To begin with you need no specialist equipment, except a sensible pair of walking shoes or boots and suitable clothing. However, if the ground is hilly or rough, then you will be more comfortable in a proper pair of walking boots. The clothing and equipment you do use will depend on where you want to walk and the time of year. Any clothing you wear must protect you from the weather and prevent you from losing too much body heat. Generally, layers of clothing provide warmth and trap the heat far better than one heavy coat.
Walking clothes and boots, like any other specialist gear, can be expensive. Check out your local outdoor clothing shop and ask about the materials used and what they do. Only buy something if you really need it.
Clothes,Boots and Equipment
Here are some general guidelines:Jackets
- Take a waterproof, knee-length jacket in case of poor weather, eg a cagoule, anorak. More expensive waterproof jackets are often made of 'breathable' material.
- Wear a walking jacket that suits the time of year. Fleeces and jackets are available in a range of weights.
Trousers
- Waterproof overtrousers are useful in poor weather.
- In colder weather, wear warm trousers made from a 'tweed' type material. Lighter weight trousers are fine for the summer. Jeans are not always suitable as they are slow to dry if they get wet.
Shirts and Sweaters
Wear several thin layers rather than one heavy jumper. It is easier to remove or add layers when needed.
Hats and Gloves
Always wear a hat and gloves in the winter. You lose 40% of your body heat through your head. A good pair of thermal, waterproof gloves is fairly inexpensive.
Socks
Socks need to be comfortable. Loopstitch socks will help prevent blisters because the loops cover the seams. You may find two pairs of socks give you more protection.
Underwear
Cotton underwear is comfortable in the summer. Thermal clothing is light and warm in the winter.
Boots
- Modern walking boots are light and comfortable. You can choose from a wide range of styles, materials and prices. Choose a pair that suits the type of walking you are going to do.
- Make sure the boots are comfortable. Try them on with your walking socks. Allow room for your feet to swell when they get hot.
Other Equipment
It is a good idea to carry a small rucksack for items you may need during the walk: a drink, some food, an extra sweater, first aid equipment, a compass, a torch and a map.
Mountain or Winter walking
This requires greater care and planning. Basic equipment will include warm clothing, extra provisions, a mountain tent, a good sleeping bag, a survival bag, cooking equipment, food, toiletries and a change of clothes. [The Backpackers Club or The Ramblers can provide you with a full list of equipment and essentials. See Information].
Maps
An Ordnance Survey map is an essential piece of equipment if you are walking without a group leader. It is also important that you learn how to read a map - before you set out!Landranger maps show public rights of way marked in red. In Scotland, they are not shown because of the absence of records.
Pathfinder maps show public rights of way in green and much more overall detail including field boundaries.
Outdoor Leisure maps cover a small number of popular leisure and recreational areas of the country, and show paths and bridleways in green, plus other useful visitor information.
Explorer maps cover popular areas not covered by the Outdoor Leisure maps.
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