Category: National Walking Month

Napiers

beauty, Birthday Gifts, camping, Family Life, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, secret santa, Summer

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Summer is made for getting outside, whether that means hiking over hills, cycling along country lanes or spending weekends under canvas. After a few hours of walking, hauling kit around and generally expecting my legs to perform as though I’m still 21, though, a bit of recovery is definitely required. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been putting a selection of products from Scottish herbalists Napiers through their paces.

Napiers has been around since Duncan Napier founded the brand back in 1860. Scotland’s oldest herbal apothecary combines traditional herbal remedies with natural skincare and wellbeing products, all with that unmistakable old-school apothecary feel. There’s plenty to choose from, whether you’re looking for something to soothe tired muscles, deal with summer bites or simply give your bathroom shelf a bit of herbal sophistication.

The company still operates from Bristo Place in Edinburgh, where it all began, and Duncan’s great-granddaughter, Lynda Napier, continues the family legacy with her husband Eric. Hstorian, Eric has even written a biography of Duncan Napier’s life and work, so this is very much a family business with some serious history behind it.

The heritage doesn’t stop with the ingredients. Napiers’ packaging is very traditional, with dark glass bottles and classic apothecary-style labels that give the products a rather lovely old-world feel.

The Napiers Magnesium Body Gel (RRP £19.99) is just what you need after a long day cycling or walking. The gel contains high-strength magnesium (500mg per 5ml), aloe vera, lavender and vitamin E and the lightweight, non-greasy gel is designed to be massaged into tired muscles. I found spending a few minutes massaging it into my tired legs in the evening made a real difference to my tired legs. It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave my legs feeling sticky, while the gentle herbal fragrance is very relaxing.  

There are plenty of things I love about camping, but midges definitely aren’t one of them! Fortunately, Napiers also sent me their Bugbuster Outdoor Body Spray (RRP £9.99) and I made sure that was in my bag on our recent camping trip to Brecon Beacons.

The water-based herbal spray combines citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint and Highland bog myrtle and the fresh botanical scent is a lot nicer than the harsh chemical aroma of many traditional insect repellents. It’s quick and easy to apply, a few sprays before heading out for an evening around the campsite or setting off on an evening walk was enough to keep the evening bugs at bay. The bottle is small enough to slip into a pocket or rucksack, so it’s always close at hand when the insects start making an appearance.

Of course, even the best outdoor preparation doesn’t guarantee an entirely bite-free adventure and when I received a bite from a horsefly, the Napiers Bite Ease Post Bite Comfort Serum (RRP £12.99) proved its worth. Made with calendula flower extract alongside tea tree, lavender and peppermint essential oils, it is designed to soothe skin after an insect bite. The 50ml bottle fits nicely in my rucksack pocket  and is a very  useful addition to our walking and camping kit. It will definitely be coming on our annual Scout camp, which, being beside a river, always attracts plenty of hungry bugs!!

Our summers involve plenty of walking, so the Napiers Foot Recovery Skin Cream (RRP £19.99) has had plenty of opportunity to prove itself this year. My feet always need plenty of attention after spending a day in walking boots, and this rich cream was a real treat for them. Coconut and jojoba oils are combined with cooling chickweed, comfrey and calendula, alongside lavender, peppermint and rose geranium and the foot cream smells lovely and fresh and herbal, while the rich texture feels particularly comforting after covering many miles.  I’ve been applying a generous layer in the evening before popping a pair of cotton socks on and then leaving it to soak in overnight. When I wake up my feet are lovely and soft ready for another day of walking over the hills and dales.

These four products are all you need to care for your skin when you’re spending lots of time outdoors, The Magnesium Body Gel takes care of tired muscles, Bugbuster helps tackle the flying brigade, Bite Ease deals with the aftermath and Foot Recovery gives hardworking feet some much-needed TLC. What I particularly like is that they don’t feel like products designed to be hidden away in a bathroom cabinet. They’re practical enough for a rucksack, but with the botanical ingredients, beautiful fragrances and traditional apothecary feel, they bring a touch of beauty-editor luxury to outdoor life. Because spending time in nature is one thing, but there’s no reason you can’t come back from the hills smelling fabulous and feeling considerably less battered.

Nonni Premium Electrolytes

Drinks and Mixers, Fitness, Food & Drink, health, National Walking Month, Sport, Summer

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Electrolytes have traditionally lived in the world of sports bottles with many of these drinks created for people who spend their weekends running marathons, cycling up mountains or knowing exactly how many grams of protein they consumed before breakfast. Nonni takes a rather different approach, with the focus being on everyday hydration rather than sport. It’s the UK’s first lower-salt sparkling electrolyte drink, designed for the bits of life that happen in between the gym sessions and heroic athletic achievements – the afternoon slump, a day at the beach, sitting in the garden, an evening when you fancy something grown-up but don’t want alcohol. Basically, those moments when you want to feel a little better without turning hydration into a full-time hobby.

Nonni isn’t a medical product and it isn’t trying to be a sports drink. It’s a premium sparkling drink with electrolytes, created for busy, ordinary lives and busy brains. And perhaps that’s what makes it so appealing. It takes something as simple as keeping hydrated and makes it feel enjoyable rather than clinical or worthy. There are no grand promises and no requirement to put on Lycra. Just a chilled can, some fizz and a rather more sophisticated way to keep the fluids topped up.

There’s two different flavours available, Sicilian Lemon with Garden Mint and Green Lime and Pomelo Grapefruit with Green Lime and Pink Himalayan Salt. These are not your standard fizzy drinks, they feel considerably more grown-up, with proper grown-up flavours rather than the usual sugar-and-artificial-fruit assault on your taste buds.

The Sicilian Lemon is particularly good on a hot day. It has a sharp citrus zing that wakes you up, while the garden mint comes through with a fresh finish that stops it becoming too tart. Serve it straight from the fridge if you’re impatient, or pour it over ice with a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint if you want to pretend you’re at a very expensive spa rather than sitting in the garden

The Pomelo Grapefruit is a little more adventurous, bringing together the tartness of grapefruit with the citrusy sharpness of lime. It’s the sort of flavour combination that makes you stop after the first sip and think, ‘that’s a bit different,’ before immediately going back for another.

With 670mg of electrolytes, under 50 calories, low sugar and no artificial sweeteners, it’s made for summer. Take it to a picnic, stick a few in the cool box for the beach, crack one open at a barbecue or pour it over ice in the garden.  And if you’re avoiding alcohol, it makes a much more grown-up alternative to the usual soft drinks, while the flavours are good enough to double up as a mixer if you fancy adding a little something stronger.

