Hiking in winter: what equipment should I bring?

Winter is approaching and with it we must take into account that the environment and the conditions for hiking in the mountains of the Pyrenees. Snow covers the trails, rocks and meadows, and the landscape is dyed white. In order to practice mountaineering, a great and very healthy activity, it is important to take into account certain factors and possible risks. Hiking - or rackets- or progressing on snow, can be essentially dangerous, as we are exposed to slipping on icy slopes, to temperatures that can be extreme with the risk of hypothermia - we never have everything under control and an unforeseen event can put us in trouble - or the same tiring progression on snow - even if we have snowshoes in our equipment.

In this article we tell you what you need to take with you on your trip. mountain backpack before embarking on a winter mountaineering adventure.

Considerations before tackling winter mountaineering. Snow progression technique.

Hiking or mountaineering in winter -We are referring to harsh or extreme environments, such as the Pyrenees in winter. is within the reach of experienced mountaineers. Walking in the snow, even with snowshoes, can be a very rewarding activity, but in these environments weather conditions can change suddenly and you have to know how to deal with it. On the other hand, you will have to handle winter equipment: in the case of the ice axe or crampons, for which it will be necessary to be familiar with the snow progression techniques with them.

Mountain clothing for winter conditions

There are certain things you have to take into account that are unquestionable: you will need some trekking boots appropriate, as well as the snow clothing -and in the backpack we will include the basic but essential items you will need on your route.

Anyone who plays winter sports knows that it is much more practical to wear several layers of clothing than one very thick layer. This is the so-called "three-layer principle of snow clothing because it allows you to take clothes off and put them on depending on how cold you are, and it also creates cold insulating air pockets between the clothes themselves.

The inner layer is the layer that is in contact with the body. These are the vest and the thermal trousers. In between, the fleece lining and jumpers, and the last one is made up of the two garments that will be in contact with the outside, jacket and trousers, so they have to be breathable and waterproof.

When you set off, your body will adapt to the temperature and the weather outside, so keep in mind that you may have a few extra layers as you move around. However, it is always advisable to carry it in your rucksack even if you think you won't need it, as temperatures tend to drop in the early hours of the day and evenings, and the weather can change drastically at any time.

Nor should we forget to cover our heads and hands adequately. Both the hat as the gloves are essential, as they protect very sensitive areas from the cold. Be careful not to leave these garments on the snow, as they can get wet and it will be very unpleasant to put them on again. A detail that goes unnoticed is that the head, as well as the cold, is constantly exposed to the sun throughout the activity. The effects of sunstroke are felt at the end of the day, unpleasant sensations that can be avoided with a simple cap.

One of the most important factors in any sport is footwear, but when it comes to mountaineering it is even more important. It is essential that you get a pair of correct hiking boots, comfortable, waterproof and insulating against the cold. Our feet are our support 24 hours a day and inappropriate footwear can do a lot of damage and spoil the rest of the activity, so it pays to spend a little more money. The main thing is safety. Wear a pair of socks A spare is not superfluous in case it happens.

With regard to the mountain backpacksIn the event of rain or snow, it is important that they are of a suitable design and are resistant to some degree to water and snow. In the event of rain - or snow - it should protect the contents, keep them dry. Also, it's not about how pretty or simple it is, it's about the fact that, depending on its shape and fit, it may prevent us from moving around safely and without discomfort.

Supplements and recommendations

In addition, you can carry goggles that will protect your eyes from direct sunlight but also from the reflection of the sun on the snow. In fact, although it may sound like a joke, we recommend that you protect your face with sunscreen cream -for high exposure - because the solar radiation you are exposed to is twofold: the sun's rays and those reflected from the snow.

In winter consider carrying a survival kitThe project, which will include elements such as a thermal blanket -This article can save us from serious problems in the event of unforeseen events in our activity.

On the other hand, many practitioners of this type of sport completely forget about the importance of the first aid kit. You don't need to bring a lot of things, but you should bring the essentials such as plasters, bandages, anti-inflammatory medicines and something for wounds, such as iodine.

It is also always safer and, what's more, more fun. be accompanied. Planning this kind of activities among a group of people will make you enjoy time together, help each other and help you to find your way around. For the same reason, it is necessary to knowing how to find your way aroundIf you have a good understanding of the maps and have some idea of what references you can take along the way. If one of the members has done the same route before, it will be much easier to find your way around.

Consult the weather previously. The risk of hypothermia in extreme conditions such as the winter mountain is there. On the other hand, it will obviously be cold, but if we can prevent rain and storms, so much the better, right? Also, fog will make it very difficult to see and, therefore, to walk. And if, even if we are sure that the weather will be good, it starts to break down halfway, it is better to turn back and come back another day. Don't worry, the mountain won't move from its place and you're sure to find another slot in your schedule.

Last but not least, it is essential to knowing our own limits. If we feel tired or the altitude and snow make it difficult to walk, it will be necessary to stop and rest for a while or slow down or turn back. It is not a competition, on the contrary, it is an activity dedicated to enjoyment and having a good time.

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