~ Gear reviews ~
Decathlon / Van Rysel Long-distance triathlon handlebar extensions (aka aerobars) review
The Van Rysel Long-distance triathlon handlebar extensions are a product designed specifically for cyclists who want to improve their aerodynamics and endurance during long-distance events but are useful for bikepacking expeditions. These handlebar extensions are made by Van Rysel, a cycling brand owned by the French sports equipment retailer, Decathlon.
Oxford Continental Advanced Pants review
The Oxford Continental Advanced motorcycle trousers are a well-priced and comfortable option, perfect for riders seeking adventure trips. With their durable Cordura material, stretch panels for flexibility, and mesh lining for airflow, these trousers provide the necessary comfort and protection during long rides. The multiple pockets offer convenient storage, while the removable waterproof membrane keeps riders dry in challenging weather conditions. Adjustable knee armour ensures a perfect fit, and reflective detailing enhances visibility in low-light situations.
Adidas Terrex Freehiker walking boots review
Check out my review of the Adidas Terrex Freehiker. These highly breathable boot-trainers offer superior traction, slip-resistance, and ankle support, making them perfect for all-terrain adventures. They're also available in men's and women's sizes and come in a range of widths to accommodate different foot shapes. With their responsive, flexible design and premium construction, the Adidas Terrex Freehiker hiking boots are a top choice for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Rab ignition 3 XL sleeping bag
The Rab Ignition 3 XL is a high-quality, synthetic sleeping bag perfect for mild to chilly weather. It's compact, warm, and highly compressible, making it ideal for travel and outdoor adventures. With a comfort rating of 2°C, a limit of comfort rating of -3.5°C, and an extreme rating of -20°C, this sleeping bag is perfectly equipped to tackle harsh weather conditions head-on. Plus, its generous XL size grants ample space for larger individuals or those who appreciate freedom of movement during slumber.
Lifeventure travel microtowel review
The Lifeventure Quick Drying Microtowel is a lightweight and compact travel towel designed for adventurers on the go. Made of soft and absorbent microfiber material, this towel dries quickly and can absorb up to four times its weight in water. Its compact size and included mesh carry case make it easy to pack and transport, making it a great choice for camping, hiking, or travel. This review explores the features and benefits of the Lifeventure Quick Drying Microtowel, and whether it lives up to its reputation as a must-have travel accessory.
Lezyne Zecto Drive rear bike light review
The Lezyne Zecto Drive rear bike light is a compact and powerful light that offers exceptional visibility and safety on the road. Its 80-lumen output, five different modes, and side visibility design make it ideal for commuting and riding in low-light conditions. Plus, its easy-to-mount silicone strap allows for quick and secure attachment to your bike. My comprehensive review of the Lezyne Zecto Drive rear bike light dives deep into its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it's the right choice for your cycling needs.
Stanley Classic Wide Mouth Flask 0.23L with Never-Lose Cap review
Looking for a reliable flask for your outdoor adventures? The Stanley Classic Wide Mouth Flask 0.23L is a durable and leak-proof option, with a never-lose cap that screws on securely. Its compact size makes it easy to bring along on your next hike or camping trip, and its wide mouth makes for easy filling and pouring. With its rugged design and iconic Stanley brand, this flask is the perfect addition to your outdoor gear collection.
Thule Gauntlet laptop case review
Protecting your laptop during travel is a must, and the Thule Gauntlet laptop case provides reliable protection. Its molded EVA foam construction and rugged exterior shield your laptop from bumps and scratches. This case comes in a range of sizes, and is designed to fit most laptops and features a clamshell design for easy access. Check out my detailed review of the Thule Gauntlet laptop case and see why it's my top choice for laptop protection on the go.
Morakniv basic bushcraft Knife
If you're in search of a reliable and affordable bushcraft knife, the Morakniv Basic is an excellent option. Its durable carbon steel blade is ideal for outdoor activities like carving, whittling, and food prep. The comfortable, rubberised handle offers a secure grip in all weather conditions. Read on for my in-depth review of the knife and discover why it's a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts.
Quechua 350ml insulated flask with filter review
The Quechua insulated flask is a great option for trips when you need to keep their hot or cold drinks close to hand for regular usage.
