Latest gear - lightweight hiking

Designed specifically for moving fast over mixed terrain, the Salewa Ultra Train 2 takes the kind of features you’d expect on a modern trail running shoe and adds the extra durability and protection you need in a hiking shoe. The Ultra Train 2 features a Michelin OCX outsole that provides incredible grip on a variety of surfaces.

The stretch gaiter over the forefoot helps keep trail debris out of the shoe and the quick lacing system works together with the seamless upper to keep the foot in place. As this is primarily a hiking rather than a running shoe, there’s also extra support for moving over rough ground. The Anti Rock Heel Cup secures the rear of the foot n place and a motion guidance system helps the foot to roll forward with stability.

Brilliant lightweight carbon poles from Leki. The Micro Vario Anti Shock folds down into 3 three sections for easy transportation in a pack or suitcase. Each section is just 38cm long and a single pole weighs a scant 240g. Thanks to the carbon construction however, they are still remarkably strong. This version of the Micro Vario also has an anti shock system built into the pole tip for a little extra comfort on long descents. The Speedlock 2 adjustment system is tried and tested and has an excellent locking mechanism to ensure no slippage. The Aegon Thermo grip is comfortable over long distances with foam extending down the pole for extra versatility on ascents.

A very lightweight softshell is often the perfect layer for fast hiking. The kind of garment that provides some wind and water protection but remains free breathing and comfortable even during times of exertion. The Alpine Start Hoody from Black Diamond is a brilliant super light softshell that is comfortable and stretchy yet protects from light precipitation and wind.

It has a handy chest pocket and an excellent hood. The fit is close but as the Alpine Start is cut for great freedom of movement it never feels restrictive. The fabric is also surprisingly durable and will stand up to many years of wear with a rucksack and the whole thing folds down into its own pocket for easy storage.

In an article about light hiking it’s really difficult not to include the Osprey Talon. When Osprey launched the Talon a decade or so ago it looked incredibly fresh. It’s gone on to influence many other lightweight packs on the market and is still a very common sight on the backs of hikers all over the world. The secret of the Talon’s success is in the way the pack combines low weight, comfort and support, together with a focused feature set.

The back system is soft and comfortable yet can still handle a reasonable load. Outer stretch mesh pockets are brilliant for on the go storage and expand to a surprising volume. Everything is easy to use and the lightweight materials ensure the pack’s weight is kept to a minimum. The Talon comes in a six litre bumbag version and 11, 18, 22, 33 and 44 litre rucksack volumes. There’s a Talon suitable for everything from a quick hike to multiday hut to hut trip. They’re also great for many other activities including scrambling, biking and climbing.

The logical place to take the lightweight hiking concept is into the realm of multi-day hiking and backpacking. There’s a whole world of lightweight backpacking kit out there but Hilleberg are known for producing tents of the very highest quality. Yes, they’re expensive, but the Swedish brand use the very best materials and construction techniques available.

In recent years Hilleberg have increased their offering of very lightweight tents, the Anjan 2 GT being one of them. It’s modelled on the classic extended tunnel design, a proven shape for backpacking. The Anjan 2 GT has a minimum weight of just 1.8kg yet provides a huge amount of room for that weight. Due to the high-end materials it’s also deceptively strong and should last many years. It’s a great option for two person backpacking trips below the snowline.

Read more of Andy's reviews on his website.