Backpacking - How to Keep your Pack Dry When it rains, it pours. First, your clothes get wet through your raincoat, then the water seeps in your toes. Your pack gets soaked and you open it to find all your things wet except for your underwear rolled in the middle of your stuff.
If this has happened to you before, then it’s time to shake off the rain of the past for a lighter, dryer Hiking future.
* Get a waterproof Hiking Backpack. The simplest solution to keeping your things in your pack dry during a Hiking trip is by using a waterproof backpack. This may cost around $250-$350.
* A waterproof bag does not necessarily mean it can literally keep your things from getting wet. Waterproof packs still have chances of getting your things inside wet because of the seams and zippers. The best way to solve this is by using a seam sealer (you can find this in sewing shops) to prevent those nasty seam leaks.
* Use a pack cover. If you can’t find a seam sealer, using a pack cover is a fine alternative. This doesn’t just protect your seams; it keeps your whole backpack dry. A pack cover is made of waterproof material that is large enough to swathe over your pack. You can get it for as low as $30 in department stores and Hiking gear shops. Some backpackers use this to envelope their things inside the pack. It’s better to throw the cover over the entire pack itself so you wouldn’t have to worry about a large soaking backpack.
* Bag them and zip them. To be sure, put large pieces of gear like Sleeping Bags in separate waterproof bags. If, after the first night, you find your pack too cluttered, you can carry your Sleeping Bag outside the bag and still keep it dry. It is also wise to put small important things and electronic gadgets like your wallet and mp4 in small plastic bags. Zip locks are always dependable in keeping your small valuables dry and organized.
* Clad yourself in gaiters and rain ponchos. Gaiters worn under your wet pants will keep your feet dry in deluge. Unlike raincoats that have a slim cut, ponchos allow mobility and have wide, open cuts that give ample space for your pack.
* Bring an umbrella. A lightweight umbrella could provide protection from downpours to you and your backpack.
Using a waterproof Hiking Backpack is not enough to ensure that the things inside your pack will not get drenched when it rains. Follow the simple guidelines above so you will be assured that everything you need will be dry and protected throughout the trip.
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Hiking Boot Buying Guide - How to Buy Hiking Boots When it comes to choosing the correct Hiking Boots, you should always have a few goals in mind: you want your boots to be as light and comfortable as possible while keeping your feet dry, warm, and well-protected. If you have read our sections on Hiking Boot Features & Characteristics and Hiking Boot Types then you will understand how these factors influence each other. In this section, we will help you find the perfect hiking shoes by explaining the things you should consider:
Intended Use
This is the single most important question you will have to ask yourself. As outlined in our Hiking Boot Types section, there are Best Hiking Boots for every kind of purpose. The class of your boot should increase under the following factors: expected terrain and weather conditions, intended Hiking duration, and intended backpack load.
Your Hiking Skill Level
A more experienced hiker might be able to choose lighter day hiking boots compared to a less experienced hiker even if they plan to do the same hike under the same conditions. Especially if you are new to Hiking, you should go for Hiking Boot that gives good support while your feet, ankles, achilles' tendon, calves, and legs get used to the added strain of Hiking. If you plan to increase your Hiking skill level by gradually increasing the difficulty, load, duration, and/or terrain difficulty of your hikes then make sure to buy boots that allow you to grow and that will still meet your needs once you reach your next skill level. However, there are no boots that facilitate all levels of Hiking so make sure to get new boots once you get into Hiking for which your current boots were clearly not intended.
Hiking Boot Quality
Good quality boots will not give up when the going gets tough. If there is one thing you do not want, it is a broken boot in the middle of a hike. When it comes to judging quality, there are a few things you can judge it by. The brand is often a good indicator. Good Hiking Boot brands have a name to live up to and most companies put their boots through rigid testing before launching them to ensure quality and durability. Cheap boots from an unknown brand are a ticket to trouble. Examine your boot closely. Take your time in checking the stitching, the connection of sole and upper, the toughness and lug pattern of the sole, the stiffness of the upper and the configuration, and type of the lacing. Judging their quality comes down to common sense and the expertise of your sales person.
Hiking Boot Fit
Once you have determined the type of boot you need and have selected a few of which you feel they have the quality you are looking for, it is time for the most important step: fitting. Finding a comfortable fit is a very personal matter and looking for a better fit really depends on your own unique feet, your personal preferences, and your Hiking experience. We can, however, give several tips and guidelines when fitting Hiking Boots:
* There is a difference in the shape and size of your feet in rest in the morning and your feet after a period of walking in the evening. Just to be safe, we recommend you take a 15-minute stroll around the park before fitting your boots and go late in the afternoon. This might feel like going a bit too far but the difference is noticeable, believe us.
* Wear the socks that you intend to use for Hiking. You might think that your socks will not make the difference but they do. Wear them as you try your boots.
