We can build you...

T3’ s outdoors expert advises on the best clothing and gadgets to help you ramble on

Ready to get back to nature with a spot of hiking? Then you need a hiking-kit bag you can shoulder at a moment’s notice

1. Arc’te ryx Zet a LT

This jacket has been created from a new Gore-Tex fabric called C-KNIT. Lightweight (335g), waterproof and compressible, it’ll keep you snug as you walk, delivering impressive wicking and breathability. The ‘ trim fit’ holds the jacket close to your body, while leaving room for layers, and the circular soft knit is rustle-free. The StormHood will keep you covered when it rains, and a laminated inner pocket (there are also two hand pockets with WaterTight zippers) ensures your phone stays dry.

£330, arcteryx.com

20Suunto Traverse

This high-spec, rugged smartwatch is water-resistant to 100m and ideal for hikers, thanks to a plethora of features. These include GLONASS, a satellite-based satnav system that works alongside built-in GPS to keep you on track, plus storm alerts, sunrisesunset times, a digital compass and an integrated flashlight. Plan your hike in advance using the Movescount app, and the watch will guide you once you’re out.

£285, suunto.com

Merrell Capra Mid Sport Gore-Tex Boot

These boots will help you breeze across tough terrain, without compromising on comfort. A Gore-Tex membrane repels moisture while letting your feet breathe, and odour-beating tech keeps those unwanted whiffs at bay. They even look nice enough to wear for a post-hike pint.

£140, merrell.com

Montane Fireb all Verso Pull-On

Ultra-lightweight and reversible, this vibrant number features PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active, offering high levels of breathability and thermal properties. Packable and soft, it’s water-resistant and sports different materials on either side – if you’re warm, turn it inside out for enhanced breathability. Feeling cold and windswept? Swap it around again for protection against the wind.

£100, montane.co.uk

Voltaic Off Grid Solar Backpack

Charge your phone as you walk with this 25-litre, eco-friendly (it’s made from recycled PET fabrics) backpack that recharges a range of devices with its removable six-watt solar panels. One hour of sunlight gives four hours of smartphone use. A potential lifesaver.

£148, cyberenergy.co.uk

Olympus Stylus Tough TG-4

A decent camera is of little use to a hiker unless it’s rugged and weatherproof. Luckily, Olympus has come to the rescue with an affordable camera designed with an innovative system of ‘seals’ that enable it to perform in tough conditions. The TG-4 is waterproof to 15m, freezeproof to -10˚C, shockproof to 2.1m and crushproof rated to 100kg. It takes 16MP images, has a 4x wide optical zoom to capture vast landscapes, and can also shoot video at 1080p.

£350, olympus.co.uk

Serious hikers need serious kit to ensure maximum performance and, of course, safety

Damian Hall