Carver
Well-Known Member
wayne71 said:
All good advice so far:
Socks: I wear inner socks because it helps to prevent blisters on my forefoot. The ones I use are Bridgedale Coolmax.
Get socks that fit, they have a different weaving patten to hold it at your heel, ankle and across your instep.
Boots: All the advice here is good, don't go for the most expensive or best brand name, go for the ones that FIT. It's your preference what type, I use lightweight ones in the summer and a pair of heavier leather ones with better ankle support when the weather turns nasty
Clothing: Get stuff that's breathable & wicks sweat/ moisture away. this makes such a difference to your comfort level. My jacket has zipable vents under the arms.
You're better with a number of thin layers than one thick one.
You don't have to be one of those with all the gear and no idea, but if you have to replace stuff or for christmas presents that someone might be getting you have a think about the quality of the stuff you are getting. I'm a skier so I get some stuff that does me for both activities.
Walking: Try not to walk alone, if you twist your ankle in the middle of nowhere you are stuffed. Wherever you are going always tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to be back then when you finish your walk check in with them whilst you are enjoying that thirst quenching post walk pint.
As one of the early posts says, find out what type of walking suits you. I've got 2 mates who get a thrill out of conquering peak after peak as fast as they can. I prefer to take in the natural surroundings and check out the landscape, flora and fauna and I'm a lot more fairweather than them.
Whatever you decide, get out there. You've got plenty on your door step.
