10 Healthiest Reasons Why You Should Start Hiking

Team ALTAI® on July 11, 2022

Hiking is a wonderful outdoor activity that millions of people all over the world enjoy. Hiking isn’t just a fun activity, though. There are so many health benefits of going on a hike. Here are the ten healthiest reasons why you should start hiking.

Builds Leg Muscles

The first healthy reason that you should start hiking is that it builds leg muscles. You don’t always have to hit the gym for an intense leg day to sculpt the legs of your dreams. Hiking is a wonderful exercise that works all the major muscle groups in your legs and glutes. Therefore, when you’re hiking up a steep incline on the side of a mountain, you’re also working out your calves, quads, hamstrings, and glutes.

Lowers High Blood Pressure

Going on a hike also helps lower high blood pressure, which is a great reason to start hiking. High blood pressure can be detrimental to your health if you don’t take the necessary steps to manage it. Daily exercise and physical activity are the best ways to lower your blood pressure. And hiking just so happens to be a great form of physical activity.

Promotes Positive Mental Health

Positive mental health is another great benefit that hiking can offer you. Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals that the brain produces that make us feel happy and euphoric. Therefore, the exercise you get on a hike can help alleviate anxiety, depression, and stress. Mental health is an important element of your overall well-being, so activities that promote positive mental states are very beneficial.

Provides Good Source of Vitamin D

Hiking also provides a good source of vitamin D. When you’re outside enjoying a beautiful hike on a natural trail, you’re soaking up the sunshine while also getting good exercise. When the sun’s rays hit your skin, it generates vitamin D through cholesterol. Vitamin D is an important vitamin that our bodies need to regulate calcium absorption, encourage cell growth, and facilitate immune system functions. Just wear sure to use an appropriate sunscreen while on your hikes to avoid a sunburn.

Encourages Positive Friendships

Like most hobbies, hiking has a whole community of people that enjoy this great outdoor activity. The more trails you hike, the more fellow hikers you will meet along the way. You get the opportunity to build lifelong relationships with other members of the community when you go hiking. You can find friends to go on daily hikes with or join weekly hiking groups to get to know new people. You can also get insight from other hikers about which trails are best, which gear to purchase, and what snacks you should pack for a hike.

Boosts Bone Density

Hiking also boosts bone density, which is another reason that you should take up this hobby. Our bone density weakens as we grow older, which can put us at a higher risk of falls and broken bones. Weight-bearing exercises can help boost your body’s bone density, which means stronger bones and a reduced risk of injuries. Hiking will help your bones become stronger, which is a major benefit, especially for older individuals.

Promotes Good Heart Health

Promoting good heart health is another healthy reason that you should spend your free time hiking. Cardio helps condition your heart so that it can be stronger and pump blood throughout your body more efficiently. Hiking is a fantastic form of cardio that will get your heart pumping and your blood flowing. Like any muscle in the body, the heart needs exercise, and cardio is the way that your heart gets to “work out.” The next time you feel your heart rate go up when you’re on a hike, you can find peace of mind knowing that you’re building a stronger heart for yourself.

Allows You To Experience Nature

Experiencing nature is another wonderful thing that hiking allows you to do. The great outdoors has so much to offer, and hiking gives you a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking views in the world. When you go on a hike, you get to see the beautiful plant life, wildlife, and stunning skies that your environment boasts. There’s so much to take in that you’ll want to bring a camera on every hike. Being able to connect with the earth around you and feeling immersed in nature is positive in many ways. Nature helps you feel connected to things outside yourself, and a good outdoor hike will help you relax and connect with your roots.

Gives You a Chance To Travel

Hiking also gives you a chance to travel. And who doesn’t love traveling? There are many hiking trails all over the country, and even the world, that are worth checking out. Hikers travel far and wide to experience famous mountain peaks that people have been talking about for generations. There are few things as thrilling as finishing one of the most famous hiking trails in the world. You don’t necessarily have to climb to the top of Mount Everest to enjoy a good hike, either. There are hundreds of appropriate trails you can choose from to match your individual skill level. So, pack your bags, make some travel arrangements, and pick a trail you’ve always wanted to hike. It’ll be a trip you cherish for a lifetime!

