New 4x4 Gear: North Face hiking shoe, Lightforce flood lights, Steam Australia book

If you are one who loves being on the move, there are plenty of 4x4 gear out there to keep you going, even if it isn't meant for your 4x4.

From hiking shoes to floodlights, here are some of the latest gear to pack on your next trip.

The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX

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With the warmer seasons upon us, it’s time to get out on weekends (or longer) for some camping and bushwalking. The North Face (TNF) Ultra Fastpack III Mid GTX (available in mens and womens) is a lightweight, robust hiking shoe that can easily double as your ‘regular’ camping footwear.

The upper TPU-coated woven mesh is claimed to be tougher than regular nylon mesh, while the waterproof breathable Gore-Tex membrane ensures creek crossings aren’t a drama. The OrthoLite footbed aids comfort, while the TNF FastFoam dual-density midsole ensures stability while assisting with comfort. The Vibram Megagrip outsole does as its name suggests, providing traction and durability.

RRP: $300
Website: thenorthface.com.au

Lightforce ROK20 Ultra Flood

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The Lightforce ROK20 Ultra Flood light features a cast aluminium body, a hard-coated, impact- and scratch-resistant polycarbonate lens and a moulded strain relief connector, fitted with military-spec cable. It offers an IP69K waterproof rating, thanks to its waterproof membrane and mechanical seal.

The unit includes under, over and reverse voltage protection, as well as width modulation thermal management circuitry. The mount system is included in the kit, as is a waterproof Deutsch plug fly lead connector. The ROK20 weighs a paltry 275g, making it the ideal versatile camping light – or you can use it as a reversing light on your 4x4. It also comes with a three-year warranty.

RRP: $77
Website: www.lightforce.com

Steam Australia: Locomotives that Galvanised the Nation

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Former Deputy PM and steam-train tragic, Tim Fischer, recounts the history of steam-powered locomotives Down Under. The book is full of interesting facts, including that Agatha Christie, Arthur Conan Doyle, Rudyard Kipling and Mark Twain all travelled on Aussie steam trains during their visits here.

Fischer details how steam trains helped deliver exceptional economic growth in Australia and he also details the stories behind famous trains such as Victoria’s Puffing Billy and the mighty Ghan. Supporting these cracking yarns, you will find more than 300 photographs (some exclusive to this book from the National Library of Australia). For train nuts, this book is a definite no-brainer.

RRP: $40
Web: bookshop.nla.gov.au