We bet you’re rearing to conquer the great outdoors while the Sun is still shining warm and bright. At least, the adventurers among you are. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner eager to explore, having the right gear is essential.
Facing the elements isn’t as straightforward as, say, running on a treadmill in a comfortable temperature-controlled environment of the nearest Virgin Active. You need a lot more protection and must be prepared for just about anything Mother Nature can throw at you. We want to make sure you’re equipped to handle any trail you choose to tackle. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best hiking equipment money can buy (in South Africa) to help you out.
Inov-8 RACESHELL | R3,200
Combat clamminess with the Inov-8 RACESHELL waterproof running jacket. Weighing a mere 100g, this jacket boasts a breathability rating of 15,000 B-1, allowing heat to escape while keeping you dry. With fully taped seams and a compact design for easy carrying, it’s the perfect choice for staying cool during your hikes.
Patagonia Granite Crest jacket | R6,000
For a reliable outer layer in wet conditions, look no further than the Patagonia Granite Crest jacket. Designed for all-day movement, this lightweight and breathable jacket suits both high-performance hikers and casual ramblers. Laminated pockets keep your essentials and your tech safe, and the responsibly-made jacket is crafted from recycled fishing nets. Marvellous.
Fastpack 20 | R3,400
The Fastpack 20, a 20-litre pack, is perfect for fast-packing and day-long hikes. It comfortably carries its weight and accommodates space for everything from gadgets to maps, sunglasses and a dedicated space for water bottles. Designed for long-distance training, racing, or casual walks, it remains hardy in all conditions and distributes weight on your back evenly, making it a versatile choice.
Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid | R3,000
Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid is a lightweight and mid-height hiking boot offering the comfort of a trail-running shoe with added stability. With fantastic ankle support, Gore-Tex membrane and Continental rubber grip, these boots ensure you stay on your feet over muddy terrain. A nice bonus for those with a sustainable streak – 50% of the upper is made from recycled materials.
Inov-8 RocFly G 345 | R3,800
The sleek-looking Inov-8 RocFly G 345 is your go-to boot for longer hikes and multi-day treks over the Drakensberg. Featuring graphene foam for greater energy return, this lightweight hybrid boot is designed for hard and rocky ground, drier trails, and roads. While not suitable for snowy or soft conditions, it ensures a bouncy and cushioned feel for those longer walks and even some climbs.
On Cloudrock Waterproof | R4,000
Crafted for fast hiking, the On Cloudrock Waterproofs with Speedboard technology offer extra propulsion on trails. The Missiongrip rubber outsole provides traction without compromising cushioning, making them ideal for short distances on trails. Waterproof and fashion-conscious, these boots are a good choice for casual hikers.
Garmin eTrex SE | R4,000
Don’t get lost on the trail – just make sure you equip yourself with the Garmin eTrex SE. This compact GPS tracker ensures you stay on course with 168 hours of battery life. While there are various models to suit different needs, the GPSMAP 67i wins as a handheld device with two-way messaging, SOS alerts, and location sharing.
Petzl Iko Core head torch | R1,900
The Petzl Iko Core Head Torch should be your companion if you’re the type to go wandering around at night. A rechargeable battery pack and 500 lumens of maximum light power ensure you see where you’re going, wherever. Comfortable to wear for extended periods, this head torch is lightweight at just 79g, preventing discomfort on your hiking adventures. It’s also handy for when Eskom flick off the lights.