Hiking poles? Aren’t they just for “old men” who can only drag themselves over the mountain with their help?? That, or something like it, is what many people used to think when the subject of trekking poles came up. But once you get over this prejudice, you quickly come to see trekking poles as a great thing – at least once you have found the right pair and, after getting used to them, learned how to handle them. But how do you find the right trekking poles, and what should beginners in particular look out for before deciding what to buy?

Whether Gore-Tex, Sympatex or eVent – even the wonder fabrics of rain protection need regular care to keep performing and stay waterproof. Choosing the right detergent and proofer is a big part of it.

How do you look after walking and trekking boots made of leather, and how do you make leather boots without a membrane waterproof? There are plenty of tips and tricks out there, but not all of them make sense or really help. Here are my own care tips.