When the woman&home beauty team were packing for our beauty photoshoot in Mallorca, we threw swimsuits, big hats and of course, suncream into overstuffed suitcases.

Knowing full well that we all should wear SPF every day, especially when abroad, we knew that we needed to select the best SPFs to get us through long shoot days outside in the Mallorcan sunshine. Picking the very best facial sunscreen options, we carefully selected a variety of formulas that would sit well under makeup and offer us full protection.

We also wanted a good variety of SPF30 and SPF50 creams for the body, scalp SPF sprays and a good choice of different formulas. These formulas went through rigorous testing from our entire shoot production team, and these were the SPFs that came out on top.

The SPFs our team relied on on long shoot days

Don't just take our word for it, we tested these SPF's on everyone during our shoot. We keep the models topped up while standing in the midday sun, and the production team helped themselves to our selection throughout the week. Each formula received rave reviews for its ability to keep skin protected all day, without looking obvious, feeling uncomfortable or like a chore to reapply.

Whether you’re reading in the garden, packing a novel for a holiday getaway or listening while out on a summer walk, there are plenty of brilliant new books to add to your reading list this July. From thought-provoking literary fiction to gripping thrillers and escapist summer stories, these are the new books that deserve a spot on your bedside table.

Aside from reading the winner of the Women’s Prize for Fiction, July is the perfect time to discover the latest releases from some of today’s most exciting authors. This month’s picks span sweeping historical dramas, emotional family sagas and page-turning mysteries, offering something for every kind of reader.

And if you prefer to enjoy your stories hands-free, we’ve also rounded up some of the best audiobooks to listen to this summer. Whether you’re commuting, travelling or simply relaxing at home, these captivating new releases make it easy to get lost in a great story wherever you are.

Best books to read in July

Best audiobooks to listen to in July

Whether you’re searching for your next holiday read, a gripping thriller to keep you turning the pages late into the night, or a captivating audiobook to enjoy on the go, there’s no shortage of brilliant stories to discover this July. From powerful new releases to immersive listens, this month’s picks offer the perfect excuse to carve out a little more time for reading.

So, settle into a sunny spot, make a cup of tea or pop on your headphones, and let these unforgettable stories transport you somewhere new. With so many exciting books and audiobooks to choose from, your next favourite read could be just a page, or button, away.

The recent heatwaves caught us all off guard, including the brands behind our favourite cooling appliances. When many of the best fans and portable air conditioners sold out, I started looking for an alternative that was still widely available. That's when I rediscovered air coolers: one of the most overlooked ways to stay comfortable when the weather heats up.

Sitting somewhere between a cooling fan and a portable air conditioner, air coolers combine the simplicity of a fan with evaporative cooling technology. Instead of simply circulating warm air around the room, they pass air through water to create a cooler, more refreshing breeze on your skin. They don't require venting like portable AC units, they're generally cheaper to run, and they offer a noticeable step up from a standard fan without the premium price tag.

I'd actually been using one without realising in the form of Shark's ChillPill and their FlexBreeze, and once I looked into the category, I found brilliant options for every room and budget. Better yet, while other cooling appliances have been disappearing from shelves, air coolers are still widely in stock. After testing and researching the leading models, these are the best air coolers to help your home feel cool.

The best air coolers to buy to get you through this heatwave

Air coolers, also known as swamp coolers, sit somewhere between cooling fans and air conditioning. They use water to create a cooler, more refreshing airflow than a standard fan, but without the cost, installation, or energy use of portable AC.

"Unlike fans, which simply circulate air around a room, and air conditioners, which remove heat from the home through a refrigeration cycle, air coolers cool the air through water evaporation," explains Joe Haycock, Vice President at Fresh Air Concepts. "As warm air passes through a wet cooling pad, the water evaporates and absorbs some of the heat, lowering the temperature of the air leaving the unit." In practice, that means you feel a cooler breeze on your skin rather than simply moving warm air around the room. Before we dive deeper into the details, here are some of our favourite models:

FAQs

How does an air cooler work?

Alexander Marsh, CEO and Founder of Bearcat Heating & Cooling, offers a simple comparison: "If you've ever stood near the misting stations at the fair on a 95-degree day, you've experienced evaporative cooling. As the small water droplets evaporate, they absorb heat and make the surrounding air feel cooler. A swamp cooler creates that same effect inside your home." It's a helpful way to think about air coolers: they won't chill an entire room like an air conditioner, but they can make the space around you feel noticeably more comfortable.

How is an air cooler different from AC?

Haycock points out that "an air cooler doesn't vent heat or moisture outside. Instead, humidity gradually builds up indoors," which is why they're best used with a little ventilation, such as an open window. The upside is that they're incredibly easy to use. There's no installation, no exhaust hose to wrestle with, and they typically use much less electricity than portable air conditioners. If you're after a cooling upgrade that's more effective than a fan but less expensive and cumbersome than AC, an air cooler strikes a happy middle ground.

Is an air cooler worth it?

Whilst stocks of fans and air conditioning units are running low, air coolers are a brilliant alternative. I love the misting function on my ChillPill and use that over the fan when the weather is hot.

Air coolers might not have had the same attention as fans and portable air conditioners in previous summers, but this heatwave has proved why they're worth knowing about. They offer a noticeable upgrade from a standard fan, creating a cooler, more refreshing breeze without the cost, noise or installation demands of portable AC.

With many traditional cooling appliances still difficult to find, air coolers are a brilliant alternative that are not only available but really useful. Whether you're trying to stay comfortable at your desk, cool down your bedroom, or make the whole home feel more bearable, there's an air cooler to suit every type of summer heat.

In the midst of a heatwave, it won’t surprise you that our favourite topic of conversation is cooling fans. Which ones actually work? Is Dyson still the gold standard, or has Shark taken the lead? And, crucially, are fans now doing a better job than air conditioning?

In amongst all the conversation about how we keep our homes cool, we noticed something striking: every member of our Homes team (the editors who test and review cooling solutions day in, day out) uses a Shark fan at home. And we don’t think that’s a coincidence. Shark fans have secured a place in our homes against leading fans from other top brands for their exceptional cooling power, speed, and the ease with which they integrated into our lives.

The exact models we rely on do differ, because our needs aren’t the same. but that’s why we want to share them with you. It shows how Shark’s range manages to cover everything from bedroom cooling to portable, on-the-go relief without compromising on performance. So whether you want a powerful, whole-room fan for the end of your bed, or a lightweight option you can move from room to room (or even take on your commute), these three Shark fans are the ones our team actually use and recommend.

The three Shark fans we swear by - through heatwaves and hormones

Best Shark fan for sleep

The Shark TurboBlade isn't just our favourite Shark fan for sleeping through a heatwave, it's currently our top-rated cooling fan overall. Its clever bladeless design can pivot, twist, and direct airflow exactly where you need it, whether that's cooling your entire bedroom overnight or providing head-to-toe relief while you work. Better still, it does all this without the intrusive noise that makes so many fans unsuitable for sleep.

Tamara uses the TurboBlade beside her standing desk during the day, then rotates it horizontally at night to create a stream of airflow across the entire bed. This flexibility makes a real difference if you struggle with overheating, hot flushes, or night sweats. During testing, the fan measured just 38dB on its lowest setting, around the volume of a whisper, and even Tamara, who describes herself as a light sleeper, found that "the noise is barely noticeable at night." Instead of hearing the fan, you simply feel a gentle, cooling breeze that helps you drift off more comfortably.

For more intense cooling, the TurboBlade's highest setting delivers a powerful blast of airflow while still measuring a relatively modest 59dB. Tamara often uses this setting to instantly cool a room, before switching to a gentler speed for the rest of the evening. "It's incredibly effective," she says. "I can cool a room down in minutes and then leave it running overnight without it disturbing my sleep."

While fans aren't usually chosen for their looks, the TurboBlade is one of the few models we'd happily leave on display year-round. Tamara describes it as "as chic as it is effective. It blends seamlessly into my décor like a futuristic art installation." Combined with its quiet operation, powerful airflow, and highly adjustable design, it's one of the closest alternatives we've tested to a portable air conditioner, without the cost, bulk, or energy consumption.

You can find out more in our full review.

Best misting Shark fan

Unlike traditional fans, the FlexBreeze HydroGo can switch between a cool breeze across your skin and a light, refreshing mist. It's brilliant for sitting on your bedside table, on the kitchen counter, and when you're outside enjoying the sun. It's versatile, powerful, and portable, which is why it practically lives by Emily's side as soon as the heat hits.

"I've never had a high-quality fan before," Emily says "I'd always settled for the cheapest desk or floor fan I could find, but having the Shark Flexbreeze Hydrogo has completely saved me on those humid, hot summer days." The misting function is, of course, a true talking point. It's effective without being messy, and in warmer, drier conditions it adds a noticeable layer of cooling that lifts the whole experience beyond a standard fan. Emily explains "it immediately cools you and provides a refreshing, cooling effect without you feeling you're being hit with a water gun. I use it consistently through heatwaves, and it's a dream when it comes to cooling down my bedroom whilst I sleep."

As a cordless fan, the charge lasts about 2 hours, which is impressive when you feel the amount of airflow that comes out at full blast. The Shark is also quick to charge back up and, of course, runs constantly when it's plugged in. We've had it positioned everywhere from a small bedside table to a wider kitchen surface, and it feels stable and well-balanced in both settings. The adjustability is a real strength too: you can tilt and angle it quite precisely, so you’re not locked into a single fixed direction of airflow. It’s also quiet enough to sit beside the bed, which makes it usable overnight rather than just as a daytime heatwave fix.

The airflow is smooth and controllable rather than overly aggressive, which makes it easy to keep on for long stretches without it becoming intrusive. Emily loves the cordless freedom which lets her take it inside and outside of the house and has even threatened to take it on her train commutes if the hot weather holds up. It's no surprise that this is a sell-out success.

You can find out more in our full review.

Best portable Shark fan

The Shark ChillPill is brand new to the market this summer and it's already incredibly popular amongst athletes, celebrities, and anyone who seriously struggles with the heat. The reason so many people are using it is because the ChillPill covers a range of uncomfortably hot scenarios, from dry, stagnant air to a stuffy 11-hour train journey. Where the ChillPill sets itself apart is in its sheer versatility. You can see in the name, this isn't just a fan, it's a "cooling system."

The ChillPill combines three cooling modes: a fan, a misting function, and a cold plate.. The fan itself is surprisingly adaptable, shifting from ultra-quiet (so discreet you can use it in a quiet carriage or at your desk) to a setting of 10, which offers powerful, precise, soothing cool air when you need a stronger blast to cool you down.

The misting function really comes into its own in dry heat, where I found it gave instant relief and helped stop that tight, dehydrated feeling you often get in warm indoor environments. It's particularly nice to mist over your neck when the air is still, but it also doesn't get your face actually damp, so you could use it with a full face of make up on and still look fresh.

For me, the cold plate is the standout: it sits comfortably on pulse points and pressure areas like the wrists, neck, or temples, and feels genuinely soothing, almost de-puffing after a long day or travel. Combined, these features make it more than just a fan; it’s a portable cooling system you can actually tailor to how overheated you feel in the moment.

I also love how adjustable and easy it is to use in different settings: it tilts for desk use, fits comfortably in the hand, and is small enough to slip into a bag or even a large pocket. On that long train journey, it became a constant companion: smooth, calming, and consistently effective without ever feeling fiddly or overcomplicated.

You can find out more in our full review.

How we test cooling fans

We don’t just plug a fan in and hope for the best. We live with them. Each cooling fan on our list has been tested in real homes, during real heat (and yes, a few hot flushes too). We look at how powerful the airflow is, how noisy it gets on each setting, and how easy it is to use day to day, because no one wants to wrestle with a clunky remote or a confusing control panel when they’re already too warm.

We also pay attention to the little things, like how simple it is to assemble, whether it’s light enough to move between rooms, and how discreet it looks in your space. If a fan claims to be “whisper-quiet,” we put that to the test during sleep and TV time. And if it’s portable, we’ll take it on the train, to the garden, or around the house to see how it really performs on the go.

We also factor in price and features, because value matters. Whether it’s a sleek investment fan with smart tech or a budget-friendly clip-on that fits in your handbag, we test everything with comfort and practicality in mind, especially for women navigating hot summers, hormonal changes, or just trying to get a good night’s sleep.

Shark's cooling fans are the best of the best: whether you're struggling through a heatwave, or battling with hormones that are giving you hot flushes, there's a Shark fan that will sort you out. We swear by these fans - and love them in our homes, so if you want to cool like the experts, these are the ones to go for.

Getting out onto the trails is about freedom for me. Freedom from the never-ending to-do lists, freedom from screens and the freedom to move. The best hydration vests ensure I have everything I need to be safe and comfortable, without slowing me down.

A hydration vest is as valuable as a good pair of trail running shoes or walking shoes, and a good alternative to a classic hiking backpack. It's often made of lightweight nylon and mesh materials, with pockets that hug close and comfortably to the body. While they come in different sizes, most will store at least one spare layer, water bottles, gels or snacks, and your phone and keys without an issue. Larger ones will also store your walking poles for when you want them later on.

Whether you're hiking, running, or cycling, they let you wear your kit instead of carrying it, so you can move fast (if you want to) and feel light. I've tested over a dozen different designs in the past few years, and what started as a piece of kit that I used only for trail runs has become a staple even when I'm going for a jog across the city or a short hike.

The quick list

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration vests for women, tested by a hiker and trail runner

Best hydration vest overall

I've been using this vest for a year and a half, and it has an unbelievable amount of easy-to-access storage, from the large, zipped main compartment to at least eight additional pouches, including a water-resistant pocket for my phone.

It really proved itself on a big adventure where I joined an organised run/hike of two mountain peaks in Glencoe, Scotland, last winter. We had a fairly extensive kit list, including lots of layers, and I managed to fit everything and still move comfortably for hours.

I've since put hundreds of miles in wearing this vest and struggled to find anything wrong with it, except to say that it's not the lightest one out there. The design and colours are also definitely more functional than fashionable. Though it's a unisex design, it's easy to find the perfect fit as it comes in four different sizes, and I find it as comfortable in summer with a T-shirt as I do in winter with a jacket.

There are lots of extras, including a stowable quiver so I can carry my trusty trekking poles, an emergency whistle and even a RECCO reflector, which helps mountain rescue locate you. There's simply nothing missing from this pack, and if you're planning on long distances, it will handle all of your gear needs.

Best hydration vest with bottles

When I'm heading out on a regular run or fast walk and don't want to carry a lot of kit, this neat, stylish hydration vest is often the first one I reach for. I have it in the lovely Dawn Blue colourway, which goes with a lot of my running gear and in summer, it means I'm not wearing black under a blazing hot sun.

However, the real standout features of this vest is the water bottles. It sounds funny, but it has removable WingStay stabilisers, which are plastic inserts that keep the soft bottles more rigid, and so much easier to pull out and slide back into the pockets without breaking stride. They hold 500ml each.

Otherwise, the Dyna is an extremely well-fitting vest that contours to my body so well that I've actually wondered if I even need to wear a sports bra with it. That said, it's not so tight that it inhibits my movements or chafes, and the webbing at the front allows for some versatility and is relatively easy to adjust.

There are five stretchy pockets that can hold my phone, gels and keys, and are all easy to access while I'm on the go. There's another three larger pockets at the back, too, so for a smaller vest it can actually handle more than I initially realised, which made it a close contender for the top spot.

The fabric that touches the skin is all breathable mesh, so it's great for the warmer months. Though, if I had to split hairs, I'd say it could be a little softer (I usually run in a T-shirt, so this isn't typically a problem as it's not against my skin). It also lacks a waterproof pouch for my phone, so I'd think twice about using it in very wet weather, but for fast and light days, or when hydration is important, it's the clear winner.

Best hydration pack for hiking

You don't have to be a runner to appreciate the merits of a hydration pack. In fact, if you find traditional hiking backpacks uncomfortable, a vest is a great solution. The Berghaus Fast Hike F15 is the best vest I've tried for carrying slightly larger loads and more water while walking.

Designed for hikers who want to move fast and feel free, this vest has the biggest storage capacity of any on this list, the bulk of which is provided by the roomy main compartment. On top of that, there are five stretchy pockets where I can keep items like my gloves and phone close to hand. It even has an all-important water-resistant pocket to safeguard my phone if the heavens open, much like my top-rated vest overall.

