The Importance of Having the Right Gear When Walking in The Forest

Most people aren’t fortunate enough to live in or around a forested area, if you happen to live in or near to a forest then you really should make the most of it. Going for a walk in a forest can do some amazing things for somebody’s state of mind and clarity of thinking, there is something calming about walking through a forest that no other activity can offer. It is, however, really important to make sure you are properly dressed for the occasion in order to get the most benefit, here are some things to consider before setting off;

What is the terrain like?

Depending on which forest you are intending to venture out into, you will find that there will likely be different terrain and environments to deal with. The last thing you want is to be ‘unprepared’ by having the wrong footwear. The correct shoes for walking in the forest from Decathlon could make all the difference to your outing and overall experience, you could find that you acquire a new hobby.

Footwear can be overlooked, but, if you make the wrong choice of footwear, you could find yourself with something like an ankle injury. Clearly you wouldn’t wear smart business footwear for a trek into the forest, but you might consider something like wellington boots which don’t actually provide the correct ankle support for many types of terrain.

How long will you be going for?

The last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with no battery on your phone, no food and no drink to keep you hydrated properly. Planning before you set off can mean that don’t have to be restricted by time, you could, for example, take a power bank with you to top up your phone battery and some food and drink so that you can have a proper day out that includes a picnic somewhere secluded.

What to wear?

Apart from footwear you will want to consider the weather and where you will be going, not all forests are the same, but generally speaking you will want to wear something that covers your arms and legs. Many a person has returned from a walk in the forest only to find themselves scratched by thorns or, even to have tics attached to them after walking through long grass.

If the weather is hot, you will likely want a hat of some sort to protect you from the sun, or if it is raining or cold then you will want some extra protection, perhaps even something waterproof.

What do you want to do on your trek?

If you are going on a walk into the forest, then you should consider what you want to do whilst you are there. It doesn’t just have to be a walk in the forest, you could make a weekend of it and have a really fun time, perhaps you could camp out if the forestry commission allows it.

If camping is allowed, then that brings a whole new aspect to the idea of ‘just’ a walk in the forest. You could enjoy things like camping, cooking in the wilderness, swimming, kayaking or even paddle boarding, all the equipment you need is readily available at outdoors activity outlets.