We test out a mountaineering down jacket that offers superb warmth-to-weight performance... and at a great priceReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersLa Sportiva are one of the dominant mountain footwear brands in the UK, beloved of mountain professionals and weekend warriors alike, but you dont see as much of their clothing out on the hill as home-grown brands such as Rab, Berghaus and Mountain Equipment. That may well change though if they bring out more products such as this Lumina 300 down jacket an extremely high-spec piece that comes with a surprisingly low pricetag for what it is offering. Too good to be true? Lets find outThe SpecsThe specs of the Lumina 300 are really impressive the jacket contains 172g of 1000-fillpower down, with an overall weight of just 350g. The outer is made from Pertex Quantum with Diamond Fuse technology (53% Recycled Polyamide, 47% Polyamide), which is a very light and downproof material, but also pretty durable. The Diamond Fuse technology means that the yarns it uses have diamond-shaped filaments that lock together to create a durable and highly abrasion-resistant fabric. In our experience the fabric is quite resistant to scraping against rocks and ice, or pack straps rubbing against it; however, it (unsurprisingly) doesnt like sharp-edges such as crampon points or ice axe picks.The down filling of the Lumina 300 is extremely high qualityThe quality of the down inside the Lumina 300 is about as good as you can get, and La Sportiva go as far as to say the Lumina 300 has likely the best warmth-to-weight ratio in the world. Certainly what you immediately notice about the Lumina 300 is that its incredibly lofty; its baffles appear almost to be bursting, such is the puffiness of their contents. The baffles themselves are arranged in a vertical chevron pattern on the torso, at front and rear, with smaller panels at the sides, to allow movement, and shoulders. The baffle construction throughout is stitch-through rather than boxwall, which saves weight but is of course less draftproof, as cool air can enter at the seams.Luminas hood has a rear volume adjustor and is elasticated around the faceGiven its very low weight, its not surprising that the Lumina 300s features are fairly minimal. The cuffs are elasticated rather than having Velcro tabs, and the hood has a combination of an elasticated hem around the face and a volume adjustor at the back. A single pull-tab is located at the hem for keeping drafts out. You get two zipped handwarmer pockets, and these are roomy enough to accommodate a winter glove in each, and the main zipper is two-way, which is always handy whether for belaying or taking a comfort break. La Sportiva have made sensible compromises to save weight, but if you want more bells and whistles then clearly you need to look elsewhere.You wont be missed on the mountain with the Luminas vibrant colourwaysIn UseAs well as being light, the Lumina 300 is superbly packable; when packed inside its supplied stuffsack its only about 22cm (l) by 15cm (d) (see photo below compared to a 1L Nalgene bottle) which means you dont have to think twice before lobbing it in your pack. The fit is fairly snug but can accommodate at least one midlayer underneath. With the hem coming down over the hips, and the hood covering the lower part of your face, inside the Lumina in the cold is a pleasant place to be. The outer fabric is treated with a PFC-free DWR coating, so does offer some shower protection, however its important to note that the down itself is not treated with a water repellent coating so it wont stand up to heavy/persistent rain. In strong winds the stitch-through baffles are likely to let some cold air in, however the Pertex Quantum the outer shell uses is windproof itself. Speaking of the outer, as durable as it is, if you do get a cut or hole in it you can repair it using the included repair kit a nice touch.Packed-down Lumina 300 besides a 1L Nalgene bottleSo who is the Lumina 300 aimed at? Well clearly it will excel in cold and dry alpine conditions, so whether youre an elite alpinist keeping grams to the minimum, or a trekker, mountaineer or skier looking for a warm, light layer to keep in your pack, the Lumina is just the job. While its not ideally suited to typically damp British weather, its perfectly usable on cold/dry days and should also appeal to lightweight backpackers who want a warm layer for evenings around the camp, or to sling on during rest stops. If you want to step down from the 300 in terms of warmth, La Sportiva also offer the Lumina 100 and Lumina 200 the clue to the jackets performance is in their names, if you hadnt already guessed, with their overall weights coming in at 170g (Lumina 100), 250g (Lumina 200) and 350g (Lumina 300).Overall VerdictThe Lumina 300 seems like a bit of a steal for us at its 325 asking price. The warmth/weight performance is really outstanding, and such a packable and lightweight layer could prove to be one of the most useful pieces in your wardrobe. The Lumina 300 is suitable for a wide-range of uses/situations, however if you want less warmth (and weight) then check out the Lumina 100 or Lumina 200 models.More info: www.lasportiva.comSpecsMain fabric: PERTEX QUANTUM with Diamond Fuse technology, 53% Recycled Polyamide, 47% PolyamideOther fabrics: Lining: 100% Recycled Polyamide Filling: 100% Pure White Down (172 g)Fit: RegularFill Power: 1000FeaturesRepair kit to patch tears and rips2-way front zipCompression bag for packability2 zippered front pockets, compatible with a harnessAdjustable hem for a precise fitElasticated inner cuffs for extra warmthAdjustable, padded hood for greater cold-weather protectionDWR PFC free fabric finishing for light water repellency1,000 cuin Italian down for incomparible warmth and loftPertex Quantum fabric with Diamond Fuse technology for top-level abrasion resistanceSustainabilityResponsible Down StandardRecycled fabricPFC freeJoe Brown/The Climbers ShopOutside

Skye-based mountaineering instructor Adrian Trendall gives valuable advice on tackling the famous Cuillin Ridge traverse in winter conditionsThe Cuillin is often described as Scotlands answer to the Alps, and a traverse of the ridge in summer is indeed a route of epic proportions. Throw in snow and ice, and short daylight hours, and a winter traverse becomes a truly alpine climb. Consider whats involved in completing the route 12km of actual ridge, 4000m of ascent and descent, 12km of walk in/out, technical climbing, multiple abseils and continuous exposure and you start to realise its no pushover, despite its relative lowly grade. Its a big challenge and has a mythical reputation, an ephemeral route to be sought out.Climber nearing the summit of Sgurr Mhic Choinnich; the In Pinn is top left then Sgurr na Banachdich, Sgurr Thormaid, Sgurr a Ghreadaidh and the 4 tops of Sgurr a MhadaidhFebruary 26th, 2018 was an auspicious day for both (Scottish alpinist) Uisdean Hawthorn and me. Uisdean set his blisteringly-fast winter traverse record of 4 hours, 57 minutes and 7 seconds. Cuillin conditions were sublime, as good as they ever get. No records for me, but it was the day I decided that I did actually want to do a winter Cuillin Ridge traverse. Up until then I always believed the tales Id heard of it being a sufferfest; wading through deep snow, horrific bivis, complex route-finding the scope for suffering was huge. But on that day conditions were perfect, and I saw a pair of climbers moving light and fast and aiming to do it in a single day. Put me down for some of that, please!Temperature