Fiona Russell
Fiona Russell is a widely published adventure journalist and blogger, better known as Fiona Outdoors. She is based in Scotland and is an all-round outdoors enthusiast with favorite activities including trail running, mountain walking, mountain biking, road cycling, triathlon and skiing (both downhill and backcountry). Aside from her own adventures, Fiona's biggest aim is to inspire others to enjoy getting outside and exploring, especially through her writing. She is also rarely seen without a running skort! Find out more at Fiona Outdoors.
Latest articles by Fiona Russell
![man running on beach](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HRjRW3maf8YyPhoM4remaS-320-80.jpg)
How to start barefoot running – without getting injured
By Fiona Russell published
Ready to shed your shoes? Here's how to take your first steps in the world of barefoot running without hurting yourself
![Happy trail runner](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/r8mfKc6HW5enhiXCfVpdbc-320-80.jpg)
How to find awesome new running trails near you
By Fiona Russell published
Bored of the same routes and want to go somewhere new? Here's how to find great trails recommended by other runners
![woman skier wearing shorts, socks and ski boots](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VpaPdoaumTGttGfdAqTeAF-320-80.jpg)
Are ski socks really necessary, or can you get away without them?
By Fiona Russell published
Can't I just wear my hiking socks for skiing – or should I consider buying ski-specific socks?
![Man collapsed on treadmill](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RQgG2cSJdkgBJW3CDBdRSS-320-80.jpg)
How can you make treadmill running less of a snooze-fest?
By Fiona Russell published
Tips and hints for runners who want to turn a boring indoor run into something more interesting and motivating
![Person taking first aid kit out of backpack outdoors](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7bTZSYfoD3JMojJRf7RM6R-320-80.jpg)
Type A and type B first aid kits: what's the difference?
By Fiona Russell published
There are different types of first aid kit, suited to different situations. Make sure you've packed the right one
![First aid kit on backpack](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UHHVL2GxRFLyAxpxRkoQgC-320-80.jpg)
What do you need in a first aid kit for your outdoor adventures?
By Fiona Russell published
Essential items for your first aid safety when hiking and camping
![woman hiking in rain](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZN9JWd939po5w6fSzh3nPC-320-80.jpg)
How to tell if a jacket is waterproof
By Fiona Russell published
Tips for buying a waterproof jacket – and how to be sure your favourite jacket is still waterproof
![climber with gloves](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hboczq75KbJh5QNCjcX8gP-320-80.jpg)
What are three-finger hiking gloves for?
By Fiona Russell published
Should you buy hiking gloves, mittens or three-finger gloves for cold weather walking?
![Man wiping away sweat while running in woods](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/htyC8HPrKeSqQVSQKPf3pB-320-80.jpg)
Should you get a sweat test – and what will it tell you?
By Fiona Russell published
The reasons and benefits for athletes to take a closer at their sweat
![runner wearing compression socks](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vqQUi4yDA4Ruy9MGoW5c8N-320-80.jpg)
Compression running socks – what do they do?
By Fiona Russell published
Should you be wearing compression socks for running – and, if so, why?
![woman drinking from hydration pack](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DiXKucxzfCi8KNthNGaewG-320-80.jpg)
Osprey vs CamelBak: which company makes the best backpacks?
By Fiona Russell published
We compare the two leading hydration pack brands so you can choose the right one for you
![red running socks](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/n4MvvTWrQ7fXLxRNAUpxBF-320-80.jpg)
How to choose the right running socks – and say bye to blisters
By Fiona Russell published
How to choose the right road running or trail running socks for you
![fast runner](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3q5X8HkeKR7Sz3NePgEDMk-320-80.jpg)
What's the deal with sock-like construction running shoes – and should you try them?
By Fiona Russell published
The pros and cons of running footwear with an integrated sock liner
![woman's legs running](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/c2EYz6rxF2bKXvz2XKEW5b-320-80.jpg)
What is a depletion run – and can it help your training?
By Fiona Russell published
An expert guide to the pros and cons of training after fasting
![socks with holes](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UzkyZDKLiW93ZjR93b99CE-320-80.jpg)
How to repair running socks – three top tips to keep your footwear going the distance
By Fiona Russell published
Three easy techniques to give your favorite running socks a new lease of life
![Amazfit Cheetah Pro watch on woman's wrist](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4jkYy48bZSE9H9io2TDC6-320-80.jpg)
Amazfit Cheetah Pro review: an affordable, feature-packed GPS watch
By Fiona Russell published
The Amazfit Cheetah Pro is a budget-friendly sports watch with a few drawbacks and glitches
![Dragon's Back competitors take the opportunity to cool off](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZULwUeL73MnLaMC9eQvkFA-320-80.jpg)
Two-thirds of runners DNF during 'hottest' Montane Dragon's Back Race
By Fiona Russell published
High temperatures make world's toughest multi-stage mountain race even more challenging
![runners on a track](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GBZtDRA2iBC3cvXcwFi4NB-320-80.jpg)
Ever thought about track running – but been too scared to give it a try?
By Fiona Russell published
We reveal the benefits of running on a track – and how to get started
![bikepacking bike](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/W9AZym5Q5VeD6Xnh5Awjcc-320-80.jpg)
Tips and useful ideas for bikepacking success
By Fiona Russell published
If you’re a new (or fairly new) bikepacker, read our list of hacks and advice for easier cycling adventures
![woman applying sun screen](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/L4rnzGNCrLudpJyxN6FBBg-320-80.jpg)
UV protective clothing vs sunscreen – which will protect you better? We ask a doctor
By Fiona Russell published
The pros and cons of SPF clothing and lotion when it comes to avoiding sunburn and skin damage
![Two people walking on trail wearing Keen WK400 shoes](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sxzppZCgwbgP7FFf5imxVU-320-80.jpg)
Keen launches new waterproof and leather walking shoes ready for fall
By Fiona Russell published
The new Keen WK400 shoes have the same look but extra features
![mountain bikers](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/aAq2JMxMGYG9yJy7zYDvdX-320-80.jpg)
Experts say mountain biking isn't just fun, it can boost your mental health, too
By Fiona Russell published
New research reveals the unique mental health benefits of riding trails
![green running shoes](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/CQjqD8apiLTGd8YhwC5ks5-320-80.jpg)
How to tell when your running shoes are worn out
By Fiona Russell published
What are the key signs that it's time to buy new footwear?