Ready for The 2017 Cape Epic?
11.01.2017The first of the big mountain bike races for 2017 is approaching fast, and it’s the biggest full-service mountain bike...
Heading off to conquer a long-distance trail this summer and wondering what hiking essentials to take with you? Our expert guide includes a comprehensive list of hiking gear and accessories that should make it into your pack. From reliable footwear to safety gear, hydration systems to navigation tools, we’ve got you covered. Prepare for your adventure with confidence, knowing you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable multi-day hike.
Hiking Essentials
Invest in quality hiking boots or shoes that provide good ankle support and have a sturdy grip to navigate various terrains comfortably.
RRP £140
This shoe is designed to provide exceptional stability and comfort on various terrains. Featuring the Advanced Chassis™ for lateral stability, the shoes ensure precise and secure movement. The All Terrain Contagrip® outsole delivers excellent traction, even on wet surfaces, while the cushioned midsole enhances comfort over long distances.
Gore-Tex protection keeps your feet dry, and the use of recycled materials highlights an eco-friendly approach. Despite being slightly heavier and priced at £140, their performance and durability make them a worthy investment for dedicated hikers.
RRP £120
The Helly Hansen Verglas Micro Shell Pant is a high-performance, lightweight option designed for backcountry skiing and mountaineering. Constructed with a stretchy, waterproof, and wind-resistant fabric, these pants provide excellent protection against harsh weather while maintaining breathability. Features include ventilation zips, an integrated quick-release belt, hook-and-loop suspenders, and reinforced ankles, making them highly functional for dynamic activities.
The only downside is the minimal storage, with just a single thigh pocket. Overall, these pants are durable and comfortable, perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
RRP £ 185.00
The Osprey Talon 44 is a versatile and lightweight backpack, ideal for multi-day adventures and active pursuits. Its standout feature is the AirScape™ backpanel with injection-moulded foam, ensuring a breathable and close-to-body fit. The BioStretch harness and hipbelt provide excellent flexibility and stability, allowing dynamic movement.
With a 44-litre capacity, it includes a top-loading main compartment, hydration reservoir sleeve, and multiple attachment points for ice axes and trekking poles. Made from bluesign®-approved recycled nylon with a PFC-free DWR coating, it’s both durable and eco-friendly. Priced at £185, it’s a robust choice for serious hikers and travellers.
RRP $349.00
The COROS APEX 2 GPS Outdoor Watch is designed for serious adventurers and athletes, offering robust durability and cutting-edge technology. Featuring a scratch-resistant sapphire glass screen and a grade 5 titanium alloy bezel with PVD coating, this watch is built to withstand extreme conditions. It boasts an impressive GPS battery life of up to 40 hours, enhanced by the latest satellite signal system design.
With advanced navigation features, such as dual-frequency technology and global offline maps, it ensures precise tracking and navigation. The new optical heart rate sensor and comprehensive training solutions via COROS EvoLab make it an essential tool for both performance tracking and outdoor exploration. Despite its high-end features, it remains user-friendly with a large digital dial and touchscreen capabilities.
RRP £ 24.00
The Super Sparrow Water Bottle is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, durable, and high-performing hydration solution. Made from professional-grade stainless steel, these bottles are BPA and toxin-free, ensuring safe drinking. The double-walled, vacuum-sealed insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours, perfect for various activities.
Design and Durability: Available in multiple sizes and vibrant colors, the bottles feature a powder-coated exterior that prevents condensation. They are lightweight yet robust, with secure lids and flexible carry straps for convenience.
Functionality: Features like interchangeable caps (sport and loop), fit in car cup holders, and practical designs make these bottles versatile and user-friendly. They maintain the temperature of both hot and cold beverages effectively, making them reliable for any adventure.
£21.49
The Palm & Pine SPF 50 Natural Sunscreen offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a vegan, wax-based formula ideal for water activities. It’s made from sustainably sourced, plant-based ingredients, free from palm oil. This sunscreen is easy to apply, with a subtle tint and no drag. It stays on effectively but is easy to remove. The inclusion of zinc oxide and moisturizing avocado oil ensures excellent skin protection and hydration. Perfect for active lifestyles, it provides reliable sun protection without harmful chemicals.
RRP £169.95
The LEKI Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles are a premium choice for serious trekkers. They feature an ultralight, foldable design, weighing just 240 grams each, making them easy to pack at a compact 40 cm. The poles offer excellent stability and adjustability with the Speed Lock 2 Plus system and the new External Locking Device. The AERGON Thermo Long Grip ensures comfort and ergonomic support, while the carbon construction provides durability and strength. These poles are ideal for various terrains, thanks to their robust tips and interchangeable trekking baskets.
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