Summer 2026
MUSIC DISCOVERY
Add songs you hear on the radio straight to a Spotify playlist by the touch of a button
Roadie 4
Synido Live Dock A20
Kiwi Ears Candenza II
TOZO ColorPods
KEFINE Klean SV DLC Diaphragm IEM
iFi GO Link 2
Chippolo POP
Willow Starter Pack
Krafted Connex
Cable Guys Minecraft Steve in Diamond Armour Controller Holder and Phone Stand
Lifemax Rechargeable Hay Fever and Allergy Reliever
Silk'n Silky Air Flex
Silk'n LED EMS Face Mask
Lifemax Rechargeable Foldaway Fan
Waterhaul Towan Sunglasses
Grangers: The Ultimate Outdoor Wear Cleaning Tools
Grangers: Waterproof Essentials
Cherry Blossom: Refresh Your Sneakers - A Tool Kit
PHOTOGRAPHY
Cherry Blossom: Sneaker Reviver Essentials
HOUSEHOLD AUDIO
OUTDOOR GADGETS
Cotton Carrier HYKER Slingbag for Camera
Proviz Reflective Running Hydration LED Vest
Arccos Smart Sensors
Arccos Smart Laser Rangefinder
CandyCar Roadworks: Two Lane Stunt Jump and Toons Cars
SPORTS & FITNESS HEALT & BEAUTY
Lifemax Home Barber
Rechargeable Trimmer
Lifemax Cool Pad
Swann Dirtmaster Pro Spot
TOYS & GAMES CONTENTS
AUDIO
https://www.roadiemusic.com/roadie4
ROADIE 4
OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS, ROADIE HAS CONTINUED TO BUILD ON ITS TUNING EQUIPMENT AND HAS NOW RELEASED ITS LATEST ITERATION: THE ROADIE 4. THE ROADIE 4 BUILDS ON THE EFFORTLESS TUNING OF THE ROADIE 3, BUT NOW DELIVERS IT WITH A LARGE SCREEN, AN ENHANCED ALGORITHM FOR TUNING ACCURACY SUPPORTED BY AN AUTO DETECT FEATURE, AND A NEW PEG CONNECTOR DESIGN TO MAKE TUNING YOUR INSTRUMENT QUICK, PRECISE AND EASY. .
The Roadie 4 offers a slightly larger unit than the previous model, which fits comfortably in your hand with a back anti-slip panel for a secure hold, to help make tuning your string instrument easy and secure. You simply have to place the Roadie 4 on a peg, pluck the relevant string, and it will do all the work to tune it to your preset pitch.
The Roadie will carefully wind your string using its powerful motor until it reaches the perfect pitch, where it will beep and vibrate, indicating you can then move on to the next string. This allows you to easily custom-tune your instrument, navigating easily through your tuning settings to find the perfect one using the device’s new scroll wheel. The Roadie 4 can now tune a whole range of string instruments from acoustic and electric guitars to ukuleles and banjos, with more than 150 existing tuning options available. Furthermore, you can even create specific custom tuning settings via the Roadie app, which allows you to tune with a capo or preset reference pitch for a sound that is unique to you.
One of the cool things about the new Roadie 4 is that it can actually detect strong vibrations directly on the device, so you can tune even in loud environments. This makes the Roadie 4 a super useful gadget for performing or playing on the go, to quickly tune
your instruments, no matter where you are. Plus, with the upgraded, larger 1.9inch full colour LCD screen with sharper 170-320 screen, navigating and using the Roadie 4 is even easier, especially in dark settings. I love the new screen, which makes it easier to see what you’re doing, and means you can tune in poor-lit environments with ease.
The updated Roadie 4 features a new peg connector design, which makes it compatible with both larger and smaller pegs, ideal for use across a wider variety of string instruments. Plus, the Roadie 4 can auto-detect the string you are on for advanced and quick tuning on the go. Whilst typically you tune from the lowest string up, I like that the Roadie 4 can be used on any string for quick adjustments before playing or performing. Then, when it does come to performing, the Roadie 4 has a built-in metronome to help keep you in time –perfect for practising a new song! If you’re a musician or even someone getting into the world of playing a string instrument such as a guitar, the Roadie 4 provides an all-in-one tuning tool that will make tuning your instrument significantly easier. With a range of preset tuning settings, as well as the option to custom-tune your instruments to your specific needs, the Roadie 4 is a new and advanced tuner device that is designed to allow you to focus on playing without the stress of tuning
PROS:
- Powerful, built-in string winder to help users easily change and tune their strings in one step
- Roadie 4 has an AutoDetect feature that allows users to tune any string in any order
- Can tune using vibration alone for easy tuning even in loud environments
- Includes over 150 builtin alternative tuning and users can even create and add their own custom tunings
- Large display screen that is easy to see and use even in low lighting
- Long battery life and is rechargeable
- Widely compatible peg connector to fit more instruments, including acoustic, classical and electric guitars, ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, pedal steel and lap steel, and even custom instruments
- Built-in metronome for practice sessions
$59.99
https://www.synido.com/en-gb/products/synido-live-dock-a20-audio-
interface-music-recording-sound-card?variant=50718792810791
AUDIO
SYNIDO LIVE DOCK A20
RECORDING YOUR PRACTICES AND LIVE STREAMING YOUR MUSICAL TALENTS TO YOUR FOLLOWERS HAS NEVER SOUNDED SO GOOD WITH THE SYNIDO LIVE DOCK A20. THE PORTABLE AND NIFTY MUSIC RECORDING INTERFACE OFFERS NEXT-LEVEL SOUND CLARITY, ALL PACKED INTO A POCKET-SIZED AUDIO DEVICE THAT ENSURES THAT EVERY NOTE IS PICKED UP AND RECORDED IN CRYSTAL CLEAR QUALITY. Despite its size, the Synido Live Dock A20 packs a punch, offering a compact audio adapter device that allows you to plug in your instrument, a microphone and headphones, offering a studio-quality recording feeling with just a single unit. The square unit provides a super intuitive layout, with every port and button clearly labelled for in-the-moment adjustment without any hassle. The device features a built-in USB-C wire to plug in your phone, then you just need to plug in your headphones, instrument and microphone (if needed), and you’re ready for a recording session or to livestream your performance. The Synido Live Dock A20 then lets you record your audio using the loopback button.
The resulting sound from the Synido Live Dock A20 is excellent, thanks to the high-fidelity audio quality of the device, which supports 24-bit resolution. This means that every note is captured in brilliant quality, ensuring that whether you’re recording yourself or live-streaming to your audience, there will be no distortion to dampen your performance. This is supported by the unit’s dual-core chip and sound processing system that is designed specifically for high-quality audio, where delays are a thing of the past. Plus, to ensure that the Synido Live Dock A20 delivers the best sound for your instrument, it actually features a unique instrument gain control, which adapts to the output level of different instruments to ensure that each one is recorded in the highest quality possible. This means there is no distortion and no signal overload, making it compatible with a wide variety of instruments to ensure that it’s an all-in-one handy device perfect
for recording across multiple instruments.
For practice sessions, the Synido Live Dock A20 is designed to provide an ultra-clear loopback and monitor function so you can practice songs or sets by recording your tracks using the innovative and high-quality technology of the dock. However, the Synido Live Dock A20 has also been designed with streaming in mind, especially as platforms such as TikTok allow for livestreaming straight from your phone. For this, the Synido Live Dock A20 is perfect, allowing you to capture clear audio, alongside video on your phone for a super high-quality performance, where your audio and video are always synced. The Synido Live Dock A20 features microphone and instrument gain buttons on the side to allow you to adjust the input volume and instrument volume, so you can achieve the perfect balance when playing live or recording yourself. Plus, I like that the front rotating knob allows you to easily and intuitively adjust your monitoring volume in the moment to ensure a more cohesive sound and performance. Overall, the Synido Live Dock A20 is a super easy-to-use and functional live streaming and music recording device that is perfect for practising for an upcoming event or gig for music enthusiasts, or for providing an easyto-use platform to support you during livestreams as you share your talents with the world. With advanced sound technology inside, the Synido Live Dock A20 is designed for the clearest sound quality possible, and that is what it delivers, no matter the instrument.
PROS:
- Easy to use and welllabelled buttons for easy adjusting mid-performance
- Exceptional sound quality backed by 24-bit resolution
- Complete audio adapter system, you just need to plug in your phone, headphone and a microphone, and you’re ready to go
- Can be used whilst charging
- Built-in cable for easy use whilst on the go without lots of excess wires
Check out the Synido Live Dock A20 at synido.com and on Amazon now!
$49.99
https://kiwiears.com/products/kiwi-ears-cadenza-ii
KIWI EARS CADENZA II
KIWI EARS PRODUCTS ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR SUPERIOR QUALITY AND DETAILED SOUND THAT DELIVER SOME OF THE NICEST LISTENING EXPERIENCES ON THE MARKET, AND OFTEN FOR A SUPER AFFORDABLE PRICE. HAVING TESTED OUT THE KIWI EARS BELLE IEMS A FEW MONTHS AGO, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO PUT THE CADENZA II MODEL TO THE TEST TO SEE HOW THEY STACK UP.
