Yup that is a reality with all waterproof clothing that uses fluorocarbon-free DWRs more washing and re-proofing is required than before!

The 21st Birthday celebration at Dean Street was some event, outdoor and Mountaineering Royalty attended along with: Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison (RIP Gordon a visionary and great boss).

We test out the latest iteration of deuter's legendary Guide packReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersMany years ago when I first went to Chamonix, the deuter Guide was the pack that was on not only many of the guides backs, but also on plenty of punters backs too and it wasnt long before I succumbed and bought one myself!The reason for its popularity was firstly its uncluttered design that still managed to include all the necessary features for mountaineering, but also its absolutely bombproof build you could really give it some abuse and it would shrug it off with ease. And if you managed to ever wear one out then you were doing well!Fast forward to 2026, and we have in front of us the latest version of deuters legendary pack, and as you would expect things have changed a little in the intervening couple of decades. The most obvious difference is the weight of the pack; the 34+ 6 version we tested tips the scales at just over 1.2 kg (and the largest model in the range, the 44+6 is only about 40g heavier), and this is probably around half the weight of an equivalent sized Guide pack from 20 years ago. And thats before you take off the strippable features the lid and hipbelt fins which reduces the overall weight even further. This huge reduction in weight is mostly to do with the use of materials, of which huge advancements have been made over the years, and some canny design choices.The 2026 Guide pack is lighter than everIts also worth noting that the Guide isnt even the lightest model in deuters climbing/mountaineering rucksack range the Guide Lite models are lighter still, but in order to shed so many grams deuter have stripped back the features on these packs, so you dont get a separate lid or the pocket and gear loop found on the Guides waistbelt, and theyve also used lighter fixings such as cord in the place of compression straps on the Guide. There is also another option the Durascent packs. These are not only very light but are also waterproof, with taped seams, waterproof material and a rolltop enclosure. They are also the most expensive of deuters mountaineering packs.Light fantasticThe Guide 34+6 uses a 210gsm recycled nylon ripstop, and this is both lightweight and durable. Its a far lighter grade of fabric than the Guide packs used in the past, which in hindsight were probably a tad over-engineered (and subsequently pretty heavy), but for todays fast-and-light mountain goer, the balance the pack strikes between weight and durability is pretty much spot on. The Guide 34+6 is no heavyweight to start off with, but the great thing is that you can strip off features that you dont need for specific outings, to save even more weight. So if you can do without the hipbelt fins because the packs not fully packed or you want them out of the way while climbing, then just whip them off. Dont need the extra storage the lid provides? Off it comes. You can even remove the backplate if you like, however unless carrying really light loads we wouldnt really recommend this as comfort/stability will be compromised,The Guide is streamlined yet offers plenty of storage optionsStorage optionsLike most alpine/climbing packs, the Guide 34+6 has a sleek profile that is not encumbered by external pockets that would potentially get in the way while shimmying up chimneys or attaching gear to the outside. So the main chamber and an external pocket on the lid is where most of your kit must go. But this pack has some clever tricks up its sleeve to maximise the storage options. The Guide comes with a stretchy helmet holder which attaches to the front of the pack via shock cord/toggles and frees up space in the main compartment. As well as the pocket on the lid, you also have a small, zipped pocket on the inside of the pack, and this is ideal for stowing keys and other valuables. On one side of the hipbelt you have a gear loop and on the other theres a small zipped pocket, ideal for snacks, gels, penknife etc. You even get a little stretchy sunglasses-holder on the chest straps, and its these numerous details that show how well thought-out the pack is. But the biggest secret weapons the Guide has with regard to storage is its extendable lid, and its direct-access zip to the main compartment. By extending the lid straps and over-filling the main compartment, you can get the full 40L capacity the Guide offers, and this will be especially useful when either winter mountaineeting or ski touring/mountaineering, when you will be carrying a fair amount of kit. And a killer feature on this type of pack is the U-shaped, dirct-access zip to the main compartment. This is invaluable when you need to access specific items of gear quickly, such as snow safety equipment (probe, shovel