We’re thrilled to announce the winners of The Nice Open air Gear of the 12 months Awards 2023. Throughout 16 classes, these awards recognise the perfect out of doors gear accessible: ground-breaking merchandise that merely work brilliantly within the mountains. The preliminary shortlist, consisting of 76 merchandise, was drawn up by our knowledgeable judging panel and finalised by head decide Chris Townsend. The jury then performed additional testing, earlier than collectively agreeing on an total winner and runner up in every class. We’ve additionally awarded the manufacturers pushing boundaries of innovation and sustainability. Our judges examined these merchandise in places such because the Cairngorms, North Wales and the Lake District and on journeys starting from day hikes and scrambles to winter campouts and multi-day treks.
The jury: Chris Townsend, Alex Roddie, Francesca Donovan, Peter Macfarlane, Fiona Russell, David Lintern, Carey Davies and Will Renwick.
Listed below are our winners! You may bounce straight to the jury verdict for every product by clicking the hyperlinks beneath.
Finest climbing boots: Inov-8 Roclite Professional G400 GTX V2 (Winner), Aku Rock DFS Mid GTX (Extremely counseled)Finest climbing sneakers: Altra Lone Peak 7 (Winner), Arc’teryx Norvan LD3 (Extremely counseled)Finest waterproof jackets: Montane Part Nano (Winner), Patagonia Granite Crest (Extremely counseled)Finest insulated clothes: Out of doors Analysis Superstrand LT Hoodie (Winner), Rab Mythic Extremely (Extremely counseled)Finest mid layers: Alpkit Woodsmoke (Winner), Salewa Agner Polarlite Hooded Jacket (Extremely counseled)Finest climbing pack: Atom Packs The Mo VX60 (Winner), Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60 (Extremely counseled)Finest sleeping baggage: Gruezi Biopod Downwool Subzero 185 (Winner), Therm-a-rest Parsec 20F / -6 (Extremely counseled)Finest tents: Nemo Dagger OSMO (Winner), Sierra Designs Meteor 3000 2P (Extremely counseled)Finest security gear: Lifesaver Wayfarer (Winner), Zoleo Satellite tv for pc Communicator (Extremely counseled)Finest stoves: Jetboil Stash (Winner), MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe (Extremely counseled)Finest navigation system: Suunto Vertical (Winner), Coros Apex 2 GPS (Extremely counseled)Finest tenting tech: Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xlite (Winner), Rab Ionosphere 5.5 (Extremely counseled)Award for innovation (product): Eager WK400 (Winner), PrimaLoft RISE (Extremely counseled)Award for innovation (model): Inov-8 (Winner), Sierra Designs (Extremely counseled)Award for sustainability (product): Silva Terra Scout H (Winner), Vango Apex 2 (Extremely counseled)Award for sustainability (model): Keela (Winner), Nikwax (Extremely counseled).
Finest climbing boots for 2023
WINNER: Inov-8 Roclite Professional G400 GTX V2
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Our judges appreciated the brand new 2023 updates to this boot sufficient to decide on it as the perfect strolling boot of the yr for the second time, it having beforehand gained the class again in 2020.
“Light-weight, very comfy, grippy on a variety of terrain, these are my go-to strolling boots for many of the yr in Scotland,” stated Angus-based jury member Fiona Russell. “They’re as cozy as a favorite pair of trainers however with further ankle assist.
Initially launched in 2021, the Roclite Professional G 400 GTX V2 (£210) is a cushioned boot that incorporates a grippy and hardwearing graphene outsole and a breathable, quick-drying Gore-Tex higher. It weighs in at a light-weight 800g per pair.
The brand new updates for 2023 are all focussed round including sturdiness, with further padding on the ankle, a more durable cloth used throughout the higher and an prolonged toe bumper. Inov-8 says that it’s additionally up to date the heel to create a extra locked-in match. “Good grip, breathable, respectable stage of assist whereas nonetheless being nimble,” commented David Lintern.
Learn our full Inov-8 Roclite Professional 400 GTX (V1) evaluate. SQUIRREL_12925482
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Aku Rock DFS Mid GTX
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Lengthy-standing Italian footwear model AKU describes its Rock DFS (£220) as a technical strategy and light-weight climbing shoe – one thing that’s best for by way of ferrata and excursions on mountain paths.
