[Asia Economy Reporters Donghoon Jeong, Intern Reporter Daehyun Kim] As the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues for a prolonged period, the number of people taking up hiking as a new hobby is increasing. However, recent simplified hiking attire has been criticized for being vulnerable to winter mountain safety accidents such as getting lost or falling.
According to data received from the National Fire Agency on the 12th, the number of rescue cases nationwide last month was 1,670, a sharp increase of about 41% compared to 1,179 cases during the same period last year. Due to various restrictions on indoor exercises such as gyms caused by COVID-19, the total number of hikers increased, including young people heading to the mountains and tourists wanting to see the last autumn foliage. Among them, it appears that the number of beginner hikers who are not familiar with mountain trails or have not prepared equipment has also increased.
Recently, hiking has established itself as a new hobby activity for the younger generation. Instead of traveling or gathering, they relieve stress in the open mountains. However, since there are many beginner hikers, a significant number do not have equipment suitable for winter hiking. Many wear everyday clothes like leggings and sneakers instead of hiking boots. This creates an environment where the risk of accidents can increase. Oh Sumin (31, pseudonym), a member of a hiking club, said, "Many people wear jeans or only sneakers when hiking," adding, "There are still fallen leaves, and in winter, ice can form on the summit ground, so it looked dangerous."
Leggings, popular among both men and women, should be distinguished between hiking-specific and general training or running leggings. General leggings alone are vulnerable to protecting the body in mountains with many rocks and branches. It is also difficult to minimize injuries and maintain appropriate body temperature in case of getting lost. Youngshin Yoo, a senior researcher at FITI Testing & Research Institute, explained, "Even if the product name is 'leggings,' the cold protection and safety functions vary by product," adding, "When choosing a product, you need to carefully consider the fiber composition, fabric, and processing treatment according to the intended use."
Experts unanimously advise that beginner hikers should firmly plan their hiking schedule and route before departure. Seonggeun Lee, president of the Korea Mountaineering Central Association, stated, "Beginners should do 'round-trip hiking' (returning to the starting point)," adding, "If you choose the same trail for descending as the one you ascended, there is no worry about companions getting lost or wandering."
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