* In general, you are looking for a snug fit with noticeable support all over your feet and ankles as you make a walking motion. Look for comfortably snug without feeling any pressure points.
* Remove the inner sole of the boots you are trying and place them against the sole of your feet. The better the outline of sole of the boot follows your own shape, the better the fit will probably be. The boot will most likely be too snug where your foot overlaps the sole or the boot will be too wide where the sole is larger than your foot's outline.
* Fit each pair of boots that you are considering by going through the following steps:
o Enter your foot into the open boot with the laces unfastened. Stand up straight and push your foot forward into the toe of the boot. You should be able to slip your index finger between your heel and the heel of the boot. Do this for both boots.
o Sit down and lace both boots. As you do so, your heel should move backwards filling the space your index finger created.
o Stand up and walk around.
o Assure that your toes do not touch the front of the boot. If they do then you should go for a larger sized boot.
o Assure that your toes do not touch the top of the boot. If they do then you will need a boot with a larger (front-side) volume.
o As you walk, the heel of your foot and the heel of the boot should move together in harmony. The heel of your foot should not slip out of the heel of your boot (heel lift). If you experience heel lift then your boots are either too large in size or the shape of the arch and heel cup are incompatible with the shape of your feet.
Save on Outdoor Gear at the Outlet Brand Sizes
Each brand has its own definition of the 'average' foot and different brands cater to different foot shapes and mostly widths. Knowing your own feet, you should be able to tell your sales person if you need wider or narrower boots and he/she should be able to help you find corresponding brands. Some brands have different boots and hiking socks for different foot shapes but most companies only have one fit for each boot they produce.
Ignore Shoe Sizes
Do not pay too much attention to the sizes of the boots you try. The sizes of your ideal Hiking Boots could easily differ from your leisure/fashion shoes so do not worry if they are different in quoted size. Even Hiking Boots of the same size could feel very differently so disregard the Hiking Boot Sizes and just focus on the feeling of the fit.
Foot Shapes
If you have 'strange' feet where some parts (for instance, your toes) are not in proportion to the other parts or if your foot has an unusual shape then you will probably have to buy hiking shoes with the best fit. Compensate for your irregularities by using insoles and specific socks.
These are the basic things you need to consider when buying Hiking Boots. Make sure to choose the pair that meets your requirements.
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Hiking Boots - Care & Maintenance You can prolong the life span of your pair of Hiking Boots by taking good care of it. Just like a car, your Hiking footwear can use some periodic maintenance to ensure that it is in proper working order and that it will last for a longer period of time. This is especially the case if you are a very active hiker who wants to get down and dirty when you’re in the great outdoors. With your adventure come the mud and the grime that may shorten your boots’ life. Here are some simple things you can do to ensure that your Hiking Boots are in good condition at all times:
Cleaning
When cleaning your boots, you have to determine first what material the upper portions of your boots are made of. If it is made of fabric, you can wash off the dirt by using soap and water. However, if it is made of leather, just clean that portion with water, without the soap since soap can remove the oils present on the material, thereby weakening it.
Drying
The best way to dry your boots is by putting them out in the open air. This will help your pair dry gradually. Also, make sure that you dry the boots completely. Otherwise, these will be a host to fungi and bacteria that will make for smelly boots and itchy feet. Lastly, avoid exposing your boots to direct heat, say a campfire, since it can age the leather and other parts of the boot quickly which will shorten your boots’ life.
Waterproofing
When your boots are already dry, make them waterproof so that they will stay dry once you return to the wilderness. When waterproofing your boots, try not to overdo it because you’ll just be wasting excess wax in the end. If your boots have a Gore-Tex lining, make sure to use silicon-based treatment on them instead of a wax-based one. This is to allow the boot to ‘breathe’ which is one of the functions of the special lining.
We hope that these tips will help you take better care of your beloved Hiking Boots. With regular maintenance checks, you add more mileage to them which spells more fun for you outdoors.