The beauty of Nonni is that it makes hydration feel less like a chore and more like a treat. There’s no Lycra required, no need to own a smartwatch and absolutely no obligation to go anywhere near a treadmill. Just open the can, sit in the sun and congratulate yourself on making an excellent lifestyle choice without actually having to do very much at all.

RRP £9.99 for a box of 4 cans

Osprey Daylite Hanging Toiletry Kit

camping, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, National Walking Month, Stocking Fillers, travel

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

I’m a big fan of wash bags with plenty of pockets and compartments because there’s nothing more annoying than rummaging through a dark, messy washbag looking for your toothbrush, when you’re already late for breakfast! The Osprey Daylite Hanging Toiletry Kit is my kind of washbag, offering plenty of storage without turning the whole thing into an unnecessarily complicated piece of luggage.

With a 4-litre capacity, there’s enough room for everything you need for several days away, while the zipped compartments keep your toiletries neatly separated and easy to find. There’s also a washable liner, which is particularly welcome because, sooner or later, something in a wash bag will leak. It’s one of the immutable laws of travel, somewhere between forgetting your phone charger and discovering the hotel hairdryer has the power of a tired mouse.

As soon as I started filling the Osprey Daylite Hanging Toiletry Kit for my holidays, it was obvious that it had been designed by people who actually travel. There are plenty of different sized pockets so that everything has its place, and there’s enough flexibility to accommodate a decent collection of toiletries without having to play Tetris every time you pack.

The hanging loop is one of my favourite features. Bathrooms in hotels, hostels and campsites aren’t always blessed with acres of useful worktop space, so being able to hang the bag from a shower rail, hook or door handle is incredibly handy. It also means you can see everything at a glance rather than balancing your toiletries precariously on the edge of the sink.

There’s a deep zipped pocket at the top, with a smaller zipped mesh pocket in front of it, while the lower section has another large zipped compartment and two open mesh pockets. These are particularly useful for shower gel and shampoo, keeping them easily accessible when the bag is hanging up in a shower cubicle.

This is also a washbag that can take some abuse. I stuffed it to the point where common sense suggested I should probably stop, then subjected it to the sort of aggressive tugging normally reserved for a stubborn tent zip. It coped brilliantly. There was no strain or fraying on the stitching or fabric, while the zips glided smoothly throughout testing.

The Osprey Daylite Hanging Toiletry Kit is a simple piece of kit, but it’s one that gets the important things right. It has plenty of storage, keeps everything organised, takes up relatively little space and can be hung wherever you need it. Whether you’re heading off for a weekend camping, travelling around the country or simply escaping to a hotel for a few days, it’s a very useful addition to your travel kit.

Why we like it

  • Plenty of pockets and compartments without becoming unnecessarily bulky or complicated
  • 4-litre capacity gives you enough room for toiletries for several days
  • Hanging design is perfect when bathroom space is limited
  • Adjustable strap can be looped over hooks, shower rails, doors or drawer handles
  • Washable liner makes cleaning up inevitable leaks considerably less painful
  • Robust construction stood up well to being stuffed and tugged during testing
  • Made using bluesign® APPROVED, 100% recycled materials

Available in Black and Tan Concrete and has a RRP of £30

Cups Full Coffee Bags

camping, coffee, Food & Drink, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Summer, travel, Winter

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

It’s National Hiking Month and the perfect opportunity to share some great hiking gear with you. Now this one might surprise you, because it’s not the first thing people shout about when they’re planning a hike… but it’s something lots of us take anyway, usually sloshing around in a flask……….Coffee.

If you’re someone who actually enjoys a decent cup rather than just a caffeine fix, then carrying a pre-made flask can be a bit of a gamble. A few hours in and it starts to become a little tired and can taste bitter and isn’t really what you want when you stop for a well earned drink. Lately I’ve switched to taking a small stove so that I can make a fresh brew when I’m out on the fells, it only takes a few minutes and tastes a lot better and while I’m waiting for it to brew I can sit and enjoy the view. I’d usually pack tea bags, mainly because I’ve never been a fan of instant coffee, but discovering Cups Full coffee bags has definitly changed that. They’re very similar to a tea bag, but filled with ground coffee instead. 

Once my water has boiled I can pop the coffee bag into my cup and just like tea, leave it to brew for three to four minutes, or a little longer if I want it stronger. I then give it a quick squeeze before taking it out and I’ve got a freshly brewed cup of coffee which can be enjoyed with very little effort. At home I’d always add milk, but when I’m out walking I just drink it black and once I’m finished, the used bag goes into a small plastic bag to take home, ready for the compost heap later.

I hadn’t heard of Cups Full before but they are a small startup company based in Hackney who offer three different types of coffee in individual 9 gram bags. They are proud that they know the journey from bean to cup and support communities all along their supply chain meaning each time you enjoy a cup of coffee from Cups Full you are supporting early education and local economies.

Their coffee bags are sold in bags of 10 and I found a zip seal pouch with three bags fits  perfectly into my stove bag and means I can have a couple of drinks whilst walking and save one for when I get back to the car. 

Obviously the taste is what really matters and these coffees are quite smooth, not bitter and very easy to drink. At home I tend to use a filter machine or stove-top espresso maker but at work we’re limited to instant(!) so these are a much better option and I’ve been enjoying having a decent cup of coffee at work as well as when I’ve been out walking.

Cups Full make three different blends Pace is a  blend of 100% arabica coffee and packs a generous 113mg+ of caffeine per bag, enough to get you moving without fuss or delay. This  South American blend with origins in Peru and Honduras is ideal first thing in the morning when you need a caffeine boost to start the day. 

Peace has a much lower caffeine level with under 44mgs per 9g bag. Sourced from Brazil and  Vietnam it is a coffee for people who enjoy coffee and don’t need the caffeine boost.

Power is the coffee you need when you’re on a long walk to give you a boost. The clue is in the name and with 144mg+ of caffeine per bag this is the one to reach for on night hikes or at work if you’ve not had much sleep the night before.   

I have to say that I enjoyed these three coffee blends more than any coffee I have had for a long time and they now have a permanent place in my rucksack (and desk)!

Cups Full coffee bags come in a resealable pouch with 10 bags for £11.95 or you can buy all three as a bundle saving 20%.  

JLab JBuds Open Sport Earbuds

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Father's Day, Fitness, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, National Walking Month, Tech

Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of the review and all thoughs and opinions are our own.

