Looking for a new challenge? One that will take you outdoors and closer to a personal goal? Whether you’re a seasoned circuit trainer or a committed gym-goer, participating in new outdoor adventure activities will help you stay motivated and on track to hit your own personal bests – all while seeing things from a new perspective. And you never know – a new outdoor challenge could end up becoming a lifelong passion.
Here are our top 4 new outdoor activities to try instead of an uninspiring session at the gym, along with some advice on the gear you’ll need to prepare yourself for the outdoor challenge ahead. Because, after all, new excursions means new gear. You don’t have to kit yourself out with the most expensive equipment, but a few investment pieces will keep you comfortable, flexible and prepared.
1. Bouldering
Hitting the indoor climbing wall is all well and good, and is certainly the best place to start. But there’s nothing quite like hanging upside down from a craggy rock in the great outdoors. If you’re new to climbing, bouldering is an excellent way of building up your strength and adapting to the movement required on real rock, before you graduate to headier heights. Make sure you head out with a more experienced group to start off with – they’ll help spot you if you’re struggling to find your footing.
Pick up:
• Craghoppers’ Brecon Trousers – a great outdoor all-rounder, with enough stretch and give for keen climbers.
• Climbing Shoes – if you intend on regular practice, you’ll need to invest in some decent climbing shoes that will support your technique and keep you safe.
• Chalk bag – a practical way of storing chalk on your belt loop for extra grip when you need it.
2. Glacier Hiking
Combine travel with a new outdoor challenge in the form of hiking a glacier. There’s something unique about traversing a gigantic sheet of ice that’s slowly moving, and if you‘re in need of a new outdoor challenge to tackle, there’s nothing quite like it. Book a guided glacial trek with a seasoned tour guide. They’ll be able to introduce you to the rope work required to ensure your team’s safety – as each team member will be harnessed together using climbing equipment to ensure that there is no danger if someone should fall into a crevasse.
Pick up:
• Craghoppers’ Kiwi Pro Waterproof Trousers – insulated for extra warmth and fully waterproof without compromising on stretch.
• Insulating Fleece Layers – build a layering system to ensure you stay warm on your glacial outdoor adventure.
• Waterproof jacket – just in case snow starts to fall and you need that additional outer layer.
• Waterproof hiking boots – if yours are looking a little tired, invest in a new pair. You won’t need to buy spiked boots as your guide should give you crampons to put onto your boots.
• Warm hat and gloves – you’re hiking across a large sheet of ice – enough said!
3. Nordic Walking
For a full body workout that doesn’t impact on your knees in the same way as jogging, Nordic walking is an excellent way to get the blood pumping. Nordic walking usually involves the use of walking poles that aid technique and give you support when you need it. It is an increasingly popular outdoor challenge that even experienced long distance athletes find beneficial, as it tones both the upper and lower body simultaneously, and provides a great environment for conditioning the body.
Not sure how to use walking poles?
Your walking poles should be used to propel you along while providing you with additional support when walking across more difficult terrain. But don’t beat yourself up if you haven’t quite go the technique right – it will all fall into place after some practice.
Pick up:
• Craghoppers Kiwi Pro Convertible Trousers – lightweight trousers that switch easily to shorts when the temperature soars and you want to pick up the pace.
• Light base layers – no expert equipment needed, just lightweight tees and tops for comfort.
• Small rucksack – somewhere small to stow away water, and snacks to keep you going on the trail.
4. Caving
Vertigo-inducing heights not your thing? Try caving instead. For the curious explorers among us, this outdoor adventure activity is ideal for those not afraid of delving below ground and discovering cave-dwelling creatures and plant life. Ever heard of Škocjan Cave in Slovenia? It’s protected by UNESCO and considered a scientific and aesthetic wonder due its diverse ecosystem. Make it you next travel challenge and see Slovenia in a whole new light.
Pick up:
• Craghoppers Stefan Trousers – super lightweight, and fully lined these all-weather trousers will keep you dry as you explore.
• Helmet – this should be provided by your guide complete with headlamp.
• Walking Boots – your trusty walking boots should give you the stability you need to scramble over any craggy rocks en route to the depths of the cave.
Craghoppers’ Trousers – Your Ticket To New Outdoor Activities
There’s no need to go out and buy expert equipment for your new outdoor passions – get to grips with the basics first and pick up the bare essentials such as a solid pair of Craghoppers’ outdoor trousers. They’ll see you through the weather, the terrain, and even your sweat and hard work! Plus they’ll withstand the wear and tear that comes along with all your outdoor physical activities.
So what are you waiting for? Pick a new outdoor activity to try, and see where it takes you.