Gear Guide
We put the latest outdoor clothing and equipment to the test
1. Vango Star 85 Lantern, £11.50
ILOVE cosying up in a tent, awning or campervan and reading or just listening to the sounds from outside and feeling peaceful. For this purpose I own lots of little lights and this lantern from Vango fits the bill in terms of it’s hanging flexibility and the calm light emitted. There are two intensity settings and the frosted cover means it’s a soft glow. The lightweight, plastic cover is robust and has a rotating hook which allows the lantern to be hung from just about anything or it can sit. Being powered by four AA batteries is a bit dated and means you’d need spares but for the price it’s a great buy.
2. Outdoor Research Melody Jacket, £100
THIS fleece-like top makes for the perfect midlayer on colder days, and a top layer on dry, warm ones. The fitted active design allows a great range of movement, and the Activetemp thermoregulating technology is fantastic for strenuous activities in cold weather. The material is a polyester/spandex blend which is fast-drying and wicks sweat away from the body, working to ensure you’re never too hot or too cold. A hidden vent across the shoulders allows for improved air circulation, and the flat seam construction eliminates chafing on particularly exerting hikes.
3. Regatta Oklahoma IV Shell, £130
DECENT waterproof from the budget manufacturers. Worn it on a few hikes and it does keep you dry – which is the main thing! It’s pretty heavy and warm, so I’d suggest it as a colder weather jacket, with layers underneath. Pit zips allow good ventilation and sleeves are nice and long for tucking hands away from the cold and wet. One internal chest pocket and two external hip pockets – all quite wee. Detachable hood, which is adjustable. Looks quite smart but not the most breathable jacket – I got quite damp from condensation without really pushing it, but a good effort for the money.
4. Quechua XL Fresh & Black tent, £89.99
GENERALLY speaking, a pop-up tent is not advisable in Scotland’s changeable weather. The claim by Quechua that this one could withstand winds of up to 50km/h or Force 6, however, intrigued me. I took it to Harris for a week’s camping holiday. It pitched in seconds, and with proper use of the guys and pegs, the tent was a dream. Patented Fresh&black fabric keeps the interior dark even in bright sunlight, and although sold as a two-man tent, the spacious interior could have easily slept three. Although easy to take down, it is bulky to carry so best for trips where you’re not far from the car.