The hiking gear and adventures thread...
Discussion
There seems to be a fair few outdoorsy types on PH, so I thought it'd be nice to have a thread where was can discuss kit, adventures, trips, hints, tips and best practice.
Trips: got a couple planned.
An Teallach in October 2022 for a week via Langdale in the lakes for a couple of days. Wild camping (possibly), tramping about the place and a few pints in the evening.
Snowdonia NP in January 2023. More camping and walking.
Normally head up to the Peak District every other weekend for a day walk (with my missus and a mate).
South West Coast Path: I've done a fair few bits of this, but it's been a life long ambition to do this in one go. Tried in 2021 only to trip and injure my knee on day two. I was NOT impressed but I don't like giving up so want to give it another go in 2023. Do I break the trip up into 2 week segments, or say to hell with it and take 6 weeks off work (I have been told provisionally this will be possible) and have another go? Don't mind admitting that the injury did knock my confidence a bit... getting old-ish means you have to learn to pace yourself a bit more (48 next year).
Kit: a Keela Munro in moss green is on the way to me as we speak thanks to advice given on another thread.
Trips: got a couple planned.
An Teallach in October 2022 for a week via Langdale in the lakes for a couple of days. Wild camping (possibly), tramping about the place and a few pints in the evening.
Snowdonia NP in January 2023. More camping and walking.
Normally head up to the Peak District every other weekend for a day walk (with my missus and a mate).
South West Coast Path: I've done a fair few bits of this, but it's been a life long ambition to do this in one go. Tried in 2021 only to trip and injure my knee on day two. I was NOT impressed but I don't like giving up so want to give it another go in 2023. Do I break the trip up into 2 week segments, or say to hell with it and take 6 weeks off work (I have been told provisionally this will be possible) and have another go? Don't mind admitting that the injury did knock my confidence a bit... getting old-ish means you have to learn to pace yourself a bit more (48 next year).
Kit: a Keela Munro in moss green is on the way to me as we speak thanks to advice given on another thread.
VTECMatt said:
I live in the Lakes and done pretty much every fell possible, Langdales are good, you going up Jacks Rake?
I’m working my way through Scotland now. Did An Teallach in May, fabulous hill.
Not sure: never been to either place before so my walking buddy, Jim, is navigating this one. Will update the thread when I have more info.I’m working my way through Scotland now. Did An Teallach in May, fabulous hill.
yellowbentines said:
I'm in 
West of Scotland based. Working my way through the Munros and Lake District fells.
Was down in the Lakes in May, did Blencathra and Bowfell amongst some lower level fells and walking, we've been down every year for the last few years and love it down there.
Interested to get some Peak District recommendations from you.
In terms of gear, nearly bought one of those jackets last winter but opted for a Patagonia Triolet in bright yellow - I'm hard to miss in the snow/low visibility.
The Peaks (like the Lakes) can get busy on the more popular routes. Edale>Kinder Scout>Grinslow>Vale of Edale is good, but avoid at sunny weekends if possible. Mam Tor>Loose Hill>Black Tor around Castleton is the same. They are pretty spectacular though.West of Scotland based. Working my way through the Munros and Lake District fells.
Was down in the Lakes in May, did Blencathra and Bowfell amongst some lower level fells and walking, we've been down every year for the last few years and love it down there.
Interested to get some Peak District recommendations from you.
In terms of gear, nearly bought one of those jackets last winter but opted for a Patagonia Triolet in bright yellow - I'm hard to miss in the snow/low visibility.
Alport Castles is a good one and not too busy: https://www.discoveringbritain.org/activities/east...
Recently found a walk off the Snake Pass via Snake Woods which was deserted... which is what we like. It was about 32c though so only walked for 7 miles or so as it was just too hot to enjoy it.