etc) in the unfortunate eventuality that youre caught in an avalanche.The well-padded lumbar pad and removable hipbeltBack systemThe Alpine backsystem found on the Guide has been developed over many years, and essentially consists of an ergonomically-shaped PE backplate with a sewn-in spring steel frame that gives stability and support even when filled to the maximum recommended weight of 12kg, plus strategically-positioned cushioning at the lumbar and upper-back areas, which provide both comfort and ventilation. The straps and hipbelt are also an important part of the carry system, and again deuter seem to have hit a sweet spot in terms of the amount of cushioning provided here without adding too much weight. As mentioned previously, the hipbelt can be removed if required, however given that the hipbelt should take the strain when carrying heavier loads, we would recommend that this is left in place during walk-ins. The backplate itself could conceivably be used to sit or lie on if sleeping/resting on a rocky ledge, however since it is rigid (unlike some others which are foam-based) then dont expect too much comfort! Overall the Guides backsystem provides about as much comfort, support and ventilation as you could expect from a lightweight alpine pack, and any upgrade to this would surely add too much weight.In useWhat I like the most about this pack is its versatility. If youre into the more technical end of mountain activities, you could well be doing scrambling, alpine summer, Scottish winter, ski touring, via ferrata during the course of the year, and this pack due to its features and volume can really do it all. For climbing/scrambling you have a light and sleek pack that doesnt get in the way when moving on rock, and you can remove the lid and hipbelt fins after youve reached your route; plus you can use the side compression straps to reduce the pack size further once youve removed kit. For alpine or winter mountaineering you have the extra storage that the extendable lid provides, as well as the provision for carrying kit on the outside of the pack; ice axe attachments, helmet holder and a rope strap that enable you to carry a rope under the packs lid. And for ski touring/mountaineering the U-shaped direct-access zipper is a brilliant feature that enables you to get to essential kit quicker (e.g. shovel/probe), while skis can be carried in an A-frame configuration. Theres nothing to stop you using the Guide for day hikes either, of course; the pack doesnt have stretchy side drinks pockets, but it is hydration-system compatibe, so theres no need to go thirsty!In terms of quibbles, we didnt find much to fault the Guide 34+6 on. The packs hipbelt is an all or nothing situation, in that you can either have it on or not. Some alpine packs give you the option of just removing the padding and using a strap to keep the pack stable, however the Guide doesnt offer this. A strap on its own doesnt have any comfort or support benefits, however it does help prevent the pack moving around, so that could pethaps be seen as one small area where this pack could be improved.The author using a previous (heavier!) incarnation of the Guide while scrambling on TryfanVerdictThe Guide has come a long way; its always been a great pack, but has now been thoroughly modernised and updated to cater for the demands of the modern mountaineer. Todays technical mountain goer is likely to be participating in a range of activities throughout the year from rock climbing and scrambling, to mountaineering in the Alps in the summer and Scotland in winter, to a ski touring trip here, and a via ferrata route there and the Guide manages to cater for all of these activities, in a pack that is full of features yet is light and streamlined. The attention to detail is really impressive, and theres features that we havent even mentioned in this review, such as its SOS label and emergency whistle, or its internal wet compartment. We also havent talked about its sustainable credentials, which include the use of recycled fabrics, the absence of PFAS forever chemicals, and its certifications from Bluesign, ClimatePartner and Green Button.If youre in the market for an all-round technical backpack then you must check out the Guide range (and also the Guide Lite and Durascent models) as these really will fit the bill for many outdoorists who are involved in technical mountain activities.More info at: www.deuter.co.ukWeight: 1210gBackpack volume: 34 litresDimensions: 66 / 29 / 24 (L x W x D) cmRecommended load: 6-12 kgBack length: 44-54 cmFeaturesSOS labelDetachable hip finsFront opening with J-shaped zipperExternal compression straps at the sidesHip fin pocket with zipper closureGreen Button certifiedClimatePartner certified productErgonomic & padded shoulder strapsBluesign productWet compartment insideLid compartment outsideHydration compatible (up to 3L)Height-adjustable lidDetachable lidMade without PFASBody fabric recycledSki attachment at the sideAlpine back systemRope strapKey clipIce axe attachment on both sidesGlasses stow systemDetachable mesh helmet holderRemovable backplateSafety whistleSternum strap buckle with one-handed operationPull-Forward adjustmentErgonomic & padded hip finsVariFlex hip finsActiveFit shoulder strapsTop-loader with drawcord & lid closureBluesign certified body fabricStabilizer strapsHip fins with gear loop and ice clipper slotStockists of the deuter Guide 34+6 include:www.outside.co.ukwww.climbersshop.com

