Welcome to the first page in our brand new Walking Kit section. This section of the website is being set up to help you source the right clothing and equipment for your upcoming walks in Ireland. From footwear to headwear, and everything in between, as well as all the other bits and pieces you're likely to need in your backpack.
We are currently in the process of developing a comprehensive new Walking Kit information and advice section, for which this page will function as a home page. Please refer back on a regular basis to see how the section is coming along, and keep an eye on social media for all the latest updates.
We have also set up a handy selection of useful links to outdoor sports shops in Ireland and well-known outdoor brands to help you source the items you need for your upcoming walks in Ireland.
We are currently in the process of developing a comprehensive new Walking Kit information and advice section, for which this page will function as a home page. Please refer back on a regular basis to see how the section is coming along, and keep an eye on social media for all the latest updates.
We have also set up a handy selection of useful links to outdoor sports shops in Ireland and well-known outdoor brands to help you source the items you need for your upcoming walks in Ireland.
Clothing
The weather in Ireland can change dramatically, even within the space of a single day, so it is important to have the necessary clothing while out walking in the Irish countryside. In the event of something going wrong during your walk (e.g. sustaining an injury, getting lost, etc) having the right clothing with you will also improve your chances of survival while waiting for help to arrive.
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Base layers
Socks Underwear T-shirts & vests |
Mid layers
Fleeces Down insulation Synthetic insulation |
Jackets
Waterproof jackets Windproof jackets |
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Legwear
Trousers Waterproof trousers Shorts Gaiters |
Headwear
Insulating hat Sun hat Buffs |
Gloves
Gloves Liner gloves Mitts |
Footwear
The type of terrain you are walking on will dictate your choice of footwear. For walking on paved surfaces and well-drained gravel paths in urban and other lowland settings, a pair of trainers / runners or any other everyday shoes will be quite adequate. On grass and muddier paths, a pair of waterproof trail walking shoes would be a worthwhile investment. If venturing into Ireland's upland areas, a sturdy pair of waterproof hillwalking boots will provide the extra grip and ankle protection that is required.
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Socks
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Runners / training shoes
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Trail walking shoes
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Hillwalking boots
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Equipment
The equipment you need to carry on your walk depends on the type of terrain, the prevailing weather, how long you expect to be out, and any other supplementary activities being undertaken along the way (e.g. camping, photography, wild swimming, etc
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Packs & bags
Backpacks Waistpacks Dry bags Hydration & nutrition
Water bottles Water bladders Water filtration Insulated flasks Lunchboxes Plates & cutlery Navigation
Maps Compasses Map protectors Extra propulsion
Walking poles Winter traction devices Activity tracking
Handheld GPS devices Smartphones Smartwatches Safety & survival
First aid kits Sanitising gel / wipes Sunscreen Footcare Emergency blankets Storm shelters Whistles Headtorches Smartphones Handheld GPS devices Power banks "What3Words" app Waste disposal
Mini trowels Refuse bags Toilet roll |
Insect control
Insect repellents Insect nets Power supply
Power banks Solar charging panels Wind-up chargers Cables Camping
Tents Bivy bags Tarps Hammocks Sleeping bags Mattresses Pillows Lighting Stoves Cooking utensils Photography
Action cameras DSLRs Smartphones Tripods Lenses Filters Selfie sticks "PhotoPills" app "Stellarium" app Wild swimming
Swimwear Wetsuits Tow floats Floatation vests Swim goggles Swim caps Swim gloves Swim booties Changing robes Towels |
Publications
Recreational walkers in Ireland are well-catered for in terms of walking guide books and maps. Flicking through the pages of a good walking guide book is probably the most satisfying way to find inspiration for future walks. Whether it's a regional or all-Ireland guide book, the routes described within will have been carefully selected, researched, walked, written up, photographed and illustrated by leading experts. A map can be one of the most vital pieces of equipment you carry on a walk, especially if you are venturing off the beaten track. High-quality maps published by a variety of trusted public and private map makers cover the whole of Ireland in great detail. You can find out more about Irish guide books and maps by clicking on the links below.
