Mountain Gear in Practice: 2 Days in the Tatras, Kriváň and Zelené Pleso

Mountain gear is best tested in real conditions. Not by how it looks in a photo or how good its description sounds, but by whether it actually helps when you are sweating on a long climb, descending over rocks, feeling the wind pick up and wondering whether there might be a bear somewhere behind the nearest bush.

That is exactly what our two-day trip to the High Tatras was like. The plan sounded simple: on the first day, hike up Kriváň and descend towards Štrbské Pleso; on the second day, head to Zelené Pleso. Reality was, of course, a little more colourful. Intense heat, a long ascent, rocky sections, crowds of hikers, a bit of cycling suffering and one bear encounter that became the main story of the whole trip.

This article is not a classic product review or a catalogue-style list of gear. It is mainly a personal story from the Tatras, combined with practical notes on what worked in the mountains, what I would take again and what I might do differently next time.

Mountain gear in short: what turned out to be important?

On a trip like this, you quickly realise that good mountain gear does not mean carrying a backpack full of things. It is much more important to have a few pieces that fit well, do not restrict movement and can handle changing weather and terrain. In the High Tatras, conditions can change quickly. In the morning you walk through the forest in the shade, a little later you climb in sharp sunlight, then you move over rocks and suddenly, near the summit, the wind picks up.

Reliable footwear was the most important thing. The terrain on Kriváň gradually changes from a forest path to a rocky trail and then to steeper rocky sections. It is especially on the descent that you find out whether your footwear really grips and whether you feel secure in it. On the way up, you mostly think about your fitness. On the way down, you think about every step.

Lightweight clothing helped in the heat. Shorts and a functional T-shirt were essential on a hot day. During a long climb, you notice every seam, cut and fabric. If your clothing does not rub, does not stick uncomfortably to the body and allows you to move freely, it makes a huge difference.

A lightweight jacket in the backpack makes sense even in summer. It can be hot in the morning, but higher up in the mountains the weather can change quickly. On an exposed ridge, even a bit of wind can make you glad you packed an extra layer. A jacket does not have to be worn all day. It just has to be in your backpack when you need it.

Accessories are not just extras. A headband, sunglasses or a cap may seem like small details, but on a hot day they can change the comfort of the whole hike. When sweat is not running into your eyes and the sun is not blinding you at every step, walking simply feels better.

Why the High Tatras?

The High Tatras are ideal for this kind of trip. Within a relatively short distance, you move through forest, stones, open terrain, rocky sections, mountain lakes and steep ascents. You get beautiful views, but your body also works hard.

Our main goal was Kriváň, a 2,494-metre mountain that, according to tradition, every Slovak should climb at least once in their life. We are not Slovaks, but the goal was clear: reach the top, enjoy the views and ideally not meet a bear.

A trip like this also shows whether your gear works only for a short walk or whether it still makes sense after wearing it all day. Whether it presses anywhere, whether you overheat in it, whether your footwear grips on rocks and whether the things in your backpack actually have a purpose. That is why we did not want this to be just another travel story, but also a practical record of what proved useful in the mountains.

And above all, the Tatras have an atmosphere that gets under your skin. Morning light above the peaks, silence in the forest, the first views above the tree line, tired legs after the descent and an evening in the tent when the whole day keeps replaying in your head. That is exactly why we keep coming back to the mountains.

Off to the Tatras: starting near Podbanské

Another spontaneous adventure with our little team of “turbo mice” was here. This time we headed to Slovakia again, specifically to the High Tatras. Since we also had one cyclist with us, our cycling support, I took my bike just in case. You never know when it might come in handy. As we later found out, a bike can be useful in the Tatras, but not always where the map suggests it should be.

We set off towards Podbanské. It was really hot, as it had been for almost the whole summer, so on the way we stopped for a refreshing swim at Kraľovanské Lake. The water was beautifully clear and entry was free at the time; you only paid for parking.

After a short swim, we continued and started solving the most important question of the day: where would we sleep? Anyone who travels with a tent knows that finding a good place is never just a technical detail. You want to be close to the mountains, have a calm spot, nice surroundings and ideally not spend half of your budget on one night.

