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How to enjoy hiking in the rain
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Sometimes rainy days are the most exciting times to explore. photo: Susan Alcorn
Remember when you were a kid and you thought it was great fun when the first rains came and you got to splash in the puddles? Ever wonder why we lose that sense of adventure and how you can regain it? One way is by walking in the rain.
Perhaps we in the S.F. Bay Area scurry indoors when it rains because we don't get all that much (San Francisco averages about 20.5 inches per year) and don't know what to do with it when it does come. Putting aside considerations of why we don't exercise as much when it rains, let's focus on how you can enjoy the upcoming rainy days outside.
The first thing to think about is proper clothing — after all, if you're comfortably warm and dry, you won' t be bothered by rain. You'll want to factor in the temperature and wind as well as the amount of water coming down. If cold temperatures and significant wind accompany the rain, hypothermia is a consideration and you should dress accordingly.
Keeping warm when exercising is generally not difficult, it's when you stop moving and start cooling down that you become uncomfortable, perhaps even at risk. Your goal is to wear clothing that will keep you warm and not allow you to lose too much heat.
When it's raining, layering is even more important than when hiking in fair weather. Layering is best accomplished by using several lightweight layers of clothing rather than with one bulky layer. With layering, warm air is trapped between the garments, and any moisture (perspiration) that you create when exercising is allowed to wick (move) away from your body keeping you drier.
First layer — the base layer:
1. Long underwear of wool, polypro or other synthetics makes the best layer for wearing right next to your skin. The main task of your innermost layer of clothing is to transport moisture away from your body so that you don't become chilled when you slow down. Cotton should be avoided because it retains too much moisture and dries too slowly. Some may remember wool as being scratchy, but recent improvements in the processing of wool (by Smartwool, for example) has made it warm without the itch. Alternatively, you may choose garments of high-tech synthetic fabrics.
Second layer — the mid-layer(s):
2. Tops: Your mid-layer is to provide warmth and insulation. Depending on the temperature, select a long-sleeved shirt or polyester fleece jacket — one or more. Once again, the breathability of the garment and its ability to keep you warm even if it gets wet is important. Avoid cotton.3. Bottoms: Select nylon or polyester pants rather than cotton denims or cords. Not only will cotton pants not keep you warm when wet, they'll also become heavy from the water they'll absorb.
Third layer — outside layer:
4. Rain jacket. Your outer layer of clothing is to protect you from the elements — wind and rain. For maximum comfort, select a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable. Looks for underarm zippers (pit zips) so that moisture you create when exercising (perspiration) can escape instead of being trapped inside your jacket.
5. Rain pants (optional). The most convenient (and more costly) rain pants have zippers extending all the way up the side which allows you to put them on, or take them off, without taking off your shoes.
6. Alternatively, you can use a waterproof poncho worn over a water-resistant fleece jacket. When selecting a poncho, be certain that it is long enough to come down to your knees and has fasteners that will keep it from flying up with the wind.
Accessories:
Footwear: I usually wear trail runners when hiking even when it's raining. Even though I know that my feet will get wet, they also will quickly dry; others may prefer a waterproof hiking boot. Choose socks that provide some insulating value such as Wright double-layer socks or two pairs of socks — a synthetic liner sock and a heavier wool sock. There are waterproof socks available that will keep your feet dry even if your shoes get wet.
Headgear: If it is chilly, a fleece hat under the hood of your rainjacket will provide needed warmth.
Gloves: Unless it is pouring, I usually find that a pair of lightweight alpaca or wool gloves is adequate for a short walk. If sticking your hands in your pockets will not be enough protection, invest in a pair of lightweight waterproof gloves such as skiers would use. (If you carry a couple of small plastic bags in your pocket or pack, you'll be better prepared for unexpected showers.)
Umbrella: Even though you have on a waterproof jacket, an umbrella (except on gusty days!) makes a walk more pleasant because it keeps the rain from falling on your head. Look for a lightweight compact model that will fit in your purse, pocket, or daypack.
As a long-distance hiker I know that spending several days walking in the rain gets old fast, but a short day hike when it's drizzly can be very refreshing. Once you make the decision to try it, check out some of my previous articles and select one on a paved or gravelly trail. You'll find a whole new world opening up for you!
Places to hike when it's raining:
1. Hiking in Oakland's Montclair District
2. Hiking 101: What are some good urban hikes in the East Bay, part 2
3. Hiking 101: What are some good urban hikes in the East Bay, part 1
Happy trails,
Susan "backpack45" Alcorn
Visit my website and my blog for more hiking related topics.
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