Hiking | tips for enjoying hiking in the rain

Hong Kong enters the rainy season in June. The weather becomes hot and humid. Animals, plants and other creatures in the woods are active in the summer, showing you the other side of the subtropical city.



Hiking in small rain can be refreshing in hot summer. If you are an experienced hiker and have done your homework on weather forecast, hiking routes and personal gear, you can consider hiking in small rain. If the weather becomes worse than expected, it is always safer to end your hike earlier.



Remember to walk with caution on wet trails to prevent slipping. Also, do not hike when the Thunderstorm Warning is issued.

Waterproof yourself from head to toe! When you go hiking in the rain, do not forget to put your belongings in waterproof containers in your backpack. Keep your body dry and reduce the appearances of blisters, especially for your feet.

The waterproof treatment for shoes is similar to apparel. It includes a water repellent outer coating, plus a middle waterproof layer. It is a must-have item if you go hiking in the rain.

Waterproof hiking shoes are useful in the summer of Hong Kong, even when not raining. The trail may stay wet with little water ponds for several days after a rain under the humid weather. With waterproof shoes on, walking on wet trails is not a problem anymore.

Except for the waterproof level of the shoe material, the height of hiking shoes/boots is also a major factor of shoes’ waterproof performance. Low bolt shoes are flexible, but susceptible to water splashes; they should be used along with waterproof gaiters or replaced by high hiking boots. Some hikes like to stuff the end of trousers into hiking shoes, this will let water droplets slide in your shoes easily. The correct way is to cover your shoes with trousers, to avoid water or sand getting into your shoes.

Socks that can absorb sweats are essential. They allow sweat to evaporate easily. If you go hiking in the rain,  bringing an extra pair is also a good idea, in case the pair you are wearing get wet. Keeping your feet dry is very important. Wet shoes and socks not only make your feet smell, but also increase the chance of getting blisters.

Though hiking backpacks are normally made of water repellent material, they cannot withstand rain for a long time. A rain cover is very helpful in a constant rain. It can protect your backpack from water and dirt. If it is a heavy rain, you can cover yourself and backpack with hiking poncho, to give you extra waterproof protection.

Cell phone, charger, bluetooth earphone should have waterproof protection too. You can buy an extra waterproof bag for them, or just use a plastic bag/lunch box in your kitchen. 

 

Try it! So are you ready for a rain hike now?