When most people imagine an exoskeleton, they picture something closer to a suit of armour like in the sci-fi movie Elysium. Heavy frames, motors and mechanical joints have limited wearable robots from becoming practical outside specialist environments, but a new design could offer a much more subtle approach.

Developed by researchers at Hebei University of Technology in China, the soft exosuit uses artificial muscles made from dielectric elastomer materials. These rubber-like fibres contract when exposed to an electric field, mimicking the way human muscles work rather than relying on conventional motors, gearboxes or air pumps.

The team bundled thousands of these tiny artificial muscle fibres together to create a lightweight system that can be worn around the hips. The result is a flexible wearable device that looks more like a harness than a robotic suit, while still providing assistance during walking.

Researchers tested the exosuit on six healthy volunteers, comparing walking with the system switched on, switched off and without wearing it. When active, the suit reduced the energy needed for walking by an average of 13.9%, suggesting it could help reduce fatigue during movement.

The potential applications go well beyond helping people walk more comfortably. Lightweight exosuits could eventually support older adults, people recovering from injuries, workers performing physically demanding tasks, or anyone needing extra endurance without being restricted by a bulky machine.

There are still challenges before this technology becomes something you can buy and wear every day. The current prototype is limited by battery life, and the control system still needs to become smarter at adapting to different walking speeds and terrain.

However, the research points towards a future where wearable robots don't make people look like they're preparing for a battle with aliens. Instead, they could become lightweight pieces of clothing that make everyday movement easier.

IKEA has launched a new battery-powered table lamp as part of its latest outdoor lighting collection. The new Hjulmöjaled table decoration is made from frosted glass and produces a flickering glow designed to mimic the warmth of a real candle flame.

It's the perfect addition to an outdoor setup, particularly if you're looking for an easy way to upgrade your garden for less. It's also the first product in the new Hjulmöjaled range, so there's a chance we could see more similarly styled lighting arrive in the future.

The Hjulmöjaled table decoration costs just £3 in the UK and $6.99 in the US, and it's available to buy in IKEA stores or through the IKEA website.

One thing I particularly like is that the lamp comes in two colour options – grey and white. IKEA often keeps its cheapest lighting products fairly simple, so having a choice of two finishes is a nice touch.

The lamp also has a built-in timer, which is set to stay on for six hours before automatically switching off for 18 hours, after which it will turn back on again. That said, it's worth noting that the timer resets if you switch the flame effect between the steady and flickering modes.

As mentioned, the Hjulmöjaled is battery-powered and requires three AAA batteries. IKEA also says it's compatible with its Ladda rechargeable HR03 AAA 1.2V batteries, which could be a good option if you don't want to constantly buy disposable batteries.

Based in Seattle, USA, adventure apparel and gear specialists Outdoor Research (commonly just called OR) have been manufacturing excellent outdoor equipment since 1981, and I’ve always been impressed with their gear.

Most recently, I tested the Helium UL, a super-light waterproof jacket from the brand, which boxes well above its extremely svelte weight, keeping you dry and protecting you from the wind while weighing virtually nothing and taking up very little room in your backpack or running pack.

As you can probably deduce from the name, the Helium UL Bivy is part of the same range, and it’s not much of an exaggeration to say that it’s a long waterproof jacket that you can climb into and go to sleep in by the side of the trail.

Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy review

Price and availability

The Outdoor Research Helium Bivy is available now from various outdoor shops and websites. It comes in a range of colours, from discreet natural hues (perfect for wild camping) to brighter options, which can be good in remote areas and extreme conditions, just in case everything goes south and the emergency services have to come looking for you.

In Britain, the recommended retail price is £257.95, while in the United States you can expect to pay around $300; across the European Union, it will cost in the region of €275 and in Australia the price tag will be pushing AU$400.

Specifications

• Guide price: £257.95 (UK) / $300 (US)
• Style: Ultra-lightweight shelter
• Pack size (L x H x W): 37 x 12 x 12cm
• Pitched dimensions (L x W x H):
• Weight: 510.9g / 18.02oz
• Seasons: 3
• Capacity: 1 person
• Vestibules: 0 (awning is extra)
• Hydrostatic Head rating: HH 20,000
• Fabric: Pertex with Diamond Fuse technology (100% polyamide)
• Pole: 1 x aluminium pole
• Pegs: 4
• Pitch time: 2 minutes
• Colour: Light pewter / Spice

Design, materials and ease of pitching

This minimalist shelter is essentially a large bag constructed from OR’s ‘Helium’ fabric, made with Pertex Shield with Diamond Fuse technology.

This membrane-based material is extremely thin and lightweight (even more so than Gore-Tex), and it’s also waterproof (with a hydrostatic head rating of 20,000), windproof and breathable (20,000g/m²/24hr). Of course, the effectiveness of all of these ratings is dependent on various factors (see below).

The bivy utalises one aluminium pole, which threads through a sheath at the head end and is secured in place by a couple of Velcro flaps, creating a hoop that’s large enough to keep the outer fabric from falling on your face and upper torso. It features a ‘clamshell’ opening, which you climb through to enter the shelter. There’s also an insect mesh layer, which you can use on dry nights to vastly improve the airflow.

And that’s pretty much it. The shelter is freestanding, but there are four pegs to stop the bivy from blowing away when you’re not in it, and a pole repair sheath, but there’s no secondary pole at the bottom that you could use with a guy line and a peg to create a little bit of volume at the foot end.

An awning is also available as an optional extra (£100/$110; 155g/5.46oz), if you want some more protection and space at the head end, or somewhere to stash your walking shoes, trail runners, or hiking boots, plus your pack – but you do need a trekking pole to make this work.

Performance on the trail

I love a good bivvying escapade. There is something extra adventurous about travelling light and fast across wild terrain, and then setting up a super-minimalist shelter for nights out right next to the trail.

Sleeping out under the stars with nothing at all between you and the star-spangled sky is the stellar option, waking every now and then to see how the earth has turned and the constellations have changed position, but if the elements don’t allow for this, then a tarp or bivy (or bivvy, as some prefer) is next best.

I have been using the OR Helium UL bivy in the Peak District and in Devon, during various overnight escapades, and overall I’ve been impressed. It does what it designed to do and provides high-level protection during overnight outings, but as mentioned, people need to be very aware of its limitations.

Without weighing you down with any appreciable bulk (the UL in the OR Helium Bivy’s name stands for ultralight, and the kit tips the scales at just over 500g, or about the same as a pair of hiking trousers), a good bivy like this shelters you from wind, cold and rain (to a point).

Obviously, Pertex, like any breathable membrane, has its limits, and if you pitch the Helium Bivy in a puddle, or camp out in the full blast of a rainstorm, you’re going to get damp – as I did during one night of torrential rain.

Likewise, the breathability of such membrane-based materials (Gore-Tex included) is dependent on the conditions, and they only work optimally in dry environments (like the Alps or the Rockies), rather than in the humidity and moistness of the UK.

Also, do not take ‘breathable’ to mean you can zip the whole thing fully shut while inside – ventilation isn’t brilliant in this bivy, which is essentially a large plastic bag (albeit a very technical one), and you will quickly feel like you’re suffocating (and, indeed, you might be).

Space is tight in hoop bivies, and while I’m not claustrophobic, I always like to keep a breathing hole and an escape route nice and close to my face when I’m sleeping in one. If it’s not raining, I recommend rolling up the outer layer around the entrance and using the insect mesh, which will also allow you to gaze up at the stars.

The clamshell opening on the Helium bivy is pretty nifty, folding back so you can insert your lightweight camping mat and sleeping bag, and then get your legs in and assume a sitting position before wriggling fully into the shelter. However, I still found it a little tricky to get into the bivy (especially in wet conditions), compared to having a side zip to enable access.

The bucket floor is reasonably good for keeping moisture out, but in the absence of a small pole at the feet end of the shelter (which would, arguably, make it more of a backpacking tent and less of a bivy) you are always going to be in contact with the fabric, and no matter how waterproof and breathable the fabric claims to be, condensation will accumulate and you do get damp.

Verdict

If you’re really into lightweight gear and you regularly embark on fastpacking and bikepacking escapades where keeping carry weight and bulk to an absolute minimum is the biggest priority, then the OR Helium UL Bivy is a good investment. It’s well designed and made with premium fabrics that are reasonably robust and offer category-leading technical protection.

But, as any bivy user already knows, this is an outdoor shelter in its most minimalist form – it’s basically a highly technical survival bag with some small features that make life a tiny bit more comfortable (and less cold and damp) when you’re adventuring on the edge and sleeping in very close proximity to the wilderness.

Also consider

For a more comprehensive shelter that weighs a few grams less than the OR Helium UL bivy and provides full overnight cover for you and your backpack, boots, and so on, check out the Vango F10 Neon UL1 – a superlight one-person tent.

The Lifesystems Solo Peak tent is another minimalist shelter worth considering – this model has good internal space and an awning for storage, although it tips the scales at 1kg, so is twice as heavy as the OR Helium bivy and the Vango F10 Neon UL1.

Zara is best known for quickly turning fashion trends into clothing you can find on almost any high street.

Its latest release, however, isn't something you can try in a changing cubicle.

The Spanish retailer is now selling a fully fledged car rooftop tent for £3,300 (~$4,397 / €3,865 / AU$6,292), complete with an aluminium shell, built-in mattress and telescopic ladder.

It is available through Zara Home in the UK and looks every bit as Zara-like as a rooftop tent possibly could.

Finished in beige and earthy brown, with a slim black frame and sparse branding, the tent resembles something from an unusually expensive outdoor editorial.

Even the product photography features an old Land Rover Defender parked in an idyllic mountain setting.

Looks aside, the tent appears to be a serious piece of camping equipment.

The wedge-shaped tent opens to provide a 260 x 144cm interior, with a maximum height of 125cm, and has space for two people, side mesh windows, a front opening and a ladder that extends to 230cm.

It even comes with a fitted mattress, an internal USB-powered light strip, a protective case, mounting hardware, tools and assembly instructions.

Peak Zara

The £3,300 price is not entirely unheard of for an aluminium rooftop tent, but the price certainly makes the shelter one of the more expensive models in the category

For comparison, the two-to-three-person Thule Approach M costs £2,400, while TentBox offers several models for considerably less. Even the four-person TentBox Lite XL currently costs around £1,900.

The remote-operated Dometic TRT120E tent, which recently won the T3 Awards 2026 in the Best Tent category and goes up in a matter of minutes on its own, costs less than half as much at £1,400.

At the premium end, Thule’s aluminium Widesky sits in a similar price bracket and adds features including rapid opening and a built-in sofa configuration.

Zara’s listing, meanwhile, provides no waterproof rating, wind-resistance figure or warranty details specific to the tent.

There are also some important limitations to note. The tent has a maximum load of 150kg despite being designed for two people, and Zara says the vehicle must have a dynamic roof-load capacity of between 70 and 100kg.

Still, practicality may be beside the point. Zara previously tapped into the supershoe trend with an extraordinarily tall running shoe; now it has apparently discovered overlanding.

At least this time, the high stack sits on top of your car.

The aptly named Car Roof Tent is available to buy at Zara UK.

Nike ACG has unveiled a new trail-running collection inspired by the landscape surrounding Chamonix, the birthplace of modern mountaineering and the home of UTMB, admittedly one of the most popular ultra-trail running events in the world.

The new range transforms the colours and textures of the French Alps into an unusually convincing camouflage print.

Chamo Camo stretches across five of Nike’s trail-running shoes, including the ACG Ultrafly, ACG Zegama Trail, Pegasus Trail, Wildhorse and Terra Kiger.

Each receives a layered grey and green pattern informed by the granite, limestone and sandstone formations found around Mont Blanc, alongside the region’s forests, vegetation and lichen.

The result is considerably subtler than conventional military-style camouflage.

Nike says the inspiration for the pattern came from how the landscape changes between dawn and dusk, helping the products blend into the terrain that inspired them.

Hide and peak

Chamo Camo will also feature across the All Conditions Racing Department’s athlete race kit and a wider collection of men’s and women’s apparel.

The range includes Dri-FIT ADV singlets, distance tops, race shorts, tights and warm-up layers.

Nike has also applied the pattern to clothing featuring its Aero-FIT Radical AirFlow technology, which uses a highly open structure to promote airflow during hot-weather exercise.

Retail pieces include trail-running tanks, Solar Chase tops, lined shorts and graphic T-shirts, allowing runners to recreate the coordinated race-day look without necessarily heading off to compete in the Alps.

The launch arrives as Nike continues to reposition ACG as a serious performance-outdoor brand.

Its expanding footwear line now covers everything from technical trail racing to cushioned ultramarathon running and lightweight hiking.

Nike hasn’t formally labelled Chamo Camo as a UTMB collection, but its Chamonix inspiration and summer launch leave little doubt about the mountain-running moment it is targeting.

The Nike ACG Chamo Camo collection launches on 29 July at Nike US, with availability through selected ACG retailers.

The ACG Zegama Trail Chamo Camo is priced at $180 (~£135 / €158 / AU$258) in the US, while UK, EU and AU pricing has yet to be confirmed.

Chilly’s, the hip British answer to YETI, Stanley and Hydro Flask, has just unveiled its longest-lasting insulated water bottle yet.

The new Series 3 Flip is an insulated straw bottle available in 500ml and 1-litre sizes.

Even the larger version is a lot smaller than the last Chilly's water bottle we reported on, the Big Mouth, but it's still substantial enough for commuting, work and the gym.

According to the British brand, the larger version can keep drinks cold for up to 75 hours (~just over three days), while the smaller bottle promises up to 45 hours of cold retention.

Those figures put the Series 3 Flip comfortably beyond the 24-hour claim commonly attached to premium insulated bottles.

However, as we all know, real-world performance depends on factors such as the drink's starting temperature, ambient conditions, and how frequently the bottle is opened.

Silence is golden

Longer insulation is the headline upgrade, but Chilly’s has also attempted to tackle some of the smaller annoyances associated with reusable bottles.

The Series 3 Flip has a rubber base to prevent it from clattering on hard desks or gym floors.

Furthermore, a soft-touch, removable loop makes it easier to carry, and Chilly’s describes its construction as completely leak-proof, which, admittedly, is an important claim for anything destined to share a backpack with a laptop.

Its flip-up straw incorporates a BPA-free drinking surface treated with an antimicrobial additive.

The bottle’s steel construction is also made using 90% recycled material, although Chilly’s says this does not reduce its durability or insulating performance.

Visually, it retains the clean, urban styling associated with the brand, including an oversized Chilly’s logo embossed into the side.

The Series 3 Flip bottles are available now via Chilly's, with the 500ml bottle costing £40, while the 1-litre model is priced at £48.

YETI has expanded its increasingly substantial cookware collection with two carbon-steel cooking tools designed for use at home and over an open flame.

Both arrive pre-seasoned and use a nitriding treatment intended to improve resistance to rust, scratches and everyday damage.

Unlike a conventional non-stick coating, nitriding is a heat-treatment process that hardens the material’s outer surface.

YETI says the naturally non-stick seasoning should also improve as oils and fats build up through repeated cooking.

The Carbon Steel Wok has a flat base that maximises contact with kitchen stovetops, paired with high, rounded walls designed for tossing ingredients without sending dinner over the edge.

Carbon steel responds relatively quickly to temperature changes, allowing cooks to move between high-heat searing and lower-temperature simmering.

YETI says it worked with its chef ambassadors on the wok’s shape, which is intended to handle everything from stir-fries and noodles to large batches of sauce.

The wok measures 21.5 inches from the edge of its bowl to the end of the handle.

Its elongated metal handle has been ergonomically designed for “nimble cooking manoeuvres” and includes a slot for hanging.

A tale of two temperatures

The rectangular Carbon Steel Griddle provides a 22-by-12-inch cooking surface and is compatible with stovetops, ovens, grills and campfires.

Its dual cooking zones allow different areas to sit over separate burners.

