Lowland Leader Assessment

Question 1

DO I REALLY NEED WALKING BOOTS?

Accepted Answer

Whilst walking boots are definitely preferred and advised, they are not absolutely essential. Ideally you will have sturdy, comfortable footwear which supports your ankles and, if possible, are waterproof to maintain comfort and warmth. Thick soles are essential with good grip for slippery surfaces. This might be a ‘walking trainer’ with a rugged sole (sometimes called ‘approach' shoes), but slightly less heavy than a full, leather walking boot.

If you do decide to buy new footwear then make sure you wear them in well before your event. This will help to avoid blisters on the day and improve confidence and comfort.

Whatever footwear you use, make sure you look after them properly. Read our guide here and help your boots last for as long as possible.

Question 2

HOW BIG SHOULD MY RUCKSACK BE?

Accepted Answer

For a one-day event, your rucksack should be at least 25 litres in size with two shoulder straps and ideally a chest and/or waist strap too. To waterproof your possessions, we recommend that you line your rucksack with a bin bag. Re-usable ‘Zip-lock’ bags are good for smaller items or mobile phones.

Don’t limit your Kit List packing because you can’t fit it in your bag; find a bigger bag! Read our guide on how to pack your bag.

Question 3

WILL THERE BE TOILET STOPS?

Accepted Answer

By booking on to one of our challenges you will be participating in an outdoor activity where public toilets are not readily available. There are sometimes toilets where we start our walks, but please be aware that they may not be open depending on what time we meet.

If you suffer from any medical conditions which mean you will need access to a toilet more often, then please get in touch as we hope to make our events as accessible to as many people as we can.

Going to the toilet ‘in the outdoors’ just needs some privacy, a sense of humour and some toilet tissue/rubbish bag, if applicable. This is so you can put any solids including toilet tissue in a rubbish bag and put this back in your rucksack, rather than leaving toilet tissue or baby wipes discarded on the mountain – please don’t!

Question 4

DO I NEED INSURANCE?

Accepted Answer

As a business, we have adequate liability insurance for the activities we offer. Once you have booked onto your day then we recommend you take out travel and trip insurance which will cover any unavoidable cancellations or accidents, especially if you are using public transport or planning on booking accommodation. Check for ‘Trip Cancellation’ cover on your policy.

Question 5

WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS REALLY BAD?

Accepted Answer

Everyone who signs up to one of our events should be ready for various weathers on their walk. This includes extreme heat as well as wind, rain, low cloud and even snow showers sometimes! As an experienced mountain activity provider, if we deem the incoming weather to be a danger to our walking groups and staff, then we may make alternative arrangements in terms of route planning. This could include walking up as far as we can before turning back, taking an alternative route, i.e. a traverse instead of an ascent, we may even take a group up a smaller neighbouring mountain with views of Yr Wyddfa.

We take weather warnings very seriously and occasionally will decide to cancel an event. More information about this can be found in our Terms and Conditions.

Question 6

CAN I DO THIS WHILE I'M ON MY PERIOD?

Accepted Answer

The main thing you need to consider is how your period affects you. Only you know your symptoms and what affect exercising while on your period will have. Things like lower motivation and dehydration are things to look out for but can easily be managed. Take some time to monitor your period ahead of your event and learn how you can best manage your symptoms.

In the run up to your event you might want to explore comfortable sanitary items, and how to change or manage them while out on the hill with little to no toilet access. If you’re still unsure, then check out www.optimalperiod.com for reliable and accurate information about exercising whilst on your period.

Or have a read through our Periods in the Outdoors document.

Question 7

CAN I DO THIS WHILE PREGNANT?

Accepted Answer

There are many benefits to exercising while pregnant, however, the appropriate intensity of exercising while pregnant will vary person to person. We highly recommend you discuss this with a medical professional and do your own research before you commit to an event with us. Please ensure you let us know that you’re pregnant in your registration form as well as on the day so we can support you in the best way possible.

Lowland Leader Assessment

RAW Adventures

Lowland Leader Assessment