TrekYoga

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“We’re almost there” is probably the answer you’ll hear most often — but jokes aside, the real answer can vary greatly, as it depends on several factors, such as:
– The number of participants
– Trail surface and conditions
– Weather conditions
– The average pace of the group, which will naturally adapt to the slowest members
– Hiking times are not always precise, exactly because of these and other variables.

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Once again, the answer depends on the type of hike we’re going to undertake.

For long hikes, including multi-day treks, it’s preferable to wear mid- or high-cut hiking boots (even lightweight ones), which help protect against unwanted twists of the ankle or knee.

For medium-difficulty hikes that are not particularly long (if the terrain allows), you can use low-cut hiking shoes — although high boots still offer extra safety. In any case, the shoes should be suitable for hiking and equipped with a high-performance sole made of a compound that grips well, even on slippery terrain.

For simple hikes or walks on mostly even ground or dirt trails with minimal elevation gain, if you don’t have hiking boots (which are still preferable), a lighter shoe — like a trail running shoe — can be acceptable, provided it has a suitable sole for uneven surfaces.

The most important common denominator is the SOLE, which must not be excessively worn: an old sole becomes smooth, wears out more easily, and is far more slippery than a newer sole made from a still-performing compound that ensures grip even on rugged or wet paths.

Other factors like breathability, waterproofing, and shoe materials are more subjective and affect comfort more than safety.

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Usually, from the very first contact — whether by phone or social media — we try to understand each individual’s needs through targeted questions about their level of fitness and physical preparation. More challenging hikes are clearly not recommended at this stage for those who feel unsure or insufficiently trained.

Before each excursion, we always conduct a short briefing to assess whether everyone’s technical clothing is suitable, paying particular attention to the shoes each participant is wearing.

No worries: hikes are not competitive races. Their purpose is to help you enjoy the natural beauty of the route. I always take care to understand participants’ needs before the hike begins, to ensure the group is well-balanced and that everyone enjoys the experience at a suitable pace.

Beyond personal pride, please feel free to inform the guide during the briefing if you have any cardio/respiratory issues, a pacemaker, or—for example—if you experience panic attacks, frequent dizziness, or fear of exposed sections of the trail.

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Absolutely yes.

The materials used in modern hiking clothing and footwear are specifically designed to handle a variety of factors and changing outdoor conditions.

A waterproof windbreaker, for example, must withstand adverse weather while still offering comfort and safety, keeping us dry for an extended period of time.

Wearing a heavy garment that makes you sweat quickly will make the hike far less enjoyable and much more tiring, draining your energy and making breathing more difficult.

Since sweating also soaks your clothes, they become heavier, and by the end of the hike — especially with a backpack on — if you’re not wearing technical garments with proper breathability, you may also experience muscle and joint pain, particularly in the cervical and lower back areas.

That’s why it’s essential to dress in layers (like an onion) using lightweight, breathable fabrics, adding or removing technical layers as needed. The same goes for pants: personally, I prefer convertible pants, which can become shorts if the temperature rises.

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The size of the backpack — which must be comfortable, with properly adjustable shoulder straps suited to your body — depends on the duration of the hike.

Ideally, a day-hike backpack should have a capacity of at least 20 liters (30 liters is even better), allowing you to comfortably carry a change of clothes, a water bottle, a packed lunch, and accessories such as trekking poles, among other items.

For multi-day hikes, the ideal size increases significantly: you may need a 50-liter or larger backpack, depending on how much gear you need to carry — most likely including a sleeping bag, possibly a tent, multiple clothing changes, and even a second pair of shoes.

It’s always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit, although the guide will always carry one in his backpack for emergencies.