With the steady shift of seasons, our gear should adapt too. Meet Becky Marlow, Gear Specialist at our Liverpool store, as she shares stories from her thrilling mountain adventures in Scotland. Uncover the essential gear that keeps her warm, dry and comfortable and learn why the right fitting gear is essential to enjoying your time outdoors.  

I had this amazing customer who was tackling the National Three Peaks challenge. I've climbed two of the three mountains myself, so it was a fantastic opportunity to provide them with expert advice and gear to help them achieve their goal. 

I focused on ensuring they had the right footwear and a proper layering system. As they say, there's no such thing as bad weather, just poor gear choices! We chatted for over two hours, ensuring they felt fully equipped and confident for the adventure ahead. 

After completing the challenge, they returned to the store, thanking me for all the help and advice. It was such a fulfilling experience to see them succeed and know that I played a part in their accomplishment. 

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One of my most essential piece of gear is the Patagonia Macro Puff jacket. It's truly a game-changer. It's lightweight and packable and performs like a down jacket when it comes to retaining heat. I've thrown it on at the top of many summits, providing much-needed warmth and protection against the elements. 

What's even more impressive is its versatility. The Macro Puff jacket excels not only as an outer layer but also as a mid-layer. Its synthetic insulation works wonders, making it an excellent choice for staying cosy and comfortable when the temperatures dip

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My Arc’teryx waterproof jacket has been a reliable companion since your university days, withstanding various conditions. it has kept me dry in harsh conditions and stood up to all my scrambling adventures. Maintaining my Arc'teryx waterproof jacket and ensuring its longevity is super important, so I have a few secret gear care tips to keep it in play. 

After every adventure, I wash it with Nikwax Tech Wash Green to remove any dirt, grime, or sweat that might have accumulated. This not only keeps it clean but also helps maintain its breathability. 

Once it's clean, I follow up with Nikwax TX. Direct Purple to reproof the jacket. This step is crucial for enhancing its waterproofing capabilities, ensuring it keeps me dry even in the harshest conditions. 

The best part about using Nikwax is that it's gentle on the jacket, with no harsh chemicals that could harm the waterproofing or the fabric. This way, I know my Arc'teryx jacket is getting the care it deserves, and I can rely on it for countless more scrambling adventures to come. 

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Absolutely, finding the right fit is crucial for a successful outdoor adventure. With different styles to suit everyone's body shape, I've personally found that Arc’teryx and Patagonia are the perfect brands for me. Their fit matches my body shape, keeping me comfy wherever I go.  

Feeling at ease in your outdoor gear is essential, and having stretchy fabrics adds to that comfort. With the freedom to move effortlessly, you'll feel more comfortable overall, making your outdoor experience even more enjoyable. 

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Having the wrong gear can impact your day and mood on multiple levels. When it comes to hiking in the UK, being fully prepared is a must. A correct layering system is essential to keep you comfortable and protected from changeable weather.  

So, instead of relying on one big layer, opt for multiple. This way, if you start to feel warm during your hike, you can easily shed to regulate body temperature. The mountains love to throw surprises, and it's better to be over-prepared than caught off guard! 

Feeling confident in your gear is crucial. Knowing you have the right gear for your hike brings peace of mind, no matter what weather conditions you encounter.  It gives you the freedom to embrace the adventure without worry.

For my cooler-weather hikes, my go-to is the Arc'teryx Atom LT. It's a fantastic mid-layer, providing great warmth while being lightweight and breathable. The helmet-compatible hood is a game-changer on challenging days when safety equipment might be required. It's all about striking the perfect balance between functionality and comfort. 

Ultimately, choosing the right gear is an investment in your overall experience. When you're well-prepared, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and challenges of the mountains, knowing you have the tools to conquer any obstacle that comes your way. 

I love exploring the outdoors with my close friends. Having trust in each other and working as a team to tackle any obstacles is crucial. It's awesome to go out with some of my friends who are experienced mountain leaders - we know we can handle challenging situations safely. Plus, I really value the social aspect of enjoying breathtaking views with close friends - it adds an extra perk to our adventures.