It does have its storage limits, and when I tried to push beyond them and fill it with overnight gear, I realised it was no longer comfortable to wear. But, for any length of straightforward day hike, it's really the ideal size. Despite its larger size, it also still fits neatly, so I feel like I'm wearing my gear rather than hauling it. Where running vests typically only have sternum straps, this one also has a hip belt, which means it's more supportive and I can wear it all day without really noticing it's there.

Walking poles can be packed into the side pockets and secured with bungee cords, and though it has a bit more of a utilitarian aesthetic than something like the Osprey Dyna, it's still going to be a more comfortable choice than any similarly sized backpack.

Best budget hydration vest

Not that long ago, a hydration vest screamed "serious trail runner!" but all that has changed. I'm seeing more and more women using these handy pieces of kit for urban spins and strolls in their workout leggings as well as out on the trails. If you're looking for an affordable alternative to bulging side pockets in your leggings and keys jabbing into your thigh, this is it.

H&M got off to a bit of a standing start when the fashion giant launched its Move range a couple of years ago, but it has made some good improvements since then. It has added more adjustability to this vest and improved its hydration capacity and storage. I really like it for casual outings and ParkRun.

It's not the most technical vest by a long shot, and a very far cry from the Osprey Dyna 6 or the Camelbak Apex Pro in terms of capability, but the fabric is buttery soft, the fit is supportive, and it has a decent amount of storage. Though the brand doesn't give the capacity in litres, it has a sturdy mesh pocket for your running jacket, plus a second mid-size zipped pocket at the back for hat and gloves. Up front are two deep pockets that can hold soft bottles, with loops so they don't disappear, and five more smaller pockets, so I'd guess it's around 4 to 5L.

I think the powder pink colourway is really fun, and makes a nice change from the sportier-looking black, blue, and white vests on this list. Plus, the price makes it appealing to anyone who doesn't want to make a big investment. It lacks waterproof storage, and the webbing at the front is a little fiddly to fasten and adjust, but for the price, it's hard to argue with.

Best hydration vest for hot weather

I first used this vest last spring, when I was spending a full day exploring the trails in the Lake District, and I didn't experience any chafing or discomfort anywhere. It was an unseasonably hot day, so I wouldn't have been surprised to experience a sweaty back, and perhaps some rubbing, but the fabric didn't hold onto moisture. It's my first choice for hot seasons and climates where I'd also be wearing a pair of running shorts or hiking sandals.

Suitable for both running and hiking, this vest will hold all my gear for long days out, and has two different options to carry my trekking poles on the front and across the low back. And yet, it works just as well when all I'm carrying is a running jacket and some water. What Rab calls the 'Mono Mesh Chassis' framework turns out to provide a really neat, adjustable fit that's so comfortable I tend to forget I'm wearing it, even when it's loaded up.

It has (count them) 12 pockets where I can stash my must-haves, though some of the pockets on the shoulder straps aren't as useful once I'm carrying full bottles, but I've never run out of space. The main compartment is easily accessed by a U-shaped zip, which makes packing and unpacking easy.

I wear it in a small size, which should be perfect, but I have to pull the bungee cords at the sternum as tight as they will go to properly secure it. If you're very petite, I don't think this vest will work for you, but it's an excellent choice for curvier bodies.

Best hydration vest for versatility

Versatility is really the main advantage of the Montane Gecko Vp 5+, which I use for quick jaunts, long days, walking and running. Some updates have been made to the original design of the Gecko, which means it now really stands out in terms of fit, bounce control, and pole carry.

In addition to the bungee cord closure at the front, which is easy to fasten with two hooks, there's a pull cord on the hem so I'm able to find a streamlined fit no matter what clothes I'm wearing underneath.

Montane's "bounce control technology" means the harness has a little give in order for me to move well, but my gear is well-secured when I run. I nearly always bring trekking poles if I'm going off-road and there's the option of carrying them on the front of the harness, or horizontally along my lower back, which is my preference.

Five litres doesn't sound like much, but the clever design means the pockets go a long way and this packs in everything I need for most days out, and the pockets are really functional: deep enough, secure and reachable.

There are a couple of oddities. First, I'd need to remove the pack if I wanted to use the emergency whistle in the pocket, which makes that particular accessory rather redundant. Second, the water bottles sit up really high on my chest, which I thought would be annoying, but after running with it for a few weeks, I've decided it's fine. It also means I can sip water without pulling them out, which is a bonus if I don't want to stop.

The best small capacity hydration vest

With just four litres of capacity, the Salomon Active Skin 4 is one of the two smallest vests on the list - the other being from H&M. A lower capacity vest like this one can typically store a light layer or water bladder in the back, two 500ml bottles, some running gels or other fuel, and your keys and phone, says Digital Health Editor, Grace Walsh, who chose this as a favourite.

"I've worn this vest for the last five years through two marathon training blocks, two marathons, multiple 25km trail races, and countless shorter-distance runs in my local area," she says.

You'll need to buy your water bottles separately and it's not waterproof, so leave your electronics at home with this one, but with a larger back pocket and six front pockets, it's certainly got enough to get you through any event with aid stations, she says. "I've also worn it for hours and hours on end, only to take it off and feel like I haven't been wearing anything at all. It's very comfortable for any running, cycling, or walking event, and as someone with a larger chest, I appreciate the adjustable bungee straps across the front."

The pockets are all easy to access on the move - even the one in the back - and though Grace bought the black version, she highlights the option of the unique sage green colourway, unique in the list. Also, at £70, it's one of the cheaper vests on this list, offering significantly more technical capability than the H&M vest for only a little more - and it's often on sale.

Best hydration vest for race day

My friend talked me into doing the Race the Tram event in Edinburgh just after I got this vest. I was travelling to the start point on the tram and had to bring everything I needed for the race, and for hanging out in the city afterwards, so I decided it was the perfect opportunity to see if this vest lives up to its reputation as a race-ready pack.

This vest looks tiny – in fact, it appears identical to the Osprey Dyna. So imagine my surprise when I was able to fill it up with a rain jacket, dry clothes for after my race, my wallet, phone, breakfast and all the other small bits and bobs I thought I might need. It really is a bit of a Tardis, with a roomier-than-meets-the-eye main compartment and lots of pockets. If you've got a longer race on your calendar, this is the hydration vest I'd recommend.

The harness has a lot of mesh and no padding, which meant it was really cool and breathable on what turned out to be quite a warm day. There are bungee cords on the sternum and sides that made it really easy to find a perfect fit and all but eliminated bouncing during my race.

It's one of the lightest vests on this list, it rolls up really small for packing, and it has all the high-tech details you'd expect from The North Face, like multiple options to carry poles (which is surprising for such a small pack) and a whistle.

There are a few details that aren't perfect, as with any vest. I find it challenging to get my full water bottles into the pockets, though they do have zips to expand them, but I tend to just leave them in the pockets while I drink. There also isn't a zip on the main compartment, and without a waterproof pocket, I think my electronics could be better protected.

Best hydration vest for carrying poles

Hoka is one of the most visible names in trail running (and on city streets, if we're honest, thanks to shoes like the Clifton 10 and Bondi 9). It manages to hold that distinction while being a bit of a Marmite brand. Personally, I get on pretty well with Hoka's shoes, and I love this vest, even if it's one I'd only recommend for those seeking a very specific set of features.

It's built with elite runners in mind, and the brand consulted its own athletes in designing it. I tested the Small size, and it sits nicely on my body, and the chest straps are easy to adjust for a no-bounce fit. The fabric closest to my body is a very airy mesh, making this suitable for hot weather.

It's absolutely swimming with pockets – 12 in total – including a handy one at my lower back that I can easily reach into while I'm moving. The pockets are all designed to hold gear close to my body, so my stuff isn't bouncing around when I'm running. I personally really like the fixed pole quiver, which is the first one I've tried that makes it easy to remove and stash my poles without taking it off.

There are a couple of downsides. For starters, it's immediately a no-go if you don't run or hike with poles. It also doesn't hold a hydration bladder, just two soft flasks (which have snap lids, making them easy to fill and empty), so it won't work if you want to carry more than 1L of water. It's also missing a hook to hang it with, which is a small detail but surprisingly annoying, as I love to hang my favourite vests up by my front door to air out between runs and keep them handy. Finally, it's one of the most expensive vests on the market, so it'll need to be perfect in your eyes to be worth considering.

Testing the best hydration vests for women

How I tested

As an outdoors writer, I hike and trail run in all seasons, and rack up hundreds of miles a year on the trails. When I just want to move fast and not feel the weight of the world on my shoulders, I ditch my backpack in favour of a hydration vest. For this list, I tested vests in the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District and on holiday in the Alps and in Spain. I used them on gentle runs, races and hikes of all distances to get a real feel for how they perform in all conditions.

Here is the criteria I used during testing:

• Comfort: The biggest make-or-break in a hydration vest is whether or not you can wear it comfortably over a long period of time and in different climates, so I tested these vests in different activities and seasons to make sure there was no chafing or clamminess.
• Storage: A hydration vest should carry more than just water, and it needs to keep your gear secure and handy. I loaded these packs up, then hit the trails to explore how easy my kit was to access.
• Stability: One of the main benefits of a vest over a backpack is that it prevents your gear from bouncing around when you're running, so I made sure to run in every vest while it was packed full and half empty to see how well my kit was secured.
• Capacity: Everyone has different needs, so I tested a variety of different sizes to give you lots of options.
• Versatility: Some vests are more versatile, while others are engineered for a specific purpose. I tested a variety of styles and looked for those that you can wear over multiple activities.

I also consulted fellow trail runner and hiker, Digital Health Editor Grace Walsh, for her recommendations and using same following criteria, she contributed the Salomon Active Skin 4.

How to choose the best women's hydration vest for you

• Find the right fit: Hydration vests are designed to contour to your body to give you that no-bounce experience on the trails, but balance is key. "They should have a snug fit across the body. Make sure there's no dead space to prevent it from moving around when you're on the go," says Amber Stratford, a running expert at Ellis Brigham.
• Look for adjustability: This usually comes in the form of bungee cord closures on the sternum, and additional drawcords at the hem, and it's helpful if a vest comes in a range of sizes. "I would spend a fair bit of time comparing packs from different brands and going between sizes if this is your first pack," says Stratford.
• Prioritise comfort: “For me, the best hydration pack is one that feels almost invisible, like a second skin. I want it to move with me, not against, with zero bounce or distraction," says UK trail runner Chelsea Creak, a member of the Salomon Running Team. You should also consider whether your vest lets sweat escape on a hot day and how the fabric feels against your skin. It should compress your gear so it doesn't bounce around and annoy you, too.
• Buy for distance: If you're using a pack for running, think about the distances you intend to be going, and choose your capacity accordingly. "Generally speaking, if you plan to run longer distances in varied weather, you will need a larger pack (in litres) to be able to accommodate your extra kit," says Stratford.
• Think about hydration: Many of the best hydration vests include two soft 500ml bottles, but bladders usually need to be purchased separately. Start with how much water you're likely to need to carry, and whether you want to use flasks or a hydration bladder."I find front flasks to be a lot easier on day hikes, as you can easily access 1L of water," says Stratford.
• Know what you need to carry: “What you need to carry usually comes down to how much time you plan to be out for, and the conditions you plan to be running in," says Creak. A roomy main compartment is useful if you're packing extra clothing, but lots of stretchy pockets are key for bringing along smaller items like snacks. If you like to walk or run with poles, look for a vest with a pole quiver or bungee cord attachments.

Simba is the home of award-winning sleep. All of its mattresses have glowing reviews from people enjoying the best rest of their lives, but which Simba mattress is the right one for you? And which one should you buy in their Summer sale?

Shopping for a mattress can quickly become information overload. How many springs do you need? Is a hybrid better than memory foam? And what do terms like microcoils, graphite-infused foam, and pressure-relieving layers actually feel like when you're trying to get comfortable at the end of a long day? Whether you're searching for the best mattress for side sleepers, the best cooling mattress for hot nights, or simply trying to make the most of a Simba sale, choosing between the brand's models isn't always straightforward.

When I started researching the best mattresses, I had all the same questions (and plenty more). So I put in the hours, spoke to sleep experts, and tested Simba's range to understand exactly how each mattress performs. I know which cooling technologies genuinely make a difference and which are mostly marketing jargon, and I can explain the practical differences between Simba's models in plain English. Here's everything you need to know about the Simba mattress range and how to choose the one that's best suited to you.

Our Guide To Choosing The Best Simba Mattress For Your Sleep Style

Having tested all the best Simba mattresses, the woman&home team has three favourites, so if you want a quick guide to the ones we sleep on, here you go:

The difference between the Simba Hybrid and the Earth range

Simba's mattresses fall into two categories: Hybrid and Earth. There are 5 mattresses in the Hybrid collection (made of foam and springs) and 3 in the Earth collection (which is all about natural materials. Here's a quick summary of what to expect from each range. We'll go into the details of each model further down.

What's the difference between Simba's Hybrid Mattresses?

The Simba Hybrid range is the brand’s bestselling collection, designed to combine the support of pocket springs with the comfort of foam for a balanced, versatile sleep. As you move up the range, mattresses become deeper and more luxurious, with added layers, enhanced cooling features, and a softer, more premium feel. From the affordable Hybrid Essential to the high-tech Hybrid Ultra, there’s a model suited to different sleep styles, budgets, and comfort preferences.

What's the difference between Simba's Earth Mattresses?

The Simba Earth range is the brand’s eco-conscious mattress collection, made using natural materials and designed to be fully recyclable at the end of its life. Each model focuses on breathable comfort and supportive sleep, with increasing levels of luxury, pressure relief, and tailoring as you move up the range. From the entry-level Source to the premium Apex, it offers a more sustainable way to choose a mattress without compromising on comfort.

A dictionary for Simba jargon

Micro springs / Aerocoil springs: very small, responsive springs designed to add extra “bounce” and pressure relief. Simba uses them in layers to improve comfort and help the mattress adapt more precisely to your body.

Simbatex foam: Simba-designed foam (similar to memory foam, but more breathable). It’s meant to cushion your body while helping heat escape more easily so you don’t overheat as much.

Titanium Aerocoil springs: a premium version of the micro spring layer made with titanium alloy. These are designed to be lightweight, durable, and responsive, helping with support and airflow.

CertiPUR foam: a certification that means the foam has been independently tested to meet strict safety and environmental standards. It confirms the foam is made without harmful chemicals and has low emissions, making it a cleaner, safer option for indoor use.

SupportCore: the firmer, structural base layer that sits underneath the comfort and spring layers. Its job is to provide stability, improve overall support, and help the mattress keep its shape over time so you don’t sink too deeply or lose alignment during sleep.

Comfort layers: the soft upper layers of the mattress that you actually lie on. These determine how plush or firm the mattress feels at the surface.

Base/support layers: the firmer bottom layers that provide structure and stop you sinking too deeply. Think of them as the “foundation” of the mattress.

Pressure relief: mattress’s ability to reduce strain on key areas like shoulders, hips, and lower back by distributing weight more evenly.

Motion isolation (motion transfer): how well a mattress absorbs movement. Good motion isolation means you’re less likely to be disturbed if your partner moves or gets out of bed.

Breathable / airflow layers: materials designed to let heat and air move through the mattress more easily, helping to keep you cooler at night.

Temperature regulation: a mix of breathable fabrics, foams, and airflow systems that help prevent overheating or excessive cooling.

Edge-to-edge support: reinforced sides of the mattress so you can sleep or sit near the edge without feeling like you’ll roll off.

Open-cell foam: foam with tiny open bubbles that allow air to circulate, helping reduce heat build-up.

Hybrid mattress: a mattress that combines foam layers with springs to get the benefits of both: cushioning comfort plus supportive bounce.

Foam mattress: a mattress made entirely from foam layers, usually focusing on contouring and pressure relief.

FAQs

What's the difference between the Simba Hybrid and Earth range?

The Simba Hybrid range focuses on a foam-and-spring construction designed to deliver a balanced, all-round sleep with strong support, cushioning, and cooling features. The Earth range takes a more sustainable approach, using natural materials and a foam- and glue-free design that’s fully recyclable at the end of its life. In short, Hybrid is about engineered comfort and performance, while Earth is about eco-friendly materials with a more natural sleep feel.

Which Simba mattress is best for side sleepers?

For side sleepers, the Simba Hybrid Pro is usually the best starting point because it has extra cushioning layers and dual Aerocoil springs that help relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips without feeling too firm.

If you want something more luxurious and plush, the Hybrid Luxe is even better for side sleeping thanks to its deeper build and softer, more breathable top layers. For hot side sleepers, the Hybrid Ultra can also be a strong choice because it combines pressure relief with advanced cooling.

