Rainy and Wet Hiking - How to Stay Dry

[@neilhughes3529]

A tip for helping with wet feet learned in the army. It was drummed into us that looking after our feet was second priority after our rifle. We would always carry at least 3 pairs of socks (woollen) - one pair kept dry in the pack for night, and the other two rotated during the day. With wet feet we would try to stop, and dry and powder the feet and change into dry socks. The wet pair of socks were wrung out as much as possible and placed one over each shoulder between the base layer and mid layer. That way the body heat would help dry them out when marching and the socks provided some more cushioning under very heavy pack straps.

[@swedmiroswedmiro1352]

I was thought the same thing in the Swedish Army at survival training lessons.

[@jarikinnunen1718]

Dry socks are more important than ammos to carry around. In many war has been proven it.

[@harrymills2770]

Once I discovered those scratchy old wool socks, I never went back to cotton, summer or winter. Just switched socks to summer wear as they grew thin over time. Weird how we all grew up wearing rubber-soled sneakers and cotton socks. What a terrible combination!

[@randywithofapt2660]

Your comment is one of the best pieces of info. I've heard. With your permission I'd like to quote you.

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

@@harrymills2770 Why?

[@WHBJr]

There should be designated foot/sock/boot drying stations all over the world!!!

[@davidmoore9945]

Eric, your videos are always such an inspiration. You are extremely charismatic and always offering great advice. Please know your videos lift my spirits with everyone I watch!

[@ericlang7700]

Good morning, Erik! I use to live in the Catskills when i was a kid. I hunted, and traveled in the woods as much has i could, I loved it! I knew where i could pitch my tent, and explore, but like you said, be ready to get wet, condensation will happen. The deeper the snow the more you sweat. My thought then was to do much shorter trips, and hang with my dog, relax, and listen to the rain on my tent. I still will never forget those days. Enjoy my friend! Peace!

[@SanaurRehmanShahmir]

I usually keep a spare of all wear items while on my long solo hikes. Lot of love and respect from a solo mountain hiker from Chitral Pakistan.

[@KettleCamping]

Completely accurate! Under wet conditions, expect to be wet. Wool is often underrated but is a truly excellent fibre for insulating when wet and in colder conditions. We have similar changeable seasons in Canada and the wool never lets us down. A very nice video with beautiful scenery and fantastic advice.

[@ernstandersen979]

Very good advice👍and a cup of hot coffee helps with almost everything 😄☕👍

[@erik_normark]

Yes it does! :) thanks

[@danilovirgillito7120]

As usual a very sensible video. Impossible to stay dry in the North. People often forget it. Dry your gear in the sleeping bag...keep your camp clothes and gear as protected as you can. The hiking gear doesn’t need to be dry. And dump all that synthetic super thech gear...go natural, go wool!

[@jasper374]

I don't feel comfortable drying my wet gear in a down sleeping bag though

[@danilovirgillito7120]

@@jasper374 only inner layers and underwear...no need for other clothes. Usually these are just damp.

[@markduncan6690]

Thanks Erik! The Reassurance in your voice will get everyone to the outdoors!

[@ulperformance4087]

Why not consider a base layer of regular knitted polypropylene or fishnet polypropylene - Brynje for example? Get the cold moisture off your body and significantly reduce the friction of materials to improve your freedom of motion. Your second layer of wool with sufficient open mesh to aid in moisture transfer away from your body - my system.

[@michaelcapeless3268]

When I'm backpacking in conditions where it will no doubt be wet at some point, I usually take a synthetic insulated sleeping bag. I've made the mistake of using down where there were several days in a row of rain (Corsica) - and the sleeping bag lost any hope of insulating my heat at night. Only made that mistake one time. Thank you, Erik, for all the good advice on this subject.

[@danvanderwoude4446]

Thanks Erik! Sooner or later the sun comes out the warm reappears! You are an inspiration.

