Clothing for geocaching in the countryside
Short answer: Geocaching takes you off the paths, up banks and into thickets, often on long walks with a GPS in hand. Light, stretchy layers, a soft base layer and clothes that can get dirty make the hunt much more pleasant.
A treasure hunt across country
Geocaching is a modern treasure hunt in which you use a GPS or phone to find small containers hidden outdoors. The route may cross fields, run through woods and follow the coast, and the final stretch is often off the path. You bend, crawl, reach up into trees and look under stones. Your clothing should therefore cope with dirt and give full mobility without becoming heavy to walk in over many kilometres of mixed terrain.
Shorts on warm days
In summer, shorts are the most comfortable choice for long walks. They give air and freedom of movement when you climb over a fence or up a bank. See bamboo shorts for men. Remember, though, that brambles and nettles can scratch your legs, and that ticks are common in long grass. If a cache is in dense vegetation, switch to long trousers or carry a light pair in your rucksack for that last stretch.
A top that breathes
On a warm day covering many kilometres you will get sweaty. A tank top or a thin T-shirt made of viscose from bamboo feels light and cool and dries fairly quickly when you stop for a break. See bamboo tank top for men. A tank top gives the most freedom in the shoulders when you reach up for a cache in a tree. Bring a thin top for the cooler evening or for shady woodland along the way.
A base layer for spring and autumn
Geocaching is a hobby for every season. In spring and autumn a soft base layer under a fleece or jacket is welcome. An undershirt made of viscose from bamboo sits close and holds warmth without being heavy. See bamboo undershirt for men. It can be worn on its own when walking warms you up, and it takes up very little space in your rucksack when you take it off during a steep climb.
Hands, knees and feet
Many caches are hidden under roots, in holes or behind stones, so your hands and knees get plenty of work. A pair of thin gloves protects against thorns and dirt. Trousers with reinforced knees last longer if you kneel often. Good walking boots or trail shoes with firm grip make it safer to move over uneven ground, and a spare pair of socks is handy if conditions are wet underfoot.
After the walk
Always check for ticks after a trip outdoors, especially around the ankles, behind the knees and at the waistband. Shake soil and leaves off your clothes outside, and wash them at 30 to 40 degrees inside out. Viscose from bamboo dries best flat or on a rack. Avoid fabric softener. Feel free to note in the log what the terrain was like, so others know what to wear when they set out.
Frequently asked questions
Shorts or long trousers for geocaching
Shorts on paths and on warm days, long trousers in dense thickets and long grass. Many people bring both.
Why wear gloves for geocaching
Because caches are often under roots and stones, where there may be thorns, sharp edges and dirt.
How do I avoid ticks
Wear long trousers in long grass and check your skin carefully after the walk.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