inversion; a climber high above the clouds on a snow-covered south ridge of Sgurr na BanachdichThe Cuillin Ridge deserves its reputation as the jewel in the crown of Scottish scrambling/easy climbing, but in winter conditions it becomes the equivalent of the Holy Grail and almost as elusive. Starting on Sgurr nan Gillian and finishing on Gars-bheinn, what you do in between is very much a personal choice. Some will choose to do all 11 Munros including the outlying Sgurr Dubh Mor, some may tactically bypass Bidein or even the Inaccessible Pinnacle. Most will avoid the short wall out of the TD Gap, the crux of the whole ridge. After all, theres always scope for a return match and a more complete traverse in better style.How hard is it?The SMC guide suggests a grade of IV overall with a technical grade of 6. IV doesnt really encompass the overall difficulty and sheer length of the ridge. It might lack altitude but perhaps an alpine grade of D+ might be more fitting. Most of the ridge is grade II territory with short sections of III and a couple of pitches of IV. The east ridge of the Inaccessible Pinnacle (IV, 4) and the exit from the TD Gap (IV, 6) will be the cruxes, but both can be bypassed. The grades dont sound hard by modern standards, but underestimate them at your peril. Its important to remember that these grades are for good conditions and can rise a lot if conditions arent perfect, so be prepared depending on how the winter delivers.Like a summer traverse, the vast majority of the ridge will need to be soloed, so the main skill is the ability to move reasonably fast and safely over terrain where a slip or fall could be your last. Confidence and fitness to traverse miles of exposed ridge will be the key to success.Climber on the summit of Sgurr Dubh Mor during a two day traverse; this outlying Munro is often missed out since it isnt actually on the ridgePreparationGet the mileage in. Theres no substitute for being hill fit and having your winter climbing skills dialed in. Any big winter routes will be good training; better still, multiple routes or enchainments to simulate the distances involved. Tower Ridge on Ben Nevis and Liathach in Torridon are obvious training routes, but just keep in mind how much bigger the Cuillin Ridge will be. The best preparation would be an extended visit to Skye to recce bits of the ridge if you dont already know it well. Whilst tempting to head to the technical difficulties like the In Pinn or TD Gap, time would be better spent getting to know the more complex sections such as Bidein and The Four tops of Sgurr a Mhadaidh. Either of these gives a good idea of the complex navigation involved, the exposure and some typical abseils.StrategyOne day or two will be the primary decision, and this will be largely dependent on your fitness and experience levels. Back in 2018 I did the ridge twice in two weeks, so Ill offer a few thoughts on both options. Two days will involve an overnight bivi with the consequent need to carry a lot of extra gear and this, together with the long, cold nights, makes things verge towards the sufferfest end of the spectrum. Traditionally, this has been the approach most people take and in perfect conditions it can be a great choice, really accentuating the alpine length and nature of the route. I have to confess that I never really considered this option seriously, due to not wanting to spoil the traverse with large packs.The second time I did it was in a day, and now, with hindsight, that would be my preferred option. It was a mega-long day (awake for about 21 hours) but it felt more satisfying and a real bonus was not having to carry bivi gear or struggle to get going after a cold night out. I think many people will opt for this approach, especially if snow conditions are great. For many potential winter traversers, an ultra-long but lightweight day is preferable to two days with a big pack.A third option is to cache bivi gear, or coerce friends into bringing it up for you. In many ways this is the best of all worlds, since you travel light yet get a bivi up high. However, you are absolutely dependent on reaching your preplaced gear. This was the option for my first traverse and worked really well, having all the pros and none of the cons light packs and also a night out in the Cuillin but it does require special friends (or, in my case, a wife) to ferry in and carry out all the bivi gear!High above Loch Coruisk with Sgurr na Stri beyond it, heading up to the main summit of Sgurr a MhadaidhTacticsBe flexible and ready to amend your plan on the hoof. There are bypasses available for some of the more technical or complicated bits of the route, so if progress is slow then consider traversing below Bidein on the Glen Brittle side, or descending out of the TD Gap on the Coire a Ghrunnda side rather than battling with the IV,6 exit climb.On a more general note, do whatever possible to make things easy. Examples include ascending Sgurr nan Gillian by its west ridge and leaving your pack at the bealach rather than humping it up and down. Play to your strengths and divide roles accordingly; on my first traverse, my partner was by far the better climber and I had no qualms about letting him lead, since hed be much faster. Conversely, route-finding was down to me due to my local knowledge.Direction of travelIt makes sense to start on Sgurr nan Gillian and finish on Gars-bheinn, the opposite of a summer traverse. This means many difficulties can be abseiled, especially the Bhastier Tooth and Kings Chimney. The disadvantage of this is the finish on Gars-bheinn and especially the long walk out which can be a bit of an anti-climax.Sun, sea and snow; abseiling off the western end of the In Pinn, with the island of Rum visible in the distanceAbseilsExpect a lot of abseils. If the ridge has been busy then anchors will be in place, but its always best to have your own tat and a knife. Like everything on the ridge, the abseiling needs to be slick and efficient.1. West Ridge, Sgurr nan Gillian, Tooth Chimney2. Am Bastier3. Kings Cave Chimney4. North Peak of Bidein5. Central Peak of Bidein6. Second Top of Sgurr a Mhadaidh7. Third Top of Sgurr a Mhadaidh8. The Inaccessible Pinnacle9. Sgurr Mhic Choinnich, Kings Chimney10. TD GapThe faff factorWith so much ground to cover there is no time for faffing. Everything needs to be well organised from rope handling and deployment to nutrition and hydration. Arrange your pack with essential near the top and ready to hand.Clothing & EquipmentThis is a route for experienced winter climbers only, so only a few basic points are made below. Anyone doing the ridge is assumed to have a good knowledge and experience level of winter skills and, as such, should already own the necessary gear and know how to use it. Given the length of the route, light is very much right so pare things to a minimum. Because this is a route that should only be entertained by experienced climbers these are just a few thoughts rather than a comprehensive list.Climbing gear: This will very much depend on personal ability and conditions. Dont go mad with a huge rack which will end up being carried for 95% of the route. We took a 60m rope, slings, Rocks 3, 4, 6, 8 and the three smallest Rockcentrics. You could probably just about get away with a 50m rope (the Kings Cave Chimney abseil is 25m, as is Kings Chimney) but the extra metres are definitely useful. Abseil tat and knife.Axes and crampons: Simple and light dont need to be overly technical. I used an ancient pair of DMM Flys but Petzl SumTecs would be ideal. Take two ice tools