Autumn leaves
Welcome to the most perfect time of the year to head out for a walk in the wild
Forgive us for getting a bit Goldilocks but seasonally it’s not too hot and not too cold for a hike – it’s just right. Whether you’re tramping in Victoria’s High Country, taking in the colour around Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin or watching the turning of deciduous fagus in Tasmania’s Mount Field National Park, the right gear can maximise your day out in comfort.
1 Ace of Something Tucker wool beanie, $59.95
Hopefully, the skies you are hiking under are as blue as this 100 per cent Australian merino wool beanie with ribbed fabric. But even if they aren’t, this number will still keep you warm while looking cool.
2 Le Labo Lip Balm, $28
The French/American brand made its name in fragrance but its lip balm is a good addition to your hiking checklist as it is non-sticky, nonglossy and includes nourishing shea butter, moisturising olive oil and softening jojoba oil.
3 Uniqlo x Princesse tam tam Heattech turtleneck, $39.90
Uniqlo’s Heattech range has long been our go-to for warmth without the bulk but truth be told, until now, it’s been a bit boring. The French brand collab changes all that with five hypersaturated hues in each garment and two colourways.
4 Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer, $26
Ever been on a hike and thought, “I could just leave my life behind and set myself up to live in nature”? This was Chris McCandless’s thinking in 1992. We won’t spoil the end but this book is a modern classic about the intersection between wilderness and solitude.
5 High Sierra Trooper Backpack, $90.30
The best thing about this backpack is that it pulls double duty as a daily commute carry and a hiking essential. It is made from recycled plastic bottles, comes with a lifetime warranty and has a 37.5-litre capacity. Not bad for something that weighs less than a kilo.
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This fabric is made with recycled polyester and will keep you comfy with whatever “enhanced moisture management” is. It’s easy to layer beneath it and the chest pockets allow your phone to be within easy reach for those all-important pics. A bonus is the shirt offers Ultraviolet Protection Factor 40-plus.
7 Teva Women’s Grandview GTX boots, $330
Teva’s boots are just as good as its chunky sandals and this combination of waterproof leather and membrane construction keeps your foot supported and dry, no matter what the conditions. The waffle knit lining is made from 100 per cent recycled polyester.