The best winter walking gear
Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.
From winter hikes to a post-Sunday-lunch walk, or running countryside trails, here are 15 tried-and-tested essentials to keep you warm – and safe – on your next outdoor adventure.
Montane Phase Waterproof Jacket
This shell hits the spot for most hikers: it’s lightweight, packable and has a durable, three-layer Gore-Tex fabric that will withstand hard wear even with a backpack. It’s also very breathable and highly waterproof. £325, montane.com
Norrøna Svalbard Flex1 Pants
Check out the slick waistband system on these softshell windproof trousers – the adjustable velcro tabs can be loosened for comfort when sitting, and tightened up securely when on the move. £229, norrona.com
Montane Trail Gloves
These unfussy and affordable gloves are a winter must-have made from a wind-blocking Gore-Tex material. £40, montane.com
Victorinox Spartan Swiss Army Knife
Slice and dice food, open a bottle of wine, or repair gear on the fly with this classic multitool. £28, victorinox.com
Arc’teryx Norvan Shell Jacket
A backpack staple for fending off wind and rain that’s made from three-layer Gore-Tex fabric with a brushed backer for comfort next to the skin. £350, arcteryx.com
AKU Conero GTX 30th Anniversary Hiking Boots
These waterproof boots are handmade in Italy and in materials such as 56 per cent recycled microfibre. They have a sturdy feel at 655g and are waterproof, with good support and comfort, while the rubber rand encircling the lower part of the boot enhances their durability. £250, aku.co.uk
MiiR 16oz Flip Traveler Flask
An insulated coffee cup with an easy-use, flip-lid design that’s completely leak-proof, has a nice flow when opened and is easy to clean. Use for hot or cold liquids. $32.95, miir.com
LEKI Makalu FX Carbon Hiking Poles
These poles have a new grip system with a rubberised head for extra control, and a carbon construction that’s lightweight and collapses down to a length of just 40cm. £195, leki.co.uk
Salomon Thundercross Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoes
These rides are waterproof, grippy and good for both hiking and long trail runs thanks to the cushioning tread and generous 31mm of energy-return foam under the heel. £160, salomon.com
Merrell Agility Peak 5 Zero GORE-TEX 1TRL Trail-Running Shoes
Recently updated with an integrated waterproof Gore-Tex gaiter, these trail-running shoes perform well in rain, mud and snow. They have a good-sized midsole for comfort, a Vibram outsole for traction on slippery terrain, and plenty of room in the toe box to accommodate thick winter socks. £210, merrell.com
Fjällräven Expedition Pack Down Hoodie Jacket
Ideal as a mid or outer layer – one that can be stowed neatly in a backpack – this jacket is lightweight but warm with a 700 fill-power, goose-down filling. £315, fjallraven.com
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satnav
A lifesaver if you’re heading off-grid to areas without cell reception, this satnav connects to the global Iridium satellite network to send and receive text messages, share live locations and receive detailed weather forecasting anywhere on earth. It also has an SOS alert function for added peace of mind. £299.99 (plus satellite subscription from £14.99 per month), garmin.com
Fjällräven Abisko Värm Trekking Tights
These hiking-specific women’s leggings have a double-knitted stretch fabric with a brushed inner surface, as well as wind-blocking panels. The waistband can be adjusted for extra comfort and there are reinforcements on the knees. £180, fjallraven.com
Darn Tough Hiker Boot Full-Cushion Mid-weight Hiking Sock
These hiking-specific socks are made from 68 per cent merino with nylon and Spandex for warmth and stretch. They’re also moisture-wicking, antimicrobial and have a lifetime guarantee. £31, darntough.uk
Petzl Bindi Headlamp
This handy gadget weighs 35g, slips into a pocket and is surprisingly powerful at 200 lumens – enough to light a distance up to 36m for two hours (or 50 hours on the low setting). £28.99, tradeinn.com
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX Hiking Boots
At just 450g, this boot is wonderfully lightweight and nimble with great grip (thanks to a rugged Vibram outsole), while offering generous ankle support. It also comes in a wide fit version for a good fit. €247.50, lasportiva.com
Osprey Talon 22 Backpack
This 22-litre pack has a nicely designed mesh-and-foam body hugging back panel and padded straps for a secure fit (there’s also a women’s version called Tempest). Stash a day’s worth of food and spare clothing for your hike. £135, osprey.com
Arc’teryx Rho LT Zip Neck Performance Layer
A performance base layer with a cosy fleece-like liner and tall collar that’s an essential when the temperature drops. £110, arcteryx.com
Camelbak Chute Mag Water Bottle 750ml
Have this on hand to hydrate – the bottle is made from a plastic that is a 50 per cent recycled material and is BPA-, BPF- and BPS-free. £19, camelbak.co.uk
BUFF Polar Multifunctional Neckwear
Designed with PrimLoft fleece protection, this stretchy lightweight layer will be your new winter go-to. £26.95, buff.com
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