Guides

Choose the wrong backpack and it can make your life difficult. There are a lot of different options to choose from, this guide breaks down what features to look for.

This guide will help you understand the different components of trail shoes and how they affect performance and feel.

Selecting the best tent for your chosen activity deserves careful consideration. To help you with this selection process we have organised our tent range into categories based on intended use.

When choosing your sleeping mat, remember exactly what type of activity you want to use it for and how you’ll get it to your overnight location. This guide breaks down the features of each type of camping mat and some key considerations.

In this guide, we will break down what the season and temperature ratings mean, the anatomy of a sleeping bag and the different shapes available.

This guide highlights the differences between camping stoves and why these differences make them more appropriate for various styles of camping.

This guide will help you make your selection for walking footwear and choose the right footwear for you.

This buying guide will help you navigate the options available for head torches.

This guide takes you through the main features to look out for when selecting a climbing harness.

A lot of terminology and jargon comes along with waterproofs like hydrostatic heads, DWR and MVTR. This guide will break down what all this means and help you find the best waterproof for your needs.

Explore the different types of belay devices and learn what suits you best with our buying guide.

This guide highlights different ways you can protect yourself from biting and stinging insects, including different lotions, clothing and netting for sleeping.

This buying guide highlights a few key aspects worth looking out for to get the best trail running clothing.

Learn more about Hydration Reservoirs and which is the perfect choice for you with our buying guide.

There are many different styles of running packs available. Our guide breaks down the different styles. Highlighting what features they have and their benefits for different types of running.

This guide will help you choose the best insulation for your needs, focusing on the differences between down and synthetic materials, how insulation works, and how insulation effectiveness is measured.

This guide highlights key features of walking poles and how they can help you go further and faster.

There is a huge variety of different ropes to choose from and a lot of questions to answer. This buying guide will help you find the answers.

Carabiners are necessary elements of any climbing safety chain. This guide breaks down the different shapes, gate types, uses and a guide to quick draws.

This buying guide outlines the pros and cons of the different helmet constructions available. It also gives some fitting tips to make sure you get the best possible helmet for you.

There's a lot to consider when navigating the world of paddleboards especially if you're new to the sport. This guide will help you narrow down the options and find the right board for you.

Learn all you need to know about the different types of buoyancy aids (PFD's) available, and find the best one for you with our PFD buying guide.

Outdoor swimming is growing in popularity, and it's easy to see why. Beyond the physical benefits, it has a positive impact on mental health. Swimming also offers a unique way to connect with nature and explore new areas.

Waterproof trousers come in a huge range of styles. Each one best suited to different activities from lightweight race kit to hard-wearing and durable mountaineering pants designed to withstand long winter days.

A simple guide to help you choose the right waterproof jacket for you.

This guide will help you understand the basics of dressing for mountaineering.

Exploring the backcountry is a rewarding experience to have out on a mountain. However, there is the risk of avalanches. Having the correct safety equipment is essential for staying safe.

Avalanche airbags have saved lives by preventing burial when caught in an avalanche. Here's what to look out for when choosing one.

This guide explains the selection process and makes it even easier so you can buy ski boots confidently.

Choosing the right ski clothing is crucial for both comfort and performance. It's worth thinking about fabric technology, your layering system and the terrain you intend to ski.

Ski goggles are an essential item to protect your eyes in all weather conditions. This guide will help you choose the best ski goggles for your needs and understand the different types available.

A ski helmet is an essential piece of safety equipment. Choosing the right one is key for a safe skiing experience. This guide includes what features to consider and how a ski helmet should fit.

A ski helmet is an essential piece of safety equipment. Choosing the right one is key for a safe skiing experience. This guide includes what features to consider and how a ski helmet should fit.

Ski poles are a vital piece of equipment, helping to provide stability, balance and traction. This guide will help you choose the right ones.

This guide highlights the features and benefits of walking, alpine and technical axes. Plus, some of the different leash systems and accessories that are available.

Our mountaineering boot buying guide highlights key things to look out for regarding features, fabrics and fit, when investing in your mountaineering footwear.

This guide takes you through the different elements to consider when choosing crampons. Crampons need to be compatible with your boots to work correctly.

Check out our top picks for sun-baked glacier approaches, long days on unbroken granite, and evenings watching the sunset from the bivvy.

This kit list covers all the essentials you will need to bring with you for the Dragon's Back race.

