Arc'teryx Beta AR Stormhood Jacket (2023): first impressions 

Since we tested this jacket, Arc'teryx has released an updated version that features PFAS-free Gore-Tex and a new pattern to cut down on waste. For this article, we've tested the previous iteration, first released in 2023.

The story of the Arc'teryx Beta AR actually goes all the way back to the year 2000, with the release of the brand's first "all-rounder" jacket. Various updates over the years have made the jacket lighter, stronger, and more watertight, and with the 2023 edition came the addition of the awesome Stormhood.

Using the ultra-durable Gore-Tex Pro waterproof membrane, this is a hardshell waterproof jacket that's virtually bombproof against wind and precipitation, but relatively light compared to its competition. Arc'teryx Watertight Zippers throughout ensure there are no weak points where water can leak in.

The main talking point is that Stormhood, which is big enough to wear over your ski helmet, but has two cinches at the back to draw it tight when you're just wearing a beanie, and they're big enough to operate with gloves on. A high collar protects your face when it's fully zipped up, though without a helmet, there is a slight gap at either side where some rain or snow gets in if the wind is howling.

The fabric is pliable enough to allow for lots of movement, and while, like any hardshell, it's not the most breathable for summer conditions, it is equipped with pit zips and makes an excellent choice for most mountain pursuits the rest of the year.

The regular cut allows plenty of room for multiple layers, and the design is lower at the back for extra protectio,n which comes in handy if you want to wear it for skiing. The hem is adjustable, as are the cuffs, when you need to call in reinforcements against the weather.

With two hand-warming pockets and an inner chest pocket that's just big enough for the largest Android phones, you'll have plenty of available storage in theory, though the outer pockets become a bit redundant once you're wearing a backpack. This is something a two-way zipper would help with.

As usual, when it comes to Arc'teryx, this jacket is extremely pricey, which does make it out of reach for many. But for the price, you do get the highest quality build, and thanks to the Arc'teryx ReBIRD program, a jacket that should last for decades.

Arc'teryx Beta AR Stormhood Jacket (2023): in the field 

I've been hiking in the Arc'teryx Beta LT jacket for a couple of years, which offers really great, lightweight weather protection, but for the trek to Everest Base Camp, I was aware I'd need more protection, so I took the Beta AR Stormhood.

I made sure to test it out on some rainy hikes in Scotland and the Yorkshire Dales before I left for Nepal, and even though we were quite lucky with the weather on the way to Base Camp, I did end up wearing it against a couple of afternoon thunderstorms and at the highest altitudes over my fleece for wind protection.

I also recently brought it along on a five-day thru-hike in the Lake District, where I ended up wearing it for the last three days against some torrential rain and heavy showers.

Here's how it performed:

Sizing and fit

I tested a Small, which is my usual size. While previous Arc'teryx Beta jackets have proven to be a little roomy on me in that size, I think this is just about perfect. It's not quite as neat as it might be, but I can easily wear it over a base layer and a down jacket, which is most important when it comes to choosing a shell for wintery conditions.

The drop tail covers my bum completely for added protection, the sleeves come to my knuckles, and the collar up to my nose when I'm zipped up. It's not quite as long as the Beta LT, but I think it's more functional at this length and wouldn't change a thing.

Weight and packability

This isn't the lightest waterproof jacket I've tested, but considering it's a three-layer hardshell, it's surprisingly light and packable, which came in handy on the trek to Base Camp, since it mostly stayed packed away inside my backpack and didn't take up too much room.

I've tested lighter waterproofs, such as the Rab Firewall Alpine, but that's meant for milder conditions and moving fast. In build and performance, this is pretty similar to my Mountain Equipment Makalu Jacket, but it is quite a bit lighter, which makes it more appealing for longer expeditions.

Weather protection and breathability

This jacket is nearly bulletproof against the wind, rain, and hail, with one exception, which I'll get to in a moment. I've had it on in a couple of brief but heavy downpours in the Himalayas, but the biggest test was during a five-day, 75-mile trek where I saw a lot of very wet weather and worse it for about eight hours a day.

Despite some intense rain, the fabric hasn't wetted out yet and the hood is pretty fantastic in a storm. I've tested it with my climbing and skiing helmets, and it fits easily over both. Sometimes I find helmet-compatible hoods to be a little too large without a helmet, but this one can be adjusted to be quite snug and cocoon-like, with toggles I was able to adjust while wearing thick gloves in Nepal, and a nice laminated peak to keep the rain out of my eyes.

The only issue, which is one I've found common with helmet-compatible hoods, is that there is a slight gap on either side of my jaw, which I've discovered does let precipitation in if the conditions are especially nasty, and after hiking in heavy rain I did notice that my chest area was soaked through.

Overall, it excels at wind protection, and for the highest days in the Himalayas, where we were dealing with some gusts but also climbing quite vigorously, I found it to be a better choice than pulling on a down jacket. I ended up wearing it for several days of trekking over my fleece in the early mornings and staying quite comfortable.

That said, for milder Scottish summer conditions, it's about as breathable as I expect a hardshell to be, and that's to say it's not very breathable if you're climbing. The pit zips do help, and I've tested worse, but I'd probably choose the LT over this one during the summer months at lower altitudes.

Storage and other details

The hand-warming pockets are nice and deep, so they're functional from that perspective, but as is so often the case, they're not really usable once I've got my backpack on. Fortunately, the inner pocket was plenty big enough for my iPhone, and is just big enough for my new Android, which means I can keep my phone protected but close for pictures.

The other main detail to mention is the addition of a RECCO reflector built into the hood, which has been a feature of the Beta AR since 2020. This won't activate if you get lost or injured in the backcountry, but it could make you more searchable if disaster strikes, and I like to think that every little bit helps out there in the wild.

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Perfect for big day hikes and hut-to-hut treks in all seasons, while being big enough to take everything required for lightweight overnight camping adventures, this versatile gear-hauler is the best hiking pack I have used for many years. The exceptionally well-made Exion 55 is a real all-rounder, offering exactly the right amount of storage space for the vast majority of my outdoor escapades, paired with exceptional functionality, support and comfort.

First impressions

I have long been a big fan of premium British brand Rab, whose apparel offering and kit quality just keeps getting more comprehensive and better every year. I wear the Rab Capacitor Hoody so often people have started making comments and my wife has to convince me to put something different on at least every now and then. The sleeping bags are excellent too, but this is the first Rab backpack I have tried in the field – not least because it’s a new product category for the Derbyshire based brand, named after Scottish climber and alpinist Rab Carrington.

The Exion is available in several sizes, but I chose to trail-test the 55-liter version. When they feature compression straps (as the Exion does), I love the versatility offered by packs of this size, which are ideal for big one-day outings when you’re with the family – especially in spring and fall when waterproof jackets, rain pants, fleeces and puffers might be needed, but it’s too warm to wear them from the trailhead – and can also swallow everything required for a lightweight overnight or multiday adventure, including a sleeping bag, camping mat, backpacking tent and stove.

Suffice to say, I was looking forward to getting out in the wilds and testing the handsome-looking Exion 55, to see how it would perform compared to the most capacious daypacks and best hiking backpacks on the market. Spoiler: I wasn’t disappointed. But read on for details about what I did and didn’t love about this versatile pack.

Design and materials

The first thing to note is that the Rab Exion is available in several sizes and styles, including some specifically aimed at women, with an ND (narrow dimension) design tailored to fit more comfortably, and this includes a version of the 55L pack.

A central part of the design of all the Exion packs is Rab’s easily adjustable V-TRAX carry system. This is comprised of a supportive thermoformed harness mounted on a featherlight 6mm aluminium frame, and is made with dual densities of foam to spread the load, provide well-cushioned support where it’s required and minimize contact with your back, thus reducing rubbing and sweating.

The hipbelt, which has generous pockets, is tightened by pulling the straps forward, which is much easier and more effective than yanking belts to the side. There are huge mesh side pouches on this pack, perfect for carrying water bottles, but the Exion also has a dedicated compartment for hiking with a hydration bladder, complete with a hang loop and hose portals.

The versatility of the Exion pack is one of its greatest strengths, and the compression straps on the side mean you can increase and reduce the size and volume of this pack to suit the adventure you’re on, and according to the amount of gear you’re hauling. The extendable hood delivers an extra 5L of additional storage space if you need it, and boasts three pockets, one internal and two external, all of which zip shut. There are also hoops, loops and toggles on the exterior for carrying trekking poles and ice axes.

One of the best features on the Exion pack, though, is a large U-shaped front zip, which allows you to access the main compartment and find whatever it is you're looking for without emptying everything else out by the side of the trail. There is also a large mesh pouch on the front of the pack, where waterproofs can be stashed wet or dry. One thing to be conscious of, though, if you’re using this pack while travelling, is that it does make it quite easy for thieves and pickpockets to access it during bus and train rides.

On the trails

I have been using the Rab Exion 55 backpack during big day walks along the coast and cliffs close to where I live, on the South West Coast Path, and for multiday adventures whilst wild camping on Dartmoor, as I’ve been researching walking routes for a new book.

It has excelled in both capacities – as a large daypack and as a modest-sized overnight hiking pack that forces me to be frugal with what I take, thus enhancing the enjoyment of my outings. The carry capacity can be dialled up or down really easily, according to the kit required on any given mission, thanks to a clever combination of compression straps, mesh pouches on the front and sides, and the incredibly capacious hood.

Although the hood - which boasts two exterior zipped pockets plus an interior one - offers loads of storage space, it never bumped against the back of my head, even when I had it fully loaded (something that has happened, annoyingly, with other packs I have used over the years).

On day walks I can keep the Exion nice and tight to my body, but when I need it to load it up for a bigger escapade, it comfortably swallows my Jetboil stove, MSR Hubba Hubba tent, Therm-a-Rest camping mat, sleeping bag and enough food and supplies to keep me warm and fed for several days exploring hills, tors and moors.

In my experience, while the V-TRAX carry system allows your back to breathe beautifully, the full-contact wrap-around harness and hip wings provide excellent levels of support. It's extremely easy to pull the waist belt nice and tight, to lift the bulk and weight of the load into the most comfortable position for efficient hiking, and the fully adjustable sternum strap completes the set-up in seconds.

It's possible to reach water bottles stored in the angled side pockets without removing the pack, but I took full advantage of the hydration reservoir carry capacity, which means you can haul plenty of H2O in the most balanced way.

Little touches like the emergency whistle on the chest strap and the emergency instructions on the inside of the hood are great, although, to be picky, I would have like to see a Recco reflector included for the price of this pack. My only other complaint is that it's not made (so far as I can see) with any recycled material. All up, though, this is an excellent pack for all kinds of hiking adventures, and it has been robustly made, so I look forward to taking it on many more escapades.

Patagonia Torentshell 3L: first impressions

I first tested this shell in the Lake District, right at the cusp of autumn where the weather turns wet and those warm, dry days of summer seem to fade to distant memory. The jacket certainly was put through its paces as we began the ascent of Harrison Stickle and the heavens truly opened. Knowing that even the most technical jacket would not long withstand this kind of deluge, I pulled over the hood, cinched every cord that i could, opened the pit zips and begrudgingly trudged upwards.

With a very simple aesthetic, the Torrentshell runs light on the features you may see on higher spec shells. However there are a number of quality of life improvements from the 2.5 layer version.

The central zip runs very smooth and has a storm flap to prevent moisture entering. It features a micro-fleece lined neck which again helps take away that clammy feeling. The hood can be rolled down and clipped in whilst also remaining suited for a helmet, being adjustable both at the neck and the peak of the head with a stiff front which allows rain to roll off. I did, however, find the toggles for the hood and hem to be somewhat unintuitive and almost impossible to adjust whilst wearing gloves.

There are two zippered hand warmer pockets on the lower half which boast an impressive amount of room. However I would have really appreciated internal or chest pockets, as the lower pockets were obstructed by my backpack hip belt. Climbers won't find this to be an issue, but if you're hiking in it, you may find this frustrating.

Fit and appearance

For my build the Torrentshell fits slightly on the slim side, but thankfully still gives enough room underneath for a decent sized warm layer. I'm 6ft 2in (1.88m), I was wearing an XL, and it proved long enough to give me freedom of movement and avoid exposing any skin when stretching either legs or arms.

The coat retains the simple look of the earlier 2.5 layer iteration, with small but effective zips and clasps often hidden behind folds. Patagonia offers a plethora of colour choices, with options for either a single block colour or a two tone design.

I liked the Cascade Green colorway, but perhaps while out in the hills a colour that blends less with the surroundings would be the wiser choice for the sake of visibility. The shell utilises a 50 denier fabric that feels flexible and rarely clammy against your skin, giving a good balance of comfort and durability.

Weight and packability

Coming in at 15.5oz (438g) for the XL version, the jacket certainly isn't the lightest on the market. However, its a decent weight, given its price point for a mid range shell and I never felt the jacket was a burden, whether worn or packed away.

The jacket can be packed into its left hand pocket, which uses a smart two-way zip, but found this feature to be slightly too bulky given the size of the pocket and opted to revert to the more versatile method of just stuffing it into my backpack instead. In comparison to the earlier 2.5L version, the fabric of the jacket is exceptionally malleable throughout, meaning that despite the weight the jacket is perfectly suited to be pushed into a pack bottle-holder or other equivalent space.

Waterproofing and breathability

Patagonia has used its own membrane in the 3-layer design, which has undergone its in-house H2No performance standard testing, so there's no hydrostatic head listed for this jacket.

As a brand that stands upon its efforts towards sustainability, this performance testing has allowed the brand to move away from Gore-Tex and its historic use of PFAS.

In torrential rail, it wasn't long before the shell wetted out. However in brief showers or even a consistent drizzle I found the jacket to perform very well, remaining comfortable and avoiding the 'slimy' stuck to the skin feeling I've experienced with Gore-Tex equivalents.

Where I really struggled with this jacket was in breathability. With a 3-layer construction I found that on strenuous ascents I was forever wondering whether the wet was coming from the inside or the outside!

There are two 12in (30cm) pit zips built into the shell to help you dump heat, but I could honestly feel little, if any, tangible difference even when both were fully open. Admittedly, I always run on the warmer side while hiking and have yet to find a shell that truly balances waterproofing with breathability. Happily, I did find that the coat dried very quickly when we were afforded breaks in the rain.

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First impressions

The Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes are the latest release from Adidas Terrex, designed to compete with established names in the hiking world like Merrell, Keen, and Salomon.

Unlike other Skychaser models, the AX5 hiking shoes aren't built for extreme conditions. Instead, their ripstop uppers prioritize comfort and breathability, so you can take on hot summer treks without overheating.

Inside, your feet are greeted by soft and supportive OrthoLite foam sockliners and bouncy EVA foam midsoles. This extra cushioning felt great right out of the box, and really came into its own on long, sweaty hikes, when my feet may have otherwise been aching.

Like most Adidas Terrex models, the AX5s feature Continental rubber outsoles. Although they don't have the same pedigree as Vibram, I've been consistently impressed by Continental rubber. These outsoles prove just as effective as their big-name competitors, digging into uneven ground to provide ample support on the trails.

Adidas Terrex Skychaser: on the trails

I got a hold of the latest Adidas Terrex hiking shoes a couple of months ago, and have been putting them to the test ever since.

I've worn the AX5s over plenty of short- and long-distance treks through the English countryside, in all manner of weather conditions.

Here's how they got on:

Fit and comfort

The Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes are superbly comfortable, on par with some of the best hiking shoes I've ever tested and noticeably cosier than similar Terrex models like the Gore-Tex Skychasers.

The OrthoLite sockliners wrap your feet in a chunky layer of cushioning, which felt great on the trails, and provided some much-appreciated support around my heels. The EVA foam midsoles are also excellent and felt bouncy as I navigated hikes of all distances.

The unrestrictive ripstop mesh uppers were noticeably breathable on hot days, when I would usually be troubled by overheating feet.

One of my few gripes with previous Terrex shoes is their slightly narrow toe boxes, which got a little restrictive as I racked up the miles. I'm pleased to report that this isn't an issue with the Skychaser AX5s, which feature a wide and accommodating toe-box that allows for plenty of movement.

They also fit true to size, cushioning my feet without ever feeling too tight as I trudged through the countryside.

Weight

At 4.5oz (411g) per shoe (Men's US size 9.5 / UK size 8.5), the Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes are a fairly lightweight option for summer hiking.

They're lighter than most models with more protection and heavier waterproof uppers, but not breezy enough to be considered superlight weight.

The Skychaser AX5s didn't weigh me down at all on the trails, and did a great job of minimizing bulk without sacrificing comfort.

Grip

The aggressive Continental Rubber outsoles are a great for dusty trails and uneven surfaces, and served me very well on the steep hills and rocky pathways of the English countryside. Their aggressive lug formations dug into all manner of trails and successfully kept me from falling over many miles of long-distance hiking.

I was also surprised by their excellent performance in wet weather. Due to the lack of waterproofing, I had expected the outsoles to perform worse when the heavens opened, but this wasn't the case. Instead, they seemed at home over muddy, waterlogged trails and maintained excellent grip throughout.

This pair's flexibility also stood out. While they're not the bendiest hiking shoes I've ever worn, the Skychaser AX5s offer a good deal of flex and proved their mettle on steep sections.

Protection from the elements

These hiking shoes are designed for heavy use in dry climates and lack the protection of other models, with different uppers.

They're not waterproof, and when the heavens open, the chassis gets very wet, very quickly. The ripstop uppers offer little resistance against rainfall, and the OrthoLite sockliners, which provide excellent support in the sun, soak up moisture when it's raining.

Put simply, you don't want to get caught in the rain wearing the Skychaser AX5s. If it's light, they'll dry off in a few minutes, but heavy rainfall can stick in the sockliners, weighing you down and making for a damp, unpleasant trekking experience.

If you're after a waterproof pair, it's worth checking out the Gore-Tex Skychaser hiking shoes. They're not as comfy, but provide great protection from the elements and scored highly in my review for Advnture.

This shoe doesn't offer much to protect your feet from trail debris. The ripstop mesh uppers are pretty thin, and the heels were designed with comfort, rather than protection, in mind.

That said, the firm rubber toe caps are a nice touch, and could come in handy if you're traversing unpredictable terrain.

Price

At $100 (£85), the Skychaser AX5 hiking shoes provide great value for your money and are far cheaper than similar models on the market. If you're hiking in a dry climate or after some shoes for the summer, the AX5s are an absolute bargain.

For comparison, the Danner N45 hiking shoes, which are a tough and similarly non-waterproof pair built for dry trails and summer hiking, will set you back $200 (£158.83). They also received a far worse review when I put them to the test for Advnture.

• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear
• How Advnture tests products

Leki should need little introduction. Few outdoors brands have managed to gain such a monopoly on its principal area of expertise. Since founder Karl Lenhart invented the Leki Fix in 1963, the brand's domination of the trekking poles market has been such that poles are often referred to as ‘Lekis’, even when they’re not Lekis. It’s the brand’s reputation for innovation and quality that has led to this position at the forefront of the market.

When Reinhold Messner and Peter Habeler, two of the world’s greatest ever mountaineers, became the first people to summit Everest without supplementary oxygen, they did so with Leki poles. Fast forward to today and the brand has over 250 patents due to its continuous innovation.

As exemplified by Messner and Habeler, Lekis have long been a favorite of mountaineers and the Skysolo FX.One Carbon is designed to continue this tradition. Lightweight, yet offering trademark stability, it’s part of the Skytera series, developed alongside leading alpinists, including Italian high-altitude mountaineer Tamara Lunger and Swiss guide Dani Arnold. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to test a pair this year, taking them on my hiking adventures in Britain’s modest but challenging uplands.

First impressions

I’d previously tested the Leki Makalu FX Carbon and the Cross Trail Lite Carbon poles and the first thing that struck me about the Skysolos was how light they are. I was testing the 44in (110cm) versions and weighed them at just over 6oz (177g) per pole, as opposed to the Makalus, which are 8.5oz (243g) each, and the Cross Trails, 7.5oz (213g). In fact, the Skysolo weighs less than many running poles.

The Skysolo (perhaps someone at Leki is a Star Wars fan and decided to merge character names here) features the same clever ELD (external locking device) folding system as the Makalu, which makes assembling and folding the pole away an absolute doddle. It seems the force is strong with this one.

However, a key difference between the Skysolo and both the Makalu and the Trail Lite, as well as its sister model – the Skytera FX Carbon SL – is that the Skysolo is fixed length, so it’s important to get the right size from the off. If you’re unaware of your ideal pole length, try before you buy. The Skysolo comes in 2in (5cm) increments between 43 and 53in (110cm and 135cm).

Aesthetically, the pole has a clinical, modern look. Its off-white body contrasts with the black grip and bottom section, with orange detailing on the shaft. At various points on the pole are little feature descriptions, as if the pole was an advert for itself: 'Shaft Material PRC 1000 Carbon' and 'Last Segment W/O Design for Fast and Easy Exchange'. It feels great in the hand and I really liked the fuss-free grip and strap.

Fast folding

Back in the day, trekking poles were all one big piece – tip, shaft and handle. This was fine for doing Gandalf impressions but less than ideal for stashing into a small daypack or attaching to a hydration pack. Telescopic poles were one answer to this. These were poles made of several segments that slotted neatly into each other, just like a classic telescope. Ahoy there!

However, these days, foldable poles are all the rage and here Leki uses an innovative ELD locking system to achieve a super straightforward assembly and folding process.

There are four segments: the handle and upper shaft are telescopic, with the upper section sliding into the handle when the locking mechanism is released. The other segments are tethered together by a flexible wire and, when separated, fold into a compact 14in (36cm) package.