We tend to Google 'Peak District Walks' or consult a book of Peak District pub walks and make a decision based on that.... or let my mate Jim decide on where to go as he knows the area well.
i4got said:
Sounds a great idea for a thread so I'm in. I've done a few national trails and long distance paths. Finished Beacons Way a couple of weeks ago mainly camping, and a Lands End to John O Groats walk earlier in the year which took in a few other paths.
Loved your LEJOG thread: inspirational stuff.Some excellent pics have also been posted on this sad day - keep them coming!
Couple of deliveries today...
New Keela Munro jacket (been thinking about one of these for a while: good reports on the Arc'tyrex thread convinced me): looks like a quality bit of kit. Wouldn't want to wear it on a humid summer day, but it looks ideal for winter hill walks.
Carinthia defence 4 sleeping bag: I've been after a winter bag for a while, but I'm really struggling to find one. I'm 6ft 4 and a bit. Tried 'long' bags from Mountain Equipment, Alpkit and Rab (all claim to be suitable for my height... but they really are not). Sadly the Carinthia will have to go back as it's too short for me. I've got a ME Helium 400 xxl which is perfect in length but is more of a 3 season bag (it's okay ish down to freezing), but they no longer make the 800 xxl version which is rated down to -10c or so.
I'm at a bit of a loss now. I know PHD make long bags but they are out of budget for me. Xped are the same.
Guess I'll just have to be cold.
New Keela Munro jacket (been thinking about one of these for a while: good reports on the Arc'tyrex thread convinced me): looks like a quality bit of kit. Wouldn't want to wear it on a humid summer day, but it looks ideal for winter hill walks.
Carinthia defence 4 sleeping bag: I've been after a winter bag for a while, but I'm really struggling to find one. I'm 6ft 4 and a bit. Tried 'long' bags from Mountain Equipment, Alpkit and Rab (all claim to be suitable for my height... but they really are not). Sadly the Carinthia will have to go back as it's too short for me. I've got a ME Helium 400 xxl which is perfect in length but is more of a 3 season bag (it's okay ish down to freezing), but they no longer make the 800 xxl version which is rated down to -10c or so.
I'm at a bit of a loss now. I know PHD make long bags but they are out of budget for me. Xped are the same.
Guess I'll just have to be cold.
Thought I'd resurrect this thread...
Off up to the Peaks this Saturday: been told it's nice and snowy up there, so want to see if Kinder Downfall is frozen. -8 windchill and clear conditions forecast!
Knee has been a bit dodgy (f
king AGAIN!) so not done much exciting walking recently and I'm getting withdrawal symptoms.
Off up to the Peaks this Saturday: been told it's nice and snowy up there, so want to see if Kinder Downfall is frozen. -8 windchill and clear conditions forecast!
Knee has been a bit dodgy (f
king AGAIN!) so not done much exciting walking recently and I'm getting withdrawal symptoms. Bill said:
Have you done your exercises? 
I was in the Black Mountains with a few friends last month walking and car camping. Took my camping gaz stove rather than my petrol whisperlite but hadn't realised the cheapo gas I'd bought was butane so it wouldn't light! FML!!
Yes Dad (I was in the Black Mountains with a few friends last month walking and car camping. Took my camping gaz stove rather than my petrol whisperlite but hadn't realised the cheapo gas I'd bought was butane so it wouldn't light! FML!!
), was doing knee exercises... gonna book some more physio sessions in the new year. Coast Path is calling and I really don't like giving up on things (have done a few sections this year though).Had a similar stove disaster: Trangia leak proof fuel bottle wasn't as leak proof as I'd hoped. Meths all over my sleeping bag and jacket (both down and expensive). Luckily there was no lasting damage, but no hot drink or food after a days hiking in the rain (was solo wild camping and there was nowhere near to buy anything) did NOT put me in the best of moods. Some creative swearing was relied upon to get me though.
Weekend walk didn't go as planned: weather had changed earlier than forecast, so we gave Kinder a miss (steep paths, rain and ice = bad for knee which is still a bit delicate).
