Why do I hike?

Living a fast paced lifestyle, and spending most of my time indoor, actually made me appreciate time when I unplug & step outside more. I love being OUT, in nature; breathing in the crisp, fresh air while enjoying the sun.

I started hiking by accident; they told me it’s going to be an easy 2hrs trail, but I ended up going through an 6 hours’ hike, which involved some pretty steep ascent. It wasn’t easy, in fact pretty tough for a first timer like me, I thought I am not going make it. But I guess, nothing is impossible. All the moments of discomfort & struggles led to an incredible sense of satisfaction when I made it to the top.

I thought I wouldn’t do it again, but I was wrong. Hiking became one of my fav. outdoor sports, & now I genuinely enjoy spending time in the woods. and here’s why:

#1 Hiking is good for health
It’s pretty sad how our prioritising our health & hobby became a luxury for most of us now. I am glad that with hiking, I get to hit two birds in one stone. Doing what I like, and became healthier because of it. Yes, health benefits of hiking is aplenty, from decreased stress to weight loss (hiking increases the amount of energy your body uses by 28% compared to walking on flat ground).

But the benefits of hiking extend well beyond the extra calorie burn. It improves your stamina & builds muscles too!

#2 Hiking helps me to feel alive
Hiking often bring to place where you get no phone connection. That’s when you disconnect to connect. I love that indescribable feeling when you truly live in the moment, pay attention to all the little details of the surrounding, and be amazed by how beautiful the nature is.

Short & sweet escape like this helps me to feel alive. The senses of satisfaction upon completing the hike is beyond words. I am always impressed with how I challenged my limit again & again, and of the places I see upon completing the hike.

#3 Hiking is definitely affordable
Lastly, hiking is not expensive, especially when you’re living in Malaysia. There’s a lot of beautiful hiking trail awaiting you to conquer which is free of charge, otherwise, with a very minimal entrance fees. With that, you only need to spend on some hiking essential to assure a pleasant hiking experience.

Here’s some basic outfit ideas I would recommend you to have, in order to hit the trail safely, while looking good:

• A spacious yet, lightweight backpack

I am using this Karrimor Trail 35, which comes along with a rain-cover, hip straps and chest straps. It is comfortable to carry also because it is lightweight. Though it is lightweight, that did not compromise its’ storage; this backpack is spacious enough for me to carry all my hiking’s essentials.

• Appropriate foot wear

Nah, you don’t wear your hype sneaker to hike. You need a trail shoes! If you insist to still look good, look out for Karrimor Sabre WTX Womens Trail Running Shoes. Karrimor has always been my go-to when it comes to trekking shoes.

This pair of trail shoe, is made of Weathertite Xtreme (WTX) lining which is waterproof and breathable, complete with a premium Dynagrip sole unit for all weather traction. With all these, it is not a problem even when the trail is unreasonably wet or sloppy.

• Waterproof Jacket

I have a habit of not leaving my home without a good jacket. Hike wise, I am especially like this Karrimor Urban Jacket. The weather conditions in our country changes fairly quickly. It’s no longer an issue after I get my Karrimor Jacket. It keep me ready to face every kind of weather..

The weathertite technology gives this jacket a waterproof, windproof and breathable membrane, which is combined with a foldaway hood to help keep you dry. It also features a mesh lining a with hook and loop tape adjustable sleeve cuffs for a secure fit.

That pretty much concluded why I picked up hiking, and what to wear for a day hike.

Well, I guess you will need to take a hike yourself to truly experienced the struggle & pain at the start of the hike, and the joy & satisfaction upon completing the hike.

Most importantly, dressed well to ensure a pleasant hiking experience.