Latest articles by Alex Foxfield
Patagonia vs Columbia: which US brand is the best?
It’s Patagonia vs Columbia: we put the two American outdoor behemoths up against each other, taking a look at their origins, kit and ethos
The best headlamps: tested and rated for hiking, camping and running
The best headlamps illuminate your campsite nights, predawn summit raids and backcountry expeditions
The best navigation apps: find your way in the great outdoors
Our pick of the best navigation apps for route planning, nav during adventures, sharing experiences and inspiration
Types of compass and how to choose the right navigational tool for your outdoor adventures
We take a look at different types of compass and consider which are best suited to activities like trail running, day hikes and longer treks
12-and-a-half Everests! Ultra athlete sets new world record on run across the Alps
Jake Catterall, a British ultra runner, ran 2000km on the new official Via Alpina red route in a record time of just 35 days
How long will your hiking boots last? Our expert guide
We consider what kind of mileage you should expect out of your favorite hiking boots, and reveal how to prolong their lifespan
Why is The North Face so expensive? The reasons behind the prices
We look into the reasons why The North Face is so expensive, delving into the origins of the world-conquering brand
Missing Yosemite hikers found safe after two days
The two hikers reported missing in Yosemite National Park this weekend have been found safe by Search and Rescue
Olympic marathon swim training axed as Seine water quality fiasco rumbles on
As concerns about the River Seine's water quality continue, today's marathon swimming training is cancelled but officials say races should still go ahead
Parts of a hiking boot: we deconstruct trail footwear
Knowing the constituent parts of a hiking boot can be very useful when it comes to finding the perfect boots for your adventures
Rock climbing terms: the crag slang and jargon you need for the Olympics and beyond
Our expert guide to rock climbing terms, from equipment, moves and climbing styles to the the esoteric slang used by seasoned climbers
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
