Joe Pontin
Features Editor
Joe fills the magazine with interesting features from all corners of the British countryside. He loves spending weekends with his three young children, exploring the woods and hills near the village where they live.
Recent articles by Joe Pontin
I suffer from Raynaud's — these are the best hiking gloves I've tested to battle the cold in 2025
However cosy your core is on a winter walk, freezing fingers will make your life a misery. Our guide to hiking and walking gloves will help you keep warm.
Don’t buy walking boots until you see these 2025 winners - Tried and tested by experts
From rugged trails to rainy hillwalks, we review the best hiking boots from trusted names like Scarpa and Helly Hansen.
You’d probably have to grow your own food after the apocalypse – and scientists say this protein-rich vegetable is the answer
Two New Zealand researchers have found the ultimate superfood for urban agriculture after the apocalypse – with rather surprising results
Best walking trousers for men and women - tried and tested for 2025
We've tested the best walking trousers to suit all budgets and types of walkers
Ever wondered why we eat turkey at Christmas – or how they ended up on our plates in the first place?
Best gifts for walkers: 34 top presents for hikers
The best practical presents walkers will love at a range of different price points.
We tested the best waterproof jackets for men and women so you can hike in comfort in 2025
Keep the rain firmly out whatever the conditions with a waterproof jacket we've tested in the elements.
Where to survive the apocalypse – preppers should actually be looking at these countryside refuges
Suppose the day came when the world as we know it fell apart. What would you do? Where in the UK would you go to hide to survive an apocalypse? Here is our guide on where to go and how to survive an apocalypse in Britain.
Best three-season sleeping bags in 2024: review and buyer's guide
If you want to stay warm on nippy nights’ camping in the UK, choose a three-season sleeping bag. But which one suits you best? Here’s a selection to please everyone from family campers to solo backpackers
Best waxed jackets for men and women in 2025
Breathable and water resistant, waxed fabric jackets are a traditional and stylish way to keep warm and dry on winter days outdoors. Mary Comber seeks the best
Best windproof tops for walkers – buyer's guide and review
Sometimes when you are out roaming the countryside all you need to keep at a pleasant temperature is a windproof layer. Here's why to try one, what to look for, and some of the best products reviewed
Hiking essentials list: 19 things to pack on every multi-day hike
Heading off to a conquer a long-distance trail this summer and wondering what hiking essentials to take with you? Our expert guide includes a list of hiking gear and accessories that should make it into you pack.
Best English sparkling rosés for Christmas 2023
Light, fragrant and delicious, English sparkling rosés are renowned internationally for their delicate qualities. Here's our expert tried-and-tested guide to what you should be drinking this year.
Deuter Trail 22 backpack
Vaude Brenta 30 backpack
Looking for a comfortable and practical daypack for walks, and not bothered about modish styling? The Brenta 30 might be a good option for you.
Montane Trailblazer 18 backpack
Maybe you want a compact backpack for summer walking. Maybe you are a trail runner looking for a pack than stays stable on the move, for you to stow some layers and some water. Does Montane's Trailblazer 18 perform on the trail? We tested it in the Somerset hills
How to wash a down jacket
Down-filled jackets are tricky to clean but it’s worth washing them before grime gets really ingrained. Here's how to do it...
inov-8 Roclite Pro G 400 GTX V2 walking boots
You're after a versatile, mid-height boot for you walking adventures, Could inov-8's updated Roclite Pro 400 GTX V2 boot be the one? Joe Pontin tests a pair in the Somerset hills
Montane Pac Plus GTX Waterproof Jacket
In spring and summer walks, choosing a lightweight jacket might cut your pack weight by 200g to 300g, but many lighter jackets won't withstand bad weather for long. How does the Montane Pac Plus cope?
Palladium x Finisterre Pallatrooper Hiker WP+ boot
They may be billed as 'hiker boots' – but are they actually any good for hiking in? Joe Pontin tries a pair out in the Somerset Hills...
Brand Ecosse Capriolo walking boot
With retro good looks, the Capriolo walking boot is smart enough for pub and high street – but do they still feel comfortable after a few miles on the trail? Joe Pontin finds out
Helly Hansen Traverse Boot LT
You want a substantial hiking boot for tricky surfaces – but nothing too heavy and cumbersome. Could the Traverse LT from Norwegian gear maker Helly Hansen suit you? Joe Pontin tests a pair
Columbia Peakfreak II Mid Outdry boot
You love lightweight walking shoes with a bit of ankle support, but nothing too bulky. Then the Peakfreak II Mid Outdry could be right for you, suggests Joe Pontin
Montane Pac Plus XT jacket review
Want a lightweight waterproof jacket with all the technical features of a full-fat one? Then the Montane Pac Plus XT could fit your bill. Joe Pontin tries one for you