A woman in a bright red anorak laughs with a friend while pouring a hot drink from a green stanley thermos

Our Top Outdoor Autumn Essentials

Autumn. Full of crunchy leaf-lined trails, crisp, clear days, the calls of rutting deer and birdsong, and the allure of a hearty pub lunch at the end of a day out exploring golden-hued hills.

 

We all know that in Britain, our weather can be anything but predictable. As the temperature begins to drop and the nights lengthen, ensuring you have the appropriate weatherproof layers, footwear, and thermal kit for the new autumnal changes in weather and conditions can be vital to your performance and enjoyment while exploring the outdoors with friends and family. So, whether the sun is shining, clouds are forming, or that first bite of winter begins to draw in, it's important to take the time to make sure your kit adapts to the changing climate with you.

 

Here at Cotswold Outdoor, we know that all of us are happier when we're outdoors. With a little help from our in-store experts, we've compiled an essential kit list containing our favourite autumn outdoor essentials. With clothing, accessories, and equipment from some of the best technical outdoor brands around, let us help make that early morning dog walk, commute to work, or weekend spent exploring blustery coasts that little bit more comfortable this season. Wrap up, lace your boots, and grab the thermos. It's time to fall in love with the outdoors this autumn.

Baselayers made for layering up, and down


ICEBREAKER

Icebreaker - Our Expert's Favourite Gear - 1

ICEBREAKER - Our Expert's Favourite Gear

Full of colours and styles to suit all adventures, Icebreaker creates layering pieces inspired by nature and time spent outdoors. High performing from head to toe, Icebreaker specializes in providing more sustainable clothing made from natural fibres like Merino wool and Tencel in their Cool-Lite fabrics, meeting their criteria for sheep welfare and the ‘Five Freedoms of the Lambs.’

 

Easy to wash and wear and incredibly comfortable next to skin with zero itch - these layering pieces are perfect for the transitional fall weather. Natural fibres provide an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and are adaptable to all conditions. They work hard to regulate your body temperature and microclimate and are incredibly lightweight for easy pack-and-go on multi-day adventures and within multi-layering systems. Ideal for warm and cool climates and high-tempo activities such as hiking, climbing, skiing, and more. These natural materials are breathable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and odour-resistant. Basically, they're outdoor-proof.

 

If you're seeking a good starting piece, why not check out the Icebreaker Sphere II Tees? Made from Icebreaker's renowned Cool-Lite Tencel and Merino wool blend, these T-shirts come in at an ultra-lightweight 100g for women, and 134g for men, with short and long-sleeve options. With split hem sides for ventilation and mobility and offset seams to stop gathering and friction under a pack or harness – these tees are ideal for all manner of outdoor activities. A drop-tail hem provides welcome coverage when wearing leggings, and the more relaxed fit provides incredible comfort. With a broad range of layers for a list of high-output activities, you don’t have to compromise with Icebreaker.




FJÄLLRÄVEN - Greenland Jeans

Fjallraven Greenland Jeans - Men's Expert Review - 1

FJÄLLRÄVEN Greenland Jeans - Men's Expert Review

If you're someone looking for more casual-styled hiking pants that can still take on the rigours of the outdoors while looking just as at home sat tackling a Sunday roast down the pub, then the Fjällräven Greenland Jeans may be the trousers for you. Ideal for multi-day treks, days spent with family and friends by the lakes and in the hills, fishing by the riverside, or everyday trips into town. These casual jeans are perfectly designed and versatile enough to tackle anything you throw at them.

 

Functional, casual, and stylish. The Fjällräven Greenland Jeans are packed with everything you need for autumn days spent outside enjoying nature. Constructed using Fjällräven's own iconic, ultra-durable G1000 fabric with a PFC-free Durable Water Repellence (DWR) finish, these trousers are durable, quick-drying, protective, and incredibly wind and water-resistant – perfect for the fells, lakes, and Scottish peaks. The G1000 fabric uses a wonderfully breathable and lightweight blend of recycled polyester and organic cotton, perfect for those seeking for a more eco-conscious option. And when you edge into the winter and spring, and the rain starts pouring, you can even impregnate them with the Fjällräven Greenland wax for a little added reinforcement against showers and storms.

 

The articulated knees and gusseted crotch provide comfortable freedom of movement, ideal for scrambles over rocks and walls. Plenty of pockets also allow plenty of versatile use, whether you're tackling a multi-day trek or looking for an everyday walking pant that provides an excuse to leave the pack in the car. Two large hand pockets with an inner coin pocket are a safe haven for hands and loose change. Around the back, two large drop-ins give space for a wallet or mid-walk snack, and upfront, a large lower-leg map pocket provides a welcome space for a compass, phone, or a pack of fishing lures while out by the riverside. The only trouble you'll have is planning the next adventure to take them on.




AYACUCHO - Yoho Fleece Shirt

Ayacucho Yoho Shirt - Women's Expert Review - 1

AYACUCHO Yoho Fleece Shirt - Women's Expert Review

For those looking for something a bit more every day that can still take on the rigours of the outdoors alongside heading into town for a coffee with friends, there’s Ayacucho’s Yoho Fleece Shirt. Modern, cozy, and casual, Ayacucho’s Yoho Fleece Shirt comes in a lofted synthetic fleece that’s as easy to layer up with a jacket and beanie as it is to layer down by itself when things start to heat up.

 

The Yoho Shirt is built for autumn leaf-lined forest walks and hikes as much as for relaxing with a book beside the fireplace at home. It is made from fully recycled polyester with a lofted, thermally efficient outer and smooth and sleek inner with an incredibly cozy next-to-skin feel that delivers zero itchiness. A set of adaptable poppers through the centre, at the sleeves, and on the pockets makes this a versatile overlayer with a relaxed, stylish collar for those perfect cozy autumn vibes. The chest pockets with poppers provide a safe place to pop cards or a key, with a drop-down hem at the rear to provide perfect coverage that won’t ramp up under a pack or coat.

 

For men, there’s also the Ayacucho Heavy Flannel Shirt. With buttons instead of poppers and full super-soft cotton outer, but with the same cozy, polyester fleece inner as the Yoho. A shirt that looks as at home having a drink at the holiday lodge with friends as it does cresting the chilly hills around camp at sunset. Whatever your next adventure, Ayacucho has the shirt to match.




PATAGONIA - Pack Out Hike Tights

Patagonia Packout Tights - Women's Expert Review - 1

PATAGONIA Pack Out Hike Tights - Women's Expert Review

Ready to be packed in or out of your rucksack are the Patagonia Women’s Pack Out Tights. Versatile, fully mobile and ultra-lightweight at just 303g, these leggings are ideal for everything from casual days spent with family and friends, trail runs across the forest floor, and days hiking in the hills.

 

Easy to throw in a backpack for multiday hikes and travel, there’s nothing these incredible hiking pants aren’t good at. Ideal for those seeking something more eco-conscious, these tights are part of our Our Planet range and built from an 87% recycled polyester and 13% spandex blend. This super soft mix gives the leggings breathable durability, with four-way stretch for high exertion activities and exercise. Lower down, 85% recycled nylon and 15% recycled spandex patches across the front and rear knees provide incredible abrasion resistance for added protection when kneeling or scrambling. There are even quick-drying, moisture-wicking inset panels to tackle perspiration as you clock the miles. And when the clouds turn grey overhead, these tights are also outfitted with a PFC-Free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish for dependable water repellence you can rely on day in and day out. 

 

For additional features, the flat seam construction ensures unrestricted movement and comfort alongside a gusseted crotch for zero chafe. A ribbed waistband gives the wearer a durable, secure fit that reduces abrasion while carrying a pack. As for pockets, two deep side pockets give you enough room for a phone and gels, and a zippered security pocket at the rear is great for a key or card. With all this and more, these leggings really do come equipped with everything you need to tackle the outdoors this fall. So, whether you’re travelling light or bringing a whole host of gear on your back, backed by Patagonia’s Iron Clad guarantee for a lifetime of repair and replacement, do something good for the planet this autumn and get a hiking partner you can more than rely on.




Get cozy and embrace the midlayer


MONTANE - Protium Fleece Hoodie

Montane Protium Fleece Hoodie - Women's Expert Review - 1

MONTANE Protium Fleece Hoodie - Women's Expert Review

The ideal layering piece for summer’s last hot transitional days and autumn’s crisp beginning, the Montane Protium Fleece Hoodie is perfect for all conditions and activities. Fantastic over a synthetic or merino wool tee, the Montane Protium Fleece Hoodie has elastane for stretch and an extremely lightweight Thermo Grid polyester fleece for a close, active fit, ideal for zero bulk layering. Where the outer is smooth to eliminate drag against outer layers, the inner comes with a Thermo Grid brushed-back polyester. This Thermo Grid fleece inner is super breathable and specially designed with a small grid pattern to wick away moisture, dry fast, and trap and regulate heat. Ideal for those high-output activities in the hills like mountain walking, climbing, trekking, and fastpacking.

 

A hoodie packed full of additional features for those who - like us - love spending time outdoors, this fleece is an adventure must-have. The relaxed, under-the-helmet hood provides climbers with the ideal layer for those colder climbs and scrambles, with a long arm and hem length that prevents unwanted riding up while stretching for that next handhold. Flatlock seams ensure zero chafing, no matter how fast the pace, with the addition of a folded-over hem and cuffs for added comfort. The fully zippered front comes up right to the chin, with a chin guard and webbing behind the zip for smoothness next to the skin. Finally, we have pockets: zippered, mesh-lined, and voluminous, they're perfect for cold hands, a phone and wallet, or even a snack or two. Lightweight and able to pack down ludicrously small to bung in a backpack when on the move, make the Montane Protium Fleece Hoodie your next autumn go-to.




ARC'TERYX - Covert Cardigan

Arc'teryx Covert Cardigan - Men's Expert Review - 1

ARC'TERYX Covert Cardigan - Men's Expert Review

As the nights lengthen and the autumn chill begins to creep in with the setting sun, ensure you’re ready for anything the outdoors throws at you with the Arc'teryx Covert Cardigan. Oozing everyday style and packed with technical features, this warm, fashionable midlayer is ideal for all your outdoor adventures this autumn.

 

Perfect for bunging in the car, suitcase, or in your rucksack when out in the hills, this warming midlayer is ideal to pop on for casual walks, days on the campsite, or after a high-output activity as the temperature starts to drop. Constructed with a fully recycled, bluesign-approved polyester and Arc'teryx Alpenex II Heathered technology, the Covert Cardigan is part of the Cotswold Outdoor Our Planet range and ideal for those looking to make a more eco-conscious choice.

 

The outer is made of a chunky, stylish knitted weave with a ribbed hemline and cuffs for durability and protection, while the inner comes outfitted in a soft fleece for ultimate comfort next to the skin. Two handy zippered fleece-lined pockets (ideal for cold hands as the evening chill creeps in) come with long-lasting reinforcement, and a ski pass pocket on the upper arm makes it perfect as a more casual layer for the slopes. Coming in a relaxed fit, with technical add-ons and a stylish, casual flair, make the Arc’teryx Covert Cardigan your next outdoor adventure partner - whether it be exploring in the peaks, meeting your mates for a catch-up down the pub, or a trip to the blustery British coast.




RAB - Microlight Vest

Rab Microlight Vest - Women's Expert Review - 1

RAB Microlight Vest - Women's Expert Review

As we fully enter autumn, for those looking for a warmer, down-insulated layer that keeps vitals warm without weighing you down – the bestselling Rab Microlight Vest does it all and more. Ideal for the mountains, hills, town, and trail, this ultra-lightweight thermal gilet was made to tackle anything the outdoors can throw its way, all while packing down into its own stuff sack with an attachment loop to throw in your pack when no longer needed.

 

The Rab Microlight Vest delivers a staggering combination of low weight, core warmth, and easy movement - for a rapid insulation boost wherever and whenever. A well-loved outdoor classic, the Rab Microlight Vest is the perfect insulating layer for cool, crisp morning dog walks, commuter cycles to work, walks with family and friends in the park, and nights gathered around the campfire. The sleek, flattering, fully recycled, robust Pertex Quantum 30 Denier ripstop nylon outer has a Durable Water Repellence (DWR) treatment that easily repels rain and snow. Heading inside, you find a slightly lighter, breathable 20 Denier recycled nylon inner with a fleece lining down the full YYK zipper for comfort next to the skin. The zoned micro and nano baffle stitch-through construction of the GRS-certified, fully recycled 700FP down lofts nicely and traps air in clusters, giving you warmth where you need it most without adding unnecessary weight, bulk, or restricting movement. Treated with a Nik Wax hydrophobic treatment, the down has saturation prevention – keeping it lofty and preventing clumps and collapse.

 

Rounding off the gilet, we have the elasticated armholes for unrestricted movement and mobility – perfect for climbs and scrambles, an inner adjustable drawcord and close-fitting collar to draw the warmth in closer during colder spells, and two YYK zippered, harness-friendly pockets to keep hands warm and accessories safe and on-hand. If you're looking for that "I'll pack it just in case" layer - you've found it in the Rab Microlight Vest.




PATAGONIA - R1 Air Full Zip Hoodie

R1 Air Full Zip Hoodie - Men's Expert Review - 1

PATAGONIA R1 Air Full Zip Hoodie - Men's Expert Review

For individuals who climb, trek, and keep going the distance, the Patagonia R1 Air Full Zip Hoodie chases the highs alongside you. Extremely lightweight, packable, and chocked full of technical features to tackle anything the outdoors can throw at you – the Patagonia R1 Air Full Zip Hoodie is the ideal extreme adventure partner and part of our Our Planet range, able to take on multiple activities without breaking a sweat.

 

Constructed using Patagonia’s unique lofted zig-zag patterned, fully recycled R1 Air fabric, this iconic, athletic fleece is ideal for those high-output, intense stop/start activities to trap and vent heat quickly and effectively. Ideal layered underneath a jacket or as the outer layer on milder autumn evenings, the R1 Air Full Zip Hoodie is fully breathable with added wind resistance for those who spend their lives chasing the hills. The fleece backer channels excess heat away with breathable, hollow core yarns that move and dissipate moisture to dry fast. And when you stop to catch your breath, the same yarn traps in the air for exceptional thermal warmth where you need it most, without the excess bulk.

 

Ideal for climbers, cavers, and extreme hikers, the slim hood is ideal under a helmet for trapping heat for a bit of extra warmth while up high in the peaks. Additional features of this clean, technical hoodie include an easy pull zipper for easy venting and layering, off-shoulder seams that sit comfortably under pack straps on multi-day hiking adventures, woven stretch binding on the rear hem and cuffs for added comfort and durability, and an assortment of zippered pockets including the front Napoleon at the chest to store a wallet, keys, or compass.




Get protected from the elements with jackets


PATAGONIA - Torrentshell 3L Jacket

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket - Women's Expert Review - 1

PATAGONIA Torrentshell 3L Jacket - Women's Expert Review

For those looking for a simple, stylish coat that won't weigh them down in autumn showers – Patagonia have you covered with their much-loved, best-selling Torrentshell 3L Jacket for men and women. A staple of the Patagonia collection, this incredibly lightweight, packable jacket is ideal for bringing on all your adventures, whether you're climbing the crag,  on a multi-day trekking adventure, or meeting family for a coffee in the city.

 

The true brilliance of the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L shines in its incredibly robust, fully recycled 50 denier 3-layer H2No performance standard waterproof shell. Durable and strong while remaining lightweight and highly breathable for high-output activity, this shell comes with a part bio-based polycarbonate PU membrane and a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish for exceptional weatherproofing that lasts and lasts. The front zipper flap and highly adjustable drawcord hem and sleeves ensure a great fit over layers and gloves, keeping you warm without allowing the elements in. Up top, the microfleece waterproof barrier at the neck sits underneath a versatile two-way, adjustable hood, ensuring the perfect fit. And when the hood is no longer needed, you can stow away the laminated visor with the cord and hook attachment to help keep unnecessary bulk out of the way of your day's activities.

 

With two deep zippered hand pockets capable of housing cold hands, phones, keys, and change and ventilating pit zippers to help dump out the heat on high-output days in the hills, the Torrentshell 3L performs even in the worst conditions. And when the grey clouds dissipate, you need not worry about where to put it either, as it easily self-stuffs down into its own left pocket for packable convenience, with a carabiner clip-in loop to allow easy hanging from a pack for easy grab-and-go again when needed.




FJÄLLRÄVEN - Vardag Anorak

Fjallraven Vardag Anorak - Women's Expert Review - 1

FJÄLLRÄVEN Vardag Anorak - Women's Expert Review

Elevate your every day with a jacket that fuses functionality and style. For those seeking a versatile outer layer for everyday adventures, Fjällräven has you covered with their Vardag Anorak. This fantastic style coat comes in assorted bold, eye-catching block colour variants perfect for exploring the autumn hills, countryside, and city streets. Ideal for hikes, walks, mountain biking, and more, this versatile jacket is fantastic for layering with a side zipper and poppers for easy on/off, giving you plenty of room for midlayers. Packed with technical features to make the outdoors your autumn adventure oyster, discover why the Vardag Anorak is one of our go-to pieces this autumn.

 

A staple of much of Fjällräven’s equipment, the Vardag features G1000 fabric, a wonderfully breathable and lightweight blend of recycled polyester and organic cotton and part of our own Our Planet range. Like a softshell, the Vardag uses Fjällräven Greenland wax for a PFC-free water repellence finish that you can top up when needed. Durable, quick-drying, protective, and wind and water-resistant – it’s perfect for the fells, lakes, Scottish peaks, and more. 

 

Adaptable to a wide range of activities, this jacket is full of technical features and ideal for any autumn adventure you have planned. The wide, deep hood has dual-sided adjustable toggles for the perfect, secure fit. Ensuring you keep the weather out and the warmth in. The long front zipper with buttons, adjustable stud button sleeves, and poppered side zipper allows adequate temperature venting, giving you breathability even on the gnarliest ascents without your hem flapping in the wind. Finally, we come to the pockets. Decked out with two large front pockets, the Vardag has plenty of room for all your accessories. The deep front pocket comes with two side zippers for cold hands and easy access, while the front stud closure hides a deep mesh kangaroo pocket ideal for a phone, wallet, keys, and maybe even a snack or two! Don't let the autumn showers win. Be prepared for anything with the Vardag.




RAB - Infinity Microlight Jacket

Rab Infinity Microlight Jacket - Men's Expert Review - 1

RAB Infinity Microlight Jacket - Men's Expert Review

Whether it’s climbing the crag, mountaineering, trekking, hiking, or a trip into town - as the sun sets earlier and earlier and the temperature starts to dip, it pays to be prepared for it all. Ideal for the cooler months, Rab’s Infinity Microlight Down Jacket is the most protective version of their best-loved, iconic Microlight. Made to tackle all autumn has to throw at it. 

 

This insulated jacket is ideal for year-round use in the mountains, hills, and streets, outfitted with added wind and weather resistance to cope with light snow, spin drift, and moisture – all without the added bulk. The bigger, more resilient brother of Rab’s best-selling Microlight, the Infinity comes constructed with a 3-stage insulation and weather protection cycle construction that ensures comfort and durability. The durable 13D Gore-Tex Infinity Windstopper outer handles it all with added breathability to keep you cool during high-exertion activity. Inside, you’ll find a warming heat reflective inner and zoned micro and nano baffles filled with 700FP P.U.R.E Nikwax hydrophobic down that overlap like roof tiles to promote water beading.

 

The Microlight Infinity does not skimp on the technical features either. An adjustable helmet-compatible hood with a stiffened peak makes climbing a breeze, with a toggle hem and YYK Vislon zip with an insulated storm flap to help ensure no matter how tied up your hands are, the weather outside stays outside. The slightly loose, stretch-elasticated cuffs are great for layering gloves and mid layers. Two large YYK zippered side pockets are ideal for cold hands, and a concealed YYK Napoleon pocket gives welcome space for a wallet, phone, or keys. So all your stuff is ensured to stay safe, no matter where those autumn adventures lead you. And when the expedition is complete, the portable stuff sack allows the coat to be packed down small and thrown in your pack or car for safekeeping. Exceptionally breathable, warm, and soft, offering a quiet, comfortable place to relax. You know you’re in safe hands with the Rab Infinity Microlight.




PATAGONIA - Nano Puff Jacket

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket - Women's Expert Review - 1

PATAGONIA Nano Puff Jacket - Women's Expert Review

If you're looking for a more lightweight, layering thermal jacket for your next adventure, Patagonia has you covered with their Nano Puff Jacket. Perfect for belaying chilly routes, exploring the country with friends and family, or tackling hikes in the hills, the Nano Puff Jacket from Patagonia is the ultra-durable puffer coat designed to trap in the heat and block out the wind, leaving you warm, toasty, and ready to tackle anything autumn can throw at you.

 

Coming in at just 284g, this technical lightweight synthetic down jacket is incredibly versatile. Perfect solo in cold climates, the Nano Puff Jacket is also great layered underneath rain jackets thanks to the smooth, non-bulk outer. Versatile enough to handle climbs, hikes, and casual walks in the country and city - this coat is specially designed to tackle any and all autumn adventures. Made with a fully recycled polyester shell and Durable Water Repellence finish (DWR), this is the perfect thermal coat for those looking for an alternative to down. The low-bulk, hydrophobic PrimaLoft Gold Eco is a highly efficient, synthetically designed insulation that keeps you cozy and warm no matter the conditions outside. Brick-shaped quilted with horizontal lines on the side panels make the jacket compressible, lightweight, and highly effective, even when wet - ideal for light autumn showers.

 

Ideal for climbers, the Nano Puff is a non-bulky, highly packable coat with unrestricted movement and two spacious zippered handwarmer pockets specially designed for use with a harness. Elasticated cuffs and an adjustable drawcord hem help prevent the chilly wind and rain from getting to the skin, with a drop tail hem ideal for extra rear coverage on the crag. More abrasion-resistant than the Patagonia Micro Puff, this is a coat that more than pulls it's weight on more difficult expeditions and treks. And when finished for the day, it even packs down into its own in-built zippered inner security pocket. Able to be thrown into a pack or the back of your car and pulled back out when adventure comes calling (or the unpredictable British weather does!)




Accessories designed for autumn adventures


KAMBUKKA - Lagoon Water Bottle

Kambukka Lagoon Water Bottle - Women's Expert Review - 1

KAMBUKKA Lagoon Water Bottle - Women's Expert Review

Wherever you venture, and whatever the conditions, remaining hydrated while exploring the outdoors is vital for any activity you undertake. Make life easier with the incredibly versatile Kambukka Lagoon Water Bottle. Ideal for hikes, trekking, cycling, climbing, and more.

The 750ml Kambukka Lagoon Water Bottle is the perfect size to keep you hydrated on days spent outside. Made from an incredibly durable, high-impact resistant Tritan renew BPA-free plastic, this water bottle comes with a spout lid and angled straw for easy drinking without the risk of leaks. Odour-resistant, stain-proof, and dishwasher safe – make life outside easier with the Kabukka Lagoon. The water bottle that never falters.




BLACK DIAMOND - Distance FLZ Walking Poles

Black Diamond Distance FLZ Walking Pole - Men's Expert Review - 1

BLACK DIAMOND Distance FLZ Walking Pole - Expert Review

An excellent choice for long hikes and steep approaches, especially out on uneven terrain or in demanding conditions, the Black Diamond Distance FLZ Walking Poles are ideal for saving your knees and body the ardour and impact of ascents and descents when scrambling and climbing.

Made with incredibly lightweight aluminium construction and outfitted with an extendable EVA foam grip, the Distance FLZ Walking poles pack down with a 3-section foldable shaft ideal for popping onto a gear loop or inside a pack when needed. Now outfitted with Black Diamond improved SlideLock technology and increased joint durability, the Distance FLZ provides reliable three-season support for mountain adventures with interchangeable non-scarring rubber Tech Tips and carbide Tech Tips to keep constant with the ground.








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