Becomes a Healthy Hobby

The final reason that you should take up hiking is that it becomes a healthy hobby over time. Having an outlet that is beneficial and productive for your health is essential. We spend so much of our time working, running errands, cleaning the house, and taking care of the kids. That work takes a lot of energy and can wear you down over time. Therefore, it helps to have a hobby that allows you to decompress after a long day or week. Hiking is the perfect hobby to take up because it’s healthy and easy to enjoy at any time as long as you have a good trail to hike.

Now that you know ten healthy reasons why you should take up hiking, you can plan your first hike today. Check out Altai Gear for our selection of tactical hiking shoes that will prepare you for your new healthy hobby of hiking.

10 Healthiest Reasons Why You Should Start Hiking

What You Should Pack for a Spring Hiking Trip When it’s Cold

Team ALTAI® on July 6, 2022

When you’re planning a spring camping trip, it’s necessary to bring all the essentials so that you can stay prepared for anything. Keep the weather and terrain in mind as you pack. Here’s a list of what you should pack for a spring hiking trip when it’s cold.

Insulated Jacket

The first thing you should pack for a chilly spring hiking trip is an insulated jacket. Staying warm and dry is necessary when the weather is cold and potentially snowy. A warm jacket that stays insulated and that holds in body heat is ideal.

Warm Headwear

Next, you’ll want to pack warm headwear. A hat, earmuffs, or a fuzzy headband will all work effectively to keep your head warm and protected from the wind and cold weather. The ears are some of the quickest parts of the body to get cold, so finding headwear that covers the ears and holds in heat is crucial.

Functional Gloves

A functional pair of gloves is another essential to pack. You’ll need a pair of gloves that’s warm and that also allows you to move easily. Gloves work better than mittens, as they give your fingers the ability to grab independently and with ease.

Snow Pants

Another packing item for your hiking trip is a pair of snow pants. Waterproof, windproof pants will ensure you stay dry and warm in cold or snowy weather while you’re hiking. Conditions can get frigid and icy at higher altitudes, so a pair of snow pants is something you won’t want to leave out when you’re packing.

Long Johns

Long johns are another crucial item to have on a hiking trip in colder climates. Layering keeps you warm and holds in your body heat while you’re hiking. You can find one-piece long johns, or you can opt for a two-piece set that comes with a shirt and bottoms. Making sure you have warm layers while you’re on a hiking trip will ensure you stay warm and protected from the cold temperatures.

Thick Socks

You’ll also want to pack a pair of thick socks for your trip. The feet are another part of the body that can get cold rather quickly, so wearing a pair of thick socks will prevent your feet’s heat from escaping while you’re hiking. Wool socks are great options that are thick and warm.

Tactical Hiking Boots

The last thing to pack for your winter hiking trip is a pair of tactical hiking boots. Depending on where you choose to hike, you may encounter some rugged terrain, so it’s necessary to have shoes that will protect your feet from any obstacles. Tactical hiking boots are fantastic solutions that will keep your feet safe, warm, and comfortable.

Now that you have your list of what to pack for a spring hiking trip when it’s cold, you can begin getting your essentials together. ALTAI has a superb selection of waterproof tactical hiking boots perfect for any outdoor enthusiast’s hiking trip.

Important Hunting Rules You Should Follow To Stay Safe

Team ALTAI® on July 6, 2022

Hunting is a hobby and way of life that millions of people all over the world enjoy. However, it comes with certain hazards and dangers that you can avoid if you take the proper precautions. Most hunting accidents are avoidable, so following specific protocols is necessary to ensure your own safety. Here is a list of the important hunting rules you should follow to stay safe.