[@MattShafter]

I love that hike stop, to lay out all your stuff and get it dry again!

[@TheDenisedrake]

I've camped all my life, but only recently learned to camp in the snow. It's such a great experience. Thanks for showing us.

[@neemancallender9092]

yes there is nothing like putting on your wet clothing on a cold morning to start the hiking day that is the moment where I question my sanity....... And either the clothes will dry or they will continue to stay wet

[@garymontz4136]

Almost every time I watch your video's i love hearing the birds making sounds

[@mountaineer5596]

Good advice. You obviously know what you are talking about. The many “experts” who insist a person “must stay dry” must conduct all their trips in a very dry environment, because I am frequently wet. I have found that the function of rain wear is to keep one warm (stops evaporative cooling) rather than keeping one dry.

[@aok5298]

I’ve watched many of Erik’s videos, I love how outdoors men and women from the north are so super grounded, 100% keepin it real. This particular vid on dealing with wet weather is the most pragmatic, actual real life ‘just accept you’ll get wet and minimise ‘ The best advice from a guy who is hugely experienced in the most adverse conditions a human could face outdoors. There’s sooo many product technology videos - 3 layer gortex, DWR.. 20000 whatevers which are mostly BS .. they all wet out and you will get wet!! Key takeaway- wool wool wool layers 👍👍

[@CorvusNumber6]

Great advice. Just accept it and move on to the next amazing location. Thanks Erik!🌲🔥🌲☕️👍🏻😎

[@7astarael]

I recently started using a lightweight umbrella instead of rainjacket to avoid getting too sweaty from the jacket. Good if it’s raining but not too cold, and especially if it’s raining and hot. I saw that idea when hiking in Borneo, all of the local guides used umbrella instead of rainjacket because it was raining a lot but still very hot and humid. Maybe not so much of a problem in Sweden! And of course doesn’t work well if it’s windy!

[@craigrobertson6082]

Great info and great practical solutions. There are probably many folks that avoid the outdoors in the wet when there is no need. This is also why you must carefully consider your footwear. Finally, waterproof does not exist except for your skin.

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

Skin is not waterproof.

[@ziegenmilch1]

The water in all its wonderful forms... Tack Erik för bra tips, bra förklarat, underbara bilder och ljud. Håller med, ull är det bästa här uppe.

[@ecksneddon1447]

Eric you could make a video on an egg boiling and I would still enjoy keep them coming and stay safe

[@erik_normark]

:D Thanks

[@miketaylor6700]

Thanks Erik. Also, I found that it is very important to keep all wet items separated from dry items inside my pack... otherwise they all get wet.

[@markjg2275]

Just beautiful scenery , Erik is my favorite outdoor and camp videos on KZbin.

[@notquiteultralight1701]

I use a contractor trash bag in the bottom of my pack where dry clothes go in first and then sleeping bag to efficiently fill in all space remaining. I find putting sleeping bag in stuff sack reduces it’s packing efficiency. Thank you so much Erik, for talking about this.

[@teresadaigle6991]

Beautiful Video. Your info is so useful to someone that has never hiked in wet cold weather. Also, we all think we know survival skills in any condition but I think the opposite is true in most cases. I am always up for listening to others tell their ways of hiking in any condition while staying warm, staying safe, not getting lost, what to pack, etc. We just might learn something and I am sure many on here did with this video. Late snowstorms are a Nuisance at times but knowing that spring will be popping up soon makes me smile. We are getting a lot of late snow here in Colorado, also.

[@toocleanpappas5397]

I have done the big three hikes in the US, AT, PCT, CDT. I have over 8,000 trail miles. And you are absolutely right. I am always looking for ways to improve my skills, and experience while hiking. My friend is a mountaineer, and his skill level in the snow is so much better than mine! I am always asking him questions. The more you know the more you realize how much more there is to learn. Best of luck!

