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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 Montane Featherlite Hoodie became one of my most-used layers on this year’s TGO Challenge. It was a very windy crossing, and other than my baselayer and trousers, which I had to keep on or risk being arrested, this was probably the item I wore most. I have used lighter windproof layers before, but what I like about the Featherlite is that it does not feel too stripped back. At 115g (med …

There are three things you want from your trekking poles, useability, adaptability and great build quality. Well, it’s safe to say I found all three boxes ticked when using the Trail Vista Shock Poles by Black Diamond. I took these poles with me on an 8-day hike through Scotland where they battled in numerous ground and weather conditions. From boggy moors, rushing rivers and sand these tre …

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 …

The Montane Featherlite Hoodie became one of my most-used layers during this year's TGO Challenge, where a windproof layer felt practically mandatory. Wind protection is its biggest strength, taking the edge off exposed coastal sections and higher ground without feeling stuffy when moving at a steady pace. The PERTEX Quantum Air fabric feels soft and quiet, with noticeably better breathability tha …

A baselayer top is essential for any outdoor layering system. Opting for a wicking t-shirt made with Rab's Dryflo™ technology, rather than a cotton material, allows the shirt to better manage your body's moisture and sweat. This helps keep you comfortable during your hike. Designed for fast-moving pursuits in an alpine climate, Dryflo™ Air keeps you comfortable summit after summit with …

I tested the women’s Outdoor Research Helium UL jacket during early spring and I was very impressed with its performance. It will be a firm staple in my backpack for hikes during spring to autumn months for showery spells. I chose a size small, which is the size I would usually choose in a waterproof jacket. The jacket has a trim, streamlined fit but was loose enough to fit a base layer and …

Choosing a bivvy bag can seem simple at first glance, but there are several important factors depending on how and where you plan to use it. Bivvy bags are one of the lightest and most straightforward shelter options available. They are popular with long-distance runners, fastpackers, bikepackers, and minimalist wild campers who want reliable weather protection without the weight of a traditional …

I have been a big fan of freestanding tents due to their stability, convenience and ease of pitching for years. I wasn’t too interested in trekking pole tents until the arrival of the Drop Durston X-Mid back in early 2019. Single skin tents were something I tended to avoid due to concerns about condensation, but the additional internal space was appealing. The main downside of double skin f …

The Montane Phase Lite Gore-Tex Jacket is a high-performance, lightweight waterproof jacket built for fast-paced adventures, but is just as much suited for those that prefer long and slow exploits. It features a 40 Denier Gore-Tex performance shell, rated at 28,000 mm hydrostatic head with excellent breathability. Built with recycled nylon face and backer fabrics and Gore-Tex’s new ePE memb …

For over eight decades, Suunto has built a reputation for creating rugged, dependable gear trusted by adventurers, athletes, and explorers around the world. Their range now spans from advanced GPS watches to innovative outdoor audio equipment, all designed to perform in the most challenging conditions. From the Vertical to the Race series watches and their open-ear headphones, Suunto continues to …

Featuring upgraded stuff sacks with webbing loops and our proprietary ShortStik pole design, these bikepacking tents pack down into a shorter size, making them a breeze to attach to your bike's handlebars or frame. Optimized for bikepacking, and equipped with all of the great features you'd expect from a premium Big Agnes tent — with one of these in your gear closet, you won't need multiple …