Clothing for Via Podiensis

[Brodie]

I will be walking on the GR65 starting in early April from Le Puy. I was thinking of wearing/carrying merino T's and long sleeves, a down gilet and a waterproof/windproof shell. Does anyone who has walked this route in spring have any advice for me as to whether this will be enough to keep me warm in the higher earlier parts of the route?

 

[dougfitz]

It sounds like you could get four layers on your torso, perhaps only two on your arms normally. I walked the CF in Apr some years ago in Apr, and I normally started the day with three layers, and went up and down from there. There was only one day early on in the month where I really battled, and added a fifth layer, the other long sleeved base layer that was going to be my 'evening wear' that night. Provided you have a spare set of base and mid-layers, you would be able to do that should the need arise. Which is a long winded way of saying that I think you could make it work.

 

[Brodie]

It sounds like you could get four layers on your torso, perhaps only two on your arms normally. I walked the CF in Apr some years ago in Apr, and I normally started the day with three layers, and went up and down from there. There was only one day early on in the month where I really battled, and added a fifth layer, the other long sleeved base layer that was going to be my 'evening wear' that night. Provided you have a spare set of base and mid-layers, you would be able to do that should the need arise. Which is a long winded way of saying that I think you could make it work.

Thanks very much for that Doug. Yes I would be relying on layering up and down. I want to avoid carrying bulky, weighty gear. Your comments are reassuring. Good to know you only had the one difficult day.

 

[Kitsambler]

A hat and maybe gloves will help too, even lightweight ones will make a difference.

 

[MarioK]

Hi Brodie, we are also starting the VP 31 April and would love to see a packing list of anyone that has previously walked the Le Puy in early April. How easy will it be to wash and dry the day's clothes each night etc. We did the Camino Frances in 2022 in May and really only needed 2 sets of very light clothing (shorts, T shirt and a long sleeved shirt for the sun. Used a waterproof rain jacket once. Lightweight walking shoes.
Grateful for any personal experiences on this route.