One side could sear meat or vegetables while the other maintains a lower temperature for warming tortillas, pancakes or other cooked ingredients.

The heavy construction is intended to keep the griddle stable during cooking, while raised edges help contain oil and food.

Angled corners make it easier to pour away grease and residue afterwards, although the griddle must be washed by hand rather than placed in a dishwasher.

YETI recommends gradually preheating both products and using high-smoke-point oils.

Acidic ingredients such as tomatoes, wine and vinegar can strip the seasoning, although continued cooking with fats should rebuild it.

The Carbon Steel Wok and Carbon Steel Griddle are listed on YETI’s US website for $200 (~£150 / €175 / AU$285) each.

At the time of writing, both pages display a “Notify Me” option, while UK, EU and AU pricing and availability have not been confirmed.

Cinch Outdoors has taken the rooftop tent trend to its logical (and considerably taller) conclusion with the Wingman, a two-storey camping system designed for pickup trucks.

Developed with tent manufacturer Wild Land, the Wingman is mounted on the truck’s bed rails and collapses into a relatively streamlined box for travel.

Once parked, an electrically powered mechanism raises two separate levels, turning the pickup into something resembling a compact camper van with a penthouse.

The truck bed forms the lower floor, providing a sheltered area for storing equipment, preparing food or escaping bad weather.

It includes built-in MOLLE panels, detachable magnetic LED lights and a foldaway bamboo utility table.

Crucially, the system mounts above the cargo floor, allowing owners to continue using the truck bed to carry equipment while the Wingman is collapsed.

The room upstairs

The upper level is the sleeping area, with space for two (or three with a push) people on an approximately 225 x 146cm high-density foam mattress.

It also features thermal flooring, ambient lighting, mesh panels that provide panoramic views, as well as a transparent skylight.

That skylight doubles as a roof hatch, allowing campers to stand up and look across the surrounding landscape.

It could prove particularly useful for wildlife watching and outdoor photography, or simply recreating the tank-commander pose at every available opportunity.

Deployment, lighting, and the integrated Bluetooth 5.0 speaker system can be operated via a remote control or a connected smartphone app.

Cinch says the Wingman uses an all-metal construction, blackout insulation and 190g/m² polycotton fabric with a PU2000mm water-resistance rating.

The system measures 181 x 161 x 63.5cm when packed and weighs a substantial 250 kg (~551 lbs).

Cinch claims compatibility with more than 80% of pickups, including the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma and Jeep Gladiator.

The Wingman launched in the US at an early-bird price of $6,999 (~£5,196 / €6,118 / AU$9,999), although Cinch Outdoors currently lists it at $7,999 (~£5,939 / €6,992 / AU$11,428).

The available batches have sold out, with priority registration open for the next shipment. UK, EU and AU pricing and availability have not been confirmed.

[via HiConsumption]

Researchers have developed a new material that captures moisture from the air before turning it into clean drinking water, potentially paving the way for self-filling bottles and off-grid hydration systems.

Created by scientists at Australia’s RMIT University alongside collaborators in China, the sponge-like composite absorbs water vapour even when humidity levels are as low as 30% – conditions that would leave many existing atmospheric water harvesters struggling. Better still, it releases that water using only gentle warming from sunlight, avoiding the need for electricity or complex equipment.

The material combines naturally porous balsa wood with lithium chloride, a highly effective moisture-absorbing salt, all wrapped inside a layer of iron oxide nanoparticles.

Those particles efficiently convert sunlight into heat, speeding up the release of collected water while helping the system complete multiple collection cycles throughout the day.

In laboratory tests, the material absorbed around 2ml of water per gram overnight before releasing almost all of it during daylight. Outdoor trials showed it could harvest around 2.5ml per gram overnight and between 5ml and 13ml per gram over a full 24-hour period, depending on humidity levels.

The researchers believe scaling the technology up could eventually allow devices to generate several litres of drinking water each day.

It's easy to imagine the possibilities. A camping water bottle that slowly refills itself overnight. Emergency water supplies after natural disasters. Off-grid homes in remote regions. Even military or expedition equipment that reduces the amount of water people need to carry.

There's still a long road before you'll see this built into your favourite reusable bottle, but the science is promising. Like the stillsuits from Dune, the goal is simple: recover every drop of precious water possible. Thankfully, this version doesn't require wearing a full-body desert survival suit.

Hypershell has officially launched its upgraded X Series exoskeleton range in the UK and Europe, bringing its AI-powered walking technology to retailers including Currys and Healf.

First announced internationally in May, the collection consists of the Hypershell X Pro S, X Max S and flagship X Ultra S.

Each provides a different combination of power, range and terrain-specific assistance.

All three use HyperIntuition, the company's end-to-end AI motion-control system.

It combines movement detection, recognition and prediction to adjust the assistance delivered to the wearer rather than relying exclusively on predefined movement patterns.

According to TÜV Rheinland-verified testing, the system achieves 97.5% gait synchronisation across different terrains and responds within 0.31 seconds, making it 64.5% faster than the previous generation.

I reviewed the older Hypershell X Pro in 2025 and found its assistance surprisingly natural once the exoskeleton was correctly adjusted.

It was particularly effective on inclines, where its motors helped drive my legs forwards and reduced some of the fatigue associated with climbing.

The latest generation attempts to make that support feel more immediate while improving comfort.

Its redesigned wearing system includes three-zone waist padding, a honeycomb anti-slip structure and additional lower-back support.

A little help from robotic legs

The X Max S and X Ultra S use Hypershell’s new M-One Ultra motor system, producing up to 1,000W of assistance and 22Nm of torque. The entry-level X Pro S delivers up to 800W.

The brand says SGS-certified testing found that the M-One Ultra system could reduce oxygen consumption by up to 39.2% and heart rate by up to 42.7%.

The flagship Ultra S adds 3D-printed titanium-alloy components, carbon-fibre composite leg structures and 12 assistance modes, including dedicated settings for snow and sand.

The Pro S and Max S have ten modes covering walking, running, cycling, stairs, gravel and mountainous terrain.

All three are IP54-rated against water and dust. The maximum quoted range is 17.5 km (~10.8 miles) for the Pro S, 30 km (~18.6 miles) for the Max S, and 30 km for the dual-battery Ultra S.

The new Hypershell X Series is available now through Hypershell and selected European retailers. UK prices range from £899 / €999 for the Pro S to £1,699 / €€1,999 for the Ultra S.

The North Face has dipped into its extensive footwear archive to create the Clyffe Ultra, a chunky new everyday trainer inspired by the brand’s ultrarunning shoes from the early 2000s.

It is a timely revival. Technical-looking trainers have moved well beyond the trail in recent years, with rugged outsoles, mesh uppers and oversized protective overlays now almost as common on city streets as they are in the mountains.

The Clyffe Ultra taps into that aesthetic without pretending to be a modern trail-running shoe.

The North Face describes it primarily as a lifestyle model for everyday adventures, city exploration and non-technical terrain.

Its upper combines premium suede with breathable spacer mesh, embroidered reinforcements and reflective details.

A substantial scratch-rubber rand wraps around the lower portion of the shoe, helping protect the upper from abrasion while contributing to its distinctive Y2K appearance.

Somewhere between the crag and the city

Underfoot, The North Face has used a plush foam midsole designed to provide soft, comfortable cushioning.

It isn’t the lightweight DREAM foam found in the brand’s latest performance running shoes, but it should be better suited to long days spent walking around town.

A nylon shank adds torsional stiffness and extra support, while the Vibram outsole provides traction.

The XS Trek EVO rubber features relatively deep 4.5mm lugs, giving the Clyffe Ultra considerably more grip than the average lifestyle trainer.

Dual heel loops make the trainers easier to pull on, while the low-cut silhouette keeps them looking more like an archive trail runner than conventional hiking footwear.

The North Face says the design combines heritage elements from its early-2000s ultrarunning styles with the more contemporary, climbing-inspired technology of the wider Clyffe collection.

At approximately 383g per shoe, the Clyffe Ultra isn’t especially light, although that is hardly surprising given the extensive rubber protection, suede construction and substantial outsole.

The unisex Clyffe Ultra is available now at The North Face UK, The North Face US and The North Face EU for £130 / $150 / €145.

Colour options include Desert Stone/TNF Blue, TNF Black/TNF Red, Pale Khaki/Lemon Mist, Cumulus Cloud/Peak Purple and Calacatta/Muted Pine.

The Puffer Outdoors debut tent throws out the traditional pole system entirely in favour of inflatable air beams that rise into shape in around two minutes using the included electric pump. Better still, it also builds the air mattress directly into the floor, meaning there's one less bit of camping kit to remember.

Called simply the Puffer, the tent mixes the silhouette of a classic A-frame with the curved structure of a tunnel tent. Three inflatable arches create steep walls for a roomy interior, while the integrated air base is inflated separately so you can adjust the mattress firmness without affecting the structure above.

Designed for two people, it offers an interior sleeping area measuring 216 x 107cm (85 x 42 inches), while packing down into a duffel measuring just 64 x 25cm (25.2 x 9.84 inches). The tent itself weighs 8.3kg (18.2lb), or 10kg (22lb) once you add the electric pump, bag and accessories, making it portable enough for festivals, beach camping or short hikes from the car.

Packing away is almost as simple as setting up. The supplied pump can reverse its airflow to suck the air back out of both the frame and mattress before everything rolls neatly back into its carry bag. Puffer also includes a repair kit, stakes and guy lines in the box should you encounter less-than-perfect camping conditions.

At $649.99 (around £480 / AU$980), it certainly isn't a budget buy, but it's also more than just a tent. The integrated sleeping system and rapid setup make it feel like a complete camping solution rather than another shelter to throw in the boot.

For seasoned campers, the price may be difficult to justify. But for festival-goers and weekend adventurers who value convenience almost as much as comfort, the Puffer could take much of the hassle out of sleeping outdoors. That's worth a lot when everyone else is still untangling tent poles.

Peak Performance has launched a new waterproof jacket designed to move easily between wet-weather adventures and everyday life.

Part of the Swedish brand’s Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, the Treeline HIPE 2.5L Shell Jacket offers a less technical-looking alternative to the traditional mountain shell, pairing clean lines and a relaxed silhouette with year-round weather protection.

Hot on the heels of the Light Hike Collection, the new jacket uses Peak Performance’s proprietary HIPE 2.5-layer construction, providing a waterproof rating of 10,000mm and breathability of 10,000g/m²/24h.

Those figures make it best suited to commuting, walking, hiking and other everyday outdoor activities rather than prolonged exposure in extreme mountain conditions.

Speaking of harsher conditions, the Treeline HIPE 2.5L jacket is joined by the more protective Treeline GORE-TEX 3L Shell Jacket.

Priced at £350, it uses a tougher 70D ripstop outer, a three-layer GORE-TEX ePE membrane and a RECCO reflector.

It also raises the waterproof rating to 28,000mm, although its stated RET rating of under 20 puts its breathability in a more moderate bracket.

At 480g, it is the heavier and more substantial choice for sustained exposure to poor weather.

As for the Treeline HIPE 2.5L, the 50-denier ripstop face fabric should provide greater resistance to snagging and tearing than the thin material used by many lightweight waterproof jackets.

Weighing a mere 387g, the Treeline's 2.5-layer construction makes it convenient enough to carry when the forecast is uncertain.

Its relaxed cut leaves room underneath for additional layers, which also helps extend its usefulness beyond the warmer months.

Sweden’s everyday armour

Practical touches include large concealed hand pockets, adjustable cuffs and a drawcord hem.

The hood can be adjusted using one hand, allowing the fit to be tightened without stopping to put down a bag or remove a glove.

The understated branding and concealed storage contribute to a cleaner appearance than you would typically expect from a hiking shell.

This supports Peak Performance’s aim of creating a jacket that feels equally at home in an urban setting and outdoors.

“That relationship with the outdoors starts early,” says Sofia Gromark, VP Design & Creative at Peak Performance. “You grow up going outside with your family in all kinds of weather, so performance and comfort aren’t optional – they’re expected.”

The Treeline HIPE 2.5L Shell Jacket is now available at Peak Performance UK, Peak Performance US and Peak Performance EU in several colourways for men and women, priced at £220 / $250 / €250 (~AU$410).

YETI has unveiled a new way to keep drinks cold this summer, introducing the Tank 30 Beverage Tub, an open-top cooler designed specifically for entertaining.

Unlike the brand's familiar hard coolers, the Tank 30 trades a sealed lid for quick and easy access, making it better suited to barbecues, garden parties and campsite gatherings where guests are constantly reaching for another drink.

The Tank 30 joins the ranks of other party accessories the cooler king offers, including the Rambler Beverage Bucket range, which comes in many sizes.

Despite the simpler design, it still borrows many of the features that made YETI's coolers famous.

The tub uses the same Permafrost insulation as the YETI Roadie 32 and is housed inside a rotomoulded body that should deliver significantly better ice retention than a conventional plastic drinks bucket.

According to YETI, it's designed to keep beverages cold throughout an evening of hosting.

More cooler than bucket

The Tank 30 also includes moulded grab handles for carrying when loaded with ice and drinks, along with BearFoot non-slip feet that help keep it planted on a variety of surfaces.

The rectangular design is wide enough to spread bottles and cans across the ice, making it easier for guests to grab what they're after without rummaging through layers of melting ice.

Over the past few years, the company has pushed beyond traditional hard coolers with products including the ultra-portable Roadie 8 and the Palo everyday backpack.

The company's lineup now also includes a growing selection of camp furniture and bags, with the Tank 30 continuing that move towards products aimed as much at home entertaining as at outdoor adventure.

The YETI Tank 30 Beverage Tub is available to buy now at YETI US with an MSRP of $150 (~£112 / €132 / AU$215).

It's available in White, Tan and Navy in the US – regional colour availability may vary.

Camping in a heatwave sounds idyllic... until bedtime arrives. After a day spent hiking, the inside of your backpacking tent can feel like an oven, and even the lightest sleeping bag suddenly becomes far too warm.

The good news is that you don't necessarily need to invest in a specialist summer sleeping bag (even though they will most certainly help). A few simple changes to your sleep setup can make a dramatic difference, helping you stay cool without sacrificing comfort.

Speaking of staying cool in the tent, make sure you check out our list of hot weather camping hacks, which suggest losing the flysheet and pitching the tent in the shade, among other tips. We also have a roundup of five gadgets that can keep you cool in your tent, in case you're interested.

Stop treating your sleeping bag like a sleeping bag

One of the biggest misconceptions in camping is that you have to zip yourself inside your sleeping bag every night. On the contrary, unless temperatures genuinely demand it, you can simply unzip your sleeping bag and use it like a duvet or quilt.

Modern sleeping bags are designed to compress underneath your body anyway, which means much of the insulation beneath you isn't doing much.

By laying the bag over yourself rather than cocooning inside it, you'll stay much cooler while still having enough warmth if temperatures drop overnight.

If you wake up feeling chilly in the early hours, you can always pull the bag around you without changing your entire setup.

Don't ditch your sleeping mat

When the weather is hot, it's tempting to skip the sleeping mat altogether, especially if you're camping on soft grass. In reality, that's usually a mistake.

A sleeping mat provides insulation from the ground, which can still draw heat away from your body later in the night. More importantly in summer, it also allows air to circulate beneath you more effectively than sleeping directly on the groundsheet.

Inflatable mats are often the better option in warm weather because they create a layer of air between you and the ground and offer much greater comfort than thin foam alternatives.

Swap pyjamas for merino wool

It might sound backwards, but wearing a lightweight merino wool base layer can actually help you stay cooler than sleeping in a cotton T-shirt.

Merino wool naturally regulates body temperature, moves moisture away from your skin and remains comfortable even when you start to sweat. Cotton, on the other hand, absorbs moisture and tends to stay damp, leaving you feeling clammy through the night.

