As we head towards Christmas, what to get for someone who is making strides towards health, out on the tracks and trails? Amidst all the marketing noise we suggest some classic presents that will especially suit Singapore based hikers or ruckers. See our suggestions for runners here.
Please note that we have no affiliations or commercial ties to any of the products or distributors. Our recommendations are also limited to brands that we are familiar with; feel free to find alternative products from other brands. And let us know how they are!
GPS and Heart Rate Monitor Watches
So when the hiker in your life decides that they might need a dedicated watch to track their routes and health stats: what to get? Honestly they might already have a good idea but here are a couple of options to consider.
In the constantly evolving arms race of sports and running watches, every year sees new features and add-ons to existing lines. But while the new becomes old, the basic features that every runner or hiker actually needs - time, distance, heart rate (via GPS and a heart rate monitor) remain unchanged. After that, price and number of features increase although arguably many higher end features are not needed for the hiker nor even the average recreational runner.
Arguably the best value watch remains - at present - the COROS Pace 3 GPS Sports Watch. Some might prefer a similar option from the more lifestyle oriented Garmin brand (we share this below) but the Pace 3 does all the basics and then some. And COROS regularly release software updates that add more functionality.
Pace 3 S$304 (US$229); amazing battery life and I love the easy to use and accurate map creation function within the app; click the image to go to watch's website. For someone who just wants to run and hike, the COROS Pace 3 suits me fine and is the watch that I currently use. I have friends who also love the popular Garmin. Potential cons with the Pace... I do not need use the music function (via MP3 download, which is a little backward in 2024) and it doesn't have a payment function. Anyway, I'll always carry my phone or and some cash.
Alternatively the just released Pace Pro, with a bright AMOLED screen and faster chipset, S$463 (US$349). A great future proofed choice, if a little pricier than the Pace 3. It can also download a full range of (offline) maps.
Perhaps consider the Pace 3's equivalent, from popular brand Garmin, the Forerunner 165 Music at S$459. It features a contactless payment option that the COROS does not.
Click image to go to watch's website. Also consider Forerunner 255 at S$549 but note the price difference between this and the others.
Both the COROS and Garmin watches track hikes, runs, fitness progress, VO2 max, sleep, heart rate variability provide training programmes and so forth. And the more you pay, the more you get, although I'll argue that for most of the exercising population one doesn't need more functionality than these less pricey, simpler, watches already provide.
Merino Wool Socks
For a real treat, consider a pair of lightweight Merino wool socks. Even in the heat of the jungle and rucking up Bukit Timah Hill, these socks are a superb comfortable addition to the hiker's arsenal.
I wear them in both my trail running shoes (the longer sock protects the ankles from stones, twigs etc) and my mid-top hiking boots.
Hydration Packs
When hydration is important, a hydration pack becomes invaluable. My current pack, that I have used for a while, is the Nathan 'Trail Mix' Hydration pack.
It holds a decently sized 2 litre bladder (not always available on other packs / brands) and has adjustable straps, so that it can always be kept sitting comfortably - especially when the water bladder becomes depleted. There are easy-to-reach front storage pockets and a larger pocket on the rear. It is also easy to wash and dry after a sweaty run.
Click on image below to see on Amazon, or here via local distributor Key Power Sports.
You might also consider the 12 litre Trail Mix although this might be on the large side unless you need extra space. If you want to learn more about hydration, enjoy these articles.
Rucking
If you want to carry lit or like to hike with a bit of weight, to ruck, a decent backpack is required. I currently use the 5:11 Rush 24 pack. I am considering purchasing a larger (and easier to wash) pack from Decathlon, or an SAF field pack although I never see these in use on the trails.
The sturdily built, Rush 24 (approx 37 litres), S$178. It has several very useful admin pockets and an easy to access main compartment. The main \compartment can fit 2 standard 5kg bags of rice, with a little extra space left free.
The Decathlon 'Solognac Camping Backpack' (reference: 8382535), 50 litre. Might be on the large size for some but perfect of you want that extra space. A bargain at S$65. I have yet to use this myself.
Other Suggestions
A foot or sports massage.
A head torch, in case you get stuck out after nightfall or are on, say, the unlit Rail Corridor. Petzl or Decathlon brands both have good options. If you want to go with Petzl brand the Tikka model is good for most scenarios. Decathlon has several models available, mostly rechargeable. (click on image below)
A small pair of binoculars, say, 8x25; good for watching wildlife or surroundings. Lightweight and relatively inexpensive, usually around S$120. See this offering from Nikon below...
For most people, improving health is about finding motivation and prioritising self-care with an ultimate goal of taking action. If you want to take effective and targeted steps that fit into your unique lifestyle, The Whole Health Practice is here to help. Whether your interest is healthspan and longevity, to beat chronic illness or enhance your overall well-being, our consultations and programs deliver results that are tailored to your needs.
Of course, for the ultimate present we suggest the gift of health: a Whole Health Consult for yourself, a loved one or even for your team mates!
Stay Healthy,
Alastair
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