Latest articles by Alex Foxfield
Vango Joro Air 450 Sentinel Eco Dura Package review: a great family shelter from the air tent pioneers
Boasting environmentally friendly yet strong and durable fabrics, the Vango Joro Air 450 Sentinel Eco Dura Package tent is ideal for family car camping vacations
The best family tents 2024: spacious shelters for the whole tribe
Our roundup of the best family tents, from standard pole tents to roomy air tents and luxurious glamping setups
Outwell Pegasus Solar Lantern review: a clever, compact light for all camping trips
We shed light on the Pegasus Solar Lantern, an ingenious camping lantern that doubles as a torch and packs down small for backcountry missions
What is trad climbing? Our expert guide to traditional rock climbing
What is trad climbing? We consider what separates trad from other climbing disciplines, along with where you can do it and what equipment is needed
Páramo Men’s Alta Trek Trousers review: comfortable pants boasting excellent freedom of movement
We hike and scramble in the high places wearing Páramo’s Alta Trek Trousers to put these technical hiking pants to the test against the challenging mountain environment
7 things I wish I’d known before I started peak bagging
Peak bagging is an enriching pursuit, but how do you stop the tyranny of the uncompleted list from dictating your choices and enjoy the outdoors for what it is?
What is smearing in climbing? We get to grips with the technique
We explore what smearing in rock climbing is, detailing what it is, how it works and considering whether it’s something hikers do too
What is free soloing? We take a look into the fraught phenomenon
Our climbing expert looks into the history of free soloing, considers how dangerous it is and explains what sets it apart from free climbing
Yeti vs Igloo: which is the coolest – therefore better – brand?
It’s Yeti vs Igloo, as we open the lid on the contest between two of the best camping cooler brands around in 2024
Zamberlan El Cap RR approach shoes review: footwear that’s ready to rock
We take to the rock in Zamberlan’s El Cap RR to asses how this Italian approach shoe fares on difficult scrambling terrain
How to take a bearing: navigate the backcountry with confidence
Our mountain expert on how to take a bearing and then follow it in the right direction, even when the conditions are at their most challenging
What is a GPX file: and how you can get the most out of it
Our expert guide to GPX files covers what one is and how they can enhance your experience when planning, carrying out and looking back at your adventures
Why is Fjällräven so expensive? We take a look at the Scandi brand
Our expert looks into why Fjällräven is so expensive, delving into the brand’s origins, ethos and practices, before answering whether or not the price is worth it
Mythbusting: does it really take longer to boil an egg at altitude?
Does it really take longer to boil an egg at altitude? What about to make a decent cup of tea or a lovely coffee? We’re here to provide the answer
Mythbusting: do you really weigh less on the summit of a high mountain?
Our mountaineering expert delves into the science to answer this mind-bending question
5 things I wish I’d known before my first alpine peak
Taking those first faltering steps into glaciated, big mountain terrain can be daunting: here are five things Mountain Leader Alex Foxfield wishes he’d known before his first alpine peak
Norrøna Falketind Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket: lightweight functionality for multi-sports enthusiasts
We take a close look at Norrøna’s excellent Falketind Gore-Tex Paclite Jacket, a minimalist, breathable waterproof shell for all kinds of active backcountry adventures
Fjällräven Abisko Friluft 45 review: a durable backpack that’s a breath of fresh air
We shoulder Fjällräven’s Abisko Friluft 45, a classic trekker’s backpack with a modern ventilation system for superb comfort on day hikes and longer missions
CimAlp Storm Pro Men’s Ultrashell Trail Running Jacket review: a solid alpine runner's shell
We get technical with CimAlp’s Storm Pro Men’s Ultrashell Trail Running Jacket, a great 3-layer waterproof outer aimed at mountain runners taking on extremes
Hydro Flask 32oz Insulated French Press review: keep that java piping for longer
We overdo our caffeine intake to thoroughly test Hydro Flask’s brand new 32oz Insulated French Press, a cafetière that delivers above average joe
Osprey Talon Velocity 20 review: a versatile daypack for hikers and runners
We shoulder our bright white Osprey Talon Velocity 20, a running-inspired evolution of the classic Talon daypack that’s loaded with useful features for speedy trail days
7 reasons you need a sleeping bag liner: comfort, warmth and protection for your cocoon
Enhance your camping adventures from the campground to the summit
The best lightweight camping gear: tents, backpacks, sleeping bags and more
On the hunt for a list of the best lightweight camping gear that keeps the conditions at bay and provides comfort in the backcountry? Look no further
