Let's get kitted out for summer adventures
On a recent hike in Donegal, I was reminded that spring and summer in Ireland can throw every type of weather at you, sun, wind, chill and rain so it's hard to know what gear to wear and pack for spring and summertime adventures. I've compiled my favourite essentials and why.
A good quality puffer jacket is so good for springtime item to have even in your backpack, while it may be sunny and warm when hiking the minute you stop for lunch or if there's any wind chill at the top your temp can drop so it's a good layer to have. Plus super light.
This one from Craghoppers is a game changer. The Compresslite VI Hooded Jacket has insulating properties comparable to natural down, this impressively snug, reversible hooded jacket will help you stay warm when temperatures cool. Super-light and super-compressible, it packs small and is ready to wear straight from its own stuff sack. Plus it's made from recycled materials, approximately 25 bottles were recycled to make this product.Our fave here at Girl Outdoor. The Insulated ExpoLite Hooded Jacket again from Craghoppers is another excellent option, and in a case of one-upmanship, the jacket is made from a whopping 35 bottles.
Next up, trail runs or maybe you even have some races planned for spring and summer I can't emphasise enough how important good quality socks are for that blister-free life. 1000 Mile Lite Anklets are designed to put a spring in your step as they tread lightly on the planet with an 89% recycled fibre content.
Designed for your favourite sport; the double-layered system helps prevent irksome blisters while a unique fabric blend helps keep your feet cool when things hot up. They also come with a money back or replacement guarantee should they wear out or give you blisters with 1000 Miles of wear! Shop here: http://1000mile.co.uk/
This active cap from Craghoppers is a great one when it comes to sun safety when you're out and about, don't underestimate the handiness of a quality cap on a long sunny trail. The NosiLife Multi Active Cap also has anti-insect properties and is made from lightweight stretch polyamide and featuring a wicking, cooling inner headband. And you guessed it, made using recycled materials. I tried it out on a recent hike and loved it.
I got these Burrell II Waterproof Walking Boots from Regatta Ireland last year and I love - they're waterproof and comfy. Rubberised toe and heel bumpers and the EVA comfort footbed deliver protective comfort on all-day hikes. Weighs 460 grams so super lightweight for any length of hike.
This particular backpack was trialled and tested on our latest adventure, hiking in Donegal, so can tell you it's the perfect pack size. The 16L Kiwi Classic Rolltop Backpack from Craghoppers is deceptively roomy, but the handy rolltop means you can squish it down when it's not at full capacity.
It has a padded compartment for tablet (9”) and laptop (13”) or in my case a map of Donegal, padded shoulder straps and back panel, as well as sternum strap for balance. Reflective detail and gear loops are super handy. And you guessed it, in true Craghoppers style, it's made from approximately 7 recycled bottles. This bag was perfect for all my hike essentials and was so comfy even with the weight of snacks, water bottle, maps, compass, torch, extra bits and bobs.
Check out the reel from my latest adventure here: https://www.instagram.com/reel...