Hiking in the rain is a brilliant way to embrace your adventurous side. Plus, hiking in wet weather has plenty of benefits you won’t see when the sun shines. Have you wanted to try the most popular trail in your area, but it always seems packed with hikers? There will be fewer people out there when it is wet. Nature also comes alive when it rains, and you will experience sites and smells that you wouldn’t encounter otherwise. Keeping cool is another positive about hiking in damp weather since the sun won’t be beating down on you. If this sounds like your type of muddy adventure, check out this list we have curated on must-have rain gear for hiking.
getlocal.ieBody Fuel
Keeping your body fueled with the right amount of hydration and food is essential no matter what weather you are hiking in. But, the objective here is to ensure your body can focus on regulating its temperature and keeping you warm when wet. Because everything is damp and cooler when it is raining, it is best to focus on getting to our destination rather than stopping for a drink or snack. To do this, keep your water bottle in an easily accessible place throughout your hike and keep on-the-go snacks handy so you won’t need to stop.
Stay Dry With Layers
The first item that comes to mind when thinking of being out in the rain is a raincoat. However, layering your clothing is just as important as you will need to stay as warm and dry as possible to avoid hypothermia. Polyester and nylon clothing work best as they are quick-drying, moisture-wicking, lightweight, and insulating. Wool clothing works for all the above, except for quick-drying. Please avoid cotton as it holds moisture and takes a long time to dry. Remember, we lose most of our body heat through our head, so be sure to keep the hood of your jacket on or grab a beanie for your hike.
Keep Your Feet Dry
Your ankles and feet lose heat quickly, like your head, so keeping them dry is just as important. Durable, waterproof hiking boots will help prevent slipping and blisters and keep your feet nice and dry. Grab some hiking socks while you are at it for that double layer of non-slip protection. If your hiking boots are new, test them out in a puddle near your home so that you can be sure no water can seep in. Since soft and soggy skin is more prone to blisters, it is best to go back and hike another day if your feet get wet.
Waterproof Your Backpack
If you don’t have a handy waterproof backpack, then waterproofing your favourite hiking backpack is essential when hiking in the rain. Focusing on keeping yourself dry is important, but you don’t want your food, spare clothes, electronics, or anything else you have brought along with you to get wet too! To prevent soggy accessories:
- Place your essential water-sensitive belongings in a seam-sealed, roll-top dry sack and put them in your bag.
- Place a rain cover over your backpack with a pack liner to protect your belongings.
- Remember that using a rain cover may not fully protect everything as your feet might flick mud and water from your boots onto the underside of your bag.
Dry Out Your Gear
After your hike, dry out all your gear immediately by washing off access mud and hanging them. When it is time for your next hike, the last thing you want is mouldy gear, or worse, having to replace everything!
Are you planning your next hike on a sunny day? Check out our outdoor gear for adventures article to ensure you have everything you need! No matter the weather, you can always shop local with GetLocal.ie.
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