There's no better time to get outdoors than the summer, and the Princess of Wales led the way with an impressive hiking expedition last week, taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge. The Princess' charity trek involved climbing the tallest peak in England, Scotland and Wales in succession, meaning she needed practical and reliable kit to keep her going - especially when it came to her footwear.
The boots Kate turned to for the challenge were by outdoor brand Scarpa, the Women's Terra GTX walking boots. The pair are a best-seller, according to the brand, and are described as a 'premium leather hiking boot designed for all-day comfort and instant fit' with 'enhanced cushioning'. While Scarpa's website lists the waterproof boots as costing £210, we've found other retailers offering them for less - with up to a £40 reduction.
Sports Direct appear to have the best deal (at time of writing), stocking the boots for £170 but with limited sizing:
Scarpa Scarpa Terra GTX Hiking Boot Womens
Cotswolds Outdoors are also stocking with a reduced price and more size options, at £189.95:
The Princess of Wales said that she had 'taken on the National Three Peaks Challenge, not simply as a physical endeavour but as a chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back,' in a post on social media. Kate was raising money for Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which is connected to the hospital where she previously received treatment for cancer.
In a rare public post of his own, her brother, James Middleton, revealed that the idea for the challenge had originated while his sister was still in hospital. 'Two years ago, I told you we'd climb this mountain together,' he wrote. 'We talked about climbing mountains while you were in hospital, and about the incredible healing power that nature can have for both the body and the mind.' Just over a week ago, he was finally able to see that dream become reality, as he joined Kate for the arduous challenge.
Waiting at the finish line for the pair were their parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, alongside Prince William and the three children he shares with Kate; Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Prince Charlotte was visibly overcome with emotion at the reunion, and embraced her mum in a tight hug to welcome her after the journey.
In a separate post (at the top of this article) on Monday (6 July), Kate shared photos of the family celebration and offered a 'huge thank you to everybody who has supported The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity'.
You can find out more about the hike and donate here.
