That was the summer that was, done, gone and time to move on. What next? The inbetween stage of not quite winter, but certainly suggestive of it. Summer was a time of lounging in the garden, days out in the country, at the beach and generally getting out and about at any given opportunity. That doesn’t have to stop just because we’re dragging out sweaters out the wardrobe, and dusting off our coats. It’s getting colder, true, and there is more chance of wind and rain, but there is always adventure out there.
There is never “bad weather”, there is just the wrong clothing. Get yourself kitted out in the right gear and not a lot can stop you.
The British National Park has been promoting walking this autumn. Our National Parks are an ideal location to get out there. They have designated walks, suited for most ranges. They are all in areas of outstanding beauty, and scattered about the country.
You don’t have to venture far though to enjoy even just a touch of the open air. Near you will be walks and areas where you can let loose and blow the cobwebs away.
We’re very lucky living in The North of The North, not actually in Scotland, but close. We’re close to beach, and hills and all forests. When we get a chance to get out. we jump at it and there is no stopping us.
My older son was lucky enough to be involved with The Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, which he did through school. Now my daughters are at this stage, and whereas DofE is not really them, there have been other opportunities. Lucy, my older daughter took up with NCS this summer. NCS is National Citizen Service, which involves getting together with groups of similar aged teens in your area and being involved in physical activities and group work.
Lucy went away on a residential stay for five days to a Kingswood centre in North Yorkshire. She did walking, climbing and daring adventures such as leap of faith. All stuff that makes you feel achieving and fulfilled.
Obviously she needed some practical kit. Perhaps most importantly her footwear. Walking shoes and boots come in a wide range, and are designed with outdoor adventures very much in mind.
Trespass were kind enough to give Lucy a pair to take on a test run. We chose a lightweight, tough and sturdy boot called Conifer.
The boots are designed as a multi sport boot. The upper boot is made of suede and mesh, which is breathable, as well as having a waterproof coating. The sole has a layer of nylon in, which prevents sharp objects from piercing through. They have a deep grip for good hold on even slippery surfaces, yet enough flexibility for good movement.
The fit is snug and firm, with good lacing up to the ankle, giving support.
Lucy is what can only be described as a fussy teen when it comes to footwear. She is rather specific to her own fashion needs. Had I put her in my classic brown leather hiking boots of The Dark ages, she would have no doubt refused to leave the house; let alone hike for miles in The Yorkshire Dales. These Trespass boots met her criteria for being good looking enough to be seen outdoors in. And she did indeed walk miles, and climb great heights.
What every wandering adventurer also needs is somewhere to out the basic essentials. If you’re out and about, away from civilisation and amenities, it’s wise to take a few basic things. The usual, water, hat, sun cream, small first aid kit, possibly a map and I’m sure much more. So you need a decent day bag. Which generally is a small back pack.
Trespass supplied Lucy with a neat little number called an Ultra, which is a 22 litre rucksack.
The Ultra rucksack is versatile and practical for many outdoor activities. Ideal for hiking and cycling. The rucksack is lightweight, is made of coated nylon, thus is showerproof, and is designed with zipped pockets, has access points for headphones and a water bladder, and even a holder for a helmet. The shoulder straps are padded for comfort, and there are chin and hip straps to spread the weight and feel more secure.
The mesh pocket is designed to hold a helmet.
Then there are two zipped sections.
The back of the rucksack is padded and vented for comfort.
The bag is very lightweight and was most useful for Lucy while she was out and about.
Both items mentioned are available on the Trespass website.
The Trespass Conifer boots have a RRP of £79.99, currently at £33.99.
The Ultra 22 litre rucksack has a RRP of £34.99, currently at £16.99.
I know winter is coming, the dark nights are closing in, and we’re rapidly being pushed towards the big event in December, but don’t let all that stop you getting out and about. Adventure is out there, go have a look and find some.
Trespass Conifer Boots and Ultra rucksack Fuss Free Rating
Convenience 10/10
Both the boots and the bag are made well for their purpose. The boots are rugged, lightweight and comfortable. Lucy used them to walk many miles and didn’t have any issues feet wise. The rucksack was just the right size for all the things Lucy required to take out and about. She didn’t use the headphone or water tube access points, as she didn’t need to, but these are just added features that would be most useful as and when needed.
Appearance 10/10
The boots look good and still do their job well. They are much like a trainer, with a sporty look. My not so fuss free teen thought they were most fabulous. The rucksack is neat and tidy, and has a modern look about it. Lucy described it as funky. I agree.
Value 9/10
The Boots have an original price of £79.99, currently priced at £33.99 on the Trespass website. I would be happy to pay the full price for these boots, as they are good quality, and I imagine long lasting.
The rucksack is originally priced at £34.99, currently priced at £16.99 on the Trespass website. I’d say £35 or less is a reasonable price to pay for a good quality, practical bag that is an essential part of your outdoor activity kit. The design has a hiker’s/biker’s needs in mind.
Thank you to Trespass for the boots and the rucksack, both were very much appreciated by my daughter. All opinions are our own.
Incidentally, Lucy passed her NCS course and was awarded a certificate for her part in it.
I do love Trespass. I have got a pair of their boots and they are incredibly comfy. Must check out that rucksack too.
Oh those boots look good, I guess with doing so much camping I should look at getting some for the kids. We tend to rely on our trusty wellies.