Trails & Inspiration

Discover Your Trail - Part 3: Hastings Country Park

Here at SportsShoes we love to hear about and share the incredible hiking and running trails across the UK and beyond (you can check out our UK’s Best Walks & Hikes series to see for yourself). That’s why we’ve worked with The North Face to create the ‘Discover Your Trail’ komoot Collection and ask 7 different hikers across the country to share with us their personal stories and favourite hiking routes. 

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CHECK OUT THE NORTH FACE x SPORTSSHOES ‘DISCOVER YOUR TRAIL’ KOMOOT COLLECTION HERE

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In part 3 of this series, Zahra Rose tells us all about her hike in Hastings Country Park, as well as her inspirations for hiking and photography.

You can check out Zahra’s hike here on komoot:

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Hi! I’m Zahra Rose and I’m a Muslim social media influencer, born to mixed Libyan / European parents and raised in the small southern coastal fishing town of Hastings. I have conquered both Kilimanjaro summit, Everest base camp and I am planning K2 base camp this summer to raise money for charitable causes. 

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I remember my first experience of hiking at 13 years old when I attempted to climb my first mountain (for charity). It was to the summit of Snowdon. I dragged my unwilling youngest sister along with me and it’s safe to say we discovered that trekking wasn’t her ‘thing’, but it was most definitely mine. Unfortunately, the weather was not on our side on that first attempt, we endured all 4 seasons, and as a large group of inexperienced trekkers we weren’t able to summit that day – much to my disappointment. But it fuelled the hunger in me, and I was back again a few months later with an even larger group to try again. You guessed it, we didn’t summit then either, but I was determined as ever, and I came back for a third time that year and finally did it. My sense of achievement, hunger, a charitable cause behind me, my appreciation for a great view - and I suppose my stubbornness too – is the fuel and drive to push me to the top. 

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Pictured: The North Face Fastpack Futurelight Hiking Boots

Hiking can be tough but I love everything about it, even the little mundane things. I love a challenge, great views, the sense of community- the hellos as you pass by strangers and the little words of encouragement on the ascent, the prepping and excitement the night before, packing homemade snacks, the crisp fresh air. Also, as a Taurus I simply love the outdoors, I like to feel grounded and connected to the earth. 

I go trekking with Muslim Hikers every month and I’m ashamed to say I haven’t explored the North very much. This year I promised myself I would explore as much of the north as possible, discover new places, meet new people, and feed my hunger for trekking. I had always wanted to trek in the Peak District and the Yorkshire Dales, and when I read about Malham (also featured in this collection!), I saw it featured plenty of limestone (my favourite rock) , spectacular views, and farmland… I also read Harry Potter was filmed there, so I was SOLD. The stepping stones are such a fun way to cross water, there was some downhill scrambling – who doesn’t love a good muddy scramble? Lots of flowing water, hidden caves, and beautiful limestone glistening in the sunset.

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My chosen hike in Hastings Country Park is incredible for those to enjoy being around nature and taking in all the beauty of the seaside. You begin in the hustle and bustle of the old town beside the fisherman huts, surrounded by eateries and art. Take the hidden path up to a small vantage point to overlook the Hastings fisherman’s quarters and enjoy the view and rest on the little bench (or take the funicular up if you want to cheat). Once you reach the country park there are a couple of routes to choose from – but first enjoy a 360 of Hastings with coastal views, and spot the valley, on clear days you can see the coast to Brighton.  

The North Face Fastpack Futurelight Hiking Boots that I wore for this hike far exceeded all expectations. I have always worn very heavy boots while trekking, so these have been my first lightweight pair and have become my favourites, the grip is second to none – on rocks, uneven surfaces and downhill on slippery mud. I didn’t realise they were waterproof until I missed a stepping stone and was pleasantly surprised that my socks remained dry! They have the flexibility of a trainer and excellent bounce in the soles, which allowed me to run downhill for the first time on a trek in a very long time without suffering injury. 

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE FASTPACK HIKING BOOTS HERE

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Pictured: The North Face Fastpack Futurelight Hiking Boots

I also LOVE The North Face trousers, these are seriously a game changer to the point that almost every woman on the trek stopped and asked me about them. My sister even bought a pair a few days prior because I would not stop raving about them. My experience previously with trekking trousers is that they have been very rigid and limiting during strenuous treks, and so I often preferred being in leggings – but not anymore – I’ve ordered another colour too! They’re also water repellent, extremely lightweight, and simply chic. 

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE WALKING TROUSERS HERE 

The North Face Chimera 24L Women’s Backpack and most of the kit is extremely lightweight, practical, has easy access to pockets and are very stylish in colour. I found the fleece and down jacket very easy to pack away when not in use and the base layer wonderfully wicking. It wasn’t sunny enough to wear the cap, but I look forward to stylishly matching it with my boots. 

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE BACKPACKS

SHOP ALL THE NORTH FACE ATHLETIC OUTDOOR HIKING RANGE

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As the warmer weather approaches, I urge you to pack some snacks, discover a new trail, and push yourself to attain your summit – wherever that may be – I promise you have nothing to lose but everything to gain. 

Photos: Zahra Rose 

Follow Zahra and all her outdoor komoot adventures here

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Join our Sportsshoes x komoot community now to find inspiration, plan outdoor adventures and share your stories. Because it's no fun standing still.

Check out our Trails and Inspirational category to discover the most amazing trails and hikes in the world, as recommended by our athletes, ambassadors and loyal customers.