Mountain Adventure Holidays
Panossiere to Chanrion Tour des Combins
Embarking on a mountain hiking adventure is an exhilarating experience that requires careful preparation and the right gear. To help you gear up effectively and ensure you're fully prepared for your trek, here are detailed answers to some of the most common questions about hiking in the mountains.
Walking shoes can be a good choice if you're used to them and hiking in conditions that don't require heavy-duty footwear. However, for those new to hiking or facing trails with steep ascents, descents, or icy patches, hiking boots are strongly recommended. Boots offer enhanced grip and provide essential warmth and dryness in wet conditions. They also offer better ankle support, which can prevent injuries on uneven terrain. In warm and dry conditions, such as in Provence or Majorca, lighter walking shoes may be more appropriate due to their breathability and comfort. If you have room, consider packing both types of footwear. Additionally, using ankle gaiters with walking shoes can prevent pebbles, dirt, and water from entering your shoes, enhancing your comfort on the trail.
Walking poles are not mandatory, but they are highly beneficial for mountain hikes. They help distribute the effort more evenly between your arms and legs, reducing the impact on your knees and leg muscles during descents and providing stability during ascents. According to research, such as a study by Northumbria University, trekking poles can significantly reduce muscle damage and fatigue. They are also invaluable for enhancing balance on uneven terrain and can be a great aid for hikers of any age, not just the elderly. Regular use of walking poles can also help build stamina and strength over the course of your hiking trip.
Mountain weather is famously unpredictable, and even in summer, temperatures can drop sharply, especially at higher altitudes or when crossing mountain passes where snow can still be present. A 'down' jacket or a 'fibre loft' alternative is essential because these materials offer the best warmth-to-weight ratio. They are incredibly lightweight and can be compressed into a small volume, making them easy to pack. While down jackets are more expensive, synthetic alternatives like fibre loft provide similar benefits at a more affordable price. Having one readily available in your backpack ensures you are prepared for sudden cold snaps, ensuring your comfort and safety.
Rain or snow can occur unexpectedly, particularly at high elevations, and the temperature drop associated with wet conditions can be dangerous. Waterproof jackets and trousers are vital for keeping you warm and dry. They serve as a critical barrier against hypothermia and other weather-related risks. While it may seem cumbersome to carry waterproofs that you might not use every day, the protection they offer when the weather turns is invaluable. Additionally, most hiking guides and groups require all participants to be prepared for all weather conditions to ensure the safety and comfort of the group.
Many hikers worry about their ability to keep pace with a group, but this is often a manageable concern. Before your trip, make sure you assess the fitness level required and prepare accordingly. Engaging in pre-trip fitness activities can significantly enhance your comfort and stamina on the hike. Moreover, the mental fortitude and a positive outlook can greatly augment your physical capabilities. Our guided trips are designed to accommodate varying fitness levels, and the pace is set to match the group's overall capability, ensuring no one is left behind. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination, and it's important to enjoy the scenery and experience fully.
Choosing between hydration bladders and water bottles largely depends on personal preference and the nature of the hike. Hydration bladders offer the convenience of drinking on the move without stopping, which can help you maintain hydration more consistently. However, it's harder to monitor how much water you've consumed, and they can be prone to leaks. On the other hand, water bottles are easier to refill and track, but they require accessible pockets or pouches for easy reach. For best practices, carrying both can be effective: use the bladder for easy access during the hike and a water bottle as a backup and for easier refill stops.
On many mountain trails, particularly in remote areas or mountain refuges, electricity can be scarce, and facilities are often powered by solar panels or generators with limited capacity primarily for staff use. It's advisable to carry a portable power pack, which can charge your devices multiple times over. Modern power packs are lightweight, compact, and efficient, making them ideal for long trips where traditional charging options are unavailable. Before you leave, ensure your power pack is fully charged and consider your device usage to manage battery life effectively.
The choice between leather and fabric boots should be based on the specific demands of your hike and personal comfort preferences. Leather boots are known for their durability and superior protection. They tend to be more robust and offer better support and waterproofing once broken in. However, they can be heavier and less breathable, making them less ideal for hot conditions. Fabric boots are lighter and often come with less break-in time needed, offering immediate comfort. Many modern hiking boots combine both materials to maximize benefits, providing durability, comfort, and breathability. It is crucial to try on different styles and walk in them before making a purchase, preferably with the guidance of a knowledgeable salesperson in a specialized outdoor gear store. This ensures the boots fit well and suit your hiking style, ultimately enhancing your hiking experience.
This guide aims to prepare you for your mountain hiking adventures, ensuring you enjoy both the journey and the destination. Always tailor your gear to the specific conditions and your personal needs to make the most of your outdoor experiences.
Keep up to date with Tracks and Trails through our newsletter, click here to sign up. For more information about our trail running camps, either bespoke or Scheduled Departures, speak to one of our expert team by calling +44 (0) 20 8144 64442 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. In addition to trail running camps we offer hiking, and in winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
