Alpkit Outpost - Issue 17

WINTER 24

Jim Fenwick

The crunch of leaves on the frozen path, rosey cheeks glowing in the pub, steaming tea on the hillside, surprise golden light beams, all softens the crispest of winters.

Grab your friends, grab your gear, and immerse yourself in the changing seasons. Emerge refreshed and re-energised.

It’s time to get out there. Go nice places, do good things.

We’re proud to achieve our highest B Corp score yet of 122.6! That’s way ahead of our peers.

Find out how we did it.

REAL STORIES OF JOURNEYS, EXPEDITIONS AND ADVENTURE.

WINTER MUNRO ROUND Alpkiteer Anna Wells tells how in March 2024 she joined a peedie club of only three people that have completed the entire Munro Round in a single winter season, equalling the fastest time ever set.

282 Munros in 83 days.

Autumn / Winter 2024

Packing a punch

On 13th March 2024, I became the third person and first woman to complete an entire Munro Round in a single winter season. I climbed all 282 Munros in just 83 days, equalling the fastest time set by Martin Moran in 1985. Whilst the mountains of Scotland are relatively short in stature compared to ranges around the world, they truly pack a punch.

Their rugged and remote nature coupled with the unpredictability of Scottish weather create a formidable objective at any time of the year. Add in the elements of winter - short daylight, snow, ice and frequent storms - and it creates a whole new proposition entirely. Like Martin Moran, the idea of tackling them in their toughest condition excited me, and the additional pressure of squeezing the whole objective into a three month window… well that just set my heart racing in a way I couldn’t ignore!

I decided to approach the Winter Munro Round in my own style. I recognised that I thrived on “big-days and rest-days”, choosing to churn out huge mountain days in exchange for more coffees and brunches with friends. I had 67 hill days and 16 rest days, with an average daily ascent of 2100m.

‘Daring Deeds’ at alpkit.com

Poles and axes were wielded high in the air, a celebratory tunnel created by friends and family as I arrived at the summit of Cairn Gorm, my final Munro of the winter. The sound of whooping and cheering consumed me, whipped around by the ninety miles-per-hour wind that engulfed us. I took care with every step as I planted each crampon clad foot into the icy ground, battered by the wind, wary of the embarrassment that would result from a stumble in my little moment of glory. As I reached the summit, I choked on a sudden ball of emotions as my eyes unexpectedly filled with tears. This was it, the end of my crazy 83 day winter journey.

The combination of total euphoria, sleep deprivation and extreme winds created a surreal cocktail of emotions that will stay in my memory forever.

Doing it my way

The quest aligned perfectly with my passions and my skill set. With a penchant for ticklist, a love of strategic planning and an unshakeable passion for days in the mountains all paired with my background of alpinism and winter climbing, I was confident that I had the necessary skills to keep myself safe and make sensible decisions.

I have always loved coming up with crazy mountain adventure days, and so over the years, I had normalised the idea of 15-plus hour days, being out at night and doing things solo.

Anna’s

munro STATS: 282 in 83 days

22nd December to 13th March 2024

Routes:

Anna Wells Alpkiteer

67 hill days & 16 rest days 39 alone & 23 with friends & 5 with partial company

Distances:

141,141 metres climbed 1,750 kilometres walked 195 kilometres cycled

Average day:

29km, 2107m, 4.2 munros

Biggest day:

67km, 4283m, 10 munros

6 / Winter Munro Round

alpkit.com

My biggest day was climbing ten of the Cairn Gorm munros in 19 hours, over 66km and 4283m. I thrived on the feeling of arriving home at midnight totally depleted and knew that dipping back into “normality” on my days off massively refuelled me.

I also had support with car-drops, route advice, condition updates, bothy supplies, kit borrowing, a boat trip, and close friends joined me for many days out on the hill. Beyond even that, I was spurred on by the monumental support I received through social media - every single word of encouragement helped propel me up those mountains! The entire experience was a thousand times better, richer and more fun because of all the incredible people who helped me along the way. I am enormously grateful.

Recognising my desire for social connections and home-comforts, I didn’t sleep in a van, several bothies, or travel logically around the country as per my predecessors. Instead, I reached out on social media for support and was overwhelmed with a tsunami of kindness from around the country, receiving offers of dinners, beds and sofas. I was blown away by the entirely positive response and the generosity of strangers; the outdoor community is a truly special group! And it wasn’t just the people who hosted me.

Over the last few months I have been reliving the experience as I turn my memories (and voice notes!) into a book, which I am hoping to have ready by the Spring. If you would like to keep an eye out for the book, you can follow my instagram on @rocksandtrails

My KitList to Keep Warmand Dry Through Winter: 7

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1. Parallax trousers (on a nice day, hardshells otherwise!) £119.99 • 2. Loki fleece £59.99 • 3. Kepler Merino t-shirt £49.99 • 4. Griffon Half-Zip £49.99 • 5. Norden Beanie £29.99 • 6. Kepler Draught Excluder £24.99 • Kapar 2 storm shelter £29.99 • 8. Mello Tech Tight £54.99 • 9. Ski goggles • 10. Heiko £129.99 • 11. Frazil gloves (with handwarmers) £52.99 • 12. Qark Headtorch £39.99 • 13. Water Bottle £13.99 • 14. Carbon Marathon Ultra Twins £89.99 • 15. Definition jacket £279.99 • 16. Map + compass • 17. Orion 45L Rucksack £99.99 • 18. Spare phone and battery • 19. Crampons and Ice Axe • Don’t forget: Spares > down jacket, gloves, hat, compass, head torch, food and water.

