Need a break? The hiking offers you the calm you need to soothe your mind while improving your physical condition with the added bonus of beautiful landscapess. Accessible to all, it is a enriching activity which allows you to escape and reconnect with nature, while taking care of your overall well-being. To fully enjoy this adventure, a good preparation and adequate equipment are essential. Here are our best tips for starting your hike on the right foot.
Preparing before the hike
Your feet are your best allies when hiking. Whether you're a beginner hiker or an experienced hiker, choosing the right pair can make the difference between an enjoyable adventure and repeated blisters.
Hiking shoes
Hiking shoes are often lighter and more flexible, perfect for well-maintained trails and leisurely strolls. However, they offer less support to the ankles. If you have weak ankles, it might be better to opt for a model with more support.
Hiking boots
Hiking boots are ideal for varied or steep terrain. They provide excellent ankle support and added protection against debris and harsh conditions. They also provide better stability on uneven hiking trails, reducing the risk of injury.
You can also visit our collection of hiking shoes for men or women to choose the hiking shoes suited to your needs.
Practical advice
Check the cleats depending on the type of terrain. They are essential on muddy, slippery or snowy surfaces, providing better grip to prevent falls. In winter, it is recommended to add metal studs to ensure better grip on icy and slippery surfaces.
Opt for shoes with a good waterproof system and effective ventilation. Keeping your feet dry is essential to avoid discomfort and fully enjoy your hike.
Choose shoes with good cushioning to protect your joints, especially when going downhill. Lightweight shoes reduce leg fatigue over long distances.
Try on your pair of shoes with stockings that you would wear hiking to check the fit.
“Break in” your shoes before hiking to prevent blisters and ensure optimal comfort.
Dress for the weather
Preparing your clothes according to the weather forecast will allow you to face the weather conditions appropriately and to fully enjoy your hike, whatever the season, whether it is a hike in the mountains, a short hike on flat terrain or a hike more experienced. Mother nature likes to offer us conditions of all colors at all times.
If it's hot
Opt for light, breathable clothing: Dri-Fit technology T-shirts are perfect for wicking away sweat and keeping you dry during physical activity, regardless of the degree of difficulty.
Think about your sun protection: A cap or hat can really make a difference in protecting you from sunburn. Sunglasses, so simple, but so comfortable for the eyes. In addition, you will be able to more easily admire the magnificent landscapes that this beautiful walk offers you.
If you wear short clothes: don't forget to put sunscreen on your skin to avoid sunburn!
Prepare for all weather conditions: A light jacket can save you if the weather conditions change suddenly. It will take up little space in your bag and will allow you to be comfortable depending on the actual conditions of your hike. On the top of a mountain the wind can be more present and cooler than at the foot of the mountain. Better be prepared! !
Shorts or pants? Some prefer shorts for freedom of movement, while others opt for pants for added protection.
If it's cold
Hiking in winter is just as possible and enjoyable as hiking in summer, but you need to be well equipped to have a positive hiking experience! Choose the multi-layer system or, as our mothers told us: dress in onion skins! Mother nature can sometimes surprise us and increase the difficulties for hikers, especially when hiking on snow.
The first layer: Choose technical underwear in synthetic or merino wool which will be light. This layer, directly in contact with the skin, helps wick away moisture and keeps your skin dry, which is essential to avoid cooling.
The second layer: Opt for a lightweight fleece or wool sweater, which provides additional insulation while allowing quick drying. This layer retains body heat while remaining breathable.
The third layer: This outer layer should be waterproof and windproof to protect against the elements like rain, snow and wind. It also helps maintain body heat while allowing some ventilation.
Equipping yourself for hiking
Ergonomic backpack
To start, you need to have the basic equipment to experience a great ride. A 20-30 liter hiking bag, equipped with a waist belt, is ideal and helps reduce the risk of excessive fatigue.
The essentials to bring in our bag
- Qa few liters of water: It is very important to never run out of water, especially if you have partners hikers who need water and can't necessarily carry it around, whether it's your dog or your children, they also need to drink water, they face the same physical effort as you. It is possible to have a hydration bag or a water bottle ideally containing 2 liters of water.
- Have snacks: Dried fruits, cereal bars and nuts are easy to bring snacks that provide good source of energy. Farea hiking requires physical effort and you should plan to refuel yourself by eating snacks here and there.
- Having a trail map: Whether paper or digital, is essential. We love nature and adventure, but we also prefer to avoid unexpected detours caused by a poor sense of direction!
- A small first aid kit: bandages, disinfectant wipes, etc.
- A cell phone charged: In case of emergency or if night falls faster than your return, you will be able to light up with your lamp on your phone or even call someone to notify you of your delay without causing worry.
- Aheadlamp: Even if you can light up with your phone, it is preferable to have your hands free to ensure maximum security.
A final optional item to bring while hiking is hiking poles. These allow a reduction of the impact on the joints, mainly the knees during descents. In addition, they provide stability on uneven terrain to reduce the risk of slipping, twisting an ankle and injuring yourself.
To find gear, visit the outdoor and hiking collection.
Choosing a suitable route
Before you go hiking, it is crucial to check certain aspects of the trail to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Start by identifying the type of trail, whether it is of a varied nature such as a forest, mountain or coastal path.
- Find out about the height difference to assess the effort required: steep climbs require more preparation than flat routes.
- Check the difficulty level of the trail, which is often classified as easy, intermediate, advanced, or expert.
By taking these elements into account, you will be able to choose a route that matches your abilities and will allow you to fully enjoy your hike.
Come on, nature is calling! With the right advice and good equipment, all you have to do is go explore. To discover magnificent parks, check out the article on 8 parks to discover in Quebec .
Happy hiking!
- Marielle Falardeau
Hiking enthusiast