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Hiking Boots come in various Hiking Boot Types and can have a multitude of Hiking Boot Features & Characteristics. Furthermore, they come in different sizes that adhere to the shoe size standards of the various countries that produce and sell Hiking Boots. When you Buy Hiking Boots, it is good to know the different Shoe Size standards. In this section, we give you the International Hiking Boot Size Chart:
| US Men | US Women | European | |
| 1 | 2 | 32 | 13 |
| 2 | 3 | 33 | 1 |
| 2.5 | 3.5 | 33.5 | 1.5 |
| 3 | 4 | 34 | 2 |
| 3 | 4 | 34.5 | 2 |
| 3.5 | 4.5 | 35 | 2.5 |
| 4 | 5 | 35.5 | 3 |
| 4.5 | 5.5 | 36 | 3.5 |
| 4.5 | 5.5 | 36.5 | 3.5 |
| 5 | 6 | 37 | 4 |
| 5.5 | 6.5 | 37.5 | 4.5 |
| 6 | 7 | 38 | 5 |
| 6.5 | 7.5 | 38.5 | 5.5 |
| 7 | 8 | 39 | 6 |
| 7 | 8 | 39.5 | 6 |
| 7.5 | 8.5 | 40 | 6.5 |
| 8 | 9 | 40.5 | 7 |
| 8.5 | 9.5 | 41 | 7.5 |
| 8.5 | 9.5 | 41.5 | 7.5 |
| 9 | 10 | 42 | 8 |
| 9.5 | 10.5 | 42.5 | 8.5 |
| 10 | 11 | 43 | 9 |
| 10.5 | 11.5 | 43.5 | 9.5 |
| 10.5 | 11.5 | 44 | 9.5 |
| 11 | 12 | 44.5 | 10 |
| 11.5 | 12.5 | 45 | 10.5 |
| 12 | 13 | 45.5 | 11 |
| 12.5 | 13.5 | 46 | 11.5 |
| 12.5 | 13.5 | 46.5 | 11.5 |
| 13 | - | 47 | 12 |
| 13.5 | - | 47.5 | 12.5 |
| 14 | - | 48 | 13 |
This is an example of a Hiking Boot Sizing Chart. Narrow down your selection by determining your correct shoe size.
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Best Selection of Marmot Gear at Altrec Outdoors
There is no such thing as "the Hiking Boot". There are many types and variations and knowing about them is the first step to Buying the Right Hiking Boots. All Hiking Boots come with their own Hiking Boot Features & Characteristics. The categories differ from country to country and from person to person. In general, manufacturers and experts agree on a scale that goes from very light and flexible to heavy and rigid footwear. They use letters A to D to classify their boots. From light to heavy, we can distinguish the following types of Hiking Footwear:
Sandals (Class A)
Hiking SandalsSandals were the first footwear invented by man and were used for serious hiking in ancient times. Sandals give all the comforts of ventilation and lightness but of course this comfort comes at a price when it comes to support and durability. More technical sandals will be able to take you places where you might expect that only boots would do the job. For serious use, look for adjustable but solid straps, molded arch support, and shaped footbeds. Sandals are great for warm weather hikes on easier terrains. Some hikers choose to pack a pair of sandals and bring them for crossing streams or to give their feet a rest and some air when the hiking conditions allow sandals.
Trail Running Shoes Trail Running Shoes / Cross Trainers / Adventure Racing Shoes (Class A)
These shoes are actually running shoes that have special features to facilitate mountain trails and rougher terrain. In general, they will have higher cuts and extra padding and sole reach for your toes. The soles are generally tougher and the shoes will be constructed in a way that they give better protection from bad weather and trail conditions. Trail Running has greatly increased in popularity and most of these types of shoes are used for running but they can be used for walking as well.
Hiking Shoes / Approach Shoes / Trail Boots / Light Boots (Class A to B)
Hiking ShoesThese are the entry level Hiking Boots for use on well-maintained trails and other smooth terrain. They are mostly made out of suede, nylon, or other light fabrics supported with leather. They are easy to break in and are generally flexible enough to offer comfortable walking from day one. Many of these boots have a frame architecture that will provide good support for your feet and ankles eventhough the cut generally does not reach higher than your ankle bones. More advanced versions of these boots will have fully gusseted tongues to prevent water and debris from entering the boot. The fashion world has also discovered this type of shoe resulting in a large range of fashion boots that lack the support needed for Hiking. Make sure to check the intended use of the boot you are buying.
Cross Hikers Cross Hikers / Mid-weight Boots (Class B)
The typical mid-weight or B class boot looks like your classical Hiking Boot. These are boots intended for less smooth trails and light off-trail terrains. Their increased support will also help on longer or even multi-day hikes. They are generally made out of slightly tougher leather or a combination of tougher synthetic materials and leather parts. The sole and the general construction are less flexible and give increased support to your ankle and bridge. The cut reaches over the ankle which may cause discomfort if you are not used to having your footwear reach that high. These boots generally require some breaking in.
Off-trail Boots / Heavy Boots (Class C)
Hiking BootsAs the name suggests, these boots are intended for rough terrain. They have more technical constructions with the use of toe caps, cemented outsoles, molded midsoles, and synthetic linings. Inner membranes often feature Gore-Text or other multi-purpose materials. Some variants are compatible with Crampons for Mountaineering purposes. The constructions of these boots are intended to give maximum support and shock absorption while remaining water resistant/proof and breathable. The increased weight and stiffness of these boots require getting used to and training.
Mountaineering Boots Mountaineering Boots (Class D)
These are the boots that you would use to climb Mount Everest. They are often used in combination with Crampons and typically have special attachment points at the top of the sole for securing Crampons. Some Mountaineering Boots have a hard plastic shell with a pivot at the ankle almost like skiing boots. These work best with ice climbing but are understandably uncomfortable for long Hiking. More flexible variations use leather in combination with highly technical fabrics to achieve the best combination of maximum support while maintaining some level of comfort and breath ability. Mountaineering Boots have additional insulation to protect against lower temperatures.
