Deuter ACT Lite 40+10 Rucksack review

I started looking for a new 30-40 liter rucksack for my TMB hike a month ago, to give me more space than I could get in my 5 year old 28 liter Deuter Aircomfort system pack. The Aircomfort system consists of a frame and plastic mesh that’s suspended away from your back by a few cm. On the 28 liter pack, it has performed well as an all weather pack, keeping me cool hiking in the Alps for a few years. Deuter claim that this system reduces fluid loss (through sweating) by up to 25% over a traditional pack. The only trouble is that it is a little tight for fleece, shell, 2 litres of water, hat, gloves, and lunch. Adding a SLR would put it over the edge.

Click to read more ...

Hiking boots with Boa lacing system

Updated on 15 May 2009 by Andy Bryant

Updated on 14 Jun 2009 by Andy Bryant

Updated on 22 Jun 2009 by Andy Bryant

Vasque Zephyr Tech

North Face GTX XCR Boa II

I’ve been struggling with hiking boots for years due to not being able to tie laces. For a long time I’ve used a spring loaded cord-tie (as used on sleeping bag draw-strings) to pull laces tight, however this really isn’t the easiest solution, as it is hard to maintain a good tension. Normal shoes are not a problem - as there are many slip on designs that work well, and I just love Chelsea boots during the winter. (We won’t discuss the velcro solutions I was forced to ensure as a kid…)

Click to read more ...