This is impressively small and will delight the kind of outdoor enthusiasts who count every gram, measure every item and do an expedition-style kit lay on their bedroom floor for the benefit of their Insta followers – even if they're just walking the dog.

To assemble the pole, all I had to do was pull the handle segment away from the upper shaft. This tensions the internal locking system, bringing everything into place and snapping the segments together. It's a design that's been doing the rounds for a while, but to this day it still seems like magic.

To release the pole and fold it back up, it's simply a case of pressing in the locking clamp and voilà! Done. The speed at which all this can be achieved will please FKT hunters and trail runners alike.

Other features

Carbon is the key ingredient when it comes to the Skysolo's light weight. The main segments are all crafted from this featherweight but immensely strong material, while the durable tips are also forged from carbide.

The grippy handle is made from a lightweight foam that's soft to the touch, designed for long-lasting comfort. There's a relatively straightforward strap here too, which can be adjusted with a strong pull. This opens up the strap's plastic housing, which you can then click back into place once you've got your desired loop size. I like the simplicity of the strap and it seems to shed moisture well, too.

The Skysolo poles come with standard baskets above the tips. These aren't the widest, though they can be exchanged for others if you decide to take on more challenging, snowy terrain.

On the trails

I've been testing the Skysolos throughout the spring and summer on my various hiking escapades in England's Southwest and the Lake District National Park, as well as in Welsh national parks Eryri (Snowdonia) and the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). Their portability and featherlight design made them an easy choice for my adventures.

Their light weight doesn’t necessarily mean a compromise in performance or durability, though time will tell how they compare to heftier poles in the long-run.

Nevertheless, I found the Skysolos were just as capable as the many more beefy poles I've tested in the past. The Verticon grip is comfortable for mile after mile and I much preferred the fuss-free strap to the golf glove complexity of Leki's Cross Trail Lite. The carbide tips provided decent grip on various terrains and I'm yet to see any signs of significant wear.

The ease with which the poles can be transformed into action mode and then stashed away again is a huge plus. It's so easy that I can do it with my eyes closed, assembling the pole and then folding it up again in less than 10 seconds.

The disadvantage of a fixed length pole is the inability to shorten it slightly for long uphill slogs and lengthen it for the downhills. I'm generally not someone who is too fussed by this, but I know some trekkers who like to make these micro-adjustments when faced with changing gradients. It does, however, make the Skysolo a little less versatile than its slightly more expensive sibling, the Skytera FX Carbon SL. Of course, you also need to make sure you buy the size that best suits you.

Leki has prioritized weight and portability here, so it's unlikely to be quite as bombproof as heftier aluminum poles. Time will tell how long the Skysolo continues to serve me as well as it has so far.

Also consider

Comparison table

First impressions

Buff (best known for creating innovative and multifunctional tubular headscarves that have become synonymous with the brand), have taken the next step, leaping into the footwear market with a new range of hiking socks and trail-running socks.

I recently reviewed Buff’s CoolNet Crew Running Socks, which are made with a real minty twist to keep them fresh, and I was genuinely impressed with how they performed on the trails, so I was looking forward to testing these ‘merino’ hiking socks. (Well, ‘merino’ is how they are described – when I dug a little deeper I discovered that less than a quarter of the content actually came from sheep, with the rest being derived from fossil resources – some of it recycled).

Such slight sleights of hand by the marketing people aside, my first impression of these socks was good: they are well designed, with a cool pattern, several interesting colorways (both legacy features of the brand’s approach to their head tubes / neck gaiters), and the left/right specificity means the support is in all the right places. The socks are true crew length, and felt comfortable from the very first time I put them on, with nice arch support and flat seams.

Style & materials

Anyone who has been paying any attention at all to outdoor apparel for the last couple of decades (at least) knows full well the benefits and subsequent appeal of merino wool. It’s a magic material that feels lovely, deals with moisture magnificently, breathes beautifully and – crucially – can deal with the bad smells that often accumulate on adventure kit.

All of this makes is perfect for use in socks, except for the fact that it has a tendency to fall apart after a bit, not least because socks get knocked around a lot. So, almost every brand mixes them with fabrics like polyamide and polyester, to ensure you get more than a few months use out of your (relatively expensive) socks.

All of this is fair enough, but the way the material cocktail is mixed varies from brand to brand. Here, Buff’s designers have gone with 22% merino wool (which will continue to bring many of the benefits mentioned above to the party), along with polyamide (comprising almost half of the overall content), plus some recycled polyester (27%), and a splash of elastane. All of these materials have benefits – the poly fabrics are really tough, don’t absorb much water and dry out very quickly, while the elastane helps the socks to keep their shape, to stay in place (instead of bunching up) and provide support to parts of the foot that need it.

Overall it’s a really good mix, supplying a pleasing combination of comfort, performance and enough toughness to ensure many miles of excellent service, making these socks a good buy. I’m just not sure the name tells the real story, and one area where the relatively low amount of merino content might start to have a more negative impact is with long-term odor control.

On the trails

I have been wearing Buff’s LW Merino hiking socks while walking sections of the South West Coast Path, during day hikes exploring woodlands and wild areas, and on multiday backpacking and wild camping adventures on Dartmoor.

I have found these socks to be supremely supportive and extremely comfortable, whether you’re wearing them for an hour or for several days on the trot, and these two factors are easily the most important considerations when rating a hiking sock, so full marks there.

I also really like the true crew length, which reaches to the shin and provides support and protection to your lower leg (especially when wearing hiking shorts), whether you’re pairing them with walking shoes or hiking boots, fending off gnarly undergrowth and unwelcome wildlife encounters with things such as ticks.

The poly content in the material mix means you can tackle stream crossings and walk in the rain, and even if the socks get damp, they don’t hold onto water or become heavy, and they dry out fast.

Nicely designed and robustly made, they haven’t shown any signs of wear and tear yet, and should survive several years of regular rambling activity. My only real concern is that, over time, they will start to accumulate odors due to the relatively low level of merino content.

Also consider

In the market for some tough new hiking boots to help you take on soggy fall trails? Take a look at the latest pair from outdoors brand Danner, featuring grippy Vibram outsoles and waterproof Gore-Tex exteriors to protect your feet from the rain.

The new N54 hiking boots are Danner's answer to damp fall and early winter conditions, designed to keep you dry and comfortable over mile after mile of tricky trails.

Design

The chunky new Vibram outsoles boast Traction Lug and Megagrip technology, designed to dig into tricky terrain and improve stability as you move. The Gore-Tex uppers were also built for trying conditions, and aim to protect your feet from rainfall without holding on to water or weighing you down.

Inside the shoes, large EVA foam midsoles are designed to absorb blows as you walk, while a TPU rock plate provides added stability.

Price

All this protection doesn't come cheap, and the N54 hiking boots will set you back a whopping $250 on the Danner website (they're not yet available in the UK). Danner footwear is usually a little pricier than its competitors, but these boots go beyond the norm.

In comparison, the best overall pair in our guide to the best hiking boots costs just $165 (US) / £130 (UK). The Merrell Moab 3 boots also feature Gore-Tex uppers and Vibram outsoles, but cost far less than the latest Danner boots.

Danner

We've reviewed plenty of models from Danner in the past and been very impressed with models like the Jag 2 and Mountain 600, but have been left wanting more from recent releases like the N45 hiking shoes.

• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices
• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers

Tired of overheating feet and stuffy hiking shoes? Why not try a pair of sandals on your next trek?

Although they're not as popular as the best hiking boots and shoes, hiking sandals can offer similar levels of grip, and don't suffer from the same breathability issues as their often chunky counterparts. They're also typically great for coastal hiking, and water-to-land sections where your feet are bound to get wet anyway.

If you like the sound of that, then you should check out this epic 40% off deal on an iconic pair of hiking sandals. The men's Keen Newport H2 sandals are a tough and breathable hiking option, and they're now available for just $78 at Backcountry.

These sandals are made from a dependable combination of polyester uppers and EVA foam midsoles, which impressed hiking expert Julia Clarke when she put them to the test for her review in Advnture.

"The protection these sandals offer against trail hazards or rocky river beds is really great and much better than I anticipated, on par with a regular hiking shoe or any water shoe," says Julia, who was also keen on the grippy rubber outsoles.

"Given that these are sandals, I was impressed by the grip and stability of these shoes on a hike," she continued.

Not in the US? Don't worry, you can look below for today's best Newport H2 sandals deal where you are.

• The best hiking sandals: breezy footwear for casual walks
• The best water shoes: gear up for wild aqua adventures

Rab Firewall Alpine Waterproof Jacket: first impressions 

If you're in the market for a high-performing waterproof jacket for hiking and climbing, it makes sense to buy from a British brand since no one knows more about rain than the Brits. Rab has put all its expertise into this fine piece of gear.

The Rab Firewall Alpine is built for fast and light adventures where you're likely to come up against the worst of the weather. Made using a three-layer Pertex Shield construction, it performs as well as any hardshell, holding off a heavy downpour or a strong wind, while the peaked hood protects your face. There's no added stretch, but the fabric has some natural give, which allows for freedom of movement if you're wearing it for an expedition that involves climbing or scrambling.

The hood is easy to secure thanks to a toggle adjustment at the back, and stays up in a gale thanks, in part, to the protective high collar.

Despite its impressive wet-weather protection, it's highly breathable if you're wearing it on the move, and for milder conditions, easy-to-open underarm venting zips help you quickly dump heat.

It's one of the lightest jackets we've ever tested, so you won't notice it when you have to wear it all day, and it rolls up small enough to fit into your backpack or running vest when you're carrying it.

Because the goal is lightweight protection, the brand has foregone a bunch of pockets, opting instead for just one well-placed chest pocket that's deep enough for any smartphone. It's easy to reach when you're wearing a pack, and the two-way front zipper gives easy access to pockets and gear underneath the jacket.

It's a robust piece of kit that's likely to replace your favorite waterproof, and though it's pricey by most people's standards, it's actually on the more budget-friendly end of waterproof jackets we've tested.

Rab Firewall Alpine Waterproof Jacket: in the field 

After swearing by my Montane Phase Lite jacket for the past four years, I received this jacket to test just as summer weather rolled in. I wore it for a hiking and yoga retreat in the Swiss Alps, where it was surprisingly useful, and carried it (or wore it) on every summer hike in Scotland and in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, where I've been able to test it out against heavy downpours and light sprinkles.

Sizing, fit and comfort

I tested a UK 8, which, according to the label, is an XS in the US. I'm somewhere between a small and an XS, depending on the brand, but I'm glad I went with the smaller size as it fits me really well. It's neat enough not to be annoying, but there's still room for my fleece underneath.

I wouldn't say it's overly long, but it just covers my bum for a little extra protection, and the sleeves are long enough to hide my hands if I don't want to wear my gloves. They're not overly long, and they have hook-and-loop fastenings for adjustability.

When it's zipped up, the collar is high, so my face gets loads of protection against the wind. And the hood doesn't blow down, which is essential in Scotland.

Waterproofing and breathability

Because it's not a hardshell, I wasn't necessarily expecting it to be such a powerhouse against a deluge, but that's exactly what I've experienced.

On my first evening wearing it, I was walking through Verbier, and one of those evening alpine thunderstorms rolled in. I got absolutely hammered on my sprint home, but when I got indoors, I was shocked to see that I was bone dry on the inside. Like any waterproof, it would eventually wet out if I were in conditions like that for hours, but the Pertex membrane and watertight construction have yet to let me down on the trail.

I've been testing this in mild conditions because it's been summer, so I've had ample opportunity to expose any flaws in breathability, and I can't find any. I've worn it for a few hikes from start to finish and with the pits unzipped, I've been very comfortable.

Weight and packability

Montane has already released a light version of this jacket – the Firewall Light – and while it is heavier to make it more robust against summit conditions, we're only talking grams. This jacket doesn't feel flimsy, but it's very lightweight – a hair lighter than my Phase Lite and heavier only than my Kathmandu Trailhead Stretch, but the latter doesn't offer the same level of weather protection.

I can squish the Alpine Firewall down to about the size of my water bottle and squeeze it into my pack, whether I'm hiking with a light 20L day pack or a 33L with more gear.

Storage and fastenings

One of the reasons this jacket is so light is that it only has one pocket, which some might view as a downside, but it doesn't bother me.

We've been trained to expect hand warming pockets on jackets, but the moment you fasten the hip belt on your backpack, they're totally pointless. So Rab has done away with them here and just included a zipped chest pocket where you can keep your phone for easy access – that's all I want.

The front zipper is two-way, so if you do use your hand warming pockets on your mid layer, you'll be able to access without having to completely unzip in a rainstorm. Plus, there's an extra popper at the bottom for more protection.

You can tighten the cuffs with hook-and-loop fastenings, while toggles on the back of the hood and hem mean you can cinch everything in tight, though the neat fit has meant I haven't had to.

Also consider

Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

First impressions

The first thing you notice about the Skien Valley Cargo hiking pants from US brand Columbia is how light the long-legged pants feel, whether you’re picking them up or putting them on, which bodes well for a garment intended to be worn in warmer months.

Previously, when testing Columbia trekking pants such as the Silver Ridge convertible trousers, I noted how the leg length was short, even before you transformed them into hiking shorts. Columbia conceded this was true, and started advising buyers to order a size longer than they would normally.

So, when I first tried on the Skien Valley Cargo strides, I was surprised to find the same problem persisted. Not only is it disappointing to see that the brand hasn’t addressed the issue, it’s actually a more serious draw back with this model, because no matter how effective the Insect Shield treatment is, mosquitoes and midges are going to target ankles, especially if they’re temptingly exposed. While the pants feature a draw cord at the ankle hem, it’s of little use if there's still bare skin between the sock and trouser.

Of course, once you’re aware of this, you can factor it in and order a size with a longer inside leg (inseam) than you would normally wear. Although, that still leaves tall folk at a disadvantage. So, Columbia designers, if you’re listening, why not design an extended leg for future Insect Shield trousers in the same way some fleece tops and waterproof jackets have an extra-long back panel to stop them from riding up and exposing skin?

This aside, there seem to be plenty of good features on the Skien Valley pants, including several vents backed by mesh to stop bugs from getting in, the aforementioned draw cord on the bottom of the legs, and plenty of pockets on both the men’s and women’s versions. So, I was looking forward to trying them out.

Design and materials

Made from 100% recycled polyester (credit where credit’s due, Columbia), these pants are well designed for hiking in hot weather. They have mesh on the inside of the pockets and vents backed by mesh in various places, including around the knees, to prevent those pesky bugs getting in.

The Skien Valley cargo pants are part of Columbia’s new Insect Shield collection, which means the fabric has been impregnated with an insecticide called permethrin, a repellent that stuns – even kills – biting insects such as mosquitoes and midges, which can be dangerous as well as annoying. You can either combine such protection with the application of spray-on insect repellents, or if you don’t like dousing yourself in DEET and other chemical-based potions, wrap yourself head-to-toe in light clothing, using long socks and base layers to cover up completely.

Aside from waging chemical warfare on insects, Columbia’s product designers have put a lot of thought into how to make these pants as pest-proof as possible. The lighter colorway is less attractive to insects and the draw cords on the trouser cuffs mean you can pull the treated material in close to your ankles – that's if you have gone for a size with sufficiently long legs, but more of that below.

The Skien Valley trousers come with a belt – always a mixed blessing, since such inclusions are rarely great quality, and true to form, the belt here is very basic. It's also hard to undo, but it’s not integrated, so you can replace it with a better one.

A proper positive, however, is the number of pockets these pants have, even on the women’s version, which is a rarity. On the men’s pants, there are a pair of hand pockets, cargo pouches on each thigh – one with an additional zipped pocket above it – and two back pockets, again one with a zip for extra security.

Besides acting as a shield from biting insects, the material offers UPF 50 protection from the sun, and boasts Omni-Wick properties, so sweat travels outwards and evaporates.

On the trails

Hiking and camping in the late days of summer can be sensational, but on still evenings the experience is often ruined by the arrival of midges, mosquitoes and other biting bugs. Gear in Columbia’s Insect Shield collection, including these pants, promise to protect you from such annoyances. But beyond that, these lightweight trousers are also designed to be comfortable and functional for hiking escapades from late spring through to early autumn.

I have spent this long and unusually hot summer testing out the Skien Valley trousers while hiking on Dartmoor and in the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, to see how they perform.

The pants are deliberately offered in pale colorways, which research shows makes them less attractive to insects. This might be true, but if I’m honest it makes them less attractive to me too, and I suspect I’m not alone in this. The pair I have been testing – supposedly ‘Dark Stone’, but more cream-colored to my eyes – looked grubby within an hour or so of being on the trails. Not the end of the world, but I prefer hiking pants that don’t need laundering after every single wear.

On a much more positive note, the lightweight fabric and multiple vents mean that the Skien Valley trousers feel nice and cool to wear, even when hiking during the multiple heatwaves that we perspired through this year.

I can’t actually recall ever wearing a lighter or more breezy pair of pants in my life, and that felt great when I was on exposed parts of moors and mountains in the full glare of the sun. On that note, the UPF 50 sun protection totally protects your legs from sunburn, and if you do manage to work up a sweat, the moisture effectively gets wicked away by the material, and quickly evaporates.

I also loved all the pockets. The hand pockets are a little shallow, so you need to be careful your phone or whatever you're carrying doesn’t fall out when sitting on boulders or moorland, but there are plenty of other pouches for putting important things in. Two have zips and the others have Velcro tabs.

In terms of the insect protection, I endured several evenings, especially in the Wicklow Mountains, when the midges (no-see-ums) were out in force. These pants, along with the Skien Valley shirt, hoody, light jacket and Booney hat, came to my rescue, making camping just about bearable, and enabling me to stay out long enough to cook dinner on my stove. However, as I have already moaned at length about, the trouser legs are simply not long enough. They leave my ankles exposed to the blood-thirsty beasts, and make me look like I raided Michael Jackson’s wardrobe.

Also consider

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX: first impressions 

This generation of the Salomon X Ultra is designed to be both agile and technical for those who want to move fast and confidently on tricky trails. This lightweight hiking boot is actually a little heavier than the previous edition, but it's also more durable, thanks to upgrades like Matryx uppers in place of leather and synthetic, and improved overlays that will protect your toes from just about anything.

The Contragrip outsole has extremely aggressive lugs that have held up on rocky, slick, and muddy surfaces this summer, and look built for winter conditions too. A chunky foam midsole is designed for a plush ride over longer distances, while the "Advanced Chassis," a molded insert embedded in the outsole, increases lateral stability on uneven terrain without losing flexibility.

The waterproof membrane will keep your feet dry if you meet with heavy rain, wet grass, or multiple river crossings, but in milder conditions, it might also mean sweaty feet. Water protection is aided by the mid-height cuff, which is just high enough to keep water out in a shallow stream and protect your ankle bone.

The cuff and tongue are unusually plush, and that, combined with a lack of eyelets, makes it a little difficult to get a lockdown fit here. They also run a little small and narrow, so if you buy your normal size, you might find that what you gain in lightweight technical creds, you lose in comfort.

It's a shame because with just a few small fixes, these could be a really great pair of capable hiking boots for those who want to roam far and fast.

Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX: in the field 

This is only my second time testing out Salomon hiking boots, having tried the Elixir Mid Gore-Tex a couple of years ago and finding them an odd mix between overly stacked and unnecessarily technical.

I first tested these out during a hiking and camping trip in the Yorkshire Dales earlier this summer, and have since followed up on a couple of trails here in Scotland.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I always test a UK 4 which is usually a US 6, and that typically gives my feet room to swell (or wear thick socks), but I ran into a hitch with these shoes. Salomon's sizing comparison is slightly off, so the UK 4 turned out to be only a US 5.5. And that half size makes quite a difference, as it turns out.

As excited as I was to get them on, when I saw how robust and technical they looked, I was a little worried that they'd be too tight to test. I think they run a little small and a little narrow. With thick socks on, my toes come all the way up to the end with no room to wiggle, but since it was summer, I wore my thinnest socks, and though they were tighter than I'd like, I was able to hike in them without blisters.

The lack of blisters didn't mean that I experienced out-of-the-box comfort, however. In fact, I found I experienced quite a bit of rubbing and toe bashing during my first hike, and actually couldn't wait to get out of them when I got back to the car. I had brought a backup pair of boots for that first trip and ended up wearing them the next day to give my feet a chance to recover, then tried these again on day three, and they were slightly better once broken in.

That said, I think a few things are contributing to the comfort issue for me. There's the odd sizing and narrow fit, which doesn't give my toes room to splay, and the cuff and tongue are just about the plushest I've ever seen. That, combined with just two eyelets, makes it nearly impossible for me to get a good lockdown fit, and the fact is that my toes take a beating when I descend. I think sizing up would help, but I'm not sure how to get around the lacing problem.

Breathability and protection

Another area where comfort leaves something to be desired is that I don't find these to be the most breathable of shoes in the summer months. I've had them out in wet weather, but it's always been mild, and I notice my feet are sweatier than in other lightweight waterproof boots I own, such as my Lowa Renegade EVO GTX or Helly Hansen Switchback Trail HT.

The flip side of that is that they are fully waterproof, which I tested out by standing in a couple of small streams for a minute or two.

The uppers offer loads of good protection too, from the ultra durable Matryx uppers to the robust reinforcements around the toes. The cuff isn't super high, but it's just high enough to keep my ankle bones protected and means I can splash through flooded trails without breaking stride.

Grip and stability

I'm a little sceptical of a boot that doesn't use a Vibram sole, but I have to admit that these Contragrip soles are a really good match for British conditions, which tend to involve muddy slopes, boggy crossings, and slippery rock and slate. The lugs seem able to bite into just about anything, and I did find some confidence in that.