From the hundreds of different Hiking Boots available in the market today, you can narrow down your selection if you are familiar with the different Types of Hiking Boots. Know the features of these types and determine which kind suits your needs.
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When looking for and comparing Hiking Boots, it is important to know the features Hiking Boots can have and understand how they work. In this section, we will look at some of the most important and common characteristics of Hiking Boots:
Hiking Boot Aspects
Hiking Boots have a couple of characteristics that determine how they perform in Hiking:
* Hiking Boot Weight
The lighter your boots, the easier your walking will be. It is generally agreed that one pound extra footwear weight can be compared to five pounds of added backpack weight. Hiking Boot manufacturers are constantly working on creating lighter Hiking Boots while maintaining the support and other features needed.
* Water Resistance
Moisture is one of your biggest enemies when it comes to Hiking. Moisture causes Blisters. There are a couple of things that can improve the chances of keeping your feet dry. Look for breathable and watertight materials that will allow moisture to leave the inner parts of your boots but will not let water enter. Look for fully gusseted tongues that cover the openings of your uppers.
* Lateral Rigidity
Your boot should support your feet and ankles from twisting on uneven surfaces. Higher boots with stiff ankle supports provide a big part of the lateral rigidity.
* Longitudinal Rigidity
Your boot should support your feet from over-bending when placing too much weight on the toe or heel side of your foot. At the same time, the boot should have enough longitudinal flexibility to support the arches' natural spring action.
* Arch Support
Your boot should support the arch of your feet in a way that your feet are not flattened out under heavy pressure. A curved shank between midsole and insole is often inserted to provide arch support.
Hiking Boot Anatomy & Hiking Boot Parts
Hiking Boot Anatomy & Hiking Boot Parts A Hiking Boot consists of different elements and body parts that work together to provide the protection you require from your Hiking Boots.
Upper
The Upper is the entire upper part of the boot. It should protect the foot with an all-over snug fit and give it the necessary support and absorb shocks. It should be water repellant/proof while being able to breathe. This to prevent excess moisture from causing Blisters and other discomfort.
Soles
The soles are the bottom part of the boot. The sole should give the needed friction on all expected surfaces. To achieve this goal, your Hiking Boots should have deep-lugged soles of tough rubber. On solid slippery surfaces, the number of contact points with the sole will be small thus increasing the pressure on those points and the grip. On softer surfaces, the lugs will sink in thus increasing the number of contact points and the number of angles at which the lugs resist slipping. The sole should absorb and redirect shocks and cushion the soles of your feet. They should be stiff enough to give enough support while at the same time being flexible enough to facilitate the natural walking motion of your feet. It should be firmly connected to the upper in a non-separating and waterproof way.
Lacing
There are different ways of lacing and they are often combined to make use of the advantages of each mechanism:
Hiking Boot Lace Types
* Eyelets are punched holes often enforced with metal grommets to prevent tearing out. Still eyelets have the tendencies to break at greater pressure which is why they are mostly used for lighter shoes.
* D-rings use a D-shaped ring connected with a metal rivet. They offer more protection from tearing but can create painful pressure points.
* Hooks are open at the outside allowing the laces to leave the hook altogether. The ankle hooks often have a locking mechanism that allows a difference between the tension on the lower and upper laces.
*
Webbing uses strong fabrics to create a loop through which the laces run.
Laces
Nowadays, laces are almost always braided nylon cords. Flat laces as often found in fashion footwear are more likely to break so avoid them.
Tongues
Tongues are the flaps that cover the inlet of the upper. Most Hiking Boots have gussets connecting the tongues to the upper. The gussets make sure that water, dirt, and debris are not able to enter your shoe. With the laces tightened, the gussets and the tongue should fold nicely together to conform to your shin and ankle without causing pressure points.
Lining & Padding
Boots have lining and padding to provide more protection and comfort to your feet. Foam is often used for padding and it protects your feet from the cold and pressure. Make sure there is little to no foam padding in the toe and heel of your boot. The innermost layer is called the Liner. Synthetic fabrics have replaced leather liners as they are more durable and better in redirecting moisture.
Insoles / Footbeds
Insoles are the bottom part of the inner where your feet rest on. Soles should be shaped perfectly for your feet to ensure maximum support and balance. Most soles are removable from the Hiking Boot which enable you to compare them to the shape of your feet. People with certain Feet Conditions can often compensate by using specially made insoles.
Scree Collars
On higher boots, your Achilles tendon and ankle need protection from chafing and that is where the scree collars come in. At the back of the outers, a lower cut is made and foam padded leather rolls protect against chafing.
