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APRIL 2015
I
Hidden in the hills for you to discover ...from silent Scottish scrambles to mysterious Lakeland caves
UK HILLS TO ALPINE PEAKS the one that fell for a wild goose chase but got to name a landmark after a joker
The skills you need to up your level this year
ENZY GEAR FR Jetboil reborn,
Hot new kit! trial plus the Gore Surround on of in the world! lightest waterpro cks tested Backpacking sa editions Kit for DofE exp YOUR budget Overtrousers for
12 routes + OS maps
Cairngorms • Cadair Idris • Cumbria Way
CONTENTS p48
The wonderful thing about Higger (Tor).
p22
BASECAMP
SKILLS
Climb... Gran Paradiso
6
Experience this!
8
Italian big ’un. No harm in setting your sights high!
See west Scotland’s ’eagle with the sunlit eye’
New gear for 2015!
Climb one Ben More, get one free!
10
Mountain Guide
ADVENTURES 64
Rivers – the hidden dangers; all you need to know about névé; make your own trail mix; hydrostatic head explained; why you should carry a snow shovel PLUS managing warm and waterproof layers; snow duration in Scotland; why aren’t our mountains as tall as theAlps?
We went to a trade show and loved THIS gear...
Mountain Inquisition High lights
14
A month of outdoorsy doings to bob in your diary
In Box
Subscribe to Trail
32
Pike of Blisco
38
Priest’s Hole (or is it?)
42
Higger Tor
48
A day in the life of...
52
Alpine skills
56
Behind the picture
62
You know the mountain; now meet the Moel-hill
16 18
Scrambling action just minutes from the road
Your top mountain moments, caught on camera
3 FOR £5 PLUS SOCKS!
The other Tryfan
Trail goes on a Lakeland wild goose chase
The world of hillwalking, according to you lot
Out There
22
Assessing the charms of Assynt and Coigach
‘One of Britain’s greatest vantage points’, no less
YOUR TRAIL
13
Trail grills star BMC volunteer Fida Hussain
Two Ben Mores
36
Get three issues for a fiver, plus Bridgedale socks!
Harvey Maps, kings of clutter-free cartography
European adventures for UK hillwalkers
A snapshot of a remarkable writer’s life
WHERE THIS MONTH’S ISSUE WILL TAKE YOU p56
Alpine skills that will get you higher.
p32
Moel Tryfan: not wholly unlike its better-known big brother.
‘THE SETTING IS INCREDIBLY PEACEFUL, AND THE VIEWS ARE FANTASTIC’ IS THE PRIEST’S HOLE THE ULTIMATE LAKES ESCAPE? p42
GEAR GUIDE 55-65 litre rucksacks
ROUTES 74
The best large-capacity packs for weekend trips
Overtrousers
78
Waterproof legwear to suit everyone’s wallets
Base layers
82
1 2 3 4
Next-to-skin garments from budget to big-time
5
Kit me out for DofE
6
84
The gear you’ll need for the Duke of Ed’s Award
7-9
First Test: Gore Surround 86
10-12
A Meindl boot featuring new-fangled technology
What’s in your rucksack? 87
CLASSIC ROUTE
Blengdale Grasmere Fells Cadair Idris Deepdale
95 97 99 101 Binnein an Fhidhleir 103 Morrone 105 Cumbria Way 109 Coulin Forest 116 Kirk Fell & Gable 122
The Outward Bound’s Stuart Mitchell reveals all
Used & Abused
Team Trail appraises its most-worn gear
89
Choose your route and go hillwalking!
10-12
6
5
CLASSIC ROUTE
4 1 2 7-9
3
BASE CAMP Get ready for…
THE OUTDOOR EVENT OF THE YEAR The Keswick Mountain Festival returns to the outdoors calendar in May – and the 2015 event is going to be bigger and better than ever! What is KMF?
It’s an outdoors festival offering something for absolutely everyone. You can take guided walks through the mountains, compete in triathlons, listen to talks from world-class mountaineers, learn new navigation and bushcraft skills, scramble up ghylls, canoe the River Derwent, or simply relax by the lake and listen to live music against what must surely be the world’s most spectacular festival backdrop.
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW! www.keswick mountain festival.co.uk
Fancy a weekend of festival fun and fresh air?
Where is it based?
The Festival Village is at Crow Park in Keswick – five minutes’ walk from the town centre – with views of Borrowdale, Derwent Water, Skiddaw, Cat Bells and the Newland Fells. Festival camping is at nearby Springs Farm and the main speaker programme is hosted at the Theatre by the Lake, right next to the park.
When is it?
The festival runs between Thursday 14 and Sunday 17 May. Most of the main activities and events take place on Friday and Sunday, but Thursday is ‘Mountain Night’ for speakers at the Theatre by the Lake, so get that in your diary.
How much does it cost?
An adult weekend festival camping ticket costs £55, while a pass without camping is £40. If you just want to watch the live music the tickets for each night cost £15. Discounted tickets are available for families and under 18s.
WIN FESTIVAL TICKETS!
We’ve teamed up with Hi-Tec to give away a pair of weekend camping tickets plus two pairs of Hi-Tec Altitude Lite walking boots to one Trail reader. Plus, five runners-up will win a pair of Hi-Tec walking boots. Visit www.lfto.com/hitec to enter.
TRAIL’S KMF 2015 HIGHLIGHTS The Trail Pub Quiz
Mountain Night
Thursday, 6pm onwards Get your superstar fix in the Theatre by the Lake as Andy Kirkpatrick relives his adventures in Antarctica, Doug Scott describes his ascent of Kangchenjunga North Ridge and Leo Houlding reveals the stories of a life dedicated to adventure.
12 TRAIL APRIL 2015
Joss Naylor MBE & Steve Birkinshaw
See Andy Kirkpatrick...
...and Joss Naylor.
Ray Mears
Blencathra by the stars
Thursday & Friday, 7pm Tackle one of the Lake District’s most loved mountains after dark, with your route lit only by your headtorch and the stars above. Led by local guides, this walk leaves at dusk and returns before last orders.
