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.

The Columbia Hellrider returned to West Wycombe Park on saturday 2nd June. After a successful inaugural running last year, the 8 hour off road duathlon was back and ready to … Read more

I’ve been testing Gore Bike Wear’s new Base Layer WINDSTOPPER Shirt over the last few months and, in truth, the timing could not have been more appropriate. After logging the driest April on record, 2011 continued with similar flare during the windiest May and June months. The Baselayer and I have sampled a wide variety of riding together; from mountain biking in the Pentland Hills to a tour of the Isle of Arran. On a number of occasions, I have been glad of its company.

On saturday the 4th of June, Team Magnetic Junction took part in the inaugural Columbia Hellrider. Taking place in West Wycombe Park, the Hellrider is an adventure duathlon in which teams must complete as many running and cycling laps as possible in eight hours. A run must be followed by a cycle and all team members are required to complete at least one of each at some point during the event.

Having witnessed the painful thawing-out process first hand, my flatmate gave me some new overshoes for my Christmas. He chose Endura’s Luminite, made of a stretched waterproof fabric with taped seams. The design is simple and the shoes are attached by velcro fastenings behind the cleat, at the heel and up the back. The overshoe can be opened up fully, allowing an adjustable fit and ensuring that putting them on is hassle free, even when wearing gloves. However, the real beauty of the design lies in the fact that, although adjustable, the end result is still a tight (and aerodynamic) fit. The Luminite is compatible with almost all kinds shoe and cleats.

Located in the centre of Scotland and the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Aviemore has all the credentials to be considered Scotland’s adventure sports capital. Although the town is well known as a one of the UK’s best winter resorts, the mountain bike trails surrounding the town are little known and lesser ridden. In truth, it’s hard to commit to these trails with superior signposting at the 7 stanes or the nearby Laggan Wolftrax, both reputable mountain bike centres in their own rights. Here’s an introduction to Aviemore’s mountain bike trails, on which pro XC racer Adam Craig recently said that he wanted to ride every weekend.

Five years ago, there were a number of superficial reasons to purchase the Giro Atmos. As the brand’s top offering, it represented the protection of choice for a number of Pro … Read more