CollaborationHaving enjoyed paddleboarding on holiday in the past and keen to try kayaking, I was more than happy to test the 2 in 1 inflatable SUP with kayak conversion from Active Era. Read on for my full review.What is it?Active Era 2-In-1 Paddle Board with Kayak Conversion Kit 199StockistsActive EraDecathlonIm not an expert paddleboarder, but I do SUP whenever I can usually first thing in the morning on holiday or on calmer days at the lake where my other half windsurfs. Ive always fancied trying more kayaking, too, so when the chance came up to try the ActiveEra 2-in-1 inflatable SUP with kayak conversion, I jumped at it.We headed out on a calm morning to the lake with not a lot of knowledge of the brand or the product. We decided to try it out as a SUP first. The whole set-up was straightforward. It inflated quickly with the included pump, and we were pleasantly surprised to find it had an in-built camera mount at the front of the board, a handy dry bag for keeping valuables safe while on the water. The whole thing also comes in a large bag with shoulder straps turning it into a rucksack. The paddle felt solid with easy height adjustment, and the fin slotted easily into place under the board.Once attached to the leash and on the water, my first impression was that the board felt a bit twitchy, but a quick adjustment to my foot position sorted that out. After that, it paddled smoothly and tracked well for a beginner-friendly board. Its not the fastest SUP Ive tried, but it felt responsive enough and confidence-building after a few minutes.After a quick cuppa and a bacon roll, we decided it was time to convert it to kayak mode. The seat clipped securely to the board, and the paddle swapped easily to the double-ended kayak blade. It did take a few minutes to get the seat straps adjusted just right. They needed a bit of tweaking, but once set up, the seat felt comfortable and stayed firmly in place. The loops to secure the footrest also took a bit of patience to fit, but once in place, everything felt solid and secure.Sitting down, the board felt instantly more stable, making it a great option for longer sessions or slightly choppier water. Paddling in kayak mode felt efficient and surprisingly enjoyable. It genuinely felt like having two watercrafts in one.The Active Era 2-in-1 SUP is excellent value for money and makes a versatile, family-friendly option.Overall impressionsPros: Quick and easy set-up, thoughtful extras like the camera mount, dry bag and rucksack design. Versatile 2-in-1 design, stable and comfortable in kayak mode, good value for a multi-use craft.Cons: As a SUP, its slightly twitchy straight out of the box, and more experienced paddlers might find it slower than a dedicated board. The seat straps need some patience to adjust initially, as does the footrest, but these are a minor niggle until youve got them right.For someone like me who enjoys casual paddling but also wants the option of kayaking without buying a separate craft, the ActiveEra 2-in-1 is a really versatile and fun choice.Find out moreExpect to pay 199 for the Active Era 2-In-1 Paddle Board with Kayak Conversion Kit and you can buy direct from Active Era or from Decathlon.DISCLOSURE | Thank you to Active Era for supplying the featured product. We were not paid to write this review.Where to next?CAMPSITE | Snowdon Base Camp Campsite ReviewGEAR | New Hiking & Outdoor Gear For Autumn/Winter 2025ACTIVE | Kayaking at Astbury Mere Cheshire with Peak PursuitsThe post GEAR | Active Era 2-in-1 Inflatable SUP with Kayak Conversion Review appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

Autumn is often seen as the season of abundance, yet so many people end up swamped by their veg plot gluts or with no idea how to save that precious wild ingredient they have taken the time to forage