Friday, 9pm When Steve Birkinshaw ran all 214 Wainwright fells in less than a week last summer, it was Joss Naylor’s 1987 record he broke. In this special event they will appear together to describe their historic runs.
Saturday, 5.15pm & 8.15pm Bushcraft and survival expert Ray Mears will share his stories of working and living in the world’s most inhospitable and uninhabitable environments in a double bill of talks. Blencathra: even better by night?
© CLEARVIEW / ALAMY
Thursday evening To kick off the festival in style, Trail will be taking over the bar in the Mountain Hut and putting your outdoor brains to the test. There will be prizes on offer for the winners, special guest appearances and goody bags for every team.
HAPPENINGS FROM HIGH PLACES OUTDOORS INDOORS
Fida Hussain (right) has helped hundreds of young people get out and enjoy the UK mountains.
Get your mountain fix, without leaving the sofa.
TOM BAILEY
WATCH THIS... The Mountain
THE MOUNTAIN INQUISITION Newly crowned UK Mountain Leader of the Year Fida Hussain talks snacks, Scafell and sherpas... Scafell Pike, Snowdon or Ben Nevis? I’ve climbed all of the major mountains in the UK, but Scafell Pike is my favourite. There are so many different routes and my favourite is the Corridor Route – I really enjoy the views of Langdale and Borrowdale. Who’s your mountaineering hero? All the unnamed Sherpas that no-one hears about, and Sir Chris Bonington, who summited Everest at the age of 50. I’m 49 years old and that’s a magnificent achievement. His fitness, dedication and motivation are outstanding. Most memorable day in the outdoors? Any time I get a good clear day and climb peaks with new people. It’s always memorable if the people I’m with see some fantastic views. Funniest thing you’ve seen on a hill? Watching people trying to fold their map when the wind gets hold of it. I never get tired of watching them flapping around. What’s your favourite hill snack? Nothing beats flapjack when you’re walking. It tastes great and gives you a good energy boost. What’s your nickname? Some people call me ‘The Hillwalking Ninja’, because I’m a black belt in karate. Who would star in a movie about your life? Hmm… not sure. Probably Al Pacino or Robert De Niro if they’re available.
Favourite piece of outdoor kit? My Berghaus High Trails jacket. I’ve had it for over 15 years, taken it on countless mountain adventures and still absolutely love it. And it’s still keeping the water out! Wild camp or posh hotel? Wild camp. Public campsites can be fun, but I like picking the right spot away from the noise, then waking up and enjoying some fantastic scenic spots. You don’t get that on a campsite! Weirdest place you’ve slept? Probably every time I’ve slept in a cave. It’s such a tranquil and relaxing experience, and makes me think our forefathers got it right! When were you last naked outdoors? In Scotland after a hike on the Aonach Eagach ridge. I needed to bring my aching limbs back to life, and a cold dip in the river did the trick. What’s your next big challenge? Spending more time in the mountains and introducing at least 50 new people to the great outdoors for the first time in 2015! Your ultimate mountain day in three words… Fun, safe, breathtaking. Fida Hussain, 49, is Mountain Training’s Mountain Leader of the Year. Fida has delivered the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme in the Rochdale area for over 10 years and works tirelessly to encourage young South Asian people to walk and pursue qualifications in the outdoors.
Wales’ highest mountain takes star billing in this six-part series, which was filmed throughout four seasons on Snowdon and tells the story of five people who live and work around the 1085m peak. They are Rob Johnson, chairman of Llanberis Mountain Rescue; Dewi Davies, head warden of Snowdonia National Park; Steff Owen, foreman of Snowdon Mountain Railway; Helen Mai Jones, a sheep farmer in nearby Nant Gwynant; and Alwena Jones, who runs the Halfway Café at 570m on the mountain’s Llanberis Path. The first episode aired on January 16 on ITV Wales, and could appear on the main ITV network soon. WATCH IT Mondays, 8pm, ITV Wales
READ THIS... Lake District: High Level and Fell Walks
The latest guidebook to fly off the Cicerone press is bound to be a big hit with Trail readers, focusing on what author Vivienne Crowe decribes as the 30 best fell walks in the Lake District. From classic horseshoes like Newlands and Fairfield to famous summits such as Scafell Pike and Skiddaw, and even lesser known peaks such as Gray Crag and Beda Fell. Every walk is graded for difficulty, annotated with Ordnance Survey maps and includes alternative routes for each mountain. BUY IT www.cicerone.co.uk (£10)
WATCH THIS... The Limbless Mountaineer If you like documentaries that inspire you to get out and push yourself to the limit, this is a DVD you can’t afford to miss. It follows quadruple amputee Jamie Andrew on his incredible attempt to climb Switzerland’s infamous Matterhorn (4478m). After losing both arms beyond the elbow and both legs below the knee following a climbing disaster in the French Alps in 1999, Jamie was determined to get back into the mountains as soon as possible. A year later he climbed Ben Nevis, Kilimanjaro followed in 2004, and then he took on the Matterhorn... BUY IT www.amazon.co.uk (£10)
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 13
Go: north Highlands Do: the Ben Mores
Limitless views. Britain's emptiest, most iconic mountains. And two summits with the same name you won't believe you've been missing. Prepare yourself for...
WORDS BEN WEEKS PHOTOGRAPHS TOM BAILEY
T
he far north-west of Scotland is the home of legends. And that’s no exaggeration. Suilven, Stac Pollaidh, Quinag – these mountain icons are nothing if not legendary. And, yes, even that often overused word ‘icon’ is suited too: because when it comes to the peaks of the Coigach and Assynt regions north of Ullapool, these words are utterly justified and totally deserved. They are quite simply the most visually striking hills the UK has to offer. But while it’s easy to lavish superlatives upon these
22 TRAIL APRIL 2015
idols of the north, there are some that simply don’t fit. They are not, for example, the tallest, biggest or highest. Unusually for mountains, the grandest peaks of Coigach and Assynt tend to get relegated to support act status. This unjust demotion is not all they have in common – they share similar titles, too: Ben More Assynt and Ben More Coigach, meaning the Big Hill of Assynt and Coigach respectively. Why do these ‘Big Hills’ get ignored? Is it because (in hushed tones) they’re not very good? The short answer is hell, no. For the long answer, read on… �
The top of Sgurr an Fhidhleir’s craggy north face just might be the most perfect viewpoint in the whole of the Highlands.