The Kiwi Ears Cadenza II IEMs feature a beautiful design, with each earpiece made from a polycarbonate composite shell providing not only a durable feel but a sleek look. On the back of each earpiece is a laser-engraved aluminium face plate. This adds a super stylish look to the IEMs, and this was especially nice on the ones we tested, which came in a lovely blue colour, so the accented engraving really added a premium design touch to the overall look. The earpieces then connect to the detachable 0.78 2-pin twisted cable, which feels durable and connects securely. This high-quality design is then paired with a super highquality sound system that really takes the IEMs to the next level. The Cadenza II features a 10mm dynamic diaphragm driver, supported by KARS 2.0. KARS is Kiwi’s Acoustic Resonance System, which ensures that, regardless of IEM volume, you always experience a clean bass for a punchy, booming sound. The system achieves such
a clean sound as it has been designed for optimised airflow, which allows for the sound to be carefully delivered through the IEMs, resulting in a really impressive bass quality. Aside from the bass, the Cadenza II also performs well across the midrange and treble, offering an impressive tonal balance that is often hard to achieve at such a price point.
Overall, the Kiwi Ears Cadenza II IEMs offer an impressive sound performance where everything from the stylish yet durable design to the enhanced sound quality has been taken into consideration to deliver a pair of IEMS that are really impressive. Plus, for less than $50, they really do perform well, whilst being super reasonably priced, so you can enjoy high-quality audio, without feeling like you’ve paid a fortune!
PROS:
- Beautiful in-ear design, especially in the blue with the engraved design
- Durable built quality, and easy to connect twisted cable
- Super high-quality sound performance backed by Kiwi Ears’ KARS 2.0 technology
CONS:
- The cable connects via a 3.5mm jack plug, so if you want to use the IEMs with a different port, you will need to purchase an additional adapter
TOZO COLORPODS
£42
www.tozostore.com/products/colorpods-earbuds
TOZO ARE A BRILLIANT BRAND FOR AUDIO DEVICES. WITH EACH PAIR OF EARBUDS I’VE TESTED, I’M ALWAYS THRILLED WITH THE BALANCE OF AESTHETIC DESIGN, INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY AND RELIABLE SOUNDSCAPES. THEREFORE, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO GIVE THE TOZO COLORPODS A TRY, AS THEY NOT ONLY BOAST TO OFFER A GREAT LISTENING EXPERIENCE, BUT THE CASE HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO FUNCTION AS A MINI CONTROL HUB FOR A MORE CONVENIENT LISTENING EXPERIENCE. .
One of the most notable features of the TOZO ColorPods is that the charging case comes with a 1.47inch LCD display built into the front of it. The screen operates as a small control panel, allowing you to see the battery life in each earbud and the case. However, the screen does so much more than just show the battery life; instead, it offers you complete control over song playback, call answering, sound adjustment and switching the earbuds to their noise-cancelling mode. Plus, the case even comes with 400mb of storage space, so you don’t even need to connect your phone to them to enjoy music offline, as it can be downloaded directly to the TOZO ColorPods themselves. I’ve never seen a charging case offer so many functions, as well as operating as a mini-MP3 player, making them an exciting and innovative new launch from TOZO.
In terms of sound, the TOZO ColorPods are impressive, especially for such an affordable price point! Each earbud offers a balanced sound for a comfortable and smooth listening experience. However, to take this one step further, the earbuds even have preset sound modes which are designed for different listening experiences. These modes include a music mode, gaming mode and movie mode, which are adjusted to deliver a powerful audio-synced experience so you can fully immerse yourself in your chosen activity. Plus, to further customise your listening experience, you can adjust the earbuds directly on the TOZO app, which offers 32 preset EQs, as well as more than 2000 user-shared EQs, so you can find the perfect sound for you.
One of the cool additions of the TOZO ColorPods is that they even have an active noise cancellation (ANC) mode built in. This allows you to reduce external noise by up to 23db, so you can enjoy your music, film or game without outside distractions. This makes the earphones perfect for use at the gym or whilst travelling, so you can enjoy a quiet little bubble even in busy environments. Plus, with the built-in music storage, you can enjoy your music offline while you fly to your destination!
Overall, the TOZO ColorPods offer a great sound and comfortable wearing experience, supported by an integrated screen that turns the case into your own mini control hub and MP3 player for better control over your music, and even offline playback whilst on the go! Plus for under £50, they’re a great, affordable option ideal for taking with you on adventures this summer.
PROS:
- 1.47 Inch LCD screen for better control over your earbuds
- Decent level of noise cancellation, even in noisy environments
- 400mb of built-in storage for offline listening
- Customisable listening experience with pre-set modes and EQs, with further customisation via the TOZO App
CONS:
- The battery life could be better; the case holds 38 hours, but each earbud does run out of charge in a few hours and needs to be recharged for continued use
£40.61 ( Currently on sale for £36.54!)
https://www.linsoul.com/products/kefine-klean
SV DLC DIAPHRAGM IEM
BLENDING STYLISH AESTHETICS WITH A ROBUST BUILD AND SUPERIOR SOUND QUALITY, THE KEFINE KLEAN SV DLC DIAPHRAGM IEMS ARE DESIGNED TO TAKE YOUR AUDIO EXPERIENCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL. I’VE TESTED A FEW IEMS OVER THE YEARS AND AM ALWAYS IMPRESSED WITH THE RESULTING SOUND QUALITY THAT OFTEN TRUMPS MANY OF THE STANDARD EARBUDS ON THE MARKET, AND THE KEFINE KLEAN ARE NO EXCEPTION.
The KEFINE Klean IEMs offer a premium design quality, balancing a stylish silver exterior with a durable earpiece. Each IEM has been designed to fit snugly in your ear, with the included range of ear tip sizes helping to get the most comfortable and secure fit possible. The IEM earpieces then connect to the 0.78 2-pin detachable silver-plated copper wire, which has also been designed with durability in mind. The wire features an 18-strand core, which has been designed to make the audio signal clear and transparent. In fact, to support the overall durability of the design, the IEMs are reinforced with a screw design. This helps prevent any damage should they be dropped or knocked, and provides extra protection should the adhesive wear away. This adds yet another innovative design feature to the KEFINE Klean IEMS to ensure their longevity. Despite its premium design quality, the KEFINE Klean IEMs don’t sacrifice style over sound quality; instead, this is where the IEMs really shine. For sound, the KEFINE Klean IEMs offer a 10mm dynamic driver, which features a DLC (Diamond-like Carbon) diaphragm. This offers a premium level of clarity, ensuring you can hear every note of your audio in vivid detail. Across a whole range of music genres, the IEMs really perform well, dealing well with everything from a booming bass to some smooth trebles without any weird distortion or sound loss. However, one of the things that really sets the KEFINE Klean apart from the competition is that it comes with two
interchangeable nozzles to tailor the IEM’s sound to your personal sound preferences. The KEFINE Klean came with the black nozzles already installed, and these support high-resolution audio for a brighter sound. This is great for a wide range of genres, but especially things like pop and electronic. However, the IEMs also come with silver nozzles, and these are catered towards creating a smooth and warm sound, which is absolutely perfect for heavier rock or acoustic sounds.
To change out the nozzles, you just take off the silicone ear tip, unscrew the nozzle, and then screw in your chosen one. Each nozzle features a threaded design, which makes swapping the nozzles super quick and easy to do. Once they’re changed, you just reattach the ear tip and are ready to listen to your chosen audio. Therefore, the KEFINE Klean IEMs are great for a wide range of genres supported by great sound clarity, allowing you to choose the nozzles which fit your preferred listening experience for a curated sound.
I also love that the KEFINE Klean IEMs come with a small carrying case, so you can carefully store them when not in use alongside the cable and the other nozzles and ear tips. This adds a nice premium touch to the overall experience using the KEFINE Klean IEMs, plus it helps to keep them protected and the extra nozzles and ear tips safe while on the go. If you’re looking to get into the world of IEMs, the KEFINE Klean SV DLC Diaphragm IEMs offer an exceptional sound experience, supported by a premium design quality. Plus, for around £40 you can’t really go wrong!
PROS:
- High-quality design that feels durable and premium
- Great sound quality, and comes with additional tuning nozzles, perfect for a wide range of genres and listening experiences
- Comes with a carry case to safely store the IEMS and accessories inside for on-the-go use
CONS:
- The cable is a 3.5mm jack plug, which means that if you want to use the IEMs with another port, such as on many phones today, you may need to purchase an additional adapter. However, the KEFINE Klean IEMs can also come with a Type-C or 4.4mm cable, so be sure to check out these options when buying!
https://ifi-audio.com/products/go-link-2
AUDIO
IFI GO LINK 2
IFI AUDIO IS A LEADING HIGH-RESOLUTION AUDIO COMPANY THAT DESIGNS PORTABLE DEVICES TO ENHANCE YOUR DEVICE’S SOUND QUALITY, OFFERING PREMIUM LISTENING EXPERIENCES EVERY TIME. HAVING TESTED MULTIPLE DEVICES FROM IFI AUDIO OVER THE YEARS, INCLUDING THE IFI GO LINK, WE WERE EXCITED TO PUT THE IFI GO LINK 2 TO THE TEST, WHICH BUILDS UPON THE PREVIOUS MODEL BUT NOW FEATURES A SMALLER AND MORE COMPACT DESIGN, SUPPORTED BY ENHANCED SOUND BALANCING AND PLAYBACK TO TURN ANY DEVICE INTO A HIGH-RESOLUTION MUSIC PLAYER FOR THE BEST LISTENING EXPERIENCE POSSIBLE..