With cooler weather on the way, we take a look at some of the seasons best new productsPetzl TIKKA CORE/ACTIK CORE58 / 72Petzls class leading TIKKA headlamp family has just received a fresh upgrade for 2025. The new TIKKA CORE now offers 450 lumens at only 84g. Simple to use with USB-C charging, a battery level indicator, red lighting, a lockable button and a reflective headband for added visibility. It also includes a storage pouch that can turn your lamp into a lantern. Need more power? The new ACTIK CORE has the same features but offers 625 lumens. Backed by Petzls proven reputation for reliability and durability, these headlamps are built to perform during your night-time adventures, season after season.More info: petzl.comAlpkit MyTiBurner47.99An ultra-lightweight and compact alcohol stove for faff-free brews in the wild. Its built for fast-and-light hikers and overnight adventurers wanting the lightest possible set up. The burner stove nestles neatly into Alpkits MyTiMug400, sold separately. Made from titanium, the MyTiBurner is tough and weighs only 105g. The capillary alcohol burner delivers a clean, efficient flame. The unique tri-leaf wind guard doubles as a stable pot stand, keeping your brew steady in blustery conditions. A sliding snuff lid makes it safe and simple to extinguish. The 80ml fuel bottle can boil up to 1.6L of water, enough for four brews or meals in calm conditions. Its intended to be used with EkoFuel, though will burn any liquid fuel. Everything you need the burner, snuff lid, wind guard, and 80ml fuel bottle packs into a drawstring bags and fits into a mug.More info: www.alpkit.comRab Electron Pro Down Jacket300Built to go wherever the mountains take you, the Electron Pro Down Jacket delivers reliable warmth without unnecessary bulk. Designed as a versatile all-mountain insulator, it uses lightweight stitch-through construction with a mix of micro and midi baffles. These are carefully body-mapped to maximise warmth in key areas while maintaining mobility where freedom of movement matters most. Filled with premium 800FP ethically sourced down, the Electron Pro offers exceptional warmth-to-weight performance, making it a dependable layer whether youre tackling frozen gullies, high ridgelines, or winter crags. The tough Pertex Quantum Pro outer fabric adds weather resistance against snow, spindrift, and unexpected showers, while also withstanding abrasions from rock and gear. Balancing packability, durability, and insulation, this jacket is built for serious winter use yet light enough to bring on every mission. From cold-season climbs to long mountain days and shoulder-season belays, the Electron Pro is your go-to refuge against the elements.More info: www.rab.equipmentWalking the Julian Alps of Slovenia19.95Walking the Julian Alps of Slovenia by Roberto Lombardo is a new guidebook from Cicerone, showcasing one of Europes most varied and rewarding hiking destinations. Featuring 37 day walks and 3 multi-day treks, it explores Slovenias stunning landscapes, from Alpine peaks and flower-filled meadows to cascading waterfalls, gorges and the turquoise Soa River. Routes range from gentle 4km strolls to challenging 24km hikes, with multi-day treks (1834km over two days) offering immersive alpine experiences and warm hospitality. High-level trails lead towards iconic peaks like Triglav, passing scenic huts and traditional summer pastures. In the valleys, paths circle the magical lakes of Bled and Bohinj, and several walks also visit poignant World War I sites.Organised into five regions around hubs like Bled, Kranjska Gora and Bohinj, the guidebook includes 1:50,000 maps, detailed route descriptions, and planning advice. GPX files are available separately.More info: www.cicerone.co.ukJttnar Asger Hybrid Jacket 289The latest refinement of the magical jacket bestseller: a lightly insulated, technically sophisticated hybrid jacket built with Polartec Alpha fleece for high-output activity. Asgers windproof, water-repellent outer and Polartec Alpha inner combine to create the perfect balance of warmth and breathability. Originally developed for Special Forces, Polartec Alpha is an active air-exchange insulation system for temperature variations and stop-start conditions, and releases excess body heat before saturation and discomfort. Layer under a hard shell for regulated warmth when active, or wear as a standalone over a baselayer. New features for the 2025 version include a refined, lighter outer fabric plus a new chest pocket for additional storage of valuables. The low-profile concealed pocket design throughout gives a minimalist finish. The close fitting, under-helmet hood has back-of-hood cinches and hood aperture adjusters for comfort and improved adjustability. Asger is available in two colours: Nightshadow and Legion.More info: www.jottnar.comExped Mountain Pro 30265If youre looking for a classic winter all-rounder, Expeds Mountain Pro 30 stands out. First thing, its waterproof, so your kit stays dry whatever the weather is throwing at you. Second, the design and features were developed in collaboration with