{"id":49126,"date":"2022-06-17T09:00:55","date_gmt":"2022-06-16T23:30:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/?p=49126"},"modified":"2023-03-16T14:11:44","modified_gmt":"2023-03-16T03:41:44","slug":"hiking-gear-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/hiking-gear-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"A Gear Guide for Hiking and Trail Running"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>You can definitely become bogged down in the details when it comes to gear for trail running and hiking. I\u2019ve seen complicated spreadsheets, and so many conversation threads on the interweb along the lines of \u201cwhat\u2019s the best [<em>insert required gear here<\/em>]?\u201d. I always reply with what those people don&#8217;t want to hear:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt depends, and will come down to personal preference, body type, activity and gender.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now \u2013 before you hit close on my blog and declare me completely useless, bear with me while I explain. First, I\u2019ll offer <em>my<\/em> top pieces of gear that I believe are essential, then tell you how to find the perfect piece for <em>you<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you with me?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Mountain-Run-1.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is running through the ankle-height grasses on a hilltop, overlooking mountains, small bodies of water, and valleys. She wears a bright blue jacket, a navy cap, and bright green running shoes. \" class=\"wp-image-49148\" title=\"I\u2019ll offer my thoughts on the essentials, then explain how to find the perfect piece for you!\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Mountain-Run-1.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Mountain-Run-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Mountain-Run-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Mountain-Run-1-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>I\u2019ll offer my thoughts on the essentials, then explain how to find the perfect piece for you!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Shoes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s start with the literal foundation of your run, hike, or climb \u2013 your shoes, which can make all the difference to your experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ll say at the outset that if you ask a Facebook group for their favourite shoe, you\u2019ll read of every type of shoe available (*eyeroll*) \u2013 because feet are so different. My advice is to, if possible, head into a store and try them on. To ensure they fit, bring along the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-footwear-hiking-socks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">socks<\/a> you\u2019re likely to wear, and go for a walk around the shop to get a feel for the shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you like to wear bulkier <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-footwear-hiking-socks#?pagenumber=1&amp;orderBy=0&amp;type=1650\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">socks in winter<\/a> (as we do here in New Zealand, in what becomes a very chilly alpine environment), you\u2019ll want a fit that accommodates these as well as your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-footwear-hiking-socks#?pagenumber=1&amp;orderBy=0&amp;type=1651\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">socks for warmer weather<\/a>. When buying online, take the same test when your shoes first arrive to ensure they are the right fit for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Training-On-Coner-Peak-Running.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is running along a narrow trail against a vast, mountainous backdrop. The grooves of the ridges, ranges, and valleys are visible on the mountain face, and their tops are capped by a thick mist. Tanya wears black running tights, bright blue runners, a brightly patterned, blue headband, grey jacket, and hydration vest. \" class=\"wp-image-49156\" title=\"Your shoes are literally the foundation of your run, hike, or climb.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Training-On-Coner-Peak-Running.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Training-On-Coner-Peak-Running-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Training-On-Coner-Peak-Running-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Training-On-Coner-Peak-Running-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Your shoes are literally the foundation of your run, hike, or climb.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Boots or Shoes?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are partaking in both hiking and trail running regularly, having both options is great.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Otherwise:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>If you mostly hike with a heavy pack, go with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/womens-hiking-footwear#?pagenumber=1&amp;orderBy=15&amp;specIds=995,956&amp;type=3757\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">boot<\/a> that offers some ankle support.<\/li><li>If you mostly run and fast-pack, setting off on the occasional heavy-pack hike \u2013 go with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/womens-hiking-footwear#?pagenumber=1&amp;orderBy=15&amp;type=3758\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trail shoes<\/a>. For reference, I hiked across New Zealand wearing my fav trail runners!<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tread, Drop, Stack?