Gear Guide
Putting the latest outdoor clothing, accessories and equipment to test
1. Vango Aether Camping Chair, £ 39
This chair is part of Vango’s Earth Collection and is made from the equivalent of 12 recycled single use plastic bottles. Reasonably lightweight, the fold-up Aether Camping Chair comes with a carry case complete with shoulder strap for easy transport. Simple to fold out and put away, the Aether is extremely comfortable and perfect for taking camping or just sitting in the garden with friends.
Wrap-around fabric protects from draughts, while the stylish design ensures you still look the part when taking that well-earned break and can be happy in the knowledge of its eco credentials.
2. Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Ins. Jacket, £ 700
When even the coldest, most bitter of weathers won’t stop you going out for a hike, this insulated jacket is a godsend. It is incredibly warm with Helly Hansen’s patented LIFALOFT™ insulation, but breathable too, and has ventilation zips under the arms.
It has been developed with input from search-and-rescue teams, and as such it has a RECCO® Advanced Rescue system transponder built-in. The shell is waterproof and durable, the hood is big enough to go over a helmet, and the cuffs have inner sleeves with thumb loops. An essential for long days in the cold.
3. Vapur Wide- mouth Water Bottle, £ 9.95
Nailing hydration on the move can be tricky, so I’m always happy to try a new bottle or soft flask. The Vapur Wide-mouth looks good and is a flexible product made specifically with active lifestyles in mind.
It can lie flat when empty and be rolled for storing, which is great when space in your pack is tight. The clip attached to it isn’t as strong as I’d like and is quite easy to twist, so I wouldn’t trust it to carry a full bottle on my bag for fear of losing it. The moulded mouthpiece means it is easy and enjoyable to drink from. It’s also BPA free and dishwasher safe.
4. Leatherman Bond Multitool, £ 59.95
Leatherman have always made great quality multi-tools and Bond is no exception.
This version is based on Tim Leatherman’s original invention, made from 100% stainless steel with 14 essential features including needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, Phillips screwdriver, wood/metal file, bottle and can opener and a 6.6cm knife blade.
The perfect compact multi-tool for everyday use, it comes with a heavy-duty black nylon sheath with belt loop – and if you’re willing to pay a bit more you can choose black or heritage leather, and even engraved options.