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 23
WARNING!
Glenbain
G
LE AN
Conival
N
gle
Inchnadamph START/ FINISH
D
U
BH
Choir a’ Mhadaidh
The burns around the Ben Mores can prove impossible to cross after heavy rains, necessitating long upstream detours. See page 64 for how to cope with swollen rivers effectively.
The not entirely straightforward clamber along the south-east ridge of Ben More Assynt.
Cùil Dubh Ben More Assynt
Bealach Trallgil Garbh Choire
SCRAMBLE Coire Rèidh
GlasChoire Glas Choire Beag
Dubh Loch Mòr
JEREMY ASHCROFT
y er O Riv
N
NOR
TH
kel
Càrn nan Conbhairean
quartzite boulders, not dissimilar The obvious way is to take a long TRAIL’S ROUTE in aesthetics to the formations detour south and over the slopes STRENUOUSNESS ■■■■■ atop Glyder Fawr and Glyder of Carn nan Conbhairean. It’s a NAVIGATION ■■■■■ Fach in Snowdonia, claw at the long, unappealing detour, TECHNICALITY ■ ■■■■ sky and a humble cairn marks though. The alternative is a Note: the south-east ridge the apex. It is magnificent, but thigh-meltingly steep ascent to is very exposed and in parts closer to a Grade 2 scramble. it is not the end. There’s another the ridgeline from the southMunro to be bagged. Conival eastern corner of the loch, Thurso lies on the other side of a sharply arriving at a sag in the ridge. defined and steeply sloping crest Between here and the summit of of rock from Ben More Assynt Ben More Assynt is another ISLE OF LEWIS Lairg – cleaner than the ridge on to peak. The fact that this 960m HARRIS Ullapool the east, but equally exposed. peak lacks a name of its own is It reminds Trail of sections unusual. It appears as a Munro Inverness of the Cuillin. The summit of Top in the relevant tables, but isISLE OF SKYE Distance 23.3km Portree Conival is less impressive than its listed simply as ‘South Top’. Shiel Bridge (14½ miles) Aviemore Aberdeen Time 9 hours neighbour’s, but its shelter is as If the crest linking them is Inverie Maps Invergarry MallaigOS Explorer Braemar good a place as any to tuck away any indication, the relationship (1:25,000) 442; OS Fort William a pre-descent snack. The walkof this South Top with the Landranger (1:50,000) 15; Start/finish car out drops to the north-western actual summit is a fractious one. MULL Oban park in Inchnadamph at shoulder of Conival and the early Twisted, gnarled and knotted, NC251216 tricklings of the River Traligill, it’s as if the peaks are in a JURA Glasgow Edinburgh whose waters can be followed toddler tug-of-war over who it Berwick-upon-Tweed back to Gleann Dubh’s embrace. belongs to. The result is a ridge thatISLAY has drawn ISLE OF ARRAN aspects of Ben More Assynt’s comparisons with the mighty Aonach Eagach, Ayr That so many Jedburgh landscape can be likened to first-class peaks and a traverse that requires full concentration. Ballantrae Dumfries elsewhere in the UK in no way detracts from One or two moves around a central pillar Newcastle Newton Londonderry its Stewart appeal. Quite the opposite. That so much border on Grade 2 scrambling, -upon-Tyne Carlisle Stranraer quality mountain terrain can be found in and and they’re not to be taken Donegal Penrith Keswick Belfast Middlesbrough around one peak is a testament to just how lightly. The rest is easier going, impressive this hill is. Furthermore, did you but still headily exposed. The Kendal Northallerton Windermere know that Ben More Ingleton Assynt forms part of the reward, though, is worth ridgeline that makesBentham up the mainYork north-south it. Ben More Assynt’s Lancaster watershed in Scotland,Skipton withLeeds drainage on its summit is a deserving eastern flanks carrying water to the North Sea crown atop a regal Liverpool Manchester Dublin and precipitation on its western slopes ending peak. A mound Rhyl Conway up in theBodelwyddan Atlantic? And thatSheffield land surrounding of fractured Ben More Assynt has been declared a Site of Betws-y-Coed Llangollen No more ascent Special Scientific InterestDerby due to its geological for Ben on Ben Barmouthand the number of rare plant species diversity Tralee More Assynt's Peterborough Aberystwyth that grow there? BeBirmingham honest: did you even know Waterford summit. Killarney Ben More Assynt existed? Well, you do now. Hay-on-Wye Cardigan Kenmare
Cork
Brecon
Gloucester Oxford
Pembroke Swansea
Cardiff
Ben More Coigach 743m If Ben More Assynt is the shy and retiring type, Ben More Coigach (also regularly written as Ben Mor Coigach) is the one that lingers near the door at parties, nodding at guests as they arrive but not really getting involved. There’s no posturing or pretence – it just stands there above the salty waters of Loch Kanaird, obvious and unmissable as you drive north out of Ullapool. No, being hidden is not Ben More Coigach’s problem – although if we’re being brutally honest, from that vantage point it doesn’t appear particularly interesting. Sure, its southern cliff face is cragged and gnarly, but as a whole the hill looks long, flat and squat – almost like it should be the foundations for a gargantuan, much higher mountain, rather than a peak in its own right. But such initial impressions � can be misleading.
The Summer Isles lurk in the haze beyond the grand sweep of Ben More Coigach’s southern flank.