each.Clothing: Light and functional. Personal favourites include Arcteryx Alpha FL and Marmot Precip overtrousers. Both are light and very functional. The likes of Rab, Mountain Equipment and Montane have suitable options of course. Gloves are crucial; take more pairs than you think necessary so you always have spares and dry ones available. During our perfect-condition traverse, I didnt wear waterproofs at all, just softshell trousers and top.Sunrise on Sgurr Dubh na Da Bheinn; this is where you have to decide whether to head out to Sgurr Dubh Mor or miss it and head straight to Sgurr nan Eag and Gars-bheinnPack: Tough, light and simple. I use Built To Sends X series, but there are suitable packs from the likes of Rab, Gregory, Deuter, Exped and so on.Bivi gear: Nights can be very long so either be prepared to suffer or go well equipped and put up with a hefty pack. Keep gas cylinders in your sleeping bag so the cold doesnt effect them. Melt water at night and fill water bottles so as to save time in the morning (and also serves as hot water bottles overnight).Food and waterDepends on one or two day option but think of high energy and, above all, palatable. You are going to burn a huge amount of calories, so plan accordingly. Eat well the day before and eat little and often on the big day/s. Food is the fuel that will keep you going. Carry lots of snacks that are easily accessible in pockets for food on the go. If you bivi, its going to be a long night so have plenty of food, brew materials and gas. Unlike a summer traverse, water will not be an isuse. Consider taking a small gas stove even on a one-day attempt to melt snow. The morale boost of a hot drink is huge and the weight saving of not having to carry a days worth of water is great.Typical easy but very exposed terrain high above Harta and Lota Coires on An CaistealNavigationPrior knowledge of the ridge is good but winter-specific knowledge is best since youll be going in the opposite direction to summer. The Harvey Map is the gold standard for the Cuillin; its larger scale and greater detail is far superior to the Ordnance Survey. Maps and GPS are good but no substitute for previous knowledge and experience. If conditions are good then the ridge will probably receive a lot of interest, so the ridge may well be tracked out but dont blindly follow the tracks; keep switched on and always have a degree of caution. Navigation is one of the reasons why good conditions are pretty much essential. Poor visibility will hamper progress unless you have an intimate knowledge of the ridge.Weather and ConditionsThe Cuillin weather is notoriously fickle, its proximity to the sea and the maritime climate making for rapidly changing conditions. Your best chance will be December to April, but suitable conditions may come and go fast so you need to keep an eye on forecasts and social media and be prepared to get to Skye PDQ. Heavy snowfall then a period of high pressure and stable weather is the key. According to one of the first ascentionists, Tom Patey, the major prerequisite is a heavy dump of snow with minimal wind so the white stuff is not stripped from the ridge. Next, a brief thaw right up to ridge level then a freeze followed by good stable weather would be ideal. Dont be put off if the ridge looks black and snow-free from glen level, since the perfect conditions of consolidated snow on the crest may only be apparent from, well, on the ridge itself.The winter ridge is a route worth waiting for. In pristine nick, both progress along it and the views will be bliss but the opposite is also true; deep, unconsolidated snow will just be hard graft. In those perfect conditions, some bits will be easier than in summer. The Bad Step on Am Bastier can be banked-out with snow. An Dorus is sometimes completely smoothed out, a graceful arc of compact nevee rather than the summer climb/scramble down and back out. Scree slopes, a curse in summer, can be a romp in winter.Climber in Sgurr Sgumain bivi cave; not quite on the ridge but a photo that shows the magic of the Cuillin in winter, and also a useful refuge to know aboutCommitmentAlthough alpine in length, the Cuillin Ridge is fairly accessible. Skye might be a long drive from southern England, but once you are on the ridge its not as committing as its length and grade might suggest. There are multiple points where you can escape and be down on the Glen Brittle road in a couple of hours, which bodes well if the weather changes or you decide to abandon your attempt for various reasons. These are all marked in the Cicerone guide book (see details in the info box opposite).SummaryIf you are considering attempting a winter traverse of the Cuillin (and havent been put off by this article!), ideally youll be looking for;Well consolidated snow for fast and easy progressGood visibility to aid navigationLow windsA good level of fitnessA suitable partner of equal ability, fitness and experienceTime off workNot quite lottery-winning odds exactly, but you are going to need a few stars in alignment for a good chance of success and a big bag of luck never does any harm. Its a challenge, but an achievable one for many, given good conditions. Another quote from Tom Patey sums things up beautifully; there are many harder and more exacting routes and many more still to be explored, yet I feel confident that this achievement will retain its place as the greatest single adventure in winter mountaineering.Abseil from Am BastierTHE KNOWLEDGEGetting there: A car is pretty much essential given the paucity of public transport in winter. Hitchhiking pre Covid used to be easy but now is all but impossible. Being a linear route, returning to your transport can be problematic and two cars make sense. Pre place one at Glen Brittle for the finish and return to Sligachan in the other for the start.When to go: December to early April, but there are no guarantees that the route will be in condition even during those months.Where to stay: The hardy and skint will sleep in their car or van but other possibilities are Skye Base Camp in Broadford and The Glen Brittle Memorial Hut or the bunkhouse at The Old Inn at Carbost.Guide book: Cicerones Skyes Cuillin Ridge Traverse (below), written by the author of this article is the definitive guide to tackling the Cuillin ridge in both winter and summer. Extensive use is made of photo topos to show the route and various options and bypasses. Waymarked points link the topos to 1:12,500 Harvey mapping and a route description. The book has been described by Simon Richardson of www.scotwinter.com thus: Clearly a huge amount of local knowledge, experience, thought and care have gone into this production. Adrian Trendall and Cicerone should be congratulated for an outstanding publication. For more info, go towww.cicerone.co.ukFurther readingThe recently-published Fox Of Glencoe is all about Hamish MacInnes but has a wonderful chapter by Tom Patey about the first-ever winter traverse, so its well worth a read even just to let you know what you are letting yourself in for! More info at www.scottishmountaineeringpress.comAdrian Trendall is a Skye-based outdoor instructor where he runs www.allthingscuillin.co.uk with his partner Bridgette Blackmore

