Summer hiking: tips from Fjällräven and Hanwag

Summer hiking: tips from Fjällräven and Hanwag

Summer 2023 is shaping up to be an exceptional season for outdoor tourism in Italy.

More and more Italians are choosing to plan their vacations by immersing themselves in nature and outdoor activities, organizing hiking trails, bikepacking tours or camping stays. What at first may have seemed like a simple post-pandemic trend is turning out to be a phenomenon that is destined not only to last, but even to grow. According to two major international outdoor brands, Fjällräven and Hanwag, the key to unforgettable nature experiences lies in wearing the right clothing and equipment, along with some experience and proper preparation.

Regulating body temperature is essential during summer trekking. According to Fjällräven, the choice of clothing should fall on garments made of lightweight, breathable and quick-drying fabrics with functional designs that provide freedom of movement and protection from the elements. “Our focus is always on the durability and versatility of the garments-we want to make long-lasting products and ensure long-lasting comfort for our customers,” says Henrik Andersson, global creative director of Fjällräven.”We begin by looking at a potential garment from different perspectives. For example, how the fabrics are structured, whether they flatten on the skin, or whether they can produce a cooling or warming effect. Fit is another important element to consider to ensure comfort in hot climates. If you are in the sun, for example, how do we protect the skin while avoiding overheating? It is therefore a matter of taking into account different variables to create comfort in different ways. Garment adaptability is also key: a zipper on a pair of pants, a strap that regulates airflow, or a collar that can be folded down to protect against wind or sun become simple but effective ways to feel comfortable in nature

When choosing shoes, it is necessary to take into consideration not only the climate and weather conditions, but also the duration and type of route planned, as well as the hiker’s level of preparedness. Lightweight low-cut models are ideal for day hikes on well-trodden trails. For longer hikes that include more complex elevation changes and terrain, it is generally recommended to opt for something more structured and high-cut, which can provide more ankle support. “Depending on the type of activity and environment it is intended for, a mountain shoe requires its specific construction,” explains Christian Wittig, International Marketing Director at Hanwag. “Our SS23 novelties meet the needs of different hiking outings, from easy ones on groomed trails to more challenging alpine tours. Commanding then is the shape of the foot of the wearer of the shoe. At HANWAG we can call ourselves fit fanatics: all our boots and shoes are developed specifically for men or women and employ different lasts, the result of ongoing research and optimization. We offer as many as six types of special shapes, including the Bunion shape dedicated to those suffering from hallux valgus“.

THE PROPOSALS OF THE BRANDS

For him: Abisko Day Hike SS M Lightweight, functional T-shirt for hiking in warm climates. The cut is a little wider to let air circulate and keep the skin cool, while seams on the shoulders are arranged to minimize the risk of chafing due to the backpack’s shoulder straps.

For her: Abisko Cool T-shirt W – Short-sleeved T-shirt with an attractive fit and V-neckline. Made of cool and comfortable fabric with tencel and organic cotton. Produced without PFCs.

For him: Abisko Hike Sh orts M – Lightweight, comfortable and foldable shorts for hiking in warm climates. Made of G-1000 Air Stretch fabric with recycled polyester and organic cotton. Integrated belt to adjust the waist, two zippered hand pockets and one zippered leg pocket.

For her: Abisko Short Tights W – Short tights in breathable, double-weave stretch fabric made of recycled polyester with a matte finish, fit perfectly and are ideal for day treks and the outdoors. With a high, comfortable waistband equipped with an inner drawstring, they are also practical to wear under a dress or skirt for commuting and/or to avoid chafing.

For him: Abisko Hike Shirt SS M – Lightweight, comfortable short-sleeved shirt for hiking in summer. Made of a soft and cool fabric that wicks away moisture. Fitted cut, button front and vertical chest pocket with zipper and mesh lining. Ventilation opening on the yoke to release excess heat.

For her:Abisko Hike ShirtW – 7/8 long-sleeve, lightweight, foldable shirt in soft ripstop made of recycled polyester that wicks away moisture and is slightly wind-resistant. Functional and quick-drying, with a loose fit for wearing as a lightweight alternative to a summer jacket.

Abisko Sun Hat – Wide-brimmed sun hat made of lightweight and extremely breathable stretch fabric. Perfect for hiking in hot, sunny conditions because it protects the face, neck and ears, while the lightweight fabric prevents overheating. The drawstring adjustment under the chin keeps it in place in windy weather.

Abisko Mesh Hat – Lightweight and super cool G-1000 Air breathable G-1000 Air face shield hat with mesh sides. Perfect for walking in sunny and hot climates, it provides shade on the face by shielding it from excessive heat. It can be easily stored in a pocket when no longer needed. Small Fjällräven logo embroidered on the front.

Kajka 35 – Durable hiking backpack designed to carry heavy loads, thanks to its FSC-certified birch wood frame and easily adjustable backrest length. Ergonomic shoulder straps and a supportive lumbar belt with pocket add even more functionality and comfort. Made of durable Vinylon F fabric with recycled nylon reinforcement fabric.

Abisko Hike Foldsack – Lightweight and versatile 25 l backpack, perfect for day treks and travel. Made of 100 percent recycled nylon, it has a folding zipper closure that fastens with a side-release plastic buckle. Fixed back panel with breathable mesh fabric on back and shoulder straps; chest and hip straps are adjustable and both removable. Pocket and zipper pocket inside, two oversized side pockets outside. Attachment points on the front for a trekking pole or ice axe.

Hanwag Castridge Low ES Sporty design, lightweight construction, and sustainable materials. Hanwag’s new Coastridge is a multifunctional shoe ideal for day trips on flat terrain and groomed trails. With its waterproof and completely PFC-free EcoShell membrane, it ensures that feet stay dry all day long. To ensure a perfect connection between sole and upper, and an especially light and comfortable fit, Hanwag uses modern Direct Injection technology, through which soft sole material is injected and connected directly to the upper of the shoe. Made entirely in Europe.

Hanwag Makra Trek GTX Makra Trek – is a hiking boot with a sporty, contemporary design, ideal for the most demanding alpine hikes with light backpacking up to 3’000 meters. Made with a very lightweight sole (Vibram Integral Light) combined with Hanwag 3D Prism Base midsole technology, making it cushioned and stable. Adjustment uses the 2 Zone Lock system, which allows the laces to be locked in the middle of the lacing so that ankle and foot tension can be adjusted differently. Perwanger leather upper and Gore-Tex lining for excellent waterproofing. Made entirely in Europe.

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