Latest articles by Alex Foxfield
LifeStraw Peak Series Squeeze Bottle with Filter review: clean water on long runs and backpacking missions
Fill up and drink anywhere with LifeStraw’s clever, collapsible solution to hydration in the wild
What are taped seams, and why are they so vital?
Our expert guide to taped seams, one of the most crucial features in any piece of waterproof gear, from jackets to tents
When does a hill become a mountain? We consider this contentious question
We consider the attributes an elevated mass must boast before it can confidently call itself a mountain
What is paralpinism? Take flight, adding paragliding to mountaineering
Our mountaineering expert takes a look at paralpinism, casting a glance at its history, how you can get into it and the conditions needed to take flight
What is a gilet? And do you even need one?
We look at this sartorially divisive but functionally inclusive gilet and consider why it’s the perfect garment for the shoulder seasons
Snow boots vs hiking boots: what's best for winter?
We weigh up the advantages and disadvantages when it comes to snow boots vs hiking boots to help you choose the best footwear for your wild winter adventures
How to attach a sleeping bag to a backpack: our expert guide
We explain how to attach a sleeping bag to a backpack, and help you work out why you may not be able to fit it inside your pack
Windbreaker vs rain jacket: what's best for hiking and running?
Should you fend off a driving rain with a stiffer, protective hard shell, or go free and breezier with a windbreaker?
What is a breathable fabric? And why is this quality so important?
What is a breathable fabric? We explain how this common feature in outdoor clothing works, why you need it and what types of fabric offer the best protection
Rock cairns: the purpose and history of the ubiquitous trail feature
Navigational feature or work of art? We look at rock cairns, their purpose and history to illuminate this fixture on our trails, parks and beaches
How to clean rock climbing shoes to maintain maximum grip
Knowing how to clean rock climbing shoes will optimize their performance on the rock, and your climbing partner will thank you for it too...
Fasted running: the advantages and disadvantages
What are the benefits of fasted running versus eating before you set off? Our running expert takes a look at the claims
How to start sea cliff climbing: our 7-step guide
Our straightforward guide on how to start sea cliff climbing, including its unique challenges and the equipment you’ll need
What are approach shoes? Our expert guide to these technical pieces of footwear
In store or on the web, you've perhaps wondered: what are approach shoes? Our experts go into what sets them apart from standard hikers
Vango Joro Air 450 Sentinel Eco Dura Package review: a great family shelter from the air tent pioneers
Boasting environmentally friendly yet strong and durable fabrics, the Vango Joro Air 450 Sentinel Eco Dura Package tent is ideal for family car camping vacations
The best family tents: spacious shelters for the whole tribe
Our roundup of the best family tents, from standard pole tents to roomy air tents and luxurious glamping setups
Outwell Pegasus Solar Lantern review: a clever, compact light for all camping trips
We shed light on the Pegasus Solar Lantern, an ingenious camping lantern that doubles as a torch and packs down small for backcountry missions
Why do so many people die at Angels Landing? And has this changed?
After at least 13 deaths since the Millennium, we ask why so many people die at Angels Landing, the "must-do" hiking trail in Utah's Zion National Park
What is trad climbing? Our expert guide to traditional rock climbing
What is trad climbing? We consider what separates trad from other climbing disciplines, along with where you can do it and what equipment is needed
Páramo Men’s Alta Trek Trousers review: comfortable pants boasting excellent freedom of movement
We hike and scramble in the high places wearing Páramo’s Alta Trek Trousers to put these technical hiking pants to the test against the challenging mountain environment
7 things I wish I’d known before I started peak bagging
Peak bagging is an enriching pursuit, but how do you stop the tyranny of the uncompleted list from dictating your choices and enjoy the outdoors for what it is?
What is smearing in climbing? We get to grips with the technique
We explore what smearing in rock climbing is, detailing what it is, how it works and considering whether it’s something hikers do too
What is free soloing? We take a look into the fraught phenomenon
Our climbing expert looks into the history of free soloing, considers how dangerous it is and explains what sets it apart from free climbing
