Gear Guide
Putting the latest outdoor clothing, accessories and equipment to test 1. Endura Waterproof Road Overshoe, £29.99
Anyone who cycles in the winter knows the discomfort of overchilled extremities. When it comes to your tootsies, Endura offers a solution in its best-selling waterproof neoprene overshoe. These insulate and protect your feet from the rain and cold and are universally loved by roadies worldwide. I agree. Since acquiring a pair for winter, my feet are now comfy and dry on rides. Not only weatherproof, the neoprene offers a smooth, aero fit. A reflective, offset rear zip makes getting on and off simple plus the aramid synthetic thread makes them robust and long-lasting.
2. Berghaus Parvati Waterproof Jacket, £250
You’d expect nothing less than the best from outdoor gear giants Berghaus, and this waterproof is truly exceptional. Fitted body and long, articulated sleeves with adjustable cuffs, and stiff, robust GORE-TEX fabric – this is a jacket designed for climbing in the worst downpour imaginable; it’ll keep you dry, the peaked hood fits over your helmet, and the fabric stands up well to rock scrapes. The fabric is breathable, but there are no air vents, so don’t wear too many layers underneath. There are only two hip pockets, but these are incredibly deep, and are harness compatible.
3.
North Ridge Ainslie Full Zip Fleece, £45
This is an ideal mid-layer for those days of changeable weather – and for lots of different sports. Its active slim fit and surprisingly windproof polyester material make it the ideal top layer for a run in the cold. The raglan sleeve means there are no shoulder seams to rub under a heavy backpack when hiking and the high collar and thumb-loops are good for tucking into gloves and neck-warmers under your waterproof in really bad weather. It’s a great all-rounder, with two deep hip pockets – ideal for carrying your phone and other essentials when out for a run.
4. Keela ViralOff Neck Tube, £9.95
Neck tubes are a fantastically handy and versatile piece of kit to keep the chill off your face, neck or head during any outdoor activity. Over the years I have accumulated many different types as, for such a simple design, they can be very different. This offering from Keela manages moisture effectively and the ViralOff treatment reduces viruses present on the fabric by 99% after two hours. I found the elasticity to be perfect, not too clingy, yet didn’t fall out of place easily and the thickness gave good protection without being stifling when wearing it over my neck and lower face on a snowy walk.