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Metheringham
Lincoln
England

+44 (0)7768 608914

Specialist Adventure Travel company based in Lincolnshire who offers safe, exciting and affordable treks, climbs, expeditions, cycling challenges and charity treks for individuals, charities and corporate clients. Imp Adventures trips include - Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, Elbrus, Toubkal, Aconcagua, National Three Peaks, Yorkshire Three Peaks, London to Paris, Hadrian's Wall as well as climbing, trekking and scrambling in the UK and Treks and Expeditions throughout Europe and further afield. 

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Clothing and Equipment

​​Is is vitally important that your are suitably dressed and prepared for your trip. Here we provide details on how to choose the best clothing and equipment so that you can safely get the most out of your adventure.

​Clothing and Equipment

​Is is vitally important that your are suitably dressed and prepared for your trip. Here we provide details on how to choose the best clothing and equipment so that you can safely get the most out of your adventure.

Clothing and Equipment Notes

Base layer

The most important function of the base layer is to transport moisture away from your skin so it must have a wicking effect. Cotton is not good for this purpose. Modern man-made base layer tops work efficiently at this and can be used as t-shirts on warm days and as extra warmth on cold days. A couple of short and long sleeved tops give good flexibility. Wicking underwear is also recommended although less important. Allow 1 set of underwear for every 2 days.

Mid layers

The purpose of the mid layer is to provide warmth. This is typically a fleece material, but other materials such as smart wool are also good. One top is usually enough but for longer trips and changing weather patterns it is worth having one lighter top and one warmer top.

Trekking trousers and shorts

Your choice of trousers is very important and should give you unrestricted movement. Too long or too wide trouser legs may cause a tumble. Many modern materials are light and dry quickly. If trekking in Alpine or Winter environments then serious consideration should be given to purchasing wind and water shedding 'shoeller' fabric technical trousers, these will allow you a greater degree of flexibility and comfort. A couple of pockets are useful. Shorts are great for warmer days. Some trousers have detachable legs that convert to shorts.

Wind and waterproof

Heavy winds and showers are not uncommon in the mountain regions of Europe and farther afield so a good jacket and trousers of a good wind and waterproof material are essential. The best option is to carry a good 'soft shell' zip up jacket that is both windproof and highly water resistant, most manufacturers make good jackets of this nature, the best ones being made from 'shoeller' fabric with pockets and a good hood. A waterproof and breathable set of waterproofs are also required when trekking in the mountains, these should be 100% waterproof, breathable and pack down small for carriage. 'Goretex Paclite' material is a good choice for these items.

Insulation

If trekking in the greater ranges, winter or hut to huts, a down or synthetic duvet jacket is highly recommended for fending of the chilly evenings and early mornings. Down jackets are more efficient and pack down well for carrying but are expensive and useless when wet. Synthetic jackets are more useful and cheaper but are bulky and heavy compared to down.

Socks

Technical trekking socks are recommended. These are padded in the right places and have a wicking effect to keep feet dry. socks with a mix of wool and man-made materials are the best choice. 100% 'Smartwool' socks are expensive but are widely regarded as the best available. Trekkers should aim to have one pair of new socks for every two days trekking.

Boots

Your boots are the most Important purchase you will make, and careful consideration and choice should be afforded this major purchase as you will be spending all day wearing them, covering great distances over a variety of terrain.

Trekking shoes and trainers are not suitable, as you will need good ankle support. Look for a sturdy sole with good grip ('Vibram' is the best sole material), Gore-tex waterproof linings are useful but not essential as boots can be waterproofed. Make sure your boots have a perfect fit and wear them before your trip.

Boot ratings

B0 – Lowland walking boots with a flexible sole and a good degree of comfort. (short summer walks and charity challenges)

B1 – Trekking boots with a slightly stiffer sole and the capability to take a basic winter walking crampon. (Worldwide extended trekking and hiking boot)

B2/3 – Fully rigid winter walking and expedition boot, not suitable for trekking and hiking.

