Latest articles by Alex Foxfield
How heavy is too heavy for a hiking backpack? We consider the 20% myth
We look into the commonly-held hiking belief that your backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 20% of your own body's weight
How to run a 3:30 marathon: beat your PB in 2025
We consult the experts for tips and advice on how to conquer a marathon race time of three hours and thirty minutes
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 should trail running shoes fit? Expert advice for optimum comfort
Our expert guide on how trail running shoes should fit
Is rock climbing dangerous? We look into the risks and how to manage them
Is rock climbing dangerous? We weigh up the hazards, describe the common risks and injuries and explain how to manage them to an acceptable level
What is 'scrambling' in hiking? We get hands on
What is scrambling in hiking? Our experts provide insights into the pursuit, looking at how it's graded and recommending some rules to follow
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
Average hiking speed: how to calculate it and why it’s useful
Knowing your average hiking speed is useful: our experts reveal how to calculate it using Naismith’s Rule and other methods
What is a bothy bag? And how to properly use a group emergency shelter
Our experts explain the benefits of bothy bags, compact group emergency shelters that are so vital for serious mountain expeditions
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
White hiking shoes are a thing and we can't understand why
White and primary-colored hiking shoes are flooding the market – but don't they just became dirty quickly? And does the color of your hiking shoes matter?
Does bear spray work on mountain lions? And, how to use it effectively
Does bear spray work on mountain lions? Our expert answers this common wildlife question and considers how to choose and use the right deterrent for big cats
Are wolverines dangerous? We dispel a few myths...
We dispel some myths around the secretive wolverine and reveal why observing one in the wild would be special, not scary
How to read a tide chart: our guide for coastal explorers
Knowing how to read a tide chart can keep you safe whether you're going for a wild swim, a spot of surfing, a walk along the coast or looking to access a climbing route
Types of cross country ski bindings: select the optimum pair
Understanding the different types of cross country ski bindings helps you choose the right pair for your boots and the style of skiing you want to do
What are crampons? We get to grips with these key pieces of mountain kit
What are crampons? We look at their heritage, consider their features, explain their ratings and take a look at correct crampon technique
Types of rock climbing shoes: our expert guide
We provide the beta on the three main types of rock climbing shoes, detailing the advantages and disadvantages of each, to help you choose out your next pair
Rock climbing gear list: an expert guide to the 12 essentials
Our rock climbing gear list covers everything you need as a beginner plus extra kit for once you start getting more ambitious with the grades
How to keep food cold while camping: 9 expert tips for keeping things chilled
When you know how to keep food cold while camping, you can enjoy the finest campsite cuisine without having to worry about soggy food or dodgy tummies
National Parks vs State Parks: similarities and differences
Our expert looks at National Parks vs State Parks and reveals some similarities, a few differences, and buckets of adventure
What is alpinism? And is it different to mountaineering?
What is alpinism? And is it the same as mountaineering? Our experts take a look at the traditional fast and light approach to climbing big mountains
What is stealth camping? And how does it differ in the US compared to the UK?
The practice of stealth camping is gaining traction on both sides of the Atlantic – but what is it, and why do people do it?
Do you really need rain pants for hiking? Or are they just an unwanted weight in your pack?
Do you really need rain pants for hiking, or can you get away with quick drying trousers? Our experts look into the question