May is National Walking Month so I’m taking every opportunity I can to get outdoors and walk as much as I can. When I’m walking alone, I quite often catch up on podcasts or listen to music and wear a pair of open-ear headphones rather than standard ones so that I am still aware of my surroundings. I do prefer earbuds to earphones so was really pleased when I received the JLab JBuds Open Sport Earbuds which fit over the ear with a flexible earhook and I have to say I’m really impressed with them. They are very comfortable to wear and are surprisingly light and as they are sweat and dustproof they’re ideal for sporty people. As a glasses wearer, I wasn’t sure if the hook would interfere with my glasses but there was no problem, even when I wore them for a full day.

Setting up the earbuds was simple, my Android phone automatically offered to pair with them and the Bluetooth Multipoint feature allowed me to pair with my Laptop at the same time. The JLab app has all the usual options, I can setup different equaliser configurations or change the touch controls (or turn them off) and check for updates for the firmware. Once setup though there is little need for the app and they could be used without ever opening it.

Because they don’t block outside sounds, they are also perfect to wear at work. Ordinarily I wear a headset for Teams meetings and phone calls, but it can get uncomfortable after a few hours so wearing these is a lot better. I can hear what the callers are saying and still pick up the chat from the rest of the office. My only criticism is that the clarity of my voice isn’t quite as clear as with my normal headphones and a couple of colleagues have mentioned that my voice sounds a little tinny, but they are more comfortable to wear and hopefully this is something that can be addressed in a future firmware update.

The battery life on them is good, I’ve been wearing them all morning, putting them into the charging case over my lunch break and then wearing them all afternoon but they do have an impressive 26 hour battery life so if I’m out on a long walk I don’t need to worry about the battery running out.

The JLab JBuds Open Sport wireless earbuds are perfect for those with active lifestyles, offering a whole new way to tune into your favourite music whilst exercising.

RRP £79.99

Helly Hansen Solen Women’s Sports Tops

Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Spring, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

As we ride into spring and take more time for outdoor pursuits (and it can’t come quick enough around here) a whole new wardrobe of outdoor clothes is needed. Helly Hansen’s Solen collection are base layers which can be worn on their own or as layers.  We were sent 3 tops to try out from the new range.

The Women’s Solen collection all have UPF (Ultra violet factor) 50 protection for the sun’s rays, plus it has moisture wicking. The fabric is stretchy too, so you can run, twist and bend without being constrained. The range is designed for trail running, hiking and outdoor pursuits in particular. I run at the weekends in all weathers, so some new, and very colourful tops were very welcome! The short-sleeved crew neck top (here in white) is great for summer as the fabric is really light. It isn’t particularly see through though, so you can still wear your sports bar underneath!

The long-sleeved crew necks are also light but because of the light fabric, these are better in spring or early mornings in summer. The long sleeves help protect against the sun. They’re just as durable as the short-sleeved shirt though, and there’s a great range of colours including the Barely Blue and Sunset Pink.  All of the tops in this range have the Helly Hansen HH design on the front and the raglan style sleeves that come right down to the wrists.

When out running in them, I hardly noticed them which is a good sign! There was no tightness across my chest or arms and the sizing was try – these are a size XL which roughly translates to a UK size 16.  When it came to washing, I was surprised at how well the white top was fresh still afterwards, and there was no staining. The pink and blue shirts were both washed on a 60 degree wash and neither of the colours ran with them either, which helps when you know you’ll be throwing these into the washing machine regularly.

There are lots of other accessories in the Solen collection at Helly Hansen as well as the usual staple outdoor kit they do all year round: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/women/base-layer/solen

Long sleeved women’s top £60: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-shine-solen-ls-crew-48189?color=634529

Short sleeve women’s top £50: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-shine-solen-tshirt-49577?color=291445

Helly Hansen Women’s Aden Insulated Coat

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Days Out, Family Life, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

As the days grow longer and we step into Spring there is still quite a nip in the air so it’s not quite time to hang up the coat just yet.  The Helly Hansen Aden Insulated Coat is the  perfect choice for this in-between season as it is warm without being bulky, and and it’s waterproof, which is always a very good thing, particularly if you live in the North West where rain is less of an occasional inconvenience and more of a recurring theme!

As I’m 6ft tall with long arms, finding a coat that fits properly is often a challenge, and I frequently end up buying men’s coats just to get the sleeve and body length I need. Buying online can be risky but I found Helly Hansen’s online size guide really helpful. By  entering your measurements it recommends the best size and suggested Large for me, which fits well, although next time I would probably size up to allow for a thicker jumper underneath, as it does feel a bit snug with one on. The cost is a good length, covering my bottom nicely, so on someone shorter it would likely sit around mid-thigh. The adjustable hood is a good size and stayed firmly on my head even on a blustery coastal walk.

The coat features HELLY TECH® Protection, meaning it’s waterproof, windproof and breathable, along with PrimaLoft® insulation which makes a real difference on those colder spring days. Despite not being overly padded, it feels surprisingly warm and cosy. There are two zipped hand pockets and a generous inside zipped pocket that easily fits my phone, which is always useful for keeping it dry in wet weather.

The coat can be washed at 30° and it is recommended that it is tumble dried on a low heat to reactive the water repellent treatment.

Overall, I really like the Helly Hansen Aden Insulated Coat. It’s comfortable, practical, and has been doing a brilliant job of keeping out the wind and rain in the unpredictable Spring weather that we’ve been exposed to over the last few weeks. With its tailored fit and waterproof protection, it’s a great choice for walking or everyday wear.

Available in a choice of four different colours, (Black Grape, White, Black and Navy) it is priced at £150.

Helly Hansen Wanderer Shoulder Bag

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, National Walking Month, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, travel, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Whilst Helly Hansen are perhaps better known for their outdoor clothing, they do also have a great range of accessories like the Helly Hansen Wanderer Shoulder bag. This compact bag is a brilliant for travelling and has a good selection of pockets, both zipped and open which are ideal for keeping everything organised when navigating airport or train station queues.

The main compartment is zipped and inside are two mesh pockets. The larger pocket is the perfect size for a phone, while the smaller one will hold smaller essentials, I’ve currently got a lipbalm and a tube of sweets in it but it would also be perfect for a pen or a folded up shopping bag. Inside the bag is a handy key clip, a simple feature but incredibly useful and I no longer find myself rummaging around at the bottom of the bag searching for my keys. The bag is plenty large enough for my purse, phone and everyday essentials and the design means I can keep everything nice and organised. There’s also a couple of pockets on the front of the bag, one zipped and one open, which are perfect for items that I need quick access to.

The bag also has an incredibly useful feature – there’s a zip that runs around the bottom of the bag and this can be unzipped, expanding the capacity to 2.6L. It’s like having my very own Mary Poppins bag and kowing what my family are like when travelling, this is going to come in very handy on our next trip!!