Amanda Travis gives her top 10 reasons for buying a roof tent and in particular, a hardshell roof tent like the Alpkit Nest that shes been testing over the last few monthsMy partner (T&M Editor) Chris and I have been on numerous camping trips together over the years, be it hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, spending a month trekking in Nepal, or sleeping at nearly 4000m on a glacier in minus 250C temperatures but as much as I enjoy waking up in some remote mountain location, Im also a firm believer that you dont need to rough it for the sake of it. One thing weve come to realise is that theres no one perfect way to travel, but a roof tent like the Alpkit Nest could be ideal for those looking to find a balance between sleeping in natural places while also maintaining a bit of comfort.1. Quick to set up (and pack down)Just unclip the buckles and the hydraulic struts do the restSet-up is ridiculously quick2. More comfortableWith a thick mattress in situ, and an insulated roof, the Nest is far comfier and warmer than a ground tent3. Leave your bedding in the NestNo need to keep moving sleeping bags, blankets or pillows in and out of your car, just leave them where they areWarmer and more comfortable than a ground tent4. Wet weather not such a problemIts easier to stay dry with a roof tent, plus youll avoid having to pack up, pitch or carry a wet flysheet in your car5. Cheaper than a campervanThe cost of a Nest is a fraction that of a decent campervan, yet you get the most important benefits of owning a campervan: convenience and comfortGo places that a big and bulky campervan or mobile home may not be able to go6. New vehicle, no problemAs and when you change/update your car, you can just swap your rooftent overIf you change your vehivle, you neednt ditch your roof tent7. Off the groundTheres something about being off the ground that feels safer and, when it comes to ticks and other beasties, you most definitely are!8. Camp anywhereFrom fully-serviced campsites to the middle of nowhere, the Nest allows you to camp in almost any placeBeing off the ground has its advantages9. Go anywhereUnlike a campervan or motorhome, you can go wherever your car will take you, including narrow lanes (think of parts of the NC500!) or even off-road if you have a 44Wake up to a great view every morning10. The views!Theres nothing like waking up somewhere beautiful, unzipping the Nests flaps and enjoying stunning views over a cup of coffee.More info on the Alpkit Nest at: www.alpkit.com

Much-loved British outdoors brand Alpkit have announced new investment and a restructure after falling into administration this week.The seamless transition means that all their stores remain open, customer orders are being fulfilled, and their lifetime technical guarantee, the Alpine Bond, remains as strong as ever.In a statement today, the firm says that financially, times have been tough. Weve faced a triple threat of macro-economic pressures over the last 3 years: rapid cost inflation, a challenging retail environment, and new trade barriers while servicing post-pandemic recovery loans. Our Board has worked extensively over recent months to explore options and find a way to secure our future. This work has resulted in our securing new investment via a pre-pack process. The pre-pack process means that Alpkit briefly went into administration so that the company could be purchased by our new investor.The financial restructuring means that we can continue to do what we do offering you technical outdoor gear that works hard but costs less. The new investment also means all 194 of our jobs across our retail, warehouse, manufacturing and central teams remain.Well continue to be led by our existing team. Incoming investor Jeroen van den Berge, an experienced investor, operator and outdoor enthusiast, will join as Non-Executive Chair and support us as we continue to grow.What does this mean for the customers who have bought shares in the company in recent years? Well, Alpkit sat that they have written to their shareholders to share the news that, by Alpkit being put into administration, they have lost the value of their shares but, that all existing crowdfund shareholders will be offered a stake in the new company.David Hanney, CEO of Alpkit: While today is a day of reflection on the challenges that led to this restructureand we deeply regret the impact on our creditors, partners and shareholdersit is also the start of a vital new chapter. Under new ownership, Alpkit becomes a well-funded, more resilient business. We are keeping our team together and our purpose unchanged: to help people Go Nice Places, Do Good Things.Jeroen van den Berge, the new investment partner and Non-Exec Chair, said What excites me about Alpkit is the strong heritage and values, leading product credentials, direct-to-consumer model and loyal membership base. I also share the teams vision of Alpkit becoming a home to other complimentary brands, similar to what was achieved with Trakke. I look forward to supporting David and the team during the next phase of their exciting journey.More info: www.alpkit.com

2026 marks the 60th anniversary for one of the UKs best-loved outdoor brands Vango and to celebrate, the Scottish-based company has launched a range of limited edition products including the latest incarnation of their classic A-frame tent.Spanning tents, awnings, sleeping accessories and rucksacks, the collection draws on iconic design details from the brands reliable heritage, combined with modern performance-led technology to rework classic styles alongside fresh new silhouettes. Its a nod to the gear that shaped generations of outdoor memories, updated for todays campers and adventurers, with product dropping in phases across 2026, in time for the camping season ahead.Our 60th anniversary represents a major milestone for Vango and a chance to celebrate the heritage, innovation and trust that our products have been built on for generations. While were proud of where weve come from, the focus is very much on whats next. The months ahead will see a series of exciting product drops that showcase how were evolving the range while staying true to the performance and reliability Vango is known for. Ryan Aldridge, Head of Marketing.F10 Banshee UL1 300.00A true Force Ten icon, the F10 Banshee UL1 reworks the instantly recognisable Banshee silhouette into a modern ultralight tent. Built with PFC-free Protex 10D ripstop fabric and updated external poles to reduce weight while maximising internal space, its designed for solo adventurers looking to travel lighter without compromising performance.F10 Banshee UL2 350.00Designed for lightweight adventures with a partner, the F10 Banshee UL2 combines the legendary Banshee shape with modern materials and construction. Featuring PFC-free Protex 10D ripstop fabric and redesigned external poles, it delivers trusted Force Ten protection with improved space, stability and reduced pack weight.F10 Classic UL2 500.00A celebration of Force Ten heritage, the Classic UL2 takes the iconic A-frame tent design and reimagines it in an ultralight format. With fully carbon poles and PFC-free Protex 10D ripstop fabric, it offers exceptional strength, stability and weight savings. A modern take on a true expedition classic.F10 Ultra 5.5 150.00Designed for adventurers pushing their limits, the F10 Ultra 5.5 sleeping mat offers exceptional warmth-to-weight performance in a compact, packable design. Featuring ARC (Advanced Reflective Coating) technology, air-filled welded channels and a durable recycled nylon shell, it delivers comfort and insulation without unnecessary weight.F10 Ultra 150 325.00Lightweight, compact and performance-driven, the Force Ten Ultra 150 sleeping bag is built for fast-moving adventures. With 150g of high-fill-power goose down, ARC heat-reflective technology and a hydro barrier coating to maintain insulation in damp conditions, it provides reliable warmth when conditions are unpredictable.F10 Ultra 35L 150.00The F10 Ultra 35L pack adapts to every adventure thanks to its innovative three-mode design. Switch between Ultra, Fast and Day modes to balance capacity, weight and stability, whether heading out on a multi-day trip, fast-pack mission or short day hike.More info: www.vango.co.uk

