Matthew Jones

Rugged, fully featured and great-value, Revolution Race GP Pros are multi-activity pants with a trim cut and plenty of stretch

Lightweight but tough Highlander Cuillin gaiters are great value all-rounders for hiking and hillwalking

The impressively light yet spacious, double-skinned MSR FreeLite 1 is a top choice for weight-conscious backpackers

An unusual and innovative trekking pole tent, the Sierra Designs High Route 3000 1P balances weight, packed size and overall liveability

The compact and lightweight Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker 1P is an extremely spacious trekking pole tent perfect for backpackers and thru-hikers

The low-profile Snugpak Ionosphere solo tent works well for stealthy wild camps

A great value, entry-level tent, the Robens Arrow Head is robust, stable and protective, if slightly heavy for a solo shelter

The Vaude Hike 9 sleeping pad is a cleverly designed insulated air mat that offers excellent comfort levels

The Trekology UL80 sleeping pad is a super-comfortable air mat with generous dimensions that manages to retain a svelte pack size and weight

A sturdy and reliable 10-point crampon, the Grivel G10 is the perfect choice for winter hillwalking and mountain trekking above the snowline

Value-driven, 12-point mountaineering crampons, Climbing Technology Nuptse Evo are reliable and solid all-rounders without a scary price tag

The lightweight, highly adaptable Petzl Vasak is a 12-point mountaineering crampon that works well across a range of terrain

A tried-and-tested classic, the Grivel G12 has proven its ability in mountain ranges worldwide, combining a robust build with versatile steep-ground performance

A sturdy 12-point crampon, the Black Diamond Serac is made from high-grade stainless steel that’s ideal for classic mountaineering and winter scrambles

A durable and robust axe, the Grivel G1 Plus is ideal for those in search of a classic alpine-style hillwalking or mountaineering axe

The value-focused DMM Spire undercuts most of the competition in terms of price and performance, but remains a great choice for winter adventures

As its curved shaft suggests, the DMM Spire Tech is a technically capable ice axe, with a modern, lightweight design

Rugged and robust, the Keela Stratus waterproof jacket fearlessly fends off fierce and foul weather

A hybrid hillwalking/mountaineering axe, the Black Diamond Raven Pro is technically capable, with a stylish, modern design for improved steep snow performance

An extremely robust waterproof shell, the ThruDark SF Raid combines superlative build quality with premium fabrics and top-quality components

The great value Alpkit Definition offers fortress-like protection from the elements at around half the price of the premium brands

A lightweight all-season leather mountain boot, the Asolo Piz GV has plenty of technical capability, thanks to a precise feel and reassuring grip underfoot

Impressively capable yet extremely lightweight, the AKU Tengu GTX is a serious mountaineering boot

Lightweight, precise and crampon-compatible, the Hanwag Makra Combi GTX is a scrambling boot ideal for Alpine-style rock routes

A very robust and well-made boot, the Lowa Cevedale Evo GTX strikes a good balance between stiffness and flex