Wear Hunter Orange

The first safety tip you should follow when hunting is wearing hunter orange. It’s common practice for hunters to wear camouflage and clothes to disguise themselves from the animals they are hunting. However, when you are wearing camouflage head to toe, other hunters cannot see you either. Therefore, it’s necessary to wear hunter orange to make yourself visible to other hunters in the area. You can wear a hunter orange hat, vest, gloves, or hoodie to signal to other people that you are hunting in the vicinity.

Know How To Safely Use Your Firearm

Knowing how to safely use your firearm is the second tip for safe hunting. Firearms are very dangerous if not handled correctly and can result in injuries or fatalities if people do not take the proper precautions. Therefore, make sure that you know how to properly and safely use your firearm before you ever take it out on a hunting trip. Follow all the appropriate protocols and safety measures to ensure that you are appropriately using your weapon. Take a gun safety course if you need some refreshing on firearm safety and etiquette.

Avoid Shooting at Sound or Movement

The third safety tip to follow when hunting is to avoid shooting at sound or movement. Unfortunately, you don’t always hit what you’re aiming for when hunting. You might hit a tree or a bush, but in the worst-case scenario, you could hit a person. Therefore, you’ll need to take the necessary steps to cut down those odds at all costs. So avoid shooting at any sound or movement that you might hear. You shouldn’t take your shot until you can visibly see your target. If you just shoot at any noise you hear, you could end up hurting someone, and that’s what we are trying to avoid, so make sure not to shoot at movements and sounds.

Clearly Identify Your Target

Clearly identifying your target is the fourth important safety tip for hunters. As we mentioned in the previous section, you should avoid shooting at sound or movement. If you cannot see your target, you shouldn’t take your shot because you can end up hurting another hunter or someone walking in the area. So to stay as safe as possible, never take a shot if you cannot accurately identify your desired target. In simpler terms, if you are hunting deer and you don’t see the deer in your range, avoid taking that shot.

Dress Appropriately

The fifth tip that’s important for hunters to follow is dressing appropriately. The right gear and garb will help you have a safe and successful hunting trip. Make sure you are wearing clothes appropriate for the weather and the animal you are hunting. For example, if you’re turkey hunting, you’ll want to avoid wearing white, red, black, and blue clothing. You’ll also want comfortable shoes that are easy to wear for long periods and durable. Lightweight tactical boots are a perfect example of hunting shoes that offer comfort and stability.

Familiarize Yourself With the Land

Familiarizing yourself with the land is the sixth helpful hunting tip to keep you safe. Understanding your environment and the many elements within that environment will help you have safer and more successful hunting trips. For example, if you are hunting on a private plot of land, it’s essential for you to know where boundaries are on that property and if there are any roads, houses, crops, or livestock you should know about. Becoming familiar with the land will also help you to understand the habits of the animals you are hunting and what areas they frequent.

Be Aware of Other Hunters

This is a safety tip you should definitely follow when hunting: be aware of other hunters. If you are hunting with a group of people and you are not all in the same location at the same time, it’s necessary to be aware of each other and where you are all stationed within the area. Communicate with each other so you can stay aware of one another and take the proper precautions to avoid any accidents or injuries. Pay attention to any hunter orange colors you may see moving through the woods, as this is likely another hunter.

Obey All Wildlife and Gun Safety Laws

Obeying all wildlife and gun safety laws is the eighth important tip for hunting safely. There are several laws in place to ensure people’s safety as they hunt and use firearms. First, it’s necessary to be aware and educated on what these laws are and how they work. Next, it’s necessary to follow these laws appropriately so that you can stay safe and avoid breaking the law. Finally, if you fail to abide by the wildlife and gun safety laws, you can be arrested and charged with a crime. So, it’s in your best interest to stay up to date on all the rules and legislation related to wildlife, hunting, and firearm safety.

Double-Check All Hunting Equipment

Our next hunting safety tip to follow is double-checking all your hunting equipment. Once you have all of your equipment together and ready to go, make sure to check it one more time to ensure that it is in good working order and is safe to use on your hunting trip. Thoroughly check your firearms, traps, tools, and everything else you are bringing on the hunt. If anything is not working as it should, make sure to get it fixed before you take it out hunting with you. Any weapons, traps, or tools that are not functioning correctly can pose a danger if used in that condition, so make sure everything is working properly and functioning the way it should.

Learn From More Experienced Hunters

Learning from more experienced hunters is the last and final important safety tip to follow. No matter what you do in life, you never stop learning, and that sentiment is true to hunting as well. Whether you are a novice or an experienced veteran, you still have room to grow and learn more. So take every opportunity you get to go hunting with more experienced hunters than you. Doing this will allow you to learn new techniques and ways of doing things that may be more efficient and effective.

Now that you know these important hunting rules you should follow to stay safe, you can plan your next hunting trip with peace of mind knowing that you will be safe and secure. So have fun, and take all the proper precautions to avoid accidents and injuries.

Important Hunting Rules You Should Follow To Stay Safe

Top 10 Most Beautiful Backpacking Destinations

Team ALTAI® on June 25, 2022

Backpacking is a brilliant way to see the world and get a great workout while you do it. The hard part is choosing which place to go for your next trip. We’ve compiled a list of the top ten most beautiful backpacking destinations for you to consider for your next adventure.

Cinque Terre

Hikers consider Cinque Terre one of the most stunning hikes in all of Italy. The trail runs along the seashore mountains of the region and makes its way through local villages. It takes hikers and backpackers just a day to hike the trail, which is more manageable than some more demanding and time-consuming hikes on this list. Along the path, you’ll witness a breathtaking view of the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Because Cinque Terre works its way through local towns, you’ll be able to stop along the way to enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious Italian lunch.

Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc is another beautiful backpacking destination that spans France, Switzerland, and Italy. The hike itself takes approximately 10 to 12 days from start to finish. The Tour du Mont Blanc offers diverse and stunning scenery as it takes you through meadows, valleys, forests of rhododendrons, and Alpine passes. The Tour du Mont Blanc also brings you through some quaint Alpine villages where you can stop for a breather or a bite to eat before continuing on your way. At certain parts of the path, you can take cable cars up or down some of the more challenging terrain.

Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is one of the most popular attractions on the Greek island of Crete. This trail offers scenic views as it winds its way through beautiful pine forests and valleys and ends at the Libyan Sea. The hike begins with some steep terrain but levels out to an easily navigable path. Around the trail’s halfway mark, you will come across the gorge, the most famous part of the hike. Agia Roumeli is a small village along the path where you can stop to browse local shops and get some lunch. The town is also home to unique black sand beaches where you can take a relaxing swim.

Machu Pichu

The Inca Trail in Peru is a perfect hike for anyone with Machu Pichu on their bucket list. However, this particular hike requires a bit of bravery as it contains two 13,000 foot passes. In addition, this trail has a rich ancient history. It was the route the ancient Incas took almost 700 years ago. You can still see many stones from the original path, which is a unique experience for everyone who hikes the Inca Trail. The ancient Incas also created two tunnels still part of the path today. On this trail, you will get the chance to see several wondrous waterfalls and the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Pichu, which is a worthwhile destination of a lifetime.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of America’s most famous geographical locations and serves as a perfect place for backpacking. One of the Grand Canyon’s most popular trails is the Bright Angel Trail. This path takes you down the cliffside, across a large plain, and then down by the Colorado River. The views are breathtaking and unlike anywhere else in the world. The hike is just a little over 15 miles long and descends 4,380 feet from the canyon’s edge down to the water. As you are hiking, you may get the chance to see some of the mule trains that also frequent this trail. The Bright Angel Trail is very well taken care of, allowing easy navigation.

