How and Where to Walk Off Your Christmas Dinner Calories

According to the latest studies, the average Brit will eat and drink food totalling more than 4,000 calories this Christmas Day, with at least 1,000 of them coming from the traditional turkey dinner. So, there's more incentive than ever to get out into the great British countryside for a walk with loved ones after your festive dinner. However, if the scary calorie consumption statistics aren't enough to get you moving, then the beautiful Great British countryside at its wintry best ought to do the trick.

With that in mind, we've been kind enough to list the calorific content of your Christmas dinner below. But, fear not! We've also shared with you some of the most breathtaking walks around the UK so you can walk off the tasty treats. So, see you out and about sometime after the Queen's speech?

The average Christmas dinner... 
1 x portion of roast turkey = 149 calories

1 x portion of roast potatoes = 127 calories

1 x portion of stuffing = 231 calories

1 x portion of roast parsnips = 102 calories

1 x portion of boiled carrots = 14 calories

1 x portion of boiled sprouts = 32 calories

1 x serving of gravy = 17 calories

1 x serving of cranberry sauce = 45 calories

1 x serving of bread sauce = 42 calories

2 x pigs in blankets = 394 calories

1 x slice of Christmas cake = 249 calories

1 x portion of cheese and biscuits = 394 calories

1 x portion of Christmas pudding, custard and brandy butter = 587 calories

= a whopping 2383 calories!

So, get your walking boots on and get out and about on Christmas day. Here are our festive favourites around the UK.

Northern Ireland’s best...
Castle Ward, Strangford Lough

Overlooking the south shores of Strangford Lough, Castle Ward is one of Northern Ireland's finest demesnes or country estates. At its heart lies an unusual Georgian mansion, but there is a lot more to discover here... This walk explores the waterside, a ruined castle, woodland, an ornamental lake and follies. Visit in winter for a chance to see a fantastic range of migrating birds and the resident seals.

The walk is 2.5 miles long, and walked at average speed (about 2mph), could see you burn about 300 calories - you may want to go round the estate twice, or walk more briskly to really make a dent in your Christmas calories!

Wales' best... 
Rhossili Bay, South Wales

Take in the tremendous coastal views from Rhossili Down before descending to Rhossili Bay, considered one of the finest sandy beaches in the UK. At the southern end of the bay, when the tide is low, a finger of limestone rock leads to Worms Head where seabirds and seals can be seen- a real Christmas treat!

The walk is 5 miles long and will burn about 500 calories when walked at an average pace - although walking barefoot on the sand (if the snow's cleared!) or up a hill or two will burn plenty more.

The best of the North... 
Alderley Edge, Cheshire

This beautiful woodland walk begins at Alderley Edge railway station and is just 12 miles south of Manchester. Set around a dramatic sandstone escarpment in rolling Cheshire farmland and mature Scots pines and beech woodlands, the Edge has spectacular views, intriguing legends and an ancient history of copper mining which dates back 4,000 years to the Bronze Age!

The walk is 4.5 miles long so you're likely to burn just under 500 calories; the equivalent of two slices of Christmas cake.

The best of the South... 
Staple Plain, Somerset

Wander down through broadleaf woodland, into a bracken filled combe and up to the top of Beacon Hill to savour fantastic panoramic views across the Quantock Hills and beyond. Continue through lowland heathland, listening and looking out for red deer, skylark and Dartford warbler in this wildlife-rich environment.

The walk is 2 miles long so you'll burn about 200 calories. If you want to work harder, take the dog- he or she will encourage you to get moving!

The Midlands’ best... 
Calke Park and Abbey, Derby

As well as a grand Baroque mansion with a large natural history collection, Calke has secret walled gardens and 600 acres of parkland, much of which is a National Nature Reserve. The park is a rich and varied landscape of grassland, ponds and wood pasture - one of the rarest habitats in Europe. You'll also find majestic veteran trees and some great 'bug' - watching sites. There are no public roads at Calke so it is perfect for a peaceful walk.

The walk is 1.5 miles long so you’ll probably burn about 200 calories. However, the sights are so pretty that you may well end up strolling round more than once and, given that there are no public roads, you could add to the distance by walking to Calke to start with.

Walking On Ice Safely

In the UK, the closest many of us ever get to ice occurs on a Saturday night on TV. However, watching celebrities dancing on ice doesn't really prepare you for walking on ice safely during a cold winter outdoors.

It has to be said that we're not all that prepared in the UK for snow and ice, but let's face it, we've had so few severe winters that have led to prolonged severe conditions in recent times, that it’s easy to become complacent. When the snow and ice does come, many of us are simply unable to put the weather into the context of our everyday lives - which is understandable - and therefore, even the simplest of things become quite hard, such as walking to the local shop.

Walking on ice safely and knowing how to do it important, so here are a few tips to note down for the next time you'll need to walk on ice.

• First things first - make sure you have good, strong winter snow boots, with sturdy rubber soles. An old trick is to increase the grip of your soles using an old pair of socks - the added friction can help with traction on ice. 

• Check the weather forecasts regularly during cold weather. If there's been any sort of moisture from snow or rain followed by freezing temperatures (especially overnight), it's highly likely that ice will have formed in some places, either on roads or on pavements. 

• Remember, pavements tend not to receive quite the same priority when it comes to laying gritting salt, and therefore, icy patches can be found more readily. 

• Be especially careful again when walking near drains, drainage channels and guttering - these all carry water, and where there's water, the risk of ice forming greatly increases. 

• Be aware of dark, wet looking patches on tarmac - these could quite easily be black ice which is especially dangerous because it catches so many people unawares, often giving the appearance of a puddle of water. 

• Walk slowly, with your feet slightly pointing outwards - bend your knees slightly when walking, so that your centre of gravity is directly over your feet. Doing these three things will help you maintain balance and give you a better chance of walking on ice safely. 

• Never walk on ice with your hands in your pockets. If you do slip and fall, you’ll need your hands to help break your fall. If you hands are susceptible to the cold, then make sure you wear a good thick insulated pair of gloves instead. Gloves will also prevent unnecessary grazing. 

• Finally, always wear a good thick coat - not only will this keep you warm, it could help cushion any falls you might have as a result of slipping on ice. 

Perhaps the most sensible piece of advice is to avoid walking on ice at all unless it is absolutely necessary - but of course, as we all know, this isn’t always possible.

Walking in the Rain and the Snow - Things We Do For Love

Whilst 10cc may not be everyone's cup of tea when it comes to music, and indeed, that statement's only applicable if you can remember them, walking is certainly something that people do for love. And at this time of year, when rain, snow and icy winds can get the better of us, it's time to take some precautions to ensure that they don't.