Swiss mountain guides, so you can be sure its got everything you need for efficient winter use, without anything unnecessary. And if you want to strip things back further, removable features allow up to 400g in weight savings. Its a single-compartment design, with a lid that can be fastened either with a centre-mounted carabiner or two side straps with alloy hooks. Plus there are webbing straps and five exterior daisy chains providing attachment options for gear: skis, axes, poles, you name it. The weatherproof, seam-taped fabric is PU coated, has a non-PFA DWR treatment and is OEKO-TEX 100 certified. The thermoformed back is snow-proof yet ventilated for summer use and keeps the load close to your body.More info: www.expeduk.comOpinel no6 Opiflex Knife25.9559.95Easy to use, durable and stylish, the Opinel no6 pocket knife is the perfect everyday companion (UK legal carry). Whether youre slicing fruit, opening packages or tackling daily tasks, its a practical tool youll always want close at hand. Made in France, the no6 features a 7cm stainless steel blade with a rounded tip for added safety, ideal for UK EDC. The innovative OPIFLEX mechanism securely holds the blade in place without locking, offering both safety and convenience. Crafted with elegant wooden handles in ebony, black walnut or olive wood, each knife is finished with a protective varnish to enhance durability and showcase the natural grain. A natural leather lanyard adds a touch of rustic charm and easy carry. The no6 blends timeless design with modern function, making it a thoughtful gift or reliable companion for life on the go.More info: www.berryuseful.co.ukSalewa Wildfire NXT Gore-Tex Shoe180The Wildfire NXT Gore-tex is a high-performance, door-to-summit approach shoe with a seamless, Kevlar-reinforced Matryx upper that combines hiking comfort and durability with climbing precision. Engineered with the latest evolution of our trademark 3F System, it wraps the ankle and outer foot to guarantee a good fit, support, and agility. The unique Salewa multi-zone outsole with Vibram Megagrip compound provides secure grip and traction in all conditions on any terrain. With PFAS-free GORETEX invisible fit technology for waterproof, breathable protection and a reduced impact. The Wildfire NXT Gore-Tex shoe is available in mens and womens versions, as is the non-Gore-Tex version (165).More info: www.salewa.comMountain Equipment Lhotse Jacket550The multi-award-winning Lhotse remains our best-selling GORE-TEX PRO jacket, a mountaineering classic that represents the best possible blend of protection, weight and durability. The Lhotses popularity comes from its versatility, a reliable refuge on rain-lashed mountains, icy gullies or Alpine peaks where it can be worn all day or stay buried in a pack, a reassuring presence if youre caught out far from the valley floor. GORE-TEX PRO is used in conjunction with a hard-wearing 80 denier face fabric throughout. This gives high levels of durability whilst maintaining the comfort and flexibility for all-day use. The Alpine fit removes excess fabric whilst ensuring complete freedom of movement and still allowing room for normal year-round layering. Our renowned Mountain HC Hood gives exceptional protection in the very worst weather, accommodating a climbing helmet when required, it easily adjusts to any situation. Large pockets and easy to use moulded YKK zips give easy access to essentials and laminated cuffs are sized to fit over a glove to seal out the worst weather.More info: www.mountain-equipment.co.ukLa Sportiva Lumina 200 Down Jacket270In a market crowded with quality insulation options, finding a true point of difference isnt easy, but La Sportiva has achieved it with the launch of its new Lumina down garments. Theyre light: so light in fact, that up to half of the garment weight is the insulation itself. For example, the new Lumina 200 Down Jacket has likely the best warmth-to-weight ratio on the market. Weighing only 250g, fully half of this is 125g of 1,000 cu/in pure white Italian goose down. Shelled in ultra-lightweight recycled Pertex Quantum fabric, its specialised down chambers maximise the jackets thermal potential to gain that unrivalled warmth/weight performance. Plus, because granite can take its toll on lightweight garments (and not everyone wants that duct-tape look), La Sportiva includes a repair kit with each garment. All Lumina jackets are available in mens and womens versions.More