Whilst some may long for the old days of manoeuvring a large OS map in bracing wind in the middle of nowhere, there is no disputing that technology has entered the once gentile pastime of hiking and is here to stay.
Hikers that have adopted technology have done so with gusto. It is contentious, with some believing that hiking and walking should remain a technology-free world; that using technology dilutes the experience. That viewpoint is losing against a tide of people for whom technology is a way of capturing experiences, analysing their performance, staying safe and being in constant contact. The combination of which enhances their hiking experience.
The smartphone and tablet are now like an extension of our limbs, such is the pervading rise of technology on all aspects of our lives. Wearable technology is the natural next stage in this story and has made a sizeable impact on hiking.
In hiking, where agility and weight is integral, the potential of easily wearable devices is huge. The irony is that the technology has been available for a while but design had to catch up; telling in our tech-led times.
So what does wearable tech do for hikers? How will the most ardent traditional hiker be persuaded to embrace wearable technology?
GPS-enabled technology has obvious safety benefits as much as the ability to analyse performance. It may not yet be able to automatically alert a St Bernard but it will help pinpoint the location if the wearer gets in trouble.
Even the average walker is now being courted by tech to monitor their steps and live a more healthy lifestyle. Google’s Fit application works as a basic pedometer, measuring steps and time walked each day. The accuracy is poor but may persuade the masses to adopt wearable technology devices that offer greater functionality and accuracy.
The rise of active social sites, such as Strava, is also fuelling wearable technology. Hikers are amongst those athletes who have an insatiable desire for active data, sharing their achievements and fitness progress. Distance, heart rate, calories, and elevation are all key metrics for analysis and fierce debate back at the pub.
This is only a start. Technology investors are queuing up to invest in wearable technology which is, in turn, accelerating innovation and the launch of many new companies. This will create more products and greater uses for all sports, including hiking.
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