
Matthew Jones
An outdoors writer and editor, Matt Jones has been testing kit in the field for nearly a decade. Having worked for both the Ramblers and the Scouts, he knows one or two things about walking and camping, and loves all things adventure, particularly long-distance backpacking, wild camping and climbing mountains – especially in Wales. He’s based in Snowdonia and last year thru-hiked the Cambrian Way, which runs for 298 miles from Cardiff to Conwy, with a total ascent of 73,700 feet – that’s nearly 2½ times the height of Everest. Follow Matt on Instagram and Twitter.
Latest articles by Matthew Jones

Tariffs squeezing your budget? We've found the best cheap hiking boots, with top performance and a solid bang-to-buck ratio
By Charlie Lyon published
If you're looking for a bargain to see you through your backcountry adventures, check out our pick of the best cheap hiking boots

The best hiking boots 2025: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices
By Pat Kinsella last updated
Our selection of the best hiking boots, from lightweight trail stars to durable mountain beasts, and all the best buys in between

The best hiking gloves 2025: when the mercury dips, these picks deliver impressive warmth and weather protection
By Pat Kinsella last updated
The best hiking gloves to keep your hands and fingers toasty, whether you're at altitude in summer, or braving super snowy conditions

The best fleece jackets: mid layers to keep you cozy in the backcountry
By Pat Kinsella last updated
We've tested the best fleece jackets to pinpoint the warmest, lightest and most eco-friendly options for your needs

Jetboil vs MSR WindBurner: it's hotting up in the battle of the fast boiling stoves
By Matthew Jones last updated
Jetboil vs MSR WindBurner: We ignite the battle between two of the best regarded all-in-one camping stoves – should you go for Jetboil's MiniMo or MSR's WindBurner?

The best family tents: spacious shelters for the whole tribe
By Alex Foxfield last updated
Our roundup of the best family tents, from standard pole tents to roomy air tents and luxurious glamping setups

What are crampons? We get to grips with these key pieces of mountain kit
By Matthew Jones last updated
What are crampons? We look at their heritage, consider their features, explain their ratings and take a look at correct crampon technique

The best lightweight camping gear: tents, backpacks, sleeping bags and more
By Alex Foxfield last updated
On the hunt for a list of the best lightweight camping gear that keeps the conditions at bay and provides comfort in the backcountry? Look no further

The best base layers: the foundation of your hiking garb
By Pat Kinsella last updated
The best base layers, from merino and bamboo to synthetic and hybrid tops, to keep you warm on your adventures – tested by experts

Down vs synthetic insulation: which is the most sensible purchase?
By Matthew Jones last updated
Down is nature’s best insulator, but how does it compare to modern synthetic fills? It's time for the battle of the puffers: down vs synthetic insulation

How to choose a down jacket: what to consider when selecting the perfect puffer
By Matthew Jones last updated
Knowing how to choose a down jacket will provide you with the ideal insulation for your trips, whether you're after a toasty belay jacket or a subtle gilet

How to choose a sleeping bag: for warm, cozy camping
By Matthew Jones last updated
Knowing how to choose a sleeping bag is vital for any camping trip or expedition – our expert guide explains what you need to look for

How to choose a sleeping pad: for backpacking and car camping
By Matthew Jones last updated
Understanding how to choose a sleeping pad is vital to getting a proper, and warm, night’s rest – read on for our expert guide

Camp cooking: how to cook over a campfire
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our guide on how to cook over a campfire, with tips on building the perfect blaze, useful kit, simple cooking hacks and a selection of tried-and-tested recipes

The best 2-person tents: for backpacking and car camping
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our roundup of the best two-person tents available today will help you select the ideal backpacking or car camping shelter for you and your plus one

The best one-person tents: solo shelters for backcountry epics
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our roundup of the best one-person tents details the finest options for lone wilderness adventures

Whittling 101: whittling tips, tricks and inspiration from our expert
By Matthew Jones last updated
A simple whittling project, such as a wooden spoon, is a superb way to enhance your knife skills while making a genuinely useful tool

How to choose a knife for camping: our expert guide
By Matthew Jones last updated
Knowing how to choose a knife for camping can be a little intimidating if the terminology is alien to you – here, we explain what to look for

How to choose a camping stove: select the ideal burner for your trips
By Matthew Jones last updated
With so many varieties, knowing how to choose a camping stove for your next trip can be taxing – let us be your guide

The best hiking hats: cozy beanies for mountains and sun hats for warmer days
By Pat Kinsella last updated
Our roundup of the best hiking hats gives you a great selection, whether you're after a beanie for warmth, or a summer topper for shade

The best winter hiking boots: for unbeatable performance in the cold
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our selection of the best winter hiking boots, essential for venturing into the mountains on sub-zero adventures

The best budget hiking boots: quality pairs at low prices
By Matthew Jones last updated
We get to grips with the best budget hiking boots around so that you don’t have to splash out to find good performance footwear for the backcountry

The best gaiters for hiking and trail running: rugged leg protection for wet weather adventures
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our pick the best gaiters, tested and recommended for fast-moving trail running and snow-stomping
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