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What is an R-value?The R-value is a measure used to rate how well your sleeping mat will stop heat loss. Thermal resistance is the measurement that indicates a materials ability to insulate - there are a number of different ways to express this but, as they all measure the same factor, they are all related. The starting point is the R-value.In the past, some brands quoted the R-value in SI units, …

Power Grid is one of a range of insulating fabrics from Polartec, we explain what it does and include our opinion of it.

What is BPA?BPA stands for bisphenol A. BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins for well over 50 years now. BPA is found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonate plastics are commonly used for storing food and drink, like water bottles. Over the time frame that it has been used and the extent of products which have used it research has …

If like us you like to keep the weight down and calorie intake high, then you’ll most likely choose a dehydrated meal pouch as your evening food choice. New brands are popping onto the market, with a wide range of variety to suit mostly all dietary requirements and tastes. What hasn’t changed though is the time it takes for your meal to properly absorb the added water to give the meal …

As the name suggests this is a superlight foam mat weighing in at an impressive 74 grams with a sizing of 150 cm x 50cm and a thickness of 3mm. It has a low profile which means it can easily be rolled or folded to fit within our pack. Rather than replacing a sleeping mat, we found it much more suitable as a footprint for a solo tent or bivy bag. Protection from the ground is very impor …

Alpha Direct is one of a range of insulation from Polartec, we explain what it does and include our opinion of it.

The VLT from Gram-Counter Gear is a single skin tent, saving on weight and bulk through less fabric being used. This concept has been popular for some time now and it just so happens our introduction to single skin tents came a few years ago from the designer of this very shelter, so we were obviously very eager to see how the VLT would perform for us in Scotland. The name VLT simpl …

Pertex Shield Pro is one of a range of waterproof fabrics from Pertex, we explain what the fabric is and does here including our opinion.

Pertex Shield Air is one of a range of waterproof fabrics from Pertex, we explain what the fabric is and does here including our opinion.

Pertex Shield is one of a range of waterproof fabrics from Pertex, we explain what the fabric is and does here, including our opinion of it.

Pertex Quantum is one of a range of ultralight fabrics from Pertex, we explain what the fabric is and does here including our opinion.

Pertex Quantum is one of a range of ultralight fabrics from Pertex, we explain what the fabric is and does here including our opinion.