Trekking Essentials

A lightweight sit mat using closed-cell foam, protected by mesh fabric, for use with the 2024 range of Gossamer Gear packs. Gossamer Gear says:  This upgraded Air Flow Sit Pad doubles as a back panel padding for our packs and an ultralight camp…

UOG TOP PICK: The Sunslice Fusion FLEX 6 is a lightweight solar charger with efficient flexible cells. It weighs only 115 grams and is easily portable. During the day, it can charge a power bank, which can then be used to charge devices. It is a top …

Featherlight and race-ready, these poles offer reliable balance and quick deployment. Mountain King says:  Weighing in at just 114g (120 cm), the Mountain King SkyRunner Ultra RaceDay poles are engineered for serious athletes who demand the abso…

The Trekmates Twin Seal Map Case is a well-made, waterproof case designed for maps, documents, and touchscreens in challenging outdoor environments. It has dual openings for easy repositioning and an adjustable neck strap for convenience. Trekmates..…

A compact multitool with an innovative toolset and solid build, the EDC Knight balances utility and packability. Nextool says:  This utility knife has most of the tools you would expect for this form multitool. Scissors, Phillips/Flathead...

The Neotrail FX. One Superlite poles offer an impressive balance between weight savings and rigidity, making them perfect for race day. Collapsible and easy to stow, they feature a comfortable handle and breathable strap for long distances. Leki...

Lightweight, compact, and built for speed, the OMM Z-Lite Aluminium Poles are the perfect companion for mountain runners and fast packers. OMM says:  Z-Lite Aluminium poles have been developed for ultra runners, mountain marathons or fast packin…

We're working out what we think - we'll add our view here!  Black Diamond says:  The Distance Carbon Z is our lightest Z-Pole engineered for those who travel fast. With 100% carbon construction, the Distance Carbon Z features a three-sectio…

Minimalist but genuinely capable, the Skeletool CX is a smart everyday multitool for those who want quality essentials without the bulk. Leatherman says:  Skeletool CX packs the most essential tools into a lightweight, easy-to-carry package. The…

A large form Map case that is completely waterproof thanks to the roll-top closure. Silva says:  Map Case Large is a waterproof and fully transparent map case that keeps your map dry in any weather. The watertight roll-top closure makes it easy …

UOG TOP PICK—  The LT5 Three Piece hiking poles are incredibly lightweight, constructed with sturdy carbon fibre, and designed with comfortable EVA foam handles and adjustable wrist straps for a customised grip. One of our Top Picks Gossam…

For a lightweight, packable trekking umbrella look no further. This umbrella combines a carbon frame with 20D fabric to give you plenty of shelter from the rain and sun when you are backpacking or travelling.    Montbell says:  Provid…

The Montbell Trekking Umbrella 50 is ultralight and sturdy, offering versatile protection from the elements. It has a generous 88cm diameter, effectively shedding water, and folds to a compact 24cm. Montbell says:  Features light weight and...

Tough, compact, and comfortable in the hand—these are some of the best telescopic poles I’ve used. Fizan says:  The Fizan Compact 3 are the world’s lightest Trekking poles. Sold as a pair, these are 3-part poles with an adjusta…

A lightweight, waterproof map case with carry strap.  Silva says:  Waterproof Map Case Large keeps your map dry in any weather. Fully transparent and easy to open and close. Distance lanyard with scale pattern included. Silva has develope…

We're working out what we think - we'll add our view here!  Leatherman says:  The Leatherman Raptor shears features the necessary tools for uniformed response professionals to safely and quickly go to work in an emergency situation. Develop…

We're working out what we think - we'll add our view here!  Leatherman says:  Inspired by Tim Leatherman’s original Pocket Survival Tool, Bond pairs classic design with the tools needed to tackle everyday tasks. At a mere 5.8 oz, this…

Adjustable, compact, and impressively light—these poles are built for fast-moving days where every gram counts. Black Diamond says:  The Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ is our premium pole for fully adjustable, folding performance. This.…

UOG TOP PICK - Fizan Compact Trekking Poles - Lightness and value - We've singled out Fizan's Compact Trekking Poles as one of our top recommendations because they are well engineered and minimise weight by saving on external fittings. They are...

