Equipment - Clothing

The most important equipment to take with you to the Mach Loop is plenty of warm clothing and a waterproof outer layer, even in the summer. It cannot be stressed enough how important good quality warm clothing and walking boots are. The Mach Loop seems to have its own micro-climate, and even in the summer it can feel calm and warm in the car park, but be windy and bitterly cold up at the viewing positions. In the winter, being up on the hills without the proper clothing can be extremely dangerous, as the weather can turn nasty very quickly. It is better to use a number of layers of thinner clothing (Google for "Layering Principle" for more information), as layers can be added or removed depending on the conditions, whereas one thick layer does not give that flexibility and is less efficient at keeping you warm. As a minimum, we would suggest you take:

• Wicking thermal underwear (in winter);
• Shirt;
• Microfleece;
• Thick fleece;
• Waterproof coat;
• Lined Trousers (Craghopper Lined Kiwis are very nice);
• Waterproof overtrousers;
• Waterproof walking boots;
• Thermal hat; and
• Thermal gloves;

When buying outdoor clothing look for breathable materials (which help the sweat to escape), wicking base layers (which help get the sweat away from your skin), and merino wool - which is light, a good thermal insulator and antibacterial. Cheap outdoor clothing is generally a false economy. Buy the best you can reasonably afford, as your safety may well one day depend on your choice of equipment.

 

Equipment - Photographic

Photographic equipment is very much a matter for personal choice, but here are some things to consider :

• Perfectly adequate pictures can be taken on a compact, but do not expect publishing quality results;
• Prime lenses generally provide better image quality than zooms, but zoom lenses are obviously more flexible than primes;
• Autofocus performance is one of the most important factors when choosing a DSLR for low fly photography. The quicker the autofocus the better;
• The larger the lens aperture the better, as high shutter speeds are more easily achievable. Lenses of f2.8 or better are recommended;
• Camera bosies with good low noise performance at high ISO are also preferable.
• Image stabilisation (Canon IS or Nikon VR) are not really very much help, in fact they can be a disadvantage. We always make sure stabilisation is switched off.

For Nikon users, the D300 (I suppose the D300s now) is very popular, as are the 300mm f2.8 VR Nikkor lens and the (quite a lot) cheaper 300mm f4 Nikkor. We have also used the Sigma 100-300mm f4 in Nikon fit and found it to be a very capable lens.

For Canon users, the 50D with the Canon EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6L IS USM lens is a very popular combination.

But whatever equipment you have, just get up the hills and have a go.

 

Equipment - Miscellaneous

Other equipment you may find useful :

• High factor (30+) sun cream;
• Insect repellent. We use and recommend Jungle Formula Extra Strength spray as this is effective against Sheep Ticks;
• A plastic bag to collect your rubbish (there are no bins at any of the viewing locations);
• A torch, in case you get caught out by the fading light going down the hills in winter;
• Walking poles;
• A seat. We recommend the Walkstool - expensive but light, robust and comfortable;
• Also make sure to take plenty of water (2 litres / day is recommended) and food.