At most Hash House Harriers events there is going to be a haberdasher on site that sells various shirts, shorts, beer coolers, and other things. Most of these things are a bit outdated and are commemorating and event that you didn't actually attend and well, those are kind of silly to buy because you weren't actually there. But there are some items that are timeless and cost almost nothing. The "On On" socks that Hashes around the world showcase are a perfect starter item for new recruits.
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There are a lot of varieties of this and some people have their own made with their Hash Name embroidered on them as well. This can be very helpful in learning the names of other participants too, which is always fun since it is frowned upon inside of the Hash to refer to people by their actual names. It's not that we are some sort of clandestine operation, it's because we are silly.
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Down Down and On On socks are probably the most popular because they apply to everyone and these two statements are something that you are going to hear a lot of at any HHH event. "On On" indicates that someone in the distance has found the true trail and you need to follow their voice in order to get to where the real trail continues. "Down Down" is what is said at the end of every icing session that indicates that the person sitting on the ice getting praised or berated (most likely berated) is now allowed to drink their beer and get off the ice.
These are both integral parts of any Hash event anywhere in the world.
I personally have 3 pairs of HHH socks and they are not only awesomely fashionable but they also serve a very real and important purpose on any trail. They protect your feet and ankles from the inevitable brambles and sand spurs that are in almost any forest or jungle environment. Sure it can be a real pain getting all of these little things out of your socks after the event, but it beats having them tear into your skin, that much is for sure.
So for a mere $2 or so you too could have your own pair of commemorative HHH socks to showcase to the world. I can promise you that if you are seen in public wearing these that someone is going to recognize the logo and immediately befriend you. That is the sort of global operation that the Hash House Harriers are. We are all drawn together by a common cause of good fun, some running in the woods, and beer.
Pick some up on your next HHH event, or even your first one. It will likely be some of the best investments on clothing that you ever make in your life.
