Yes, spring has most definitely sprung, the weather is improving and the pollen count is high. Yay. Well, at least the spring offers the opportunity to update your wardrobe, now that those thick winter coats have been consigned to storage. And so, here are some new clothing items that have recently caught our eye.
Forclaz Travel 100 3-in-1 Jacket
As we've said before, we like stuff that can also be other stuff. That is why we lead with this versatile jacket from Decathlon. The Forclaz Travel 100 is actually two jackets in one. Well, three technically. The outer layer is tough, waterproof polymide canvas, complete with hood, while the detachable inner layer is soft, insulating fleece.
Uniquely, the inner layer attaches to the outer via one continuous zip, meaning it is very secure and feels like one jacket when combined. The benefits of the Forclaz Travel 100 is that you can adapt to the current weather, which tends to be volatile during the spring. Combine both on a cold, wet day, ditch the outer layer on a dry day, or go outer only when it's warm but drizzly. Good price, too.
£49.99
Available from www.decathlon.co.uk
Helly Hansen Odin Stretch Hooded Jacket
Back with another jacket from Norway's Helly Hansen - the brand that knows a thing or two about keeping warm. This time it's the Odin Stretch Hooded Jacket, a super-lightweight insulated top or mid layer that is, as you'd expect, stretchy.
This thing is damn comfy, and provides not only warmth thanks to the Primaloft Gold Active insulation, but also a soft and pleasurable feeling due to the soft-touch fabric. This is the perfect jacket for a so-so spring day, when it's still a tad chilly, but you know you could take it off and roll up the jacket to stuff in your pack. And seriously, you'll want to wear this around the house, too. It's V. snugly. There's a professional opinion for you.
£180
Available from www.hellyhansen.com
Weird Fish Nairn 1/4 Zip Striped Sweatshirt
We bloody love Weird Fish. As we detailed here, their stuff is always of exceptional quality and has the kind of laid-back style that we humble tech testers drool over. This time round they were kind enough to send over one of their latest; the Nairn 1/4 Zip Striped Sweatshirt. We thought it epitomised spring apparel by being both insulating and cool at the same time.
Featuring a 1/4 length button-up next with elongated collar, the 'rugger' style sweatshirt is made from 100% soft cotton and is the perfect thing to throw over a t-shirt when heading out - both into the country and down to the coffee shop. We love the details like the Weird Fish embroidered logo on the chest, and the partially split hem. And, of course, the colour is ideal for a bright spring morning. Once again, the price is too low to be believed.
£55
Available from www.weirdfish.co.uk
Cafe du Cyclyst Suzette Rain Jacket
As we're big on the old cycling here at The Test Pit, we wanted to mention this sexy little French number. The Suzette is a tough yet thin cycling jacket especially design to protect against rain; something you encounter lots of when cycling in the spring. And it's yellow. Look at it.
The Suzette is made from polymide and features taped seams. It's breathable, exceptionally light, and comes in a classic figure-hugging cyclist cut, reducing wind resistance. The back hem is dropped for comfort while cycling, and the whole thing is coated with rip-stop material to boost the ruggedness. Plus, we think it looks the business.
£223
Available from www.cafeducycliste.com
Quechua MH500 Mens Walking Shoes
These hardy shoes, also from Decathlon, are great for pounding both pavements and tracks this spring. Waterproof, and with Evofit technology, they've been designed to maintain a level of foot comfort that will see you happy trekking all the way across a mountain range and back (or just wandering down to Nandos for some chicken. Whatevs).
The trainer-style cut means those of us who aren't fond of high-ankle walking boots might prefer them, and the rubber grip means business all round. They are very comfortable, and the sole feels squishy enough to keep your plates of meat happy, but firm enough to let you feel where you're treading. However, the most striking thing about them is the price. Cheers Decathlon.
£49.99
Available from www.decathlon.co.uk