The rippling edge of the Ben More Coigach massif from the east ridge of Speicein Coinnich.
Otter tracks and (below) frogspawn by the loch.
From the top of Speicein Coinnich the ‘knock and lochan’ landscape of Coigach and Assynt opens up around you.
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 27
Go: north Wales Do: an alternative icon Tryfan (left) and Tryfan (right): the former famous and large, the latter slight and secret.
32 TRAIL APRIL 2015
Beloved and grand, the Tryfan we know is no secret; but what about the Tryfan we don't? You may be surprised... WORDS SIMON INGRAM PHOTOGRAPHS TOM BAILEY
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 33
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Go: Lake District Do: Pike of Blisco
In a valley dominated by Lakeland heavyweights, Trail discovers there’s more to be gained by walking the underdog. WORDS OLI REED PHOTOGRAPHS TOM BAILEY
38 TRAIL APRIL 2015
Looking to the familiar outline of Crinkle Crags, from the not-sofamiliar summit of Pike of Blisco.
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 39
Go: Lake District Do: a wild goose chase?
Undiscovered places are hard to find in the Lake District. Trail was sceptical when whispers of one were heard, but we went looking for it anyway‌ WORDS BEN WEEKS PHOTOGRAPHS TOM BAILEY
42 TRAIL APRIL 2015
SECRET ESCAPES
Taking in the view from a legendary Lakeland cave which may (or may not) be called the Priest's Hole. Truthfully, we’re still not sure.
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 43
Go: Chamonix, France Do: Alpine skills
The awesome Aiguille du Plan, seen from the steep-sided apex of the Aiguille du Midi cable car station. DAN ASPEL
56 TRAIL APRIL 2015
GO ALPINE
The European Alps are among the most magnificent mountains on Earth. So let’s enjoy them! Trail finds out what it takes to tackle these high peaks safely.
A
WORDS DAN ASPEL PHOTOGRAPHS DAN ASPEL & ARC'TERYX
lpinism – you might be surprised to learn – is about being comfortable. That’s according to Yves, a French mountain guide who’s showing me how little kit is actually required to tackle big European peaks. His pack, as slender as he is, can’t be more than 20 or 30 litres in size – and it doesn’t even look full. The climbing rack strapped to his waist is equally light and simple. A few choice metallic tools
jangle loosely from either side. “With just this kit I can climb the Mont Blanc. Or,” he adds with a grin that leads me to believe he’s only half serious, “Everest – the easy way.” Yves, of course, represents that cadre of demi-god climbers who call the Alps their home. These are the kind of people who ski, scramble and glissade their way across 4000m peaks before breakfast and think nothing of it. He and those like him were probably ❯
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 57
MOUNTAIN
GUIDE
EXPERT ADVICE: PLAIN AND SIMPLE™
Planning for rough rivers Spring snowmelt or heavy rainfall at any time of year can swell harmless minor rivers to a fearsome spate. Here’s how to plan for and deal with these dangerous torrents in the wild.
© GEOFF TWEDDLE / ALAMY
Snow melted by the sun or sudden, heavy rain can turn innocuous streams into rather more hazardous propositions in the space of a single day: it’s not uncommon to find something you can step over in the morning swollen to dangerous proportions by the afternoon. Despite this there’s no direct relation between quantity of rainfall and the volume of water in streams, as the relationship can be highly localised. But as our mountains tend to be so thin on vegetation, run-off is rapid and streams can quickly rise and fall.
© GRAHAM DARGIE / ALAMY
do rivers suddenly swell Why with water in the first place?
From a parched summer bed...
... to a swollen spring spate. Be aware!
Carry waterproof socks – these can be worn after a crossing to keep your feet dry inside wet boots
do I need to think What about before my trip?
● Look at the size of the catchment area where you’re walking – are there many valleys and streams all leading into a single area? ● Check the forecast: is heavy rain predicted? If so, consider changing your route or even postponing your trip. ● Plan for the time of year and consider the possibility of snowmelt in the spring months. ● Check that no major streams or rivers cross your route at key points. ● Aim to finish your walk on high ridges following the watershed between river systems, rather than on low, flat areas that may be prone to late-day flooding.
64 TRAIL APRIL 2015
are river crossings Why so dangerous?
● Fast-moving water can be extremely difficult to escape from. ● When immersed in cold water your body will lose heat 25-30 times faster than in air. ● Obstacles in the river can cause sudden and potentially fatal injuries on impact. ● Foot entrapment is a big risk: if you fall backwards while entangled the current could pull and hold your head underwater. ● An accident in the river can quickly split your party, with undesirable consequences. In the words of the late author-instructor Eric Langmuir: “Always remember that it will be colder than you think, deeper than you perceive and stronger than you expect.”
I’ve reached a Okay, river I have to cross.
What should I do first?
● Ask yourself – honestly – if can you change your route or divert to a bridge. A long diversion is often preferable to an uncertain crossing. ● Consider if you will be faced with yet another, potentially more difficult, crossing once you’re done. ● Wait! (Especially if you have camping gear with you.) The water may subside as rapidly as it has risen, greatly reducing the danger.
Lyle Brotherton
Rob is an international expedition leader and a highly qualified mountain instructor.
Navigation expert Lyle is one of the world’s leading search and rescue authorities.
● Look for a shallow, flat and even area to cross. Bends should be avoided because of the varying speed of flow on the inside and outside, and the resulting erosion and weak soil. ● Loosen your rucksack straps and leave the clips undone. If you do slip the bag will protect your back and – if it’s packed with dry-bags – will float and act as a buoyancy aid. ● Keep you boots and socks on – it’s important that they’re well-fitting and secure. ● Wear gaiters if you have them; they will help keep your lower trouser legs tucked away.
DON’T use a rope. It can often
present more problems than it solves, and if entangled or tied to a person who is swept away, it can form an effective method of drowning them.
!
DON’T attempt to cross a river if the water is more than knee-deep.
