Note:
This guide is a culmination of the input of 2022 and 2023 Gear Sec’s Ted and Molly respectively. For current queries please contact 2024 Gear Sec Laurie L.Cook11@newcastle.ac.uk
If you’re trying your first walk, we recommend borrowing kit rather than buying it, to see if you enjoy fellwalking. Speak to Laurie about this well in advance via his email, or message the instagram page @newcastleunifellwalkingsociety. Furthermore, we recommend emailing Laurie before spending any money on kit. Prices listed here may be outdated. – Jacob
Buying outdoor gear can sometimes be slightly daunting and seem expensive when you are unsure of what you really need. Hopefully, this guide will explain and highlight several different options that may give you some guidance.
The list is just a guide and I recommend going in store at Cotswold, Blacks, Sports Pursuit, and so on to have a look at the kit in person and to ensure good fittings. YouTube can also be a great tool to see what other people say about what you are interested in, and don’t forget to ask committee or friends what they recommend from experience.
I also recommend looking at this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yA27E-Ma6I&list=index=11&ab_channel=MyLifeOutdoors. It’s a great video about keeping perspective when looking at kit for the coming year.
Don’t forget to search around for discount codes and membership prices. Signing up to the BMC gives you 15% off at Cotswolds (being a student gives 10%). All prices below are shown around retail or what you can find online.
If you have questions or are not sure what pieces of kit are necessary – or optional – feel free to talk to Laurie or email him at (L.Cook11@newcastle.ac.uk) with any questions. – Ted (Gear sec 2022/2023)
If your intention is to come on a few day walks, or try out fellwalking, then entry level kit is completely fine!
If you are wanting to spend a bit more money on kit that will last you a while and will be perfect for all trips then entry to mid kit will do nicely.
If you are looking to invest in good quality kit that is capable in all weather, than mid-level kit or above is what you should be looking at. – Molly (Gear sec 2023/2024)
- Walking Boots
- Waterproof Jacket
- Waterproof Trousers
- Backpacks
- Warm Layers
- Fleeces
- Down Jackets
- Synthetic Down Jackets
- Head Torches
- Extras
- What I Wear / Pack on a Day Trip
- Contact
Walking Boots
This is a bit of kit that is crucial for enjoying any sort of walking. Having a solid pair of boots that will keep your feet warm and dry is necessary. Walking boots are an essential piece of kit and without them we cannot take you on day or weekend trips. These are just ideas of what is out there, it is important to try on and find a comfortable boot.
Whilst I will usually always recommend looking for second hand options of kit, walking boots are something that really should be bought new and worn to fit your own feet. Try on several types of boots as it is important to see if one could fit better. Asking a store assistant to help when buying boots is a good way to ensure you get the right size and comfort. Look for good tread, stiff midsoles, and waterproofness.
Suggestion 1: Decathlon (£49.99)
Decathlon waterproof mountain walking boots MH100 MID are a good entry level boot at an affordable price that should provide good support, decent waterproofness, and cushioning.
Suggestion 2: Jack Wolfskin (£75-£100)
Jack Wolfskin Vojo Hike 3 Mid Texapore Boots are great, with Wolfskin’s Texapore waterproof membrane that provides a breathable boot, nice level of cushioning and aggressive tread.
Suggestion 3: Scarpa (£130-£160)
Scarpa Terra GTX Walking Boots are also great, with a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane (plus a lifetime guarantee), solid grip, and great all-round performance.
Men’s: https://www.blacks.co.uk/15895341/scarpa-men- s-terra-ll-gore-tex-15895341
Women’s: https://www.blacks.co.uk/15895342/scarpa- women-s-terra-ll-g ore-tex-15895342
Waterproof Jacket
Waterproof jackets can be an expensive part of your kit. There are so many different brands and styles that offer something for everyone depending on what’s needed. But this doesn’t mean that you must buy brand new. You can easily find £200 mark downs on £500 jackets when you look on eBay, buy and sell groups, and outdoor gear exchanges.
