Latest articles by Alex Foxfield
How to choose climbing shoes: expert advice on what to consider
When it comes to choosing climbing shoes, the choice is overwhelming: here’s our expert guide to getting hold of the right pair
5 reasons you need a compass: safe and enjoyable nav in the great outdoors
We asked one of our hiking experts to explain the reasons you need a compass: from the rewards of backcountry navigation to its safety benefits
I'm a seasoned hiker and mountaineer - here's how I update my hiking kit for fall
It’s time to update your hiking kit for fall - get our expert tips on what to consider and what to pack
Nocs Provisions Field Tube 8x32 review: keep an eye on nature
We get our eye in with the Nocs Provisions Field Tube 8x32 monocular to see how its compact optics enhance our backcountry nature watching
Butane camping stoves vs propane: which is best?
We consider whether butane or propane is best, to help you understand the differences and choose the optimum stove for your adventures
Why is Patagonia so expensive? We delve into the famous brand
Known for its quality and sustainability, Patagonia is one of the world’s most successful outdoor brands – but why is their kit so expensive?
The best fleece jackets: mid layers to keep you cozy in the backcountry
We've tested the best fleece jackets to pinpoint the warmest, lightest and most eco-friendly options for your needs
Nemo Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad review
The best just got better, or warmer at least: our camping expert reviews the Nemo Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated Regular Wide Sleeping Pad
Rab Firewall Light jacket review: a hiker’s outer shell that feels like a softshell
We head for the hills in Rab’s Firewall Light Waterproof Jacket, a lightweight outer shell designed for hillwalking that features the British brand’s Proflex membrane
Why are reservoirs so dangerous for swimming?
Reservoirs are often signposted as being particularly dangerous for wild swimming, but the truth of the matter may be a little murkier than that
Patagonia vs Columbia: which US brand is the best?
It’s Patagonia vs Columbia: we put the two American outdoor behemoths up against each other, taking a look at their origins, kit and ethos
The best headlamps: tested and rated for hiking, camping and running
The best headlamps illuminate your campsite nights, predawn summit raids and backcountry expeditions
The best navigation apps 2025: find your way in the great outdoors
Our pick of the best navigation apps for route planning, nav during adventures, sharing experiences and inspiration
Types of compass and how to choose the right navigational tool for your outdoor adventures
We take a look at different types of compass and consider which are best suited to activities like trail running, day hikes and longer treks
12-and-a-half Everests! Ultra athlete sets new world record on run across the Alps
Jake Catterall, a British ultra runner, ran 2000km on the new official Via Alpina red route in a record time of just 35 days
How long will your hiking boots last? Our expert guide
We consider what kind of mileage you should expect out of your favorite hiking boots, and reveal how to prolong their lifespan
Why is The North Face so expensive? The reasons behind the prices
We look into the reasons why The North Face is so expensive, delving into the origins of the world-conquering brand
Missing Yosemite hikers found safe after two days
The two hikers reported missing in Yosemite National Park this weekend have been found safe by Search and Rescue
Olympic marathon swim training axed as Seine water quality fiasco rumbles on
As concerns about the River Seine's water quality continue, today's marathon swimming training is cancelled but officials say races should still go ahead
What is a Vibram sole? And why do so many brands use them?
What is a Vibram sole? The history and characteristics of this ubiquitous feature in hiking footwear, and why you may want one under your feet
How to get rid of the plastic taste in your hydration bladder
We provide our three tried and true methods for how to get rid of the plastic taste in your water bladder for a tastier time on the trails
Parts of a hiking boot: we deconstruct trail footwear
Knowing the constituent parts of a hiking boot can be very useful when it comes to finding the perfect boots for your adventures
Rock climbing terms: the crag slang and jargon you need for the Olympics and beyond
Our expert guide to rock climbing terms, from equipment, moves and climbing styles to the the esoteric slang used by seasoned climbers
