4 inspiring books for hikers that will help to improve your hiking experience. They will also make great gifts for your friends and family. “Oxygen advantage” and “Fixing your feet” are more technical books that will teach you several useful skills. “Born to Run” and “Grandma Gatewood” are more story based and easy to read, but at the same time, they might shift the way you hike or gear you use. Enjoy the books and happy reading.
The Oxygen Advantage
Oxygen advantage by Patrick McKeown is an excellent book about breathing. I have never considered breathing as a skill I need to learn, however after reading this book, I have realised, that I am breathing incorrectly. I retrained myself, while it did not have an massive impact on my day-to-day, it did impact my physical performance, especially in high altitudes. For this reason I think this book is essential for anyone and it could positively impact your hiking.
FIXING YOUR FEET
Fixing your feet by John Vonhof is a “bible” when it comes to foot care. It will teach you different strategies on blister and injury prevention. As the author explains, there is no magical formula that works always for everyone. However it will introduce you to varies products or care and recovery tips, that worked for many athletes. It will give you clarity on how to care for certain injuries and at what point you need to seek specialist. In my opinion is a must book for hikers.
BORN TO RUN
Born to run by Christopher McDougall is very popular yet controversial book. It reads really easily since it is a story following race in remote Mexican canyon and local tribe. Christopher notices that the Mexican tribe runners in their sandals made of tires can outrun highly trained ultra-runners in cushioned shoes. He also consults this with experts to see if there is any science behind this. The book is about running, but it will get you think more about your stride and footwear that you use.
GRANDMA GATEWOOD
The book follows true story of Emma Gatewood who at the age of 67 started thru-hiking the Appalachian trail and was the first person who hiked it solo several times. What is inspiring is not only her age, but her no non-sense personality. She is the pioneer of ultra-light hiking as she was carrying minimum supplies. As she didn’t have a lot of money, she used sack made of jeans instead of backpack. She often hiked in jeans and button shirt. It will make you think if all the technical gear is truly required to have great adventures.
