We were proud to be one of the official sponsors, and hosts of 3 hikes, at the 2022 Keswick Mountain Festival. Ahead of the event, INOV8 hike ambassador James Forrest put together a series of 3 articles where he shared the highlights of each of the hikes; what to take with you in your hiking pack; and how to prepare for a day out in the hills. In the second article of the series, James talks us through the kit you’ll want to take with you when hiking in the Lake District.
Any time you head out to explore the Lake District’s spectacular mountains, it’s crucial to be adequately prepared, equipped and kitted out for a variety of scenarios. The weather can change rapidly, the terrain is challenging, and – although unlikely – accidents do happen. Consequently you’ll need warm and waterproof layers, maps, food, drink and safety equipment with you at all times. The good news, however, is that getting all of this together isn’t rocket science. With a well-packed bag and some sensible clothing, you’ll soon be ready for an epic (and safe) day in the fells. Here’s a quick reminder of what you need to wear and pack – our ultimate hiking kit checklist.
WHAT TO WEAR
- Hiking boots or trail shoes – your footwear should be comfortable, protective and supportive, with good traction underfoot (and remember to fully break-in your boots over the weeks before KMF). Recommended: INOV8 Roclite G 345 GTX or INOV8 RocFly G 390.
- Hiking socks – a good pair of walking socks can mean the difference between excruciating blisters and pain-free hiking bliss. A high-quality pair will be fast-wicking, with padding and support where required. Recommended: INOV8 3 Season Outdoor Sock.
- Base-layer – a lightweight, short or long-sleeved t-shirt base-layer will provide a touch of warmth, and provide good moisture management and sweat-wicking (unlike a cotton t-shirt, which should be avoided at all costs). Recommended: INOV8 Base Elite Long-Sleeve 3.0.
- Hiking shorts, leggings or trousers – depending on the weather conditions and temperatures, a good pair of hiking legwear will provide the protection you need as well as excellent freedom of movement. Recommended: INOV8 Race Elite Tight 3.0 Women’s.
- Mid-layer – a mid-layer is a lightweight, thin(ish) layer designed to add warmth to your clothing system, when required. Whether it’s a micro-fleece or a synthetic jacket, this layer can be pulled on or taken off quickly, enabling you to react to the weather conditions. Recommended: INOV8 Technical Mid-layer 2.0.
- Insulating Outer Layer – if it’s particularly cold, a puffy jacket – filled with either down feathers or synthetic insulation – will provide a cosy, toasty sense of warmth. Recommended: INOV8 Thermoshell Pro Insulated Jacket 2.0.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR BACKPACK
- Waterproof jacket & over-trousers – protection for the inevitable rain!
- Spare mid-layer fleece top – for some added warmth, if required.
- Spare down jacket – for extra insulation if it’s unexpectedly cold.
- Warm hat and gloves – to protect your head and hands in cold climes.
- Sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses – for the unlikely event the sun comes out!
- Compass and waterproof map – for safe navigation through the hills.
- Head-torch – useful if you finish your hike later than expected.
- Food and drink – to fuel your adventures.
- Emergency rations – extra spare snacks in case your hike takes longer than expected.
- Water filter bottle – for safely drinking out of streams.
- Emergency survival bag – to shelter from rain or a storm, if required.
- Dry bags – waterproof, sealable bags to safely store your gear.
- Whistle – for calling for help in an emergency.
- First aid kit - plasters, painkillers and basic medical supplies.
- Trekking poles - for balance and to take pressure off your joints.
- Mobile phone (with route downloaded to a navigation app) – for navigation assistance.
- Waterproof phone case and portable charger – to keep your phone dry and fully-charged.
- Rubbish bag – for carrying out any rubbish and ensuring you ‘leave no trace’.
- Toilet tissue, trowel and hand sanitiser – in case you get caught short in the hills.
- Midge repellent – to keep the dreaded insects at bay.
- Personal medication and toiletries – for any personal medical needs.
*Check out our hiking range for all you'll need to take on this iconic Lake District hiking routes.