The strap is made from rope and it’s easy to adjust the length by retying the end knots. I also like that the rope can also be removed, turning the bag into a handy travel wallet that’s ideal for storing tickets, passports, electronics and charging cables and can be popped inside a rucksack or larger bag while travelling to keep all your essentials together and easy to grab when needed.

If you don’t pack the bag too full, it’s slim enough to tuck discreetly under a coat or jumper which makes it very handy for travelling, giving an extra layer of security in busy places.

Made from lightweight 70D nylon with a TPU backing, it feels durable enough to cope with travelling, whether that’s by plane, train or car and whilst it isn’t fully waterproof, the taped seams help keep water out, so it can handle an occasional rain shower without any problem.

Overall, it’s a well designed and practical bag that will be perfect for summer adventures.

RRP £35

Footsie Foot products

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Winter, Women

My feet do an awful lot of work and like most people I’m guilty of not showing them the care they should receive. Walking across hills, tucked into sturdy boots, squashed into heels over the Christmas period and constantly swaddled in socks and wooly tights they had become quite dry and a bit rough around the edges. So when a couple of footcare treats arrived from Footsie, a new footcare brand with a range of six new products designed to properly pamper hardworking feet, it felt like a gentle nudge to finally give mine the TLC they were desperately in need of.

First I needed to get rid of the dry skin so the Smooth Operator 2 in 1 Glass Foot File, (RRP £7) was quickly put to use. The dual-action file made light work of the hard skin on my feet, smoothing my heels and soles quickly and effectively. Made from 100% toughened glass, it feels nice and robust and being made of glass it is hygienic and will last a long time. The file can be used on both wet and dry skin and has two different textured surfaces, the coarse edge is designed to remove hard, thick skin and the finer side is used for gentle exfoliation.

Once filed and exfoliated it was time for a taste of the tropics with the Tropical Toes Coco Luscious Foot Butter (RRP £7). This rich, indulgent cream melted beautifully into my skin leaving my feet nice and hydrated and refreshed. It is also great as an overnight treatment, a generous application before bed then I pop a pair of cotton socks on and by morning my feet feel lovely and soft and ready for action. I’ve been using it every evening for the last couple of weeks and my feet are looking so much better. The dry skin on my heels has completely gone and my feet look and feel cared for again.

Now that my feet have been well and truly pampered, they’re ready to carry me across hill, dale and anywhere else I choose to wander.

The Footsie products are all available from Boots

Helly Hansen Running Accessories

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, secret santa, Spring, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Winter

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Great for stocking fillers, Secret Santa or anyone who is serious about running and outdoor sports, Helly Hansen have a huge range of items for both men and women which you’ll love this year. We were sent a selection of running items to review, and none of them disappointed!

Winter skiers will appreciate the Alphelia Gloves, seen here in white.  With waterproof material to prevent hands getting wet (and therefore cold) on the slopes, they have elasticated cuffs and Velcro cuff clasps to keep water out. The fastening clips keep the gloves together when not in use or to fasten to a ski outfit when après ski. These fit snugly to give particularly good grip when manoeuvring the slopes, but there’s no reason why you can’t wear these in a British winter, outside, driving or even in snow (if we ever get it!) the waterproof membrane makes them particularly versatile and if you’ve ever worn ski gloves you’ll know they’re ten times as warm as High Street gloves. A definite winner in the gift ideas department too.

Carrying on the theme of winter wear, the Helly Hansen Pile headband can be worn on the slopes or even just every day in exceptionally cold weather. Designed for women, it has a fleecy texture and can be used for keeping your hair out of your eyes or for keeping ears warm at the same time. It’s made of HH pile material, which is also recycled, so you’re helping the environment too. This is a great gift for a stocking, or to take skiing in winter when you’re limited on luggage.

The Helly Hanson Rib Beanie, seen here in lavender is great for home or away. This beanie has the classic HH branding and is designed for women and comes in 7 different colours. It’s designed to be for women but the standard size and range of colours would suit anyone. It’s made of polyester and acrylic to make it both stretchy and adorable and again makes a great Christmas gift.

Finally, for when the summer comes around again, there’s the HH Trail Cap. So called because it’s for trail running when you don’t know whether you’re going to be blinded by the sun at the brow of a hill or rained on at the other end of the course, this Purple Clay colour is for camping, running or hiking and can be easily packed thanks to the light material which is polyester and elastane.  There’s vents at the side of the hat, which for anyone who has ever run in the hot weather, you’ll know that this design is essential.  Not much chance of using it in this country any time soon, but I’m looking forward to a spring day run with this gem.

Helly Hansen Alphelia Gloves £120: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/alphelia-glove-67637?color=623494&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=22662295361&utm_content=186507109571&utm_term=&cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=22662295361&cq_con=186507109571&cq_term=&cq_med=pla&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22662295361&gbraid=0AAAAADpHlLyIcNHa82VL2ooPjLEoH9ovi&gclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cYkSdyx302OPoo6bAlUwIoK_8aGfhHmIUu9l6eYVmgBQk16QM5VoPQaAoF1EALw_wcB

Helly Hansen Pile Headband £20: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-pile-headband-67563?color=623494&utm_source=kelkoouk&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=kelkooclick&utm_source_platform=KelkooGroup&utm_term=Helly+Hansen+Pile+Headband+Beige+STD+-+S&utm_campaign=kelkooclick&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=kelkoouk&utm_source_platform=KelkooGroup&kgclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cZcTUCMYz2WIIM-1zxeMDiLYsR7DPPsHSAErnqW92Xhv2Yt_FzHu1saAm2SEALw_wcB&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22911025392&gbraid=0AAAAADGtTT9ufx0OfcAbLtMOW-DTlscwD&gclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cZcTUCMYz2WIIM-1zxeMDiLYsR7DPPsHSAErnqW92Xhv2Yt_FzHu1saAm2SEALw_wcB

Helly Hansen Rib Beanie £25: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-rib-beanie-54020?color=634122

HH Trail Cap: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-trail-cap-67546?color=634011

Enertor Running Insoles

Fitness, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Attention all runners! If you run more than a few kilometres a week or have been plagued by injuries, you might find that the cushioning of your shoes is not enough, even for top quality shoes. I have recently been afflicted with plantar fasciitis thanks to cross-country running over the summer on parched ground and tough roads. Extra cushioning sounded like a possibility but when I saw that Usain Bolt uses them, I was in!

Enertor Running Insoles are shock absorbers which absorb up to 89% of the impact on your feet, and by association, your knees too. They work by transmitting the impact horizontally through the insoles and to your shoes, rather than through the muscle and bones of your legs.  They’re 2x thinner than competitor’s so they fit into most shoes.  

