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13 Best Soundwalk Essential Items: Fall 2023

Best Soundwalk Essential Items

Are you planning on going for a soundwalk adventure this fall of 2023, but not sure how to prepare for it during the rainy season? Look no further! I have created this soundwalk essential items list that will help you have an exceptional experience, whether you are exploring an urban soundscape or going on a nature soundwalk. This checklist will ensure that you have everything you need for a fantastic soundwalk wander.

After going on numerous soundwalks in urban and natural environments throughout different seasons, I want to share my findings and insights with you. To help you start your soundwalking journey and expand the listening experience, I have compiled a checklist of essential items you should consider before setting off.

Follow this list, and you’ll be all set to enjoy a fulfilling soundwalking experience and become aware of your surrounding sounds.

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What are the benefits of a soundwalk?

Soundwalks may help mental health by lowering stress, improving mood, and increasing cognitive performance. If you’re looking for a way to improve your mental well-being, soundwalks are definitely worth considering! Immersing yourself in the sounds of nature or the vibrant energy of a city can do wonders for your mental health. A soundwalk is a therapeutic journey that allows you to escape the daily routine. Combining it with deep listening can be a very playful, rejuvenating, and meditative experience.

As you take each step on your soundwalk adventure, the symphony of sounds around you will captivate your senses. The rustling leaves, chirping birds, distant traffic, and even the subtle hum of conversations will create a harmonious backdrop for your thoughts to wander.

Studies have shown that engaging with natural environments can reduce anxiety, improve concentration, and increase creativity. So, if you’re seeking inspiration or just a moment of tranquillity, a soundwalk is the perfect activity for you. Don’t mind the rain this fall; I’ve got you covered 😉

Related : Exploring the World of Sound Walks: A Comprehensive Guide

Soundwalk Essential Items Checklist:

1. HOKA Challenger ATR 7 GTX

Pro Tip: This is definitely the most essential item on the checklist. If you plan on walking anywhere this fall or any season, always wear comfortable shoes. My pick is the Hoka Challenger ATR 7 GTX trail-running shoes for traction, comfort and durability.

Regardless of the weather conditions or terrain, the Hoka Challenger ATR 7 GTX trail-running shoes for women provide a comfortable and cushioned experience, superior grip, and improved safety.

Key Benefits:

  • Made of durable engineered mesh with synthetic overlays.
  • Breathable fabric lining for abrasion-free wear
  • Foam padded insole, removable for cushioning and support.
  • Full-length EVA midsole for shock absorption and stability.
  • Lightweight and flexible rubber sole unit for comfortable grip and traction

Pros:

  • Weather versatility
  • Comfortable
  • Superior traction

Cons:

  • It is bulky and may not appeal to those who prioritize fashion over functionality.
  • Doesn’t come in many colour options.

2. Randy Sun Waterproof Socks

Soundwalk essential items: waterproof socks

Randy Sun Waterproof Socks are the ultimate solution for wet, comfortable feet. With a seamless, durable design, these socks offer a snug, secure fit and premium ankle and calf coverage. They’re perfect for walking under the rain, biking, hiking, jogging, water sports, and more.

  • Dry and comfortable feet in wet conditions with a seamless design.
  • No bulky or plastic feel. Lightweight construction provides snug fit.
  • Reinforced heel and toe for added durability.
  • Ultra-light socks are made with biodegradable materials that adapt to temperature changes without sacrificing performance.

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • No bulky plastic bag feeling.
  • Wide Range of Motion.
  • Durable.
  • Ultra-light socks integrate biodegradable materials

Cons:

  • After washing, colors may fade slightly, which is a normal occurrence due to the unique properties of the material.
  • Hand washing is recommended, may be less convenient than machine washing for some users.

Pro Tip: When going outdoors in the fall, it’s always a good idea to wear waterproof socks. There have been many times when my socks have gotten just a little bit wet, and that feeling of coldness can distract you from enjoying your surroundings.