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Drop any of these words among a group of trail runners, and you\u2019ll instigate an animated discussion with personal opinions about the pros and cons of each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, here\u2019s the crux of it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Tread<\/strong> is, arguably, the most important feature of your shoes in the outdoors. Whether you are hiking or running the trails, you want to stick to them. This is a simple one: wear <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/womens-hiking-footwear#?pagenumber=1&amp;orderBy=15\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trail shoes and hiking boots<\/a> when venturing into the wild, and leave the road shoes for the road. I\u2019ve seen many people on the trails wearing shoes that don\u2019t have suitable tread \u2013 and it\u2019s a disaster! Most shoes are advertised for the terrain they are suitable for \u2013 so <em>buy<\/em> for the terrain that you spend most of your time on.<\/li><li><strong>Drop<\/strong> is the height difference between your heel and forefoot. It can be argued for low versus high, depending on your stride style, calf-length, and whether you climb a lot \u2013 it all gets a little <em>\u2018Beautiful Mind\u2019<\/em>. Zero drop, or a 13-millimetre drop? Go with whatever feels best for you. Start in the middle if you aren\u2019t sure. Around 8 millimetres is a good all-round shoe for flat surfaces, undulating terrain, and climbing. The most important point here is that you stretch your calf muscles after a run or hike, as they are affected by the \u2018drop\u2019. It&#8217;s also recommended to factor calf raises into your strength workout.<\/li><li><strong>Stack<\/strong> is basically how far off the ground you will be! For example, Hoka\u2019s generally have a high stack, and Inov-8 generally have a low. A higher stack will have more cushioning \u2013 great for hard-packed trails \u2013 while a lower stack will offer better proprioception (or ground-feel). What does that mean? With a lower stack, you should be more responsive on technical terrain because your feet can feel and adapt better to the changes underfoot. If you are mostly on technical trails that vary in terrain, consider going for a lower stack. On the other hand, if you are mainly on hard-packed trails for long runs, a higher stack will offer more comfort. I have both: my comfortable, cushioned shoes for my everyday runs, and my lower stack for mountain missions and races.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Packs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you have your shoes sorted, we can move onto the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/backpacks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pack<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most important considerations here are size and fit. Again, I recommend trying on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/backpacks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">packs<\/a> and heading in-store to be fitted if you can. When ordering online, check the size guides to achieve the right fit \u2013 and when your online order arrives, try it on with added weight to ensure it feels comfortable. If you are a woman, choose a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/ac-lite-28-sl-hiking-backpack?c=Graphite+Shale\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">women-specific fit<\/a> \u2013 there is a difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In an ideal world, we would all have a gear room lined with a pack of every size (*sigh*, a girl can dream \u2013 and over time this dream can become a reality). To start with though, I would recommend three sizes to cover you from trail running to multi-day missions. In case you didn\u2019t know, the \u2018size\u2019 of a pack (outside of body size and fit) is based on the capacity of a pack, measured in litres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Me-And-Osprey-Pack.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is standing against a plain, cream-coloured wall holding a large grey hiking pack. Her head is tilted out the side, and she is grinning. \" class=\"wp-image-49149\" title=\"The \u2018size\u2019 of a pack is based on the capacity of a pack, measured in litres.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Me-And-Osprey-Pack.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Me-And-Osprey-Pack-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Me-And-Osprey-Pack-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Me-And-Osprey-Pack-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>The \u2018size\u2019 of a pack is based on the capacity of a pack, measured in litres.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trail running<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There are different-sized packs available, but a great all-rounder would come in around a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/speed-lite-12-hiking-backpack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12-litre capacity<\/a>. This should cover you for all-day missions and should fit all the required gear for most ultra-races.