- Written by Mat Young. Outdoor Professional, Tasmania Guide, and an Ambassador for K2 Base Camp. - Tested in Tassy - Mont Guide Hoodie Review For an outdoors-person looking to buy an insulated jacket there are a few factors to consider, and in my mind, the price comes last. For starters, deciding whether to go down or insulated is a tough choice, especially with modern synthetic insulation becoming much lighter and more compressible than it was historically. For me, it comes down to how you’re using the jacket. For example, if it’s just a warm layer for camp and you’re not likely to ..read more

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Rock Climbing Harness Any type of roped climbing requires the climber and belayer to both have a climbing harness. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to select the perfect harness for your needs, whether you are just starting or looking to replace an existing one. If you’re a beginner, we’ll first break down the key components of a harness and the safety standards for you, and then we’ll run through the types of climbing harnesses available. By the end of this guide, you'll know how to choose a harness that not only fi ..read more

- Written by Mat Young. Outdoor Professional, Tasmania Guide, and an Ambassador for K2 Base Camp. - Western Arthurs Traverse Hiking Guide As someone who makes their living taking folks into the Tasmanian wilderness, I think there’s value in beginning your trip planning by understanding what makes these areas special and what are the conservation values you should keep in mind while you’re out there. The Southwest National Park, is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWWHA) which altogether makes up a whopping 1.58 million hectares, a significant percentage of Tasm ..read more

- Written by Mat Young. Outdoor Professional, Tasmania Guide, and an Ambassador for K2 Base Camp. - Tested in Tassy: La Sportiva Jackal II & Lycan II Review My La Sportiva trail runners have taken me a long way, from snowy mountain adventures and trail marathons to light and fast alpine scrambles, these shoes have not only performed but held up remarkably well. Before moving to Tassy I grabbed myself a pair of Lycan II’s and a pair of Jackal II's from the broad range of trail runners that K2 holds. The Lycans are a medium-distance shoe with lots of cushion and chunky treads on th ..read more

How to Choose a Hiking Jacket? A good hiking jacket is much more than fabric and zippers—it’s a shield against the elements and a game-changer on the trail. The right jacket protects against the wind, helps regulate your body temperature, and allows your skin to breathe. Together, these features can significantly enhance both your comfort and performance during hikes. As for those wondering if their ski jacket is suitable for hiking, we advise against it. Ski jackets are often too warm and lack sufficient breathability for the fluctuating temperatures and intensities encountered on hike ..read more

How to Build a Trad Rack? Traditional or “trad” climbing means using gear that you place every step of the way. A trad rack, your personal assortment of climbing gear, is what allows you to safely ascend routes that lack fixed protection (pre-installed bolts and anchors). In this blog post, we'll unpack the essentials for your trad rack and provide specific advice for starting in the world of traditional climbing. For those just starting out, we recommend having an experienced friend take you out to learn about all the gear first-hand; over time, you'll start to understand your personal ..read more

Hiking Essentials: A Checklist for the Australian Hiker Whether you're setting off on a gentle trail or preparing for a multi-day trek, there are some items you simply can't do without. On my recent trek, caught in the biting winds atop New Zealand's Tongariro Crossing, I learned that a forgotten windproof jacket is unmistakably one of those items. That day, shivering in basic layers and a wind-permeable jumper on an exposed ridge, I learned a hard lesson on the importance of not only having the right gear, but more importantly, packing it! In this blog post, we'll unpack the essentials ..read more

How to Choose a Climbing Rope? Choosing the right climbing rope is crucial for safety and is key to an enjoyable climb. This guide will help you understand which rope works best for you, based on your climbing type and skill level. In case you have urgency, here is what you will read in this article. Table of Contents: Steps When Choosing Rope Types Static Ropes Dynamic Ropes Length & Diameter Steps When Choosing Rope Types Static Ropes Dynamic Ropes Length & Diameter Design & Features Safety & Certification Quick Summary Chart Our Best Rope Picks Conclusi ..read more

Best Hiking Tents Australia - 2023 List by K2 Base Camp Team For the passionate hiker, the right tent isn't just a piece of gear – it's the backbone of their journey. The tent you choose can profoundly influence your experience, ensuring you remain comfortable, dry, and safe. While each tent has its merits, the challenge lies in finding the one that syncs perfectly with your specific needs and preferences. Nature doesn’t play favourites, but it does reward those who come prepared. At K2 Basecamp, we understand this, and that’s why we've poured years into refining our tent selection, ensu ..read more

What to Wear Rock Climbing? A Comprehensive Guide The thrill of ascent, the sheer joy of challenging oneself against vertical terrains - the allure of rock climbing is undeniable. For every climber, each climb is a testament to willpower and strategy. But have you ever paused mid-climb and wondered, "Is this outfit really helping me?". If so, dive into our guide, chalked full of insights for your next ascent. In case you have urgency, here is what you can find in this article. Table of Contents: Key Qualities in Apparel Upper Body Lower Body Key Qualities in Apparel Upper Body ..read more