3. Columbia Hikebound Rain Jacket

Don’t forget to bring a rain jacket. Opt for a lightweight and waterproof rain jacket that you can easily pack in your bag. A sudden shower shouldn’t deter you from enjoying your soundwalk adventure. This jacket is designed to keep you dry and comfortable in any weather condition. It is waterproof, breathable, and fully seam-sealed, making it perfect for all types of trails and outdoor activities.

Key Benefits:

  • Waterproof/breathable, fully seam sealed.
  • The hood can be adjusted with a draw cord.
  • Hand pockets that can be closed with a zipper.
  • Chest pocket with a water-resistant zipper.
  • Adjustable cuffs.
  • The hem of the garment can be adjusted using a draw cord.

Pros:

  • Weather Protection/Waterproof
  • Adjustable Hood and Cuffs
  • Functional Pockets
  • Versatile Design
  • Adjustable Hem

Cons:

  • Limited Ventilation
  • Style Considerations
  • Packability Trade-Off

5. Quechua Hiking Rain Overpants

Stay dry and comfortable on your soundwalks with Quechua Waterproof Overpants. These rain pants protect you from light showers and can be easily stored in their zippered pocket. Don’t let unexpected rain ruin your outdoor excursions – stay dry with these pants!

Key Benefits:

  • Waterproof coating 
  • Folds into a pocket for easy transport.
  • TAnatomic design with a drawstring waist and bottom that tightens with a rip-tab.
  •  Breathability 
  •  Windproof
  •  Lightweight ensures easy and comfortable wear.

Pros :

  • Waterproof
  • Easy transport
  • Customize fit
  • Breathable design
  • Windproof
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Too warm for some users

6. YETI Rambler 20 oz Tumbler With MagSlider Lid

Staying hydrated is important, especially when you’re out in nature. The Yeti Rambler 20oz is perfect for those who value efficiency and durability, keeping your drink at the perfect temperature until the last sip. The quick-access Chug Cap has a half-twist TripleHaul Handle, allowing you to take a sip without stopping. Made with rugged stainless steel and DuraCoat Color Resilience, this bottle is a stylish companion that can handle harsh conditions.

The best feature about this mug is that it lets me drink my coffee while I walk without spilling it on my clothes!

Millie wissar

Key Benefits:

  • Quick and Easy Sipping The Chug Cap allows for swift half-twist access, providing an easy and efficient way to enjoy your favourite drinks on the move.
  • Temperature Perfection: Benefit from double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps beverages at the perfect temperature until the very last sip, regardless of external conditions.
  • Built to Last: The robust 18/8 stainless steel construction ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for outdoor activities, workouts, and everyday use.
  • Style Meets Resilience: DuraCoat Color Technology delivers vibrant colours that resist fading, peeling, or cracking, maintaining a sleek appearance throughout its lifespan.
  • Safety First: The Chug Cap is specifically designed for cold beverages, prioritizing user safety and optimal performance for its intended purpose.

Pros:

  • Sip your drink on-the-go with ease using our quick half-twist sipping mechanism.
  • Built to Last Robust 18/8 stainless steel construction ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for various activities.
  • Vibrant colours that resist fading, peeling, or cracking, maintaining a sleek appearance.
  • Designed for cold beverages, prioritizing user safety

Cons:

  • Price

7. Peruvian Baby Alpaca Beanie

The Peruvian Baby Alpaca Beanie hat is cozy, warm, and stylish. The fibre is smooth, so it doesn’t cause itching or irritation. Additionally, it has stretch, water repellency, and odour reduction. Alpaca clothing doesn’t wrinkle easily and is hypoallergenic. I own many of these; they also warm me in the winter.

Key Benefits:

  • Crafted from Peruvian Baby Alpaca, this beanie offers a cozy, warm, and incredibly soft feeling, providing luxurious comfort.
  • Alpaca fibre is hypoallergenic, providing a smooth texture that eliminates irritation experienced with traditional wool.
  • Alpaca fibre provides stretch, water repellency, and odour reduction.
  • Ideal for travellers, this wrinkle-resistant beanie guarantees a polished look on the go.

