From peaks to streets – kit that takes you from walking to working

From peaks to streets – kit that takes you from walking to working

Walking gear can be expensive – but choose wisely, and it can also be a useful investment beyond the hills. Gone are the days of technical kit and day-to-day wear being mutually exclusive. Welcome to the era of versatility. 

From beach walks and mountain trails to boardrooms and lecture halls, outdoor essentials such as rucksacks and waterproof jackets can take you to your happy place and back again.  

“We’ve been kitting out adventure lovers for the last 50 years,” says Lorna Glover, product buyer at Cotswold Outdoor. “Once upon a time, technical kit and everyday fashion were very separate, but now the lines are much more blurred and key items found on the trails are just as likely to be found on the morning commute. 

“This shift is something we’re encouraging customers to think about when purchasing kit for their summer adventures. By investing in one piece of quality, versatile kit, you’ll get more value from it, which will see you through the year.” 

Read on for Laura’s staple products to take you from the peaks to the streets – and beyond.  

You’re just as likely to notice a sea of rucksacks on the morning commuter train as you are scaling mountain peaks. Once reserved for hikers, your favourite outdoor brands now create whole ranges with versatility in mind.  

When looking for a rucksack that will take you through the weekday to the weekend, a 20 to 30 litre capacity should suffice. This is enough room to accommodate extra layers (such as a zip up fleece) and packed lunch on the trails, while being enough for your laptop and gym kit for a day at university or work. Side pockets or straps are a must, offering extra space for water and other refreshments – as well as your keys and wallet.  

Photo: Cotswold Outdoor

The most important aspect of your pack is its fit. It should be body-hugging to minimise movement, properly weighted, and adjusted to keep you comfortable, preventing injury. If you’re unsure about which rucksack is right for you, visit your local Cotswold Outdoor for a free fitting.  

We’re big fans of this Osprey Womens Tempest 20 Daypack and this Lowe Alpine AirZone Active 22L Daypack

Whether you’re scaling peaks or heading into the office, you can guarantee the British weather will remain temperamental, which is why a proper waterproof jacket is an essential piece of kit. 

Gone are the days of clunky, restrictive waterproof coats that leave you sweltering hot. 

Photo: Cotswold Outdoor

When adding a staple jacket to your wardrobe, looking for something lightweight is key. Whether it’s being worn on your back or living in your rucksack, you don’t want to feel weighed down. 

We’d also recommend a hood for added protection and plenty of pockets to have quick access to your phone and other essentials. Keep an eye out for an elasticated collar, waistband and cuffs for extra weather protection, too. Our favourites include this North Face Mens Nordend Jacket and this North Face Womens Sangro Jacket

If you think all water bottles are built the same – think again. A top priority for any bottle is that it’s leakproof. Getting your sandwiches soaked is one thing, but your trusted laptop or headphones? That’s another level entirely. All Cotswold Outdoor’s water bottles are leakproof and will avoid any unfortunate spills when used properly. 

Photo: Cotswold Outdoor

Durability is also key. Many plastic bottles aren’t dishwasher safe, so check before purchasing or you could end up with a shrunken bottle! Also check if any plastic bottles are BPA, BPS, and BPF-free. 

As for capacity, that’s down to personal choice, although we’d recommend sticking between 0.5 and 2 litres – anything larger will weigh you down. We love this Hydro Flask 21oz Standard Mouth With Flex Cap Drinks Bottle

For the last 50 years Cotswold Outdoor has proudly been helping adventure lovers find their happy place, wherever that may be. For help finding the best kit for exploring yours, click here