Walking is a wonderful pastime that can be enjoyed by young and old and it is a great way to get outdoors, stay fit and active and even look after your mental wellbeing. There has been lots of research into the restorative benefits of walking which show that a good walk can help to improve self-perception and self-esteem, mood and sleep quality, as well as reducing stress, anxiety and fatigue.
With the recent release of ITV’s list of Britain’s Top 100 Walks, we have been inspired to share with you our list of countryside walking essentials. Whether you’re reaching the high peaks of Mount Snowdon, taking a stroll through pine-filled forests or embarking on a meandering journey over rugged moorland, we’ve got you covered with everything from the correct clothing to what to pack in your rucksack.
Having the correct gear is important as it can ensure you have a relaxed and comfortable walking experience. The item at the top of any list should be walking boots. To ensure that you don’t come back from your walk with any nasty surprises (and by that, we mean painful blisters!) you must make sure that your boots fit you snuggly. They should support both your feet and ankles to prevent any fatigue and long-term injuries. We stock a wide range of boots which are suitable for all terrains and will survive all weathers.
As the great British weather is always unpredictable, we would recommend you don’t leave the house without a waterproof outer layer. There’s nothing worse than being halfway through your walk and having the heavens open, that’s why we love the Highlander Stow & Go Packaway Jackets. They are a super lightweight, waterproof and windproof compact outer layer that can be easily stored in a small bag or sack. They come in a variety of sizes and colours and have a breathable nylon shell that will protect you from drizzle as well as heavy rain.
If you are going to be braving the winter weather for a crisp walk then don’t forget hats and gloves. You may also wish to wear an insulating mid-layer in the form of either fleece, softshell or down jackets. No matter what temperatures you are walking in, it is always advised that you wear a breathable base layer. Our selection of 'skin-close' layers retain body heat in the cold and keep you cool when the temperatures rise.
First things first, you need to choose the right rucksack for your trip. At Waterman's, we understand that a great backpack is more than just a vessel to carry all your hiking gear. That’s why all of the bags we stock are designed to shield your belongings from the elements and are carefully constructed to sit comfortably on your back for hours at a time. Choose from our fantastic range of backpacks in litre capacities ranging from 20 litres to 65 litres.
Now you need to fill your rucksack with some essential provisions to help see you through your entire walk. We have compiled a handy list for you to use:
Our entire range of outdoor products can be found here which will help to keep you protected and ready for all the elements. You can also find more of our blog posts about country walks here. No matter when or where you choose to embark on your next walking adventure, we hope you have a safe and enjoyable time.
