GIRL TRAMPERS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 16, 20 January 1932, Page 13

GIRL TRAMPERS.

The increase in the number of tramping parties everywhere is notable, and in Melbourne there has been some discussion on the subject of what is worn by girl tramnors, and what should be worn. In some instances each girl appears to have been a, law unto herself about that most important item in the walker's outfit—footwear. Although some shoes of the square-heeled variety are to be seen, others looking as though intended for no more strenuous walking than on city pavements have also been in evidence. The opinions of a woman walker who has been following the lure of the open load for years are of value in this regard. Boots she believes to be preferable to shoes for utility and appearance. Those reaching to the knee are particularly recommended, as they offer protection against scratches and minor injuries from sharp twigs and broken sticks in rough country. "If shoes are chosen they should have heels which are broad and square as well as low," she said. "Also, it is quite a mistake to think you can wear out old shoes for tramping. To walk with the maximum of comfort thick soles are essential. It is a good idea when tramping boots or shoes are being repaired to have them fully instead of half-soled. This helps to keep water out.

"Women are sometimes uncertain as to the best methods of treatment for boots and shoes which have become very wet and muddy. A complete washing is usually the simplest method of removing mud.. In drying them never place them near a fire, but leave them in the air. I have seen shoes placed near a lire shrink so much that they could not be worn at all.. It is better to put on footwear wet than to do this." A light felt hat was advocated by this enthusiast as the ideal headgear. Berets put a strain on the «yes in hot weather and linen hats* are unable to "stand up" to a shower of rain. She also advocated long-sleeved, shirt-necked blouses as against those with short sleeves and open necks, on the grounds that extreme discomfort can bo caused by wind and sunburn on the arms and neck. In mild weather, on the other hand, blouses of more regulation cut can be easily rolled up at the arms and opened at the neck.

From a woman also comes a practical hint for a good beverage. Those who are not tea drinkers —not many, certainly, but nevertheless, an effective minority—might substitute hot lemon or orange drinks, made of boiling water, she suggests. This gets over the objection to the drinking of cold water, the

purity of which one cannot be assured in the open. By being boiled, it is, of course, sterilised.