack unless you are gearing up for cold weather, going a very long distance or helping others with carrying gear. These backpacks are from 35 to 70 litres in volume. If you use these packs correctly, you can carry quite a lot of gear. If you are training for a long hike it is good to carry this pack, fully loaded. Always remember YOU must carry this bag. You do get expedition type backpacks which hold over 70 litres of gear. These heavy-duty backpacks have all kinds of lumbar support, pads, special materials and well-engineered balance mechanisms. Many have special holders for sleeping bags, or even a small fold-up tent. They come in ultra-sturdy composite materials and are just about indestructible. Take time during your hike to adjust your pack to keep things balanced. An off-centre strap or pack, something hard pushing into your back can turn your hike into a nightmare very quickly.

Whichever pack you decide to use at the time, always make sure you keep the contents safe from the rain. Your Moon bag can fit under your rain coat and you get special plastic rain covers for the day hiking pack and the hiking back pack.

Remember! You are not trying to make a fashion statement, always make sure your packs fit you well and are comfortable.

Hiking Guide Part 4 Socks

Hiking Socks 

Selecting Hiking Socks

Hiking socks aren’t just another gimmick to get your money. You wouldn't think so, but selecting socks is even harder than buying boots. There are so many good models and manufacturers of good boots. If you find ones that are sturdy and fit well, you'll probably be pleased. But, socks? That's tough.

Wearing good quality socks while hiking will make your hike a much better experience and are an important part of your gear.

Sports socks are not hiking socks. You don't want to wear the same socks you use to play tennis or soccer when you set out on a long hike.

The goal of hiking socks:

• Cushioning your feet to make your hike more enjoyable.
• Wicking (absorbing) moisture from your feet to help prevent blisters.
• Keeping your feet warm while hiking in winter and the opposite.
• Reduce blister causing friction
• To a small degree, improving boot fit.

You need good socks.

You'll put about 1600km on a pair of hiking socks before they're ready for the garbage can. That sounds like a very long distance. But consider that it is really only about a year if you take modest hikes every weekend.

For those 1600km you want comfort. The word has the ring of luxury about it, but in hiking comfort is essential. Blisters, chafing and other foot damage can turn a 6km hike back to the trail head into torture if your socks fail you.

Good moisture-wicking is mandatory. 'Wicking' means taking the sweat produced by your sweat glands off the surface and transporting it away from the foot. If the sock fails to do that, you'll develop fungi, blisters, chafing, and other ugly results.

Choosing good socks:

• Never use cotton socks for hiking. Cotton absorbs moisture and take forever to dry.
• Use wool to stay warm and still wick away moisture. They tend to be the most expensive. Look for Merino Wool, softer and finer fibres.
• Use synthetics if your feet sweet a lot because they wick away moisture better than natural fibres.
• Turn the sock inside out and check the denseness of the fabric loops. Smaller, denser loops will work better for cushioning and absorption.
• Thicker socks tend to wear longer. Thicker socks in the morning and thinner socks after lunch when your feet have swelled a little would be something to consider.
• Seams on the socks should be flat so as not create more pressure points on the feet. Make sure they don't have any ridges, especially near the toes or at the anklebone. Those can irritate as quick as a pebble in your boot.
• Socks should have elastic stretch to stop them from sinking down into a bundle inside your boot. Even the best hiking socks will lose elasticity at the top and sometimes folding them down over the top of the boot is the only way to get them to not slide inside when you're on the trail.
• The fit must be snug but not tight. Any bagginess between the heel and toe means its to big.

If you spend even a moderate amount of time hiking you'll need good thermal properties from your socks. In hot summer heat the sock has to allow good conduction of that heat away from the foot where it can migrate out of the boot. In cold temperatures, feet need be kept within a comfortable range.

That socks can actually perform these two contrary goals is something of a technological wonder. Yet they do. That they do that while providing support, comfort and moisture-wicking is little short of astonishing. I’m sure most of you never thought socks were so amazing.

They should have thick areas on the toe, ankle bone and heel because these are the parts that get the most wear. They should be long enough to come well above the top of the boot and fold down.

Hiking socks are more expensive than other types ($10 per pair or more),

You should have several pairs to choose from, feet change size at various times of the day or year. You'll also want a variety for different climates and for style. And, of course, your favorites will always be in the laundry. Buy three of those!

Caring for your socks:

Hiking socks aren’t cheap, and you don't want to have to replace them every month or two.

