Beginners Guide to Walking Gear

Beginners Guide to Walking Gear

The 5 Esentials you need to enjoy a day out walking.


Summer is here. Time to wax the walking boots and start looking for interesting new walks. I always like to find or do something new on a walk – it doesn’t happen every time I go out a’wandering, but sometimes the walk is just a real gem.


Last year one of my more exciting walks was finally cracking Crib Goch in Snowdonia. (Links to my account of the walk!). A rather interesting, if somewhat scary ridge walk nestled in the shadows of the mighty Mt Snowdon. On a local level, I discovered an old World War Two bunker near Shipley. I’m looking to see what this summer brings and will share with you accordingly.


Whatever it brings it is important that you have the right outdoor gear to enjoy your walks. I could wax lyrical into perpetuity on outdoor gear, but here are what I think are five essentials for walking in the local area.


Essential 1 – Walking Boots
I am a firm believer in a quality pair of walking boots. Even for a short walk. They provide the most important part of your body, the foot, with support, grip and comfort. They help reduce the chances of twisting your ankle, getting blisters (if fitted correctly) and reduce fatigue. Worth spending the money on. They will last you for years if you look after them.


Essential 2 – Navigation Equipment.


A map will guide you around the walk, giving a wealth of information on what you are looking at and where you are. A Silva compass will keep you on track. Learn how to ‘read’ a map and compass and you should not get lost. (In theory.) Guidebooks are also a handy little addition here and can help reduce reliance on maps and compasses if you are not sure how they work.


Essential 3 – Rucksack.

Rucksacks come in a dizzying array of colours, sizes and shapes. If you are on a short walk then a small one, 15-25 litres capacity is fine. Make sure it colour co-ordinates! Try before you buy, with weight in, to be sure it is comfortable. Wear it for as long as possible in the shop and make sure they fit it to you.

Essential 4 – Waterproof Jacket.


I had to put this in here. We are in the UK after all. The undisputed champion of inclement weather. Unless you are 110% certain that the BBC weather forecast is right, then pack this in your rucksack. You can get very simple lightweight jackets – just in case.

Essential 5 – Packed Lunch.

An absolute essential, unless you are stopping at a pub. I find bagels work well and they don’t get squashed in your bag. After years of squashed sandwiches in plastic bags someone pointed out to me that a lunchbox doesn’t really weigh much. Make sure you have plenty of snacks, try and keep them oat or nut based for the energy. Chocolate is great for a sugar boost and comfort, but not for long term energy.

What are your five essentials for walking in the UK?