Merino and synthetic base layers are both excellent, and they are good at different things. Here is how they compare on comfort, drying, odour and durability, and which suits your...
53 Degrees North |
Most people choose a base layer by asking how cold it will be. The better question is how hard you will be working. Here is how to choose a base...
53 Degrees North |
Most waterproof jackets that feel leaky are not broken. Here is how to tell, how to wash a waterproof jacket properly, and when and how to reproof it with Nikwax...
53 Degrees North |
A calm, practical walk through the Be Emergency Ready checklist: what to have at home for light, warmth, water, cooking, first aid and power, and the details worth knowing about...
53 Degrees North |
The best hiking socks keep feet dry and blister-free. How to pick the fibre, cushioning and height for your boots, and when waterproof socks earn their place.
53 Degrees North |
Our autumn/winter 2026 pick of the best head torches from Petzl, Ledlenser and Black Diamond, for running, dog walks, hillwalking and camping.
53 Degrees North |
Our autumn/winter 2026 pick of the best waterproof jackets for men and women, from GORE-TEX hillwalking shells to packable rain jackets and warm waterproofs for winter.
53 Degrees North |
What is Ventron? The 10,000mm waterproof fabric used in the Trailpeak range: how it performs, how it compares to Gore-Tex, and what it's used in.
53 Degrees North |
DryVent, Gore-Tex, FUTURELIGHT, Omni-Tech and Ventron explained: how each waterproof membrane works, how they differ, and which suits Irish weather.
53 Degrees North |
The three-layer system is the most useful skill for staying comfortable in changeable Irish weather. Here is how a base layer, a mid layer and a waterproof shell work together,...
53 Degrees North |
Stepping up from a half to the full distance? The marathon gear that earns its place, from running vests and belts to socks, gels, a watch and a wind layer,...
53 Degrees North |
A practical guide to choosing a backpack for college: the right capacity, laptop protection, all-day comfort, style, durability and value, with the packs we would pick.
53 Degrees North |
A practical guide to choosing a work backpack for the daily commute: laptop protection, the right capacity, comfort on public transport, weather resistance and the packs we would pick.
53 Degrees North |