Trail mountaineering editor Jeremy has a lifetime of outdoors experience in the UK and abroad.
techniques should What I use to cross a river?
● If solo and presented with a strong current then face upstream and lean on your walking poles. Shuffle sideways in a crablike motion, slowly and steadily. ● If in a group, form a line parallel to the bank with the strongest at the front and those behind them pushing down on the leader’s shoulders and hips to prevent their feet from being swept out from under them. This presents the least surface area possible to the current. You can then move in sync across the river. ● If there are at least three of you, then a possibly more effective method is to form a wedge facing the current, which will protect those behind the leader, who can then in turn hold onto and support him or her.
I’ve fallen in the water! What should I do? Adopt a defensive swimming position, feet downstream with your legs slightly bent. This will help you fend off any obstacles and put you in a good position to aim for an eddy and extract yourself.
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 65
TOM BAILEY
Rob Johnson MIC
GT has been Trail’s technical editor for over 20 years, and he’s our walking gear guru.
should I prepare How for the crossing?
!
Jeremy Ashcroft
Graham Thompson
GEAR›
BEST 55-65 LITRE PACKS 74
BUYING KIT? THIS IS YOUR GUIDE...
HOT NEW KIT This month's spanking new objects of outdoor desire
CAMELBAK PURSUIT 24LR £140 With CamelBak being better known for its hydration solutions than its packs, it should come as no surprise that this rucksack is based around a bladder. Unusually, though, it’s a 3 litre lumbar reservoir in the Pursuit: the water is carried around the base of your back – a far more stable location for three kilograms of fluid. There are the usual range of pouches and pockets and a place to clip your keys, although we’re not sure why there’s only a zipped hip pocket on one side. We’d also prefer buckle closures on the main opening rather than zips, simply from a reliability point of view; but as a 24 litre day pack (the Spire women’s version is 22 litres) unlikely to be carrying the heaviest of loads, there shouldn’t be too much to worry about. We say: A clever design with just one or two minor niggles that might put some off. www.camelbak.com
JETBOIL MINIMO£135 JETBOILMINIMO MINIMO £135 What you’re looking at here is essentially a slightly shorter and fatter Jetboil Flash. The MiniMo (Austin Powers, anyone?) shares the same 1 litre capacity and roughly the same weight and half litre boil time (415g/400g and 2min 15sec/2min 30sec for MiniMo/Flash). Like with other Jetboils, the burner, stand and a 100g gas canister can all be stored snugly away inside the pot with no rattles to annoy you from the depth of your pack. However, where the Flash pot is 180mm tall and 104mm in diameter, the MiniMo is 135x127mm. This squatter physique makes it noticeably more stable, while the ridged metal fold-out handles will be a godsend for anyone who has never truly trusted the flimsy fabric strap on the traditional Jetboil pots. We say: No longer the reserve of go-light overnighters, Jetboil’s appeal to the masses will be reaffirmed by the MiniMo. www.jetboil.com
72 TRAIL APRIL 2015
THERM-A-REST A sleeping mat serves two purposes: one, it provides a lumpabsorbing layer that makes sleeping on the ground more comfortable; two, it helps insulate you from the cold earth and rock. In these respects, not all mats are created equal. The X-Therm Max is a rectangular (rather than mummy-shaped) air mattress that
OVERTROUSERS BY BUDGET 78
GEAR
TESTS YOU CAN TRUST
KIT FOR THE DofE AWARD
84
FIRST TEST: MEINDL BOOTS
86
WHAT'S IN YOUR RUCKSACK?
87
TEAM TRAIL'S KIT RATED
89
WIN GREAT OUTDOOR GEAR
91
BASE LAYERS 82
BERGHAUS VAPOUR LIGHT HYPER SMOCK 2.0 £100 This astounding new product from Berghaus can be summed up in just a few sentences. At just 76g it is, quite simply, the lightest waterproof in the world. It’s probably fair to say that the materials employed to make it so are not the toughest; this is not a jacket for long periods carrying a heavy pack or for scrambling over abrasive crags. But there’s something else you should know: it folds down on itself to the size of an apple. If a 76g jacket that takes up no more space in your pack than a Granny Smith isn’t the perfect summer just-in-case waterproof, we don’t know what is. We say: A genuinely waterproof jacket weighing less than one-and-a-half Mars bars? Our gobs are well and truly smacked. www.berghaus.com
MERRELL CAPRA MID SPORT GTX £140 Although only due for general release in March 2015, we’ve had the Capras on test for several months. In this time they’ve been put through their paces, not least on a climb of Mt Teide, Tenerife’s iconic volcano. They are, quite simply, one of the lightest, most comfortable boots we’ve worn. The sole is reassuringly grippy, and the Gore-Tex lining keeps out the wet, but the design and materials mean the Capras feel more like trainers than boots. This does have its drawbacks, though – on rough, rocky or uneven terrain you’ll definitely want a little more support and protection than the Capras offer – the rocky volcanic screes of Teide were the limit of where we’d want to be wearing them. But for spring/summer use, it’s difficult to see how these could be improved. We say: 2-3 season boots get limited use in the UK hills, but if you are looking for a pair it’s hard to find a reason not to go for the Capras. www.merrell.com
NEOAIR X-THERM MAX£160 MAX £160 gives you plenty of room to get into that perfect sleeping position. And once you’re asleep, the quiet, soft, no-slip fabric helps you stay that way. Of course what really matters is warmth and comfort, and with Therm-a-Rest claiming that this NeoAir offers ‘more warmth per gram than any
other air mattress in the world’, it seems that the X-Therm Max could be a worthwhile, if not insignificant, investment. We say: A good mat is as important as a good sleeping bag, if not more so. For many, a decent night’s kip will more than justify the financial outlay. www.thermarest.com
TEST OF THE BEST Where top hill kit goes head to head TESTER PROFILE Graham Thompson Technical editor Height 5ft 11½in Back length medium/large
When walking between campsites, mountain huts or hostels a rucksack with a 55-65 litre capacity is ideal. Here’s our pick of the best rucksacks for weekend or longer backpacking trips.
