MOUNTAIN LOG HIKER EXTRAORDINAIRE 75 At the top of his list of essentials is a Spot gen3 satellite tracker. “This allows my family to see where I am at all times. It allows me to send a text message to say ‘all is well’ when I’m at a high mountain camp with no phone reception. I can also send an emergency text if I’m in a life-threatening situation. It is really invaluable for communication and peace of mind. My mother, Susan Ennis, who sadly passed away last November, would check my progress several times a day and send texts like ‘That was a long one today.’” CLOTHING Aidan’s hiking wear is the best available for trail running. He dons a pair of running shorts with inner lining and outer lining, but no undergarment. His top is a running shirt by Rab, light and quick-drying. Over that, he wears a windproof, lightweight hooded jacket from Berghaus; or a lightweight reflective running jacket if he’s road running. He also wears a sun visor to shield his face and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. “I bring two sets of clothes. I keep one set dry for sleeping in and wearing in B&Bs. Each set includes a T-shirt, racepants, socks and down jacket,” he explains. If it’s raining, he puts on an ultra-light Montane Minimus Nano Pull-On rain jacket and ultra-light waterproof leggings made by Inov-8. These double as trousers when he’s staying at B&Bs or visiting shops. Pictured this page: A typical set of items Aidan would send ahead to B&Bs he would be staying at, to re-supply himself. They include a gas cylinder, food and snacks, maps, batteries and other essentials. Photo: Aidan Ennis
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