If you're choosing dedicated sleepwear for camping, lightweight merino (125–150 gsm) or a merino/Tencel (merino/nylon) blend is worth considering, especially if you're spending several consecutive nights outdoors.

Icebreaker has a 75 gsm TENCEL option for just £68.

Consider a sleeping bag liner on its own

On particularly warm nights, a silk or lightweight synthetic liner can be all you need.

Silk is especially popular because it's soft, breathable and packs down to almost nothing (OEM has an excellent value option), making it ideal for summer camping and bikepacking trips where every gram counts.

It also helps keep your sleeping bag clean, so you won't need to wash it as often.

A lightweight blanket can be enough

If you're camping in the UK during a heatwave, overnight temperatures can remain well above 18°C (as is the case at the time of writing). In conditions like these, even a lightweight camping blanket may be sufficient.

Many outdoor brands, including YETI, which offers the premium Lowlands Blanket, now offer compact insulated blankets that pack down to about the size of a jacket yet provide enough coverage for the cooler hours before dawn.

They also give you far more freedom to regulate your temperature than a zipped-up sleeping bag.

Keep your tent working with you

Finally, remember that your sleep system is only part of the equation.

Open opposing vents to encourage airflow, leave the flysheet off if conditions allow, and avoid pitching where your tent will still be baking in the evening sun.

Even something as simple as choosing a spot beneath partial tree cover can make a noticeable difference to overnight comfort.

A cooler tent combined with a lighter sleep setup is often all that's needed to turn a restless summer night into a genuinely comfortable one.

Disney collaborations are nothing new (see also Columbia's latest collab with the entertainment giant), but every now and then one comes along that feels designed for people who would never normally buy Disney clothing.

Japanese retailer Urban Research has partnered with Disney on a capsule spanning seven of its fashion labels, with each label drawing inspiration from a different classic animated short.

The collection takes a more restrained approach, mixing vintage artwork with clean silhouettes, embroidered details and functional accessories.

One of the capsules, Hawaiian Holiday, celebrates Disney's colourful 1937 short starring Mickey Mouse and friends.

The range includes heavyweight graphic T-shirts, pocket tees with subtle embroidery, towel accessories and a selection of lightweight bags finished in soft pastel shades.

Looking at the collection, it's easy to imagine these pieces sitting alongside Snow Peak, BEAMS or Gramicci rather than inside a Disney store.

Vintage animation, Japanese design

The wider collaboration pairs seven Urban Research Group labels with seven different Disney animated shorts.

Other capsules include designs inspired by Fantasia, Steamboat Willie and Mickey's Birthday Party, giving each label its own distinct aesthetic while staying true to its identity.

The collection will first appear at a pop-up inside Urban Famima!! Toranomon Hills from 25 July until 12 August, before rolling out to additional Urban Research pop-up locations in Tokyo Skytree Solamachi, LaLaport TOKYO-BAY and LUCUA Osaka from 31 July.

Whether or not it ever makes its way outside Japan remains to be seen, but if you're planning a trip to Tokyo this summer, this is exactly the sort of limited-edition Japanese collaboration worth hunting down.

Unlike most Disney merchandise, these are pieces that wouldn't look out of place in your everyday wardrobe.

Prices range from ¥4,180 to ¥14,300 (roughly £21 to £73), covering everything from T-shirts to canvas bags and shirts.

You can find the collection at Urban Research.

[via FashionSnap]

Folding bikes aren't exactly known for turning heads, but a new design from South Korea might just change that. Called the Tetra, it looks less like a commuter bike and more like a futuristic concept vehicle, complete with an exposed tubular frame that wouldn't look out of place in a sci-fi blockbuster.

Created by startup Analog Machine Works, the Tetra takes aim at premium folders like the Brompton, but goes in a completely different direction. Instead of the familiar compact frame and tiny wheels, this bike uses an elongated space-frame built around two opposing tetrahedron shapes, giving it a distinctive geometric look while also improving rigidity.

The clever frame also enables four separate folding points rather than the usual three. Once collapsed, the wheels lock neatly together, and a pair of small caster wheels let you roll it around stations or offices rather than carry all 13kg of it.

Where it really stands apart from most folding bikes, however, is ride comfort. Rather than relying on flex in the frame or a simple rubber suspension block, the Tetra features a proper rear linkage with an adjustable hydraulic shock absorber.

Add in larger 20-inch wheels – compared to Brompton's 16-inch setup – and it should cope much better with potholes and rough roads.

The rest of the spec is reassuringly premium too, with a chrome-moly steel frame, Shimano disc brakes, a 9-speed drivetrain and custom crankset. It's clearly aimed at enthusiasts rather than casual riders.

Of course, all that engineering doesn't come cheap. The Tetra is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, where early backers can reserve one for around $2,390 (roughly £1,750), with a planned retail price of $3,990 once it reaches production.

As with any crowdfunding campaign, it's worth remembering there's always some risk until bikes are actually shipping.

Even so, if you've ever wished your folding bike looked as exciting as the rest of your tech, the Tetra might be the most striking two-wheeled gadget you'll see this year. Whether it can tempt loyal Brompton and e-bike owners away is another question entirely.

Mephisto might not be the first name that springs to mind when you think of walking shoes, but the French shoemaker has quietly built a cult following thanks to its premium materials, handcrafted construction and all-day comfort.

Now, one of its best-known models has received a technical makeover courtesy of Japanese retailer BEAMS.

The new collaboration reimagines the Mephisto Match, introducing MEPHI-TEX for the first time on the silhouette.

Mephisto describes the membrane as waterproof and breathable, giving the lifestyle sneaker credentials that should make it a far more practical choice for unpredictable weather and everyday adventures.

While GORE-TEX remains the benchmark for technical footwear, it's refreshing to see brands exploring their own waterproof technologies rather than relying on the industry's biggest name.

More than just another colourway

The BEAMS x Mephisto Match appears to deliver a genuine functional upgrade.

You can choose between a versatile all-black version or the more eye-catching "Crazy" colourway, which uses asymmetrical panels of brown, olive and black suede and leather to give each shoe a slightly different appearance.

The Match itself already enjoys something of a cult status among fans of understated European footwear, thanks to its premium leather upper, clean profile and reputation for long-lasting comfort.

Adding waterproof protection only broadens its appeal, particularly for commuters, travellers and anyone looking for a shoe that bridges the gap between smart casual style and outdoor practicality.

The collaboration also marks the first partnership between BEAMS and Mephisto, with the Japanese retailer producing a small capsule of branded apparel and accessories alongside the footwear.

The shoes are available now through BEAMS, although there's currently no word on a wider international release.

For anyone who appreciates technical fabrics but doesn't necessarily want to wear hiking shoes every day, this might be one of the most interesting footwear collaborations to emerge from Japan this year.

It proves that adding performance features to classic silhouettes can be just as compelling as chasing the latest chunky sneaker trend.

The collection launches at BEAMS in Japan on 10 July, so unless the collaboration receives a wider international release, these could remain among the more elusive outdoor-inspired sneaker drops of the summer.

Price and international availability TBC.

[via HighSnobiety]

The UK is in the middle of a heatwave as I write this and bugs are seemingly everywhere. To be honest, it's a big problem during every summertime, and that's why I own a bug zapper – a tennis racket-style device that delivers a fatal electric charge to flying pests when I hit them.

The only problem is they're speedy little beggars and not exactly easy to swat. So if there was also an element that would attract them more, and even provide additional fun in the process, I'd be all over that like a swarm of gnats.

Well, there is.

The Bug Saber is a 4,000V bug zapper that, as the name suggests, is designed to look a bit like a Star Wars lightsaber.

It adds a lightsaber-like hilt so you can live out your Jedi Knight fantasies as you fry the flies, and the ring on the outside glows in different colours. According to Yanko Design, it also makes familiar sounds as you wave it around, which adds to the experience.

I particularly like that you can also place it in a holder and leave it standing indoors and out, with the LEDs attracting the bugs and the high voltage dispensing of them.

You do have to be careful around it, of course, and if you have young kids it's probably not wise to leave a toy-looking electric shock machine lurking around. But for the rest of us, this ticks those boxes between practicality and a bit of harmless fun (except to bugs, that is).

The Bug Saber is currently in a pre-order / crowd funding phase on Kickstarter, so you can check it out there.

Prices start at a very reasonable £18 / $24 for the head alone, although you'll have to pay at least £41 / $54 for the starter set that includes the saber hilt.

The complete experience set, which includes the vertical stand, will set you back £52 / $69.

The Kickstarter phase will expire in just over a week from now and stock is running out, so it's worth getting in there as quick as you can if you want to deal some Darth Vader death blows to your backyard bugs.

Vollebak, the British brand behind products such as the lab-grown sweater and coats grown from fungi, is back once again with another experimental piece that proves there really is no limit to apparel innovation.

The company has built a reputation for taking the familiar and giving it an almost science-fiction twist, from creating a shopping experience straight out of Interstellar to summer clothes designed by sound.

The new Leather Shielding Jacket looks, at first glance, like a timeless black leather bomber, but beneath the premium exterior lies technology more commonly associated with aerospace testing than everyday fashion.

The jacket is lined with electromagnetic shielding material similar to that used when testing Mars rovers, according to Vollebak.

Embedded with pure silver, the lining is designed to block radio waves and microwaves across the frequency range from 30 MHz to 10 GHz.

Perhaps the most interesting feature is a concealed phone pocket that functions as a built-in Faraday cage.

Slip your smartphone inside, and the pocket is designed to prevent remote access, blocking incoming and outgoing wireless signals whether the device is switched on or off.

It's a feature that's arguably aimed at privacy-conscious travellers, security professionals or anyone who simply wants to disconnect without switching their phone off.

Luxury outside, laboratory inside

This isn't the first time Vollebak has produced a shielding bomber, although the Electromagnetic Shielding Bomber has a lot more futuristic look.

The new outer shell has a more traditional look, cut from black Nappa sheep leather, chosen for its soft finish and fine grain, and then vegetable-tanned with plant-based tannins.

The company says this process improves breathability while allowing the leather to develop a natural patina over time rather than simply wearing out.

The shielding fabric begins as lightweight ripstop nylon before undergoing a metallisation process that deposits pure silver directly into the fibres rather than coating the surface.

Alongside its electromagnetic shielding properties, silver also offers natural antimicrobial characteristics, giving the lining another practical benefit.

None of this comes cheaply, of course. The Leather Shielding Jacket costs £3,295 in the UK ($4,295 in the US), making it one of Vollebak's most expensive garments to date.

The jacket is available for pre-order at Vollebak.

Nike has never been afraid to experiment, but its latest collaboration might be one of the most unconventional sneakers of the year.

Launching on 11 July, the new Homescape Woven sees Nike reunite with Beijing-based retailer SOULGOODS to introduce an entirely new silhouette inspired by the iconic Footscape.

The pair has reworked one of Nike's most recognisable designs into something that feels equal parts hiking shoe, premium sneaker and cosy mule.

At first glance, the Homescape Woven almost looks like several different Nike models stitched together.

The asymmetric lacing borrowed from the Footscape remains the star of the show, but it's now surrounded by chunky woven leather panels, hairy suede mudguards and a rugged outsole that wouldn't look out of place on an outdoor shoe.

Smooth leather meets shaggy suede, while thick woven detailing wraps around the entire upper to create a handcrafted look that's unlike almost anything else in Nike's current catalogue.

The shoes remind me – in attitude, at least – of the brand's Space Hippie line, but without the sustainability push.

The focus here is squarely on craftsmanship, premium materials and an unconventional reinterpretation of the Footscape.

The best part might be the heel

Despite its trail-ready appearance, this isn't designed as a technical outdoor shoe.

Instead, Nike has focused on versatility by giving the Homescape Woven a collapsible heel, allowing it to be worn either as a conventional sneaker or slipped on like a mule.

That hybrid approach feels increasingly relevant, especially as outdoor-inspired footwear continues to influence everyday fashion.

The toggle lacing system reinforces the utility-inspired aesthetic, while the chunky rubber outsole should provide enough grip for city streets, even if it's unlikely to replace your favourite hiking boots.

The launch colourway combines Medium Orewood Brown, Dark Field Brown and Dark Blue Grey, creating an earthy palette that complements the premium materials.

Co-branded details appear throughout, including subtle SOULGOODS branding and bespoke packaging celebrating the partnership.

At $180 / £155, the Homescape Woven sits firmly in premium sneaker territory, but it's also one of the more distinctive Nike collaborations I've seen this year.

If you've ever wondered what would happen if the Footscape, an outdoor shoe and a pair of house slippers were all thrown into the same design studio, this is probably the answer.

Head over to Nike to get notified about the launch.

[via Gear Patrol]

YETI has expanded its increasingly impressive bag collection with the launch of the Palo Active Backpack, a new everyday carry pack that swaps expedition-ready credentials for a lighter, more versatile design.

Available in 20-, 26- and 32-litre capacities, the Palo is offered in Black, Royal Blue and a seasonal Grasshopper colourway.

While it sits alongside existing models such as the YETI Ranchero, the new backpack introduces a new approach that prioritises comfort and accessibility without abandoning the rugged durability YETI is known for.

It features a RipZip opening that allows the front of the pack to unzip wide for a clear view of everything inside.

It's a design that will already be familiar to fans of the Ranchero (and Mystery Ranch), making it far easier to grab laptops, gym kit, or everyday essentials than traditional top-loading backpacks.

Built for everyday adventures

The Palo is made from a new weather- and abrasion-resistant Lightwork Nylon fabric that helps reduce weight while maintaining durability.

A water-resistant GroundControl base allows the bag to stand upright when placed on the floor, while compression-moulded back padding, padded shoulder straps and load lifters are designed to keep it comfortable throughout the day.

Every Palo features a dedicated laptop sleeve capable of holding devices up to 13 inches, multiple internal mesh pockets, a zipped lid pocket and stretch-woven bottle holders sized for the brand's Rambler bottles.

The 20-litre model also includes a dedicated shoe compartment, an excellent feature for those who want to use the backpack as a gym bag.

The launch continues YETI's steady expansion beyond coolers and drinkware into premium everyday carry.

While the Ranchero remains the more rugged option, the Palo looks to broaden the range with a cleaner, lighter backpack designed for everything from morning commutes to evening workouts.

Pricing starts at £250 / $275 for the 20L model, rising to £280 / $300 for the 26L version and £300 / $325 for the 32L pack.

All three are available now directly from YETI.

Sacoches have quietly become one of the hottest accessories in everyday carry, offering just enough room for your phone, wallet, keys and a few essentials without the bulk of a backpack.

Everyone from Patagonia and Klattermusen to Gossamer Gear and Peak Design has recently released new sacoches, crossbody bags or updated versions of their existing lines.

Now Scandinavian travel specialist Db Journey is joining the trend with the new Entour Sacoche, and it's doing something few brands currently offer: two different sizes.

Part of Db's newly launched Entour collection, the Sacoche is available in both M and L sizes, allowing buyers to choose between a compact everyday option and a roomier design for carrying tablets, notebooks, or other larger essentials.

Both models share the same minimalist aesthetic that has helped Db build a loyal following among frequent travellers (including me).

Finished in recycled polyamide with a slim cross-body profile, the bags are designed to sit flat against the body while keeping everyday items close at hand.

Built around quick access

The bag is built around Db's external TransitPocket, which provides dedicated storage for items you need to grab quickly.

Both bags include an exterior ClipQuick carabiner, an extended internal key clip, twin internal organiser pockets and a hidden AirTag compartment, making them feel more thoughtfully designed than the average cross-body pouch.

The Sacoche M measures 25.5 x 21cm and weighs just 190g, while the larger Sacoche L comes in at 32.5 x 26.5cm and tips the scales at 240g.

Despite the size difference, both remain impressively slim at just 0.7cm thick, reinforcing their role as lightweight everyday companions rather than full messenger bags.

Interest in sacoches has grown steadily over the past year as outdoor-inspired everyday carry continues to influence mainstream fashion.

Db's decision to offer two sizes could prove a smart differentiator, giving buyers the choice between an ultra-light essentials bag and something capable of replacing a small day bag without sacrificing the clean Scandinavian styling the company is known for.

Pricing starts at £69 / $89 / €79 (~AU$130) for the M model and £89 / $109 / €99 (~AU$163) for the L, placing them firmly in premium EDC territory.

Head over to Db Journey for more information.

Helly Hansen has made a name for itself in rugged, reliable protection against the elements over the past 150 years, from outfitting Norwegian fishermen in the 1870s to outfitting tens of thousands of ski patrollers and mountain rescue teams across the globe today.

I’ve tested close to a dozen jackets by the brand, including waterproof hiking shells, ski jackets and down jackets, and they’ve nearly always been robust pieces that prioritise warmth and safety over weight and packability.

The Odin Infinity Minimalist Jacket is the first I’ve tested from the brand that’s truly ultra light, and it’s a testament to the time and effort Helly Hansen has put into testing and engineering in-house technologies, with input from mountain professionals.

I’ve been testing this jacket in mixed conditions in the Scottish Highlands and the Lake District, where we’ve been experiencing an even more unpredictable spring than usual, and I currently have it packed and ready to come with me to the Swiss Alps. I’m so impressed that I plan to continue wearing it through the summer and into the autumn.

Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Minimalist Jacket review

Price and availability

The Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Minimalist Jacket is available in men’s and women’s sizing from Helly Hansen for £380 / $400. The women’s design features a drop tail and comes in Ebony and bright Cranberry, which is the colour I tested and is great for making yourself visible on the mountain. The men’s design lacks the drop tail and comes in Ebony, Windy Blue and Ignite Orange.

Compared to the brand’s much more substantial Odin 1 World Waterproof Shell, this price is actually on the reasonable side, but it’s clearly a pricey jacket compared to other lightweight styles from different brands, coming in well above jackets like my Montane Phase Lite and Rab Firewall Alpine.

Design and materials

There are two standout details when it comes to the design of this jacket: its 3.5-layer construction and its ridiculously low weight.

I’ve tested plenty of 2-, 2.5-, and 3-layer rain jackets, but this is the first to go beyond three, and a representative from the brand explained to me that the approach helps increase resistance to water pressure while moving away from traditional, not-so-planet-friendly chemistries.

The 3.5 layers are built in a sandwich method around the brand’s in-house flexible Lifa Infinity waterproof membrane, which features both a non-porous PU layer and a breathable microporous layer underneath – not quite two layers, apparently, but more than one. The face fabric is Helly Tech Professional, and there’s a printed backing on the interior for reinforcement.

With all that, you might expect a thicker, stiffer jacket, but it feels as thin as any 2-layer jacket. I tested the XS, which is as small as it comes, and mine weighs only 180g. That’s lighter than my phone and pretty much every waterproof jacket I’ve ever tested (and I’ve tested many dozens), except for my Rab Phantom running jacket, which is only 2.5 layers in comparison.

The material has four-way stretch, but I don’t notice much, and the cut is quite slim, especially compared to what I’m used to with Helly. Despite that, I find the XS fits me really well and doesn’t feel restrictive anywhere, while I’m still able to wear it over a fleece or light puffer, making it usable for three seasons anyway.

The hood is helmet-compatible, which makes this a contender for blustery days on belay, though I think if I were heading out on a rugged alpine expedition, I’d still want to bring along my Arc’teryx Beta AR jacket.

They’ve also somehow managed to fit a RECCO reflector in the hood without adding much weight, again making this an option for more remote adventures if not ones where you’d be likely to encounter serious weather.

The hem is adjustable, the cuffs are partially elasticated, and there’s a zipped chest pocket big enough for my phone, plus an inner mesh pocket that becomes a handy pouch for packing the jacket away. It even has a loop so it can be clipped to my backpack.

Performance and comfort

This jacket looks and feels very much like a light layer you’d bring along as a “just in case” option, but I’ve worn it through several more sustained and heavy downpours, and one heavy hailstorm, and it largely behaves more like a top-of-the-mountain shell.

In heavy rain, it hasn’t wetted out on me yet, and the only real issue I’ve had with water ingress is that the cuffs do let some water in. I think this is partly down to them not being adjustable, and I think the low-wicking barriers on the cuffs could be wider. It’s also surprisingly windproof for such a thin, light jacket and on early, cold starts, I get instant warmth just by zipping it up.

For such good protection, I’ve been really impressed with the breathability, which is a bit of a unicorn characteristic in true waterproof garments and comes despite a lack of pit zips. I’ve worn it for plenty of milder, dry and sunny hikes, and I’m able to climb with it over a T-shirt and stay quite comfortable, without any clammy buildup on the inside.

The hood is truly excellent, with a collar that protects half my face and keeps it from blowing down. It’s peaked to provide extra face protection without blocking my vision, and it’s easy to cinch snugly around my head.

There are only two pockets on this jacket, but it’s got the one I think is most important: a zipped chest pocket so I can reach my phone even when I’m wearing my backpack (and it’s kept my phone dry in a storm). Considering some ultralight jackets ditch pockets altogether, I’m satisfied with this and personally don’t miss the hand-warming pockets I can’t reach with a backpack on anyway.

Verdict

The Helly Hansen Odin Infinity Minimalist Jacket is a bit of a marvel. It’s rare to find this level of protection at this weight, and I’m planning on getting a lot of use out of it, especially since it’s a layer I’m happy to wear around town as well as on the trail.

Not only does it protect me well against the elements, but it lacks the stiffness I’d usually expect for such a design, and it’s breathable enough to climb in during alpine starts and cooler days.

It’s not perfect, and I think subsequent versions could improve the cuff design, but for a truly packable and light jacket, it’s one of the better options out there (and at this price, it should be).

A big compromise in aviation is choosing between efficiency and control. Drones can hover and move precisely, but their propellers consume a lot of power. Fixed-wing aircraft are far more efficient, but can't stay suspended in one place.

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and the University of Stuttgart think they've found a middle ground. Their new robot, affectionately called Floaty, uses rising air currents to remain airborne while adjusting four movable flaps to control its position and stability.

Inspired by soaring birds, Floaty doesn't use propellers to stay in the air. Instead, it rides upward airflow and continuously changes its shape to control how air moves around its body.

The robot has been trained using an aerodynamic model developed from extensive wind tunnel testing, allowing it to recover from gusts of wind and even physical pushes without losing control.

Getting the design right wasn't straightforward. Early versions proved unstable, so the team lowered the robot's centre of gravity and redesigned its control flaps to help it automatically correct its position while airborne.

The result is a robot that can hover in vertical airflows of up to 10m/s while remaining very stable.

The biggest advantage is efficiency. According to the researchers, Floaty consumes around 10W per kilogram of weight, roughly an order of magnitude less power than comparable thrust-powered aerial robots.

While it's still a research project, the team believes the technology could eventually be used to inspect industrial chimneys, monitor weather systems or even help control spacecraft and rockets in airflow-rich environments.

If that happens, Floaty may represent a very different future for flight – one where robots work with the wind rather than fighting against it.

YETI might dominate the premium cooler market, but there's a new contender in town, and it comes from one of the most recognisable names in sustainable bag design.

Swiss bag maker Freitag has unveiled the F738 COOL BAG, its first-ever insulated carry-all, arriving just as much of the UK braces for another spell of hot weather.

The brand says the design is inspired by the humble supermarket cool bag, albeit one that's been given a rather dramatic Swiss makeover.

If you're unfamiliar with Freitag, the company has spent decades transforming used truck tarpaulins into distinctive bags and backpacks.

The new F738 follows that same philosophy, becoming what Freitag calls the world's first upcycled cooler bag made from used truck tarps.

Yes, it's a cool bag. And yes, it's a cool bag

At first glance, the F738 COOL BAG looks more like a minimalist tote than something you'd take to a picnic, and that's entirely intentional.

The square-shaped bag combines a food-safe insulated liner with Freitag's signature recycled construction to create a product that works equally well on a trip to the park or a supermarket run.

The removable isothermal liner is said to keep drinks and picnic ingredients cool for up to two hours and can also help transport frozen groceries home.

Once the insulation is removed, the F738 becomes a regular everyday tote.

The detachable shoulder strap is made from discarded car seat belts, while the colourful handles are crafted from recycled plastic waste sourced from food packaging, old hospital garments, laboratory materials and expired hygiene masks.

Produced in collaboration with Precious Plastic Zurich, each handle is handmade and features a unique colour gradient, ensuring no two bags are exactly alike.

Measuring 400 x 400mm, weighing 595g and offering 11 litres of storage, the limited-edition cooler bag is available exclusively in silver.

The F738 COOL BAG is available now from Freitag, priced at £160 / €180 / $230 (~AU$296).

Swiss running brand On has unveiled the latest chapter in its collaboration with South Korean design studio POST ARCHIVE FACTION (PAF), reimagining one of its performance running shoes through the label's distinctive avant-garde lens.

The new Cloudboom Volt PAF is the centrepiece of the Current Form 4.0 collection, which explores transformation and movement through design.

Inspired by a moth emerging from its cocoon, the trainers feature a layered wraparound upper that gives the shoe a strikingly different appearance from On's standard performance models.

The design partially conceals them, creating a sculptural silhouette that looks more like a concept piece than a conventional race-day shoe.

The Cloudboom Volt is known as one of the firmest super shoes, featuring the CloudTec cushioning system and two layers of Helion HF hyper foam for energy return.

Interestingly, it's one of the more affordable high-end running shoes from any brand, let alone On, a company known for its premium offerings.

From race-day shoe to design object

This isn't the first time On and PAF have collaborated on a boundary-pushing collection.

Last year, the pair unveiled a futuristic take on the Cloudmonster Hyper that looked as though it had stepped straight out of a sci-fi concept sketch.

The Cloudboom Volt PAF follows a similar philosophy, using running as a starting point and layering on the fashion/design element.

The result is a shoe that retains its athletic roots while embracing the asymmetric details and unconventional design language that have helped PAF build a loyal following among fashion and design enthusiasts.

The footwear launches alongside a capsule collection of apparel and accessories, including the Zero Jacket, Zero Singlet, Zero 2-in-1 Shorts, Running-T, Run Belt, Zero Cap and Run Socks, all reinterpreted through PAF's distinctive creative lens.

Current Form 4.0 launches on 25 June through On, PAF and selected retail partners.

The Cloudboom Volt PAF retails for £270 / $280 / €290 / AU$380.

If you've ever used a Rambler bottle from the king of coolers, you'll know they're among the toughest insulated bottles around.

The downside is that grabbing a quick drink often involves unscrewing a cap first, which isn't always ideal when you're driving, walking, working out or simply trying to stay hydrated throughout the day.

That's exactly the problem YETI is looking to solve with its latest drinkware launch, the new Rambler Flip Chug Bottle.

Available in 18 oz (532ml) and 26 oz (769ml) sizes, the bottle combines the familiar Rambler design with an all-new Flip Chug Cap that offers one-handed access to your drink while maintaining a fully leakproof seal.

The launch is currently available through YETI's early-access programme for account holders.

The missing piece of the Rambler puzzle

Unlike YETI's traditional Chug Cap, which requires a quick twist before drinking, the new Flip Chug Cap uses a flip-up spout that opens instantly for what the company calls "quick-access hydration".

Once you've finished drinking, the cap can be closed and locked with a magnetic C-Lock mechanism to help prevent accidental spills.

YETI says the bottle is 100% leakproof and has designed the cap to keep dust, dirt and debris away from the drinking spout when it's not in use.

The Rambler's construction is based around kitchen-grade 18/8 stainless steel, while double-wall vacuum insulation helps keep cold drinks cold throughout the day.

Like other Rambler bottles, the Flip Chug Bottle is dishwasher safe, rust-resistant, and puncture-resistant.

The brand recently kicked off its seasonal summer sale, discounting a selection of popular colourways across coolers, bags, drinkware and accessories.

The Rambler Flip Chug Bottle is available now in Early Access at YETI US for $32 / $40 (18 oz / 26 oz, respectively) in colours including Cape Taupe and Rescue Blue.

Leatherman has unveiled a fresh limited-edition version of one of its most popular multitools, and it might be the best-looking Signal yet.

The Signal Sandstorm takes the brand's outdoor-focused multitool and dresses it in a desert-inspired colour palette, ready for everything from overlanding adventures to weekend wild camps.

While the toolset remains unchanged, Leatherman has added a few premium touches to help the Sandstorm stand out.

The 420HC knife blade and saw now feature a Cerakote finish in a multi-tone camouflage pattern.

This is the same material Garmin used for its Tactix 8 Cerakote Edition, a ceramic-based coating applied to metal surfaces to improve durability, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance.

The survival-focused details that helped make the original Signal a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts are all still present.

You get a built-in ferrocerium fire starter, emergency whistle, diamond-coated sharpener, carabiner and can opener, alongside the usual pliers, wire cutters, screwdriver bits and saw.

Desert style meets campsite practicality

Perhaps the nicest touch is the inclusion of glow-in-the-dark accents on both the sharpener and ferro rod.

They should be easier to locate during late-night camp chores when you're fumbling around a tent or trying to get a fire going after sunset.

Leatherman has also created a matching nylon sheath finished in a sandy tan colour with contrasting bronze stitching.

It's a simple addition, but one that helps make the limited edition feel like a complete package rather than a quick cosmetic refresh.

It's only been a month and a half since Leatherman launched its latest colourway, with the limited-edition Raptor Rescue arriving in May 2026 in two bold new colourways to celebrate International Nurses’ Day.

Prior to that, I thoroughly enjoyed the Micra Spring colours a quarter of a year ago.

The Signal Sandstorm is available now at Leatherman US in limited numbers and costs $180 (~£136 / €158 / AU$259).

UK, EU and AU availability and pricing have yet to be confirmed.

Legendary German gear maker Deuter has unveiled the new Astro Pro, a range of down sleeping bags designed to help outdoor enthusiasts stay warmer and recover better during multi-day adventures in challenging environments.

The Astro Pro is aimed at mountaineers, backpackers and expedition users and prioritises insulation efficiency while keeping weight and pack size to a minimum.

The sleeping bag uses 750 cuin RDS-certified down, along with Deuter's PowerBox construction in the foot area and PeakDesign baffle layout in the upper body, to distribute insulation evenly and reduce cold spots.

One of the Astro Pro's more interesting features is its ThermoStretch construction.

According to the company, the design contours closely to the body, reducing the volume of air that needs to be heated by up to a whopping 25%.

The bag also features a ThermoHood around the head and an ErgoFoot Pro 3D footbox, which provides extra room for natural movement while sleeping.

Warmth without the dead space

Deuter says the Astro Pro's 360-degree insulation system helps maintain consistent warmth throughout the night, even as users change position while sleeping.

The company believes this can support better recovery, especially during demanding trips where quality rest is essential for performance the following day.

The range is available in multiple sizes and warmth ratings, from the Astro Pro 400 with a limit temperature of -6°C through to the Astro Pro 1000, which is rated down to -19°C.

Alongside its performance credentials, the Astro Pro is also PFAS-free, ClimatePartner certified and meets both Bluesign and Green Button sustainability standards.

More than 90% of the materials used come from Bluesign-certified factories, according to Deuter.

The Astro Pro series is available now at Deuter UK and Deuter EU, with prices from £340 / €390 (~$517 / AU$737).

The range isn't available to buy on Deuter's American or Australian sites yet.

Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin have developed a jacket that can pull drinking water directly from the air. While it's not quite the stillsuit from Dune, the prototype uses advanced textiles to capture atmospheric moisture and turn it into usable water.

The jacket is made using biomass-derived hydrogel fibres that absorb water vapour from the surrounding air. Rather than simply trapping moisture, the material actively moves it through the fabric towards detachable harvesting units built into the garment.

