Travel test Buy of the week

WHAT: Sebago Clovehitch waxed leather boat shoe, £130, sebago.co.uk

WHERE: Jersey, Channel Islands. EXPERIENCE: You don’t have to go on a boat to wear boat shoes on your travels.

These did a multi-purpose job perfectly for a short break involving absolutely no boats on the largest of the Channel Islands.

My trip involved a fair bit of driving a hire car round the narrow, winding roads and they were ideal for that with smooth but grippy siped soles (I don’t like using heavily ridged shoes on car pedals).

There was plenty of walking involved too, and the light weight of the shoes, with a cushioned midsole, meant no tired feet after a slog around the excellent zoo, a stroll along the vast St Brelade’s Beach or hoofing up and down the rough stone steps of lofty, medieval Mont Orgueil Castle.

And of course, when it comes to dropping in at a nice Jersey bar, hotel or restaurant, you want to keep the smart-casual look afloat, and the stylish-yet-practical Clovehitch ticks that box. QUIBBLES: As with many American footwear brands, you’ll probably need to go up a size. VERDICT: Extremely well made, quality casual footwear. Expect years of comfortable service. 9.5/10

Country walks will never be the same again with this Whitby Hand Warmer – it keeps your hands snug for up to 12 hours.

Fill it with lighter fluid and push the button to activate. It comes in a protective fleece bag and is just the thing for lengthy trips outdoors.

Whitby Hand Warmer, £19.95, whitbyandco.co.uk