Which Simba mattress is best for back pain?

For back pain, the Simba Hybrid Pro is usually the best all-round choice because it balances support and cushioning, helping keep the spine aligned while still relieving pressure at the lower back and hips.

If you need something firmer and more structured, the Hybrid Original can also work well thanks to its supportive feel and even weight distribution. For those who prefer a more natural, slightly firmer sleep surface, some models in the Earth range (like Escape or Apex) can also be a good fit because they prioritise alignment and support over sink-in softness.

How long is Simba's trial period?

Simba offers 200 days to trial the mattress, which is more than the industry standard. I'd give it a month before you make a decision on whether the mattress is for you, as that's generally how long it takes to notice physical changes in your body.

How long is Simba's guarantee?

Simba guarantees their mattresses for 10 years, which is perfect. You shouldn't be sleeping on your mattress for longer than 10 years as it will lose support and become unhygienic, Simba or not.

Are Simba mattresses easy to clean?

Yes, Simba mattresses are relatively easy to maintain, but they’re not designed to be fully “washable” like bedding. Most models come with a removable, zip-off cover that can be cleaned according to the care instructions, while the mattress itself should be spot-cleaned only if needed.

To keep them in good condition, Simba generally recommends using a mattress protector and regular airing rather than deep cleaning.

Are Simba mattresses any good?

Yes, Simba mattresses are generally considered very good, which is why they’ve become one of the UK’s most popular bed-in-a-box brands. They’re known for combining pocket springs and foam to create a balanced feel that suits a wide range of sleepers, with strong points in pressure relief, motion isolation, and temperature regulation.

That said, they’re not for everyone: some people find them pricier than similar alternatives, and the feel can be quite specific (more “supported bounce” than deep memory-foam sink). Overall, they’re a strong option if you want an easy-to-choose, all-rounder mattress with a focus on comfort and cooling.

Simba mattresses are some of the best we've ever tested — and that's not praise we hand out lightly. Our team of expert reviewers has slept on hundreds of mattresses, and Simba consistently impresses with its comfort, support, and innovation. If you still have questions, feel free to email me directly, or take a look at our guide to how we test mattresses.

Nobody does Gozney geekery better than us. For over a decade, our team has been cooking on Gozney pizza ovens in our gardens, which would be extensive testing in and of itself, but we can do even better than that. For 12 years, my family has been running a pizza business exclusively using Gozney ovens, so to say we know them well is an understatement.

Gozney makes the best pizza ovens on the market. They're the oven equivalent of owning a Ferrari: sleek, chic, and made to be admired. Yes, they're an investment, but I've never met anyone who regrets it. And, with the Amazon Prime Day Gozney Pizza Oven deals in their final hours, this might be your chance to own a slice of some Gozney luxury.

Whilst the Tread is one of very few deals left, it never hurts to hear more about the Gozney pizza oven range. We'll talk you through the whole range of ovens, whilst pointing out the best Gozney pizza oven deals available right now. So, whether you're after the most affordable Gozney oven for a small garden or a large model that can cook three pizzas at once, we've got you covered.

A guide to the best Gozney pizza ovens

Best Gozney pizza oven overall

When we looked across the Gozney pizza oven range, the Arc XL consistently stood out as the most versatile all-rounder: it sits at the top of so many categories from suited to smaller gardens and beginner-friendly use to overall value for money. I love every Gozney pizza oven for different reasons, but this is the one that I recommend to most people for all those reasons (and so many more).

First, the Arc XL’s 16-inch capacity gives it a real advantage. While most homemade pizzas sit around 10–12 inches, that extra space makes a noticeable difference in use: it’s easier to rotate pizzas, less stressful for beginners, and far more forgiving when you’re learning how to manage heat and flame. It also opens the door to experimenting with tray bakes and other flame-cooked dishes without feeling cramped or restricted.

Value is another key strength for the Arc XL. With Gozney ovens ranging up to around £2,500, the Arc XL’s £599.99 RRP feels relatively accessible, particularly given the quality of the materials and build. It delivers much of the same design language and performance you’d expect from the brand’s larger models, just in a more compact format. It’s also frequently available on offer, which can make room in the budget for accessories.

Despite the “XL” name, it’s also surprisingly practical in real garden settings. We tested it on a small decking area and found it struck a strong balance: substantial enough to feel like a proper investment piece, but not so large that it overwhelms the space. It has become a reliable centrepiece for pizza nights, without taking over the garden.

The only reasons to look elsewhere are if you need something ultra-portable, in which case the Gozney Tread is a better fit. Or if you want a significantly higher capacity, the Gozney Dome XL allows multiple pizzas at once. The Dome range also offers multi-fuel flexibility, so you can cook on gas, wood and charcoal.

You can find out more in my full review.

Best Gozney pizza oven for small spaces

Gozney claims the Tread is the “world’s most portable pizza oven”, and it’s hard to argue otherwise. With integrated handles, a carry case, and even roof rack compatibility, this is a pizza oven designed to go far beyond the garden — whether that’s camping, to the beach, or, in theory, even further afield. But portability is only part of the appeal.

The happy coincidence of designing something so mobile is that it becomes impressively compact. We tested the Tread in a small courtyard, where its size initially felt almost too modest for a pizza oven. And yet, by the end of testing, our reviewer had bought one for themselves. It has a way of winning you over through sheer ease of use and practicality in tight spaces.

Like the Gozney Arc XL, the Tread accommodates a 12-inch pizza and offers precise gas flame control, so you don’t feel like you’re sacrificing core performance for portability. In practice, it handles classic pizzas, traybakes, cookies and roasted vegetables with ease. The only real compromise is internal space: inserting and maneuvering trays requires a little more care compared with larger models like the Arc XL or Dome range, where the wider opening makes movement more forgiving.

It also comes in at a relatively accessible price point, offering strong value for money. Much of Gozney’s engineering and design thinking is condensed into a smaller footprint, making it a compelling entry into the brand for those working with limited outdoor space.

You can find out more in my full review.

Most versatile Gozney pizza oven

The Dome Gen 2 is Gozney’s most versatile pizza oven, and that comes down to two key upgrades: capacity and fuel flexibility. It not only offers significantly more internal space than the brand’s smaller models, but also expands your cooking options beyond gas alone, allowing you to cook with wood or charcoal as well.

Starting with size, the Dome is a noticeably larger oven in every dimension, and it does require more dedicated garden space, making it better suited as a focal point rather than a compact setup. That extra internal room, however, is where the Dome really comes into its own. It gives you far more freedom to move and manage pizzas, which is especially helpful if you’re still building confidence, but it also allows you to cook multiple pizzas in quick succession. In practice, it’s possible to feed a family in five minutes, which makes it as practical for entertaining as it is for learning. It’s not strictly necessary, but then neither are statement outdoor kitchens, swimming pools, and ice baths. It’s about what you want from the experience.

The second element is fuel versatility. While gas delivers consistency and control, the Dome Gen 2 also opens the door to wood and charcoal cooking, unlocking a more traditional, wood-fired flavour profile. This does require additional accessories and a bit more practice to manage the heat, but for more experimental or chef-led cooking, it adds a layer of depth that smaller, gas-only ovens can’t match.

Overall, it’s forgiving enough for families and beginners, but expandable enough for anyone who wants to push beyond straightforward pizza nights into more ambitious outdoor cooking.

You can find out more in my full review

Largest Gozney pizza oven

If capacity and versatility are your pizza oven priorities, this is the one to go for. As I’ve mentioned, my family works with commercial ovens, and the Dome XL feels like the closest a domestic model gets before crossing into full-scale catering territory. It can cook up to three pizzas at once and offers fuel flexibility across propane, wood, and charcoal, giving you serious control over both speed and flavour.

This is very much a step up for hosts and ambitious outdoor cooks. If you’re aiming to serve a pizza party efficiently this is the model built for it. During testing at the start of pizza season, once fully heated (around 20 minutes), we managed to cook 90 pizzas in an hour. Nobody really needs that, unless you're starting a business, but it's good to now that however large your gatherings are, this is an oven that shifts things into a different league.

As with the rest of the Dome range, its footprint is substantial, and it does require commitment in terms of space. But there’s something satisfying about that scale. I love the idea of seeing it as a focal point in an outdoor kitchen, drawing admiring and envious looks from friends and family.

The multi-fuel capability also expands what you can do beyond pizza. Combined with the larger cooking chamber, it opens the door to more ambitious outdoor cooking: slow-roasted joints, bread, and more complex dual-stage dishes. In many ways, the size is not just about volume, it’s about range, control, and what you can create when space is no longer the limiting factor.

You can find out more in my full review

Best Gozney pizza oven for beginners

The Arc is often overlooked because it doesn’t have a single defining “specialism” in the way some of the newer models do, but that’s largely because it’s one of Gozney’s original designs, and it still reflects the brand’s core philosophy: simplicity, performance, and reliability. If anything, its longevity speaks to how well it continues to perform.

At its core, the Arc delivers everything Gozney is known for. It has the same premium build quality and distinctive sculpted design, and it produces consistently high heat for properly blistered, restaurant-style pizza at home. The main difference is capacity: it fits a 12-inch pizza, compared with the Arc XL’s larger 14-inch cooking space. That does mean a little less room to manoeuvre, but it’s still a very workable size for home cooking, especially for individuals, couples, or smaller households.

For beginners, many people assume bigger is better, and often it is, but the Arc strikes a strong balance between usability and cost. With around a £100 difference compared to the XL, it’s an accessible entry point into Gozney ownership, particularly for first-time buyers who want quality without committing to a larger footprint or higher price bracket. Crucially, the cooking experience itself doesn’t feel compromised: the oven mouth is still wide enough to get a pizza in and out comfortably, and the learning curve is more about timing and confidence than equipment limitation.

Performance-wise, the Arc is particularly forgiving. It heats up relatively quickly compared with larger models, making it ideal for spontaneous cooking sessions, and the gas controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing you to make small adjustments without overthinking the process. Once you get used to managing the flame and heat retention, it becomes a very natural, low-stress way to learn pizza making, which is exactly what makes it such a strong beginner option.

Most affordable Gozney pizza oven

The Arc Lite is the newest addition to Gozney’s pizza oven range, taking the familiar Arc design and refining it into a more compact, accessible format. It has been created specifically with smaller outdoor spaces in mind, so if you are a pizza lover with a patio, courtyard, or tighter garden setup, this is the one for you.

Importantly, that reduction in size doesn’t come at the expense of performance. You can still achieve the same high-temperature cooking that Gozney is known for, delivering crisp, leopard-spotted pizza whilst owning an model that looks like the Porsche of pizza ovens. The cooking experience remains reassuringly Gozney in its easy, precise modulation, with the same emphasis on control and consistency, just in a more space-conscious form.

One noticeable difference is in the flame profile: the lower dome means you don’t get quite as dramatic a rolling flame as you would in the standard Arc, but the heat distribution remains effective for pizza cooking. It’s a subtle trade-off rather than a functional limitation.

The Arc Lite is also positioned as a more affordable entry point into the range, making it particularly appealing for first-time buyers or those who want Gozney performance without committing to a larger or more expensive model.

You can find out more in our full review.

How we test pizza ovens

I’ve been leading the testing at woman&home because my family is in the business of pizza. That means that my weekends, evenings, and school holidays were dominated by cooking in pizza ovens (and, to be honest, they still are).

I have tested all of these with my family, so that we have cast our commercial, expert eyes on the pizza ovens. I've also made sure to test alongside some friends who have never cooked in pizza ovens before, because not everyone approaches pizza ovens from a commercial perspective and I want to see how and where each oven appeals to total beginners. I don’t normally have a crowd for testing, but people seem to come out of the woodwork when they catch a whiff of pizza. Can you blame them?

My tests cover all the basics, making endless pizzas, through to vegetable skillets, nachos, cookies and brownies. I like to test the versatility of a pizza oven, which means determining whether it can do speedy and slow cooking. In my reviews, I’ll also talk about what a pizza oven is like to set up, clean up after, and I’ll compare it to other models on the market. That way, you’ll get a really comprehensive idea of what these ovens are like to live with.

If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to email me. I’m always happy to chat about these, possibly over a slice of pizza. Don't forget that you can read more about how we test pizza ovens on our dedicated page.

How to choose a pizza oven

When you’re buying a pizza oven, there are a few factors to take into consideration. I’ll talk you through these here, with some of my insights into how to find the right one for you.

Price: if you want a pizza oven that's decent, your budget will need to start around £250. These ovens might not be pretty, or they might be flimsy in some places, but they're a great place to start and will definitely show you whether pizza ovens are your thing. As you get more serious, you'll see the price creep up. I'd expect a nice electric oven to come up to £500 and your gas ovens might be around here too. Then, when you're looking at bigger, well-made ovens, you'll see these come into the realms of £1,000. I wouldn't recommend spending more than this unless you have borderline commercial needs.

Size and capacity: this will determine what you cook in your pizza oven, how many you can cater for, and where you can store it too. Most ovens can only take one pizza at a time, so if you know you want to cook more than one at once (very fancy) you'll want a Gozney Dome S1. the others might have quirks, such as chimneys, or heat sensitive bases that will affect where you put your pizza oven. These are all things you'll need to keep in mind when choosing.

Fuel type: most pizza ovens are single fuel, although some can cover multiple different options, but it’s good idea to gauge which you want. Electric pizza ovens are some of the most balcony friendly options and can often be used under cover. They’re reliable, perhaps not as authentic, but they get the job done on a very basic level. Next up, you have gas. This is still pretty easy to control, but you get the joys of a flame. This is a little more authentic and fun (you can play with holding food up to the flame) but gas can be expensive and a little ugly to store. The other classic fuel type is wood. This delivers an authentic, smoky flavour, but it’s a lot more high maintenance. You need a lot more time to heat the oven, you need to tend to the fire, and it’s a lot less consistent. You also can’t use any old wood, it needs to be kiln dried. Some pizza ovens also take charcoal, which sits somewhere between gas and wood. It’s not really exciting and flavourful, nor is it as consistent as gas.

Special features: pizza ovens are generally really straight forward, but you'll get some nice extras in some models. That might be a rotating stone (handy if you've never cooked a pizza oven before), temperature gauge (really helpful for knowing when to cook), converter for different furl types, or, in the case of some electric models, you might get functions, such as air frying.

Included accessories: some air fryers come with their accessories included and others will require you to buy them separately. To get started, you really want a stand and a pizza peel, so check whether that's included in the price and then account for it depending on what you find. Then, you might be thinking about covers, pizza cutters, and other accessories. These are rarely included, but if you know you want them, it's worth looking out for a package deal, for example.

FAQs

Are Gozney pizza ovens worth it?

Gozney pizza ovens are expensive, but I don't know a single person who regrets the investment. The performance is head and shoulders above all other brands in terms of quality and precision. However, that's only notable if you'll use yours a lot and if you have a discerning eye. Plenty of people get great results from electric ovens or more basic options that cost around £250.

What's the difference between Gozney and Ooni?

Gozney and Ooni pizza ovens are great. Gozney's tend to be more luxurious, bigger, sleeker ovens. They offer precision and finesse, which is great for an upgrade. Ooni ovens tend to be cheaper. They're still brilliant, but might not look as expensive as Gozneys and they might not last as long either.

Are Gozney ovens easy to clean?

You know the phrase "cleanliness is next to Godliness"? I think they really meant Gozney-ness, because cleanliness and Gozney pizza ovens come hand in hand. These pizza ovens are super low maintenance. If you invest in a cover, a stand, and you use the correct tools, you probably won't ever need to clean your oven. In fact, the pizza stone should never get wet. the stone will become blackened and scratched over time, that's just a fact of life and it's a real badge of honour in the pizza community. The best way to maintain it is to make sure you sweep your oven clean of any leftover flour or spilt foodstuffs and put a cover on the oven when it's cool and if it's being left in the elements and you're all set. It's a very hands-off process.

What fuel do Gozney pizza ovens use?

Gozney ovens tend to use propane gas. They'll come with the right hose and nozzle for attaching onto your standard canister, so they're easy to fuel and gas makes a great cooking base. If you choose the Dome range and go for a converter, those will take wood (I recommend kiln dried for less smoke) and charcoal.

I told you that I'm a Gozney geek and this is just the tip of the iceberg. It's worth noting that we're not even sponsored by Gozney. In fact, we've trialled lots of different pizza ovens ovens in the garden and test kitchen to see whether we could mix things up, but nothing has ever come close to Gozney.