Once those units are removed, they're placed inside a foldable collector and heated, releasing the captured moisture as liquid water. In testing, the system produced between 400ml and 900ml of drinking water per day, depending on humidity levels.

The researchers say the key breakthrough isn't just water absorption but water transport. By moving moisture quickly from vapour to liquid and through the textile itself, the fabric achieved a three- to ten-fold improvement over conventional water-harvesting materials at scale.

Although the jacket remains a research prototype, the team sees obvious potential for hikers, campers, emergency responders and people living in water-scarce regions. Similar materials could also be incorporated into backpacks, tents and shelters, turning everyday outdoor gear into portable water collectors.

This isn't quite the self-contained survival suit imagined by Frank Herbert. The water still has to be extracted from the collection units using heat. But as a wearable way of harvesting water from thin air, it's one of the closest things yet to a real-world stillsuit.

Gadget On has unveiled the TitanSnap, a multitool system that squeezes up to 100 functions into a stack of five magnetic titanium cards. This system does not cram everything onto a single tool, but instead TitanSnap splits its features across dedicated cards that can be carried separately or snapped together into a compact deck.

Each card is designed for a different purpose. The T1 Daily card focuses on everyday jobs such as opening packages, measuring and making quick repairs, while the Outdoor card adds features including a saw, fire starter and bottle opener. There are also Fishing, Tech and Emergency cards aimed at more specialist tasks.

The Tech card is perhaps the most unusual of the bunch. Alongside small repair tools, it can double as a phone stand, cable organiser and storage holder for SIM and TF cards. The Emergency card, includes items like a bandage cutter, signalling mirror and compass-style navigation aid.

All five cards are made from CNC-machined TC4 titanium – meaning low weight, strength and corrosion resistance. Each one measures around 70 x 45mm, making it slightly smaller than a standard bank card and easy to slip into a pocket or bag. Built-in glow markers also help you find the tools in low-light conditions.

A key part of the design is the magnetic stacking system. You can carry a single card, combine a few favourites or take the entire deck, depending on the task at hand. Unlike some modular multitools, the cards don't combine to form larger tools – each one is designed to function independently.

The TitanSnap is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, where early backers can pick up the full five-card deck for £259 (instead of the final RRP of £400).

Whether anyone really needs 100 tools in their pocket is another question, but it's certainly one of the more organised takes on the multitool concept I've seen.

Camping season is here, or so I've been told. If you're planning any camping trips this summer, it's best to have a look at the gadget and apparel options below.

From AI-powered smart glasses and compact wildlife-spotting optics to insect-repellent clothing and ultralight cooking systems, these upgrades solve real problems without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.

Columbia Skien Valley Hooded Light Jacket (Insect Shield Collection)

£90 | Columbia

Summer camping is brilliant until the insects arrive, which also coincides with the weather getting colder in the early evening/ morning.

Luckily, Columbia's Skien Valley Hooded Light Jacket can not only keep you warm but also safe from bugs.

Part of the brand's Insect Shield collection, it uses built-in insect-repellent technology to deter mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting bugs without relying on sprays or lotions.

The lightweight construction makes it easy to stash in a backpack, while the hood provides additional coverage when conditions turn buggy.

(There are also matching pants.)

Opinel N°08 Horizon Knife

€25 | Opinel (~£22)

A camping kit is only as good as its most-used tool, and few knives have the heritage of the Opinel N°08.

This special Horizon version retains all the features that made the French folding knife a classic, including the 8.5cm stainless-steel blade and Opinel's Virobloc safety ring, which locks the blade open or closed.

The bright handle makes it easier to spot if dropped in long grass or left on a picnic table. It's a lightweight essential that earns its place on every trip, whether you're slicing food, opening packaging or tackling campsite chores.

Nalgene 24oz Sustain FreshFlow Straw Bottle

£19.82 | Amazon

Hydration might not be the most glamorous camping topic, but it quickly becomes one of the most important.

Nalgene's 24oz Sustain FreshFlow Straw Bottle modernises the brand's famously bombproof water bottle formula with a convenient flip-up straw lid for easy drinking on the move.

Made from Tritan Renew, which incorporates recycled content, it's durable enough to withstand years of outdoor adventures while helping reduce waste.

The leak-resistant design makes it suitable for backpacks, while the familiar wide-mouth construction keeps cleaning simple. It's a practical upgrade you'll use just as often at home as around the campsite.

NOCS Zero Tube 10x25 Waterproof Monocular

$180 | NOCS (~£136)

The NOCS Zero Tube is a compact monocular that delivers 10x magnification and a 25mm objective lens in a pocket-friendly package.

Waterproof and fogproof construction means it can handle unpredictable weather, while the rugged exterior is designed for outdoor use.

It's ideal for spotting wildlife, checking distant trails or getting a closer look at mountain scenery without carrying larger optics. It's the type of gadget that can make a campsite feel much bigger.

Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Gen 2

From £399 | Ray-Ban (also available at Vision Express)

Smart glasses might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a camping trip, but the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Gen 2 makes a surprisingly strong case.

(Also, this is T3, so we'll be talking about technology one way or another.)

Equipped with an integrated camera and open-ear speakers, the glasses can capture photos and videos hands-free, which can be super handy in a camping situation where you might be cooking food with one hand while holding a drink with the other.

They're particularly useful on hikes, around camp or when exploring unfamiliar areas. Better still, they look like regular Wayfarers rather than overtly futuristic tech, making them one of the most practical wearable gadgets currently available.

Primus Lite Ultra Stove System 0.8L

£145 | Primus

Every camping setup eventually revolves around food, coffee or both, and Primus' Lite Ultra Stove System 0.8L is designed to make those moments easier.

The brand's lightest stove system yet, it has an integrated burner and pot system, combining efficient cooking performance with an incredibly compact design.

The 0.8-litre hard-anodised pot locks securely onto the burner for stability, and once cooking (and cleanup) is done, you can pop it in your backpack or large cargo pocket.

+1 Red Bull Summer Edition

£18.99 (12-pack) | Amazon

Can't be bothered to cook coffee in the morning but want to feel energised? Have a Red Bull. The popular energy drink recently released a new flavour, Citrus Zest, so even if you aren't too keen on the original taste, you should be able to enjoy the refreshing, bubbly drink on a hike or walk. Better still, it also comes in a sugar-free version if you're watching those pesky calories (as I do).

Camping gear used to fall into two camps: ultralight kit for hikers and bulky equipment for everyone else.

However, with people turning their cars, campervans and rooftop tent setups into mobile base camps, there is more demand for a new breed of outdoor gear that prioritises comfort alongside portability.

This is where Swedish outdoor brand Primus' new Moto Stove come into play.

The two-burner camping stove is designed for van-lifers, campsite cooks, and anyone who prefers to prepare a proper breakfast.

The slim, low-profile design folds neatly into a compact package, making it easy to store in a campervan, car boot, or rooftop tent setup without taking up precious space.

Built for campsite cooking

The Moto Stove features two 4,400W burners, allowing users to boil, simmer and cook multiple dishes simultaneously.

Separate flame controls provide independent adjustment for each burner, while wraparound windscreens help maintain cooking performance in less-than-ideal conditions.

An integrated Piezo igniter means there's no need to carry a lighter, either.

According to the brand, the stove can comfortably cater for between one and five people, which makes it suitable for everything from solo road trips to family camping weekends.

The company says it has also focused on durability, using powder-coated steel alongside stainless steel and nickel-chrome cooking surfaces that should withstand regular outdoor use while remaining easy to clean.

As rooftop tents, campervan conversions and vehicle-based adventures continue to gain popularity, so does the desire to recreate more of the home cooking experience outdoors.

The Moto Stove is for these campers, those who want a reliable camp kitchen they can keep in the car and deploy whenever hunger strikes.

The Moto Stove is available now at Primus UK and Primus EU, with an RRP of £130 / €160 (~$172 / AU$245).

Primus doesn't list the Moto Stove on its US website (yet).

YETI has expanded one of its most popular bag ranges with the launch of the new Camino Zip Carryall, a more commuter-focused take on the brand's famously rugged tote.

Available now through YETI's Early Access programme, the new bag arrives in two sizes, 12 litres and 18 litres, and introduces something the standard Camino Carryall never offered: a full zip closure!

For anyone who has admired the original Camino's bombproof construction but worried about valuables tumbling out during a train journey or commute, the update makes a lot of sense.

A Camino built for everyday carry

While the original Camino Carryall has developed something of a cult following thanks to its waterproof ThickSkin shell, moulded base and deployable dividers, its open-top design has always prioritised easy access over security.

In fact, YETI's own FAQ specifically notes that existing Camino Carryalls do not feature a zipper closure.

The new Camino Zip Carryall changes that formula, featuring a zippered opening, an internal tablet sleeve, a QuickStash pocket for smaller items and a deployable divider system to help keep gear organised.

The EVA-moulded bottom remains, allowing the bag to stand upright when set down, while the waterproof shell is designed to shrug off everyday wear and unpredictable weather.

YETI says the bag is designed for everything from office commutes and gym visits to everyday errands, positioning it as a more versatile alternative to the larger Camino models.

The launch also introduces five colour options, including core colours such as Black, Navy and Aspen, while seasonal shades Pace Purple/Blue and Power Pink/Aspen add a splash of personality.

Pace Purple, which debuted earlier this week, appears to draw inspiration from running culture and athletics tracks, continuing YETI's recent push into more lifestyle-oriented colour collections.

There's no word yet on wider availability outside Early Access, but the brand will likely open up availability to the public in the coming weeks.

That said, YETI membership is free, so if you like the bag, you might as well sign up now and buy the bag while it's in early access.

Pricing starts at $130 (~£98 / €113 / AU$185) for the 12L Camino Zip Carryall and rises to $150 (~£113 / €130 / AU$214) for the 18L version.

Both available at YETI US.

Summer's here and your patio is calling, so it's time to upgrade your outdoor space. We've laid out all the garden-maxxing options, from the obvious, such as relaxing, entertaining or keeping your lawn edges in check, to the less so, such as keeping yourself cool when the heat kicks in or building an outdoor gym so you can sculpt your physique and get some fresh air and Vitamin D at the same time.

Eat like kings and queens

MEATER PRO XL

Why settle for one meat thermometer when you can have four? The Meater Pro XL has built-in Wi-Fi, so you can cook meals in your oven or on the grill and get the best results every time. The four stainless steel probes have five internal sensors and one ambient sensor that reads internal food temperature and external temperature simultaneously – all without you having to open the lid of your barbecue. £329, meater.co.uk

MASTERCLASS PROFESSIONAL COOK'S BLOWTORCH

For finishing touches that take your barbecue food to the next level, you need a Masterclass Professional Cook's Blowtorch. Compact and easy to use, this blowtorch has a quick trigger ignition for instant fire to crisp up meat, vegetables and even desserts. The flame of the Masterclass Professional Cook's Blowtorch can also be adjusted for different levels of heat and char, and comes with safety features, including a display stand. £43, boroughkitchen.com

WEBER GENESIS SMART GAS GRILL

Weber's bestselling gas barbecue recently got a smart upgrade, making the popular grill better than before. With its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled digital thermometer, the Weber Genesis Smart Gas Grill can connect to the Weber Connect app for you to remotely control and monitor your food. It has sear and side burners, as well as a new Sear Zone that reaches up to 398ºC for concentrated cooking that leaves those trademark sear marks. £1,849, weber.com

GOZNEY ARC LITE

The Gozney Arc Lite takes the classic features and design of Gozney's other pizza ovens and makes it smaller – oh, and more affordable. Perfect for smaller spaces, the Gozney Arc Lite has a 12mm stone cooking surface that can fit up to 12-inch pizzas. The compact pizza oven only weighs 12kg so it takes up hardly any room in your garden, balcony or patio – but its good looks will make you want to display it proudly. £349.99, gozney.com

Tips to prepare your barbecue

Get geared up

JIMMY FAIRLY THE MATH UNISEX SUNGLASSES

Jimmy Fairly's The Math Unisex Sunglasses are undeniably fashionable, with their square frame and customisable lenses, including coloured, polarised and prescription options. The sunglasses screen out glare and UVA/UVB to protect your eyes while stylishly framing – pun intended – your face. Made from cellulose acetate, The Math Unisex Sunglasses are biodegradable so they're kinder to the environment when they break down – not that you'd ever want to get rid of them! £135, jimmyfairly.com

COLUMBIA WHISTLER PEAK WATERPROOF JACKET

The UK weather is always unpredictable, so a good waterproof jacket is a must. The Columbia Whistler Peak Waterproof Jacket is a perfect example, as its weather and temperature-proof features can help you battle a downpour and stay cool while hiking in the heat. The jacket's underarm vents are designed for increased ventilation, while the adjustable hood blocks out rain. The pockets also seal out moisture to keep your belongings dry. £270, colombiasportswear.co.uk

BERGHAUS UNISEX EVERYDAY CAP

Protecting yourself from the sun never looked better than with the Berghaus Unisex Everyday Cap. Made from nylon, this cap stays comfortable from the moment you put it on to the end of the day – we can't promise you won't get hat hair, but you certainly won't feel any pinches. It has an elastic back so it stays in place, even when you're hiking a mountain or running on the beach. £30, berghaus.com

BLUNDSTONE CLOGS

Whether you're lounging in your garden or need to make a quick trip to the bins, the Blundstone Clogs are stylish and comfortable. Made from waxed nubuck leather, these clogs are easy to slip on and make for a great gardening companion. They have a comfortable inner lining and a pre-worn finish that gives them a natural, relaxed feel – you'll even want a pair for indoors. £165, blundstone.co.uk

Entertain everyone

NINJA FIRESIDE360

Amongst its sea of air fryers, the Ninja Fireside360 is the first outdoor heater and firepit that could give the Solo Stove a run for its money. It offers 360º heat that's distributed evenly, and has the option of flames, heat or both. Propane-burning and completely smokeless, the Ninja Fireside 360 is designed to keep you and your guests warm without making anyone smell like a bonfire. $499.99 (around £368), sharkninja.com

SAMSUNG THE TERRACE

Take your garden entertainment to the next level. Available in three sizes up to 75 inches, Samsung's The Terrace is an outdoor TV that offers brilliant picture quality, even when the sun is blaring. Weather-resistant and durable, this TV can be watched come rain or shine, making it the perfect spring-summer entertainment centre for sporting and streaming events. From £2,799, samsung.com

SONOS OUTDOOR SET

A party isn't complete without music, and with the Sonos Outdoor Set you can dance and sing all night long. The set features two Sonos and Sonance outdoor speakers, plus an amp to give your garden the pumping sound it's long been lacking. It's completely weatherproof, and easy to control with the Sonos app or Apple AirPlay 2, so you can play music, playlists and even audiobooks with a tap of a button. £1,598, sonos.com

How to host a garden party

Entertain everyone

BOSE SOUNDLINK MAX

For hiking trips, camping adventures and days at the beach, the Bose Soundlink Max is one thing you must remember to pack. This portable speaker plays up to 20 hours of music, and despite its small size, it packs a serious punch with its surround sound and deep bass. Complete with a cute handle at the top, it's a handy speaker to grab and go so you're never without music even in the great outdoors. £399.95, bose.co.uk

YETI TUNDRA COOL BOX

Rather than running back and forth to the fridge to replenish drinks or grab extra sausages for the grill, the Yeti Tundra Cool Box takes care of this for you. Available in multiple sizes and colours, the box can fit a huge amount of cans and ice to keep everything cool. It even has a separate dry goods drawer, and handles so you can take it from your garden to the beach and back. £325, yeti.com

Outdoor gym

BLK BOX OUTDOOR PULL UP BAR

An essential in any outdoor gym, this outdoor pull up bar has multiple grip options so you can work every area of your arms, back and shoulders to improve your upper body. Made from steel, the bar is durable, weather and corrosion resistant, so once you've installed it on a wall, it'll stay put and continue to perform perfectly while you go from being a gym beginner to a full-on bodybuilder. £299.99, blkboxfitness.com

