Outdoor Gear We’re Lusting After – The Outdoor Edit Autumn 2026
As we head into September and the first hints of Autumn make themselves known, we’ve scoured our favourite brands (and some that are new-to-us) to bring you our pick of the best outdoor gear to see you through the coming season.
Summer is the time when most of us spend more time than ever outdoors, but personally, camping aside, it’s my least favourite time of year for hiking. Trails are crowded and it’s almost impossible to carry enough water to see you through a full day of hill walking. Add the heatwaves we experienced this year here in the UK, and big day hikes are generally much less about fun, becoming more of an endurance activity.
For this reason, late autumn in particular carries far more appeal than the height of summer, and it’s when my own activities switch from lazy campsite weekends to more active pursuits. If, like me, you love spending time outdoors in autumn, here’s the latest gear to tempt you into an upgrade.
From walking boots to snuggly sherpa fleeces, this is the gear we’re lusting after this season.
Autumn Outdoor Gear We’re Lusting After
Keen Men’s Targhee Apex Waterproof Hiking Boot
If you’re looking for hiking boots that score high on comfort straight out the box, the Keen Targhee Apex deserves a look. Featuring a roomy toe box and lighter, high-rebound foam that absorbs impact for a responsive ride.
Columbia Helvetia™ II Cropped Sherpa Fleece
The Helvetia fleece delivers year after year and has consistently made it into our seasonal round-ups for several years running, and for good reason. It’s the perfect extra layer, great value, faultless quality and there’s always new colours and patterns to love. Check out my Columbia Helvetia Cropped Fleece review.
Montane Men’s Khamsin Lite Hooded Softshell Jacket
The Montaine Khamsin Lite hoodie is a highly versatile softshell jacket that can be worn as a standalone outer or as a mid-layer. It’s lightly insulated with a 2-way stretch, durable and breathable outer fabric, built for exceptional moisture management and thermoregulation.
Flower Mountain YAMANO 3
This Yamano 3 trainer is what Japanese brand Flower Mountain is all about. It’s a panelled trainer that borrows its chunky ultra-light rubber sole, two-tone trekking laces and rugged profile from hiking footwear, but dresses that functionality up with striking colourways and premium fabric combos.
The North Face Terra Peak Women’s Jacket
The Terra Peak delivers wearable warmth without the bulk of a traditional puffer. TNF’s ThermoBall synthetic insulation retains warmth even when wet, while the Pertex Quantum shell adds structure and abrasion resistance.
Passenger Men’s Set Off Polar 1/4 Zip Fleece 2.0
Passenger really do know how to make a good fleece, and this is no exception. This is mid-layer designed for year-round outdoor adventures and everyday comfort delivering excellent warmth, breathability and quick-drying performance without unnecessary bulk.
Tog24 Ellon Waterproof Jacket
This is a jacket designed for changeable weather, making it ideal for autumn. Fully waterproof, windproof and breathable, it keeps you dry and comfortable without feeling heavy or restrictive.
Jack Wolfskin Icecape 3-in-1 Down Jacket
It’s the colour of the down puffer jacket for me, but the fact this jacket is a complete 3 in 1 layering system is the clincher. This is the perfect jacket to see you through the colder months with ease, from the trail to everyday urban wear.
Sorel Callsign Horizon™ Low Sneaker
I love a chunky sneaker and the Callsign Horizon from Sorel is perfection as far as I’m concerned. There’s super-soft cushioning paired with a heritage design, resulting in a versatile sneaker that you can throw on with anything.
Jack Wolfskin Rotwand Hoodie
This is the perfect snuggle fleece for chilly days at the campsite or out walking. It’s a simple hooded fleece with stretch side panels for a sleek, feminine silhouette and practical zipped pockets, available in a variety of colours.
Columbia Men’s Powder Keg™ Down Gilet
Engineered for chilly commutes and weekend wanders, this men’s down vest combines 700 fill power RDS certified down with Omni-Heat™ Infinity thermal-reflective lining to trap warmth where you need it most.
Women’s Berghaus Exped Essential Long Sleeve Tee – Chakra/Pale Chakra
This 100% cotton long sleeved tee features expedition symbol sleeve graphics and comes in three different colours, ideal for layering for autumn walks and camping trips.
The North Face Thermoball Traction Mule Knit
Perfect for autumn camping and glamping trips, we’re loving the new colourways on offer this season. Easy to slip-on for toilet block visits or to do a quick guy rope check, these will keep your feet toasty warm, while the outsole handles slippery surfaces
Craghoppers National Trust Sweetgrass Jacket
The bestselling Sweetgrass Hooded Jacket is designed as a warm, easy‑wear layer for time spent outdoors, and we love this new ultramarine colourway. Worn, this jacket is cosy and water‑repellent with a relaxed and comfortable feel.
Arc’teryx Men’s Emblem Fleece Jogger
Arc’teryx’s Men’s Emblem Fleece Jogger is built for cool-weather bouldering and resting between sessions. Made from heavyweight cotton-blend fleece with organic cotton, they’re warm and comfy without excess bulk.
Craghoppers Men’s Stuo Insulating Jacket
Designed for reliable cold‑weather comfort, the Stuo Jacket combines a tough triple‑ripstop outer with a soft borg lining for warmth and protection. Lightweight and easy to wear, with simple pocketing and elasticated finishes. A practical winter layer for everyday outdoor use.
Tog24 Joyce Women’s Supersoft Crew Neck Striped Sweatshirt
Toasty and supersoft, this jumper has a relaxed fit and dropped shoulders making it ideal for all-day wear. It’s also great for layering, and easy to pair with a t-shirt or a waterproof jacket when even the weather forecast can’t guess the temperature.