The DFS in its identify stands for Twin FitSystem. This includes a standard lace for max consolation while strolling plus a quick lace toggle system to extend precision when climbing. Jury member Will Renwick described this lacing as “distinctive” but additionally “efficient”, saying that it “means that you can actually dial within the match to precisely the way you need it.
”The Rock DFS additionally incorporates a hard-wearing, breathable higher with a Gore-Tex membrane and large rubber rand round its base. Will noticed that the midsole is sort of stiff, however “nonetheless comfy for protecting lengthy distances”.
SHORTLISTED: Eager Targhee, Inov-8 Roclite G345 GTX V2, Danner Mountain600, The North Face Vectiv Exploris 2 Mid.
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Finest climbing sneakers
WINNER: Altra Lone Peak 7
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“I’ve used a number of variations of the Altra on lengthy walks they usually’ve been very good,” stated head decide Chris Townsend. “It’s the perfect footwear for long-distance multi-week walks that I’ve worn.”
The primary ever iteration of the Lone Peak was launched in 2011 and it shortly gained recognition on account of its distinctive options, equivalent to a zero-drop platform, foot-shaped toe field and aggressive outsole. While primarily made for path working, many long-distance hikers started adopting these path sneakers primarily on account of the truth that they cater for the form of foot swelling and splaying that may happen over excessive mileage.
The brand new, seventh model of the LonePeak (£135) possesses all the standard traits of previous fashions, however with deeper lugs and a brand new seamless higher materials that brings a contact extra sturdiness, longevity and luxury, however with solely 30g further in weight total (per pair). SQUIRREL_12925488
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Arc’teryx Norvan LD 3
Our jury member and common gear tester, David Lintern described the Norvan LD 3 (£150) as a “good all-round path shoe” when he examined it in opposition to the most recent path shoe choices in a comparative evaluate earlier this yr. “I’m equally comfy strolling, backpacking, biking (each MTB and n gravel) and working in these. They’re light-weight, breathe effectively and dry quick.”
Accessible from Arc’teryx
Our judges favoured the Norvan LD3 for its steadiness between cushioning and lateral stiffness, the amount across the toes that permits for swelling after heavy mileage and the ‘sticky’ Vibram sole that offers traction on quite a lot of surfaces.The addition of a protecting rand across the base was seen as a notable enchancment on the earlier version of the shoe, as was the inclusion of a 100% recycled EVA within the midsole.
“It’s mild and agile, the toe is comfy however nonetheless exact sufficient and there’s loads of shock absorption and cushioning for these long-distances,” stated Will Renwick, who has examined the Norvan LD3 over the previous yr.
Learn our full Arc’teryx Norvan LD3 evaluate.
SHORTLISTED: Merrell MTL Lengthy Sky 2, AKU Rocket DFS GTX, The North Face Summit Vectiv Professional.
Finest waterproof jackets
WINNER: Montane Part Nano
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British model Montane describes the Part Nano (£300) because the lightest and most breathable Gore-Tex jacket it presents. Weighing simply 250g, it presents three-layer waterproof safety alongside a bunch of helpful design particulars.
“It’s an important little bit of equipment,” stated jury member Peter Macfarlane. “It packs to nothing for just-in-case days, the Gore-Tex cloth is superb, it has good-sized pockets and it provides good articulation with no hem motion in any respect.”
It’s Gore-Tex Lively that’s been deployed right here, a light-weight model of Gore’s three-layer waterproof cloth that’s designed for prime ranges of breathability. The waterproof jacket is particularly made for path working however its three-way adjustable hood, massive zipped hand hotter pockets and storm flap make it a very good choice for summer time hikes too – although the 13D cloth could be just a little skinny to put on with a closely loaded backpack. Sadly, while the Part household of jackets is available in males’s and girls’s variations, the Part Nano is but to be produced in a ladies’s-specific mannequin.SQUIRREL_12925494
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Patagonia Granite Crest
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It was this 400g jacket’s mixture of efficiency, performance and sustainability that impressed our judges sufficient to decide on it as Extremely Counseled within the class for waterproof jackets.
“You’ve bought every little thing you’d need from a very good, dependable moist climate shell,”stated Will Renwick, who examined the Patagonia Granite Crest (£270) over the course of a moist backpacking journey within the Lake District. “I significantly like the truth that the material has a pleasant stretch and a smooth really feel to it and that it’s quiet too.”
