The Best UK Hiking Spots with Weighted Vests
If you’re a seasoned hiker and looking for a new challenge, the answer could be right here. There’s no doubt about it, the hiking spots around the UK are unrivaled in their beauty and variety but are also some of the most challenging. It’s important to ensure you’re confident and experienced before taking on these trails with a weighted vest. If you’re an intermediate or veteran, then some of these trails will be familiar to you and you might be interested, or already own, a weighted vest to set the bar higher. With Gravity Fitness, you also have the option to choose the weight from 10kg, 20kg or 30kg, depending on how much you want to push yourself. So, if you’re still reading, then here are some of the best hiking spots in the UK you need to try…weighted vest optional!
Lake District
Scafell Pike
Difficulty: 8/10
The highest peak in England with steep and rocky paths but offering a challenging hike with stunning views. The weighted vest adds significant difficulty, especially on the ascent.
Tips: Be prepared for steep and rocky paths. Ensure you have good footwear and check weather conditions.
Helvellyn (via Striding Edge)
Difficulty: 9/10
A popular peak with several routes, Striding Edge is a narrow, exposed ridge requiring careful footing. The weighted vest increases the challenge significantly.
Tips: The ridge can be narrow and exposed, so it's best for experienced hikers. The weighted vest will add to the challenge.
Snowdonia National Park
Mount Snowdon (via Llanberis Path)
Difficulty: 7/10
The highest mountain in Wales, with multiple routes of varying difficulty, The Llanberis Path is the easiest route but still a long ascent. The weighted vest will make it more strenuous.
Tips: The Llanberis Path is the easiest route, while Crib Goch is more challenging and suitable for experienced hikers.
Tryfan
Difficulty: 9/10
Known for its rugged terrain and scrambling sections. The weighted vest adds a considerable challenge, especially on steep climbs.
Tips: The South Ridge is a good route for those looking to test their endurance and strength with a weighted vest.
Peak District
Kinder Scout
Difficulty: 7/10
The highest point in the Peak District, offering a mix of terrain and beautiful moorland views. Includes steep climbs and rocky paths. The varied terrain becomes more challenging with a weighted vest.
Tips: The hike includes some steep climbs and rocky paths, making it ideal for a weighted vest workout.
Mam Tor
Difficulty: 5/10
Also known as the "Shivering Mountain," this peak offers a moderate hike with rewarding views. The weighted vest will increase the difficulty but is manageable.
Tips: The circular walk from Castleton includes both ascents and descents, perfect for weighted vest training.
Scottish Highlands
Ben Nevis
Difficulty: 10/10
The highest mountain in the UK with a long, steep ascent. The weighted vest adds significant difficulty, making this a very strenuous hike.
Tips: The Mountain Track is the most popular route. The ascent is long and steep, so a weighted vest will significantly increase the intensity.
The Cobbler (Ben Arthur)
Difficulty: 8/10
Famous for its distinctive rock formations and relatively challenging hike whilst steep and rocky, requiring good footing and endurance. The weighted vest will make it notably tougher.
Tips: The path is steep and rocky, providing a great workout with a weighted vest.
Yorkshire Dales
Pen-y-ghent
Difficulty: 6/10
One of the Yorkshire Three Peaks with a relatively manageable hike. The weighted vest will increase the difficulty but is not extreme.
Tips: The circular route from Horton-in-Ribblesdale is popular and includes steep sections.
Ingleborough
Difficulty: 7/10
Known for its limestone pavements and panoramic views the ascent from Clapham includes varied terrain. The weighted vest adds a good amount of challenge, especially on steeper sections.
Tips: The ascent from Clapham is a well-trodden path that offers a good mix of terrain.
South West England
Dartmoor
Difficulty: 5/10
Numerous and varied trails across the moorland, with tors offering additional climbs and different levels of difficulty. The weighted vest will add to the effort required, but routes can be tailored to fitness levels.
Tips: Choose a route that includes several tors for a varied and challenging hike.
Brecon Beacons (Pen y Fan)
Difficulty: 7/10
Known for its scenic beauty and rugged terrain, The Horseshoe Ridge Walk is strenuous and includes multiple peaks.
Tips: The Horseshoe Ridge Walk includes Pen y Fan and offers a strenuous hike, perfect for a weighted vest.
Tips for Hiking with a Weighted Vest:
- Start Light: If you're new to weighted vests, start with a lighter weight and gradually increase as you become more comfortable.
- Monitor Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels. Weighted vests add extra strain, so take breaks as needed.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry extra water, as the added weight can make you sweat more.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support to handle the extra load.
- Safety First: Inform someone about your hiking plans and expected return time, especially when tackling more challenging routes.