After a bit of searching, we found Minicamp Jana in the village of Liptovská Kokava. Decision made — we would go there and see. Luckily, they had space, so we could pitch our tents and start enjoying the beautiful panorama of the High Tatras.

Minicamp Jana and the first mention of bears

The campsite had an ideal location for our trip. Mrs Jana was incredibly kind and friendly, and the price was also very pleasant. For two nights, a car, a tent and three people, we paid around 40 euros. And as a welcome? A shot of Demänovka. Something like our Becherovka, only in my opinion a little more dangerous.

The atmosphere was exactly what you want after arriving below the mountains. Tents, a view of the Tatras, evening calm and the feeling that tomorrow would be a proper day. But then came a piece of information that slightly changed our facial expressions.

Mrs Jana warned us that bears move around in the area. Some tourists apparently even drive to certain places late in the evening or early in the morning just to see them. Where we come from, people go out to watch deer, stags or wild boar. Here, apparently, they go to watch bears.

A few people at the campsite belonged to this group of enthusiasts. We, however, lost a little bit of our smile. Especially our cycling support. But the mission was clear: climb Kriváň. Bear or no bear.

And so our new game began: Who will meet the bear?

The ascent of Kriváň: the first kilometres are calm

In the morning, our cycling support drove us to the starting point at Rázcestie pri Bielom Váhu, from where we set off on the blue hiking trail along the Rakytovské Plesá educational path.

Not many people start from this point. The official starting point is closer to the main road, where there is no proper parking area. And this was exactly our kind of start — quiet, peaceful and almost no one around. So we started walking.

For the first time, I wore the Kilpi SANDRO-U outdoor sandals, size 38. I was curious how they would behave in Tatra terrain. I admit that I would normally choose more closed footwear for Kriváň, but since the weather was supposed to be hot and I really wanted to test them, I gave them a chance.

The forecast promised a sunny day and high temperatures, so I wore the Kilpi MEANI-W shorts, size 36. I usually wear size 38, but these size 36 shorts fit me perfectly. They were comfortably loose around the thighs, did not press anywhere and gave me enough freedom while walking.

Of course, I also packed the Kilpi MAMBA-W jacket in my backpack — just in case. In the High Tatras, you never know. Even if the sky looks innocent in the morning, mountain weather can change faster than expected.

We set off along a beautiful green path that, for now, led pleasantly through the shade. The plan was simple: reach the summit, enjoy the views and ideally not meet a bear. Of course, we kept checking the surroundings out of the corner of our eyes.

After a few minutes, our cycling support called: “Is everything all right? Is there any bear?” We assured him that so far, no. And if one appeared, we would take a photo. After this answer, he sent us somewhere very politely and pedalled away.

We refilled our water in the stream and continued along the blue trail to the signpost Odbočka na Biely Váh, where the blue trail joins the red one. And this is where the situation started to change. There was less shade, more sun, the temperature was rising and suddenly there were more and more hikers around.

Heat, sweat and rocks: this is where the gear starts to show

From the Jánske Pleso signpost, we continued again on the blue trail. More and more hikers were joining the route, the trees were getting smaller and soon they were replaced by dwarf pines and shrubs. Then came the sun, heat and stones.

This is where it really becomes clear why it makes sense to think about mountain clothing in advance. In the forest, everyone feels strong. You walk in the shade, the path is pleasant, everything is green. But once the trees disappear and the sun starts burning properly, you notice every detail of what you are wearing.

I started sweating properly. Luckily, I had not forgotten my Kilpi COOLY-U headband in a mint colour. It held sweat well, nothing was running into my face and even on this hot day it did not feel uncomfortable. Exactly the kind of accessory that looks like a small thing until you forget it once and spend the whole climb wiping your eyes with your sleeve.

The Kilpi LISMAIN-W T-shirt, size 38, was still staying exactly where it should. The material felt pleasant and the cut fitted the body nicely. But I already knew that because of the heat it would soon become a crop top. And why not — at least I could tan my stomach a little.

The Kilpi MEANI-W shorts were comfortably loose around the thighs, so hopefully I would not end the holiday with zebra-style tan lines. They did not press, they did not ride up and I could move naturally in them. On a long hike, that matters more than it might seem.

