The correct choice of clothing matters, both from a safety and a comfort perspective. Certain items of clothing need to prescribe to the criteria below, otherwise you will not be allowed to participate on the Expedition for safety reasons.
Walking boots
These are an essential piece of kit. During your expedition you will be carrying a rucksack over rough ground and your ankles will require support to prevent injury. For this reason you must wear walking boots that provide support to your ankles. Without these you will not be able to participate on the Expedition.
Your walking boots need to be robust, so fashion style boots such as DM’s or Timberlands are not suitable. Also not suitable are trainers or other low cut footwear as they will not provide ankle support.
You should ensure your walking boots are broken in before you start your Expedition. If not, you run the risk of blisters and sore feet. Wear your boots around the house or on a trip to the shops: your feet will thank you later.
Waterproof Jacket and Trousers
These are an essential piece of kit. Inadequate clothing when it is wet, cold or windy can cause the body to cool quickly putting your safety at risk. For this reason you must have adequate waterproofs, without which you will not be able to participate in the Expedition.
You will need both a waterproof jacket and over trousers. Ensure your waterproofs are just that: waterproof and not just rain resistant. Your jacket should have a hood and tapped or sealed seams that do not leak.
Avoid waterproof jackets with insulation if possible as these can cause overheating – it is best to manage your body heat using clothing layers.
Clothing list
- Underwear.
Think about how many pairs you need on multiple day expeditions. - Trousers.
Outdoor walking trousers are great, but you can also use leggings or synthetic tracksuit bottoms. Do not wear jeans or any other cotton based trouser as they are heavy and poor insulators when wet. A dry, clean pair of trousers to change into for the evening is a nice to have. - Shorts.
Can be worn if it is going to be hot, but most people wear trousers or leggings as it reduces the risk of sunburn and insect bites. - Layers.
One thin long-sleeve top and a second warmer top that can be paired with the first when it is colder. The thin long-sleeve top can be a thick T-shirt made of synthetic material. For the second warmer layer a fleece is ideal as it is warm, light, dries quickly and also makes a great pillow! Avoid cotton layers as they are poor insulators when wet. Also ensure the long-sleeve top adequately covers your shoulders to prevent the rucksack straps rubbing. - Thermal base layers.
If it is going to be cold packing some thermal layers is a good idea and also doubles as nightwear. - Sunhat/cap and a pair of sunglasses.
Pack even if the weather forecast is poor. Your eyes are important so look after them. - Warm hat and pair of gloves.
Pack even if the weather forecast is good. The weather can change quickly and it will get colder in the evenings.
