Equipment
The things marked Vital are indeed vital, if you turn up for a walk without these items we can refuse to take you, or make you do a lower level walk than intended.
As a club member you will get a 10% discount at Trespass (map), who have most of these items for sale. If in doubt, contact us or speak to our kit officer.
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Boots! (Vital!)
They must provide ankle support, since lots of our walks traverse rough terrain, and without this support sprains and broken ankles can occur very easily.
We don't want any injuries, we don't want to carry people down mountains, and we don't want to have to call out mountain rescue.
Waterproof boots are also highly recommended, squelching with every step is not at all pleasant.
If you intend to do high level walks in the winter then they must also be stiff enough to kick steps in the ice and take crampons securely, talk to our Kit Officer if you are unsure.
And spare socks are recommended too! |
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Appropriate Trousers (Vital)
Basically anything but jeans.
They need to be comfortable enough to walk in all day, both when dry and when wet.
Lightweight 'combat' trousers are ideal for summer walking, but for winter either thicker fabric or thermals are recommended. |
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Warm Layers (Vital)
Keep a spare warm layer in your (Waterproof!) bag, even if you don't need it while walking. If you stop for lunch or need to wait around for a while, a good fleece or jumper will help keep you warm. |
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Water proofs (Vital)
The most noticeable thing about Scottish weather is the amount of rain, and the strength of the wind. A decent waterproof coat will help protect you from the elements.
Wearing layers of clothing is an effective way of keeping body heat, but this effect reverses if the clothing is wet.
And anything that is waterproof is also windproof, so even if you do get knocked off your feet by the wind, at least you'll stay warm.
Waterproof over trousers are also recommended. For both wet weather and snow. |
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Hat and Gloves/Mittens (Vital in winter)
A lot of heat is lost through the head, so a good hat will help prevent some of this heat loss, and also keep your ears warm.
Gloves or mittens will prevent your fingers from becoming numb in the cold. Especially if you become involved in an impromptu snowball fight.
Though the manufacturers may claim that they are waterproof, that's rarely the case. So bring at least one spare pair. |
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Lunch (Vital)
Hill walking takes a lot of energy, so lunch is necessary. Along with a few snacks to keep your energy levels up. (Not your emergency rations!) And day walks always end at a pub, so money for a drink is recommended. |
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Water (Vital)
At least 1 litre of water , in a well sealed container (soggy spare clothes in your rucksack are useless) Or a platypus/camelback type device, again, 1 litre minimum. But you should allow more for hotter weather. |
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Emergency Rations (Vital)
Though we've had no accidents or unintentional overnight stays in living memory. As a precaution, we advise that you bring a few chocolate bars or other high energy food. Get rid of the temptation to eat them early by not taking your favourites... |
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Sturdy Daypack (Vital)
This doesn't have to be specifically made for the outdoors, as long as it is big enough for all your kit, and comfortable enough to wear all day.
Two shoulder straps are required, and a waist strap is recommended.
Between 15 and 25 litre capacity is ideal
It's worth lining your rucksack with a strong plastic bag for waterproofing. Soggy spare clothing won't keep you warm! |
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Gaiters (Highly Recommended)
These cover the tops of your boots to help prevent water getting inside. Useful for walking through wet vegetation and also snow. They'll also give you a few extra seconds of water resistance if you should happen to step in some deep water. |
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Winter only - Ice Axe and Crampons
Breakaway will provide these in the winter, but if you have your own then bring it along, since we can't promise to provide axes of the perfect length. Crampons too will be provided, if you are likely to need them. These are usually only required on High Level walks though. |
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Other Kit (Recommended)
Though Breakaway provides these on walks, we recommend that you bring your own if you have them.
- Head torch with spare batteries
- First aid kit
- Survival bag / Bivy bag
- Compass and Whistle
And also, you should think about bringing...
- Sunscreen! Seriously, Here's why.
- A camera
- Money for the pub
- A phone, kept somewhere dry.
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