Alpkit Escapade £60

+ Very lightweight, flexible

- Fit won’t suit everyone, no men’s version yet

Ellie had three words when she first tried the Escapades: “So. Much. Stretch!” That’s down to a high proportion of spandex in the soft shell fabric blend, which in turn creates a form-fitting, contemporary cut.

Ellie is a petite size 8 and thought they were a great fit, though some buyers have found them to be fairly generous in the waist but a little tight in the thigh. This might mean you need to size up, depending on how you’re built. But get the fit right and they are both comfortable and flexible, offering superb freedom of movement, with pre-shaped knees to further aid articulation.

They’re made from wind and waterresistant nylon finished with an eco-friendly PFC-free DWR treatment. The 4-way stretch fabric is breathable and fast wicking, ensuring it also dries quickly, just like most sports leggings – the difference is that these are far more robust, making them ideal for hillwalking. They also have a high rise, protecting the lower back from rucksack abrasion and keeping you well covered even when stretching or bending over.

They fasten securely with a zip fly and button closure, and there are four jeansstyle pockets – two small hand pockets and two back pockets – plus a single zipped thigh pocket that will take a phone or compass.