Autumn / Winter 2024

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With daylight in short supply, it’s all about dusk-through-dawn adventures.

Crisp, moonlit nights are calling. Head out into the darkness and see more.

Head torches are a vital piece of kit at this time of year.

Join the club and keep camping, hiking, mountaineering, trail running, bike packing or dog walking this winter.

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‘Head torches’ at alpkit.com

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Ionic Compact 350 lumen head torch weighing just 49g. USB-C rechargeable with 4 brightness levels plus flashing and red modes. £24.99

Kula 550 lumen head torch with 180° adjustable angle, weighing just 92g. USB-C rechargeable with 4 brightness levels. £29.99

Graviton Manta Lightweight, 400 lumen head 300 lumen rechargeable head torch with retractable head strap. torch with adjustable beam, Weights just 53g and comes with rear safety light and 11-hour a charging case. £34.99 max power burn time. £44.99

Prism 400 lumen rechargeable waterproof, dustproof and drop proof head torch that’s durable and easy to operate. £44.99

Muon Lightweight and compact.

450 lumen head torch weighing only 105g with a red light mode to preserve night vision. £19.99

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Qark Bright, lightweight and versatile.

USB rechargeable head torch that gets the job done whether pushing to the summit at dawn, hitting the trail after dark, or simply reading back at camp. It’ll turn night to day with its 580-lumen maximum output and keep going when everyone’s gone to bed with its 18-hour maximum burn time. £39.99

Alpine dreamin’ since way back when

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10 / Insulation and Waterproofs

alpkit.com

Our insulation and waterproof families are as committed as you are, they’ll have you covered no matter where you go or how big your plans. We’ve tested them to the limits to make sure you never are.

2 1. Talini PrimaLoft, insulated midlayer. £99.99

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2. Heiko Versatile, windproof, packable, 100% recycled. £129.99 3. Filoment Hoody Lightweight, warm and packable, recycled down. £169.99 4. Filoment Vest Featherlight, supreme warmth, armless. £119.99 5. Katabatic Awesome PrimaLoft Gold, mountain active. £189.99 6. Solace Warm and dry hill and moorland comfort. £249.99

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7. 0Hiro From cold & dry to mild & wet, tough protection. £199.99 8. Fantom Big, warm, technical cosy hug. £229.99

‘Insulation’ at alpkit.com

Cold Protection

Down

Synthetic Insulation

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Built to last, they’ll have your back (and front... and head) for years to come.

We design our Women’s and Men’s jackets independently from the ground up and work with the best mills in the world to develop products that are not just comparable with the best but are the best for the jackets intended purpose.

We are redefining innovation around performance, social justice and environmental responsibility.

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9. Argonaut Affordable, serious and cut for men. £119.99

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10. Atalanta Hardworking waterproof designed for women. £119.99 11. Sigma Versatile recycled 3 layer, multi activity, packable. £169.99 12. Gravitas Lightweight, ultra performance, high activity. £199.99

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13. Fortitude Hillwalking waterproof protection. £199.99 14. Balance Mountain waterproof, fully featured, durable. £229.99 15. Definition 4 season bombproof shell , tough, high altitude. £279.99

‘Waterproofs’ at alpkit.com Waterproof

Breathable

Windproof

PFC-free

Technical. Ethical. Sustainable.

12 / It’s a Zing thing

alpkit.com

REAL STORIES OF JOURNEYS, EXPEDITIONS AND ADVENTURE.

It’s a

thing

Winter swimming is all about the zing, the thrill, often how ridiculous it seems to submerge yourself in the searing cold of a chilly river or reservoir when all around you are huddled up indoors. Yet, it always draws me back.

Why? Because the satisfaction of those cosy clothes, the hot water bottle, cupping a warm mug, eating that cake are all the greater for having been exposed to nature in all its raw chilliness.

At a time of year when our outdoor communities can often drift apart, it’s an opportunity to connect with friends and strangers. These connections over winter are so important to keep my head lifted from the slump of shorter daylight hours and inclement weather. They don’t need to be huge adventures as proven, a few years ago, on my first ever ice swim We’d had snow a few days before and as I drove past, our regular swim spot was looking stunningly calm and inviting. A delicious backdrop of snowclad hills and blue skies. I stopped and checked, hoping it had finally been cold enough. Yes, there was ice! Excitement mounting, I messaged a friend...

There’s ice! Can you swim NOW? I nipped home to grab a cozzie, woolly hat, neoprene gloves and shoes, hot drink and ALL the warm clothes. Picked up said friend on the way back through and headed for the water.

The ice was thin, breakable with a foot and a stick.

The first sounds of the break, the crack, the creak as we broke through are something I’ll never forget.

The cold was intense, burning and prickling our skin, numbness soon took over. We were like giddy children, the mild warmth of the winter’s sun helping to offset the chill.

We stayed well within our depth and waded out through the shifting ice. It wasn’t a swim day, it was a playing in ice day. We briefly dunked our shoulders and then ran back out to make snow angels on the shore.

Gently drying our cold numb skin and dressing through giggles and whoops we left feeling elated.

All in all, from the first message to my friend to us being huddled up back at home took 40 minutes.

Such a short outing had left us both elated, full of a sense of achievement and happiness that buoyed us for the rest of the day. The snuggling up at home all the sweeter.

Suzie is a year round wild swimmer and water access campaigner based in the Peak District.