info: www.lasportiva.comJttnar Floyen Insulated Jacket289Floyen is a year-round hooded powerhouse midlayer or streamlined outer for cold conditions. This latest iteration adds further protection from wind chill and boasts top-tier components and detailed features, delivering superb mountain performance. Synthetic Thermolite body-mapped insulation retains warmth even when wet, with long lasting loft retention, and wrapped inside a recycled nylon outer. Perfect for those after light, packable, weather-resistant warmth in a versatile jacket. Floyens hard-wearing outer is cut from Pertex Quantum: a 50 denier, quadruple rip-stop, PFC-free and DWR-treated fabric that heightens the jackets durability, water repellency, and lifespan. Fleece-lined hand pockets provide extra warmth and are harness- and rucksack-compatible, and an internal pocket provides extra room for stashing valuables. The close-tting, under-helmet hood gives warmth and protection when needed. Additional features include Jttnars anti-snag hem cords with glove-compatible pulls, technical stretch cuffs, and YKK zips throughout. Floyen is available in three colours: Black, Boreas, and Aspen.More info: www.jottnar.comRab Latok Mountain GORE-TEX Pro Jacket480The Latok Mountain GTX Jacket is built to handle it all from rain-lashed inclines, technical trails, and the weight of a fully loaded pack. Designed for climbers and mountaineers who demand breathability, durability, and protection in equal measure, this versatile GORE-TEX shell delivers dependable all-round performance for year-round adventures in the harshest conditions. Constructed with advanced 3-layer GORE-TEX PRO technology and a next-generation, fluorocarbon-free ePE membrane, it offers reliable weatherproofing while lowering environmental impact. Reinforced, abrasion-resistant panels across the shoulders and sleeves stand up to the constant friction of backpack straps and rugged rock faces, while lighter fabric around the core ensures freedom of movement, improved breathability, and reduced bulk where you need it most. From exposed ridgelines to storm-battered summits, the Latok Mountain GTX Jacket excels at deflecting wind, rain, sleet, and snow, while efficiently managing moisture inside. The result: a protective shell that keeps you comfortable, mobile, and focused when the route steepens and the weather turns wild.More info: www.rab.equipmentClimbing Toubkal18.95Climbing Toubkal by Emily Woodhouse is a brand-new guidebook from the experts at Cicerone, your ultimate companion for tackling North Africas highest peak. Just a short flight from Europe, Moroccos Atlas Mountains offer an experience unlike any other. Soaring peaks meet centuries-old mule tracks, and the vibrant energy of Marrakesh gives way to the stillness of high-altitude trails. The guidebook covers year-round ascents of Toubkal (4167m), including the popular Ikhibi Sud and quieter Ikhibi Nord routes, plus the spectacular 6-stage, 68km Toubkal Circuit, a remote trek through Berber villages, deep gorges and high passes. Highlights include Lake Ifni, Moroccos highest lake, and panoramic views from Tizi nOuanoums. While the summit can be reached on foot in summer, winter ascents require greater experience and proper gear. With Oxford Alpine Club maps, clear route descriptions and GPX files available, this guidebook is ideal for adventurous walkers seeking an unforgettable mountain journey.More info: www.cicerone.co.ukMontane Kamen Hoodie375Pinnacle warmth. Minimal bulk. Built for vertical winter missions. Designed for technical alpine objectives, the Kamen Hoodie pairs PERTEX QUANTUM Diamond Fuse for lightweight abrasion resistance with industry-leading ExpeDRY 800FP goose down for high-loft, fast-drying thermal performance. Our NAT baffle construction maximises insulation efficiency by lofting the down towards the body, while the REACH+ cut and PIVOT 3 hood system ensure a harness compatible, movement-optimised fit for complex, cold climbs. From belays to summit pushes, this is your fortress in freezing conditions, engineered for warmth, refined for freedom.More info: www.montane.comDynafit Transalper 2 Running Shoe145The new Transalper 2 is the modern interpretation of a highly functional, lightweight mountaineering shoe that excels on any terrain and in all conditions. Inspired by trail running, the Transalper 2 offers you the optimum combination of performance, protection and comfort so that you can master demanding, long