The iFi GO Link 2 tackles one of the central issues with listening experiences today, which is that sound quality is often an afterthought when it comes to our devices. The sound quality of our devices is good, but rarely does it offer an original recording quality feel. Instead, we are often left with audio where much of it is lost or distorted by the time it reaches our ears. This is where the iFi GO Link 2 comes in, specifically designed to offer high-quality sound experiences supported by advanced sound technology. Much like the previous model, the iFi GO Link 2 offers a DAC connected via a braided cable to a 3.5mm headphone jack port. However, the GO Link 2 is now in an even more compact form, which is 8% smaller than the previous model, and 29% lighter! This makes the overall unit even more portable and compact than the previous GO Link, which is ideal for carrying with you on the go for great audio experiences, no matter where you are.
In addition to the more compact size, the GO Link 2 also brings enhanced audio technology. Much like the previous device, the GO Link 2 plugs into your phone or laptop and then connects with wired headphones to enhance the sound quality of your device through an ESS Sabre DAC chipset, which delivers 32-bit/384kHz PCM audio quality supported by DSD256 high-resolution audio delivery. However, one of the key sound technology upgrades in the GO Link 2 is the introduction of Dynamic Range Enhancement, which is designed to balance the highest and quietest sounds, which is designed to make your listening experience more immersive and balanced. This is further supported by iFi Audio’s S-Balanced technology, which brings a more balanced circuitry to
a conventional single-ended headphone socket. This helps to cut down on crosstalk between left and right channels, to deliver maximum performance where interference and distortion are kept to a minimum. The resulting audio is crystal clear, for the best and most immersive listening experience possible.
One of the other key additions to the iFi GO Link 2 is that it is the first model in the GO Link range which offers full compatibility with the iFi Nexis App. The app provides enhanced access to digital filter options (including linear and hybrid) to further customise your listening experience. This allows for new customisation options that were not available in previous models, allowing you to further tailor your sound to your chosen audio and listening preferences.
Another key addition of the iFi Nexis App is that you can deliver firmware updates to your device without needing to download or plug in the device to a desktop. This helps to keep your device up to date and deliver the best sound quality possible, without any extra steps.
Overall, the iFi GO Link 2 offers a plethora of advanced sound upgrades, building upon the original GO Link, to deliver a more compact model, supported by sound with reduced distortion and enhanced sound balancing. The resulting sound is super high quality, transforming any device into a highresolution player to enhance any song into an immersive listening experience.
PROS:
- Compact and lightweight design for enhanced portability
- Enhanced sound system to better tackle high and lows for a more balanced listening experience
- Supported by the iFi Nexis App for additional personalisation and firmware updates
- Comes with a USB-C to USB-A adapter
£30.00
https://chipolo.net/en/products/chipolo-pop
GADGET
CHIPOLO POP
FOR THE LAST 13 YEARS, CHIPOLO HAVE BEEN RELEASING A RANGE OF TRACKING DEVICES TO HELP PEOPLE KEEP TRACK OF THEIR ITEMS AND STOP LOSING THEIR KEYS, WALLETS AND BAGS WHILST ON THE GO. ONE OF THE LATEST TRACKING DEVICES FROM CHIPOLO IS THE POP, WHICH IS A FUN, CIRCULAR TAG DESIGNED TO ADD A ‘POP’ OF COLOUR TO YOUR PHONE, KEYS, OR BAG, THAT PROVIDES RELIABLE TRACKING SO YOU NEVER LOSE THEM AGAIN.
The POP is a small and compact keyring-style tracker that works with global location tracking apps to help you always find it (and what it’s attached to it) with ease. The POP we got to test out came in a lovely bright red colour, which once on my keys added a fun and bright colourful touch, which is also super ideal for helping me find my keys when they’re at the bottom of my bag!
The POP connects with your phone via Bluetooth to offer live tracking of where your POP is in relation to your phone. Through the Bluetooth connection, you can even call your POP when it is within the 300ft Bluetooth range. The POP can emit a loud ringing sound, so that you can find it easier and faster using sound alone. This is super helpful when you can’t find your keys at home, because you can just call the POP and quickly locate them using the call function. I love how loud the call function is, as it means I can still hear and locate my POP even when it’s attached to my keys that are stuck down the side of the sofa!
However, the POP is also great for putting on your bags and luggage when you go on holiday. In this situation, the POP utilises Find My or Find Hub’s global networks to help locate your item should it go missing. This is super ideal for putting in your suitcase, so you have a better idea of where your luggage is when you go on holiday, and it means that if it does not find its way to the same destination as you, you know where it has ended up. The POP is therefore a brilliant summer essential for when you’re taking trips, because it provides an added bit of peace of mind knowing the POP is there, highlighting the location of your bag or keys should they be misplaced or go missing.
Furthermore, the Chipolo companion app is a useful addition to the POP, as the app allows you to set up alerts when you leave your POP behind, customise the sound it emits when called, and even
allows you to call your phone when you double-press the POP. These additional features help make the POP the perfect companion for a forgetful person, so they never lose their keys again - or at least can find them again when they do! Plus, you can even share the location of your POP with a loved one, so should you completely misplace your POP and phone, someone else can locate the POP for you.
Each POP comes fitted with a coin battery that lasts around a year and then needs to be replaced. This adds a small ongoing cost to the POP, but it will only need to be replaced every so often (1 year) so this isn’t too much of an additional price to pay for the reliable tracking functions. Plus, the POP is water and dust-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about a bit of rain or dust stopping the POP from working properly. If you’re always losing your keys or bag, or want a little extra protection for your suitcase whilst you’re on holiday, the Chipolo POP is a super useful tool for keeping track of your things. From its Bluetooth location to utilising global location networks, the POP provides an easy and quick way to locate your items, so you can spend more time focusing on fun and less time searching for your keys!
PROS:
- Small, compact, but colourful tracker for easy finding, without it getting in the way
- Utilises Bluetooth and global location tracking networks for better location tracking
- Companion Chipolo App allows for additional features
- Can ring your POP for easier finding
- Affordable price point that is comparable to other trackers on the market
CONS:
- The battery inside the POP will need replacing every year, so this does add a small ongoing cost to the price of the POP. However, you still get a significant battery life from a single battery, so this is a very infrequent additional cost.
GADGET
WILLOW STARTER PACK
£34.99
https://plantwithwillow.co.uk/products/starter-pack
I’M A CONFESSED AWFUL PLANT PARENT, BECAUSE FAR TOO MANY PLANTS HAVE COME INTO MY HOME TO SADLY BECOME CRISPY AND LOOK A LITTLE SORRY FOR THEMSELVES. THEREFORE, FINDING A SOLUTION THAT CAN MAKE LOOKING AFTER A PLANT EASIER IS EXACTLY WHAT WILLOW HAS DONE BY CREATING AN INNOVATIVE GADGET TO PROVIDE YOU WITH PLANT-SPECIFIC INSIGHTS TO SUPPORT YOUR PLANT’S HEALTH.
The Willow starter pack includes a sensor that you place into the soil of your plant and connect to the Willow hub. Once connected, the sensor probes will measure the moisture level of the soil every 15 minutes, providing feedback on what your plant needs after taking into account the plant’s requirements, soil type and seasonality. This means that you never end up watering your plants too much or too little.
The sensor can also produce a happiness score for your plant, which you can then work to improve with watering. Plus, the sensor also has a light sensor, which tracks the light exposure of your plant, offering insights to help meet your growing goals and improve the overall happiness of your plant. The final check that the sensor carries out is humidity, which it gauges with the built-in temperature and humidity gauges. This helps to create the perfect environment for your specific species of plant to help it continue to thrive.
I like how simple the Willow Starter Pack is, as you just need to install the Willow app and pair it with your hub and sensor, and you’re ready to receive insightful reports back about your plant’s health. I love that the app allows you to name your plant, and then
set up reminders and notifications for watering, temperature and light insights. These reminders are almost like your plant is talking to you and demanding to be watered, which makes caring for them a lot more entertaining. Furthermore, the notifications ensure you can adjust to your plant’s needs in real time and learn how best to care for it.
The hub and sensor are a great way to get a better insight into your plant’s health. I will note that some of the more detailed insights from Willow are only accessible with a subscription fee, which adds an ongoing cost to the price of the plant monitoring. However, if you have a lot of plants and are looking for an all-in-one system that helps you to better meet their needs and keep them all thriving, Willow is a great option – especially if you’re bored of wasting money on plants that come into your house just to die!
PROS:
- Great insight into your plant’s needs to help them thrive
- Easy to set up and connect - 24/7 monitoring for best plant health results
CONS:
- Some premium features of the Willow app are behind a subscription fee
- The Sensor is quite chunky, which may not fit into a smaller house plant pot alongside the plant
£29.99 https://www.kraftedtech.com/products/connex-charcoal-grey
IN A WORLD OF MULTIPLE CABLES AND A VARIETY OF DEVICE PORTS, MY DESK IS OVERRUN WITH CABLES, ALL NEEDED TO CHARGE A VARIETY OF DEVICES. CURRENTLY, MY PHONE, HEADPHONES, KINDLE AND EVEN MY SMART WATCH REQUIRE COMPLETELY DIFFERENT CHARGERS, SO I HAVE AT LEAST 4 CABLES NEEDED TO KEEP MY DEVICES CHARGED. WHILE MANY DEVICES ARE NOW MIGRATING TO A MORE UNIVERSAL USB-C OPTION, MANY OF US ARE STILL MANAGING MULTIPLE DIFFERENT CABLE REQUIREMENTS. THIS IS WHERE THE KRAFTED CONNEX COMES IN, WHICH OFFERS AN ALL-IN-ONE CABLE ADAPTER HUB THAT OFFERS RELIABLE CHARGING AND DATA TRANSFER SUPPORTED BY 8 VERSATILE CHARGING COMBINATIONS.
The Krafted Connex is a compact bar unit, and within it are 5 fold-out cable options. On one side, the Krafted Connex offers a USB-A and USB-C input, as well as a Lightning cable output. On the other end, a USB-C, Micro USB, and Lightning output can be found. These collectively offer 8 versatile charging and data transfer options, allowing you to connect the Krafted Connex to your laptop or charging plug, and then plug in your device on the other end. With one device connected, the unit can achieve PD charging, offering super-fast charging speeds similar to those of a standard fast charger. However, the device cable only handles one PD-charged device at a time. The PD connection of the Krafted Connex also allows you to transfer data, which is perfect for uploading files from your device more easily, without needing a specific additional wire. This once again adds another layer of versatility to the Krafted Connex, making it not just a great charging option, but a reliable data transfer connection too.
Each of the cables is supported by a silicone casing that provides durability, whilst being flexible for easy charging and data transfer. Plus, the fold-out design ensures that no cables get tangled whilst the Krafted Connex is in use. However, the one sacrifice made for this foldout design is that the distance between your charging port or plug and your device is quite short, which could make charging using a plug a little more inconvenient if there’s nowhere convenient to place your device next to the plug whilst it charges. Overall, the Krafted Connex is a versatile and innovative bit of kit that will help cut down on cable clutter and help keep your devices charged up with ease. Thanks to the Krafted Connex’s compact form, it’s the perfect solution for putting in your bag to keep your device charged all day long, without a tangle of wires to contend with!
PROS:
- Versatile charging unit with 4 different cable types included
- Supports PD charging for speedy recharging on the go
- Compact unit ideal for travelling, and supported by silicone wires for durability
CONS:
-The length of the Krafted Connex means the distance between your input and output device isn’t very long, especially when compared to traditional cables, which could make charging a little less convenient
£29.99
https://uk.exgpro.com/products/minecraft-steve-in- diamond-armour-cable-guys-r-e-s-t-collectible-figure-
GADGET CABLE GUYS STEVE IN DIAMOND ARMOUR CONTROLLER HOLDER AND PHONE STAND
device-holder
IF YOU’VE EVER PLAYED MINECRAFT, YOU WILL KNOW ALL ABOUT STEVE, THE CENTRAL DEFAULT CHARACTER IN THE GAME KNOWN FOR HIS LIGHT BLUE T-SHIRT, BLUE TROUSERS AND GOATEE. THE ENTIRE BLOCK-THEMED WORLD IS ICONIC, AND SO CABLE GUYS HAVE DEVELOPED A RANGE OF MINECRAFT PHONE STANDS AND CONTROLLER HOLDERS WHICH BRING THIS WORLD AND STEVE TO LIFE. WE GOT TO TEST OUT THE STEVE IN DIAMOND ARMOUR CONTROLLER HOLDER AND PHONE STAND VERSION, WHICH FEATURES THE ICONIC CHARACTER IN FULL DIAMOND ARMOUR AND ACCOMPANIED BY A DIAMOND SWORD.
The Steve in Diamond Armour Controller Holder and Phone Stand is perfect for Minecraft fans, as it brings the iconic character to life, kitted out in his diamond armour, ready to take on any fight. I love the blocky design, which is featured across the entire phone stand and controller holder, including the minecart that Steve is sitting in, and the square land-inspired section stand that the figure sits on.
The mine cart track, on which the figure sits, is what offers the phone stand and controller holder. The track flicks down, offering plenty of room for you to place your phone or gaming controller. Once in place, the stand is nice and wide, ideal for a variety of gaming controllers, including the next-generation PlayStation 5 DualSense and Xbox Series X/S controllers. Plus, the edge of the holder provides a nice ledge to help stop your phone or controller from slipping off.
Overall, the Steve in Diamond Armour Controller Holder and Phone Stand offers a fun way to bring the world of Minecraft into your desk or gaming set-up. The figure offers such a fun way to celebrate the game, whilst being super functional, delivering Steve as your personal companion whilst you take on Creepers, explore and build your home and start mining! If you have a huge Minecraft fan in your life, the Steve Diamond Armour Controller and Phone Stand would make the perfect gift!
PROS:
- Fun Minecraft officially licensed figure and phone stand/controller holder
- Large size and colourful –ideal for gaming set-ups
- Durable feel and wide space for the controller or phone to sit
£40.99
https://www.lifemaxuk.co.uk/rechargeable-hay-fever-and-allergy-reliever
LIFEMAX RECHARGEABLE HAY FEVER AND ALLERGY RELIEVER
RED LIGHT THERAPY IS SOMETHING I’VE SEEN A LOT OF DISCUSSION AROUND ONLINE, WITH IT BEING USED ACROSS THINGS SUCH AS SKINCARE DEVICES. THEREFORE, I WAS INTRIGUED TO SEE AN ALLERGY AND HAY FEVER RELIEF DEVICE WHICH UTILISES THIS KIND OF LIGHT THERAPY. THE LIFEMAX RECHARGEABLE HAY FEVER AND ALLERGY RELIEVER UTILISES RED LIGHT THERAPY WITH THE GOAL OF RELIEVING COMMON SYMPTOMS OF HAY FEVER AND ALLERGIES WITH PROLONGED USE..
The Allergy Reliever is a compact and rechargeable device with nasal probes. Once turned on, the probes are placed in your nose to deliver red light wavelengths. Lifemax recommends two 3-minute treatments a day, which offer 660nm and 940nm red light wavelengths. According to studies, red light therapy could reduce inflammation, and so the Allergy Reliever is designed to use red light therapy to help reduce the symptoms associated with hay fever and allergies over multiple uses. Therefore, if you are a sufferer of allergies or hay fever and are looking for a nonmedication option, this could be something you want to look into and try.
The Allergy Reliever comes with 2 nose probe covers, that can be easily cleaned so the device can be used by multiple people. Plus, it’s completely rechargeable, and you can get up to 90 treatments from a single 2-hour charge. The rechargeable nature means that it is easy to take with you on the go and use twice a day.
Whilst I cannot speak to the longterm or medicinal effects of it, I think the Lifemax Rechargeable Hay Fever and Allergy Reliever device is an interesting option, especially if you are a fan of redlight therapy or are looking for a nonmedicated option. However, please do read the warnings that come with the Allergy Reliever before use to make sure it is suitable for you!
PROS:
- Non-medication option
- Uses red light therapy, which could be useful for reducing hay fever and allergy symptoms
- Rechargeable device with 90 uses per 2-hour charge
CONS:
- May not be effective for everyone
£249 00
https://www.silkn.co.uk/hair-tools/styling-products/ styling-brushes/silkyair-flex-SILK000047.html
SILKY AIR FLEX
ALL-IN-ONE STYLING TOOLS HAVE BEEN ALL THE RAGE IN RECENT YEARS, WITH MANY OFFERING A COMBINED HAIR DRYER AND STYLER THAT CUTS DOWN ON THE AMOUNT OF HEAT YOU HAVE TO USE ON YOUR HAIR TO STILL GET PERFECT STYLES EVERY DAY. HOWEVER, MANY OF THESE TYPES OF HAIR DRYERS AND STYLERS ARE AT AN EYEWATERING PRICE POINT, WHICH I PERSONALLY CAN’T BRING MYSELF TO SPEND ON A HAIR TOOL. BUT, OVER THE YEARS, MORE BRANDS HAVE STARTED DELIVERING THEIR OWN ALL-IN-ONE STYLING TOOLS, WHICH OFFER THE SAME DRYING AND STYLING OPTIONS WITHOUT SUCH A HEFTY PRICE POINT. ONE OF THESE BRANDS IS SILK’N, WHO HAVE DEVELOPED ITS OWN ALL-IN-ONE HAIR DRYER AND STYLING TOOL DESIGNED TO MAKE STYLING YOUR HAIR EASIER, SUPPORTED BY HEAT PROTECTION AND A CONCENTRATED AIRFLOW.