·        Wash your socks inside out, so that skin particles, salt and sweat are washed out.

·        Use a small amount of fabric softner in the wash cycle to keep your socks soft.

·        Air-dry your socks for a fresher feel and a safer dry.

·        Commercial dryers are too hot and can shrink or ruin your socks. Safer to air-dry.

·        Only use them for hiking, not everyday use.

Hiking Guide Part 3 Boots

The Importance of Hiking Boots

Buying Hiking Boots

One of the most important investments a hiker will ever make is in the selection of hiking boots, especially good hiking boots. When going on a hike, one of the worst problems to have (except an accident of course) can be the wrong hiking boots.

Good hiking boots give you the support, comfort and traction you need to take part in any hike. A long hike puts enormous stress on your feet and ankles. That stress is pushed upward to the legs and has an effect on your back and entire body.

It’s not just a matter of whether you get a blister. You need a solid base. Therefore, foot support is paramount. A good boot provides the added stiffness and 'springiness', which your feet and ankles require. You want to be able to push off the ground, rocks and other surfaces in a steadfast way. You need to have confidence that your boots will support you. Without it, sore feet or even twisted ankles are almost guaranteed.

Many specialized materials are used in all modern boots, but leather is still a big component of good hiking boots. It's tough, water-resistant (when treated) and has good stiffness, moisture and thermal properties.

The word 'comfort' has the ring of luxury about it. But, in hiking, comfort isn't a luxury, it's essential. You need to continue walking without producing blisters or chafing. You need to be able to spend long hours in your boots without moisture build-up or excessive heat or cold.

Get hiking boots that feel right for your foot. Size is only the starting point. You need to spend the time and money to get something that feels good the minute you put them on. Though boots, like shoes, will wear in, if they don't feel right immediately they rarely will later.

Keep in mind that good hiking boots are not shoes. You should expect them to feel stiff and give little on the outer sole and around the ankle. That's part of how they do what they are designed to do.

You'll be climbing over wet rocks, slippery gravel, loose hills and muddy trails. While no boot can eliminate all problems, boots do differ in their ability to help. Well-designed hiking boots will have a variety of materials and geometries that minimize slipping on wet rocks and maximize sticking power on loose hill grades.

Hiking Boot Weight
The lighter your boots, the easier your walking will be. It is generally agreed that 500g extra footwear weight can be compared to 2.2kg of added backpack weight. Hiking Boot manufacturers are constantly working on creating lighter Hiking Boots while maintaining the support and other features needed.

Water Resistance
Moisture is one of your biggest enemies when it comes to Hiking. Moisture causes blisters. There are a couple of things that can improve the chances of keeping your feet dry. Look for breathable and watertight materials that will allow moisture to leave the inner parts of your boots but will not let water enter. Look for fully gusseted tongues that cover the openings of your uppers. Wet boots lead to foot problems.

Other factors depend on what kind of hiking you plan to do. If you get serious, you'll almost certainly have more than one pair. That's ok, good hiking boots will last for years. Even at R1000 – R2000 or more per pair, you're getting a good deal. Think of how much you spend on shoes in two to five years. If you hike over rough terrain you'll probably want something relatively high laced. You want to get support above your ankle. How much higher depends on your style, but make sure you get plenty of support. Always test your boots using socks that closely match what you will use. Thick, moisture absorbing, cotton or blend are perfect. You can't tell what the results will be if you try them on with casual or even sports socks. There are dozens of manufacturers and they all have good and less good products. Shop around and read online reviews. They're often written by people who have tried many over many years. furthermore look out for any good hiking boot sales near you or online.

Below are some links.
Cape Union Mart for men
Cape Union Mart for Women
Sportsmans Warehouse for Men
Sportsmans Warehouse for Women
Gordon Footwear
Outdoor Warehouse for Men
Outdoor Warehouse for Women

Hiking Guide Part 2

Getting Started in Hiking

I will assist you with all the information that you need in order to start hiking. Although some hikes are easy, not every one has to be a five-day outing into the Amatola Trail.

Not every journey will involve navigating through dense forests, across rivers and over mountain passes. Sometimes you just want to breakaway on a weekend and enjoy some fresh air and a little exercise with your partner. But once you expand your horizons, what do you do?

First, get into shape.

Take those shorter, more level hikes near your home or someplace a short drive away. Especially if you have not had much physical exercise lately, work up to more rigorous hikes slowly. The single major reason for anyone to not stick with any kind of exercise plan is pain. They try too hard too soon and overdo it. That leads to injury and pain, and then they give up.

