How To Pack Your Rucksack

'So what is the best way to pack your backpack?'

It's always best to find out how to pack your rucksack before you head on out travelling, camping or even to a festival for the weekend. A well packed rucksack can be the difference between shoulder ache and comfort in travel. It could also save those embarrassing moments where you realize something you need in a hurry is actually half way down your pack and you're left rummaging around with a slightly red face.

When you pack your rucksack i believe there are four important aspects to keep in mind to spread the weight and keep you comfortable for the duration of your chosen activity.

1) Always pack the rucksack with all storage areas open - This enables the bag to extend to its full capacity so you know exactly how much room you have to use.

2) Pack the weight evenly on each side - This is for your own comfort, spread the weight evenly over both shoulders to make carrying easier.

3) Pack tightly with as fewer gaps as possible - This gives you more space and allows you to pack much more as well as helping with weight distribution.

4) Try to avoid fixing items to the outside of the pack - Sleeping mats and walking poles are exceptions here. This again helps with weight distribution and makes the pack more comfortable to carry.

Below is a diagram to show where certain types of items should be packed within the rucksack for ease of access when you need them in the event it starts to rain or you need a quick snack etc.



Find your travelling/Camping essentials at any GO Outdoors store or online at http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk


Hopefully this is of help!

Thanks for reading

Brandon

GO Outdoors To Create More Jobs Over Next Two Years

NEWS: GO Outdoors To Create 1000 New Retail Jobs in Two Years

GO Outdoors – the UK’s fastest growing outdoor retailer (www.gooutdoors.co.uk) – has revealed plans to create 1000 new retail jobs over the next two years starting with three new stores in West Yorkshire, the North East and the South East.

By June 2009, GO Outdoors will have opened a total of five new stores since the £18 million refinancing package set up with Bank of Scotland Corporate in Spring 2008. And the planned expansion targets a total of 30 stores by 2011.

Sheffield-based GO Outdoors will invest a total of £5 million in these three new store openings creating more than 150 new jobs in the process. The outdoor retailer's new expansion plans follow on from another two new successful store openings in the past three months in Wolverhampton and Bristol creating a further 80 new jobs.

GO Outdoors is now on target to operate 14 stores by the end of June – each store selling more than 20,000 big-brand price-guaranteed outdoor products.

John Graham, GO Outdoors managing director, said,

“We have big plans for GO Outdoors. And our next three stores in West Yorkshire, the North East and South East are an important part of those plans. The refinancing agreement with Bank of Scotland Corporate means we can now pursue a rapid controlled expansion plan.

“GO Outdoors actively seeks low-rent off-pitch locations and the money we save is passed on to our customers. That's why we guarantee to beat any price on any stock item sold by any of our competitors. The guarantee includes the biggest outdoor brands. It's not a promise we make lightly – but GO Outdoors customers know that if they buy from us they won't find it cheaper anywhere else.

“And it's not just about price. We have built a team who are passionate about the outdoors lifestyle and we encourage their enthusiasm when they advise customers – experts and novices alike.

“We are transforming the UK outdoor retail experience by opening the Whatever our customers need, we have thousands of products at guaranteed best prices perfect for everything from walking the dog to conquering K2; from camping in the lakes to cycling to work; from riding down mountain paths to going on a safari; and, from climbing the Three Peaks to fishing in Scotland.”

In 2007 GO Outdoors opened Scotland's largest outdoor retail outlet in Coatbridge - more than 70,000 square feet of retail space.

And in October 2008 GO Outdoors Bristol became the South West’s first themed 43,000 square feet outdoor superstore featuring a six-metre-high family-friendly climbing wall. In a break with traditional outdoor store layouts, customers enter the new store via a walk-through on a hand-made timber path. The themed area also features more than 4.5 tonnes of limestone fashioned into a hand-built dry-stone wall plus TV and demonstration areas for the different products.

David Hunt, director of commercial banking for Bank of Scotland Corporate in Sheffield, is a firm supporter of GO Outdoors’ philosophy and business model.

David said,

“This company is a fantastic example of a retail business that identified a niche and has stuck firmly to a winning formula through a combination of sound business practice linked to an entrepreneurial spirit. We had no hesitation in backing the business plan and the experienced management team that created it and everyone concerned is already seeing the benefits of the refinancing package”.

Stephen Ingram (partner in Ingram Forrest Corporate Finance) initially acted for the management team when GO Outdoors was the subject of a buy in management buy out in 1998. He was subsequently retained as financial advisor to the company and advised on the transfer of GO’s business to Bank of Scotland.