Annapurna

The Annapurna Circuit trail is a 108-mile trek that takes, on average, about 17 days to complete. This unique hiking experience takes place in Nepal and weaves its way through some of the highest peaks in the world. Annapurna begins in the jungle and ascends to the mountaintops. The famous Thorung Pass stands here at 17,770 feet and gives you an immaculate view of the surrounding mountains. Poon Hill is another popular location on the trail that many people hike at sunrise. This particular spot allows you to see 14 of the tallest mountain peaks on the planet. Overall, Annapurna is a hiking experience like none other, and people travel from all over the world to enjoy it.

Puez-Odle Altopiano

Puez-Odle is a hiking trail in the Italian Dolomite range and offers some of the region’s most spectacular views. Puez-Odle is a nine-mile hike that begins at the top of the Dantercepies cable car. The trail is wide, which makes for easy navigation, and takes about six to nine hours to complete. As you hike the Puez-Odle, you will see the stunning Stella Towers and the Sassolungo massif. The views on this trail are amazing, and the restaurants along the way are superb, giving you a chance to enjoy delicious food and drinks.

Kalalau

The Kalalau Trail winds along the Na Pali Coast on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. The lush green landscape and ocean views make you feel like you’re in paradise. This path is perfect for anyone who prefers a more tropical climate and wants to experience a bit of the ocean breeze along the way. Many hikers and backpackers hike the Kalalau Trail in three days, often stopping in Hanakoa to rest and ending at Kalalau Beach to complete their journey.

Angels Landing

Angels Landing is a trail in Zion National Park, Nevada. This hike, while beautiful, is not for the faint of heart. The towering heights and narrow ledges are staggering. However, the trail is only five miles roundtrip and doesn’t take too long to complete—as long as you can work up the nerve to make the journey. The Step of Faith is one of the most famous parts of the trail that takes you through a narrow stretch of the path with steep vertical drop-offs on either side. Angels Landing is an incredibly unique hike for backpackers that might give you a few butterflies in your stomach, but the views are breathtaking.

The Jordan Trail

The Jordan Trail ends our list of the top ten most beautiful backpacking destinations. This hike runs from the town of Dana to Petra, Jordan and gives you the experience of a lifetime. The desert terrain makes for a unique hiking background and allows you to enjoy a remote backpacking trip. In addition, hiking the Jordan Trail leads you to the famous archaeological site of the Treasury in Petra, which is a brilliant facade carved into the red sandstone. These archaeological sites are impressive remains of an ancient civilization’s kingdom and temples. This Jordan Trail will leave you speechless and feeling spiritually connected.

Now that you know the top ten most beautiful backpacking destinations, you can plan your next trip today. Don’t forget to pack all your essentials! ALTAI Gear offers a wide selection of lightweight duty boots that will be perfect to wear for all your backpacking adventures!

Top 10 Most Beautiful Backpacking Destinations

Safety Tips All Solo Female Campers Should Know

altaidev on November 24, 2021

Camping solo is a fun way to relax and enjoy the peacefulness of nature, but is camping safe for a woman when she’s alone?

Many female campers want to go on solo camping trips but assume that they’re unsafe. Women camping alone can encounter dangerous situations, but you can still have a fun and safe solo trip with a little planning and preparation. Before you go camping this year, learn these safe camping tips all solo female campers should know.

1. Plan and Prepare

Before you go camping by yourself, it’s best to plan and prepare for your trip. You’ll need to pack essential camping gear, such as a tent, a sleeping bag, food, water, a flashlight, and more. If you need to hike to your campsite, use a pair of women’s tactical shoes to protect your feet from rough terrain. After you gather your essential camping equipment, you’ll be ready for a fun and safe solo adventure. If you aren’t sure what to pack, look at these essential camping items you should bring on your trip.

