First Impressions When I first got my hands on the Kahtoola Microspikes, I was immediately impressed by their compact and lightweight design. The stainless steel spikes and durable harness gave me confidence on icy and snowy terrain. Fit and Comfort The Microspikes are incredibly easy to put on and take off, even with cold hands…
The Arc’teryx Gamma Pants are part of the brand’s iconic softshell line, refined over years to meet the demands of climbers, trekkers, alpine scramblers, and technical hikers. Designed with rugged mobility and weather resistance at their core, the latest Gamma iteration combines breathable Fortius™ DW 2.0 fabric, articulated patterning, and minimalist features for a streamlined…
A Handlebar Bag That Does It All The Restrap Bar Pack is a 10-litre, fully waterproof handlebar bag designed for bikepacking, gravel touring, and long-distance cycling. Handmade in Yorkshire, UK, it combines rugged construction, clever storage features, and ride-ready stability in a compact, self-contained package. Unlike traditional harness-and-drybag systems, the Bar Pack is a standalone…
When it comes to premium daypacks built for all-day hiking, The Osprey Stratos/Sirrus 26 (Stratos: men’s and Sirrus: Women’s) remain standout choices. Known for their signature AirSpeed™ back panel, refined fit system, and impressive feature set, they offer comfort and support that outshine many larger packs. In 2024, these packs earned Gear of the Year…
The AKU Trekker Lite III GTX is a three-season hiking boot built for demanding mountain terrain. Handcrafted in Italy, it’s the third iteration of AKU’s best-selling Trekker Lite line — now updated with modern fabrics, improved breathability, and a grippy Vibram sole. Positioned squarely between lightweight trail shoes and full alpine boots, it’s ideal for…
A Winter Icon Since 1962 The Sorel Caribou Winter Boot has been a staple in cold-weather footwear for over 60 years. First introduced in 1962, it helped define the “Pac boot” category: a rugged, waterproof outer shell paired with a removable insulated liner. Designed for deep snow, freezing temperatures, and wet winter conditions, the Caribou…
The Mountain Equipment Makalu Jacket is a high end waterproof jackets designed to serve serious outdoor enthusiasts with the highest performance waterproof jacket. Following are the key review details regarding features, pros, and cons of the jacket. Features The Mountain Equipment Makalu Jacket is made from Gore-Tex’s new ePE membrane, which is lighter, more resilient,…
Edelrid Pinch vs Petzl GriGri: A head-to-head review of two of the most advanced assisted-braking belay devices on the market Overview In the world of assisted-braking belay devices, few names carry as much clout as Petzl’s GriGri. For decades, it’s been the industry standard—trustworthy, versatile, and proven at the gym, the crag, and on big…
Ultra-pure magnesium carbonate from Magnus Midtbø’s brand – does it live up to the hype? Overview The Rungne Magdust Climbing Chalk is marketed as a high-performance, ultra-pure magnesium carbonate developed for maximum grip and minimal mess. Designed by climbers for climbers, it’s available in both chunky and fine powder formats, catering to different chalk preferences…
Introduction: A Legacy of Simplicity and Reliability The Nalgene Widemouth Water Bottle is one of the most recognisable pieces of outdoor gear ever made. With its simple design, bombproof construction, and cult following among hikers, climbers, and campers, it’s become a staple in backpacks around the world. Originally developed for laboratory use, the Nalgene bottle…
The Rab Nexus Pull-On Fleece is a lightweight, breathable midlayer designed for active use in cool conditions. Whether you’re hiking in the Lakes, scrambling in Snowdonia, or layering up for a winter walk, the Nexus offers warmth without bulk — and comfort without compromise. Made from Thermic™ G stretch fleece, it’s soft against the skin,…
The Mammut Trovat Advanced II High GTX is a rugged and versatile hiking boot for the most demanding outdoor activities. Design and Build Quality The Mammut Trovat Advanced II High GTX features top-quality materials in the form of a combination of full-grain leather with elastic Gore-Tex-lined fabric. Material mix-ins mean durability, flexibility, and a comfortable…