Many different brands have different types of waterproof membranes; Gore-Tex, h2no, eVent, Dry.Q Elite, Omni-Tech, ect. Most of these are the same bar small differences in either price, breathability, or durability. Try to find something above 10,000mm rating if possible.
Waterproof jackets should be what they say – waterproof. Older jackets can be reproofed and made waterproof again which can negate the need for buying new. You want the jacket to keep the worst of the rain and wind out and for that you may not feel the need to spend hundreds.
Suggestion 1: Gore-Tex (or similar) under £100
Honestly, I recommend going onto eBay, Depop, Vinted, Facebook marketplace and just having a good search for jackets. Ensure it’s in good condition (no cuts, or peeling seams). You can find great deals that would cost you £200 new for less than £50/60 and most of the time are a better long-term and environmentally friendly investment.
Here’s some examples:
But buying second-hand does mean that the jacket may not fit, may not be just what you want, have small issues with it, and doesn’t always come with a warranty. But you can find some amazing deals. 95% of my own gear is second-hand so please feel free to email me if you need any help.
Suggestion 2: Berghaus Paclite 2.0 (£150)
The Berghaus Paclite 2.0 Waterproof Jacket (which is £150 without 15% Berghaus student discount) is a good entry level Gore-Tex jacket. Gore-Tex Paclite is a more packable and super lightweight version of standard Gore-Tex that still offers great protection. Berghaus offer free repairs and a good student discount directly from their site. Paclite is rated 28,000mm proofing.
Men’s: https://www.berghaus.com/men-s-paclite-2.0-waterproof- jacket-dark-grey/11385595.html
Women’s Equivalent: https://www.berghaus.com/women-s-paclite- dynak-waterproof-jacket-blue/13650298.html
Suggestion 3: Montane Pac Plus (~£250)
The Montane Pac Plus XT Waterproof Jacket comes with a helmet compatible hood, AQUAGUARD (water resistant) chest pockets, pit zips, and other great features. This is a slightly more expensive Paclite jacket which returns with fully fledged features and amazing quality.
Suggestion 4: Top-End Jackets
When it comes to this price point, the differences are mainly in the material being used. A higher denier Gore-Tex Pro fabric provides a tougher and more tear resistant jacket, whilst being less packable and weighing slightly more. The jackets below are some examples of top end jackets. I recommend also looking into brands such as Patagonia, Marmot, North Face, Norrona, and Klattermusen for other alternatives to the jackets below.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse Jacket (£400): A great quality, super durable Gore-Tex Pro mountaineering jacket with three pockets, including a centre chest pocket; 500g
Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket (£500): Minimalistic jacket with next generation Gore-Tex Pro Most Rugged Technology all round mountaineering jacket, with RECCO reflector, and raised collar: 455g
Rab Latok Gore-Tex Pro Jacket (£460): Alpine climbing focused jacket with central chest pockets, built with Gore-Tex Pro, adjustable hood and collar and a two-way zip: 579g
The principles found when buying jackets are the same as when buying waterproof trousers. The features should fit the needs. Look for something which you think will last but won’t break the bank. If you are unsure about what you think is suitable or necessary, then ask the committee for guidance. – Ted (Gear Sec 2022/2023)
Molly’s thoughts:
The main things to look out for when buying a jacket:
- Fully taped seams
- Hood (ideally permanently attached not zip-on)
- Fits properly!
Molly’s Suggestion 1: Entry-Level (£30)
Decathlon NH500
Molly’s Suggestion 2: Entry-to-Mid (<£45):
Women’s = Quechua MH100
Men’s = Quechua MH150
Molly’s suggestion 3: Mid-level (£80)
Quechua MH500
Waterproof Trousers
Waterproof trousers are another essential part of your kit and are worth the investment as nobody wants to sit on the bus on the way home with wet trousers. The main points I’d say for buying waterproof trousers is to try and get full, or nearly full length side zippers as they allow for maximum ease when putting them on and taking them off.