As he prepares to head to Nepal to attempt a record-breaking 20th (for a Western climber) summit of Everest, we chat to Kenton Cool about what motivates him to go back, how climbers can do their part in promoting sustainability on the mountain, and what to look for when choosing which guiding or logistics company to go withWhat motivates you to keep returning to Everest: records, money, love of the mountain/people/culture or all of the above?Ive got a deep affection for the mountain itself her history, her size, her sheer presence. You cant spend that many seasons on Everest without forming a bond with the mountain. The people are a huge part of it too. The Sherpa community have been my friends and colleagues for decades; returning each year feels a bit like coming home. Yes, guiding is my profession, and of course theres a financial element I have a family to support but if it were just about money, Id have stopped a long time ago. In truth, its the combination of culture, camaraderie, challenge and the privilege of helping others realise a lifelong dream.Youve climbed from both sides of Everest; how do they compare and do you have a preference?Ive actually only ever climbed from the South Side (Nepal) and its where my relationships with the Sherpa and knowledge of the mountain have formed. People often ask whether Id like to try the North. Perhaps one day. But the South Side has given me everything I could hope for: challenge, beauty, camaraderie, and a deep connection to the people who make the whole endeavour possible.Kenton could tick off his 20th Everest summit this season if all goes to planWhat are the main environmental factors affecting Everest at the moment?The big three in my opinion: 1. Climate change The Khumbu Icefall is becoming smaller and more unstable year on year. The monsoon and winter patterns are shifting, which means its warmer for longer around the Icefall. 2. Glacial retreat Base Camp itself is moving; the glacier underneath is thinning and changing shape and there are rivers running through Base Camp now they werent there when I first started climbing Everest in 2004. 3. Overcrowding Increasingly high traffic on the mountain means more footfall, increased waste, and more of a human imprint which strains a fragile environment. Whilst waste is being managed much better these days, it is still highlighted by many as a problem.Can Everest climbers be part of the solution, rather than part of the problem?Absolutely and they must be. Im conscious that I have a bit of a platform and I want to use it for good. As climbers, we bring money into Nepal, which funds conservation projects, waste management, and local livelihoods. Teams can insist on responsible practices: waste removal, minimal camps, ethical logistics. But climbers also need to be honest about their footprint and not hide behind token offsetting. The best contribution is to reduce impact, support local communities properly, and respect the mountain as more than a trophy.What are the main changes youve seen on the mountain in the 20+ years youve been guiding on it?Its almost unrecognisable in some respects. The professionalism of Sherpa climbers has skyrocketed. The kit is far better boots, oxygen systems, tents. Communication has transformed the experience satellite comms, weather forecasting, GPS. There are many more teams, and the spectrum of quality is wide. And, of course, the effects of climate change are becoming unavoidable. Everest, however, is the same majestic peak and she still commands the same level of respect.KC preparing his kit for the forthcoming seasonHow do you see the practical aspects of climbing Everest change in the future as climate change continues changing the conditions on the mountain? Will it eventually be a rocky scramble?!No, it wont ever be a scramble Everest will always be a high-altitude, oxygen-thin, brutally cold place. But I think we will see: More unpredictable weather; harder-to-read ice conditions; a gradually deteriorating Khumbu Icefall; less stable snowpack; longer periods of bare ice. The practicalities of climbing will continue to evolve, and guides will need to adapt their strategies each season.How do you reconcile encouraging clients to take long-haul flights with your awareness of the damage it is doing? (and bearing in mind that offsetting has largely been debunked)There is no doubt that international mountaineering has a carbon cost. I dont pretend offsetting magically fixes everything. What I can do is: Encourage clients to stay longer in Nepal and contribute meaningfully to the local economy; work with operators who run environmentally responsible expeditions; personally minimise unnecessary travel outside the guiding