To fight the sun, I also put on the Kilpi SOLIS-U sunglasses. In open mountain terrain, the light is much sharper than down in the city. Add pale rocks, open space and long exposure to the sun, and without sunglasses I would probably have had a headache halfway up.

A bear in the Tatras: we have a clear winner

After a while, our cycling support called again. This time, his voice sounded slightly disturbed. He was telling us that he had just met a bear.

While picking mushrooms, he was walking calmly through the forest when he suddenly heard a branch crack. He turned around — and about five metres away stood a bear. Luckily, it had its back turned to him. At that moment, the mushrooms stopped being important. He left them there for the bear’s dinner, got on his bike and rode away as fast as he could.

Of course, he completely forgot to take a photo. And because he had gone to the bathroom just a short while before this unforgettable encounter, everything ended better than it could have. A clear winner of our game.

We continued climbing towards the summit. Instead of running away from a bear, we were now more likely trying to escape the crowds of hikers. The temperature kept rising and I looked around. Some women were already hiking in sports bras. I did not have a sports bra with me, so I simply revealed my little “Michelin tyres”. Crop top time had arrived.

Fortunately, a pleasantly cool wind started blowing. And suddenly the walking felt easier. At that exact moment, you realise that in the mountains it is not just about the temperature in the forecast. On one section you are baking in the sun, a few minutes later the wind picks up and you are suddenly glad you have an extra layer in your backpack.

The final metres to Kriváň

The path gradually changed from stones to steeper rocks, and in places it was quite slippery. I almost felt like a climber. Unfortunately, heights and especially drops are really not my favourite thing. I was already imagining the way back down and the nerves waiting for me there.

A bit of steep rock, a bit of walking along the ridge, then rocks again… and suddenly: the summit. We were there.

The turbo mice had of course arrived a little earlier. As always. Heat, tiredness, hunger and thirst suddenly disappeared when we looked at the scenery around us. And it was worth it. Mountain peaks are simply beautiful.

For a few minutes, I just stood there and looked around. I enjoyed the view and the feeling that we had made it. This is exactly the moment that makes you forget the sweat, heat, tired legs and all the questions like “why are we even doing this?” Because when you stand at the top and the Tatras spread out below you, the answer is suddenly completely clear.

Then hunger and thirst naturally reminded us of themselves. During our snack break, my T-shirt, headband and shorts managed to dry a little, and then we started our way back down.

I thought about the smooth, slippery rocks and the steep section waiting for us, and suddenly I felt hot again. This time I walked very slowly and carefully. But the sandals did not disappoint me. On the rock, they felt almost glued to the surface. Next time, I might choose size 37 instead of 38. Personally, in more demanding terrain I prefer footwear to fit very precisely.

This was the biggest test of the whole day for me. On the way up, you mostly deal with fitness, breathing and pace. On the way down, you find out whether your footwear grips, whether your foot slides inside and whether you feel sure with every step.

But I managed it. I even caught up with my turbo mice. They are from another dimension — no fear, no nerves, they simply walk. Who they got that from, I really do not know.

From Kriváň to Štrbské Pleso

At the Odbočka na Biely Váh signpost, we continued on the red trail towards Štrbské Pleso, along the Tatra Magistrala. We do not really like walking the same route there and back. And since we were in the Tatras, we wanted to see as much as possible.

The Tatra Magistrala felt easy compared to the previous sections. After the steep rocks and the descent from Kriváň, it almost felt like a reward. Our legs could feel every step, but the terrain was more pleasant and we finally had more space to look around, not just down at our feet.

On the way, we even cooled our feet in a stream. Pure happiness. Cold water immediately brought the energy back. After a whole day in heat and on rocks, it felt almost better than coffee.

At Štrbské Pleso, our cycling support was already waiting for us with the car, and we headed back towards Minicamp Jana. The main topic on the way was, of course, the bear. What else?

A reward after the hike

Tired, sweaty and full of experiences, we still went for a swim at Batizovská gravel lake on that hot day. Again, beautifully clear and properly cold water. Exactly what you need after a full-day hike.

