TRIED AND TESTED

WHAT IS IT? Ariat’s Catalyst VX Defiant 8 Gore-Tex 400g Outdoor Boot. £315. www.ariat.com

I WANT IT BECAUSE: Ariat is a largely equestrian brand from California who have expanded rapidly since 1993 by making really tough shoes for horse and bull riders (they’re big in rodeo) which are also as comfortable as trainers.

USEFUL FOR: With their high ankle support these leather boots are perfect for walking on uneven surfaces such as moors. Waterproof and light, they have a breathable Goretex membrane plus a temperature-managing carbon layer for odour protection.

HIGH POINT: These are serious boots for outdoorsy people, but also so comfortable that I didn’t get any blisters on my first (unexpectedly tough) outing.

LOW POINT: Can be a bit rigid around the lower ankle so break in on the flat.

WHAT IS IT? Heatrub Merino Wool Baselayer. £89. www.zerofit.co.uk

I WANT IT BECAUSE: This Japanese-made base layer has been adopted by sports people for a good reason – it moves with your body and is incredibly soft against your skin.

USEFUL FOR: All sports, plus any outdoor activities. At its best from -10 to +10 degrees.

HIGH POINT: At 75%, the high wool content of this base layer (the rest is 17% Acrylic, 8% Polyurethane) means it’s three times as warm as a conventional base layer. It also has excellent humidity control, absorbs sweat and dries quickly to eliminate ‘cold sweat’.

LOW POINT: You can have any colour you like as long as it’s black or white.