I found that they were easy to fit straight into my running shoes (it helps if you’ve got the right size insoles as well!) and they don’t need adhesive.  As soon as you walk in them you can feel the cushioning.  I tried them out on the running machine first and there were no problems.  I could feel that they were ‘spongier’ than just my shoes, and my running shoes are cross-country and built for impact.  I can’t say that they will cure my plantar fasciitis but in the 2 runs I’ve undertaken with them, it doesn’t feel like my joints and calves have got any worse.  I’m looking forward to using them long term to see if they take enough impact for my calves and feet to be able to recover enough for me to be painless, but in the meantime, they’re a great addition to my kit and make difficult runs more enjoyable. 

Available from £40.00 at: https://enertor.com/products/px1-running-insoles?srsltid=AfmBOoo2H5kuFt9voXg51OALk7K6IRw7iszTmiy5n2-8CtgvppgQESpI

BBox Insulating Flip Top Bottle

advent calendar, Birthday Gifts, camping, Children, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, hiking, National Walking Month, REUSABLE, Sport, Summer

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The insulating Flip Top Bottle from BBox is one of those items you don’t know you need until you start using it. The 690ml bottle (shown here in spearmint colour but is also available in varieties of blue, green and pink) appeals to both adults and children thanks to the colours as well as the easy of use and volume.  It has stainless steel inners with a similar stainless steel straw and a flip top spout so that it doesn’t spill. There’s a bendy carry handle too which makes it easy to fix to a backpack or carry by hand and not get broken.

I found this really easy to use. It’s easy to fil up with the screw lid coming off to reveal the stainless steel. Your water doesn’t have to touch any plastic.  I am particularly passionate about not using plastic bottles because of the damage they do to the environment, but few people know what damage plastic does to our bodies, so stainless steel is the best option.  I like the fact that the BBox Insulating Flip Top Bottle can keep drinks cold as well as hot, so it has use during both the summer and the winter. 

It’s great for take out on trips, and the robust design means it can be taken to football games, put in the car (the insulating layers means it won’t get hot quick) or in a backpack for lunchtime.  The huge capacity means though, that you can stay hydrated all day on just one fill up. It can take drinks from temperatures as low as -20C right up to 120C. Tell me who wouldn’t want to use a versatile insulating bottle with those credentials?

Available from £28.99 at: https://uk.bbox.com/products/690ml-insulated-flip-top-bottle-spearmint?_pos=3&_sid=55527eae2&_ss=r

JLAB Epic Sport ANC 3 Earbuds

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Tech

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Once upon a time, we just had one pair of headphones, and they were for the Walkman we took with us to work, or if we were inclined, on a run!  Those headphones were most definitely wired to our Walkman, and over time, that wire would start to fray and we’d have to replace them.

Nowadays, we have Bluetooth headphones, and so many different ones for commuting, chilling out and working out. The JLAB Epic Sport ANC 3 Earbuds are designed for running or cardio work as they fit over the ear so that there isn’t much movement.  As Bluetooth headphones, they connect to any Bluetooth appliance but usually your phone, so that you can run or workout freely and not be hindered by the dreaded wire!

One thing I must stress about the JLAB Epic Sport earbuds is that the packaging is impossible to open! It took me a few minutes and lots of tearing in order to get the packaging open and even then, I had to tear further to get out the instructions.  The instructions are remarkably easy though – all you have to do is take the earphones out of the carry case and when the lights on them blink blue, they are discoverable on your device.  On my iPhone, I just have to open the Bluetooth settings and I could see the JLAB earbuds and could simply connect. From connection, I could play anything on Apple Music or a podcast and it was instantly audible.

You can download the JLAB App to work the finer features and have them upgraded, but the earbuds have their own touch controls so you don’t have to use your phone all the time. Tap once to play or pause, twice to track forwards and 3 times to track back. The same applies to answer, and hang up a call, or there’s a noise control if you press and hold.  

The JLAB Epic Sport ANC 3 earbuds come in a carry case that doubles up as a charger.  The case has its own USB-C cable to connect to an adaptor or a computer. When the earbuds are in the case and it’s connected, you know they’re charging if the light on the front is blue. If the light is flashing white then it means the case is between 25%-99% charged and less than 25% the light turns red. 100% charged and the light is solid red. You can also wirelessly charge the headphones by placing the case (with the headphones inside) on a wireless charging pad. Don’t forget to take the stickers off of the charging points before you put the earbuds back in the case though.

As for using the headphones, it’s very easy! They already have the rubber ear pieces on or the packaging contains two more pairs of different sizes. You just take the arms over your ears and use your device to start playing music.  It takes a while to get used to the touch settings, but if you use the app you can not only control what you hear, but you can change the settings if you need to. There app also has various equalizer settings so you can change the audio settings depending on what you’re listening to, which really helped when I was listening to something with a lot of bass!

The JLAB Epic Sport ANC 3 Earbuds aren’t cheap at £99.99 but they do have a lot of features and the durability of not only the case but extra ear pieces so they won’t get mangled in your pocket or bag.  The sound quality is excellent and the ability to change the levels on the app makes all the difference to your enjoyment of what you’re listening to.  I really enjoyed using them, especially as I can wear them in the gym and whilst I’m running, but at any time at home, on the commute or even on holiday, the JLAB Epic Sport AC 3 Earbuds have all your needs covered.

Available from £99.99 at: https://www.jlab.com/en-gb/products/epic-sport-anc-3-true-wireless-earbuds-black

Helly Hansen Women’s Verglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Days Out, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Spring, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

In our final item from the Helly Hansen delivery, we have the Women’s Verglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket.  This extremely lightweight jacket can be folded into one tiny sized pocket to take on hikes, or can be worn whilst running or hiking without getting in the way due to its weight. It’s waterproof too so you can keep the majority of the weather away from you. It’s breathable too so you can wear it in the rain, when it’s windy or hot or a combination of all three!

The added benefits of. The Verglas 2.5 Fastpack Jacket include a hood, zip-up pockets, fleece chin guard, elastic cuffs and hem, and the 2.5 layer material construction which adds the waterproof and breathable functions.  It’s pricy at £200 but it’s meant for the serious outdoor types who love the wet weather!  This is a quality piece which can be worn or taken out for years.  I wear a size XL in this and it’s a bit snug, so if you’re bulked up with layers underneath, it might be worth getting a larger size than normal.

The Veriglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket is brilliant for putting in a backpack on a long journey, even if you’re just travelling by train across the country or leave it in the car because it’s so light it can’t not be useful.