She runs guided wild swims and walks via peakswims.co.uk

Autumn / Winter 2024

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Words & pictures by Suzie Wheway

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‘Swimming’ at alpkit.com

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3. Hurley Long sleeved top for outdoor swimming without a wetsuit. £39.99 4. Dulsie Long-sleeved one-piece swimsuit for outdoor swimming £44.99 1. Lotic Our best all-round wetsuit for outdoor swimming in open water. £199.99 2. Nori Bright tow float with waterproof pocket for open water swimming safety. £29.99

7. Kisdon Goggle Open water swimming goggles with UV protection, an antifog coating and curved lenses. £15.99 8. Idwal Beanie 100% lambswool. £34.99

5. Outdoor Swimming Socks Neoprene swimming socks for chilly open water swimming. £37.99

9. Peak 750ml flask. £16.99

6. Outdoor Swimming Gloves Outdoor Swimming Gloves. £32.99

11. Silvertip Fleece-lined wetsuit for long swims and braving icy waters. £224.99

10. Haven Warm and weatherproof insulated changing robe. £129.99

14 / Alpkit wool

A sheep in wolf’s clothing Under every hardshell lies a big ol’ nature loving softee.

Our Alpkit wool baselayers and knitwear are inspired by the climbing heroes of the 1950’s. Natural fibre base and midlayers designed for movement and carefully crafted from the finest grade Merino and lambs wool, nature’s original performance fabric. Naturally pong free qualities and super soft seams make them perfect for multi-day adventures. Nothing quite compares to the inner warmth and comfort you get from Merino, and as winter warmth starts from the inside, you’ll be ready for anything mother nature throws your way.

Super natural performance.

We use ultrafine 100% natural Merino from non-mulesing farms.

You can’t get finer.

Autumn / Winter 2024

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‘Merino’ at alpkit.com

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1. Kepler Liner Beanie Lightweight, low-profile, superfine Merino hat. £24.99

5. Kepler Draught Excluder Luxurious and lightweight however you wrap it. £24.99

12. Iona UK made merino wool blend roll-neck jumper. £79.99

2. Kepler Vest 100% pure Merino wool vest. £44.99

6. Kepler Liner Glove Liner to boost the warmth of your gloves. £28.99

13. Assynt UK made merino wool blend crew-neck jumper. £79.99

3. Kepler Short Sleeve Merino tee for hiking, riding, running and climbing. £49.99

8. Kepler Leggings / Long Johns Temperate-regulating leggings for cold weather layering. £64.99

14. Tryfan Warm, breathable and odourresistant chunky knit jumper made with pure merino lambswool. £89.99

4. Kepler Long Sleeve Breathable, super soft base layer for chillier activities. £59.99

9,10,11. Brenin 100% merino lambswool jumper, sheep-powered natural midlayer.

Available in a selection of colours. £84.99 10

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‘Knitwear’ at alpkit.com

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16 / Winter camping

WINTER

the time of your life

Ah, a night under the stars with crisp air biting and waking up to frosty tents. It’s a chance to connect with nature and friends in a truly unique way. Follow the S.L.E.E.P easy acronym to keep warm and cosy and have the time of your life.

Ground surface – heat loss to the ground can be 3x greater than to the air - a subpar sleeping mat can render a decent sleeping bag almost useless, whilst a good one can enhance your bag’s warmth. For winter camping, you’ll need a sleeping mat with an R-value of 4 or above.

SURFACE

Make sure you bring a different set of clothes to sleep in - kit that you’ve worn throughout the day might be a little damp if you’ve been smashing the ascents. Fun fact - heat loss from damp clothing can be up to 25x faster than dry clothing. Keep a set of dry gloves, socks and thermals for sleeping - also consider utilising fleeces or insulation to make things that bit cosier.

LAYERS

We don’t want to be party poopers, but proper nutrition and hydration are essential for cold camp nights. Adequately fueling helps keep your internal temperature just right, helping you stay warm throughout the night. Leave the sugary treats for the hills and opt for well balanced meals with slow-release carbs, and pair with plenty of water.

EAT & DRINK

Your head, hands, and feet are packed with blood vessels and feel the cold first. If these get chilly, it can disrupt your sleep and make your entire body feel cold. Wearing a hat inside your sleeping bag can significantly affect your comfort. Putting on warm, dry socks and gloves keeps your hands and feet toasty. Adjust your attire as needed to match the conditions.

EXTREMITIES

Keeping your sleeping bag dry is a must! Like we’ve mentioned about keeping your layers dry (heat loss from damp clothing can be up to 25 times faster than dry - imagine if this was your sleeping bag!). Minimising drafts in your sleeping area is crucial for heat retention, particularly with thinner sleeping bags. Using a bivvy bag or a sleeping bag can be used as a vapour barrier system, reducing moisture intake into the sleeping system.

PROTECTION

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alpkit.com

Autumn / Winter 2024

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Kangri 2 people, 4 seasons. 1 big night out.

Two

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12 mins

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£399.99

2. Airlok dry bags Silicone-coated ripstop nylon dry bags with fully-taped seams. 1L - 45L from £5.99 3. Koro High powered titanium camping stove weighing 124g. £54.99 4. Whisper Insulated, inflatable camping mat: full length, 7cm thick, 720g. £79.99

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5. SkyeHigh 700 Lightweight, 4-season sleeping bag: -7°C limit, RDS-certified down fill. £219.99 6. Refresher 1000 1000ml double walled stainless-steel bottle. £15.99 7. Soundbite Bluetooth speaker and camping lantern. £34.99 8. Juice Tank Powerbank charger. £24.99 9. Drift Inflatable pillow. £13.99

‘Camping’ at alpkit.com

Light enough to carry, strong enough to cope.

The Kangri 4 season 2 person mountain tent carefully balances durability, strength and weight to deliver a structure that will cope with the harsh conditions you’ll face on any expedition.

