mountain warehouse steve backshall review

We live in the rainy North West, so good outdoors gear is a must at this time of year.

Finding decent outdoor clothing for kids that isn’t too utilitarian can be a challenge. When Flea goes on a Scout hike, it’s all I can do to persuade her that a Hollister hoodie and skinny jeans aren’t going to keep her warm and dry.

We were recently invited to try out something from the new children’s winter clothing range from Mountain Warehouse. The range has been created in partnership with uber-explorer Steve Backshall.

Our choice was the Sherpa Youth Jacket, which I thought would be great for when Flea is cycling to school in the rain. Because I’m a mean Mum (apparently) who makes my child ride her bike in all weathers.

Anyway, the coat is fully waterproofed with taped seams. There’s a fleece lining and added insulation for warmth. At £69, it’s not cheap, but this jacket is currently on sale over on the website at just £39.99. That’s a bit of a bargain!

The range isn’t just about coats, though. There are also walking shoes, fleeces and hoodies, along with a really nice day pack that would be ideal for hikes and days out.

I’ve teamed up with Mountain Warehouse to give on Who’s the Mummy reader the chance to win an item of their choosing from the Steve Backshall range – read on for details of how to win!

Steve Backshall Sherpa Youth Jacket

My first impression of this jacket is that it’s really substantial, and very well made.

In terms of sizing, Flea is 11, but we chose the Age 13 coat, as she’ll be wearing it over her school uniform, so needs a bit of extra room.

mountain warehouse steve backshall review

It fits well, with enough room to wear a blazer underneath. I like that the coat has a little bit of length, so Flea’s got a dry seat on her bike. And we’ve tested it against Lancashire rain, and can confirm it’s waterproof.

Personally, I’d have liked the sleeves to be a little longer. When Flea extends her arms forward, the sleeves don’t quite reach her wrists, but it’s a minor quibble. Maybe Flea has weirdly long arms.

I did really like some of the thoughtful little extra touches. The hood (detachable) is elasticated, so Flea’s hair stays dry. There’s also elastic on the sleeves, so rain doesn’t run up there when Flea’s riding her bike. And it’s a tiny thing but the hook to hang the coat up is also elastic. I mean, seriously, how often do those things snap on other coats??

mountain warehouse steve backshall review

There are two decent outside pockets and a zip-up pocket on the inside that’s big enough for a phone.

Overall, I thought this was a really nicely made, good quality coat. It’s solid enough that I feel happy it will handle whatever the winter has to throw at us. But the Steve Backshall name means it’s also cool enough that Flea is really happy to wear it.

Win, win!

Win an Item from the Mountain Warehouse Steve Backshall Range

This week, I’m teaming up with Mountain Warehouse to give one Who’s the Mummy reader the chance to win an item of their choosing from the Steve Backshall kids’ range.

To be in with a chance of winning, just leave a comment on this post telling me how your kids’ love to spend time outdoors in the winter. Don’t forget to complete the competition widget – bonus entries are available! Be sure to comment before midnight on the 5 November 2016 (GMT).

Mountain Warehouse

Good luck!

Terms: Open to UK adults aged 18+. One winner selected at random from all eligible entries after the closing date of Nov 5, 2016. Winners’ details will be displayed on this website within 7 days of the closing date. Entry is via a comment on the competition blog post. Bonus entries available. Maximum one entry (plus bonus entries) per household. Promoter and data controller: Flea Enterprises Ltd, 2 The Old Sawmill, Lytham,Lancs FY8 5PL.Â