Hats

A good sun hat with a peak and neck flap is recommended, as is a warm 'Windstopper' fleece hat with ear protection and neck cord. In winter or the greater ranges a balaclava should also be carried. Waterproof hats are not necessary if carrying good waterproofs.

Gloves

In the mountains it can get chilly, even in summer, particularly if staying overnight in mountain huts. Fleece gloves with 'Windstopper' fabrics are light and warm, two pairs should be carried. In cold and wet areas a waterproof insulated mitten or shell mitten is warmer than a pair of gloves.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses with protection from all types of UV rays are essential. Models that wrap around the face and prevent sun coming in through the sides are recommended, for winter and alpine conditions a factor of 3-4 is essential as is a spare pair.

Sun protection

A high factor sunscreen and lip balm is essential. Choose a sunscreen that doesn't run in the eyes when sweating.

Rucksack

If your trip consist of day tours from a valley base a sac of 20- 30 litres that can carry waterproofs,hats, gloves and food and water should suffice. If you have a single overnight stay in hut you may need 30-40 litres. For multi-day hut tours 40-50 litres is reccomended.

A waterproof liner is highly recommended to keep things dry during a rain shower. Your rucksack should have a good hip belt for support and should fit you well. Special ladies models are available.

Gaiters

Gaiters can be useful in wet and muddy conditions, and can protect your trousers on extended treks.

Trekking poles

Trekking poles can help take the strain off your legs on descent. They will also relieve the legs on ascents as the arm muscles are also used. In addition they aid balance. Telescopic poles with a comfortable grip and adjustable wrist loops are recommended.

Hydration system

Whilst some sports suit bladder type water carriers, trekkers should chose wide mouthed 'lexian' bottles which are cheaper and sturdier and are easier to refill from streams and in huts, as well as being easier to clean, store and regulate fluid intake. One litre is the absolute minimum you should carry and in the hot months two litres are recommended. A small flask for hot drinks is also recommended in winter.

Personal Medication and first aid

Participants are encouraged to carry their own small first aid kit. You must carry any personal medications that you take. It is also highly recommended to carry blister treatment such as 'Compeed' or sports tape, pain relief, etc for personal use. On multi-day hut trips throat lozenges and diarrhea treatment may also be useful.

Sanitary kit

Some may like to take a few tissues for unplanned toilet stops and some wet wipes or dry soap for additional hygiene, particularly when staying in huts.

Other equipment

Depending on your preference and how much weight you like to carry some people like to take items such as camera, penknife (remember to pack knives in haul bag if flying), binoculars and navigational aids such as map, compass, GPS and altimeter (your guide will have necessary navigational aid but some like to practice with their own equipment).

Hut extras

If your trip includes an overnight stay in a mountain hut or gîte it may be useful to have a sleeping bag liner and earplugs for added comfort. Some huts have basic washing facilities so a small travel towel can be useful. A small head torch can also come in handy.

Money and Travel documents

Passport, visas, insurance documents, money, credit cards etc. Always carry a copy of your passport and insurance documents in a zip lock bag or other watertight container in your rucksack.

Valley Clothing and Equipment

Don't forget to bring any smart clothes you wish to wear around town and any other essentials you need when not trekking e.g. wash bag, toiletries, hair dryers, books, mp3 player etc. 'Pack Cubes' are handy for separating and organising clothing and equipment carried in base camp duffles.

Imp Adventures, based upon personal experiences and personal choice, recommends the following items. The items listed will ensure that you are best equipped to withstand the changeable mountain weather conditions, and enjoy the outdoors experience without suffering conditions that are within your control. The lists are by no means exhaustible but should be used as a rough guideline for participation in the relevant activity.

For overseas activities a clothing and equipment list will be sent out on acknowledgment of booking.

Printable PDF checklists

Outdoor retailers

Imp Adventures recommends the following outdoor retailers:

Clothing and Equipment

Equipment

Footwear

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