The Scarpa Great Lakeland 3 Day is a friendly and welcoming event in the Lake District, held on the Early May Bank Holiday weekend. Our GL3D kit list covers the essentials.

Preparing for the Northern Traverse is about more than just endurance; having the right kit is key.

This list covers what you will need and why for bouldering outdoors; from equipment to clothing and the accessories in between.

When camping with the car in tow you can be tempted to take everything and the kitchen sink. We’ve created this list to help you remember exactly what the basics are and why.

This list shows you everything you’ll need to start climbing indoors, from the best shoes to wear on your feet to equipment and accessories that will provide additional comfort and ease along the way.

Prepare yourself for Via Ferrata adventures with a little help from our handy kit list covering all the essentials.

This National 3 Peaks kit list is tailored to tackling the challenge during the summer months. You will likely face variable weather conditions along the way. It is not an exhaustive list and should be adapted according to personal needs.

When planning a safari trip you'll have to prepare and pack with a little more thought than a regular holiday. This kit list will tell you exactly what to pack.

Wild swimming is a fantastic way to exercise and explore nature. Find a full breakdown of all the equipment that you need in our Wild Swimming Kit List.

We’ve put together this Mont Blanc kit list to give you an idea of what to take and why you’ll need it.

Our Kilimanjaro kit list covers your entire adventure. This includes items you’ll need while travelling to your destination and essentials for the climb itself.

This Kit list covers the essentials for a successful night of wild camping.

We’ve teamed up with our partners at EverTrek to create a kit list of everything you might need for a visit to The Americas’ highest mountain.  

This kit list covers everything you’ll need from walking in from Imlil and spending the night at the Toubkal Refuge, to summitting at 4167m.

This list covers the essentials required for most standard ski touring trips.

We've asked EverTrek to share their advice on what to take with you for the best possible experience of Machu Picchu.

We've asked EverTrek to share their advice on what to take with you for the best possible experience of Machu Picchu.

If you're new to trad climbing and unsure what gear you might need to get started, this guide covers the essentials.

This list covers the essentials required and sets you in good stead for winter hill walking.

This winter camping essentials guide will help you figure out what to pack and how to prepare.

Washing your down items restores performance, helping them to last longer. Here's how to do it, plus advice on drying and how to fluff up the down afterwards.

A dirty water bladder is no one’s friend. Here's how to keep it clean, dry and ready to go.

Everything you need to know for your first time wild camping including what to take, how to prepare and the laws around it.

Calum Muskett, professional climber and IFMGA qualified British Mountain Guide introduces the joys of scrambling and his advice for getting started.

This handy guide explains everything you need to know about via ferrata in the UK.

There are several different ways to mount your fingerboard. We've put together some of our favourite methods and top tips to get you hanging securely in no time.

This handy guide will show you how to clean and reproof your tent.

Keeping your tent clean can be quick and simple and is something you should try to do regularly.

Camping can be tough on your flysheet. Read our easy guide to repairing a torn tent.

With a good pack lasting years, it’s worth investing time into maintaining and cleaning to maximise its performance and lifespan. Follow our tips to keep your backpack in top shape.

Ready to go the distance? Experienced Ultra-Trail runner Ross Litherland shares his top tips on how to train for success.

Having problems with your laces coming undone? This guide will help you choose the best knot to keep them in place.

Blisters can happen to anyone. While we know we should let them heal on their own, preventing them in the first place is the key.

Check out our easy to follow step-by-step guide to cleaning and reproofing your walking boots.

Our guide to washing and reproofing a waterproof jacket, or any waterproof garment, will ensure your kit is in peak condition.

A simple guide on how to make repairs to your waterproof jacket and other waterproof clothing.

Our ski equipment buyer Steve shares how new ski boots should feel and what to look for in a pair of ski boots.

It can seem intimidating for those new to the sport, so we’ve put together this list of top tips to help offer some guidance for beginners.

Whether you're hiking in the mountains, skiing down slopes, or just going for a walk, understanding the art of layering is the key to staying comfortable in every situation.

Crampons are vital for your safety in snowy and icy mountain conditions but require some practice to learn how to use them. Here are the basics to help you get started.

If you're unsure how to wash and care for your ski gloves, follow our detailed guide.

This guide to ice climbing highlights key aspects that you should consider before tackling the intense conditions found in winter climbing.

This guide gives you our best tips on where to store your ski boots and how you should look after them to maximise their lifespan.

We asked our in-house expert ski technician Pete for a couple of easy pointers that you can try out at home to keep your snowsports equipment in top condition.