[@baginatora]

A week ago I binge watched most of your videos. Long story short- I ordered myself a Trangia bottle like yours :D

[@c1nicolei]

I ❤ everything about this video, your calming voice, the scenery, the nature sounds! Take me with you

[@Tziq_San]

Informative, well shot and edited and last but not least, calming. Love your vids man!

[@chrisfrueh3148]

Thank you Erik for let us participate about your practical knowledge. Thumbs up! Take care. Cheerio.

[@TheMendipman]

All excellent advice Erik. We don't get much snow in the UK these days but dealing with rain is a big part of outdoor life. Noel

[@antoinemorcos1321]

Thank you Erik. More advices like that would be welcome for noobies. Thank you.

[@randywithofapt2660]

Thanks for sharing Mr. Normark. I always enjoy your knowledge.

[@bennypax2167]

Great advise for the wet and great video see you next

[@donaldpang]

Very good reminder. It applies to tropical climate where I am living too. Thanks

[@suebrown3465]

I felt cold and damp watching this video! Great compilation of videos and also great advice Take care ....from Canada ❤️ 🇨🇦

[@Oldsparkey]

Sometimes wet is a blessing and looked forward to. On a 14 day ( 12 days on the water ) canoe trip in Florida's Everglades ( National Park , 10,000 islands area ) a buddy and I spent 11/12 days of 12 wet. Each of us were in our own canoes with all of our own gear. 1st day out it started raining , on with the rain gear , perspiration and condensation we were wetter then if we were in the rain without anything. By noon that day , rain gear off and the rest of the trip with shorts and "T" shirts in the constant rain. This was late May early June and hotter then a frying pan weather. The rain actually made it a cool and very pleasant trip. Even the insides of the dry bags were soaked by the end of the trip. We always keep a change of dry/clean clothes in our vehicles for when we returned. By the way we only saw two other guys ( in canoes ) on that trip and they were on the 1st day returning to the boat ramp. For dry feet when hiking I have some Showers Past waterproof socks. Same thing , in the summer a nice rain is more then welcome.

[@ysgolgerlan]

Thanks again for a useful video, liked the raven sounds at the end.

[@toocleanpappas5397]

After hiking the Appalachian trail and having only 6 days of sun in a month and a half. We learned a few things to help when hiking in the rain. One, is you can take your socks and put them in your beany/hat while you sleep. The heat from your head will dry them out as long as they're not too wet. (Only useful if like me your socks don't smell too bad after hiking. haha) The other thing we figured out that works really well is to wait until your feet are dry after hiking and then put petroleum jelly on your feet. It will create a barrier that is hydrophobic. It won't last all day, but it will save your feet from being completely pruned which can help with blisters and such. Best to do this in the morning before you start hiking. Also, dry sacks that are made for kayaking are great for hiking. They are much better than the normal ones you find at outfitters for hiking. They weigh a slight amount more, but keeping your sleeping system and clothes dry is worth the extra 0.5 oz. I'm heading to Ireland to do the Coast to Coast trail next month, so I'll definitely be enjoying a lot of rain... :)

[@channeling05]

Hi, I wanted to ask about the petroleum jelly. Do you let it dry on your feet before putting on your socks or do you let it dry while the feet are in the socks? I also wanted to ask how much one should use.

[@toocleanpappas5397]

@@channeling05 I always let it sink in before putting my socks on. How much, just enough to coat your foot with a thin layer that will sink in. Any more than that I imagine would just get on your socks.

[@stiches5803]

Toppen som alltid Erik. Och tack för tipsen

[@thanhdong4195]

same here in Calgary yesterday is 20c today we have rain and snow 10-15 cm , we lived in Canadian Rockies , sometime we have 4 season weather in the same day , but nice to stay here in Calgary , Alberta .Canada

[@louiebergendal6409]

I always bring a "wettex-trasa" to remove condensation from my tent. It also It doubles as a lightweight bath towel.