Parked up at the Derwent Visitor centre (for those who know the area) and headed up through some woods to Alport castles. Unfortunately, my missus was not feeling well so we all had to turn back. Only did 5 miles or so, but will be heading back over the Xmas break to do the 15 mile circular walk we had planned.
Weather was a bit dodgy (heavy rain and snow) so limited pic opportunities.
Oh, and as this is PH: my P2 XC70 handled the ice and snow covered roads like a dream: a couple of big 4x4s struggled to get up the steep exit from the car park... XC just wafted up with 'smug mode' fully engaged (first time I've had this car out in real winter conditions with my newish cross climate 2s fitted).
Parked up at the Derwent Visitor centre (for those who know the area) and headed up through some woods to Alport castles. Unfortunately, my missus was not feeling well so we all had to turn back. Only did 5 miles or so, but will be heading back over the Xmas break to do the 15 mile circular walk we had planned.
Weather was a bit dodgy (heavy rain and snow) so limited pic opportunities.
Oh, and as this is PH: my P2 XC70 handled the ice and snow covered roads like a dream: a couple of big 4x4s struggled to get up the steep exit from the car park... XC just wafted up with 'smug mode' fully engaged (first time I've had this car out in real winter conditions with my newish cross climate 2s fitted).
yellowbentines said:
Could anyone recommend some waterproof gloves from experience?
Have to be gloves not mitts, preferably nothing bulky, bonus points if they are warm too. Its for a Xmas gift for my good lady.
I've eyed up some of the sealskinz gloves but the reviews are a bit patchy - some say they are great, others that they aren't actually waterproof if youre out for any length of time. I have sealskinz gloves myself which are grand but they don't seem to make them in a ladies version/small enough.
I'd avoid Sealskinz: bought a pair and they are rubbish if I'm honest (not waterproof and fairly uncomfortable).Have to be gloves not mitts, preferably nothing bulky, bonus points if they are warm too. Its for a Xmas gift for my good lady.
I've eyed up some of the sealskinz gloves but the reviews are a bit patchy - some say they are great, others that they aren't actually waterproof if youre out for any length of time. I have sealskinz gloves myself which are grand but they don't seem to make them in a ladies version/small enough.
Rab goretex gloves are pretty good, I also rate Mountain Equipment guide gloves (they are a bit bulky, but they are damn warm).
I've also got some Montane Prism gloves... they're not the most waterproof if you're using them all day, but they are very warm and not too bulky, so might be ideal for your partner.
https://montane.com/products/montane-prism-glove
I use Leder Gris for my boots. Great stuff and I've not found anything better.
https://www.altberg.co.uk/boots/leder-gris-bootcar...
https://www.altberg.co.uk/boots/leder-gris-bootcar...
daddy cool said:
Guys, after some recommendations for a new backpack. I mostly do bikepacking, but a buddy and I are planning a multi-day hike/wildcamp in Scotland in April, and my 30 year old Vango 65L weighs 2.5kg and all the waterproof lining has rotted away...
Im after the sweetspot in terms of weight/price/capacity.
- Capacity: i think 55L should be fine
- Weight: 1 - 1.5kg ideally
- Price: Dont mind paying for quality, but dont want to pay £400+ for some featherlight thing made from hummingbird eyelashes
- Features: Usual i guess - slot for hydration bladder, built in rain cover, a few different storage sections rather than one big compartment.
- Me: 5'10, and a weedy 11st, hence trying to keep the weight down
Was looking at the Osprey Talon 55 - 1.6kg but a reasonable price.
https://www.ldmountaincentre.com/walk-hike-c1/bags...
Anything better?
I'd go for the Osprey Aether 55l... I'd imagine it'll be better suited to a multi day trip. The Talon is more of an enlarged day pack IMO (awaits the inevitable arguments).Im after the sweetspot in terms of weight/price/capacity.