As conditions get colder and winter days get shorter, its worth having a hard think about what extras you should consider packing for a day in the mountains.The combination of cold, wet, snow and wind delete or add as applicable means its far easier to find yourself in trouble than it is in milder conditions, but with a few carefully chosen additions to your pack, you can make things more comfortable and, if it all goes pear shaped, safer too.The Big PictureTheres an old mountaineering cliche that says if you go out with the kit you need to overnight in the hills, the extra weight means youll inevitably use it. Theres a kernel of truth to that, but with lightweight modern gear, you can up your margins without overloading yourself. Its worth embracing a what if attitude. What would you do if you, say, broke your ankle and couldnt walk out unassisted? What if you lost your hat or gloves or map in a gust of wind? What if you get caught out in the dark? Bear in mind that if youre part of a group, you can spread spare kit around. If youre on your own, you need to be self sufficient.Insulated JacketMost people kick out a fair amount of heat while theyre on the move, but stop for even a short time in cold conditions and youll cool down fast. That can be uncomfortable on a snack stop, but potentially dangerous if youre immobile for any length or time, but an accident for example. Our advice is always to carry an additional warm, but reasonably light jacket to throw on when needed. In cold, dry mountain conditions common in the Alps for example, down is a good balance between warmth and weight. In the damp cold of UK hills though, synthetic fills are a better bet thanks to their superior resilience to the wet. In the worst case scenario, where youre caught out and forced to bivi, a warm jacket could save your life.Spare Hat And GlovesLosing your hat in summer is inconvenient, maybe uncomfortable. In the middle of a Cairngorm hoolie, its potentially deadly. You lose a lot of heat from your head. Thats why you should pack a spare hat as a matter of course. An alternative is a hooded mid-layer, which isnt going anywhere. Similarly, cold and frozen hands simply stop working. That in turn means your ability to use a map and compass, GPS or mobile phone are all severely compromised. The sames true if your main gloves get cold and soaked out. A back-up pair is a good call.Waterproof OvertrousersIts amazing how many walkers and climbers obsess over their waterproof jacket, but barely give a thought to their legs. In summer, wet legs are uncomfortable rather than dangerous, but in winter conditions, soaked legs will lose heat fast, particularly if your legwear isnt windproof. Even a basic pair of lightweight waterproof overtrousers will make a big difference when the weather turns properly nasty.A Vacuum FlaskNo-ones saying that a hot drink will literally save your life, but dont under-estimate the morale-boosting magic of a hot drink or a cup of lunchtime soup. The good news is that like everything else, vacuum flasks are getting lighter and more compact. Something like the new GSI Microlite is claimed to be a third lighter than comparable alternatives. All you have to do is make the effort to brew-up before you head out. Top tip: pre-warm the bottle before adding your drink or soup.A Headtorch Or TwoYou should be carrying an emergency headtorch in your pack all year round, but in winter conditions particularly if youre out on your own its well worth also carrying a lightweight back-up like the Petzl Bindi or Black Diamond Iota in case your main torch fails. Think that wont happen? Leo Houlding finds headtorches so unreliable that he packs up to four of them for his bigger trips. And in cold conditions, batteries struggle to produce the same power as the cold slows the chemical reactions inside the battery cells, which can drastically reduce burn time and battery life. If your headtorch has replaceable batteries, carry some spares. Keeping them in an inside pocket will also help.Electrical Back-Up And A Spare MapWeve already mentioned the way that cold conditions, particularly sub-zero stuff, disagrees with battery technology. Thats even more crucial if you use a GPS or a mobile phone. Given that an emergency call could save your life or someone elses it makes a lot of sense to carry a small back-up power pack. If possible store it close to your body to keep it working. Similarly an inside pocket is a good place for your mobile or other electricals. Finally, a back-up map is a winter essential even if your primary nav tool is a phone or GPS. Ask yourself what would happen if your electrics fail and your primary map yes, you should have a map regardless and know how to use it blows away. If youre part of a group, make sure you have several maps between you.A Survival ShelterForget space blankets, which are next to useless and tear apart in high winds, youre far better off with a Blokka Bag or group survival shelter, a sort of rudimentary tent available in various sizes which you can throw over two or more people while they sit on their packs for insulation from the cold ground. Compared to a survival bag, group shelters score by sharing body heat in a small space and as a morale booster. As a bonus, they also make brilliant temporary shelters for lunch-stops on winter days. If youre flying solo, an emergency bivi bag makes more sense. An interesting option is the Blizzard Survival range which combines wind and waterproofing with insulation claimed to be similar to a medium weight regular sleeping bag.Snow And Ice GearIf youre heading out in full winter conditions, you should have appropriate axe or axes and crampons as a matter of course, but another option on those days when you might just encounter small amounts of frozen snow or ice is to carry a pair of micro-crampons. Theyre not a replacement for crampons in full winter conditions, but the combination of low profile points, light weight and the ability to be used with pretty much any footwear makes them a brilliant call if, for example, you find yourself descending a steep, rocky path liberally coated with frozen snow melt or water ice, where you can flat foot. Were absolutely not suggesting you use them on proper steep ground, on softer snow or anywhere you cant place the full sole of the boot, but as an occasional stand-by they can work brilliantly.Wont All This Extra Kit Weigh A Ton?Actually, no. The great thing about modern gear is that new technologies and lighter fabrics mean that pretty much everything in our Winter Extras list is now lighter and more compact than ever before. A respectably warm insulated jacket these days can weigh 500g or less. The little Petzl Bindi headtorch is just 36 grammes. A Lifesystems Ultralight Survival Shelter for two weighs just 215g. A set of Kahtoola Microspikes will set you back around 360g and lighter options are available. The bottom line is that you can make your life safer without adding a whole lot of weight to your pack. Christmas present list anyone?One of the UKs most experienced outdoor gear testers, Peak District-based Jon has developed a curious fascination for the in and outs of the latest gear. Mostly though he just like being in the hills.

