【Mountain Climbing Discussion】Essential Guide to Hiking Gear for Beginners

1. Basic Concepts
2. Carrying System
3. Gear for the Journey
4. Clothing System
5. Practical Accessories

Basic Concepts

There is no best equipment, only the most suitable equipment. Everyone's needs are different, and what works well for others may not necessarily be suitable for you. Take backpacks as an example – different body shapes, types of climbs, durations, and color preferences mean that blindly emulating someone else's gear choices could lead to purchasing an unsuitable backpack. This can result in discomfort and unhappiness during use, which would defeat the purpose. Therefore, the so-called "top brands" may not always be the best choice. Budgets and requirements vary, so there's no need to overly pursue "name brands."

1: Carrying System

The carrying system is undoubtedly one of the most important equipment categories. After all, apart from what you wear on your body, everything you bring up the mountain relies on the backpack on your back. It's definitely worth spending some extra time to choose the right one.

【Backpack】

In terms of capacity, backpacks are generally categorized into three types: small (less than 40L), medium (40-60L), and large (greater than 60L). When it comes to choosing a backpack, the most common question beginners have is, "What size of backpack do I need?" The answer depends on two main factors:

1. Duration of the Trip

If it's a day trip or a route that can be completed in two to three hours, you may not necessarily need a specialized hiking backpack. For an overnight stay in the mountains, a larger capacity backpack is needed. For example, for a two-day, one-night hike up Yushan Main Peak, where you don't need cooking equipment and can rent a sleeping bag, a medium-sized backpack (40-60L) should suffice. For longer high-mountain trips (more than four days), a large backpack (60L or more) is recommended.

2. Type of Trip

Even for the same route, the type of trip can affect the gear you need, which in turn determines the required backpack size. For example, if you're joining a commercial group, you might not need to prepare cooking equipment or food, so a large backpack may not be necessary. However, if you're going with friends or a self-organized group, where everyone shares communal gear and food, a larger backpack may be required.

【Summit Pack】

A summit pack is a lightweight, compact bag used for reaching the summit. When you don't need to carry a lot of equipment, you can pack essential items like water, snacks, a headlamp, rain gear, and other necessities in the summit pack for easier and more agile movement. Additionally, you can use the summit pack to store your outerwear and clothing for use as a pillow during sleep, serving multiple purposes.

【Backpack Cover】

Most backpacks are not waterproof. Therefore, regardless of whether you have a large or small backpack, it's recommended to have a waterproof backpack cover. Taiwan's damp and rainy weather means you're likely to encounter rain during your mountain hike. Using a backpack cover provides the first layer of protection, keeping the contents of your backpack dry.

【Dry Bags】

2: Gear for the Journey

A well-chosen gear setup ensures a comfortable and smooth journey. Wearing appropriate equipment can make a world of difference!

【Hiking Boots】

The choice of hiking boots is influenced by factors such as trip duration and type. For day trips or two-day, one-night trips with light loads, low-cut hiking boots are suitable. However, for longer trips or when carrying heavier loads, it's advisable to choose mid-to-high-cut hiking boots for better ankle support and protection. Additionally, due to Taiwan's rainy climate, it's recommended to opt for hiking boots with waterproof functionality. Reminder: If you're wearing new shoes that you haven't worn before, it's recommended to take a test walk (e.g., on a nearby trail) before embarking on an overnight journey. This way, you can make necessary adjustments if any issues arise.

【Hiking Socks】

In addition to having suitable hiking boots, don't underestimate the importance of hiking socks. Hiking boots are generally stiffer than regular shoes, and thin socks lack cushioning, which can lead to discomfort on the soles of the feet. Therefore, it's recommended to select hiking socks with some thickness that extend above the height of the hiking boots. In terms of materials, wool is an excellent choice. In addition to being breathable and moisture-wicking, wool socks have effective antibacterial and odor-reducing properties, which are highly beneficial during extended hikes.

【Hiking Poles】

Hiking poles come with adjustment systems that are mainly categorized as quick-lock and twist-lock types. For beginners using hiking poles for the first time, quick-lock hiking poles are generally recommended. They are easier to adjust and are less likely to cause accidents due to incorrect operation. In terms of material, options include carbon fiber and aluminum alloy. Carbon fiber poles are lighter but may be less able to withstand lateral forces, while aluminum alloy poles are heavier but offer greater stiffness. If you'll be carrying a heavy load while hiking, aluminum alloy poles are generally the better choice.

