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?

As technology takes a greater hold on the way we run our lives, it’s no surprise that adventure brands are jumping on the digital band wagon to enhance user experience. To bring their adventure software in line with established platforms from other watch manufacturers, Suunto released Movescount, their version of performance tracking. As well as updating training data features, Suunto introduced a neat social networking element to enhance the Movescount product. Here I’ll outline some of the key features, and guide you through the process of setting up an account.

Renowned for its high performance outdoor collections, Arc’teryx provides a good place to start the search for climbing equipment and apparel. Arc’teryx brought out their first collection of ‘warp strength’ harnesses in 2008 and have been working on improving these already lightweight harnesses for the past three years. The results are impressive to say the least at compare with the degree of specificity usually offered by climbing specific brands.

Following research into the therapeutic benefits of beetroot juice in reducing high blood pressure, scientists then looked at the advantages of nitrates as a sports supplement. The William Harvey Institute has conducted research in the area to find out the effects of vascular contraction and dilation, while Exeter University Sports Science have been testing athletes changes to their their oxygen efficiency and stamina levels when taking the shot itself. Find out more about this research on the Beet It Research Page.

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.

The sun is starting to set, melting into the sea, as I top out on the last route of the day. A light breeze keeps the midges at bay as … Read more

In recent years Red Chili have established themselves as one of the leading manufacturers of rock climbing footwear, a position that has been cemented by their release of the Matador … Read more