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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 …

Who Are Turbat? Turbat has carved out a unique niche since its inception in 2014. This Ukrainian brand specialises in lightweight, compact, and versatile gear designed for travellers who prefer to explore with just a 30-litre backpack, regardless of destination. Founded by a group of passionate globetrotters, Turbat was born from first-hand experiences ranging from Namibia to Papua New Guinea. The …

The DownWool Ice 2.0 uses a hybrid insulation, combining 700+ fill power down with wool, with around 632g of fill. This approach addresses the known weaknesses of traditional down, which can lose performance in damp conditions and feel overly warm at times. The addition of wool helps manage moisture more effectively, maintaining insulation in humid environments and creating a more stable temperatu …

When you're going to climb high, you need lightweight, protective layers that breathe with you and can keep pace with your adventures. A versatile, lightweight layering system that delivers breathable warmth and provides instant shelter will become your long-standing companion outside. Discover Montane's range of fast and l …

Pictures: Looking back near the Bocca Palmentu (right) and Refuge d’E Capanelle (left). Day 1 – Vizzavona to (Gite d’Etape U Fugone) Refuge d’E Capanelle The first day is 9 miles and 5.5hrs and after staying in a hotel in Vizzavona I was able to get a great start, the route is easy to find and well way-marked and it was good to get going. I climbed the first section throug …

Costs I took 300Euros travelling money but this wasn’t enough really. Campsite fees were generally 20Euros per night, a beer was 10Euros at the refuges and I bought one evening meal for 25Euros and one breakfast for 9Euros. A taxi on my first travel day cost 25 Euros and I bought food items along the way – all transactions that required cash. I returned with 50Euros+ which I’d k …

Outbound I flew from Manchester and booked the car into a long stay park, I usually use Drop&Go as this has always been convenient and hassle free. My flight was via Rome and there was a 3 hour transfer time, this seemed enough but I was worried about reported queues at the new Shengen terminals. As it was the machines were bi-passed at Rome in favour of the traditional booth and customs offi …

Exped’s Lightning rucksack has long been a favourite with backpackers who want a lighter pack without losing proper load control. The updated 2026 range keeps that ultralight heritage but adds a more supportive carry system, improved storage, and a choice of 40, 50, and 60-litre sizes. Alongside the new Lightning packs, Exped’s Ultra 6.5R mats show just how far lightweight sleeping kit …

The Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy makes the most sense when you want the smallest possible weatherproof shelter, a quick pitch and a really low-profile camp. It is more livable than most bivy bags I’ve tried, thanks to the hoop, which elevates and provides welcome space, but it is still very much a bivy. That means limited living space, careful venting and being realistic about condensati …