Merry Christmas from GO Outdoors

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Well by now you should be all shopped up, though there are a few great last minute bargains out there to be had in stores nationwide.

Hopefully you picked up all that you needed and you're looking forward to the Christmas break.

But for us there isn't much of a break as our Biggest Ever sale is set to start online at GOoutdoors.co.uk Christmas day, and in our stores (click here to find your nearest store)throughout the UK on the 26th December. Sales brochures have been sent out and the range will be on the Website Christmas day. But don't be fooled, there's more than you think if you browse the stores or the site you'll find a whole host of sale options that aren't in the brochure.

Everyone loves a bargain, but be sure to get in there quick because everything in the sale is under a 'while stocks last' policy, so when it's gone....it's probably gone.

Also be on the look out for our ten deals of Christmas. A different big saving deal each day for ten days starting Boxing Day.


So that's all the heads up i can give you.

Merry Christmas to you and yours from all the GO Outdoors Team.

http://www.gootudoors.co.uk/

That's all for now

Brandon

Outdoor Gadgets and Gifts

There aren't many shopping days left before Christmas and by now you've probably picked up the vast majority of what you're likely to buy. But one thing we've noticed is that like most years 'Gadgets' such as pocket knives, torch sets, head torches and multi-tools have been a popular buy.

We've all got that one relative who loves something like this and sits around on Christmas day fiddling around with it and showing off what it can do. It's the nearest thing to a toy a grown man can get away with. So if you have a Father, Uncle, Son, Nephew, Boyfriend, Husband, Grandfather or anyone else then think about the various outdoor Gadgets available on the market right now if you're still stuck for a last minute idea or stocking filler.

Here are a few popular choices:

Leatherman
The popular multi-tool brand have a large range of multi-tools. They are truly a one stop gadget for anyone who spends a lot of time in the outdoors. Leatherman products are robust and durable and you get what you pay for - a quality and useful multi-tool.

Leatherman Multi-Tools


Head Torches
Head Torches have been really popular through 2008. There are a wide range available from battery powered to wind up and standard or LED lighting. These range in price and some outdoor enthusiasts wouldn't pack a bag without including this useful bit of kit.

Range of Headtorches


Pocket Knives
Just as valuable as a multi-tool a pocket knife can save your life in desperate situations in the wild. There's a reason Swiss Army Knives are deemed one of the more useful things you can have when on an expedition. There are a few brands and varieties when it comes to Pocket knives so choose wisely when picking up yours.

Range of Pocket Knives


There are many gadgets for lovers of the outdoors and all of them make great gifts for Christmas, Birthdays or any other special occasion. The right gadget can keep you prepared for the worst when embracing nature.

That's all for now

Brandon

Clothing Layering Guide

You may have often heard people mention the 'layering system' when it comes to anyone who wants to GO Outdoors in various conditions. But what does it mean? Well basically it's a system which enables you to keep your body suitably warm and dry whatever the conditions. Below is a simple guide to the '3 layer system'

1st Layer - Baselayer
The base layer is the layer worn next to the skin which in general has a good wicking system (limits sweat) to keep your overall body temperature as regulated as possible. This layers must be kept protected from the cold and rain as it can get damp and responsible for causing colds.

See a Range of our Baselayers


2nd Layer - Insulating Layer
Worn on top of the base layer this traps the heat in and keeps you warm and insulated. These layers work best when quite fitted to your body so there is minimal air movement for maximum heat retention. Fabrics such as Synthetic fleece excel at this and can keep you warm in the coldest conditions or just on those blustery days in town.

See a Range of our Insulating Fleeces and Mid Layers


3rd Layer - Weather Protection Layer
The outermost layer is designed to keep the bad weather out. These layers are there to keep you comfortable while they tackle the job of keeping the wind, water and snow away from your body. Going out without an outer layer could result in the damp reaching your skin and causing a cold or worse hypothermia.

Outer layers are entirely dependant on the activity you plan to do. So shop around and make sure that the layer you choose is wind proof, waterproof and breathable enough so that you effectively don't 'steam up' inside your jacket.

