• Sensible shoes
  If you intend to run, old trainers with some good grip that you do not mind getting wet. Young children often wear Wellingtons at their first few events. As you get more experienced and start to jog or run round a course you may wish to buy specialist orienteering shoes that give you grip and comfort whilst running over quite rough terrain. You can buy these from specialist equipment retailers that normally attend the larger events;
  
  
• A whistle
  You must have a whistle. Without a whistle you will not be allowed to start most events. The whistle should only be used in an emergency when you need to summon assistance. At larger events you can normally buy a whistle for as little as 50p. I use a safety pin and a bit of string to attach it to my clothing:
  
  
• Comfortable clothing
  The clothing needs to fully cover the body. You are not normally allowed to wear shorts, as there is a danger of getting cuts from brambles etc. If it is cold wear several layers. You can always take a layer off as you warm up. If it is wet, a waterproof is often compulsory;
  
  
• A compass
  On a beginners course you do not always need a compass. However, it is still a good idea to get used to holding a compass as you go round your course. Make sure the compass has a transparent base plate through which you can see the map. At the time of writing you could buy a suitable compass for under a tenner;
  
  
• A clear plastic bag to keep your map in.
  
  
• A watch
  You will need to know whatthe time is. This is particularly important at score events
  ;
• A red pen
  At local events you will need to mark your course on your map.
  
  
• Safety pins
  These are often used to attach control cards or control descriptions on to your clothing. This keeps them safe and quickly accessible

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