VENTILATED BACK SYSTEM So that you don’t get too sweaty, many rucksacks have mesh panels that hold the sack away from the body to increase airflow, thereby reducing clamminess. The greater the airflow across the back, the less clammy you will feel.
POCKETS At least one external zipped pocket is useful for guidebooks, maps and GPS receivers. Stretch pockets without zips are commonly found on the front of the rucksack, and these are ideal for stowing waterproof jackets between showers. Zipped side pockets are great for drinks bottles, flasks or food.
HYDRATION POCKET If you like to use a hydration bladder with a feeder pipe to drink from, rather than a water bottle, then look for a rucksack with a pocket for the hydration bladder inside the pack. All the sacks featured here can accommodate a hydration system.
COMPRESSION STRAPS These are found on the sides of some rucksacks, and they allow you to compress the body of the sack to help stabilise the load. They are also useful for stashing items such as trekking poles.
55-65 LITRE RUCKSACKS
GEAR
TEST OF THE BEST
MAGAZINE
BEST VALUE
SHOULDER STRAPS The shoulder straps take some of the weight, but they need to be carefully contoured and padded to make them comfortable. As we are all different shapes it is important to try them for size, fit and comfort before parting with cash.
£120/2150g
£120/1532g
Vango Nanga 60+10
Vaude Asymmetric 52+8
capacity; adjustable back system; + price; lots of pockets; floating lid with baffle
weight; adjustable back length: + price, base compartment
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www.vango.co.uk
This pack is top of the Vango range. It has a very useful capacity of 60-70 litres, which is provided by a main compartment with top and front access (but if you fitted a rucksack liner inside you could still in effect have a base compartment with external access). You get bellows zipped side pockets and a floating lid with a baffle to prevent water seepage into the main compartment. 5/5
The Asymmetric range from Vaude replaces the popular Astra range of packs. This model has a capacity of 52 to 60 litres in one main compartment with top and front opening as a well as a base compartment with external zipped opening. The lid is a floating design with an external pocket, and you get a useful front zipped pocket as well as compression straps. 5/5
FIT
The back system is Vango’s A3 design, which comes in just one size but is adjustable by sliding the shoulder straps vertically along an alloy frame. There is also a Bi-Radial frame, which transfers weight to the hips and allows the hips and the top of the pack to twist. The shoulder straps do not have the choice of take-off points on the pack; apart from that this rucksack has good adjustment for fit, but there is no specific women’s model. 4/5
The Asymmetric back system can be adjusted to length by raising or lowering the shoulder strap section along metal staves in the back panel. The top tensioning straps can also be adjusted across a choice of three pairs of take-off points near the lid. The hipbelt is less well-contoured than others but the back is softer than others, resulting in the pack fitting closely and hugging the body. But there is no specific women’s model. 4/5
COMFORT
This is a slightly heavy pack at 2150g but it is also built to transfer the load to the hipbelt so you get good comfort with heavy loads. You don’t quite get the airflow or general comfort of the very high-priced packs, but at £120 it is more than adequate. The Nanga is not quite as stable and comfortable as some packs with heavier loads, however. 3/5
This pack is not designed for the size of load of some other packs here, and it lacks the stiffness in the hipbelt and back system to really carry heavy loads comfortably. But when used for loads under 15kg and if carefully packed it is very comfy, while its weight (1532g) does not overly add to the burden. But there is also less airflow across the back here too. 3/5
IN USE
There is plenty of space here to pack your kit, and the arrangement of pockets and front opening is useful. I particularly like the lid, which can be raised for overloading the main compartment; but also it benefits from a baffle to keep rain out. I can fit trekking poles or tent poles on the sides and those big pockets are great. It is heavy and not the most stable and comfortable design, though. 4/5
When used for lighter loads on weekend trips or hut-to-hut tours this pack is ideal in many ways. I’d prefer a baffle on the floating lid, just to ensure no water creeps down between lid and pack when the body is partially loaded. Also I would not use the front zipped opening to the main compartment. But there is enough here to make this great for many lighter or shorter overnight trips. 4/5
VALUE
If you are on a tight budget and need the extra capacity then this pack is superb. 5/5
Low-priced; also lower-capacity. But great value if you don’t need more space. 5/5
Ideal for anyone needing to save cash, but pricier and lighter packs have advantages.
Ideal for smaller or lighter loads, with the benefit of a floating lid and base compartment.
This is designed to bear most of the weight if the pack is heavy. It should fit snugly around your hips while being comfortable, easy to adjust and stiff enough to support the load without distorting too much.
WAND POCKETS
less capacity than some
FEATURES
HIPBELT
Originally designed for avalanche probes or ‘wands’, these pockets on the side of a rucksack are often made of stretchy mesh fabrics. They’re ideal for stashing the ends of trekking poles as well as items such as water bottles or snacks.
weight; comfort not the ultimate
www.vaude.com
VERDICT
4.2/5
4.2/5
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 75
BEST BUDGET FOR YOUR
Outdoor kit to suit everyone’s wallet... tested!
Given the vagaries of British mountain weather, every hillwalker needs a decent pair of waterproof overtrousers...
OVERTROUSERS FLY
TESTER PROFILE Graham Thompson Technical editor Height 5ft 11½in Weight 11st 10lb Size large
Some trousers have a zipped fly – but this feature is rare on lower-priced trousers.
POCKETS Pockets are rarely offered on overtrousers but they may have slit pockets that allow access to your trouser pockets. Be aware that these can gape open and allow rain in.
WAISTBAND This area is commonly elasticated for extra comfort. A drawcord allows extra control of fit, while Velcro tabs, press studs or belt loops allow further enhancement of fit. The ability to attach braces is of benefit if you’re going to be scrambling or mountaineering.