Salomon has gone all in on stability with these boots, using the advanced chassis to provide lateral support in the footbed and what it calls 'mobile wings' in the design of the upper to help hold your foot in place. This is all integrated without losing flex, and the idea is that you can move quickly when the going gets tough.

I tend to notice the lack of stability more in running shoes than I do in hiking boots, but I will say that these boots do respond well to uneven terrain. They'd do an even better job if I could get a more secure fit, however, and I couldn't help wondering if the reason my foot wasn't sliding around was that there wasn't any extra room for it to do so.

• How Advnture tests products

Want to minimize discomfort on the trails? Outdoors brand Berghaus claims to have a solution for women whose bodies change during their menstrual cycle: it's called ZonalAdapt technology. After two years in the making, it's available now in the new Farren leggings and trousers.

Berhaus says its design process included scientific research, anatomic consultations, and thorough testing with over 100 women, who wore prototypes to hike in, giving honest feedback about bloating, gut issues, back pain and other areas of discomfort.

A further quantitative study found that over 50% of women avoid wearing their favorite clothing at certain times due to bloating, and many more feel restricted in leggings "when their bodies fluctuate".

ZonalAdapt is Berghaus' attempt to remedy some of these issues. The new Farren leggings and trousers aim to support rather than restrict women's bodies, with responsive waistbands, targeted compression zones, and lumbar support back panels to cushion your spine without pressuring your stomach.

“Every decision we made can be traced back to real conversations with real people, through hours spent together," explains product innovation lead, Rosie O'Sullivan.

"We tried to get under the skin of people's frustrations: what makes them feel less confident, more self-conscious and impacts their likelihood to get outside and enjoy it. By starting there, we had a greater chance of creating something meaningful.”

The new Farren clothes are made from Berghaus' Lycra Adaptiv fiber, a combination of 78% polyamide and 22% elastane, designed to stretch with your body as you move on the trails.

Senior product developer Sarah Nyikos says: “We’ve championed female empowerment every step of the way and felt it ourselves, creating solutions that work in the real world, not just on paper.”

These solutions don't come cheap. The Farren leggings will set you back £100, while the Farren trousers cost £135 on the Berghaus website.

Regardless of their apparently unique qualities, it's fair to describe these models as pricey. Top-notch leggings from brands such as Inov-8 and Adidas are typically available for less online, and some of the best hiking pants come in at under that price, too.

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First impressions

If you read my review of Vivobarefoot's Tracker Forest ESC hiking boots you'll know that I'm a fairly recent convert to the brand, having never worn barefoot shoes or boots until a year ago.

I'd always thought of barefoot afficionados as being in something of a cult, but, as you'll also know if you read that review, I'm now a full convert. Yep, I drank the Kool Aid.

So I jumped at the chance to test the brand's new fast hiker, the Primus Trail Flow Mid - a taller iteration of its classic Primus Trail Flow hiking shoe and pretty much the opposite of the Tracker Forest ESC. Here's how it performed:

Fit

Since I was lured into the barefoot movement I have slowly converted all my active shoes to barefoot versions, but I lacked a boot for summer hikes, so I was excited by the prospect of the much lighter Primus Trail Flow Mid filling the gap.

I usually take an EU 42 / UK 8.5 in Vivobarefoot styles, and these fitted as I expected, with a thumb’s width of space at the end of the toes to allow room for movement and grip. However, I struggled to get a precise fit around the heel and ankle with the fast lacing system. My go-to hiking socks are some pretty plush Bridgedales and I also have wide feet, but I still had to cinch the boots tight enough to leave a long length of spare cord beyond the toggle fastener.

The laces come with a small clip to allow you to attach any spare cord to the lacing at the front of the foot, and stop it flapping around, but my spare cord was longer than the last lacing point, so instead I tucked it under the front lacing.

I do appreciate these kinds of lacing systems are a weight-saver and make it quicker to slip in and out of your boots, but it does mean I can only really wear these hikers with thick socks, while my Tracker Forest ESCs can be pulled tighter and therefore worn with thinner socks in warmer weather.

All that said, with the right socks, these boots were very comfortable to wear, even if the heel didn't feel as locked in as I'd have ideally have liked.

On the trails

If you're new to barefoot shoes then here's a quick primer: they have zero drop, which means there's no height difference between the heel and the ball of the foot and toe.

So that's the first thing you'll need to get used to. But, along with a generous toe box and lots of flex - both design features to let your feet actually move as intended – barefoot shoes also usually have far less cushioning than standard shoes.

This combination of factors is why it takes a while to get used to wearing them (Vivobarefoot recommend about six weeks of daily wear), and it's also why I wouldn't suggest the Primus Trail Flow Mid as a first pair of barefoot hoofs.

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These specific boots have a 1.8mm sole base and no insole, which means you can feel everything on the trail. It doesn't mean your feet aren't protected, far from it, and I'll talk more about that in a bit. But if you're used to fairly stiff boots then suddenly being able to feel each tiny pebble you tread on may just be too much.

Happily, a year into being a barefoot bore, this level of sensation doesn't faze me at all. In fact, I welcome it. I have a lengthy history of knee problems that started in my 20s, and consequently my left knee doesn't flex past about 90 degrees. This can make me a little clumsy and also make descents in stiff boots challenging. I avoided barefoot shoes for years because I was worried that the lack of cushioning would be too tough on my poor knee. But the flex and trail feel provided by barefoot designs - and these ones are particularly thin and supple - actually keep me far steadier on my feet.

I tried them on some pebbly descents in the Lake District and found I was even more confident wearing them than in the Tracker Forest ESCs, probably due to the greater trail feel and flexibility. I actually felt nimble at times, which isn't something I ever hope for due to my various injuries.

Waterproofing and protection

Vivobarefoot describes the Primus Trail Flow Mid as water repellent, but to me that feels like a stretch. Yes, the woven fabric on the lower foot is impressively water resistant, and I walked through multiple shallow streams in them without an issue.

However, as soon as I tackled something deeper, water quickly seeped in through the knit collar, which starts fairly low down and didn't feel water resistant at all. This left me with sodden socks, and no way for the water to drain out. I haven't particularly minded this over the summer and early autumn, but it's why I will be sticking to dry days to wear these boots whenever possible.

They do dry out quickly, but the lack of insulation underfoot and on the upper means they're more suited to three-season hiking. I can see them being very popular with California-based hikers, who are blessed with balmy weather and fast, dry trails year round, and who are probably the only consumers who can buy the cream Peyote version without it being ruined in five minutes flat.

So, this isn't a boot for the worst conditions, but it's still reasonably protective, with a welcome toe bumper right where you need it, and a rubber rand that wraps around the foot. The woven part of the upper has multiple tough layers of fabric that should see off anything pointy or sharp, but the knit collar means there is still some vulnerability around the upper ankle.

Weight

If all this sounds like one gripe too many, then I want to clarify that I actually love these boots. They're not perfect, but for someone who struggles not to trip even walking down stairs sometimes, they left me feeling light on my feet and more capable of technical trails and scrambling than I'm used to.

I also adore how featherweight they are. I passed one to my partner, a seasoned hiker, and he looked incredulous, saying "There's nothing there!" They really are barely there in all the best ways, with my pair (a US women's size 10.5) tipping the scales at just 8.7oz (246g) per boot.

Grip

The Primus Trail Flow Mid also have a decent amount of grip. It's clear they're designed for drier conditions than we are usually greeted with in the UK, but the 3.8mm multi-directional lugs did a good job of keeping me upright, and the braking lugs at the back of the outsole caught me when I did occasionally slip on wet rocks while traversing streams.

Environmental impact

Vivobarefoot is among the many outdoor brands that have read the room, and taken a hard look at their manufacturing processes to make them more sustainable. These boots are advertised as vegan, with the proviso that it's not been possible to establish that the smaller components used in their creation (including glues and dyes) meet vegan best practices. The fact that the brand states this clearly rather than greenwashing is welcome, as is its scheme that allows you to recycle any old worn out pair and get a voucher for 20% off the cost of a new pair.

Due to their limited waterproofing and insulation, the Primus Trail Flow Mid aren't going to become my go-to winter boot. Honestly, I'm gagging to get my Tracker Forest ESCs back on now that the colder months are on their way.

However, for milder days, and for anyone who lives in a drier climate, they're a great option. If you've not worn barefoot shoes or boots before I would strongly recommend trying a pair with thicker soles first. But if you're already in the cult, you won't be disappointed.

• The best hiking boots: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best hiking shoes: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices
• How Advnture tests products

First impressions

Face coverings are nothing if not controversial at the moment, but thankfully we’re not discussing the antics of ICE agents here – rather the ongoing battle to make camping great again, by beating the bugs and keeping mosquitoes from getting right up in your grill and turning outdoor life miserable.

To be quite honest, things have to be pretty bad in order for most people to deploy a full face net, instead of relying on spray repellents, because – beekeepers and bank robbers aside, very few folk enjoy having a mesh over their visage, not least because it makes slurping campfire hot chocolate and scoffing ‘smores pretty damn awkward. But when the bugs are bad, you need to put sartorial and snacking concerns to one side, otherwise they will drive you to complete distraction, and you may as well pack up and go home.

In addition, while the face net might be the most eye-catching element on the Skien Valley Booney lid, which is part of Columbia’s new Insect Shield range of outdoor attire, the mesh is completely removeable and it’s far from the only feature on what I found to be a very functional camping and summer hiking hat.

Design & materials

The unisex Skien Valley Booney lid doesn’t just come with a removeable face net, the whole hat has also been impregnated with an insecticide called permethrin, which stuns annoying and potentially dangerous animals including mosquitoes, flies, ticks, ants, chiggers, and midges (no-see-ums) and – according to the CDC (the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) can even kill them. Together with the face net, which can be quickly and easily attached to the hat via a couple of snap connectors, this totally protects your head and neck from biting insects, while enabling you to retain full visibility of your surrounds.

But it’s not just an anti-insect hat. Made from entirely recycled polyester, the Skien Valley Booney hat has a broad brim that shades your neck, eyes and nose while you’re out hiking trails, providing effective protection from the sun. With a drawstring strap, it can be tightened under the chin and worn during windy walks, and the air vents and mesh lining combine to make the hat breathable and well vented.

On the trails and in camp

I have been sporting the Skien Valley Booney hat while hiking and camping on Dartmoor in the southwest of England, and in the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland. For the most part, I’ve been wearing it while walking on the often-exposed trails found in both of these places.

This summer the UK and Ireland have sweated through four heatwaves, and the risk of sunburn and sunstroke has been high, especially when you’re up in the hills and peaks, where tree cover is sporadic or non-existent. The broadbrim style of the hat makes it perfect for protecting my prominent probiscis and the back of my neck from the rays emanating from our nearest star, and I’ve been very glad of it.

There are a couple of small vents in the top of the hat, which – while they could be a bit bigger for greater effectiveness – do let in a little bit of air, and the mesh inner keeps things cool too. When it’s sunny and windy, which happens a lot in the Wicklow and Dublin mountains, and even more often atop the tors of Dartmoor, the adjustable chin strap keep the lid in place.

And back in camp, there have been times where I would have very possibly slapped myself to death without having recourse to the face net. As mentioned, things have to be pretty bad for me to hide behind a mesh net (I hate having to sip beer through those things), but during a couple of nights in the Wicklow Mountains especially, the midges were absolutely relentless, and I had no choice. Ther was nowhere to hide, and I genuinely don’t know what I would have done without it – other than to retreat to my tent as soon as dusk descended, which would have made for a very long night.

The net is reasonably easy to use, and despite looking a bit daft (I’m sure), I could see through the mesh well enough to cook dinner on my camping stove, and to see the envious looks people who didn’t have such protection were giving me.

Also consider

Need a little extra help while you're hiking? Taking on challenging trails could be about to get a lot easier, as outdoor tech brand Hypershell has announced its latest 'ground-breaking' exoskeleton.

The new Hypershell X Ultra straps onto your waist and thighs to provide an extra boost while you're walking or climbing. It uses a combination of AI technology and super-smart robotics to ease the burden on your legs, reducing your heart rate, oxygen consumption, and overall exertion on the trails.

The Chinese brand already has several exoskeleton models on the market, but claims the X Ultra is its best yet.

“We are at a new frontier where technology serves to deepen our connection with the world, not distance us from it,” explains a statement from CEO Kelvin Sun.

“Our goal with Hypershell X Ultra is to remove physical barriers and give people the confidence to say ‘yes’ to that mountain peak, or that extra mile. It’s all about enabling personal achievement and ensuring the joy of adventure is open to everyone, regardless of their natural endurance."

The device will become available to the public on September 15 and will cost $1,999 (£1,599) direct from the Hypershell website, although this is an 'early bird' price.

The X Ultra is powered by the Hypershell's AI MotionEngine Ultra, and features more than a dozen sensors, which monitor your movements and aim to deliver support exactly where it's needed.

Hypershell claims that this translates to an astounding 39% decrease in physical exertion while cycling and a 20% reduction on tough hiking trails.

Its power and various modes can be adjusted on the Hypershell app. Different modes include Descent Assist for greater knee protection when you head downhill and Running+ to help you sprint.

The device, which weighs 3.9lb (1.8kg), comes with two batteries that each last up to 42,000 steps per charge and are designed to continue working in heavy rain and chilly temperatures.

• The best hiking technology: great gadgets you need in the great outdoors
• The best hiking socks: keep your feet comfy all year round

The seasons are changing, and the shorter, rainy days of fall are well on their way. If you're anything like us, you'll be looking forward to a few lengthy hikes in the fall conditions and checking your wardrobe to ensure you've got the right gear.

Along with a dependable pair of hiking boots, decent hiking pants, and some sturdy trekking poles, you'll need a trail-ready waterproof jacket to keep you warm and dry when the heavens inevitably open.

If your old jacket is looking a little tired, now could be the perfect time to invest in a new one, as we've found an epic deal on a dependable Gore-Tex model from Arc'teryx.

The men's Arc'teryx Beta is a trail-ready jacket with plenty of protection from the elements, and it's now available for just $280.93 at REI in the Trail Magic and Soulsonic colorways.

It's made from a combination of plain weave recycled nylon and 3-layer 80-denier Gore-Tex expanded polyethylene, designed to ward off heavy rain and cold winds in the wilderness. It's further waterproofed by an FC0 durable water repellent (DWR) finish.

Along with its weatherproofing, the Beta jacket was built with comfort in mind. Its regular fit and articulated patterning are designed to optimize movement and mobility as you navigate tricky trails.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best Arc'teryx Beta jacket deals where you are.

• The best waterproof jackets: brave the elements with these top-rated hard and softshells
• The best lightweight running jackets: barely-there waterproofs

First impressions

Cool to touch (and to look at, especially when compared to some of the items in the range), the Skien Valley Hoodie from Columbia is a lightweight, long-sleeved top that can be worn as a base layer beneath a fleece jacket or waterproof shells while hiking, or as a stand-alone top during dry and warm weather, especially when biting bugs are making a nuisance of themselves.

When I received several items from Columbia’s new Insect Shield collection to test, this was the first garment I reached for when hiking and camping on sweaty summer evenings, because it felt nice, looked decent and seemed like a good first line of defense against the blood-sucking beasts that make a habit of attacking me. Here’s how it performed.

Design and Materials

The Skien Valley hoodie is made with a material mixture of polyester and elastane. Oddly, Columbia don’t specify whether the polyester used in this top is recycled, whereas the same fabric used in other garments in the collection is recycled (in the absence of clear labelling, we’re going to assume that it isn’t recycled in this case). The elastane content in the top makes it nice and stretchy.

Available for both men and women (and also in a ‘Big’ version), this top has a relaxed, baggy look and feel. There are no pockets, but it has a hood, obviously (clue in the name) and substantial thumb hoops to keep the long sleeves in place when you add another layer over the top (and also to help protect wrists from biting bugs).

This top is part of Columbia’s new Insect Shield collection of outdoor apparel, all treated with a long-lasting chemical called permethrin, which is capable of deterring, stunning or even killing bugs that come into contact with it. Like the rest of the range, the hoodie is also light colored, because pests like mosquitoes are – apparently – less attracted to more neutral hues.

On the trails

I have been testing the Skien Valley hoodie over the scorching summer we have just enjoyed/endured (I liked it, but so did the bugs – so no better time to put this stuff to the test). This season I have mostly been hiking and camping on Dartmoor and in the Wicklow Mountains, both places I’m more accustomed to experiencing in the drizzle, but not in 2025.

We’ve had no less than four heatwaves over the last four months, and the midges (no-see-ums) have been out in force during still evenings on the trail, in camp and around crags. When this happens, you can either cover every inch of yourself in lightweight clothing, from base layers to long socks, or douse yourself in insect repellent – or take a belt and braces approach, and do a mixture of both.

Alternatively, you can clad yourself in clobber from Columbia’s Insect Shield-infused Skien Valley range, which is a bit like doing both. This is the approach I took in the Wicklow Mountains, where the midges were particularly horrendous. More so than the Skien Valley shirt (which I liked, but for other reasons) this hoodie proved to be particularly effective as armor against biting bugs, because it covered my whole top half, including my neck and – thanks to the thumb hoops – protected my wrists (always a target for midges and mosquitoes).

Also, even when paired with the similarly light-colored Skien Valley cargo pants, it looks decent, so when I was hanging out in communal campsites rather than wild camping on my own, I didn’t feel like a complete plum, as I did while wearing the Booney Hat, which is also part of the range.

Obviously it doesn’t protect your face from the irritating little monsters, so when they were at their worst I did often resort to wearing the wide brimmed hat with its full-face net, or when the temperatures cooled a little, pulling on the Skien Valley Hooded Light Jacket, which also features face netting.

During the day, I found the Skien Valley hoodie to be a very comfortable top to hike in, especially on hot days when I was exploring the exposed tor tops and mountain sides, where it provided excellent protection from the sun and the loose-fit style allowed lots of airflow. And, during climbing and scrambling adventures, the top boasts plenty of stretch, so you have a full range of movement and can reach for hand holds.

All-round, it’s a fine, functional piece of kit, and the item I’m likely to get the most use out of from the whole Skien Valley range.

Lowa celebrated its 100^th birthday in 2023, marking a century of crafting quality footwear. During that time, the Bavarian brand has forged a solid reputation among hikers and mountaineers for its capable shoes and boots, the creation of which remains its core competency.

The brand’s fleet of hiking footwear is world-renowned. Its best-selling Renegade shoes and boots, launched in 1997, are a familiar sight on the trails. Our very own Julia Clarke wore the Renegade Evo GTX Mid on her adventure to Everest Base Camp and returned with suitably glowing reports.

The Renegade’s younger cousins are the members of the Innovo family, which boast chunky, grippy outsoles, suede uppers and a supportive and protective design. Iterations of the Innovo are available with or without Gore-Tex and as a hiking boot or lower cut shoe.

I was delighted to test out the low-cut Gore-Tex version in the hills of South Wales’ Bannau Brychieniog and on the trails of Southwest England. Unfortunately we can’t all go to Everest every time we test a pair of hiking shoes.

First impressions

The Innovo looks every inch the classic hiking shoe. With its suede upper, speckled laces, protective rand at the toes and breathable gills on the outer side of the foot, it suggests capability from the off. Its hefty appearance hints at comfort and support – of a shoe that’s at home on technical terrain in the mountains. It doesn’t look or feel like a shoe you’d want to run in necessarily, nor does it have the sneaker-like aesthetic of lightweight hikers and its wide curves are at odds with the more streamlined profile of an approach shoe. No, this is no Jack-of-all-trades; this is a hiking shoe.

I slipped my foot in and immediately liked what I felt. It’s nicely cushioned, reassuringly rigid but also flexible enough to maintain its initial comfort when on the move. In terms of fit, it holds the midfoot firmly and the heel sits nicely in its rear throne. Wiggle room for the toes isn’t as pronounced as something like Keen’s NXIS Evo Mid but there’s still more than enough for my feet to feel happy for mile after mile.

Weighing 1lb 1oz (490g) per shoe, it’s at the heavier end of the hiking shoe spectrum and I soon appreciated that the Innovo has more in common with a hiking boot than a trail running shoe. The sole is chunky, grippy and rigid. Not as rigid as a pair of winter hiking boots, but less yielding than many 'fast and light' options.

Quality design

The Innovo’s upper is made from a blend of suede and synthetic fabrics. Suede is a more pliable, softer leather than the high grain nubuck seen in Lowa’s Renegade shoes. This has the advantage of comfort, though it tends to be less durable than nubuck. However, we’re still talking about quality leather here and Lowa’s shoes are renowned for being hard-wearing, so I have few concerns on this front.

Working its magic beneath the suede is the Gore-Tex lining, providing breathability while keeping water out. The inner side of the upper is pure suede, providing protection against abrasion. Meanwhile, the outer side contains an array of four breathable mesh panels that put me in mind of Merrell’s classic Moab series.

The fairly standard lacing system makes use of webbed eyelets to keep both pressure on the foot and weight to a minimum, as well as a pair of punched eyelets towards the toes. Both tongue and collar are nicely padded, while there’s a fabric loop for easy hanging or for attachment to a carabiner.

A chunky, proprietary sole

The Lo version of the Innovo features the same aggressive sole as its bigger boot brother, as well as boasting Lowa’s proprietary rubber compound rather than the Vibram often seen in premium hiking footwear. As mentioned, it’s more rigid than most – an important quality when taking on technical terrain. However, there’s still flex towards the toes, which works with the foot’s natural rolling properties when striding along.