Your legs, obviously, will get most of the initial burden of a hike. Though you'd be surprised at how many muscle groups are involved. Start with a short, daily routine of some squats and thrusts.

I’m not going to tell you how to that, I’m sure most of you know. If you don’t message me and I will tell you how.

Take a few short jogs to build up your heart and lung systems. You'll need plenty of lung capacity and a good, strong heart to complement muscular stamina.

Get some basic hiking gear. Get the right hiking boots by doing your research online. Make sure they fit with some thick, sturdy hiking socks that wick (absorb) away moisture. If you'll be hiking near brush or trees, seriously consider long pants rather than shorts. Infections from scrapes are common. Wear a strong long sleeve shirt to cover your arms for the same reason. Try to hike with at least one other person unless you are familiar with the area and the terrain isn't very challenging. In South Africa its better to try and go with more people, safety in numbers. GPS and other navigational tools can help, but if you injure yourself or become very ill that may not do you much good.

Until you have an intimate knowledge of plant life, don't eat anything along the way. Mushrooms are a common concern, but many berry-looking plants can be very unsettling at certain times of the year, too.

Similarly, avoid drinking water from natural sources. TV commercials may make creeks look 'natural and refreshing', but just as often 'natural' means 'unhealthy'. Nature in the wild can be harmful. Even in the absence of man-made chemical pollutants, bacteria and other organisms can turn water toxic.

Stay on clearly marked or visible trails until you know the area or have more experience. Getting lost is one of the most common ways that amateur hikers turn a pleasant two-hour hike into a two-day search-and-rescue effort.

Maps can be helpful if you know how to read them, but these days a GPS is probably more useful for most people. But you need to spend a little time learning how to use it. Some numbers or a digital arrow pointing in some direction isn't helpful unless you know how to interpret what they mean.

Start slowly, get familiar with some well known hiking trails and pretty soon you'll be ready for those all-day or overnight trips. Then you really begin to see the great adventure in hiking. There's nothing like sitting under a bright blue sky and looking out over the heavily forested Amatola trail.

Hiking Guide Part 1

Hiking

South Africa is such a beautiful country, more and more people are starting to return to nature so to speak, looking for somewhere to relax and recharge their souls. So I thought it a good thing start this blog to help others make it as safe and enjoyable as possible…

I would like to welcome you to my Hiking Guide. This Hiking Guide will teach you how to get started in hiking, what gear hikers should look at, especially hiking boots, socks and backpacks that is available from outdoor stores today, and how to make the right choice that will fit your personal requirements for the hiking trail you want to hike.

Hiking for those just starting is very exciting but can involve many facets. The fresh air, beautiful scenery, healthy exercise, soul-refreshing solitude and close companionship. With the proper techniques, equipment and guidance you can enjoy all the many positives that are out there in hiking.

Hiking can be part of kayaking, fishing and other outdoor activities. All you need to get started in hiking is some good comfortable boots, appropriate outdoor clothing and access to an area that allows you to enjoy the experience.

Hiking Stuff (also known as Equipment & Accessories)

You can find good hiking boots at many places online. Later we'll talk about how to select the right pair just for you. Similarly there is hiking clothing in every price range, style and purpose that can be bought from various online stores.

Picking out the right socks, pants, hat, shirt and jacket isn't hard if you keep in mind the area and weather of your intended hiking trial destination.

A few hints in the right direction will go a long way. Lots of other hiking gear can help make your experience so much more enjoyable.

Walking Sticks or Poles, GPS units and/or a compass, hiker backpacks, containers and many other items like insect repellent, cream for burns, bandages can make life on the trail a lot more pleasant whilst on a hiking trail.

Hiking Safety and Preparation (Very Important)

You'll want to consider a few common sense hiking safety guidelines before you go very far beyond your local hiking trail. It's possible to get lost even in very small patches of forest and trails. Also being in South Africa…always take your safety into consideration.

Snakes and other wildlife can turn an awesome outing into a terrible nightmare for you in seconds, but after some modest hiking instruction and preparation, you should be ready for some excellent hikes.

With a little more expert guidance and a bit of experience, you could soon start going out on overnight or even longer more intensive hikes.

Enjoy this Hiking Guide, it is ideal for those who want to get started and will provide you with most of the answers that you will need to know when starting out on your first adventure!