About Mattias:
Outdoor expert and scout leader
Bootfitter/Salesman Concept Store Sälfjällstorget

What's the best thing about hiking?
- For me, it is the tranquillity, peacefulness and getting to spend time in nature that attracts me. To enjoy the magnificent views while being in motion at the same time. I have always loved nature and that's probably why I moved to the mountains in 2006 – for nature's sake.

Mattias helps clients at our Concept Store Lindvallen with everything from ski equipment to the correct wilderness attire. He is an experienced hiker and well acquainted with the Swedish mountains. He is also a scout leader in Sälen where he teaches the kids three important things: to take care of themselves, nature and each other.

So let's start with the first of those! You want to get out into the wilderness. What do you need to consider?

Shoes

You should adapt your shoes based on the terrain you plan to be in. Your shoes need to be stable if you plan to spend time in terrain that does not have manicured trails. If you're wearing a backpack you should choose a pair of hiking boots with a high shaft for optimal stability.

Things to bring

What items you bring obviously has to be adapted based on how long you plan your hike to be. However, there are some things you should always bring. Water is one of them as it may be tricky to know in advance when you will find drinkable water. Mattias' top tip when it comes to water is a hydration pack system. A water container for a hydration pack system means the water weighs as little as possible while still being accessible. Wear it close to your body together with other heavy gear to be kind to your back. Hot water can also become tea, hot chocolate, coffee, noodles or soup for your break!

What about sustenance? What things do I need to keep in mind?

Obviously, you need to plan your food and energy needs based on how long you plan to be away. However, it's important to always bring along some quick-releasing energy sources. Heard of trail mix? A classic which consists of chocolate, nuts, and raisins - perfect for when energy levels sink! Think energy-rich and handy.

Clothing

And then we're on to clothing, We've asked Mattias for his best tips when it comes to clothing for a hike or stays in the wilderness.

- It's a good idea to wear wool closest to your body. For the summer season, I would advise everyone who intends to spend a fair bit of time in the wilderness to purchase a T-shirt, underwear, and socks made of wool. The wool regulates the body temperature and doesn't make you cold when you become damp as cotton would.

In addition to hiking trousers, you need additional clothing in the shape of a fleece sweater or flannel shirt. The additional shirt lets you stay warm in the shade and also protects against mosquitos. A waterproof jacket and trousers should always be brought along and be easily accessible in case of unexpected (or expected) rain showers.

Don't forget to bring a warm hat or headband. Light and warm gloves and extra socks can also be a good thing to put in your backpack.

Accessories such as a mug, headlamp, pocket knife, insect repellent, and stove may also be good to bring along.

Safety equipment

Don't forget about safety! A first-aid kit should be in every hiker's backpack. An elastic bandage can be handy if you sprain your foot and gauze for wounds should also be brought along. If you intend to go far from civilization it may also be good to bring an emergency beacon. An emergency beacon shows where you are if an accident were to happen and your mobile was no longer working.

Now you just need to find the perfect backpack and you're ready to head out into the wilderness. Don't forget to stop and take in the views!