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We promise you, it is actually summer. Although a glance out the window could lead one to believe that spring will lead straight into autumn this year, there are still some bright spots on the horizon that can offer solace and excitement. We are now halfway through 2024, and there has already been an abundance of new gear for us to get excited about. Okay, this one is a cheat. It's not a …

When Black Diamond announced the Beta Light 45 backpack earlier this year, I was intrigued by its unique appearance and impressive stats. Black Diamond kindly provided the Beta Light 45 backpack and the Beta Light Pack Sattelite Bag for my upcoming TGO Challenge, a two-week coast-to-coast crossing of Scotland. The Beta Light 45 and Beta Light Pack Sattelite Bag feature a sleek, modern de …

Having a comfortable pack can be a make or break for your trip. No matter if you're carrying 18kg on a multi-day expedition, or just an extra layer and lunch on a short hill day. Fitting your pack properly takes a little time. But we promise it'll be time well spent. In this guide, we'll look at how to measure your back length and how to fit your pack. All adventures begin with a backpac …

The Great Outdoors Challenge (TGO) is an esteemed annual long-distance walking event in the UK, which takes place every May. The event covers around 200 miles (320 kilometres) through the stunning Scottish Highlands, offering participants - known as 'Challengers' - a remarkable journey from the west coast to the east coast of Scotland. The TGO is not a race but an opportunity for outd …

For this year's TGO challenge, a demanding two-week coast-to-coast journey across Scotland, I sought to reduce the weight of my pack without sacrificing the headroom, living space, and large vestibules I have come to enjoy with my trusty Hilleberg Anaris. Having traversed the country with the Anaris on four previous occasions, I decided to try a different trekking pole tent, Goss …

The ultralight QuickDraw Filter System delivers fast and easy filtration, and allows users to customize their systems with multi-vessel compatibility, to give adventurers the best user experience of any squeeze filter on the market. The dirty reservoir is light and compact and built to withstand the rugged demands of a months-long thru-hike. Its wide-mouth opening and fill-handle keep your hands d …

Hiking the TGO (The Great Outdoors Challenge) requires dependable equipment that can endure the rigors of long-distance trekking. During my journey, two standout pieces of gear were the Suunto Vertical watch and the Sunslice Fusion Flex 12 solar panel. Here’s my on-trail review of how these devices performed and why they are indispensable for any serious hiker. From the first day on the tr …

As I traverse the rugged and breathtaking landscape of Scotland on the TGO Challenge, the importance of reliable and lightweight gear becomes increasingly evident. After a long day of trekking through moors and over mountains, my MSR Titan Kettle 900ml, MSR Titanium Double Wall Mug, and MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe stove have proven to be indispensable cookware companions. The updated&nbs …

With the ever-growing popularity of trail running and ultra marathons, events have become plentiful worldwide. One such event is the Silva Northern Traverse which follows Wainwright's 300 km Coast to Coast route beginning in St Bees, covering three National Parks in the north of England before finishing in Robin Hoods Bay. Aside from this multi-day race (5 days for competitors to complete), t …

With the highest warmth-to-weight ratio in the Rab range, the Mythic sleeping bags are optimised for moving fast and light. Combining advanced fabric technologies with our highest lofting down and slashing unnecessary grams with pioneering design. The Mythic range is all about slashing weight wherever possible. At home in high mountains, it’s ideal for venturing out long Alpine routes, multi- …

May means one thing in the Ultralight office: The Great Outdoors Challenge, or the TGO, for short. We are incredibly proud to sponsor this communal coast-to-coast crossing of Scotland. This year, Lois, Danny, and I are taking part in this years crossing. Lois is embarking on her first, and Danny and I are attempting our third TGO challenge.The TGO Challenge is a unique coast-to-coast trek across S …

Exped has been crafting cutting-edge camping and backpacking gear in the great Swiss outdoors since 1983. Two students passionate about adventure founded the company, and sustainability remains a central focus. Exped has become renowned for its ultra-lightweight and compact designs, delivering exceptional performance without compromise. Summer is the perfect time to escape into nature on a mu …