If you are a keen orienteer, you should buy your orienteering clothing from a reputable UK retailer. Clothing made for the sport is usually made of nylon and comes in club colours. Orienteering maps are usually drawn on waterproof paper. Many orienteering tops are manufactured in small batches in Estonia. However, if you are new to the sport, you might want to buy a more basic pair of orienteering clothing.
Orienteering is a competitive sport
Orienteering is a sport that started in Sweden in the late nineteenth century. It was a form of military training that required participants to cross uncharted land by using a compass and map. The term “orienteering” was first used in 1886 at the Swedish Military Academy Karlberg. The first competitive event in Sweden was a military competition in 1893, held near Stockholm. In 1897, the sport was opened to civilians.
The competitors are given a master map of the course with a list of controls to visit on each map. They may copy the positions of these controls onto their individual maps. Maps are of a one-to-five-metre scale; other scales are permitted in certain competitions. Competitors choose the routes by analyzing the terrain and other factors. Some courses require direct passage while others are circuitous.
Competitors use a compass and detailed map to navigate the course. They must find and reach a series of checkpoints in the shortest time possible. Often, these checkpoints are marked with orange and white flags. Some competitors use electronic timing devices. Whether a person is an expert or is new to the sport, there are many benefits to learning orienteering.
Orienteering clothing is not suitable for orienteering
In an event of this kind, competitors must be dressed in suitable orienteering clothing. For example, the legs should be covered in the UK and Ireland, while in the United States, competitors may wear shorts. Some events, however, may allow competitors to wear other types of clothing, such as jeans. Generally, the rules for orienteering clothing are the same as those for other sports.
Orienteering clothing should be suitable for outdoor activity, but must not be too bulky. A lightweight, breathable shirt is ideal, and a pair of running shoes is suitable. Orienteering clothing also requires gaiters, which protect the lower legs from small branches and vegetation. Depending on the terrain, a pair of gaiters may be necessary.
Orienteering maps are drawn on waterproof paper
Orienteering maps are drawn on water-proof paper. The quality of the paper will determine how durable the map is. You can ask the maps committee for samples. Make sure that the paper is durable enough to withstand repeated creases and washing. It should also be waterproof. It is important that the map is easy to read and follow. The following are some of the important features of an orienteering map.
A waterproof map will not have the highest quality master map. It will also have ink beads because of the interaction of liquid and plastic. However, the route and other details on the map will be clear. However, small fonts and fine details might be difficult to read. The paper weight will also be important. A waterproof map will be easier to transport. The following are some tips to choose waterproof paper for orienteering maps.
Orienteering maps have a scale that is five times larger than an OS map. These maps are also much more detailed than topographic maps, which are generally 1:25,000 or 1:50,000. A key concept of orienteering is scale. Each unit on a map represents about 75 units in real life. Orienteering maps are designed to make point features easier to identify.
Orienteering shoes deliver ultimate grip and protection
Orienteering shoes are made to provide ultimate grip and protection. Generally, orienteering shoes are made of leather or synthetic material. There are two types of outsole: those with metal studs and those without. Generally, shoes with metal studs have larger dobs, while those with rubber dobs have smaller ones. Both options provide ultimate grip and protection, but there are some major differences between the two.
Orienteering shoes are designed to be lightweight, drain quickly, and provide adequate foot protection. Many companies have invested significant time and research in developing these shoes. For instance, Icebug Spirit models are made of specially placed material that resists abrasions and rips. NVii Forest models are made of similar materials for all-over toughness. In addition to their excellent performance, these shoes have an inner arch ProtectOR element that helps support the arch and minimize impact in the area.
Orienteering shoes are minimalist in design. They generally have a low “drop,” the difference between the height of the heel and toe. Orienteering shoes are low-profile to reduce ankle sprains. Despite this, they provide excellent grip on slippery surfaces. For the ultimate in grip and protection, make sure to choose a pair of shoes with a low-drop.
Orienteering registration is a central point
Orienteering registration is a great place to buy all your clothing and other equipment for an upcoming event. They have an online calendar of events and offer on-the-spot registration. The registration desk will also provide newcomer instruction and compasses for rent. Getting to an event can be easy; all you have to do is show up, sign a waiver, and choose your course. If you don’t know where the registration desk is, check the event’s website or contact the event’s organizers. If you’re not sure how to get to the event, most orienteering clubs will have a website or a Google Maps link. The registration area will usually be in the same parking area, with orange and white signage leading you to the course.
The Orienteering clothing you need is essential for the sport. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available in the UK. If you’re a newbie, you can get your first kit from a retailer near you. Many of the companies that make orienteering clothing in the UK have central locations that you can check. Getting your clothing at these events is a great way to get the best deals on clothing and other items.
Whistles are essential
Orienteering clothing must include whistles. These whistles are inexpensive and can be used to summon assistance in case of emergency. While they are not necessary, most orienteers find that they are helpful. They can be purchased for a mere $1.00 at the registration table. A watch is also a must-have for orienteers, as they can help ensure that they make it back to the finish line by the closing time of the event.
While orienteering clothing is not a necessity, a whistle is an absolute must. It can be extremely helpful if you become lost on the course or need help. It also provides a signal to rescuers if you get lost. The universal signal is six short blasts followed by a pause. You should not blow the whistle at any other time, as this could force other competitors to abandon the race.
A whistle is a useful addition to orienteering clothing. A whistle with LED lights, a compass, a thermometer, and a signal mirror is especially useful for nighttime orienteering. Most whistles come with a convenient clip or lanyard to keep them handy. Whistles are also a good idea if you want to use them during nav racing, where time is important.
aeorienteering.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.