Gear
Gear that earned its place.
Reviews and notes on the kit we've actually used. A small, opinionated shop will follow when we have things worth selling.
footwear
Best Hiking Boots - How to Pick the Right One by Category
Best hiking boots by category: day hiking, multi-day, winter and budget, with the criteria that decide each, plus how to judge a boot before you buy.
footwear
Hiking Boots Guide - How to Choose by Fit, Stiffness, and Terrain
How to choose hiking boots: cut height, midsole stiffness, fit and waterproofing explained by terrain and load, plus when a trail shoe beats a boot.
footwear
Hiking Socks Guide - Materials, Cushion, and Height Compared
Hiking socks compared: wool vs synthetic vs cotton, cushion weights and sock height by boot, plus the fit details that stop blisters before they start.
clothing
Merino Wool Base Layer Guide - Weight, Fit, and When It's Worth It
Merino wool base layer for hiking: fabric weights (150/200/260) explained, merino vs synthetic, and how to layer it for cold and shoulder-season trips.
footwear
Merino Wool Socks Guide - Weight, Blends, and Why They Beat Cotton
Merino wool socks for hiking: blend percentages, cushion weights and toe-box fit explained, plus why merino beats cotton and synthetic for blisters and odour.
footwear
Trail Running Shoes Guide - How to Choose for Terrain and Distance
How to choose trail running shoes: lug depth, drop, cushioning and rock plates explained by terrain, plus when a trail shoe beats a hiking boot.
footwear
Vibram Soles Explained - Compounds, Grip, and Resoling
What Vibram soles are: the main rubber compounds compared for grip and durability, how Megagrip handles wet rock, and when resoling beats new boots.
sleep
Sleeping Bag Liners: Silk vs Fleece vs Cotton
Silk, fleece, cotton or Thermolite? Sleeping bag liners compared on warmth, weight and pack size, plus why DNT cabins require one. Pick yours here.
clothing
Waterproof Hiking Jackets: What to Pay For
How to choose a waterproof hiking jacket: waterproof ratings, breathability vs weight, and which features earn their price. Skip what you don't need.