Pros:

  • Made of Peruvian Baby Alpaca, this beanie is incredibly soft and cozy, providing luxurious comfort.
  • Alpaca fibre is hypoallergenic and offers a smooth texture that eliminates irritation, making it suitable for those with sensitivities to traditional wool.
  • Alpaca fibre enhances the beanie’s functionality with stretch, water repellency, and odour reduction.
  • Ideal for travellers, this beanie is wrinkle-resistant, ensuring a polished look on the go and making it a convenient accessory.

Cons:

  • Limited amounts

8. Pelican Waterproof Floating Protection Phone Pouch

This waterproof phone pouch is certified for protection up to 3.3 feet/1 meter, with an IPX8 floating certification. It is perfect for water-related activities and rainy seasons. Keep your phone fully functional with 100% protection from water.

Something to think about: Phones are an important tool to have while taking soundwalks, as they provide vital functions such as GPS, taking notes, photos, and recording sounds. They are also crucial for safety and can serve as an emergency contact, potentially saving someone’s life even on a well-trodden path. It is always best to be prepared and take care of your valuable gear. The fewer phones we need to buy and replace, the better it’ll be for our environment. So, please take care of your phone. It has the potential to save lives and by keeping it dry as much as possible, protect our planet’s resources.

Key Benefits:

  • Certified waterproof protection for up to 3.3 feet/1 meter (IPX8 certified) – perfect for rain and water activities.
  • Innovative side design with soft TPU material for easy phone button access and responsive touch.
  • Waterproof phone holder with secure seal.
  • Transparent material enables direct touch screen and camera contact for clear underwater photos and videos.
  • Pelican cases are built for perfectionists, with unmatched quality, durability, and protection for your devices.

Pros:

  • Waterproof protection.
  • Transparent material enables clear underwater photos and videos.
  • Pelican cases are known for their unmatched quality, durability, and protection.
  • Innovative side design with soft TPU material for easy phone access.

Cons:

  • May not provide adequate protection against impacts or drops.
  • May not be suitable for larger phones or bulky cases.

9. Anker Portable Power Bank

This is the perfect companion for all your mobile adventures – thanks to its high capacity and fast charging capabilities; it will keep your device fully charged while you’re on the move.  It comes with 20,000mAh of power to keep your devices charged for days on end. I have three of these, and I never worry about running out of battery while walking and field recording.

Key Benefits:

  • 20,000mAh capacity keeps devices charged for days, ideal for on-the-go charging.
  • 15W Full-Speed Charging provides quick and efficient device charging.
  • Charge two devices simultaneously with dual ports (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A).
  • Our TSA-approved design fits in your carry-on luggage, providing hassle-free charging during flights.
  • Includes a USB-A to USB-C cable, guide, warranty, and friendly customer service.

Pros:

  • Ensures that devices stay charged for days.
  • Full-Speed Charging.
  • Dual ports (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A)
  • TSA-approved design.
  • Includes USB-A to USB-C cable.

Cons:

  • Power bank may be slightly heavy and bulky.
  • Charging times may be slower if multiple devices are charging simultaneously.
  • USB-A to USB-C cable may not be long enough for some users.

10. Quechua Hiking Backpack 23 L

Quechua’s stylish hiking backpack is perfect for any adventure. The expandable main compartment and 13 pockets provide ample storage space for all your essentials, while the flap protects against water and dirt. Whether you’re hiking or commuting, this backpack is the perfect companion.

Key Benefits:

  • This bag offers carrying comfort with 5-pad thick foam back and shoulder straps, adjustable for a customized fit.
  • Capacity: 23-27 L (5-6 gal).
  • One main compartment, 5 zippered compartments, 2 bottle holders (0.8 L/27 fl. oz.), and 1 laptop pocket (15”).
  • This bag is versatile with a hidden pocket, secure zipper, cable grommet, suitcase connection, and organizer.
  • Padding and shoulder straps enhance ventilation during use for added comfort.
  • Durable and abrasion-resistant with a 10-year warranty. Lightweight at only 830g (29 oz.) for easy carrying.