season; support long-term community and conservation projects in the Khumbu.What is a safe number of permits to issue each season, in your opinion?Somewhere around 250-300 climbers on the South Side is manageable if the teams are competent and well-spaced throughout the season. The issue isnt the number itself its the quality and timing of those attempting the peak. Ten excellent teams cause fewer issues than two poorly run ones.Given that the Nepal authorities have talked before about not issuing permits to climbers with proper experience, do you really think this will come into force, or will money trump ethics again?Nepal is in a difficult position. Tourism is its economic heartbeat. Id love to see stricter competence requirements, but realistically, politics and financial pressures usually outweigh safety considerations. We may see incremental changes, such as the suggested requirement to have climbed a 7,000m peak before attempting Everest, but a strict enforcement regime? Ill believe it when I see it.What Chez Cool looks like before an Everest expedition!What is the standard of Nepali-run guiding companies/outfitters these days, and is it true that a cheap Everest package is cutting corners?The best Nepali operators are world-class. Truly exceptional. But the bottom of the market is a different story. A cheap Everest package absolutely means cuts, usually in: Oxygen quality and supply; guide experience; ratios; safety equipment; weather forecasting; evacuation capability. Everest is not the place to bargain hunt.Where is the line between guiding and outfitting, and how can prospective Everest climbers be sure of what they are getting? (i.e. full guiding or just logistics)This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of Everest. Outfitting = logistics: tents, food, oxygen, ropes. Guiding = decision-making, leadership, pacing, risk assessment, and personalised Sherpa support. Many companies advertise guiding but actually provide logistics only. A prospective climber must ask: Who makes the decisions on the mountain?; Who is my personal guide and how many clients do they have?; Does my guide climb with me, or just coordinate things from Base Camp?; What is included in the oxygen strategy?; What is the plan if things go wrong?. If you dont get clear answers, walk away. Everest is not the place to take unnecessary risks. As I always say, the summit is optional but getting back home is the goal.For regular updates on Kentons Everest 26 expedition, you can follow his or Trek & Mountains accounts on Instagram.More info at: www.kentoncool.comKenton is sponsored by www.lasportiva.com and www.petzl.comImages and video by @daniel_james_media

Two of the UKs best known outdoor names are celebrating their 60th anniversaries in 2026, but many people wont be aware of the connection between them and their shared origins.The LD Mountain Centre and Berghaus were both started by North East climbers and entrepreneurs Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison, who began by opening the shop in 1966 on Dean Street in Newcastle upon Tyne. It was the first specialist outdoor shop in the area, in what was a fledgling and niche market in the UK. As well as running the shop, Lockey and Davison also distributed outdoor gear from Europe around the country, much of which came from Germany or Austria. Needing a name for that arm of the business, they decided that a bit of instant credibility could be gained by roughly translating the name of their shop into German, and Berghaus was born. It didnt take long for Lockey and Davison to start developing their own kit to sell in the shop, and they put the Berghaus brand onto this new product.Iconic Berghaus products from across the decadesSince it first opened, LD Mountain Centre has remained a cornerstone of the UKs independent specialist outdoor sector, while Berghaus has grown into one of the worlds best known and most respected outdoor brands, with a long track record of bringing iconic products to the market. From the early 1970s, Berghaus quickly earned a reputation for creating some of the most innovative gear on the market, with developments such as the Cyclops rucksack, Europes first GORE-TEX jacket and the legendary Yeti Attak gaiter, all of which were designed upstairs in the LD Mountain Centre.The brand was still based inside LD Mountain Centre when Lockey and Davison launched the first flagship Extrem range in 1986, designed for the most challenging activities in the harshest conditions. Along with other significant product developments, that kick started major business growth for Berghaus, and as its scale and international reach increased, the brand had to move its headquarters out of the shop. Forty years on, the latest Extrem collection is once again taking centre stage in the Dean Street store, as part of a major partnership between the two companies that is celebrating their shared heritage, and introducing consumers to a new generation of technical outdoor gear.The latest Berghaus range on display at LD Mountain CentreThe new display inside LD Mountain Centre