Crampon Connections
Some C class boots and all D class boots have connection points for Crampons. In most cases, the boots will have enforced edges at the toe and heel side of the boot above the sole that allow Crampons to be levered solid. Most C class boots will allow for some leverage usage on the top of the sole but will mostly work with loose Crampons that work with girdles and laces. D class shoes should have very solid enforced edges. Consider plastic shell shoes if you expect to be using your Crampons most of the time.
These are the essential Features and Characteristics of Hiking Boots. Knowing these aspects will help you in understanding how they perform. Moreover, you will be able to narrow down your selection if you have an idea on the components and features of Hiking Boots.
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Acute Mountain Sickness - Prevention, Detection & Treatment Higher altitudes (8000 feet /2500" class="related_products_container" meter plus) offer conditions where the oxygen content is lower than on sea level and lower altitudes and there are considerable atmospheric pressure differences. These conditions could lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). AMS is very serious and is potentially deadly. Preparing for High Altitudes and knowing how to recognize Acute Mountain Sickness early and knowing how to treat it are essential for High Altitude Hiking and Mountaineering.
It is important to realize that the one way to avoid AMS problems is proper preparation, taking your time, recognizing symptoms and not hesitating to descend or call of the entire hike if need be. Hikers are generally very goal focused people and it might be difficult to accept defeat and turn back but staying alive is more important than reaching the summit. Live to fight another day!
Factors that Influence Acute Mountain Sickness
These are the factors that are related to Acute Mountain Sickness and the severity of your condition:
* Altitude: of course the main factor in getting AMS. The higher the altitude the more serious the conditions will be that cause AMS.
* Rate of Ascent: the speed in which you gain altitude. The faster you ascend the less change you give your body to acclimatize and adjust to the higher altitude conditions.
* Degree of Exertion: the more you physically exert your body the more likely you are to suffer from AMS.
* Hydration: the more dehydrated you are the more likely you are to suffer from AMS.
Preventing Acute Mountain Sickness
Preventing AMS is easier than treating it. These are the guidelines for preventing AMS:
* Start low and walk slowly but steadily to higher altitudes. Likewise take slow, deep and deliberate breaths. See our High Altitude Hiking Techniques section for more details.
* The sleeping altitudes are most important and make sure that the difference in height between two consecutive sleeping places is not higher larger than 1500" class="related_products_container" feet (500" class="related_products_container" meters). You can reach higher altitude differences during the day time but make sure your second camp is not more than 1500" class="related_products_container" feet from your first camp.
* If you must drive or fly directly to altitudes higher than 10000 feet (3000 meter) than take at least a period of 24 hours of rest before you start your steady ascent.
* Keep yourself well hydrated (3-4 liters per day) and check your urine for clarity.
* Eat a diet high in carbohydrates.
* Do not over exert yourself and keep a steady Walking Rhythm without any large peaks in physical effort.
* Do not use medications as prophylactics. There could be unpredictable side effects and they could mask early warning signs and give a false sense of security.
* Constantly check yourself for symptoms of AMS which will be described below.
Primary Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness
There are two symptoms of AMS that should be recognized early on and should not be ignored under any circumstances:
* Lassitude: can be mistaken for physical exhaustion but exhaustion disappears after proper food and fluid intake and rest. Lassitude typically worsens in a period of 24-48 hours where you are no longer capable of finding the energy to eat, drink, talk or do anything.
* Ataxia / Coordination Loss: ataxia is the loss of co-ordination and can worsen rapidly to the point where you loose all sense of co-ordination and direction. There are two easy ways to test for ataxia and the testing should be performed by team mates:
o Toe the Line: Draw a Line and have the person walk heel-to-toe straight over the line. Difficulty in keeping balance or even falling over are signs of ataxia.
o Romberg Test: have the person stand straight up with arms at the sides and feet together. Place your arms around the body of the person and tell the person to close his/her eyes. The person is showing signs of ataxia if the person starts swaying in 15-20 seconds
Secondary Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness
It is important to constantly analyze yourself for symptoms of AMS. Most of them can happen to you independently and do not have to be signals of AMS. If you suffer from more than one of them you should take measures:
* Headaches: are the most common symptom of AMS. If you feel a headache after a period of exertion take a rest, breath deeply and/or take an aspirin and wait for the headache to disappear. Stop ascending if the headache persists even after a nights rest and medication and is moderate to sever. If the headache is severe and persists after a second night's rest it is a clear sign that something is wrong and you will need to descend at least 1000 feet (350 meter).
* Cheyne-Stokes Syndrom / Periodic Breathing: you might find yourself repeatedly stopping breathing for periods of 10 to 15 seconds. This is called Cheyne-Stokes Syndrom and is not a serious condition as long at is not combined with the other symptoms of AMS. It can however cause insomnia which is another common high altitude ailment. In higher altitudes it is important to breath deeply and steadily.
* Gastrointestinal Disorders: loss of appetite, reduced urine output and especially nausea are all potential signs of AMS.