- Capacity: i think 55L should be fine
- Weight: 1 - 1.5kg ideally
- Price: Dont mind paying for quality, but dont want to pay £400+ for some featherlight thing made from hummingbird eyelashes
- Features: Usual i guess - slot for hydration bladder, built in rain cover, a few different storage sections rather than one big compartment.
- Me: 5'10, and a weedy 11st, hence trying to keep the weight down
Was looking at the Osprey Talon 55 - 1.6kg but a reasonable price.
https://www.ldmountaincentre.com/walk-hike-c1/bags...
Anything better?
I really like Osprey packs... I've got 3 and I'm thinking about splashing out on number 4.
https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/osprey-aether-55...
Shop around a bit and you should be able to find it for a lot less.
MonkeyBusiness said:
Anyone got any Revolution Race gear? I thought at first they were 'just another brand' but seeing their kit more and more.
Don't like they are online only but the stuff looks decent. Is the sizing true?
I've got a pair of their trousers. Waist/length sizing is spot on.Don't like they are online only but the stuff looks decent. Is the sizing true?
Edited by MonkeyBusiness on Friday 20th January 17:59
They're good for the price (think Fjallraven Vidda Pro but cheaper) but I don't wear them often as the cut is very 'skinny jeans'.
Also, the hem is stupidly narrow. I appreciate that I've got big feet, but I can barely get my feet through when putting them on - my missus was kind enough to alter the hem, but they are still very narrow. Never had this issue with other trousers. I wear Fjallraven in the winter and either Craghoppers Kiwi or Keela Combats in the warmer months.
The RR only just fit over my boots.
Mate has also got a pair of the RR trousers and doesn't get on with them for similar reasons above.
Note: Luke on the Outdoor Gear review (excellent youtube channel) says the same, so I'm not alone!
TLDR: they're good but only for the more skinny/slender chap/ess.
ATG said:
My club does a Tuesday night walk at 7:30pm every week of the year, so we spend a lot of time marching around Shropshire's hills in the dark. A lot of us use the Petzl Actik Core. Its dimmest setting is perfect if you're walking in a group or over easy terrain on your own. Its medium setting is good for steeper descents or rough walking on your own. And its brightest mode is great if you want to light up an area to see +100m around you to find a path or whatever. It's a very neat, simple design that comes with a really good rechargeable battery that can be swapped out for three triple As if need be. Weighs nothing and lasts for ages. It's become my go to touch for absolutely everything, e.g. trips to the woodshed, DIY around the house or under the car. For walking or climbing, I think it is excellent. If you want a super bright, narrow beam with massive throw, then you'd be better off getting something specifically designed to do that.
Think I'm gonna get one of these...Was out for a walk in the peaks on Sunday which ran a bit late so we were walking in the dark. My cheapo headtorch had turned itself on in my pack so the battery was flat. Had a hand held torch so it wasn't that bad, but the terrain was the "oh s
t, I'd better be careful here" type so needed both hands free.Thanks for the recommendation.
irc said:
Faust66 said:
I'm at a bit of a loss now. I know PHD make long bags but they are out of budget for me. Xped are the same.
Guess I'll just have to be cold.
Late to this thread but...Guess I'll just have to be cold.
I have two PHD bags. Bought in sales A Minim 300 half zip and a Minim 200 no zip
I have used the 200 on a long bike tour in the USA. Mainly warm nights but a few nights below freezing. With a pair of cheap fleece bottoms from a thrift shop and my lightweight (200g) down jacket it was Ok
Fit. I,m 6ft3 and 16-17 stone. The long wide version fits perfectly. Expensive but other bags I tried were either not long enough or wide enough
The other thing about sales is they offer bags not available in the standard range.
But... managed to buy a new (sadly they don't make 'em anymore) Mountain Equipment Helium 600 XXL: good down to -11c. And I know I'll fit in the damn thing as I've got the 400 (-2c ish) version of the same bag.
Got a couple of days booked in a campsite near Hathersage in the peaks at the end of Febraury, so'll I'll try it out then.