Stephen said,

“The term facility put in place for GO by Bank of Scotland was very well structured to support the company’s expansion plans. The robustness of the facility - as well as GO’s business model - is clearly evidenced by the current rate of new store openings.”

Rucksack Buying Guide - Volume 3 The Travel Pack

Backpacking is increasingly popular, because after all there is a world out there and it's begging to be seen by anyone who is willing to take the time to do it.

The Travel Pack

The travel pack is the perfect option for round the world travel, inter-city travel or where ever you plan to go. these travel backs should always come with a large front access zip which gives you quick and easy access to your belongings for where ever you may stop.

Another nice feature to look out for is the use of concealed pockets for your documentation. Keeping passports and travel documents safe is a must when on your travels.

A lot of travel sacks also come with a detachable daypack which means you can put the big part in a locker and head out to the tourist attractions with only the essentials that you need.


1) Front Opening - This is the key feature on travel packs because it gives you wide, easy access to all of your belongings making it easy to get to whatever it is you need at that moment in time. Front openings are also available on some trekking backpacks.

2) Detachable Day Bag - A good feature on travel packs is the detachable day sack. These small volume bags 15-25 litres can be kept can be attached to the main bag when travelling and detached at your destination for short excursions

For a full list Travel Packs available from GO Outdoors Click here

Being prepared for your travels is very important and there are many products on the market to make your time on the road s easy as possible. So make sure that you pick up everything you need at home before you head on out because it becomes harder to find these products the further out there you get. At GO Outdoors we have a full range of travel equipment and travel accessories to make it easy for you.

Happy Travelling

Brandon

Rucksack Buying Guide - Volume 1 The Day Pack

Happy New Year everyone,

It's a New Year and fresh with your resolutions (hopefully) still in tact you're probably telling yourself that this year is finally the year you take that plunge. You do that 'something' different. You may be planning to go travelling. See some of the world out there. Europe, America, Asia, Australasia, Africa - Whatever your travel choice the travellers best friend and closest companion is of course....The Rucksack.

Anyone who has travelled will regale you with stories and tales of sights they've seen but if there's something that makes the list of 'what ifs' it's what if they had taken a bag that was right? Too hasty in buying maybe? Bought cheaper rather than what was right for them? These problems occur a lot. Many Outdoor brands are making some fantastic backpacks for whatever the need and right now is probably the best time to pick one up. Just before the season starts.

Over the next few blogs i will introduce the different features you should be looking for when buying your rucksack. This edition will be aimed at the Day Pack.

Day pack Features
The Day pack is the smallest of the rucksack family and is often a standard backpack lightweight and ideal for walking and one day use.

Many day packs lack more technical features like padded hip belts and back systems but these are generally not needed for single day use.

Bellow are a few features you should look for when buying a day pack:


1) Hydration Compatible - An internal pocket, drinking straw exit hole, and fastening for mouth piece that allow a hydration unit to be fitted to the bag.

2) Integral Rain Cover - Pack away covers in the lid or base of a rucksack give your bag extra rain protection

3) Wand Pockets - Fabric or mesh pockets which can be found on the sides which allow you to attach items for easy access. This could be ideal for Maps or food bars




4) Walking Pole Attachment - Loops or eyelets at the base of the bag and fastening higher up to keep your walking pole securely attached.

5) Compression Straps - Straps on the sides of the rucksack that will give you the use of compressing a bulky or half full bag more comfortable to carry

6) Padded Hip Belt - The more weight the bag has the higher the percentage that is carried predominantly on the hips should be. While many day packs may not have a hip belt most small packs that are designed to carry a heavier load should come with this option to help take some of the effort from your back and shoulders.



7) Hydration Unit - Some daypack models include a drinking system. This consists of a tough flexible bladder and a drinking straw mouth piece. Brands like Camelbak are famous for this type of bag. Hydration Packs can be essential for hot weather and intense activities where regular fluids are needed with ease. Great for outdoor runners, or Cyclists who take part in competitions.

8) Air Flow Back System - This is a tensioned mesh back that creates a comforting space between the bag and the users back which keeps you cool and reduces sweat on your back. These bags are great for walking or leisurely activities but not good for more intense excursions like climbing or cycling.


Hopefully these guides will help you when choosing a Backpack online as not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to drop into a store to get expert advice from sales staff.

At GO Outdoors we have a large range of Day Packs available each with their own redeeming features from some of the industries biggest brands and at some of the industries lowest prices.

View our range of Daypacks here

That's all for now,

Next time: Rucksack Buying Guide - Volume 2 The Backpack


Brandon

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

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

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...

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