showcases other key moments in the history of Berghaus and demonstrates its role in mountain adventure and in wider popular culture. The walls are adorned with archive material featuring some of the high profile figures and events associated with the brand during the last six decades, from the likes of climbers Sir Chris Bonington, Mick Fowler and Leo Houlding, to Oasis front man Liam Gallagher and Jay Kay from Jamiroquai. Throughout the display, there is a thread of the brands groundbreaking product breakthroughs that continue to help more people access the outdoors. These include key Extrem kit through the years, to the recent Maternity and Beyond collection, and initiatives such as Repairhaus, the free repair service that Berghaus has offered throughout its history, initially from LD Mountain Centre.Charlie Pym, Berghaus senior vice president, comments: Berghaus is a richly storied brand, and that all began in LD Mountain Centre 60 years ago. So as we introduce our latest great kit, its right to celebrate that deep, shared heritage. Berghaus wouldnt exist if Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison hadnt opened their store on Dean Street, and its wonderful to see the brand showcased in this way in the place where it was born.Extrem products have remained a cornerstone of the Berghaus rangeRoddy Mackay, LD Mountain Centre managing director, comments: Over the past sixty years, LD Mountain Centre and Berghaus have shared an extraordinary heritage that began here on Dean Street in Newcastle. From the early days of developing innovative gear upstairs in the Dean Street shop, through to today, that spirit of innovation and passion for the outdoors has remained at the heart of everything we do.More info: www.berghaus.com and www.ldmountaincentre.com

Jetboil have launched their new TrailCook 1.2L and 2.0L stove systems, which they describe as next-generation stove systems that let you dial in the perfect flame for simmering, sauteing, and stir- frying delicious meals wherever you are.Engineered with a new integrated, self-centering pot support and advanced regulator valves, Jetboil say that the TrailCook 1.2L and TrailCook 2.0L Stove Systems deliver precise simmer control, fast ignition, and incremental heat adjustment for delicious meals.They also feature Jetboils re-engineered ignition, now integrated directly into the valve control for easier, more reliable lighting. A durable, ceramic-encased igniter ensures stable, long-lasting performance, while a textured grip zone on the burner base makes it easier to attach canisters, adjust the flame, or connect cookware. Additionally, each TrailCook model comes equipped with ceramic-coated cook pot with Jetboils FluxRing technology for easy cleaning and maximum fuel efficiency.Both models come with a ceramic-coated cook pot with Jetboils FluxRing technologyThe TrailCook 1.2L Stove System is aimed at individuals seeking a compact, efficient setup. At only 19.4 oz, this stove offers a 1.2-liter capacity and reaches a boil in 2 minutes and 15 seconds per 16 oz, providing exceptional performance without excess bulk. The new lid design boasts helpful features like a spout and a strainer, while a clever foldable handle locks the lid into place for easy packing. Its streamlined design makes it perfectly suited for individual meals and fast-moving adventures.For groups of 2-4 people, the TrailCook 2.0L Stove System expands your off-grid cooking capabilities with a larger, Dutch-ovenstyle cook pot built for shared dishes. The lid is specifically designed for easy handling to stir, simmer, and cook, featuring 2 folding handles and 2 silicone thumb rests for effortless straining and maneuvering. At only 22.2 oz with a capacity of 2 liters, this stove boils a liter of water in 4 minutes and 15 seconds, providing the same precise flame control and packable design as the 1.2L model, scaled for group meals.Jetboils new TrailCook 1.2L and TrailCook 2.0L Stove Systems are compatible with a wide range of accessories, including the Summit Skillet, 1.5L Ceramic Cook Pot, TrailSpoon, and TrailWare.Both models feature Jetboils re-engineered ignitionWith TrailCook, we set out to give adventurers real control over their meals beyond fast boils, said Ally Spaight, Senior Integrated Marketing Manager at Jetboil. These Stove Systems bring precision cooking to the backcountry in a way that is brand new at this weight and packability. Whether youre simmering a pot of stew or making a quick solo breakfast, Jetboil TrailCook Stove Systems gives you the reward of a hot meal at the end of the day.Prices are 219.99 for the 1.2L model, and 229.99 for the 2.0L version.More info: www.jetboil.co.uk

