Thule ProRide Rooftop Rack

, September 27, 2014

Founded in 1942 in Sweden, Thule are the favoured accessories brand by a number of car manufactures. As well as having their own adventure team, Thule are also revered for their styling products which are nows the hallmark of any weekend adventurer. The brand’s collection caters caters for summer and winter adventure pursuits, covering carriers for snowsports, watersports and cycling.

Haglöfs Travel Pouch

, September 24, 2014

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 Nano Puff Vest

, September 22, 2014

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.

Newton Running’s new Energy shoe

, April 6, 2013

This summer, Newton Running are set to extend their line of performance shoes with the EnergyNR. Designed to provide a steeping stone between conventional trainers and Newton’s speciality, the shoe features Newton’s trademark Action/Reaction technology, a streamlined profile and Newton’s iconic forefoot lugs.

Old Favourites: Chariots of Fire

, March 26, 2012

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.

Saucony ProGrid Kinvara 2

, February 21, 2012

The Saucony website claims that the ProGrid Kinvara 2 are designed to give you exactly, and only, what you need; something which is evident when you first pick them up weighing in at only 7.7oz. The upper part of the shoe is made from a mono-filament mesh which, although appearing very flimsy, remained undamaged when put through the test on numerous muddy runs on the moors of Scotland and on the tarmac of London. Despite first impressions, the material is relentless enough to prevent stray stones, pebbles and mud from getting into the shoe. The sole is made from an ultra-light durable foam and its shape creates a lower heel to toe ratio which sways toward the barefoot genre of running.

First Ascent Compression Garments

, January 21, 2012

First Ascent is the leading specialist outdoor gear manufacturer in South Africa, and has been around since 1989. Up until now, they have provided the South African outdoor sports scene with ‘performance tested gear’, which means that each product you see with their significant lizard- logo has been tested by worthy athletes, and it works. Their new range of compression garments was given to me to see how well they do in the Stellenbosch mountains while doing a trail run or mountain bike ride.

Newton Running Sir Isaac

, January 4, 2012

Newton Running produces a shoe unlike any other I have ever worn, let alone run with. Alongside brands that vouch for the benefits of barefoot running, Newton defend a shoe that encourages natural running. I have been running with the Sir Isaac guidance trainers for a couple of months now and have found them to have caused two significant positive changes to the way I feel when I hit the road.

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack

, December 7, 2011

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.

TORQ Gels

, November 29, 2011

TORQ are a UK-based fitness consultancy that specialise in training and nutrition. Owing to the success of their performance coaching which started in 1999, TORQ moved into performance products to complement their existing services.

Petzl MYO RXP Headlamp

, November 24, 2011

Most of us do our sports during the day, spending evenings to resting or relaxing with friends – usually anything other than getting our heart rates up with some exercise. Word is out that there are countless new nightclubs that few are aware of. It might not be the typical dance scene that you expect it to be. Ladies, gentlemen, and especially those adrenaline-seeking freaks, I bring you the Petzl Myo RXP; a headlamp that will bring light to your darkness, show these new “nightclubs” and unlock these long-hidden nocturnal instincts inside of us all.

Ortik Jetstream

, October 20, 2011

Svalbard is an archipelago in the Arctic, located in between northern Norway and the North Pole at 90 degrees north. The island plays host to a wealth of breeding sea birds, marine mammals and of course the infamous polar bear. Spending time in the area is inherently dangerous, but as mere visitors to the area we have to take every precaution against the native dangers.

Salomon XT Wings 2

, October 16, 2011

Annency-based Salomon are a sports equipment brand who were primarily known for their skis. Recently, the French company has expanded its range to provide mountain gear for all seasons. They are focussed on maintaining the environment by reducing their carbon foot print and reliance on non-renewable materials.