Spring one-day trips in the hills: Lightweight does not mean carefree

After a long winter and short days spent sitting in front of monitors, spring hiking is a great way to give your body and mind a new boost. Nature is much friendlier than winter; colors, smells and sounds return, but you only meet people here and there. You only need to walk for a while, and you will smell the thawing earth; you will notice the first flowers and patches of greenery. And worries and responsibilities seem to be beyond you.

Everyone can find something for themselves in the hills; each mountain range offers more accessible and more challenging routes, and each has its specific character. Just pack up and go. You don't need to go straight for a three-day, 80-kilometre-long hike to brighten the mind and boost the body. One lovely day is enough, and you'll want to go again. Clothing makes an essential difference in how much you enjoy your trip or hike. There are so many brands and materials on the market that it is sometimes difficult to know your way around and whether you have made the right choice. With this essential gear from Northfinder, you'll be prepared for all the trappings of spring weather without carrying a backpack full of unused items.

T-shirt: Comfy like a cloud? Try synthetic fibers

Although it is the basis of our civilian wardrobes, the comfort in a classic cotton T-shirt only lasts for a short time on a hike. Cotton loves moisture; it can absorb more moisture greater than its weight. The problem is that it dries very slowly. On the way up, when the body is warmed up, you may not feel it immediately, but it is guaranteed to be uncomfortably cold on the way down. When the body tries to stay warm, it uses the energy it should have for movement.

A quality functional T-shirt is a small investment with a noticeable difference. Synthetic fibers respond well to weather conditions, quickly wick moisture away from the body, and, at the same time, are the most affordable. Everyone sweats differently, but if you sweat more, don't hesitate. They tend to be blamed for not feeling the same on the skin and for absorbing odors more quickly. However, even that is no longer true. In the spring collection of Northfinder, you will find t-shirts made of recycled fibers, which are gently combed from the bottom and very pleasant to the touch. If you dry and wash them properly, they will take you through many mountains.

Those who miss the feel of natural material can reach for T-shirts made of bamboo fiber with an admixture of elastane. They are light (pleasant), durable, and wick away moisture well. Bamboo feels close to cotton but dries much easier, holds its shape better, shrinks less, and does not pill.

Upper layers: Wind catches you everywhere, rain only occasionally

People usually take Short one-day trips during the spring, when it is nice outside for at least a few days, and the terrain is dry, not muddy and slippery. You can still wait out rainy days at home, but you will never go anywhere if you wait for no wind. You will almost always experience some wind, rain only occasionally. Therefore, the priority should be a softshell jacket that the wind will not blow through, which you will appreciate, especially when descending after a more demanding hike.

Others may prefer the comfort and better breathability of fleece. But be careful here. Although it breathes and insulates well, it's not good against the wind or even waterproof. Therefore, you will need one more layer on top on colder and rainy days.

Be sure to include a light, waterproof "just in case" Northkit jacket in your equipment. Packed in its pocket, it spends most of its time in a backpack, where it won't get in the way. It will deal with the rain until you reach the nearest shelter or hut.

Pants: Freedom of movement and legs in safety

Pants have to endure more than it might seem at first glance. They are supposed to keep your feet dry and warm and to handle abrasions from rocks and plants. You will not need pants with a membrane for recreational hikes at temperatures above 15 degrees in lower altitudes. It is better to bet on mobility and quick-drying material with waterproof treatment.

For those who like real versatility, convertible pants will be handy. You can unzip them quickly and throw the lower parts into your backpack, guaranteeing thermal comfort in less demanding terrain.

Suppose you plan to go to higher altitudes and lower temperatures; paying more attention to functionality than comfort is more important. However, there is a pleasant compromise in the form of hybrid materials. They combine resistance to abrasion and the elements; at the same time, they fit well and do not restrict movement. Their cleverness lies in the fact that they are reinforced at the knees and back, where the fabric is most stressed. The rest is made of a light membrane that protects against the wind.

All Northfinder pants are designed with a technical fit to offer good mobility while maintaining the best possible comfort