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Tried & Tested: 5 summer walking boots
Tried & Tested: 5 summer walking boots
Whether you’re after waterproof walking, springy strolls or harder hikes and punishing treks, there are plenty of boots out there which will be a perfect fit this summer. Take a look at five we tried out, to help you put your best foot forward on a summer staycation. Berghaus Women’s Expeditor Trek 2.0 Boots (£99, tiso.com) Key features: No wearing in needed, thanks to super cushioning from the EVA midsoles and OrthoLite footbed. Their split suede upper, robust, grippy soles and all-round performance makes them good value for money. They were also the easiest boots to get on and off, with a wide entry point. Verdict: These snug-fitting – but comfy – walking boots pack a punch for the price and I did a five-miler straight from the box and didn’t suffer any ill effects around the toes or the ankles. They are reasonably lightweight and fairly generous width-wise, although I could feel a slight pinch point mid-foot by the end of the first walk, which evened out the more I used them. The grip is sufficient for tricky hills and they are also waterproof, although I suspect you won’t do the suede upper any good if you’re traipsing through boggy puddles. On the whole, a great all-rounder for the price. Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Mid Waterproof Walking Shoe (£90, columbiasportswear.co.uk) Key features: Their weight – just 290g. Their versatility and good looks mean they wouldn’t look out of place under jeans, if you’re doing a short amble with a stop-off at the pub, or some easy sightseeing en route. Verdict: These super-lightweight boots – which are actually billed as a walking shoe but have some ankle cushioning – are a cross between a sturdy trainer and a light walking boot. They have the comfortable springiness of a trainer – which is great for walking on dry ground – while the grip will hold you steady on more rocky terrain. They are waterproof, withstanding a bit of summer rain, but I wouldn’t be taking them into boggy winter conditions any time soon. They’re ideal for summer, when you don’t want heavy boots for meandering along easy country paths and green fields in the sunshine. Get a size up from your regular shoe fitting and you’ll do miles in total comfort. Helly Hansen W Switchback Trail Helly Tech (£120, hellyhansen.com) Key features: Their toe and heel caps keep your feet secure and protected, they’re fully waterproof and feel sturdy, despite being relatively light. Verdict: These are impressively sturdy boots considering how light they feel, definitely not an enhanced trainer but with an understated, stylish look, which would appeal to both younger and older walkers. During a 10-miler across mixed terrain, they had a sure grip providing stability on rocky, unstable downhill slopes, while the cushioning on super hard surfaces made you feel like you were walking on cotton wool. Get yourself a size up if you want to wear thick socks with them in the winter, but the spongy, comfortable materials used around the ankle and the tongue should assure you of a blister-free trek. Merrell Moab Speed Mid GORE-TEX (£135, merrell.com) Key features: The mid-sole has extra cushioning, which protects the balls of your foot, along with a ‘rockplate’ which helps reduce the impact of unforgiving sharp rocks or stones underfoot. Verdict: With a Gore-Tex lining you can count on, I yomped through muddy fields and shallow puddles and stayed dry – it’s worth paying an extra few quid for the knowledge you won’t be squelching in your boots. In our unpredictable British summers, though, you want plenty of breathability which these boots have in spades. After trying them out on a warm spring day in thin socks, my feet emerged as dry as a bone. Eco-warriors may be impressed with the 100% recycled laces, which didn’t feel flimsy, the recycled mesh lining and 30% recycled rubber in the outsole. AKU Alterra Mid GTX (£229.90, aku.it/en) Key features: The outer sole and impressive grip helps prevent you stumbling on rocky, uneven ground, while there’s excellent protection around the ankle, yet it still feels spongy and comfortable. Verdict: The Italian specialist brand Aku says these sturdy boots are designed for medium terrain and longer rambles over mixed ground, but these were by far the toughest boots, with such impressive grippy soles that I think they’re just as suitable for winter walks. They may be a little extravagant – and a bit heavier looking – for easier summer rambles, but if you’re a hardcore hiker with aims of climbing challenging peaks this summer, these are just the job. And right on cue, Aku has brought out a new lighter weight version of the same boot, so look out for the Alterra Lite Mid GTX. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Do I need to treat my garden furniture before storing it for winter? Prince William heads to New York for UN General Assembly climate week event London Fashion Week: Jourdan Dunn walks in emotional Richard Quinn show
2023-09-18 23:59
What is the fediverse — and how might it effect creators?
