GEAR UP FOR SUMMER

Summer’s on the way! And because we know this is the time of year when most Trail readers love to explore the mountains, we’ve done something a bit different with our 2021 Gear Guide. We’ve booted all of the winter kit out (don’t worry, that’ll get it’s own guide later in the year) and turned this into one great big spring and summer extravaganza; so you can focus all of your attention on stuffing your gear cupboard full of the stuff you need for hillwalking, scrambling and backpacking when the temperatures are up and the days are long. As always, the biggest issue has been whittling the amount of products down to 2021’s magic number of 226, so you can be safely assured that everything featured in this 100-page guide is the very best mountain kit available – from brand-new releases to tried and trusted favourites we’ve been using for years. So flick through, pick out your favourites, and keep checking our website livefortheoutdoors.com for all the latest reviews throughout the year.

Meet your testers... Oli Reed

Trail’s editor is a walker, scrambler and wannabe mountaineer, who’s tested kit from Scotland to the Alps.

Jenna Maryniak

Trail’s deputy editor is happiest when walking in the Lake District, and a big advocate for women’s gear.

Matt Jones

One of our regular gear testers and a self-confessed outdoor kit geek, Matt is based in Snowdonia.

Ben Weeks

Mountain Leader and long-serving Trail senior writer Ben is a huge fan of gnarly, rocky mountain routes.

Sarah Ryan

Mountain Leader, outdoor writer and founder of Wild Walk Home, Sarah’s turned her passion for wild places into a career.

James Forrest

Prolific wild-camper and peak-bagger who spends more time sleeping in the mountains than he does in his own house!

Tom Bailey

Trail’s photographer of more than 20 years has tested more mountain kit to destruction than he can remember.