See a Range of our Outer Weather proof and waterproof Layers


A Little diagram to demonstrate:


So if you're heading outdoors this winter then make sure you are kitted safely and comfortably for the conditions you may face. Safety is key in outdoor pursuits and as the scouts say 'Be prepared'

That's all for now

Brandon

Winter Jacket Buying Guide Part 2

Hello everyone,

One thing i have noticed over the last few weeks is that my blog on a guide to buying a winter jacket or waterproof coat was quite popular among visitors. This to me tells me that people are in fact looking for a little guidance when buying something to keep them warm and dry this winter.

In my last blog (which you can find here) I went over the different types of jackets that are available and for whom they may be best suited as well as covering some of the terms you may have needed explaining.

Now this time i aim to get a little more geeky on the subject. Waterproof Jackets can come with a variety of nice little names from their manufacturers. Overall there are three different types of water protection for jackets: 'Coated', 'Membrane' and 'Moisture Management'. Ive read a lot of forum topics stating that people want to know which is better? Coated or Gore-Tex? Gore-Tex or Paramo?

Now there is no simple yes or no answer because each coat comes with a range of properties depending on the user.

Coated:
This includes fabric names like: Isotex, AquaFoil, HydroDry, HyVent, Triple Point, AquaDry and Dry light.

These fabrics are sprayed with a Polyurethane coating before they are even made into a jacket. The seams of the jacket are sealed after having waterproofing sprayed over the inside of the jacket. Water repellency (Durable Water Repellent) is on the outside of the jacket to form an impenetrable seal from the elements.

A few examples of Coated jackets are:
Regatta Redwald
Regatta Bridgette
Berghaus Calisto Jacket
The North Face Resolve Jacket


Membrane:
This includes fabric names like: Gore-Tex Pro Shell, eVent, Gore-Tex Performance Shell, Gore-Tex Paclite, Conduit and AquaDry membrane.

A plastic based PTFE (or Polytetralfluoroethylene for fans of big words) layer is laminated to the outer fabric and then the jacket is cut to shape and ready to be made. The seams are then fully sealed and the jacket is fully waterproofed.

These jackets have good breathability and tend to be a little more pricey because they are of high standard and are used for sports like mountaineering

A few examples of Membrane Jackets include:
Berghaus Mera Peak
Berghaus Cornice Jacket
Sprayway Jura Jacket
Marmot Minimalist Jacket


Advanced Moisture Management:
This is a fabric specially designed by Paramo and is one of the better ones on the market.

The outer layer deflects most of the water which falls on it, the water that does manage to get through comes into contact with the 'pump liner' which forces any moisture back out of the jacket. The pump liner effectively dries faster than you can get it wet. Paramo has been compared to the same sort of properties as the fur of an animal while conventional waterproofs are more like sheets of plastic to deflect water.

A few examples of advanced moisture management jackets:
Paramo Clothing


So hopefully now you know a little more and with the weather like it is at the moment, it can't come at a better time right? So stay warm and dry this winter and pick the right Jacket for you.

That's all for now

Brandon

Half Price Christmas Gift Ideas from GO Outdoors

It's the 1st of December already, can you believe it?

I for one haven't started Christmas shopping yet and I'm sure I'm not alone there. With money being a big issue for a lot of people this year there's some good news from GO Outdoors as we've introduced out Half Price and Less Sale now, ready for you to pick up a few lats minute bargains for your loved ones.

Why wait till after Christmas for the sale when you can pick up something for cheap right now?

From December 1st till Christmas day the Half Price and Less Sale offers any outdoor enthusiast great value offers on some of our most popular lines throughout 2008

Gifts for Walkers
Walkers make up a vast majority of our customers and if you know somebody who enjoys walking, hiking or mountaineering then we have the cut price equipment to make their festive season.

Reductions on Walking Boots
Reductions on Waterproof Jackets
Reductions on Walking Poles

As well as big names like Mountain Equipment, Bergahus, Paramo and The North Face


Gifts for Campers
Do you know somebody with a passion for sleeping outdoors? We've also cut prices on a range from our GO Camping section

Reductions on Tents
Reductions on Rucksacks


Gifts for Gadget Lovers
There's nothing finer than a good gadget for Christmas. We've all got that person in the family who loves to show off their new present over Christmas dinner and at GO Outdoors you'll find a range of Gadgets for that person in your life.

Reductions on Multi-Tools
Reductions on Pocket Knifes
Reductions on Torches


Still at a loss? We also have Gift Vouchers available so you can let that special someone buy exactly what they want. Vouchers available in £5, £10, and £20 values.

So if you're stuck for what to buy this Christmas then head over to the GO Outdoors website or your nearest GO Outdoors store and take a look around and be inspired to buy the Outdoor enthusiast in your life exactly what they want this festive season.

That's all for now

Happy Shopping

Helping you out this 'Black Friday'

Hello again,

Black Friday may be more of an American concept. It is the name of the Friday after Thanks Giving because it marks the 'official' day that Christmas shopping begins for most Americans. You can usually find that many companies have special black Friday offers.

So in a bid to help out our customers when times are in fact pretty bad for money right now, GO Outdoors are cutting 20% off of ALL Brasher socks and 20% off of Paramo Clothing.

This sale runs hand in hand with the Price Crash sale which ends this Sunday to make way for our big Christmas blow out sale of 'Half Price and Less' which is set to start Monday December 1st 2008.

Discount Brasher Socks
Brasher have been one of 'the' names in walking and hiking for a while now, making comfortable and durable boots for all seasons. But for every good pair of boots you need a nice, thick pair of walking socks and Brasher make just that. At GO Outdoors we have a range of around 8 different styles of Brasher socks, all with 20% off! From four season socks, to lite socks, to men's and women's socks. To check out this great offer click here

Discount Paramo Clothing
Paramo have been making waves in the Outdoor clothing industry since the 80's developing their own breathable fabrics to create functional, comfortable clothing for any outdoor enthusiast. If you're still stuck for those final Christmas presents for loved ones then check out the Paramo collection at GO Outdoors and pick up a bargain you won't find at that price anywhere else. Click here to take advantage.

GO Outdoors are trying to make Christmas as painless as possible for our customers which means big offers, big name brands and low prices and our ever changing, ever evolving Christmas gift page

Stop by the website to find out more and what current offers are available or sign up for the GO Outdoors newsletter via the home page to get exclusive offers before anyone else on the web.

You can also add GO Outdoors as a friend on Facebook
Or
As a friend on Myspace

That's all for now!

Kendal Mountain Festival

It's the Glastonbury of the outdoor world (without the mud). It's that time of year again, the biggest event for any outdoor enthusiast. The Kendal Mountain Festival where big names in climbing, mountaineering, biking and more come together with enthusiasts from all over the world for a weekend filled with talks, demonstrations, film viewings and much, much more.

Set in picturesque Kendal in the Lake District the festival attracts people from all walks of life with common interests and makes for a great culture splash weekend. The festival starts on Thursday 19th (tommorow) and goes on throughout the weekend till Sunday with an array of speakers including names like:

Reinhold Messner - a man often described as one of the greatest mountain climbers of all time. Part of the two man team which reached the summit of Everest without supllmental Oxygen.

Mark Beumont - a man who has litterally cycled all over the world and back again

As well as names like Lucy Creamer, one of Britains most accomplished climbers and Kenton Cool speaking on his Everest expedition with Mr 'mad, bad and dangerous to know' Sir Ranulph Fienes

Climbers, Cyclists, Explorers and more all speaking on their experiences and the sports they persue to the ends of the earth.

For those interested in learning more about pretty much anything in the Outdoor world or even just to meet a whole host of like minded people and friendly experts then this Festival should definately be on your calender.

If anyone does visit this festival then please reply with your experiences

Find us on Myspace at: http://www.myspace.com/gooutdoorsuk
Or become our friend on Facebook and tell us more.

To get into the Kendal spirit GO Outdoors have a host of reductions on:

Climbing Gear
Walking Equipment
Cycling Gear
Camping Equipment

Enjoy the festival if you are heading down this weekend

That's all for now

Berghaus Mera II Peak Jacket Review

With Winter very much upon us and people looking for great savings on gifts for their loved ones their festive season, for one week only the Berghaus Mera Peak Jacket is on sale with a whopping £101 off.

The Jacket comes in one of two colours: Big Splash Blue and Chili Red. The picture at the top is the Chili red variety and it's Big Splash counterpart is much of the same but a vibrant blue where the chili is red.

The Mera Peak is arguably the most sought after jacket that Berghaus offer. But why?

If you're a walker, or if you're into Hiking, Mountaineering, Hill Walking, or any outdoor activity where you are susceptible to the cold and wet weather then anybody who has tried the Mera Peak will tell you what a fantastic quality jacket it really is.

The jacket has a two layered GORE-TEX outer shell to give maximum protection from the cold and the wet as well as the cold winds. These outer layers are mesh lined which gives the the jacket a great breathable aspect which makes it ideal for high energy activities and won't way down the user.

The jacket has four external pockets and a pocket on the inside which is ideal for maps or walking guides. These pockets are big enough to store all your outdoor accessories such as compasses, pocket knives, gloves and any other small essentials you need on your trek.

A special feature about the Mera Peak is the interactive zip on the inside which enables you to attach any Berghaus fleece for extra warmth if needed. This as well as a packaway hood with a peak to protect your head and face from the elements to help make your experience a more comfortable one.

This jacket is a great jacket for winter or for summer. It is a very versatile jacket and all the good reviews you will find online can't be wrong.

The Berghaus Mera Peak jacket has an RRP of £250 and for one week only: November 17th - 23rd is selling for £149 as part of the Price Crash sale with the GO Outdoors discount card which gives you great discounts on GO Outdoors products for a full year for only £4

To reach this great deal: Click Here

That's all for now!

Waterproof Jacket Buying Guide

Winter Jackets, Waterproof Coats - whatever you call them the Waterproof is one of the most important bits of kit for any outdoor enthusiast who wishes to brave the elements. This guide will take you through the ideal kind of Jacket for a few common disciplines. So if you're heavily into your outdoor activity or just looking for a jacket to keep you warm and dry this winter then GO Outdoors offer you the advice you need before you buy.

Activities and Usage

Lowland Walking / Rambling - Lightweight Waterproof Jackets

Ideal for the casual walker or wearer or for anyone that doesn't expect to wear the jacket all day. These jackets are best for hiking, summer trips or people packing with weight in mind and may experience a bit of rain. These jackets are also ideal for runners who don't mind running in the rain or take part in mountain marathons and fell races.

Hill Walking / Trekking - Mid weight Waterproof Jackets

These jackets are designed to function well in mountain weather to offer the highest level of weather protection for dedicated hill walkers. These jackets are made from tough fabrics and with a more technical design for the best possible performance on the mountains.

Mountaineering / Snowsports

These jackets are the highest level of waterproof protection. The jackets are best suited for people who take part in rock climbing, ice climbing, summer and winter mountaineering and the vast array of snowsports. The jackets are intended to be suitable for steep slopes and the cold wet winter weather conditions of the northern parts of Scotland.

Waterproof Jacket Features

Hood - As you lose over 30% of your body heat through your head it is important to keep it protected and warm. Your hood can be fixed or detachable and as you probably need to see where you are going when you GO Outdoors, you have to make sure that when it is done up, it doesn’t impair your vision in any way. You may also want to fit a helmet/hat under your hood, so keep an eye out for compatibility of your jackets hood for your chosen activity.

Zips - Zips are the most important closure method in all jackets. They allow you to get your jacket on quickly when the conditions worsen, or take it off when the sun appears. Some jackets have 'Zip-in Compatibility' for complete comfort and protection.

Zip-in-Compatibility - this means you can zip a specific fleece mid-layer into the jacket using inner zips. This gives you a complete layering system to protect you from cold and wet conditions.

