A couple of months ago, I was hiking up Snowdon and I was thinking to myself, you know what the world needs? Hiking leggings.
Often in the UK, it's too cold to hike in shorts and most outdoor trousers are khaki green, baggy and frankly not something I want to spend £50 on.
I live in leggings. Leggings are great for running and yoga - someone should make a pair for hiking.
Then I came across Bowndling. They had already answered my prayers with their strapline 'hiking needs beautiful clothing'. I couldn't agree more.
Designed in the UK and made in Italy, these sweat-wicking leggings were not only perfect for hiking but they were made ethically in the EU. One per cent of every item bought goes towards environmental and wildlife protection.
My sister & I hiked up Hangman's Hill in North Devon, the highest sea cliff in England, to put them to the test - and they were perfect. Very comfortable and breathable. The elasticity of the lycra means you stretch over stiles and clamber over rocks without worrying the material is going to split.
The matching merino vest works well because it's long enough to cover your bottom and again is made from sweat wicking material. The only thing I would say is you need to think about which bra you wear with it - if you don't want your straps to show, go for a racer back.
They are definitely pricey - but when you feel the quality of the material, you'll see why.
I've since worn them to beach BBQs, on windy cliff top walks, even just down to the shops. I think it's pretty clear I've fallen in love.
You can buy the Bowndling Quest Leggings in black (£79) and the Four Season Merino Tank Top in cream (£49) from the Bowndling website.