Wild Camping for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide for the UK
Posted by Andy Neil on Sep 05, 2024
Wild camping is more than just a
hobby; it’s an enriching and deeply rewarding experience that allows you to
reconnect with nature in its most unfiltered form. Whether waking up to a breathtaking
mountain sunrise, listening to the soothing sounds of a forest at night, or
simply enjoying the solitude that only the wilderness can offer wild camping
provides a unique escape from the everyday hus
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A Guide to the Cleveland Way
Posted by Andy Neil on Aug 06, 2024
This is a guide to our local national trail, the Cleveland
Way—the first long-distance path I completed and one that will always hold a
special place in my heart. This captivating National Trail meanders through
North Yorkshire’s diverse landscapes, spanning 109 miles from the charming
market town of Helmsley to the picturesque seaside of Filey. Whether you're a
seasoned hiker or a casual exp
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Author & Outdoor Enthusiast Chris Townsend Interview
Posted by Andy Neil on Jul 23, 2024
Chris Townsend, the celebrated long-distance hiker and author, has spent decades exploring some of the most challenging and breathtaking trails across the globe. From his early inspirations drawn from Arthur Ransome's tales, which laid the groundwork for his numerous epic adventures, including the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) to his groundbreaking trek through t
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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Sleeping Mat
Posted by Andy Neil on Jul 17, 2024
When preparing for a hiking or
backpacking trip, selecting the right sleeping mat is crucial for ensuring
comfort and warmth during the night. We’ll delve into the different types of
sleeping mats available and the importance of R-value. Our aim is to equip you
with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision when choosing the
right sleeping pad for your next adventure. leeping
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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Camping Stove
Posted by Andy Neil on Jul 15, 2024
Camping stoves are an essential
part of any hiking or camping adventure. They provide a reliable means to cook
meals and boil water. Choosing the right stove can significantly enhance your
outdoor experience. Let’s delve into the various types of camping stoves, their
pros and cons, and the best scenarios for their use. Before selecting any outdoor gear, it's crucial to consider your spec
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NEMO Equipment Founder & CEO Cam Brensinger Interview
Posted by Andy Neil on Jul 08, 2024
Last month, we had the privilege of hosting Cam Brensinger, the founder and CEO of Nemo. Cam, who established Nemo in 2002, was kind enough to sit down with us and answer a few questions on the company's origins, the process of bringing ideas to market, and the vital role of brands in championing sustainable design. 1. What inspired your decision to start NEMO? How did your upbringing influen
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The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Sun Hoodies: Your Shield Against the Elements
Posted by Andy Neil on Jul 03, 2024
Sun hoodies have become indispensable gear for long-distance hikers and anyone exploring the outdoors in summer. Sun hoodies have gained popularity for their all-in-one solution for sun protection, moisture management, and temperature regulation, making them an essential part of any kit list. Historically, hikers relied on sunscreen, hats, and loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts for sun pro
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Spring and Summer 2024 Highlights
Posted by Andy Neil on Jun 13, 2024
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
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Black Diamond Beta Light 45 Backpack and Sattelite Bag Review - “An exceptional choice for shorter, lighter excursions and will see plenty of use in the future.”
Posted by Andy Neil on Jun 12, 2024
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
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Andy's 2024 TGO Challenge
Posted by Andy Neil on Jun 05, 2024
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
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Condensation in Single Skin Tents: Causes and Mitigation
Posted by Andy Neil on Jun 04, 2024
Single-walled tents offer
significant benefits compared to double-walled ones in weight and size
reduction. They are considerably lighter and more compact. Utilising trekking
poles for structure, they provide ample headroom in liveable space, and often have
spacious vestibules. However, single-walled tents are infamous for excessive
condensation due to the lack of a barrier between the
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Gossamer Gear’s The Two Review - “The Two allowed me to complete the TGO challenge with a lighter pack load while enjoying enough room to spread out at camp.”
Posted by Andy Neil on Jun 04, 2024
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
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