Arran Active Blog

Beinn a'Chliabhain - Isle of Arran

May 23

last week myself and Andrew took to the hills in search of business inspiration and deliberation for the year ahead. Guided by Andrew we took in part of the classic Three Beinns trail and headed up from Glen Rosa onto Beinn a’Chliabhain. The complete horseshoe walk starts in Glen Rosa and is a perfect day out as an introduction into the Northern hills, with stunning views that stretch out over the western hills, taking in the lowlands of the south of Arran and the majestic peaks and ridges of the highest northern hills.

If you have a spare few hours just doing Beinn a'Chliabhain is well worth it - easy to do and with spectacular views it was a much needed time to debate the business and plan for the coming few months ... who needs a meeting room! - Rich

Fort William - Snow and Ice

Feb 23

So we were up in the West Highlands, mainly Fort William and Bridge of Orchy. Sticking to low level walks due to high winds over the higher ridges. We found some snow and practiced some essential winter skills like self arresting and digging snow holes.

I used my Leki Cressida poles for all our walks due to my issues with fatigue and they were fantastic! Andy occasional borrowed one and he commented on them being very comfortable to hold and very sturdy. We had some serious river crossings using them and descended in some deep snow, they passed the test.

I also used the Montane Prism gloves and Mountain Equipment Superflux jacket as they are both very lightweight and packable and kept me warm even when completely soaked through thanks to the Primaloft insulation! - Rita

Get your gear:

Shop: Leki Ladies Cressida Pole Pair

Shop: Montane Womens Prism Gloves

Keela Talus Primaloft Jacket - Gear Test

Dec 2022

Climbing a winter route up the side of Stacach Ridge, then onto Goatfell our new Keela Talus Primaloft Jacket's were tested to the max. I wore it on top as a belay jacket while Andy used it as a mid layer, we both loved it! I was crawling around in snow and ice and not a single rip. It was also snowing a fair bit with high winds but I stayed toasty warm through our climb.

This jacket really is the perfect mid or outer layer and that's what we went for today. With Flylite Ultra fabric with added Cordura ripstop for strength without weight - something that we both found worked; no damage to either jacket despite the crawling and climbing gear! A combination of 60gsm Primaloft Gold insulation for warmth, and stretchy fleece softshell side panels for increased ease of movement. Even with harness's on it was amazing just how light this jacket was and not restrictive despite the layers. It also features a technical fixed hood and malleable peak which worked well with our helmets. It’s lightweight fill means it’s suitable for all year round use whether as an extra thermal layer in your pack for chilly summer summits to frosty winter days. It’s water resistant and windproof and we both LOVE IT! - Rita

Get your own Talus:

Shop: Mens Keela Talus Primaloft Jacket

Shop: Womens Keela Talus Primaloft Jacket

Kendal Mountain Festival 22

November 2022

Did you go to the Kendal Mountain Festival over the weekend? If not, my word you missed an awesome experience ... Our very own Rita hit the festival to check out all the latest gear, take in the atmosphere and spread the word about our island business. What did she think about it?

"The vibes were really positive with so many inspiring people, incredible gear, awesome food and great speaker panels. I was blown away by the people and business's I met there and I'm still buzzing about it now! We also got to see the premier of Spine Race '#SPINE | 10 years of Britain’s Most Brutal Race’ film which celebrates the 10-year anniversary of this race."

It got us reflecting on the incredible events that happen across the UK and here on the Isle of Arran within the outdoor field and how we must engage more in keeping the spirit alive!