Great Gear Guide
We put the latest outdoor clothing and equipment to the test
The best gear and outdoor clothing reviewed for you
1. Keela Lightning Trousers, £54.95
THIS incredibly light-weight pair of waterproof trousers not only kept me dry, they provided an extra layer of warmth without overheating. Thanks to Keela’s Rainlife 2000 fabric, which is waterproof, windproof and breathable, I could walk around the Isle of Arran in a full day’s rain with ease. Two Velcro adjustable tabs at the ankles and the calfs ensure no water or wind sneaks in above your boots. The retro reflective trim on the back of the legs is an added bonus for walking along the roadside at night. Snap closure side pockets, with access to trouser pockets below, protect belongings.
2. Kalenji Men’s Running Pullover, £17.99
IF you had asked me whether there was a gap in the market for this polo neck sports top, I wouldn’t have said yes. However, now that I’ve got it I wouldn’t want to give it back. With mesh panels running along the sides, up to the armpits and along the backs of the arms, it lets in the fresh air without giving you a chill. The high neck both keeps you warm and blocks any flying mud. Plus, the arms are lovely and long. Unusually for outdoor gear, it’s also so stylish that you can run straight off the trail and into the pub or cafe without attracting any weird looks.
3. Kalenji Women’s Long-sleeved Jersey, £9.99
FOR the price, I wasn’t expecting to like this jersey as much as I do. I first wore it on a run and as it was raining a little, I wore a light waterproof, too. The jersey gave me protection from the winter chill but did not cause me to overheat. I liked that it could zip right up to my chin at the beginning of the run and then I could ease it down as I warmed up. I also used the jersey for yoga and found it very pleasant to keep me cosy until I warmed up and was able to remove it in favour of a vest. The material is soft and it has washed well so far – if I didn’t know better I would’ve thought it cost a lot more.
4. Anatom Cuillin Mountain Boot, £200
ABSOLUTELY solid general mountaineering boots. Billed as “winter hiking boots”, they’re rated as “Q4” under Scots firm Anatom’s own stiffness chart – that equates pretty much to “B2”, which most outdoors folk will be familiar with. I’ve had these on for a couple of decent winter days and I reckon they’re fine up to Grade I terrain. If what you plan are winter hillwalks with the odd simple gully, these will do the job. Designed for the Scottish climate, they’re very warm, comfortable and will keep you dry all day. Weight, 1660g for a pair of size 42, compares with other makes.