9 essential pieces of kit to get you ready for outdoor sports

Whether you’re running, cycling, swimming, hiking, camping, playing padel or doing a spot of gardening, Isy Santini offers some recommendations on the best gear to pop on

Head One Ultralight Padel Racket

As the lightest padel racket on the market, this gives players speed and control, its light frame allowing for quick reactions while optimised balance ensures accurate shot placement. It can be purchased online or in-person at Gannon Sports, a family-run racket sports specialist with shops across the central belt.
Gannon Sports, various locations.

Men’s Half Zip Fleece Keynote

Warmth is key for the adventurer but it can often come at a hefty price. Trespass is the place to go if you’re a beginner or simply looking for high-quality budget options. This fleece, for example, uses airtrap technology to provide insulation on chillier days as well as anti-pilling fabric for longer lasting use.
Tresspass, various locations.

Terrapin Natural Swimming Wetsuit

The sun is shining, the water is glistening: it’s the perfect time for some wild swimming. Alpkit’s wetsuit is great for the summer months, with a mixture of recycled nylon and neoprene providing warmth where you need it while still allowing you to feel connected to the water. Alpkit also boasts a repair station in-store, so you can be sure your gear will last.
Alpkit, 56 Causewayside, Edinburgh.

Crosswind Sling Bag

Outdoor adventuring can require a fair amount of supplies, but that’s no problem for DD Hammocks’ new sling bag. Designed to carry up to 28 litres without slowing you down, this bag is durable, secure and easy to access with organised storage and pockets. Beyond bags, DD Hammocks is the place to go for hammock camping supplies.
DD Hammocks, 7 Quayside Street.

Stravaiger Merino Hiking Socks

Moggans’ socks are designed, tested and made in Scotland, making them ideal for anything our wilderness can throw at a hiker. The Merino blend manages moisture, temperature and odour to allow for repeated all-seasons use. Available from the Moggans website or a range of stockists.
Moggans.

Meander V2 Jacket

Meander Apparel designs clothing with versatility at its core. Whether you’re off cycling, mountaineering or walking, this lightweight jacket is fully waterproof and breathable, not to mention easy to pack if you’re heading out for a camping break. Like many other Meander products, it’s made entirely from recycled materials.
Meander, 22 North West Circus Place, Edinburgh.

‘One More Mile’ AeroSwift ADV Running Vest

This Nike running top from Achilles Heel was designed based on feedback from real runners and the result promises speed, breathability and comfort. Achilles Heel has been serving runners in Glasgow for 25 years and, in addition to offering running kit from top brands, it also offers a sports injury clinic, gait analysis and expert knowledge.
Achilles Heel, 593 Great Western Road, Glasgow.

Farby Women’s Breathable Performance Leggings

The world of outdoor clothing can be daunting for a beginner, but Tog24 offers great basics that can be used for a wide range of activities. These leggings come with a waistband that will stay put no matter what, quick-drying material, comfort seams and even pockets (yes, pockets!), all at a price that won’t break the bank.
TOG24, Unit 19, XSite Braehead, King’s Inch Road, Renfrew.

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