Planning a gorge walking adventure in Wales is exciting, but knowing what to wear can make all the difference to your comfort, safety, and enjoyment on the day. Whether you’re tackling the famous routes in the Brecon Beacons or exploring South Wales’ hidden gems, being properly prepared ensures you can focus on the fun (and not on shivering or slipping).
Here’s your complete kit guide, based on years of running gorge walking sessions for stag and hen groups, families, and corporate teams.
Clothing Essentials
Wetsuit
- We provide high-quality wetsuits for all our gorge walking sessions.
- A well-fitting wetsuit keeps you warm in cold water and adds extra protection against scrapes.
Shorts to Wear Over the Wetsuit
- We recommend wearing a pair of sturdy shorts over your wetsuit.
- They protect the wetsuit from wear and tear, add extra padding for sliding on rocks, and give you more pockets for small essentials.
- Quick-dry board shorts or lightweight sports shorts work best.
Base Layer
- Wear a thin, quick-dry base layer under your wetsuit in colder months.
- Avoid cotton — it holds water and makes you colder.
Swimwear
- A swimsuit or swim shorts is best under your wetsuit for comfort.
Footwear
Sturdy Trainers
- You’ll need closed-toe shoes with good grip that you don’t mind getting soaked.
- Old trainers are ideal — avoid sandals or flip-flops.
Neoprene Socks (Optional)
- These help keep your feet warm in colder months and add cushioning inside your shoes.
Safety Gear
We supply all essential safety equipment, including:
- Helmet – Protects your head from bumps and falls.
- Buoyancy Aid – Keeps you afloat in deeper pools.
Extra Items to Bring
Towel – For drying off after the session.
- Warm Layers – Fleece or hoodie for after the activity.
- Dry Shoes – To change into once we’re finished.
- Waterproof Bag – Handy for keeping your wet kit separate from dry clothes.
Seasonal Tips
- Spring & Autumn: Consider extra thermal layers under your wetsuit.
- Summer: You can get away with lighter base layers — but still bring warm clothes for afterwards.
- Winter: Gloves and neoprene socks make a big difference to warmth and comfort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wearing cotton t-shirts under wetsuits — they hold water and make you colder.
- Forgetting shorts over your wetsuit — they add protection and comfort.
- Bringing brand-new shoes — they’ll get scuffed and soaked.
- Forgetting warm clothes for after the session — even in summer, you can feel chilly when you stop moving.
Ready for Your Gorge Walking Adventure?
With the right kit, gorge walking in Wales is an unforgettable mix of climbing, jumping, swimming, and scrambling through beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you’re combining it with canyoning, booking a stag weekend in Cardiff, or planning an outdoor hen party, turning up prepared means you can enjoy every splash and scramble to the fullest.
Written by Danielle McMullen
Hen & Stag Weekend Specialist | Blue Ocean Activities
Danielle McMullen is the co-owner of Blue Ocean Activities and an expert in planning unforgettable outdoor adventures across South Wales. Based in Cardiff for over 20 years, she combines local knowledge with years of experience helping stag and hen groups, families, and corporate teams enjoy the best of what Wales has to offer.
Danielle is usually the first person to answer your enquiries, and she plays a key role in marketing, customer experience, and event coordination. When she’s not planning gorge walking, canyoning, or coasteering weekends, she’s supporting the Cardiff Devils and cheering on her son as a proud hockey mum.