There are a few vital things that walkers should do to ensure that they remain safe during the winter months and most of them are pure common sense, inexpensive and easy.

Perhaps one of the first things that walkers should do before encountering any significant hiking trip that involves walking in the rain and the snow is to tell someone your route, when you intend to tackle that route and a list of estimated times for arriving at certain checkpoints. That's not to say that you need to stick rigidly to everyone, or provide a step-by-step account of where you'll be at say, 3.37pm exactly. But, it does give some indication of where you should be and if your absence should be of cause for concern.

Clearly, the people you tell may know you and your abilities, and they can factor this into assessing any absence as serious. Factoring in the weather conditions and other knowledge of the area in which you intend to walk could give a more complete picture to the people you tell so that they can decide if there are any potentially serious problems.

It is also important to make sure when walking in the rain and the snow that you have the correct equipment, clothing and supplies. Without waterproofs, spare warm clothing, food (including emergency high energy foods and sweets), a compass, torch and map - you wouldn't even satisfy the basics that are recommended to almost all walkers attempting a significant hike.

And, if you're walking in the rain and the snow - the basics may not even be enough. No-one should be scared of attempting to walk in less than favourable weather, but without the correct equipment, the simplest of walks could turn into a nightmare. Most examples of walkers getting into trouble stem from them being unprepared and underestimating the conditions and the terrain. When walking in the rain and the snow, don't let yourself become part of the statistics. Further in depth practical walking information can be found on the Ramblers Association website.

Hiking News: Going Hiking Every Few Weeks Isn't Enough!

Although many of us have hectic schedules and find it hard to find the time to fit a rigorous hike into our diaries, it seems we should all be making more effort to go hiking according to a top German Professor from the Sport Medicine Institute at Germany's University of Munster. He has recently claimed that hiking "every few weeks just isn't enough". His recommendation? "At least two walks a week lasting between 30 and 45 minutes each are needed to show an improvement in health".

So, what's the best way to do this then? We all know we should exercise for 30 minutes every day, which many simply do not have the time to do, so it is intriguing to hear research stating that we should actually be hiking twice a week. For those that have 9-5 jobs it just isn't going to be that simple, but it certainly gives us something to think about. Perhaps if we were all honest with ourselves, we probably don't exercise as much as we should and it's about time we made more of an effort. Of course, time is always of the essence and it makes it difficult for busy people to try and fit hiking into a hectic schedule.

A recent study by Germany's Hiking Association revealed that almost half of people over 16 in Germany went trekking but it was only the over 60s that did this several times each month. Perhaps even more interesting would be a study on the UK or US, to see if our trekking populations could match that. Many would probably doubt it.

When it comes down to it, if you love the outdoors and you like exercising, there is certainly no reason why you can't make the time to go hiking and keep active. If you start when you are younger then it will also reduce health risks later on in life. Perhaps there are some people that still view hiking as something only the older generations do, but if we can all get into the mind and spirit of hiking for enjoyment as well as fitness, then perhaps more young people would embrace the activity.

If you're an active hiker, we think you deserve a pat on the back. If not, well, simply read this article about the health benefits of hiking to see exactly how important it is: http://www.mamashealth.com/hike

How to Choose Hiking Gifts for Friends

There are thousands of hiking fans all over the world and finding hiking gifts that they will enjoy is something that should be born in mind around Christmas or birthdays. Obviously, hiking boots are the main piece of kit that any keen hiker will have a need for but there are various other hiking gifts that may well tick all of the right boxes as well.

Most pieces of hiking equipment are fairly inexpensive and will last for a considerable amount of time so it is easy to find hiking gifts to match any price range. It's not just hiking boots that will put a smile on a keen hiker's face - various other gifts are likely to be just as well received.

Great Hiking Gift Ideas 
There are many considerations that can be taken into account when it comes to purchasing hiking gifts and most won't cost you and arm and a leg. Hiking equipment comes in many different forms but it often pays to think outside of the box when it comes to picking hiking gifts. Just some ideas to think about include:

Hiking Magazine Subscription - Getting a subscription to a hiking magazine won't cost massive amounts of money and is a great idea for a hiking gift. For anyone who enjoys this pursuit, getting monthly literature about the activity will be extremely rewarding so a hiking magazine subscription is definitely a gift that keeps on giving.

Hiking Apparatus - There is essentially no-end to the amount of hiking equipment which hits the market and heading online will fill you in with the sorts of products which are likely to make good hiking gifts. Things like roll out tables are bits of hiking kit that are incredibly useful but are the type of thing people forget they need - which makes them an ideal hiking gift idea.

Hiking boots, such as the Altitude NT WP Enviro, are ideal for all your light hiking trails and trips and will also make the perfect hiking gift for those who are wanting to push the boat out a little.

Going on Hiking Trips with Man's Best Friend

Hiking trips are enjoyed by thousands of walkers each year across the UK and more and more are deciding to get their four legged friends in on the action - and bringing their dogs along. It is important to make sure that the hiking trail that you choose is suitable for dogs and that you have all the hiking equipment that you require before you set off.

Dogs absolutely love being in the wilderness alongside their masters so it makes perfect sense to take them on hiking trips with you. There are so many sights, sounds and smells that can be enjoyed by you and your hairy companion but making sure that you've got all the hiking boots, clothing and equipment that you'll need in the boot of your car is a must - whether you are just going on a day hike or are planning a few days in the wilderness.

Getting your Dog Ready for a Hike 
Whilst some dogs will take to hiking like a duck to water, excuse the inaccurate animal analogy, it is important that you properly prepare your pet for hiking if it's something that they are not used to. Needless to say, if your dog is of a lazy disposition, you shouldn't endeavour to take him on an extensive hiking trip straight away - dogs are like humans and will need physical conditioning in preparation for hiking trips.

So, start off by taking your four legged friend on a few smaller hikes before working your way up to the more difficult terrains that you want to tackle together. Generally speaking, if you plan on taking your dog on repeated hiking trips and trails, it is probably a good idea to discuss their health with your vet just to make sure that they will be up to facing the rigours associated with hiking activities and trips.

Bringing your dog with you on a hiking adventure will really add to the enjoyment considerably because dogs are in their element in the wilderness and their sense of adventure is likely to open new doors that you may not have otherwise witnessed during your hiking trip.

Of course, dogs won't require any specific hiking equipment but it is imperative that you kit yourself out with a good pair of hiking boots - if only to be able to keep up with your pet pooch! Many hikers swear by the quality of the Hi-Tec Rainer Event hiking boots.

How Many People Choose Music For Walking?

