Passenger 365 Organic Cotton Short – Laidback Comfort with a Conscience I picked up the 365 Shorts as a summer-ready alternative to my well-loved 365 Trousers, hoping for something that could handle everything from lazy Sunday strolls to impromptu paddleboard launches. After a few weeks of wear, I can safely say: these shorts are ridiculously…
Ultralight Shelter, Heavyweight Value I picked up the Lanshan 2 4-Season version as a budget-friendly way to dip into the world of ultralight trekking pole tents without sacrificing weather protection. After multiple nights out in the Peaks, Snowdonia, and a particularly soggy weekend in the Lakes, I can say this tent punches well above its…
Fjällräven Vidda Pro Ventilated Pants – Built for the Long Haul I bought the Vidda Pro Ventilated Pants after one too many soggy, snag-filled hikes in trousers that promised “durability” and delivered disappointment. I wanted something that could handle dense brush, rocky scrambles, and sudden downpours — and these have delivered in spades. Build &…
Outdoor Research Apollo Rain Pants – Dependable Wet-Weather Armour The Apollo Rain Pants are a lightweight, packable solution for unpredictable UK weather — the kind where the forecast says “light drizzle” and you end up in a sideways monsoon. After months of use on muddy footpaths, misty bikepacking trips, and a particularly damp Dartmoor hike,…
The Columbia Crestwoods are a lightweight, affordable option for weekend hikes and everyday outdoor wear. After several months of use across varied terrain — from gravel tracks in the Peaks to damp woodland trails — I can say they’ve earned their keep. First Impressions Straight out of the box, they feel like a hybrid between…
I picked up the Coldfront LT Hoodie looking for a packable, do-it-all insulator that could handle shoulder-season hikes, cold-weather layering, and the odd pub garden chill. After a few months of real-world use, I can confidently say: this thing punches above its weight. Build & Materials The jacket combines 130g of 700-fill RDS-certified down in…
I picked up the Micro D® Fleece Jacket looking for a light, breathable layer that could handle everything from brisk dog walks to layering under a shell on weekend hikes. After a few months of wear, here’s the verdict: it’s not flashy, but it’s fantastically functional. Comfort & Fit The first thing you notice is…
As someone who commutes daily through a city with a not-so-great reputation for bike theft, finding a lock that strikes the right balance between security, portability, and convenience felt like chasing a unicorn. Enter the Hiplok DX—a compact, Diamond-rated D-lock that genuinely lives up to its hype. First Impressions: Built Like a Tank (That You…
The Patagonia Women’s Nano Puff® Jacket is a popular choice for its lightweight design, warmth, and versatility. Design and Fit The Nano Puff® Jacket features a sleek and stylish design that looks great both on the trail and around town. It has a regular fit that allows for easy layering without feeling too bulky. The…
The Patagonia Women’s Triolet Jacket is a versatile and durable hardshell jacket designed for a variety of outdoor activities. Design and Fit The Triolet Jacket is designed with a focus on functionality and comfort. It features a three-layer GORE-TEX fabric that is both waterproof and breathable, ensuring you stay dry in wet conditions while allowing…
First Impressions The sleek and sturdy Ortlieb Gravel Pack Pannier Bags are made of a lightweight yet durable material, giving you the confidence they can withstand the rough trails and keep you gear dry. Fit and Installation Installing the Gravel Pack Pannier Bags was a breeze thanks to the QL2.1 mounting system. The additional mounting…