Pit Zips and Core Vents - Zips and vents allow your body to cool down without taking off a layer. Pit zips offer fresh air for those underarms that can get sweaty if carrying a rucksack for a long period of time. Core vents, such as front zips and ventilation flaps, allow your body heat to dissipate therefore increasing ventilation and keeping you cool.

Length - Jacket length is very important to those who want to perch on a rock, patch of grass to eat their lunch while on a hike, climb or run. The length is usually measured from the base of the collar to the hem.

Long Waterproof Jackets - with drop tails aren’t just good for sitting down without getting your posterior wet, they are ideal for bikers and give great protection for walkers from the wind and rain; making sure that there isn’t a gap between your over-trousers and your jacket. These will have a shorter front due to the material usage and fit and may restrict your movement compared to shorter waterproofs.

Mid Length Waterproof Jackets - are the most common on the market, giving protection to your waist region and the top of your legs when walking.

Short Waterproof Jackets - will be more lightweight and usually pack down to a smaller size. These have been designed for use with a harness for a greater freedom of movements but gaps can be made when bending over.

Pockets - Most pockets on waterproof jackets should have storm flaps to protect the opening of the pocket from water. In newly designed jackets most of the pockets (including chest pockets) may have a mesh lining to increase ventilation, if open, through the jacket. Chest pockets can range in size and most offer space for an OS map or at least a mobile phone or snack to eat while walking. Mountaineering jackets usually only have chest pockets due to the harness reducing access to waist pockets.


Hopefully this guide will be of help to get you around some quite tricky technical terms when it comes to buying a good quality Waterproof Jacket. For a full range of Jackets and Coats for any weather condition from GO Outdoors, check below.

Men's Jackets: Click Here
Women's Jackets: Click Here
Kids Jackets: Click Here


That's all for now...

Stuck For a Gift? Easy. Buy a Bike

Whether you're ready or not....Christmas is coming,

For anyone that travels anywhere Christmas morning; usually to a relatives for some dinner and more gifts. There's simply a tradition of spotting Kids with their new Christmas Gifts. Remote control cars, scooters, go-karts and of course the classic....a Bike.

It's a stressful time of year for parents trying to secure deals on the children's 'main' present. At GO Outdoors we're trying to take the pain out of it for you. We have a selection of bikes, mountain bikes and BMX's in store and a few at very low prices so that the only thing you need to worry about is finding a place to hide it until Christmas morning. So here's a guide from GO Outdoors for buying the perfect bike this Christmas.


Buying Guide

Visit the store - Unless you know yours or your child's bike size then make sure you visit the store before purchasing and get a feel for the bikes. A bike isn't like a new jacket, buying large to 'grow into it' isn't always the best idea.

Sale Bikes - Most of the time a Bike is on sale because it's running to the end of it's seasonal line. Or it's a fresh promotion to get the name of the bike out there. Don't fear these promotions as they're usually the best place to pick up a deal.

Ask for Advice - Most cycle stores will have qualified bike mechanics to talk you through the pro's and con's of each bike. Don't be baffled by sales talk or jargon, if you don't understand something then just say. These people are there to help you.

The Bikes Purpose - You don't want a BMX if you're riding from one end of the country to another. Think carefully about what purpose your bike serves. A standard Mountain bike is fine for a Child who is merely riding around the block on a sunny day.


Bike Extras

There are a large range of extras available when buying a Bike but make sure you pick up the required items before you add on the luxuries.

You need:

Helmet - Everybody from children to adults need to wear helmets when riding a bicycle.

Hi-Viz Clothing - If you plan to ride at night then a Hi Viz vest or light and reflective clothing are heavily advised for your safety.

Lights - Much like above Lights are needed when riding at night to ensure that you are seen on the roads.

Puncture Repair Kit - A puncture is inevitable. You can pick up great repair kits for cheap and it's something good to always keep in a little pouch attached to your bike so that you're ready for the problem before it even happens.

