Thursday, November 29, 2007

How to Make a Comfortable Hike

How to Make a Comfortable Hike

(The following suggestions are for the climate around Bay Area CA only)

It is winter now. It can be quite chilly in the morning and hot during the day time. You can sweat on the way up during your hike and feel cold on the way down.

How can you make yourself really comfortable?

Some suggestions for your references.

  • Hats, Caps or Masks
  • Gloves
  • Polyester T-shirt underwear
Polyester wicks moisture and dries quickly to keep you comfortable during active pursuits. Try to avoid cotton underwear which makes feel uncomfortable and cold when it's wet.)
  • Hiking boots
If you can't grip the ground properly, you will have hard time on the way down and also have the chance to injure yourslef.
Big 5 has some inexpensive ones ($25 to $40) or check with REI for some Vibram rubber outsoles featuring sticky rubber and deep lugs for stability and braking on various surfaces.

  • Trekking poles
It gives you an opportunity to work out your upper body. It helps your lower body joints tremendously on the way down. Usually, one pole is enough. You can get those expensive ones with adjustable length, anti-shock spring and ergometric foam compact grip. It can cost you $60 to $150 for a pair. For a starter, I recommend to get a ski pole at garage sale for $2.

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