Quiet paths, frosty landscapes and dramatic views that is why we love a winter walk- those and earning a hot chocolate afterwards. Walking in winter does have some increased risks: – shorter days, cold weather and icy paths. The last thing you want is to pick up an injury or need rescuing. A small bit of preparation means problems are less likely.
Plan your route
Start early to make sure you have enough daylight hours ahead of you to complete your walk. Part of this is to also check the weather forecast, take note of the wind. Blustery wind can hugely affect you on a walk.
Wear and pack layers
There’s nothing worse than getting cold. If you are heading somewhere high or exposed the temperature drops quickly and the wind can get unexpectedly fierce. A hat even on a warmish day is vital to have in your bag for these colder moments. It works the opposite way too; layers are perfect to peel off if you get too hot.
Always have some food and water
Even if you are only going out for an hour. If something did happen a bar of flapjack will hopefully give you enough energy to make it back to the car. In the cold, you might forget to take a drink but staying hydrated is just as vital on a cold day as on a hot one.
Use a stick
Even if it’s a flat walk an extra contact point with the ground will decrease the chances of you falling over.
Take a friend
It’s great to share the experience and have someone ready to take an Instagram perfect photo of you. Tag us in your photos, we would love to see your winter walks. If you are going for some solitude make sure someone knows your route and an expected time to know you’ve returned safely.
Prepare your feet
The factors which cause blister are moisture, friction and pressure. When you decrease these factors you will reduce the chances of blisters forming. We have lots of information about preventing blisters on this webpage, so click over.
Above all, enjoy your adventures. If at any point you do feel a hot spot forming, take a break, use our YouTube video to stop a blister forming before it stops your walk.