Dacia, the car brand driven by outdoor adventure, is preparing to open its Million-Star Hotel in Scotlands Galloway Forest Park for a limited time only, offering space lovers a chance to witness one of the years biggest interplanetary moments from the comfort of a Dacia Bigster this February.Dacias Million-Star Hotel is made up of a fleet of roomy Bigster, the brands popular SUV, temporarily stationed in Galloway Forest Park, the UKs first certified Dark Sky Park. Each vehicle will be equipped with a panoramic sunroof and the brands overnight-ready Sleep Pack, and lined up ready for one of 2026s most anticipated interplanetary spectacles.The stellar event will give stargazers the chance to witness the rare and highly anticipated six-planet alignment, with Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, and Mercury all easy to spot with the naked eye.On 14 January 2026, Dacia launched a free-to-enter ballot in which the public can secure one of the Million-Star Hotels five Bigsters for an all-expenses-paid one-night luxury stay.Combined with the SUVs panoramic roof, Dacias innovative Sleep Pack accessory transforms each Bigster into the perfect mobile overnight base camp for space seekers. It consists of a foldaway double bed with a 190cm mattress that converts into a tray table for picnics and provides extra storage for luggage. With this, Dacia redefines the luxury night away, proving it isnt defined by excess, but by the essentials in the best locations.Guests will be able to kayak and fish in Loch Doon, as well as enjoy food cooked over open flame.A Dark Sky Park such as Galloway Forest Park offers near-perfect astronomical viewing thanks to protection from light pollution. Not only does this mean the planetary parade will be seen at its brightest, but even more stars will fill the night sky, too. The park was given official Dark Sky Park status in 2009, when it was only the fourth place in the world to earn this international accreditation.Fuelled by social media trends and headline-grabbing astro-tourism projects, astronomy as a hobby is booming in the Gen-Z demographic. In 2025, retailers reported soaring YoY sales of telescopes and binoculars.The Dacia Million-Star Hotel will host the winners of its ballot on the 25 and 26 of February 2026. Food, drink, and astronomy equipment will be provided, as well as everything needed for a comfortable night of stargazing and sleep.For more info and to enter visit: dacia.co.uk/million-star-hotel

British outdoor and mountain brand Rab (owned by Equip Outdoor Technologies Ltd.) and The British Association of Mountain Guides (BMG) have announced a comprehensive five-year partnership, which will see the popular UK brand supporting internationally qualified Mountain Guides who operate in the worlds most challenging environments.The BMG is the UKs national association for Mountain Guides. Every British Mountain Guide holds the IFMGA carnet the only internationally recognised guiding qualification representing years of exceptional training, assessment, and experience, across climbing, mountaineering, and ski mountaineering. The carnet allows the holder to guide on any mountain terrain, worldwide.The British Association of Mountain Guides are proud to be working with Rab as our main sponsor. Almost fifty years ago, Rab Carrington made an alpine style ascent of Jannu, arguably his most significant mountaineering achievement, climbing alongside Roger Baxter Jones and Brian Hall, who both became British Mountain Guides says Tom Ripley, BMG Marketing Officer. He adds: Fast forward to 2026 and we are excited to be officially working with Rab, one of the leading manufacturers of mountain apparel and equipment. We both have a long and shared history, a shared ethos towards excellence in the mountains, and a sincere commitment to reducing our environmental impact. Our members are looking forward to giving Rab gear a thorough testing in the worlds mountains.This partnership is about a shared passion for the mountains, for excellence, and for fostering education around mountain safety, says Jessica Burton, Rabs UK Marketing Manager. We are extremely proud to work alongside British Mountain Guides. They are dedicated mountain professionals, qualified to operate on any mountain, on any continent. Their lifelong commitment to their craft aligns perfectly with our values as mountain people.The partnership will see Rab providing comprehensive apparel and equipment support for British Mountain Guides, as well as Trainee and Aspirant Mountain Guides. Itll also involve product development feedback for Rabs most technical mountain collections.Tim Fish, Product Director at Rab, comments: We know that British Mountain Guides are working in some of the harshest mountain environments, and our kit needs to keep them safe and comfortable. This provides the ideal testing ground for our most technical products, and were looking forward to working closely with the Guides to ensure our products remain at the forefront of mountain gear design.Rab and The BMG will also work together on initiatives to increase diversity and support female Guides entering the profession, and focusing on educational activities to help minimise environmental impact in the mountains.Several Rab athletes are British Mountain Guides, including Libby Peter, Paul Swail, Ben Tibbetts and friends of Trek & Mountain Jon Gupta, Calum Muskett (pictured above) and Polly Harmer, which shows the existing natural alignment between the brand and the guiding community.More info: www.rab.equipment, www.bmg.org.uk

We test out a mountaineering down jacket that offers superb warmth-to-weight performance... and at a great priceReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersLa Sportiva are one of the dominant mountain footwear brands in the UK, beloved of mountain professionals and weekend warriors alike, but you dont see as much of their clothing out on the hill as home-grown brands such as Rab, Berghaus and Mountain Equipment. That may well change though if they bring out more products such as this Lumina 200 down jacket an extremely high-spec piece that comes with a surprisingly low pricetag for what it is offering. Too good to be true? Lets find outThe SpecsThe specs of the Lumina 200 are really impressive the jacket contains 125g of 1000-fillpower down, with an overall weight of just 250g. The outer is made from Pertex QUANTUM 100% Recycled Polyamide, which is a very light and downproof material, but also pretty durable. The Diamond Fuse technology means that the yarns it uses have diamond-shaped filaments that lock together to create a durable and highly abrasion-resistant fabric. In our experience the fabric is quite resistant to scraping against rocks and ice, or pack straps rubbing against it; however, it (unsurprisingly) doesnt like sharp-edges such as crampon points or