Hiker's Guide

As a freelance photographer and a hiking guide based in the Italian Alps, comfort and performance are key factors for Pietro when choosing gear. Preparing his rucksack always involves a lot of thought and usually a few harsh decisions, and tech gear is a must. He's been testing our gear for the last few months and here's what he has to say about it.

By ioMerino Outsider Pietro 

"Since June, I've been on ioMerino's Outsider programme testing socks, their exquisite base layer t-shirt, and the cap. These things come with me ever since and here's my clearcut opinion.

I tried leaving my Ultra t-shirt - drenched in sweat- in my gym bag just to see how it would stand this kind of test and, hands down, I can wear it for several workout sessions without even noticing any funny smell. Don't know how, but it works a charm and the fabric is awesome even during summertime.

Just be very, very careful to store your ioMerino gear in a sealed container adding anti-moth sachets or spray as, being organic, it is extremely appetising for those critters and they will just munch through any sock or t-shirt like Ninja Turtles with pizza.

The Multi-Sport socks are what I was looking for when spending a whole day on trails without time to remove my shoes for a cool down. Offering great cushioning even on the most demanding type of terrain, they actually avoid shoes revolving around feet whenever trodding across harsh mountain slopes. Never ever use them without a slipper or shoe, as they can rip apart leaving you upset but with no excuse.

I can't say very much about the red cap since Alex (my girlfriend) has been stealing it from me! Not something I would usually wear during summertime, but great for winter hikes and awesome for shooting photos that require that punchy contrast a photographer might be looking for."

Keep up to date with ioMerino Outsider Pietro on his social media.

Instagram: @RivermanAdventures