This cloth is 100% recycled and is constructed from discarded fishing nets to assist to cut back ocean plastic air pollution, a transfer Chris Townsend described as “wonderful”. Patagonia has additionally completed the jacket with an eco-friendly DWR remedy that’s utterly free from dangerous PFCs. Different particulars embody lengthy two-way underarm zips for air flow, a helmet-compatible hood, adjustment on the hem, hood and cuffs, a fully-sized chest pocket sufficiently big for a map and two giant hand hotter pockets.
Learn our full Patagonia Granite Crest evaluate. SQUIRREL_12874717
SHORTLISTED: Arc’teryx Beta, Black Diamond Stormline Stretch, Jack Wolfskin Tapeless 2.0.
Finest insulated clothes
WINNER Out of doors Analysis Superstrand LT Hoodie
Head decide Chris Townsend described this light-weight artificial insulated jacket from Out of doors Analysis as a “nice choice for backpacking” as a result of low weight and bulk.
Accessible from Out of doors Analysis
“I’m impressed with the heat for the load,” stated Chris.“The fill could be very smooth and comfy too.”
That fill is Out of doors Analysis’s VerticalXSuperStrand. OR claims that it’s capable of mimic 700-800 fill energy down by creating down-like clusters which can be held in place by a lattice construction. The primary profit this has over customary down is that it’s capable of present heat even when it will get moist.
The Out of doors Analysis Superstrand LT Hoodie (£220) has a particular discontinuous quilting that reduces the quantity of sewing wanted, and this additionally makes it simpler to compress – in reality, the entire thing may be squeezed into a really compact bundle. It weighs 315g.
Learn our full Out of doors Analysis Superstrand LT Hoodie evaluate.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Rab Mythic Extremely
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“That is as lofty and cosy as they get,” stated Will Renwick, who examined the Rab Mythic Extremely (£380) all through final winter. “As quickly as you throw it on, you possibly can really feel that heat radiating again at you,” he added. That’ll be the 537g jacket’s Thermo IonicLining Know-how (TILT) doing its work. This can be a lining throughout the jacket’s baffles that’s constructed from a light-weight cloth coated with aluminium to replicate warmth radiating out of your physique again to you. It really works in the identical manner as a type of thermal blankets you see runners with on the finish of marathons.
Different elements of the jacket that impressed our jury group included its cautious placement of field wall and stitched-through baffles, the 100% recycled and downproof Pertex Quantum cloth and its Nikwax Hydrophobic down remedy.
SHORTLISTED: The North Face Daybreak Flip 50/50, Marmot Warmcube Lively Normus, Rab Xenair Mild, BAM 73 Zero Insulate.
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Finest mid layers
WINNER: Alpkit Woodsmoke
While this would possibly seem like an informal shirt that somebody would possibly put on down the pub or to a mountain movie pageant, it truly has the efficiency and luxury that’s required for out of doors exercise. It’s constructed from hollowcore polyester fibres which can be capable of entice physique warmth to maintain you heat while additionally wicking any moisture away from the pores and skin. To counter the chance of odour build-up that may happen with plastic-based clothes, the shirt comes embedded with Polygiene, a model of antimicrobial remedy utilized in textiles to forestall the expansion of odour-causing micro organism.
Accessible from Alpkit
Chris Townsend described the360g (M) poppered shirt (£70) as being appropriate as an choice for heat on cooler days, saying that it makes a “good light-weight different to a microfleece.”
Learn our full Alpkit Woodsmoke evaluate.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Salewa Agner Polarlite Hooded Jacket
“Thoughtfully designed”and “top quality” had been the phrases utilized by our jury to explain Italian model Salewa’s Agner Polarlite Hooded Jacket (£140).
Accessible from Alpine Trek
Designed for alpine use, it’s made with a stretchy materials and particular gusseting to permit for utterly unhindered motion while you’re reaching up for a maintain. The materials are additionally cleverly body-mapped with completely different weaves and thicknesses to match the sturdiness and insulation wants required at particular factors. A recycled fleece strains the jacket on the chest, arms and again.
SHORTLSTED: Montane Allez, Berghaus MTNGuide MW Hoody, Keela Merino Hoody, Patagonia Nano Air Mild Hybrid Hoody, Artilect Supermoon Bio Hoodie.
