16. What can you rent at Zion Adventure Company?

We rent:
• River hiking shoes for sure grip, abrasion protection, and warmth in the river.
• Walking sticks for maintaining balance and probing river depth.
• Drybags and backpacks for carrying gear and protecting it from getting wet.
• Dry pants and drysuits for staying dry in the river.
• Fleece tops, bottoms, hats, and gloves for staying warm in The Narrows.

17. What are these hiking boots all about? Do I really need them?

Our 5.10 Canyoneers are the simply the best river hiking shoes on the planet. Patented super-sticky rubber helps your feet grip slippery rocks, while a stiff mid-sole and toe box protect your feet from rocks and sand. Combine these shoes with a cushy, warm pair of neoprene booties, you have the ultimate river footwear. Instead of cringing in foot-pain all day, you can enjoy what you came for – the awesome splendor of the Zion Narrows.

18. What should I wear?

Synthetic, quick-dry clothing helps you stay warm and dry. Cotton clothing has no insulation value when wet, and dries slowly; you are better off naked than wearing wet cotton. During summer, wear a swimsuit or nylon shorts and a T-shirt; take along a warm fleece top and a hat for the cool afternoon shade. During colder months, wear synthetic layers underneath a drysuit for optimal comfort and bring extra layers along in your backpack.

19. Why bring a walking stick?

Tripping and falling is the most common accident in the Narrows. The walking stick helps you stay on your feet AND test the water depth before you. It is a good friend.

20. Can I bring my trekking poles?

Yes, but consider…

a) Trekking poles are expensive.
b) Trekking poles are generally too short for river hiking.
c) Trekking poles bend and snap easily in the river.
d) Our walking sticks are inexpensive and burly.

21. Do I need dry pants or a drysuit?

When the water drops below 55 degrees Farenheit, waterproof clothing offers significant protection from hypothermia. Because water cools your body 25 times faster than air, Narrows hikers can get very cold very quickly when they are wading in cold water all day. During the transitions from spring to summer and summer to fall, some people need dry pants or drysuits, and some do not. Consider your experience in the outdoors and make a conservative decision regarding your dress.

22. What do I wear under the drysuit?

Synthetic layers (polypropylene, Capilene, fleece) are best because they maintain insulation value when your perspiration dampens them.

23. Can I wear a wetsuit?

Wetsuits work well when you are IN the water for extended periods. In the Narrows, however, you enter and exit the water often. Each time you leave the water, warm water leaves the wetsuit; each time you enter, cold water enters the suit again. We do rent wetsuits, but recommend drypants or drysuits for Narrows hiking.

24. Do I need a drybag?

If you fall in the river without a waterproofed backpack, your belongings will likely get wet. Dry clothing, food, and electronic equipment are at risk when they are not protected from water.

25. How do I keep my camera dry and accessible at the same time?

We put our cameras in a small drybag and attach it to the front of our backpack arm strap. Here, the camera is accessible and safe. To be extra safe, place your camera in a sealable plastic bag first, then into a drybag.