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day hikes and fast-packing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you&#8217;re heading out on a day hike and need a little more gear and food, or on a fast-packing overnighter \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hitch-30-day-pack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">a pack of around 30 litres<\/a> will fit the bill. If you\u2019re likely to be running, look for a pack with either a waist strap, or a chest strap with a lower strap to stop the bag from bouncing about on your back as you increase your pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Multiday<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019re off on a longer mission into the wilderness with a tent, sleeping bag, roll mat, multiple days\u2019 worth of food, and a cooker (you get the picture) \u2013 you will require everything to survive on your back. For these kinds of missions, you\u2019re looking for a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/pulse-65-rucksack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pack of around 65 litres<\/a>. Look for comfort through the straps, back support, and pockets on the front side of the waist belt for your phone, compass, and snacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Clothing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Having the right clothing is essential, as feeling too hot or too cold can be just miserable. Obviously, clothing will be dependent on the climate in which you are moving \u2013 but there are some basics that should be in your kit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m going to keep it simple here, with up top, bottom half, and accessories!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/30L-Pack-Day-Trips-Overnighters.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is trekking uphill through the ankle-height grasses on a hilltop, overlooking mountains blanketed by mist. She wears a magenta jacket, a navy cap, and dark grey trekking shoes. \" class=\"wp-image-49150\" title=\"Clothing will be dependent on the climate in which you are moving.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/30L-Pack-Day-Trips-Overnighters.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/30L-Pack-Day-Trips-Overnighters-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/30L-Pack-Day-Trips-Overnighters-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/30L-Pack-Day-Trips-Overnighters-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Clothing will be dependent on the climate in which you are moving.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Up Top<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Start with a good crop-top or sports bra. Avoid cotton at all costs. It&#8217;s terrible when wet, so go for synthetic and merino.<\/li><li>Next is a tee. Go for a sports top of technical fabric here. You want something that is moisture-wicking and quick-drying.<\/li><li>The next layer is your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-outdoor-thermals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">thermal<\/a> \u2013 be it synthetic or merino, go for something that is warm and dries quickly.<\/li><li>Mid-layer is more for hiking and multiday trips than trail running, and could either be fleece or merino. Essentially, it&#8217;s that added layer for when things cool down. The mid-layer\u2019s warmth is based on fabric weight, so around 200 grams is a good starting point.<\/li><li>Puffer jacket \u2013 idea for trail-running in cooler climates, hiking, and multiday trips. The goal here is to find the warmest jacket at the lightest weight. Synthetic is great here because they are lightweight and dry quickly.<\/li><li>Finally, the water- and windproof layers. If you live in a warmer climate and aren\u2019t heading alpine, you&#8217;ll likely only need a standard <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/stowaway-adult-jacket\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">seam-sealed jacket<\/a>. If you <em>are<\/em> headed into more inclement climates, investing in a high-quality Gore-Tex jacket will be the best move you ever make.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bottom Half<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Either start with whatever underwear is comfortable for you \u2013 or go commando, that works too! If chaffing is an issue, apply some anti-chafe cream.<\/li><li>Shorts or tights are your next layer. For me, it\u2019s shorts in summer and tights in winter. I also have fleece-lined tights for when the temperature really drops!<\/li><li>Waterproof or Gore-Tex pants \u2013 essential for most trail races, and just a must-have safety garment when heading out over winter.<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-footwear-hiking-socks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Socks<\/a>. There are heaps of brands on offer, so find what works for you. My top tip here is to make sure they fit well within your shoes to avoid blisters. My bonus tip is to use lube on your feet for long days out. It can feel weird, and kinda icky to start with \u2013 but your feet will love you for it!<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Accessories<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/buff\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buff<\/a> tube \u2013 that piece of stretchy fabric that is so multipurpose. Wear it as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/merino-wool-headwear\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">neck gaiter<\/a>, or over your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/merino-wool-headwear\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">head and ears<\/a> for warmth. Soak it in cool water and wrap around the wrist to beat the heat, or to wipe the snot, sweat, and whatever else on a big day out!&nbsp; Having a buff or two in your kit is essential.<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-camping-gloves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gloves<\/a> are a vital piece in a winter running kit. Wind- and waterproof can be great, but start with some basic sports gloves (because cold hands are the worst).<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/darwa-reversible-merino-beanie\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Winter hat<\/a> &#8211; often a requirement for trail running races, and good to have if you\u2019re in a cold climate. Think skull-cap style and go for merino to keep you toasty. If you need to wear a hat, don\u2019t skimp on it.