Not posted on here for a while... been busy with many trips to the Peaks and a few days on the South West Coast Path.
And I thought I'd put a bit of a warning up.
Ticks.
Yep, horrible little swines that they are.
Apparently tick numbers are very high this year. And I'd believe that: I've never had one before, but in the space of 3 days on the coast path I pulled (using a tick removal tool) several off me. I was high in leg boots, wearing long trousers with the hems togged down (Fjallraven Vidda pro ventilated) and a long sleeve shirt and I did my best to avoid tick prone areas.
Despite numerous checks of my body, I discovered one 2-3 days later on my leg and it had obviously been there a while... I was feeling a bit under the weather and got an emergency GP appointment. He didn't give me a blood test but I'm on antibiotics for 3 weeks as a precaution against Lyme Disease (I feel fine now). I'll be insisting on blood tests over the next several months to make sure all is well (you really, really don't want Lyme Disease).
The GP did state that he'd had quite a few recent reports of tick bites and that numbers are high across the country.
So take care out there.
I've now treated my trousers with a tick repellent and I'm also using a spray on repellent.
And I thought I'd put a bit of a warning up.
Ticks.
Yep, horrible little swines that they are.
Apparently tick numbers are very high this year. And I'd believe that: I've never had one before, but in the space of 3 days on the coast path I pulled (using a tick removal tool) several off me. I was high in leg boots, wearing long trousers with the hems togged down (Fjallraven Vidda pro ventilated) and a long sleeve shirt and I did my best to avoid tick prone areas.
Despite numerous checks of my body, I discovered one 2-3 days later on my leg and it had obviously been there a while... I was feeling a bit under the weather and got an emergency GP appointment. He didn't give me a blood test but I'm on antibiotics for 3 weeks as a precaution against Lyme Disease (I feel fine now). I'll be insisting on blood tests over the next several months to make sure all is well (you really, really don't want Lyme Disease).
The GP did state that he'd had quite a few recent reports of tick bites and that numbers are high across the country.
So take care out there.
I've now treated my trousers with a tick repellent and I'm also using a spray on repellent.
Venisonpie said:
Faust66 said:
I've now treated my trousers with a tick repellent and I'm also using a spray on repellent.
Good heads up, what repellents are you now using?Skin: Jungle Formula maximum spray.
Possible overkill and I'm happy to admit that, but after a Lyme scare I really want to be careful.
It was 'kin windy in the Peaks today (11 mile loop around Kinder Scout). Must have been gusting at 50 mph + at one point. It takes a LOT of wind (fnarr) to shift 17 stone of me (plus an 8kg rucksack) but it almost blew me off my feet a couple of times.
Pretty cold as well... it felt quite autumnal which pleases me as I'm not a fan of the summer.
Rain also mostly held off - mate I was walking with had forgotten her waterproof, so that is a good thing.
Pretty cold as well... it felt quite autumnal which pleases me as I'm not a fan of the summer.
Rain also mostly held off - mate I was walking with had forgotten her waterproof, so that is a good thing.
wol said:
Does anyone have any opinions on the Altberg brand of boots?
Specifically the Fremingtons?
https://www.altberg.co.uk/boots/fremington-men
See if you can try a pair on before you buy (standard advice for boots).Specifically the Fremingtons?
https://www.altberg.co.uk/boots/fremington-men
I had a pair of Altbergs made for me a few years back (Field and Fell military boot in size 15 wide) - I don't like 'low' boots due to the lack of ankle support/issues with water coming over the top if you're not wearing gaiters and I couldn't get on with them.
They feel 'flimsy' compared to the normal boots I wear (Lowa Combat GTX). That's just my opinion and others rave about Altbergs, but I personally wouldn't touch them again.
Real shame and I was massively disappointed as I wanted to support a British company - I would have ordered a fair few more pairs if all had gone well.
Couldn't try a pair on before I bought them as they don't keep my size in stock (called the factory in Richmond to check before ordering).
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