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| WALKSAFE means advance planning of the >> Clothing |
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| The right clothing ensures you enjoy bushwalking in both comfort and safety. |
| Your clothing is important since it is your first line of protection from the cold, the wind,
the rain, the sun, insects, snakes and the scrub. A number of light, adjustable layers is
preferable to a few layers of thick fabric. Adjust zippers and layers to minimize sweating during exercise and be sure
to add layers before you feel cold at rest stops. |
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| Cotton |
Advantage: Cool sun protection, non irritant |
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Disadvantage:
Cold when wet, slow drying |
| Wool |
Advantage: Warm when wet, low flammable |
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Disadvantage: Skin irritant, slow drying, heavy when wet (unless superfine merino) |
| Synthetics |
Advantage: High warmth/weight ratio, absorbs little moisture, quick drying |
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Disadvantage: Warm in hot weather, often expensive, non fire resistant |
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| When choosing your clothing for a specific trip make allowances for dealing with the expected
terrain and the worst weather conditions that may be encountered in the walk area. We emphasize that in alpine
regions, to WALKSAFE means to be prepared for rapid change to blizzard conditions in all seasons. Neither should
the danger from the sun be underestimated. Despite the deceptively cooler air temperatures generally encountered at
altitude, ultraviolet levels are significantly higher, and reflection from snow can reach parts of the body not usually
exposed to the sun's rays. Resist the temptation to reduce pack weight by leaving spare clothing behind. |
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| Consider: |
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| Terrain |
ALWAYS wear comfortable, well treaded footwear. Many walkers prefer boots with ankle support when pack
carrying or walking on rough ground. Thick well fitting woollen socks are invaluable. Gaiters give protection
from grass seeds, stones, scrub, snow, snakes and leeches. |
| Rain |
ALWAYS carry a good water and windproof jacket, preferably thigh length with integral hood, NOT padded and NOT a light nylon "spray jacket". Waterproof over-pants. NOT jeans. |
| Cold |
Beanie/balaclava, mittens/gloves, jumper/polar fleece, windproof shirt, thermal underwear,
woollen socks. NOT jeans. |
| Sun |
Hat, light weight long-sleeved shirt. |
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