When you’re high in the mountains, your pitch options will be limited. The Kangri’s geodesic design creates a large living space with good head-room for a relatively small tent footprint.

1. MytiPot 2200 Ultralight recycled titanium cooking pot, for healthy appetites and groups. £59.99

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Mamalute Heavyweight windproof fleece jacket with a knitted outer and soft brushed inner for keeping cosy at crags and around camp. £79.99

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Breathable

Synthetic Insulation

free from PFCs

Katabatic Worth its weight in gold.

The Katabatic combines PrimaLoft® Gold Active with a breathable and wind-resistant fabric to keep you warm and comfortable on the move. For everything from hillwalking in the Lake District, highland bivvy nights to climbing Alpine icefalls. Our most versatile insulated jacket to date.

£189.99 AlpineDream 800 A high performance, lightweight mountaineering down sleeping bag with a -15˚C limit filled with 800g of 750 fill power DownTek™ hydrophobic down. £449.99

Whisper Insulated, inflatable camping mat.

3-season warmth and comfort in a compact pack size weighing only 720g. £79.99

3. Hunka An Alpkit all-time great. Waterproof and breathable bivvy bag to keep your sleeping bag dry. Weighs less than 400g and packs down small. £54.99 (also available in XL £69.99)

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‘Katabatic’ at alpkit.com

20 / Staying safe on the hill

alpkit.com

Waterproofs and additional layers

A map and compass

Sensible footwear

Fully charged mobile phone

Food and drink

Torch and spare batteries

oN TheHILL

Weather in the hills and mountains can change quickly and be unpredictable. Going out without waterproofs at least packed in your bag in the autumn and winter months is unhinged behaviour.

Get ‘em packed, and get those lightweight layers in there too. It can be chilly across the tops, especially when the wind is howling.

Make sure your footwear is up for the job.

Avoid trainers when it’s wet and muddy, and opt for something with much more grip like walking boots or shoes. Keep on top of your shoe maintenance by cleaning them after muddy walks, let them dry out properly and apply a waterproofer regularly.

Pretty self-explanatory. Pack enough food to keep you going on your adventure (and a little bit more just in case you bonk). Take plenty of water, and a thermos or BruKit (you can’t beat a brew with a view) and optional sweet-treat to accompany.

Bring a map and compass in addition to your GPS or phone as a physical map can make it easier to plan and see what’s ahead. Before heading out, take some time to study the map, plan your route and any back-ups just in case. Having a route in the backpocket to get you to the pub quickly and safely doesn’t hurt.

Both iPhone and Android have amazing navigation apps - OS Maps is awesome. Let others know where you’re going (and even share your location), and make sure you keep it charged up and carry a powerbank, just in case you need to call for an emergency.

Torches aren’t just for helping you find your way out of your tent to go to the loo in the middle of the night. Torches help to keep you on the footpath if you’re out for longer than anticipated, and can be used to signal for help if you get yourself in a pickle. Torches are an essential piece of kit for heading out in the winter months during the shorter days.

First aid kit and survival bag (or tent)

The most important kit is the kit you hope you never have to use. It makes sense to carry a basic emergency kit (survival bag, whistle, head torch, basic first aid) on any activities where you know you could be miles from the nearest settlement.

Having a basic first aid kit packed and ready in a small stuff sack or drybag means you can throw it in your rucksack for day walks without even having to think about it.

Dave Torr Edale Mountain Rescue

Don’t forget, respect the hills and the hills will respect you.

‘MRT’ at alpkit.com

STAYING SAFE

The hills in autumn and winter are incomparable; less crowds, cooler, crisper days and clear views.

Amongst the beauty, the changing seasons can often present challenges and require us to take additional safety precautions.

We caught up with Dave Torr from Edale Mountain Rescue Team to get his top tips for staying safe.

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PICKS 1

Treat yourself - or someone you love! We’ve brought together our favourite bunch of cracking gifts that we’d be over the moon to unwrap, whatever outdoor activity tickles your pickle.

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1. Carbonlong Backpacker Twins £69.99 • 2. Keeshond £64.99 • 3. Kepler Draught Excluder £24.99 • 4. Talini £99.99 • 5. Voyager Duffle £99.99 • 6. Peak flask from £13.99 • 7. NEW Lunar bikepacking bags from £44.99 • 8. Graviton £34.99 • 9. Tryfan £89.99 • 10. MytiMug from £14.99 • 11. TiSpork £14.99 • 12. MytiPlate from £19.99 • 13. Wave £29.99 • 14. Kapar 2 £29.99 • 15. Glint £49.99 • 16. Ionic £24.99 • 17. MytiPot 2200 £59.99 • 18. Juice Tank £24.99 • 19. Kula £29.99 • 20. Juice Holder £29.99 • 21. Gabbro Glove £64.99 • 22. Cwtch Bobble Beanie £34.99 • 23. 1L Water Bottle £13.99 • 24. Vagabond Stove £79.99 • 25. Waffa £49.99 • 26. Norden Beanie £29.99 • 27. Griffon Half-Zip £49.99 • 28. Brenin £84.99

IF YOU WANT TO RUN.

RUN. Whatever the voices in your head are saying.

Seize the day and in half an hour you’ll know you made the right decision.

Running is the first human super power. Run long, run short, 1k, 10k, 50k. Run with your arms out like you did as a kid.

Run to support a friend. Run to find space and reset. Get your kit on, step out of the front door and become extraordinary.

From park runs to muddy trails and mountain marathons; we run.

