Tips

The outdoor industry is finding out again and again that the best solutions are those that nature gives us. Insulations developed and constantly improved in modern laboratories still do not guarantee such thermal comfort as merino wool, leather trekking shoes are not inferior to those equipped with membranes, and synthetic down in terms of thermal insulation properties cannot be compared to natural.

Every outdoor enthusiast knows that products filled with natural down have excellent thermal insulation properties. But how do you make sure you choose the highest quality sleeping bag or jacket? In today's article, you will learn how to read the parameters of down that manufacturers include on the label.

We love down jackets, because they are ultralight, easy to pack and feature perfect thermal insulation.However, they cost too much not to care for them. In fear of washing the down jackets we try to handle them with great caution not to tear them, destroy them or make them dirty. Indeed, washing can be quite problematic as down absorbs moisture rapidly and this makes a perfect environment for development of mould if not perfectly dried.  At the same time it easily becomes clumpy and loses its properties. So one may think it is better not to wash it in order not to destroy it. Wrong! Wash it! We will explain how to do it so that you don’t ruin it.

Do you love mountains and camping under the open sky, but the thought of a multi-day trip in late autumn or winter gives you goosebumps? Or perhaps you struggle with the problem of frozen feet that you can't seem to warm up even while sitting in front of the TV? With down booties, you don't have to give up thermal comfort even on the coldest days! 

The picturesque summit of Mont Blanc attracts groups of mountain climbing enthusiasts every year, eager to repeat the feat of the first conquerors of the White Mountain - Jacques Balmat and Michel Paccard. Although over 230 years have passed since that memorable event, the expedition to Mont Blanc is still a solid test of mental strength, physical preparation, and equipment. In today's post, we will focus on the equipment. Check out what you must take with you if you plan to climb the highest peak in the Alps.

Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so choosing clothing that provides thermal comfort during hikes is not easy. It's best to prioritize flexibility and dress in layers, as you can easily adjust to the prevailing conditions by removing or adding individual garments. Want to know what layers should be included in mountain clothing? 

In the life of every true mountaineer, there comes a moment when they want to raise the bar and climb to a place where snow never disappears and the sky seems within reach. Five thousand meters above sea level is a special height. You won't conquer it easily. You need good preparation, both in terms of equipment and endurance. Is it worth it? Absolutely!

Usually, when embarking on our first multi-day hike in the mountains, we bring absolutely everything that might come in handy - and a little bit more just in case. We only realize how bad of an idea that was once we hit the trail. When fatigue sets in, every kilogram carried on our backs becomes painfully noticeable.

Sooner or later, the eyes of many mountain hiking enthusiasts turn towards Mont Blanc. The Roof of Europe entices with its height, wilderness, and Alpine majesty, but at the same time, it is a relatively "accessible" peak - it's no wonder that the promise of an exciting climb attracts up to 20,000 tourists every year. How to organize an ascent of Mont Blanc? How to prepare for it and what should you know about the White Mountain before starting to plan your expedition? Check it out!

In the past, a down jacket was associated with a very bulky outerwear. Today, the trends have reversed, and we often talk about thin down sweaters. But does the style of a down jacket have any influence on its parameters? Let's find out which jacket - fitted or loose - will perform better and why!

Decided - you're heading to Elbrus. The expedition plan is ready, tickets are booked, time to pack your backpack. Although the highest peak in the Caucasus is considered technically easy, you need to prepare for challenging conditions - even in the middle of a hot summer, a harsh winter awaits you at the summit. What should you bring on such an expedition? What equipment might come in handy?

When you've already treaded all the paths in the Tatra Mountains and tasted high-mountain tourism in an Alpine style, more ambitious goals will start tempting you – it's a natural progression in the life of every mountain enthusiast. In your considerations of "What's next?" Elbrus will undoubtedly come up.