ice axe picks.The down filling of the Lumina 200 is extremely high qualityThe quality of the down inside the Lumina 200 is about as good as you can get, and La Sportiva go as far as to say the Lumina 200 has likely the best warmth-to-weight ratio in the world. Certainly what you immediately notice about the Lumina 200 is that its incredibly lofty; its baffles appear almost to be bursting, such is the puffiness of their contents. The baffles themselves are arranged in a vertical chevron pattern on the torso, at front and rear, with smaller panels at the sides, to allow movement, and shoulders. The baffle construction throughout is stitch-through rather than boxwall, which saves weight but is of course less draftproof, as cool air can enter at the seams.Luminas hood has a rear volume adjustor and is elasticated around the faceGiven its very low weight, its not surprising that the Lumina 200s features are fairly minimal. The cuffs are elasticated rather than having Velcro tabs, and the hood has a combination of an elasticated hem around the face and a volume adjustor at the back. A single pull-tab is located at the hem for keeping drafts out. You get two zipped handwarmer pockets, and these are roomy enough to accommodate a winter glove in each, and the main zipper is two-way, which is always handy whether for belaying or taking a comfort break. La Sportiva have made sensible compromises to save weight, but if you want more bells and whistles then clearly you need to look elsewhere.You wont be missed on the mountain with the Luminas vibrant colourwaysIn UseAs well as being light, the Lumina 200 is superbly packable; when packed inside its supplied stuffsack its only about 22cm (l) by 15cm (d), which means you dont have to think twice before lobbing it in your pack. The fit is fairly snug but can accommodate at least one midlayer underneath. With the hem coming down over the hips, and the hood covering the lower part of your face, inside the Lumina in the cold is a pleasant place to be. The outer fabric is treated with a PFC-free DWR coating, so does offer some shower protection, however its important to note that the down itself is not treated with a water repellent coating so it wont stand up to heavy/persistent rain. In strong winds the stitch-through baffles are likely to let some cold air in, however the Pertex Quantum the outer shell uses is windproof itself. Speaking of the outer, as durable as it is, if you do get a cut or hole in it you can repair it using the included repair kit a nice touch.Packed-down Lumina 200 besides a 1L Nalgene bottleSo who is the Lumina 200 aimed at? Well clearly it will excel in cold and dry alpine conditions, so whether youre an elite alpinist keeping grams to the minimum, or a trekker, mountaineer or skier looking for a warm, light layer to keep in your pack, the Lumina is just the job. While its not ideally suited to typically damp British weather, its perfectly usable on cold/dry days and should also appeal to lightweight backpackers who want a warm layer for evenings around the camp, or to sling on during rest stops. If you want to step up or down from the 200 in terms of warmth, La Sportiva also offer the Lumina 100 and Lumina 300 the clue to the jackets performance is in their names, if you hadnt already guessed, with their overall weights coming in at 170g (Lumina 100), 250g (Lumina 200) and 350g (Lumina 300).Overall VerdictThe Lumina 200 seems like a bit of a steal for us at its 270 asking price. The warmth/weight performance is really outstanding, and such a packable and lightweight layer could prove to be one of the most useful pieces in your wardrobe. The Lumina 200 is suitable for a wide-range of uses/situations, however if you want even more warmth then check out the Lumina 300 which is only 100g more.More info: www.lasportiva.comSpecsMain fabric: (MFWS057) PERTEX QUANTUM 100% Recycled PolyamideOther fabrics: Lining: (MFWS058) 100% Recycled Polyamide Padding: (MEPN004) 100% Pure White Down (124g)Fit: RegularFill Power: 1000Insulation: Pure White European DownFeaturesCompression bag for packability2 hidden zippered front pockets, compatible with a harnessElasticated inner cuffs for extra warmthIntegrated hood with elasticated hem for greater cold-weather protectionDWR PFC free fabric finishing for light water repellencySuperlight Pertex Quantum fabric for robust, downproof protectionRepair kit to patch tears and rips1,000 cuin Italian down for incomparible warmth and loftSustainabilityResponsible Down StandardRecycled fabricPFC freeJoe Brown/The Climbers ShopOutside

Everyone loves a snowy ridge! Paul Lewis of Peak Mountaineering chooses 10 of his favourite Scottish ridges to climb in winterAonach Eagach Ridge, Glencoe (grade II)One of the most famous (and certainly narrowest) of the mainland ridges and a route with everything. My preference is to head east to west which means, after the initial straightforward scramble up to Am Bodach, a tricky downclimb to access the ridge proper. From there a series of narrow ridges, scrambly ground and stunning views lead, via the Munro top of Meall Dearg, to the end of any difficulties beyond Stob Coire Leith. Finding the safe descent is key, but once down at the road youll reflect on what a fantastic adventure its been. Bear in mind that the ridge is inescapable for much of its length, it has a descent that can be tricky to find and follow, the consequences of slipping off the ridge will be very serious, there are difficulties that can only be overcome with good technical skills and it is a long route thats needs fitness and speed to get it completed in a short winter day. Beyond that, the stunning location in the Glencoe valley, the continually interesting route and its place in Scottish history put it right at the top of every winter mountaineers to do list.North East Ridge of Angels Peak, Cairngorms (grade I)I have only done this once and, although it is really one to be savoured on a clear day, my ascent was in unexpectedly high winds and with heavy snow falling its definitely on the list for a revisit! The NE ridge is a great outing in a remote location and without significant technical difficulty, although is has more challenging ground near the top and parties need to be competent at route finding. My group approached from the main Lairig Ghru path until the fords across the Allt a Choire Mhir. From there we crossed the Allt na Lairig Ghru and made our way over rough ground into Garbh Choire. We were on a snow-holing adventure but there is the option to use the Garbh Choire Bothy, although I understand it is in poor condition and you may, of course, find it full anyway. Overall, a great mountaineering outing for those in search of more isolated adventures.FiacaIll Ridge, Cairngorms (grade II)Fiacaill Ridge is reached from the Cairngorm ski area and makes a pleasant option for a