The cold water gave us new energy, and we returned to the campsite. For dinner, we roasted sausages over the fire, watched the sunset and said to ourselves that this is exactly what a day in the mountains should look like.

What more could we wish for? Our legs were tired, we had a lot of memories, our clothes were drying and the view from Kriváň kept replaying in our heads. And of course, everyone kept talking about the bear again and again. Then it was time to crawl into the sleeping bag and rest for the next day.

Everything was quiet. Well, almost everything. The sheep next door had clearly never been told that their bells did not need to ring quite so loudly. So the romantic evening below the Tatras turned into a gently jingling night concert.

Zelené Pleso by bike? Better not

In the morning, the turbo mice planned a hike to Zelené Pleso. We had the same destination, but of course by bike. So I joined the cycling support team.

We dropped the turbo mice off at the Biela Voda signpost and continued by car to Tatranská Kotlina, where we parked at a paid car park. Parking cost 10 euros for the day.

Then we started cycling along the Fľak educational trail, which later connects to the Podtatranská cycle route. Since it was supposed to be hot again, I wore my Kilpi MEANI-W shorts once more. I still cannot really get used to classic padded cycling shorts.

With them, I wore the Kilpi MALI-W T-shirt, size 38. For me, it was a little too loose and made me look wider than I actually am. I would personally prefer a slightly more shaped, feminine cut. But for relaxed movement, travelling by car or easier activity, it is pleasant.

At the Biela Voda signpost, we turned onto the yellow hiking and cycling route towards Zelené Pleso. After a few hundred metres, we realised this was definitely not going to be an ordinary cycle route.

After a few kilometres, it was clear: this was not a cycle route. At least not according to our idea of one. It may be marked on the map, but in my opinion, whoever labelled it that way wanted to take revenge on cyclists.

Stone after stone, boulder after boulder, plus crowds of hikers. In the end, we walked beside the bikes for more than half of the route. So from us, definitely not recommended — not even for e-bikers. It did have one big advantage, though: most of the route was in the shade.

At that moment, it became clear again that mountain gear is not only about perfect planning. Sometimes a cycling trip turns into pushing your bike over stones, and you are simply glad you are wearing something comfortable that lets you move normally.

Zelené Pleso and Chata pri Zelenom plese

After this exhausting bike-and-walk adventure, we finally reached Zelené Pleso and Chata pri Zelenom plese. The idea of a refreshing beer kept us moving forward. But first, we had to wait.

The staff at the bar were clearly struggling to keep up. Lots of tourists, a bit of chaos with orders and collection, and a long queue as a result. They had underestimated it a little. But eventually, we got our beer and enjoyed it even more.

Zelené Pleso itself is beautiful. Mountains all around, the hut, the water, the buzz of hikers and that strange feeling that you got there in a way that was not exactly sensible. The turbo mice arrived looking much calmer than we did. They had walked. We had pushed bikes for half the route while trying to pretend that this had been the plan all along.

The way back on our “amazing” cycle route was honestly quite risky. There were a few falls. But we made it. The turbo mouse team was already waiting at the car and we could head home.

Once again, we had plenty of experiences. And because we would not be ourselves otherwise, we were already thinking on the way home: where next?

One thing is certain. It will be mountains again. And perhaps next time we will skip the game called “Who will meet the bear?”

What would I do differently next time?

With the sandals, I would try a smaller size next time. Size 38 handled the whole trip, but in more demanding terrain I prefer my foot to sit more precisely. Especially when descending over rock, it is important for me to feel that the foot is as stable as possible inside the footwear.

I would definitely take the jacket again, even if it stayed in the backpack all day. With a light mountain layer, it is not about whether you will definitely use it. It is about the fact that if you need it and do not have it, it is too late.

And the bike to Zelené Pleso? I would think twice next time. Not everything marked as a cycle route on a map is a good idea for an average cyclist. Sometimes it is better to leave the bike behind and enjoy the route on foot.

What did I take away from the trip?

This trip was not perfect in the sense that everything went according to plan. And maybe that is exactly why it was so good. We experienced heat, crowds of people, slippery rocks, a cycle route that was more of a patience test and one bear that, luckily, I did not meet myself.

