Gear Guide
We put the latest outdoor clothing and equipment to the test
1. Smartwool Hike Light Ankle Socks, £20.99
FORMERLY known as PHD Outdoor, this range of socks by Smartwool has been upgraded and relaunched for the 2021/2022 winter season, and now features recycled nylon for a more sustainable sock. The body-mapped mesh zones have been updated for increased breathability, and the women’s specific fit makes for a comfortable and supported feel. The range includes crew socks and low ankle socks, but I tested the ankle socks which were perfect in my low-rise walking boots. The extra cushioning is ideal for longer days on the hills and the 55% merino wicks sweat for a clean feel.
2. Vango Radiate DLX Chair, £116
OUTDOOR living in Scotland always risks the chill factor, but Vango’s range of self-heated products brings the cosiness. This jazzy red chair has a heat element at the lower back which is fast acting and very soothing. It’s a gorgeous feeling even when it’s not particularly cold! The frame folds flat for transporting and there’s a handy pocket for your charging block. Overall it’s extremely comfy with padded, durable fabric. The seat reclines right back and can be paired with a footstool for maximum relaxation. The adjustable headrest is a bonus and the only thing missing is a drinks holder.
3. Berghaus Mehan Vented Jacket, £150
AQUALITY hardshell jacket, like this one from Berghaus, is a good, versatile piece of kit to invest in for the winter weather. It is waterproof and windproof with a peaked, adjustable hood, adjustable cuffs and dual adjustment hem, which means it fits perfectly and keeps you dry whatever the weather. If you are like me and often get too hot when active, the breathable stretch fabric and underarm zips help to cool you down and keep the air flowing. Notably, it is also an eco-friendly choice made with bluesign® approved and MADEKIND® fabrics.
4. Black Diamond Big Air XP Package, £30
BACK in my student days I went climbing quite a lot, but over the intervening years and various house moves I got out of the habit and sold most of my kit. This year I decided to get back into the sport, and discovered this belay device and screw-gate carabiner from Black Diamond – the perfect and essential starter pack. The ATC XP belay device is highly popular due to its high friction, which BD say offers three times greater hold than regular devices. The simple design makes it the perfect beginner device, and it is extremely easy, effective and reliable to use.