Brave the elements

With help from outdoor experts Outback Trading in Helston, we have some top tips on how to make sure you stay safe, keep warm and dry and enjoy your dog-walking experience.

Whether a short stroll or a more adventurous walk, the principles of dog walking are the same. Firstly, you should wear clothing suitable for the conditions. It may start as a nice day but you should be prepared for a rain shower or a drop in temperature, come the evening. In winter months, temperatures can plummet and that rain shower may quickly turn into a downpour.

“Torches for night-time, a whistle or a small backpack to keep extra clothing and doggie-treats in can prove invaluable”

T-shirts are very versatile – worn on their own, they keep you cool in summer but when used for layering, warm in winter. Top brands suggest layering with a wide range of different clothing from t-shirts to fleeces and coats. Look for base layers with good wicking properties and a coat that’s both water resistance and breathable. Outback Trading carefully choose and select products from world-class manufacturers such as The North Face, Jack Wolfskin and they are also a main Paramo retailer. Outerwear includes lightweight, showerproof, 3-in-1, full waterproof and down jackets. Major brands have improved their sustainability and ecological footprint by eliminating nasty chemicals and many are now both recyclable and made from recycled material.

When you’re out walking your dog, especially on Cornwall’s cliff paths, terrain can often be rough and uneven, making trainers unsuitable. Outback Trading offers a wide range of walking shoes and boots suitable for short and extended dog walks. They can help you choose from bestselling UK and European brands, including Meindl, Aku, Merrell and Keen. If it’s really wet and muddy, then you may need to don wellingtons, gaiters and even a waterproof hat and overtrousers for those downpour days. And don’t forget your socks! A good pair will help cushion the impact and bring comfort to your feet. 

Once you’re all togged up then what about some accessories? Torches for night-time, a whistle or a small backpack to keep extra clothing and doggie-treats in can prove invaluable. Outback’s Whistleworld website offers probably the largest range of whistles, sent worldwide from Helston.
Dogs can be trained to specialist dog whistles but also consider having a small survival whistle in case you slip and fall. A visit to Outback Trading will keep you warm, safe and dry ready for your next Cornish dog-walking adventure.