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Exceptional panoramas, breathtaking landscapes, fresh air, and pure nature: summer in the mountains is perfect for recharging while connecting with nature. Moreover, the peaks offer multiple opportunities that combine physical activity with thrilling sensations.
Hiking
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, regardless of your physical condition or mountain experience, you are sure to find a hiking trail that suits your desires and abilities.
But before you grab your trekking poles, here are a few tips for a smooth outing:
• Plan your route: Many guides map out hiking paths. Don’t know which one to choose? Here are a few criteria to help you. Pay attention to the elevation gain, the terrain quality, and the distances to cover. Tailor your hike to your physical condition and experience. For more information about trails in the area you are in, visit the local tourist offices. They will be able to advise you on routes that suit your needs, preferences, and level. Lastly, before you leave, don't forget to check the weather!
• Learn to recognize different trail markers: They will be a precious help in finding your way and avoiding getting lost.
Source: Fédération Française de Randonnée
• Blisters are the hiker's worst enemy. Even though they are harmless, they can literally ruin your holiday.
To prevent them, prepare your feet by "tanning" them: alternate applying the RGENtec After Sport Ritual in the evening and lemon juice in the morning on the soles of your feet to strengthen the skin. By becoming more flexible and resilient, it is less sensitive to friction.
To minimize the risks, avoid setting out with brand-new shoes. If you have no other option, wear two pairs of socks! This will reduce friction and, therefore, the risk of blisters.
• On the gear side, don’t neglect the contents of your backpack. Bring enough water to stay hydrated and a few snacks (such as energy bars or dried fruits). Don’t forget your sunscreen and apply it regularly on exposed areas. In the mountains, UV radiation increases with every 100 meters of elevation gain. Also, don’t forget to pack a soothing balm. The "Bye Bye Burn" repair cream will be particularly useful in case of burns, irritation, or other minor skin injuries.
Via Ferrata
Via ferratas were born in Italy, in the Dolomites, during World War I. These routes installed in rocky paths initially served as passages for troop and artillery movements within the mountain ranges.
Halfway between hiking and climbing, via ferratas have become another way to discover the mountains. These "iron paths" are sports routes that allow you to progress along cliff faces thanks to specific installations: monkey bridges, zip lines, metal steps. The advantage? Via ferratas are accessible to all levels, as long as you are in good physical condition. To know if the route you’re interested in matches your abilities, via ferratas are rated by difficulty level.
To practice safely, especially if you don’t have much experience with climbing, it’s best to be accompanied by an instructor or a specialized guide. You can also take some tips from seasoned climbers to protect your hands:
• Wash your hands before the outing to avoid impurities that could cling to the walls or the metal elements of the via ferrata, causing abrasions.
• Hydrate your hands before the outing (the After Sport Ritual cream hydrates deeply without leaving a greasy film).
• Help your skin recover after the outing, especially with the RGENtec® Bye-Bye Burn treatment.
Mountain Biking
Do you love thrills? Summer in the mountains is the ideal time to try mountain biking! There’s something for everyone. The more adventurous can try enduro, a discipline rich in adrenaline that is inspired by motocross rallies. Cross-country biking will be more suited to speed enthusiasts. As for fat bikes, they are perfect for those who want to start without sacrificing comfort. But whatever type of mountain biking you choose, to make sure the experience remains enjoyable, preparation is key.
• Get trained! You don’t jump into mountain biking blindly. If you're planning to start during your upcoming mountain trip, it’s highly recommended to learn the proper techniques from a specialized instructor. They will teach you how to brake, adjust your posture, and how to properly handle your bike!
• Check your bike’s condition. In your checklist: tire pressure, brake adjustments, steering alignment, and bolt tightening. If you opt for an electric bike, don’t forget to check the battery level.
• Think about your safety. Depending on your riding style, your gear should include gloves, elbow pads, shin guards, knee pads, and back protectors. If you plan to ride on trails that may be frequented by other cyclists, trail runners, or hikers, a bell can be very useful to signal your presence. Don’t venture off the marked paths. And always lower your saddle before tackling a descent: this will drastically reduce the risk of falls.
• Take two first-aid kits: One for your bike and one for yourself. You should be able to fix any problems with your bike (flat tire, broken chain…), but also tend to your own injuries! For example, you can slip a tube of Bye Bye Burn into your gear to relieve hand chafing or thigh burns.
Whether you’re more of a contemplative type or a daredevil, whether you enjoy a breath of fresh air or an adrenaline rush: the mountains have everything to satisfy your desire for sport and escape. And to ensure that your vacation is also a great memory for your skin, and that skin injuries don’t hinder your experience, don’t forget to pack our range of products designed for athletes' skin in your suitcase!
