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Aug 1, 2018 • 7 min read
Whether tackling a mighty peak or traversing lofty passes, high-altitude trekking offers a chance to escape the hectic modern world, push personal boundaries, and discover some literally breathtaking landscapes. However, whether you join an organized expedition between mountain huts or you’re self-supported and sleeping under canvas, serious trekking requires dependable gear.
In this set of reviews, we test a range of technical gear designed for mountain trekking, covering everything from sturdy boots that will keep you comfortable during the day to a sleeping bag that will keep you cozy at night.
Vango F10 Makalu 2 tent
If your high-altitude trek requires sleeping outdoors, packing a reliable, easily assembled, and lightweight tent is essential. The Makalu 2 from Vango’s F10 range ticks these boxes and, despite weighing just 2.5kg, is capable of withstanding all but the most severe conditions. The tent comprises a main area large enough for two people to sleep comfortably and a porch with ample space for gear storage. Additionally, the ability to pitch the whole tent (inner and flysheet) in one go makes setup after a long day’s hike quick and straightforward.
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Plus points: good balance between weight, space, strength, and durability.
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Worth noting: for severe conditions, Vango’s F10 MTN or XPD is a stronger alternative.
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Cost: GBP£400, €450 approx.
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Rating: quality 8/10; practicality 9/10; value 9/10.
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More info: vango.co.uk
Fjallraven Kaipak 58 rucksack
Combining simplistic Scandinavian style with rugged durability, the Kaipak 58 is a reliable and undeniably cool bag to trek with. The generous 58L capacity allows for more when utilizing the main compartment fully. More importantly, it remains comfortable on the shoulders even when filled to capacity. The bag is constructed from tough G-1000 Eco material (a mix of recycled polyester and organic cotton), which, although heavier than full-nylon equivalents, is built to last and easily resists abrasions from rocks or trees in the wilderness.
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Plus points: strong and stylish; male and female versions available.
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Worth noting: height of shoulder straps is non-adjustable, which could be an issue for some users.
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Cost: GBP£220, €254.95, US$235.
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Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 8/10.
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More info: fjallraven.com
Rab Neutrino 600 sleeping bag
Nothing enhances a trek more than a good night’s rest. Consequently, when temperatures plummet at high altitudes, having a warm and reliable sleeping bag becomes crucial. The Neutrino 600 excels with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, thanks to a lightweight fabric and Nikwax Hydrophobic Down filling, which is enhanced to resist moisture.
Moreover, innovative design features include a wedge-shaped foot-box that keeps feet away from the fabric, thus preventing cold spots. It also incorporates Polygiene Stay Fresh technology, controlling bacteria and odors—an essential feature during long treks with limited washing opportunities.
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Plus points: the 600g of goose down is responsibly and humanely sourced.
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Worth noting: available in 400/800 varieties for warmer/colder conditions.
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Cost: GBP£410, US$500.
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Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 7/10.
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More info: rab.equipment
Fjallraven Keb trousers
The Fjallraven Keb trousers are built for performance and comfort. Constructed from a tough cotton-polyester blend and reinforced with padding around the knees, rear, and inside hem, these trousers kept our legs surprisingly warm even in severe winds. Furthermore, zipped ventilation slots allow airflow when required. However, a possible downside for some trekkers is the lack of waterproofing (though Fjallraven offers a wax to enhance water resistance) and their relatively heavy weight when wet, making them ideally suited for cold, dry climates.
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Plus points: stretchy fabric and no inner thigh seam, which prevents chafing.
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Worth noting: available in numerous color combinations, different lengths, and male/female cuts.
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Cost: GBP£190, €224.95, US$225.
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Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 8/10; value 8/10.
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More info: fjallraven.com
Thermarest NeoAir Trekker mattress
The Thermarest NeoAir Trekker is designed for those who prioritize lightweight and compact sleeping solutions. In testing, we found that 40 puffs were needed for full inflation, which is an excellent trade-off considering its weight of just over 500g. This mattress features a generously proportioned rectangular shape, a 60mm thickness that keeps you off the cold ground at night, and rolls down to the size of a drink bottle for easy storage come morning.
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Plus points: also available in different sizes and weights.
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Worth noting: portable pumps are available as an alternative to lung power.
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Cost: GBP£130, US$129.95.
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Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 8/10.
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More info: thermarest.com
Kitvision Immerse 360 Duo camera
After putting in the blood, sweat, and tears to reach a summit, it’s crucial to have reliable equipment to document the moment. The Immerse 360 Duo camera is lightweight, compact, and features two lenses, providing the ability to capture scenes in crisp panoramic snaps or videos without needing to pan the camera. Furthermore, the camera connects to your phone, allowing you to upload your photos and videos to social media from almost anywhere—a significant advantage for the modern trekker.
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Plus points: unique images, fun to use, excellent for direct social media uploads.
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Worth noting: functions in cold climates but cannot film underwater despite its ‘immerse’ tag.
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Cost: GBP£249.99, €291.76.
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Rating: quality 8/10; practicality 8/10; value 8/10.
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More info: kitvision.co.uk
Hanwag Tatra 2 GTX trekking boots
For long walks in high mountains, top-notch boots are essential. The Tatra 2 trekking boots from specialist German footwear manufacturer Hanwag are tough and well-built. Despite their sturdy nature, these boots are impressively light and extremely comfortable through several long days on the trail.
Features include a soft leather upper, a deep-cut Vibram sole for maintaining grip, and a Gore-Tex membrane to keep water out. Intuitive details, such as hooks with locks on the upper laces, allow for tight lacing around the ankle while keeping the toes looser, which is especially beneficial for descending. Such details may seem trivial but can make the difference between good boots and great boots.
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Plus points: for dry conditions, Tatra boots are also available without the Gore-Tex membrane.
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Worth noting: male and female styles are available in wider sizes, different colors, and even a bunion-friendly Hallux valgus version.
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Cost: GBP£220, €249.99.
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Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 9/10.
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More info: hanwag.com
Outdoor Research Interstellar Jacket
At high altitudes, the weather can be particularly unpredictable. However, the Interstellar Jacket is well-prepared for anything Mother Nature may throw at you. In testing during serious downpours, we remained warm and dry, avoiding clamminess due to a fabric that allows moisture to escape. Key features include Velcro tabs to seal cuffs, stretchy fabric for freedom of movement, and a weight of just under 350g—making it hardly noticeable when worn and easy to pack when the weather is favorable.
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Plus points: versatile, reliable, and comfortable.
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Worth noting: close fit; you may want to size up for more mobility.
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Cost: GBP£270, €300, US$299.
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Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 9/10; value 9/10.
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More info: outdoorresearch.com
Platypus Platy Water Tank
After a day’s trek, your usual drink bottle may often be too small for camp use. A portable Platy water tank from Platypus effectively addresses this issue. It stays rolled up in your backpack during the day, and when you pitch camp, it can be utilized to carry larger quantities of water from a stream or another source back to your tent. In testing, we found that the large zip seal sometimes leaked slightly if not properly closed; nevertheless, this was manageable as the tank isn’t designed to be carried full of water inside a backpack. Overall, it’s a very handy addition to your trekking kit.
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Plus points: quick to fill, easy to clean, with an antibacterial lining.
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Worth noting: available in three sizes (2L, 4L, 6L).
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Cost: GBP£30, €35 approx., US$39.99 (4L size).
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Rating: quality 9/10; practicality 8/10; value 8/10.
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More info: platy.com