Learn our full Salewa Agner Polarlite evaluate.
Finest climbing packs
WINNER: Atom Packs The Mo VX60
Primarily based in Keswick, Atom Packs is the brainchild of Tom Gale, an skilled lengthy distance hiker who has accomplished the Appalachian, Pacific Crest and Continental Divide Trails within the USA plus the Te Araroa in New Zealand.
Accessible from Atom Packs
Our judges took no time in any respect in agreeing to award his 910g, 60-litre backpack the highest award on this class.
Alex Roddie described the Mo VX60 pack (£285) as “very good”, saying that it’s his favorite choice for 90% of his backpacking journeys. He described it as “light-weight and comfy” and praised it for its “capacious storage” and the “welcome capability to customize materials, colors, and options”.
Able to managing a great deal of as much as 19kg, it incorporates a sturdy however light-weight cloth, a 4-inch-wide twin adjustable hipbelt, an EVA foam lumbar pad, a detachable closed-cell foam again. panel, a roll prime closure and numerous pockets and equipment attachment straps and loops.
Learn our full Atom Packs The Mo 50 evaluate.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60
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“This is a superb pack effectively price contemplating for year-round backpacking,” stated Chris Townsend of the Flex Capacitor ($230). “I’ve examined it extensively and used it on my month-long stroll within the Colorado Rockies. It’s robust and the design is exclusive.
”Recognised in The Nice Open air Awards again in 2020, our judges noticed the Flex Capacitor as deserving of recognition as soon as once more this yr, a testomony to simply how forward-thinking its design is, with the ingenious increasing quantity being the primary clincher.
On the time of writing, the pack has simply been up to date with two new colors, just a few giant stretchy mesh storage pockets added and the flexibility to transform the pack’s inside bladder sleeve into just a little daypack for forays from base camp. This new model weighs 1.4kg.
SHORTLISTED: Gregory Focal 48, Thriller Ranch Scree32, Granite Gear Crown 3 60, BerghausMTN Information 45+
Learn our full Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor evaluate.
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Finest sleeping baggage
WINNER: Gruezi Biopod Downwool Subzero 185
Even condensation in a tent can drastically cut back the effectiveness of a down sleeping bag on the subject of insulation. The primary answer to this prior to now few years has been so as to add a hydrophobic remedy from the likes of Nikwax, however this doesn’t completely resolve the issue because it must be reapplied and reapplied. Gruezi’s concept is that by including wool to the down, it not solely brings further heat nevertheless it additionally helps to attract moisture away from it, like some form of pure dehumidifier.
Accessible from Alpine Trek
This explicit mannequin from the German model is stuffed with 70% duck down and 30% wool and is handled with an eco-friendly DWR. The general weight is 1kg.
“I used the Gruezi Biopod on a three-night damp journey final autumn and it was good,” stated ChrisTownsend, although he identified that the Subzero in its identify is “deceptive provided that consolation score is +2C(consolation restrict -4C)”.
Different particulars of the Gruezi Biopod Downwool Subzero 185 (€370) embody an adjustable hood, draught collar, outer pocket, pillow pocket and a pocket for stashing a headtorch, batteries or telephone.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Therm-a-rest Parsec 20F / -6
Our judges agreed that theTherm-a-Relaxation Parsec 20F/-6(£306) ticks all the best packing containers for a three-season sleeping bag, being “heat and comfy, mild and with some helpful options and supplies”.
Accessible from Thermarest
It weighs simply 810g however gives consolation right down to 0C with a restrict of -6C and, not like many down baggage, is ready to shrug off moisture attributable to condensation (or a leaky backpack or tent). That’s because of its Nikwax Hydrophobic down remedy, which, it’s claimed, makes the fill 90% much less absorbent and as much as 3x quicker at drying out in comparison with customary down fills.
Our judges accredited of its total building, together with the well-designed footbox, the thermally environment friendly field wall baffles and heat-mapped insulation. Different particulars just like the snag-free zip and the flexibility to repair a sleeping mat to the bottom of the bag impressed the judges as effectively.
SHORTLISTED: Mountain Tools Helium600, Nemo Forte Infinite Promise, Exped Extremely -10.