Look online / sale sections to see if there are any good deals. Also check Decathlon to see if there are some cheaper alternatives.
Suggestion 1: Berghaus Deluge 2.0 (£60)
A decent pair of trousers that will keep you dry unless it really starts to pour down. ¾ length zips should provide enough space and movement to put these on over walking boots.
Berghaus also have a 15% student discount.
Men’s: https://www.berghaus.com/men-s-deluge-pro-2.0- overtrousers-green-brown/13161018.html
Women’s: https://www.berghaus.com/women-s-deluge-2.0- overtrousers-black/13146890.html
Suggestion 2: Berghaus Paclite (£120)
An upgrade from the last pair, made from Gore-Tex Paclite
making them small and packable which is great for the day when they are not needed and can be easily stowed in a
backpack. Again, with ¾ length zips they should be enough space to pull these on over walking boots
Women’s: https://www.berghaus.com/women-s-paclite-overtrousers-black/13160777.html?rctxt=default
Suggestion 3: Rab Kangri Gore-Tex (£220)
A more rugged 70D 3-Layer Gore-Tex over trouser with a full length AQUAGUARD zipper along the side for minimum effort. Their regular cut is ideal for most and should fit better over a boot than tapered fits. An elasticated waistband and articulated knees give it great
adjustability and comfort.
These trousers will be top end for most of the walks that the society takes across the year. There are more expensive options from Mountain Equipment, Arc’teryx, and others but all depends on budget/needs.
Molly’s thoughts
Molly’s suggestion 1: Entry-level (15.50)
Regatta packaway raintrousers
Molly’s Suggestion 2: Entry-to-mid (£40)
Quechua MH500
Molly’s Suggestion 3: Mid-level (£75)
Berghaus deluge 2.0 (20% student discount available)
Backpacks
Backpacks are another more personal choice when it comes to fellwalking. We recommend above 15/18l for a day back and this is to ensure that you can fit all the necessary kit in it with water and food. But if you can fit it all into a smaller backpack there is no reason to have empty space.
You don’t necessarily need a hiking focused backpack, just whatever feels comfortable. Most cases the walks are not too long, and the packs shouldn’t be too heavy and so the need for an upgrade isn’t obvious or sometimes worth it. Try backpacks on if you are going to buy one as different brands have different sizes and shapes. Find something that you find comfortable!
Suggestion 1: Decathlon 20L (£25)
The backpack has a ventilated back and is comfortable to carry thanks to its waist strap. It has a three-litre top pocket, a smartphone pocket on the front of the belt, and another hidden inside. With a hip pocket, top and bottom openings and webbing it’s a really good alternative to the Talon/Tempest
The backpack is like many others which cost far more; in many ways which shows that difference in backpacks mainly comes down to personal sizing/brand sizing and brand costs. This backpack comes in.
Shop: https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/mountain-walking-rucksack-20l/_/R-p-177171?mc=8572934&c=GREY
Suggestion 2: Osprey Talon / Tempest Line (£100-£140)
These are a common choice for a reason. A mix of bike and back packing, the Talon / Tempest lines are a great solution. With a zip lock top compartment, space for a hydration bladder, two water bottle holders, internal zipped pocket, and a stretch front pocket it is a feature rich backpack.
There are many Osprey backpacks online and at a discount on eBay all the time so be sure to check there as a backpack is a very durable piece of kit so second-hand options are great.
Shop: https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/gb_en/hikingbackpacks?gclid=Cj0KCQjwxb2XBhDBARIsAOj
Suggestion 3: Arc’teryx Alpha SL 23
The Alpha SL is famous for its weight (almost half the other two packs) and durability. The newly developed hadron LCP grid fabric is durable and lightweight. This pack differs from the other two as it is mostly a summit pack with minimal features. For a lightweight minimalist option, it’s very effective.
Overall, backpacks are just backpacks and generally all do the same job. It just depends on what features you want and how much you need to carry.