It has long been recognised that playing music during exercise can help concentration and focus the mind on the job in hand. Ever since the Sony Walkman was unleashed on the world in 1979, changing our music listening habits forever, music has become an essential part of individual pursuits such as running, jogging and cycling. What person hasn't seen a jogger with a piece of wire attached to each ear, with an MP3 device clipped on the back of their shorts?

Now walkers and hikers can also take up the habit, and benefit from music for walking. So, here we recommend some artists and composers for three different styles of walking:

Countryside Ambles 
Vaughan Williams, John Denver, Erik Satie, Dire Straits and Cliff Richard: All of these artists and composers have a range of gentle and soft music ideal for the Sunday afternoon countryside amble.

Stiff Hilly Hikes 
Queen, Gustav Holst, Iron Maiden and The Prodigy: If you're going up a mountain or need to cover a few more miles quickly, then this selection will suit you fine - hard and sometimes very fast.

Athletic Power Walking 
Kraftwerk, Wagner, Beethoven and Paul Oakenfold: Get yourself into a trance with the big German composers or some experimental electronic sounds.

On a serious note, it's a proven fact that whilst music in itself doesn't necessarily improve a person's health and fitness, listening to music whilst exercising can help improve the ability to keep to regular fitness routines, be it through music for walking, hiking, running or cycling. Music helps improve concentration levels during physical activity and as a result it can have a dramatic effect indirectly on a person's health.

If you're going walking after reading this, try equipping yourself with some basic equipment; a small MP3 player with a clip and some earphones that won't fall out during your physical exertions. All you then need to do now is choose some music for walking from the artists above - and your away.

Happy Hiking!

The Ramblers - Still Wearing Hiking Boots at 75

Over 75 years ago, if you fancied a walk in an area of natural beauty like the Peak District one sunny afternoon for example, it wasn't the case that you could simply pop your boots on, pack your vittles and saunter off into the dales.


Thanks to the Ramblers Association, formed 75 years ago in 1935, hikers no longer need fear the wrath of the gamekeeper's gun or the lock and key of the local gaoler, which was the case back in those inter-war years. The Ramblers Association or Rambler's as they are now known, has been at the forefront of public accessibility arguments, helping to ensure the UK's 140,000 miles of footpaths and bridleways remain open for the walkers, hikers and families. They are one of the largest charitable organisations in Britain.

To celebrate their organisations continued success and achievements, the Rambler's are holding a succession of Baton Walks, which by the end of 2010 will have crossed the whole of Britain. In August, the baton is being passed by walkers around the East Midlands, and then for the last 4 months through the East of England, London and concluding in the South East. If you're interested, get your hiking boots on and join in!

The Ramblers (http://www.ramblers75.org.uk/) won't rest on their laurels though. They're already campaigning to try and encourage more families to take up walking and put on their hiking boots - sharing information on the benefits of the activity, as well as continuing to campaign for hikers' rights. They're also keen to encourage walking health benefits. One way in which they aim to achieve this is through their extremely popular Get Walking, Keep Walking campaign which highlights the importance to body and mind of natural exercise - not only in places of outstanding natural beauty like the National Parks, but also in inner-city areas like Birmingham, London and Sheffield.

You can also apply for a Get Walking Pack which (although temporarily suspended due to demand) will be available online very soon to help you plan your walking activities and get the most benefit from it, which, together with choosing the right equipment and hiking boots, will give you everything you need to get started.

Hikers Tackling Britain’s National Park Walks

Some of the most interesting and yet challenging hiking is provided by the UK's National Park walks. Many of these are well-known, such as the Pennine Way or the Viking Way, and can be longer than 250 miles.

Further information about National Park walks can be found at theNational Park's Website http://www.nationalparks.gov.uk/visiting/outdooractivities/walking. Here there is plenty of useful information about the many different National Park walks available such as 214 of Alfred Wainwright's walks in the Lake District or the Coast to Coast which runs from St Bees in Cumbria and ends in the North York Moors town of Robin Hood's Bay.

For those attempting National Park walks of such magnitude as the Pennine Way in one go, then it should be noted that this task is suitable only for those who have walking experience, are fit and healthy and (it almost goes without saying) that they are able to carry a backpack comfortably.

Importantly the choice of equipment for such an expedition should take into account several things such as making sure that it's waterproof, windproof and perhaps even foolproof (depending on the hiker of course)! Things such as tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment and food all need to be carried, as well as the essential survival kits, first aid and water supplies (the latter being especially important during the summer months).

Hiking along one of the National Park walks is a valuable experience for those wishing to achieve something truly special, but the challenges that these impressive and protected parts of the UK countryside can throw at even the most experienced backpacker, can be the utmost test of strength, ability and stamina.

If all of this sounds far too arduous, then there are plenty of alternatives. Whatever your ability, the National Park walks provide an opportunity for everyone to get out and about in some of the most beautiful landscapes that Britain has to offer.

Work Experience

I have just finished a week of work experience at Hi-Tec in the marketing department.  I was given the opportunity to undertake various projects in which have not only tested my ability and taught me about what it takes to be the best, but also about sports I had little knowledge of.

Researching the competition relating to Outdoor Footwear in the UK allowed me to understand price points in comparison to Hi-Tec (which not only appeared to be the most reasonable, but varied) was intriguing and useful. However, I particularly enjoyed researching the relatively new phenomenon, Trail Running, which is becoming increasingly popular and mainstream. 

Trail Running differs immensely from road or track running, since it occurs on hiking trails and diverse terrain. Mud, gravel, steep inclines and declines are expected on rough or soft surfaces in areas such as mountains, deserts and forests. Therefore, specialist equipment is compulsory in order to eradicate potential injuries which may ensue in these conditions, and to help ensure you have the best run possible reaching optimum speed with paramount stability.

Hi-Tec’s s/s 2011 collection for Trail Running, V-Lite Infinity, delivers on Function, Comfort, Lightweight, and Innovation, collaborating all the essential needs of a Trail Runner.  Stability is key when running and V-Lite Infinity guarantees that the shape is more biomechanically functional and comfortable, with a more efficient gait cycle in order to help reduce pronation and injury. The ion-mask keeps your footwear dryer, lighter and cleaner along with providing breathability to ensure a comfortable run and longevity of the product.

Running on varied terrains means that it is essential for the sole to grip well and be durable, which is exactly what the Vibram Sole provides. They do not seem to clog up with mud therefore ensuring longevity, and the central rubber is a sticky Vibram for improved wet surface traction.

Along with the technical functions, V-Lite Infinity is aesthetically pleasing and shoes come in an assortment of colours.  The comprehensive and extensive research I have compiled allows me to suggest that the V-Lite Infinity range contains the perfect Trail Running shoe, for all trail runners.

But, unfortunately you will have to wait until early next year to grab a pair for yourself! However, I can assure you that they will be well worth the wait.