Pros:

  • carrying comfort
  • Adjustable for a customized fit
  • Hidden pocket
  • secure zipper
  • Cable grommet,
  • Suitcase connection
  • Lightweight
  • Durable and abrasion-resistant with a 10-year warranty

Cons:

  • Only comes in yellow

11. Goodr OGs Polarized Sunglasses

I love my Goodr OG sunglasses – perfect for outdoor activities! I’ve owned two pairs already, and I always carry one in my backpack. After undergoing retinal detachment surgery, I’m susceptible to light, but these glasses feel comfortable and have been great for my vision.

The OG sunglasses from Goodr are perfect for outdoor activities. With a Medium Frame Fit Size and polarized UV coating, they’re lightweight at only 22g. The non-reflective lenses are great for spotting obstacles, and the seven-layer construction offers scratch resistance and UV 400 protection. Unfortunately, they don’t provide prescription lenses.

Key Benefits:

  • UV400 Protection & Polarized Lens
  • Made from high-quality materials: Matte frame and elastic plastic for ultralightness and flexibility.
  • Polycarbonate lens provides high-temperature resistance, ultra-lightness, and super impact resistance, ensuring long-lasting durability without scratches or breakage.
  • Lightweight Design
  • 30-Day Money Back Guarantee

Pros:

  • Polarized UV coating for outdoor activities.
  • Non-reflective lenses for clear vision.
  • Scratch resistance and UV 400 protection.
  • Lightweight design.
  • High-quality materials for flexibility and durability.
  • High-temperature resistance and super impact resistance.

Cons:

  • Styles may not be for everyone’s taste
  • No prescription lenses available.

12. Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack

Pro Tip: I’d suggest a dry bag if you have any electronics or important documents that could get wet in the pouring rain. This item saved my life in Thailand; I even went snorkelling with it.

Earth Pak is a backpack that is designed to keep your belongings completely dry, even in the wettest and muddiest conditions. It is 100% waterproof and has a built-in rain cover to protect your gear from the elements. In addition, the bag is highly durable, thanks to its synthetic fabric exterior and heavy-duty zippers. You can be confident that your backpack will last a long time and help you stay organized throughout your soundwalk adventures.

Key Benefits:

  • Earth Pack is 100% Waterproof Design to keep belongings completely dry in wet and muddy conditions.
  • Built-in rain cover to provide additional protection for gear from the elements.
  • Synthetic fabric exterior ensures the backpack is highly durable, capable of withstanding various environmental conditions.
  • Equipped with heavy-duty zippers, enhancing the overall durability and security of the backpack.
  • The combination of waterproof design, durable fabric, and heavy-duty zippers ensures the backpack’s longevity, providing a reliable companion for extended use.
  • Helps users stay organized during soundwalk adventures with its design and features.

Pros:

  • 100% Waterproof
  • Built-in Rain Cover
  • High Durability
  • Heavy-Duty Zippers
  • Long-Lasting
  • Organizational Support

Cons:

  • Could be uncomfortable for users with back problems after hours of continuous use.
  • Colors aren’t varied.

13. Moonster Leather Journal Writing Notebook

As a writing enthusiast, I recommend the Moonster Leather Journal Writing Notebook for a post-soundwalk reflection. Made of 100% genuine water buffalo leather and premium recycled cotton paper, this notebook boasts a beautifully crafted design that will inspire you to write and capture your thoughts.

Key Features:

  • 100% genuine water buffalo leather for a premium look and feel.
  • Premium recycled cotton paper for eco-friendly and sustainable journaling.
  • Crafted in India with a beautifully authentic design.
  • Durable hand-stitched binding keeps pages firmly in place.
  • 120 sheets/240 pages of unlined premium cotton paper, recycled for environmental sustainability.

Pros:

  • Genuine Water Buffalo Leather
  • Recycled Cotton Paper
  • Handmade
  • Tree-Free and Acid-Free

Cons:

  • Paper is too soft.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to stash a few pens in your backpack. Use it for journaling at the end or during your soundwalk. 

Disclaimer: The contents of this website, such as text, videos, images, and other material, are for informational purposes only. I am not a mental health professional. The content I share is based on personal experience and research, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on my website.

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