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Recommended Kit for Winter Hiking

Backpack

For day hikes your backpack should have a capacity of between 35 and 50 litres. The extra capacity is required to fit in the extra kit that will be needed in winter.

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You should either have a waterproof cover for it or use dry bags inside to keep the contents dry.

Footwear

All winter A and B walkers should wear a pair of B1to B3 hiking or mountain boots that have the ability to take a crampon. Microspikes can be useful for winter C walkers.

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C1 ot C3 Crampons should be taken with you where conditions of ice and snow are likely.

Upper Clothing

During winter a thermal base layer, fleece and winter jacket is recommended. You should also take several pairs of gloves, a hat and scarf or buff.

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If the route has a risk of avalanche a helmet should also be worn. Goggles are advantageous when there is a high chance of snow or hail.

Lower Clothing

We recommend that trousers are worn in winter with a thermal legging underneath as required. Snowboarding trousers are a suitable all in one option when the temperature is very low.

Waterproofs

Waterproofs trousers or gaiters are recommended when walking in snow to keep you dry. A waterproof jacket will stop you getting wet in the snow. Additionally waterproof gloves are recommended to keep your hands warm and dry.

Food

You should carry as a minimum enough for a day's walking. This would ideally be a combination of snacks and a meal. A hot snack such a chemically heated ready meal can be useful in winter.

Drink

We recommend that at least a litre of fluid is carried by all members. In winter Do carry an extra bottle if using a hydration pack as the tube can freeze. When the temperatures drop it is worth bringing a flask with a hot drink or using it to keep your cold drink from freezing.

Accesories

We would ask that all walkers carry their mobile phone with them and ensure that it is charged and switched on while walking. A power bank if you have one is worth taking. A hiking pole and ice axe is essential kit during winter as is a headtorch due to the limited hours of daylight.

First Aid

If you know how to use it you should carry a first aid kit, map and compass with you at all times hiking. During winter it is recommended that you carry a survival blanket and personal bothy shelter. Heat pads are advantageous for those that suffer from cold hands and feet.

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