The sole features 67 deep lugs of differing shapes and sizes, with most being medium-sized, flat-topped and not particularly directional. This all points to a design intended to hold soft terrain rather than fly along at speed, while the flat surface of the lugs suggests decent grip on rock. Unlike an approach shoe, there’s no flatter region at the toes for precision when edging or smearing, though the two lugs beneath the heel are larger than the rest, design for effective braking in descent.

The midsole is forged from a dynamic polyurethane that maintains its shape even after being compressed “thousands of times”, according to Lowa. This should enable years of happy exploring, though unlike the Lowa Cevedale Pro GTX Mid, the Innovo doesn’t boast a resoleable design, which is a shame.

Hidden within the shoe is Lowa’s polyurethane Monowrap support frame. This is what I have to thank for the way the shoe embraces and holds the foot, providing the support and stability to take on rough terrain without issue. More on this in a mo…

In the field

I’ve been testing the Innovos through late winter, spring and summer on hiking trips to the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park and on walks in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Southwest England.

The way the Innovo cradles the foot is a real strength. I can think of few other pieces of hiking footwear I’ve worn that have given such an impression of support and protection alongside comfort and flexibility. The cushioning provided by the PU midsole provides a nice amount of propulsion, while the frame really does hold the foot in place beautifully. This all adds to make the Innovo a superb option for long days on the trail or multi-day trekking adventures, especially in drier climes such as those in the Alps.

Its low cut means that boggy terrain is its enemy, as water can get in over the top unless it’s carefully paired with gaiters. This was a bit of an issue when crossing a soggy bwlch (the Welsh word for a depression between two peaks), a common occurrence when hiking in the Bannau Brycheiniog. However, the Innovos kept my feet nicely dry most of the time. Nevertheless, I’d probably opt for the boot version if I was looking to take on some of Britain’s wetter long-distance trails.

I was very impressed with the grippiness of the outsole, which provided ample hold on both wet and dry terrain, rock and the sloppier stuff. The array of deep lugs hold admirably on soft ground, the heel brake provides confidence when descending earthen slopes. Meanwhile, the amount of sticky rubber in contact with rock when negotiating scrambling terrain also provides solid traction. I’d have no qualms wearing these on more technical multi-day hikes, such as the Dolomites’ Alta Vias or Corsica’s GR20. They’re not as tailored to the kind of ground where scrambling becomes climbing as dedicated approach shoes, but for the kind of scrambling terrain found on hikes, they’re great.

Their design and weight mean that the Innovo is much more at home on the trails than the streets, so they’re not the kind of hiking shoes you might wear for the everyday. There’s no doubt that they’re less versatile than many lighter shoes, such as the Aku Omnia V-light GTX. At $225 (£170 in the UK), they’re not the cheapest hikers on the market either. So, bear all of this in mind should you decide to make a purchase.

Nevertheless, they’re a sound investment if you’re an avid hiker in the market for a capable shoe for technical hiking missions.

Also consider

Comparison table

Meet the reviewer

Fjällraven Abisko Trail Fleece: first impressions 

Named for the Swedish National Park, the Abisko Trail Fleece is all about keeping you comfortable in changeable outdoor conditions.

The construction of this fleece jacket is savvy: the hood, shoulders, and chest are made from flat-knitted polyester fleece for warmth with a soft brushed inside that feels great against any bare skin, while the sides and underarms, lower torso, and forearms are made from a lighter grid-structured fleece with superior ventilation. The result is that when it's chilly, it keeps you warm for quite a while before you need an outer layer, but when you're hiking, you can dump heat easily.

The fabric has just enough stretch for the jacket to be really functional when you're hiking and climbing, without being so stretchy as to lose its integrity, and the slim fit looks great and leaves just enough room for layers.

A super snug hood stays put in the wind and fits under your helmet, and the thumb loops help you negotiate gloves without walking around with gaping holes in the cuffs of your jacket.

Pockets abound, with deep, zipped handwarming pockets that aren't much good with a backpack, and a spacious zipped chest pocket for your phone.

The face fabric is very tough and resistant to pulling and pilling, and for a synthetic fleece, it doesn't hold onto much odor.

There are lots of recycled fabrics on show here, and while we won't lie and say it's cheap, it's certainly a nice price for Fjallraven and for a fleece that you can wear from Himalayan peaks to backyard bonfires.

Fjällraven Abisko Trail Fleece: in the field

I got this fleece for trekking to Everest Base Camp this year. The journey entailed 11 days of walking over 80 miles, starting in T-shirt weather and getting increasingly cool as we ascended. We were lucky with the weather and didn't experience much rain, but started at 9,383ft above sea level, and the highest point of the journey for me was 18,519ft at Kala Patthar, so the nights were always frigid.

All of that meant that I had to be especially vigilant about layering, so my plan was to wear this over a merino wool short-sleeved top, then have both a down jacket and a waterproof jacket to layer over the top.

When I first put this fleece on, I nearly squealed with delight at how well it fitted me. I own a lot of fleeces, and very few are particularly flattering, seemingly designed for a cereal box. This one, however, actually looks nice on. I tested the women's small, which is my usual size, and it's quite slim fitting, but I can easily wear it over a light mid layer, and its fairly low profile doesn't make it difficult to layer over.

Some fleeces are of the deep pile variety and better for coffee walks by the river, while others are super technical and almost flimsy, but this one falls right in the middle and provides tons of technical prowess whilst also being quite useful for wearing around town. That also means it's really quite packable if you're traveling with it.

The first few days in the Himalayas were mostly warm and sunny enough not to need this when we were walking through the valley, but as soon as we got to our teahouse and stopped moving, I was really glad for the warmth that it provides. On our acclimatization days, where we climbed up quite steeply to higher elevations then came back down to help with altitude adaptation, I kept it on while I was moving and was really impressed by how well it breathes, wicks and dries. This is all down to the placement of panels of different types of polyester that lend both insulation and breathability.

Considering I wore this for 11 days and did a fair amount of sweating in it, it really didn't get too smelly (or maybe we were all so smelly I couldn't differentiate?) which is a welcome surprise, give that it's made from synthetic fabric.

The hood is also fantastic, soft on the inside and super snug when I'm all zipped up to keep the wind out of my ears, but it's not so tight that it pulls on the fabric of the shoulders. I didn't need a helmet on that expedition, but I've tested it out with my climbing helmet, and I can keep my hood up quite comfortably, which bodes well for winter mountaineering.

I don't love the way thumb holes look, even if I can appreciate their purpose, so I'm glad Fjällraven has gone with thumb loops on the inside of the cuffs, which made it easier to get my gloves on during one frigid alpine start.

The pockets are spacious, although the hand-warming pockets aren't really accessible when I'm wearing a backpack, and I kept my phone in my chest pocket most of the time. Speaking of wearing a backpack, the face fabric is really tough, and the shoulders don't show any signs of my straps rubbing.

If you forced me to gripe about this fleece, I suppose I could suggest a two-way zipper might enhance it, but in all honesty, it's my favorite fleece for hiking and I'm looking forward to many more adventures in it.

• How Advnture tests products

Are you ready for autumn rain? After a long, hot summer, the rainy days and challenging trails of winter are on their way, but that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy the outdoors!

If you're eager to hit the trails this autumn, you'll need a dependable pair of waterproof hiking boots, like the Terradora Explorer boots from Keen. These trail-ready women's boots combine tried-and-tested materials with typically effective waterproofing, and they're now available for just $122.73 at REI.

The Terradora Explorer boots' uppers are made from environmentally preferred premium leather and textile mesh, designed to protect your feet in the wilderness without limiting breathability.

When the rain falls, Keen.Dry waterproof membranes aim to seal out moisture and keep your feet dry. Although I haven't worn the Terradora Explorer boots myself, I've been consistently impressed by the performance of these membranes in other models, like the Hightrail EXP hiking shoes.

Inside the boots, you'll find removable air-injected Luftcell midsoles for added support, and underneath, there are 4mm multi-directional lugs designed to maximize traction on the trails.

Not in the US? You can look below for today's best Keen hiking boots deals where you are!

• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

Injinji Trail Midweight Crew socks: first impressions 

With some of today's best trail athletes (Courtney Dauwalter, Tara Dower) sporting Injinji toe socks, there's no doubt that the San Diego brand has found its corner of the footwear market for both trail runners and hikers.

Like all of Injinji's patented socks, these hiking socks feature separate pouches for your toes, so they're like a glove for your foot, and the focus is on improving foot health by helping your toes spread out more once they're inside your hiking boots. This also prevents your toes from rubbing together, which can eliminate blisters altogether for some walkers.

Designed with footbed padding and arch support, these fit perfectly to prevent bunching up inside your boot and are made with a blend of nylon, Lycra and Coolmax fabric, which is made from recycled plastics. The result is socks that are durable even after lots of miles and great at managing moisture and letting your feet breathe.

The synthetic makeup also means that they will get quite smelly after several days of wear, so if that's of concern, check out the wool version, which is a little pricier.

These midweight socks are about the right thickness for longer treks and cold to mild temperatures, though perhaps a little warm for summer when you can trade them out for the Ultra Run Crew, which are a little thinner but just as good.

With only two sizes for women, I did wonder if these socks could possibly work for all feet, but after taking them out on the trek to Everest Base Camp, I'm convinced that toe socks are a big step forward for hikers and this well-priced pair is worthy of your attention.

Injinji Trail Midweight Crew socks: in the field 

I've been wanting to test out Injinji toe socks for ages, and when I was offered the chance to trek to Everest Base Camp, something that meant 11 days of walking, I knew it was a good opportunity.

I brought three pairs of Injinji socks along with me on the trip, and ended up wearing the Ultra Run socks for the first five days because they're a little lighter and conditions were quite warm. When they got embarrassingly smelly, I switched to these, which got me up to Base Camp and back down, so I put about 50 miles in, wearing them for at least six hours of walking a day. I recently wore them again on a five-day thru-hike in the Lake District National Park.

Here’s how they performed:

Fit and comfort

My feet are a UK 3.5 (US 5.5) which is pretty small. In fact, my 9-year-old now wears bigger shoes than me. I bring this up because I have, on occasion, found that even the smallest socks available aren't small enough for me, and they end up bunching up inside my shoes.

When I saw that these socks only ran in two sizes for women, I was concerned that this would be an issue, but the smaller sizing manages to just fit my feet perfectly, with my toes taking up all the room in the toe pockets and a snug fit around my high arch and heel.

The crew design comes halfway up my calf, which gives loads of protection against even the highest hiking boots and keeps debris from the trail at bay. The thickness adds some warmth on cold days, but they're not so bulky as to crowd my feet once I'm wearing boots.

The synthetic fabric feels nice and soft against my skin, and the seamless design really adds to the comfort level, whether I'm padding around the house or wearing these on the trail. But most of all, I have to admit that I just really like the feel of that slight separation of my toes, and I really didn't struggle with tired feet on my trek.

Moisture management and blister protection

I wore these with my Lowa Renegade Evo hiking boots, which are waterproof, but between the boots and these socks, my feet never felt sweaty, even though we were hiking in T-shirt weather for a lot of the trip.

The Coolmax fabric does a really good job of keeping my feet dry in warm weather, and the only time I had cold feet was hiking at 3:30am at 18,000ft when I really needed winter boots and thick socks, but fortunately, it was a very short hike. I'd trust these for hiking through winter in Scotland in all but the gnarliest conditions.

Obviously, the big promise of these socks is that they help prevent blisters because your toes don't rub together, which is the main reason I wanted them for my trek. My sister-in-law swears by them, and while I'm not overly prone to blisters and have broken in my boots well, I have in the past suffered blisters on my pinkie toes on multi-day hikes. To cut to the chase, I hiked 80 miles over 11 days without a hint of a blister or a hot spot and I credit this largely to Injinji.

Odor resistance and ease of use

If you're like me and have long surrendered to the virtues of merino wool socks, the synthetic makeup of these socks is going to pose a slight problem. I frequently go months without washing my wool socks because they don't get smelly, whereas after five days, these were really quite ripe.

On the one hand, synthetic fabrics are tougher than wool, so they'll arguably last longer, but I also think a lot of people buying these will be doing so for longer hikes, and for that I think it's worth paying a little extra for the merino wool version.

Finally, I don't usually include a note on ease of use when I'm reviewing socks because typically you just pull them on, but I know you're wondering, do they take hours to put on?

The short answer is yes, they do take longer to put on than regular socks because you have to place each toe in its pouch, but we're talking seconds, not minutes. If you want to cut down on hassle, pull them off by the toes when you get home from your hike so they don't end up inside out.

Also consider

Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

With the long, hot days of summer coming to an end, now is the time to look towards the future and invest in a snug and cozy jacket to keep you warm this winter.

If you're looking for a new jacket to wear while you shuffle around the campsite or take on winter walks, then check out this super-insulating model from Patagonia. The Cotton Down jacket is a solid option for autumn and winter outdoor activities, and is now available for just $219.73 at REI.

This snug down jacket features recycled 600-fill-power down, reclaimed from other down products. It also meets Bluesign criteria for sustainability, meaning it adheres to strict environmental and sustainability requirements, so you walk with a clear conscience without getting cold.

The jacket's outer fabric is 100% cotton, and its zip-through collar is designed to stop heat from escaping via your neck. If you're starting to overheat, you can unzip the full-length centre-front zipper to increase airflow.

The Cotton Down jacket is discounted in three colorways: Seabird Grey, Basin Green, and Pitch Blue, which features a retro Patagonia logo and unique zipper design.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best Patagonia jackets where you are.

• The best waterproof jackets: brave the elements with these top-rated hard and softshells
• The best lightweight running jackets: barely-there waterproofs

With the rainy weather of autumn fast approaching, now is the perfect time to invest in a new pair of weather-proof hiking shoes to help you take on the elements. The best combine tough outer materials and great grip with enough waterproofing to keep your socks from getting soggy in a downpour.

Keen's Men's Headout hiking shoes feature leather and mesh outers with typically reliable waterproof membranes and plenty of underfoot traction, and they're now available for just $100.73 at REI.

These hiking shoes were designed to help you navigate wet and uneven trails all year round.

I haven't worn the Headout shoes myself, but I can attest to the reliability of Keen's Keen.Dry waterproof membranes, which have kept my feet bone dry in other pairs like the Hightrail EXPs. The All.Terrain rubber outsoles are also typically effective, utilizing an aggressive formation of 4mm lugs to keep you upright over slippery and uneven terrain.

Inside the shoes, removable foam midsoles are designed to cushion your feet and maintain a comfortable fit over many miles of intensive trekking, while Keen's Eco Anti Odor technology aims to eliminate unwanted smells.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best Keen hiking shoes deals where you are.

• The best hiking boots: protect your feet on any trail with our top choices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

Founded in the Swedish ski resort of Åre in 1986, Peak Performance was launched by a pair of passionate skiers on a mission to create 'garments that combined excellent functionality with simple, attractive design'. Fast forward to today and the brand still sells popular skiing gear, as well as hiking, trail running and mountain biking apparel, and even gym and golf wear.

Finnish multinational Amer Sports bought the brand in 2018 and today it sits in its roster alongside the likes of Arc’teryx and Salomon. As with Arc’teryx, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for Peak Performance’s expertly and sustainably crafted premium gear. I recently tested the brand’s minimalist Elevate Hood Jacket and was impressed with both its performance and its innovative recyclable design.

I was stoked to test its Freelight Crew, a lightweight fleece mid-layer. It's available in both men’s and women’s versions and features the same Polartec Power Grid insulation as Berghaus’ MTN Guide MW Hoody. I was intrigued to see how it would compare on the trails.

First impressions

Peak Performance’s Freelight range is a collection of garments designed with a focus on being lightweight, windproof, water repellent and packable. It’s not the only Swedish brand focussing on this kind of gear: garments in Haglöfs’ L.I.M (Less Is More) range are designed with similar qualities in mind. As someone who enjoys going fast and light wherever possible, I’m always up for giving this kind of gear a go.

The Freelight Crew is sold as a mid-layer but, thanks to its low weight, feels like a long-sleeved t-shirt. It’s an attractive garment with its bold chest pocket patch and minimalist look. Fit wise, it’s relatively relaxed so if you’re someone who prefers an athletic fit, perhaps try the size down.

Look closely and the texture of its fleece arrays are obvious. Turning the top inside out reveals its army of neatly aligned fleece clusters. The ratio of fleece to space here is lower than with the tightly-packed arrays seen on Berghaus’ MTN Guide MW Hoody, pointing to a cooler, more breathable mid-layer. Nevertheless, when I put it on, its insulating abilities were immediately apparent. Let’s take a closer look at the ideas behind Polartec's Power Grid design...

Polartec Power Grid

For the uninitiated, Polartec is the brand that invented synthetic fleece back in 1979, patented as Polartec Polarfleece. These days brand is almost as ubiquitous in outdoor clothing, particularly mid-layers, as Vibram is in footwear and Gore-Tex is in waterproof jackets.

The Power Grid fabric is intended for lightweight garments designed with freedom of movement and breathability in mind. The grid in the name refers to the fact that, rather than a solid layer of insulating material, it features interspersed fleece clusters arranged consistently in a grid structure. While the clusters perform their heat holding magic, the space between them wicks moisture away, creating a breathable fabric that works with the body to regulate your temperature.

This quality is the Holy Grail of any mid-layer and we’ve highly rated several Power Grid garments in recent years, such as North Face’s Stormgap and Bolt jackets. Another notable benefit of the grid design is that it’s more compressible than a standard fleece, making it easier to stuff into a small space in a daypack.

Not all Power Grid fabrics are created equally and it’s up to the brands who create these mid-layers to decide on the fleece-to-space ratio. In the lightweight Freelight Crew, there’s more space than there is fleece, with a gsm (grams per square meter) of 119. The top's outer fabric is a 90D poplin that’s nicely stretchy for unrestricted movement.

Peak Performance has committed to removing intentional use of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) by 2025 and the Freelight is, unsurprisingly, free of them. Numerous health concerns have been raised against these chemicals and many brands are doing their utmost to remove them.

Other features

The Freelight Crew’s feature set is fairly minimal, a quality that’s true of many of Peak Performance’s gear. The standout feature is its zippered chest pocket and logo panel, partly because it’s a different color to the rest of the top (unless you get the Black version) but mostly because it really is the only obvious feature.

The compartment is large enough for a phone and the zipper features a handy pull. To be honest, I didn’t get a great deal of use out it as this lightweight pouch isn't the most comfortable place to store any items of significant weight – even a headlamp feels clunky in there. However, it’s a decent place to stash a baseplate compass, or store a bank card or ski pass. It's a little bit style over substance, I feel.

The hem and and cuffs are noticeably elasticated. However, I found that they were already pretty loose anyway, almost negating the point of having elastic in the first place. In terms of holding on to heat, I feel these would have been better if they were tighter, with the elastic then giving the flexibility to expand them if necessary.

The top’s flatlock seams are designed to reduce dreaded chaffing and there are no seams across the shoulders, making the top more comfortable to wear with a backpack.

In the field

I’ve been testing the Freelight Crew throughout the summer, wearing it on hiking trips to Wales’ Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, as well as for walks in Pembrokeshire National Park and South West England. I’ve worn it both as a mid-layer in the evenings and as a base layer on warmer days.

I found that it was comfortable when worn as both, though the bobbly texture of its fleece grid takes a bit of getting used to when worn as a base layer. It was interesting swapping between a standard technical t-shirt (I did this little experiment with the Montane Dart) and the Freelight Crew while simply sat down on a hot day. The difference in warmth is immediately obvious, underlining the effectiveness of Polartec’s insulation and the Freelight’s really impressive warmth-to-weight ratio.

A benefit of the Freelight’s synthetic fabrics is that they’re quick drying. It was never that long after working up a sweat or after a burst of light rain that the top would be pretty much dry once more. Plus, the Power Grid fabric maintains its insulating qualities over time, even after many, many wash cycles, making the top a durable option for years of wear.

My main qualms with the Freelight Crew, especially when used as a technical mid-layer for more serious outdoor adventures, are its relaxed fit and lack of front zip. Its baggy fit isn’t ideal when adding other layers over the top, as I’d get little rolls of fabric that I’d have to straighten out. The loose sleeves were particularly problematic and would often ride up when adding other layers. From a purely aesthetic point of view, I personally prefer an athletic fit too.

No front zip means no ability to dump heat during a sustained ascent or during an involved summer scramble. As established, the Power Grid fleece holds heat readily and, although the top is very breathable, it’s still nice to be able to go for the nuclear option of opening everything up once in a while.

These issues aside, it's still a high quality top that delivers superb warmth-to-weight. It's great for summer hiking missions where you might need a quick extra layer for the summits or ridges thanks to its lightweight packability. It's also a good looking top for everyday wear.

Also consider

Comparison table

Want to get outdoors and enjoy the trail this autumn? You might need to invest in some new gear.

Along with a decent raincoat and a reliable pair of hiking pants, a good fleece layer is key for cold and breezy weather, providing some much-needed insulation when the temperature drops without the bulk of a down jacket. One of our favorite models does just that, and is now 30% in time for autumn!

The men's Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4 zip fleece is a trusty option for cold and windy days in the wilderness, and it's now available for just $96.93 at REI.

This cozy jacket is made from 100% recycled polyester, which wraps around your upper half to keep heat from escaping, while its elasticated cuffs and high neck stop the cold from coming in.

Expert tester Craig Taylor wore his Better Sweater for four years before writing his review for Advnture, and had very few complaints.

"As I look at it now, there’s barely a thread out of place, and despite living through dozens of rough adventures, it looks pretty much as it did on the day I bought it," says Craig.

"Thick and comfortable, one of the things I love most about the Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4-Zip Fleece is how comfortable it feels under a heavy pack.

"That’s thanks in a large part to the “bounce” in the material, as well as some clever design features Patagonia have implemented in production."

If you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4 zip fleece deals where you are.

• The best waterproof jackets: brave the elements with these top-rated hard and softshells
• The best lightweight running jackets: barely-there waterproofs

Are you on the hunt for a tough and comfortable new pair of hiking shoes to combat the September showers? Then check out this epic deal on one of our favorite pairs.

The Men's Helly Hansen Switchback Trail HT hiking shoes combine recycled waterproof uppers with plenty of grip and inner cushioning and are now available for just $105 on the Helly Hansen website.

Hiking expert Pat Kinsella was very impressed with the Switchback Trail HT hiking shoes when he put them to the test over the high hills of the Brecon Beacons National Park, describing the shoes as "functional and fashionable footwear for day hiking and hill walking for much of the year."

He was particularly keen on their effective HellyTech waterproofing and breathable leather and polyester mesh uppers.

"The rain was only intermittent, but there was plenty of water on the ground from the day before, when it had been torrential, and the Switchbacks kept my socks dry all day."

"The shoes allowed my feet to breathe too, which was very much appreciated as we worked up a sweat."

Along with protection from the elements, these Helly Hansen hiking shoes feature springy EVA foam midsoles, designed to cushion your feet and provide all the support you need as you navigate tricky trails.

Not in the US? Look below for today's best Helly Hansen Switchback Trail HT hiking shoes deals where you are.

• The best budget hiking boots: quality pairs at low prices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

Fjällräven Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers: first impressions 

Never a brand to shy away from high quality and top-notch performance, Swedish outdoor outfitter Fjällräven has outdone itself with these hiking pants.

This design is intended to be truly versatile, and the brand has ensured that by using a blend of recycled polyester, cotton, polyamide and elastane that it calls G-1000 Lite Stretch. The result is a light and breathable fabric that's extremely tough, quick drying, and of course, stretchy. Basically, everything you could ask for in a pair of hiking pants.

They're not waterproof, although they're tailored so you can easily pull your rain pants on over the top of them, but they're treated with a PFAS-free DWR to hold off a light rain. What's more, the fabric on the front can be waxed for better weather resistance, while the back is all about ventilation for staying cool in hot weather.

If you are hiking in the summer wearing these pants, there are two outer thigh venting zips and the stretchy content means you can comfortably plop down on a rock for a picnic lunch. When the temperatures drop, they do block the wind quite well, and they are just roomy enough to layer over long johns, unless you have very muscly legs, in which case you may struggle with the tapered fit.

The back of the waistband is elasticated for added comfort and versatility, and they have a regular button and fly closure. There are also belt loops for those who need them.

As for pockets, you'll find two hand-warming pockets and two front of thigh pockets deep enough for most phones. These pockets have protective flaps, and one has a mesh pocket inside it, which is great for a credit card, while the other has a zipper for more security.

The trim fit looks pretty good on. With the level of stretch, we think it will work for most bodies, but if you have bulkier leg,s you may want to size up. The ankle cuffs have drawcords if you want to cinch them tighter in tick-prone terrain or to fit them over your hiking boots.

We've found these pants perfect for wearing all day and for many days in a row, and while they are on the pricey end, we see the value in the quality construction and expect them to last a long time.

Fjällräven Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers: in the field 

For the past few years, my favorite pair of hiking pants has been my Fjällräven Keb Curved Trousers, which are both stylish and functional. When I received these for testing back in March of this year, however, they quickly became my go-to pants. I've worn them in late winter, spring, and summer on many of the UK's best trails and ended up bringing them as one of two pairs of pants on my 11-day trek to Everest Base Camp.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I tested my usual size – a US 4 – with a 32" (regular inseam). I've personally found Fjällräven's sizing to be a little all over the place. I always test this size, and while it's pretty perfect in the Keb Curved, in the Abisko Winter Stretch and Abisko Hike Trousers, it's too big.

Fortunately, these trousers are a perfect fit around my waist and hips, and while they might be a tad long in the leg, I think if you just order the right length, you'll have no issues in that department.

I feel I should admit that I have quite skinny legs for a hiker, and so the tapered fit works quite well for me and means I can haul my rain pants on in a hurry, and even get away with wearing these over thermal underwear. I do wonder if these would be so great on someone with big, muscular legs, but then again, they are quite stretchy and not exactly tight, so I still think they're worth a shot.

Feeling the fabric with my fingers, it's not the softest I've ever touched, but it's fine against my skin with no rubbing or chafing, even when I wear them all day. I do often struggle with the waistbands of pants giving me a stomach ache or digging in when I sit down (even with the Keb Curved if I'm honest), but the stretchy section at the back of the waistband mean these feel great whether I'm hiking or sitting and if I'm starving or have just eaten a giant meal.

Breathability and protection

The blend of synthetic and cotton fabric manages to be pretty breathable. I wore these for about the first five days of my Everest Base Camp trek and again for the descent, switching to a heavier, warmer pair for the days when we were up really high. We experienced quite warm and sunny weather while I was wearing these, but I never felt uncomfortable.

The venting zips are on the outside of the thighs rather than the inside, which I always find a bit strange, but I've used them a lot this hot summer and they're really effective.

For quite a lightweight pair of trousers, these are actually pretty rugged, so they're fine for wading through high scrub and overgrown trails with lots of blackberry bushes.

They also offer quite decent weather protection. I'd wear them for all but the most frigid winter days or high altitude conditions, and the DWR means a light rain beads up nicely. More importantly (for me, anyway), they dry in a flash when they do get sodden.

I haven't tried this out, but the front of the pants, which is the part that sees most of the rain, is compatible with Greenland Wax, so if you want to, you can make them nearly waterproof.

Durability and storage

Not only do they protect my legs well against thorny intrusions, but they seem to hold up well, still looking good as new after five months of lots of wear and washing. I tested the Lauren Green colorway, and they don't show any dirt at all.

One place where an otherwise great pair of pants sometimes lets me down is in the pockets (think shallow pockets in the wrong place) but these are winners, with two front of thigh pockets where I can easily drop my phone and have it protected by the flap, plus a hidden mesh pocket for stashing a car key or credit card. I don't tend to use the hand warming pockets, but they're deep enough to keep things safe if you do.

Also consider

Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

First impressions

Lowa are alpine footwear specialists with a long and illustrious heritage forged in the high hills of Europe. Famous for producing some of the best hiking boots on the market, the brand, now based in Italy but founded in Germany in 1923, recently celebrated its 100th birthday. The majority of Lowa’s top-end boots are still made in Europe, something that’s incredibly rare in an age of budget-cutting, off-shoring and mass production.

The benefit of this is the attention to detail, from design through to packaging, and a level of quality control that ensures each pair of hiking boots are pretty much perfect when they come out the box. All this is immediately evident in the Innovo, even though these are one of the more laid-back boots in the brand’s mountain-ready footlocker.

Of course, someone has to pay for such a process, so steeped in precision and prestige, and that someone is… you. Lowa don’t make cheap hiking boots, but if you’re looking for top-quality, comfortable outdoor footwear that’s going to last a decade or more, and perform precisely how is has promised to, then it’s worth the investment.

The Innovos are not as lightweight as many other brands’ offerings in the fast and breezy boot category, but they instantly feel more protective and capable than most, while being at least as comfortable straight out the box. And if you’re going to bother putting boots on – as opposed to simply hitting the trails in a pair of good hiking shoes – then you may as well get the benefit that the more extensive form of footwear offers: namely stability, support and security.

The Innovos looked great and felt good on my feet right from the outset, and I was looking forward to trail testing them.

Design & Materials

The Innovos have a chassis made from a mixture of soft suede and breathable synthetic material, backed by an Gore-Tex ePE waterproof breathable membrane. The boot is a Mid cut, as the name specifies, but some supposedly ‘Mid’ height boots have a collar that barely covers your ankle – not the Innovos. These bad boys extend well up and over the ankle, reaching to just below the bottom of your calf muscle, suppling proper levels of support to the lower leg.

They have a fully integrated tongue, and the lace system features three speed hooks that extent right up the collar. The combined result of this is that the boot offers a high level of waterproof protection up to and beyond the bottom of your hiking trousers or rain pants.

The Innovos are mid-width, and there is plenty of room in the toe box. Around the heel, Lowa's designers have added a lightweight 'monowrap support frame', which works as a 3D cradle to supply support to that crucial area. Extending right around the boot, this also operates as a rand, supplying protection for the side of the foot from shark sticks and stones. In addition, there’s a small toe cap to shield the wearer from toe stubs and bumps.

The considerable cushioning in the midsole comes thanks to DynaPU+, a kind of foam that supplies some degree of rebound with each foot placement. The suspension is enhanced by several extra layers of PU-foam padding. The boot is fairly flexible, and has been designed to roll with the foot during each stride.

The rubber outsole, made in house by Lowa from optimised rubber compound (rather than being brought in from a third party like Vibram), bristles with 5mm lugs, angled to provide grip and traction at the front, and braking control at the back. The chunky outsole is slightly higher at the rear too, but overall the bottom profile of the boot has a rocker shape (promoting a rolling cadence).

On the trails

Over the last four months I have been wearing the Innovo Mid GTX boots while hiking trails and scaling peaks in the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, and also during slightly more mundane walking outings on my doorstep, taking the dog for strolls along my local stretch of the South West Coast Path. And herein lies the beauty of these boots: they’re basically good for everything from easy ambles through to more challenging escapades to the summit of (modest) mountain ranges.

Don’t get me wrong, you shouldn’t attempt to wear them to the top of technical peaks in the middle of winter – they’re not designed for that sort of high-end caper – but for the kind of hill hiking and coast-and-countryside walks the vast majority of us do most times we head out of the door, they’re absolutely perfect. And beyond day walks, they’re also ideal for overnight or multiday backpacking escapades, and hut hiking.

A swathe of lightweight boots have been released in recent years, by brands like Inov8 and Salomon, which are a bit like trail running shoes with a mid-height collar and are perfect for fastpacking. The Innovos are much more substantial than these, offering considerably more support and protection, and therefore they’re a bit heavier.

These boots are definitely designed for hiking, rather than trotting, but they’re still more nimble than a traditional hiking boot. The collar is exactly the right height to supply support when you are carrying a pack on a multiday adventure, or tackling technical low alpine terrain, and the cradle on the heel provides extra confidence too.

Ireland experienced a rare heatwave while I was in the Wicklow Mountains, so I was able to test the claims of breathability that Lowa make about the Innovo, and I can confirm that the combination of suede and a lighter, thinner synthetic in the chassis does make these boots reasonable cool to hike in. Gore-Tex membranes only really work (in terms of moisture control) when humidity is low, and that wasn’t the case in Wicklow in June, so there was a limit to how much my feet could breathe, but they would work better in the European Alps and other areas where the alpine air is drier.

Inevitably, I encountered plenty of jacket-drenching wet weather and boggy ground in the Irish Highlands too, especially on the top of Lugnaquilla, the highest peak in the Wicklow Mountains, which was entirely enveloped in cloud the entire time I was up there, ruining my chance to enjoy the apparently cracking views over Dublin Bay, but giving me a ample chance to test the waterproofing on these boots, which is very good. There were several stream crossings on the approach to this and other peaks, and I can attest that the integrated tongue and proper mid-height cut of the collar on the Innovo means you can wade through ankle-deep water without getting wet socks.

The outsole proved very grippy on rocky terrain, even in the wet, but I did find that the closely arranged lugs accumulated mud when I was hiking through boggy parts of the routes I was tackling.

Overall, however, the Innovo GTX Mids from Lowa are versatile, comfortable and highly capable boots, with excellent ankle and heel support, and top levels of lower foot and toe protection. They’re as breathable as you can reasonably expect any Gore-Tex membrane-lined boot to be, and the waterproofing is very good.

• There’s no point wearing great boots if you don’t pair them with good hiking socks
• In summer, wearing the best hiking shorts feels fantastic

Also consider

First impressions

Not only is the Skien Valley long-sleeved top a nice-looking hiking shirt (available for men and women), with some great vents and features, it’s also part of Columbia’s new Insect Shield Collection, which – so the US-based brand – can protect you from bity beasts while you’re trying to enjoy alfresco adventures.

Not all insects are annoying, most do a very valuable job, but I think we can all agree that some, like mosquitoes and midges, are the bastard spawn of the devil and, when they’re not actually killing people, they seem to exist only to drive hikers and campers mad and ruin the outdoor experience. There are myriad ways to try and keep them at bay, including using spray-on repellents and creams, from deet to more natural deterrents like citronella and eucalyptus – but this can prove costly, the bottles take up room in your backpack and some have a very strong smell and feel greasy on your skin.

Another option is to cover up as much of your body as possible, with standard base layers and long socks and so on, but that can get very hot and sweaty when you’re hiking and spending time in camp in the summer, which is exactly when such annoying insects come out.

Alternatively, you can try using treated clothing, like garments from Columbia’s new Insect Shield collection. The Skien Valley shirt is part of this range of gnat-smashing wearable gear, all of which are impregnated with an insecticide called permethrin, which the American brand say works against mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies, chiggers, and no-see-ums. If this stuff works, I’m all over it.

Design and Materials

The pieces of clothing in the Insect Shield Collection, including the Skien Valley shirt, aren’t just treated with permethrin, they are also designed to deter biting insects from landing on you in the first place. This starts with the light colorways used (less attractive to the creatures, apparently) and extends to extra coverage (long sleeves, collar etc) and mesh-backed vents on the back and the elbows, which allow cool air in and hot air to escape, without opening a door of opportunity for the biting insects to get in and have a munch on you.

The nylon material is light, but not so thin that a mosquito can stab its proboscis through it, and the thickness also protects you from the sun (as does the collar). The material contains Omni-Wick technology, which shifts moisture (sweat) away from your body to the outside of the garment, where it quickly evaporates.

Aside from these features, both the men’s and the women’s version of this shirt boast two chest pockets. On the women’s shirt these are both secured with Velcro, but on the men’s shirt the one on the left has a vertical opening and a zip. All versions of the shirt have a secret interior pocket made from mesh, for stashing something like a credit card very discreetly if you’re traveling in places where security is an issue.

The snap closures on the cuff and front of the shirt make it very quick and easy to put on and take off, and to open up when you want extra air flow. The collar can be flipped up to supply extra protection for your neck from the sun.

It’s just a shame that no recycled fabric appears to have been used in the construction of the Skien Valley shirt, and that it doesn't contain any treatment to prevent the build up of bacteria and bad odors over time.

On the trails

I have been wearing the Skien Valley shirt and other elements of Columbia’s Insect Shield Collection during this long hot summer, while hiking and camping in England and Ireland. In one campsite in particular, in the Wicklow Mountains just outside Dublin, during a still day amid a stifling heatwave, the midges were at plague proportions, emerging in aggressive clouds as soon as the sun set, and I was able to give the gear a really good test.

In my experience, after I changed out of standard kit and into the Insect Shield clothing, there was a noticeable difference in the amount of attention I was getting from the biting insects, who presumably went and annoyed someone else (sorry, not sorry, camping comrades).

I can’t say I was completely shielded from bites by this shirt, because it doesn’t offer full coverage (unlike the Skien Valley Hooded Light Jacket, which has a face net and everything), and in the campsite I ended up donning an ensemble that comprised the Skien Valley Hoodie, Cargo Hiking trousers and Booney hat.

But where this shirt comes into its own is during hiking escapades and walking adventures. The vents on the elbows and shoulders are excellent, allowing delicious bursts of breeze to get through and cool your skin, while the mesh backing behind these flaps keeps insects out.

Obviously it’s best to wear the sleeves down when you’re in camp, to fend off squadrons of mosquitoes, but when you’re striding along the trail and breaking a sweat, it’s easy and pleasant to roll the cuffs up and use the snap closures to keep them in place. The same style closures on the front allow you to open the shirt up as much as you like, to let even more air in, while the material supplies excellent protection from the sun.

Although I’m not in the habit of carrying too much in my shirts, the pockets on the Skien Valley top are impressive, especially the zippered on the left, where you can stash cash, cards and other things you really don’t want to lose. I wasn’t too worried about encountering bandits in the Wicklow Mountains, but the secret inner pocket is a nice touch for people traveling in places where pickpocketing might be more of a concern.

Overall, this is a very well-designed, highly functional, impressive featured hiking shirt, that looks decent with hiking pants or shorts when you’re on the trail, and works well with jeans in more social circumstances. It supplies more protection from aggressive and annoying flora and fauna than the vast majority of other tops on the market, and it’s available for a sensible price.

Also consider

REI's massive Labor Day sale is in full swing, and we've spotted some excellent deals on hiking kit from Swedish brand Fjallraven.

Right now, you can pick up the versatile Fjallraven Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers for just $134.93 at REI. That's a generous 30% off the regular asking price for these top-rated hiking pants, which I've been wearing for six months, including on a recent trek to Everest Base Camp.

The design is intended to be truly versatile, and the brand has ensured that by using a blend of recycled polyester, cotton, polyamide, and elastane that it calls G-1000 Lite Stretch. The result is a light and breathable fabric that's extremely tough, quick drying, and of course, stretchy. Basically, everything you could ask for in a pair of hiking pants.

They're not waterproof, although they're tailored so you can easily pull your rain pants on over the top of them, but they're treated with a PFAS-free DWR to hold off a light rain. What's more, the fabric on the front can be waxed for better weather resistance, while the back is all about ventilation for staying cool in hot weather.

This deal applies to both men's and women's sizing in all colorways, but the sale ends on September 1, so we suggest you act fast. You can also shop the entire REI Labor Day sale here.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Fjallraven Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers where you are.

If you are hiking in the summer wearing these pants, there are two outer thigh venting zips and the stretchy content means you can comfortably plop down on a rock for a picnic lunch. When the temperatures drop, they do block the wind quite well, and they are just roomy enough to layer over long johns, unless you have very muscly legs, in which case you may struggle with the tapered fit.

The back of the waistband is elasticated for added comfort and versatility, and they have a regular button and fly closure. There are also belt loops for those who need them.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best offers on the Fjallraven Abisko Hybrid Trail Trousers near you:

• The best hiking pants: don't let winter slow you down with our top trail trousers
• The best women’s hiking pants: for comfort and protection anywhere

First impressions

A good fleece jacket can come in handy all year round, providing some much-needed extra warmth when the winds pick up in the warmer months and adding an insulating layer during winter.

Columbia's Sequoia Grove fleece aims to be the perfect all-rounder, going with 'anything and everything' according to the Columbia website. It's made from snug 100% recycled polyester fabric and designed to provide light insulation, meaning it's best suited to cool days in the spring and fall, and shouldn't be worn on its own in winter.

It features stretch binding on the collar, cuffs, and hem to 'seal out' cold winds and stop heat from escaping. Its high collar design provides some much-appreciated additional insulation around your neck.

When it gets a little hotter, you can fully unzip your Sequoia Grove fleece and feel the breeze on your upper body.

Columbia Sequoia Grove: on the trails

I was lucky enough to get my hands on the Sequoia Grove fleece jacket in April and have been eagerly putting it through its paces ever since.

I've worn this stylish Columbia number in all manner of weather conditions during treks over the hills and valleys of southern England and up the odd mountain in Northern England's Lake District National Park.

Here's how it performed:

Fit and comfort

Comfort is the make-or-break element of any fleece jacket. An uncomfy or ill-fitting model is never fun to wear, especially if you're trying to navigate tricky trails and unforgiving weather conditions in the wild.

Thankfully, the Sequoia Grove is exceptionally comfortable. The 100% recycled polyester fabric felt soft on my skin from its first use and remained so after several months of testing on the trails. It's hardened a touch after a few washes, but still feels pleasant and cozy.

It also fits very well. I'm often irritated by tight-fitting hiking layers that provide a good level of warmth but feel almost stuck to your skin as you trek. Hence, I was pleased to find that the Sequoia Grove fits a touch looser than many similar models and still provides some great warmth.

For reference, I'm 6ft 1in tall, and the size large fits true to size.

Protection from the elements

Columbia classifies the Sequoia Grove fleece as suitable for light warmth, meaning it's best suited to cool days in the wilderness and can't be relied on to keep you toasty, on its own, during winter.

I put mine to the test in the variable weather of the English spring and summertime, and encountered plenty of cool and blustery days on the trails, where the Sequoia Grove excelled.

The soft fleece material acts as a useful additional layer when it's too cold to wear just a t-shirt, and its hemmed sleeves stop heat from easily escaping. It's great for windy days, and came into its own when I trekked along the exposed ridgelines of Helvellyn, a 3,116 ft (950m) peak, which would've otherwise been freezing.

In the cold temperatures of early spring, it proved its mettle as an effective layer underneath a larger insulating jacket, and I often found myself wearing it on its own, as I'd built up enough of a sweat that I didn't need a proper jacket.

The Sequoia Grove fleece jacket isn't waterproof, and quickly gets soaked in a downpour. That said, I was surprised by the fight it put up in light rain and drizzle, which took a while to get through the polyester fabric.

It's worth checking the forecast if you're planning to head out without a raincoat, but the odd shower won't cause too many problems.

After several months of testing, my Sequoia Grove has yet to sustain any real damage. The polyester fabric remains pretty soft both inside and out, and there aren't any stains that have stuck around.

Weight

At 1lb 3oz (54g), the Sequoia Grove is a relatively lightweight hiking option. There are lighter fleeces out there, but they seldom offer the same levels of comfort as this model, which never felt like it was weighing me down as I made my way through the trails.

If you're eager to shave every gram, then you should check out something super-light like the Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid jacket, which weighs in at just 9.2oz (260g).

