Get Camino Ready: Choosing the right Footwear & Gear
Hiking

Get Camino Ready: Choosing the right Footwear & Gear

We have met a lot of people passing through The Sports Room who are heading off on the Camino, many wondering what to bring and how to pack it. So we put together this little guide to help you do exactly that!

What shoes should I choose?

When choosing your shoe for the Camino, look for something lightweight and comfortable. This step (pun intended) is definitely worth investing in.

At The Sports Room, we are big fans of the Salomon Ultra Glide 4, a breathable, cushioned trail runner designed to keep your feet cool in warmer weather.

If you prefer something that feels more like a traditional hiking boot, the super light Salomon X Ultra gives you the ankle support that a lot of walkers feel more confident in, especially when the terrain gets a bit uneven.

A quick note on waterproof footwear, as we get asked about this a lot. In hot, humid weather, Gore Tex’s breathability has its limits, which means sweaty feet… and sweaty feet are definitely not on the packing list! If staying dry is the priority, a good trail sock is often a smarter solution. More on this below!

Socks = Game Changer

Merino is the road most taken on every Camino packing list - and for good reason. Merino regulates temperature, wicks moisture and you don’t need to wash it after every wear. You could also opt for a waterproof sock for very wet weather - they stop the water dripping down your leg into the sock.  

Get Your Head in the Game

A hat is a must when the sun is shining and The Sports Room has a great range of lightweight hats and caps to choose from. One in particular stands out – the Compressport Stayfresh Ice Bob hat. This guy has an integrated ice pocket on the back of the head to keep you cool on the move. Who wouldn’t want that?!

If sunnies are more your style, we have two brilliant options for you pilgrims. Oakley brings technology to the trails, using Prizm lenses to enhance colour and contrast so you catch every detail. A great choice for walkers looking for that performance edge. Goodr is all about fun, colour and great value. Sporty sunglasses without the hefty price tag.

What to Wear

Shoes and headwear sorted. Now let’s get you dressed. Lightweight tees, like these ones from SAYSKY, are ideal for keeping cool and take up minimal space in your bag. And if you’re packing light, here’s the bonus: these t-shirts are super quick drying. Give them a rinse, leave them out in the sun, and they’ll be ready to go again in the morning.

Ladies, a good sports bra is essential for a trip like this. Check out our other blog post on how to choose the right sports bra for you. 

We have noticed a lot of people investing in a good waterproof jacket for the Camino, and the Brooks High Point Jacket 2 is a packer’s dream. Look how small this packs down! For the bottom half, check out our range of shorts, and don’t forget BodyGlide to keep chafing at bay. The mini version is perfect for travelling.

To keep all your walking essentials to hand, try a storage belt or a lightweight backpack – the perfect place to keep your suncream, first aid kit, mosquito repellant, packable towel, nutrition and more.

We look forward to hearing about your Camino adventures on your return – it's definitely on our bucket list!