
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

The best 4-season sleeping bags 2025: cozy bags for year round camping
By Craig Taylor last updated
Our selection of the best 4-season sleeping bags will keep you safe and toasty while camping, no matter how low the mercury

The best ice axes: for tackling frozen terrain
By Matthew Jones last updated
Winter adventures in the hills and mountains require the best ice axe you can get your gloves on

The best running gloves and mitts: for those early starts and late evenings
By Pat Kinsella last updated
The best running gloves and mitts can make going for a brisk run in the freezing season so much more pleasant

The best four-season tents: backpacking shelters to protect you all year
By Craig Taylor last updated
Committed campers need a four-season tent designed and built to cope with any conditions. Here’s our roundup of the best available right now

The best men’s winter boots: stay warm and dry on and off the trails
By Jack McKeown last updated
We put the best men's winter boots through their paces to see how they stood up to the harshest conditions

The best hiking pants: don't let winter slow you down with our top trail trousers
By Pat Kinsella last updated
We tested the best hiking pants and trekking trousers to help you choose the right pair, whether you're facing down the steepest peaks or just out for a woodland stroll

The best synthetic puffer jackets: feather-free padding to keep out the winter chill
By Matthew Jones last updated
We've tested the best synthetic puffer jackets, which offer excellent insulation at a friendly price point

The best hiking backpacks: from the lightest daypacks to sturdy alpine haulers
By Matthew Jones last updated
We've tested the best hiking backpacks to see you through all your winter climbing, fastpacking, and mountaineering adventures

The best camping axes and hatchets: light chopping tools
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our tried and tested selection of the best camping axes and hatchets to take with you to process firewood on camp or on the trail

The best camping knots: for rigging shelters, speedy repairs, hammocks hanging and more
By Matthew Jones last updated
We guide you on how to tie six of the best camping knots to provide plenty of options on your camping trips – because having a bit of knotting knowledge can take you far

KEEN Circadia Waterproof mid hiking boot review: a sturdy, comfortable choice for wide feet
By Matthew Jones last updated
We review the protective and comfortable KEEN Circadia Waterproof Boot mid boot, a great choice as an everyday hiker with its accommodating fit

Best camping knives: folding knives for wild expeditions
By Matthew Jones last updated
Having the best camping knife is crucial if you're spending time in the backcountry, whether at camp or on the trails

The best sleeping pads: comfy mats for all camping trips
By Matthew Jones last updated
Portable and lightweight, these are the best sleeping pads for backcountry escapades and camping vacations

The best sleeping bags: for comfort in camp
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our selection of the best sleeping bags contains a range from lighter options for summer to the most cozy bags for winter

The best camping tents: for superb backcountry adventures
By Pat Kinsella last updated
We round up the very best camping tents, shelters that won't let you down on your vacations and backpacking missions

How to pronounce Welsh place names
By Matthew Jones published
How do you say Bannau Brycheiniog, Yr Wyddfa, Eryri and other Welsh place names? Here’s our short guide to help them roll off the tongue next time you visit Wales

The best down jackets: stay warm when the temperature drops
By Matthew Jones last updated
Our selection of the best down jackets have been tested hard against the winter chill

Rab Andes Infinium 800 Sleeping Bag review: keeping you cozy and dry in even the most extreme conditions
By Matthew Jones published
The seriously warm Rab Andes Infinium 800 Sleeping Bag is a four-season warrior that is even at home at high altitudes in the world’s great ranges

MSR Access 2 four-season tent review: a practical and versatile year-round refuge for two
By Matthew Jones published
The MSR Access 2 offers reliable all-season performance in a lightweight package

Arc'teryx Rho Hybrid Half Zip base layer review: a highly effective combination of man-made and natural fibers
By Matthew Jones published
The midweight Arc'teryx Rho Hybrid Half Zip base layer delivers versatile warmth, waterproofing and comfort while warding off odors

The best crampons: tested for sure-footed traction on frozen terrain
By Matthew Jones last updated
Winter adventures in the hills call for specialist kit, so finding the best crampons for your mountain mission is essential

The best camping saws: portable, lightweight, and effective
By Matthew Jones last updated
We feature the best camping saws that add teeth to your backcountry escapades

Alpkit Colca gaiters review: budget mud shields that still have a lot to offer
By Matthew Jones last updated
Competitively priced and lightweight, Alpkit Colca gaiters are a great value option for hiking and hillwalking, offering good all-round mud and muck protection
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