Few pieces of outdoor gear are as useful (or as crucial) as a headlamp. Whether it’s for hiking at night, setting up camp, or simply finding the toilet when nature calls in the wee hours, this invaluable piece of kit will come in handy when you least expect it. If you’re looking to buy a headlamp, you’ve likely realised that there are many options available. So, to help shed some light on the topic, we’ve pulled together a simple yet comprehensive guide to rechargeable headlamps. Types of Rechargeable Headlamps When it comes to rechargeable headlamps, there are a LOT of options out there, for ..read more

Got the running bug and want to level up to take on the trails? Or maybe you’re a keen hiker that simply wants to take in more of the landscape on your precious weekend outings. Whatever your reason for getting into trail running, it can be a significant adjustment. Trail running requires a unique level of fitness, technique, and gear requirements to road running, but hitting the trail is also a form of nature therapy that can’t quite be replicated. If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about and are unsure where to begin, we’re here to help! In our ultimate guide to trail running for begin ..read more

A heavy hauler for big adventures, the Ariel/Aether is a staple pack in Osprey’s backpacking range. With my wishlist of multiday hikes growing by the day, I found myself in desperate need of a new hiking pack, and after reviewing Osprey’s incredible (and at times mind-boggling) range, I opted for the Ariel Plus 70. Building on the classic Ariel with some serious feature upgrades, it’s the perfect pack for carrying larger, heavier loads across long distances. I recently tested it out on a couple of multiday hikes (one at Wilson’s Promontory and the other at the Blue Mountains) and was blow ..read more

Whether you’re headed to the top of a mountain or are simply strolling around your local park, the number one rule of exploring the outdoors is to Leave No Trace. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever to make the time to get outdoors and disconnect. But it’s also important to be aware of the potential impacts that our adventures can have on the very environments that we cherish. To ensure that we can keep enjoying our beautiful wild places for generations to come, we must take steps to protect and preserve it. Here are seven tips to help you minimise your impact on the out ..read more

Camping is one of the best ways to spend quality time with loved ones, or to find solitude in your own company. Whether you’re carrying your entire setup on your back, or rolling straight up to the campsite in your car, if you’re new to camping, it can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to what to pack. The beauty of camping is in embracing minimalism, and getting started only takes a few key items. With over 90 years’ experience supplying camping gear to outdoor enthusiasts, Paddy Pallin has all of your camping needs covered, from tents to toiletries. Read our full camping essential ..read more

Nothing beats the feeling of snuggling up in your sleeping bag after a long day on the trail. Your sleep system is one of the most important elements of your hiking and camping setup, but finding the right sleeping bag can be an adventure in itself. Sleeping bags are designed with a wide range of materials, weights, temperature ratings, fits and end-uses – all of which play a role in determining which sleeping bag is right for you. To make your decision easier, our team has selected the best sleeping bags for every kind of adventure below. Quick Glance: Our Top Sleeping Bag Picks Best Overall ..read more

Salomon are back with a bang for 2024 with their latest trail running release: Genesis. A modified version of the S/LAB staple that carried Courtney Daulwalter through her third UTMB win, the Genesis is pitched as a comfortable yet agile mountain running shoe designed for hard-wearing durability and precision on tricky terrain. There’s a lot of hype around this release, so when they landed in store I couldn’t resist taking them out for a spin or two – and boy have I been impressed. Check out my first impressions of the Salomon Genesis, and find out why they should be your go-to companion for a ..read more

Whether you’re trekking the Larapinta Trail or heading for a quick overnighter in the Snowies, planning your food for a hiking trip takes preparation. Food is not only your fuel source on the trail, but having nutritionally balanced yet tasty meals to look forward to can actually make your hike more enjoyable. If you’re a new hiker, it can be overwhelming to decide what type of food to pack. Should I dehydrate my own food? Should I stock up on ready-to-eat freeze-dried meals? Should I pack an abundance of instant noodles and hope for the best? Though we wouldn’t recommend the latter option, th ..read more

From morning dog walks to overnighters above the treeline, puffer jackets are a winter staple that allow us to get outdoors all year round. Puffer jackets provide insulation and significant protection from the elements, and can therefore be a pretty sizable investment in your outdoor wardrobe. Whether you’ve opted for down or synthetic fill, puffer jackets require a level of care to maintain their insulating properties, and regular washing is a crucial factor. Find out how to wash a puffer jacket to ensure your purchase lasts season after season. Can You Wash Puffer Jackets? Puffer jackets ca ..read more

We all know that rule number one of building an outdoor wardrobe is effective layering. However, it can be easy to get caught up with the more expensive elements of the layering system and neglect the foundation. A well-performing thermal base layer is key to keeping ourselves warm and comfortable in the outdoors, but the type of baselayer you need will likely vary depending on a number of factors, including activity and conditions. We’ve compiled a summary of the best thermals for hiking, camping, snow, and extreme cold to help you choose the right thermal baselayer for your next adventure ..read more