What is the fediverse — and how might it effect creators?
There are times in which it seems oh-so-obvious that tech bros love science-fiction movies. They're
2023-09-06 18:50
How to react kindly to people with Tourette’s – and what not to say
How to react kindly to people with Tourette’s – and what not to say
Although most people have heard of Tourette’s Syndrome, they often wrongly think it’s a rare condition that always involves involuntary swearing. But the reality of Tourette’s Syndrome (TS) is that it’s a complex, inherited neurological condition which only features involuntary swearing (coprolalia) in 10-20% of cases, and isn’t as rare as you might think – more than 300,000 children and adults live with it in the UK, according to the charity Tourettes Action. And a number of celebrities have opened up about their Tourette’s, including Lewis Capaldi, whose shoulder twitches because of the condition, and Billie Eilish, who has said she experiences tics like clicking her jaw and tensing her arm muscles. On Tourette’s Awareness Day (June 7), which takes place during Tourette’s Awareness Month (May 15-June 15), Tourettes Action wants to raise awareness that rather than involuntary swearing, the key features of TS are tics. These are involuntary and uncontrollable sounds and movements which can range from limb and head jerking, whistling, grinding teeth and clenching the jaw, to legs freezing, or involuntary jumping. Many people with the condition will also have co-occurring features and conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and anxiety. Also many experience pain because of their tics, often caused by repetitive involuntary actions such as hitting themselves, chewing the inside of their mouth, etc. During the awareness day and month, Tourettes Action is running the #ItsWhatMakesMeTic campaign in a bid to destigmatise Tourette’s by educating people and showing them the reality of living with the condition. “Research tells us that many people will experience discrimination because of their Tourette’s, and 75% of people will actively conceal their condition for fear of discrimination and people’s reactions towards them,” says Emma McNally, CEO of Tourettes Action. “People with Tourette’s often feel isolated and excluded because the level of awareness in society is so low.” One of the many things that can make life difficult for people with TS is the way others react to their tics, and McNally explains: “We also hear many people don’t know what they should say or how they should act towards someone with Tourette’s. It’s our goal to change that. We want to use Tourette’s Awareness Month to help raise awareness of the condition, to stop the stigma and enable people who live with Tourette’s to be fully included in society.” Here, McNally outlines the best ways for people to react when someone with Tourette’s tics… 1. Remember what comes out of their mouth isn’t what they’re thinkingAlthough 80-90% of people with TS don’t have involuntary verbal tics that make them swear or say inappropriate things, McNally stresses that whatever someone with verbal tics says isn’t connected to what they’re thinking. “Verbal tics aren’t a reflection of someone’s thoughts or emotions, so don’t take offence,” she advises. 2. Don’t draw attention to the tics If you notice someone ticcing, it’s best to be patient and not draw attention to them, says McNally. “By pretending not to see or hear the tics, you allow them to feel more at ease in social situations,” she explains. 3. Don’t make assumptions Some tics, for example, can take the form of frequent sniffing or clearing of the throat, explains McNally, and she stresses: “So do not assume that the person has a cold and thrust a tissue in their hand.” 4. It’s OK to laugh – if they areMcNally says if the tics are funny and the person ticcing finds them funny, then it’s OK to laugh, but she stresses: “Laugh with them, not at them.” 5. Ask questionsWhen interacting with someone who has Tourette’s, instead of making assumptions, ask them questions, suggests McNally. “It shows you care and want to understand. Just be sure to ask politely and at the right time, when they aren’t overwhelmed or in distress.” 