Embrace the Rain!
Let’s face it, there wouldn’t be any lakes in the Lake District if it didn’t rain from time to time!
So as hill walkers, how do we deal with this and not just stay home everytime the forecast is for rain?
It can be especially challenging if you are limited to specific days to get out in the hills, or if you have booked a guided walk for example and have no choice about the date.
Here are my top tips for maintaining a smile when the weather isn’t perfect;
See it as a challenge that you will be proud to overcome!
Prepare - having the right kit can make a huge difference. Make sure you have a decent waterproof jacket, with a hood that you can fit neatly around your face. Think about your footwear, waterproof boots and gaiters can prevent the worst of the weather getting in.
Recognise that the only way to stay completely dry is to seal yourself in a bin bag! All outdoor kit will let water in eventually - jackets have holes where your head and arms come out and that is where water gets in, water will eventually find it’s way into your boots, gloves will get wet. Remember getting wet isn’t on its own a problem, wet and cold is dangerous, wet and warm is well, just a bit unpleasant. Having spare gloves while you are out and keeping a spare warm dry layer in your bag for an emergency is a must. Having a dry set of clothes back at your car is a good idea.
Look after your kit. Rucksacks leak…. the best way to keep your kit dry is in dry bags (specialist bags with roll top seals, if you don’t have these, a bin bag will do, inside your pack I prefer several smaller parcels than one big one. Rucksack covers blow off in the wind, flap about and generally are more hindrance than help. Think too about your phone, if it’s not waterproof then beware of keeping it in a coat pocket, where water can find its’ way though the zip. Invest in a waterproof cover - a zip lock sandwich bag does a good job!
Finally remember that before you start ranting about the rain coming in, make sure it isn’t your sweat not being able to get out that is making you soggy! Opening zips in the dry spells can help regulate that moisture, or my top tip to avoid getting sweaty - walk slower!
One more thing….. splashing in puddles isn’t just for kids, go forth, have fun, embrace the rain!