Hiking in spring and autumn has a number of surprises in store for you and it would be a shame to miss out for fear of a rain shower! When the weather is changeable, the trails are less busy, so it's worth having the right equipment to cope with all the weather conditions and make the most of it. However, it is important to check that the forecast is not more threatening!
To keep dry, waterproof clothing is, of course, the first thing that comes to mind. MAKE SURE YOU TAKE EQUIPMENT THAT'S WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE, THOUGH, OTHERWISE YOU'LL END UP SWIMMING IN YOUR OWN PERSPIRATION. Apart from the discomfort, there's a real risk of suffering from hypothermia.
Waterproof jacket and over-trousers are two essentials. They are often very light and easy to slip into a backpack. Some overtrousers even come with ankle zips, so that you can get them on/off without removing your shoes.
The added extra: Regarding tops, there are two schools of thought, i.e. those who prefer ponchos and those who prefer jackets. The poncho has the advantage of protecting both yourself and your backpack. However, in windy weather, it quickly becomes a hindrance and can even prevent you from seeing where you're putting your feet. A jacket doesn't protect your backpack but does offer great freedom of movement. In this case, consider protecting your backpack with a cover. Some Quechua backpacks have a built-in cover.
Walking with wet feet is never very pleasant and can cause friction and so discomfort. Therefore, remember to take water-resistant footwear.
Please note: not all the waterproof boots offer the same level of waterproofing.
You'll find three levels of waterproofing which correspond to a number of flexes, i.e. steps:~
If you have already been using your boots for a few years, don't hesitate to restore the waterproofing before your hike. When crossing rivers, it's best to take off your boots and socks, which you can swap for a pair of open or quick-drying shoes like those of our Fresh footwear range. The latter eliminate water through a sole that is perforated with water channels. Dry your feet before putting your shoes back on. Also consider taking a spare pair of socks, just in case.
To maintain good vision and prevent water from running down your neck, you can wear a cap with a visor under your hood to guide the water forwards.
The added extra: Quechua has created waterproof jackets with a 3D hood and rigid visor to stop the water getting in your face. These hoods are adjustable to fit you perfectly and offer optimum protection.
It may seem strange, but an umbrella still comes in handy in addition to your walking gear, in the event of a shower. It's also essential in some countries where the heavy rainfall or monsoon combined with high temperatures make it the perfect accessory to stay dry without getting too hot.
The added extra: Of course, do not use it in thunderstorms.
Indeed, it is important that the clothes you wear under your waterproof jacket wick away perspiration effectively. Otherwise you'll be soaked ... in your own perspiration! Read our article to find out how to calculate the breathability of materials.
The added extra: we tend to tighten the rip-tabs at the cuffs in the hope that water won't be able to get in. This also means that you will feel hotter and soon transforms your jacket into a sauna, regardless of how breathability it is.
Staying dry is essential, but if the spare equipment you're carrying on your back gets wet, all your efforts will have been in vain. ~
Map, camera, identity papers and phone deserve even more effective treatment. The best option is to have some waterproof pouches to keep your belongings perfectly dry even if briefly submerged in water: one for the map which you need to consult even when it is raining and another for the belongings that remain in your backpack.
The added extra: Our Forclaz 900 jacket is even equipped with outer pockets with waterproof zips to keep your valuables both dry and within easy reach.
If you have spent the whole day hiking in the rain and are base camping, i.e. day hiking and returning to the same base camp every evening, remember to dry your clothing during the day for the next day. Even if your first reaction is to attend to basic needs such as eating or resting, take a few minutes to hang up your clothing or lay it out in a place that is sheltered from any overnight downpours.~
The added extra: you can also make the most of any sunny spells during the day to dry your things by hanging them from your bag (which has been dried itself) or on a tree during a break. Make the most of every ray of sunshine.
Safety advice: Experiencing a shower during a hike is one thing, hiking in driving rain with no visibility is another.~