6. Be understanding when they’re strugglingMany people with Tourette’s often need to suppress their tics for a while, or in certain situations, explains McNally. “So if they disappear, or take themselves out of the situation, be understanding and provide some sort of acknowledgement that you can see they’re struggling – a kind smile should do it.” 7. Don’t stare Think about how the person with Tourette’s may feel about your reaction, and don’t stare at them. “If you can’t ignore someone ticcing, just smile at them kindly – but not in a pitying way – to reassure them they’re not bothering you,” suggests McNally. 8. Take their lead & don’t fussMcNally explains that if someone with Tourette’s is clearly distressed and having a tic attack, it’s likely they won’t be able to interact with strangers and just need to get to a secure, quiet spot where they can let the tics go without fear of judgement. “Even well-intended questions or offers of support can sometimes actually make them feel worse,” she says, “so the best thing to do is to ask calmly if you can help them and then let them tell you what you can do. Otherwise, don’t fuss, be patient and give them space and privacy.”9. Don’t take photos Again, think how the person with Tourette’s will feel, and don’t film or take pictures of them, warns McNally, who points out: “As with any situation, you need someone’s permission to photograph them”. 10. Set a good example for kids If you’re with children, make sure they aren’t pointing or laughing, advises McNally, who adds: “Set the right example and explain the condition to them later.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live What to wear to Glastonbury this year Children’s attention span is ‘shorter than ever’ in the classroom, teachers say Nearly a third of primary schools have no male classroom teachers – study
2023-06-07 15:47
Unsettling timelapse shows wildfire smoke turning NYC orange
Unsettling timelapse shows wildfire smoke turning NYC orange
It looks like an apocalyptic movie. But it's real. New York's statewide weather network, which
2023-06-08 04:52
Splash out for this heritage tomato, fennel and dukkah salad
Splash out for this heritage tomato, fennel and dukkah salad
Make this in summer when the tomatoes are at their best,” suggests Imad Alarnab. “The better the tomato, the better this will taste, so splash out and get the good ones.” Heritage tomato, fennel and dukkah salad Serves: 2 as a main or 4 as a side Ingredients: 1 fennel bulb 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp za’atar 300g assorted heritage tomatoes, cut into chunks 2 tbsp good-quality extra virgin olive oil Grated zest and juice of ½ lemon 2 tbsp dukkah 150g soft goat’s cheese Small handful of fresh tarragon leaves Salt Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. 2. Cut the fennel bulb into 6-8 wedges, depending on how large your fennel is. Toss in the olive oil, za’atar and salt to taste, place on an oven tray and roast for 25-30 minutes until soft, slightly crisp and golden. Set aside to cool slightly. 3. Toss the tomatoes in a little salt and the extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, and dukkah. Roughly crumble the cheese and place on a large serving plate, followed by the roasted fennel and then the tomatoes. Finish with the tarragon leaves. Imad’s Syrian Kitchen by Imad Alarnab (HQ, £26). Read More The National Portrait Gallery’s new restaurant is fabulous upgrade The dish that defines me: Alex Outhwaite’s Vietnamese bun cha 3 TikTok-approved recipes for picnic season Imad Alarnab: In Calais’ Jungle refugee camp, food restored our faith It’s easier to make baklava at home than you might think Make this Middle Eastern lamb shoulder for your next Sunday roast
2023-07-19 21:19
Leigh-Anne Pinnock unveils the three wedding dresses she wore to marry Andre Gray in Jamaica
Leigh-Anne Pinnock unveils the three wedding dresses she wore to marry Andre Gray in Jamaica
