GEAR GUIDE

Putting the latest outdoor clothing, accessories and equipment to test

1. Fjall Raven Byron Hat, £ 40

I’m not as disciplined as I should be when it comes to wearing hats – I tend to leave them in my bag. They only come out in extreme conditions, and one of these was a particularly freezing day on the Fife Coastal Path.

Fjall Raven is Swedish for “Arctic fox” so with an Arctic-like wind driving off the sea, this hat was given a baptism of fire but still ensured a cosy trek. However, a hat is a hat and folk might not be willing to spend so much on something you can purchase for less than half the price in a high street retail outlet.

Garry Fraser

1. Keela Youth Munro Jacket, £ 111.96

Clever design, innovative materials and the ability to withstand gales are a prerequisite when it comes to making top-rate jackets.

But for my nine-year-old son, “toasty pockets” is the clincher when deciding if it is any good. This Keela Youth Munro Jacket is top-notch, from its well-fitting hood that doesn’t fall in front of the eyes to a zipper and storm flaps which don’t choke a little one when the weather gets tough.

There is also a security pocket and a couple of chest lpockets which means it is a properly functioning piece of kit.

Nick Drainey

3. Kalenji Run Warm Jogging Tights, £ 9.99

Running has never been my fave way to keep fit. If I don’t have the correct legwear, it’s often uncomfortable. However, these running leggings fit like a glove, so I felt inspired to grab my trainers.

It was freezing outside but over the course of my 20 minute jog, my legs stayed warm and my muscles limber. I didn’t feel too warm either as the wicking fabric took effect. A handy zipped back pocket allowed me to carry my phone and keys.

Hannah Mclaren

4. NG Polar Zendai Black Buff, £ 28.50

This is my fourth Buff neckwarmer and is the most useful of the lot. The 50/50 split between lined and unlined makes it so versatile, especially for the two ways I use it – with the lower around the neck and the rest pulled up around the chin or with the fleece around the ears and the rest up underneath a helmet. The fleece is Primaloft® which adds that layer of comfort and warmth. It dries quickly, feels comfortable, packs small and fits well enough to stay put.

If you haven’t already got a Buff, this is a great place to start. Plus, it’s made from 91% recycled polyester microfibre, which shows excellent eco-awareness.

Alex Corlett