Fall means wet grass in the mornings, which is why I love my low-cut LL Bean Waterproof Trail Hiker II ($79) off-road shoes. They are comfy, flexible and waterproof yet breathable. I wear mine for golf, too, so I stay dry walking wet fairways.
Walking poles
Cooler fall temps make it a great time to power up your walks with Nordic poles. Stefan Aschan, author of Alpine Weight Loss Secrets recommends Leki walking poles ($79.95/pair), which he finds the most comfortable, easy to use and store. For people who don’t want to wear a hand strap, Aschan suggests Exerstriders ($90.95/pair)
Socks
With great wicking action and ultimate cushioning, Thor-lo socks feel heavenly, especially on older feet that have lost some of their natural fatty padding. Their distance walking style (about $13.99/pair) will keep you trekking blister-free on your fall half-marathon or marathon. Your shoes may need to be a half-size larger to accommodate them. Otherwise, pick a medium padded Thor-lo walking sock. If you’re buying new shoes, wear or bring your Thorlos to the store.
Rain gear
After a summer of stifling, record-breaking heat, I don’t mind a good walk in the rain. I like About.com walking coach Wendy Baumgardner’s suggestion for an inexpensive but breathable slicker, the Rain Shield 02 Hooded Jacket ($23 to $32, depending on size). Comes in eye-catching yellow only.
Water bottle
The weather may be cooler, but you still need to hydrate. I’ve tried all varieties of hydration doo-hickies over the years, from backpacks and fanny packs to plastic and stainless steel bottles and more. My favorite right now is the Camelpak podium-chill water bottle ($9.95). It’s easily squeezable, has a self-sealing, easy-to-use cap and its double lined construction with insulating foam keeps your water cooler much longer. Works great for a walk or bike ride. Simple, durable and priced right.
Geocaching app
Forget about time, pacing and distance workouts and your 401K for a while, and get out for the pure fun of it. Geocaching is an addictive treasure hunt using a GPS or smartphone equipped with a GPS function. When you find a geocache—a hidden container, often carrying quirky items—you can register your find on Geocaching.com and share your experience with others. You can download an app for $10 to your Ipod Touch, or Iphone . Or purchase a GPS device. The E-Trex ($70) is a great, low-cost option.
Umbrellas
Some people will say that serious walkers don’t carry umbrellas. But it depends on what you’re serious about! If it’s not speed, but rather a long, mellow, stretch of the legs on a rainy day, then umbrellas keep you dry and have lots of romantic appeal. I have a seriously beautiful umbrella covered with butterflies. When I walk in the rain with it, people smile. Make their day, and yours. This selection of artistic umbrellas will have you sighing, “So many umbrellas, so little rain.”
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Top Picks for Fall Walking Gear
Maggie Spilner, author of three books on walking for health, fitness and adventure, and walking tour guide for Awalkforallseasons.com, shares her go-to gear picks for the season.
Thinkstock
Top Picks for Fall Walking Gear
Maggie Spilner, author of three books on walking for health, fitness and adventure, and walking tour guide for Awalkforallseasons.com, shares her go-to gear picks for the season.
Thinkstock
Top Picks for Fall Walking Gear
Maggie Spilner, author of three books on walking for health, fitness and adventure, and walking tour guide for Awalkforallseasons.com, shares her go-to gear picks for the season.
