Starter Kit: All the equipment you need to take up hiking
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As gloomy winter days approach all too fast, why not make the most of the sunshine – and the great outdoors. Hit the trails with these top buys tailored to all things hiking.
Introducing Starter Kit: your crash course (hopefully not literally) into everything you need to take up a new activity. Whether you’re a total newbie or just looking to upgrade your gear, we’ve done the research and found all the basics you need to hit the road, track, court or ring in style.
Looking for a way to escape the city? Or maybe you just need some more outdoor time before the rain settles in for the winter? Either way, hitting the trails is one of the best ways to reconnect with nature while getting a solid workout in.
Whether you're shooting for Base Camp or soft hiking is more your thing, you'll need the right gear to get you started.
We've put together your very own personal adventure toolbox, packed with everything from comfy hiking boots to handy gadgets to ensure you make it to the peak and back without as much as a blister to worry about.
Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Cargo Shorts, $130 theiconic.com.au
Thermos Dura-Vac Vacuum Insulated Flask 1L, $31 amazon.com.au
The best hiking boots
Whatever your outdoor walking plans – whether you’re about to head overseas and tick an iconic hike off your bucket list or bush bash closer to home – the first step is making sure you’ve got a pair of shoes that are as up for the challenge as you are. The ideal hiking boots offer support and stability, as well as protection from the elements and cushioning for even the toughest of trails.
Pick from bestsellers, like the Merrell Moab (25 million hikers have laced them up so far) or the Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof (a long-time fave for serious trekkers, according to Kathmandu) or select from brand-new styles, like the Grandview Max GTX from Teva (out March 18) or The North Face’s Offtrail Gore-Tex (out March 10).
Merrell Moab 3 Mid (Gore-Tex), $300 from merrellaustralia.com.au
Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof, $299 from kathmandu.com.au
On Cloudrock Mid WP, $320 from on.com
Teva Grandview Max GTX, $370 from au.teva.com
Meindl Himalaya, $709 from meindl.com.au
Scarpa Moraine Pro GTX Waterproof, $399 from wildearth.com.au
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Originally published as Starter Kit: All the equipment you need to take up hiking
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