NORDICTRACK 24 STUDIO INDOOR CYCLE

The NordicTrack 24 Studio Indoor Cycle could be about to take Peloton's crown. This exercise bike has a 24-inch pivoting HD touchscreen that comes with thousands of workouts and classes, while also tracking your performance. It comes with 24 resistance levels to challenge your cardio, and has a built-in cooling fan for when you're really pushing it. £1,899, sweatband.com

AGAIN FASTER HEXHEAD DUMBBELLS

No gym – whether it's outside or inside – is complete without a set of dumbbells… or a whole tree of them! These dumbbells range from 5kg up to 50kg so everyone in your household can use them and build up their strength. With end-to-end steel handles, the set offers maximum secure grip, and is finished with premium rubber to protect your gym floor or lawn. £40, againfaster.eu

TECHNOGYM JUMP ROPE

Hitting your cardio goals has never been easier. While we didn't think you could make a simple skipping rope any better, Technogym proved us wrong with an adjustable design that can be customised to your height to prevent tripping or tangling. Made from rubber-coated steel wires, the Technogym Jump Rope could be the only rope you ever need. £85, technogym.com

Jazz it up

EUFY FLOODLIGHT CAMERA E340

Security and lighting come together beautifully in the Eufy Floodlight Camera E340. It keeps your garden brightly lit whilst also recording crisp video whenever motion is detected. Whether you're deterring unwanted visitors or just keeping an eye on things at night, it's set to be a smart and reassuring addition to your outdoor setup. £219, eufy.com

GOVEE OUTDOOR CHROMATIC STRING LIGHTS

If your garden needs a glow up, Govee's brand new outdoor lights are a brilliant place to start. These stylish smart lights can shift through millions of colours, set the mood for parties or simply add a warm glow to evening dinners outside. They're fun, customisable and instantly make any garden feel more inviting. $255 (around £188), govee.com

IKEA SOLVINDEN LED SOLAR-POWERED GROUND STICK

The Ikea Solvinden ground light is proof that great garden lighting doesn't have to be complicated or expensive to be effective. Simply push it into the ground and let the sun do the rest. By nightfall, it casts a gentle glow along paths or flower beds, making your garden look beautifully styled without any effort. £12, ikea.com

Chill out

LUMI POD PRO 8

If you want to turn your garden into a proper wellness retreat, look no further than the Lumi Pod Pro 8. Its upgraded insulation keeps water colder for longer, while the sleek, weatherproof design protects it in even the harshest of winds. It's a stylish way to add relaxation and luxury to your garden at the same time. £399, lumitherapy.co.uk

EGO FN1800E MISTING FAN

When the heat really kicks in, the Ego FN1800E misting fan feels like a breath of fresh air. It combines powerful airflow with a refreshing mist, instantly cooling anyone who's sat near it. Ideal for garden gatherings, it will turn even the hottest summer day into a far more comfortable outdoor experience. £399, egopowerplus.co.uk

ECOFLOW GLACIER

The EcoFlow Glacier is far more than just a cool box. This clever portable fridge and freezer keeps food and drinks perfectly chilled wherever you set up camp in the garden. Great for long barbecues or outdoor movie nights, it means you'll never have to keep running back inside for cold drinks again. £599, ecoflow.com

SHARK CHILLPILL

Hot summer afternoons are far easier to handle with the Shark ChillPill nearby. This portable 3-in-1 cooling gadget combines a high-speed fan, an ultra-fine misting pod and an InstaChill cooling plate. Designed to clip onto prams, exercise bikes or simply sit beside you, it's the kind of gadget you'll wonder how you lived without. £130, sharkclean.co.uk

CASO DESIGN ICE CHEF PRO

Nothing says summer like freezing cold drinks, and the Caso Design Ice Chef Pro will make sure you're never short of ice. It quickly produces fresh cubes whenever you need them, which is perfect for hosting and means no more constant refilling of the trays. £180, casodesign.co.uk

Smarten up

SWITCHBOT IP65 INDOOR/ OUTDOOR HYGROMETER THERMOMETER

If you're serious about gardening, knowing your garden's conditions can make a big difference. This SwitchBot hygrometer tracks both temperature and humidity, helping you understand what your plants are experiencing. It's a perfect device for gardeners who want a little more insight into their outdoor environment. £20, switch-bot.com

EVE AQUA SMART WATER CONTROLLER

Watering the garden becomes effortless with the Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller. Attach it to your outdoor tap and schedule watering straight from your phone. Plants stay hydrated without you lifting a finger, and you'll never forget to water again – a small upgrade that makes garden care far simpler. £159, evehome.com

MEROSS SMART OUTDOOR PLUG MSS620HK

An outdoor plug is a brilliant way to make your entire garden gadget setup smarter. From string lights to water features, you can control outdoor power straight from your phone or voice assistant. It's simple, convenient and might just leave your guests wondering how your garden runs so effortlessly. £40, meross.com

DWARF MINI

The Dwarf Mini is a fascinating little gadget for stargazers and nature watchers alike. This smart portable telescope can capture images of the night sky or zoom in on distant wildlife in your garden. It's compact yet surprisingly powerful, making backyard astronomy or birdwatching much more accessible. £359, dwarflab.com

NETGEAR ORBI RBE973S

A strong Wi-Fi signal in the garden can make a huge difference, especially if you work outside or stream music while relaxing. The Netgear Orbi RBE973 extends high-speed connectivity far beyond your walls, keeping everything from smart lights to outdoor speakers running smoothly without frustrating signal drops. £1,500 (two-pack), netgear.com

Keep it trim

VONHAUS CORDLESS PRUNER

Pruning trees and shrubs becomes surprisingly satisfying with the VonHaus cordless pruner. This handy tool cuts through small branches with ease, saving your hands from the strain of manual secateurs. It's perfect for quick garden maintenance and makes keeping plants neat much faster and easier. £60, vonhaus.com

HUSQVARNA 312V ROBOT MOWER

Few gadgets are as satisfying as a robot mower quietly keeping your lawn in perfect shape, and the Husqvarna 312V is a great example. Designed to take the hassle out of lawn care, it keeps grass neatly trimmed with minimal input, making it ideal for anyone who wants a pristine lawn without spending hours tweaking settings. £1,499, husqvarna.com

MAMMOTION SOLAR PANEL FOR RTK REFERENCE STATION

If you already own a Mammotion robot lawn mower system, the Mammotion solar panel is a clever upgrade to consider. It powers the RTK reference station using sunlight, reducing the need for wired power and resulting in a more energy-efficient setup. £329, mammotion.com

STIGA HT 100E KIT

Keeping hedges under control becomes far easier with this Stiga cordless hedge trimmer, especially after a winter when everything's grown a little unruly. It slices through branches with ease, helping you tidy up shrubs and borders in no time – and maybe even come to enjoy the process as well. £99, stiga.com

KÄRCHER K5 COMFORT PREMIUM PRESSURE WASHER

Everyone knows the Kärcher name, but the K5 pressure washer is the model you really need to try. From muddy patios to algae-covered decking, it blasts away dirt in seconds. You'll wonder how you ever kept your garden looking clean without it. £399.99, kaercher.com

YETI has unveiled a new limited-edition colourway, and this one appears to take inspiration from a place few would have associated with the brand just a few years ago: the running track.

Pace Purple is currently available through YETI's Early Access programme, giving account holders first dibs before a wider release.

The launch spans more than 60 products across drinkware, coolers, bags, outdoor accessories and even dog gear, making it one of the company's larger colour drops in recent memory.

The new shade combines a vibrant purple finish with darker accents and YETI's signature contrasting logo treatment.

It joins a growing list of seasonal and limited-edition colourways that have become almost as anticipated as the products themselves.

More than just another colour drop

While YETI hasn't explicitly linked Pace Purple to running culture, the branding certainly points in that direction.

Promotional imagery places the collection on an athletics track, while the name itself evokes speed and movement rather than the fishing, hunting and camping themes traditionally associated with the brand.

Running continues to enjoy a surge in popularity worldwide, with marathons, trail races and community running clubs attracting record participation.

Brands both inside and outside the running industry have been looking for ways to connect with the growing audience, and YETI is no stranger to endurance events and outdoor communities.

Among the products receiving the Pace Purple treatment are the Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Cooler, Tundra 45 Hard Cooler, Rambler Travel Straw Mug, Daytrip Tote Bag, SideKick Dry Gear Case, Yonder Water Bottles, Lowlands Blanket and several dog accessories.

The collection covers everything from everyday hydration products to larger coolers designed for camping trips, tailgates and outdoor adventures.

For fans of matching gear, Pace Purple is one of the most comprehensive colour launches YETI has produced, with products available across almost every major category.

Previous collections have drawn inspiration from coastlines, mountains and seasonal landscapes, while Pace Purple feels noticeably more energetic and urban in its presentation.

For now, the collection remains available through Early Access at YETI, with a broader release expected to follow in the coming weeks.

Vans and Travis Barker are back with a fresh take on one of the brand's most recognisable silhouettes.

Launching on 18 Jun, the new capsule builds on the long-standing relationship between the skate brand and the Blink-182 drummer, who has worn Vans throughout much of his life and career.

The collection includes a reworked Old Skool, along with a range of matching apparel inspired by punk culture, skateboarding, and Southern California style.

It draws heavily from Barker's tattoo art, with the Old Skool featuring a "Dues Paid" emblem inspired by the phrase tattooed across the musician's knuckles.

Back where it all started

Barker grew up in Fontana, California, and has frequently spoken about Vans being his footwear of choice during his teenage years, thanks to the brand's close ties to BMX, skateboarding and the punk scene.

Over the years, he has remained closely associated with Vans, appearing in campaigns and even auctioning off stage-worn pairs as musical memorabilia.

Arriving in a "clean" white colourway, the headline piece of the new collection is the Vans x Travis Barker Old Skool.

In addition to the "Dues Paid" emblem across the vamp, the shoes feature barbed-wire detailing on the foxing, canvas uppers, cotton laces, and Travis Barker branding on the heel and tongue.

The result is a relatively understated take on the classic skate shoe, albeit one loaded with personal references and punk-inspired flourishes.

Punk references from heel to toe

Alongside the footwear, Vans is introducing a selection of apparel carrying the phrases "Dues Paid" and "Self Made" across various pieces.

The accompanying campaign continues the punk-inspired theme, featuring fellow musicians and artists including Tim Armstrong of Rancid, N8NOFACE, Missy of Mannequin Pussy and Dani Miller of Surfbort.

Photographed by Atiba Jefferson, the campaign imagery combines zine-inspired graphics with scenes captured at a major Chicago music festival and around Los Angeles.

The Vans x Travis Barker collection will be available from 18 June via Vans and selected retail partners, with Vans Family members receiving early access ahead of the general release.

Head over to Vans for more info.

Danner footwear is the brainchild of Charles Danner, who began making rugged boots for loggers in Wisconsin nearly 100 years ago before relocating to Portland, Oregon, where the company is still headquartered. These days, Danner boots and shoes are a popular choice on Pacific Northwest Trails and are increasingly finding their way onto feet in the UK.

I’ve tested a lot of pairs of Danners over the past few years, and though they’re nearly always the classiest shoes on the trail, I feel that there’s always something holding them back from their potential, whether that’s a long breaking-in period required or a substandard grip. The Trail 2650, however, are easily the best walking shoes from the brand I’ve hiked in.

Named for the 2,650 miles of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, these shoes are built for mileage, combining comfort and lightweight construction with good protection and traction.

As has been the case with many Danner shoes, I instantly loved their aesthetic, which is quite modern by the brand’s standards – it’s known for full-grain leather (see also: Danner Mountain Light II review) and colourful laces – but thanks to materials like suede uppers, they’re not too sporty for my liking.

But any time a shoe is pretty, I’m instantly sceptical. Can it really hold up to the demands of hiking in the Scottish Highlands, where I usually romp? I’ve worn them up Ben Lui, a grand Munro in Scotland, and across the Isle of Mull this spring to put them through their paces.

Danner Trail 2650 review

Price and availability

Available in men’s and women’s sizing in a wide array of tasteful colours (I tested them in Oil Green, which is a nice shade of olive), the Danner Trail 2650 is available directly from the brand’s website with an MSRP of £190.

That is pricey compared to most other hiking shoes on test – £65 more than the Keen Hightrail EXP, which we rated as Best Overall in our guide to the best hiking shoes.

But it’s on par with Danner’s pricing, which does reflect the use of premium materials (it used to also reflect that the shoes and boots were made in the USA, but these shoes are made in Vietnam, sadly).

Design and materials

These shoes fit like a trainer with a traditional lace-up closure, and they look quite at home on city streets – I’ve been wearing them around Glasgow ever since I got my hands on them.

But don’t worry, there are plenty of technical details that make these stand out on the trail, starting with the choice of Vibram 460 rubber outsoles instead of an own-brand version, which ensures traction in muddy and wet conditions.

Above that sits a plush Danner PlyoGo Midsole made with ultralight EVA foam for all-day comfort, with a Trailguard TPU shank to provide stability on rough ground. Then there’s a removable OrthoLite Footbed to improve comfort and breathability.

To top it all off, the upper is made from a blend of suede and textile fabric with holes to let heat and water escape, a breathable liner for hot days, and reinforcements at the toes and heels, which I was thankful for when tripping over rocks and roots on Ben Lui.

Performance and comfort

My feet aren’t wide or narrow, but I have quite high arches, and this has historically been an issue for me with some Danner shoes (I couldn’t even get the Trail 2650 Campo on without a shoehorn).

The first time I tried to put these on, my heart sank as I thought it was going to be the same old story, but I persevered, and the very next time I wore them, they had stretched out nicely, and I’ve had no problems since.

Once on, I was impressed by how secure they are and how easy it is to get a lockdown fit with the lacing system, which features nice, long laces that by and large stay tied, which frankly is an underrated feature in a hiking shoe.

Straight away, I knew they were going to be comfortable. The midsole just feels absolutely fantastic underfoot, with loads of cushioning that translates into zero foot fatigue after hours on the trail, and a really stable ride even when I’m moving quickly on quite challenging terrain.

You might think that suede uppers translate into heavier shoes, but the size 4 I tested weighs only 249g per shoe, which is lighter than my Merrell Moab 3s. The toe box doesn’t look especially wide compared to my Moabs, which usually sets off an alarm bell for me, but they feel surprisingly roomy on.

I’ve been testing them in mild and warm weather, which is what they’re built for, and I’m loving their breathability. They feel positively airy, and the suede uppers have holes that let sweat escape, which also means they drain quickly when I have to cross a river or encounter boggy terrain.

The downside, I suppose, is that they’re not waterproof (though a GTX version is available), and honestly, that does somewhat curtail their usefulness here in the UK, but I’ll definitely be bringing them along on trekking holidays and reaching for them first for straightforward walking.

I’ve actually spent the whole day wearing them wet – I fell into a river on Monday, then had to wear them wet on Tuesday while hiking in boggy conditions for four hours – and honestly, it didn’t pose any real issues. They didn’t rub, they weren’t uncomfortable, and when they do fill up with water, they drain quickly even if they don’t dry particularly quickly.

Mine got really muddy walking up Ben Lui, which is one of the sloppier Munros I’ve encountered, and I was a bit unsure I’d be able to wear them around town again. Much to my surprise (and pleasure), a quick dip in the river on the walk back to the car left them looking clean again.

Now, for the feature that’s absolutely essential for sloppy UK trails: traction. I’ve been less than impressed with Danner’s own-brand outsoles in the past, but a Vibram sole all but guarantees good grip.

The Vibram 460 is popular as a trail-running shoe and features 4mm angled multi-directional lugs that adapt to changing conditions such as sand, mud, and hard-packed trails. I’ve tested these out in slick muddy conditions, dry trails and bog, all on very steep slopes, and I’ve yet to lose my footing.