I've written reviews and have plenty more Gozney content planned to feed your appetite for Gozney gems, tips, and tricks. Stay tuned for another slice, but if you have any questions in the meantime, don't hesitate to email me.

There’s no miracle cure for sleeping through the summer heat or waking up drenched after hot flushes, but naturally cooling sheets can make a real difference. Whether you go for breathable bamboo, lightweight linen, or crisp cotton, our team has found the most effective cooling sheets for heatwaves and hot flushes alike.

Cooling bedding comes in all fabrics and forms, each offering something special for each different sleep style. Linen is a luxurious and low-maintenance choice that's been a long-time favourite for those looking for ways to sleep in the heat. Bamboo, on the other hand, offers a silky feel that's unusual at first, but really effective at regulating body temperature. We've tested a range of these, as well as everything in-between to give you the best cooling set up for your bed.

Of course, it's worth noting that cooling sheets work best as part of a bigger sleep setup. Keeping blinds closed during the day, opening windows in the evening, and pairing your bedding with one of the best cooling fans can all help create a cooler environment overall, but these sheets promise to give you a naturally breathable edge in any heatwave.

The best cooling sheets, for cooler, more comfortable slumbers

How we test cooling bedding

At woman&home, we have a rigorous process for how we test cooling bedding. With a team of hot sleepers and volunteers who suffer from night sweats, we've worked our way through all the fabrics, brands, and sheet types to find the cooling bedding that can well and truly beat the heat.

We like to look at colour options, composition, feel, and how the sheets fit on the bed. However, of course, what we focus on most deliberately is how cool they are. We have sleepers struggling with night sweats and hot flushes and we get them to score the bedding and track their sleep to find out whether it really helps to keep them cool at night.

If you want to find out more about how we test bedding, you can visit our dedicated page.

FAQs

What are cooling sheets?

Lots of people love to use the word "cooling" in their marketing, so it might seem difficult to discern what cooling really means. Generally, cooling sheets are breathable fabrics, which are natural or which allow moisture to evaporate easily.

What's the best material for cooling sheets?

Natural fibres are usually the best place to start when shopping for cooling bedding. Linen is exceptionally breathable and allows air to circulate easily, making it ideal for very hot sleepers, while cotton offers that classic crisp, cool-to-the-touch feeling that many people love in hotels. Bamboo and Tencel tend to feel silkier and are particularly effective at wicking away moisture, which can be especially helpful for hot flushes or humid nights. Ultimately, the best material comes down to personal preference: some people love the airy texture of linen, while others prefer the smooth softness of bamboo or the timeless feel of cotto

Do cooling sheets actually work?

Cooling sheets work brilliantly as part of a team when it comes to choosing the best cooling bedding. They can help your skin to breathe, wicking moisture away, whilst making sure the air is circulating around your skin. It's worth noting that this is part of a system though: cooling bedding, a cooling pillow, cooling mattress, and mattress topper will all work together, giving you little boosts that make a big difference.

How do I cool down at night?

There are lots of tips and tricks for ways to keep your home cool. Chris Michael from Meaco, always recommends "cooling down your room first. Keeping blinds shut and the space dark during the day means that you're setting yourself up for success." From there, it'll be your cooling bed sheets, fans, and other tricks that will help you to stay cool at night.

There are plenty of ways to beat the heat, not in the least with the best cooling bedding. There's nothing quite like slipping onto ice cold sheets when the weather warms up and these, tried and tested sets, promise to deliver that sweet relief.

There's something special about trail running that many people never experience - that feeling of being in the open air, in nature, among the trees, in the quiet. While you don't have to run to feel these benefits, you'll certainly get them by lacing up a pair of trail shoes and picking up the pace.

Whether you're hiking or jogging, the best women's trail running shoes can give you more confidence and keep you agile when you get off the beaten path. I should know - I've tested dozens of pairs over the past five years, from the boggy trails of the UK to the rocky Alps. In that time, I've learned that no piece of kit is more important than my running shoes.

The right shoes strike the perfect balance between securing my foot with traction underneath and giving my toes room to splay so I can move across rough ground. They also need to be comfortable enough to wear all day, and if possible, be just as good as an alternative to classic walking shoes.

The quick list

• Back to the top ⤴

The best women's trail running shoes, tried and tested by an off-road runner

Best trail running shoes overall

Brooks might be one of the first brands to produce a trail running-specific shoe, but I hadn't had much experience with its shoes until I got my hands on the Cascadia 19s. Six months on, I'm just sorry I waited so long to give them a whirl.

I first tested these shoes out on the trails of Chamonix in late summer, where I found instant comfort and stability on rocky ground. I liked them so much I've been wearing them ever since, on the considerably boggier trails of Scotland, all the way through the autumn, winter and spring.

Hence the name, this is the 19th iteration of the Cascadia, and it has been updated to be lighter, more flexible, and comfortable and provide better traction than its predecessors. They don't have a very wide fit, so the Merrell Morphlite or the Keen Seek may be better options for those needing this, but with a good 35mm of nitrogen-infused cushioning, I had flexibility underfoot without sacrificing control. This makes these shoes a great all-rounder for a variety of terrains and distances.

Read my full review of the Brooks Cascadia 19 trail running shoes here

Best trail shoes for running abroad

I travel a lot, and whether I'm going on a city break or a beach holiday, I always want the option of going for a walk or run, even when I have no idea what type of trails I might encounter. The Merrell Morphlite shoes are built for both tarmac and soft trail, so they take a lot of the guesswork out of packing, and they come everywhere with me.

I've worn these shoes everywhere from the paved lakeside trails of Copenhagen to Scottish beaches, and they're the most versatile shoe I own. They're extremely light and airy, so they're comfortable during the summer months and in hotter climates. They're also comfortable for walking and as an everyday trainer.

These trail shoes are great for anyone looking for out-of-the-box comfort in a shoe, with a fairly wide fit and a deep footbed. I found these features, and the good 3mm lugs kept me stable on uneven tracks - especially ones that were sandy or packed dirt. The only real issue with them is that the outsole leaves the midsole exposed, which keeps the lightweight design but means they may not be as long-lasting as others.

Read my full review of the Merrell Morphlite trail running shoes here

Best carbon plate trail shoes

Running on trails is slower than on the road, but there are ways to increase your speed - a carbon plate is one of them. It might help you out by creating a stiffer sole to propel you along. The Saucony Endorphin Edge is the best trail running shoe I've tested that has a carbon plate sandwiched into the foam midsole to help you pick up the pace.

Despite that stiffness, I found this shoe to still be one of the most comfortable I've tested, even straight out of the box. It has enough cushioning to absorb lumps and bumps, but not so much that they feel unstable.

They have great traction thanks to the chevron-shaped lugs, which are thankfully widely spaced to prevent excess mud from accumulating between them, and a secure fit, too, so I felt I could move quickly and safely. These are the shoes I recommend for anyone who wants to get on the trail this summer without sacrificing speed. I also love the bright pink colourway option.

Read my full review of the Saucony Endorphin Edge trail running shoes here

Best trail shoes for wide feet

As a keen hiker, I regularly find myself in a pair of walking shoes, so I'm familiar with the Keen brand. This is the very first pair of trail running shoes it has created, and I was impressed out of the box. The Keen Seek is a comfortable all-rounder that can handle a variety of trail surfaces quite capably and still double as a daily trainer.

Out of the shoes in this guide, this is one of the best if you have wide feet, but the integrated sock construction means it's snug on all but the narrowest feet. The stretchy liner keeps your foot from slipping around, and the roomy toe box feels great.

I personally found these trainers took a little breaking in, but I suspect that's down to my high arches. After a few wears, I was happy with the padding, grip and fit of these shoes. They're not made for very muddy conditions, but they're good if you only want one running and hiking shoe, and I found I could go quite far in them without my feet grumbling.

Read my full review of the Keen Seek trail running shoe here

Best multi-terrain running shoes

Digital Health Editor Grace Walsh spent a weekend in nothing but these shoes and her kit, moving on both road and trails across Sussex. While she says they won't be a top choice for those wanting a versatile shoe for walking and running (that prize goes to the Hoka Speedgoat 7 or the Merrell Morphlite), they are ideal for multi-terrain running.

"These trail shoes don't have a very thick sole, which meant I could really feel the ground underneath my feet as I ran. This made a big difference to my feeling of stability on slightly more uneven trails, but my hips and knees didn't suffer for the benefit," she says.

They are also firmer than most other running trainers, she says, so they offer some toe protection on the downhill. However, the design does taper in, so they aren't a good choice for those with wider feet. The rocker design means they are one of the better choices for those looking to pick up the pace, however.

Read Grace's full review of the Columbia Konos trail running shoes here

Best trail running sandals

You might hear sandals and think 'not for running, surely?', but there shouldn't be anything controversial about these trail running shoes. They take the concept of breathability to a whole new level, making them a great choice for summer running.

The Aventrails combine Teva's W strap system, which offers three points of adjustability using hook-and-loop fastenings, with a stretchy knit bootie. The result is that none of the straps touched my skin, and I enjoyed a surprisingly snug fit as my foot didn't move much.

I definitely got some surprised looks when I wore these, but they are more than just a gimmick. With a super-high stack of foam, they're really plush-feeling underfoot, and of course, they're the best running shoes I own for hot weather.

My only gripe is that when I wore them for a long time, they started to rub at my pinkie toe a little, but for casual summer runs and walks that might involve some water crossings or end at a beach, I love throwing these fun shoes on. They also make for a good pair of hiking sandals.

Read my full review of the Teva Aventrail trail running sandals here

Best lightweight trail running shoes

Merrell has long been synonymous with walking shoes, but since breaking onto the trail running scene a few years back, I've been continuously impressed. The MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx shoes are by far my favourite Merrell trail shoes (even surpassing my love for the Merrell Morphlite), and I will sorely miss them when I finally wear them out.

I gave these shoes their first proper test on a trail running and hiking trip to Gran Canaria, where I found them to be the perfect match for warm weather, arid terrain, and steep, rocky trails. They're my lightest trail shoes, but really tough due to the Matryx fabric used in the uppers. The soles are really flexible and thinner than modern standards, but that allows me to get a better feel for the trail, and they still provide more than enough protection for my feet.

Most notably, they seem to grip to just about any type of trail, so I can move faster, if I want to, with confidence. They're built with a more seasoned runner in mind, but after two summers, I'd recommend them to anyone looking for a light, airy and highly capable shoe.

Read my full review of the Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 trail running shoes here

The best trail running shoes for walking and running

If you're new to trail running, you might not want to throw all your money into a pair of trail-only shoes. Equally, you may want a versatile pair that you can hike in one day and run in the next. After wearing these shoes for a few weeks through the fells in the Lake District and across muddy, uneven trails in Greater London's parks, Grace says these are the pick of the bunch for this - and I agree.

She says: "These grippy trainers have thick lugs on the sole, springy support, and supremely comfortable cushioning. They are a rare find in the sea of walking shoes, being light enough to move quickly in and supportive enough for longer plods."

The stability is the jewel in the crown that makes them ideal for running and walking, however. She says: "With every step, my ankles felt secure, but the slight rocker in the design meant I could still spring from one foot to the next and pick up the pace. Although they won't be as speedy as the Columbia Konos running shoe, they feel so secure, I'd always pick them as my first choice."

Read my full review of the Hoka Speedgoat 7 trail running shoes here

Testing the best women's trail running shoes

How I tested

As a trail runner, I run anywhere from 15 - 25k per week, testing out the latest trail running shoes. Though I'm most often found on the forest and mountain trails of the UK, I love to explore different trails when I'm travelling. Over the last couple of years, I've run sections of the famous UTMB course around Mont Blanc, parts of the Transgrancanaria trail and completed a 40k hut-to-hut trail running adventure in the Swiss Alps.

Also contributing to this guide is woman&home's digital health editor, Grace Walsh, who has completed three half-marathons on trail terrain and frequently visits the Peak District and Lake District to go running and hiking.

Together, we've negotiated mud, gravel, grass, rock, steep and flats, and it's all helped me create this guide to the best women's trail running shoes.

Here is the criteria I used during testing:

• Comfort: The true measure of a trail running shoe's success is whether you can wear it for hours on end and sometimes multiple days in a row, so I made sure to test each pair of shoes multiple times over at least a few weeks in real outdoor conditions.
• Grip: When you get off-road, traction is vital so you don't end up sliding downhill, and I've tested these shoes in a variety of conditions, including mud, grass and gravel to assess their capabilities.
• Protection and padding: Running on rough trails can mean lots of opportunities to stub your toes, so I looked for shoes with some reinforcements in the uppers and a sturdy enough sole to protect the bottoms of my feet, too.
• Versatility: If I'm going to shell out for a good pair of trail running shoes, I like them to be versatile enough for different types of trails and work for hiking as well as running, so I've chosen styles that are suitable for more than one season and can handle different surfaces, as much as possible.

How to choose the best women's trail running shoes for you

• Know where you'll be running: Think about the type of terrain you usually take on. Is it wet or muddy? If you’ll be sloshing through streams or lots of mud, keep an eye out for deeper lugs for traction (at least 4 mm) and upper materials that drain easily and dry quickly, like the Matryx. You may want to check whether the shoe comes in a waterproof version (note that you'll lose some breathability here, and I prefer waterproof socks). For rockier trails, a rock plate can help protect the soles of your feet, and reinforced uppers are a must.
• Consider distance: It's important to think about how far your longest run is likely to be. If you plan to cover vast distances, you'll most likely want a bit more cushioning, whereas for shorter runs, you can afford to lose some stack and enjoy the trail sensation underfoot.
• Think about seasonality: A lot of the very best trail running shoes should be wearable year-round, but if you want to run through a cold and snowy winter, a more robust upper is key and for very warm weather, consider light, breathable shoes where you can see the light through the pores. Running through the wetter and icier months definitely calls for deeper lugs for traction.
• Understand profile: A big difference between road and trail shoes is often the size of the drop between heel and toe. For extra stability on tricky trails, off-road shoes tend to have less drop (often 6 mm or less). This is thought to allow for a more natural gait, but you might find you prefer a higher drop, especially if you tend to run on rolling, hard-packed trail, and if so, look for a heel-to-toe drop of at least 8 mm.
• Revisit brands: The best running shoe brands are always working with the latest technology to revise existing models, and often serve a particular corner of the market. Brooks is known for comfort, Hoka for big, bouncy shoes and Merrell for wide toe boxes. If there's a brand or style that's really worked for you in the past, it's probably a good bet for your next pair of running shoes.
• Choose a versatile shoe: Unless you're training for a really specific race or goal where you might want something very technical like a carbon plate shoe, the more versatile the better. An all-rounder shoe can be your go-to for hiking, casual jogs and long trail runs.

You don't have to be a mountaineer to appreciate one of the best down jackets. On a windy coastal walk or in the pub garden post-walk after the sun has gone, zipping up one of these lightweight jackets and feeling the warmth spread across your upper body is blissful.

As an outdoors writer and avid hiker, I know this feeling all too well. I've tested many of the best down jackets on the market. Every year, I cover around 500 miles in my walking shoes, exploring trails in the UK and taking hiking holidays abroad. In that time, I've learnt that a good down jacket can be the difference between enjoying your time outdoors and a cold, miserable day you want to forget.

These jackets rely on a cluster of natural goose or duck down to trap heat close to your body, while letting excess heat escape so you can control your temperature. They can be worn as an outer layer on dry days or underneath your raincoat when the weather is a little less reliable outside.

I've used my experience to create this guide to the very best down jackets for women, collating options for every price bracket and walking style, from the likes of Columbia, The North Face, Fjällräven, and more.

The quick list

• Back to the top ⤴

The best down jackets for women, tried and tested by a true hiker

The best down jacket overall

The Rab Microlight Alpine Women's Down Jacket is my absolute favourite down jacket. It's easily earned a top spot among the best down jackets for women, thanks to its stylish protection.

I've tested two variations of this jacket over the past five years, and it's kept me warm during snow in Yosemite National Park, on an 11-day trek in the Himalayas, and through multiple UK winters. But, I've also worn it on regular walking trails in the UK and even on the school run. It's so versatile, owing to its shower-proof and down combination that makes it suitable for almost all weather conditions - even as the temperature rises.

Small details like the snug hood and soft chin guard that protects my skin, all the way down to the drop tail that keeps my bum warm make this is refreshingly well-thought-out jacket designed with women in mind. It's not too bulky, either, so you can easily fit a fleece under it or a proper raincoat over the top, should you need to.

