Ive lost count of all the kit that i have bought over the many years Ive ventured in the hills, most of it languishes in my wardrobe, an impulse buy, because it looked nice in the shop, and i had money burning away in my pocket.
I still think about that lovely little blue cotton Mountain Equipment jacket, that i accidentally left on a seat in the old Clough Williams Ellis, Snowdon cafe, in the late 1980s.
It was a gift from my late father, when holidaying in Edinburgh back in 1977, and during the summer months, was my chosen bit of clothing, simply because it was so comfortable, and shrugged off the passing rain showers with ease, and dried quickly when wet.
The same goes for my Freestyle Trousers, which i bought in Up and Under outdoors in Cowbridge Rd in Cardiff in 1979, the shop closed long ago.
Those trousers have survived numerous Challenge walks, including my gallant attempt on a LDWA Hundred, which ended bravely at Mile 70, simply because their superb trousers, perfectly cut for walking, and dry very quickly.
Only my ancient Silva Compass, has survived as long as those strides.
Those of you new to walking, or thinking of a bit of functional kit, that will still be with you, when your grey and receding, pop into any Rohan store, and try on a pair of their cotton trousers.
Personal choice i know, but correct legwear is very important, and Rohan Bags could be a fine investment.