Our running gear proves that great kit doesn’t have to cost the earth. Technical. Ethical. Sustainable.

‘Run’ at alpkit.com

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Run

I went to my first run club a year ago, aged 27.

And as someone who never quite felt like they fitted in, I suddenly felt like I had found my people.

People who week in, week out, no matter the weather, wanted to spend their weekends being outside and moving their bodies, all for their mental and physical health. Individuals who also value meeting new people, and of course, a bonus, finding those who also appreciate an almond croissant and an oat latte after a long run (other post run treats are available).

And although communities can be formed through other sports, there is something about running which leads to forming friendships and community

Winter running gear: 5

Words by Dr Becca Salmon

First rule of run club?…. Tell everyone about run club. Whether it’s finding true friendship on the trails, pounding pavements with new pals or recruiting a post-run cafe crew.

There ain’t no point in keeping it just between you and Tyler Durden.

Take a leap of faith this winter and feel the warmth creep in.

building that little bit easier. I am not sure why this is, but I like to think that this is because we are shoulder to shoulder. I read somewhere that when we are talking shoulder to shoulder, it symbolises that individuals have a shared goal, as well as making it easier to open-up to people, and certainly less intense than face-to-face. This means that after running next to people for approximately an hour at a run club each week, sharing a goal and being open, friendships and communities are easily formed. I have even gone as far as creating my own run club, The Healthcare Club, to bring together healthcare professionals as a community and I have never made so many like-minded friends.

So, in this era where digital connections seem a priority and forming genuine face-to-face connections can be harder than ever, and in a world where health truly is wealth, take this as your sign to start running, sign up to that run club and show up for yourself consistently, even through the winter.

1. Koulin Trail Tights Technical trail leggings with stash pockets and excellent wicking and breathability. £39.99

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2. Mello Tight High-wicking and quick-drying, plush soft nylon tights. £44.99

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3. Morphosis Highly breathable hybrid windproof jacket with grid fleece panels. £99.99

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4. Qark 580 lumen USB rechargeable head torch with adjustable beam width. £39.99 5. Specta Pullover Glove Midweight fleece running gloves with stowable windproof pullover mitt £22.99

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6. Kepler Draught Excluder Pure Merino neck warmer. £24.99

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7. Swiglet 250 Collapsible, flexible and BPA-free water bottle. £6.99 8. Artlu 10L 10-litre running backpack. £49.99 10

9. Carbon Marathon Ultra Twins Premium full carbon poles for ultra running and alpine trekking. £89.99 8

10. Scape 2-pack performance running socks. £24.99

alpkit.com

Dom Bush

Refugees ROCK Supported by the Alpkit Foundation and the Climbing Hangar, Refugee filmmaker, Asha has been able to continue with her passions and find a love for the outdoors and climbing.

Building her new community through Refugees Rock, Asha and other refugees have been able to find a mental escape, rebuild communities, and reconnect with the outdoors all through a love of climbing.

Asha arrived from Pakistan 5 years ago where she was a filmmaker focussing on women’s health and empowerment. The cultural conservatism in Pakistan deemed Asha’s films to be an attack on religious values, and the backlash eventually reached a point where continuing her work in Pakistan became impossible. For her safety, Asha had no choice but to leave.

or outdoor activities. They really focus on helping refugees find community and feel a sense of belonging in this new country. For someone like me, who had to leave behind everything I knew, that kind of support is invaluable. Refugees Rock offers a space where people can reconnect with themselves, meet others who’ve been through similar experiences, and, most importantly, heal.

Fast-forward to 2024, Asha has found a new home in the UK. Whilst the transition was not easy, the help from Asylum Link Merseyside, Action Asylum and the Refugees Rock project at Liverpool’s Climbing Hangar has been invaluable.

Through these charities, and with support from the Alpkit Foundation, Asha has been able to continue with her film work, and made a new home and community built on the love of climbing and the outdoors.

Personally, the project has given me a way to stay active despite my health limitations. They’ve encouraged me to take up hiking, which has become such a joyful part of my life. It’s improved my overall health, but more importantly, the emotional and mental strength that comes from being out in nature and sharing those moments with others has been transformative.

What I love most is that we’re not just climbing or hiking; we’re creating bonds, sharing stories, and finding ways to rebuild our lives together; It’s created a space where we can all grow together, where we cheer each other on no matter how big or small the challenge.

“Refugees Rock came into my life about two years ago, and it’s been such a meaningful part of my journey here. The organisation does so much more than just provide opportunities for climbing

Over

2000 Grassroots projects supported so far.

We come from all walks of life, but as refugees, there’s this unique bond between us.

The encouragement and camaraderie I’ve found here has boosted my confidence and given me a more positive outlook on the future. That sense of understanding, of being in this together, is what makes Refugees Rock feel like a family.

Hope, Resilience, andbelonging For me, Refugees Rock represents hope, resilience, and a place where I truly feel like I belong. It’s helped me find confidence again, even after all the hardship I faced in leaving my home.

While my life has changed dramatically since leaving Pakistan, my passion for documentary filmmaking, women’s rights, and social justice remains at the core of who I am. Action Asylum and Refugees Rock have given me a platform to continue following my passions, though in different ways. I remain committed to using my voice and skills as a filmmaker.

Even though I wouldn’t call myself a climber yet, I love being part of this world. For me, it’s not just about physical activity—it’s the connections, the encouragement, and the feeling of belonging.

Every time I return, I’m reminded that I’m part of something bigger, and no matter how tough the climb (literally or figuratively), we’re all in it together”.

The Alpkit Foundation helped support the production of the film, Finding Freedom: The Story of Refugees Rock, which is set to premiere at Kendal Mountain Festival 2024.

