ADVICE & INSPIRATION

Expert Advice And Inspiration

Rab Sleeping Bags: A Bag For All Seasons
Rab Sleeping Bags: A Bag For All Seasons
Rab Sleeping Bags: A Bag For All Seasons

Rab have been making sleeping bags for over 30 years and are constantly evolving and  re-designing their ideas despite having created some of the best bags in the industry to date. 2014 is no exception and this season has seen  updates to classic models as well as new innovations across the board that promise to offer a greater level of performance than ever before.

5 Of The World's Best Hiking Challenges
5 Of The World's Best Hiking Challenges
5 Of The World's Best Hiking Challenges

From the long-distance continental thru-routes of North America to Britain’s biggest multi-summit conquests, we’ve selected 5 of the world’s best hiking challenges.

13 Tips For Scottish Winter Walking and Climbing
13 Tips For Scottish Winter Walking and Climbing
13 Tips For Scottish Winter Walking and Climbing

In winter, even an easy route in Scotland can transform into an alpine epic (we recommend taking a winter mountaineering course). Here are 13 tips to help keep you safe walking and climbing in Scotland:

A Beginner's Guide To Rock Climbing And Bouldering
A Beginner's Guide To Rock Climbing And Bouldering
A Beginner's Guide To Rock Climbing And Bouldering

With more and more indoor climbing centres and outdoor areas opening up you don’t need to live near cliffs and mountains to get involved. From indoor bouldering to outdoor lead climbing, it’s a fun but challenging way to get fit. 

 

This guide has everything you need to learn the lingo, gear up, and get started.

Ski Boot Buying Guide
Ski Boot Buying Guide
Ski Boot Buying Guide

Your ski boots are an investment. They'll be your companions on the slopes for many years to come, and choosing the right ones will keep your performance at its peak and comfort to a maximum. We've put together our key things to look out for, but we always recommend visiting us in-store for a fitting with our experts.

How To Beat Ski Lift Queues
How To Beat Ski Lift Queues
How To Beat Ski Lift Queues

Beat the dreaded ski lift queues with our top tips and hints. 

Custom Fit Ski Boots: Why You Need Them
Custom Fit Ski Boots: Why You Need Them
Custom Fit Ski Boots: Why You Need Them

When it comes to ski boots, achieving the perfect balance of comfort and performance is a fine art.

 

Each element from sock to shell works as part of a complex system that optimises comfort, support and performance. By taking the time to customise your footwear, you can eliminate pain and enjoy superior control over your skis.

Your Guide To Winter Sports Outerwear
Your Guide To Winter Sports Outerwear
Your Guide To Winter Sports Outerwear

If you’re new to winter sports you might be wondering why you need special outerwear, not to mention why it varies so much in price and technicality, especially when you’re used to just throwing on your usual waterproof jacket and heading out the door. 

Mid-Layer Buying Guide
Mid-Layer Buying Guide
Mid-Layer Buying Guide

Layering is the best way to stay warm on the slopes - but only if you do it right. Your mid-layer is the one which actually provides the warmth, so the one you choose can make or break your day in the mountains. Remember, each layering system is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another, so we've created this guide to help you choose the right mid-layer for you.

5 Backcountry Skiing Safety Essentials
5 Backcountry Skiing Safety Essentials
5 Backcountry Skiing Safety Essentials

If you’re boldly exploring the backcountry this winter, avalanche awareness and the correct safety equipment are lifesavers in the event of an emergency in unmarked and unpatrolled territory. Stay safer off-piste this snow season, with these five backcountry skiing and snowboarding essentials:

The North Face Thermoball Technology
The North Face Thermoball Technology
The North Face Thermoball Technology

Thermoball, The North Face’s revolutionary insulation alternative, started with a problem. Goose down is widely recognised as the warmest and lightest insulation available, yet once wet its insulation properties are less than efficient. Whilst synthetic insulations, performs better in wet condition, is heavier and less compactable. 

 

Scottish Winter Climbing Equipment Guide: Part Two
Scottish Winter Climbing Equipment Guide: Part Two
Scottish Winter Climbing Equipment Guide: Part Two

The Scottish winter isn’t always hard and grim! The winter scenery will take your breath away and make you glad you made the effort.

How To Size Kid's Skis
How To Size Kid's Skis
How To Size Kid's Skis

Height and weight are both important in choosing the correct size skis for kids, but as a general rule, kid’s skis should hit somewhere between their chin and forehead, but like adult skis, the most suitable length depends on a few other factors.  

Our stores have a wide range of kid’s ski equipment so if in doubt, visit us in store and get expert advice from our knowledgeable staff. 

How To Buy Alpine Touring Boots
How To Buy Alpine Touring Boots
How To Buy Alpine Touring Boots

Also known as randonnée, alpine touring is increasing in popularity. If you’re a skier making the jump to backcountry or alpine touring your boots are as important as ever.  

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