Warm Layers
You’ll need a couple of warm layers depending on the weather, and there have been times on NUFWS trips that I have been in a base layer, a down, a vest, and a jacket so it is important to not overlook the differences in layers. Depending on how you feel your body runs (hot, cold, in-between) you may choose to pack more or less layers but packing the right ones can help save space and be more effective.
Down and synthetic down jackets are a bit more of an investment when it comes to warm layers but can certainly be worth the investment. In most cases you will be warm enough with a fleece or two under a jacket. The option to buy a down or synthetic is down to preference plus the ability to be warm with a single layer when it may take two otherwise, plus packability and a weight reduction.
Fleeces
Fleeces are great for hiking. A great in-between layer that can be packed away and pulled out quickly for when the wind or weather turns for the worst. Not all fleeces are made the same but generally a second hand £10 Columbia fleece is going to do the job as well when compared to a more expensive £50 Patagonia fleece. A Polar Tec tag/marking in the jacket usually indicates a higher quality of material being used but any warm fleece will usually do but check the label to see if it will withstand some wet.
Down Jackets
Most down jackets are great in dry conditions; you can find great treated natural down jackets these days which help reduce the moisture absorbed helping loft. Loft is the measure of fluffiness in down – the more loft the warmer. Typically, down is warmer and lighter than synthetic down jackets which gives them an edge. However, they’ve got to be kept dry and the feathers need to not clump together. Look online (especially eBay) for quality down jackets at a fraction of their retail too.
Suggestion 1: Decathlon Simond (£90)
Comfort rated to -10C this jacket is a lightweight (380g) entry to the market and comes with a 2 year guarantee. https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/men-s-mountaineering-down-jacket-alpinism/_/R-p-334331?mc=8649006&c=GREY
Suggestion 2: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer 2 (£290)
Often heralded as a the greatest lightweight down jacket on the market, Mountain Hardwear have produced an 800-fill insulated jacket with a DWR coated ripstop, elastic hood and cuffs which weighs only 249g.
Synthetic Down Jackets
Synthetic down is usually heavier, less warm, and less compressible and typically holds its loft worse than natural down. But advancements in synthetic downs and the usually mild climate of the UK can often mean that synthetic down jackets can hold a slight edge over down in some cases. I would recommend synthetic down over down for most cases due to its water resistance.
Suggestion 1: Decathlon Synthetic Padded Jacket (£60)
Packing down into a storage pocket, this budget alternative to the options below is a great jacket for the price, with a two-way zipper and several pockets allowing versatile wear. https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/men-s-synthetic-mountaineering-padded-jacket-blue/_/R-p-334304
Suggestion 2: Arc’teryx Atom Lt (£220)
My personal choice of synthetic down, with a DWR coating to keep light rain off, well ventilated Polar Tec stretch side panels, and an insulated adjustable hood its versatile. https://arcteryx.com/at/en/shop/mens/atom-lt-hoody
Suggestion 3: Patagonia Nano Puff (£180 – £220)
A similar jacket to the Atom, the Nano Puff is a classic piece of Patagonia kit, with a highly wind resistant DWR coated outer, the insulation will remain warm even when wet. https://eu.patagonia.com/gb/en/product/mens-nano-puffhoody/84222.html?dwvar_84222_color=FGE
Molly’s thoughts
Entry to mid-level insulated jacket (£35):
Forclaz mountain trekking jacket
Men’s:
Women’s:
Head Torches
Head torches are an essential piece of kit in winter. If there’s any chance you might be coming off the fells in the dark, you want to pack a head torch. They’re small and light so it’s good practice to just keep one in your bag all year round.
Suggestion 1: Silverpoint Hunter XL (£12)
With a maximum output of 120 lumens (how much light is produced), multiple operating modes, and IPX6 waterproofness (can resist high-pressure, heavy sprays of water), this head torch gives some great value for money.