Learn our full Therm-a-rest Parsec 20F/-6 evaluate.
Finest tents
WINNER: Nemo Dagger OSMO
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This tent’s specifically developed OSMO cloth drew explicit consideration from the judges in the course of the jury course of. A composite of nylon and polyester, it’s designed to supply 4x extra water resistance and 3x much less stretch than customary tent materials. Nemo say that it leads to a fabric that doesn’t get saggy after extended rainfall. Did this ring true in testing? Jury member Will Renwick thought so.
“The material has a notable high quality to it; it’s mild nevertheless it doesn’t really feel in any respect flimsy,” stated Will. “I’ve discovered the material actually does maintain its form too, so there’s no have to right your pitching after an evening of rain to maintain the tent partitions taut.
The jury members had been additionally impressed by the general space-to-weight of the Nemo Dagger OSMO (£510). At 1.86kg it’s comparatively mild and its two giant porches, giant sleeping space, steep-sided internal partitions and excessive ceiling make it, as one jury member put it, “very habitable”.
Learn our full Nemo Dagger OSMO evaluate.
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HIGHLY COMMENDED: Sierra Designs Meteor 3000 2P
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Chris Townsend described this as an “wonderful” dome tent following his exams and you can even discover James Roddie being very complimentary about in our August concern.
While it comes from a North American model, the Meteor 3000 (£250) was particularly designed for the European market, that includes inexperienced flysheets (analysis confirmed that’s what us Europeans need) plus a better hydrostatic head on the flysheet and groundsheet together with strong internal partitions to extend resistance to wind and rain.
With two giant porches and loads of house for 2 individuals to sit down up and lie down alongside one another comfortably, the Meteor 3000 is one other habitable tent that, at 2.03kg, comes at a fairly mild weight for 2 individuals to separate between them.
There are additionally some spectacular elements regarding the tent’s total sustainability. It’s 100% PFC-free andDWR-free, and options recycled and recyclable supplies.
Learn our full Sierra Designs Meteor 3000 evaluate.
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SHORTLISTED: Vaude Taurus SUL 1P, Exped Mira II HL,Terra Nova Laser Compact AS, Sea to Summit Telos 2, Robens Nordic Lynx 2.
Finest security gear
WINNER: Lifesaver Wayfarer
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The truth that this 323g water air purifier is examined to exceed NSF/ANSI P231standards, a US-based certification that independently verifies the success with which water is filtered and purifies, significantly impressed our awards jury.
“I like the truth that it’s truly been examined to official requirements,” stated Alex Roddie, including it’s “not like every other hiking-marketed filter/air purifier I’m conscious of.
”The scale, weight and value had been additionally counseled. “That is smaller and lighter than most purifiers I do know,” stated Will Renwick, “and it’s additionally priced decrease than quite a lot of them too.
”The Lifesaver Wayfarer (£95) makes use of a two-stage filtration course of to take away micro organism, viruses, protozoa and cysts from as much as 5000 litres of water by way of a scavenger hose and pump. The filter is replaceable as soon as it has stopped permitting water by means of, as is the activated carbon disc, which reduces chemical compounds and improves style and odour.
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HIGHLY COMMENDED: Zoleo Satellite tv for pc Communicator
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The Zoleo (£199) is a worldwide satellite tv for pc communicator, private locator beacon and GPS system all-in-one. It syncs with an easy-to-use app in your telephone, and allows two-way world messaging by way of the Iridium satellite tv for pc community, even while you don’t have cellular protection.
“If it’s worthwhile to keep in contact off-grid when there’s no telephone sign then it’s a good selection,” stated Fiona Russell, who additionally rated the Zoleo’s SOS perform, its capability to supply breadcrumb monitoring and its on-the-spot climate recommendation while your telephone is offline. “It’s an important wee gadget you could pop in your rucksack and overlook about till you want it.
”Lengthy messages (as much as 900 phrases) may be despatched utilizing the system or, on the press of a button, you can even ship a ‘check-in’ message, which informs an inventory of pre-set contacts that you’re secure. These options are solely accessible as a part of month-to-month plans nevertheless, with the fundamental plan (£18 p/m) protecting 25 messages a month, a mid-range plan (£25 p/m) providing 250 messages and the highest plan (£58 p/m), giving limitless messages. The battery will final for 200 hours with message checking set to each 12 minutes, for instance, while the water resistance score is IP68.
