Trekking kit

Just because you walk everyday doesn’t mean you should skimp on the some of the trekking essentials.

Essentials

• You’ll be sent a full kit list of all the things you need to accomplish your event successfully. Any questions just talk to the Mind Events Team.

  Walking boots – talk to the team in a trekking shop about your trek to get the right boot for you. There are many different types and brand but you’re looking for a pair which supports your ankles and in which you feel great. Make sure you can wiggle your toes at the end of the boot – otherwise you’ll lose your toenails. About a thumbs width gap is right. (£50 to £100)
• Technical walking socks that use wicking material. Don’t walk in cotton or rugby socks. (£6 to £15 pair)
• Wicking thermal base layer – not only will they keep you warm, but they’ll also keep you dry by moving sweat away from your skin. Although they’re great to wear over your wicking base layer, cotton t-shirts can get clammy when worn next to your skin. Once they get damp, either from sweat or rain, they stay damp and can make you feel very cold and clammy. A wicking t-shirt will dry quickly and help move moisture away from your skin. (£18 to £35)
• Sports bra – (£18 to £30)

Basics

• Mid-layer top – go for layers. If you can, buy two of differing thickness to give maximum flexibility. (£15 to £35).
• Walking trousers – don’t wear jeans, whatever you do. Once they get damp they’re a nightmare to walk in and take forever to dry out. Go for some lightweight, dark colours (hide the dirt) and quick drying with good pockets. (£20 to £45).
• Fleece – something you’ll use all the time. (£40 to £120).
• Waterproof jacket – keep it light and easy to pack away. Also make sure it’s ‘breathable’ so helping to stop condensation building up inside. (£70 to £200+)
• Waterproof trousers – again keep them light and breathable. If you’re pushed for money, probably best to spend a bit more on your water proof jacket and save a bit on the trousers. Go for dark colours to hide the dirt. (£13 to £25).

Now read on the day.