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TRAIL MAGAZINE: ReviewThis perennially popular shell from US brand Outdoor Research is much-loved by backpackers and thru-hikers across the pond, and it's easy to see why: it's lightweight, packable and reliably waterproof. And this latest version is also tougher than ever. It's made from Pertex Shield, a 2.5-layer fabric with a 30-denier ripstop nylon face fabric. This also utilises Pertex's Diam …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: ReviewHaglofs' L.I.M or 'less is more' series is highly regarded amongst ultralighters for its ethos of 'functional minimalism' - that is, delivering all the essentials but nothing extraneous, all in a weight-conscious package. This jacket is no exception. For cut and construction, it takes a similar approach to Dynafit's Transalper GTX, as it also uses a mix of Gore-Tex Active an …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review Inov-8's trail shoes have always been renowned for low weight and reliable traction but aren't known for an accommodating fit or plush cushioning. However, the Rocfly G 350 is a different beast altogether. These trainer-style hikers fuse a superlight knitted upper with a seriously chunky, cushioned midsole. They offer great out-of-the-box comfort, with a generously padded t …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review Despite looking like a technical approach shoe, with a low- profile toe box, extended lacing and a wraparound rand, we'd describe the TX5 as a sort of hybrid 'approach-hiker'. Built for mixed terrain, they're ideal for those classic big days out that might involve double- figure mileage and long, undulating ridgelines, as well as the odd scramble. They are much more forgivi …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review Whether being used. to drink direct from the source, or to fill up a bottle or bladder, the hand-pumped TrailShot filters out almost all (99.9%) bacteria, protozoa, and particulates. It can treat 1 litre of water in 60 seconds and is compact enough to fit in the stash. pocket of a rucksack.

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review Innovative zipperless design, clever features, comfy, affordable. A tad heavy, style won't suit everyone, risk of draughts, requires a good mat This is the synthetic version of Sierra Designs' Cloud 20° down bag. It's £130 cheaper but 490g heavier and not as warm. Like the Cloud 20°, the Night Cap 20° adopts an innovative design. There's not zip, but the bag still opens wid …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review Incredibly light, 850 fill power, excellent for long-distance treks Disappointing comfort rating, risk of down separating, low fill weight This sleeping bag is designed for the gram- counting, ultralight camper who still needs. 3-season protection. Top quality 850 fill power goose down (the highest grade down on test) fills both horizontal and vertical baffles, delivering a …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review Tried and tested design, excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, multiple sizes and versions Pricey, narrow mummy-style won't suit everyone Rab's Neutrino down sleeping bags have a longstanding and stellar reputation. Now featuring an eco upgrade for 2022, with PFC-free DWR treatments and more recycled materials (such as the 100% polyamide lining and recycled Pertex Quantum shell …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review Lightweight, warmth-to-weight ratio, premium design, first-rate features Expensive, comfort rating could be warmer for the price With an EN/ISO comfort rating of 0°C but weighing just 810g, the Parsec 20F/-6C strikes a sweet spot between warmth and weight for 3-season use - truly one bag suitable for early spring to late autumn. This is achieved through a healthy 470g porti …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review There is a lot to like about this sleeping bag. With a 1°C comfort rating but weighing just 665g (the second lightest here), the warmth- to-weight ratio is impressive, striking a nice compromise for 3-season use in all but the coldest of spring or autumn days. If reducing your pack weight is a priority, and you're likely to be camping in warmer climes, the Hydrogen 30° is a …

THE GREAT OUTDOORS: MAGAZINESea to Summit releases its 'warmest ever' sleeping mat Sea to Summit's latest mat, the Etherlight XT Extreme, is the thickest and warmest the company has ever made. With an R-value of over 6 it should be warm at -30°C, whilst the 10cm thickness makes it very comfortable. The mat features Sea to Summit's air-sprung cells, which deform independently to allow the mat to co …

TRAIL MAGAZINE: ReviewThis tent defies the expectation that small, lightweight solo backpacking tents are cramped and coffin-like. It's got great headroom and a generous rectangular inner footprint with good length and width. This makes it extremely liveable, aided by a generous porch area that means gear doesn't have to be stored in with you. The exceptional space-to-weight is achieved via a desi …