&nbsp;<\/li><li>Caps, shades, watches \u2013 these are all nice to have, but not essential. If you are just getting started, don\u2019t get hung up on them. Start with the basics and essentials, and add to your kit as you can over time.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So \u2013 that is my list of essentials and your<em> \u2018<\/em>capsule wardrobe\u2019 for running and hiking. Shoes, a pack, and the clothes on your back! Start with these pieces, and you\u2019ll build the foundation of gear that will take you to all the places you\u2019ve dreamed about. Whether you run, hike, or multiday tramp \u2013 on-track or off \u2013 the basics remain the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Day-Tripping.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya wears a blue sports t-shirt, black shorts, bright aqua shoes, and a large pack on her back. She is walking along lush, green grass, with a mountainous landscape in the background and a vivid blue sky streaked with whispy, white clouds.\" class=\"wp-image-49157\" title=\"Your \u2018capsule wardrobe\u2019 for running and hiking: shoes, a pack, and the clothes on your back!\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Day-Tripping.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Day-Tripping-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Day-Tripping-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Day-Tripping-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Your \u2018capsule wardrobe\u2019 for running and hiking: shoes, a pack, and the clothes on your back!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">My FAVS!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who already have the above, and are thinking about what\u2019s next \u2013 this list details my favourite pieces of kit, on top of the basics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Poles<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Be it running, walking, or crawling the mountains \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-poles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">poles<\/a> are just \u2018betterer\u2019. I call mine Jack and Jill \u2013 and I LOVE them. Here&#8217;s why:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>By recruiting more muscles to do the work, they can improve your endurance and power when climbing.<\/li><li>More points of contact provide better balance and stability. Ever watched a mountain goat climb a steep, rocky incline? Imagine if they only had two legs!<\/li><li>Thanks to their contribution in improving efficiency, poles help to save energy on steeper terrain. The more efficient you are, the less your body has to work!<\/li><li>When your body is wrecked, and you&#8217;ve slowed to a shuffle \u2013 poles provide support on the downhill, which can go a long way. Or, once you\u2019ve become more skilled, they can also up your downhill game on technical terrain.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Headphones<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Ohhhh, controversial! The purists will say you should listen to nature \u2013 I say I\u2019d rather not hear my heavy breathing when I\u2019m training hard or racing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Music while training just makes me happy. So I\u2019m going to wear my headphones and sing out loud, out of tune when I\u2019m out of breath, and maybe have a wee dance as I go \u2013 because I can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Waterproof, wireless, and with a long-lasting battery are the go.<\/li><li>If you are on a busy trail, I recommend wearing only one bud so you can still hear what&#8217;s going on around you.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Poles-Headphones-Running-Happy.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is captured mid-stride, running through ankle-height green grasses. She wears a bright red t-shirt, black shoes, a hydration pack, a racing number printed on her front, and bright aqua headphones in her ears. \" class=\"wp-image-49151\" title=\"Music while training just makes me happy!\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Poles-Headphones-Running-Happy.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Poles-Headphones-Running-Happy-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Poles-Headphones-Running-Happy-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Poles-Headphones-Running-Happy-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Music while training just makes me happy!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Nutrition<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I like easy-to-consume calories when I\u2019m on the go. Once you\u2019ve practiced eating, you\u2019ll figure out what works for you. Here are my fav <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-food\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">foods<\/a> and top tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>As a carb-burner, my go-to are lollies, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/shot-energy-blocks-mountain-berry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">gels<\/a>, and carb-based drinks.<\/li><li>For tramping and hiking, look for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-food#?pagenumber=1&amp;orderBy=0&amp;specIds=592\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">highest calorie content per weight<\/a>. I look for anything with 400-calories per 100 grams or higher, to max out the calories for the weight I have to carry.<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/hiking-food\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dehydrated meals<\/a> are your friend \u2013 both lightweight and easy to transport.