Few joys in life measure up to the Sunday afternoon amble. Are there any clever new gadgets I should be taking with me?

Depending on your route, you might want Fred's Barbed Wire Cover. Among other things, this can help you protect your crown jewels when crossing potentially piercing barbed wire fences.

How does it work?

Simplicity itself - it is a strip, about 40 inches long, made of durable green canvas with Velcro strips so it can be secured more firmly. By placing the cover over the most vicious strands of barbed wire, country folk can cross fences without risk.

Any other uses?

Several. When not being used to protect man's best friend, it can be used to protect, er, man's other best friend. If you use it when walking with your dogs, it promises to help "save on vets bills" and, when off fishing, it helps prevent tearing your waders. It can also be used when riding, to protect horses jumping barbed wire fences. And because the waterproof canvas is also rot-proof, it can be left outside permanently.

How portable is it?

Very. It weighs160g and when not in use it can be folded up and slipped into a coat pocket or attached, thanks to another Velcro strip, to your belt.

How much?

Fred's Barbed Wire Cover costs £13.99, plus p&p, from Presents For Men (01295 750100).