Walkers come in many guides. Whether they’re a hardcore camping enthusiast or someone who just enjoys a day out on the moors, they all have one thing in common: being prepared. Waterproofs and woollies are top of the packing list, and there’s no end to the gadgets and accessories they could potentially be taking along with them. We’ve narrowed down a few ideas to make their Christmas.
Therm-a-rest Honcho Poncho – £85
The ultimate attire for evenings by the campfire, this brilliant design is water resistant and breathable, with an adjustable hood, plus it folds into its own pocket for easy transportation.
cascadedesigns.com/ie/therm-a-rest
Animal Jase Men’s Jacket – £65
Stay dry in a downpour with this smart waterproof with elasticated cuffs and draw-string hood. It has zip-close pockets to keep the contents safe and has 100% Polyamide PU coating.
animal.co.uk
Therm-a-rest Antares 3 season down sleeping bag – £420
Doesn’t matter what time of year you’re out there, this sleeping bag can handle it. It has both a hydrophobic down lining and a reflective thermacaptive lining, while staying lightweight and flexible.
cascadedesigns.com/ie/therm-a-rest
Boots Essential First Aid Kit – £6.99
This is a great little stocking filler for the walker who has everything. The soft case means it’ll squeeze into the smallest of backpack spaces and it includes sterile wipes, plasters, dressing, tape, eye wash and splinter remover.
boots.com
Carnation Silversocks – £5.99
A great little extra, these socks are made with silver thread, which is antimicrobial, killing over 400 types of bug and keeping feet fresh, clean and odour-free. Ideal for those weekend-long treks.
firstaidfast.co.uk
Lifeventure Dristore Map Case – £17.99
This waterproof pouch has a roll-top fastening to keep the rain out, and is worn around the neck so it’s easily accessible. It measures 290x385mm and is recommended by Ordnance Survey.
lifeventure.com
Icebreaker Men’s Quantam Long-Sleeved Zip Hood – £160
Made with merino wool, this top is breathable and insulating. It includes mesh underarm panels, thumb holes and a dropped hem at the back for comfort. Great as a spring top or winter base layer.
icebreaker.com
Elliot Brown Canford Watch £375 and Rubber Strap £50
If you’re investing in a good timepiece for a walker, take a look at Elliot Brown. The watches can be customised to suit you, so you can combine the water-resistant, shockresistant face with a rubber strap.
elliotbrownwatches.com
Buff Windproof Hat – £38
The range at Buff is huge, so you’re bound to find a style and design that suits every walker in your life. This is made with Gore Windstopper and is seam-free, so no irritations. Shown here in Xtreme Pink.
buffwear.co.uk
Mountain Warehouse Merlin Backpack £39.99
For shorter walks, or those just getting interested in walking, this backpack is ideal. It holds up to 23ltr, has plenty of external pockets (including one for an iPod) and padded raised airmesh at the back keeps you cool.
mountainwarehouse.com
Hydroflask Wide Mouth Drinking Flask – £21.95
The whole Hydroflask range is well worth taking a look at – they range from individual bottles to much larger containers and keep hot food and drink hot for an extraordinary long time, cold drinks even longer…
ellis-brigham.com
Mountain Equipment Men’s Redline Long Sleeve – £45
Ideal for a spring or autumn walk, to use as a base layer in the colder months, or simply for a quick walk to the pub, this practical top is Polygiene treated and quick-drying.
mountain-equipment.co.uk
3 walking poles to consider
- Komperdell Camera Staff Carbon – £59.95
Adjustable pole – remove the cork handle to use camera mount. Pole and tripod in one!
komperdell.com
- Leki Photosystem Alu Trekking Pole – £69.99
Adjustable pole – remove the cork handle to use camera mount. Pole and tripod in one!
komperdell.com
- Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Z Trekking Poles – £130/pair
Built for hard winter trekking, the 100% carbon fibre poles fold into three sections when not in use.
blackdiamondequipment.com
Click here for Part 2 of our Christmas Gift Guide