Join the Trek & Mountain (and Base Camp Festival) team and a small group of other outdoor lovers for our second Bothy Weekend, staying at the Yorkshire Mountaineering Club Hut at the foot of the Old Man of Coniston! Held over the weekend of 10-13 July, the weekend is a chance to enjoy one of the Lake Districts very best areas, whether its hiking to the summit of the Old Man of Coniston, swimming or paddle-boarding on Coniston Water, or exploring the Copper Mine trails near to the mountain hut where were staying.Places on the weekend cost just 135pp, and include dorm accommodation, delicious home-cooked meals all weekend, and evening entertainment including talks, films and quizzes!Whats included:Accommodation:The Yorkshire Mountaineering Hut (3 Coppermines Cottages, Coniston LA21 8HP) is an old miners cottage in Copper Mines Valley just one mile from Coniston village, at the foot of Old Man of Coniston with direct access to the surrounding hills. Your ticket includes three nights of shared accommodation in one of the bunk rooms. There are plenty of showers and toilets, a drying room, and a cozy fire to warm up by after a day out in the hills.The cosy mountain hut in Coppermines ValleyMeals:All meals will be provided from dinner Friday to breakfast Monday. Packed lunches will be provided if heading out into the hills for the day. Please let us know of any allergies or dietary needs/preferences.Please note: Alcohol is not included but we will have wine and beer (from the nearby Fell Brewery) available to purchase.Delicious home-cooked food including pizza night and curry nightActivites:Day: During the day you are free to go off and enjoy the local hills (we will have some maps available) or spend the day visiting Coniston (just a short car ride or 30 minute walk from the hut). The hut will be open at all times, so you are also welcome to stick around and relax in the hut.Evening: We will provide evening activities including talks, a quiz with prizes, and films.Hike to the top of the Old Man of ConistonTo book your place on the Bothy Weekend, click HERE.Still have questions? Check out our Bothy Weekends FAQ page here

Trek & Mountain recently checked into Dacias Million Star Hotel in the Galloway Forest Park, one of the first parks in the world, and the first in the UK, to earn the dark sky designation back in 2009. Its well-known as one of the best places in the UK for stargazing with over 7000 stars and planets visible to the naked eye on a clear night!Arriving to the Galloway Forest Park in the Dacia BigsterWe picked up our Dacia Bigster in Glasgow, equipped with Irn Bru and a handy route card that ensured we took the scenic route rather than the motorway. Our destination? The shores of Loch Doon where there were several Bigsters set up, complete with Dacias unique Sleep Pack, blackout blinds for the windows, and a huge panoramic sunroof (or star roof perhaps?). Upon check-in, we were given a warm hat, some cozy socks, and the key to our room for the night.Checking into Dacias Million Star HotelWe arrived to an amazing spread of food, all cooked over fire fish, fresh vegetables and flat breads, with some special ingredients such as honey from Chefs family apiary.Lunch cooked over fireAfter lunch, it was time to enjoy the stunning environment that surrounded us. We split into two groups one went off fishing with a local fisherwoman, and the other headed onto Loch Doon to explore the area from a Canadian Prospector canoe. As a Canadian who grew up canoeing on the many lakes of Ontario, this was particularly enticing, so I joined the latter. Our guide gave us some tips on steering and before long we were travelling the length of the loch with speed and confidence.Canoeing on Loch DoonT&M editor Chris spent the afternoon fishing along the shores, though in true fisherman style when asked if he caught anything jokingly responded, Nothing but a buzz.Fishing from the shores of Loch DoonThe next order of business was to meet up with one of the Dark Sky Rangers at the nearby Loch Doon Castle to learn about our solar system and constellations, along with some myths and legends. Sadly, the rain started right as we headed off, but our ranger, Matthew, had set up a mock solar system using candles to help us understand the scale of it all. I dont think any of us will look at the stars the same way again as we left with a much deeper understanding of what we are really looking at when we gaze at the night sky. His passion and enthusiasm definitely made up for the lack of stargazing opportunities!Learning from the dark sky ranger at the Loch Doon CastleDinner was again cooked over fire, after which we huddled around the fire with blankets for more stories, this time largely focused on mythology (some slightly more risqu stories were saved until it was only the adults left).Cooking over fireAn evening of story tellingAfter a tiring day, it was time to tuck into the Bigster. The Sleep Pack comes with a comfy mattress, and it had been kitted out with a cozy duvet and blankets; we were also given a hot water bottle as it was still February after all. It didnt take long before we drifted off.Setting up the Sleep Pack in the BigsterIn the morning, we opened up the back door and just lay there for a while looking out over Loch Doon and the hills in the distance.Why settle for only a five-star hotel, when you could have a million? I think Dacias Million Star Hotel hook line speaks for itself. We love a good mix of comfort while still sleeping in wild places and even though we didnt get to see the stars or planets, we certainly left with a heightened appreciation for them!Dacias Million Star Hotel in the Galloway Forest ParkWe also left with a further understanding of the importance of protecting our dark sky areas and their wildlife from light pollution. The International Dark Sky Places (IDSP) designation preserves approximately 20 percent of the 78,000-hectare Galloway Forest Park, protecting its dark skies and wildlife with a policy of no permanent illumination.More info: Dacias Million Star Hotel: www.dacia.co.uk/million-star-hotel.html International Dark Sky Places: www.darksky.org

