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Winter walking and hiking : How to choose the right equipment?

Contents created in cooperation with Vifamagazine.ca, December 2020

Children are sure to love winter hiking... provided they have the proper equipment when they step out the door. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right equipment.

How to choose hiking poles ?

They are designed to shift some of the user’s weight onto the poles for better balance on uneven ground, to work the upper body and subdue the impact on the knees and hips when walking downhill.

Using hiking poles can reduce muscular fatigue of the joints by up to 30 % which really makes a difference when you’re carrying a heavy load on your back.

When finished with them, disassemble the different sections of the poles for easy drying.

How to choose a backpack ?

If there’s one item that is a must-have when hiking, whether on foot, skis or snowshoes, it’s definitely a backpack! Backpacks are available in a variety of different styles. Choose the best one for you based on what you need it to do.

• Daypacks or Day Hiking Backpacks (15 to 35 litres) for short treks. A school backpack can entirely do the trick!
• Ski Backpack (30 to 55 litres) constructed for the demands of much more intense activities and needed for transporting equipment (skis, downhill ski equipment or overnight nature hikes).
• Hiking Bag (55 to 75 litres) or Expedition Bag (75 to 100 litres) for multiday hiking.

Maintenance tip: Do not wash a backpack in a washing machine; spot wash it using a sponge and warm soapy water. Let the backpack air dry before storing in a dry location sheltered from the sun.

How to choose hiking boots ?

For hiking, you will need solid ones that are warm, waterproof and breathable. Your winter boots could work just fine, particularly if you wear them when out on short treks, but not always. Make sure you put on warm and ‘breathable‘ socks so that any moisture is wicked away and you don’t get moist feet.

For all the tips and tricks on choosing snowshoeing equipment for you or your children, , download the family winter sports guide for free - The complete guide from Vifa Magazine.. There are also suggestions for destinations.