Hiking deals

The three-layer system

When hiking, it's best to dress in layers instead of wearing one thick piece of clothing, to adapt to the effort and the weather. The first layer, against the skin, wicks away sweat: synthetic, it dries quickly, while merino wool, it regulates temperature better and reduces odours over several days. The second layer, fleece or lightweight down, insulates against the cold.

The third layer, a waterproof and breathable jacket, protects against wind and rain. You take off a layer while climbing, when you heat up, and put it back on during breaks and at the summit, where the body cools down quickly. The textile can be found in men's textile, women's textile and children's textile.

Down jacket: down or synthetic

Down provides the best balance between warmth and weight, and compresses into a small volume. Its quality is measured by its fill power, expressed in cuin: the higher it is, the more air the down traps and insulates for the same weight. Its downside is its sensitivity to moisture, which compresses it and reduces its insulating properties.

Synthetic fill, a bit heavier for the same warmth, retains most of its insulation when wet and dries faster. It's suitable for humid climates and activities that cause sweating. A lightweight down jacket can be packed at the bottom of a bag and is useful during breaks when the body cools down.

Getting a good deal on promotions

A technical garment from the previous collection is almost always technically identical to the next one; only the colour changes. It's on these items that the promotions are most worthwhile. As for hiking shoes, however, the price should never overshadow the size and use: a poorly fitting pair won't be a saving. Choose bags and equipment primarily based on capacity and use.

Other hiking sections

The accessories complete the gear, and trekking brings together the gear for multi-day trips. The new arrivals showcase the latest items, the 24-hour dispatch items are prepared and shipped within 24 hours, and the clearance features end-of-line products. Major sales events, from Black Friday to the winter sales and then to the French Days, enhance the selection available on the hiking page.

Frequently asked questions

How to layer clothes for hiking?

The first layer wicks away sweat, the second, fleece or lightweight down, insulates against the cold, and the third, waterproof, protects against wind and rain. You add or remove layers depending on the effort and the weather.

Which insulator to choose for a warm mountain jacket?

Down provides the best balance between warmth and weight and compresses very well, but loses its insulating power when wet. Synthetic fill, a bit heavier, continues to keep you warm even when damp.

Merino wool or synthetic for the first layer?

Synthetic dries very quickly and is suited for intense activities. Merino wool regulates temperature better and limits odours over several days, an advantage for multi-day trips.

How to wash a down jacket?

Wash it in the machine at a low temperature with a special down detergent, then tumble dry on a low setting with two or three tennis balls to restore loft. Always check the label first.

Are the promotional hiking articles recent?

These are new items, often from a previous collection or a replaced colour. A jacket or a pair of shoes from last year retains the same technical performance at a reduced price.