mountain trails with speed and confidence. The shoe has a comfortable yet sporty fit. The high-performance and durable rubber compound of the VIBRAM Megagrip sole, which is easy to run on, together with the sophisticated lug design, promises optimum grip on both dry and wet surfaces. The stable TPU heel cap, together with the diagonal heel reinforcement, guarantees a secure hold in the shoe and therefore optimum control on demanding terrain. The Transalper 2 is also available in a Gore-Tex version for 175,More info: www.dynafit.comAlpkit Heiko Primaloft Insulated Jacket134.99The Heiko is a lightweight insulated jacket delivering reliable warmth without unnecessary weight. Built with PrimaLoft Silver Eco a 100% recycled insulation it delivers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, retains heat even when wet and dries quickly. Its fully windproof recycled polyester shell and liner wrap around the insulation to trap warmth, while a PFC-free water-resistant treatment helps shed light rain. Highly compressible, the Heiko packs into its own chest pocket for easy storage on the go. The hoodless design and low-profile 60gsm fill make it ideal under a shell as a midlayer, or as a standalone outer in milder conditions. Minimalist in design yet rich in detail, its a versatile jacket for breezy belays, showery summit stops and chilly evenings around the tent. Available in mens sizes XS to XXL and womens sizes 6 to 20.More info: www.alpkit.com

ReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersRabs expansion and development of its backpack range continues apace, now with larger packs that might once have been the sole preserve of sister brand Lowe Alpine joining their range, as well as the smaller, fast-and-light style packs that featured in their initial launch range.The differentiation between Rab and Lowe Alpine? Well Rab packs are certainly more techie, using the latest hi-tech fabrics to give the best weight/strength performance, as well as innovative back systems and other features, with Lowe Alpine tending to give a more traditional offering.This pack we have on test, the Hyperon 65L, is described by Rab as our definitive pack for exploring far-flung regions where self-sufficiency is key, this 65L backpack is geared up for serious multi-day adventures, from long distance trekking to shorter expedition use. It certainly looks the part, with its blue/black colour scheme (grey/black also available), chunky hipbelt and mesh-clad back system and straps. Its clean design belies the fact that it packs in a lot of features, both in terms of adjustability and storage options but well come to this shortly. Lets start off with a look at the packs all-important carry system.The Hyperon 65s back length is easy to adjustCarry systemThe Hyperon comes in two sizes M/L and L/XL and in addition to this the back length can be adjusted using a hook-and-loop system. Unlike some other hook-and-loop designs where its a struggle to keep two surfaces apart (and not sticking together) while adjusting the length, the Hyperon has a more refined design which is simple to adjust; just pull the outward facing side of the back panel away and then slide up or down on the two metal stays to get the ideal back length. The entire carry system including a very pronounced lumbar pad makes use of thick perforated foam which is intended to maximise ventilation at the same time as assuring comfort. The hipbelt arrangement is interesting in that it has slots behind he lumbar pad and moves independently with its own, curved metal stay giving it structure, and is also heavily padded with a large, zipped pocket on each hip.StorageAs we said earlier in the review, the Hyperon 65 has a clean and unfussy profile, and that is exactly how we like our packs here at T&M, but when it comes to storage it is absolutely rammed with options. The packs main compartment features a (removable) fabric divider near the bottom, which allows you to access a sleeping bag or other item directly via its own zipper. Not only that, but the upper part of the main compartment also has its own zip, so again, you can access items in this area without having to open the main lid. Speaking of the lid, theres no less than three internal and external zipped pockets located here, all good sizes each, with a security key clip inside the internal pocket. On the front of the pack theres another pocket with a vertical zip that could be useful for keeping a