It's one of the prettier down jackets I've tested, too, which means I'm often grabbing it for weekends away, and I wear it around the city as often as I wear it on the trail.

Read my full review of the Rab Microlight Alpine Women's Down Jacket here

The best down jacket for style

If you don't want to sacrifice style just to make sure you're protected from the weather, I totally get it - and I can't recommend the Columbia Arctic Crest Down Hooded Jacket enough. It's easily one of the nicest looking women's down jackets around.

It may look more fashion than function, but it's more than capable of keeping a cold wind at bay thanks to a clever process called biomimicry. This imitates the way a polar bear's fur keeps it warm. Like a lot of down jackets on this list, it has been treated to repel a light rain, but the treatment also means it repels dirst and stains, which makes it super easy to care for - and a must-have in the white colourway. It also comes in black.

Unlike a lot of other jackets that are built for mountain conditions, this one is slim-fitting, so it's flattering, but it could be a little too tight around the hips for anyone with more of an hourglass shape or who plans to layer this on top of a fleece. A little stretch in the hem could go a long way here towards making it a perfect jacket.

Read my full review of the Columbia Arctic Crest Down Hooded Jacket here

The best down jacket for travel

As an avid hiker and travel writer, I'm always looking for lightweight, packable clothing that can protect me from the elements. This jacket is the lightest I've ever tested and has easily found a permanent title as the best down jacket for travel. It's not bad for the budget, either at £150 at time of writing. If you don't want to look like the Michelin Man in your down jacket, this is the one for you.

Montane bonds non-toxic gold particles to the down in this jacket, which the brand says makes it warmer without adding bulk, and helps it to dry faster if you get caught out in a shower. I really notice the difference in my temperature and comfort in this jacket, which I've now tested on hiking and ski trips in multiple countries.

It comes with a little stuff sack in the pocket and easily squashes down to not much bigger than a grapefruit, so even if I think the weather is going to be good, I can still squeeze it into my backpack or carry-on just in case. The shell fabric might be a little fragile for thorny trails, but other than that, I can't find fault with it. Thanks to its lightweight design and slim fit, this is the one I'd recommend to anyone trying to get a break from the bulk.

Read my full review of the Montane Alpine 850 Nano Hoodie here

The best down jacket for everyday wear

When the weather outside is frightful, cosy up in this warm and cosy anorak. The design of this jacket was inspired by the Swedish brand's 1970's expedition designs, but don't let that put you off if you're just looking for a warm layer for woodland strolls.

The fun, retro style and versatile design make this jacket great for any time outdoors, and even though I've worn it in the Himalayas, I quite often find myself showing it off on city walks because of its timeless good looks and how well it pairs with a simple set of workout leggings.

It's got side zips to help dump heat if you feel a little warm, and a giant kangaroo pouch so you can tote your gloves and phone and won't always have to carry a backpack for shorter walks.

The looser, boxy fit and throwback high collar are stylish and functional, making it really easy to pull on and off and wear with other layers. I really rate its reliable warmth, which makes it comfortable to wear mile after mile in sun or snow.

Read my full review of the Fjällräven Expedition Pack Down Anorak here

The best down jacket without hood

If you're just getting into walking workouts or hiking and want a reliable down jacket that will work for everything and is easy to wear with layers, this is a great choice. It's the only jacket on this list which doesn't have a hood, which can be more comfortable if you think you're going to be wearing it as a mid layer with a rain jacket on top.

This slim-fitting jacket looks nice and is more versatile than bulkier down jackets, meaning you can wear it on its own or with other layers for skiing and winter hiking. It's shorter than the other jackets on this list, so it doesn't keep my bum as warm, but it is adjustable to keep the draft out. I really appreciate the nice, high collar, which keeps my neck warm when it's windy.

The fabric is super soft in the places where it touches my skin, so it feels good to wear. It's light enough to layer, warm enough to make a difference and likely to end up hanging on the hook by the front door, ready to go whether you want to take a hike or head to the post office.

Read my full Helly Hansen Verglas Down Jacket 2.0 review here

The best premium down jacket

Not every walk requires the world's most technical down jacket, but if you want premium quality for cold weather or plan to tackle some mountainous terrain this year, you're unlikely to find a better choice than the North Face Summit Breithorn Down Jacket.

After testing this jacket out in whiteout conditions on a glacier at over 11,300 feet, I'm confident in its abilities to keep me comfortable and safe in any weather.

It is designed for technical climbing, so it's meant to be worn under a waterproof shell, and has quite a slim fit. That means it looks quite stylish on, and while I'm not sure how well it would work for those with curvier physiques, it's definitely designed for freedom of movement. The buttery soft shell fabric is a pleasure to wear.

If you're out in windy conditions, the hood stays put, and the stretchy wrist gaiters easily fit under the cuff of my gloves and leave no skin exposed. The only downside is that they also make it more difficult for me to check my Garmin watch.

Read my full review of The North Face Summit Breithorn Down Jacket here

Testing the best down jackets for women

How I tested

As an outdoors writer, there's never a week that goes by when I'm not out on the trail testing the latest and greatest down jackets. Last year alone, I hiked over 500 miles, including the trek to Everest Base Camp and several of the UK's best long-distance trails through the Lake District and Northumberland National Park. All that trail time has thrown just about every weather condition imaginable at me, and it's all helped me to create this guide on the best down jackets for women.

Here is the criteria I used during testing:

• Warmth: The true measure of a down jacket's success is how well it protects you against the cold, so I made sure to test each jacket multiple times in real outdoor conditions, from the seaside to the summit.
• Breathability: A warm jacket doesn't do you much good if it makes you so sweaty once you start moving that you have to strip it off, so I made sure to hike in every jacket and not just huddle on a park bench (though I did that too!).
• Weight and packability: Not everyone wants to look like the Michelin Man, and I personally prefer a lower bulk jacket for outdoor pursuits and packing. I took into account how easy each jacket is to wear with other layers, and how easily I could pack it for a hike or a trip.
• Materials: All down jackets use goose or duck down for insulation, and the quality of that down is marked on the label as "fill power." Higher fill power is better quality, but I made sure to test varying qualities, including some jackets that use a mix of down and feathers to secure a good range. The shell material is always a light, synthetic fabric that's fast-drying, but I also sought out jackets where the shell isn't too fragile to make sure they last for years.
• Versatility: If I'm going to spend hundreds of pounds on a jacket, I want it to serve more than just one purpose, so I chose only jackets that are suitable for more than one season and for various outdoor pursuits, such as gentle strolls, mountain climbing and skiing.

How to choose the best women's down jacket for you

• Never compromise on insulation: Down jackets use animal down, usually derived from duck or goose down (down is the clumps of fine feathers found under a bird’s tougher exterior feathers) to trap in heat and keep you warm. The label of a down jacket will list the fill power of a jacket, such as 400, 600 or 800. The higher the fill power, the warmer the jacket is likely to be.
• Understand breathability: A warm jacket for hiking is no good if it's not breathable. Down jackets in general are reasonably breathable, but they'll allow more sweat to escape when they use lightweight face fabrics (like Pertex) and have a less dense down fill. You can also find so-called "hybrid" down jackets, which feature stretchy, breathable panels in high-sweat areas like the underarms.
• Check out the jacket's wet weather protection: Down offers a brilliant warmth-to-weight ratio in dry cold weather, but is useless when wet. A good down jacket will never replace your rain jacket, but it should be water-repellent for light showers. A jacket designed to hold off a light rain will use hydrophobic down and be treated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR).
• Think about the design features you want: If you want to wear your jacket on the trail, look for those with close-fitting hoods to keep your head warm in windy conditions, and a high collar to protect more of your face. Designs with stretchy or close-fitting cuffs and an elasticated or adjustable hem also help to keep heat trapped around your body. Zipped pockets and internal pockets for storing your valuables are also handy.
• Don't forget about packability: Down jackets roughly fall into two categories – lightweight and packable designs suitable for use as mid layers, and bulky but very warm jackets that double up as coats in dry conditions. If you need a jacket you want to stuff into your backpack or travel duffel, pick one that weighs under 500g and comes with a stuff bag or fits into its own pocket. If you’re after a warm jacket for bitterly cold weather and for sports where you’ll be standing still or cooling off for longer periods of time, pick a bulkier insulated jacket.
• Choose a versatile jacket: The best down jackets can be valuable everywhere from the city streets to the summit, and if you think you're going to want to wear it in different environments, make sure it's not too bulky and restrictive for hiking, and consider whether it's a style that you'll want to wear around town. Lots of the best down jackets really look nice these days, so you don't have to sacrifice on style if you don't want to.
• Consider ethics and sustainability: There is an animal welfare issue with the production of some animal down jackets. The cheapest down may be harvested from live animals, a cruel and unnecessary act. You’ll see other down jackets labelled as ‘humanely harvested’, which means the down is a by-product of food production. You can also choose to purchase ethically sourced down (look for the RDS, or Responsible Down Standard, used to denote down obtained from animals that have not been subjected to unnecessary harm).

Beloved for its line of incredibly hydrating and moisture-locking formulas, spanning lip masks to serum treatments, Laneige is one of the most well-known names in the Korean beauty space. So naturally, we've tried an entire skincare routine's worth of products (and then some) to share with you the best of the best.

If you're in the market for a new best face moisturiser or have already discovered the joys of Korean toner pads, for instance, and want to add more, similarly hard-working formulas to your bathroom cabinet, Laneige is definitely the brand to get acquainted with. It offers everything, from nourishing gel cleansers to milky toner hybrids, all packed with the innovation and science-backed ingredients that have come to define and set Korean skincare apart from the crowd. And naturally, we as a team have been drawn to its hyrdating and multi-tasking buys and have tried our fair share.

So, if you're new to the brand, want to quench dry skin and or are keen to elevate your skincare regime, these are the nine Laneige products to invest in. All tried, tested and loved by us.

The best LANEIGE deals

The 9 best LANEIGE skincare buys, tried & loved by us

From the incredibly aesthetic packaging to the instantly soothing feel of many of these buys, Laneige is definitely a good jumping-off point if you're keen to dive into the world of Korean skincare. And below, we have recommendations for almost every step of your routine, from your SPF to your weekly overnight mask.

How we tested the best LANEIGE products

Like with our best eye cream and best Tatcha product guides, we slathered our faces, lips and under eyes with each targeted formula, using them for weeks (and in some cases months, as many of the buys are actually long-standing favourites in our routines), monitoring the effects - both instantly and over time. We worked to incorporate each product into our everyday routines, using it as advised, to really judge their efficacy.

Each formula was also tested on an array of different skin types, including oily, dry and sensitive and used to combat several concerns - like a damaged barrier, texture, chapped lips and dehydrated skin.

What are the most popular LANEIGE products?

The original Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask in Berry is probably the brand's most recognisable and well-loved product, with famous names like Kate Moss and Demi Moore known to be fans of the formula. It's now available in a range of flavours and tints (Bubble Tea Matcha is Naomi's favourite, while Sennen loves the Chocolate one).

That said, Laneige's Cream Skin toner has also gone viral on social media, along with milky toners in general, thanks to its lightweight feel and ability to act as almost a dewy primer underneath makeup. Laneige have also launched a milky Cerapeptide face mist following the toner's popularity.

Bottling sweetness and sophistication all at once, the best gourmand perfumes promise to surround you with deliciously tempting notes, especially where these nine creamy, vanilla, and candied blends are concerned.

While often overlooked or labelled 'sickly' by some (this once included me, I'm ashamed to say), gourmands are having quite the renaissance. Of course, many of the most timeless and well-loved long-lasting perfumes are gourmands, but the olfactory genre is proving particularly popular among the 2026 fragrance trends. So much so, in fact, that we're seeing more specific and trendy sub-categories emerge, like milk and patisserie perfumes, all of which prove just how multi-faceted and versatile a gourmand blend can be.

Whether you want to smell like freshly-baked madeleines or are seeking a subtle skin scent, with a touch of silky-smooth vanilla, these scents subvert everything you thought you knew about gourmand - and smell incredibly chic while they're at it.

9 of the best gourmand scents that smell sweetly chic

As mentioned, gourmands are incredibly popular right now, and we, as a team, think that's down to just how modern and diverse the genre has become. Just a few years ago, gourmands seemed quite one-dimensional, sugary, and vanilla-centric. Now, though, with so many of the chicest perfume houses having launched their own spin, along with demand for more niche ingredients like pistachio and honey on the rise, there's a plethora of unique and complex scents available. Like creamy milk-inspired and dessert-inspired perfumes, to more roasted, musky blends.

What is a gourmand perfume?

"Gourmand perfumes are exactly what the name suggests: the spritz that smells delicious, almost edible, and definitely good enough to eat. The term 'gourmand' entered the fragrance lexicon in the 1990s, and since then the category has flourished," explains our very own in-house Master Perfumer and Home eCommerce Editor, Laura Honey.

"Today, both heritage perfume houses and modern niche brands continue to reinterpret the style, often layering edible notes with amber, spices, or soft woods to create something more sophisticated than sweetness alone."

As for why they're so popular, aside from their mouthwatering notes, gourmands feel very timeless. Smelling delicious isn't reserved for just one season or occasion. Honey also shares that one of the reasons why she loves them is how beautifully they layer with other fragrance families. "They can add softness and texture to different bases. Vanilla, for example, can brighten beautifully alongside citrus notes while creamy milk perfumes pair effortlessly with delicate florals such as peony or rose."

How we tested the best gourmand scents

As with our guide to the best perfumes for women and best floral fragrances, we tested every single one of these scents first-hand. We spritzed, sniffed, and wore each blend for a day or more, monitoring how its notes developed, its longevity, and, of course, how many compliments it garnered. Several of these scents are also long-standing favourites of the team, which they've been wearing for months, if not years.

Maison Margiela's Afternoon Delight, for instance, is a firm favourite of Naomi's, while Aleesha loves Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Kurky and has been wearing it for months now.

How to choose and what to look out for

"At the heart of many gourmand fragrances, you’ll find notes reminiscent of desserts and confectionery: chocolate, caramel, toffee, praline, coffee, milk, vanilla, almond, or ripe fruits such as cherry, strawberry, and orange. These ingredients evoke warmth and comfort, but also nostalgia," says Honey.

"Our sense of smell is deeply tied to memory, and gourmand notes often remind us of life’s celebrations: the scent of baking, shared treats, or special occasions. That sense of indulgence is part of their charm: wearing a gourmand fragrance can feel a little like carrying a delicious secret with you. After all, who doesn’t want to smell good enough to eat?"

• Vanilla
• Chocolate
• Caramel
• Toffee
• Praline
• Coffee
• Milk
• Almond
• Marshmallow
• Honey
• Ripe fruits such as cherry, strawberry and orange

I’ve never thought of cleaning products as beautiful. Functional? Absolutely. But aesthetic? Rarely. So, when Daylesford unveiled its latest launch, it made me reconsider my spring cleaning routine altogether. Perhaps, instead of rushing through it, we should romanticise our seasonal reset with some cleaning products that have been made to be admired as much as they are to be used.

After admiring my Daylesford discovery, I went down a rabbit hole of premium cleaning essentials that look refined on your countertop, whilst helping you to clean your home like a professional. And, as it turns out, there are plenty of everyday essentials that have been given luxurious upgrade by designer brands .

From Diptyque's refillable multi-surface spray (inspired by the ways that you can clean with vinegar) through to a Parisian alternative to trusty Pink Stuff, there are some really beautiful natural cleaning products that you can incorporate into any and every cleaning habit that you want to adopt. Many of these also champion biodegradable formulas, refill systems and B-Corp credentials: proof that high design and high standards can go hand in hand. That's the kind of cleaning I can employ myself to spring clean and get motivated for.

Luxury cleaning products that elevate the everyday

Whilst a bad workman blames their tools, a good one might thank them (as well as our handy spring cleaning tips). Whether that’s a refillable bottle of Diptyque multi-surface spray or the discreet reassurance of Aesop Post-Poo Drops waiting in the bathroom. When the tools are thoughtfully made, sustainably formulated and beautifully designed, the everyday task feels less like a chore.

If you’re craving a little motivation to start spring cleaning, or you simply want to romanticise a cleaning reset these are the elevated essentials that might just make you reach for the cloth with enthusiasm.

Before this winter, I hadn't owned a pair of snow boots for years. I didn't think I really needed them - even though I keep ruining suede trainers by wearing them in the rain...

It was the Sorel Torino boots that really changed my mind, and you'll read a lot more about them in this article, alongside the other top contenders for best snow boots, as reviewed by the fashion team here at woman&home.