Available from £200: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-verglas-25l-fastpack-jacket-63313?color=290002

Helly Hansen’s Women’s Escape Anorak

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Days Out, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, hiking, National Walking Month, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Some relief from the recent rains – the Helly Hansen Escape Anorak for women is an all-season lightweight waterproof jacket, perfect for hiking thanks to its design. There’s a huge pocket at the front with a roof to prevent rain getting in, so you can store your phone, map and keys all in one place whilst you walk.  The waterproof material (100% polyester) dries quickly and stretches too, especially along the seams. I like this jacket because the arms are particularly long, and it doesn’t have a fastening – you just throw it over your head and the rain can’t get in! The high neck has vertical poppers to both keep you warm and there’s poopers on the cuffs too, which limits the amount of water in your sleeves when it’s REALLY raining! It has an adjustable hem too – a draw string to keep you snug when it’s cold.

This jacket isn’t just for hiking but for any outdoors pursuits, especially because it’s so light that you can put it in the car and forget about it. The jacket comes in other colours (pink and black) and is size XS up to XL which is what I’m wearing here. 

Available for £80 at: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-escape-anorak-54328?color=627457

Helly Hansen Women’s Verglas Light Hoodie

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, hiking, National Walking Month, Spring, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Another win for this interchangeable spring weather – the Helly Hanson Verglas Light Hoodie. Unlike other hoodies, this is ultra soft and ultra light with elastane to also stretch where it’s needed. It’s really soft to the touch too, so you don’t need to wear anything underneath and it could be a perfect spring camping pyjama top that you can snuggle into with the drawstring hood too!

There’s plenty of room in this hoodie as it’s really long on the body but the only thing missing is some pockets. The tailored side sections give a svelte shape when wearing it so maybe the pockets would detract from the shape and you need a pair of leggings or trousers with the pockets instead. The Verglas Light Hoodie would also be a great fashion piece to dress up or layer for festivals.  It also has wicking properties to accommodate those unpredictable summers. I can see myself reaching for this top in the cooler evenings when outside with friends or taking a walk at sunset across the countryside while on holiday.

Online at Hellyhansen.com in XS-XL sizes and in various colours including grey, green blue and pink shades.

Available from £75: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-verglas-light-hoodie-62964?color=627364

Helly Hansen Women’s LIFA Active Solen Long Sleeve Top

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Spring, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

This multi-purpose women’s long sleeve top is perfect for all weathers and all sports! 

Interestingly, it’s make through a process called S.Cafe which infuses the fabric with coffee grounds to give the wearer UFP 50 (Ultraviolet Protective Factor 50) without using chemicals.  The LIFA technology also wicks away moisture when you’re outside, no matter the weather, to keep you drier.

I particularly like that this top is long sleeved so you can wear it in the spring and autumn as well as the winter and the long sleeves and high neck give you more protection from the sun. You can see that the material has pores which are the LIFA technology working to help you keep dry, and as I tested this out on a run, I can attest to it actually keeping you dry!  In fact, this top isn’t just for sailing or hiking but can be used in all disciplines thanks to the technologies used. I wore it on a trail run through woodlands, open land and near a lake and it stood the test of British weather.  The material is very stretchy too, so you can wear it in different sizes depending on your sport.  This was me in a size XL.

If you’re looking for an all-rounder top though, this is great as it can be used in winter as well as for when the sun is out.  It’s rare to find a long-sleeved women’s top that is so versatile and the more I think of how I will use it, the more I realise it could be a staple piece of my gym wardrobe.

This top comes in sizes XS to XL. If you’re not keen on the colour, there are others available on the Helly Hansen website including white, navy and ultra blue!

Available from £55: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-hh-lifa-active-solen-ls-49352?srsltid=AfmBOoogCE06HlND4e0EhAgahwamlLOT74jgh9iZv7ORUkymh_ln2pqw

Women’s Helly Hansen Nordvik 2.0 Boots

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, Home, National Walking Month, Sport, Summer

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

I’m thrilled with these all-purpose “wellies” that turned up this week from Helly Hansen! Even though the weather has been glorious and there’s not been a drop of rain around for weeks, I thought I’d take these out for a spin to do some heavy gardening. They didn’t disappoint.

The Helly Hansen Nordvik 2.0 Boots for women are these half-sized Wellington boots which have extra grippy soles and a HH Custom Insole. With the outer uppers made of rubber, they’re perfect for outdoors but especially for marina and sea life because of their EVA Comfort Insole for maximum cosiness and the HH Max Grip soles. In a nutshell, they’re comfortable as well as practical in all weather. To make you salivate even more, they’re temperature resistant meaning they can be worn in the summer and the rubber won’t perish, or in the freezing cold of winter and won’t get damage by the weather.

Practically, the half size is easier to wear. Very rarely do we trudge in mud that comes past our ankles (at least I don’t anyway!) so the extra calf length isn’t needed.  They come in other colours too. These are black but there are also bright yellow and navy on offer.

You can see the that soles are really sturdy, made of thick vulcanised rubber which also gives them some twist as you move. They’re comfy too, thanks to the EVA lining and survived being bent whist gardening and worn whilst hauling out roots. They stuck firm with their extra grip soles, with no slippage even in water. I’m looking forward to wearing them in the autumn for the rainy park walk but for the time being, they’re my best friend in the garden.

Available online for £65 at: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-nordvik-2-11661?color=290002&qu=Nordvik&ct=autosuggest_top_product

ACME Whistles

camping, Children, Fitness, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, hiking, National Walking Month, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

As a Scout leader, whenever I’m teaching the Scouts about hiking and how to pack a rucksack, there’s one piece of kit I always make sure we talk about – a whistle. It’s small, it weighs next to nothing, but it could genuinely save your life one day. Whether you’re up in the mountains or following a rocky coastal path, when things go wrong, having a simple way to signal for help is absolutely vital and a whistle is one of the easiest  and most effective  ways to alert people to your situation.

I always advise the Scouts to clip their whistle permanently onto their rucksack. that way, it’s always there when you need it and there’s no rummaging or risk of forgetting it. If you’re injured, lost, or stuck somewhere remote, shouting can quickly leave you exhausted, but a whistle will cut through the air sharp and clear. Six blasts followed by a one minute pause and then repeated is the universal distress signal and with luck, someone will soon be on their way to help.

We recently had the opportunity to try out a couple of whistles from ACME, who have been making them for over 150 years.

The ACME Survival Whistle 649 is available in six colours. It’s made from shatterproof plastic, delivers a loud, sharp, discordant note that’s hard to ignore, and is incredibly easy to blow – giving you lots of sound for very little effort, which can be crucial in an emergency. It’s a real classic too, first developed back in 1949. (RRP £5.99)

The ACME Tornado Whistle is slightly different, offering an ultra-high pitch and is available in eight colours. It’s also extremely easy to blow and is a brilliant choice for walkers and hikers. (RRP £7.49)

Naturally, we handed the whistles out to the Scouts to test – and let’s just say, I probably should have packed some earplugs too! They had a lot of fun seeing who could blow theirs the loudest.

