Hiking
A coastal path on a Sunday, a multi-day tour around a massif, or a family outing: each trip requires well-fitted shoes, layers suited to the weather, and a well-planned bag. This page guides you to shoes, clothing, luggage, equipment, and camping.
Where to start equipping yourself
The most logical starting point is the ground. Hiking shoes are chosen according to the terrain and the load carried, followed by layers of hiking clothing: t-shirts, fleeces, jackets, trousers. Textile accessories complete the outfit with socks, hats, gloves, and caps. For gear, the equipment page brings together poles, sunglasses, headlamps, and hydration, while the luggage section gathers backpacks and bags. For sleeping outdoors, head towards tents and sleeping gear, and for comfort at camp, check the camping furniture.
Stroll, day trip or trek: what changes
A few hours out on a marked path can be done very well in low shoes, with a small bag and a light jacket. As the day gets longer and the elevation rises, a more enclosing shaft and poles relieve the ankles and knees. On a multi-day route, everything counts: volume of the bag, warm layer for the evening, headlamp for early departures, and water reserve.
Three layers to follow the weather
In the mountains, the weather can change quickly. The principle of layers remains the simplest: a breathable top against the skin, a fleece or sweatshirt to keep warm, and a windproof or waterproof jacket on top. You add or remove a layer according to effort and altitude, so you don’t sweat on the way up or shiver during breaks.
Brands followed by hikers
In the sub-pages, adidas often comes up for shoes with its Terrex range, Regatta and CMP outfit the whole family, Élémenterre can be found on both shoes and bags and poles, Patagonia is recognizable on fleeces and jackets, and La Sportiva on mountain shoes. The Brand filter on each sub-page keeps only those that interest you.
Equipping the whole family without overspending
Kids grow quickly, and hiking gear accumulates. To keep the budget in check, keep an eye on the hiking clearance, where end-of-line products go, and the hiking sales during discount periods. The new arrivals show the latest collections that have just come in.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum gear for a first hike?
A pair of appropriate shoes for the path, technical socks, a jacket against the wind or rain, a small bag with water and some snacks. The rest can be added over time.
Hiking shoes or sports trainers?
On a dry and even path, a soft shoe can suffice. As soon as the ground becomes rocky, wet, or steep, a grippier sole and a more protective shaft greatly improve comfort and stability.
Should I take poles for walking?
They aren’t mandatory, but they help maintain balance when going downhill, distribute the effort across the arms, and relieve knees on long days.
How do you choose the size of your backpack?
It all depends on the duration of the outing. A small volume is enough for a day, a larger bag becomes useful when you need to carry sleeping and eating gear.
Where can I find hiking gear at a reduced price?
The clearance and sales gather articles that are marked down in price, across all categories.
