Walking gear for a complete beginner

adidas

I'm going to be in Uni around the lakes next year and have always wanted to try my hand at walking in the lakes. I have never been before so don't have any necessary equipment for doing so yet and wanted some advice about what are the basic bits of clothing/footwear I'll need. I was thinking walking boots (have had a look around and decided on Hi-tec Auckland WP), waterproof jacket (was gonna have a look in TKMaxx for a bargain) and then I considered waterproof trousers, specialist socks and gaiters.

What do you think? Your advice is much appreciated.

foreign_correspondent

I have hi-tec walking shoes (rather thn boots, but boots offer more ankle support)- I wear them loads, and am on my second pair, they are very comfy for me.

It is worth signing up to Aldi and lidl's email list, they often have walking gear in, their merino wool jumpers are generally fine, and my mum has the waking poles from Aldi I think, which are fine (I never bother with them, but some people like them!).

You may also want a small rucksack (day pack) for your sarnies and maps etc!

And yes, TK Maxx is worth a look, they have an outdoor wear section - my last Hi Tecs were from there. Places like Tog24 etc sometimes have decent sales on too.

Miró

foreign_correspondent wrote: »

And yes, TK Maxx is worth a look, they have an outdoor wear section - my last Hi Tecs were from there. Places like Tog24 etc sometimes have decent sales on too.

TKMaxx have some Goretex jackets in at the mo, think they are Sprayway make.....various colours...£99 reduced from £180.

Alcmene

Going to UCUM?

Might be best waiting till you get up there as you can find deals in lots of the shops!

mountainchrisriver

Yep, I agree, wait til you get there... you will find lots of outdoor shops and lots of choice... more importantly most of the folk in the shops will be able to advise you what you need...:beer:

katthehat

Hi i live and work in the Lakes, i would grab any bargain you can find suitable in TK Max, but don't worry if you don't have before you arrive everything as in Ambleside every other shop sells outdoor clothes/equipment, so prices reflect the fact they all have to compete.

Don't buy boots online, even though you have your eye on a pair they may not suit your foot shape, best to try them on and get fitted correctly if you are planning to make the most of the mountains!!

PS Everything needs to be waterproof....lol

Good Luck!

adidas

I'll be in Lancaster actually which is only a short drive away from the lakes. I'll check out Ambleside and see if I can get any bargains there. Thank you all for your advice. I'm trying not to go overboard and buy lots of stuff I don't need.

adidas

Update: just been to TKMaxx. Got a Jack Murphy waterproof jacket for £40 and a pair of Rohan walking boots/shoes for £40. Now need the waterproof trousers. Exciting!