Outdoor Gear Guides
Our free kit guides are written by our local team and will help you get to grips with some of the key basics. From essential kit usage to top tips which are often overlooked we’ll share our knowledge with you just like we would in store!
We also offer Video call / facetime chat via WhatsApp – just message use to arrange a time and to ensure we have the most suitable team member available to help you.
Are Osprey backpacks good?
Osprey has been a familiar sight on trails, at airports and in hiking shops for fifty years, but are they good and wirth the price? This guide answers the questions we get asked most, whether Osprey backpacks are any good, where they're made, who owns the brand these days, why they cost more than budget alternatives and which backpacks are most popular.
Hiking Shoes vs Hiking Sandals
Not sure sure if you should get hiking shoes or hiking sandals for summer? In this guide we cover everything, from terrain, fit, breathability and top picks for men and women, so you can choose with confidence.
What are hiking sticks used for?
Hiking sticks are essentially handheld supports used to assist walkers with balance and stability on uneven terrain. While some people prefer a single traditional wooden staff, most modern hikers use a pair of lightweight, adjustable poles. It is a common myth that hiking sticks are just for older people; in reality, they are used by everyone from casual weekend walkers to eexpert mountain athletes to improve efficiency and speed.
What shoes do I need when hiking in the summer?
Summer hikes bring their own set of challenges, hot feet, sweat, dusty trails, the occasional river crossing, and surprise rain showers (especially in the UK). Your winter shoes that carry you through a frosty winter walk will often feel heavy, sweaty and over powering during the summer months. We have put together a beginner's guide to choosing the right footwear for warm-weather walks and hikes at home or abroad.