Amy Foster-Taylor

Walking to Work for Body, Mind and the Environment

Everyone is being encouraged to do it. Walking to work is free, easy to get into and for most able-bodied people, not a particularly difficult challenge. So the question that needs asking is - why are so many people still so averse to doing it more regularly?

Clearly, accusations of laziness might be the first approach to those that can't take their hands of their steering wheel and the keys out of the ignition. However, fairness is always important in such arguments and many people may actually want to start walking to work but find that other reasons prevent walking to walk being their first choice.

For these 'driving pedestrians', walking to work is clearly not just a choice based on how far their homes are to their place of work. Feeling safe in areas that need to be walked through, street cleanliness and ironically, the ability to avoid traffic and cross roads easily all contribute to the decision on whether walking to work is a good idea. In big cities, noise and pollution is also a concern - ‘'driver pedestrians' can either create pollution whilst being protected from it in their air conditioned vehicles, or, prevent contributing to the pollution whilst having to breathe it in.

For those pedestrians wanting to get into walking to work, there is a support charity called Living Streets which campaigns for pedestrian rights, as well as encouraging people to walk to work through their campaign Walking Works. Living Streets gives advice for those walking to work on how to complain about excessive littering, poor pavements and areas where traffic and pedestrians compete for rights of way.

The Walking Works campaign is specifically targeted at office workers and held a very successful Walk to Work Week intended to highlight its benefits to health, body and mind and generate publicity. And of course, let's not forget the environmental impact of walking to walk - there isn't one. Walking to walk is healthy, green and sometimes, just sometimes, an enjoyable experience that more people should try.

Hiking Weather: What's Happened To The UK Summer?

As a brand that's passionate about hiking, each year we anticipate a warm and pleasant summer in the UK and quite often we are left feeling rather disappointed. The hiking weather reports sound optimistic for the months leading up to summer and we often start to feel positive that this summer could be good for the UK.  However, with the 2010 summer nearing to a close already, we find ourselves questioning when we will actually have some decent hiking weather here in the UK.

The optimum hiking weather is not about beating hot sun scorching your skin; it's quite simply a pleasant, warm and dry day. Hiking in hot weather is not a good idea as people can become dehydrated and the heat means our bodies have to work harder to be able to climb that hill or mountain. All the UK really wants is a month or two of great sunny weather that's perfect for hikers, but it seems 2010 is a wash-out already.

June started off well - there were some glorious sunny days during this month and then by the time July and August came, we did wonder where the pleasant weather had gone. For hikers, good hiking weather is essential and unless the rest of August holds some sunshine surprises, it's looking like we are on track for another wet few weeks leading us into autumn.

We can't predict the weather and for hikers it's even harder. Hikers plan their expeditions a good few weeks in advance and it really comes down to just 'hoping' that there won't be any bad weather that they have to contend with. Kitting yourself out with the right clothing helps, but most people would agree that a few weeks of really good hiking weather is just what the UK needs this year.  Still, we can't count on it and more hikers are feeling like they should abandon their hiking trips this year because of the poor weather we have had so far. Our advice is to stay positive and head on out in your ion-mask boots; then you'll be prepared for any sort of hiking weather!

Green Hikers Campaign - Advice for Himalayan Hikers

It's an increasingly carbon sensitive world out there and any methods that hikers can employ to help reduce their carbon footprint is helpful to the environment and also to hikers with a conscience.

The Green Hiking Campaign may seem like a strange concept, given that most hiking enthusiasts tend not to emit carbon dioxide in lorry-loads when practicing their favoured activity. But one question does need answering - how do hikers get to the areas in which they want to go hiking in the first place?

Some ultra dedicated green hiking professionals will of course walk there - in fact, there is no beginning or end for these people - hiking is a way of life and they'll walk everywhere. But not all hiking fanatics are quite so dedicated - and it's understandable why.

Travel, along with littering and general disrespect for the environment is one reason why the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has launched its Green Hikers Campaign to help raise awareness about environmental issues in the Himalayan region. In association with the Indian Government's Tourism Ministry, the Green Hikers Campaign has been set up to ensure that dangerously fragile ecosystems in the Himalayas are protected by encouraging tour operators and their passengers to decrease their impact on the local environment.

With the slogan "nature leaves a mark on you, don't leave one behind", the campaign features a Green Hiker Animation Film which was released at the launch again reinforcing the aims of protecting the Himalayan environment.

To find out more or to follow the campaign, hikers can sign up for updates at the WWF Website, or read some of the comments that green hikers have already left about the benefits to the campaign. Whilst the Green Hiker Campaign is focussed on the Himalayas and tourism operating in India and the regions, many of the basic principles of green hiking can be translated to any hiker in any location across the world.

Hiking In The Lake District In Your Flipflops

A recent report published in the Westmorland Gazette has highlighted the bizarre and sometimes downright dangerous choices that some walkers hiking in the Lake District have been making when choosing which footwear to use. A spokesperson from The North West Air Ambulance reported incidents of inexperienced walkers wearing luxurious soft sheepskin lined leisure footwear, flipflops and other shoes deemed highly 'inappropriate' for these most challenging of fells.

This year, mountain rescue teams have already attended up to 38 incidents, 12% of the total, in which hikers were found to be wearing poor footwear.

The importance of choosing the correct boots for hiking in the Lake District is without doubt something that shouldn't be treated lightly. There is plenty of advice available for ensuring adequate protection for your feet, ankles, knee and leg muscles and there really is little excuse for being ill-prepared.

Some of the most common injuries seen by walkers hiking in the Lake District are also seen in other areas of the country, where bad footwear decisions have meant a lot of pain for the wearers, and sometimes for some considerable time after the initial problem began. Here are some of the most common problems walkers can face, even with the best hiking boots:

Straining the thigh and knee - This sort of injury can occur when hiking up or down hillsides where greater strain and pressure is placed on these areas. There are however hiking techniques which can be used to limit this sort of damage.

Painful, unexpected ankle sprains - This is perhaps one of the most common walking injuries, especially when hiking in the Lake District - tough climbs and scree slopes formed from loose fragmented rock can cause the ankle to roll outwards and cause the injury. Ankle sprains can be avoided by ensuring good quality hiking boots are worn with adequate ankle protection - it's fairly obvious that flipflops really won't prevent ankle sprains.

Dreaded blisters - All walkers will at some point get blisters. They occur for various reasons, most notably because of repeated pressure on an area of skin where moisture is unable to escape. The most preventable measure to avoid getting blisters is to ensure your hiking boots fit snugly and that appropriate socks are worn with them. Always carry First Aid items that can help with blisters, such as plasters and specialist blister creams.

