Walking in mud

Photograph by Gerry Gross taken on Walk 66: Danemead Loop

Don't let mud put you off walking. With a little planning you can still have a great day exploring Hertfordshire's wonderful public rights of way even if many of the paths are covered in mud. Below are a few tips for walking along muddy footpaths, bridleways, and byways:

There are several types of mud in Hertfordshire, some are sticky and soft, some claggy and heavy, and others slippy and hard to walk on.

Image courtesy of the Hertfordshire Geological Society
Click on the map for a larger version

Chalky Soils: Found mainly in the north and east of the county, these alkaline or neutral soils are derived from the underlying chalk rock. They are generally well-drained but can be shallow and less fertile. They can be slippy when wet.

Clay Soils: Predominant in the south-east, these heavy soils are formed from London clay. They are poorly drained. These can be claggy, stick to your boots and make walking difficult. They can also be slippy.

Clay-with-Flints: Found in the west, this type of soil is a clay deposit containing frost-shattered flints and pebbles.These areas are usually well-drained. However, the mud in these areas is more firm and easier to walk on.

River Gravels: These well-drained soils are found in the valleys of the rivers Lea and Colne. The mud in these area will stick to your boots less, and it's not as slippy as in the other areas mentioned, but you will still have to paddle through soup-like puddles that will make a mess of your boots.

Planning

• Local knowledge is valuable - Ask locals about rights of way conditions, as mud depends on drainage, altitude, and recent weather.
• Look for hard surfaces - Cycle paths, old railway lines as well as minor lanes are often drier. Avoid tracks used by farm vehicles and horses because they can become churned up and muddy.
• Time your walk - Dry spells or frozen ground make for easier walking. Be cautious in areas close to rivers and avoid rights of way that cross known flood plains.

What to wear

• The right footwear is important - Choose high boots with deep treads for grip and ankle protection. Make sure your boots are waterproofing and breathable. Leather boots are easier to clean than suede or fabric. Wellingtons are okay for short walks but they might hurt your feet on longer walks.
• Gaiters - Ankle and calf protection could help keep trousers clean and dry, but they won't be much help in very deep mud.
• Secure footwear - Avoid slip-on shoes or wellingtons that can easily come off. Laced boots are best.

Walking Technique

• Avoid the worst - Try to skirt around any muddy patches while staying on the designated path to avoid widening trails, damaging verges and hedgerow, or trespassing on private land.
• Surface mud - Treat it like ice, take short steps, walk at a steady pace, and relax your legs.
• Walking downhill - Use a walking pole for support and go slowly. Try to find drier patches, clumps of grass, or small gravel or rock outcrops for better footing.
• Deep mud: - Test the depth of the mud with a hiking pole or stick. If it is deeper than your boots, avoid it. Step slowly with your toe first then lift your heel to break suction. Heavier walkers may sink more. Avoid standing still in bogs. Look for shallower spots indicated by vegetation or rock. Don't leap from one safe spot to another or start to run, it could end in disaster.
• Fallen logs and branches - Use them as walkways, but be careful to avoid slipping.

After your walk

• Clean promptly - Mud is easier to remove when wet. Knock off lumps, then use a brush and cold/warm water. Avoid soaking the leather or fabric. Clean laces separately.
• Dry your kit - Air dry boots in a warm, ventilated area. Avoid direct heat. Stuffing with newspaper helps.
• Reproofing: - Reproof boots and waterproof clothing regularly. This helps keep them soft. If you are using boots with a breathable membrane be sure to buy the right spray; waxing breathable fabric could reduce its effectiveness.
• Washing clothes - Wipe off loose mud. Follow garment care instructions, as some require special detergents to avoid damage to the waterproof and breathable properties.
• Dogs - Bring towels. Clean paws with wipes or a cloth, especially between toes. Trim long fur to minimise mud collection. Consider a dog jacket for muddy walks.

Mud doesn't have to stop you enjoying Hertfordshires many wonderful public rights of way. Prepare well, get you boots on, and enjoy your muddy walks.

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