Wicking Base Layer 'T' Shirt: Cotton 'T' shirts
will quickly become soaked either by the rain, or by perspiration, and offer little or no
insulating properties. A synthetic base layer designed for active sports will
not only be more comfortable, but can be a life-saver if you have to stop on
the hill for a period of time. Top of the range base layers may cost around
£60, Helly Hansen offer the famous 'Lifa' tops at around £20-£30, Tesco and
Asda may offer some sprots items, and you can get much cheaper 'Crane' sports
items from Aldi. All a good investment for walking in the mountains.
Thermal Shirt or Fleece Jacket: Your mid layer. The more
ventilation options the better, but a minimum of half zip jacket or button
pullover style should be OK. A fleece may take up more room in your rucksack,
but will offer more warmth on a cooler day. Windproof and water resistant
shirts and fleeces are more versatile, but at a greater cost.
Waterproof
Jacket: Your outer, or shell layer. Investing in the best waterproof
jacket you can afford is a wise way to spend money for this item. Get some
advice and research the best value for money and performance features in
magazines, outdoor websites, etc. Look for something that is both waterproof
and breathable. Your choice should be based on your usual outdoor activity
requirements. Waterproof jackets vary hugely... From around £50 to anywhere
over £300.
Walking
Trousers or Leggings: Trousers are any trousers, slacks or
bags designed for walking/trekking. Those with removable lower legs can be more
versatile. Leggings are any leg cover similar to Ron Hills. Jeans
are NOT acceptable and should not be allowed because they are very difficult to
dry once wet..
Waterproof
Over trousers: Any kind of synthetic over trousers that offer some extra
protection will be acceptable. If purchasing especially for this event, look
for garments which have half-leg zips to enable pulling on these leggings when
wearing walking boots.
Walking
Boots: Any kind of boots specifically designed for walking/trekking. If
purchasing for this challenge – seek advice, and do some practice walks beforehand.
Don't wear brand new boots for this event! Running teams
should note that training shoes and fell shoes are not acceptable for this
challenge
Hat & Gloves: It is wise to bring a
selection of hats and gloves. Baseball caps and desert hats can help in hot
weather, Gore-Tex or fleece hats in foul weather. Thin gloves for warm weather,
insulated mitts for cold conditions. Remember that you may need to hold
torches, maps or compasses...
Walking
Socks: Must protect your feet from rubbing and from getting too sweaty.
Thick sole and heel, wicking design. There are many specialist socks available.
Small
Rucksack/Day sack: Anything up to about 30 litres
should be ideal. Each member must carry their own equipment. Use a rucksack
liner to keep contents dry, and pack soft items next to your back, bulky items
away from your back. Keep drinks, food and waterproofs handy.
Head
Torch & Batteries: Simple LED head torches are
available from around £10. More elaborate and versatile head torches may cost
up to £100. Great bit of kit to keep in the car when not walking... Good
investment – but remember to carry a spare set of batteries.
Bivvy Bag: This is a real life-saver and a 'must have' for all walkers. A big
orange plastic bag, for around £5. Multi-use, and very popular as a sledge in winter,
this survival equipment makes an instant, weatherproof shelter for any injurer
walker.
Whistle: To make the international distress signal, louder and clearer than
shouting 'help'..! What is that signal? And what is the response?
First
Aid Kit: A mountain first aid kit should include things you are likely to use.
Scissors, triangular bandage, safety pins, sticky plasters, tweezers, etc. I also
include some water steri-tabs, head-ache tablets, tea-tree oil, blister pads...
Food: During your trek on each mountain, you are unlikely to stop for
lunch – so food should be small snack items which you enjoy. Fruit, crisps,
nuts, sandwiches, chocolate bars, cheese, biscuits. It is also prudent to carry
one emergency meal. You should always finish a walk with some food and an emergency
meal left in your rucksack.
Drinks: A small flask with hot drinks or soup is ideal for cold weather.
Isotonic drinks, fruit juices or simply water on warm days... Hydration packs
are becoming more popular than drinks bottles and are worth a look. If
depending upon natural water sources for liquid refreshment, check the map for rivers/streams
and check the current state of the water table – perhaps carry steri tabs to purify any
water collected en-route.
Map
& Compass: Groups may be loaned a Beacon Guide/Merseyventure Three Peaks map
set licensed by Harvey Maps, in a weatherproof laminate. This will include
highlighted routes, and route plus way marker information on the back. However,
you must carry a further back-up map of the area – ideally an Ordnance Survey
Explorer map at 1:25,000. You must also carry a compass, even if using GPS.
Small
Cooker & Fuel: Any small cooker with some fuel
which will enable enough heat to boil some water. Gas, spirits or hexamine.
Carrying a tin mug or pan, plus matches or lighter could be a good idea too!
Small
Sleeping Bag: Any lightweight compact sleeping bag which will give extra
protection to an injured walker when placed inside their bivvy bag. If planning
to stay out overnight in the hills then ensure a suitable sleeping bag is used
for the conditions.
Sleeping
Mat: Inflatable type is best for weight & Bulk
& Comfort or Foam mat.. The main purpose is to insulate the user from the
cold of the ground. Comfort is secondary
Mobile Phones: An ideal way to keep in touch with us and each other. Let us know
your telephone numbers, and leave your phone switched on.
Gaiters: Excellent for protecting your boots and preventing wet legs when
walking through grass or mud. Recommended on every trip
Tent: Strong enough, large enough and light enough for the particular trip you have planned.
Wash Kit: Tooth Brush & Paste, razor, deodorant, shampoo, brush, Sun cream, Lip salve, Moisturizer, towel