The Arc’teryx Pro Shell range includes some of the best waterproof tops on the market including the Alpha SV, recipient of the endearing Backpacker Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.  The main … Read more

Although we’re blessed with long daylight hours in the summer, winter darkness in the UK can sometimes be overwhelming. Whether you are trying to convince yourself to train in the off-season, or get out for some winter adventures, a good head torch not only helps visibility but can also enhance some interesting features on trails that you don’t normally see in daylight.

Tucked away in the south-west corner of Switzerland is Whitepod, a luxury eco-camp high that’s been standing in the Valais region of the Swiss Alps since 2004. Perched at 1400m … Read more

Founded in 1790 on the Potomac River, Washington DC has it all. The city booms with life as congressmen walk the steps of the Capitol, tourists explore the Smithsonian, the President hosts foreign emissaries and students party it up in Georgetown. However, when the weekend comes around locals and foreigners alike might be inclined to escape the city limits in search of tranquility and adventure. While these two concepts might appear contradictory Great Falls National Park caters for both those who want to simply relax in the wilderness, and for those who want to break a sweat or two.

Jagged granite spires and gnarled pines breach the sea of misty clouds as tourists elatedly snap pictures of Anhui Province’s showpiece. Mt. Huangshan, translating to Yellow Mountain, is not only … Read more

Nestled between a developing Russia, a growing world economy in the form of Turkey, a diplomatically awkward Iran, and fellow Caucasus neighbours Armenia and oil-rich Azerbaijan, Georgia faces a political tightrope to maintain stability after a turbulent past, when it seceded from the smoldering remains of the USSR in 1991. However, despite the stereotypes of Eastern-bloc and former Soviet republics, Georgia embodies a distinctly European feel.

Ever since Joseph Gerber launched his Gerber ‘Legendary Blades’ in 1939, the brand has taken off in the outdoor tools market. Specializing in knifes and tools, it has pioneered the way in compact products that service an adventurer’s daily needs. The multi-tools meet the demands several outdoors activities, helping the brand develop a strong relationship with outdoor enthusiasts across the market.

This review is first of a short series of blogs covering ‘old favourites,’ the sort of gear that not only works superbly, but is durable and reliable for any adventure. … Read more

What distinguishes the Haglöfs design of such a travel bag from its competitors, is that despite its simplicity, it packs an almost limitless variety of possible uses. This means that as your required demands of a primary storage gear change with the time of day, the environment or climate, or even just your location, you will always be able to rely on the adaptable Travel Pouch for safe preservation of your most valuable possessions and documents.

Patagonia’s Nano Puff Vest is striking. Indeed, as I was somewhat taken aback about just how brilliant the blue was on this range, selecting it ahead of the only marginally sombre alternative colours, jet-black and mango.

Haglöfs started in a shed in Torsång, Sweden in the spring of 1914. The very first product Victor Haglöf made was a backpack which sold for a mere SEK 0.9 … Read more

I got hold of a Columbia Shimmer Me Timbers Jacket in 2010 as a run around for Edinburgh where I live and endure winters in the UK. Though the brand has since released its second version of the jacket (here hyperlinked), I got hold of the product when Columbia’s patented Omni-Heat technology was fresh in the market. With ambitious claims, the pocker dotted, Omni-Heat lining was appealing, fitting for life in the Athens of the North.

Rab actually make two topbags, the first is called the Module and does without the hood. The second is the Neutrino SL, made slightly warmer by extra filling and a trapezoidal construction

On a recent trip to Ben Nevis, Scotland, I tested Quechua’s 2Seconds Easy Tent to investigate the practicalities of a self-erecting tent and its performance in the typically turbulent Scottish Highland weather.

This review concerns Chariot ‘child transportation system’ trailers and as I’ve now owned all three models in their ‘Sport’ range (in ascending order of expense!) over the space of six years I’m not going to limit myself to one model – this entire range is worth a mention. Chariot (part of the Thule group) design and assemble all their products in Calgary, Canada and make extensive use of recycled materials in their products. They also have a sister brand of cheaper children’s trailers entirely made in the Far-East called Croozer. Chariot runs two ranges of trailers: the first is the ‘Touring’ range designed with an emphasis upon urban cycling, the second is the ‘Sport’ range designed for flexibility so you don’t have to buy many different carriers for separate outdoor sports.

With its close proximity to the city of Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak (14,110 ft.), one of Colorado’s 53 fourteeners, offers an abundance of accessible terrain for your next adventure. This peak, however, is unlike any others you will come across in Colorado, as you can reach the summit on foot, bike, cog railway, and even car. In addition to the panoramic views on top, you will find a large parking lot and the Summit House (open 8AM-8PM), filled with a gift shop, cafe and lots of people. For the hardcore among you, an ascent on foot or bike will feel particularly rewarding when you arrive and view the crowd who came by motorized means.

As the name suggests, Steamboat, CO-based nutrition company Honey Stinger have a preference for making quality sports nutrition using the natural power of honey. Bars contain over 30% honey and their … Read more

The history of humankind is punctuated by extraordinary revelatory moments, the birth of great ideas and the enactment of outstanding achievements. Moses’ parting of the Red Sea, Newton’s falling apple … Read more

The Sea to Summit brand has vested themselves as a company that provides the adventure traveller with useful accessories to make life on the road, and in the water, far easier. Over the last two decades they have produced lightweight and durable products, with the Ultra-Sil Dry Sack being a good example of innovative, amphibious product. This highly recommended outdoor accessory made my adventure experiences far more convenient, keeping water from harming my valuables any longer.

Garmont’s Dragontail MNT is part of their ‘Mountain’ range of footwear and as such is aimed at mountaineers, climbers and boulderers to use as an approach shoe to the crag. … Read more