The flask features a double-walled stainless-steel construction that is vacuum-insulated for maximum temperature retention. The 0.35L capacity is perfect for a single serving of coffee, tea, hot chocolate or hot squash (my go-to choice as it can be drunk hot or cold), and the built-in filter lets you brew your favourite loose-leaf tea or coffee on the go.
Exped Synmat Lite 5 Sleeping Mat review
The Exped SynMat Lite 5 Sleeping Mat is a light and comfortable inflatable sleeping pad designed for bikepacking, backpacking, and camping, and is made with a 75D polyester fabric that is durable and resistant to punctures, (although I still use it with a thin lightweight roll mat if using in particularly spiky forest floors!).
The pad weighs in at 655g, is large enough for a 6 foot plus adult (its dimensions are 183cm x 52cm) and ends up around 5cm thick when fully inflated.
Light my Fire titanium spork review
Made of lightweight and durable titanium, (which makes it strong, corrosion-resistant, and hypoallergenic), the LMF titanium spork is a cool but costly addition for those fed up with breaking the plastic versions!
As you can see from the photos, the spork features a spoon on one end, which can be used for scooping soup, chili, or other liquids, and a fork on the other end, which can be used for eating solid foods like meat, vegetables, and pasta. The spork also has a serrated edge on the fork side, which can be used for cutting food or as a makeshift knife.
AKU Pilgrim MK2 DS Desert boots review
I bought these when they were on sale for using on my adventure motorbike on slow speed, off-road, and warm riding expeditions.
The AKU Pilgrim MK2 DS Desert boots are military-style boots designed for use in hot and dry environments, and an updated version of the original AKU Pilgrim DS boots and feature several improvements.
Quecha inflatable pillow
Quecha’s inflatable pillow is a relatively lightweight addition to your exped gear to avoid those uncomfortable nights when a stuff sack of gear just won’t cut it. It’s a simple yet robust inflation method – just pull out the valve, inflate, and enjoy.
Road ID watch plate review
The Road ID Plate for Watches is a customisable identification plate that can be attached to your watch strap or fitness tracker. The purpose of the Road ID Plate is to provide critical identification and medical information, such as allergies or contact person details, in case of an emergency.
Salomon X Ultra 4 mid Goretex boots review
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Goretex boots are a popular hiking and backpacking boot designed for outdoor enthusiasts. They’re pretty ubiquitous now, and so with a cold Baltic winter to contend with, I decided to invest in a pair (which I’m hugely glad I did!).
Topeak pocket rocket micro pump review
To ensure I can inflate the tyres if I get a puncture, I pack a Topeak Pocket Rocket Micro Pump - a compact and lightweight pump designed for lightness in case you need extra inflation when you’re on a ride.
The most notable things I like about it, aside from the price (c.£15), are:
Topeak toploader top tube bag
It has a capacity of 0.75 litres, which is enough space to store your essential items such as a phone, keys, wallet, or energy bars, however I use mine for carrying a thin waterproof jacket and bulkier snacks on bikepacking expeditions, as it keeps it quickly accessible for when it inevitably starts to rain.
Giant ToughRoad 2 gravel bike review
After getting bitten by the bikepacking bug back in 2018, I decided I should invest in an entry-level gravel bike to see how interesting it really is (I love it is the short answer!).
The Giant ToughRoad 2 is a rugged and versatile gravel bike designed for off-road adventures and cycle touring. It is built around a hydroformed aluminium frame (referred to Aluxx technology). The bike is equipped with 700c wheels, which offer a balance of speed and stability, and it has a wide range of gears (16 in a 2 x 8 setup), making it suitable for steep inclines, descents, and on the flat.
Yamaha Tenere 660 XTZ adventure motorbike review
The Yamaha Tenere 660 XTZ is my first adventure motorbike after several years riding super bikes, café racers, and others – and I really love it, it’s robust, rugged, doesn’t need much maintenance, and starts every time (so far!). In 2022, I rode it over 1000 miles from the UK to Estonia, via the Netherlands, Germany, Lithuania, and Latvia, on my first transcontinental expedition, and it’s given me loads of confidence to go further, and more remote.
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: