Windy days in the hills

Although the weather wasn't great, we decided to head out into the Mourne Mountains. We headed off to Slieve Binnian, aware that the wind and rain weren't the best conditions to hike in, but still thought we'd give it a go.

Starting just above Annalong, we walked up the path passing some lonely houses and this horse which seemed less than impressed with the weather conditions! The grey sky and gusts of wind should have been a good indication of what was in store further up the mountain.

The snow and ice at the top of the Mournes had melted and the ground was thick with mud and slush which made progress slow. The wind gusts stopped us in our tracks but we were out so seemed crazy to turn back.

At points we were forced to hunker down in a bit of shelter. This photo of Oonagh Thompson might give some idea of the strength of the wind. Being somewhat more diminutive than the others out this time, it's not surprising she had to find shelter, but even the larger of us (no names) had to find cover.

The highest peak in this photo is Slieve Binnian. You may be able to see the pass between the two rocks.  As we climbed over this we were met with winds in and around 90 miles per hour. We didn't last long on the other side before having to turn around and head down the way we came. We lasted just long enough to get this photo which doesn't come close to doing the conditions justice. 

We were all pinned down and had to wait for a break in the wind and make a dash for shelter. Still time for a cup of tea before heading down and back to a warm house! Also the turkey and stuffing sandwiches were exceptional! 

Winter runs

While in Manchester some of the team decided to go for a run, not the nicest of conditions for it but not bad enough to stop them. A few miles of woodland, open fields and flooded paths while chasing the dog got the heart rate up and the kept the cold air at bay. Eventually they caught the dog and presented him  as prize to their loved ones waiting in the warm, dry, tea and coffee filled house. Surprisingly a wet, muddy dog wasn't quite the gift they were hoping for.

5 little things to make those winter hikes a bit more comfortable

Winter out on the hills might not be everyone's idea of a good time but there are some people who just can't resist the outdoors, even when the weather tells us to stay in. Here are 5 little things which we found make those winter hikes just a little bit more enjoyable!

1 - Rubber Crampons

We have to admit, we were dubious about using these. The rubber frame which slips over your boot or trainer has a number of small metal studs attached to it which are designed to improve grip on snow and ice. When we first saw them we shared a collective sceptic glance, only to have our doubts banished. These little gems are cheap and come in a various forms but we can't claim that they're are all as good as the Veriga City Track Pavement Crampons. They are not designed for heavy duty weather and you won't see these on Everest but they do make you a bit more sure-footed on your day-to-day hikes. 

2 - The Buff

The little tube of fabric comes in all sorts of designs (we like this 7 summits number) and can be worn in at least 12 ways, so claim the makers. Beanie hat, face mask, hair band, bandana, scarf and loads more variations mean this simple little tube of fabric is useful almost all of the time! There are Buffs for all conditions, fleece Buffs for the cold, UV resistant or the good old original. We like the original, it's warm in the cold, cool in the warm and there are designs to suit everyone's tastes.

3 - Reusable Hand Warmers 

For those of us who feel the cold more than others these little packs of heat could be just the trick. The hand warmers can fit inside a pocket or glove (depending on the size) and give off heat for a few hours fending off the chilly air and keeping those hands warm. They can be reused thousands of times and cost as little as 3 pounds. 

4 - Thermos Flask

We all know the importance of a hot drink on a long walk, especially in the winter time! Tea, coffee, hot chocolate or whatever your tipple, these little beauties are one of the essential pieces of kit for a winter hike. Coming in all shapes and sizes at a range of prices there's something for everyone.

And last but not least...

5- Snickers! 

You might have your favourite treat on a walk, ours is the good old Snickers. Not any of these artificially coloured, fluorescent, e number ridden rubbish. Just good old fashioned caramel, peanut, chocolate and nougat, that's what does the trick for us!