Black Sticks Olympian and adventure advocate Gemma McCaw has a new gig, helping Kathmandu design better gear for women by stress-testing it herself. Her message to other women? Time spent in the outdoors is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves.

Tell us about a trip or tramp that inspired your love of the outdoors.

One of my fondest memories is camping with my family at Hahei Beach in the Coromandel when I was young. I can still remember the hours it took us to pitch the tents, the smell of sausages on the barbecue, and nights spent under the stars. It was simple but special, and it sparked my lifelong love of the outdoors and quality time with the people you love.

What about outside Aotearoa? Any epiphanies in the wilderness?

After a hockey tour in Cape Town, South Africa, a few of us were lucky enough to go on safari and it was an incredible experience. Getting up early and watching the sunrise, and listening to the beautiful sounds and stillness at night. It reminded me how nature has a way of putting everything into perspective, no matter where you are in the world.

Is there a particular adventurer whose footsteps you would want to follow?

Lydia Bradey. She epitomises courage and humility and she’s paved the way for women in mountaineering and adventuring. She has inspired so many of us to back ourselves and give things a go. Everest isn’t on my bucket list (yet!), but the way she’s shown what’s possible makes me believe that anything is – with the right attitude.

You say you want to break down barriers that prevent women from experiencing and embracing the outdoors – what are those barriers?

Often the biggest barrier is self-belief – thinking we can’t or not knowing where to start. Then there’s access to the right gear, feeling safe, and having the support to give it a go. Time is another challenge, especially for women juggling multiple demands, but making time for the outdoors is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves. Social media hasn’t helped either, often focusing more on how we look than how we feel. It’s time to shift that narrative and remind women just how good it feels to be out there – moving, exploring, and reconnecting with themselves.

During the Christchurch rebuild, women called for hi-viz vests, boots and other safety gear to be redesigned with them in mind. Is the same shift needed in adventure wear?

Absolutely. Adventure gear should be functional, first and foremost, but also comfortable, well-fitting and something you enjoy wearing. Our bodies are different to men’s, and we need gear that’s made specifically for us. Our bodies also change through different life stages so our gear needs to adapt with us so every woman can feel confident, supported and ready to take on whatever the outdoors throws her way.

Your work with Kathmandu involves being part of the design phase for its Outdoor Active range. So your job is to try and break stuff?

Absolutely! I take the gear out on tough adventures – rugged terrain, wild weather and different tracks – and put it to the test. If I can push it hard and give honest, practical feedback, then I know I’ve done my job.

What’s one thing you love in a piece of outdoor gear or equipment and one thing you hate?

I love gear that’s simple, reliable and does what it’s meant to – like a good puffer and a lightweight, warm sleeping bag. What I don’t love is anything bulky, fiddly or overcomplicated. Less is more when you’re out there.

What’s one piece of advice you want to share with anyone heading into our great outdoors?

New Zealand’s weather can change in an instant, so having the right gear and a solid plan is key. Safety never takes a holiday – and neither should our respect for the environment. And in terms of keeping our tracks clean and pristine, leave only footprints and take only memories!

What’s one thing you forgot to take on an adventure and will never forget again?

Spare socks. My feet got very wet early on, and with no dry pair for the hut – or the next day – I learned the hard way.