The Nitecore Summit 10000 is a rugged power bank for outdoor adventures. It has a 10,000mAh capacity, carbon fiber construction, and operates down to -40°C/-40°F. We are unable to use our standard shipping services for Power Banks. Therefore,…

Fizan's Compact 4 Trekking Poles are designed to have a very short packsize, they achieve this by splitting into 4 sections instead of three. Rather than having ever narrower tubing they have designed in a stronger arrangement - making these the ulti…

Featherlight and fast to deploy, the Skytera FX Carbon SL poles are built for mountain missions. Leki says:  The perfect pole for mountain hiking and for those who love to hike in a lightweight style. The high-quality carbon shaft provides the..…

We're working out what we think - we'll add our view here!  Leki says:  The Skysolo is made for the world’s highest mountains. Leading mountaineers contributed to the development and testing of the new Sky Series. With a shaft diamete…

UOG TOP PICK—  Leki Cross Trail FX Superlite Compact poles: lightweight and compact, designed for fast mountain adventures. Despite their minimalist design, they provide comfort and performance. Easily adjustable and break down to 42cm for…

Gossamer Gears Gold Dome Ultralight Umbrella is perfect for sun protection as it’s reflective gold on the outside and opaque Black on the inside surface, perfect for giving some shade. Although ultralight, it still has a reasonable diameter of …

Batman would approve—this belt hides more gadgets than the cape crusader, all without looking like it’s trying too hard. Nextool says:  It's a light and reliable belt, but also a multi-functional EDC tool, solving everyday problems f…

Fast, light, and impressively refined, the Cross Hike Carbon poles are tuned for mountain pace with just enough structure for more demanding ground. LEKI says:  With the Cross Hike Carbon you can start your next mountain workout right away! This…

UOG TOP PICK—  LEKI Cross Trail FX Superlite Poles are lightweight, high-performance poles for competitive trail runners and mountain enthusiasts. The Cross Shark handle and glove ensure a secure grip. They are optimised for weight and...

An ultralight, durable umbrella offering reliable sun and rain protection, perfect for hikers who need versatile gear on the go. Hyperlite Mountain Gear says:  Durable, ultralight personal protection no matter the climate calamity. Regardless of…

UOG TOP PICK—  LEKI Cross Trail Lite Carbon poles combine trail running poles' agility with the trekking poles' stability. They feature the Cross Shark grip system for comfortable hiking. A top pick! Leki says:  The Cross Trail Lite..…

Silva Running Poles Carbon Adjust are lightweight carbon trekking poles for trail runners and hikers. Their adjustable length and extended grip handles provide versatility, and a quick-release glove system keeps hands comfortable. Silva...

Light and sturdy, the Pursuit Carbon Z poles are built to cover big miles with minimal weight and maximum efficiency. Black Diamond says:  Move effortlessly through mountainous terrain with the Pursuit Carbon Z. This collapsible Z pole is our pe…

Durable and comfortable poles with adjustable length and ergonomic handles. Versatile for different terrains, weighing 232 grams each. Great value for their robust construction and features. Fizan says:  Fizan Explorer – Blue, are a great …

We're working out what we think - we'll add our view here!  Leki says:  The Jannu offers the full range of features: comfortable AERGON CorTec grip, Speed Lock+ adjustment system for the easiest length adjustment and lightweight tubes made …

The LEKI Sherpa FX. One Carbon Mountaineering Poles are reliable for challenging terrain. They combine lightweight construction and ergonomic design for comfort and control. The robust aluminum base and folding design make them packable and versatile…

Sturdy, adjustable, and built to last—the Trail poles are a great option when reliability matters more than shaving grams. Black Diamond says:  Balancing comfort, features and reliability, the 3-piece-adjustable Trail features an updated E…

UOG TOP PICK—  Robust and hard-wearing, these four-season trekking poles have been engineered for deep winter trailblazing and multi-day hikes. They even have an on-the-fly maintenance tool attached. A Top pick for robust hikes Black Diamo…

Reliable, well-balanced, and ready for all-season walking, the Trail Cork poles are for those who want lasting comfort without compromising toughness. Black Diamond says:  The Black Diamond Trail Cork is built for 4-season versatility and .…

