Gear on test - Gear for every body
Our gear testers, Jen and Sim Benson, test waterproof trousers for spring showers, helping you find the perfect waterproofs for your rambles
The great outdoors doesn’t discriminate, but kit designed for enjoying it often does. Our experts have sought out the brands working hardest to make walking available to all. From plus-size clothing to designs that make zips, laces and rucksacks easier to manage, these buys will help you step out in comfort.
Clothing
Maier Metor Rec Waterproof Jacket
RRP: £179.95 l Size range: Women’s XS-5XL, Men’s XS-8XL
The Rec is the recycled polyester version of Maier’s Metor waterproof. It’s comfortable to wear with a soft-feel fabric, mesh liner to stop the inside feeling clammy, zipped handwarmer pockets and zip-off hood. The cut is generous, with all sizes designed proportionally for a great fit.
Paramo Velez Adventure Smock
RRP: £290 l Size range: Women’s Women’s XS-XXXL, Men’s S-XXL
Nikwax Analogy outer fabric works with a directional liner to create a waterproof system. The soft-feel fabric is vented and rustle-free, sleeves roll up, the hood adjusts and there are lots of pockets. Best in cool weather as it’s a lot to carry.
Outdoor Research Aspire/Foray 3L Rain Jacket
RRP: £260 l Size range: Women’s Aspire XXS-4XL, Men’s Foray XS-XXXL
This practical three-layer recycled nylon jacket has a highly waterproof AscentShell membrane. The fabric has some stretch, packs small and is stiff enough to fend off the worst weather. Best of all are the venting side zips to keep you cool. A brilliant do-everything waterproof, in a wide size range.
Helly Hansen Daybreaker Fleece Jacket
RRP: £70 l Size range: Women’s XS-XXXL, Men’s S-5XL
This lightweight recycled polyester Polartec fleece is warm, light, quick-drying and soft, so perfect as a light insulating layer. Zipped handwarmer pockets are useful and it has a snug collar. Sizes are cut proportionally, not just scaled up or down, for a great fit.
Berghaus Explorer Maternity Walking Pant
RRP: £80 l Size range: Women’s 8-18
From the Maternity and Beyond collection, these nylon and elastane trousers are soft, breathable and weather-resistant. There’s a wide, stretchy bump band, cut to stay comfy and in place, side adjustments, plus useful zipped handwarmer pockets.
Maier Women’s Lulaka, Men’s Nil Pants
RRP: £99.95 l Size range: Women’s waist 26-44in, length 29-34in, Men’s waist 28-54in, length 29-37in
These stretch nylon trousers are light enough for summer and, when worn over base layers, tough enough for winter. Windproof and water-resistant, with five zip pockets, belt and adjustable cuffs, they also roll up to ¾ length.
Craghoppers Kiwi Pro II Trousers
RRP: £70 l Size range: Women’s waist 26-43in, length 28-33in, Men’s waist 30-44in, length 29-33in
Kiwi trousers are popular thanks to their fit, function and value, and they come in a wide size range with three length options. The partially recycled lightweight nylon fabric is durable, quick-drying and stretchy. With an athletic cut, they’re unrestrictive, offering both comfort and versatility. Available at Cotswold Outdoor.
Fjällräven Travellers MT Walking Trousers
RRP: £130 l Size range: Women’s waist 25-36in, raw length 35-38in, Men’s waist 29-40in, raw length 37-40in
Made from a mix of recycled nylon and organic cotton, these lightweight trousers are crease-resistant and quick-drying, perfect for trekking or travel. The cut is comfortable, casually smart and well fitted, with articulated knees, an elasticated waist and a raw hem, allowing you to tailor them to your required length. We love all the useful pockets – seven in total.
Base layer
Woolpower Crewneck 200 Base Layer
RRP: £100 l Size range: Unisex XXS-XXXL
Responsibly made in Sweden from a 200-weight mix of 60% merino wool, polyester, nylon and elastane, the wonderfully soft and stretchy fabric has a terry loop to wick moisture away. Also try the Tee (£85) or Zip Turtleneck (£120).
Woolpower Long Johns 200
RRP: £90 l Size range: Unisex XXS-XXXL
Partnering with the excellent crewneck (above), these long johns utilise the same cosy stretch Ullfrotté 200 fabric with 60% merino wool. Like the base layer,the circular knitting technique means no lengthwise seams, so there’s no chafing or pressure points.
Bags
Osprey Tempest/Talon 22L
RRP: £125 and 33L £155
Standard or Extended Fit - The women’s Tempest and men’s Talon are practical packs. We’ve used various models for 10 years, thanks to their comfort and durability. The 22L and 33L models are perfect for day walks. Now available in an extended-fit version, designed to fit bodies up to a 70in hip. Available at Cotswold Outdoor.
Gregory Amber 44/Stout 45
RRP: £165
These packs will carry all the kit needed for a long winter day walk or supported multi-day adventures. Well thought out, with a range of useful zip and stretch pockets, and a comfy back system that’s adjustable and promotes airflow. The specially designed plus-sized fit is for women (Amber) or men (Stout) who would usually wear a size 18-24 or XXL-6XL in clothing. Available at Cotswold Outdoor
Ayacucho Vaunu Wheeled Duffle Bag 40L
RRP: £129 and 90L £155
Perfect for walking holidays, this versatile bag functions both as a wheeled case and rucksack. With a tough hardshell base, it will cope with multiple transfers. The extendable handle and smooth wheeling make it a breeze at airports, while grab-straps and stowable shoulder straps allow easy carrying. Available at Cotswold Outdoor.
Patagonia Terravia Hip Pack 5L
RRP: £50
Hip packs are a great way to keep weight off your shoulders, or add extra easy-access capacity along with a rucksack. The 5L size fits a lightweight waterproof, snacks, phone, keys and wallet: all you need for a couple of hours. It even carries a couple of water bottles if necessary. Comfortable and smart-looking, the Terravia is made of recycled nylon and polyester to Fairtrade standards. Available at Cotswold Outdoor.
Healthy Back Bag Recycled Urban Traveller Medium Bag
RRP: £69
Many people struggle with the mobility required to get into the shoulder straps of a rucksack. The Healthy Back Bag goes over either shoulder for an easy on/off alternative. Its ergonomic shape ensures a comfortable, secure fit, contouring to the curve of your back. Multiple pockets allow organisation and keep weight distributed evenly, and the adjustable strap won’t slip or cause you to hunch.
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