Edema
Is the swelling of tissue and can be a definite sign of or result of Acute Mountain Sickness. There are two types of edema that are life threatening:
* High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): is the accumulation of excessive fluid in the substance of the brain. The brain is especially susceptible to injury from edema, because it is located within a confined space and cannot expand. CE develops itself over the course of several days. Symptoms are those of AMC in combination with disorientation, hallucinations and ultimately unconsciousness.
* High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): is the accumulation of excessive fluid in the lungs. The fluid in the lungs prevents effective oxygen exchange. As the condition becomes more severe, the level of oxygen in the bloodstream decreases, and this can lead to impaired cerebral function and even death. Symptoms include shortness of breath even at rest, tightness in the chest, extreme fatigue, a feeling of impending suffocation, weakness, and a persistent cough bringing up white, watery or frothy fluid. Confusion and irrational behavior are signs that insufficient oxygen is reaching the brain.
Treating Acute Mountain Sickness
The problem with AMS is diagnosing it correctly. Many of the signs could also be caused by over exertion or dehydration. Depending on the severity of the symptoms do the following:
* Rest, breath deeply and assure a good food/fluid intake. In case of light symptoms you should take a rest and perhaps use some aspirin to lighten possible headaches.
* Take high altitude medications like Diamox.
* Stop your ascent and rest at the same altitude. If the symptoms do not disappear after 24 hours or even worsen you should stop your ascent and rest at the same altitude.
* Descend 1000 feet (350 meters). If symptoms remain after 48 hours or worsen do not take any chances and descend at least 1000 feet or more.
* Seek medical assistance. If the symptoms are very severe descend even further down and seek medical assistance. Do not wait for the morning but rather descend in the night. Never have the patient descend alone! Do not hesitate to call in a helicopter for immediate evacuation if the severity reaches life threatening conditions.
These are the basic things you should know about Acute Mountain Sickness. Take note that it is essential to have adequate First Aid training if you are engaged in Outdoor Activities such as Hiking.
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Blisters - Preventing & Treating Blisters Blisters are the number one foot ailment in Hiking and they can turn the greatest hike into the most painful one. Blisters can be avoided by proper Foot Training, having the correct Hiking Boots and Hiking Socks, and by early detection of possible problems. In this section, know the causes of Blisters and how to prevent Blisters, and how to treat them.
What causes Foot Blisters?
* Heat: is the number one reason for getting Blisters. The heat responsible for causing Blisters is mostly caused by the friction between your skin and the inner of your boot. Sand and gravel in your boot can increase friction which is why they also cause Blisters.
* Moisture: moist or wet feet from sweat or water are more susceptible to Blisters as moisture softens your skin.
How to Prevent Foot Blisters
Preventing Blisters boils down to countering the factors that cause them. In general, keeping your feet cool, dry, and free of sand will do the trick. Here are some tips on how to prevent Blisters:
* First of all, select Hiking Boots with good fit that do not chafe your feet or have painful pressure points. Choose watertight but breathable boots that give the proper ventilation that will get rid of excess moisture. Look for fully gusseted tongs that keep sand and gravel outside of your boots. For more information on choosing correct Hiking Boots, read our section on Buying Hiking Boots.
* Give your feet ample rest. If you feel that your feet might be moist or overheated, it might be wise to make some alterations to your Hiking Rhythm and take a longer rest where you take off your boots and socks. If you do so, you might want to change socks and dry the ones you had on. Having two pairs of socks used alternately is always a good idea to prevent Blisters.
* If you decide to cool your feet in a stream or pool then make sure to dry them off well before you put on your socks and boots.
* When conditions allow it, take off your boots and socks and walk with hiking sandals.
Early Treatment of Itchy Foot Blisters
Blisters develop over a period of time and often you can already feel one coming up. Early detection and treatment is the key to preventing full grown Blisters. If you feel a sore place on your foot or irritation, do the following:
* Take off your boots and hiking socks immediately and remove any sand or gravel from your feet.
* Let your feet dry and cool down.
* Cover the sore area with surgical tape, band-aid, or even better special Blister moleskin. Moleskins are artificial skin that you can cut to shape and stick to your own skin. Moleskin can be purchased in most drugstores in a variety of brands and features.
* Remove the moleskin once you stop hiking and let the skin recover during the night. The next morning, you can judge for yourself to apply a new cover or not. In general, take precautions and apply moleskin even if the area is only moderately irritated.
On Healing Foot Blisters
* If the Blisters are at the surface and filled with fluid, you should take a sterilized needle and pierce the skin blisters. Pierce from the side close to the base of the Blister and let all the liquid flow out. If the affected skin is still intact then do not remove it. Instead, cover the drained Blister with moleskin. If the affected area is ruptured then carefully cut it away and clean the underlying new skin with rubbing alcohol or an antiseptic. If you have the time, you should allow the new skin to harden in the open air. If you need to move on again, apply moleskin and use gauze to keep the moleskin from directly contacting the tender new skin. Once the new skin has hardened a bit, you can apply benzoin or rubbing alcohol to further toughen up the new skin. Keep the new skin clean and sterilize it to prevent infection.