FABRICS All the overtrousers featured here are made from waterproof and breathable fabrics. In general the higher-priced overtrousers use more breathable fabrics, which will reduce the likelihood of condensation forming on the inside. Mesh linings improve comfort as any condensation is held away from the body, but such linings make trousers heavy and can snag when you are putting them on over boots. Lightweight trousers may be made of thinner fabrics, which compress in the wind so they feel quite cold, meaning they may also not be as durable as stiffer and heavier fabrics.
TEST AND STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHS GRAHAM THOMPSON OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPH TOM BAILEY
LEG ZIPS Probably the most important feature of well-designed overtrousers. The longer the zip, the easier it is to put on overtrousers while wearing boots or even crampons. But this area that can easily leak, particularly at the knees when the zip flexes. Waterresistant zips may keep some water out, but as they may still leak they often have an internal flap that is designed to channel away any water than enters this area.
FIT
VENTILATION Even the best waterproof and breathable fabrics allow condensation to form, so it’s important that you can increase ventilation between showers. Trousers with long side zips can often be opened from the top to allow some cooling air around your thighs.
SCUFF PATCH The area on the inside of the ankle can rapidly wear out if scuffed by boots, crampons, rocks etc. Look for an extra panel of material here if you are going to be really hammering this area.
Overtrousers can often be baggy but if the knees are articulated they can be designed to fit a little closer. Look for a seam around the knee area and a slightly angled shape in the trouser leg if you want a closer fit. The calf may have some Velcro tab adjustment so it can be tightened down a little, and there may be a drawcord, Velcro tab or press stud at the ankle.
GEAR
BEST FOR YOUR BUDGET
OVERTROUSERS £50 AND UNDER MAGAZINE
APPROVED
£30/297g (size L)
m
COMFORT
IN USE
VALUE
VERDICT
£50/384g (size L, std)
m n
Sprayway Santiago/Atlanta
+ knee-length side zip not as good as higher-priced – fabric options; no lining
+ stormflap; elasticated waist with drawcord + waist with drawcord; nylon lining fabric not as good as higher-priced options; – fabric not as good as higher-priced options – mesh lining price; knee-length side zip; elasticated
price; thigh-length side zip with external
The Byrne has provided budget protection for several years and it has a good set of features for the price. The waist is elasticated with a drawcord. The legs have calf-length zips with external stormflaps and there is a Velcro tab to adjust the ankle area a little. Not a lot of features, but some trousers at this or a higher price have even less! 3/5
In the competitive £30 to £40 price range the Sprayway Santiago just about has the edge on its competitors due to its feature list. It gets a nylon lining inside to improve comfort, but this is not mesh so it won’t snag easily. The waist is elasticated and has a drawcord. The side zip is knee-length and you get a Velcro tab adjuster at the ankle cuff. 4/5
A superb value-for-money product for several years and it benefits from a good selection of functional features. So you get the all-important thigh-length side zips, so you can easily get these on over your boots. Those zips also get an external stormflap to keep rain out. An elasticated waist with drawcord is also provided, but not much else. 4/5
The Byrne comes in men’s sizes XS to XXXL and one leg length with the nearest women’s equivalent being the Regatta Amelie II at £35 in sizes S to XL and two leg lengths. The fit is described as ‘relaxed’, and while it is a little baggy around the hips, the leg fit is not too bad compared to some at this price. 3/5
The Santiago is available for men in sizes XS-XXL with two leg lengths, while the Atlanta for women is available in sizes 8 to 20 and two leg lengths. An elasticated waist and drawcord help the fit but on me I felt they were baggier than other trousers of the same size, so I suggest trying a size down from normal. 3/5
In three leg lengths with men’s sizes from XS to XXXL and women’s sizes from 8 to 20. There is an elasticated waist with a drawcord but no other adjustment so fit is baggier than higher-priced, more tailored trousers but not so baggy as to be annoying. The ankle cuff is wide enough to sit over the top of your boots. 4/5
The Isotex 5000 fabric is waterproof and breathable but it cannot boast the lab results of pricier materials so some condensation is more likely here. There is no lining either so you’ll tend to notice any condensation that develops. There are two slash pockets that allow access to your under garment pockets, but these could allow water in. 3/5
The weight of 374g (size L) is acceptable in a rucksack and the nylon lining provides some additional comfort without fear of snagging on boots when putting them on. The material is Sprayway’s HydroDry, which is not as breathable as the higher-priced options, but it’s good at this price. The looser fit adds to the comfort too as does the elasticated waist. 4/5
These are a reasonable weight so they feel quite unrestrictive on, particularly as they are quite loose. The fabric is AQ2 from Berghaus and has a mesh lining, which is irritating when putting the trousers on, but comfortable. Breathability is not as good as higher-priced options but that mesh lining helps maintain comfort. 4/5
At 297g (size L) you can carry these in your rucksack easily. The side zips are just about long enough (depending on your foot size) to get these on over boots, but longer zips would be better. The fit is not perfect, the material is not superb, but they still perform better than many trousers for £30. 3/5
Good general-purpose overtrousers. The knee-length zips allow them to fit over boots reasonably well and there is a gusset behind the zip, so if it leaks you stay dry. The ankle cuff can be taken in a little with the Velcro tab adjuster and the elasticated waist is great. The fit is looser than ideal but that will vary between users. 4/5
At 384g (size L) you can carry these in your rucksack and not feel weighed down. They are easy to get on and off thanks to that long zip, and they are comfortable. The fabric is not the best available, the cut is a bit baggy and there are no finer details as found on the higher-priced option, but for general walking on a budget they are excellent. 4/5
Outstanding value for money and if you really cannot find another 10 quid then buy these and head to the hills as you won't find better at this price. 5/5
For £40 these are a good buy, but if you can spend more you get even better trousers. Great value though. 5/5
The price is superb as these trousers are actually better than many in the £50 to £100 price bracket, except in terms of weight. 5/5
They’ll do a good job at keeping you dry and comfy, but paying more brings much better performance.
Compared to other overtrousers at this price, these are a great option if £40 is your budget.