Jackets like this one are best suited to trail running and sacrifice some of the comfort present in models like the Sequoia Grove.

Price

The Sequoia Grove is a great fleece jacket, and its price tag of $65 (£65) is a fair representation of its quality.

It's even more of a bargain considering the high prices of other, similar hiking fleeces, like the Houdini Power jacket, which will set you back an eye-watering $240 (US only), or Helly Hansen's Varde 2.0 fleece jacket, which costs $140 (£100).

In their defence, these fleeces offer a little more insulation than the Sequoia Grove, but pale in comparison to its bargain price tag.

Also consider

Comparison table

• The best fleece jackets: mid layers to keep you cozy in the backcountry
• The best base layers: the foundation of your hiking garb
• How Advnture tests products

Look out, hikers! The big REI Labor Day sale is here and has slashed the prices of REI's outdoor gear. Along with great deals on essentials like backpacks and rain jackets, you can find huge savings on an impressive selection of hiking shoes and boots.

Following a brief scroll through the sale, we found one of our favorite pairs of year-round hiking boots for 25% off! The Keen Targhee IV boots are a rugged and dependable pair that won a spot on our guide to the best hiking boots as our favorite pair for wide feet, and they're now available in men's and women's sizes for just $134.99.

These tough hiking boots feature resilient nubuck leather and 100% recycled mesh uppers, which are well-suited to the wilderness and protected from rainfall by Keen.Dry waterproof membranes.

Advnture Editor Rosee Woodland put her pair to the test in the puddles, streams, and bogs of England's Lake District National Park, and remained dry throughout.

"On a recent descent from Gowbarrow Fell in the Lake District I got slightly confused as to where the trail was and ended up ankle deep in a bog several times," reads Rosee's four-star review for Advnture.

"Given that the gloop was a hair's breadth away from coming over the top of my boot, which is a good inch above where the tongue gusset separates, I was fully expecting to feel some leakage where the tongue met the front of my ankle, but there was nothing."

Not in the US? Look below for today's best Keen Targhee IV deals where you are.

• The best budget hiking boots: quality pairs at low prices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

First impressions

A good pair of hiking socks is essential for any trek, keeping your feet comfortable and cushioned and avoiding any pesky blisters as you navigate the trails.

The best pairs use quality, sustainable fabrics and additional supportive sections to act as a barrier between your feet and any discomfort you might encounter. The Keela Insect Shield socks aim to do just this, with the added benefit of Insect Shield technology, which uses a specialist treatment to ward off critters in the wilderness.

Insect Shield features an odorless, EPA-registered insecticide called permethrin, which wards off mosquitoes, ticks, midges, and other pests on the trails. Unlike some insect repellents, which stop bugs from being able to smell you, it prevents biting by stunning the critters, usually causing them to die, according to the CDC.

Permethrin works as a naturally occurring insect repellent in chrysanthemum flowers, but the boffins at Insect Shield have decided to create their own. Insect Shield products aren't just treated with permethrin, but have it ingrained into their fabrics for protection until up to 70 washings, according to Insect Shield.

In addition to their insect protection, Keela's Insect Shield socks are designed to keep your feet comfortable over many miles of hiking. They're made with sustainable viscose fabrics from bamboo, designed to reduce friction and the risk of blisters. There's also extra padding around the ankle and footbed to give you all the support necessary while you trek.

Keela Insect Shield socks: on the trails

I got my hands on, and subsequently my feet into, the Keela Insect Repellent socks a few months ago, and have been putting them through their paces ever since.

I've worn my pair for many miles of hiking throughout the English spring and summer, and encountered a wide variety of different weather conditions. Here's how they got on in the wilderness:

Fit and comfort

After many miles of hard trekking, I can confidently say that Keela's Insect Shield socks are thoroughly comfortable. The mostly viscose and polyester fabric is soft to the touch and feels equally good on your feet. The padded footbed and ankle area provided some handy additional support and cushioned my feet throughout.

They've hardened a touch after a few washes, but still feel comfortable and soft while hiking.

I'm no stranger to blisters and rubbing on the trails, but I had no such issues wearing the Insect Shield socks. It's hard to know how much of this is due to their padding and viscose material, as Keela would suggest, but I can only report that I had no issues whatsoever in that area.

This pair also fits very well. I'm a size 11 and a half (UK), and found the large-sized socks felt snug on my feet, covering my ankle and a good deal of leg below my calf without becoming too baggy.

If you like your socks to ride up way up your calf, then I'd suggest getting a size up, but for a normal fit, this pair passes with flying colors.

Insect protection

I tested my pair throughout the spring and summer months over the hills and valleys of southern England, an area that's home to plenty of ticks and ants, but not the mosquitoes and other serious critters you're likely to find in warmer climates. Because of this, it was hard to precisely test my pair's insect repellency.

What I can confirm is that I had no issues with bugs throughout my time in the Insect Shield socks. Checking after every hike, I couldn't find any bites, tick marks, or other indications of insects. It's impossible to say whether I would've been bitten wearing different socks, but I certainly didn't have any issues in the Insect Shields.

Insect Shield tech has also undergone plenty of thorough testing in the lab and on the trails and is used by all sorts of brands to insect-proof their garments.

Price

At first glance, $23 (£19.95) seems a little pricey for a pair of socks, but it is, in my opinion, well worth it when you consider the prices of other top-end pairs that don't offer any insect protection.

Helly Hansen's Unisex technical hiking socks, for example, feature plenty of underfoot support and cushioning, but don't include any treatments or fabrics to repel insects and will set you back $25 (US) / £20 (UK).

You can, of course, find cheaper hiking socks, but if you're heading into an area where you're likely to encounter mosquitoes or other insects, then these Keela socks could be well worth the investment.

Also consider

Comparison table

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Lowa was founded in Bavaria, Germany in 1923 and has spent the last 100 years crafting – and forging a reputation for – high quality outdoor footwear. It has remained true to its core competency during this time and hasn’t made any significant forays into apparel or other such business lines – though it launched its first three pairs of trail running shoes in 2023. However, Lowa’s main focus remains hiking boots, shoes, mountaineering boots and the various niches in between.

The Cevedale Pro GTX Mid is one of the brand's standard mountaineering boots, a B2-rated powerhouse for alpine exploits and winter conditions. It’s compatible with a C2, semi-automatic crampon, making it suitable for winter walking and general mountaineering, but not steeper ice climbing or high-altitude activities, which require a C3 boot.

It’s available in the UK, alongside the burlier, warmer Alpine Expert II GTX. However, despite Lowa’s mountaineering boot offering being more substantial in the States, the Cevedale Pro GTX isn’t one of those available there. However, it’s a very similar boot to the slightly lighter Cevedale II GTX, which is available in the US for $304 at the time of writing.

First impressions

The Cevedale Pro GTX marries modern stylings onto a classy frame to give both an impression of timeless quality and technical capability. Visually, B2 boots tend to go one of three ways: all guns blazing towards a racing car style aesthetic – think the Scarpa Ribelle Light; lean heavily on a classic, burly leather boot look – Zamberlan 1000 Baltoro, I’m looking at you; or find a happy medium. The racing car vibe suggests speed and lightweight capability, while the classic aesthetic suggests durability, something you can really trust. I reckon the Cevedale Pro GTX balances both these, both in terms of look and performance.

It's not quite as heavy as the much-lauded Scarpa Manta Tech but it’s obviously meatier than the La Sportiva Trango Tower GRX or the Salewa Ortles Edge Mid GTX. Personally, I don’t get on with the Scarpa Manta Techs. I find them too cumbersome and prefer something a little lighter. The Trangos have been my go to for many years and they’ll serve as my benchmark when considering the Cevedale.

Here, you get all the usual features you’d expect: a reinforced TPU lip for taking a C2 crampon’s heel clip, a mighty toe box for kicking steps in the snow, a Gore-Tex membrane to keep things dry, and a grippy Vibram sole with a lug pattern designed for gripping rock. To wear, it feels reassuringly sturdy and supportive, though not as immediately nimble as the Trango or the Ortles Edge. I like the flexibility at the ankle – a feature it shares with the Ortles Edge. In my experience, this is a region that can become uncomfortable on long mountain days, so any additional give is a bonus.

Features

The Cevedale is highly protective, both against rock abrasion and the elements. The latter is down to its Gore-Tex bootie, which provides an effective shield against water ingress, enhanced by the boot’s stretch gaiter. The upper is made from suede, a soft cut of leather that’s more pliable than the forms of leather found closer to the surface of the hide. While it’s not as hardwearing as higher-grain materials like nubuck, it's more durable than many synthetic materials.

A wrap-around rubber rand provides an additional shield against the rough stuff, crucial for techniques like wedging, where the foot is literally wedged into a gap in the rock to provide a hold. This feature is fairly standard in these kinds of boots.

There’s plenty to commend in the Cevedale’s lacing system. Like a climbing shoe, it reaches down towards the toes for a more fine-tuned fit. This provides confidence on tiny edges, enabling more precise footwork. In fact, the lacing system is split into two separate zones thanks to the patented I-Locks for customized tightening, enabling the wearer to find the perfect fit for their chosen activity. As an example, you wouldn’t want a tight toe region for a long walk in but once you hit the crag it becomes much more desirable. It’s a similar idea (though a different design) to that seen in Aku’s Rock DFS GTX approach shoes.

Then there’s Lowa’s patented X-Lacing, which holds the tongue in place, stopping it from slipping around during activities, reducing pressure points and the chance of ending up with blisters. It's a great addition.

Vibram provide the Scalatore Evo outsole, which features a hybrid rubber and lug pattern designed for gripping both soft trails and rocky scrambling terrain. The clue is in the name, scalatore is the Italian word for climber or mountaineer and it’s a sole specifically designed for high alpine summits. Like an approach shoe, the lug pattern features flatter climbing zones at the front and rear for enhanced grip on rock, particularly when edging or smearing. Yet the deep lugs also provide claws for boggier terrain.

It's also noticeably rigid, both to provide a solid hold when engaging in precise foot placements and to ensure it binds effectively to a crampon. The last thing you need when exploring at 11,500ft (3,500m) is a crampon coming loose. As is usual, the sole curves upwards at the toes, adding reinforcement to this key region and enabling the wearer to be aggressive when kicking steps in snow.

In terms of sustainability, Lowa point out that the Cevedale is resoleable – it even recommends a specific UK provider to do the work on its website. This sort of construction is very welcome in this day and age and makes the initial cost of the boot seem more attractive.

In the mountains

I’m yet to test the Cevedales in a winter or truly alpine environment, my test period having started in the spring. However, what I was able to asses was their suitability on long approaches and scrambles in the testing, rocky mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) in North Wales.

They have been a pleasure to wear, and I've found them to be hugely accomplished on technical, rocky terrain. They’re not ideal for longer walk ins, being heavier than some B2 boots. As is often the case with mountaineering boots, their rigidity makes them feel much heftier than other forms of hiking footwear. A good option for long walk ins would be to wear a lightweight pair of shoes up to the more technical ground.

Nevertheless, the soft cuff tongue, elasticated heel gaiter and interior cushioning made them more comfortable than most boots of comparable weight. I found them much more comfortable to wear for extended periods than the Scarpa Manta Tech, though the La Sportiva Trango would be my preferred option for really long days in the mountains. The levels of stability and support are superb, a result of Lowa’s expertly made last: the foot-shaped mould that guides the design of its boots.

Romping through puddles in mountaineering boots is one of life's great joys – you'll feel like you're invincible to water ingress, especially when you pair them with gaiters. The same is true for the Cevedales, I was able to trust them to keep my feet dry throughout my adventures.

All in all, this is a very strong all-round mountaineering boot. My personal preference is for something a little lighter, though for outings where a hefty boot offers reassurance on really technical terrain, the Cevedale is a very good shout. The fact that it's fully resoleable only adds to its attraction.

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Comparison table

London-born Edward Whymper was a leading figure of the Golden Age of Alpinism. Indeed, it was his fateful first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865 that brought about the end of this period, a time when the great peaks of the Alps were first climbed, often by wealthy Brits expertly guided by locals. The Matterhorn would be the most enduring event in Whymper’s legacy, yet he was a truly pioneering early proponent of alpinism, one of Britain’s greatest ever mountaineers, with many impressive feats to his name.

French brand Cimalp clearly holds Whymper with enough regard to have named one of its best-selling technical fleece jackets after him. It’s designed as a mid-layer that’s “perfect for shifting mountain conditions, climbing or trekking activities” and is available in both men’s and women’s versions. Cimalp namechecked mountaineering, climbing and ski touring as it’s ideal uses, though I had a suspicion it’d be a good option for pretty much all outdoor pursuits.

I’ve tested half a dozen pieces of Cimalp kit over the last few years and was stoked to try out this high-performance mid-layer during my mountain jaunts. Allez!

First impressions

The Whymper is very similar in terms of design, features and function to Berghaus’ MTN Guide MW Hoody, a mid-layer that's part of the British brand's premium Extrem range for mountain professionals. The Whymper is obviously tailored towards active use in the mountains, with a pair of front chest pockets that are higher than you’d get on a standard hooded jacket. This is to enable the wearer to still have access to the pockets while wearing a harness.

The most obvious feature, as with the Berghaus hoody, is the design of the main fabric. Turn the hoody inside out and its grid-like structure becomes immediately apparent, comprising thousands of rectangular cuts of fleece, much like Polartec's Power Grid design. In this case, it's Cimalp’s Cimagrid, a design intended to provide both warmth and breathability for strenuous outdoor pursuits. The fleece cubes insulate while the gaps between them breathe – simple but effective.

The fit is athletic but not restrictive, ideal for a layer that’ll spend much of its time beneath a waterproof jacket. Partly thanks to this fit, it looks good too. I was testing the Noir-Gris colorway, which has subtle red detailing along the zippers and grey breast sections. I certainly felt great wearing it and I also reckon it represents decent value when compared to the direct competition.

The Whymper is also available in a range of other colors: Blue, Purple, Black, Blue / Green and Green / Yellow for men; and Black, Green, Blue and Purple / Pink for women.

Cimagrid breathable insulation

The feature that elevates the Whymper above your standard mid-layer is its grid-like fleece structure – named Cimagrid. The idea is that the gaps between the tiny, rectangular polyester fleece sections allow the jacket to breathe, thus allowing radiated body heat to escape, wicking moisture away and keeping you cool during dynamic activities. At the same time, the blocks of fleece insulate, keeping you warm at the same time. It’s not quite as dramatic design as the sieve-like face fabric of the Houdini Pace Flow Houdi, but it’s a similar idea.

It's this feature that makes the Whymper so well suited to pursuits where temperature regulation is key. As a mid-layer, it allows warm, moist air to move through the system, continuing the good work of your moisture-wicking base layer.

Another key quality of this fabric is its 6% elastane content, which enables 4-way stretch, meaning the garment is flexible both horizontally and vertically. This is crucial when it comes to the freedom of movement needed for activities like alpinism or skiing, especially given the hoody’s tight fit. Meanwhile, the grid structure also means less weight and greater packability, both big pluses for long adventures in the mountains.

Unfortunately, unlike with the Berghaus equivalent, there’s no mention of recycled materials here, or the jacket’s recyclability at the end of its life. However, Cimalp mostly sources its dyes and pigments from biological sources, its clothing is completely PFC free and its fabrics are always either Bluesign or Oeko-Tex certified – so the brand are making some strides towards a sustainable future.

Other features

As mentioned, the Whymper boasts two large, zippered chest pockets, placed high enough for access when wearing a climbing harness. Both these and the central full-length zipper boast chunky branded pulls for ease of manipulation when wearing hiking gloves. The zippers on the pockets slide up and down with consummate ease, while the central zipper feels slightly more rugged – reassuringly so. Beneath the central zipper is a fabric overlay that stops heat from escaping through this potential area of weakness. Little features like this are very welcome and nod towards the jacket's thoughtful design.

When fully zipped up, the Whymper provides coverage around the neck, a nice touch that provides additional warmth during colder adventures.

The hem and cuffs aren’t adjustable, using elastic rather than drawstrings or Velcro. This isn’t an issue, as they wrap nice and tight, and are easy to loosen with a pull. By keeping things simple, Cimalp have kept weight to a minimum. Likewise, there’s no adjustability in the hood, which sits snug around the head when the front zipper is fully done up. Despite this, its elastane content means that it will take a helmet without any problems.

On the trails

I’ve been wearing the Whymper in the mountains for several months, both as a mid-layer during winter adventures – paired with the excellent Cimalp Cosmiques H Breathable Trekking Jacket – and as an outer on spring and summer exploits in Wales' Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park and for everyday wear around England's southwest.

On a wintry week in Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park, the Whymper was put through its paces during long mountaineering days spent climbing some of Scotland's highest mountains. The Highlands are renowned for their long walk ins, and I found the Whymper was a great choice for these. It provided the additional warmth I needed while effectively regulating my temperature during these strenuous treks. Whenever I needed to dump heat during an ascent, I’d simply open the front zip and let things cool off.

Once up high, the waterproof Cosmiques Jacket was deployed over the top and – in the best way possible – I didn’t notice the Whymper at all. This is a good thing – it means it was doing its job successfully as the meat between my outer and my base layer. The athletic cut meant that my jacket fitted on top of it without issue and I had no qualms with the hoody’s freedom of movement.

For warmer season adventures, the Whymper’s low weight and packability are a boon, as it’ll undoubtedly spend as much – if not more – time scrunched into a daypack as it will on your torso. I encountered mild conditions that really put its breathability to the test and it passed with flying colors. It helped me to regulate my temperature more effectively than a standard, thicker fleece would have.

At the end of the day, it’s down to the wearer to choose when to wear it, when to leave the front zip open and when to stash the jacket away. The upshot is that, for a hiking mid-layer, it does everything that’s asked of it.

When it comes to wind resistance, it’s not as effective as a bulkier fleece. This is the obvious compromise when it comes to breathability. I found that strong wintry gusts would penetrate the grid structure when the hoody was worn as an outer. However, as a mid-layer, it’d usually be paired with a wind-blocking softshell or an even more rugged waterproof jacket, so it’s not a big issue.

Being a technical mountain hoody, it’s perhaps not as suited to everyday walks as a standard fleece jacket. There are no handwarmer pockets here for those casual winter ambles and, as mentioned above, it’ll let wind through more readily than some. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy wearing it for the everyday, it’s just that it’s more geared towards technical use.

Also consider

Comparison table

The Land of Ice and Fire – no, not a new George RR Martin novel, but a country: Iceland.

There’s no doubt that Iceland is one of the most dynamic places on the planet. Here, young, glaciated mountains rise above an interior of immense lava fields. It’s an island that's still being forged, which is host to some of the world’s most active volcanoes. The Aurora Borealis often dance in the sky, while the land is an adventurer’s paradise.

American photographer, adventurer, surfer and filmmaker Chris Burkard has made this astonishing island his home, having fallen for its unique grandeur. For its Ljósufjöll (try saying that after a few bottles of Kaldi Blonde) waterproof jacket, premium Icelandic outdoor brand 66° North collaborated with Burkard in an attempt to create 'the ultimate shell for the wild and adventurous outdoor explorer'. The result was this Gore-Tex shell jacket.

For the uninitiated, 66° North was founded in Suðureyri on the Súgandafjörður fjord by Hans Kristjánsson in 1926. His mission was to craft clothing for fishermen and workers braving the harsh North Atlantic elements. Within two years it was creating gear for Iceland’s search and rescue teams and the rest, as they say, is history. 66° refers to the latitudinal line of the Arctic Circle that crosses Súgandafjörður. By 2019, it had become a carbon neutral company, a commendable achievement.

By any measure, 66° North’s gear isn’t cheap, with some products costing thousands, such as the $2,800 Charlie Constantinou quilt jacket or the $1,250 Jökla Parka. The Ljósufjöll Jacket won’t set you back quite that much, but it still clocks in at a cool $745 (£495 in the UK). So, it’s something of an investment. I was keen to see whether this premium adventurer’s jacket was worth its price tag.

First impressions

I immediately liked the feel and cut of the Ljósufjöll. The inner lining feels lovely against the skin, while its lack of weight and the freedom of movement it provides were immediately apparent. For something designed for the rigors of wild Iceland, it was lighter and less rigid than I was expecting, which suits my fast and light approach to outdoor adventure. So far, so good.

Little touches like the microfleece around the collar and the way the hood stows away impressed me, while closer inspection revealed quality craftsmanship in terms of the stitching and the overall premium feel of the piece.

I was testing the black colorway, which features grey detailing on the logos and zippers. It’s also available in birch brown bolete. Neither are very vibrant, but then 66^o North tend not to go too ostentatious with their color options, with the bright eventide blue of the Snaefell Jacket about as dazzling as it gets.

Highly protective Gore-Tex shell

The Ljósufjöll Jacket features a Gore-Tex membrane to provide a waterproof yet breathable shell. Considering the Ljósufjöll is in the same price bracket as many Gore-Tex Pro jackets, such as the Berghaus MTN Guide, you’d be within your right to expect the most protective technology Gore-Tex can offer. However, this is a much lighter and more flexible jacket than rugged Gore-Tex Pro mountaineering jackets. Its nylon outer is also 100% recycled, which accounts for at least some of the cost, while it’s also PFAS-free.

Weighing in at 12oz (338g), it’s towards the lighter end of the waterproof jacket spectrum, in the same league as Arcterycx’s popular Beta Lighweight Jacket. That’s not to say that it isn’t robust. Its shell is a durable, 40-denier nylon ripstop that’s resistant to abrasion and wear. The Gore-Tex membrane is the meat in the sandwich, effectively repelling water while allowing moisture to escape. Beneath this is a supremely thin C-knit backer that’s designed for ultimate comfort and is soft against the skin. This backer comprises a layer of expanded PTFE that’s lighter and more breathable than most used in other 3-layer jackets.