But seriously, how did I ever live without them? Let's face it, we've had our fair share of cold weather over these last few months, from actual snow to countless days of freezing cold rain. Because it snows so little here, it's easy to overlook what to wear in the snow, and think that snow boots aren't for you. But really, they're just well-insulated, waterproof boots that work wonders in winter weather. And we all need at least one pair of those! Trust me, your most comfortable trainers will still be there in spring. Of course, if you are lucky enough to be heading off on a skiing holiday, you'll also love the boots on this list.

Best snow boots: our top 3

Best snow boots for women: tried and tested

Best overall

When it comes to the best snow boots, Sorel is quite simply in a league of its own. The Princess of Wales, Meghan Markle, Scarlett Johansson, Victoria Beckham and Katie Holmes are all big fans of their hardy styles, and I confess I fell instantly for the Torino Waterproof boots.

I've never been skiing, so I was dubious that I actually really needed snow boots. But these trusty black boots have become my everyday go-to for dog walks and running errands. The fleecy lining is so cosy, and thus far, no mud, snow or rain has been any kind of obstacle for the deep tread. I think I've worn them every day since I got them.

There are several versions of the Torino boots available, but these are the ones I can personally recommend. Bonus: they're often reduced from the RRP of £150 on Amazon. Known as duck boots, they have a practical, rubber lower shell and a suede upper to make sure your feet are warm and dry.

They're easy to put on, easy to clean, and easy to love. Well worth the price if you ask me.

Read more in the full Sorel Womens Torino Boots Review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best for walking

woman&home's Fashion Writer Molly Smith tested these boots, and she said the cloud soft shearling lining was good enough for her to ditch her trusty UGGs.

Molly lives in the countryside, where daily dog walks in the wintry weather are not for the faint-hearted. She said she could feel the triple-density cushioning from the first step, and they felt supportive and comfortable straight away.

She liked that these boots felt style-led rather than solely practical, which isn't always the case with the best snow boots. Molly suggests they would work for coffee dates with friends or running errands just as well as they do for cold dog walks, and she also loved the criss-cross lace design, which channels the snowboot styles of the 1970s.

The leather panels are easily wipeable, and the soles can easily be eashed too, but Molly recommends a shoe protection spray like this one for the shearling, especially if you're walking in mud.

Read more in the full FitFlop Womens Gen-FF Shearling Ankle Boots review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best tall boots

Freelance Fashion Editor Antonia Kraskowski says: "For treacherously icy days, there's nothing quite like a good pair of snow boots to keep you upright, and Moon Boot's Icon design offers excellent grip without compromising on style."

Antonia says one of the first factors to consider with Moon Boots is sizing. The brand has its own system that encompasses size ranges rather than individual fits (eg, UK 3-5, 6-8). She took her usual size and found that whilst the wide-fitting foodbed takes some getting used to, she quickly adjusted to the bouncy feeling. She notes that there is no definitive left and right boot as both share the same shape, meaning there’s no cut in at the arch of the foot, which can feel strange.

Antonia describes the padding as a "cosy cocoon" for your feet and legs that keeps you incredibly warm in whatever weather you might be facing. She also points out the grip on the soles is impressive. She says: "Walking on a particularly icy morning, I find that my Moon Boots offer more anchoring than my favourite UGG boots."

The wider silhouette of the boots is flattering, creating the illusion of a slimmer calf. The foam body of the boot means that there is some flexibility for those with wider calves, plus the nylon shell is easy to clean.

Read more in the full Moon Boot Icon Nylon Boots review

• Back to the top ⤴

Best of the rest

How we tested the best snow boots

We're in the process of testing six pairs of boots for this piece, all of which have come highly recommended. I asked our experienced fashion team for styles they've genuinely relied on for years, too.

We didn't take to the snowy slopes in these boots; rather, we tested them for everyday use in the cold, wet and snowy weather we've had in the UK over the last few months.

We considered the comfort and support, style and how easy they are to clean, as well as things like the size range, fabrics used and colours available when coming to a verdict on each boot.

How to choose the best snow boots

When shopping for the best snow boots, there are some key elements to think about and look out for:

• Support: consider how far you might be walking in your boots. Are these for hiking or to avoid slipping on ice when popping out to the shops? I find the Sorel boots to be incredibly comfortable, regardless of the number of steps I take in a day, but FitFlop is known for designing footwear that offers all-day support, pressure diffusion and arch support. They're a popular choice with people who suffer from plantar fasciitis or arthritis.
• Waterproofing: Not all snow boots are 100% waterproof. The shearling boots on our list wouldn't be the best in torrential rain, for example, so think about the conditions you'll be facing.
• Sizing: When trying on snow boots, remember that you'll probably want to wear them with some thick socks. You might think about going half a size or even a full size larger.
• Fastenings: Some snow boots have complicated lace-up detailing to keep them secure, whereas others you can easily slip on and slip off. If you want a pair to keep by the front door for quick dashes outside, The North Face booties get our vote.
• Height: Taller boots will be better than ankle boots for deep snow. If you're going skiing, the Moon Boots might be the ones for you.
• Traction: Deeper cleated soles will have more grip when walking on snow and ice.
• Lining: Toasty fleecy linings like those of the UGG and Sorel boots will provide extra warmth for your toes if you're going to be in really cold temperatures.
• Style: Although this might not be the top priority for something as practical as snow boots, you also want to feel good and look good in your boots.

FAQs

Can snow boots be used in rain?

Absolutely! As long as the boots are waterproof, the best snow boots are a great choice for slippery, wet surfaces. Remember to use a suede protector on suede styles, and consider the fact that snow boots are made for cold weather, not warmer rainy weather.

Are wellington boots good for snow?

The best wellies tend to have minimal or no insulation compared to snow boots, and some rain boots may offer less traction on slippery surfaces. The brand Merry People has a great explainer as to the difference between rain boots vs snow boots if you want to know more.

Where history and fine craftsmanship meet the modern age, Creed's perfumes can be found, with their chic, tailored notes that suit any season, occasion and preference.

What began as a luxury tailor in 1760's Mayfair, Creed is now one of the most established fragrance houses in the world, touted for its niche and artisan long-lasting perfumes, crafted from the finest ingredients and packaged in elegant, instantly recognisable bottles. You've likely already heard of Aventus, the brand's best-selling scent (which can be found in several iterations, for men and women), but the House of Creed boasts many other premium blends, spanning fresh Alpine-like perfumes to ambery florals and powdery perfumes that feature rose at their centre. Essentially, there's a Creed fragrance for everyone, but like with the best Penhaligon's perfumes, with such prestige inevitably comes quite a high price.

So to ensure you're investing in the right blend for you or a loved one - especially if you're shopping online - we've tested nine of the most popular and iconic perfumes, first-hand (including the brand's newest launch), to share our impressions of their elegant and distinctive aromas.

The 9 best Creed perfumes that radiate lasting luxury

Whether you favour classic rose perfumes or silky amber scents, Creed is the place to find a forever favourite, the sort that feels timeless, immersing you in the opulence of ages past, whilst still remaining relevant, unique and perfectly chic. From the gold crown emblem to the proud-looking bottles, these fragrances command attention and compliments with every spritz, especially where these nine are concerned...

How we tested the best Creed perfumes

As with all our guides, like the best perfumes for women, the team and I sniffed, spritzed and wore all of the featured Creed fragrances first-hand. I spent time studying each blend, paying attention to which notes stood out and lingered longest on my skin, as well as sharing my first impressions.

I also asked collegeauges for their thoughts on Creed's scents, specifically in the case of Royal Princess Oud, which is a longstanding favourite of our Digital Beauty Editor, Fiona McKim.

What is Creed's most famous fragrance?

This accolade must go to Aventus, both the original and the For Her iteration. The former blends notes of lemon, pineapple, cedarwood, oakmoss and musk and is counted among the most iconic and recognisable fragrances.

What celebrity wears Creed perfume?

Much like with the best Jo Malone perfumes and Le Labo blends, Creed has its own share of celeb clientele, including Jennifer Lopez, who is rumoured to be a fan of Silver Mountain Water, as was the late David Bowie. Meanwhile, George Clooney, Pierce Brosnan and Clint Eastwood are reported to favour the brand's Green Irish Tweed scent.

In many ways, concealer is my ultimate makeup multitasker. In addition to providing a more intense cover-up, it also brightens, blurs, lifts, and subs in for my foundation on days when I want to streamline my routine. Along with my liquid eyeliner, it’s my desert island beauty product.

Unlike a decade ago, today’s line-ups showcase serious flex when it comes to formula and shade range. If you have a deeper skin tone, like mine, shopping for your perfect match has never been less stressful and more enjoyable.

The choice is great, however, not all concealers are created equal. Just like picking the best foundation for dark skin, finish, coverage and, most importantly, undertone, are all key considerations when choosing the best concealer for dark skin and creating a seamless finish that doesn’t look ashy or orange (my pet peeves when it comes to complexion products).

So, which ranges go over and beyond? I’ve tested today’s most hyped concealers to see which are truly worth investing in and asked top makeup artist Adeola Gboyega for her expert insights on how to pick the best one for your needs. Whether you’re looking to cover dark circles, dark spots, or pigmentation, this edit has you covered with detailed reviews breaking down the pros and cons of each formula, to help you buy the right one for you.

The best concealers for dark skin, tested by a beauty editor

How I tested the best concealers for dark skin

To compile this edit of the best concealers for dark skin, I put a range of different formulas spanning every price point through their paces. Each concealer was worn without primer, foundation, or colour corrector, so I could see how it performed on its own.

To make the final list, they had to score highly on shade inclusivity, offering options for a variety of different undertones, and provide best-in-class formulas that felt comfortable and non-cakey when worn for a whole day, without touch-ups.

How to choose the best concealer for dark skin

Concealers are like the Swiss army knives of the makeup world. They can cover up, brighten, and blur, but different formulas and textures work best for specific needs.

“I always teach that your under-eye concealer should be different from the one you use on blemishes or pigmentation,” says top makeup artist and beauty expert Adeola Gboyega. “The concerns are completely different, and so the textures and shades should be, too.”

How to choose the best concealer for dark circles

Creamy concealers are your best bet for a skin-like finish. “For under-eyes, I prefer creamy concealers because they blend easily, don’t collect in texture as much, and give that beautifully hydrated look we all love.” Adeola’s favourites are NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer and Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Cream Cover Concealer.

As for shade choice, personal preference can come into play, depending on your finish of choice. I like to use a shade that's not too different from the rest of my face for ease. However, if you’re looking for a brightening effect, try something lighter. “If you want a brighter under-eye look, keep it subtle, go one shade lighter, not three,” Adeola recommends. “The aim is lifted and fresh, not stark.”

Prep is also key, and a colour corrector can be your secret weapon for covering dark circles and preventing an ashy finish. “For deeper skin tones, the under-eye area often carries a lot of brown or purplish discolouration,” explains Adeola.

“A peach or orange corrector can help to balance and neutralise the darkness before you apply concealer, giving you a much more natural, seamless result.” Try Adeola’s go-to, Huda Beauty’s #FauxFilter Color Corrector in Mango. For a multitasker that contains concealer and colour corrector shades, I also love MAC’s Studio Fix Conceal and Correct Palette.

Finish by setting with powder to seal your handiwork. “If you’re using a creamy formula, you absolutely need a touch of powder to lock it in place,” says Adeola. “You don’t need a lot, just a light press of powder with a fluffy brush or powder puff to help with longevity and prevent the concealer from shifting throughout the day.”

How to choose the best concealer for dark spots and hyperpigmentation

Picking a concealer as close to your skin tone as possible is best for a radiant and fresh finish. “Anything lighter will highlight the area instead,” Adeola advises.

The texture can make a huge difference. “Look for a concealer that has enough coverage to stand alone and isn’t overly creamy,” Adeola adds. “A slightly firmer texture grips better to targeted areas like the cheeks, jawline or forehead and gives a more lasting finish.”

Colour corrector can be a great addition here, too. “Corrector is optional here, but extremely helpful if the pigmentation is deeper in tone,” Adeola recommends. “A small amount of corrector under your concealer means you use less product overall, and the final result looks more natural and refined.”

I’ve recently been using this technique, and it’s allowed me to tailor my routine to what my skin really needs each day. If, like me, you feel you may have shifted onto ‘makeup autopilot,’ this type of strategic application of your complexion products could be a game-changer.

Our expert panel

If you're struggling to get up during the dark winter mornings, you're not alone. One of the best sunrise alarm clocks could be the answer to waking up naturally and making those cold, dark mornings just a little bit brighter.

So, why are so many of us TATT (tired all the time)? Well, we lead indoor-centric lives that prevent us from getting the daylight we need, and we’re glued to screens that emit blue light, which disrupts our body’s natural clock and keeps us awake past our bedtime. Our sleep-wake cycle is constantly disrupted and, as a result, SAD lamps and sunrise alarms have become increasingly popular.

Of course, aside from our busy modern lives, rising in the dark has always disrupted our circadian rhythms. To address that, these smart alarm clocks essentially simulate sunrise and reset it. The small device makes for one of the best sleep aids to help improve your routine for the new year.

Not all sunrise clocks are made equal, though. We tested a range of clocks from top brands, including Hatch, Lumie, and more, assessing them for ease of use, sound quality, range, brightness, features, and charging capabilities to compile our list of the very best.

The quick list

The best sunrise alarm clocks in 2026

Best sunrise alarm clock overall

Dreamegg is a staple sunrise alarm clock brand, and the Sunrise 1+ is the sexier version of Sunrise 1, which is £40 cheaper but offers fewer soundscapes and comes without app control. Some sunrise alarms can be a little clunky-looking and plasticky, but this one, with its simple cotton-linen design, is one of the chicest I reviewed, and it has all the features to pull it into the top spot.

The sunrise/sunset modes enable you to wake up or wind down gradually to brightening or diminishing light. Not all sunrise alarms offer the sunset option or a lengthy duration, but the Sunrise 1+ offers up to 120 minutes, allowing for a slower dimming in the evening or a longer wake-up. Being woken by this device is a great way to start the morning. I tried the 15-minute sunrise, and bird sounds on work mornings to wake me up on time, and the 60-minute sunrise with Mozart on weekends to wake me gradually. The linen helps diffuse the light, so I didn’t ever turn over in bed to face the light that can be quite harsh on other devices. I also used the mood lighting while I slept with some white noise on night as there was a party nearby.

I also have it on good authority from my teenager that it has an "excellent speaker", although it doesn’t have a radio or Bluetooth function to play your own music, which it could benefit from, given its smart status. Some sunrise alarms repeat a sound on a loop, and there’s a click or a pause before it replays that can be jarring, but the sounds on the Sunrise 1+ are seamless.

The app is easy to navigate (I’m a Luddite and I managed it) and arguably more convenient than locating touch buttons, which can all feel the same in the dark. The app lets you make changes to times, alarms, volume, colours and soundscapes, and you can preview any changes so it’s easy to adjust the settings to get a balance that’s right for you. The Dreamegg Sunrise 1+ is one of the more expensive devices I tested, but visually, it is elegant, with great sound, calming soundscapes, and a wide range of lighting options, making it an easy buy for 2026.

Best multi purpose sunrise alarm clock

Touted as a “fast charger, alarm clock and reading lamp in one”, this mid-price alarm has lots to offer. For starters, it frees up space on your bedside table by enabling you to ditch the phone charger and a bedside light. It has sunrise and sunset alarms, as well as mood lighting in singular or mixed colours, and its modern design makes a welcome change from other sunrise alarms. Instead of a block of light by your bed, it’s a glowing ring, which is kind to tired eyes (Dreamegg also offers a similar style). The ring isn’t just for aesthetics either. It acts as a touch button - tap it to cycle through the colour options or hold it to increase or decrease brightness.

When I tested the sunrise alarm, I found the muted white, which gets brighter over time, gently stimulating. Where the WL65 falls a bit short is the limited soundscape. The melodies are nice enough and feature nature sounds such as birds and water, but they don’t offer much variation. The sunrise sounds can’t be listened to on the sunset setting and vice versa, and the speaker doesn’t share the same quality as some of the other alarms I reviewed.

If you are looking for simplicity and minimalism, this is a worthy choice. It has a great quality light, is easy to use, and looks impressively modern on any bedside table. I enjoyed the interactive nature of the ring, and the lead-free charger really is fast.