* If the Blisters on Foot are buried deep in your skin and does not hold a lot of liquid then do not try to puncture them. Instead, just cover them with moleskin.
These are the basic things you need to know about Blisters. It is essential that you have adequate First Aid knowledge and training if you are engaged in Outdoor Activities such as Hiking.
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Must Know Tips on Boots & Clothes During Cold Weather Hiking Cold Weather Hiking can be just as much fun and exciting as a usual summer hiking trip. But there are precautions and need-to-know preparations to make sure the trip will also be a safe and successful one.
1. What to Wear.
Clothing is an essential part of cold weather hiking. Layering your clothes is a must to make sure you do not sweat as well as freeze during your hike.
The best way to go when it comes to cold weather hiking clothes is choosing fabric made from synthetic material and wool because of their insulating property. Under no circumstance that you can consider cotton in choosing what you will wear. Cotton absorbs moisture and will not help with safeguarding your body temperature
Let your base layer be made from synthetics such as polypropylene which will wick away moisture from your body. For your pants and long sleeved shirts which form your middle layer, wool is always a good choice to keep you warm. Choose a wind resistant and water resistant jacket for your last layer, preferably with a hood to keep your head warm. Other necessities to be considered are gloves, socks, and cold weather hiking boots.
2. What to Eat.
Hiking in cold weather requires more food in your system than when you are traveling during warmer climates.
It's important to bring food that are easy to cook and easy to make. The fact that you will be wearing gloves, or will be too busy keeping yourself warm, would make it hard to do even the simplest of meal preparation tasks such as chopping up ingredients.
Pack some easy to make warmers such as tea and soup mixes. For additional energy during the hike, do not forget to bring some granola bars, energy bars, or any simple snacks that are rich in carbohydrates to keep you going.
With the lack of enough heavy ingredients, the best way to season your meals are with a bit of oil or butter. Packing some foods and snacks rich in fat will also help in keeping you warm during the night.
3. How to Pack.
Packing the right way is just as important as bringing the right items.
Make sure the essential items such as flashlights, extra batteries, rain gear, and emergency medical kit are placed where they can remain dry but can still be easily accessed.
Sort your items according to when you'll be using them for easier accessibility when they are finally needed and pack your extra clothes in plastic to prevent them from getting wet.
Remember to place the heavy items of your gear against your back and the lightweight items on the top. And when you've finally packed everything, try putting your gear on with your hiking clothes to test how well you can move in them.
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Basic hiking and camping skills Going hiking is one of the best ways to rediscover nature. But trekking the forest or going off the beaten track is not for the faint hearted. If you are new to this, it’s best to be guided by the pros. Just in case, here are a few hiking skills you may want to know.
Get in shape. City slicker or not, trekking woodlands is no joke. Most of the time it does take its toll and your body has to be prepared for it. Get regular exercise before hand. Work the treadmill and even practice walking with a backpack on. Getting your body in the right condition is the first most important skill there is. There is no point knowing what to do in your destination if you don’t get there due to exhaustion.
Choosing your campsite. One of the most important of camping skills is knowing where to pitch your tent. Make sure you find a place with even surfaces. It’s best to find mineral soil, sand or gravel. Avoid non-porous hard packed soil and make sure the ground drains well when it rains. This will give you a nice sturdy ground to sleep or walk around on. Feel free to test the place too. Lay on a ground cloth and see if it's comfortable enough. Watch out for nearby danger such as rock piles or tree debris as well as possible flash flood areas. If you're not up for that entire checklist, you can always find an established campsite instead. But where's the adventure in that?
Bug off. Now you can always find bugs in every hiking trip. Whether it's mosquitoes or black flies, they're all there. Clothing is your first defense. Wear comfortable long sleeves and a hat in light colors. Keep a handy insect repellant lotion and use it sparingly. Try not to loiter around wet grassy meadows where mosquitoes tend to breed. On the campsite, you can always use Citronella candles to make it your safe haven.
River Crossing. When it comes to crossing bodies of water, whether it’s a small stream, a river, or a recent rainstorm flooding, always take extra precaution. The first thing to do is to find another way around them, especially if they look too dangerous. Wear sandals as much as possible. If you don’t have them, remove your socks and the boots will do. Never cross barefoot. There's more chance of slipping on the rocks this way. You should be okay with a hiking stick when crossing ankle deep waters. When it comes to melted snow, cross in the morning when the waters had the chance to freeze again the night before.
Watch out for bridges or stones covered with algae, they can be quite slippery and dangerous. Also take time to unbuckle your waist belt to give you enough time to remove your backpack at the wrong moment. When crossing with a rope across a river, don’t tie yourself to it, the current may hold you down. Instead just hold on to them tightly.