There are currently four bikes in the GO Outdoors 'Price Crash' November sale:

Diamondback - Outlook Full Suspension - Mountain Bike
Was: £219.99 / Now: £109.99

Diamondback - Outlook Hard Tail - Mountain Bike
Was: £219.99 / Now: £109.99


Raleigh - Voyager LX - Mountain Bike
Was: £254.99 / Now: £149.99



Raleigh - Mag Burner 08 BMX
Was: £249.99 / Now: £149.99

A Mountain Bike for Christmas is a great gift. It's great to get the kids out of the house in the new year, out and active again. More and more with Bike brands you can get good quality for less. In most GO Outdoors stores across the UK you will find a dedicated cycle shop with experts to answer any of your questions. These mechanics can offer you great advice on which bicycle you will need.

That's all for now.

Brandon

Reel Rock Film Tour 2008

The Reel Rock tour is coming to the UK,

In association with The North Face, The Reel Rock film festival is hitting the UK over the next month or so. It should be a great little get together for anyone interested in Climbing. The festival is to showcase amateur and pro production climbing and adventure videos. It's not just sitting in a room and watching the big screen though, these events are known to be great networking meet and greets for anyone interested in climbing or the outdoors to come down and share their passion with like minded people.

There should be a few decent gear give aways too at the meets and a chance to meet some of the UK's top climbers. It was a big success last year and looks to be a bigger hit this year. I recommend checking it out if you can. I'm going to be trying to get down to the event when it comes to the Climbing Works in Sheffield.

Here's the dates:

The Climbing Works - Sheffield, - Sun 9th November
Glasgow University Mountaineering Club - Glasgow, Thurs 13th November
Durham Climbing Centre - Durham, - Sun 16th November
The Tower Climbing Centre - Leicester - Sun 23rd November

All the events start at 8:30 and tickets are available on the door.


This of course was the first year Reel Rock wanted people to send in their 3 minute films for a competition to win a bunch of Climbing Gear and the chance to see their films featured on the door.

It should be a good night so check it out if you're near any of the event venues.

Or check their website for more details: http://www.reelrocktour.com

That's all from me,

Until next time!

Brandon

Kit up for the Upcoming Ski Season

If we're going to be cold, we might as well have fun doing it.

It's ski season and many, including myself are heading for the slopes in the coming months to try and ignore/push aside the prospect of 'what to buy a loved one for Christmas' because you know and i know that they never help you out. Apparently 'whatever you get will be fine' when we all know that's a bit of a lie. But that's another blog for another time.

Back to the slopes.

Around this time of year is a really good time to pick up a bargain when it comes to Skiing Equipment. It's the start of the season sale for most outdoor companies and GO Outdoors are no different. It's the time of year when the walking boots, the tents get put on the back burner to really hype up the new lines of ski clothing, so why not pick up some sale items before you head for the slopes?

I read on a few climbing and walking forums that some people are struggling to come by sallopettes. Obviously these guys are looking in the wrong places because they're quite regularly available if you know the right places to go.

You'll notice a lot of companies will really be hyping North Face and Berghaus over the next few months, and why not? They make great quality outdoor gear and are really popular among outdoor enthusiasts and skiers alike, but as with anything it pays to shop around. There are some great brands out there such as Dare 2b, Five Seasons and more. My advice would be to get in and seek out the bargains now. Everybody waits for the standard after Christmas sales, or mid-summer sales so you're likely to pick up a little something, something if you beat the crowd.

As well as the sale priced clothing and equipment you're likely to pick up a side deal or two in the process. At GO outdoors we're offering a great ski deal where when you spend over £150 on Columbia Ski wear then you have the chance to get some free ski flights, which with the rising prices of flights right now, could be a god send. It's all to do with Columbia celebrating their 70th Anniversary. This deal hasn't gone live yet and won't till November 1st so you'll have to check back on the website then for more details. Obviously the usual T&C's will apply. Check out Columbia's site for some details.

So for those heading on out to the hills this winter, hopefully you'll have an awesome time - i know i will. It's a lot of people's favourite time of year and this should be one to remember, put the Christmas shopping on hold for a week or two and get out the Ski's or the Snowboard and get wild.

