~ Gear reviews ~

Petzl Tikka headtorch review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Petzl Tikka headtorch review

A popular choice among adventurers, the Petzl Tikka is a compact, lightweight, and reliable head torch designed for camping, hiking, bikepacking and general adventures

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Petzl Spatha rope knife review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Petzl Spatha rope knife review

Featuring a stainless steel blade with a smooth and serrated edge, the Petzl Spatha is a compact and lightweight rope knife designed specifically for climbers, mountaineers, and rescue professionals.

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The North Face Sport Hiker Waist Pack review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

The North Face Sport Hiker Waist Pack review

Whether you’re hiking through mountain trails, exploring a new city, or simply looking for a hands-free way to carry essentials, the North Face Sport Hiker Waist Pack is a rugged bag designed for those who need practicality, comfort, and is built to handle it all.

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Lifesystems Sterile First Aid Kit review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Lifesystems Sterile First Aid Kit review

Packed in a bright red (so as not to be mistaken), the Lifesystems Sterile First Aid Kit is a compact medical kit designed for travellers, adventurers, and anyone heading to destinations where medical facilities may be limited or unreliable.

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Leatherman Wave multitool review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Leatherman Wave multitool review

Designed for both professionals and everyday users, the Leatherman Wave is one of the most popular and versatile multitools available, known for its high-quality build, practicality, and extensive range of functions.

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Sony ZV-1 digital camera review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Sony ZV-1 digital camera review

Built around a 20.1MP 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor paired with a 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens, the Sony ZV-1 is a compact digital camera designed primarily for content creators, vloggers and social media enthusiasts.

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Leatherman Skeletool review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Leatherman Skeletool review

Weighing only 142 grams (5 ounces), the Leatherman Skeletool is a sleek, compact, and versatile multi-tool designed for those who value practicality and efficiency in their gear.

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Fjallraven rib hat review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Fjallraven rib hat review

The Fjällräven Rib Hat is a versatile accessory that combines style, functionality, and sustainability, giving that cool adventure look with less environmental damage.

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Icebreaker merino beanie hat review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Icebreaker merino beanie hat review

The Icebreaker Merino Beanie Hat is a performance-driven winter accessory designed to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable in a variety of conditions.

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Helly Hansen Rigging coat review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Helly Hansen Rigging coat review

The Helly Hansen Rigging Coat is a versatile and robust jacket designed for individuals seeking strong protection against harsh weather while maintaining a sleek, professional appearance.

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Rab Mountain Cap review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Rab Mountain Cap review

The Rab Mountain Cap, now crafted under Rab's Lowe Alpine brand, is designed to handle the worst that winter can throw at you and holds its ground as an outdoor essential for those who prioritise functionality over fashion.

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Fjällräven Keb trousers review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Fjällräven Keb trousers review

The Fjällräven Keb Trousers are renowned for their durability and practicality, making them a strong choice for hiking and trekking in cooler conditions, particularly outside of the summer months.

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Montane Atomic Waterproof Pants review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Montane Atomic Waterproof Pants review

The Montane Atomic Waterproof Pants are a great, lightweight option for bikepackers, fastpackers and generalist adventurers seeking reliable protection in wet conditions, at a decent price.

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On Running Cloud 5 Waterproof men’s trainers review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

On Running Cloud 5 Waterproof men’s trainers review

Engineered by the Swiss brand On Running, Cloud 5 Waterproof trainers are designed to offer the great combination of comfort, performance, and weather protection for those urban exploring adventures we all need!

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Apple Watch Series 9 review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Apple Watch Series 9 review

The Apple Watch Series 9 is a solid companion for those who lead adventurous lifestyles, offering a good balance of performance, durability, and utility at a good price when compared to other sports watches.

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Adidas Terrex freehiker low review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Adidas Terrex freehiker low review

After a great experience with Adidas’ freehiker high top boots, we opted to test the freehiker low top trainers and had a similarly great experience!

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Columbia Mazama Trail Shell Jacket review
Chris Shirley MA FRGS Chris Shirley MA FRGS

Columbia Mazama Trail Shell Jacket review

As we train for the Silk Road Mountain Race and the other bikepacking adventures, we’re always on the lookout for gear that can keep, and this waterproof shell jacket certainly delivers on performance.

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Whether you're a seasoned climber seeking new mountains to conquer, an endurance runner craving the rush of Marathon des Sables, or a bikepacker in search of the perfect mult-day route, we've got you covered. 

Check out our curated collection of articles, categorised to ensure you find the gear that speaks to the adventure you’re seeking to complete: