You’ve had this hike planned with your friends for couple weeks, but the day comes and it looks like it’s gonna rain all day. What do you do? Cancel the hike? No way! You’ll have to switch up what you’re wearing and take some extra precautions, but after that you’re good to go.
Verticulture by Outdoor Research has a great list of tips for when your hitting that trail in wet weather.
First off, and I’m sure you already guessed, waterproof everything. If it doesn’t come as waterproof already, like trekking boots and gaiters, then waterproof it yourself. Your backpack especially, since all your important stuff is inside. Or you can get a pack cover, which is less expensive than a waterproof backpack and easier than waterproofing it yourself. Anything inside that is particularly sensitive (i.e. your map) should be in Ziploc or some other kind of plastic bag.
Clothing and how you layer it is just as important. Tights and long-sleeve shirts are a good base layer, so there’s room for movement under the next one or two layers (depending on the length of the hike and how bad it’s raining). Wearing synthetic and fleece would be good for the second layer to keep you insulated under your outermost layer. Even if you don’t have the second layer, the outer layer should consist of a hard shell jacket and pants with vents.
Finally, keep your feet happy. You’re feet are most likely going to get wet at some point on this trip, whether it’s gradual or immediate. Your feet will eventually get that soggy, been-in-the-bath-too-long thing going on and that will make your feet blister more easily. To avoid letting it get even worse, bring natural oils that your socks inevitably rub off your feet. Not to mention some tape in case you need to wrap up where the blisters are forming. Those stiff boots are definitely going to make it worse, so if it’s a longer hike it might be a good idea to switch them out for trail runners. They breathe more and will listen the blister damage.
For these and a few other tips, visit the article, and enjoy your next rainy hike!
South Jersey Hiking and Camping 