EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR HIKING SEASON

Say what you will about the British weather, but April showers make May landscapes look especially beautiful, and you know what that means: it's time to take a hike. So, whether you're on a day trip to the Peak District or a week-long camping session in the Pennines (or just want to showcase your gorpcore credentials on a stroll in the park), we've got all the hiking 'fits you need. 

Hiking outfits are built from the bottom up, so we need to start with the shoes. Hardcore hikers will wear boots, come rain or shine (and given the average summer, it's usually a combination of both). Boots are best for uneven terrain, so if you're tackling hills you may well need a pair. For urban hikers who like smooth paths, hiking trainers are a lighter alternative that do a similar job. Think Salomon or adidas' Terrex range, which look equally at home at the pub and on the trail.

Stalwart hikers know that a successful outfit has layers – literally. Going up that hill can be chilly business, so you'll need a light jacket or fleece that's easy to take off. Pick a zipped version to maximise ventilation – sometimes, just loosening your top at the neck can make a big difference. If it's too hot for a fleece, take a windbreaker with you instead. They're super lightweight and usually pack up small enough to fit into a roomy pocket.

Hiking trousers are no joke: they have to be hardy enough to withstand rain, wind and mud as well as the occasional spill. They're the leisure equivalent of a suit of armour, so wearing them is a sign that you mean business. For prime form and function, look no further than The North Face's utility trousers, which could practically climb K2 by themselves. If you're into something a bit more relaxed, try Montirex's joggers. They're designed for trail running, so feel flexible and comfortable.

Bags are a non-negotiable, but the bag type depends on the hike. Day trip when the sun is shining? Bring a bum bag for your water bottle and charging bank. Rains’ version is waterproof, just in case the weather turns. For longer hikes and camping trips, you’ll need a backpack for food and spare layers. This Berghaus bag has an adjustable bungee cord for expanding and packing in extra gear, plus pockets for almost everything else. It even has a laptop sleeve, so it does double duty for work days too.

Hiking gear is utilitarian because it has to be, but you can have more fun with the finishing touches; that’s hats and sunglasses. Adidas’ hat has a blurred-out, dyed finish that will perfectly top off your fit (literally and figuratively). And go for wraparound glasses with Y2K-coded reflective lenses. They’re not just aesthetic – both are essential for keeping the sun off your face and fending off glare, which means you can better see the terrain.