Columbia Talus Ridge

, April 2, 2012

The Talus Ridge is Columbia’s attempt to fill the gap between lightweight trail running shoes and the heavier, more sturdy walking boot. Capable of perfoming across a range of disciplines and weathers the shoe has been referred to by its manufacturers as the ‘opitamy of trail multi sport’, an apt description for any outdoors shoe.

Black Diamond Cyborg Pro

, January 16, 2012

Designed and manufactured by the mountaineer specialists, Black Diamond, the Cyborg Pro is one mean piece of kit to get your hands on for winter climbing. Made to match mixed conditions of the mountain, this crampon has a tenacious appetite for snow and ice ascents.

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

, September 5, 2011

The Arc’teryx Pro Shell range includes some of the best waterproof tops on the market including the Alpha SV which received the Backpacker Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010. The main distinctiveness of the Canada made jackets is their well thought out, simple and brilliantly effective designs. The question is: does the newly redesigned Beta AR offer anything special to this range?

Leeds Cycle Loop

, July 13, 2011

For Leeds cyclists and visitors to the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors, there are some fantastic long distance cycle routes to explore from Leeds, Bradford or Harrogate. Rolling hills, valleys and reservoirs speckle the minor roads in north Yorkshire, offering ample space for recreation and challenging cycles.

Bouldering at Caley & Roadside, Yorkshire

, July 2, 2011

For those not familiar with the art of bouldering, the sport involves scaling small rock faces and boulders with the aid of tight fitting shoes and figure dexterity only. With shorter sessions on the wall, advanced climbers use boldering sessions to hone in on their technical skills and push an aerobic workout. As well as offering challenges to advanced climbers, the Caley site promises to match the ability of beginners.

Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, England

, June 3, 2011

If you are looking for a shorter and more feasible alternative to the national 3 peak challenge, why not challenge yourself with this gruelling 25 mile run over the exposed fells of the Yorkshire dales? This relatively unknown route includes 1672 metres of ascent over the 3 largest peaks in the Yorkshire dales, Penyghent (694m), Whernside (736m) and Ingleborough (723m), involving a near marathon distance of 25 miles. As a run or a walk, taking on this route presents a challenge to even the fittest outdoor enthusiasts.

Terra Nova Duolite Tourer

, February 9, 2011

Aware of the amount of cyclo-tourists taking to the roads,Wild Country developed the Duolite Tourer specifically designed to match the demands of this pursuit. Even with a large porch space and roomy interior, the tent collapses into a bundle that can be fitted inside a pannier-sized package weighing 2.95kg. Although other bicycle touring tents are lighter and bigger, few come at the amazingly cheap price of £175.