Outdoor items put through their paces by The Journey team.
Inov-8 VENTURELITE Hoodie
Runners, especially those who enjoy throwing themselves down the screes of the Lake District fells, will know Inov-8 for its lightweight, super grippy footwear. For summer, comes its first ever clothing range for hiking to go with its hiking shoes. The VENTURELITE hoodie sums up the range of midlayers, T-shirts, shorts and trousers. Firstly, it is incredibly light, barely noticeable packed or when you’re wearing. A hexagon inner traps heat effectively, and the hood is snug. There are two pockets and thumb holes. This is a versatile garment that I’ll be using for running, cycling and, yes, hiking.
Daniel Neilson
+ Incredibly light
+ Can be used for all activities
+ Warm
– Nothing
Vivobarefoot Primus Trail FG II
The barefoot running movement has been gaining serious traction for well over a decade now (if you’ve not yet read Christopher McDougall’s brilliant Born to Run, I’d urge you to), and I’ve been a convert to this low-impact approach to jogging for years. It’s been a godsend for my knees. Vivobarefoot is the market leader when it comes to quality ‘barefoot’ running shoes, and this new trail-ready model further cements its reputation, with grippy soles, great flexibility and just the right amount of protection. They’re easy to slip on and off, and are made from recycled materials.
Ben Lerwill
+ Sturdy but lightweight
+ Recycled materials
+ Vegan
– May feel strange at first
Fjällräven Vardag Lite Fleece
In the UK, where even the warmest day can turn on a sixpence and become chilly, it pays to have something in your pack that you can pull on to feel snug. Swedish brand Fjällräven has made its name by crafting quality outdoor items that not only look good but perform a function, and the new, super-comfy Vardag Lite Fleece ticks both boxes. It weighs little more than 300g (in medium) but packs in serious warmth, using a fleece fabric made from recycled polyester. An adjustable drawstring around the hem and a zippered central pocket are further perks.
Tom Rhys
+ Good warmth
+ Lightweight and packable
+ Zippered pockets
– Looser than active-fit fleeces
Montane Trailblazer LT 20L Backpack
Taking inspiration from running and ultra-racing backpacks, Montane has created the body-hugging Trailblazer LT 20-litre backpack for ‘fast and light’ days in the mountains. Running backpacks are designed to cuddle you tightly and bounce as little as possible — many are more like a vest. The Trailblazer fits snugly around the torso and the two chest straps ensure a secure fit. The Trailblazer has fully taped seams and rolltop opening making it watertight, a surprisingly rare find in backpacks. There are two wrap-around pockets and a bungee to stash wet clothes. It weighs an astonishingly low 300g.
Daniel Neilson
+ Extremely lightweight
+ Chest strap system
+ Watertight design
– Nothing
Did you know?
All YHA members receive discounts at gear stores including Cotswold Outdoor, GO Outdoors, Snow+Rock, Runners Need and Cycle Surgery.
Read next: Enter our competition for a chance to win a copy of Islandeering, by Lisa Drewe.
