The Long Walk:
Pack It Right for An Overnight Relay/Hike

Are you readying for the 30k Walk ‘n Relay, the Portland to Coast Walk, the Cascade Lakes Relay, or planning an extended trek through the woods? Make your hard-won miles pay off by packing properly. Walking coach Judy Heller has these suggestions:

Double Up
When it comes to clothing, bring two of everything: socks, briefs, and base layers. After your relay leg, it’s important to shuck damp clothes in favor of dry threads. If you don’t have two sets, choose dry-quick fabrics. You’ll be able to slip those back on again in a few hours. “A second pair of shoes is a must,” Heller adds. If your preferred shoes are hurting you, a change-out might provide relief, adding more juice to your step.

Keep Cool
Damp towels, a mesh hat, and pre-moistened towelettes offer a splash of cool during your leg, or will refresh you when you are done. Remember a shower is a long way off, so pack for personal comfort, Heller says. As for gear, Walk About recommends the following:

Boxer or Brief? Nothing feels worse than underwear that chafes or binds. Stop the rub before it starts with Patagonia’s men’s boxers and women’s briefs. Made from quick-drying, lightweight polyester, both styles feature spandex for stretch, and a seamless waistband for comfort. www.patagonia.com

Beat the Chill If you’re trekking over hill and dale after sunset you can still break a sweat. But once you start to cool down, brrrr! Stay warm with this Acclimate Wool topper from PolarMAX. The top blends 50% super-fine merino wool with 40% quick-dry polyester. For the “green-hearted” among us, the final 10% is sourced from used plastic bottles. Men’s/women’s styles. www.polarmax.com

Treking in Teko Don’t forget to pack a couple pair of socks while walking. Teko socks fit like a glove. Manufactured in the U.S., these high performance socks are made with natural yarns and non-toxic dyes. Teko socks have been tested in the most rugged terrain; one tester wore them for three weeks straight before washing and raved about them, saying they were the best socks he had ever worn. This is not recommended so change your socks and your feet will thank you for keeping them dry and blister free. www.tekosocks.com

Stumpin’ Through Stumptown Strike off the beaten path with this lightweight hiker from END. Noted for its fit, stability, and protection, the Stumptown LT lets you step nimbly from trail to boulder. Carbon rubber outsole provides optimum contact with the trail. Men’s/women’s styling. www.endfootwear.com

No Sun? No Sweat These sun hats from Coolibar, makers of quality sun protection clothing and hats, are ideal for a walk in the woods or a trek across the sunniest beach. The fabric is infused with UPF-50 sunblock protection. Pair with sunscreen on your face and neck, and you can create your own shade wherever you go. www.coolibar.com

Light Up Your Life Another option to be seen along the road walking or riding a bike is Ledtronics Safety Band. The band flashes five warning lights powered by CR2032-cell batteries. This multifunctional band can also be used for your children or pet. Light weight, shock and vibration resistant, easy to use, and provides instant visibility. www.LEDtronics.com

Glow in the Dark Nothing is more unnerving for motorists than rounding the bend and seeing a cluster of walkers. Help them see you and drive safely by with this highly visible “Xinglet” from Amphipod. More reflective than a standard running vest, lightweight, and adjustable. www.amphipod.com

Be a Pack Rat Stow your long-walk gear in this light weight duffel bag from Patagonia. It features a jumbo-sized main compartment and a side pocket for smaller items. The top pocket keeps those must-haves (wallet, cell phone, maps) in easy reach. This bag also converts to a backpack, so you can take it along on an overnight hike. www.patagonia.com