GEAR CHECK LIST
This is a checklist for all of you who are out on the hills/mountains for more than 3hours with the club. That would be anyone taking part in a B, B+, A or A+ walks.
What to wear:
1) Light leggings or walking trousers
Jeans and cotton type tracksuit bottoms are not suited to a hike as they soak in water becoming very heavy, difficult to move in and keep the wearer cold which is dangerous. They also take ages to dry. Walking trousers have a certain amount of water resistance and are quick drying.
2) Layer up with 2 light tops – breathable base layers are best – again no cotton because once it gets wet it stays wet. (You should have a warmer layer in the bag)
Start the walk feeling a little cool – you will soon warm up!
3) Boot socks (these are thicker than normal socks and offer better protection against blisters)
4) Good walking boots (wellies, golf shoes or runners not acceptable)
Bear in mind that we are walking mostly in the mountains and much of the time on boggy rough ground or through heather so you must have appropriate hiking boots. A twisted ankle can ruin the day for the whole group.
Must Haves
1) Backpack (the type that is worn on both shoulders)
2) Rain gear (waterproof pants and jacket)
3) Warm light fleece
4) Pair of gloves and a warm hat (good idea to have spares)
5) Blister plasters and spare socks
6) Sun cream and sun hat (if needed)
7) Any personal medication
8) Lunch (a sandwich and something else, bar of chocolate, fruit, nuts). A warm drink is important in winter. Include some emergency rations in case the day takes longer than expected.
9) 1 to 2 litres of water (at least 2lts of water will be needed for a 6hrs day in summer)
Other stuff that might make your day more enjoyable.
1) Bag liner (if your packpack does not have a waterproof outer bag)
2) Gaiters (if the walk is likely to be boggy / mucky)
3) Emergency rations
4) Walking poles
5) Camera
6) A change of clothes and shoes back in the car
Safety Gear
7) Whistle
8) Basic first aid kit
9) Head torch & battery
10) Survival bag
.
Useful tips:
If you are going out on the mountains for a long day, then you should add extra drink and food. In the winter, the mountains can be very harsh. If you suffer from feeling the cold easily, then put some hand warmers, which you can buy in Mahers, and spare glove liners, which are cheap and can be worn inside a winter glove. Always remember that on starting a walk that you could encounter temperatures up to minus 10 degrees from whatever it is that day.
Walking poles are very important especially in the winter months.
Heading out for the day you should dress relatively light, using the layering system. Wearing heavy polos or fleeces does not work. Tights, light ones under waterproof pants work for most people and in the colder weather then you can buy good warm tights.
Include good boot socks and a fleece neck liner (not a scarf), very handy!
Always carry this gear when you leave home even if the sun is shining in Cork; it could be the complete opposite in Kerry or wherever you are going …
The good outdoor stores around town regularly offer “Starter packs” at a good price – so ask!
You can also get yourself a pair of starter boots for just E60 until you decide you want to spend more time out there on the hills!
On return to the car after a day on the hills always have a change of clothes. If you have any medical issues please be responsible and carry any necessary medication! The leader of the day is there to guide you on a route to the summit of the mountain as safely as possible. It is not their responsibility to worry about medication.
Always contact the leader of the day by calling or sending a text to let them know you will be joining the group out on the walk.