 Shoes
You will choose your shoes in accordance with the hike you want to do. For a foot hike, you should choose supple and thick soles so as not to feel the stones. The quality of the gum is very important (vibram has proved itself). You should choose light and supple ankle boots.
Against the sun
Quality glasses are as indispensable as are a cap or a beret. Beware not to forget sun cream for lips and face.
Against the rain
In the mountain, the weather tends to change very quickly, you should therefore always have in your backpack something to protect yourself against the rain. A big poncho which will also cover your backpack and go down to the middle of the leg is well adapted for walking; the ideal protection still being a Gore-Tex jacket.
The backpack
The more appropriate are 50 to 60 liters nylon backpacks, with a very supple frame. A two-pocketed pack having an external access will be very handy. Moreover, when loading it, you should not exceed 8 kg.
First-aid material
Nothing ideal in this field. We suggest: cotton, gauze, strap, adhesive bandage for dressing or against blisters, safety pins, scissors or razor blade, an antiseptic (disinfectant), an analgesic for pain (paracetamol or aspirin), an anti-inflammatory drug in case of blows or sprain, a cream to ease burns and a collyrium for the eyes. As far as viper bites are concerned, the wisest is to have someone call the rescue team; if you are isolated, quietly walk to the nearest refuge and tell the warden. Avoid ready-made first-aid boxes, for which the box in itself already weighs 1 kg. Refuges and rest houses will have more medication. |