[@trudiswanson9855]

Erik, that was full of good and helpful advice. I learned better tips about wet and dry clothes while out camping. I'll always remember your tip to wear plastic bags between two pair of socks. Thanks Erik. 🐞🇭🇲 Trudi

[@trakyboy5128]

Now that was really good stuff !!!!! I enjoy the QUIET TIME videos as much as anyone. But, it is NICE when you SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE 👍🏽🤗🧐🤠 Like staying as dry as possible. SAVE THOSE DRY CLOTHES FOR LATER !!!! It's tempting to keep that dry cozy one's on.. But I guess you gotta embrace the yuck and put those wet n cold ones back on. I imagine at this point A lot has to do with your mindset !!!!!!! Eric, does it help to put those cold wet things under or between your sleeping mats might not dry it off it might be a little bit warmer than just a frozen sheet of cloth?????

[@ronaldrose7593]

Hello Erik, thank you for sharing another very informative video. You are certainly a great source of vital 'outdoor' vital information. Always the best of good things for you. Stay safe out there. 🤗

[@theforestandme_outdoor]

Very important Tips! Thanks Eric and stay dry ✌🏻😎

[@SwampCityRadio1974]

Coffee and thumbs up at 5:53

[@MeetMeOutside]

Simply brilliant ! So true !

[@muhammadmushfiqurrahman5912]

As usual, another decent video. Keep it up, Erik. Stay safe from COVID.

[@Alessandro-nq3tm]

Wow a lot of snow at the end of April!!

[@kaioutdoor1107]

Thank you for the advise, Erik. Will put it on my hiking practice 👍😀

[@e.n.oosterbosch5281]

you make always great movies thanks

[@RS.Outdoors]

Great advice Eric. Just got hold of the Tarptent Notch Li and looking forward to trying it on a long hike in a few weeks. Did make some tweaks to it and the end strut setup. Happy hikes and Atb.

[@erik_normark]

Thanks, I hope it works well for you, I'm very happy with mine. Good luck! Atb

[@benhikescamps]

Good tips. Thanks Erik.

[@moulayderissy5445]

Great video

[@franciscoromero6768]

Hola Erick...en la primera parte,si que vas abrigado.Hey,ya mándame un saludo por favor.Abrazo fuerte desde el Noroeste de México.

[@kiddobee3610]

I suppose putting on the wet clothes is a good impetus to get moving again...I have had luck drying out damp socks 🧦 by using my body heat in the sleeping bag overnight and laying them across my chest. Miraculously dry in the morning.

[@jimf1964]

Some of my absolute best days spent in the woods was during rain, but when it goes on for days? It can be pretty unpleasant. We're having our spring in eastern Canada, with a dash of winter hitting us tomorrow ☃️

[@TheNlander]

Those who did not get cold or wet their shoes during the hike did not experience life😉 Thank you for nice video!

[@EifelWandern]

Hello Erik,...and during water boiling, do not sit on snow without isolation underneath if you just got one trouser on long winter hike. ((-; Alex from the German Eifel.

[@Rudecheers]

Great video once again Erik

[@TheArendt1]

Thanks man, nice vid.

[@Lazzoboy]

Great video Erik.

[@medicovlogs646]

Such a beautiful location ❤❤🥰

[@thegroove2000]

Cant beat extra strong bin bags. Cheap and versatile.

[@lifetrail_hiking_mentoring]

Everyone has their own opinion on how to hike, but after over 3000kms including a 1000km thru hike here in Western Australia. I personally think you couldn't have described it anymore perfectly. You simply share your personal experience, not your opinion. I have a laugh at the thumbs down you receive. I find there is no point in putting on dry clothes again the next day if you are going to be wet again. You just end up carrying heavy wet clothes. As long as you have a set of dry clothes to put on at the end the day. The wet conditions here obviously can't compare to a Swedish wet, but how wet effects you up there, it so does here. I teach my clients to learn the difference between external wet (rain) and internal wet (sweat) and unless you are cold, being wet from rain is a much happier and healthier experience. I'm going to use this video to share with all the teens who come on my multiday hikes.

