There is nothing like the arrival of spring to shake off those stubborn winter blues. Nature starts to leap into life, fields become filled with colour and long summer days no longer feel so out of reach. Which is why, spring time is one of our favourite times to hike!
However, it doesn’t come without its challenges. The weather can change quickly, bringing rain, mud and a chill, so it is important to be prepared.
A waterproof jacket is an essential for any hiker, whether they’re planning to get caught in the rain or not. How waterproof a jacket is will depend on its waterproof rating. The higher a jacket’s waterproof rating, the longer the fabric will remain waterproof for.
| Rating | Resistance | Weather |
| 0 – 1,500mm | Water resistant / Snowproof | Very light rain |
| 1,500mm – 5,000mm | Waterproof | Light to average rain |
| 5,000mm | Very Waterproof | Moderate to heavy rain |
| 10,000mm | Highly Waterproof | Heavy rain |
We would suggest picking a jacket with a waterproof rating between 5,000 and 10,000mm, this will ensure you stay dry even in tough conditions. Some jackets can pack away into a much smaller size to fit in your rucksack, making them ideal for any trek.
Hiking in spring is all about layering. Because the weather can change so quickly, it is important to be able to take off and add on layers easily. We’d recommend a fleece because they’re lightweight and breathable.
It is always a good idea to stay away from cotton while hiking as they take a long time to dry once wet. Look out for quick drying t-shirt’s that use our IsoCool technology as Isocool fabric is quick drying, highly breathable and wicks away perspiration from the body to keep you cool.
There is nothing worse than wet, cold feet. So, finding a pair of waterproof boots is an important part of planning a possibly wet hike. Whether you want leather, suede or a softshell fabric is personal preference but make sure you look out for our IsoDry technology, a waterproof and breathable membrane that allows moisture out and prevents rain getting in.
Another option is running shoes, as they’re lightweight and will dry quickly once wet. We’d recommend bringing a spare pair of socks and looking out for, specifically, waterproof running shoes.
You may be tempted to walk in wellies, while these are waterproof, they won’t give your feet much support, and you might not be able to walk as far as you would in waterproof hiking boots.
Waterproof trousers or over trousers, are designed to keep your legs and regular trousers dry when out in the rain. When combined with a waterproof jacket, they offer the ultimate protection from the elements.
Most waterproof over trousers are designed to be worn over your normal pants or shorts, keeping them dry. You can wear them on their own, but as they can be thin, you may get a bit cold. Like waterproof jackets, you can tell how waterproof they are by their rating.
Mountain Warehouse offers waterproof trousers with waterproof ratings ranging from 1,500mm to 20,000mm. The higher the rating, the more waterproof they will be.
Extra shirts and socks
It is always a good idea to bring a spare pair of socks and an extra t-shirt, in case you get really wet. Even if they are just to change into once you get back to your car!
Walking poles
Walking poles can be great in the spring as they will help you feel more stable through mud and water.
Backpack cover
Backpack covers are the ideal way to ensure everything in your bag stays dry. You can find them in multiple sizes, and they should fit tightly around your backpack. Many of our backpacks already come with a backpack cover concealed inside, making it easy to cover and uncover whenever you need to.
A handy trick to prevent any water getting inside is to line your backpack with a trash bag, or alternatively keep your valuables safe in a small waterproof dry bag.
So now you know what to bring, it is time to start walking!
William Wordsworth wrote his most famous poem ‘I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud’ inspired by the beautiful daffodils at Glencoyne Bay. Over 200 years later, daffodils still spring here in this charming area of the Lake District. Maybe you’ll be inspired by the gorgeous spring scenery too!
St Catherine’s Hill is home to beautiful butterflies in the spring. Keep a look out for flashes of bright blue as Adonis Blue butterflies skate across the landscape.
Spring and bluebells go hand in hand. If you want to see a breath-taking field of purple, head to Rosebery Topping in Yorkshire in late April to early May.
Spring in Handa Island, Scotland is a haven for sea birds. Spot guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars and even puffins. Once summer is in full swing, there can be 100,000 breeding sea birds on the island and they’ve been known to make quite a noise!
This gentle walk around Penrhyn Castle takes you through woodlands and gardens that are filled with bright colours and gorgeous floral scents of azaleas and rhododendrons in the spring.
Images courtesy of unsplash.com