Straight out of the box, I was super impressed with the presentation of the Silk’n Silky Air Flex, which comes in a lovely storage case that fits the hair dryer and all your styling attachments. This makes it perfect for travel, as you can just throw the whole case in your suitcase, knowing you have everything you need for a range of styles. Inside, the case is the hair dryer, along with 5 different attachment heads. These attachments include 2 auto wrap wands, a volumizing brush, a paddle brush and an air flow concentrator.
Once plugged in, the main hair dryer offers powerful air flow, thanks to its brushless motor, which delivers 110,000 rpm, and allows it to achieve up to 57km/h of air flow for speedy hair drying times. With the hair dryer, you can dry your hair to about 60-70%, particularly focusing on your roots with the help of the air concentrator attachment, and then move on to the chosen styling attachment to help dry and style your hair in one motion, without the need for both a hair dryer and then a curling wand or hair straightener for the same style. By just clicking the slider, the hair dryer is transformed into a cylindrical styling tool that is ready for the various attachments to be used. With these kinds of tools, the curling is often the most talked about tool, and the Silk’n Silkey Air Flex comes
with two auto wrap wands, which allow you to curl your hair in two different directions. Once you turn on the tool, the air flow helps deliver effortless curling with the air evenly rotating a section of your hair around the barrel. After just a few seconds, you are left with a soft, bouncy curl. To lock in the curl, the styler has a cool shot function, which helps to quickly cool down the section of hair to help give your curls a bit more longevity. However, I do have very straight hair, so I’d also recommend some form of hair spray after to add another layer to really lock in your style and help it last a bit longer.
The two different auto-wrap wands allow you to curl your hair in two different ways, which is ideal for ensuring your hair is curled away
from your face. My only comment is that if you like a less uniform look, you might want to swap between the barrels as you move around one side of your head to give a more natural beachy look than uniform curls. This is a little more inconvenient than a traditional curling wand, but when you take into consideration that the tool is both curling and drying your hair, you’re reducing the overall heat you’re putting on your hair, making it a worthwhile inconvenience for a perfect style without the added heat and potential damage.
For a more bouncy blowout style, the volumizing brush is perfect. The brush delivers focused air flow to help create movement and volume from the roots, whilst giving a bit of shape and curl to the ends of your hair. With bouncy blowouts being a popular style at the moment, the oval-shaped attachment is the perfect shape to give you that fresh yet polished volumized look. Then, for a sleeker look, the paddle brush helps dry your hair in a super smooth and detangled way. It doesn’t offer the kind of volume as the Volumizing brush, instead focusing on smoothing down your hair to create a sleek and extra shiny appearance. As someone with straight hair, this was my favourite for everyday use, as it allowed me to dry and smooth my hair, leaving it looking shiny and glossy in just one step.
I loved the overall feel of the Silk’n Silky Flex; it’s not super heavy and is surprisingly quiet, which is ideal
when you’re using it for longer than you would a traditional hair dryer, as you use the tool to both style and dry your hair. I was glad to see that you can adjust the temperature settings between 39, 50, 70 and 90 degrees, whilst also having the option of three speed settings. This can all be controlled from the LED screen built into the tool, to help you choose the perfect setting and heat for every style whilst protecting your hair from excessive heat damage. I was also thrilled to see that the tool features a lovely, long cord, adding extra convenience to styling your hair without being tethered to a plug socket due to a short cable.
Overall, if you’re interested in a multi-styling tool that allows you to dry, curl, volumize and smooth your hair whilst protecting your
locks from additional heat damage, the Silk’n Silky Air Flex is a great option. Whilst the price is still on the higher side, you are getting multiple tools for one price, making it more affordable than the price you’d likely pay for each one individually. I love that the Silk’n Silky Air Flex helps you cut down on heat damage, without needing to sacrifice having beautifully styled hair.
PROS:
- 4-in-1 styling tool for hair drying, curling, volumizing and smoothing
- Three speeds and 4 heat settings for controlled and heatconscious styling
- High-powered air flow for quick drying and styling
- Long cord for easy manoeuvring
CONS:
- Still an investment tool, but with multiple different styling options, it makes it cost-effective compared to buying each one individually
Collectively, these offer an all-in-one treatment option, blending LED light treatment with EMS for a more toned, soothed and glowing complexion.
The EMS treatment setting allows you to double up on treatments to deliver light therapy, as well as a small ‘facial workout’ through the EMS current technology. Thus, at the same time as you are having an LED light treatment, you can also be toning up your face through the gentle contracting and relaxing of your face through a low-frequency micro-current. Often, EMS treatments are offered in separate devices that require you to move them across your face; however, the Silk’n LED EMS Mask offers a hands-free facial treatment that is designed to improve
blood flow and, in the process, enhance the overall muscle tone and promote collagen production in the skin.
For light treatment, the mask offers 3 different mode options, with a final 4th light treatment mode built into the control. The first mode is designed for anti-ageing, designed to help increase elastin production and boost collagen for firmer and tighter looking skin. This is achieved through the combination of Red (633nm), Dark Red (660nm), Near-Infrared (830nm) and Deep Near-Infrared (1072nm) light. These lights help penetrate into the skin to target fine lines and wrinkles, whilst also promoting circulation in the face for a more youthful and freshlooking appearance.
Mode two is designed to help reduce redness and pigmentation for a more even and radiant appearance. This mode uses amber (605nm), Dark Red (660nm), Near-infrared (830nm) and Deep Near-Infrared (1072nm) light, which helps to calm down redness and inflammation, whilst promoting collagen. Then, the soothing mode (Mode 3) uses Red (633nm) and Dark Red (660nm) LED light. This light therapy helps to regulate oil secretion to balance the skin and reduce excessive shine. However, this setting is also perfect for more sensitive skin, and the light modes are designed to help reduce redness and irritation to help soothe skin that might be a bit stressed.
Across all three of the primary light modes, the EMS setting can be used alongside them to help improve skin and tone up the appearance of your face. However, the one mode that can’t be used with the EMS is Mode 4, and this is because it does not use the face mask itself but instead uses the controller. Within the controller, there is a built-in blue (405nm) LED light, which offers a more targeted treatment. This is designed to spot treat blemishes in 3-minute quick treatments. This is perfect if you’re particularly acne-prone or have a blemish that doesn’t seem to want to go away!
Together, the LED light treatment and EMS provide a useful allin-one treatment that takes just 10-15 minutes to complete, and then you’re
done without having to attend a beauty clinic. This makes the Silk’n LED EMS Face Mask a great option for achieving light and EMS treatments all from the comfort of your home. However, for around 10 minutes, you will look slightly terrifying whilst wearing the mask as it glows red - but a worthwhile sacrifice for glowing skin!
Overall, the Silk’n LED EMS Face Mask offers a brilliant blend of light treatment and EMS technology to tone your face and help improve the overall look of your skin – and all from the comfort of your own home. With a range of modes and different light treatments to use, the mask offers a great hands-free facial treatment option that you can put on for around 10 minutes to enjoy some relaxation time while
the mask does all the work. I will say the EMS can feel a little strange, but it’s basically giving your face a light workout routine! If you’re interested in light and EMS therapy but don’t know where to start, the Silk’n LED EMS is a great option, offering two therapies – all for the cost of just a single face mask!
PROS:
- In-built LED lights for light therapy for a range of skin concerns
- First-ever LED mask that is combined with EMS for facial toning
- Easy to use and operate
- Blue light blemish treatment in the handle for specific zoned treatment
CONS:
- The mask is a big investment in your skincare routine, but one that is worthwhile if you find red light therapy really works for you
£31.99
https://www.lifemaxuk.co.uk/rechargeable-foldaway-fan
LIFEMAX RECHARGEABLE FOLDAWAY FAN
A GOOD FAN IS A STAPLE OF ANY SUMMER, ESPECIALLY WHEN MOST HOUSES DON’T HAVE ANY SORT OF AIR CONDITIONING. I DON’T THINK I COULD SLEEP DURING SUMMER WITHOUT A FAN KEEPING THE ROOM AT A COMFORTABLE TEMPERATURE, BUT SO OFTEN FANS TEND TO GET IN THE WAY AND ARE DIFFICULT TO STORE WHEN NOT IN USE. HOWEVER, THE RECHARGEABLE FOLDAWAY FAN BY LIFEMAX DOES AWAY WITH THESE ISSUES, OFFERING A SUPER VERSATILE FAN THAT DELIVERS A POWERFUL BREEZE, AND THEN CAN BE FOLDED DOWN AND PACKED AWAY FOR THE NEXT TIME IT IS NEEDED.
Straight out of the box, the fan comes compacted down in a small round unit, with the main part of the fan sitting on top of the base. The fan is then folded up, and the extendable base pole can then be extended to your desired height. At full height, the fan stands at around 1 meter, offering a great pedestal fan option, or it can be reduced down to a desk fan height. I love this versatility, as you can adjust the fan to perfectly hit you no matter what you’re doing.