The upshot of all of this is a waterproof material that’s light, durable, nicely breathable and comfortable to wear. This results in a jacket that can be used across a range of activities. It’s pleasant for everyday wear, rugged enough to tackle wintry adventures and vents well enough for dynamic activities like scrambling, skiing or even running.

This is all enhanced by its articulated fit, one that provides that all-important freedom of movement. I was able to windmill my arms, practise yoga or dance the tango (when the mood took me) without feeling restricted. Only when I crossed my arms and reached in opposite directions did I feel the shell tighten across my back – and it’s not like I’m going to be doing that all too often in the mountains.

Features

As you’d expect from a $745 jacket, the Ljósufjöll has plenty of features. I like the way the hood can be stowed into a zippered compartment in the collar, another feature that adds to the jacket’s versatility. And speaking of the collar, it’s lined by super-soft microfleece that feels great against the skin – even against my bristly, stubbled chin.

When liberated, the hood is adjusted via two pull tabs at the front, which tighten an elasticated cord that runs around the front. It’s designed to be helmet-compatible for activities like scrambling, mountaineering, via ferrata and climbing. The cuffs are adjusted using Velcro tabs and are curved to provide maximum coverage, much like those on the excellent Norrøna Falketind Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket.

The hem features the usual drawcord tabs on either side and is easy to adjust. In terms of coverage for wet weather, the cut doesn’t reach down to the upper thighs, unlike some, though this shouldn’t be an issue when paired with decent rain pants.

In terms of storage, you get two external zippered chest pockets that are placed high enough to still be accessible when wearing a harness or a hiking backpack with an extensive hip belt. These pockets large enough to take a topographical map and are useful for quickly stashing items like a headlamp. There’s also an internal zippered breast pocket that’s just large enough to take a phone.

Further down are a pair of 2-way side zippers. These aren't pockets, but instead open the jacket up, just like pit zips. This provides additional ventilation – a better alternative to unzipping the front when you need to dump heat during strenuous activities. It also enables the wearer another way of accessing the internal pocket or for getting to mid-layers pocketsd and the like.

I really like this feature. It performs the same task as pit zips when it comes to ventilation, while also allowing access beneath the jacket. The fact the zips are 2-way gives plenty of flexibility in terms of how they’re opened up. For casual walks, it’s nice to be able to bury my hands within them, accessing the handwarming pockets of my down or fleece jacket beneath.

All the zippers are YKK and feature the Aquaguard design that forms an effective barrier against water ingress. The pockets and side zippers are laminated, while the full-length middle zipper is backed by a storm flap – a length of the 3-layer face fabric that sits behind the teeth and is ready to stop water in its tracks. Each has a fabric pull with a plastic tip for durability. This enabled me to easily grab them, even when wearing hiking gloves.

On the trails

I’ve been wearing the Ljósufjöll jacket through spring and summer in the UK, braving downpours and exploring the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. 66^o North include 'everyday commuting' among this jacket's uses, so I also wore it for everyday jaunts, such as popping to a café with my daughter. I admittedly found it a tad stressful knowing that the jacket that I’d just hung by the main entrance was worth half a grand. Invariably I’d end up hiding it at the bottom of my daypack, just in case.

Fit wise, it hits the sweet spot: there’s space for additional layers yet it doesn’t look overly baggy when worn with just a base layer. As mentioned, the articulated design provides excellent freedom of movement, while the comfort provided by the C-knit backer makes it a pleasure to wear.

The Ljósufjöll jacket is a solid ally when the weather turns foul, it’s Gore-Tex batting away the rain with ease and enabling me to continue pushing without getting overly stuffy, thanks to superb breathability. The ability to open up the side zippers to let air circulate was ideal. These are much preferable to the contortions needed to open and close the usual pit zips seen on many other jackets.

The only part of the jacket I didn’t get on with brilliantly was the hood. When tightened it pulls the peak forward, restricting vision. At the back of the hood are two buttons that enabled me to pull it back slightly, though I still wasn’t as enamored with it as with jackets that offer 3-way adjustability. In challenging conditions, it felt a little claustrophobic when tightened and I was acutely aware of it around my face with every head movement.

However, other than this qualm, the Ljósufjöll is a jacket of significant quality that has the versatility to be pretty much the only waterproof shell you’d ever need. Sure, some climbers and mountaineers wedded to the rugged qualities of a Gore-Tex Pro jacket may want to stick with such an option but for everything and everyone else, this jacket does it all.

Also consider

Comparison table

After a long, hot summer, now is the time to turn attention to the chilly winds and rainy days of fall. If you're keen to get outdoors and hit the trails in the coming months, then you might want to consider a new waterproof jacket to keep you dry and warm in the unpredictable upcoming weather.

The best waterproof jackets combine effective protection from the elements with breathability and minimal bulk, but usually cost a pretty penny. So, we were surprised to stumble across a big reduction on this lightweight rain jacket from The North Face. The Alta Vista jacket is designed for long fall days on the trails, and is now available for just $98 on The North Face website.

This trail-ready jacket is made from lightweight 100% recycled nylon fabric and folds away into a small pack that you can carry around with ease.

Instead of traditional Gore-Tex waterproofing, the Alta Vista combines The North Face's 2.5L DryVent technology with a non-PFC durable water-repellent finish, designed to keep you dry and "take your trail exploration to the next level," according to The North Face website.

When the weather improves, you can open the handy pit zips to improve ventilation.

The men's Alta Vista jacket is reduced in three colorways: shady blue, hero blue, and duck green.

Not in the US? You can look below for today's best The North Face rain jacket deals where you are.

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Just last week, we announced that Patagonia had made some tweaks to its legendary Nano Puff Jacket, and that means there are great deals to be found on the older model.

Right now, you can pick up the perennially popular Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket for just $142.99 at Patagonia. That's a great savings of 40% off the regular asking price for this lightweight puffy jacket, which Patagonia customers give 4.6 stars.

"The perfect cool weather shell or cold weather mid layer. Very comfortable, tailored fit, great colour. Simple to maintain with a cold water wash and hang to dry. Highly recommend," writes one customer.

The secret to the Nano Puff's success? It's super warm, thanks to PrimaLoft Gold Insulation, but also amazingly light at just 12 ounces. That means that while it can add that life-saving insulation you need when you wear it as a mid layer for skiing or winter hiking, it can also be packed away neatly in your carry-on for adventure travel and makes the perfect outer layer for alpine starts and cool summer evenings.

Synthetic insulation continues to keep you warm when it gets wet, so this jacket is a fair choice for damp days too and is treated with DWR to fend off a light drizzle.

This deal applies to men's sizing in the Utility Blue colorway, while you can still make healthy savings on other colors. and you can take 30% off women's sizing in Lagom Blue.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Patagonia Nano Puff jackets where you are.

Needless to say, eco creds abound with this jacket, which boasts a bluesign-approved recycled polyester ripstop shell as well as recycled insulation.

There are two zippered handwarmer pockets for stashing gear, plus a zippered and internal chest pocket that doubles as a stuff sack with a reinforced carabiner clip-in loop.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best offers on the Patagonia Nano Puff jackets near you:

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In the market for a reliable new pair of hiking shoes to help you through the summer and into the wetter months? Check out this awesome deal on one of our favorite pairs, which is now $80 off in women's sizes.

The Danner Trail 2650 Campo hiking shoes hold a spot on our expert guide to the best hiking shoes as our favorite shoes for stability, and are now available for just $120 at Danner.

This pair features sock-like leather and textile uppers, which protect you from the elements using dependable Gore-Tex membranes.

Outdoors expert Julia Clarke stood in bogs and streams to test the Trail 2650 Campo's waterproofing and found it to be watertight. Julia was also impressed by the comfy interiors and grippy Vibram outsoles.

"They have a nice, snug fit, loads of flex and good cushioning underfoot," reads her four-star review for Advnture.

"I’ve worn these a lot on rocky and muddy trails and in fairly torrential downpours and they perform really well with loads of grips and stability on slick and uneven surfaces."

These stylish hiking shoes are only reduced in Gore-Tex women's sizes. You can find the non-waterproof Trail 2650 Campo hiking shoes in men's sizes for their list price of $170 on the Danner website.

Not in the US? You can look below for today's best Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX hiking shoes deals where you are.

• The best budget hiking boots: quality pairs at low prices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

Arc'teryx is one of the most in-demand outdoor brands at the moment, crafting top-notch hiking, trail-running, and winter sports gear to help outdoor goers do what they love most in comfort. So, you can imagine my surprise when I found one of their dependable waterproof jackets reduced by almost $180.

The Men's Arc'teryx Beta AR jacket aims to combine breathability with dependable protection from the elements, and is now available for just $420.93 at REI.

Its main body is made from Arc'teryx's lightweight N40d Most Rugged fabric, and protects you from the elements with three-layer Gore-Tex waterproofing. Gore-Tex membranes are a very popular choice for outdoor gear, due to their reliable waterproofing and decent breathability.

Ventilation is enhanced by large pit zips on either side of the jacket, which allow for some much-needed airflow as you get a sweat on.

An embedded RECCO reflector is also a handy touch that could come in useful in emergencies. The small battery-free transponder responds to detector signals, so search and rescue can locate you in dense wilderness and snowfall.

This tough Arc'teryx jacket is reduced to $420.93 in the sleek Electra/Soulsonic and Dynasty colorways, but you can find it for $510.93 in Black Sapphire and Black.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best Arc'teryx Beta jacket deals where you are.

• The best waterproof jackets: brave the elements with these top-rated hard and softshells
• The best lightweight running jackets: barely-there waterproofs

Great lightweight hiking shoes aren't usually cheap. The best hiking shoes combine a minimal exterior with plenty of cushioning and protection from the elements, but will usually cost a pretty penny. So, I was surprised to find that one of my favorite pairs is now available for over $45 off at REI.

The Keen Hightrail EXP hiking shoes will keep you dry and comfortable over many miles of long-distance trekking, and are now available in men's and women's sizes for just $104.43.

I put mine to the test in all manner of weather conditions, over a variety of unforgiving trails for my review for Advnture, and was thoroughly impressed throughout. Their snug performance ripstop mesh and TPU uppers remained dry as a bone when I was caught in torrential rain, thanks to this pair's Keen.Dry waterproof membranes.

I was also a fan of the underfoot comfort available with these hiking shoes. Lightweight pairs often sacrifice cushioning to save weight, but the Hightrail EXPs feature high-rebound foam midsoles, which felt supportive and cushioned as I navigated uneven trails.

I ultimately gave them a four-and-a-half-star rating, reflective of their excellent quality, lightweight build, and great trail feel.

Not in the US? You can look below for today's best Keen Hightrail EXP hiking shoes deals where you are.

• The best budget hiking boots: quality pairs at low prices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

First impressions

Columbia has long built a reputation on making no-nonsense, hard-wearing outdoor gear – and the Oak Harbor II Insulated Jacket fits squarely into that ethos. It’s a robust, insulated, waterproof jacket, designed for cold-weather hiking and general winter use. It’s not ultralight, it’s not flashy, and it certainly doesn’t roll up to the size of a grapefruit. But it doesn’t need to.

At 2.1lb (950g) in a men’s medium, this is a jacket that you wear out the door knowing you’ll be in it all day. You’re not stuffing this in the bottom of your hiking backpack for emergencies – it’s too bulky for that. Pack size wise, it compresses down to something akin to a two-season synthetic sleeping bag, or a chunky four-season down bag. Could you take it wild camping or backpacking? Sure. But it’ll take up a noticeable chunk of your pack. That’s why this is a jacket best suited to being worn from the get-go, and mostly on day hikes.

It’s also not trying to be something it isn’t. The list price puts it firmly in the mid-range, and for what you get (solid waterproofing, decent insulation, and Columbia’s heat-reflective liner) it’s a respectable price point. Add in the fact that Columbia frequently discounts this jacket, and it starts to look like a bit of a bargain for anyone who needs a warm, weatherproof coat for cold hikes or everyday winter duties.

In the wild

I tested the Oak Harbor II over several weeks across a mix of chilly winter hikes and wildcamping trips in southern England. It came with me on brisk treks in the Chilterns, a long walk across the South Downs, and two wild nights under canvas in damp local woodland. The conditions ranged from crisp, dry 46°F (8°C) afternoons to just-above-freezing nights, with plenty of classic British drizzle thrown in for good measure.

Throughout all of it, the jacket performed reliably. It kept me dry on the move and stayed warm when I stopped, especially when layered over a decent midlayer. It’s not the sort of jacket you chuck on for 15 minutes at a time – it comes into its own when you’re wearing it for hours, adjusting the zips and toggles as the weather shifts. On uphill climbs, the main zip helped dump excess heat, and when the wind picked up, it was easy to cinch everything back down again to keep the warmth in. That versatility made it feel just as useful around camp as it did out on the trail.

Features

There’s a lot going on with the Oak Harbor II, but the first thing that really stands out – both visually and in use – is the Omni-Heat Infinity liner. It’s a gold, foil-like material that lines the inside of the jacket, that was originally inspired by NASA's space blankets. But it’s not just for show. This stuff actually works. It reflects your body heat back at you, and because it’s focused around the torso – covering all your vital organs – it creates a bubble of warmth remarkably quickly. Even on a damp, cold hillside, I could feel the heat rebounding off it before the insulation itself had even caught up.

Now, it’s not down. It doesn’t puff up with immediate warmth in freezing temperatures. But for anyone who values that near-instant feeling of heat after a long climb or a cold lunch stop, it’s a game-changer – particularly when worn over a decent midlayer.

Then there’s the waterproofing. I tested this jacket through multiple rainstorms, and it shrugged off most of what the British weather could throw at it. In really prolonged rain, yes, the outer fabric will wet out, and the hand pockets do eventually start to soak through – especially because they’re fleece-lined, which means they hold water. But I never felt cold or soggy underneath, and crucially, that chest pocket stayed dry throughout. When your phone or map lives in there, that matters.

The hood’s another win. It’s not helmet compatible, but it does everything else right. There’s a Velcro adjustment at the back and two pull cords around the chin, which means you can cinch it down properly when the wind picks up. Once tightened, it stays put – no flapping or slipping, even when turning your head – which made it genuinely useful in driving rain.

Columbia’s designers have made the jacket glove-friendly too. The wrist cuffs are thick and easy to grip with cold fingers or bulky hiking gloves, and they cinch tight to block out drafts. I found myself fiddling with them far less than with other winter jackets. Same goes for the hem adjustment – simple cord locks that you can use with numb hands and still trust to stay locked in place.

When it comes to storage options, the pockets on this thing are practical and well placed. There’s a roomy internal pocket for anything you want to keep secure and dry – wallet, phone, torch – and two big fleece-lined hand pockets that are an absolute joy when the temperature drops. Genuinely, those hand pockets do a better job at warming up icy fingers than most gloves. Just be aware: if it’s raining hard and you’re using them frequently, they will eventually soak through.

Lastly, the zippers. It might sound minor, but when a jacket’s zips are waterproof, reliable and refuse to snag – even in freezing wet conditions – it changes your whole experience. On one particularly grim day in the South Downs, with gusts ripping across the ridge and sleet blowing sideways, I was able to zip up fast, stay warm and carry on. No wrestling with sticky pulls or trying to realign zips with numb hands. Just simple, solid functionality that does exactly what it should.

Durability

The Oak Harbor II isn’t trying to be the lightest or most technical jacket in your kit cupboard – but for cold-weather hikes, wild camps and winter days around town, it gets a lot right. The Omni-Heat Infinity liner genuinely makes a difference, helping you warm up quickly after periods of exertion. The waterproofing is dependable, and the features – from the fleece-lined hand pockets to the solid zip system – make it easy to wear all day in mixed conditions.

It’s certainly on the heavier side, and the pack size rules it out for gram-counting backpackers or alpine climbers. But for the rest of us – the walkers, the dog owners, the casual campers – it offers real value and functionality. Especially when you catch it in the sales.

Would I carry it on a thru-hike or a remote mountain trip? Probably not. But would I throw it on for a drizzly January hike or a frosty evening under the tarp? Absolutely. It keeps you warm, keeps you dry, and does so without needing much fuss or thought. For a winter jacket that you can trust to just work, the Oak Harbor II is well worth a look.

Also consider

Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

Last week, we revealed that Patagonia’s perennially popular Nano Puff jacket has just got a rugged new cousin, and now we’ve learned that the Nano Puff itself has received a glow up for fall.

The first Nano Puff dropped all the way back in 2009, which doesn’t sound that long ago, but that makes it older than iPads, Hoka running shoes and Instagram to put it in historical perspective.

Anyway, it was designed as a go-to jacket for any outdoor activity and it’s seen a few changes and upgrades over the years, including switching to PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco in 2016, (made with 55% recycled content) which was created after Patagonia asked the insulation tech wizards to help them cut down on their impact on the planet without reducing the performance of the jacket.

In the eyes of many hikers, climbers and skiers, the Nano Puff is practically perfect and comes with us all year round, but the brand never seems to stop finding small ways to make it better.

For fall 2025, the new Patagonia Nano Puff jacket allows for better mobility with more room in the shoulders. That’s bound to make it better for climbing and for layering as the weather gets colder.

The jacket has only just hit the shelves, but it’s already garnered one glowing review from a fan who says the updated fit is an improvement, writing: “This jacket gives you a bit of wiggle room without issue, which is heavily appreciated.”

That same customer reports that the new jacket is warmer than last year’s model, and if that’s true, it may be down to the standardized quilt pattern that features bigger bricks.

Now, obviously you can wear the Nano Puff to the grocery store or to drink a beer on your front porch, but it’s built for action so it needs to stand up to the demands of backpack straps and harnesses. That’s why Patagonia has also tweaked the thread tension and stitching to improve the jacket’s abrasion resistance, which should keep it in play for longer.

The new roomier, tougher (and warmer?) Patagonia Nano Puff is available now as a jacket, hoody or vest in both men’s and women’s sizing in a ton of classy colorways for $229, which is slightly cheaper than it was four years ago. Of course, this news means you might find older models at a nice price too.

• The best synthetic puffer jackets: feather-free padding to keep out the winter chill
• The best softshell jackets: protect against wind and cold on the trails

First impressions

Helly Hansen is one of the world's oldest and most trusted outdoor brands.

The Norwegian stalwart was founded in 1877 by sea captain Helly Juell Hansen, who wanted a better way to protect himself from the harsh conditions at sea. Tired of toiling in soaking clothes, Hansen and his wife, Margarethe, created innovative waterproof jackets and pants to protect sailors from the wind and waves while they worked.

In the almost 150 years since, Helly Hansen has earned a stellar reputation for creating comfy and reliable outdoor apparel for people preparing to get out and take on the elements, gear such as the new Tech T-shirt 2.0.

This trail-ready top is made from breathable 100%-recycled polyester and is designed for repeated use on the trails. With comfort and moisture control the main priorities, the T features flatlock seams, and the material is moisture-wicking and quickly sheds sweat, so you can trek or run without irritating additional weight or moisture.

This Helly Hansen top, which is available in six different colorways, is bluesign approved, meaning it's been manufactured to the highest possible standards for environmental and worker protection.

Helly Hansen Tech T-shirt 2.0: on the trails

I was lucky enough to snag two Tech 2.0 T-shirts in June, when I joined the AQA hiking charity for their ascent of Ben Nevis, in Scotland.

Following my trip to the Highlands, I've put the Colbalt and Grey Fog colorways to the test over plenty of high-intensity treks and trail runs in the English countryside. I was treated to plenty of varied weather in testing, including several rainy days and a scorching heatwave.

Read on to see how the Helly Hansen Tech 2.0 T-shirt got on in the field.

Fit and comfort

There's little worse than an ill-fitting T-shirt on the trails. Too small and you can feel constrained, but too big and you can feel like you're drowning in excess material.

The Tech 2.0 T-shirt dodges these problems with a comfortable fit that feels snug in all the right places without getting too tight. True to size, it fit nicely around my stomach, chest, and shoulders without constraining my movements.

I'm often irritated by the sleeve lengths of outdoor tops, which can be unfashionably baggy or rise so high up my upper arms that they feel like a vest. The sleeves on the Tech 2.0 T-shirt strike a happy medium, falling a couple of inches above my elbow and exposing a little upper arm without riding onto my shoulders.

For reference, I'm 6ft 1in tall, and wore a size medium throughout testing.

The 100%-recycled polyester material was also comfortable and never caused any irritation or chaffing. I wouldn't describe it as soft, but it felt pleasant enough against my skin, and gets my seal of approval for its effective moisture-wicking and quick-drying performance on the trails.

The Tech 2.0 T-shirt obviously isn't waterproof or water-resistant in any way, but the fabric is hydrophobic and the garment sheds rain pretty quickly, and always dries off a few minutes after a downpour. I really appreciated this on long, hot treks, when more absorbant fabrics would've been weighed down by sweat.

The Tech 2.0 is still comfortable after multiple hours of testing and hasn't taken any significant damage. The fabric feels the same as it did when I first put it on, and design features, like the stylish printed Helly Hansen logo, look unblemished.

It's impossible to say what my Tech 2.0 will look like in a few months, but polyester offers excellent long-term durability.

Weight

At 6.7oz (190g), the Tech 2.0 T-shirt starts off lightweight, and it doesn't get soaked with sweat or rain. My T-shirts proved light and airy in all manner of weather conditions, and I never felt like it was weighing me down.

If you're looking for something uber lightweight to wear on the trails, you can find the 3.7oz (105g) Patagonia Ridge Flow running T-shirt, and others like it in our expert guides to the best running tops and the best hiking shirts.