Best budget sunrise alarm clock

The Groov-e Light Curve offers a decent range of features considering it's the cheapest sunrise alarm I tested. If, like mine, your bedside table is cluttered with books and skin creams, you may find it a bit large, but on the plus side, it doubles up as an FM Radio, which is handy if you like waking up to music or people chatting.

There are eight alarm options – six natural sounds, such as birds and waves, an inoffensive beep, and the radio. The sunrise and sunset simulation can be set to 10, 20 or 30 minutes, which, while limited, is perfectly adequate. I liked how easy it is to set the sunset option using the crescent moon symbol on the front of the device, and three options for sunrise (light and alarm, alarm only, light only) keep things simple. The touch screen on the front of the device is handy, but the icons on top of the device are hard to see.

When I tested this device, I set the sunrise light for 20 minutes, then Classic FM switched on. On my day off, I set the light to increase for over 30 minutes, followed by wave sounds as an alarm (there are no annoying clicks when the sound loops on the Groov-e). Both made for a pleasant start to the day and undoubtedly gave my sleep hygiene a boost. You can listen to the radio (but not any sounds) during sunset mode. When the light has fully diminished, the music switches off, but hopefully by then you’ll have drifted off into a peaceful slumber.

Best sunrise alarm clock with medical grade light

Lumie is a trusted brand in light therapy. For the past few winters, I’ve used a Lumie SAD lamp to combat signs of seasonal depression, with great success, so I was curious to see how I’d find the company’s sunrise alarms. I reviewed the Bodyclock Glow 150 and the pricier Lumie Bodyclock Luxe 750 DAB. Both made my list of the best sunrise alarm clocks for 2026 as they helped improve my core sleep time.

All Lumie Bodyclock wake-up lights are Class I medical devices* and the company makes a point that the ‘fading sunset promotes melatonin and helps you to unwind naturally’ and that it’s ‘recommended for SAD and winter blues sufferers’.

This is certainly true of the Glow 150. Although this product doesn’t have mood lighting, it has a superior sunrise/sunset light with a gorgeous graduated hue of red-to-yellow colours. Even at its brightest and most stimulating, the light wasn’t overwhelming, and the reading lamp didn’t prevent me from dropping off. Although the sunrise/sunset duration is limited to 20, 30, or 45 minutes, it felt as slow and steady as the real thing and waking up felt natural and unforced.

Sounds include nature sounds, white noise, and even the hum of a busy café. This range is relatively limited compared to other products, but the speaker is good. Nothing sounded tinny or ‘recorded’. In fact, when the Blackbird Audio came on at 7 am, my cat woke up and started hunting for the source. It’s simple to use, too. The controls are on the front, which I find easier to use than controls on top of a device.

It’s made of plastic, which may be a turn-off for the style-conscious, but it blends into a bedroom setting, and it feels well-made. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some of the other alarms I reviewed, but what it lacks in extra features it makes up for in its quality and medical-grade light.

*Certified to UK MDR 2002 and EU MDR 2017/745

Best advanced sunrise alarm clock

I had high hopes for the Bodyclock Luxe 750 DAB, being the most expensive I reviewed and made by the leading light therapy brand in the UK. Luckily, these expectations were met on each of my testing points.

So, what does £229 buy? For starters, a superior product with a glass globe, an impressive speaker, DAB radio, Bluetooth and – most importantly for SAD sufferers – a Class I medical device wake-up light. While sunrise alarms vary greatly in their effectiveness, per the Lumie site, one study “confirms the efficacy of using a dawn simulator such as a Lumie Bodyclock… for treating SAD as an alternative to bright light therapy.”

It feels solidly built and, while it is on the large side, when you walk into a dark bedroom and see it lit up, it feels like your own harvest moon. It has more sunrise/sunset duration options, ranging from 15 to 90 minutes. There’s adjustable lighting for sunrise, bedside light and a nightlight and – significantly – a low-blue white light, which filters out the blue light that can cause wakefulness and eye strain. What it lacks is mood lighting, but you could argue that this is a serious device that demands to be taken seriously.

Much like the other Lumie device, this one has a ‘light-sensitive auto-dimming’, which is a handy built-in sensor that adapts to light levels in a room, so the display is bright during the day, then dims (or even turns off, if you wish) at night so as not to disturb you.

Unsurprisingly, given the price tag, you get more options than with the Lumie Bodyclock Glow 150. Namely, 34 sleep/wake sounds that range from crickets chirping, to kittens purring, or halyards (I looked it up for you – it’s the sound of ropes and cables being hoisted on sailboats). White noise can be very effective at helping us sleep, though I was intrigued by some of the options. For example, I'm not sure I could drift off to the sound of ping pong or racing cars.

Because the Lumie Bodyclock Luxe has DAB/DAB+ radio (with preset buttons), Bluetooth, a USB port and an aux-in socket, you get more bang for your buck. You can ditch your radio and charger and use this 3-in-1 device.

Best sunrise alarm clock for purifying the air

Is this an air purifier, or a sunset alarm? It’s actually both. While there are limited alarm and lighting functions, what you lose in mood and sunset settings, you gain in an excellent air purifier with HEPASilent Dual-Filtration technology. It cleans an area of 31 m² in 30 minutes. This makes it a wise choice if you suffer from allergies or live in a high-pollution location. The purifier has four fan settings, a filter (the lifespan is monitored on the app) lasts 9 to 12 months, and it’s quiet – only 18 decibels on the lowest setting. Added bonus: I had the fan on at night, and the white noise lulled me to sleep.

The sunrise alarm seems to be more of a useful addition than the main reason you would buy this. That’s not to say it is not effective – the sunrise light emits a lovely golden hue that gets brighter in the lead-up to the alarm, and there are 11 pleasant nature sounds and harmonies to wake up to, including ‘midnight rain’ and the intriguing-sounding ‘blue awakening’. However, there are only two duration settings for sunrise – 15 and 30 minutes – although you can set multiple alarms for the time and purifier. It can be used as a reading light and nightlight, too.

Although the device is stylish, it is quite big for a sunrise alarm, though not for an air purifier, putting it in a slightly awkward middle ground. At around 28cm tall, it can overwhelm a small bedside table and, because the light and time are on top, you can only tell what time it is by looking over it, rather than at it. To remedy this, I put it on the floor beside my bed and glanced down to tell the time. This also meant the sunrise came up from below, rather than directly at me while I slept.

Best sunrise alarm clock for experience

This sunrise alarm is stylishly understated to look at, has a myriad of features, and is celebrity-approved (with Cat Deeley confirming it's an essential in her daily routine). It’s easy to set up once you’ve downloaded the Hatch Sleep app, and while the content library is so extensive that you’ll need to play around with it, you’ll reap the benefits. This top-quality product offers an excellent quality light with sunsets and sunrises, a reading light, a nightlight, and abundant mood colours (more than any other device I tested). There is aksi an ever-expanding library of music, soundscapes, colour noises (e.g. white noise), ASMR, sound baths and guided content such as bedtime stories, meditations and podcasts – you name it. The app includes many features and settings to unwind, sleep and wake up to, and you can create multiple alarms, mixes and cues and even listen to stories that come with an immersive light experience.

However, you have to pay for a subscription, which starts at £4.49 a month. This will definitely put some people off, but if you already use comparable apps, such as Calm and Headspace, you’ll get the same or more from the device. Plus, you'll see the benefits of a sunrise alarm. It’s also mainly app-based, although once you’ve created the settings you want, you don’t need your phone nearby. There are also useful touch buttons on the device.

I loved using the Restore as there is so much to choose from. I was woken to a woman singing in Spanish one morning, and to rainfall the next. The sunrise light was gentle yet effective and got really bright without being overpowering. In the evenings, I listened to crickets or drifted off to ‘Little Women’. It’s fun, modern and varied – a great choice if you can handle the dual cost of the device and the monthly subscription.

How I tested the best sunrise alarm clocks

I treated all the clocks I tested with the same standards. I used each device for four days and nights, set alarms at different times and with various sounds, and tried all functions.

I also tested the Momcozy Sunrise Alarm clock, and it would have been in my guide, but it was out of stock everywhere when we came to publish.

When testing the best sunrise alarm clocks for 2026, I looked at the following:

• Size: Sunrise clocks will be bigger than a regular alarm clock, but they shouldn't feel bulky, oversized, or unnecessarily small on your bedside table. I made sure to test a range of sizes to ensure there's an option for most bedrooms.
• Alarm: This was perhaps the most important feature in my testing. Did the sunrise alarm clock actually wake me up? Only the ones that did so pleasantly, without a startling bright light or sound, were included in my guide. I also checked the snooze functions on each clock.
• Sounds: Most sunrise alarm clocks come with sound functions to ease you into the day. I tested all sounds on each device, and only those with a decent range were included. Volume also played a role in this - could it be turned up/down? Customised? If so, that's a point.
• Brightness: There's little point in a sunrise alarm clock that isn't bright enough. I tested each of the sunrise and sunset settings on the devices to make sure they were bright enough to serve their purpose.
• Colour-changing: Could the device differentiate between the colours of a sunset and sunrise if it offered both options? Did the clock offer mood lighting? I made sure to include devices that offered a range of options.
• Charging port: How was the device charged? I included options for wall charging and wireless USB charging, so you can find one for your bedroom set-up.
• Weight: While it's not the most important feature, since you don't move alarm clocks around too often, I took note of the weight of each clock. Too light and you might find it lacks durability, or falls off your bedside table with an accidental knock.

How to choose the best sunrise alarm clock

• Style: It’s easy to have your head turned by a swanky device, but avoid putting style before substance. Think about what you require and consider how much space you can spare on your bedside table. "For example, do you need it to function as an alarm clock or just produce the light?" says Dr Browning. If that’s the case, she says, perhaps a regular alarm clock and a SAD lamp would be sufficient.
• Light: If the strength of the light is most important to you, Dr Browning advises that you choose "a reputable brand to make sure that the light levels it's producing meet manufacturer's safety standards and are strong enough to be effective." Lumie, for example, has an excellent reputation, as the company is known for light therapy. If you don’t need a light, you could even consider wearing a Homedic WakeBand, which wakes you up by vibrating on your wrist.
• Functions: While most of the alarms tested have sunset and sunrise options, you might find you have little use for the evening function. Or you might get excited about mood lighting, only to find multi-coloured lights distracting. If you buy one with radio or Bluetooth, will you ditch Alexa or your Roberts Radio? Are you looking for one that enables you to leave your phone in another room, or one that can double up as a charger? Is the device intuitively designed, or does it seem complicated to use? Our advice? Opt for a good quality device and avoid extra functions that are superfluous to you.
• Price: Sunrise alarm clocks can be picked up for as little as around £20, but it can be a false economy to buy cheaply. More expensive devices tend to be better built, with a good quality light and more features, though there are still bargains to be had. Read online reviews to see what other buyers are saying, and shop around for deals.

Do sunrise alarm clocks actually work?

Yes, as a regular user of sunrise alarm clocks, I'll be one of the first to say that they can be a gentle yet effective way to wake up in the morning. Experts like Dr Lindsay Browning, a neuroscientist, sleep specialist, and the founder of Trouble Sleeping, agree. "The sunrise alarm aims to produce bright light soon after waking, which can reduce sleep inertia," she says.

"Bright light exposure, especially first thing, is critical for helping tell our circadian rhythm that it’s morning. When exposed to light soon after waking, it helps suppress melatonin, helps us feel more awake and alert, and helps us fall asleep earlier in the evening." This is particularly useful in winter when we don’t get much light exposure.

Why not switch on the overhead light or bedside lamp instead? The sudden, artificial brightness can be unpleasant and unhelpful. Sunrise alarms emit natural-looking low light that steadily increases over time (depending on your device) until a preset alarm goes off. "Even through closed eyelids we sense light, so when the sunrise alarm begins to light up before the alarm time, it can ease us from deeper sleep into a lighter and easier-to-wake-up state, decreasing sleep inertia and helping wake-up time feel less shocking and abrupt," explains Dr Browning.

Much like having one of the best pillows will improve your sleep comfort but won't be the bullet solution for being comfortable in bed, sunrise alarm clocks can help you sleep, but they won't be the cure-all for sleep problems. Speak to your doctor if you're having trouble sleeping.

If you have SAD, you may benefit from a light lamp, too. It’s largely agreed that they transition us out of sleep (as well as into it), which can regulate our sleeping patterns. In turn, this gives us more energy. Plus, the ambient light and soundscapes they provide are a welcome and calming addition to the bedroom.

Sunrise alarm clocks vs SAD lamps

SAD lamps and sunrise alarms are often seen as interchangeable, but they differ. "SAD lamps are therapeutic devices with 10,000 lux brightness to help combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD)," says Dr Browning. "Sunrise alarms are often not as bright and don’t have the same therapeutic effect."

Instead, sunrise alarms are great for people who don’t necessarily have SAD, but struggle to wake up or start their mornings feeling groggy. This is the case for many of us who – for example – work shifts, struggle with disturbed sleep patterns due to menopause, stress, kids, or responsibilities, as well as night owls, tweens and teens.

Happy New Year! I hope you had a fantastic festive period, and are now raring to go with fresh reading challenges and new year's resolutions for 2026 to spend less time doomscrolling and more time feeding your mind with interesting things.

Enter the best new audiobooks, to help you achieve your 2026 goals. Over the past few months I've listened to hours of audiobooks, and these are the 13 that I recommend wholeheartedly. There's a range of genres from crime fiction and thrillers to the best memoirs to celebrity-penned novels and non-fiction, and more, so there's bound to be something in here to suit your taste.

We've included links to download each audiobook from Audible, for 99p if you're a member (you can currently join Audible for 99p per month for the first three months and get a £10 voucher). Otherwise it will cost around £12 for a one-off Audible download if you're not a member. Many titles are also available on other platforms such as Google Play and Apple Books.

Join our book club

If you love books, why not sign up to our monthly Book Club newsletter, with editor picks, author insights and more?

Few things provide as instantaneous a mood boost for me as a quick swipe of my favourite lipstick. Whether offering a quick pop of empowering colour or helping me feel more put together (when I feel anything but), lipstick’s appeal is enduring – and seemingly bulletproof to economic downturns. In this guide, I've shared my tried and tested picks of the best lipsticks for dark skin tones.

According to data from market research organisation Circana, the prestige lip care market is one of the fastest-growing categories across the entire beauty industry, with sales rising 16% year-on-year to £80.4 million. Cheaper than a new coat, more expensive than a bougie cup of coffee, the "lipstick effect" (the phenomenon where shoppers invest in affordable luxuries despite difficult financial times) is still thriving.

While the nation’s love of lipstick is pretty universal, not all lipsticks are created equal, and everyone has their own specific hurdles when it comes to finding their perfect match. For me, shopping for shades that complement my deeper skin tone and dark lips can prove challenging.

Much like the best foundation for dark skin, a lipstick is only as good as its shade match. In the past, limited ranges have meant that nude lipsticks could look ashy on me, while a lack of pigment could cause a statement lip to fall flat. Fortunately, though, today’s formulas have come leaps and bounds. Not only do lipsticks offer better colour payoff than ever before, but there’s a multitude of finishes and shades to suit different undertones and budgets.

Don’t know where to start? To provide a helping hand, we’ve been busy testing today’s most hyped products to find the best lipsticks for dark skin tones out there. From neutrals to red lipsticks and plums, luxury splurges to drugstore options, there’s something for everyone. Plus, we asked top makeup artist Mira Parmar to share her top tips to help your money go further, too.

The best lipsticks for dark skin tones, reviewed by a beauty editor

How we tested the best lipsticks for dark skin

To bring you my ultimate edit of the best lipsticks for dark skin tones, I tested out a variety of different formulas across a range of price points. To be included, lipsticks had to offer great pigment, feel comfortable and have a diverse shade range that catered for different undertones.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all here at woman&home, and so I focussed on choosing specific lipstick lines that offer best-in-class choice (rather than singling out individual shades), to help you find your perfect match within different colour families.

How to choose the best lipstick for dark skin

In my experience, the best way to ensure your money’s well spent is to invest in ranges that deliver in three key areas: pigment, finish and a range of undertones. If you’re looking for something more long-lasting, go for a matte finish. If you prefer something more luminous, choose a satin or gloss finish instead.

I also found that the right prep was essential for getting the most wear time out of a lipstick. I’d recommend gently exfoliating lips and moisturising overnight for an even finish, and applying your lipstick onto completely dry lips. For additional grip, apply a lip liner underneath to boost its staying power.

