People born with an adventurous nature like to go hiking with friends and acquaintances and sometimes even strangers who share their love for the activity. If you work day in and out and want to break away from your hectic routine for a little while, a hiking adventure could re-energize and refresh you as nature is the best medicine after all. 

In case you are about to embark on your hiking venture in not-so-ideal weather conditions, you must have the appropriate items to ensure your safety. Here is a list of backpacking gear you need to fetch before you are off hiking.  

Waterproof Boots

You know your feet are continuously at work when walking so vigorously, and that is why your footwear plays a pivotal role in your hiking trip. The boots you wear can ruin your adventure or be a lifesaver. You may be exploring rough terrain in the countryside on a rainy day, making it essential to wear shoes that provide optimal grip and ensure you do not lose traction. 

Nothing can spoil what could have been an unforgettable hiking trip than wet socks and soggy shoes. Better safe than sorry, buy yourself a pair of waterproof boots to power through rain and not let those rain puddles spoil your fun.

Helium Jacket

If you are already aware that there could be a downpour on the way, you should take a helium jacket with you. Light, compressible and low weight, a helium jacket is water-resistant and provides complete storm protection. 

Whether you are off to a drizzly early morning run or an afternoon hike, a helium jacket provides utmost comfort while standing up to abrasion better than any other. Talking about upper wear, you may view this post if helium rain pants are something that interests you. 

Gaiters

Gaiters can work wonders in rainy or unpredictable weather. Once you put them on, you do not have to worry about your feet getting cold getting wet. They are an amazing shield against rain puddles and keep the mud off the top of your boots, socks, and pant legs. 

Additionally, they protect you from gravel, dirt, weed burrs, or other materials that could even inflict a minor injury. Buying gaiters can be a little expensive for those who are not frequent hikers as you cannot wear these to the office or a party, but if you want your feet to be secure while on the trail, you should not think twice before buying them.

Backpack Rain Cover

A backpack rain cover can serve several purposes, and it is something you should not neglect. In case you are expecting rain amid your venture, you should either buy a waterproof backpack or a rain cover that safeguards your gear against getting wet. A rain cover can also protect your backpack from getting torn if you are hiking through dense vegetation.

Hand Warmers

While you would probably not choose to go hiking when it is extremely cold out there, you may feel the need to warm up your hands even in moderately cold weather. Even if you do hike on a very chilly day, gloves may not be enough to do the job if it is cool beyond expectations. 

Remember, not adequately protecting your hands can expose you to the risk of getting frostbite, or at worst, amputation. It is always better not to put off the idea of carrying a pair of hand warmers even if it is moderately cold, especially if your hands are sensitive to cold temperatures.

Crew Socks

Wearing the right socks can play a vital role in keeping your feet comfortable and blister-free as you take thousands of steps up and down the hiking trail. While calf socks can be a bit too much to pull off in a long journey in warmer weather and ped socks are way too casual for something as vigorous as hiking, crew socks are unarguably provide the best balance of warmth, comfort, and protection to your feet. 

While they come in various fabrics, wool is the most popular material for hikers, as it regulates temperature well enough to keep your feet from getting sweaty while providing the best cushioning. You can put in some extra pairs if you want to be more protective of your feet.

There are few things more reinvigorating than hitting the trails for a hike. Hiking can help you escape the hustle-bustle of your routine life and relax in the lap of mother nature. While you may have planned the perfect day out in the woods to explore the beauty of nature, mother nature can be quite unpredictable and catch you off guard, making your adventure nothing short of a forgettable one. 

However, equipped with the right items to defend yourself against harsh weather elements, you can rest assured that the weather will not impede in making your trip memorable.