I’m a little late in writing this overview of my favourite items of gear in 2025. To be honest it’s because I couldn’t decide which bits of kit to include. There is so much great gear out there. However these are the five standout items of 2025.
Rab Mythic G Down Jacket
I’ve owned a lot of down jackets over the years but this is undoubtedly the best. Very well designed and extremely warm for its weight. The warmth is achieved by using the highest quality 1000 fp down insulation. I’ve used this jacket as a mid layer while working on climbing courses both indoors (climbing walls always feel very cold) and outdoors on those windy gritstone edges. I’ve also worn it as part of my sleeping system, giving my sleeping bag a bit of boost over the winter. It fits very well and the hood is well designed. I’m actually a bit sad that the summer has arrived and I can’t wear it as much.
Rab Mythic G Jacket
Buffalo Reversible Gilet
New owners have given the legendary Sheffield based brand Buffalo a new burst of life. The introduction of new designs and colours has modernised the range. The reversible gilet has a very warm pile and a windproof Pertex outer with pockets on both sides.Read my full review here – https://www.beyondtheedge.co.uk/buffalo-reversible-gilet/
Buy it direct from the Sheffield factory – https://buffalosystems.co.uk/products/reversible-gilet
ThruDark Mountain Pro Technical Mid Layer
There are lots of mid layer fleecy jackets out there. This is the one I’ve been reaching for throughout the winter and spring. The gridded fleece feels surprisingly warm. A long fit, thumb loops, two really big useful chest pockets and a high collar that keeps out the wind. A well designed and practical take on a classic item of outdoor clothing.
Buy it here https://www.thrudark.com/products/mountain-pro-technical-mid-layer-forest-green
ThruDark Mountain Pro Technical Mid Layer
TFS Enran 1 Tent
I spent a lot of time last year looking at tent specs online. I wanted something as light as possible but as I’m 6,4 it’s needed to be roomy. Nothing really seemed to fit my desires. I took a gamble and ordered the TFS Enran 1 from China. It arrived very promptly and was obviously a high quality tent. I then took another gamble and didn’t pitch it until the first night of a Mountain Leader assessment. However it was nice and easy to pitch and happily a lot roomier than I was expecting. You do need trekking poles to keep the ends up but I carry them anyway. A high quality lightweight tent. https://tfstents.co.uk/products/enran-1
Rite in the Rain Notebook
While wondering about my 5th item it struck me that the one item that was with me most days in 2025 was my Rite in the Rain notebook. I use it for making notes of the birds or flowers I see while out working, for remembering book recommendations from clients, or snippets of random thoughts and strange doodles. The version I’ve been using is the No 374-M soft cover notebook. It’s a nice compact size for carrying in pockets while on the move. However the defining moment for me was when I accidentally put the notebook through the washing machine; not only did the notebook survive but all my writing and drawings survived as well. https://www.outside.co.uk/brands/p-s/rite-in-the-rain.html
Alex
Beyond the Edge Ltd is based in the Peak District, easily reached by train from London and within easy travelling distance from Sheffield, Manchester, Leeds, Nottingham and other Northern towns and cities.
We are one of the UKs most experienced providers of climbing, walking, scrambling, mountaineering and navigation training courses.
Most of our courses are run in the Peak District National Park which has some of the finest rock climbing, bouldering, walking and hiking in the world.