The skills we teach young people in Scouting really do stay with them for life. Simple habits like carrying a whistle are part of the basic, no-nonsense outdoor wisdom that could make all the difference one day.

So next time you’re packing your rucksack, whether for a short day walk or a full-on expedition, don’t overlook the little things. Pop a whistle on your kit list. It might just be the most important thing you pack.

These whistles and many more are available from ACME

Sloggi Zero Feel Bra Top

Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, National Walking Month, Sport, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

It’s always a treat to get a new bra and the Sloggi Zero Feel Top is both a bra and a wearable top in one.  We were sent this brilliant turquoise top to try for hiking and sports this summer.

Made with 1 part Elastane and 3 parts Polyamide, the main selling point of this Sloggi bra is how invisible it is. There are hardly any seams to it and the material is so thin that you can’t see it at all under clothes. Even around the cups, there aren’t seams but there are some pockets which allow you to remove the support cups if you need to. Great for washing too!  The only seam is on the side, under the arms where you can’t see them. There isn’t even a clasp to do up which means it goes over the head and thanks to the Elastane, it’s super stretchy. I was sent a size XXL, and if you know anything about bras in bigger sizes, you’ll know that the wider straps are necessary. For this design, the wider straps are easier to deal with because they disappear under clothes due to the thin material but they also have no adjusting clasps that become visible under tight clothing.

When it comes to wearing it, the difficulty is getting it over your head, especially the first time when the Elastane is so new!  You have to wiggle it into place because it doesn’t have a clasp to open at the back (or front) and allow self fitting, so the knack is having the strength to pull it into place.  The cups give the support, again without a seam, and you can wear almost anything on top of it and I won’t show.

The Sloggi Zero Feel Top can also be worn on its own thanks to the design and striking colour. The breathable material makes it ideal for summer as moisturise evaporates away though the material. Teenagers will love this, especially the colours as there are 10 colours in all including white, tan and black. Sizes range from XS to XXL in all colours. There are no marks left as there are no clasps or seams, and the stretchy material allows you to move in all directions with restrictions. A winner for outdoors this summer!

Available from £30.00 at: https://uk.sloggi.com/10217786.html?color=1597_Quiet%20Turquoise

Osprey Transporter Gear Tote 60

camping, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, hiking, National Walking Month

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

When it comes to Scout camp, packing and transporting gear can be a real challenge. Between tents,  hiking boots, cooking gear, food, and activity equipment, I’ve soon filled the car and trailer – and that’s before I even start on my own stuff! That’s why I was really pleased to get my hands on the Osprey Transporter Gear Tote 60. Straight away, I could see plenty of uses for it – both at Scout camp and on my own adventures. It’s one of those bits of kit I didn’t know I needed… until I had one. Now, I wouldn’t be without it.

Deceptively simple, this is a large, rectangular tote bag made from incredibly tough, highly water-resistant NanoTough™ fabric — a 100% recycled high-tenacity nylon that stays open when loading and wipes clean after a wet weekend. You can sling it over your shoulder or get two Scouts to grab a handle each – it’s built to be hardwearing and much easier to carry than a large plastic box.

But don’t let its simple appearance fool you — this bag is a real workhorse. It’ll comfortably swallow up everything from water activity gear, hiking boots to a camp stove and a few days’ worth of food. Whether I’m packing for a weekend hike, a paddleboard trip, or just loading up for a full Scout camp, it keeps everything in one place. With a 60-litre capacity, weighing only 0.87kg, and measuring 35 x 62 x 42cm, it’s both spacious and practical and unlike plastic boxes it will fold flat when you’re not using it so it’s nice and easy to store in a cupboard or the boot of your car.

The removable base is such a great idea, at first glance it might not seem much, but it’s turned out to be one of my favourite features when I’m using it in the car for transporting cycling or hiking gear.  When the ground’s muddy or wet, I can take it out and stand on it while I change shoes meaning no more balancing on one leg or cold, wet socks. It’s also useful as a cover for the top of the bag when it’s in the car, keeping gear out of sight.

The wide opening makes loading and unloading quick and easy, especially when you’re in a rush to get changed or pitch camp. There’s also a large zipped front pocket and internal mesh pocket which are great for keeping smaller bits of kit safe.

Available in Pine Leaf, Raven Black, and Euphoria Purple, it’s the kind of kit that earns its place on every trip. Tough, versatile, and surprisingly useful and if you’re a Scout leader, outdoorsy person, or Explorer Scout looking to make your packing a bit easier, I’d definitely recommend giving this a try. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

RRP £95

Darn Tough Hiking Socks

Birthday Gifts, camping, Easter, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, National Walking Month, Summer, Women

Disclaimer: We received these socks free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Easter Sunday has always been about more than just chocolate in our house. We love to get outside, go for a walk, and roll our Easter eggs down a hill – it’s a great family tradition that everyone looks forward to. This year, I’m be upping the fashion stakes and hopping along in my Critter Club Micro Crew Lightweight socks from my favourite sock brand – Darn Tough!

With their cute little bunny design, the Eclipse socks are the perfect choice for Easter. But they’re not just cute though, they’re unbelievably comfortable and once you’ve tried a pair of Darn Tough socks you’ll be hooked!  Made in the USA from merino wool, they’re seam-free, breathable, and the most comfortable hiking socks I’ve ever worn – and I’ve tried many over the years! What really sets them apart though is their durability and  Darn Tough are so confident in their quality that they offer a lifetime guarantee. If your socks wear out, simply send them back for a free replacement, no receipt needed, no questions asked.

There are four fun designs in the Women’s Critter Club Micro Crew Lightweight hiking sock range: Eclipse (bunnies), Bark (for dog lovers), Canyon (with a mountain goat), and Moss with a cheeky raccoon. Available in small, medium, and large, they’ll fit feet from size 2.5 to 9. Sitting just above the ankle they’re perfect for walking shoes, boots and trainers.

What I love most, aside from how cute they are, is how well they fit. The ribbed cuff stays up without being tight, and they don’t slide down when you’re walking. They feel soft against my feet and even after several wears and washes, they’ve held their shape and still feel comfortable.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and practical Easter gift, why not treat someone to socks that are made for adventure? They’re perfect for spring time strolls, Easter egg rolling, and everything in between.