Of course, hiking in the Lake District in flipflops is never going to do anybody any favours, and not only can this sort of behaviour put the wearers health and sometimes lives at risk, it also puts greater pressure on the mountain rescue services and air ambulance teams that are called out to hikers who've been caught out by bad and irresponsible decisions.

Always get advice about the best kind of hiking boots to wear, make sure you have a fitting session from an expert or specialist supplier and if you’re intending to go hiking in the Lake District, make sure you share this advice with anyone you see with a map of Helvellyn in one hand and a pair of flipflops in the other.

Backpacking or Backbreaking

It is an astonishing fact that back and neck pain constitutes for nearly half of all absences from work in the EU - this is why keen walkers on backpacking hiking expeditions should learn some simple back care to take with them on their expedition.

Permanent back-pain can be set-off by the simplest of things like a cough to continuously performing activity that creates strain on muscles, ligaments and cartilage. Backpacking, by its very name, suggests something that involves the back - and of course it does - carrying sometimes fairly heavy weight.

So, remember, always get the essentials sorted first.

The Backpacking Boots

Make sure your backpacking boots fit properly. If not, then go and seek some professional advice from a specialist supplier. Without good quality backpacking boots that have been properly fitted, the weight you're carrying will not be given proper support from your legs, meaning your back could be compensating and taking more strain than it needs to.

The Backpack

Backpacks worn incorrectly are often the reason for backpacking hikers struggling with back-pain. Adjust your backpack so that it sits high on the back, making use of waist straps where appropriate. These help transfer weight from the shoulders onto the hips, ensuring an even spread of weight across the whole back. This way, pressure spots are less likely to occur and it is less likely that you will be aggravating back-pain.

The Exercises                 

Anyone who participates in any sort of regular exercise will know that warming-up and down after an intensive level of physical activity helps stop the body from getting tense and stiff. There are a many simple back exercises recommended by physiotherapists for people with specific back-problems - consult yours before going backpacking hiking.

The Rest

Everyone needs a rest, physically and mentally. After several hours backpacking, the final thing you must do is give your body enough time to rest, relax and recuperate. Hot showers, gentle stretching and good, supported resting positions when sitting or lying are highly recommended.

If you take heed of these few simple points, then backpacking hiking should be your friend rather than your backbreaker!

When To Get New Walking Shoes

It must be human nature that makes us hold on to things that have past the point where they might still be useful,  and so the question of when to get new walking shoes is perhaps one that many of us  who are keen hikers avoid answering with any degree of commitment.

Maybe it's sentimentality that prevents us from doing so. You have probably been part of a similar scenario: you bought a pair of the best quality hiking boots over ten years ago with the money you'd saved from working overtime for over several months. You then climbed all of Scotland's Munros in them, wore them when you got married on top of Kinder Scout and used them to hold the Holy Water when your first child was baptised. Hiking boots like these should last forever and anyway, you won't find another pair like them these days!

Sentimentality indeed. It goes without saying that the most important aspect to any hiking boot is that they actually do the job they are designed for and so the question of when to get new walking shoes really isn't a hard one, is it? To make life a little easier, there are a few things to look for that can make the decision simpler.

Firstly, check if there's a hole in the bottom of the sole. If there is, then you can throw your hiking boots away immediately (or have them framed if they really do carry a lot of sentimental value).

Secondly, make sure the sole is still intact and hasn't started to come away from the body of the boot. Pull the sole away from the hiking boot and if there's any noticeable 'give', then clearly the integrity of this part of the boot has been compromised and it may be time for a replacement.

Thirdly, assess how waterproof your hiking boots are. You should of course have been caring for your hiking boots using the appropriate weather protection and waterproofing substances, however, leather and other boot materials do deteriorate over time. As wet feet are no good at all - they make for an uncomfortable walk and are bad for your feet's health - this may be the clincher that gets you searching for a suitable replacement pair.

Finally, ensure that you have adequate tread left on your soles. Hard walking across craggy terrain can put the walker and their boots under serious pressure to perform - and again, over time, hiking boot treads can and do wear down.

There's nothing wrong with sentimentality and most of us exhibit it to some degree. There is a problem however when it begins to have an effect on important decisions and the question of when to get new walking shoes is one of those decisions. In order to remain safe and get the most enjoyment from your activity as a hiker, don’t delay making it.

Hiking Maps You Can Print

Apart from making sure you have the best quality hiking boots for your outdoor walking adventure, another essential item to carry is a map - but stop - this should not necessarily be one of those maps you can print easily and for free from the Internet.

As many of us already know, getting hold of mapping information these days couldn't be any more simple - free information and data from the Internet, the use of SatNav and the prevalence of Smartphones whose applications utilise both Internet compatible applications and GPS make it so.

From the Internet today, it's possible to use a free service like Google Maps or Multimap, bring up the relevant area on-screen and then of course you can print the map to use when required. These are fine if all you need is to check up on your day-to-day geography.

However, if you’re looking for maps you can print in order to navigate serious hiking trips, you should exercise caution. Even today, in a world obsessed with the latest technology and gadgetry, there's no substitute for spending some of your money getting hold of the most detailed map possible. Walking in some of the World's National Parks for example can land you in deep trouble if you don't carry basic equipment such as a compass in conjunction with a precise and accurate survey of the landscape in front of you - especially when the weather turns, the fog comes down and your latest 'locate me I'm lost' mobile application can't connect because the signal's gone down.

So where should you go to acquire the best pre-printed maps rather than maps you can print yourself?

In the UK, Ordnance Survey is synonymous with quality detailed map making. Commissioned as Great Britain's national mapping agency and collecting, collating and providing Government agencies with up-to-date mapping data - they also provide the widest and most trusted range of large scale detailed maps for hikers and explorers.

So, if you’re considering setting off in your new hiking boots anytime soon, and you haven’t already planned your route and bought the relevant maps – then it’s about time you did, before you leave it too late and rely on those highly unsuitable maps you can print.

Adventure Hiking - Must Know Info To Find The Right Hiking Boots

For those of us who love adventure hiking through the wilderness, it is important to focus on getting the right hiking boots as this really can make all the difference. It goes without saying that comfort is a given but there are a number of other features which will make adventure hiking all the more enjoyable.
Hiking boots are designed to be resilient and hard-wearing and anyone who has ever been adventure hiking through mountain terrains or forest landscapes will understand why they have to be. There are a few key characteristics related to this sort of footwear that it is a good idea to be familiar with and which will ramp up your enjoyment of adventure hiking significantly.