One of my favourite things about the fan is that it is wireless, and so it is super portable. This means that you aren’t tethered to a plug socket like many standing fans, and instead, you can move it around the house with you and adjust it to the perfect height to keep you cool. Therefore, the Rechargeable Foldaway Fan is perfect for keeping you cool whether you’re at your desk, sleeping or even watching TV. Plus, the fan even has a 180° angle adjustment so you can angle the breeze exactly where you need it. The Rechargeable Foldaway Fan comes with three speeds, which are ideal for offering anything from a nice breeze to a powerful cooling wind. However, even on the most powerful
setting, the fan is still pretty quiet, making it ideal for quiet environments such as offices and bedrooms. In fact, the Rechargeable Foldaway Fan is perfect for sleeping at night, because it offers a super adjustable fan option that can be angled to provide a perfect breeze, whilst still being pretty quiet to operate. Then, when not in use, it can easily be compacted down or moved to your office to provide a cooling breeze throughout your day.
To keep you cool all day long, the Rechargeable Foldaway Fan, as the name suggests, is rechargeable, offering up to 12 hours of wireless use on a single charge. This means that you can easily move it around your home without needing to recharge it every 5 minutes. However, when you do need to recharge it, you just plug in the included USB cable, and it will charge up. You can still use the fan whilst it’s on charge, but you just have a little less freedom due to the wire!
Overall, the Rechargeable Foldaway Fan from Lifemax is a brilliant portable fan option that is super compact whilst offering a powerful cooling breeze. I love how easily it is to adjust, and that it offers the same powerful breeze as a larger pedestal fan, all in a wireless, compact and portable unit. If you’re looking for a fan option that can keep you cool throughout the day and night (without putting a drain on your electricity because it doesn’t need to be plugged in all day), the Rechargeable Foldaway Fan from Lifemax is a great option for summer.
PROS:
- Super compact and portable
- Adjustable height and fan angle for greater versatility
- Rechargeable for wireless use and doesn’t need to be constantly plugged in to save on electricity
- The fan cover can be removed to easily clean the fan blades
£40.99
https://www.lifemaxuk.co.uk/home-
barber-rechargeable-trimmer
LIFEMAX HOME BARBER RECHARGEABLE TRIMMER
A SHORT ALL-OVER TRIM IN A SIMPLE BUT EFFECTIVE HAIRSTYLE THAT WILL KEEP YOU COOL ALL SUMMER, AND THIS HAS NOW BEEN MADE EVEN EASIER TO ACHIEVE AT HOME THANKS TO THE LIFEMAX HOME BARBER RECHARGEABLE TRIMMER. THE HOME BARBER TOOL OFFERS UP TO 6 LENGTH OPTIONS, SO YOU CAN GET THE PERFECT SHORT STYLE YOU LOVE ALL BY YOURSELF.
The Home Barber tool is designed with stainless steel blades that provide a precise, clean haircut across a variety of hair lengths. The Home Barber comes with two different cutting guides, which allow you to perfectly tailor the length to your preferred style, ranging from 5mm to 19mm in length. Once you’ve chosen the length, and turned on the unit, you just move it in a unique circular pattern to provide a cohesive, all-over, even cut.
One of the great things about the Home Barber is that its shape is designed so that the trimmer fits perfectly in the palm of your hand, so you can easily move the trimmer across your hair with a secure grip to achieve the perfect all-over style in a safe manner. Plus, with a nonslip rubber band on it for easy grip, you will never lose a firm grip of the Home Barber.
To help achieve the easy-to-use design, the Home Barber is completely wireless, so you don’t need to worry about being plugged in and instead can stand directly in front of a mirror without any wires getting in the way and tethering you to a socket. To support this, the Home Barber is rechargeable, and
PROS:
- 6 length options to pick from to suit your hair length preference
- Stainless steel blades for precise and smooth cuts
so just needs to be charged up to offer precise and clean trimming. Plus, the LCD screen on the Home Barber is super useful for keeping track of the remaining charge, so you’re never left with half a haircut, whilst you wait to recharge!
If you like an all-over one-length short style, the Home Barber is a great option that will help you achieve a cohesive and neat look in a safe and ergonomic way. The powerful motor and stainless-steel blades provide clean cuts, without pulling, to make cutting your hair an easy and quick task.
- Rechargeable for wireless operation
- LCD screen for easy battery monitoring
CONS:
- The Home Barber is only ideal for 1-length looks due to its design, so it may not be ideal for multilayer/gradual looks, which require greater sectioning and gradient techniques.
£22.99 https://www.lifemaxuk.co.uk/cool-pad
LIFEMAX COOL PAD
I REALLY STRUGGLE TO SLEEP WHEN THE WEATHER STARTS HEATING UP, AS THE RESIDUAL WARMTH FROM THE DAY SEEMS TO RESULT IN HUMID AND MUGGY SLEEPING CONDITIONS THAT FEEL ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO GET COMFORTABLE IN. MOST NIGHTS, A FAN IS THE ONLY WAY TO STAY COOL, BUT THESE CAN BE NOISY AND CAN BECOME COSTLY ON THE ELECTRICITY BILL. THEREFORE, I’VE BEEN SUPER INTERESTED IN SOME SORT OF COOLING PAD THAT I COULD PUT ON MY BED TO KEEP MY BODY COOL WHEN THE WEATHER STARTS TO WARM UP. THIS IS WHERE THE LIFEMAX COOLING PAD COMES IN, PROVIDING A LOVELY COOL PAD THAT HELPS YOU TO MAINTAIN A COMFORTABLE TEMPERATURE FOR A GREAT NIGHT’S SLEEP.
The cooling pad offers a soft cotton finish, with the cooling pad underneath it. The cooling pad works by dissipating heat and warmth, leaving a cool and fresh feel to the pad at all hours of the day. However, to ensure you don’t wake up with a chill, it slowly warms throughout the night for a comfortable sleeping experience. I personally like that the cooling pad does not need to be put in the fridge like others that I’ve seen; instead, the cooling pad design helps keep it cool without any refrigeration needed. In terms of size, the cooling pad is around 30 cm wide and 40cm long, making it perfect for lying on your pillow or under you
to keep you cool. Plus, the size would also be perfect for putting down so that your pet could lie on it to keep them cool during the day when the weather gets warmer, too.
PROS:
- Soft cotton design for comfort
Even outside of the summer months, the Cool Pad would be great if you’re naturally a warm sleeper to help keep you cool. Additionally, it would be especially helpful for those suffering from hot flushes, even if you’re ill with a fever to keep you comfortable during the night.
If you spend the summer struggling to sleep because of humidity and warm temperatures, the Lifemax Cool Pad is a great option for keeping you cool all night long. The simple yet comfortable design makes it easy to move and use, and makes it a versatile tool for keeping you cool all year long.
- Great cooling design without needing to be refrigerated
- Ideal size for a range of uses
- Great for humid nights, hot flushes and illness
CONS:
- I wish it was a bit larger to provide a larger cooling area
SWAN DIRTMASTER PRO SPOT CLEANER
£149.99
https://shop.swan-brand.co.uk/carpet-washers/ swan-dirtmaster-pro-1700w-blue-sc18412
SPILLS ARE AN ANNOYING PART OF LIFE, BUT WHEN THEY FALL ON YOUR NEW CARPET, IT CAN FEEL LIKE THE END OF THE WORLD. HOWEVER, WITH THE SWAN DIRTMASTER PRO SPOT CLEANER, YOU CAN QUICKLY AND EASILY CLEAN UP SPILLS AND REMOVE STUBBORN STAINS TO KEEP YOUR HOME LOOKING CLEAN AND FRESH. .
The Dirtmaster Pro Spot Cleaner is designed to be an allin-one cleaning solution which delivers both hot water and steam cleaning options to remove any stains or spills. Straight out of the box, I was impressed with the compact size of the Dirtmaster Pro Spot Cleaner, which has been carefully designed so that the 1.8m hose wraps around the unit for easy storage. The unit then features two separate water tank compartments, the larger 1600ml is for clean water, and the smaller 950ml tank holds dirty water produced during cleaning. These provide a seamless all-in-one unit to carefully clean and remove stains, storing the dirty water in a large capacity tank so you can clean for longer and tackle multiple spills or stains using the dual tank system.
The Dirtmaster Pro Spot Cleaner is super easy to use, with the front touch control panel offering 4 key modes: suction, cold water, strong suction, and hot water. Alongside this, the unit also offers steam cleaning to help really break down stubborn stains.
The simple-to-use controls allow you to adjust the cleaner to the specific needs of each cleaning job. For example, for fresh spills, the cold-water mode and the regular suction mode will likely be ideal, whilst for more stubborn stains, hot water, steam and the strong suction modes will be more beneficial. Then, to help get stains out of fabric and materials, the Dirtmaster Pro Spot cleaner comes with a standard brush, which is ideal for everyday cleaning jobs, a wide brush for cleaning of larger areas, and a self-cleaning tool to help remove dirt and debris. These help you really get into a material and break down stains to get your carpet, sofas, rugs or even car upholstery looking spotless.
To allow you to clean multiple stains, especially those in harder-toreach areas, the Dirtmaster Pro Spot Cleaner comes with a super-long power cord. The 6 metres of power cord mean you can use the unit on the stairs, or even in your car, without being tethered to a particular outlet. Instead, you can move around easily, carrying the lightweight unit, supported by its 1.8m long hose and 6-meter power cord for seamless cleaning all across your home.
If you are in a household that is prone to spills, or you are looking for an all-in-one cleaning solution that you can use across your home (or car) to keep it looking clean and fresh, then the Swan Dirtmaster Pro Spot Cleaner is an excellent choice. From its compact and portable design to the range of modes it offers and even the large dual tanks, it makes spot cleaning on the go super simple and effective.