RRP £28

PADA Knee Padded Leggings

Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, health, hiking, National Walking Month, Sport, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

As the years (and the miles) have added up, my knees have started to get a little… well creaky. I really notice it on those colder days out on the hills, especially when I’m heading downhill and I’ve started to think that it might be time to give them a bit of extra support, so I can keep enjoying the walks I love for many years to come. So, when PADA offered to send me a pair of their Knee Padded Leggings the timing couldn’t have been better! Now, whilst they’re technically yoga or gym leggings and I don’t do either – it didn’t put me off as with the built-in knee pads they immediately struck me as being the ideal solution to my knee issue.  

Let’s start with the fit, because that’s the most important thing when buying leggings. These are high-waisted, sculpting leggings that actually reach my ankles ( for someone who is 6’ tall that is a huge plus point before we even start!) The fabric is also soft, stretchy, and super supportive in all the right places. The knee pads aren’t bulky or obvious, but they really do help, keeping my knees warm and nicely cushioned, which takes the edge off that stiff, achy feeling which is worse in colder weather. They’ve got just the right amount of hold around the tummy too, without ever feeling restrictive and the moment I popped them on, I could feel the difference – even dashing up the stairs, my knees didn’t complain like they usually do!

Outdoors, they’ve really come into their own. I’ve tested them on a few longer walks and gentle runs now, and they’re so comfortable – no chafing and no digging in. The seams are smooth and the waistband stays exactly where it should. Plus, there’s plenty of stretch in the fabric, so scrambling over rocks and striding up hills is a breeze.

They’ve even got a generously sized leg pocket (big enough for my phone, tissues and, yes, the odd snack!), and I love the reflective detailing on the back and ankle — a useful safety touch for those early morning or evening outings.

They are available in sizes XS to XXL, with a petite option too, and I found the sizing spot-on. I ordered my normal size and they fit like a glove. They also come with a handy little wash bag to protect them in the washing machine. So far,they’re washed well, no stretching or fading which is good.

These leggings have quickly become my go-to for anything outdoors – walking, running, hiking as they offer just the right blend of performance, comfort and subtle support. If your knees have started to feel the miles too, these might just be the perfect walking companion.

RRP £87.

Helly Hansen Spring Outdoor Gear

Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, National Walking Month, Sport, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

If you’re after the perfect footwear to step into spring, look no further than the Women’s HP Ahiga Evo 5 Marine Lifestyle Shoes from Helly Hansen! These trainers are made for  sunny days, whether you’re strolling by the sea or strutting through the city. With HH Hydro-Grip for that trusty grip on wet surfaces, HH Quick Dry to keep your feet fresh, and HH Max-Vent for unbeatable breathability, these trainers not only look great but are incredibly comfy too.

They come in six gorgeous shades, Penguin, Pink Salt, Cherry Blos, Off White, and Navy and I’ve been wearing the Cherry Blos ones for the last couple of weeks. I’ve found that the soft pink goes with everything, making them the perfect choice for holidays, especially when I’m travelling light. They can be paired with a flowy sundress for a chic, effortless look or teamed with jeans or leggings for a casual weekend vibe and strike the perfect balance between style and comfort.

The HH Max-Comfort Insole gives a springy, cushioned feel, so you can wander through forest trails or explore new cities on holiday without a second thought. I have found them so comfortable to wear and I guarantee that they’ll keep your feet happy, no matter where your spring adventures take you.

The non-marking rubber soles have good grip, making them ideal for a variety of surfaces, I’ve worn them on rocks, slippery coastal paths as well as forest trails and I’ve not had a single slip. The Helly Hansen HH Quick Dry and HH Max-Vent technology help keep your feet stay cool, dry, and ever so comfy. The mesh upper allows your feet to breathe and if they do get wet, I’ve found they dry very quickly. Whether you’re walking through the countryside or hitting the shops, you can wave goodbye to sweaty feet!

So, whether you’re heading out for a spring walk, planning a sun-soaked getaway, or just looking to spoil yourself with some new footwear, these pink trainers are an absolute must-have. Comfortable, stylish, and endlessly wearable, they’re the perfect way to step into spring with confidence, style, and comfort.

RRP £110

And while we’re on the topic of spring style, the Helly Hansen Women’s Inshore Quick Dry Hoodie is the perfect layer for those breezy spring days. The soft, lightweight fabric feels lovely and cosy, perfect for a breezy seaside stroll or layering up for a walk in the park. Plus, it’s got UPF40+ sun protection thanks to the clever S.Café® fabric technology, which uses coffee grounds to create long-lasting sun protection. It also dries quickly and resists odours, so it’s perfect for warmer climes and summer holidays.

I adore the rich cobalt blue colour, it’s so striking and adds a gorgeous pop of colour to any outfit. The fit is relaxed yet flattering, and I’ve found there’s plenty of room to move about comfortably. The sleeves are also nice and long too which is great for us tall people!  The hood is a blessing when it’s a bit windy, and I know I’m going to get plenty of use out of this hoodie as it goes just as well with leggings or a pair of jeans. It’s available in five different colours, Cobalt, Heather, Miami Peach, Ebony and Navy

RRP £60

And let’s not forget a trusty headband for those chillier spring days! The Helly Hansen Light headband is perfect for keeping your ears warm without the bulk of a hat, making it a fab accessory for outdoor walks or a stylish touch to your spring look. I also find that it’s great for keeping my hair from blowing into my face on windy days. It’s got flatlock seams which don’t dig into your head, and it’s ideal for wearing under my cycling helmet to to keep my ears warm on early morning rides.

RRP £14 available in four colours – Windy Blue, Purple Clay, Light Lav and Navy

So, if you’re planning a spring getaway or just want some versatile, stylish clothing, then Helly Hansen have you covered. Their clothing is practical, comfy, and easy to wear and perfect for Spring adventures.

Buff Polar Prints Hat and Neck Warmer

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own. And

For a cosy and practical Christmas gift, check out the Polar Prints hat and neck warmer sets from Buff. Crafted from ultra-soft polar fleece, they offer warmth and comfort without being bulky. The hat fits nice and snugly without feeling tight on my head and the double layered bottom of the hat keeps my ears lovely and warm on colder days.

The neck warmer has enough fabric to bunch comfortably around my neck and can be pulled up over my face for extra protection against the elements. The fleece material is lovely and cozy but if you get too warm it will easily fit into a pocket.  

Available in shades of grey, pink, and green, these accessories add a stylish touch to winter gear and look fantastic with my purple jacket and navy fleece. Each set has unique patterns, so if you’re buying for the whole family, no two will be exactly alike.

The Buff hat and neck warmer are perfect for any outdoor activities like hiking or skiing  but are also a great choice for walking the dog or going shopping. Made of 72% Polyester and 28% Viscose the quick-drying fleece is ideal for those unpredictable winter days.

RRP £25.95 available here