SHORTLISTED: Motorola Defy Satellite tv for pc Hyperlink, Katadyn BeFree
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Finest Stoves
WINNER: Jetboil Stash
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“There’s so much to love right here,” stated David Lintern. “It’s a easy, very mild design that packs small and can enable primary cooking. For longer, warmer-weather journeys nothing else is required.
”Our jury had been unanimous in deciding on Jetboil’s Stash (£160), one of many lightest private cooking methods in the marketplace, because the outright winner on this class. It includes a 0.8-litre pot with a built-in FluxRing, a titanium burner with folding arms, a plastic lid with a pour spout and a folding stand, all in all weighing simply 230g. While it doesn’t have a regulator there may be some simmer management, however the range is greatest suited to boiling water reasonably than for cooking meals. Will Renwick, who took the Stash on his 500-mile fastpacking journey taking in all 189 of the Welsh Nuttalls, stated that taking the system was an “straightforward choice” and that he has “by no means been let down by it.”
Learn our full Jetboil Stash evaluate.
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HIGHLY COMMENDED: MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe
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While solely 10g heavier than the Pocket Rocket 2, a well-liked range amongst our jury, the Pocket Rocket Deluxe (£85) comes with helpful further capabilities, together with a stress regulator, a large burner for improved cooking efficiency and a built-in piezo igniter.
“The stress regulator works extraordinarily effectively, even with low gasoline ranges and in chilly circumstances,”stated our tester, including that “the mixture of value, weight, efficiency and MSR consideration to element on each side of the design and performance makes this a best choice.”
Learn our full MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe evaluate.
SHORTLISTED: MSR Reaktor 1L, SOTO Windmaster
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Finest navigation tech
WINNER: Suunto Vertical
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The brand new Suunto Vertical GPS has a considerably revamped system in comparison with the model’s earlier choices. It gives offline mapping that’s downloadable by way of Wi-Fi, there’s a photo voltaic panel round its outdoors edge, which extends its battery life significantly (as much as 60 days), and it has dual-frequency GPS/GNSS satellite tv for pc connectivity for larger GPS accuracy.
“This has impressed me,” stated Alex Roddie. “Though costly, it’s a large improve in comparison with earlier Suunto watches. It’s usually cheaper than competing Garmins, and (crucially) so much simpler to make use of and less complicated to arrange than the Garmin Fenixes of this world. The mapping perform works effectively and has each contours and paths reliably marked, though it lacks textual content labels.”
The Vertical additionally presents all key sensors (barometer, altimeter, temperature, coronary heart charge monitoring and extra) and has a brand new flashlight perform. The road has two core decisions: Photo voltaic (with titanium), or no Photo voltaic (with chrome steel). They’re priced at £725 and £545 respectively.
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HIGHLY COMMENDED: Coros Apex 2 GPS
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This was an in depth runner up and actually was chosen as a Finest Purchase by Alex Roddie in our current comparative evaluate of GPS watches, which was printed earlier than the discharge of the Suunto Vertical.
Alex famous that there have been “large enhancements” over the earlier mannequin of the Coros Apex. “It brings on-wrist mapping to a a lot lower cost level,” stated Alex. “It’s nonetheless extra techy and complex than the Suunto and constructed to a decrease high quality customary, nevertheless it’s simpler to make use of and arrange than Garmin watches.
”This watch presents 45 hours of battery with full GPS monitoring activated, makes use of all 5 main satellite tv for pc methods and offers entry to free world offline maps. There’s additionally a built-in coronary heart charge sensor and alerts that notify you of approaching storms or the chance of altitude illness. Costs vary from £349 to £449.
Learn our full Coros Apex 2 evaluate.
SHORTLISTED: Garmin Intuition 2 Photo voltaic, OS Find, Outdooractive, Topo GPS, Garmin InReach Mini 2
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Finest tenting tech
WINNER: Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xlite NXT
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Therm-a-Relaxation have up to date its widespread NeoAir XLite, making it hotter at no further weight. The mat weighs simply 350g and presents an R-rating of 4.5 (the earlier model was 4.2), making it one thing that may probably be used all yr spherical. What’s extra, Therm-a-Relaxation seems to have listened to complaints from backpackers concerning the earlier mannequin.