Suggestion 2: Black Diamond Astro (£20)
For a bit more money, this head torch provides 300 lumens, much brighter than the Silverpoint. With IPX4 waterproofing, it will withstand rain and sleet from any angle. It also provides protection against accidental use when stored.
https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/black-diamond-astro-300-head-torch-B48B390015.html?colour=123
Suggestion 3: Nebo Mycro 500 Rechargeable (£20)
A rechargeable head torch might be a good choice for some people, charged via USB-C. It provides up to 500 lumens (30 seconds), 200 lumens (1 hour), 100 lumens (2 hours). It also comes with a fully adjustable strap design and water resistance.
https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/nebo-mycro-500-rechargable-head-torch-B48B390061.html?colour=122
Extras
Gaiters
A great addition, and usually not too expensive; they provide just that bit more protection in bad weather and help to keep stuff from falling into your boots.
Peter Storm Hike Gaiters (£12 – £24): https://www.blacks.co.uk/15997583/peter-storm-hike-gaiter-15997583
Rab Kangri Gore-Tex Gaiter (£40 – £50): https://www.blacks.co.uk/16190101/rab-kangri-gore-tex-gaiter-16190101
Trekmates Glenmore Gore-Tex Gaiters (Short Version) (£20 – £25): https://www.blacks.co.uk/15906235/trekmates-glenmore-gore-tex-gaiters-15906235
Buffs / Neck Warmers
Handy for a winter day or when the wind picks up – I usually carry two in case somebody else needs one or if it’s super windy – they weigh nothing and take up no space.
Buff Merino Wool (£20 – £25): https://www.blacks.co.uk/15899299/buff-merino-wool-buff-firestars-15899299
Peter Storm Neck Warmer (£5 – £10): https://www.blacks.co.uk/099818/peter-storm-patterned-chute-099818
Gloves
A pair of warm gloves are great and underrated. They can provide much needed warmth and keep your hands out of your pockets in case you need to use them. I recommend a pair of good sports gloves, or if you feel it necessary (which it can seem) waterproof gloves. In the winter I also pack a pair of ski glove (which you can pick up super cheap at charity shops in the winter).
OEX Summit Waterproof Gloves (£25): https://www.blacks.co.uk/15902460/oex-summit-waterproof-gloves-15902460
Seal Skin Waterproof Gloves (£50) (highly recommend if you get cold and wet hands often, and have a great warranty): https://www.sealskinz.com/products/waterproof-all-weather-glove
Softshell Jacket
A great in-between layer for when the wind is picking up, but you don’t want to put on a raincoat. Softshell jackets are typically warm, windproof, and water-resistant which can be a great addition to stuff into a side of your bag for light rain or heavier winds.
What I Wear / Pack on a Day Trip
For some this may be a bit of overkill, with unnecessary bit here and there but I’ve always found it helpful to have pieces to hand out if needed. This fits in a 22L Osprey Talon.
Essential gear can be worn / carried as you wish / turns out on the day. Sometimes it will be wearing the waterproofs on the coach ride over but other times they won’t come out at all.
Typically, I would say you don’t need to have / bring as much as this. The gaiters, warm vest, softshell jacket, and maybe the synthetic down jacket are more for comfort / options.
Please feel free to ask me any questions about my choice and what else I would recommend by email or in person on Wednesdays.
Essential / Core Gear Being Worn
- Backpack
- Hiking T-Shirt
- Hiking Trousers / Shorts
- Hiking Socks
- Hiking Boots
Essential / Core Gear Being Carried
- Waterproof Jacket
- Waterproof Trousers
- Fleece
- Synthetic Down Jacket
- Softshell Jacket
- Gaiters
- Warm Vest
- Hat
Secondary Kit Being Carried
- Sunglasses
- Bladder
- Waterproof Gloves
- Buff
- Softshell
- Water Bottle
Contact
L.Cook11@newcastle.ac.uk (current Gear Sec 2024/25)
@newcastleunifellwalkingsociety on instagram
Feel free to reach out and ask any questions or send through any thoughts you had whilst reading over this rather long list. I hope that it was useful to some regard!
Newcastle University Fellwalking Society 