When it comes to picking a shade, how a colour makes you feel can be as important as how it looks. “Finding the right shade of lipstick for your skin tone can be daunting, but finding that perfect colour will make your lips pop, enhance features and leave you feeling confident,” says top make-up artist Mira Parmar.

“Dark skin tones can carry a wide spectrum of lipstick shades beautifully, often looking striking in colours that contrast or complement the richness of the skin,” Mira adds. She highlights bright and bold reds, plums, berries, warm browns and nudes as particularly great options.

As with choosing a foundation, consider your undertones to hone in on shades that especially complement your complexion. “If I’m using reds and darker colours, I’ll use orangey reds like Strawberry Shock by Lisa Eldridge for warm undertones and blue or cherry reds like Pop by Victoria Beckham Beauty for cooler skin tones. Lucky neutrals can pretty much wear any!”

As for finding a nude lipstick, Mira’s top tip is to match the darkest colour of the lip for the most natural look and use a brown lip liner to add definition. These are just guidelines, though. “I’d say wear whatever colour makes you feel comfortable and fabulous in,” says Mira. “Makeup has no rules!”

Our expert panel

Happy birthday to Jane Austen, born 250 years ago today, on 16 December 1775. A British literary legend, Austen's works have stood the test of time, being read by millions across the world, and immortalised in film and TV adaptations and spin-offs again and again.

If you've read Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Sense and Sensibility and co more times than you care to mention, perhaps it's time for some new books with a historical setting.

We've reviewed plenty of fantastic new books this year, with some crossing into the realms of the best new crime fiction and thrillers or the best romantic fiction or even the best new books that will make you cry. These are the 12 we recommend for thoughtful gifts for fellow lovers of bygone eras or adding to your bookshelf or best kindle.

Best historical fiction books of 2025

Or if you want a classic Austen...

Join our book club

If you love books, why not sign up to our monthly Book Club newsletter, with editor picks, author insights and more?

Powerful novels have the ability to stay with you weeks, months or even years later. They can make you truly empathise with a character's experiences and feelings, even if your life or attitude differs to theirs – and may even open you up to a good cathartic cry.

Whether exploring the power of female friendship or perhaps the twists and turns of family relationships, loves and losses, crossing into the world of romantic fiction or even fantasy and sci-fi, or history, they're often stories that speak to a universal truth that we can all relate to.

This year has offered no shortage of poignant and heartfelt new novels from both new and established authors. My team and I have reviewed the below 17 standouts that we heartily recommend you read as soon as possible.

Join our book club

If you love books, why not sign up to our monthly Book Club newsletter, with editor picks, author insights and more?

For many, having a cloud of gorgeous perfume trail behind you as you enter every room is the dream, however it can be a tricky task to find a fragrance that boasts longevity.

I don't know about you, but when I'm searching for one of the best perfumes for women, a long-lasting perfume comes in close second to finding a scent that we like. After trialling dozens of different fragrance brands, there's just one that I consistently get complimented on every single time I wear their scents - Narciso Rodriguez. That's no exaggeration, no matter which of the brand's fragrances I spritz on, I always seem to get people asking me what perfume I'm wearing, even hours after initially applying it.

In the two decades since the launch of the brand's debut 'For Her' fragrance, Narciso Rodriguez has thankfully continued to develop a lineup of stellar musk-based scents. Now, the brand makes home to an abundance of gorgeous scents, from amber perfumes to powdery perfumes, each of which have earned a special place in my fragrance arsenal and I flit between every day. If not already, here's why Narciso Rodriguez deserves a spot in your perfume collection too...

The best Narciso Rodriguez perfumes worth investing in, as per our beauty team

Whether you typically opt for powdery musk scents or floral perfumes, our top five Narciso Rodriguez blends boast notes that are sure to suit a host of different fragrance preferences...

How we tested the best Narciso Rodriguez perfumes

In order to curate a thorough edit of the very best Narciso Rodriguez scents, our trio of experts tried and tested a lineup of the brand's fragrance offering, from cult classics to newer launches, each for multiple days to get a sense for each fragrance. During this process, there were a few factors we took into consideration when testing each fragrance...

• Olfactory notes
• How it smelt upon initial spritz
• How long it lasted on the skin
• Projection
• Whether it was suited to a specific season, or all year round
• Price

How to choose the best Narciso Rodriguez perfume

Choosing a fragrance that is best suited to you has always been a tricky task, however we've put together a few helpful pointers for you to get a head start.

• Consider the types of fragrances you already like: If you already have a list of perfumes that you like, it's worth taking a look at their olfactory families to understand which scents you're a fan of. Knowing whether you prefer musky, fruity or floral fragrances is a great starting point before you begin browsing.
• Intensity: Fragrances arrive in an array of forms of intensity, including eau de parfum vs eau de toilette and cologne to solid perfumes, and it's key to understand the difference in meaning between them all - and how this may affect the longevity of a scent.
• Test the fragrances in real life: If you possibly can, it's wise to test the fragrances in real life before purchasing - blind purchasing can always pose a risk, unless you already know what the perfume smells like. Fragrances can also differ wearer to wearer, especially when spritzed onto the skin.

Your most asked Narciso Rodriguez perfume questions, answered

Which is the best Narciso Rodriguez perfume?

Now, as previously mentioned, the answer to this question is heavily dependent on your personal fragrance preferences. Inspired by rare Egyptian musc oil, Narciso Rodriguez is known for producing musky fragrances. That said, the brand has ventured down other scent avenues, creating everything from floral perfumes and amber blends - all boasting the brand's widely-loved hint of musk. Personally, one scent comes out on top for both our Digital Beauty Writer and Beauty Ecommerce Editor, the brand's For Her Intense Eau de Parfum.

Which celebrities wear Narciso Rodriguez perfumes?

If you needed anymore convincing, our beauty team aren't the only ones raving about Narciso Rodriguez. The designer is actually the creator a plethora of A-lister approved fragrances. In fact, it's rumoured that the likes of Salma Hayek, Sarah Jessica Parker and Michelle Obama are all fans of the brand's perfume assortment.

Is Narciso Rodriguez a good perfume brand?

Take it from us, Narciso Rodriguez is a true favourite amongst our beauty team. Although not as widely known as perhaps the best Dior perfumes, it the only fragrance brand that our Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett, gets complimented on after dousing herself in any of their perfumes. So, if you're looking for a fragrance that boasts long-lasting wear and is guaranteed to get you compliments, this is the brand you need to be shopping.

If you've been spending most evenings in the Upside Down recently, you're not alone. Our team at woman&home also can't stop talking about the latest season of Stranger Things (no spoilers, please) – and if you've already binged the first set of episodes from series 5 and are waiting for more, we have something to tide you over.

The following guide is our selection of the nine best fantasy, dystopian and sci-fi books we've read and reviewed over the past six months – plus, of course, a Stranger Things novel. The first book on the list, To Cage a Wild Bird, was my overall book of the month in November, and was almost impossible to put down. Order these now for delivery before Christmas, or add to your best Kindle to read tonight. Happy reading!

Join our book club

If you love books, why not sign up to our monthly Book Club newsletter, with editor picks, author insights and more?

I've racked up over 1560 kilometres with the best running watches over the last year. That works out to about 30km a week pounding the pavements in my running shoes, recording hundreds of hours of distance and pace.

As woman&home's digital health editor, I've tried many of the best fitness trackers, including the best Garmin watches and those from Coros, Fitbit, Huawei, and Google, meticulously logging my workouts to record my progress. There are only a few I haven't put through their paces.

Yet, after all of that, there are only a few I'd recommend. For summer 2026, I retested many of my favourites, making a couple of changes - and two additions to this guide - based on new releases and exciting updates.

Quick list

The best running watches

The best running watch overall

The Coros Pace 4 is my pick of the bunch for most people looking for the best running watch. The addition of the third button on the Pace 4 compared to the Pace 3 also makes it worth opting for the newer model, if only for the chance to turn up your music from your wrist while running.

You'll find workout profiles for various running types (including Road, Trail, Track, and Indoor) on the watch's homescreen. Scroll, and you'll see your Training Load, your workout intensity and suggested intensity needed to improve fitness; Running Fitness, a prediction of your race times for 5km, 10km, half-marathon, and marathon distances; and Training Status, which reveals your trends in your training and offers tips to improve fitness.

The data is very accurate - and I live in London, so I've taken it through plenty of areas with high-rise buildings to test it out - and all the need-to-know metrics (like pace, distance, and time) are easy to read when you're on the move, which is an underrated design feature.

But what I love most about the Coros brand, and why it's always at the top of my list for fitness trackers generally, is how simple the watches are to use. Not just on your wrist, but in the app as well. Even if you're not familiar with the metrics available (like ground contact time and vertical oscillation), it doesn't matter. The app is so intuitive and full of information tidbits that explain all the data points and how they apply to you. Whether you're totally new to running or a marathon runner, you'll learn something.

Read my full Coros Pace 4 review here

The best Garmin running watch

While I'd recommend the Coros Pace 4 as the first option, the Garmin Forerunner 170 would be my other pick every time. In fact, you can't really go wrong with most Garmin types, but this one offers the most advanced data for the lowest price, making it my top pick.

Along with the basics like live workout, sleep, and stress data (which are also used to predict your recovery and appear in the Garmin Connect app), as a running watch, it dials into how your workouts are impacting your running fitness specifically. It does this through unique Garmin features like Running Performance (VO2 Max and race time prediction) and Training Status (how your body has adapted to the sessions you've done), so you can actually see in real time whether you're getting fitter.

Everything on this watch is customisable, so you can add any number of additional workout profiles (from strength training to paddleboarding) and get relevant insights into these, too.

The Garmin Forerunner 170 can be found cheaper without the Music connectivity feature, which works with Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music, but I like being able to leave my phone at home and change my tunes through my exercise headphones on the move.

For more, read my full Garmin Forerunner 170 Music review

The best running watch for beginners

The Fitbit Charge 6 is hands-down the best Fitbit for runners and those looking to improve their fitness. Take it from me, I've tested every one on sale today. What makes this watch a little different from the others is the technology behind it as it's part of the Google family - much like the Google Pixel 4, for example.

While it's not as advanced as the Pixel 4, it's packed with features that'll have you well on the way to running your first 5km or more. For starters, you'll be able to see your distance, pace, and timing of your workout both on your wrist and in the app. If you spring for Fitbit Premium (as I recommend), you'll benefit from similar Readiness features as the Coros Pace 4 and Garmin Forerunner 265, with an overview of how your workouts, sleep, and recovery scores are impacting your fitness.

While the other two watches thrive outdoors, with the super bright screens, in-built maps, and long battery life in GPS mode, the Fitbit Charge 6 should be a go-to if you enjoy treadmill workouts. This watch links to many popular treadmills (including Nordic Track and Peloton machines) via Bluetooth, so you'll get a live and very accurate distance readout on your watch. Even the most advanced fitness trackers struggle with this.

Read more in our Fitbit Charge 6 review

The best running watch with smart features

No watch has smart capabilities like the Apple Watch Series 11. Ever since Series 9, the brand has focused on improving the running features, too, so it can replicate your phone, but it's also one of the best running watches on its own.

There are various workout profiles to choose from, and your favourites will automatically go to the top of the list. The data is easy to view on the screen, and updated features in Track mode enable you to specify which lane you're in, making speed workouts more accurate. You can also create your own running workouts on your watch and follow along, getting advanced insights, such as vertical oscillation and stride length in the Health app and on your screen.

As a fitness tracker, the Apple Watch is often underrated because it does so many things. You'll also be able to load up routes on third-party apps like Komoot, make and receive phone calls on your wrist on the move, and control your music without your phone.

The only problem with the Apple Watch Series 11 is the same as every other model released: the battery life. You'll get 24 hours with regular use, and that starts to go down once you enable a GPS workout, as you would on a run. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 promises more, but for a much higher price. I'd love to see future releases focus on this, at the cost of a lower maximum screen brightness.

Read our full Apple Watch Series 11 review here

The best premium running watch

The Garmin Forerunner 970 is one of the newer Garmin watches at the time of writing, coming up tops in the running-specific range. New features include a sapphire crystal display (which makes it more scratch-resistant), an upgraded heart rate sensor for better accuracy, and a torch.

The new running insights really caught my eye, however. It's these, in my eyes, that give the watch its premium name. While most top-level Garmin watches (including the Forerunner 265) will offer Training Load and Readiness, two metrics that outline how ready your body is for exercise, the Forerunner 970 takes it one step further with a Running Economy rating and Running Tolerance prediction, my two favourite additions.

The better your running economy is, the easier your run will feel. You can run faster and/or longer, and enjoy it more as a result, which is always the number one goal. I got quite fixated over the weeks on trying to lower this number, and I did feel the difference. To get this feature, however, you'll need to use the Garmin HRM 600 chest strap as well, which was an adjustment for me as I typically don't wear a heart rate monitor. It's also another £150 on the bill.

Running Tolerance adds another level to the Training Load feature by taking your effort and your distance for the week into account, so it provides a better picture of running impact. Together, I found the two new metrics very useful for balancing my workouts with recovery. Over the weeks, I did more running than I normally would. It's rare to find a running watch that actually gets you out the door more often, but this one did it for me.

There's no doubt this is a pricey running watch, especially with the heart rate monitor, so it's not going to be an option for everyone. However, much like how the Garmin Fenix 8 is a great choice for hikers who are ready to invest, the Garmin Forerunner 970 is a durable, reliable, and worthwhile investment for those who want to take their running up a notch.

Testing the best running watches

How I tested the best running watches

In total, I tested 10 of the best running watches. While there were many near misses, these were the ones that stood out to me for the following reasons:

• Set-up: Each of the running watches I chose was very easy to set up and get moving with, including charging and linking to external workout apps like Runna and Strava.
• Ease of use: These three watches scored top points for being easy to navigate on the wrist with touchscreens and haptic crowns and/or buttons, but they also had excellent associated apps. These were also easy to navigate and understand.
• Price: With the cost-of-living crisis putting luxury items at the bottom of many of our shopping lists, I wanted to present a range of price points for those on all budgets. None have ongoing subscription costs - outside of Fitbit Premium, which is entirely optional.
• Design: Running watches look sportier and more like fitness trackers than smartwatches. Nevertheless, I still took design and appearance into consideration and looked for seamless and sleek styles with multiple strap options.
• Outdoor vs indoor workouts: As we see above, some of the best running watches are suited more to indoor runs, while others thrive outdoors. I did over 10 workouts in both environments with each of these watches.

How to choose the best running watch

It can be difficult to decipher between all the best running watches to decide on a favourite. "While your phone can definitely get the job done for tracking runs, getting a basic smartwatch can make a huge difference in how you monitor your progress – and it can be a lot easier than constantly checking your phone," says British Olympian and Runna Coach, Steph Davis. "Progress feels even better and more motivating when you can see it, and a good watch gives you handy insights like pace, heart rate, and recovery data."

Here, Steph helps me outline the features to look for and think about as a priority:

• Make sure it has reliable GPS: "GPS measures the distance of the actual route you run instead of just estimating steps," Steph explains. "Precise GPS data helps you nail your pacing, lets you review your route afterwards, and see elevation changes."
• It should be easy to use: "A simple, uncluttered interface lets you quickly glance at the important metrics (like your pace and time) and focus on your form and effort, rather than getting distracted by complicated statistics," she notes.
• Prioritise a long battery life: "Choosing a watch with good battery life is essential for being able to get through your weekly runs without having to constantly remember to put it on charge. This becomes even more important as you increase the distances you cover and makes it more multi-functional if you enjoy weekend hiking," she says.
• Think about your running in six months time, not just today: I'd suggest looking into the future as you buy your running watch. While you might be a beginner now, you may want more advanced features and better GPS function in the future, especially if you're looking to enter any races. That's why the Coros Pace 3 was my pick of the bunch.

Walking pads have skyrocketed in popularity due to remote working, social media trends like cosy cardio, and their (mostly) accessible price point. Last year, I asked myself: Are walking pads worth it? To find out, I did a deep dive and came to one conclusion: absolutely, yes.

These mini running machines have a motorised pad, sometimes come with handles and are sometimes foldable. They are relatively easy to move and store, and provide a low-impact way to exercise with minimal time and effort. Best of all, you can work or watch your favourite TV series while you get your steps in.

There's a plethora to choose from at Amazon and high-street retailers like Debenhams, which can feel daunting when shopping for one. To help you find the walking pad to fit your space and needs, I have been busy testing various machines. I found six that met my tight criteria, which included ease of set-up, use, and storage.

The quick list

The best walking pads to buy in 2026

The best walking pad overall