Until next time!

Brandon
www.gooutdoors.co.uk

Mountain Marathon Musings

Amid talks of a credit crunch, a recession and Britney Spears day to day activities i have to wonder whether good old mother nature felt a little....left out. I say that because every time we stop complaining about the weather or our lack of a summer long enough to focus on something else - nature rears it's attention seeking side. Personally i think mother nature just likes the media attention, as seen with her full blown attack on the OMM this weekend.

The vast over-exaggeration from the news today stating that the lake district nearly became a 'morgue' was just the comic relief i needed to cheer me up after all the new equipment i bought for the mountain marathon went unused because for the first time ever it was cancelled due to the weather.

My new North Face Waterproof Jacket was really put to the test this weekend and I'm happy to say that despite the odds it did keep me dry and that's probably why I'm not one of the unfortunate people who apparently left the Lake District with hypothermia this weekend.

I'm disappointed more than anything because this year i went all out. I did a lot more training than previous times, was looking to test in view of reviewing a lot of new equipment and was ready for a tiring but fun weekend. The pocket rocket camping stove will have to remain unreviewed at this point. Setting up my tent in the living room and running on a treadmill for hours ready to settle into some dehydrated food delights and a bag of Romney's fudge just didn't have as much appeal as enduring the rigors and sheer beauty of the Lake District.

I have to say though most of us out there this weekend were blissfully unaware of the epic over-exaggeration the media was making of things to the point of me strolling back in the house a little disappointed and slightly soggy and having to explain to my partner that i hadn't just come from the worlds most disorganized event and England's worst natural disaster as the news would have you believe, but instead I'd come from a well organized, well taken care of event where the organizers had full control and made the right decision to start the marathon and to cancel it when they did. Another great testament to the hard work of the Mountain Rescuers.


Roll on next year i say.

Baby, It's Cold Outside...

It's that time of year again,

Yes our barely visible British Summer has finally given up and decided to turn to Autumn which means that Winter is just around the corner. It's that time of year when Men and Women all over the country, no - the world are looking into their Wardrobe to find that last years Winter Coat just won't do.....

...Well correction, It's mostly women that think that, and most Men are told by their wives, girlfriends or mothers that their Winter coat won't suffice. You find all last years Jacket is good for is a good rummage through the pockets to see what's left; a few coins? maybe something of more worth but more than likely just some fossilised chocolate bar you really wish you hadn't found.

So what do you really need this Winter? You could try a high street shop and join the rest of them shivering at the bus stop but hey, they look the part right? No you need something a little more...substantial. Especially if you enjoy spending more than five minutes outside. The 'outdoor' crowd have had it right for a while now. There are huge range of winter jackets available from those Outdoor shops to choose from and the prices aren't expensive at all.

The big choice really is between 'Down' (Feather insulated) Jackets and 'Synthetic' (plastic fibre insulated) Jackets and both come with a range of pros and cons.

Synthetic Jackets tend to be for the more active person, they aren't quite as warm and allow more 'room to breathe' for the body. So if you're out and about this Winter running, hiking, mountain climbing then maybe a synthetic jacket is the answer especially in areas with large amounts of rainfall.

Down Jackets, although heavier are ideal for keeping warm. Although not entirely waterproof they are resistant to light showers. An ideal material for the cold winter months coming up. These coats keep the warmth locked in so they aren't great for physical activities but if you're shivering out on the football terraces every weekend then maybe a Down Jacket will help you through the freezing months.

Before heading on out though, you should be aware that if you choose to head toward a Down Insulated Jacket then you get what you pay for. There are different grades of 'fill power' which represents the quality of the down insulation. The higher the fill power? The warmer, lighter and more compressible the insulation. Check out below for a bit of information on these 'Fill Power' grades so you know exactly what you're looking for.



If you ask most sales people they will generally be able to help you out.

So this Christmas season when it comes to a Coat or Jacket, why not leave the 'fashion' to the Christmas parties and spend the rest of your Winter warm and dry especially while there are some great deals out there.

That's All from me for now,

Brandon