At the same time, it was exactly the kind of trip that reminds you why you love the mountains. Not because they are comfortable, but because of everything that happens between the first step and the return. The views you have to earn. The cold water in a stream that feels like luxury wellness after a long descent. The evening by the tent, when your legs hurt but your head feels perfectly clear.

And also because every trip like this teaches you something. About the route, the weather, your own fitness and what to pack next time. Mountain gear does not have to be complicated. It just has to match where you are going, what weather you expect and how you want to feel after several hours of movement.

The most common mistakes when choosing mountain gear

After this trip, I would point out a few things that people often underestimate when choosing mountain gear. These are not universal rules, but practical experiences that become obvious very quickly outdoors.

1. Underestimating accessories

A headband, sunglasses or a cap may look like small details, but on a hot day they can significantly change the whole hiking experience. When sweat is not running into your eyes and the sun is not blinding you at every step, walking simply feels easier.

2. Carrying too much weight

For a one-day hike, you do not need to carry too many unnecessary things. You feel every gram in your backpack, especially during a long climb. Lightweight and easy-to-combine pieces make more sense than a full backpack of things you never use.

3. No jacket in the backpack

Even if it is hot in the morning, a lightweight jacket belongs in the mountains. It can be windy on ridges, the weather can change and during a longer break on the summit, you can cool down quickly.

4. Untested footwear

Footwear is the foundation. Whether you choose hiking boots, trail shoes or outdoor sandals, they must fit well, should not press anywhere and should be tested before the trip. A long mountain hike is not the best place to try a completely new model without knowing how it behaves on your feet.

5. Ignoring the terrain

You choose different gear for an easy walk around a lake and different gear for an ascent of Kriváň, where you face elevation gain, stones and a rocky final section. The route matters more than the distance itself.

Frequently asked questions about mountain gear

What is the most important mountain gear?

The most important mountain gear is comfortable footwear, functional clothing, a lightweight jacket in your backpack, sun protection and enough water. Even on a one-day hike, the weather can change and your body works hard during both the climb and the descent.

What should I pack for a hike in the High Tatras?

For a hike in the High Tatras, pack reliable footwear, a functional T-shirt, comfortable shorts or trousers, a lightweight jacket, a headband or cap, sunglasses and enough water. Higher up in the mountains, it can be windy even on a hot day.

Can you wear outdoor sandals on a mountain hike?

Yes, outdoor sandals can be worn on a mountain hike if they fit well, have a reliable sole and you are used to walking in them. For more demanding routes, scree, cold weather or long sections over sharp rocks, more protective footwear is usually a better choice.

Is the ascent of Kriváň difficult?

Yes, the ascent of Kriváň is a more demanding mountain hike. Expect a long climb, stones, a rocky final section and, depending on the weather, heat, wind or quickly changing conditions.

Is a jacket useful in the High Tatras even in summer?

Yes, a lightweight jacket is useful in the High Tatras even in summer. Mountain weather can change quickly, exposed sections can be windy and during a longer stop at the summit, it may feel colder than during the climb.

Can you cycle to Zelené Pleso?

You can reach Zelené Pleso by bike, but in our experience it is not a suitable route for average cyclists. The path is rocky, technical and often full of hikers. On many sections, you may end up pushing the bike rather than riding it.

Can you meet a bear in the High Tatras?

Yes, bears live in and around the High Tatras. It is not recommended to look for them or approach them. Stay on marked trails, do not leave food freely accessible and follow the current instructions of the national park authorities.

Mountain gear mainly has to work

This trip reminded us once again that good mountain gear is not about how many things you pack, but whether you have the right pieces for the moment you need them. In the heat, you appreciate a functional T-shirt, a headband and sunglasses. On rocks, you find out whether your footwear really grips. And a lightweight jacket in your backpack can be useful even when the morning weather looks perfect.

Kriváň, Štrbské Pleso, Zelené Pleso and the bear story gave us plenty of reasons to remember this trip for a long time. And if I take one practical thing from it, it is this: mountain gear does not have to be complicated. It just has to suit you, the route and the weather.