We're working out what we think - we'll add our view here!  Leki says:  The Khumbu Lite AS is a lightweight yet faithful companion and trekking pole for all mountain adventures. On long, demanding hikes, it is important to protect joints an…

Guidebook to the Swiss Via Alpina, a 400km trek east-west across Switzerland, with options of detouring along the Alpine Pass Route. This demanding 3-week trek crosses 16 passes, including the 2778m Hohtürli, in a total of 19 stages from Sargans…

LEKI Makalu Lite AS trekking poles balance lightweight design and sturdy support. The Aergon Air handle provides excellent grip and control. The Dynamic Suspension System reduces impact forces by 40%. The Speed Lock Plus system enables quick length..…

UOG TOP PICK—  Robust and hard-wearing, these four-season trekking poles have been engineered for deep winter trailblazing and multi-day hikes. They even have an on-the-fly maintenance tool attached. A Top pick for robust hikes Black Diamo…

Reliable, adjustable, and built to last—these poles offer excellent value for hikers who want dependable support without breaking the bank. Black Diamond says:  Made for day hikes and overnight trips that cover variable terrain, the Trail …

The Fusion FLEX 12 is a powerful and compact 12-watt portable solar charger. It can rapidly charge devices like smartphones in 2 hours of sunlight exposure. Sunslice says:  The Fusion FLEX 12 is a 12 Watts flexible foldable solar charger, equipp…

These new poles from Fizan feature an innovative “one-touch locking” system that allows the poles to be deployed rapidly. Fizan says:  Fizan RFP Trek – Cork are the NEW Rapid Fizan Poles. These Trekking poles feature an innova…

Guidebook to trekking the Adlerweg, a multi-stage walk through the Austrian Tyrol. The 324km route is broken down into 24 stages with easier alternatives provided for the most challenging stages. This east-to-west trek visits the historic town of...

A definitive guide to one of the most spectacular long-distance treks in the Alps, crossing 11 high passes between Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. Packed with expert insight, detailed route descriptions, and essential planning advice to help you tackl…

Solid, compact, and thoughtfully made, these foldable poles offer dependable support without overcomplicating. Silva says:  Enhance your balance and stability with the Trekking Poles Aluminum Z-fold. The aluminum poles are foldable and lightweig…

Nitecore Carbo 20000 power bank's 20,000mAh capacity, lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced polymer shell, fast charging capabilities, safety features, and power level display make it an impressive and well-designed device. We are unable to use our...

Guidebook to trekking in the Everest region of the Himalaya in Nepal, including Thame Valley, Lukla to Namche, Everest Base Camp from Namche and Gokyo (the Cho la and Phortse route), plus one route in Tibet (the Kharta Valley). Also describes the Thr…

An essential guide to tackling the northern Munros, from Torridon's rugged peaks to Skye's dramatic ridges. With detailed route descriptions and expert advice, this book is the perfect companion for summer hillwalkers exploring Scotland’s most.…

The Life Venture Trek Umbrella is compact, durable and lightweight. It's the ideal size to keep in your bag in case you get caught in the rain. Life Venture says:  Get a grip on your trek umbrella with its ergonomic rubberised handle, mechanised…

Montbell's featherweight tripod camp chair is ideal for backpacking. It's compact and lightweight, setting up quickly. The chair is comfortable and durable but may be small for larger users. Montbell says:  Ultralight tripod-style chair compact.…

Boot Bananas, banana-shaped shoe deodorisers, keep hiking shoes fresh longer with natural ingredients. Boot Bananas says:  Bursting with Freshness -  A blend of odour-neutralising salts, minerals and the finest botanicals. With a fresh...

The Lifeventure Trek Umbrella XL is a durable umbrella for outdoor adventures. Its automatic opening mechanism and sturdy frame withstand strong wind Lifeventure says:  Get a grip on your XL Trek Umbrella with its rubberised ergonomic handle,...

UOG TOP PICK - Moonlite Reclining Camp Chair The Moonlite Reclining Camp Chair offers next-level, lightweight camp comfort. One of the most comfortable camp chairs we have used, one of our top picks Nemo says:  Take Moonlite™ into the...