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Choosing the best compass

You love hiking and going to places you have never been before? Well, you would admit that you need a hiking compass with you. Here are some of the tips you can use when choosing the best compass:

·         Durability

Compasses are not as breakable as compared to a GPS, but this doesn’t mean that you won’t drop the compass accidentally or it won’t bump against something in your backpack. Be sure the compass won't shatter or break in that instance to avoid problems in the field.

·         High-resolution bezel

The bezel is circular and movable surrounding the compass housing. There are degrees onto it from 0 to 360. A good bezel is more precise and has markings for every one or half a degree. Pick the compass that is most precise.

·         See through baseplate with a direction of travel arrow

The see-through baseplate allows you to see what is beneath the map when you are taking a bearing. The rulers on the sides of the baseplate, parallel median lines and magnifying lens will help your readings be precise. It also helps read the small symbols on your map.

·         Wide temperature range

You need to be sure your compass can keep up especially if you are hiking at low temperature. Make sure the compass you choose won't freeze.

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Getting the best trekking poles!

While getting the best trekking poles could be a problem, these points will help you in your search:        

 •   Should the pole be adjustable or fixed? This will depend on your height, comfortability and preference. If the walking pole is adjustable, then it should have a locking mechanism to adjust the different heights. The locking system here should be easier to work with to ensure maximum efficiency. Test out the locking mechanism before you go for the hike and ensure it is working perfectly on all the heights. Test if it is easy to adjust the pole while wearing gloves especially in winter.

     •  Weight. The trekking pole comes as a complementary tool to make the climb easier, not harder. When going for a hike, most people especially the ones who are camping carry backpacks and this is a load you can’t afford to leave. The trekking pole should be light and should not come as additional weight.

Other things you need to consider when getting a trekking pole is the material used to ensure maximum durability. Ask yourself what kind of terrain you are going to mostly use the pole on and if you are using it in winter, can you hold the pole comfortably with gloves?