3: Clothing System

High-altitude journeys can experience temperature variations of over 10-15 degrees Celsius between day and night. By adhering to the "onion layering" principle and adopting a concept of layered dressing, you can create versatile clothing combinations that simplify clothing preparation for your uphill adventure!

Recommended clothing combinations for hiking:

1. Base Layer

Moisture-wicking shirts and underwear quickly eliminate moisture from the skin, keeping the body dry and warm.

2. Mid Layer

Warm clothing with moisture-wicking properties or synthetic jackets can continue to expel moisture from the base layer and prevent unnecessary heat loss.

3. Outer Layer

Windproof and waterproof outer jackets to avoid wind chill and wet chill effects.

Reminder: Avoid wearing cotton clothing and jeans when hiking. Cotton clothing retains moisture and is difficult to dry, increasing the risk of hypothermia. It's also recommended to have a "wear one, bring one" approach to clothing. In addition to the outfit you're wearing, prepare an extra set of clothing in your backpack. If your clothes become wet, you can quickly change into dry ones to keep your body dry.

【Moisture-Wicking Shirts】【Moisture-Wicking Underwear/Pants】 (Base Layer)

Currently, the two main materials are polyester and wool. Polyester offers better moisture-wicking performance, making it suitable for hot weather or for those who are sensitive to heat. Wool excels in its antimicrobial and odor-resistant properties. Even when wet, it provides warmth. For colder weather or longer trips where clothing odor may become an issue, wool materials are recommended. Moreover, there are many options with mixed materials available, such as wool blended with synthetic fibers or clothing with a wool front and a polyester back, providing more versatility.

【Insulating Clothing】 (Mid Layer)

For insulation, it can be divided into "on-the-go" (such as mid-weight wool shirts or synthetic jackets) and "camp" (insulated jackets or thicker outer layers) types, depending on individual preferences and the season. Thicker moisture-wicking shirts can also serve as an insulating layer.

【Windproof Jacket】【Two-Piece Raincoat】 (Outer Layer)

Sometimes, one piece of clothing can provide both windproof and waterproof functions, eliminating the need for separate items. It's essential to note that in Taiwan's damp and rainy climate, having "waterproof" functionality is highly important. Therefore, regardless of the type of trip, windproof and waterproof outerwear is a must-have piece of equipment.

Reminder: "Waterproof" and "water-resistant" are different concepts. Be sure to choose gear with "waterproof" functionality for the outer layer.

【Moisture-Wicking Pants】【Insulating Pants】

Opt for moisture-wicking, quick-drying pants or a combination of shorts and inner pants. Either option is suitable. For those more sensitive to the cold, consider preparing a pair of insulated pants to wear at the campsite or mountain hut for better sleep.

【Gloves】

Gloves provide warmth and protection against abrasion during uphill hikes. They can also prevent injuries when traversing rough terrains or using ropes. Opt for gloves made from thin and durable materials for better flexibility.

【Insulating Hat】

The head is an area with high microvascular density and is prone to heat loss. This makes head insulation crucial, especially in high-altitude environments.

【Neck Gaiter】

On high mountains, the ultraviolet (UV) radiation is stronger than on flat ground, making sun protection a necessity. A headwear like a neck gaiter is an incredibly versatile piece of gear. With its compact size and lightweight design, it's easy to carry and can serve various purposes:

1. Sun protection and warmth for the neck and face

2. Shielding the mouth and nose to prevent inhaling cold air directly

3. Wiping sweat

4. Bandaging

5. Stuffing clothes inside to use as a pillow

6. For women, it can be used to tie up hair or as a headband

Practical Accessories

At the end of the article, here's another practical item we recommend! It's theBone hiking phone holder，, which securely fastens your phone to your waist using a neck strap and belt. This snugly fits your body shape, keeping your phone steady during hiking and walking. Not only can you use your phone anytime, but you can also hike with peace of mind. It's truly a must-have gear for modern-day hikers!

Above are the equipment recommendations for beginners. May everyone have a joyful uphill journey and a safe descent!