The 5 Must Know Facts When Picking Hiking Boots

With springtime getting into full swing, many Brit's are now turning their attention to adventure hiking opportunities - but is it prudent to know the features of hiking boots which will have the biggest bearing on your comfort levels whilst hitting the trails, both in the UK and abroad. The top 5 facts are:

1. Choose Performance Over Appearance - Adventure hiking is all about going through ravines, streams and muddy ditches so if you have a new pair of hiking boots, they won't stay looking new for long. As such, pick a pair that offer high performance as opposed to visual appeal. And if they happen to look good as well, then great!

2. Timing - Generally speaking, if you know you're going adventure hiking, you should aim to buy your footwear a few months in advance - as this will give you the opportunity to break them in and ensure they are comfortable right from the outset.

3. Consider The Materials - It goes without saying that hiking footwear comes in a multitude of different materials and each type are generally more suited to specific forms of terrain and weather conditions. Doing some research beforehand will help make sure you choose a variety that will be suitable for your hike.

4. Don't Make Obvious Mistakes - Obviously, most hiking boots are waterproof but this only applies if the water is shallow enough not to come over the top of the boot. Mistakes such as this should be avoided when adventure hiking to make sure the footwear remains comfortable throughout.

5. It's All About The Fit - You could buy a pair of hiking boots for £1m but if they don't fit your particular type of foot, then it will be futile. Comfort is key when adventure hiking and choosing a form of footwear which fits is more important than opting for the most expensive pair you can find.

Adventure hiking will be a popular pursuit amongst Brits in the remainder of 2010 and we're confident that many will be opting for the Hi-Tec V-Lite Mt Nevis WPi to keep their feet comfortable and their hike enjoyable.

Daleswear Outdoors conquer the mountain in our V-Lite Altitude Ultra boots

The Daleswear Outdoor Clothing store staff embarked on a leisurely team trek of the very beautiful surroundings of the Ingleton Waterfalls Walk on Wednesday 5th May 2010. Their mission involved trying and testing the Hi-Tec 'V-Lite Altitude Ultra Luxe Wpi' boots with a revolutionary new technology called ION MASK! This new substance works like Gore-tex, (as it is waterproof and breathable). The best thing about it is you do not have to spend added pennies on re-proofing them, such as wax, special cleaning solutions etc. Simply rinse any mud or dirt straight off under a tap. Simple! The ION MASK looks after itself and continues to protect the surface of the boot without a helping hand. A revolution for most hikers out there, as the last thing you wish to do after a hard days hike is to spend time scrubbing your boots clean to then start treating them to keep them in good condition.

How does it do this? Well, the ION MASK liquid is applied to the surface of the very traditional style Hi-Tec boot. The ION MASK is everywhere, on the leather, in the stitching, on the laces and tongue. It is invisible as a finished result and works on a molecular level to make the boot 'hydrophobic'.

Along with two representatives from Hi-Tec, a representative accompanied the Daleswear team from 'Sidas' who provided custom made insoles of which you can have made in store (see our website). The 'Bridgedale' Sock Company kindly supplied us with 'Comfort Trekker' (Midweight) socks to finish off the trial experience. The very well known Waterfalls Walk in Ingleton provided the perfect terrain for our first venture out in the new boots. With a variety of men, women, feisty teenagers and keen kids of all fitness levels we set off from the central village square to walk the reverse directional route up through the falls. The River Doe produces the mesmerizing sights of Snow Falls right up to Beezley Falls. Staff stood in the shallower areas to test waterproofness, which most definitely worked. From road to gentle wooded area the pathway then leads to the base and start of the falls. Lots and lots of steps and winding pathway that changes underfoot from gravel and shale to hard (and sometimes slippery) rock to soft mud that tested both the temperament of both staff and boots! After crossing Oddies Lane we did one last ascent up to Twistleton Farm to head up to the top (sadly the ice cream van had long gone by this time) before heading down slippery gravel paths as the weather took a brief turn to rain. The waterproofs came out and the boots once a gain were successfully tested for their waterproof capability.

As we reached the impressive Thornton Force waterfall (caused by the River Twiss), some of the younger staff decided to walk on the wild side. They ventured the intrepid slippery rocks to climb and conquer the unusually large square rock that sits in the pool at the base of the waterfall. I think it was because of my vanity that I did not want to dare scuff my lovely new, shiny boots that I did the worst impression of a seal beaching itself onto the rock with all the elegance of a sumo wrestler attempting ballet. The boots most certainly put up with the slipperiness of the rocks. I think it could have been more that my adventurous streak mixed with the fact that fitness levels are certainly not at their peak that I didn't allow the boots to assist me at that point!

The trek evened out over to Kingsdale Road which led us down towards the Marton Arms Pub at Thornton-in-Lonsdale (funny how the pace quickened as soon as the pub was spotted!) We were welcomed at the door by Auntie Sue (Landlady of this lovely 17th Century pub) just as we were losing light. The Hi-Tec representative surprised us all by popping a bottle of champagne at the end of the walk and we had a great meal and well deserved beer in the pub to celebrate the end of a very successful testing experience.

The Daleswear staff recommend the boots to customers looking or a good all round boot. I have to say to conclude this report that I was most impressed that it's the first time my heels have not suffered with fifty pence sized blisters especially seeing as we took the risk of not breaking the boots in before hand. This is another of the boasts of the Hi-Tec 'Altitude Ultra Luxe Wpi' ION MASK boot and I am glad to say it did what it said on the box!

When Was Hiking Invented?

The hiking we know and love today has been around for many years. It might not have crossed many people's minds, but for some, the question of 'when was hiking invented?' is a curious one that still needs answering. People who are passionate about hiking genuinely want to know how it all started, where it all came from, and who had the crazy idea to start trekking for miles and miles!

Of course, hiking wasn't really 'invented' as such; it was more a case of discovering it. A German named Philipp Bussemer from the quaint city of Baden-Baden is said to have opened the first tourist information centre in the Black Forest at the end of the 19th century. He generated huge interest in hiking and general exploration by publishing hiking maps and guides and soon started signposting hiking trails in the Black Forest. This was his love; his passion and he had a loyal set of followers who were curious to know more about hiking and how they could explore various locations through the simple art of, well, walking.

It sounds simple and it is; hiking doesn't require any skills as such, it's a hobby for people that want to get more out of life and Philipp Bussemer was keen on promoting the wonders of hiking. He lectured about hiking trails and provided estimated times of when people could be expected to finish a hiking trail.

There is in fact a crossover between hiking, power walking and trekking, and this is something that is still evident today. People fulfil their love of walking by turning it into something more exhilarating, which is where hiking and trekking come in. Walking enthusiasts know that you have to develop your walking skills to become an excellent hiker / trekker, and this is a sport in itself.

Philipp Bussemer helped the German community to discover hiking, and we're grateful to people like him that the spirit of hiking is still very much alive, all over the world.

