Since their introduction in the early 90’s, hydration bladders (also referred to as hydration reservoirs and hydration systems) have become increasingly popular among hikers, trekkers, mountaineers and other outdoor enthusiasts. This is mainly due to the fact that they, unlike water bottles, allow easy access to water and you have your hands free when drinking….
For the first hike this summer, I decided to climb the Begunjscica mountain. Begunjscica is a little over 2000 meters high mountain in the north-western part of Slovenia; a small Central European country, bordered by Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary, where you find the easternmost part of the Alps. Begunjscica is a part of the 120 kilometers…
When hiking, it is your legs which do the majority of the work. Therefore high-quality hiking pants are highly appreciated among hikers, trekkers and mountaineers as they offer some basic protection against the surroundings (rocks, vegetation) and weather (wind, rain, sun radiation etc.). Hiking pants should also provide great freedom of movement so that you…
Mid-layer is an important part of a layered clothing system because it provides insulation and thus keeps your warm in cold conditions. The term “mid-layer” is often confusing to those who are new to hiking because it can apply to various garments. Fleece jackets, woollen sweaters, down jackets and jackets with synthetic insulation are all…
Layered clothing system is the norm when it comes to hiking, mountaineering and similar activities. Wearing multiple layers enables you to add or shed layers according to the conditions like changes in temperature, precipitation, wind and your activity level. The base layer is probably the most important part of the layered clothing system because it…
When it comes to short hiking trips, a daypack is one of the most useful pieces of hiking gear as it allows you to easily and comfortably carry additional clothing, water, food and accessories. Many hikers use relatively big backpacks (+ 40l) also for short trips, but this is not efficient as these backpacks do…
Via ferratas (“iron trails”) are steep and exposed trails running up and along abrupt hills and mountain sides, where the risk of a fatal fall is minimized by having a steel cable run along the trail – to which you can attach yourself with a via ferrata set. In addition to that via ferrata trails…
Base layers made of Merino wool are very popular among hikers, mountaineers and other outdoor enthusiasts as they offer superb temperature regulation, breathability, odor-control, UV protection and moisture-wicking properties. Unlike regular wool, Merino wool is really soft and pleasant to the touch and thus doesn’t cause any itching or other discomfort. Many hikers face a…
As a warm-up for my “Hiking the Alps” tour, I decided to do the Gradiska Tura route, which is an interesting and dynamic via ferrata trail in western Slovenia. Slovenia is a small Central European country which is bordered by Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary, and it is here that you…
Iceland is a beautiful country with many unique and interesting landscapes, which makes it a gem for hikers of all kinds whether they prefer the toughest hills or more recreational trails around the country. However, Iceland is expensive – even compared to the States or other Scandinavian countries and not least when it comes to…