“The ThermaCapture materials throughout the earlier mat would rustle everytime you moved,” stated Will Renwick. “That drawback doesn’t exist any extra. It presents an especially comfy, heat and a quiet evening’s sleep now.”
The mat options Therm-a-Relaxation’s glove-friendly WingLock valve and may be inflated utilizing a pump sack that comes with it. It’s accessible in 4 sizes, from Common Quick (168cm lengthy by 51cm on the huge level, £210) to Massive (196x64cm, £250). There’s additionally an oblong model.
Learn our full Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xlite NXT evaluate.
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HIGHLY COMMENDED: Rab Ionosphere 5.5
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Rab may need specialised in sleeping baggage for over 40 years, nevertheless it’s saved us ready on a sleeping mat. Thankfully, the brand new Ionosphere, one in all 5 new mats from the Derbyshire-based model, appears to be well worth the wait.
“This can be a subsequent era type of sleeping mattress,” stated Fiona Russell. “Wonderful consolation (greatest evening’s sleep I’ve had on a tenting mattress and no sore hips for the primary time ever!) and it gives good heat below the physique.”
The Rab Ionosphere 5.5 (£170) options Rab’s Thermo Ionic Lining Know-how (TILT), which can also be used within the Mythic Extremely jacket (Extremely Counseled in our Insulated Jackets class). That is basically a reflective movie throughout the insulation that helps cut back radiant warmth loss.
The Ionosphere weighs 690g within the Common size, has an R-rating of 5.5 – making it appropriate for year-round use – and incorporates a 20D outer cloth constructed from recycled polyester.
SHORTLISTED: Nikwax Tenting Care Package, BlackDiamond Storm R head lamp, Primus SIP Energy Gasoline.
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Award for innovation (product)
WINNER: Eager WK400
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“Definitely revolutionary and weird,” is how head decide Chris Townsend described Eager’s WK400 (£135), a shoe that incorporates a sole that curves upwards on the toe and on the heel to create a big rocker. The intention is to make strolling really feel like rolling so as to help ahead propulsion and a pure strolling gait.
“As quickly as you begin strolling the constructive impact of the curved sole is felt because the sneakers actually do appear to propel you ahead simply,” Chris noticed. “It’s wonderful on roads and onerous tracks and it does take the sting out of those.
”The uppers are constructed from breathable mesh with TPU overlays, which means these are appropriate to be used solely in heat and dry climate. There’s a small, onerous toe cap to guard in opposition to rocks and a agency heel counter and multi-directional lugs on the only that grip effectively on quite a lot of terrain.
Chris did nevertheless notice that the match, which Eager describe as “athletic’, was too slender for him and he needed to change to a bigger measurement than he’d usually put on.
Learn our full Eager WK400 evaluate.
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HIGHLY COMMENDED: PrimaLoft RISE
RISE is PrimaLoft’s newest innovation, providing a brand new artificial different to down that’s designed to carry enhanced loft in comparison with customary PrimaLoft fills, together with sturdiness, warmth-when-wet and long-lasting efficiency.The distinctive building of the insulation permits it to carry out throughout quite a lot of weights and thicknesses to create every little thing from skinny and thick insulated jackets by means of to light-weight and packable sleeping baggage.The primary side that impressed the judges was with regard to sustainability, with the PrimaLoftRISE fill constructed from recycled content material of at the very least 80%.
SHORTLISTED: Marmot WarmCube Lively Alt HB,Out of doors Analysis Plus Dimension vary,Patagonia StormShift Jacket.
Award for innovation (model)
WINNER: Inov-8
Our judges had been all impressed by Inov-8’s efforts to create longer-lasting footwear, specifically by means of the usage of graphene. Recognized because the strongest – but thinnest – materials on the planet, graphene was first created by scientists on the College of Manchester again in 2004. Recognising its potential, Lake District-based model Inov-8 sought to include the Nobel Prize-winning materials into its outsoles so as to improve their total sturdiness – and the consequence proved an enormous success. Subsequently, in 2021, Inov-8 additionally managed to develop a foam that utilised the fabric for its light-weight sturdiness too.