PROS:
- Easy to use touch controls
- Compact size with innovative design for easy storage
- Long power cord and hose for easy access to cleaning hard-to-reach areas
- Dual tanks to separate clean and dirty water for prolonged cleaning
- Comes with a range of cleaning accessories
£30 (750ml in Midnight Blue)
https://circularandco.com/shop/reusable-bottle/circularco-reusable- water-bottle-made-from-recycled-stainless-steel-750ml
STAINLESS STEEL REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
CIRCULAR&CO. IS A COMPANY ON A MISSION TO HELP CREATE A MORE SUSTAINABLE WORLD, WHERE WE PRODUCE LESS WASTE AND CAN PROTECT LANDSCAPES AND OCEANS IN THE PROCESS. THUS, THE COMPANY HAVE DEVELOPED ITS CIRCULAR DESIGN, WHICH AIMS TO SET THE STANDARD IN SUSTAINABILITY, AND HELP GIVE SINGLEUSE PRODUCTS A SECOND CHANCE. THE CIRCULAR DESIGN FOCUSES ON THREE MAIN AREAS: A PRODUCT MUST BE MADE FROM RECYCLED CONTENT, BE MADE TO LAST, AND ONCE THEY COME TO THE END OF THEIR LIFECYCLE, THEY CAN EASILY BE RECYCLED ONCE AGAIN IN REALWORLD RECYCLING INFRASTRUCTURES. THEREFORE, ALL OF THESE FACTORS ARE KEY TO CIRCULAR&CO.’S PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT, AND SO WE WERE SUPER EXCITED TO PUT THE RECYCLED STAINLESS STEEL REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE TO THE TEST.
The Recycled Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle we got to test out came in a lovely dark blue colour, with a matte finish and a useful carrying handle. The 750ml bottle, which also comes in 500ml and 1000ml sizes, is designed to keep you hydrated all day long. The bottle is made from 90% recycled stainless steel, which is a great option because the material retains its quality even after recycling. Therefore, the stainless-steel design offers an insulated bottle that will keep your drinks cold or hot for an
extended period of time, whilst also helping to cut down on waste. In fact, the bottle aims to keep a hot drink warm for 12 hours, a cold drink cold for 24 hours, and an iced drink iced for a remarkable 48 hours! I’m not sure my drinks ever last more than a few hours, but this high level of insulation ensures your drinks are perfectly warmed or chilled until the very last drop.
One of the things I look for when purchasing a reusable water bottle is the leakproof nature of it, and the Circular&Co. water bottle really
doesn’t disappoint. The bottle features Circular&Co.’s Swift-Click™ lid, which allows you to open and close the lid with just one hand for easy drinking, even on the go. However, once you click the lid down, it creates a great seal to stop any of your drink from getting out, ensuring no leaks on the go. Then, should you want to put the bottle in your bag, Circular&Co. has gone one step further and included a Trust-Lock™, which allows you to twist the closing cap, to ensure that the clickable opening feature cannot be used. This closure ensures
you never get to your destination and realise the contents of your bag is a bit soggy! Overall, I love the looks and feel of the bottle, and with 750ml, it’s the perfect size for carrying with you all day, without being too heavy. Plus, for added portability, it even has an ergonomic carry handle so you can bring it on hikes or camping this summer for hydration on the go – supported by a design that is made almost entirely from recycled stainless steel!
When it comes to Circular&Co.’s products, I really love that every single one is designed to last for a long time. However, when they do eventually come to the end of their lifecycle, I love that the bottle has been designed so that it can be easily recycled. This is great because it ensures that its products are not contributing to excessive waste throughout the product’s life, as well as when it’s no longer functional. This helps stop waste from ending up in landfills, our oceans or landscapes, and keeps these useful products within the recycling process.
Overall, the Circular&Co. Recycled Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle offers a great, secure, and leakproof water bottle that will help cut down on excessive plastic waste from single-use bottles, whilst also keeping your drinks hot or cold throughout the day for all-day hydration. If you’re looking for a reusable insulated water bottle, Circular&Co. is the perfect option, as not only will you get a great water bottle, but you’ll be supporting a company committed to reducing global waste.
PROS:
- Sturdy and leakproof design – ideal for use all day
- Innovative single click opening for easy drinking on the go
- Made from 90% recycled stainless steel, making it both sustainable and well-insulated
- Can be recycled even once it’s come to the end of its lifespan
HOUSEHOLD
£21-22
https://circularandco.com/reusable-coffee-cups
CIRCULAR&CO. RECYCLED REUSABLE CUPS
WHEN OUT AND ABOUT, I LOVE TO POP INTO A LOCAL COFFEE SHOP AND GET MYSELF A COFFEE OR A MATCHA TO TAKE WITH ME ON MY ERRANDS. HOWEVER, EVERY COFFEE TRIP OFTEN RESULTS IN A SINGLEUSE CUP THAT NEEDS TO BE THROWN AWAY AFTER USE. IT DOES MAKE YOU THINK, ‘SHOULD I EVEN BE USING SINGLE-USE ITEMS FOR THINGS SUCH AS COFFEE ANYWAY?’ FOR MANY OF US, THE OBVIOUS CHOICE IS A REUSABLE CUP, WHICH YOU CAN TAKE INTO MOST CAFES AND COFFEE SHOPS TO BE FILLED BY THE BARISTAS WITH THE DRINK OF YOUR CHOICE. ONE COMPANY DESIGNING HIGH-QUALITY REUSABLE CUPS IS CIRCULAR&CO., WHO ARE TAKING THE REUSABLE CUP MARKET ONE STEP FURTHER AND HAS ACTUALLY DESIGNED THEIR REUSABLE CUPS USING RECYCLED WASTE MATERIALS TO SAVE THEM FROM LANDFILL. THE RESULTING CUPS ARE DURABLE, INSULATED AND LEAKPROOF, AND CAN BE REFILLED FOR MANY YEARS TO COME WHILST HELPING TO CUT DOWN ON EXCESSIVE WASTE WITH EVERY DRINK.
We got to test out two Reusable Cups from Circular&Co; the Recycled Stainless Steel Reusable Cup (12oz in Seaglass Green - £25) and the Recycled Fabric Reusable Cup (12oz in Stonewash Blue - £22). With the Recycled Stainless Steel cup designed to keep your drink hot for 6 hours and cold for 12,
and the Recycled Fabric Cup designed for keeping your drink hot or cold for around 60-90 minutes, making them the perfect companions for commuting or for taking with you to get a coffee whilst you’re out and about.
The Recycled Stainless Steel Reusable Cup we tested came in a lovely light green colour, and was 12oz in size, offering the perfect amount for a medium-sized drink. The cup features a
secure screw-top, which then features an innovative drink360™ lid for easy drinking at any angle. The lid can also be opened with just one hand thanks to the Swift-Click™ design, which allows you to pop up and down the lid to open and close the cup. This means that whilst on your commute or walking about the city, you can quickly click the lid open - even with your hands full! Then, once closed, you don’t have to worry about
coffee drops leaking out of your cup. Plus, you can even fully lock the lid using Trust-Lock™ to prevent it from opening, which is ideal for when you want to put the cup in your bag, as you can do so knowing it won’t accidentally open and leak all over your things!
The Recycled Fabric Reusable Cup features all of the same great benefits of the stainless-steel cup, including its Swift-Click™ opening, Trust-Lock™ feature and drink360° lid. However, the Recycled Fabric Reusable Cup, as the name suggests, is instead made from recycled fabric, most of which is taken from the vast amounts of fabric waste produced by the global fast fashion industry. Every day, truckloads of unwanted clothes are collected in the UK and Europe, and Circular&Co. takes what cannot be reused and transforms it into injectionmoulded fibre pellets, which are mixed with recycled Polypropylene that can be used to reinforce plastic and add durability. In the Recycled Fabric Cup, the recycled fabric is used in the design of the thermal outer layer of the cup, with the inside components and lid, which would come into contact with your drink, made using certified foodgrade materials. Thus, the recycled fabric not only gives fashion waste a new life, but it also gives a durable and unique exterior to reusable coffee cups, ensuring that more fabric waste does not end up in landfills and can live out a new life as a recycled and reusable cup. Both of the cups we got to review highlight Circular&Co.’s
commitment to using a variety of waste materials for their products to cut down on the presence of these materials polluting our world. Circular&Co. currently use a wide range of recycled products across their designs, including recycled fabric, trainers, coffee grounds, bubblegum, marine plastic, and paper cups. All of these are commonly discarded singleuse items, and so Circular&Co. is committed to recycling these items and using them in the design and build of their products. Plus, when both the Recycled Fabric and Stainless Steel Reusable Cups do come to the end of their lifecycle, they have been designed so that they can be easily recycled, ensuring that the product does not produce further waste but instead can be returned to the recycling process to live out a new life as a new recycled product once again.
Overall, the Reusable Cups from Circular&Co are an excellent option for hot or cold drinks on the
PROS:
go because they help to cut down on excess single-use waste, whilst helping to support a company committed to recycling waste into new and innovative products for everyday use. I love that every aspect of the design, from the drink360° drink lid to the singlehand opening and even the lock function, has been designed to make the cups an easy go-to option for keeping you hydrated on the go.