<\/li><li>I carry a small, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/cool-grip-x-mug?c=Charcoal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">collapsible rubber cup<\/a> to enjoy water from creeks, streams, and rivers when I\u2019m out hiking too.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Dehy-Food-2.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is sitting cross-legged on her kitchen floor, reaching for an aqua green packet of dehydrated food to pack. She is wearing a grey t-shirt, her hair down, and a smile on her face. \" class=\"wp-image-49159\" title=\"I like easy-to-consume calories when I\u2019m on the go!\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Dehy-Food-2.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Dehy-Food-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Dehy-Food-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Dehy-Food-2-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>I like easy-to-consume calories when I\u2019m on the go!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Back-Country-Cuisine.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is sitting cross-legged on her kitchen floor, slipping an aqua green packet of dehydrated food into a clear plastic sleeve. She is wearing a grey t-shirt, her hair down, and bare feet. \" class=\"wp-image-49153\" title=\"Dehydrated meals are your friend \u2013 both lightweight and easy to transport.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Back-Country-Cuisine.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Back-Country-Cuisine-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Back-Country-Cuisine-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Back-Country-Cuisine-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Dehydrated meals are your friend \u2013 both lightweight and easy to transport.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recovery Compression Boots<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m not talking about Uggs here\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When I think of my compression boots, I imagine a choir of angels singing with their arms extended, as the recovery boots float like a gift from above, bathed in golden light. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, it\u2019s fair to say that in writing any \u2018gear guide\u2019, I\u2019m going to add my boots. Here&#8217;s why they are so great:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Improve circulation<\/li><li>Enhance lymphatic drainage<\/li><li>Remove waste products, including lactic acid<\/li><li>Improve range of movement and flexibility<\/li><li>Decrease recovery time<\/li><li>Increase flexibility and joint range of motion<\/li><li>Enable adventurers to relax and unwind<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Recovery-Systems-Compression-Boots.jpg\" alt=\"Tanya is sitting relaxed on her couch with her legs up and feet in her compression boots. She is wearing a black hoodie with white text, a big smile on her face, and holding a pen up by her chin. \" class=\"wp-image-49154\" title=\"My recovery compression boots are like a gift sent from above!\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Recovery-Systems-Compression-Boots.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Recovery-Systems-Compression-Boots-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Recovery-Systems-Compression-Boots-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Recovery-Systems-Compression-Boots-10x7.jpg 10w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>My recovery compression boots are like a gift sent from above!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for further info on any of the above? Feel free to drop me a line. Otherwise \u2013 happy adventuring, and hopefully I\u2019ll see you out there sometime!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Wanting to upgrade your hiking kit?<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class='watch-action'><div class='watch-position align-left'><div class='action-like'><a class='lbg-style1 like-49126 jlk' href='javascript:void(0)' data-task='like' data-post_id='49126' data-nonce='39285d777c' rel='nofollow'><img class='wti-pixel' src='https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-content\/plugins\/wti-like-post\/images\/pixel.gif' title='Liked it' \/><span class='lc-49126 lc'>4<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div> <div class='status-49126 status align-left'><\/div><\/div><div class='wti-clear'><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Tanya Bottomley unpacks her ultimate gear guide for hiking and trail running &#8211; a kick-butt blend of essential items and personal favourites.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1454,"featured_media":49136,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1582,1588],"tags":[1398,176,1226,1395,1397,1399,1318,1377,1396],"class_list":["post-49126","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-gear","category-gear-hiking-accessories","tag-gearguide","tag-hiking","tag-hikinggear","tag-hikinggearguide","tag-runninggear","tag-snowsy","tag-snowysblog","tag-trailrunning","tag-trailrunninggearguide"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49126"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1454"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=49126"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49126\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":53412,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49126\/revisions\/53412"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/49136"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=49126"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=49126"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.snowys.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=49126"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}