  • Water and food
  • Tent or emergency shelter
  • Sleeping bag and pillow
  • Pocket knife
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Flashlights or headlamps
  • Fire starter
  • Medical supplies

2. Never Advertise That You’re Alone

While it’s tempting to tell everyone about your fun camping trip, it’s best for women camping alone to keep that information to themselves. If you plan to post your whereabouts on social media, wait until after your trip. Additionally, when you come across other campers, never tell them that you plan to camp alone. Sometimes, people may ask intrusive questions and try to figure out if you’re alone. Don’t hesitate to make up a story and say you’re going with a friend in such scenarios. Usually, any nosy campers will let you enjoy your trip in peace if they think someone else is with you. The only people who should know that you plan to camp alone are your close friends and family members or park staff.

3. Be Aware and Alert

Another safe camping tip all solo female campers should know is to be aware of the surroundings. Remember that you can—and should—leave your campsite any time you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. You can also contact the park rangers or staff if you notice something out of the ordinary. When you camp solo, always be aware of your surroundings and remain alert if you see anything unusual.

4. Inform Friends or Family of Your Whereabouts

Women camping alone should inform a trusted friend or family member of your whereabouts and plans before they go. You can write down your location, campsite number, schedule, and how long you plan to stay at your campsite. If an emergency occurs, your friend or family member will know where to find you and how to help. You can also inform the park rangers or staff that you plan to camp alone so that they can assist you if necessary.

5. Check the Weather Forecast

Camping alone in cold or rainy weather can be a nightmare if you don’t come prepared. When you plan your trip, check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Keep in mind that weather forecasts change all the time, so be sure to check it a few times before your solo trip. With appropriate equipment, you can have a fun and safe camping trip in all kinds of weather.

6. Bring a First Aid Kit

On your solo camping trip, you’ll need to keep yourself safe and healthy. A first-aid kit is always a useful tool to keep in your backpack, especially when camping alone. Also, remember to inspect your first aid kit before you head out to your campsite. Restocking your first aid kit is an easy process that can help you immensely in the future.

7. Learn How To Handle Wildlife

All campsites are sure to have wildlife, such as birds, deer, bears, or coyotes. Most of the time, these creatures avoid humans and don’t cause trouble. Even though these animals usually leave humans alone, you should learn how to handle any dangerous situations that can occur. The best way to avoid any issues with the local wildlife is to take preventative measures. For example, don’t leave food, trash, or anything that could attract wildlife uncovered in your tent or near your campsite. Even though this might seem like a no-brainer, many solo campers forget to take these simple preventative measures.

8. Contact Rangers or Park Staff

As mentioned in the previous safe camping tips, park rangers and staff can help ensure that you have a safe camping trip. If you ever need help when you camp alone, contact the park’s rangers or staff. These people know the area better than anyone, and they’ll be able to get you the help you need. Also, these people meet plenty of women camping alone every year, so they know what to do to keep you safe.

9. Create an Emergency Plan

While camping solo is generally safe, it’s always best to create an emergency plan. You can carry an emergency whistle or air horn, learn self-defense maneuvers, bring some pepper spray, or even carry a weapon. If you decide to carry a weapon, you must train and learn how to use it properly. Some popular choices are tasers, daggers, and guns. Many solo campers say they feel much safer and more relaxed with an emergency plan in place.

10. Relax and Have Fun

After you follow the tips listed above, be sure to relax and have fun on your trip. Too often, solo female campers spend their time worrying and forget to enjoy their adventure. Camping solo can be a bit scary or worrisome at first, but you’ll find that it’s actually very peaceful and great for connecting with nature.

After learning these tips, you should be all set to go on a solo camping trip. Remember that before you go on a camping trip, you should plan and prepare, never advertise that you’re alone, remain aware of your surroundings, and inform friends or family of your whereabouts. You should also check the weather forecast, learn how to handle wildlife, contact rangers or park staff, and create an emergency plan. Lastly, don’t forget to have fun.

Safety Tips All Solo Female Campers Should Know

Cart0
There are no products in the cart!
Continue shopping