Since my childhood, I have suffered from sinus problems, which have created a number of hurdles in everything that I have ever done in my life. My second love after, of course, my wife who would be reading this, is hiking. I am enamored with the thrill of exploring the vast expanses of uninhabited lands filled with nature in abundance. But when it rains, it all comes to a standstill for me. I am unable to venture out as my sinus problem exacerbates at the onset of even a light drizzle. Due to my passion for hiking, I haven’t given up on the sport that I love so dearly. Instead, I have found multiple ways to protect myself from wet and inclement weather during my hiking sessions.

1. Foot Protection

Feet are the most important part of an individual’s anatomy when it comes to hiking. Without dry and healthy feet, even a stroll turns into an arduous trudge, turning your most-loved activity into a body-numbing chore. In order to ensure a comfortable hike, I always reseal my boots before the trip and also wear water-proof gaiters under my rain pants.

2. Double Checking Your Gear

Even when you have the best of gear you can find yourself in trouble, if you fail to check all the items properly. Before heading out, you should check if your hood is tight enough to protect you from rain drops that are blown by the wind. Also, ensure that the jacket’s hem is extended below the waist. This is essential for eliminating the gap that can expose part of your pelvis and lower back when you bend down.

3. Learn How to Keep your Gear Dry

Sinus pain can be debilitating for most sufferers and it becomes worse when you are exposed to rainy conditions. You do not want to start up with dry clothes and end up with wet ones on your hikes. Make use of a pack liner or waterproof stuff sacks for keeping your clothes dry at all times.

4. Carry an Umbrella

An umbrella is the most commonly used equipment for warding off rain. Add a lightweight umbrella to your gear and take on the weather with confidence.

5. Seal Your Sleeves for Water Protection

Sleeves are the access points for rain drops into your body. Reduce the length of your trekking poles and ensure your forearms angle downward. Also, refrain from hooking your thumbs around your pack straps as that can allow the moisture to rush in. Tucking the base layer cuffs under your shell is a great way to prevent them from wicking water upwards.

6. Do not Overheat Your Body

Sometimes, hikers are overly cautious of the wetness and the rain. Some people wear heavy base layers without accounting for the heat generated during a hiking session. Prevent overheating by wearing lightweight base layers and stay comfortable throughout your hike. A lightweight base layer will also add less bulk to your ensemble and ensure that you stay fleet footed throughout the hike.

The aforementioned tips can help a person stay dry and healthy during a hiking session. However, if he/she suffers from sinus problem, it is best to take Nasal Wash Treatment. This treatment can be taken by mixing water and table salt together and sniffing it up both nostrils every day.

Whether a person suffers from a health problem or not, it is not comfortable to hike when wet. By employing the aforementioned tips and solutions, you can maximise the pleasure of your hiking sessions and stay one with nature, even when the weather turns gloomy in the rainy season.