Products: Reviews


Columbia Shimmer Me Timbers jacket


They Say: “The Columbia Shimmer Me Timbers jacket has a subtle sheen and a terrific fit. Built to excel both on the


mountain and in


town, it’s protected from wet weather with Omni- Shield


advanced


repellency, while Omni-Heat thermal insulation provides the warmth and, unlike down, it keeps you warm when it’s wet.” Pros: Excellent water-proofing, but it’s Omni Heat technology that stands out here. Very lightweight, not bulky at all, you get a lot of return for minimum weight. Cons: The colour – ‘Breen’ – is really something. I’m just not sure it’s in a good way. Also, the name – Shimmer Me Timbers? Certainly different. The one obstacle shops might have in selling this is in fact its greatest asset – it’s so lightweight and slim. For this kind of insulation return, you’d expect to look like the Michelin Man; that’s why Columbia put the reflective lining so it’s visible, so the customer can actually ‘see’ the technology.


Verdict: There’s a lot to love here, and it’s a very decent price for a genuine water-proof winter coat.


RRP £100


www.columbia.com Vital Statistics:


• Fabric: Shell: 100 per cent nylon. Lining: 100 per cent polyester. Insulation: 50 per cent polyester/50 per cent recycled polyester, 100g • Omni-Heat thermal reflective and insulated • Omni-Shield advanced repellency • Insulated


• Interior security pocket • Attached, adjustable hood • Centre back length: 30”


(scores out of 5)


Quality of manufacturing: 4 Features: 4 Usability: 5 Value: 5


Overall: 4.5 12 www.sgboutdoor.co.uk


They say: “The lightest, water-proof and breathable leather walking boot we know. Perfect for walking in the hills and valleys. Gore-Tex lined for water-proof performance and comfort.” Pros: Classic design with modern touches. Memory foam in the ankle cuff padding is a nice touch, as is the recessed eyelet which makes for a more secure fit when lacing. Simple but very effective. It also must be said that this boot is outstandingly comfortable – the leather lining feels luxurious on the foot. The sole provides plenty of cushioning too, and it’s water-proof thanks to the ever-reliable Gore- Tex. As the


boot’s name suggests, it’s also


very, very light.


The Supalite II GTX also comes in half sizes. Cons: Initially, this boot took a long time to break in – the soles seemed unresponsive and lacked grip on hard, wet ground until I’d put a lot of miles (and months) in. That said, it’s a durable sole, so that could be the trade-off.


Verdict: Feels wonderful on the foot, nice traditional design with a modern edge. Perfect for occasional hikers or frequent lowland walkers, but not made for the rough stuff.


RRP: £130.00


www.brasher.co.uk Vital Statistics:


• Sizes: 7-12(all half sizes) • Weight: 1122g/pair (9) • Colours: Chocolate


(scores out of 5)


Quality of manufacturing: 5 Features: 4 Usability: 5 Value: 4


Overall: 4.5


Brasher Supalite II GTX


Berghaus Smoulder Hoody


They say: “Hit the slopes in style with this highly versatile, technical stretch Men's Smoulder Microfleece Hoody. The Polartec PowerDry fabric makes this hoody the perfect mid-layer in a


layering system. Alternatively, it can be used as an effective baselayer or outer garment, depending on the conditions, owing to its exceptional insulation, airflow and quick-drying properties.” Pros: Mid-layers can be incredibly useful – this one ticks all the right boxes. Nice weight, the fabric is warm enough but not cloying, the fit is excellent. The inbuilt ‘balaclava’ style hood is mostly a bonus too, and would work well under a helmet as it’s a snug fit. I’ve worn this comfortably with a regular baselayer and a softshell in -4° and didn’t feel a chill. Cons: It only comes in black, so with the hood up and zipped, you might be mistaken for a ninja. Also, the balaclava-hood doesn’t really work if you’re wearing glasses.


Verdict: Might seem a bit pricy to customers at the RRP but give them a weekend in it and they’ll think it’s a steal. Highly functional, exceptionally flexible as a garment and recommended.


RRP: £60


www.berghaus.com or call 0191 516 5700 Vital Statistics:


• Fabric: AT-Stretch (240 g/sq m)


• 92 per cent polyester, eight per cent elastane • Smooth jersey face for non-binding layering • Inner grid structure for thermal insulation and moisture management • Weight: 414g • Sizes: S - XXL


• Technical stretch mid-layer in AT Stretch fabric. Can be worn next to skin or over a baselayer making it suitable as a mid or outer layer • Three-quarter offset front zip • Zipped chest pocket • Thumb loops


(scores out of 5)


Quality of manufacturing: 4 Features: 4 Usability: 5 Value: 4 Overall: 4


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