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1. Clothing
Clothing is divided into two types: the inner layer and the outer layer. The innermost layer is the most important, and can be compression garments or fleece-based fabrics; both are quick-drying and prevent odor.
Compression garments are particularly suitable for motorcycle and car riding, not only because of their quick-drying properties and good fabric quality, but also because of their ability to reduce muscle fatigue. Wool garments don't constrict muscles, so they're comfortable to wear for extended periods; however, their drawback is that they stretch and tear easily, but they are therefore more affordable.
You should buy clothes with a zipper at the chest so you can pull it down when it gets too hot.
For the outer layer, you can use fleece or down jackets, and then the outermost layer should be something that protects against snow and wind.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:CompresSport Vietnam, Ortovox, Smartwool (inner layer); Fjallraven, Hardshel (outer layer)
2. Socks
Similar to clothing, but compression socks are often not thick enough to provide insulation, so Giang chose socks made from sheep's wool.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:Smartwool
3. Hat
A hat is one of the most important items for keeping warm, as 40% of body heat is lost through the head. Giang chose a quilted hat that can cover both the ears and part of the face and is resistant to wind and snow. Alternatively, you can use a leather hat, which is thinner and not as warm as a quilted hat, but is cheaper.
Some of the products HLG always carries with them on their journeys (Source: Facebook)
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:Fjallraven
4. Gloves
Because his fingers tend to get coldest, Giang pays special attention to wearing gloves. He usually uses mitten gloves (baseball gloves), which are warmer than fingerless gloves, but inconvenient for work.
To withstand temperatures as low as -35°C.oDuring his recent trip to Norway, C used a thin fabric glove as an inner lining to absorb sweat before putting on the outer mitten gloves. Those who tend to have sweaty hands should sprinkle the antiperspirant powder (mentioned above) before putting on the gloves.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:Outdoor Research, Mitten Mammut
5. Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses are quite important because snow reflects light strongly, and going to the Arctic or high mountains without glasses or without UV protection can lead to eye damage. Hoang Le Giang currently prefers sports glasses that fit snugly to the face. In addition, glasses designed for off-road motorcyclists or skiers also provide good protection, suitable for mountain climbing or going to the Arctic.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:Giant, Julb
6. Headlamp
According to Hoang Le Giang, the most essential safety equipment is a headlamp, used both for orientation and signaling. He currently uses a LedLenser MH10 headlamp, which has three brightness levels (but he never needs to use the brightest level because it's… too bright), and the battery lasts for 12-120 hours depending on the brightness. The advantages of this type of headlamp are its long-lasting battery, the ability to be charged using a power bank or solar panel, and its resistance to rain and snow.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:LedLenser, Petzl, Black Diamond
7. Travel storage bag
Travel bags will help you organize your belongings neatly and make them easier to find. Additionally, Giang always carries a sleeping bag bag because she can store some clothes in it and compress them, saving space.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:IKEA
8. Deodorants and skin-soothing products
During his recent trip to Norway, Giang used a powder deodorant, the kind used by athletes, whose main function is to absorb sweat, cool, and disinfect. This product not only helped him keep his body clean and smelling good, but also prevented skin rashes and could even be used on oily feet and scalp.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:Gold Bond
9. Multipurpose cream for skin healing
This product will help your skin recover quickly from environmental damage such as sunburn, dryness, or burns… Giang also uses this product to heal skin after being bitten by bedbugs.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:Lucas Papaw
10. Shampoo
Spending long periods outdoors can quickly dirty the scalp, causing dryness, itching, or greasy hair. However, instead of shampoos with a high chemical ingredient list, Giang suggests using products with natural, gentle extracts, primarily designed to cleanse the scalp.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:Himalaya
11. Water
In addition to using clean water, Giang always brings along a packet of Hydration on each trip. Each packet mixes with 500-600 ml of water, helping to replenish electrolytes, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin C, and manganese. This product is very useful for boosting energy levels in the body.
12. Knife
A knife is an essential tool for increasing your survival chances when venturing into the wilderness. During his participation in the 2017 Arctic expedition representing Vietnam, Giang was given a knife by the organizers, and he has carried it with him on all his journeys ever since. This brand is long-established and widely available in Vietnam.
The brand Hoang Le Giang uses:MoraKniv