Help! I Want To Go Hiking But I Don’t Know Where To Start…

This is something we hear a lot of people say. They tell us that they are keen to get started with hiking but simply don't know where to begin and what they need to learn. In truth, there's not a lot you need to learn when it comes to hiking, the main thing is just preparing your body mentally and physically for what could be a challenging event.

If you have never been hiking before, or indeed on a long walk, the best advice is to start small and work your way up. Walk around your local area for a bit just loosening your muscles and getting your body used to working harder. For those that sit in an office all day, it's understandable that the smallest amount of exercise can make some people stiff as a board, so it's important that you don’t overdo it to start with.

Once you have been walking around your local area, try power-walking. This means you'll be putting a bit more effort into the walk and making your body work harder than before. It doesn't mean you have to jog; it's simply walking with intent and purpose and training your brain to believe that you are capable and ready for walking long distances that you once weren't used to.

If you're nervous about doing this on your own, get your friends together and make a day of it. Aim for the slightly cooler days as opposed to the really sunny ones, as your body will have to work much harder in warmer weather and this isn't always easy for those just starting out with learning the basics of hiking. Rallying your friends together to go walking or power-walking will help you with confidence and make the exercise seem easier and more relaxed.

Once you've mastered the art of power-walking and training your body and mind to be able to handle a variety of walking situations, you should be able to manage a proper hike. It can take a few months of preparation, but once you go hiking, you're sure to find it an exhilarating experience. Don't aim too high to start with and gradually build up your strength and stamina. At the end of it all, you're sure to feel the hike was worth it.

Summer Hiking Is All The Rage

If you fancy doing something a bit different this year, why not consider summer hiking. Team up with your friends and make your hike an exhilarating experience. A lot of people do this to get some much needed fresh air and also take advantage of the good weather. Summer hiking is always preferable to winter hiking, as there are far less dangers that lie ahead during summer.

In the winter, there are pitfalls such as rocky mountain ranges covered in snow that can lead to accidents. People often underestimate the dangers of winter hiking, but still they choose to do it. In the summer, the days stay lighter for longer and the warmer weather inevitably means you don't have to carry as many items with you. Layer upon layer of winter clothing often makes a winter hike more difficult to endure. The great thing about summer though is that you can pack much lighter.

More people are quite literally 'warming' to the idea of summer hiking as they find it an inexpensive way to enjoy the weather without having to go abroad and spend a fortune. People of all ages are getting their friends together to go hiking, and they are genuinely making a weekend of the event. Hiking has become popular again and men and women are enjoying the fresh air and the sights they get to see when out and about.

Some assume that hiking is just for the middle-aged, but people in their early twenties are now keen to get involved too. The traditional rambler can be of any age these days and it shows that hiking really has transcended the age barriers. It's something everyone can get involved in and it makes people feel good.

At Hi-Tec, we’re big advocates of summer hiking and we have just the hiking boots you need for the journey. Get in on the experience by inviting your friends and family on a summer hike and revel in the summer sun.

Spring Is In The Air: are you back in prime hiking shape?

The hiking enthusiasts amongst us can't fail to have noticed a significant improvement in the weather over the past couple of weeks. The snowy January days seem long behind us and suddenly there's sunshine at the end of this rather cloudy tunnel we've found ourselves in for the past few months. Winter's been pretty awful this year so more than a few of us fair weather hikers may well have clocked up a few months of near inactivity. So if you haven't been working on getting yourself back in prime shape over these past few weeks, you're lagging behind and you'll only have yourself to blame when you discover too late that a winter of hot chocolate and mince pies has rendered you unfit. It's time to get back into shape!

The simple and unforgettable rule is that the fitter you are, the longer you,ll be able to walk for and the more enjoyment you'll get out of hiking. If you have been inactive to say the least over the past few months you need to start focusing on cardio and strength building exercises. Bear in mind that depending on just how indulgent you've been through the winter it could take you six weeks to get your fitness levels back up: there is no time to lose.

For strength have a go at working out with weights in the gym twice a week. Keep the weights low to begin with and build up gradually. Don't just concentrate on your legs: your general fitness will improve with a little work on your arms, chest and back.

For cardio, have a go at the treadmill or exercise bike three or four times each week. Don't exert yourself but keep your heart rate up. You could also have a go at walking or jogging outside but invest in some good running shoes first: the last thing you need is a running injury that was entirely preventable spoiling the hiking season for you!

As well as checking that you're in good shape, spare a thought for all your hiking equipment. Are your hiking boots up to another year’s hard work or should they be replaced? Is your backpack still in good nick? And do you have all the hiking equipment you need for your safety?

Here’s to another summer of great hiking!

Golf Shoes That Can Be Functional As Well As Fashionable

In a world of fashion conscious fitness fanatics, the standard golf shoes are no longer bland and basic. Just take a look at the latest range of Hi-Tec golf shoes that cater for both men and women looking for functional footwear with a fashionable edge.

So what has suddenly made golf shoes so popular? And how are they different to normal trainers?

In truth, it is the celebrity magazines and elevated celebrity status that has made women in particular lean more to the stylish footwear for their sporting activities. Golf is one of those sports that some people just can't get into, but others are passionate about it. From seeing the top golfing names succeed in America, golf is now the new 'must-play' sport, and people want golf shoes that complement their inimitable style and presence on the golfing green. At Hi-Tec, we know that golf shoes need to look good and offer the comfort and support needed when playing golf. As you know, precision is everything when it comes to golfing, and that's why we take our golf shoe design seriously. You'll find an impressive selection of golf shoes for both men and women, and the best part is knowing they are from a sports brand with years of experience in creating the very best shoes for all active needs.

Normal trainers are designed for those that are very active and need extra comfort and support when they are exercising, but golf shoes are designed specifically for golfers. Hi-Tec knows what the golfer needs, and we're proud to go the extra mile with our golf shoes. We've even launched the impressive Picadilly WPi golf shoes, which are designed with ion-mask treatment to prevent them getting wet and soaking your feet when you're out on the golfing green. Little extras like this make our golf shoes quite special. But don't just take our word for it - check out our latest golf shoes and indulge in functional and fashionable footwear.

Why it is so amazing to be part of 'Team Hi-Tec'

We have Global Launches twice a year, one in April for the Spring/Summer season and another in October for the Autumn/Winter season. At these launches, Hi-Tec Subsidiaries and Distributors from around the world are brought together and shown the new product and marketing initiatives for the coming season. As a business, we work a year ahead of ourselves, so when we are in Spring/Summer 2010, we begin launching the products for Spring/Summer 2011. This gives the subsidiaries and distributors a whole year to sell these new products in to the trade before it finally hits the consumer market.