Verdict

The Danner Trail 2650 hiking shoes are a best-in-class design for anyone seeking a lightweight hiker that can cover a lot of miles while still standing up to the demands of technical trails.

Danner isn’t shying away from the fact that, if you choose the non-waterproof version, they’re intended for fairer conditions than we often experience in the UK, and you’ll sacrifice breathability if you opt for the GORE-TEX liner.

But if you have any trekking holidays planned this summer in bog-free countries, these should be a serious contender.

Also consider

The Keen Hightrail EXP Waterproof is surprisingly lightweight for a waterproof shoe and offers a more accommodating fit. Compared to the Danner, you sacrifice some of that premium styling and plush underfoot feel, but you gain all-weather versatility and save some money. It's the option I'd recommend for UK walkers who want one shoe to do everything.

If you need a shoe for British conditions, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is a strong alternative. Its Gore-Tex membrane, supportive chassis and excellent grip make it better suited to wet hillsides and muddy paths than the Trail 2650. It isn't quite as airy or casual-looking as the Danner, but it's a more capable year-round hiking companion.

We’re in a bit of a strange weather limbo at the moment in the UK. One minute it’s blazing sunshine with temperatures pushing into the early 30s, and the next it’s absolutely tipping it down. For us green-fingered folk, that can make it tricky to know when to water the garden – and whether the rain is doing the job for us or if we should still be stepping in.

We’ve already covered the benefits of collecting rainwater for the garden, but I’ve now spoken to experts at the RHS to find out the exact best time to water when the sun is out. Timing, it turns out, makes a big difference to how effectively plants actually use the water, so it’s well worth getting it right.

You’ll find the answer below, along with a few other handy watering tips for different times of day.

What time of day should I water my garden?

The experts say that watering early in the morning is the ideal time. That’s because there’s less evaporation, meaning more water actually reaches the roots, and plants have what they need to get through the day.

If that’s not possible, evening watering is also fine. However, it’s worth being cautious, as damp leaves sitting overnight can encourage pests and fungal diseases.

The most important thing to avoid is watering in the heat of the day. A lot of the water simply evaporates before it even reaches the soil, and in some cases, droplets can even intensify the sun and scorch plant surfaces – something you definitely want to avoid if you’re trying to keep your garden healthy.

Shackleton is expanding its apparel lineup for Spring/Summer 2026 with the launch of the Erebus Jacket and Hawkes Gilet, two new active insulation layers designed to provide warmth, breathability, and all-day comfort.

Active insulation is increasingly popular among hikers, climbers and trail runners looking to create layers that can be worn during movement rather than repeatedly added and removed throughout the day.

The category has grown steadily over the past decade, helped by brands such as Patagonia, whose Nano Air (see also: Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody review) helped popularise the idea of a jacket that could be worn throughout a day in the mountains.

Shackleton's new pieces can do just that while also adding a sustainability-focused twist by using recycled ocean-bound plastic.

They use Clo VivoOcean insulation, a synthetic fill made from recycled fibres recovered from plastic waste collected near coastlines before it enters the ocean.

Unlike traditional synthetic insulation such as fleece jackets, the material uses a perforated construction that is said to allow excess heat and moisture to escape more easily during periods of high exertion.

Shackleton says the technology delivers up to 30% better (!) breathability while maintaining insulation in cold weather.

The brand also claims an RET rating of 0.62, placing both garments firmly in the highly breathable category.

Built for moving fast

Shackleton says the flagship Erebus Jacket has been designed with climbing and scrambling in mind, for enthusiasts seeking a lightweight layer that handles changing conditions from the valley floor to the summit.

It combines the VivoOcean insulation with a windproof, breathable shell made from 70% recycled materials and finished with a PFAS-free C0 durable water repellent treatment.

Not quite a waterproof shell, but enough for changeable weather around the countryside.

Underarm gussets and articulated sleeves are intended to improve freedom of movement, while a two-way front zip and harness-compatible pocket placement should make it easier to use alongside climbing equipment.

A lighter option for layering

Alongside the jacket sits the Hawkes Gilet, which uses the same insulation technology in a sleeveless format.

Designed as either a standalone outer layer or part of a three-layer mountain system, it offers core warmth without restricting arm movement.

Both garments feature four zipped pockets, microfleece-lined collars, and two-way zips, while the recycled shell fabric, recycled insulation, and PFAS-free finish help keep environmental impact lower than that of more conventional insulated layers.

The Erebus Jacket and Hawkes Gilet are available now at Shackleton, with prices from £265 / $365 / €340 / AU$520.

If you’re newer to camping and backpacking, you might not know that sleeping outdoors used to be an exercise in extreme suffering. Until two former Boeing engineers and backpackers invented the self-inflating camping mat, that is.

Patented in the early 1970s as the first Therm-a-Rest pad, the self-inflating mattress added air to the traditional foam pads and comfort in camp was born.

In reality, it took a few decades for Therm-a-Rest to perfect these pads, but these days there are tons of options that are ideal for a night under the stars. From my first Therm-a-Rest, acquired 20 years ago, which was a rather slender and rough affair, to my deep-dish Therm-a-Rest Neoloft, I’ve really appreciated the Seattle brand’s commitment to honing its craft.

I love camping, and I love sleeping well, so when I was offered the chance to test the updated Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro, I immediately said yes.

Straight away, I could tell that the Trail Pro emphasises comfort and durability. I can feel that it’s packed with lots of foam for plushness and has a really high-quality face fabric, plus a robust construction.

That said, it’s not especially light or packable, but its mummy-shaped design does reduce space and weight. And it has the word “Trail” in the name. So is it meant for backpacking, or car camping?

I took the Trail Pro on a hiking trip to the Isle of Mull to get to the bottom of this puzzling pad. I was travelling around the island by car, so I didn’t need to worry about lugging it on my back. I did pack it in my backpack, along with my tent and clothing, for organisational purposes, and used it for wild camping in my tiny backpacking tent.

Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro Sleeping Pad review

Price and availability

The Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro is available in Regular size, which I tested, with an MSRP of £135 at third-party retailers such as Ultralight Outdoor Gear in the UK and $160 at REI in the US. It sells for €150 in the EU and around AU$350 in Australia.

For an extra £10 / $10, you can grab an extra 15cm of width in the Wide version, and for reasons I’ll discuss below, that’s what I would recommend.

That pricing is on par with the truly excellent Big Agnes Rapide SL, which is about the best pad I’ve tested, and more than the Rab Exosphere 3.5, which I recently tested and is very comfortable, less bulky and lighter than this one.

Compared with other Therm-a-Rest pads in the non-ultralight range, the Neoloft is smaller when packed, wider and thicker when inflated, but costs considerably more at £250 / $250 / €300 / AU$390.

Design and materials

Pads built for comfort often come in rectangular designs that provide more sleeping surface, but the Trail Pro comes in a mummy shape, which cuts down on weight and bulk while still leaving room in my tiny backpacking tent.

This design also helps trap heat more effectively. This pad has a 4.4 R-value, which makes it a viable option for year-round use (here in the UK, anyway).

Insulation is largely provided by a very healthy dose of foam. There is a thin, continuous layer of foam with ridges of thicker foam that I can feel even when the pad is deflated. These layers are nestled between air ridges in a design that Therm-a-Rest calls Stratacore because it mimics parallel layers of rock stacked on top of one another.

While the thick foam core keeps you well suspended off the ground, the 50D polyester stretch-knit fabric is noticeably more comfortable and higher quality than most pads I’ve tested. It feels positively lovely against my skin and doesn’t make a sound when I roll over.

All of this means that the Regular size I tested weighs a hefty 774g on the scale and packs down to only 28 x 22 cm. Will it fit in a 65L backpack like my Cascade Design Flex Capacitor for a multi-day trek? Sure, but it will take up a lot more valuable space than my Big Agnes Rapide SL.

One brownie point I wanted to mention is that this pad is made in Ireland, so while it doesn’t list any recycled materials, for UK campers it does cut down on transportation-related emissions enormously compared to pads manufactured in Asia.

Inflation process

I’ve loved the WingLock valve on other Therm-a-Rest pads, and on this one, as soon as I open it, I hear the air whooshing in and see the pad inflate within seconds.

After that, it takes about 8-10 puffs to fully inflate it, which is more than on pads like the Rab Eoxsphere 3.5, but it is a larger pad. As it gets fuller, the air tends to want to leak out between puffs, but it’s easy enough to manage.

I usually really like the deflation process with the WingLock too, which means most of the air whooshes out with a twist of the valve, but I think the ridge design of this pad traps more air than some, so it takes a little extra squeezing while rolling to get it out.

Performance and comfort

Once I got this pad blown up, there was no denying how plush it felt. It’s one of those pads I can kneel on without any part of me touching the ground, which usually bodes really well for side sleeping. However, I really didn’t sleep well on this pad.

At 183cm long, there’s no danger of my feet hanging off the end, but it feels really narrow, and at 5’4”, I am not a big human. On paper, it’s as wide as my Rab Exosphere, but it’s not as stable. It’s not exactly like sleeping on a boat, but every time I changed position, I felt like I was going to tumble off it.

I couldn’t quite put my finger on why this was happening, but after a little research, it seems that horizontal baffles tend to reduce stability compared to air-sprung cells like those in my Sea to Summit Ultralight XR. Perhaps this combined with the lack of sidewalls is what made me feel like I was going to topple off it all night? I definitely wasn’t as impressed as I thought I’d be.

In the morning, I was worried it would be one of those pads that never go back in their stuff sacks when I saw how big it was, rolled up. Fortunately, Therm-a-Rest designs its stuff sacks with compression straps these days, so I could quite painlessly slide it back in and then secure it.

It fits in my Helly Hansen Relay pack, which is 42L, alongside my tent and spare clothes, so I believe I could technically bring it backpacking, but with so many smaller pads like the Big Agnes Rapide SL available, I’m not sure why I would.

Verdict

The Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro isn’t a bad sleeping pad by any stretch of the imagination, but it does suffer somewhat from an identity crisis.

It’s at once a bit too bulky and heavy to be a realistic option for backpacking, but it doesn’t quite offer the real estate I want for a car-camping pad. It’s also not as stable as other designs, so if you tend to change position a lot when you sleep, you might want to consider an air-sprung pad.

When there are other plush pads on the market that are more backpacking-friendly (like the Big Agnes Rapide SL) and car camping pads like the Therm-a-Rest Neoloft that give you more sleeping room, it’s tricky to make a good case for this one, even with its perks.

If you like the idea of a comfortable pad in a mummy-shaped design and you only plan to go car camping, I’d recommend the Wide option to improve your sleep.

Also consider

The Big Agnes Rapide SL is the obvious choice for anyone who likes the Trail Pro's comfort but wants something genuinely suited to carrying on their back. The Regular version weighs just 597g and packs down to be dramatically smaller than the Trail Pro, yet still offers excellent comfort, impressive stability, and a generous 3.5-inch thickness.

If weight and pack size aren't priorities, the Therm-a-rest NeoLoft is the sleeping pad the Trail Pro wishes it could be. It has a huge sleeping surface, 4.6-inch thickness, quiet construction and exceptional comfort. Unlike the Trail Pro, it fully commits to the comfort-first approach, offering a wider, more stable platform that feels much closer to a real mattress.

The Therm-a-Rest Vesper is an industry leader in camping quilts, but for reasons I can’t fully understand, the market for camping quilts is very, very small.

Camping quilts take the basic premise of a sleeping bag and refine it for weight and packability. The zip is removed, but it still has an enclosed footbox, a snap closure around the neck, and removable straps to attach it to your sleeping pad. The result is that you can eliminate drafts and stay toasty but feel less restricted at night, and move fast and light between camps.

It’s a no-brainer for fastpacking, but the concept hasn’t exactly been snapped up by many big outdoor brands. Versions like Rab’s Neutrino 200 and Big Agnes’ Kings Canyon UK are largely out of stock, and only Sea to Summit and Therm-a-Rest seem to be pressing ahead, the former with the Ember Down quilt and the latter with the Vesper.

I got my hands on both of those quilts back in 2022 and, with the exception of some very cold camping at high altitude on the trek to Everest Base Camp, I’ve never gone back to using a sleeping bag.

The only issue I had with the Vesper at the time was that the footbox was a little too tight for comfort, but the updated design has eliminated that issue and added a substantial amount of down, all while keeping the weight at an industry-leading low.

I’ve been camping with the 2026 version of this quilt for the past three months here in Scotland, from the Isle of Mull to a two-day hike of the Berwickshire Coastal Path to test its newfound capabilities.

Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20°F / 6°C Down Quilt (2026) review

Price and availability

According to Therm-a-Rest, the Vesper 20°F / 6°C is available in Regular (201cm) and Long (211cm) options, but only the regular size seems to be available right now, with prices starting at £455 from online retailers like Ellis Brigham.

That’s quite a leap up from the Vesper 32°F / 0°, which retails for £380 and even leapfrogs the pricey Sea to Summit Ember Down quilt, putting it at a premium price.

It’s only available in the Vapor colourway (silvery grey), and it comes with both a storage and a stuff sack.

Design and materials

The Vesper is packed with 360g of 900-fill, PFAS-free hydrophobic goose down, which is just about as high-quality as you can find.

It’s collected into box baffles that the brand says have mesh walls to optimise loft and reduce cold spots. Extra baffles around the edge create a wall of insulation where you might expect a draft to snake in.

When I hold it up to the light, I can see that the down is really well distributed, with more in the foot box, and it’s easy to redistribute with a quick shake if it ends up bunched in the corner of a baffle after packing.

A deep footbox and snap-neck closer mean I can cinch it tightly around me in frigid conditions. Where the original design had only one strap to attach it to a sleeping pad, the updated version has two, and they work with both my Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft and Sea to Summit Ultralight XR pads.

The shell material is gloriously soft, and it’s almost a shame to wear pyjamas with this quilt as it feels so nice against my skin.

Performance and comfort

I’m only 162cm tall, and the regular size I’ve been testing gives me plenty of coverage, thanks to a generous width of 125cm across my shoulders. We’ve tested it out on my boyfriend, who is 180cm tall, and it’s long and wide enough for him too.

The foot box is still snug enough for warmth, but I no longer find it restricting when I’m lying on my back, and the width means I can sleep on my side without a draft.

This quilt has a comfort rating of 0°C and a limit of -6°C. I’m not a cold sleeper (in fact, I run like a furnace at night), so I should be able to sleep normally at temperatures down to 0°C and battle through the night even when it drops below freezing.

I haven’t pushed this quilt to its limits because I’ve been testing it in the spring, but we have had an unusually cold season so far, and I’ve been completely unbothered by the chill at night while using the Vesper.

I haven’t got too warm the way I might in a similarly rated sleeping bag, because it’s so easy to stick a leg out and cool off, but I’ve never struggled with the cold or even needed to use the snap neck closure. For me, using the straps to attach it to my pad and snuggling my feet into the footbox has been enough.

The use of Hydrophobic down isn’t surprising anymore, but it is a boon to a bag that’s going to be used primarily in British weather, as I can trust it to keep insulating even if it gets a little damp.

Though it weighs more than the Vesper 32 (because it contains more down), it’s still lighter than my Sea to Summit Ember, and at just 555g, I didn’t notice it in my pack at all during my recent thru-hike.

It’s pretty easy to pack into the stuff sack, and though I’d say the packed size is a bit bigger than the advertised 14 cm x 20 cm, it’s not a whole lot bigger than my water bottle and even fits in my 20L daypack.

The only slight gripe I have is that because the straps are detachable, they’re quite easy to lose, but for the summer months I’m quite happy to just pack them away safely.

Verdict

For the past four years, the only reason my Sea to Summit quilt kept winning out over my Vesper is that the footbox in the latter was a little tight. Now that the problem has been resolved, I can’t see any reason not to make this my camping staple. It’s light, packable, warm, and versatile, and it gives me the freedom to sleep in all positions.

