Meet Claire - Vampire Outdoors Ambassador
Introducing Claire Birnie, our OG ambassador!
Claire is 40, and from Bradford. She generally wears a UK size 28 (ish) roughly a 4-5XL equivalent.
What are your favourite outdoor activities?
Hiking, bimbling and swimming. I've been hiking for over 15 years and swimming for a few.
What are you hoping to achieve in 2025?
Other than my annual holidays in Scotland I only have plans to get outside more often than last year. With life getting in the way, terrible weather (I’m more of a drier weather hiker) and overall fatigue I’ve not got out as much as I’d like so I only plan to get out more.
What do you love most about being in the outdoors?
I like the quiet and peace that comes with listening to the sounds of the outdoors. The views are always a plus and bring a sense of peace to my soul.
How has getting outdoors changed the way you think about yourself?
It has shown me that I can achieve things, and challenged by them and my body is pretty darn capable!
Has being plus sized affected how you take part?
There’s a lot of stigma and judgement (outside of body positive spaces) and I do find that infuriating and it gets me down sometimes.
Have you faced any particular challenges with clothing or equipment?
Oh yes, I’m very restricted in the brands I can buy being a 4XL. However, I am pleased by the extended sizes coming out from more brands, I just wish it were coming faster.
Has anything changed in these respects over the past few years?
Yes, there’s been more progress but I am still waiting for more options for my size. If I’m being glib, I will believe these brands want to be inclusive when I see it.
What’s your favourite piece of clothing or gear from Vampire Outdoors so far?
That’s a tough choice! The piece I’ve used the most so far is the Outdoor Research Women's Vigor half-zip grid fleece. It’s really warm for the weight of it and comes in great colours. Great for layering up all year round.
What do you hope to show others, through your ambassadorship with Vampire Outdoors?
I want to show them the benefits of investing in quality gear and how that can positively impact their experience of the British outdoors. I also want to show support for businesses who are championing actual plus size clothing.
If you had some advice for a plus size person interested in getting into the activities you do, what would you say?
Cliché but JUST DO IT. Moving your body in a way that makes you happy, fulfilled and feels good is a brilliant way to being joy to your life. With any new activity, start with an achievable goal and consider joining a local friendly group to ease you into it.
Claire is also a volunteer and walk leader for Every Body Outdoors.
You can find Claire on Instagram: @going_wandering