With every purchase, we are able to help support groups and individuals to get more people outside, re-establish communities, and help rebuild lives.

Find out more about the epic work of Refugees Rock theclimbinghangar.com/refugees-rock

‘Alpkit Foundation’ at alpkit.com

I’ve accepted that my journey is far from over, but I am grateful for the opportunity the project has given me to rebuild and contribute to my new community. I remain hopeful that through our collective efforts, we can continue to create spaces where everyone, regardless of their background, feels seen, heard, and valued.

If it’s broken, fix it.

26 / Repair Station

We’re proud to fix any brand, not just ours. we Keep your gear going Further faster, so you Never stop exploring. After all, We’re all mountain people.

So, if your gear needs fixing, just do it.

‘Repair Station’ at alpkit.com

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1 careful owner

7 countries visited

The t nex ir! repa

38 bivvy nights

3 Scottish winters 18 photoshoots

26 bothy stays The gear we love the most, gets used the most.

And all that use, season after season, year-in, year-out, love can take it’s toll. We don’t want you to chuck gear on the scrapheap every time you get a tiny tear, or a zip breaks. Imagine how gear feels being traded in for a new model. Think of all the memories you’ve been through - too much to give up on each other now!

The most sustainable piece of gear is the piece you already own. Each year, we do over 12,000 repairs so we are experts in rewashing, reproofing, patching, changing zips, and giving your gear a little TLC when it needs it.

Repairs are available online and in-store for any brand. Start your repair now!

Reproofing, Relofting and Recycling your down.

We offer reproofing and relofting in all our stores, so breathing life back into your favourite gear has never been easier. But if the time has come to part company, for whatever reason we can help. We’ll always reuse products where possible. But when we can’t we will recycle them. We’re working with Re:Down to turn your old down products into something new. The down gets graded and reused in jackets, sleeping bags and duvets. Bring your gear for reproofing or relofting, or donate your old down-filled gear for recycling into an Alpkit store or send it by post, free through the Alpkit Return Process.

alpkit.com/pages/returns

DOWN AND OUT?

PROOF

warm meets dry

‘Solace’ at alpkit.com

WINTER

Solace One jacket to rule them all! An insulated waterproof made with damp-proof synthetic insulation that keeps you warm when it’s cold, and dry when it’s wet.

Supremely versatile, the Solace can be used as a walking jacket, a ski jacket, or for instant warmth after a winter swim or ride. It’s got hand warmer pockets and glove-friendly cuffs to accommodate ever-cooling extremities. Made with 100% recycled lining, 70% recycled insulation and a PFC-free DWR so it won’t leak nasties into the environment. A winter one-stop-shop layer.

£249.99

Autumn / Winter 2024

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Colder, wetter days on the hill can mean only one thing, move over shorts, it’s trouser time. 20 years of fit experience and sustainably sourced fabrics are sewn into every detail to give comfortable protection with ultimate freedom of movement.

‘Trousers’ at alpkit.com

TROUSER TIME

Chillkoot Lightweight softshell trousers for hillwalking and scrambling.

Highly wind resistant and water resistant to shrug off showers. £79.99

Ardent Performance softshell trousers for winter walking, scrambling and mountaineering. Tough, stretchy, highly wind resistant with reinforced panels. £99.99

Arnison Tough and durable technical trousers for peak bagging UK’s summits. Hardwearing with an articulated fit and an OS map pocket. £74.99

Escapade 4-way technical softshell trousers. Breathable, moisture wicking, protective with contoured fit for all day comfort. £69.99

Nautilus 3-layer waterproof overtrousers for the wettest of days. All-day-deluge protection, reinforced and tailored for serious mountain use. £149.99

Parallax Lightweight waterproof trousers with a breathable 2.5 layer fabric and comfort that’s made for movement. £119.99

Cloudburst Lightweight, packable 2.5-layer waterproof trousers. Ideal for wet weather hikes or as a justin-case layer on multi day hikes in changeable conditions.

100% recycled nylon fabric with a PFC-free DWR. £79.99

Equinox Warm and highly waterproof walking trousers. Wear for allday hillwalking in changeable weather conditions. £129.99

f o s e c For

30 / Friends of Alpkit

alpkit.com

e r u t a N

We support some pretty incredible people who have done some pretty incredible things.

This year alone we’ve seen Mel Nicholls defying the odds on the streets of the Paris Paralympics, Harvey Rollason claiming British Enduro Series Champion, to Stu Taylor conquering the Alps Divide. Each of our Alpkiteers and athletes keep pushing the boundaries, and re-defining the rule book.

Mel Nicholls From ultras to Paris 2024

3-time Paralympian Mel Nicholls lives and breathes adventure, racing her way worldwide, conquering one sport after the other, from ultra racing to lapping up the athletics track.

This year Mel made her debut in the triathlon, taking her love for racing to the streets of Paris.

Harvey Rollason 2024 Overall British Enduro Champion Sonder Rider Harvey Rollason defended his title this season, securing top spot at the 2024 British National Enduro Series. Taking Evol across the country in its debut racing season, Harvey put it to the test, leaving everything out on course.

We’ll let the results speak for themselves.

Stu Taylor Epic Alp Divide Back in September, Sonder rider, Stu Taylor, completed the Alps Divide - a bikepacking race through the Western Alps, covering 1050km with 32,000m of elevation. Through sun, snow, rain, and hail, he pushed through to complete the race in just 8 days, 6 hours and 35 minutes, adding another epic to his Sonder Broken Road’s roster.

