The cold and gloomy days of winter are now behind us, with the bright shoots of spring bringing a fresh new outlook to many households. This year in the Bailey residence, the great outdoors has been calling, with plans firmly in place to hit the pavements for some high-volume running mileage while my wife joins me on the local trails and footpaths for some long-distance walking.
Quite often with renewed energy comes a thirst for new gear, so along with my wife's help we set out to road-test some of the best kit currently on the market. From plush road runners to super-rugged mountain boots, here's how the latest outdoor gear stacked up:
Running: Long Miles and Lighter Loads
Salomon Aero Glide 2 (£145)
The first thing you notice about the Aero Glide is the height and cushioning - they look and feel like you're standing on a cloud. Designed specifically for those soul-destroying long-distance road sessions, these are easily the most comfortable shoes I've ever had the pleasure of placing my weary feet in. The 'Rocker' geometry feels like it's doing half the work for you, transitioning smoothly from heel to toe. They certainly aren't made for speed intervals, but that's not what they're designed for. They are built to protect your joints during two-hour-plus runs, making them perfect for marathons. My legs felt remarkably fresh the next morning, which is the ultimate endorsement for a high-mileage trainer.
Artilect Exposure LS Tee (£100)
Sometimes you pick up a piece of clothing and instantly know it's 'quality' gear. The Artilect tee has that immediate premium feel. It's incredibly stretchy, moving with your body rather than flapping against it, which is crucial for preventing that dreaded mid-run chafing. The fabric manages moisture better than almost any other synthetic tee in my drawers, staying light even when I was working up a serious sweat. In addition, the superfine NuYarn merino wool offers natural UP50+ sun protection. Although fairly pricey, it's a high-quality garment with durability and sheer comfort that won't ever become a burden.
Osprey Duro 10 Running Pack (£160)
I've been using a basic, budget hydration vest for a while now, but switching to the Osprey Duro 10 felt like moving from a Ford Fiesta to a Rolls Royce. The comfortable fit is the standout feature, hugging the torso with minimal bounce, even when the 1.5l water carrier is full. The pocket placement is spot on, allowing me to grab gels and any other items without breaking my stride. It's a massive upgrade in terms of storage and weight distribution - a must-have for anyone looking to transition into ultra events or self-supported long runs.
Walking: Sturdiness, Stability and Softness
Salomon Quest Echo GTX Boots (£180)
My wife took the lead on testing these, and the feedback was conclusive - they are 'unbelievably cushioned.' Salomon is renowned for its high-quality outdoor gear and has managed to cram a surprising amount of plushness into a boot that looks quite aggressive. On the more undulating sections of our walk, she noted they were incredibly sturdy, with plenty of ankle support giving total confidence on uneven climbs and descents. The trade-off for sturdiness, however, is stiffness, with my wife admitting they feel like they'll take a few long walks to fully break in. They're not 'out-of-the-box' soft like a trainer, but they feel like they will last a decade.
Sherpa Adventure Gear Fleece (£60)
To layer up against the open Peak District chill, my wife wore a fleece from Sherpa Adventure Gear. The garment itself was a standout, hitting that golden zone of insulation - warm enough to cut through a biting wind, but breathable enough that she didn't overheat while climbing. The feel is beautiful, with a softness that makes it just as suitable for the pub after a hike as it is for the hillside. It's a reliable layer that can quickly become a go-to for any outdoor excursion. Also note that with every Sherpa fleece purchase a day of education is donated to a Nepalese child.
So whether you're pounding the streets or scrambling up a bumpy gravel path, these high-quality pieces prove that investing in the right kit makes the miles much more enjoyable.
