Ok so after a Summer of heatwaves where we adapted our walking routes and clothing accordingly. Autumn is now here and we are being told to expect more extreme weather of the wetter variety!

So it is important to not get complacent, because as the old saying goes….. it never rains but it pours!

If there is one thing worth carrying, its a fully waterproof poncho – easy to pop on over whatever you are wearing (including your backpack) and airy enough to not make you overheat on those warmer wet days. It’s also long enough to cover the top of the legs and direct rain away from lower legs too.

We tested the Mac in a sac poncho in monsoon conditions and loved its versatility. We stayed dry and cool whilst also protecting our valuables and other kit. As it packs away into a tiny lightweight bag, it’s simply madness to not have one at the ready for when the heavens open!

There are a range of colourways on offer from Khaki to a trendy grey marl

Click HERE to see the range

If you prefer to wear a waterproof jacket (like the beautiful Ultraviolet one that has just landed) – A firm favourite with the HQ team because its lightweight but breathable, you can layer up underneath and pack away into its little carry sac when not retired.

With a shorter jacket you might also need to think about protecting the legs and thats where the lightweight packable over trousers come in. We have teamed up with Mac in a Sac for a usual range of waterproofs and these are easy to pull on and keep you perfectly dry.

When walking through puddles and wet grass, waterproof shoes are the best but water can still run into them from the tops. That’s where gaitors come in. Pop them on and clip round your shoes or boots for immediate protection from wet mud and even the dreaded ticks! the drawstring top ensures they fit all calves and can be adapted for use with trainers and walking boots.

They keep lower legs, socks, trousers and shoe uppers dry and even mud free! They are really lightweight and ideal for keeping in your pack ready for those wet days we all moaned about so much last winter!

Finally, take a minute to pop your valuables into a dry bag or waterprooof phone case if you intend to spend any time in the great outdoors!

Not just ideal if it rains but also if you drop them into puddle or even fancy a dip en route! The dry bags come in a handy 2 litre one for smaller valuables and 15 litre one which is perfect for keeping layers dry.

They have a roll top and tough closure clip designed to stop water ingress. Phone cases also come in two sizes and enable you to operate the touch screen. An optional neck cord is a handy addition too

One final thing you may need to keep to dry either in a rainstorm or even after one if you need a sit down and the seats are wet!

Yes there’s nothing worse than a wet behind after a stop for a sit down on a walk. Thats why we stock a range of portable sit mats from luxury hand made roll up ones with a waterproof backing or lightweight hiker mats with more padding. Choose one to suit your backside and sit down in comfort whatever the weather.

Be ready when the rain comes and enjoy every step with the right kit ( we’ve got you covered – literally in the case of the poncho).

Don’t  forget that poorer weather also brings poorer visibility so make sure you have a lightweight headtorch in your bag for misty days and darker evenings too

This one is a MUST at only £19.99 as it is rechargeable via a USB cable and has a large reflective band and LED strip to both illuminate ahead or you and let others know you are there too.

Another unique feature is the optional high beam torch that sits to the side of the head – making it much better when talking to others without causing them to squint!

Take a minute to get your Autumn kit to make sure you continue to enjoy your walking whatever the conditions.