spare layer, or other items you want to access quickly, and naturally you also get a mesh drinks pocket on either side at the hips. Were not finished yet! Theres a zipped pocket on either side of the hipbelt itself, and finally, theres smallish zipped pockets at the sides, towards the top of the pack, which will fit objects such as a 1L water bottle.Out testing the Hyperon 65 in Langdale Valley in CumbriaIn useThe Hyperon 65 weights in at a not inconsiderable nor unreasonable 2.6kg, but like all well-designed trekking packs it feels almost weightless when you actually put it on. The fabrics used feel really tough and durable, and you just get the feeling that this pack is not going to let you down. The pack has both internal and external compressions straps; having them inside the main compartment means you can position items where you want them and ensure the pack is stable even when moving on rough terrain. On the outside, the lower straps thread through the side mesh pockets, and if like us, you like to carry tent poles at the side in these pockets, then youll appreciate being able to cinch them in tightly. But what matters most, of course, is the ability to carry a load over a long distance with the minimum of fuss and discomfort, and in this respect the Hyperon 65 delivers big time.VerdictLoads of storage options, a comfy carry and tough as nails make this a super trekking packMore info at: www.rab.equipmentSPECSWeight: 2.6kgMain fabric: 210D ROBIC Nylon with Spectra Ripstop and Hydroshield Dura coatingBack lengths: 48-58cm (M); 53-63cm (L)Secondary fabric: 210D ROBIC Nylon Ripstop with Tri-Shield CoatingVolume: 65lt/3965cu.inDimensions: 82 x 37 x 46cmBack system: V-TRAXFull specs and features at: www.rab.equipmentBuy the Rab Hyperon 65 online at:Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Theres a special sense of inner quiet and a magical feeling of anticipation that hits me before a big day in the mountains, an expansive feeling made all the more vivid by the crisp freshness of autumn, my very favourite season for hiking. Walk with me as I share my experience of testing out the Hypershell X Ultra exoskeleton.On a bright, clear morning in Snowdonia, I stood at the base of the Glyderau range, 15 kilometres of rugged terrain and 900 metres of ascent ahead, ready to test an exciting bit of technology that promises to redefine limits: the Hypershell X Ultra exoskeleton. @campingwithstyle Yesterday I joined a group for a day completing a section of the Welsh 3000, led by the fab team at @RAW Adventures This was a fairly challenging climb for me hot off the back of a series of autoimmune flares I didn't know if doing this was a good idea, but testing out the @Hypershell X Ultra exo skeleton, released just 2 weeks ago, was an opportunity I wasn't about to miss out on. 15k, 877m ascent, 3 different peaks and just under 8 hours out in the glorious Snowdon Massif on a spectacular autumn day with some great people The tech was phenomenal, helping to reduce load on my hips in particular, which given my early stage Ankylosing Spondylitis, I was particularly grateful for, and it really did make a difference. The exo skeleton absolutely isn't a replacement for fitness or mountain experience, but in terms of dampening some of the joint strain, writing the following day, I feel the usual acute ache of well used muscles rather than the searing pain in my joints that can often happen after a big walk. That's massive I'll be writing in more detail about the HyperShell X Ultra on the blog soon! #chronicillness #exoskeleton #hypershell #glyderau #adventure Emotions ZydSounds With chronic pain and a long-term condition like Ankylosing Spondylitis, Im used to being careful about how far I push my body. Hill walks or a day of snowboarding are usually followed by days of pain and fatigue, so the idea of a robotic support system that could take some of the load off my hip flexors felt almost too good to be true. The glorious bright sunshine, the energy of our small hiking group led by the superb team at RAW Adventure, and the chance to try something genuinely futuristic had me grinning ear to ear before wed even taken our first steps, eager to put myself and the clever tech to the test.First Impressions and Getting StartedThe X Ultra looks more sci-fi than sportswear, all sleek carbon fibre curves and titanium alloy joints, yet once its fitted, it feels surprisingly natural. The 1.8kg weight barely registered, and