There’s something magical about the first real walk of the season. The sting of frost has gone, lambs are frolicking in the valleys, and the trails are bursting with energy.
Spring hillwalking in the UK might be a bit unpredicatable but hey, that's why we make great kit. So, let's hoist up our gaiters and bash out a few miles together.
Sunshine Gear
When the skies are blue, spring can feel like a stolen summer. Don't get complacent, we think you should start with a Merino base layer for core temperature control. Merino’s natural thermoregulation means you’ll stay comfy whether you're power-climbing or pause-snacking no matter which way the temperature swings.
Your legs will want to be protected by our Ardent softshell hiking trousers. Softshell is great because it blocks the wind, will shed a quick shower while somehow still being breathable enough to prevent your legs from over heating.
Don't forget springtime nights can still be chilly. We recommend that you pack a Heiko Primaloft jacket – it’s featherweight, packs down small, and is pocket-friendly insurance for an evening chill.
For the Showers
Our Sigma waterproof shell is your get-out-of-downpour-free card. Bombproof waterproofing, full storm hood, and still light enough to pack away when the clouds break. Tested on Kinder in sideways hail with grins still intact.
Something simple to wear underneath? Look no further than our Kelpie fleece. Great value, practical, 100% recycled, multipurpose flexibility for underneath your shell. This fleece will keep your core warm while helping you looking presentable in the pub at the end of the day.
Trousers-wise? It is Parallax all the way. Waterproof where it counts, breathable where it matters. Perfect for stying dry without overheating, and comfortable enough to throw over your shorts.
Hiking accessories
Alpine Trek walking poles are another sneaky essential that will make sure the heaviest impact from your walk comes from the beautiful views. Trekking poles are known to reduce fatigue and can help with stability when wearing a pack.
Put all of your stuff in a Presta rucksack, a streamlined daypack with just enough space for your layers, lunch, and the holy grail of hill snacks: a hot drink. Pop a Peak insulated flask in there just because you can and you’re laughing. Nothing revives a soggy soul like a slug of tea behind a windy trig point.
Come rain or shine: here is your spring hillwalking kit list
Whether you're chasing blue skies or bracing for sideways sleet, here’s the spring-ready outdoor clothing and accessories to make your outing a joy:
Sigma waterproof coat
Sigma will give you total confidence in wet weather. Sigma's 3-layer breathable and waterproof membrane gives all-day comfort and wet weather protection. The adjustable hood with drawcord and rear toggle makes the practical hood easy to wear in wet and windy conditions. The jacket itself is rustle-free for "oh so quiet" moments with an almost imperceptible touch of stretch for ease of movement. Sigma is designed with circularity in mind. It is made with a mono monomer construction. This means all components are made from the same material making the garment easier to recycle at the end of its life as it doesn't need to be broken down into separate recycling streams. Available in Mens and Womens fits.
Merino wool base layers
With a large selection of merino tops and leggings you can take your pick and look forward to moving more naturally. Our merino is made from the finest ethically sourced merino wool you can buy. Comfortable, temperature regulating and odour resistant: it's nature's technical fabric. We think merino wool baselayer has the greatest range of use which makes it ideal for spring hillwalking. Available in Mens and Womens ranges.
Ardent softshell walking trousers
The best breathable softshell trousers for cool hikes. Ardent softshell trousers are protective and tough, cutting out the cold and wind and keeping you comfortable over a wider range of conditions without restricting your movements. Ardent trousers are made from a double weave softshell with an environmentally friendly PFC-free water repellent coating and are designed to cope with the rigours of mountain activities, whether that be high level summer alpinism or Lakeland winter days on the Old Man. The tough double weave fabric is reinforced on the knee, instep and rear with stretch ripstop to reduce wear. Available in.. yes you guessed it, Mens and Womens.
Parallax waterproof trousers
Parallax are waterproof and windproof with flex. These waterproof trousers are super comfortable with an active, articulated fit and full freedom of movement for clambering over stiles. Take your pick from Mens and Womens cuts.
Heiko primaloft jacket
Primaloft filled jacket is a warm, windproof, ultra-light and packable backup layer. PrimaLoft® is water resistant too, repelling water and keeping its insulating ability even when wet. Combined with the fast-drying fabric (treated with a PFC-free DWR), makes the Heiko ideal for changeable spring conditions. Heiko can also double up as a super warm midlayer in colder temperatures. Its hoodless design and low-profile 60gsm insulation fit neatly under your Sigma. Heiko is available in Mens and Womens sizing.
Alpine Trail trekking poles
Trekking poles are the perfect companion for spring day hikes. Alpine Treks have a strong spring built into each handle which gives movement enough to soften blows without feeling insecure. For greater stability, they can be locked out using the twist lock in the handle. Don't feel you have to go to the Alps to use them, they work just as well in the Chilterns.
Kelpie fleece
A lightweight fleece for core warmth and happy miles. Assured and totally comfortable in its own simplicity, Kelpie is fast drying after a soaking. Light and compact for shoving into rucksacks and functionally fantastic layered under a wind or rain shell like Sigma, allowing sweat to exit with ease. Mens and Womens sizes are available.
Presta pack
Presta is just-right size for spring day hikes. Presta 25L's main compartment provides enough space to carry spare layers, food and emergency survival kits for a full day out. A PFC-free DWR treatment gives protection against unexpected showers.
Peak 750 Flask
Keep that brew piping hot until you hit the summit. Peak is a 750ml insulated flask for those much needed mid-hike brews or hot chocolate. Its double wall vacuum has nothing in it to keep your hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold. Made with recycled stainless steel to take a few knocks on the way.
The not so secret secret to enjoying your springtime hikes is to layer smart. Expect the unexpected and trust your gear to carry the mood when the weather turns.
Want more tips on spring layering for a faster pace of activity? Check out our spotlight on spring trail running gear — whether you’re running or hiking, the weather is the weather.