It always gives us that warm feeling inside to see friends doing so well. Scan to see more daring deeds and keep up-todate with the latest news.

PROVEN 2024 British Enduro Championship winner.

Proven performance. Super fast, super stiff all mountain machine. For local trails, trail centres and enduro duty. Active and plush suspension for a bottomless feel and stability at speed that climbs well and descends flat out. Evol keeps coming back for more. All killer, no filler.

Spread the cost up to 36 months with V12 finance.

Available to purchase with cycle to work scheme.

sonderbikes.com

Warp speed 160/160mm all mountain.

Evol SX Eagle £2,299 Frameset £1,649

32 / Balance

Balance 50% of the time it rains every time.

The Balance is our definitive fully featured waterproof for big days out.

£229.99

‘Balance’ at alpkit.com

Perfect partnerS:

This is the ‘just right’ point between breathability and waterproof protection.

The sweet spot for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, climbing, packing light and moving fast. This is everything we know about keeping dry, distilled into one brilliant all-rounder. Go anywhere and do anything, safe in the knowledge that the tough stretchy outer features our PFC-free durable water repellent, meaning it won’t leave any nasty chemicals in the wild places you love.

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1. Chillkoot All-rounder softshell trousers. Wicking, wind-resistant and stretchy. £79.99

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2. Kepler Short Sleeve Ultrafine 100% natural Merino tee for hiking, riding, running and climbing. £49.99 3

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3. Shiel gloves Winter gloves made from synthetic insulation that mimics down. Fuss-free, packable warmth. £32.99 4. Griffon Lightweight and packable fleece jacket with a grid fleece backer for amazing warmth without excess weight and bulk. Made using 29% recycled polyester. £54.99

Balance in everything

Two years in the making and revamped for 2024, our Balance jacket features a world-class fabric at an accessible price point as well as the all important PFC-free DWR. We’ve refreshed the face fabric, increasing its durability so you can not only keep going for longer, but keep coming back to the same jacket wear after wear. You could say it’s the perfect balance between performance, price, and sustainability (see what we did there?).

We work directly with mills so we can get the latest technical and environmental developments of the industry with those who are at the cutting edge. We’re continuously learning and refining so we can select the combination of face fabric, membrane and backer fabric (essentially creating a new fabric) that meets the needs

and demands of the outdoors so we can fully embrace it. Thanks to this close relationship, we’re ahead of the game, and can get the latest technology in your hands quicker.

By cutting out the middleman, we have better transparency when it comes to environmental certification. We can navigate any problems well ahead of time to avoid any product going to waste - saving time, money, and resources. Plus, thanks to our smaller product runs, we’re not overproducing, we’re not wasting product, and we have the ability to continuously improve our products and fabrics.

When it comes to product, we don’t play by the rule book - we redefine it.

everything in Balance

We like to do things a little differently. When we think about gear (and if you’re Head of Design, Ronnie, that’s pretty much all of the time), we’re focussed on making gear that doesn’t cost the earth and is made to last so you can come back to it season after season, year after year.

34 / Sastrugi

alpkit.com

Wilderness !

NEW

f is music The word itsel – EDWARD ABBEY Sastrugi Shirt When there’s a chill in the air, cosy up with the new Sastrugi range.

The brand new fleece is made from 100% recycled polyester pile for high warmth and high breathability, designed for the rough and tumble of life outdoors; from winter hikes and bouldering to hunkering down and setting up basecamp.

When the air is crisp and leaves are falling, Sastrugi’s calling.

£74.99 ‘Sastrugi’ at alpkit.com

Autumn / Winter 2024

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Climb the mountains, bag the peaks, brave the icy water, run free, breathe deep, breathe out.

Enjoy yourselves, stay curious and ignore the opinion of anyone who tells you otherwise.

As Edward Abbey says, “you will outlive the bastards” anyway, so get out there while you still can, and while it’s still here.

Jeanie Women’s slim-fit jeans with hidden superpowers. Stretchy, extra tough Cordura® denim with a moisture-wicking and insulating fabric blend. Available in sizes 6–20, short, regular or long. £69.99

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1. GNPDGT Hoody Organic cotton hoody, with brushed fleece oh so very comfy. £49.99 2. Sastrugi Pullover 100% recycled polyester deep pile half-zip fleece. Super warm and breathable. £79.99 3. Re-Energise Organic T Organic Cotton short sleeve t-shirt with Alpkit re-energise design certified by the Fair Wear Foundation. £24.99 4. Woodsmoke The most comfortable shirt you’ve ever owned: a high-wicking, quick-drying, odour resistant, temperature-regulating shirt for an active mountain lifestyle. £89.99

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NEW!

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All Products backed by our

alpine bond

The alpine bond is a guarantee that our gear is made to last, adventure after adventure. Scan to find out more.

5. Kraft Durable and comfortable organic cotton canvas pants with technical features for climbing and active outdoor living. £64.99 6. Idwal Beanie Chunky ribbed knit woolly hat, 100% lambswool. £34.99

R E T WIN S E I L M 36

Beautiful sunrises, quiet misty roads with barely another soul in sight winter miles in the wild just hit different.

Turbo charge your winter with a bike designed specifically for UK conditions, on or off road.

Endurance road bike for remote roads and the toughest climbs. It’s the bike for riding fast and smooth, day after day.

Awarded “Bike of the Year” by Cycling Plus magazine.

Builds from £1,099 or £19 /month

Sedona is built to be responsive and agile on gravel, road or trail.

