To begin hiking, all you need to do is head out to a hiking trail and start walking. But, if you enjoy the activity, then you will likely pick up some equipment to be better prepared for the conditions of hiking. When you live in an area that gets extremely cold during wintertime, you may end up taking a break. Snowshoeing is another activity that you can partake in around this time, but it requires different gear. Knowing how to store your normal hiking gear without taking long-term damage should be a top priority.
Waterproof Your Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are built sturdy to help you handle the rough conditions on hiking trails, but they are not indestructible. You should already know how to clean the boots in between usage. It is important to give your boots a thorough cleaning before you attempt to put them in storage. Boots that are kept in humid conditions will end up developing mold that can require heavy-duty scrubbing or cause permanent damage. So, right after you clean them, you should give your hiking boots a coat of waterproofing. Renting a climate-controlled storage unit is another way that you can prevent water damage.
Clean Out Trekking Poles
Not everyone uses trekking poles, but they are used for a good reason. They provide you with extra traction while hiking, which can keep you from getting injured while traversing rocky terrain. It is only natural for the mechanisms to get dirt inside when you use them for most hiking trips. Each type of pole requires a different method for cleaning. Snap-lock poles are extra susceptible because of rust risk, which occurs to the screw and pin. Getting rid of any corrosion will prevent it from spreading while in storage.
Keep Your Hydration Bladder Dry
The freezer is one place that hikers, runners, and campers will put their hydration bladder for storage. But, you might not have enough room in your freezer to let it sit there comfortably for months. Putting it into any storage unit will come with a number of risks because it may not stay dry. Mold will quickly form inside the hydration bladder if left unchecked, and this will make your water smell and taste bad. It will also harbor bacteria, so your best bet is to prioritize climate control to control humidity levels.
Hiking is not an expensive hobby, but it can become that way if you have to replace your gear every year. Investing in these protective measures will ensure you come back to gear that is in great condition.
Talk to a business like Park Lanes Storage for more help.
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