September hiking tip — Enjoy the rainy days

This summer has been a wet one, and autumn is sure to bring more rain. Don't let rainy days get you down. As hikers, we cope perfectly well outdoors in the rain. In fact, we don't just cope. We can actually enjoy it.

Hiking and spending time outdoors in the rain has an atmosphere all of its own. With the right rain gear, you stay dry and you don't get cold. You can enjoy the rain and take in how atmospheric the landscape looks when it's wet.

To be properly protected from the rain, you need a waterproof jacket, trousers or a skirt, and footwear.

Here you'll find tips on buying a shell jacket.

Standard rain trousers keep the rain out, but they make you sweat. Waterproof shell trousers are breathable as well.
Here are men's waterproof shell trousers
Here are women's waterproof shell trousers

Tips for buying hiking footwear. (In wet weather, GTX footwear is a good choice)
Take a look at women's Gore-Tex footwear
Take a look at men's Gore-Tex footwear

How to enjoy rainy weather

Once you've got your gear, always test it first. Start with day hikes close to home. Wait for a proper downpour, then head out on a test walk. If something does go wrong, you can easily get back home to somewhere warm and dry.

Once you've learned how to use your rainwear and know it works, you can move on to weekend trips. This is how you build up experience and confidence in both your gear and yourself. Along the way, you'll also get used to the idea that being outdoors in the rain is actually enjoyable.

In the rain, it's always nice to find a sheltered spot for a break, but you can manage without one. Bear in mind that when you sit on wet ground, shell trousers can often let water through. This is where a sufficient hydrostatic head rating matters. A sit mat helps too.

A welcome bonus of hiking in the rain is that even the busiest trails are quieter. If you're looking for some peace and quiet, the worse the weather, the better the time to head out.

If you go trekking, coping with rain is an important skill. Learning to actually enjoy it gives you a real mental boost. On multi-day treks, rain can easily dampen your mood.