Av2 Europa ing corr.indd

Grandma’s hand-knitted woollen socks are a thing of the past.
Today, textiles made from synthetic materials are commonly used
and have the advantage of keeping the body warm and being breathable.
Many hikers use a pair of very light nylon stockings that offer
protection to the skin and support the muscles.
One should pay special attention to the choice of walking shoes.
Light walking shoes will suffice in the southern part of the path but
on the snow-covered mountains in the north, robust hiking shoes
such as alpine hiking boots are more suitable as you can attach crampons
to give a better grip on hard-packed snow.
Sunglasses are absolutely essential when on snow-covered areas.
Trousers: today, plus fours (shorts) are only worn in Italy for
example by deeply nostalgic people who value customs and traditions,
yet in other countries they are far more common. Today, longer
trousers are probably better as they are lightweight, flexible, have
many pockets, are waterproof and available in different high-visibility
colours etc.…
Classic, heavyweight wool shirts are also a thing of the past.
Today, clothing made of synthetic fibres, such as pile fabric or new
functional and smart textiles, are more suitable. They are made of
materials that have active breathing properties. Pile is an excellent
plush type material, which is light and warm and has been used for
years in waterproof sweaters. Today, the same material is also used
for gloves and caps.
It is not difficult to select a good ‘windcheater’ type fleece jacket.
Those made of polyamide are the lightest and are 100% waterproof
but also highly breathable. Such garments can be very expensive but,
for the less fashion-conscious hiker, good-quality products can be
found at good prices in the end of season sales.
Walking poles (sticks) are light and can be extended and adjusted.
Walking uphill, the walker can save up to 30% of the energy
used without poles. They are imperative for hikers with knee problems
because they partly transfer the rucksack’s load to the arms.
However, a few restrictions apply: the sticks should not be used on
rocks and ice or on very steep paths and slopes because the hiker can
easily lose balance and stumble. Walking poles should not be used
either as an aid on hilly terrain or on a steep descent. It is not advisable
to carry the telescopic sticks between the straps of the rucksack
because the hiker can easily become stuck.
The rucksack should not be too large. If it is, it can cause the hiker
problems along the route – after all, the rucksack should not hinder
the walk. A medium-sized backpack and a small bag are sufficient to
carry the most important items:
- a form of identification
- mobile phone (is very useful and has already helped save the
lives of numerous accident victims. Reception conditions do
however vary)
- membership card from the Alpine Association (to receive a
discount at the mountain huts)
- maps and guides
- ball point pen and maybe a notebook
- pocket knife
- water bottle
- compass and altimeter
- camera
- common medicines such as painkillers, vitamin C supplements,
mineral salts, plasters, gauze and bandages, a clinical
thermometer etc.
as well as all those small items which contribute to your safety
and that your own experience in the mountains recommends.
The following items should also be included:
- a change of underwear
- stockings or socks
- handkerchiefs
- synthetic sheet (sold in many shelters)
16 INNSBRUCK - BRIXEN - FELTRE EUROPA HIG--ALTITUDE TRAIL 2 17