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Keeping warm while moving can be tricky. Too much insulation and you’ll sweat on the climb; too little and a cold wind can quickly chill you at the ridge. Polartec Alpha Direct, PrimaLoft ACTIVE, and Octa take a particularly effective approach: lightweight, open constructions that trap warm air while letting heat and moisture escape. Paired with the right outer layer, they offer exceptional …

Rab uses their expertise in technical shells and insulated outerwear to create jackets that perform in changing weather conditions. Waterproof down jackets combine down insulation with waterproof outer fabrics for warmth and protection in cold, wet conditions. This makes them a practical option for winter walking, hiking, travel, and everyday outdoor use. Rab use 2-layer Pertex® Shield outer f …

Winter weather often brings rain, sleet, snow, freezing temperatures, and low-visibility conditions such as fog. Staying comfortable outdoors requires protection from both the cold and the wet. Waterproof down jackets provide dependable insulation and weather protection throughout autumn and winter. Rab uses their expertise in technical shells and insulated outerwear to create jackets that perform …

This guide breaks down the warmth levels and technical details of Rab’s current down range, helping you compare models at a glance. From ultralight options built for fast-moving alpine missions to fully waterproof expedition-grade insulation, we’ve listed key specs, including fill weight, fill power, and notable features, for each jacket. We’ll also explain the key factors that d …

Following months of meticulous preparation – booking campsites and accommodation; checking wild camp regulations; preparing daily GPX route files; and deciding what kit would work best for this hugely popular, 170km hiking circuit around western Europe’s highest mountain in September, we were ready for the off. With help from Cicerone’s The Tour du Mont Blanc book during plannin …

I recently went to run the Kielder Half Marathon in Northumberland, sponsored by Altra. After the race, I got to sit down with Brian Beckstead, the co-founder of Altra, and ask a few questions about the history of the brand as well as where he feels it is heading. Brian also ran in the half marathon. UOG: So how did you find the race? Brian Beckstead: I very much enjoyed it. I think that the pat …

I had the chance to partake in the Kielder Half marathon, sponsored by Altra. The run takes you around half of Kielder Water in Northumberland. It is a stunning location in a remote corner of the country. Kielder Water is one of the largest artificial lakes in the UK and is surrounded by Kielder Forest, one of the largest man-made forests in Europe. The reservoir itself has a 27.5-mile shoreline, …

Fjällräven Classic UK 2026, 14th-18th September The Fjällräven Classic UK 2026 was a three-day adventure through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Lake District. With trekkers travelling from all over the world, it was as much a multinational social experience as it was a long-distance hike. The weather certainly provided a challenge, but it also made the landscape f …

The TGO East challenge is a shorter, sister event to the main TGO challenge, lasting roughly 7 – 8 days compared to the usual 2 weeks of the main event. The organisers describe it as: “The TGO East offers a way for less experienced backpackers and those who lack confidence in their skills to ‘find their feet’ in the TGO challenge area while experiencing some of the demands …

In their own words - Superfeet started in 1977 as the Sports Medicine Division of Northwest Podiatric Laboratory. Sparked by the simple idea that people deserve something better, today we continue to push the boundaries of podiatric science by combining biometric data, cutting-edge technology and innovative materials, all to help you get the most out of every step. The proprietary Superfeet s …

Rab has slashed weight and volume wherever they can with the Ultrasphere, crafting the definitive sleep mat for when every gram counts. It uses innovative offset air chambers to disrupt the flow of convection currents inside and trap heat, keeping you warm on wild overnights without the need for bulky insulation. Combined with a soft, exceptionally lightweight fabric, its weight-saving constructio …

Live Competitions We don't have any competitions going on right now, but we’re gearing up for some exciting prizes coming your way soon. Stay tuned!  Previous Winners Congratulations to David! The winner of our Montane legwear competition has won a pair of Tenacity Pants! "Thank you so much for a great quality pair of pants. They are a great fit with a reasonable amount …