once Id tightened the waist and thigh straps, it quickly felt like part of me.The device is synced and controlled through the Hypershell app, which connected quickly via Bluetooth. After entering a few key personal stats, it began learning and adapting to my stride and movement pattern.I started the day in Eco mode, with the assist set to 30%. The first couple of kilometres followed a steady incline along a clear mountain path, the perfect opportunity to get used to the sensation of my legs feeling feather-light.The more you wear it, the more it adapts to your natural rhythm and stride, so each step feels smoother and takes less effort. Within minutes, it felt like the exoskeleton and I were in sync; it wasnt pushing me forward so much as gently maximising my effort, quietly lending power where I needed it and all with a faint, barely noticeable hum.Up Into the MountainsAs the terrain shifted and we began a steep climb through scree and boulder fields, I increased the Eco mode power to 60%, then up to 80% before eventually switching to Hyper mode for the steepest sections. Thats where the magic really kicked in. The 1,000W peak motor system delivered bursts of power that made long uphill stretches feel more manageable. The best way to describe it is that each time you lift your leg, your legs feel lighter and it takes a bit less effort, which in real terms, for this 50-year-old who walks a lot but very rarely tackles challenging terrain, meant less huffing and puffing, fewer rest stops and ultimately, reduced fatigue.On smoother paths, the adaptive motion recognition handled everything seamlessly, though in trickier spots, like our Devils Kitchen descent, with its uneven rocks and sudden shifts, the exoskeleton hesitated a few times. Even then, I was impressed by how quickly it adjusted once we hit more stable ground.We paused for lunch beside a beautiful mountain lake, and I was pleasantly surprised to find I could sit cross-legged on the ground in my usual way, without needing to remove or adjust the device; it moved naturally with me.The only small gripe I had was with my backpack. My Osprey Hikelite 26 sat a little awkwardly high on my back due to the exoskeletons rear battery placement at the waist, so next time Id opt for a shorter, softer daypack without a rigid frame.Power, Performance, and PracticalitiesEach battery lasts up to 30km in Eco mode (around 7.5 hours) or about 5.3km in Hyper mode (roughly 80 minutes). We each carried a second battery and I swapped to mine just before the final descent, but only because wed been deliberately pushing Hyper modes limits. In a typical days hike, I think Eco mode would be plenty, with a few bursts of higher power for steep ascent sections.Charging is refreshingly simple, requiring just a USB-C cable and around 90 minutes to full power. Hypershell says the M-One Ultra motor system reduces overall physical exertion by up to 39% and average heart rate by 22% and based on how I felt afterwards, that seems entirely believable.The Real DifferenceThere are 12 activity modes, from uphill walking and gravel paths to running and cycling, but for me, it was the descent assist and hip flexor support that truly stood out. On the long descent into the stunning Ogwen Valley, my knees and hips, usually the first to complain, felt tired but not painful.By the time we reached Llyn Idwal and the ranger base, I wasnt aching in that all-too-familiar painful way. Instead, I felt the satisfying fatigue of a solid day outdoors, the kind you earn from movement, not pain. Without the Ultra X exoskeleton, I have no doubt Id have moved more slowly on ascents and would have needed to take more frequent stops to catch my breath on particularly steep sections.Final ThoughtsMuch like an e-bike, the Hypershell X Ultra doesnt do the work for you; you still have to earn every summit. But it does make the journey that bit more accessible, whether youre recovering from injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to extend your range.For me, the biggest revelation was psychological, knowing I could hike a full day in the mountains without triggering days of pain afterwards. That kind of freedom is hard to quantify, but its huge.The Hypershell X Ultra isnt just a gadget; its a glimpse into how wearable robotics could reshape outdoor adventure, making longer or more challenging hikes accessible again. For those of us with mobility issues who still crave big days in the