VentureLite

I have had a pair of Salomon Exit GTX Multi-Activity shoes for a few months now and they have been a fantastic purchase, for use in all-conditions. They are water-tight and breathable thanks to the GoreTex membrane with a nubuck and split suede leather upper. They are reasonably lightweight (for their comparable durability) at apx. 800g for the pair, offering a stable, deep-lugged 'contagrip' sole unit. I have used them walking muddy trails, cycling the moors as well as pottering into town, with a bounce in my step. They fit snugly, hugging the foot well, giving confidence of grip and protection. Overall, I would say that they are a jack of all trades shoe - rather than being specifically great at one particular activity. I am very pleased with them and would certainly recommend them to VentureLite readers.

So, I've been trying to track down a decent, lightweight gas stove that doesn't cost the earth - as lovely as it is, the MSR Dragonfly, for example - which doesn't even come with the stand plate and windshield required to operate it in all weathers, can't really be called a budget stove at £129.99 RRP. Ranting aside, I think I have found a decent option - which, bizarrely enough, appears to be one of the cheapest remote stoves on the market. The innovative copper-alloy/stainless steel folding design of the Gelert PZ Inferno weighs in at 340g (actually slightly less than the Dragonfly at 395g but here the comparisons end) and gives it an ultra small pack size whilst still keeping it nice and stable on the ground. Features include robust steel braided hose and matchless piezo ignition. The unit is very stable, with a low centre of gravity, incorporating 3 folding supports and comes with it's own carry box. The only gripe seems to be whether it will feed off a butane/propane mix or whether it is a strictly butane only affair. Will let you know if Gelert get bakc to me on that.

So, a little bit of history now - the MacPac MicroLight was one of my first forays (around 1998) into the world of lightweight camping. A sturdy, reliable, one-man tent, featuring (in it's day) all the latest mod-cons, bells and whistles - a low-profile, double walled easy pitch traverse hoop design... and all in at about 1.9kg. 

So, what's the bad? Well, internal height was distinctly lacking (mustering a mere 90cm) and absorbant groundsheet are the two that spring to mind but other than that, sturdy as a rock, until the latter led to mildew and rotting and forced an early retirement. I do miss this little fella and the tiny pack size (apx. 60cm x 20cm) - I guess he did teach me a couple of lessons - don't scringe on headroom if you can help it and - even with today's fabrics - carry a groundsheet/footprint.

Designed for the fast, adventure oriented enthusiast, the stylish Talon Series offers a unique blend of torso adjustability in an active, lightweight pack. Crammed with innovative features, this neat little pack (790g) is extremely versatile. Ideal for fast and light enthusiasts, mountain runners and day hikers. The close to the back fit offers superb stability, particularly useful for mountain biking, trail running or climbing. Check out the Osprey Talon Series tech video on YouTube here or the official technical pages at the Osprey website, here. There is also an interesting review from a backcountry mountain-biking-photographer, here. Retails for around £59.99 - available in Spicy Chili, Magnesium and Citron.

Well, a bootcut stretch pant, eh? Interesting work Craghoppers! Rather tight in my size but step up a couple of inches and I've found a very comfortable pair of smart/casual activity trousers. Only time will tell how they stand up to wear and tear but on initial inspection, they seem pretty steady. Two zipped pockets (these are quite deep, so not really useful for heavy items, as will smash around on your leg) and one combat style pocket on the right for larger items. The stretch fabric is impressively flexible, allowing for full movement and the waist features belt loops as well as elastic. A great product from Craghoppers.


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A seat bag for minimalists, and bikes with low tire clearance and less exposed seatpost. The Revelate Designs 'Pika', like it's alpine rodent namesake, is a small but hardy bag. It's ideal for minimalist bikepackers, road bikers, women riding 29ers, and other bikes without much tire clearance or exposed seat post. The Pika is 1.5" shorter in height than the Viscacha and uses a 2" wide non-slip webbing wrap attachment. The width and length are the same as the Viscacha. It features a high-density foam stiffened front section and a plastic bottom sheet for sag-free performance.

Weight: 12 oz
Volume: 6-12 Liters
Color Choices: Black, Graphite
Features: Dimension Polyant 200 denier Xpac laminate Coated webbing seat rail attachment. High density foam inserts & flexible plastic bottom sheet Internal compression wings with removable strap 2" webbing anti-slip seat post attachment.

Available from Revelate Designs (ships to UK for $35 using USPS priority mail).

Running a quick test of new iPhone app, BlogPress. Will check at machine to see if it has posted! Good times.


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