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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Kate Carter

The great outdoors

Howies cycling bag
Howies messenger bag, £75
Buy online at Howies.co.uk

It's a frequently heard complaint that it's hard to find nice cycling gear - ethical or otherwise. But here's a great practical bag from Howies, with a print by illustrator Marcus Oakley, that's specifically designed for the toughest of cycling - but that would look equally at home on the back of a pub chair
Photograph: PR
Howies base layer
Long-sleeved base layer, £45
Buy online at Howies.co.uk

Howies merino base layers really are, if you'll forgive the pun, the ace of base. Tried and tested (by yours truly) for running and cycling in the most bitter of chilly spells, they're also great as a snug and cosy layer under your winter woollies. Be warned: they are habit forming
Photograph: PR
Patagonia T-shirt
Patagonia T-shirt, £23
Buy online at patagonia.com

In the optimistic hope that it'll soon be warm enough outdoors for just a T-shirt, here's a lovely print by artist Chris Del Moro in a cheerful colour - and 100% organic cotton. Perfect for a springtime walk in the warm April sun. Well, we can dream ...
Photograph: PR
Terra Plana VivoBarefoot shoes
Barefoot trainers, £75
Buy online at terraplana.com

The VivoBarefoot range is designed on the principle that walking barefoot is better for your health - you can read more about the principle here. Whatever the health benefits, the soles are incredibly light, flexible and thin - but also puncture resistant
Photograph: PR
Gossypium hooded top
Kimono-style top, £36
Buy online at gossypium.co.uk

Another top for those who prefer their exercise at a more sedate pace. Gossypium are excellent for organic cotton basics - white T-shirts and yogawear in particular
Photograph: PR
Veja trainers
Veja trainers, £60
Buy online at adili.com

A retro-design trainer for everyday wear, Veja trainers are made from organic cotton and wild rubber - both from Brazil
Photograph: PR
Patagonia waterproof
Waterproof jacket, £140
Buy online at patagonia.com

A rather more realistic purchase for the British outdoors, this shell jacket is made from 100% recycled polyester. It's waterproof, naturally, but also breathable, and the mesh lining wicks away moisture
Photograph: PR
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