short day. The walk-in is pleasant and the technical difficulties although fairly short-lived are fun and satisfactorily challenging. The ridge is reached by walking below the ski lifts in a westerly direction along the well used path towards Coire an t-Sneachda (watch out for the point where the path splits after about 500m). As the path turns northwards, the broad hump of the Fiacaill Ridge, which separates Coire an t-Sneachda and Coire an Lochain, comes into view. Head across open ground and follow the blunt rib towards the more technical ground. Once the ridge is completed a nice loop can be made either towards Cairngorm or around the Coire an Lochain.Carn Mor Dearg (CMD) Arete, Ben Nevis(grade I)The CMD arete is the best easy grade winter scrambling route to the summit of Ben Nevis; on a clear day it offers stunning views of the famous cliffs of Ben Nevis North Face and is a great alternative to the tourist path. There isnt much technical ground beyond some scrambly down climbs and rocky steps, but it still requires good mountaineering judgement, particularly in winter conditions. The ridge curves in a graceful line around the head of the Coire Leis and is best reached by pathless ground after branching off from the Allt a Mhuilinn path and, after ascending steep slopes, leading over Carn Mor Meadhonach and Carn Mor Dearg to reach the ridge. Once the traverse is complete, more steep slopes lead to the summit of Ben Nevis. Its important to be aware that the descent from Ben Nevis can be particularly hazardous in winter conditions and the ridge can be dangerous in windy conditions.South East Ridge and Arete of the Cobbler (grade III)The Cobbler, at 884m, is relatively low compared to some of the peaks in this list. However, it is a majestic mountain with three shapely peaks framing the skyline. It also makes a good stopping off option for those heading up to the north or, indeed, back down to the south. The South East Ridge and Arete is an exciting traverse of the south and central peaks which offers interesting technical ground and, on a clear day, stunning vistas. The route starts at an obvious skyline ridge and what follows is a brilliant line up to the col splitting the peaks. A tricky down climb or abseil accesses the arete that then leads to the summit block. Summit selfies obligatory!Liathach, Torridon (grade II)Along with the Aonach Eagach and maybe An Teallach, the traverse of Liathach ranks right up there with the most committing of lower grade mainland ridges and, particularly in winter, it is a major undertaking. Liathach lies in Torridon which, although staggeringly beautiful, is an imposing and dramatic landscape which all adds to the drama of the route. The traverse is long, technically intricate and with few escape options attempters should ensure they have the skills required. Having said that, although sections like the traverse of the Am Fasarinen pinnacles can provide brilliant technical scrambling, there are some difficulties that can be avoided by flanking paths. I guarantee that, although the traverse will live in the memory for ever, it will also make you work for those memories!Pinnacle Ridge on Sgurr Nan Gillean, Skye(grade IV)If you have been to Skye and looked at Sgurr Nan Gillean then you will have looked up at Pinnacle Ridge. Its a big route on a big mountain feature on a big mountain and technically its the hardest route on this list (although some guidebooks give this grade IV, I would personally say the ridge settles at around grade III in most conditions), but it really does offer an absolutely brilliant mountain day out. Technically interesting ground is interspersed with stunning vistas, ground that parties can move together on and a route finding challenge to find the descent line. It will certainly draw on a broad range of mountain skills as well as the ability to ascend rocky ground in winter conditions and descending from the Third Pinnacle also requires a 20m abseil. Yes, this route really has it all!Forcan Ridge of the Saddle, Glen Shiel (grade II)A traverse of the Forcan Ridge always feels like a classic Alpine day out. Maybe it is the feeling that it is right in the heart of big mountains or maybe its the terrain -whatever it is, this is a great adventure for those with the required skills. Just driving up the A87 Glen Shiel road sets the scene and, after parking and then following the obvious stalkers path around and up on to the summit of Meallan Odhar, a broad ridge leads to the obvious crest of the Forcan Ridge. There is technically interesting ground and a notorious bad step that either needs a confident down climb or abseil, but it wont feel long enough by the time you are reaching the Saddle summit. The Scottish Avalanche Information Service forecasts dont cover this area so care needs to be taken with the snowpack, but this is sure to be a route that long lives in memory.East Ridge of the North Buttress of Stob Ban, from Glen Nevis (grade II/III)For something a little less well known the East Ridge of the North Buttress, whilst being quite a mouthful, makes a pleasant and fun day out. From the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel the summit cone of Stob Ban is a spectacular feature drawing the eye of the winter mountaineer, and this shapely mountain at a metre below the one thousander mark offers a great winter day out. The East Ridge of the North Buttress varies slightly in grade depending on the line taken, but whichever line is taken it still requires good technical and route finding ability. After a rambling but still enjoyable lower section the upper part gets more defined, and what follows is a pleasant corner followed by some lovely knife-edge aretes. The descent back into Glen Nevis, while obviously needing care, is straight forward enough.Castle Ridge, Ben Nevis (Grade III)Compared to the more sought-after ridges of Ben Nevis, Castle Ridge is prone to being overlooked. However, although it is a steeper winter route with challenging terrain and in some conditions potential avalanche danger on the approach, for those with the required skills it offers a fine mountain day out. Approach by following the Allt a Mhuillinn path towards the Charles Inglis Clark (CIC) Hut and the ridge, which is the first of the great ridges on the North Face, starts from the gully below the large buttress called The Castle. The climbing increases in difficulty as height is gained so dont be fooled into thinking it is an easy option.Thanks to the following people for contributing to this article:Paul Lewis of Peak MountaineeringDan Parry of Strath Lodge, GlencoeGary Hodgson of Tarmachan MountaineeringRocio Simens or Ibex Mountain GuidesGlenmore LodgeBen Tibbetts of Ben Tibbetts PhotographyHuw Gilbert of Huw Gilbert MountaineeringMartin Moran of Moran MountainKen Applegate of West Coast Mountain GuidesAlex Roddie