Leigh-Anne Pinnock has offered fans a glimpse into her wedding to Andre Gray by sharing a set of exclusive photographs from their wedding album on Instagram. The couple got married in Jamaica on 3 June after six years together; they welcomed twins in August 2021. On Monday (31 July), the 31-year-old Little Mix star shared a series of photos alongside the caption: “03/06/23 I married my soul mate.” The first snap showed Pinnock and Gray kissing at the alter on the beach. Others showed them walking down the aisle hand in hand with the ocean behind them. Pinnock also posted photos of herself with her bridesmaids getting ready for the ceremony, with four of them holding up her skirt as she turned away from the camera. In another post, Pinnock shared photographs of her and Gray walking into their reception dinner holding hands. The two are then seen dancing together and posing later on in the night. “More wedding SPAM incomingggg [sic],” Pinnock captioned the post. The posts reveal that Pinnock and Gray each wore several outfits on the night. For Pinnock, the first gown was an embellished Princess-style gown with a full tulle skirt and an ivory bodice that featured a corset-style top with mesh sleeves. The gown also featured a long train with the words: “We’ve crossed the line”. Gray, who plays football for Greek club Aris, wore a white suit jacket with black trousers for the ceremony, which he then followed with a black waistcoat, black trousers, and white shirt for the reception. For her second outfit, Pinnock chose a silver fishtail gown with a plunging neckline and an open back. Finally, the musician changed into a mesh gown that featured corset-stye boning with a sheer overlay that had a slit up to her thigh. The photos come after Pinnock announced that she is set to release her first memoir. The singer, who performed with Little Mix from 2011 to 2022, shared a video to Instagram on Monday (17 April) announcing her autobiography. In the clip, Pinnock can be seen sipping a cup of tea and reading from the book, before explaining that the memoir is “so special to me”. “I hope you guys love it as much as I do,” she said. “Ever since we won The X Factor back in 2011, I feel like I’ve been in a whirlwind,” she captioned the video. “I’ve had some life-changing moments that up until now, I’ve never really had the chance to process. “Maya Angelou once said, ‘You can’t really know where you are going until you know where you have been’ so with this in mind and before I embark on this new journey, I want to respect my past; my life, my heritage, family, identity and most importantly, embracing & believing in my own power.” Believe will be released on 26 October. Read More Sex and The City author Candace Bushnell once dated a 21-year-old and a 91-year-old in the same week Neelam Gill confirms whether she is dating Leonardo DiCaprio Real Housewives star Teresa Giudice calls Sofia Vergara the ‘rudest woman’ she has ever met Eva Mendes shows dress made out of sponges as she jokes it’ll be her Oscars outfit Christina Aguilera stuns fans with mind-bending purse skirt Fans are obsessed with George RR Martin’s pink Barbie outfit
2023-08-02 18:47
46 gifts everyone should have on their birthday wish list
46 gifts everyone should have on their birthday wish list
Getting excited about birthday presents is not just for kids. You can be a grown-ass
2023-05-20 17:51
Deadly floods hit China's major grain-producing region, fueling food security concerns
Deadly floods hit China's major grain-producing region, fueling food security concerns
Days of heavy rain have caused severe flooding in China's leading grain-producing region in the northeast, killing 14 people and raising concerns about food security as floodwater inundated farmlands.
2023-08-07 15:53
Snag a huge discount on 'Assassin's Creed Valhalla,' plus more Xbox deals ahead of Black Friday 2023
Snag a huge discount on 'Assassin's Creed Valhalla,' plus more Xbox deals ahead of Black Friday 2023
UPDATE: Nov. 1, 2023, 1:00 p.m. EDT This article has been has been updated with
2023-11-02 01:57
Tara Lipinski recalls moment she discovered her baby didn't have a heartbeat after 5-year infertility battle
Tara Lipinski recalls moment she discovered her baby didn't have a heartbeat after 5-year infertility battle
'And just the look on her face when she said, 'I'm sorry, there's no fetal heartbeat,' said Tara Lipinski on her podcast
2023-09-08 21:48
The best headphone deals to score before Prime Day
The best headphone deals to score before Prime Day
Prime Day is approaching fast, so if you're looking for new headphones, now's the time
2023-10-05 03:26
NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for October 19
NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for October 19
Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The
2023-10-19 10:28