La Sportivas latest Trango model appears to be ideal for classic alpine and lower-grade Scottish winter routes..La Sportivas Trango franchise covers a wide range of mountain activities, from trekking and scrambling boots right up to highly technical mountaineering boots such as the B3-rated Trango Tower Extreme GTX. The new Trango Alpine GTX sits somewhere in the middle of the range, and is ideally suited to classic alpine routes and lower-grade Scottish winter routes.Due to their yellow Idro-Perwanger leather uppers, they have quite a traditional look to them; however dont be fooled as they have all the latest La Sportiva tech under the bonnet, such as the Vibram Cube Evo sole unit with Impact Brake System, a carbon-loaded nylon lasting board, and the 3D Flex System Evo. They feel superbly light and nimble on the feet, and although the sole is pretty stiff, they do have a slight break that will make walk-ins more comfortable.Trad looks combined with the latest techFor weather protection you get water-repellent 1.8mm leather uppers, plus Gore-Tex Performance Comfort waterproof lining, while impact and abrasion protection is provided by an all-round rand and extremely well-cushioned areas around the ankles. Down below, the Vibram Cube Evo outsole has deep lugs ranging from about 10mm at the heel to about 8mm towards the front of the boot, and these should be very effective at giving traction in snow.The Trango Alpine GTX features a large climbing zone and deep lugsThe Impact Brake System does two things; the angled lugs on the heel help with braking when going downhill, and they also deform a little when the foot strikes the ground, thus cushioning the impact. Staying with the outsole, theres a pronounced climbing zone at the toes that continues for around 7cm along the inside of the boots sole.So far weve used the boot on some scrambles and they are lovely to climb in. They give a great platform for edging on, and the fit is comfortable but precise; not overly cushioned. Were looking forward to trying them in winter conditions, and will post a more detailed report soon.VerdictBeautifully-made, light and agile boots ideal for classic alpine and lower-grade Scottish winter routesSpecsCrampon Compatibility: B2Weight: 665g half pairSole: Vibram Cube EvoPatent: Impact Brake System, 3D Flex System EvoMidsole: Low-density polyurethane and TPU insert for rear crampon attachmentLining:GORE-TEX Performance ComfortMore info: www.lasportiva.com

Lightweight outdoor furniture specialist Helinox is introducing its Spring 2026 collection with a set of new and refined products that they say continues to push the brands founding idea forward: lightweight, packable furniture designed to travel easily and feel good wherever it lands.Leading the season are the new Chair Zero LT and Table Zero LT, the lightest chair (with a trail weight of 510g) and table (with a trail weight of 255g) Helinox has ever made. The Chair Zero LT evolves the brands ultralight benchmark with GhostGrid fabric, a translucent monofilament ripstop that delivers impressive strength at minimal weight, paired with a redesigned frame and stabilising X-strap for confidence on uneven ground. The Table Zero LT brings the same thinking to camp dining, offering a stable surface that weighs just 255g and packs down to almost nothing.Helinox Chair Zero LT weighs a mere 510gThe Spring 2026 collection also introduces updated versions of two Helinox favourites: the Beach Chair (re) and Sunset Chair (re). Both feature Helinoxs (re) series construction, redistributing tension around the frame for improved comfort and support, increasing seat height for easier access, and using repurposed aluminium in the frame to reduce environmental impact. Integrated side pockets and refined assembly points add everyday usability to familiar silhouettes. Completing the collection are a set of small but thoughtful additions. The Ground Strap improves stability on soft or uneven terrain, while HeliToss and the HeliBoard bring lightweight, packable games into the Helinox ecosystem, designed to create moments of play wherever people gather.Chair Zero LT is quick and easy to set upBuilt with proprietary DAC aluminium frames, recycled and bluesign-approved fabrics and backed by a five-year warranty, Helinox say the Spring 2026 collection reflects their ongoing commitment to durability, considered design and comfort that travels.More infio at: www.helinox.com