Latest articles by Matthew Jones
A sturdy 12-point crampon, the Black Diamond Serac is made from high-grade stainless steel that’s ideal for classic mountaineering and winter scrambles
A durable and robust axe, the Grivel G1 Plus is ideal for those in search of a classic alpine-style hillwalking or mountaineering axe
The value-focused DMM Spire undercuts most of the competition in terms of price and performance, but remains a great choice for winter adventures
As its curved shaft suggests, the DMM Spire Tech is a technically capable ice axe, with a modern, lightweight design
Rugged and robust, the Keela Stratus waterproof jacket fearlessly fends off fierce and foul weather
A hybrid hillwalking/mountaineering axe, the Black Diamond Raven Pro is technically capable, with a stylish, modern design for improved steep snow performance
An extremely robust waterproof shell, the ThruDark SF Raid combines superlative build quality with premium fabrics and top-quality components
The great value Alpkit Definition offers fortress-like protection from the elements at around half the price of the premium brands
A lightweight all-season leather mountain boot, the Asolo Piz GV has plenty of technical capability, thanks to a precise feel and reassuring grip underfoot
Impressively capable yet extremely lightweight, the AKU Tengu GTX is a serious mountaineering boot
Lightweight, precise and crampon-compatible, the Hanwag Makra Combi GTX is a scrambling boot ideal for Alpine-style rock routes
A very robust and well-made boot, the Lowa Cevedale Evo GTX strikes a good balance between stiffness and flex
A top-quality Gore-Tex Pro shell, the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 is equipped with all the features we look for in a true winter mountaineering jacket
La Sportiva Trango Tower GTX is a superb boot for winter scrambles and lower-grade mountaineering routes as well as a capable all-rounder
Well-cushioned, luxuriously padded and breathable, the Meindl Air Revolution 4.1 works well for year-round use except for on the most challenging terrain
As far as we’re concerned, the Scarpa Manta Tech GTX – the latest evolution of the brand’s classic B2 mountain boot – is better than ever
An innovative puffer, the Columbia Infinity Summit Double Wall performs well in cold and windy weather
A versatile hybrid puffy, the Helly Hansen Verglas Glacier Down Jacket makes a great winter all-rounder
A high-quality, Italian-made full leather boot, the Zamberlan 1000 Baltoro is a great choice for tackling ridges, scrambles, scree slopes and winter adventures
The warm and chunky Montane Janhukot puffy will see you happily through the winter
The Highlander Lewis synthetic jacket offers a great value insulating layer for hiking, camping and general outdoor use
Big and warm the Patagonia Fitz Roy Hoody is built for use in intensely cold conditions
These best gifts for hikers this Christmas will have them planning epic adventures with gusto for 2022 and beyond