I got involved in my first Global Launch (which was for AW09) after 18 months of working in the Hi-Tec Marketing Department. We held it in Manchester in October 2008 and it was my job to co-ordinate all of our delegates; from organising their hotel accommodation to arranging their airport transfers to ensuring everyone was in the right room during the meetings and had a place at the table for dinner. Since then, I've been involved in organising our SS10 Global Launch in Turkey, and our AW10 Regional Launches (3 Global Launches on a smaller scale) in Southend-on-Sea (Essex), Hong Kong and Las Vegas.

Last week saw the Global Launch of our new SS11 Range out in Cape Town. After months of preparation for what promised to be the BIGGEST and BEST launch to-date, a volcano in Iceland erupted, grounding planes all over Europe, intent on ruining everything we had done. Both the Global Product and Marketing teams, and many of the key managers for our International business, were left stranded in the UK Head Office, unable to fly out to South Africa.

BUT, in true Hi-Tec style, colleagues from around the world who'd made it to South Africa pulled together and the show went on! It was such a relief knowing that all our hard work didn't go to waste and I feel so proud and lucky to be part of such an amazing team. With everyone pitching in and lending a hand, we were able to have the BIGGEST and BEST launch the world of Hi-Tec has ever seen. Unfortunately, you'll have to wait until early next year to see what all the fuss was about!

Laura Greenaway

Group Marketing Coordinator 

Hiking Kit for a Successful Adventure

In the inimitable words of the Scouts, "Be Prepared" - this is a good ethos for those heading out on hikes over the next few months. Choosing your hiking kit prior to heading out is part of the enjoyment of the expedition and taking a look at the sort of equipment that you need is the best way of planning a hike in the UK or abroad.

Hiking kit can typically be applied to any accessory or piece of equipment that you will either literally require or which it would be a good idea to have during a hiking expedition in the wilderness. First and foremost, it is generally the done thing to compile a hiking kit checklist before strapping up your hiking boots and hitting those dirt trails. Understanding the sort of hiking kit typically required is a good jumping off point for anyone new to the pursuit of adventure hiking.

Hiking Kit Checklist 

Preparation is half the battle, so to speak, and being prepared is imperative when it comes to hiking. Looking in the backpacks of the majority of hikers reveals that the most hiking kit checklists should include the following items:

· Waterproofs - Any seasoned hiker will tell you just how quickly the weather can turn against you and even the sunniest days can turn into absolute stinkers in the blink of an eye. Waterproof trousers and a waterproof jacket should be one of the first pieces of hiking kit that is put on the checklist.

· First Aid - Hiking can be quite demanding and, as such, it is important to have a well stocked first aid kit should any scrapes or cuts occur. In order to reduce the likelihood of injuries such as sprains, it is a good idea to purchase a pair of good hiking boots, such as the Hi-Tec Altitude IV Enviro WP.

· Food and Drink - Obviously, hiking a long distance will require considerable reserves of energy and this is something which can be replenished through food and drink at various intervals of the hike. Having a good range of energy boosting foods is a must for all hiking kits.

· Map/GPS - Whether you opt for an old fashioned map or the modern incarnation, GPS, it is imperative to have some form of navigational tool when embarking a hike - particularly if your chosen location is remote.

Hiking kits will differ from person to person but the above list is a good starting point for the sort of hiking equipment that you will require on the average expedition. Ensuring that you are comfortable during a hike is the most crucial aspect and this is typically achieved with well chosen and fitting hiking boots.

Renegade Trail and Altitude Ultra Luxe Review

Eleven-year-old daughters are notoriously difficult to please. Little Miss Outdoors is no different and she knows what she likes, especially when it comes to clothing.

"Funky, black, pink and purple are good," says Little Miss. "Brown, blue and boring are not."

Right!

Thank goodness then that outdoor clothing has come such a long way since my childhood when brown, blue and boring were about as funky as it ever got. These days jackets, rucksacks, fleeces - and even socks, gloves, hats and walking boots come in bright colours, pretty patterns, trendy designs and with a great deal of child-appeal.

Over the years I have been known to bribe Little Miss Outdoors into walking a hill by buying her a flowery fleece or a bright pink kagool. There was a beautiful lilac and purple rucksack that did the trick, too.

Then with the Easter hols looming the kind people at Hi-tec decided to pop a nice new pair of girls' walking boots in the post. The Junior Renegrade Trail Walking boots were timed well on two counts: firstly Little Miss had grown out of last year's boots (children do that annoying growing thing a little too often sometimes!) and secondly I was keen to get Little Miss away from the computer and up a hill.

At the same time those nice Hi-tec people also sent me a new pair of leather V-lite Altitude walking boots.

And so one one warm-ish and not too wet afternoon Little Miss and MumOutdoors set off to summit one of our local hills, Conic at Balmaha.

Said Little Miss of the boots; "Yeh, these look kinda cool. Not too boring and the pink is nice, especially on the bottom of the boot (she meant the chunky, grippy sole).

"They don't slip on my heel, either, and they are comfortable and I've tied the laces tight. All those things I know you're going to ask." she added, cheekily.

During the walk itself Little Miss answered my further quizzing: "Yes, they are light enough. No, they don't feel too heavy. Yes,are gripping the ground. No, I'm not getting wet feet even in the puddles. No, I don't mind if they get muddy because I'm now 11 and not a baby who worries about the pink getting splashed. Yes, they make walking downhill and uphill easy. Yes, I definitely like these. I really do. MUM! Are there any more questions?"

So, I'm thinking, that if the boots are pleasing to an 11-year-old girl who can be short on patience and big on style then they must be pretty good boots, eh?

And mine? Surprisingly I found the leather boots to be really comfy, too. I'd memories of those leather walking boots from my teen years that took months of blisters to turn into something vaguely comfy. The Hi-tec V-lite Altitudes also felt light on my feet and despite having long, thin feet they remained snug for the full hill walk. In particular I thought the padding on the tongue and the inner sole was really generous. The soles were good and grippy. And the leather kept my feet really dry even when I joined Little Miss in a bit of mud wallowing and puddle paddling (well, any excuse really!).

If you want to read all about the technical attributes of these Hi-tec boots - and there are plenty of great details for the very reasonable price tag of £35 for the junior boots and the reasonably reasonable £100 for the women's leather boots - then click on the links above.

I prefer to talk about outdoor kit in terms of comfort and practicalities (and, of course. looks). Both these boots scored well if you're looking for comfortable, no-need-to-wear-in footwear that will handle spring and summer walking on good-to-better trails (puddles and mud included). For stockist check out the website.

 

by Fiona Russell

Take a look at her Blog!