Use your hiking stick wisely. Other than to help you on the road, there is more to having a hiking stick handy. As mentioned before, you can use hiking sticks to help you cross rivers and bodies of water. Also, hiking sticks help increase momentum on uphill climbs and can be pretty useful for when you are treading along large boulders. As a defense when you are walking, use your hiking stick to beat a few nearby bushes and check for snakes. This can also be helpful when scaring off aggressive dogs that come along your way.
Calling for help. During emergencies, you can always try a cell phone first. You can get lucky and pick up a signal. When building your fire for smoke signals, use dry material and sprinkle a bit of water from time to time to generate more smoke. You can also use mirrors to reflect the sun's light to signal passing helicopters or small planes.
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River & Water Crossings in Hiking Crossing rivers or lakes can be risky. Waters that seem still could have strong currents and shallow waters could suddenly turn out to be quite deep. Assessing the situation is step one. Knowing how to deal with possible water dangers is step two. In this section, we will give some guidelines on crossing rivers and lakes and how to deal with Water Hazards.
* If you can avoid river wading and especially swimming then do so! If there is a bridge one mile along the river then detour and take the bridge. Safety always comes first!
* In general, you should try to remain calm when anything happens to you and you end up in the water. Frantic swimming will get you tired quickly. Try to remain calm and float as you assess your situation and try to come up with a solution.
* Should you be swept away when crossing a river and the river is filled with obstacles like rocks and logs, the safest position is to float on your back with your legs in front of you to absorb any bumps while using your arms to push away obstacles and steer.
* Should a teammate fall into the water, try using rope or sticks and make an effort to get him/her back to shore. Keep the rope flexible and do not tie it to a tree or other obstacle. A strong current might drag the victim under with no slack to submerge again.
Stream & River Wading
* Smaller rivers often have boulders. Try finding a place where you would be able to cross the river by using these boulders as stepping stones. Extend your Hiking Poles for balance. Find a large stick if you do not have Hiking Poles with you. Go from boulder to boulder, planting the balls of your feet on the summit of each boulder. Wet rocks, especially those overgrown with mosses, can be very slippery so go slow and plan your moves.
* Always walk along the river bank and find a good place to cross. Do not try to find the place where the river is narrowest. Wider parts of the river may have slower currents and shallower waters. Look for boulders that either provide a path or at least slow down the current and provide easy surfaces of deposited gravel behind them. Choose a trackable route (should things get rougher) that offers safe passage all the way to the other side.
* If you have to wade through the river then assess the river bottom surface. Go in with bare feet only if you are sure that there is no chance of cuts or serious scrapes. If you go bare feet then put your socks in your boots, put them in your backpack, and use your backpack's splash cover. If your backpack is full then tie the laces together and hang the boots on your backpack. Use your pair of sandals if you brought one.
* You can assess the current of a flowing river by throwing a stick or other floating object in the water. You will be surprised how seemingly calm rivers can still have a strong current. In stronger currents, plan a route that angles down and is across the current of the river.
* Undo the waist belt of your backpack. Should you fall, your backpack could drag you down and seriously constrain your movement. With your waist belt undone, you will be able to easily slip out of your backpack should you get dragged away.
Stream & River Swimming
Swimming with a Backpack
* In general, try to avoid swimming by looking for places that offer safer solutions.
* Watch out for mountain streams. Their currents are usually unpredictable and the temperature of the water is much too low for swimming. Melting glacier water will freeze you in minutes.
* As explained in river wading, it is essential to unfasten your waist belt.
* Do anything you can to increase the buoyancy of your backpack. If you have a splash cover for your backpack then use it. If you do not have one, do anything to keep your backpack from getting wet. Tuck in any equipment that you might have at the outside of your backpack. In case you have empty bottles, put them in the outside pockets of your backpack. If you have plastic bags, you could even fill those up with air and seal them at the outside of your pack.
* Keep the things you want to keep dry sealed in plastic bags or, if you do not have any plastic bags at your disposal, use your poncho/rain gear for extra protection against water. If you have an air mattress with you, use it as a flotation device and try swimming in the normal way with your backpack on and your air mattress underneath you. In wilder waters, do not use your air mattress as it increases the chances of floating away. If you brought a inflatable life vest then use that and leave your air mattress packed.
* If you backpack is sufficiently buoyant, you can use it as a flotation device.
* If your backpack is heavy and pulls you under, try swimming with one arm in the shoulder strap of your backpack and the other arm free.
* In case of strong currents, make sure to swim across the flow of the current. Swimming against the current will drain your energy quickly. Instead, stay calm and swim across the current direction until you feel its strength weakening.
In Hiking, there may be instances when you have to cross rivers or streams. Keep in mind that safety should be your first priority. Assess the situation and know how to traverse rivers or streams safely.
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