Essential Equipment for Mountain Hiking: Guide by Season.
Introduction : Mountain hiking is an exciting activity that requires preparation and the right equipment. Changing weather conditions and varied terrain require careful attention to your gear. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the essential gear for each season.
Equipment common to all seasons:
Basic material :
- Hiking backpack: A 30-40 liter bag with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt
- Hiking shoes: High-top, waterproof shoes with good ankle support
- Hiking poles: To improve stability and reduce leg fatigue
- Topographic map and compass: Or a hiking GPS
- First aid kit: Including bandages, disinfectants, personal medications
Security features :
- Charged cell phone
- Signal whistle
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Survival blanket
- Water reserve: Bottle or water bag of at least 1.5 liters
- Energy food: Energy bars, dried fruits, etc.
Spring :
Clothes :
- Layering System: Breathable technical base layer. Fleece or lightweight jacket. Windproof and waterproof jacket.
- Breathable technical underlayer
- Fleece or light jacket
- Windproof and waterproof jacket
- Convertible hiking pants (with shorts option)
- Anti-blister technical socks
Specific equipment :
- Gaiters to protect against mud and moisture
- Waterproof overpants
- Light hat and thin gloves
Summer :
Clothes :
- Lightweight and breathable clothing
- Convertible shorts or pants
- Long-sleeved technical t-shirt (sun protection)
- Wide-brimmed hat
Specific equipment :
- High factor sunscreen
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Bandana or neck warmer
- Mosquito repellent spray
- Additional hydration system
Autumn :
Clothes :
- Thicker layer system: Thermal base layer. Thick fleece. Windproof and waterproof jacket.
- Thermal underlay
- Thick Polar
- Windproof and waterproof jacket
- Long hiking pants
- Warm socks
Specific equipment :
- Warmer gloves
- Bonnet
- Waterproof pouch to protect belongings
- Mini headlamp (shorter days)
Winter :
Clothes :
- Multi-layer system: Thermal base layer. Insulating mid-layer. Waterproof and windproof jacket. Waterproof ski or hiking pants.
- Thermal underlay
- Insulating intermediate layer
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof ski or hiking pants
- Warm technical socks
- Underwear techniques
Specific equipment :
- Cleats adapted to your shoes
- Snowshoes
- High gaiters
- Snow goggles
- Warm hat
- Waterproof and warm gloves
General advice :
- Always check the weather before you leave
- Inform a loved one of your itinerary
- Stay on marked trails
- Adapt your equipment to your level and the difficulty of the terrain
- Think about the 3-layer rule: moisture wicking, insulation, weather protection
Conclusion :
Properly equipped is the key to a successful and safe mountain hike. Feel free to adapt these recommendations to your personal needs and consult professionals if in doubt.