Joe Pontin
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

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.
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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
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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...
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How to waterproof a jacket

Regular washing and reproofing using special ‘tech wash’ and proofer will keep your jacket waterproof – and prolong its life. Here's how to do it...
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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
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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?
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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... 
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Gore-Tex walking boots

It has sporty styling and training-shoe comfort, but how does the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker Mid GTX feel out on the trail? Joe Pontin tested a pair in the Somerset hills
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