Pat Kinsella
Outdoor writer and gear reviewer
Pat is the author of numerous books about the outdoors, including: 100 Great Pub Walks (National Trust) | Devon - 40 Coast and Country Walks | Dorset: 40 Coast and Country Walks | Caving, Canyoning, Coasteering: 30 exhilarating adventures around Britain
Recent articles by Pat Kinsella
Best fleeces for men and women tested for 2024: our ultimate guide to the must-have midlayer
Looking to beat the chill, or in need of a new midlayer? We review the best fleeces on the market.
We tested the best waterproof jackets for men and women so you can hike in comfort in 2024
Keep the rain firmly out whatever the conditions with a waterproof jacket we've tested in the elements.
Best waterproof backpacks reviewed in 2024 for rainy hikes and wet-weather adventures
The best backpacks for wet-weather and aquatic adventures – great for walkers, hikers, cyclists, trail-runners, kayakers and stand-up paddle-boarders
Best walking poles tested in 2024: hiking poles for all abilities
Walking poles for casual country rambles and longer treks
British animal war heroes: We pay tribute to the brave animals that served alongside our troops in times of conflict
Discover Britain’s non-human war heroes
Best walking shoes tested in 2024 for men and women: stroll, ramble and hike in comfort
Finding the best walking shoes for you can be a challenge. So, to help you out, we've reviewed some of the best hiking shoes on the market, from traditional leather options to lightweight and affordable choices.
The spooky origins of Halloween that will send shivers down your spine!
Discover the rich folklore, haunting traditions, and how this celebration connects us to the spirit world.
Best camping chairs in 2024 – tested and reviewed
A comfortable and portable seat is an essential piece of kit for camping, festivals, picnics, relaxing on the beach or fishing on riverbanks. Here's our pick of the best collapsible and folding chairs around in 2024
Parkland Walk: a wildlife-rich green corridor from Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace in North London
Wander along London’s longest linear nature reserve from Finsbury Park to Highgate. Want to make a full day of it? Continue on through ancient woodlands to the iconic bastion of Alexandra Palace.
Bushy Park walk: a dreamy five-mile stroll through some of London's most cherished breathing spaces
Experience three of London's greatest landmarks – the River Thames, Hampton Court Park and Bushy Park – on this easy circular walk through England's capital city.
Arrochar to Tarbet walk, Scotland
A beautiful 5-mile circular walk from the north end of Loch Long to the western shores of mighty Loch Lomond in Scotland.
Avebury walk, Wiltshire
Explore Avebury Stone Circles, Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow on this 5.4-mile walk through Wiltshire's rolling countryside
Avebury: visit the world's largest stone circle
Set deep in the picturesque countryside of Wiltshire, Avebury boasts the largest stone circle in the world. Visit this incredible site and unravel the mysteries surrounding the monoliths, walk among them, explore nearby Avebury Manor, Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow, then round the day off with a well-deserved drink in the Red Lion pub...
Scarpa Rush TRK GTX hiking boots
You're after a pair of walking boots that can handle tough hill walks, but also feel light and nimble on short lowland walks. Scarpa's Rush TRK could fit the bill, says gear tester Pat Kinsella
Arc'teryx Beta jacket: reviewed
It may be handsome and lightweight, but does the Arc'teryx Beta jacket live up to its price tag? Pat Kinsella tests it in real conditions to find out.
Quechua MH500 Waterproof jacket review
Looking for a brilliant value jacket with all the features of a premium investment? The Quechua MH500 might just be for you, finds Pat Kinsella
Nobis Huron Anorak review
The Nobis Huron anorak looks chic, and costs a pretty penny – but how does it perform in the hills? Our expert reviewer Pat Kinsella puts it to the test.
Thrudark Raid Jacket review
This highly technical jacket offers much with its premium price tag. But does it deliver on the trail? Our expert reviewer Pat Kinsella finds out
Alpkit Sigma rain jacket review
Alpkit's mid-range Sigma rain jacket has much to commend it, but how reliable is it in extreme conditions? Our expert reviewer Pat Kinsella puts it to the test.
Haglöfs L.I.M ZT Trek GTX Pro Jacket Men
You want a waterproof jacket that will protect you from severe weather in the hills – and you're prepared to pay for the best. Does the LIM Trek GTX match your expectations? Pat Kinsella finds out
Berghaus Glissade and Cornice Interactive waterproof jackets reviewed
No-nonsense, waterproof and relatively affordable – what's not to like about Berghaus's Glissade and Cornice rain jackets, asks Pat Kinsella
Klättermusen Asynja waterproof jacket reviewed
At only 347g, you barely know you're wearing Swedish gear maker Klättermusen's Asynja jacket. But can it really cope with wet weather? Pat Kinsella puts the jacket to the test.
Sprayway Reaction Jacket tested and reviewed
This Gore-Tex jacket comes at a competitive price – but how does it perform when you're out in the elements? Pat Kinsella trail-tests the Sprayway Reaction waterproof jacket
Rab Arc Eco Waterproof Jacket reviewed
Fully recycled fabrics will attract eco-conscious walkers to Rab's Arc Eco waterproof jacket, but does it perform well in the great outdoors? Pat Kinsella tested one for you – and here is his verdict