Price

Along with its dependable quality and longevity in the wilderness, Helly Hansen gear is known for its hefty price tags. However, with a list price of $30 (£25), the Tech 2.0 T-shirt is actually comparatively cheap.

Also consider

Comparison table

• The best hiking shirts: choose one of these great fitting active tops with bags of technical clout
• The best running tops: for training and races on all terrains
• How Advnture tests products

The North Face is holding a massive end-of-season sale, and it's slashed the price on one of its popular new hiking boots for women.

When we first saw the Offtrail Hike LT back in February, we couldn't help but draw some comparisons with the popular Hoka Kaha 3, what with the boots' rocker sole and surprisingly technical details.

Right now, you can grab The North Face Women’s Offtrail Hike LT Mid Gore-Tex Boots for only $140 at The North Face. That's a generous savings of 30% off the regular asking price for these waterproof boots, which boast a trainer-style aesthetic for comfort over long distances.

For treacherous conditions, the brand has used its proprietary Surface Ctrl rubber outsole finished with impressively deep 5 mm lugs to bite into slippery trails. There's also a Skycore rock guard inserted into the midsole to protect your feet from rocky trails and a ballistic-rubber toe cap to reinforce the uppers and keep your toes safe.

This deal applies to women's sizing in the Sumac/Alpine Plum colorway, but hurry, because sizes are selling out fast.

If you're not in the US, scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on The North Face Offtrail Hike Boots where you are.

There's a generous amount of foam underfoot plus a reinforced heel cup with a comfort-padded collar and tongue designed to lock in your foot to cut down on rubbing and enhance stability. The combination of ghillie-lace loops and three metal eyelets helps you to find the perfect fit before you set off.

Not in the US? These are today's best deals on The North Face Offtrail Hike Boots where you are:

• Best hiking boots: hit the trails
• The best lightweight hiking boots and shoes: pick up speed on the trails and stay agile on your scrambles

Hiking through woods and walking coastal paths is a fantastic way to explore your surroundings, stay fit and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. However, factor in a baby or toddler who needs breastfeeding and things get a little more…challenging.

But little beats getting to indoctrinate, ahem, I mean, share your passion for the great outdoors with your children, so this is a challenge worth persevering with.

First off, you’ll need a way to carry your new mini adventure companion, as well as the correct kit to make breastfeeding them outside comfortable for you both. As anyone who has breastfed a baby or toddler knows, it’s thirsty work - so you’ll need a way to stay hydrated even on a short walk. And if the temperature dips, you’ll need a way to keep you both protected from the elements too.

• Stephanie Case recently won the Ultra Trail Snowdonia 100k running race, while breastfeeding her daughter en route - read the story here.

While that sounds like a lot to consider, with the right mindset and kit, hiking with your infant can be a glorious way to enjoy the outdoors together. Yes, your pace might have to slow down and you might have to stop more frequently to feed, but that’s no bad thing. It’s simply more opportunity to pay attention to the small wonders of nature. These days I’m less interested in PBs and more interested in finding animal tracks, and discovering which flowers are blooming.

So don’t be put off getting outside and exploring with your little one. Just get the right kit and learn how to embrace your new hiking buddy. Read on to find out how I update my hiking kit when breastfeeding.

Essential kit

Whether you’re breastfeeding a newborn baby or a toddler - the basic premise is the same. You’ll need to wear the right kit to enable you to easily and comfortably feed them anywhere. For the purposes of this feature, I’ll show you how I’ve updated my hiking kit to accommodate feeding my 18-month-old, but the same kit could be used (and in some cases modified) for younger or older infants.

Baby carrier: If you’re adventuring with a non-walking infant - or one that won’t manage the whole distance - you’ll need a convenient way to carry them.

Babywearing coat: When it gets cold, you’ll want a way to keep you and your baby snug and dry on your hike.

Babywearing hoodie: Perfect for when it’s too warm for a coat, but too cold for just a t-shirt.

Nursing bra: A bra designed specifically for nursing makes breastfeeding much easier, especially when you’re outside.

Nursing top: I personally like a nursing specific top as it allows easy access to the bra while offering plenty of coverage.

Water bottle: I like the convenience of a straw bottle for staying hydrated on walks with my children. (So do they.)

Baby carrier

• The best baby carriers are the most convenient and least restrictive way to explore outside with little ones that can’t walk
• Make sure the carrier you use is ergonomically designed and hip healthy

First up, you need a way to bring your infant along for the ride. While there are a range of excellent off-road pushchairs and strollers that make light work of bumpy terrain, nothing offers all-terrain access like a baby carrier. If your route includes narrow trails, tight gates or stiles, you’ll definitely need a carrier.

My preferred option is the Omni Deluxe All-in-One Baby Carrier. It's easy to adjust, comfortable to wear and you can carry your baby facing you from birth, outward facing (from five months) or on your back (from six months).

When it comes to carriers, you want to make sure the one you choose is ergonomic for little bodies, paying close attention to their hip position. All Ergobaby carriers have been acknowledged by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as ‘Hip Healthy’, plus they’ve been awarded a Seal of Approval by the AGR of Germany as ‘Back Healthy’ for babies and parents.

If you carry your baby facing forwards, you can even breastfeed on the go. There's a hood you can pull up for sun protection, as well as privacy. I also like the six storage areas, perfect for keys, phone, wallet, teethers etc. It's also machine washable, which is always handy.

If you’re looking for a carrier to go the distance, The Omni Deluxe baby carrier can be used from 7lb right through to 45lb, which is the average weight of a four-year-old. Plus like their other carriers, the Omni Deluxe comes with the ErgoPromise Lifetime Guarantee.

Babywearing coat

• Make sure your coat can fit you and your child inside, so you both stay warm and dry
• Pick a coat with a detachable panel for the most versatile option

When it comes to keeping warm and dry on your hike, you’ll need to think about a protective jacket for two, not one, AKA the babywearing coat. This style of garment typically has an additional zip on panel which, when attached, enlarges the coat and makes it possible to wear the whole ensemble over the top of a baby in a carrier.

My preferred option is Seraphine’s Long Maternity & Babywearing Puffer Coat. You can start to wear this in pregnancy, as the zip-away panels extend the sides for your growing bump. Then once the baby arrives, attach the detachable kangaroo panel and you’re both ready for an adventure. The outer quilted fabric is shower resistant and the natural down and feather padding is exceptionally snug. There’s also two convenient side pockets, ideal for breastfeeding snacks.

And once you’re done babywearing? Simply unzip the extra panel, and you’ve got a standard puffer jacket, perfect for one.

Babywearing hoodie

• A handy option for when it’s too warm for a coat
• Zip-up functionality makes it easy to remove without waking the baby

The weather is nothing if not unpredictable, so it pays to be prepared. Don't make the mistake (as I have) of seeing a dark sky and wearing a jumper under the baby carrier, only for the sun to come out after the child has fallen asleep, rendering you a trapped sweaty mess.

The perfect answer to this is a babywearing hoodie. Wear a comfy base layer, put your carrier on, then finish off with a babywearing hoodie. Go for a zipped one, as it crucially allows you to remove it without having to take the carrier off and committing the cardinal sin of disturbing a sleeping baby.

My favourite choice for the job is Seraphine’s 3 In 1 Relaxed Fit Maternity Hoodie. First of all, it’s incredibly comfortable. I love the long length and the thumb holes in the cuff are a nostalgically comforting design choice. But most importantly, it’s easy to wear over a baby carrier, both undone and done up, with the attachable kangaroo panel. It’s also comfortable to feed in, ideal if you want to keep your baby cosy or create some privacy.

Nursing bra

• Breastfeeding is much more comfortable when wearing a correct fitting nursing bra
• Make sure you get fitting advice from a professional

Pregnancy can affect everything from the hair on your head to the size of your feet, so it’s little wonder the cascade of hormonal changes can also impact breast size too. Breastfeeding can also affect your size, and fluctuations are normal.

All of above can make knowing what size bra to get quite tricky and, with a tiny baby in tow, popping to the shops for a quick bra fitting isn’t always practical. If you’re in a size conundrum, consider an online fitting service. I was recently super impressed with the free virtual fitting service offered by Bravissimo, who got my size spot on the first time.

As for specific bras, for short hikes or low-impact exercise, I like Bravissimo’s Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra. It's seamless and non-wired, and also available in a 'Fuller Cup' size, making it a super comfortable choice. The thick straps offer good support and the simple drop down cups are easy to use while wrangling a baby.

For more support on a longer or more challenging route, my go to option is the Nursing Sports Bra - Artemis from Natal Active, which is designed with high impact workouts in mind. It’s lightly padded, which I like, although you can remove the insert. You can also choose to wear it with the wide straps straight down or cross-backed, I prefer the latter for even more support.

Nursing top

• Provides easy access to make breastfeeding anywhere a doddle
• Pick bamboo for a comfortable, sweat-wicking choice

You don’t need a nursing top, you could layer up a vest (I really like Marks and Spencer’s Cotton Rich Secret Support Nursing Vest) with a t-shirt, and I simply pull up the top and pull down the vest when it’s time to feed. But for easy feeding when out and about, I don’t think you can beat the convenience of a nursing top. These are designed to have a lift up section to allow for easy access when it’s feeding time, while also providing good coverage.

I like Seraphine’s Twin Pack Maternity & Nursing T-Shirts when I’m out on a hike, as they’re made from ultra-soft bamboo; a great option for activewear thanks to its mighty sweat-wicking properties. They’re also super stretchy, meaning you can wear them when pregnant through to postpartum. And they’re cut quite long too, so perfect for layering on cooler days.

Water bottle

• Breastfeeding mums need to stay hydrated, as producing milk requires a lot of water
• Pick a water bottle that is ultra-convenient and easy to carry with you

Drinking enough water while breastfeeding is important, as breast milk is made up of about 87% water. Considering that, on average, during the first six months of exclusive breastfeeding, mums produce around 750ml of milk a day, you can see why getting enough sips in is vital. Dehydrating while breastfeeding is no fun and can negatively impact milk supply, not to mention lead to fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches and nausea.

Guidelines on how much to drink vary around the world, but in Europe the recommended total intake suggested for breastfeeding women is around 2700ml, as suggested by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

Suffice to say, you’ll want to bring some water with you when you head out. My top choice for staying hydrated on a hike is the Thrive Flip Straw 32oz Bottle with Tritan Renew from Camelbak. The flip out straw is really convenient whether you’re at home or out exploring, and the leak-proof cap is genius. Both of these features are great for my 18-month-old too, who enjoys “sharing” anything I’m consuming. And despite the size (32oz), it’s pretty lightweight. Plus you can chuck the whole thing in the dishwasher, which is always a bonus.

If you like your water cold, you’d prefer the Thrive Flip Straw 25oz Bottle, Insulated Stainless Steel. The vacuum insulated stainless steel will keep your drink ice cold for hours, however it's heavier, so I prefer to keep this one for home and in the car.

When Patagonia released the first Nano Puff jacket back in 2009, it became an instant hit among hikers, climbers and skiers who love its lightweight warmth and versatility. While the original is great for cool spring and fall days as an outer layer and a perfect mid layer in colder weather, it lacks the oomph required for frigid temperatures. But now, the California brand has dropped a new Nano Puff that's ready for winter.

Calling it "the Nano Puff's burlier cousin," the all-new Patagonia Hi-Loft Nano Puff is a synthetic puffer jacket that's warmer and tougher than its lightweight cousin.

When you need to bundle up against the windchill, the Hi-Loft is packed with 170g and 200g PrimaLoft Silver insulation Eco, made from recycled polyester and known for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. Of course, it keeps insulting if you get wet, making for a better barrier against winter conditions, but it's treated with a PFAS-free DWR to help you stay dry in nasty weather.

The insulation is packed in a 4in Nano Puff brick pattern that helps with loft (and therefore, heat trapping), and it's all wrapped inside a recycled polyester shell and lining that's reinforced at the shoulders with tough overlays that help protect your jacket against the demands of your backpack.

There's a helmet-compatible hood that's adjustable to cinch tight against the wind, whether you're searching for a campsite or on belay, a two-way zipper so you can easily access your harness or inner pockets, and speaking of pockets, the one on the chest is plenty big enough to hold your phone.

All in, the Hi-Loft looks so good we're starting to wish winter would get here already. It's available now for $329 / £280 from Patagonia in men's sizing in Black, Forge Grey, Pond Green and Clement Blue, and in women's sizing in Black, Smolder Blue, Cascade Green, Dark Ruby and Dark Green.

• The best synthetic puffer jackets: feather-free padding to keep out the winter chill
• The best down jackets: stay warm when the temperature drops

Leki Skytera FX Carbon SL trekking poles: first impressions 

When you're in the market for a new pair of trekking poles, Leki is likely one of the first places you'll look if you're seeking quality and reliability, and the Skytera FX Carbon SL is yet another model worth commending for those who want to move fast and light but feel supported.

Designed for fastpackers and thru-hikers, these poles are extraordinarily light – so much so that we're using them for trail running as well as hiking. Built from carbon with a foam grip, they barely register in your hands or your pack, but when you're seeking stability on rough ground, they get the job done.

Combining Z-shaped and telescope design approaches, these poles only come in one size, but they are extremely versatile, adjusting between 43in and 51in (110cm and 130cm) in length, which means they're long enough for very tall people and different activities.

They comprise three sections that are each less than 16 inches long, which makes them easy to pack into the mesh bag provided and stash in the side pocket of your backpack. When you want to use them, you can extend them by pulling until you hear a click, and then adjust them to your desired length using the telescoping.

The wrist leashes are easy to adjust with a tug and the ergonomic foam grips are a joy to hold in the hands, even over a long day on the trail. The tips are made from carbon too and provide good traction on rock as well as grassy trails, while the minimalist baskets provide just enough width to keep you from sinking in on muddy trails.

It's true that carbon poles can be more prone to breakage, but only when you use them incorrectly and place weight on them in a horizontal position. In our months of field tests on the trek to Everest Base Camp, in the Swiss Alps, Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Scottish Highlands, we've experienced nothing but high quality and resilience with these poles. You can learn more in our article on aluminum vs carbon fiber trekking poles.

Of course, for all that, you'll pay a high price, and the only mark against these poles is the cost.

Leki Skytera FX Carbon SL trekking poles: in the field 

I've been using Leki poles since I tore my ACL in a skiing accident nearly 10 years ago, but my original pair are starting to show the signs of the many hundreds of miles I've put on them, and one has an annoying habit of collapsing when I put weight on it. So when I signed up to trek to Everest Base Camp this spring, I decided it was time for a new pair.

Luckily for me, Leki had recently released the Skytera FX Carbon SL, and I got these a few months early which meant I could train with them. By the time I flew to Nepal I had put about 100 miles in with them, and since I've returned I've continued hiking and trail running with them in Scotland, during a trip to the Swiss Alps and on a five-day thru-hike in the Lake District National Park.

Here’s how they performed:

Design and adjustability

In the past, trekking poles were either telescopic, meaning they extend and retract using sliding sections but don't fold up, or they were z-shaped, meaning they collapse into sections. With the Skytera, Leki has combined these two approaches so these poles are both very adjustable and can be folded away easily when not in use.

To deploy them, you just hold the handle and the top of the highest section of the shaft and and pull until you hear a click (I did have to find a YouTube video to get this right the first time, but after that it's easy). Then you can adjust the length and secure them with the locking mechanism. To fold them up, you just do the same in reverse. The wrist leashes are also easy to loosen or tighten with simple tug and stay in place when I'm putting weight on them.

Sometimes you sacrifice functionality when you try to do too many things at once – for example, a multi-tool is a great thing unless you need a really great blade, in which case a pocket knife is a better choice – but as far as I can see, this is a winning formula.

These poles can be really long, which makes them ultra versatile for different activities and different users. My older poles are great for me, but I'm 5'4", so they're too short for my nearly-six-foot boyfriend. These new poles can be telescoped out so that they're long enough for him, and I use them on the shorter end.

Weight and packability

At just 36oz (170g) per pole, these are significantly lighter than any of the trekking poles for hiking that we've tested, and they're comparable to – or lighter than – most of the running poles we've taken out in the field too. They feel extremely light in the hand and it makes them really easy to use all day.

Even though Leki doesn't advertise them as suitable for running, I quickly decided to try them out on a run. I didn't previously run with poles, but having had my aforementioned knee surgery, I had a feeling that doing so might give me more confidence, and I was right.

Not only have these taken over from my old poles for hikes, I've started bringing them with me for hill running where I even like using them on steep downhills, and they're so light I can happily just carry both in one hand for gentler descents. Their light weight also means that I don't even notice them when they're in the side pocket of my backpack or my running vest and they're slim enough when folded away to fit in most pockets.

Comfort and durability

I've put some pretty long days in with these poles – for the 11-day trek to Base Camp we typically spent six hours a day walking, and I've had them out on some long training hikes too. Probably the most helpful thing I can say is that I don't really notice them in my hands, thanks to the foam that Leki has developed and the ergonomic design.

With my older poles, I'd sometimes get a bit of rubbing and even a blister after very long days but these don't seem to have any issues at all. They've also been comfortable whether it's hot and I'm sweaty or in the rain, when they don't get slippery.

Carbon poles have a reputation for not being as durable as those made from aluminum, and I'm sure that if you load these in the wrong position, they could break, but I have a sense that most outdoor kit would fail if you use it incorrectly, so this isn't something I'd detract points for, especially since it's the reason they're so light. All I can say is that with several hundred miles of use, they're still operating normally and I'm hoping they stay that way.

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Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

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• The best budget hiking boots: quality pairs at low prices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

• The best budget hiking boots: quality pairs at low prices
• The best hiking boots and shoes for wide feet: stride out with confidence in well-fitting footwear

First impressions

As with everything else in the new L.I.M. ZT II range from swanky Swedish outdoor brand Haglöfs, the Men’s Air Bottoms come with a hefty price tag that feels as though it weighs more than the garment itself. Can you justify such an outlay for a pair of boxer briefs? Well, that depends on how much value you place on being comfortable and staying cool when you’re at the crag, on the trail or making your way up a mountain.

While they look and feel very lightweight, these underpants (well, their designers and marketers) talk a big technical game. Over the last few months, I put my backside on the line to test the Men’s Air undies out, and get to the bottom of whether all these claims are legit, or whether the brand is talking a load of Swedish meatballs.

Design and materials

The Air Bottoms can be used as running underwear, used in conjunction with leggings or trail running short that don’t come with an integrated liner, or worn beneath hiking shorts and pants. But, if you consider that good base layers in general don’t receive the credit they deserve when it comes to the adventure wardrobe (and they really don’t), then underwear gets a proper bum deal.

In much the same way that hikers obsess about boots and shoes, and then don’t spend enough time pairing them with decent socks, people will pore over the pros and cons of climbing and hiking pants for hours, and then wear any old undies beneath them. Wiser hill walkers and mountain moochers will tell you that comfort starts at the bottom of the layering system, so the very first thing you put on when you get up on the morning of an adventure is crucially important.

Made with Polartec Delta fabric, these undies aim to keep the wearer cool and allow the body to breathe during dynamic activity. The material mix is an even split between recycled polyester (which is tough and long lasting) and lyocell, a substance sourced from plants which is relatively ecofriendly, comfortable to wear next to the skin, and can deal with the build-up of bacteria that leads to bad odors (obviously, you do still need to launder them regularly… it can’t do all the heavy lifting). There is also a pinch of elastane in the ingredients, which gives the garment dynamic stretch, keeps the underpants in place and helps maintain their shape.

Arguably the most important trick the Polartec Delta fabric brings to the pants party is the ability to wick moisture (sweat) away from the body with its hydrophobic yarns, before encouraging it to evaporate with its hydrophilic yarns. This clever process keeps the wearer cool, and dry, and reduces the risk of such adventure-ruining horrors as nether-region chafing.

However, the design and material mix also means they are supportive where it counts, and there is plenty of stretch in the fabric, so your range of movement is never impeded. Cleverly, the elasticated waist band, which keeps the underpants in place, perforated with hundreds of small holes, to make even that element of the garment more breathable and less sweaty.

On the trails and in the hills

I have been wearing the L.I.M. ZT II Men’s Air Bottoms for all kinds of outdoor pursuits over the last few months, from running around trails (beneath shorts, I hasten to add), to using as an underlayer for hiking, biking, scrambling and climbing. My review, in a nutshell, is that they’re excellent undies for any dynamic adventure activity in which you’re likely to break a sweat – which has been especially good during this multi-heatwave summer. They deal with sweat brilliantly, and never get clingy and uncomfortable.

Running shorts often come with an integrated liner, but many – such as the Adidas Terrex Multi Trail Running Shorts and the Rab Talus – don’t, which means you have to decide whether to go commando or wear undies while you tackle the trails. If you do choose to go with an underlayer, don’t go with a thick pair of cotton boxers or briefs, as these will quickly become sweaty and nasty, leading to discomfort and potentially horrible chafing issues. I found the L.I.M. ZT II Men’s Air Bottoms brilliant for running, because they’re supportive, very breathable and the Polartec Delta fabric very effectively wicks moisture away from your body.

Whilst hiking, climbing and messing about on mountains – where I have been lucky enough to pair the them with other items in Haglöfs’ new L.I.M. ZT II range, including the excellent Flex Trousers – the L.I.M. ZT II Air Bottoms have proved themselves as the perfect underpants. They permit a really good range of movement, so you can scramble over boulders, stiles and over obstacles, and reach out for footholds on the crag. And, as above, they keep you cool where it counts and reduce sweating and rule out any chafing problems by wicking moisture away.

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