Rupert Parker updates his basic hiking kit to include some modern twists to old favourites.
Keeping warm and carrying your gear comfortably is essential when you’re out in the elements. These two items represent a modern twist on old favourites by two well-established suppliers.
Vaude Trail Spacer 8 – Lightweight backpack
When you need a compact backpack for challenging hiking, mountain biking and trail running, then this is for you. The backpack fits closely to your back, wrapping like a waistcoat as there’s no frame and the fabric is stretchable. This gives extra freedom of movement and excess heat from your body passes easily through the padded textile material.
There’s no hip belt but two adjustable sternum straps ensure a stable fit, indeed it fits like a second skin. The shoulder straps have elasticated and zipped pockets on the front, convenient to store energy bars, phone or drink bottle. Internally there’s a divider, with a zipped pocket, which can separate a hydration bladder from the rest of your gear. Reflective strips and a safety light attachment point increase visibility for cyclists at night.
Vaude Trail Spacer 8 – Lightweight backpack
Weight: 390g Volume: 8 l Dimensions: 41 x 25 x 17 cm
£110
Tilley Hiking Toque
When it comes to the cold, most heat is lost from the top of your head so keep it covered to stay warm. Those famous hat folks, Tilley in icy Canada, have been making headgear since 1980 so you would expect their beanie to be up to scratch. And it doesn’t disappoint as the material is a soft and naturally moisture-wicking merino blend, making it stretchy, lightweight, breathable and odour resistant. A microfleece-lined headband adds further warmth and the rib-knit design is stylish enough to wear around town, as well as on the mountains.
Weight: 83g Fabric 50% Wool, 50% Acrylic
9GG sweater knit
£20.00
Tell Me More About Hats And Sacs Gear
As, always, you can often find discounted gear by shopping around. So, if you don’t want to try before you buy, then you can usually get a good price.
