WHAT TO WEAR ON A LIFE’S AN ADVENTURE GUIDED WALK (or any other walk)

If you’re not an experienced hiker there are a few things to consider with regard to your clothing before you hit the track:

YOU SHOULD WEAR

Polyester, nylon or merino wool undies (and everything else): These materials move sweat off skin and dry fast (wicking), so they’re ideal for next-to-skin layers such as briefs, tees, sports bras or long underwear, and for socks. That moisture management ability means those materials work well for all the rest of your clothing as well. More info here.

Comfortable yet sturdy pants: Trails have twists and turns, so you need to move freely. Branches and boulders, though, can shred thin, stretchy tights or yoga pants. Or you could just wear shorts and some gaiters.

A warm jacket: Polyester fleece works great for this, though a puffy jacket (with a polyester fill or water-resistant down inside), is smart for colder conditions. For info on layering your tops click here.

A rain jacket: “Waterproof/breathable” is the key phrase, meaning it will block rain and wind, but will also let you sweat without feeling like you’re wearing a plastic bag. In seriously soggy weather, pack rain pants, too. For info on hiking in the rain click here.

A brimmed hat (as opposed to a cap): Keeps your head dry and protected from the sun. The brim helps keep rain and sun out of your eyes. (Bring sunnies and sunblock too!)

Sturdy shoes: You don’t have to have leather boots, but your footwear should provide support, protection from rocks and roots, and traction on wet and dry surfaces. For more info on footwear choice click here and for info on blister prevention and treatment click here.

You might want to consider walking poles too. For info on that click here.

AVOID WEARING

Denim jeans and cotton t-shirts: Denim and cotton both hold onto water, keeping you feeling sweaty in hot temps and chills you if things turn cold and wet.