Not the absolute best, but the best general-purpose trousers under £100, making them ideal for most hillwalkers.
www.sprayway.com
price; elasticated waist with drawcord;
FIT
m n
Regatta Byrne www.regatta.com
FEATURES
£40/374g (size L, reg)
3.4/5
4.0/5
Berghaus Deluge www.berghaus.com
4.2/5
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 79
KIT ME OUT FOR...
DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD
If you’re under 25 and want to complete your DofE expedition, the right gear is vital. Here’s a selection from the recommended kit list... A DRY-BAGS As most rucksacks aren’t waterproof, a big roll-top liner or smaller individual dry-bags are invaluable in the rain to stop your kit getting drenched! Pictured: Lifeventure Dristore roll-top bags from £9.99 B MID LAYER For overnight expeditions you’ll want at least two mid layers or fleece tops, in case one gets wet. They act as the insulating layer between your base layer and waterproof. Pictured: Craghoppers Ionic half-zip fleece £30 C BASE LAYER As above, you want a minimum of two base layers or T-shirts for DofE trips. If walking in summer, look for materials that ‘wick’ sweat away from your skin. Pictured: Craghoppers Vitalise £18 D WASH BAG You’ll be roughing it, but that doesn’t mean basic hygiene goes out the window. This’ll help you keep loo roll, soap and tooth-cleaning kit in one place. Pictured: Lifeventure wash bag £22 E WALKING BOOTS With the prospect of covering many miles across challenging terrain in unpredictable weather, you need reliable boots that will keep your feet dry, comfortable and well-protected. Pictured: Berghaus Fellmaster £140 F MAP CASE ...because if your map isn’t waterproof, you’re going to need a case that is. Pictured: Silva Carry Dry £25 G WATERPROOFS Outer ‘shell’ trousers and jackets don’t just keep rain off your upper body and legs, they also protect you from wind chill. Aim for lightweight versions that pack down small in your rucksack. Pictured: Craghoppers Reaction Lite jacket £70 & Travelite overtrousers £40 H WALKING TROUSERS A good pair of walking trousers is often overlooked, but they’re very important bits of kit. Reinforced material in key areas such as knees and ankles is good. Pictured: Craghoppers Terrain £35
84 TRAIL APRIL 2015
A
I SLEEPING MAT Ever tried sleeping on a cold and lumpy tent floor with just a sleeping bag? Bad idea! A lightweight, inflatable mat will help you pass the night in relative comfort. Pictured: Vango Aero Short £35 J HEADTORCH When the sun drops you’ll need to provide your own lighting to navigate across hills and move safely around your campsite. Pack plenty of spare batteries! Pictured: Lifesystems Intensity £25 K COMPASS Navigation is key to a successful DofE expedition – and despite advances in mobile and GPS technology there’s still no more reliable tool than a compass. Pictured: Silva Expedition 4 £30
B
C
L WATER BOTTLE Water sources can be hard to come by on multi-day trips, so you need plenty to drink in your pack. Carry at least one bottle with you, preferably two. Pictured: Lifeventure 800ml £10 M LARGE RUCKSACK With everything from food, tent, stove, and sleeping bag to take on expeditions, you’ll need something spacious, robust and comfortable to carry it all in. Pictured: Vango Contour 50+10S £70
D
N TENT Rather than carrying your own tent and camping supplies, try splitting the weight between team members with a lightweight two-person version. Pictured: Vango Banshee 200 £130 O COOKWEAR Sadly there are no full English breakfasts in cosy B&Bs on DofE expeditions, so get a decent stove and cooking gear. Pictured: Trangia 25 series £70 P FIRST AID KIT From bumps and bruises to cuts and sprains, you need something in your pack to deal with medical emergencies. Pictured: Lifesystems Trek £14 Q SLEEPING BAG Even in summer temperatures plummet at night. Lightweight bags are great, but their key function is keeping you warm. Pictured: Vango Ultralite 900 £90
F E
GEAR
G
H
ACTIVITY GUIDE
I
J
FOR A FULL LIST
of recommended Duke of Edinburgh's Award kit, and to discover how young people between the ages of 14 and 24 can start planning their own DofE expeditions, visit www.dofe.org L
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APRIL 2015 TRAIL 85
CLASSIC ROUTE
The Kirk Fell and Great Gable Round Here’s a skyline ridge-walk around the best-loved view in Britain, in the knowledgeable company of Jeremy Ashcroft.
122 TRAIL APRIL 2015
Evening light on Wastwater and Wasdale Head surrounded by Kirk Fell, Great Gable and Lingmell.
T
here are many reasons to climb mountains; every individual heading into the hills will have their own driving force made up of both physical and emotional motivations. For almost all however there is one common thread that proves by far the biggest draw – and this is the visual element. We cannot help being fascinated by seemingly impossible landscapes, places that look too steep, too frightening or beyond our reach. We are hard-wired to explore, and it’s towards these visually impressive places that our minds are drawn.
The twin iconic pyramids of Kirk Fell and Great Gable are perfect examples. Once voted ‘The Best View in Britain’, their profiles are perfectly offset against Wast Water – its dark waters reflecting every nuance of light – and framed by the craggy masses of Scafell Pike to the east and Pillar to the west acting as immovable frames. The perfect symmetry of Kirk Fell and Great Gable is an irresistible draw, with a walk around their skyline ridges providing a classic adventure. The round of Kirk Fell and Great Gable is a hillwalk very much in the traditional
mould. It is a route that pays homage to the raw feel of mountains and the wild beauty they display rather than the number of summits to tick or the lifestyle challenge that ‘conquering’ represents. The route across their lofty summits follows a logic dictated by their structure. It follows the line of least resistance, which for these two steepsided, flat-topped giants equates to rough fellwalking, with the spice of some considered navigation, and enough effort to demand a full day ❯ of your undivided attention.
APRIL 2015 TRAIL 123
© HENRY E IDDON / ALAMY
LAKE DISTRICT