“I really feel that Inov-8 deserves to be recognised right here on account of its pioneering work in enhancing the sturdiness of path sneakers by means of its use of graphene,” stated Alex Roddie. “Individuals who spend quite a lot of time within the hills have a tendency to wear down sneakers shortly, so new tech that may get extra life out of sneakers is one thing to be counseled.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Sierra Designs
Alongside their awards this yr for the Flex Capacitor backpack and Meteor 3000 tent, our judges felt that backpacking specialist Sierra Designs was worthy of total recognition for product innovation this yr.
The judges counseled the 58-year-old firm for its revolutionary design considering and acute consideration for the precise necessities for backpacking.
“The Sierra Designs packs and sleeping baggage are completely different and actually are wonderful,” stated Chris Townsend.
“They definitely appear to assume outdoors of the field,” added Will Renwick, who was impressed by the model’s Meteor 3000 and Excessive Route 3000 tents. “I believe it’s nice that they’ve tweaked their US-focussed designs to make them suited to the form of circumstances we frequently get when backpacking within the UK.”
SHORTLISTED: Berghaus, The North Face, BAM.
Award for sustainability (product)
WINNER: Silva Terra Scout H
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Each the sunshine unit casing and the bracket of this head torch(£60) are manufactured from recycled plastic, which has as much as a 90% decrease CO2 footprint in comparison with customary plastics. The headscarf can also be constructed from hemp, a pure fibre that may be a extra environmentally sound different to artificial fibres like nylon or polyester.
“Silva deserves reward for developing with a genuinely progressive product right here,” stated Will Renwick. “It’s probably the most eco-friendly head torch that I’m conscious of – maybe by a great distance.”
This explicit mannequin comes with a chargeable battery however it might additionally run off customary AAA batteries too. It presents a creditable 350 lumens, while Silva’ Clever Mild know-how delivers a very good steadiness of beam unfold and penetration. Operations are easy and simple by way of one massive button on prime of the pinnacle lamp, and also you additionally get a battery stage indicator.
Learn our full Silva Terra Scout XT evaluate.
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HIGHLY COMMENDED: Vango Apex 2
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This sleeping bag from Scotland-based model Vango is made with an impressively low carbon footprint, utilizing recycled fishing nets to kind the shell and lining materials, and Vango’s EcoLoft recycled artificial fill too. It weighs 1.75kg and has a consolation restrict of -6C, making it appropriate for many winter nights within the UK.
“The sustainability facet of issues right here is spectacular,” stated Will Renwick, “however Vango has additionally bought the efficiency facet of issues proper, too. It’s very lofty and cosy – the fill feels identical to down.
The Apex 2 (£180) is ergonomically tailor-made across the head and shoulders to retain warmth, and it incorporates a lining referred to as Thermal Reverb that causes warmth to replicate again onto the physique. There’s additionally a lighter Apex 1 and a heavierApex 3 within the vary. These additionally use the identical recycled supplies.
SHORTLISTED: Merrell Pace Eco, Patagonia WornWear Restore Roll
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Award for sustainability (model)
Winner: Keela
British model Keela has been repairing merchandise in its Keela Hospital for over 40 years now, and it was arguably forward of the sport in focussing on garment repairability. Now, by means of its Legacy Undertaking, it’s trying to up its efforts in decreasing waste proper throughout its enterprise.
Alongside its Keela Hospital, the Scottish model is creating methods of making new merchandise out of previous ones which can be previous the purpose of restore. It’s been discovering methods to create new merchandise from offcuts and spare cloth, and has additionally launched a recycling programme the place prospects can ship again their unfixable clothes to be shredded and changed into insulation and, in some instances, model new merchandise.
“It’s nice to see a British firm taking a lead on saving clothes from landfill,” stated Chris Townsend.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Nikwax
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Our judges had been stunned that Nikwax hadn’t put itself ahead for this class, and all determined that the model deserved to be recognised. This Sussex-based aftercare options firm has lengthy been an out of doors trade chief on the subject of sustainable innovation, with a give attention to clear chemistry, extending the lifespan of merchandise, and moral enterprise practices. Actually, in 2022, Nikwax’s founder Nick Brown handed the enterprise over to his employees by forming an Worker Owned Belief. As a part of this, a dedication was made to make sure that 1% of annual turnover goes to environmental and social causes.
“That’s 360-degree sustainability in my view,” commented David Lintern.
SHORTLISTED: PrimaLoft, BAM, Patagonia
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