mountains, thats a game-changer. It gave me the confidence that I wouldnt have to tap out halfway, and whilst it didnt create a false sense of invincibility and is not a replacement for fitness, it absolutely provided the reassurance I often lack, helping me feel like the strongest, most capable version of myself. And yes, maybe just a little bit like the Bionic Woman.Find out more about the Hypershell X Ultra: RRP 1,559.Where to next?WELLBEING | A Snowdonia Walk And Thoughts On Experiencing Adversity PositivelyCAMPSITES | Llyn Gwynant Campsite in Snowdonia, North Wales ReviewCAMPSITE | Snowdon Base Camp Campsite ReviewThe post GEAR | Hiking The Welsh 3000 With The Hypershell X Ultra Exoskeleton Review appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

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CollaborationNow summer is drawing in and autumn is here, many people will be packing away their summer watersport gear and looking forward to the longer days next year. However, for some, they would like to carry on their passion all year round, enjoying the quieter waters and picturesque views. However, to ensure maximum enjoyment whilst keeping your body safe, its vital kayak lovers purchase the correct equipment for cooler conditions.In this blog, we will take a look at some essential tips kayakers will need to take to stay warm and safe in the colder months. Keep on reading to find out more!The Importance of LayeringLayering will allow you to enjoy being out on the water whilst staying safe and warm, due to the water temperature becoming the most important reason for dressing up. You need to dress up for the water temperature, not the air temperature. This is even more important if you find yourself in the water for an extended period of time.To mitigate the risk, kayakers should invest in a dry suit to help keep the water out, allowing them to stay warm underneath the suit.Tip 1: Wear base layersWearing base layers under a drysuit or wetsuit will allow you to set the foundation for insulation and moisture management, helping to trap your body heat and keep away any sweat and leaks from your skin. As a result, this keeps you dry and prevents you from becoming cold. Flow Kayaks offer a variety of short and long-sleeve base layers that dry quickly and wick any excess moisture that may arise.Tip 2: Wear a mid-layer over the base layerAfter sorting out your base layer, its vital that you wear a mid-layer. A mid-layer provides the primary insulation, which will keep you warm for longer periods of time. Its also a thicker, insulated layer made from fleece and synthetic materials.The mid layer should be comfortable and not restrict movement, which is vital whilst kayaking.Tip 3: Invest in neoprene boots and glovesInvesting in neoprene boots and gloves is also vital for protecting extremities, and these are areas a wet and dry suit wont protect. A base and mid layer wont protect hands or feet either, so this is a worthwhile investment to ensure the whole body is protected, so full focus can be on kayaking.To accompany shoes, socks can be a worthwhile investment to further insulate feet. They can also help reduce the risk of blisters, making kayaking more comfortable.Tip 4: Always check the water and weather conditionsAs well as the sensible clothing purchases to keep you warm and safe, there are a few extra steps you can take to ensure your kayaking experience in the colder months is a positive one. Colder months (which are highly likely to be in the winter) are going to be more unpredictable, with harsher temperatures and a greater risk of wind and waves.Checking the water and weather conditions ahead of time will help you pick the calmest and predictable times to go kayaking.Overall, we hope this blog has been insightful in learning more about how watersport lovers can still enjoy kayaking in the colder months. Do not hesitate to reach out to Flow Kayaks if you have any questions on kayaking or any other watersport equipment.Where to next?ACTIVE | Kayaking at Astbury Mere Cheshire with Peak PursuitsGEAR | Hiking The Welsh 3000 With The Hypershell X Ultra Exoskeleton ReviewGEAR | Active Era 2-in-1 Inflatable SUP with Kayak Conversion ReviewACTIVE | Exploring The St Agnes Coast With Koru Kayaking, Trevaunance Cove in CornwallThe post ACTIVE | Essential Tips for Kayakers in the Colder Months appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

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