If you think a camping quilt is the right choice for you, there are a few points to consider. With a comfort rating of 0°C, this quilt could certainly see you through a lot of weather, but whether or not it’s winter-ready all depends on where you’re likely to want to camp this winter and at what altitude.

The premium price is another consideration, but this quilt doesn’t have much competition (yet, anyway).

You can still find Sea to Summit’s Ember Down quilt at a lower price at retailers like Alpine Trek, which has similar specs but isn’t quite as luxurious feeling, and if you decide a more traditional sleeping bag is the way to go, we rate the Rab Neutrino 200, which is heavier but cheaper.

The official ball for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has arrived, and Adidas may have just created the smartest football ever used in a professional match.

Called the Trionda, the new ball will be used throughout next year's tournament across the US, Canada and Mexico. But while the design is eye-catching enough, it's the technology hidden inside that makes this one stand out.

At the heart of the ball is a 500Hz motion sensor that tracks movement and contact in real time. Every touch, deflection and strike generates data that can be sent directly to match officials and VAR systems.

Connected-ball technology isn't entirely new. FIFA first used it at the 2022 World Cup. But Adidas has pushed things further with the Trionda, combining the sensor with a redesigned construction that uses just four panels – reportedly the fewest ever used on an official World Cup ball.

That data helps officials make faster decisions on offsides, handballs and disputed touches. In theory, it should mean fewer delays and more accurate calls. Whether that also means fewer arguments is another matter entirely.

Adidas has also focused on performance. The company says the panel layout improves flight consistency, while a textured surface aims to offer better grip and control in different conditions.

The design itself pays tribute to the three host nations. Red, green and blue graphics represent Canada, Mexico and the US, while the name combines "tri" for the three countries and "onda", meaning wave.

For most fans, the technology inside the ball will remain invisible. But when the World Cup kicks off next summer, there's a good chance some of the tournament's biggest decisions will depend on the tiny sensor hidden beneath the surface.

Climbing has always been part of outdoor culture, but lately it feels as though the sport is having a much bigger moment.

From packed bouldering gyms and a renewed interest in traditional climbing to the rise of climbing-inspired fashion, the discipline is increasingly shaping the direction of the outdoor industry.

Brands such as Patagonia and Gramicci have long built their identities around climbing, and now Swedish outdoor specialist Klättermusen is shining a spotlight on its own roots with the launch of the final chapter of its SS26 collection.

Go Feel High is a new capsule collection that follows the brand's earlier Go Feel Wild hiking collection and Go Feel Free trail running range, completing a three-part campaign centred on different ways people experience the outdoors.

This latest instalment focuses on climbers, with Klättermusen describing the collection as gear designed for "long days close to the ground".

A return to the walk-in

Founded in Umeå, Sweden, in 1975, the company traces its origins back to a small workshop where climbers and mountaineers made equipment for their own adventures.

The latest campaign leans heavily into that heritage, drawing inspiration from Scandinavian bouldering culture and the slower, more deliberate rhythms of a day spent outside.

According to the brand, Go Feel High celebrates the often-overlooked details that define climbing days, from long approaches and brushing holds to refining movement and trying again after a failed attempt.

Made for the days that don't go to plan

The collection's hero pieces include the Vingner Anorak, Barrö Shirt, Asar Pants and the insulated Groa series.

Klättermusen says the garments have been designed to handle changing weather, repeated contact with rock and unrestricted movement while avoiding unnecessary features that could get in the way.

The idea is to create apparel that climbers barely notice while wearing it.

Climbing's influence now extends well beyond the crag, with technical climbing trousers, oversized shirts and rugged approach-inspired footwear increasingly finding their way into everyday wardrobes.

At the same time, climbing gyms continue to attract younger participants who may have discovered the sport indoors before venturing outside.

With Go Feel High, Klättermusen appears keen to remind people that while climbing may be having a cultural moment, it has been part of the brand's story from the very beginning.

The Go Feel High Collection is available now at Klättermusen UK, Klättermusen US, and Klättermusen EU, with prices from £25 / $30 / €30 (~AU$49).

Sun-protection clothing is quickly becoming one of the most competitive categories in outdoor apparel.

Patagonia recently expanded its Capilene Sun Collection, Arc'teryx has made UPF layers a key part of its SS26 range, and now American sustainable clothing brand Outerknown is joining the conversation.

Founded by 11-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater, Outerknown has built its reputation on combining laid-back California style with environmentally conscious manufacturing.

The Sun Collection continues that approach, bringing together technical fabrics, UPF protection, and recycled materials in a range aimed at surfers, swimmers, and anyone spending extended periods outdoors.

Lotion-free sun blocking

The men's lineup includes Sun Shirts, hoodies and polos made from 100% recycled polyester.

Each garment offers UPF 50+ protection and is designed to dry quickly, wick moisture away from the skin and help manage odours using silver-free anti-odour technology.

While the collection has clear roots in surfing and coastal living, the features translate well beyond the beach.

Lightweight long-sleeve layers have become increasingly popular among hikers, paddlers and trail users looking for an alternative to relying solely on sunscreen during hot-weather adventures.

Borrowing from the surf playbook

For more demanding sessions on the water, Outerknown has also introduced the Apex Evolution Hooded Rashguard.

Designed for surfing or swimming, the close-fitting garment combines UPF 50+ protection with two-way stretch fabric, chlorine resistance and pilling resistance.

It has ergonomic flatlock seams intended to improve comfort and reduce chafing during movement.

The women's collection follows a similar formula and includes the Women's Sun Shirt, as well as swimwear options such as the Women's Surf Suit and Origin One Piece.

Both are made from recycled ECONYL nylon and are designed to remain secure during active use in the water while maintaining a streamlined fit.

The Sun Collection is now available at Outermost, with prices from $78 / £79 / €89 / AU$99.

YETI has opened Early Access to its latest limited-edition collection, and it might be one of the brand's most playful releases in recent memory.

The Whippersnappers Collection swaps bold seasonal colourways for illustrated outdoor artwork inspired by camp critters, tall tales and long summer days spent outside.

At first glance, the designs look as though someone raided a stack of vintage outdoor stickers and covered a Rambler tumbler with them.

Bears, fish, mushrooms, campfires, slingshots and mountain scenes are scattered across the products, giving the collection a nostalgic summer camp feel that's quite different from YETI's usual approach.

The sticker-bombed YETI look

The Whippersnappers Collection currently consists of 12 products split across YETI's Drinkware and Kitchen categories.

The range includes the Rambler 20 oz Tumbler, Rambler Jr. 10 oz Tumbler, Rambler Jr. 12 oz Kids Water Bottle, Rambler 18 oz Water Bottle, Rambler 8 oz Insulated Food Jar and Rambler 16 oz Insulated Food Jar.

Each product is available in one of two illustrated finishes, with a light blue version and a cream-coloured alternative carrying slightly different artwork.

While the collection is clearly aimed at children, that doesn't mean adults won't find it endearing, thanks to its throwback aesthetics.

Even the collection's name is a nod to the old-fashioned term "whippersnapper", a playful nickname for an adventurous youngster.

A different take on limited-edition YETI gear

The release continues a busy year for YETI's limited-edition programme.

The company has already introduced several seasonal collections in 2026, with new colours regularly appearing across YETI coolers, drinkware and accessories.

As with previous Early Access launches, the collection is currently available first to account holders before a broader rollout.

That doesn't necessarily mean every item will sell out immediately, but limited-edition YETI designs have a habit of disappearing faster than standard colours once they become widely available.

The YETI Whippersnappers Collection is available now through Early Access at YETI.

Prices start at $30 for the Rambler Jr. 10 oz Tumbler and rise to $55 for the Rambler 16 oz Insulated Food Jar, with the full collection spanning 12 products across drinkware and food storage categories.

For most people, DJI is still the drone company.

It's the brand behind some of the best drones on the market, as well as a growing range of cameras, microphones and creator tools. Yet over the last few years, DJI has also been building something very different: portable power stations.

The DJI Power series might seem like an unusual addition to the company's portfolio at first glance, but according to Tongxi Lu, Product Experience Engineer for DJI Power, the category emerged from a problem DJI had been observing for years.

"We noticed an energy gap," Lu told me during a recent interview. "People use their drones to get the best shot, but afterwards they have to wait a long time to recharge, which interrupts the creative workflow."

That observation became the starting point for DJI Power, when the company realised that the same battery expertise it had spent more than a decade developing for drones could potentially solve a much broader problem.

More than a drone accessory

While DJI Power was initially inspired by creators and drone users working away from mains electricity, the company quickly discovered that portable power stations were being used in a much wider range of scenarios.

People were taking them camping, using them in vans and relying on them during power outages at home. In many cases, users weren't buying a power station for one specific activity at all. Instead, they simply wanted access to electricity wherever and whenever they needed it.

As a result, rather than designing products around individual activities, Lu says the team focused on what she calls "the energy gap," the moments when people need power but don't have easy access to it.

DJI isn't necessarily concerned with what happens when a device is plugged in, but it studies everything around that moment, including how people transport a power station, where they store it, how they find it during a blackout, and how it fits into their daily routine.

"We design specifically to remove the friction in those processes," Lu explained. "It's not just when you plug into the product. It's the whole process and the whole journey."

Bringing DJI's engineering culture to batteries

According to Lu, the Power division benefits from many of the same engineering resources, testing procedures and development philosophies used throughout DJI's wider business. "We brought the exact same engineering we used to build drones into the power station market," she said.

That includes expertise in battery management systems, thermal control, and fast-charging technologies, areas where DJI has accumulated significant experience over the years of developing drones and aerial imaging products.

The result is products such as the DJI Power 2000 and DJI Power 1000 Mini, the latter arguably the most distinctive model in the range, thanks to its relatively compact size.

Unlike many power stations that prioritise maximum capacity at the expense of portability, the Mini attempts to balance performance, safety and convenience in a package that can comfortably move between home, car and campsite.

Lu says that balance reflects DJI's wider design philosophy. "We focus on how people actually take the product to the exact places where they use it," she said.

The best power station is the one you don't think about

Perhaps the most interesting insight from the interview came when Lu described the fundamental difference between drones and power stations.

Drones are aspirational products that people actively engage with; they learn to fly them, share their footage online and often see them as an extension of their hobbies or creative identity.

Power stations, by contrast, occupy a supporting role. You don't buy them for enjoyment or to show them off; you simply expect them to work whenever they're needed.

"They don't want to play with the power station," Lu said. "People just use it and take it for granted." That observation has fundamentally shaped how DJI approaches the category. "The goal is to figure out how this product could enter their lives... invisible," Lu explained.

In other words, the ideal portable power station is not one with the most impressive specifications, but the one that solves a problem before you even think about it.

That philosophy also extends to product design. Despite being utility products, DJI still wants its power stations to look and feel like premium technology rather than industrial equipment.

The future could be much smarter

While today's power stations largely function as oversized batteries with displays, Lu believes the category will become considerably more intelligent over time, thanks to advancements in machine learning and LLMs.

As smart homes become more connected and artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into consumer technology, she expects user expectations to evolve beyond simple monitoring and charging.

Currently, users can check battery levels, monitor power draw and control some functions remotely. In the future, Lu imagines systems that understand context and make decisions proactively.

"I'm going out tomorrow to a campsite," she said as an example. "You need to tell me what I need in the next couple of hours and how you should manage my energy."

It's an intriguing vision, one where future power stations could become energy management assistants, helping you predict consumption, optimise charging and prepare for upcoming activities.

For now, DJI remains focused on growing awareness of the category beyond its existing customer base.

Lu admits that many DJI Power buyers still come from the company's drone and camera ecosystem, where the brand already enjoys a reputation for reliability and engineering quality. Reaching consumers who have never owned a DJI product remains one of the division's biggest challenges.

Still, if DJI's long-term vision proves correct, portable power stations may eventually become less of a niche for outdoor use and more of an everyday household technology.

And if that happens, the company believes the best products won't necessarily be the ones people notice most. They'll be the ones quietly working in the background, powering modern life without getting in the way.

Swedish outdoor brand Peak Performance has unveiled a new collaboration with Berlin-based artist Ruohan Wang, and it might be one of the quirkiest outerwear collections I've seen this year.

While brands such as Patagonia and Arc'teryx have leaned heavily into minimalist aesthetics in recent years, Peak Performance seems happy to go in the opposite direction here, embracing colour, movement and a slightly chaotic sense of fun.

The Wind Catcher is a limited-edition SS26 capsule that rolls Peak Performance’s lightweight mountain apparel and Wang’s playful, imagination-fuelled artwork into something that sits between technical hiking gear and gallery-ready streetwear.

The collection includes ultralight wind jackets, 2-in-1 hiking shorts, midlayers and accessories, all covered with floating walking legs, cartoon-like hikers, abstract landscapes and hand-drawn shapes splashed across airy technical fabrics.

Hiking gear with a sense of humour

The range's main motive is Wang’s recurring walking-legs icon, inspired by the Chinese character 人, meaning “people”.

According to the artist, the designs were influenced by seeing someone practising Tai Chi in the forests of North China while wearing an outdoor shell jacket.

“One day, while walking on the outskirts of North China, I saw someone practising Tai Chi in the forest, wearing an outdoor shell jacket,” Wang explains.

“This harmony of stillness in motion, and the balance between human will and nature’s power, became a key inspiration.”

Despite the whimsical appearance, the collection still sounds very much like proper performance gear.

The Ruohan Wang x Wind Jacket uses an ultra-light 42gsm ripstop fabric and features ventilation eyelets, articulated sleeves, reflective detailing and packable construction.

Peak Performance says it’s designed for high-output mountain adventures while remaining breathable and soft against the skin.

The matching 2-in-1 shorts continue the lightweight theme with supportive inner shorts, thigh pockets, mesh-knit waistbands and laser-cut ventilation, alongside UV protection and light rain resistance.

The Peak Performance x Ruohan Wang SS26 capsule is available now online at Peak Performance.

Prices start at £75 for the 2-in-1 shorts and rise to £130 for the ultralight wind jacket.

YETI has launched what appears to be its smallest hard cooler yet, the new Roadie 8, and it looks like the brand is doubling down on ultra-portable premium outdoor gear.

The compact cooler sits below the existing Roadie 15 in the lineup and is being pitched as a “daily lunch carrier” for people who need a near-indestructible cooler for short adventures.

It keeps all the trademarks of the YETI cooler series, including the RockSolid construction, PermaFrost insulation and ColdLock gasket.

The Roadie 8 isn't the only new product we've seen from the brand in 2026.

The Daytrip 20L cooling tote launched only four weeks ago, and it's also only been a couple of weeks since the release of the larger 12" Carbon Steel Pan.

Not to mention all the colourways, from the incredibly popular Throwback Collection and full Americana Summer Anthem colourway to the very recent Birdie option.

Small cooler, big YETI energy

According to the brand, the Roadie 8 is tough enough to sit on, though YETI says you shouldn’t stand on it.

Unlike larger models, featuring a dual-latch setup, the new model uses a single oversized QuickLatch system for one-handed opening.

The new SmallHaul handle also swaps the traditional softer strap-style carry design for a rigid handle that YETI says improves comfort during one-handed carrying.

Internally, you’re looking at roughly 11.2 x 5.5 x 7.4 inches of storage space, while the whole cooler weighs just 7.9 lbs (~3.58 kg).

Designed for more than camping trips

Despite the size, it still includes tie-down slots for attaching it to golf carts, kayaks, ATVs or motorcycles, reinforcing the idea that this is more of an “active lifestyle” cooler than a traditional camping ice chest.

Alongside core shades like Royal Blue, Rescue Red and White, the Roadie 8 is also available in seasonal colourways such as Seafoam and Tropical Pink.

The Roadie 8 is currently available at YETI US via early access for YETI account holders, with wider availability expected in early June.

It's selling for $165 (~£122 / €142 / AU$231) in the US, with international availability expected in the coming months.