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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 …

The Helium UL Jacket is built for fast miles and weather that won’t make up its mind. Ultralight, waterproof, and easy to pack, it moves from trail running, hiking, or peak bagging to travel and daily wear without missing a beat. The next-generation Helium UL Jacket features Toray Dermizax™ 3D 2.75-layer waterproof protection for true ultralight performance, with improved breathability …

Outdoor Research founder Ron Gregg, a nuclear physicist by profession, was a man who truly lived his passion for adventure. He saw the outdoors as the ultimate workplace, referring to the mountains, rivers, and oceans he often explored as “The Big Office.” In the 1980s and early 90s, Outdoor Research built a reputation on functional, quality outdoor gear that pushed the limits of innov …

Outdoor Research have long been one of my favourites for winter gear. Born in Seattle, they’ve perfected the art of keeping cold-weather comfort dialled in, whatever the conditions throw at you. But what I’ve always loved most is their eclectic extremities expertise, they really do know how to make exceptional hats and gloves. Every piece shows that blend of technical precision and out …

Outdoor Research's VerticalX SuperStrand Synthetic Insulation is built to deliver exceptional warmth to weight ratio, it compares to 700-800 Fill Power down in terms of its softness, weight and lofting ability. On this page we explain how it works. — VerticalX SuperStrand is the lightest, softest, most compressible synthetic insulation available taking the best qualities of down and imp …

Built with lightweight, recycled bluesign® approved fabrics, the Vesper features VerticalX™ ECO SR insulation, which balances warmth, stretch, and breathability. Its wind- and water-resistant shell provides protection from unpredictable weather while maintaining comfort during high-output activities. Thoughtful design details like the insulated hood with brim, elastic cuffs, and adjustab …

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 …

At Ultralight, we’ve tested and reviewed the very best in hiking, camping, and outdoor gear to compile this definitive list. This year’s winners feature cutting-edge technologies, eco-friendly innovations, and user-focused designs that represent the pinnacle of outdoor excellence. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned adventurer, these award-winning products are sure to inspire your …

May means one thing here in the Ultralight office, The Great Outdoors Challenge, or the TGO for short. We are incredibly proud to be a sponsor of this communal coast-to-coast crossing of Scotland. Three of our team, Danny, Chris and myself, are participating in this year’s TGO, so I thought I’d give you an insight into what’s in my pack and some of the gear I’ll be taking for this year’s chal …

Winter arrived early and was cold here in the UK, so I was incredibly grateful to be offered a chance to test out the SuperStrand LT Insulated Hoodie at the beginning of December. I've been using this jacket as my primary insulation for over three months now, not just in the hills but in my day-to-day life as well, and I'm a big fan of this lightweight synthetic jacket from American bra …

Useful for keeping both sun and rain out of your eyes, a cap is a summer essential. This one has UPF 50+ protection and is breathable and moisture-wicking to reduce sweat-induced discomfort; water- resistant and quick-drying for wearing in the wet. It also has a foldable brim so it packs easily away in your pocketVERDICTBreathable, packable, quick-drying, and designed for outdoor living. …

The Stargazer Bivy has made my bivying experiences much more enjoyable than with my older, basic unhooped bivy. I think a hooped bivy is more than worth the extra weight penalty for the additional room and comfort it gives you by keeping the fabric away from your face. The intelligent design means that the angle of the hoop gives the bivy a reasonably stable structure. Using the 2 peg i …