[@erik_normark]

Thanks, much appreciated! Atb

[@lifetrail_hiking_mentoring]

@@erik_normark You're welcome. I would be interested to see and share with my hikers how you pack your backpack in your very wet conditions. How you keep a very wet tent away from your dry gear in your pack.

[@อมรพันธุ์แข็งแรง]

Hi I love your work, Thanks Erik I' m from Thailand

[@brunolutz4738]

Thank you very much for this excellent video!

[@luke1166]

Keep on hiking 👍

[@Corcioch]

Wonderful film. Thanks

[@nelsonpagel2175]

I enjoy your video Erik, looks like you have a lot of experience and know what you are talking about especially when in comes to hiking and camping in cold weather! I'm always trying to find the perfect wet weather gear here in Washington state.

[@CaptainCamp]

Thanks Erik, great tips! 😎

[@Thracium]

Thank you wore your work! Good Luck!

[@hanskirk-hiking9697]

Great video - hiking Scandinavian style 💁🇩🇰🇸🇪

[@sinuwunbagus5046]

Love this video from INDONESIA..

[@Oscar-yf8qo]

Hello Erik. Excuse my bad english. Nice videos. Good length and enough speech. Specially for quite people like me. I feel outdoor videos as speech-less as possible :) . A request: I would like you share something about gear maintenance in general and after wet conditions. Thanks. Geetings from Spain. Oscar.

[@scandinaviannaturediaries8892]

So good advice 👍 And I really love the different clips of nature footage in this video. Outstanding 🤩

[@jarikinnunen1718]

Loose clothing is warmer. it is better to carry the excess in one garment. Use waterproof only when you need it.

[@harrymills2770]

I generally wear the shell at all times unless it's too hot. But I'm not a hard-core hiker.

[@steveproud846]

Wise words👍

[@cipher2]

thank you Erik!

[@donaldpang]

Would you do a video on the apparels you used for such cold winter hikes? I may have missed the video if you already had done one. cheers

[@beingaware8542]

Wow! A spring snow!

[@andreafedrighi495]

Even at an altitude of up to 2500 m in the Italian Alps I pitched my tent in heavy rain, or snow, and then dried myself, socks and clothes by slowly lighting my gas burner inside the tent.

[@fritzd2116]

Thank you for this, Erik!

[@EventyrsorenDenmark]

Great video. Wool is wonderfull !!!!

[@ralfnagel1909]

pure Meditation

[@michaelberne5137]

great video and advice as always!

[@Benfilms]

You never forget your coffee and your thumb up. 🙂

[@Occupuyourspine]

Thanks fer da good info mister 🤠

[@zitogs67]

Ciao sempre interessanti i tuoi video ,sia per i paesaggi e le riprese ,sia per i contenuti istruttivi. Un saluto

[@ronforrestjr2493]

Thx for sharing

[@oppotty7785]

I love you bro from Cambodian💖🤗💖💖🙆‍♂️🇰🇭🇰🇭

[@петрмир-я7и]

Большое спасибо Erik !

[@BrianthatiscalledBrian]

Thanks, Erik. 🙂☕👍

[@mariaotero5601]

hi thank you for the video so interesting

[@toddgrant7190]

Nice.

[@woodnugget1301]

Another nice and informative video. May I ask Erik what made you choose the sea to summit ether over the thermarest topi plus as they are very similar and I’m looking for a new mat thanks ian

[@serge.levesque]

Thank you :-)

[@wanderfux]

merino wool is love 😍 thank you once again for such an inspiring video!

[@KettleCamping]

We second that merino wool is love! Alpaca is pretty awesome too.

[@johnrossSorbie]

Hello young one, The weather is weird the only dry myself is my teepee with my stove to dry my wet clothes most of my clothes are waterproof