Buying Guides: Walking Equipment

Here's a selection of useful equipment designed to help you maximise enjoyment from your walking experience.

Walking Pole Guide

Poles aid stability and help reduce pressure on your joints, injuries and other aches and pains. For
maximum benefit, they are best used in pairs.

Handle

Can be rubber, cork or plastic. Forward-angled handles are better for long descents.

Sections

Poles usually comprise of two or three sections, with three giving a shorter pack-down size for ease of carrying.

Wrist strap

Usually made of webbing with an adjustable buckle.

Baskets

Designed to stop tips digging too far into the ground.

Tips

Durable tungsten carbide tips are best. Ensure you can buy replacements and rubber tips to protect them.

Extra information

Shock absorption

Some poles have anti-shock systems (usually a spring in the shaft), and others have devices that
can be switched on or off. Anti-shock helps to reduce the jarring effect on rocky ground, however this can increase pack-down size. Poles with an on/off switch offer the best of both worlds, but are usually more expensive.

Adjustment

The length of most poles can be adjusted by twisting two lockable sections. Some use external locking clips, which can be easier to use but don't look as good. NB Whichever model you choose, when walking, make sure both poles are adjusted to roughly elbow height for best performance.

GPS explained

What is GPS?

GPS (Global Positioning System) is an electronic navigation tool that enables you to find your precise location wherever you are in the world. They use satellite technology to calculate your position, which is usually accurate to within 15 metres.

Why do I need it?

GPS technology is rapidly changing how people find their way around the planet. Whether used for recreation, saving lives or getting somewhere faster, GPS is becoming more and more popular.

How can it help me?

GPS will help you avoid getting lost on a walk, or find your way back to a favourite spot. In short, anyone who needs to keep track of where they are, to find a specific location, or to know what direction and how fast they are going can enjoy the benefits of GPS.

When and where can I use it?

You can use GPS anywhere - land, sea or air - except when it isn't possible to get a signal eg inside a building or underwater.

How do I get started?

There are no set-up fees or subscription charges. Simply buy a hand-held GPS receiver and off you go. Ask in store for more advice on choosing the best model.

GPS features

Accuracy

How far out the location readings are. Some models are 'WAAS enabled' (a system using two extra satellites) and will be more accurate.

Tracks

Most GPS units record a 'breadcrumb' trail that you can follow back to your start point. The larger the number of points, the further you can go.

Waypoints/routes

You can programme a route by keying in a series of grid references, called waypoints.

Memory

You can load road/street maps and other locations on to some models (separate CDs required). The greater the memory, the more information the unit can store.

Compass Basics

Being able to use a map and compass will help you navigate routes easily and safely and reduce the chances of getting lost!

First step is to learn how to walk on a bearing, eg 80 degrees.
Start by turning the compass dial around to 80 degrees until it lines up with the direction of travel arrow.
Hold the compass level in your palm and turn your body until the needle is perfectly lined up with the orientation arrow.
Now look at the direction of travel arrow - this is the line you need to walk.
To help you stay on the bearing, choose a distant point on the line of your bearing. Follow this carefully, checking that you are still on course.

Hydration for everyone

When walking, or doing any form of exercise, it is important to drink regularly to replace lost fluids and ensure muscles don't get tired. A recommended guideline is to drink about 1 litre of water for every hour of vigorous exercise. There are three main ways to stay hydrated:-

Hydration packs

These ultra light rucksacks incorporate a hydration system (water bladder and tube), which you can sip from while on the move. They also have room to store a small amount of gear. Designed for cycling, running, walking and other strenuous outdoor pursuits where fluid replacement is vital.

Hydration Bladders

You can also buy the water bladder/tube hydration system separately. Available in various sizes, they can be used in rucksacks that are designed to take a hydration system and are becoming more and more popular on the hill.

Water bottles

The traditional water bottle is another way of taking on fluids. Made of aluminum, or tough plastic and best stored in the side pocket of your rucksack for easy access.