The Best Head Torches for Autumn/Winter 2026
Our autumn/winter 2026 pick of the best head torches from Petzl, Ledlenser and Black Diamond, for running, dog walks, hillwalking and camping.
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53 Degrees North Outdoor Blog
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The Best Waterproof Jackets in Ireland for Autumn/Winter 2026
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.
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What Is Ventron? The Waterproof Fabric Explained
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.
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DryVent vs Gore-Tex: How They Compare
DryVent, Gore-Tex, FUTURELIGHT, Omni-Tech and Ventron explained: how each waterproof membrane works, how they differ, and which suits Irish weather.
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How to Layer for the Irish Outdoors with the Three-Layer System
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,...
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How to Choose a Backpack for College
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.
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How to Choose a Work Backpack for Your Commute
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.
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What Is Omni-Tech? Columbia's Waterproof Membrane Explained
What is Omni-Tech? Columbia's waterproof-breathable membrane explained: how it works, how it compares to Gore-Tex and OutDry, and which Columbia gear uses it.
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FUTURELIGHT vs Gore-Tex: How The North Face's Membrane Compares
FUTURELIGHT vs Gore-Tex: how The North Face's air-permeable membrane compares with the Gore-Tex benchmark on breathability, waterproofing, durability and choice.
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How to Choose a Waterproof Jacket
The waterproof rating is only the start. Here is how to match a jacket to how you actually use it, from the commute to a full day on the Irish...
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Waterproof Ratings Explained: What the mm Actually Means
What the mm on a waterproof jacket actually means, the ratings scale from showerproof to mountain-ready, and how much waterproofing you really need in Irish weather.
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The Best Sun Hats for Irish Summers
The best sun hats for men and women, from packable UPF 50+ brimmers to wide-brim Tilleys, plus how to choose shade that stays put in Irish wind and showers.
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The Best Cooler Boxes and Cooler Bags
Cooler boxes and cooler bags compared: are YETI coolers worth it, and how do Stanley and Vango stack up on ice retention, capacity, build and price?
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