Designed to cover long distances with speed and comfort; it’s the ideal gravel race bike. Builds from £2,849 or £49 /month Steel tourer with single ring setup for low maintenance riding, geared up for going far. Builds from £1,249 or £22 /month

Performance race bike. Crafted with precision, swift responsiveness, top-tier speed and dynamic power transfer for the ride experience and performance gains previously reserved for models at the highest end of the market. Builds from £1,449 or £25 /month Off-road. On-road. Everything in between. Cycling Weekly “Gravel Bike of the Year” for 2024. Built for when the road turns into trail and the bridleway drops off into single track.

Builds from £1,149 or £20 /month

EVERY ONE HAS A STORY. WHAT’S YOURS?

alpkit.com

Autumn / Winter 2024

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‘Cycle Clothing’ at alpkit.com

1. Gravitas Roll it, pack it, stuff it; but always take it. A waterproof smock is the piece of kit you didn’t know you needed. £199.99 2. Valli Premium long sleeve thermal cycling jersey made in Italy. £134.99 3. Tour Cargo Bib Shorts Lightweight, low profile cargo bib shorts for riders who spend all day in the saddle. Made in Europe with 78% recycled nylon. £99.99 4. Cirrus Glove All weather bike gloves for freedom of movement and rain protection. £37.99

LIMITED EDITION

Lunar bikepacking bags For the overnighters, multi-dayers, commuters, and here-for-agood-timers, however you ride, Lunar is a rider’s essential.

Made from Scotchlite® reflective fabric in Germany and expertly crafted in our Nottingham based factory, Lunar comes to life when the sun goes down. Get your glow on. From £44.99

5. Comet Glove Gravel and mountain bike gloves with thin synthetic leather palms. £23.99 6. Floe Glove Tough MTB gloves for year-round coverage. £28.99 7. Koulin Trail Long Sleeve Wicking and fast-drying base layer with breathable mesh panels for staying comfortable on the move. £29.99 8. Divide Mid-calf length, blended merino gravel riding socks. £19.99

alpkit.com

The changing of the season has me rubbing my hands together in anticipation for the return of perfect gritstone conditions (it’s not just to keep my hands warm, honest!).

Words by Alpkit’s Daniel Dean

‘Climbing' at alpkit.com

With ‘grit season’ fast approaching I find myself once again flicking through a well-worn copy of Peak Bouldering, getting psyched and putting together a list of target climbs I’d love to get ticked off in the next few months. Proud lines, potential first-of-the-grade candidates, classic test pieces, recommendations from friends and the ‘ones that got away’ from last season all begin to find their way onto this year’s Grit List.

Cool crisp mornings and single digit temperatures mean one thing – friction. The exact scientific explanation for gritstone’s legendary winter friction is a subject frequently discussed – often at length – in the pub after a day spent wrestling with sloper-filled boulder problems at Curbar or Stanage.

Such discussions seldom end in consensus, but that’s half the fun. Besides, what would we talk about next time if they did? Whatever the reason, the rounded features that felt impossible just a few weeks before are transformed into useable hand holds, and the smallest rugosities on anything off-vertical feel practically ledge-like underfoot.

These legendary grit connies keep us coming back year after year, helped in no small part by the beauty of the Peak District’s sweeping gritstone edges, whose frosted shimmer in the morning light gives just a hint of the hidden gems that lay in the boulder fields at their base.

But more than that – it’s just good fun!

‘Stores' at alpkit.com

You can hire a mat from any of our stores for just £10 a day. Just give us a call to reserve, or book online and pick up on your way the next day.

Winter Grit KITLIST:

“It’s all down to the humidity” someone will say, with the cool air less able to hold moisture than in

Hirea maT!

Rebecca Morgan

the summer months. “Don’t forget the rocks hold moisture too…” another chimes in; adamant that as the porous gritstone cools, the moisture brought to the surface by warm summer air retreats back into the rock. “Never mind the rock, my hands are the ones sweating on the holds!”.

We could be here a while…

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5 1. Mujo bouldering mat £249.99 • 2. Slack kit £44.99 • 3. Keeshond £64.99 4. Mountains Cotton Tee £24.99 • 5. Bloc £64.99

‘Gravel Series’ at alpkit.com

Winter Int’ Dale 20th October – Ilkley Gravel Grind 3rd November – Keswick Gàidhealtachd 17th November – Inverness Get your grit 1st December – Bristol Tyne Twine 15th December – Metro City (e)scape 5th January – Kingston The Winter Gravel Series Soul Soother is back! What’s better than 19th January – Hathersage a day out in the saddle Saltoun Sauce 2nd February – Edinburgh with good company, ‘eh?

February Flyer We can’t promise blue bird skies, but we can promise 16th February – Ambleside a crackin’ time. With organised rides from all corners Eryri Gravel of Britain led from our stores, each ride offers a unique 2nd March – Betws-y-Coed take on UK gravel. Soak up the scenery, and be welcomed back with a warm brew and sticky bun as we crown you Miners Grit a gravel hero. Let’s ride together through winter.

16th March – Head Office

Ticket to ride Find your nearest, or become a true gravel hero and ride the full series.

All proceeds to the Alpkit Foundation.

Scan to sign up and for more information

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WINTER GLOW-UP

Filoment Hoody Our lightweight, packable, recycled super hero.

We combine recycled duck down with super durable recycled fabrics to create an articulated micro baffle jacket with excellent warmth to weight ratio. Recycled, long lasting, repairable and ultimately recyclable. For a lifetime of moments when you just need a big, cozy, feathery hug. Not all down jackets are created equal!

£169.99

‘Filoment Hoody’ at alpkit.com

Available in Kelp, Nemo, Lava, Celestial and Salsa.