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.