In conversation with Chris Knight
Growing up in the Gower Peninsula, Chris Knight has always had an appreciation for Wales’ natural beauty. After retiring his professional rugby career in 2016, Chris used his photography skills to transition into full-time travel and adventuring. His goal is to motivate his impressive Instagram audience of over 11K to get outdoors.
Instagram: @OHWHATAKNIGHT
Q. What inspired you to become an outdoors influencer?
A. I played rugby for a number of years but unfortunately had to retire due to a slipped disc in my back. So walking was one of the ways that I got over that to improve my physical health and also my mental health. I picked up a camera because I was going to all these beautiful landscapes and I wanted to show my friends and family. It just snowballed from there.
Q. Do you think getting out and about is important for mental health?
A. Spending time outdoors is crucial to me. It’s important just to be able to switch off and not have to think about the stresses and strains of life. Put your phone away if you can, don’t be transfixed by social media.
Q. What hikes would you recommend to a beginner?
A. There’s so many beautiful coastal walks where I am in the Gower. One of my favourites is Rhossily. There’s about four or five beautiful low level walks. If you’re talking about mountains, Pen y Fan. It’s got a track that even children can walk up.
Q. What clothing do you wear on a hike?
A. I tend to go for the tried and tested three layering system on top. You have a base layer, which can either be synthetic or a merino wool blend. Then in winter I’ll wear a lightweight mid-layer. I always take a waterproof jacket, even when it’s not raining, as it provides protection against the wind.
Q. What footwear do you recommend?
A. I recommend wearing proper hiking boots. Ideally the boots should be comfortable, durable and offer protection. I prefer waterproof ones so if you step into a bit of a puddle or a bog, you’re not going to have damp feet.
Q. What essential equipment do you bring with you?
A. A good quality backpack. It’s good to have chest and shoulder straps to disperse weight. I always take extra layers. I also pack a power bank and charging cable because I use my phone for navigation. I bring a head torch in case I stay after dark. I also bring more food and water than I need.
Q. Do you have any advice for beginner hikers who are insecure about their lack of experience?
A. To start off with, explore somewhere familiar. For people who live in big urban landscapes, I would say try to make use of local spaces, whether that’s parks or forests. Make time for it. If you’re worried about going alone, there’s tons of walking groups.
Q. Do you have any safety tips?
A. Make sure you have the proper equipment. Monitor the weather conditions. Having a good hiking app is crucial. Google Maps won’t cut it because you don’t always get a signal. I use Ordinance Survey and I download the maps for offline use.
N.B: Wick away: this refers to a material that takes small drops of liquid from an area and moves them away, i.e. sweat.
Follow his Instagram and track his activities, we hope he can inspire you.