hilltrek

Páramos’s lightweight Nikwax Analogy clothing was designed for use in warmer conditions  however it’s light weight is appealing for moving quickly in winter especially for cross country skiing.

I decided to put Quito jacket and Quito trousers to test on a recent trip across local hill Craiglich in sleet at temperatures around zero.  I wore a new Páramo Grid base layer under the Quito Jacket  but packed a Torres Insulator Gilet in my backpack  just in case.

In conclusion the Quito Jacket and Trousers combination kept me warm and dry despite the conditions. Standing still even for the obligatory cup of tea at the summit was cold,  however the Torres Gilet kept me warm.

A cold spring day in the West Highlands and another Munro -An Caisteal- a perfect test of my fitness after recent 57th birthday celebrations.

I set off late from Glasgow after a breakfast in the Tapa coffeehouse‎, where my daughter works, hoping to reach the hills at the north end of Loch Lomond by 10.30. The weather was as predicted in the mountain forecast, low cloud and rain at low levels.

My preparation was not the best after a very late but excellent curry at the Pakastani Cafe‎ and a long drive down from Aboyne the evening before.

I had planned to take the route via the north ridge to Sron Garbh over the Twistin Hill to the summit of An Caisteal and then south east to Beinn Chabhair returning back down the track along side the River Falloch.

Deep snow on the approach was testing to my fitness, so much so, that I had to take off my Lochnagar Karisma fleece and pack it in my rucksac.  I was wearing Paramo’s new lightweight Velez Trousers to test their effectiveness in the conditions -I would normally have worn Paramo Cascada or perhaps Aspira Trousers which are warmer but heavier.

Above 600 meters the rain turned to snow but, as the day wore on, the showers lessened and the cloud lifted opening up superb views all around, as forecast.

My late start, the poor forecast for the late afternoon, the icy conditions on top and the long drive home to Aboyne dictated that I return on the same route.

The Velez Trousers were perfect for the conditions light wind and temperatures around zero degrees. If the wind had been stronger I would have been warmer in Cascada or Aspira Trousers but probably perspired much more lower down.

You can  find out more about Velez Adventure Trousers on the Hilltrek website. 

If you are planning to walk or climb in the Scottish Mountains try the Mountain Weather Information Service - the forecast was very accurate.

An excellent overview of the route can be found on  Munro Magic website, which also has 3D views.

The sky has awoken bright and clear in Aboyne this morning.  With great visibility the opportunity to get out in the hills to stretch the legs and to take in some majestic views arises.  Here are some tips on powder walking:

1. Wait for the weather to give you a clear blue sky day or at least favourable conditions

2. Choose a walk that you have done many times before i.e. you know it well.  It is amazing how such familiar surrounds look so different when under 50-100cm of snow.

3.  Equipment, map, compass and in terms of clothing, Gators are the top tip.  The powder snow can get everywhere, especially when its up to your knees.  A band around the sole of the boots is also invaluable to save the gators riding up.  Carry plenty of liquids.

4.  The walk will take up to 2 or 3 times as long and it will be tough going so keep an eye on the clock.  NB. day light is still short.  Leave information on your plans and arrival time back.

5.  If at all possible walk with a partner, helps with sharing the burden of breaking new ground.  Life is better to share any how!

Lastly remember a camera.  The views will be stunning.