Mark Watson

1 week ago | wildernessmag.co.nz | Mark Watson

Double down on warmth and packability with this versatile custom-made quilt from Kiwi Ultralight. Quilts are a common sleep system for long-distance hikers, particularly in the US, and are gradually becoming more popular here. Among other benefits, they’re a great way to reduce base weight. By placing all the insulation atop the sleeper and eliminating a long zip and hood, a typical quilt weighs roughly 20–30 per cent less than a sleeping bag of equivalent warmth. But the positives don’t stop here.

1 month ago | wildernessmag.co.nz | Mark Watson

Stay ahead of the chill with this winter-ready gear. Featured image: OMM Core Hoody$219.99 / 115g OMM’s ridiculously cosy Core Hoody is a regular on my pack list. This midlayer is made from ultra-compressible Primaloft Active, which is an exceptionally high warmth-to-weight ratio loose-weave, high-loft fleece (similar to Polartec’s Alpha Direct). It traps air well, dries fast and is highly wicking, making it suitable as a baselayer or midlayer depending on the season.

1 month ago | wildernessmag.co.nz | Mark Watson

Breezing into the space between hiking and trail-running shoes, the Obōz Katabatic LT Low GTX is ultralight and impressively stable. Traction and stability in a range of conditions are desirable traits in a hiking and fastpacking shoe, as are all-day comfort, foot protection and durability. Weight, ventilation and drying speed are also valued highly. Traditional hiking shoes score well in the first four.

1 month ago | wildernessmag.co.nz | Mark Watson

Best for: All-round weather protection and mobility for climbers and fastpackers. 298g (m) 280g (w) What we likedHighly tuned fit, excellent mobility, very breathable, highly packable, good value. LimitationsSnug fit won’t suit everyone, no rapid venting, limited durability for heavy use. Overview: The streamlined M10 Storm is made for fast and light alpine activity, with fabric and features selected for a high degree of weather protection and ease of movement.

1 month ago | wildernessmag.co.nz | Mark Watson

Best for: Mountain running and alpine rock climbing. 224g (m) 200g (w)What we likedTough for its feather-like weight, great breathability, versatile cut, strong feature set. LimitationsExpensive, thumb loops leak when not in use, limited protection in severe weather. Overview: The Aether is for mountain runners and gram-conscious fast movers. It has a three-layer Dyneema-reinforced nylon shell (20,000mm H/H rated) that is highly tear resistant and breathable.