The Gear Guide
We put the latest outdoor clothing and equipment to the test
Tried-and-tested reviews of the best new outdoor gear
Jack Wolfskin Force Striker Texapore Boots, £140
YOU don’t realise how worn your old boots were until you try a new pair, do you? These new synthetic hiking boots from Jack Wolfskin are incredibly well supported for intense hikes, with a Force Plate in the forefoot and Vibram sole to improve stability and absorb shock on descents. Even after some pretty fast scree descents without poles, I didn’t feel the usual knee twinges or sore toes you can get with less support. The breathable Texapore 02+ membrane kept my feet dry from both rain and sweat – even after tramping across a wet bog in a heat wave. All in all, I’m pretty impressed!
Keela Ladies Hydron Softshell Jacket, £149.95
AUTUMN brings falling leaves and temperatures, so packing the right kit for your adventure is vital. This jacket is ideal to have in your pack when you need a little extra protection from the elements, whether you are high on a hill or out in the countryside. It is windproof, water resistant and has an active fit so is perfect for layering without hindering movement. The scooped back stops it riding up and two huge front pockets are great for storing smaller items. The matrix inner material channels air and moves moisture away from the body keeping you dry and comfortable, even on longer days out.
Berghaus A thunder Gore-tex Waterproof, £250
THIS outer shell is just the thing for seriously inclement weather. The fit is tailored, yet roomy enough for layers underneath – and a helmet under the hood, should you need it. Light and comfortable, it’s easy to wear all day, but it really comes into its own in heavy weather. Between the wire-peaked hood and a front zip that reaches up to your nose, you can batten down the hatches completely. It’s not pockmarked with lots of odd pockets, just two enormous hand-warmer ones on the front – usefully simple in the wind and rain. It’s a no-nonsense piece of kit – and all the better for it.
Smartwool PHD® Pro Endurance Socks £29.95
A SUPERB pair of socks from US company Smartwool. They’re lightweight, ideal for warmer weather. The heals, soles and toes have wonderful padding, so these are perfect socks for big days. Wool means they’re much more whiff-resistant than other socks – so you easily get a couple of days out them on overnighters on the hill without offending your pals. I’ve worn these on consecutive 40 and 35km days – they’re fantastically comfortable. Word of warning – wash separately before use. I wore them straight out the pack and after a soaking my feet ended up dyed a lovely blue!