- Innovative Swift-Click™ design for one-handed opening and leak-proof closure – plus Trust-Lock™ ensures it stays closed even in your bag for no accidental spills
- Drink360° makes drinking go easy and enjoyable
- Made using recycled products to help cut down on waste and recycle them into new yet durable products
OUTDOOR
YETI DAYTRIP® 9L INSULATED BOX
£135.00 https://uk.yeti.com/products/daytrip- 9-insulated-box-navy
IT’S FINALLY PICNIC WEATHER, AND THAT MEANS HEADING TO A PARK WITH SOME FRIENDS TO ENJOY SOME SNACKS AND DRINK A FEW BEERS IN THE SUN. HOWEVER, GONE ARE THE DAYS OF A TRADITIONAL PICNIC BASKET THAT DOESN’T KEEP YOUR FOOD OR DRINKS COLD. INSTEAD, INSULATED BOXES SUCH AS THE YETI DAYTRIP® 9L INSULATED BOX ARE THE FUTURE OF PICNICS AND GENERAL OUTDOOR ADVENTURES, OFFERING A LARGE AND COMPLETELY INSULATED BOX THAT WILL KEEP YOUR FOOD AND DRINKS COLD AND FRESH ALL DAY LONG.
The YETI Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box we got to test out came in a lovely navy colour, which looks modern and stylish. The box features the typical YETI logo on the front, a black top handle and an outer pocket on the back to store additional snacks or your keys and phone. The whole thing feels super sturdy, and upon opening the zipped lid, you are met with the insulated interior. The Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box features Coldcell Flex™ Insulation, which offers superior temperature holding power to keep your food fresh and drinks cold thanks to its closed-cell foam design. Even with reliable insulation, the Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box is still fairly lightweight, especially when compared to other hardshell cool boxes.
The lid of the Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box opens completely, allowing you to gain complete access to the inside of the box. This
wide opening makes the Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box ideal for YETI® Ice Sheet and YETI® Food Storage. However, even without these, the bag can easily hold up to 12 cans, or a variety of drinks and food items. I like that the inside of the lid has a PackAttic™ Pocket, as this provides a nice extra space to put things such as napkins, cutlery or sauce packets that are separated from your food below.
I will say once you’ve loaded up the Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box, especially with lots of drinks, it can get a bit heavy. However, YETI have thought of this too and has included a shoulder carry strap with the 9L size. The strap features additional padding and is made from a durable nylon weave, so you can comfortably put the Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box on your shoulder and carry it with ease. This is a great addition to the Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box, and highlights the innovation of YETI’s designs that considers every situation.
Externally, the Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box is super durable and features a waterproof coating, so you don’t have to worry about the typical British weather leaving your snacks wet. Instead, the zipped-up Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box securely stores your food, away from insects, dogs (who might try to pinch your sandwiches), and even a potential rain shower!
If you are venturing out this summer, whether for a day trip or for a picnic, the YETI Daytrip® 9L Insulated Box is the perfect choice, offering a sturdy and durable insulated cooler box that is designed with style and performance in mind.
PROS:
- Large opening for easy access to food or drinks
- Zipped design to keep it secure
- Water-resistant exterior ideal for all weather conditions
- Easy wipe interior
- Comes with a shoulder strap for easy carrying
CONS:
- It is on the pricey side for an insulated/cooler box, but the quality, design and performance seem to make it worth the investment if it will be your go-to picnic/adventure insulated box of choice
£59.00
https://waterhaul.co/products/ mylor-sunglasses
WATERHAUL MYLOR WRAP AROUND SUNGLASSES
WITH THE SUMMER WEATHER FINALLY ARRIVING HERE IN THE UK, IT’S THE PERFECT TIME TO HEAD OUTDOORS AND ENJOY THE SUNSHINE WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. HOWEVER, TO PROTECT YOUR EYES AND HELP YOU SEE BETTER IN THE GLORIOUS SUN, YOU NEED A GREAT PAIR OF SUNGLASSES. WHEN IT COMES TO SUNGLASSES, I HAVE A FEW REQUIREMENTS: THEY MUST HAVE A HIGH LEVEL OF UV PROTECTION, LOOK STYLISH, AND BE DURABLE ENOUGH TO SURVIVE A SUMMER FULL OF ADVENTURE. THIS IS WHERE WATERHAUL COMES IN, WHO HAVE DEVELOPED AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF SUNGLASSES THAT ARE DESIGNED TO MEET ALL OF MY REQUIREMENTS, WHILST ALSO BEING MADE OF MARINE PLASTIC TO HELP RECYCLE THESE PRODUCTS AND KEEP OUR OCEANS CLEAN.
We got to test out the Mylor Wrap Around Sunglasses, which came in a sleek all-black finish, with grey polarised lenses. The wrap-around design sits comfortably on your face, offering a little more coverage than say an aviator or wayfarer design, whilst also offering a more secure fit, ready for any adventure. Plus, they also have an anti-slip temple design for a better grip, making them perfect for activities such as running and sailing.
The Mylor Wrap Around Sunglasses are a medium build, making them ideal for most head sizes and shapes. I have quite a wide head, and found these were a little narrower than I’d usually go for, but I’m sure for most people, especially those that typically gravitate towards wrap-around style, these would be perfect. However, if you do find that they’re feeling a little tight, the frames are actually designed to be adjustable, so you just need to heat the arms with a hairdryer, and you can gently bend them out for a more comfortable fit. This is a great addition to the design, to make every pair fit you well!
I was glad to see that the sunglasses feature polarised UV400 lenses, which are necessary for protecting your eyes
from UV rays. Alongside this, the Polycarbonate+ lenses are designed to cut glare whilst also having a hydrophobic coating, so they’re perfect for any adventure, even those on snow and water! The glare reduction helps you maintain clear vision for a more comfortable experience, even in very bright situations. Plus, with the help of an anti-reflection coating on the inside of the lens, internal reflections are kept to a minimum to reduce distractions and help keep your vision sharp. Then, to help them remain super durable even for more extreme adventures, the lenses also have an outer anti-scratch coating to keep them looking fresh and clear for longer. Therefore, they are perfect for a whole range of activities to keep your
eyes protected, your vision clear, and you looking cool too!
One of the most interesting things about the Mylor Wrap Around Sunglasses is that the frame is made entirely from Waterhaul’s Traceable Marine Plastic™, which it has recovered from beaches and coastlines spanning the UK. Marine plastics cause significant environmental damage, from wildlife getting caught up in discarded fishing nets to microplastics making their way into the food chain. Therefore, Waterhaul are on a mission to reduce marine plastic by pre-purposing it into sunglasses frames. This adds another great aspect to the Mylor Wrap Around Sunglasses, because not only are they a stylish and well-made pair of sunglasses, they are also built in a sustainable way to protect the planet in the process. With each pair of sunglasses, you can also scan the QR code that comes with them, and it will show you where the Marine Plastic that went into making them was recovered from! According to Waterhaul, they have already recycled 96169kg of marine plastic from the UK coastline, and so with each purchase, it continues to make this possible.
Overall, the Mylor Wrap Around Sunglasses from Waterhaul are a wellbuilt, lightweight and stylish pair of sunglasses that are ready to accompany you on all your adventures this summer. With a high level of UV protection, lenses designed to keep your vision clear, and the whole design made by recycling marine plastics, they really are a great and affordable pair of sunglasses.
PROS:
- Recycled materials used in the frame design
- UV 400 Polarised lenses with anti-glare, anti-reflection and antiscratch coatings to help them perform at their best
- Stylish frame and wrap-around design for added coverage and secure fit
- Affordable price point, and comes with a circular lifetime warranty to repair or replace broken frames (They recycle those that cannot be fixed!)
CONS:
- The style sits a little narrow around the face due to the wraparound design, which might not be as comfortable for larger/ wider head sizes
https://waterhaul.co/products/towan-sunglasses
OUTDOOR
WATERHAUL TOWAN SUNGLASSES
WATERHAUL ARE A COMPANY DEDICATED TO TURNING WASTE MARINE PLASTIC POLLUTION INTO PURPOSEFUL PRODUCTS IN AN EFFORT TO CLEAN OUR OCEANS AND PROTECT OUR ECOSYSTEMS. ACROSS ITS PRODUCT RANGES, WATERHAUL RECOVERS AND RECYCLES MARINE PLASTICS, TAKING THINGS SUCH AS NETS, ROPES AND LINES THAT CAN BE LETHAL TO MARINE LIFE AND TURNING THEM INTO POLYMERS THAT CAN BE USED ACROSS THE FRAMES OF ITS EYEWEAR RANGES.
With a great purpose behind the company, we were super excited to put the Towan Sunglasses, from Waterhaul’s new Coastline range, to the test. The style is a classic rectangular shape, with the pair we tested out coming in a lovely raw grey-green frame with grey lenses. The frame shape and style is a great all-rounder that is sure to be a fan favourite, with the shape making it a versatile option for a whole range of head shapes. I have quite a large head, so I found this style was great for me, offering a good width across the lightweight frame, which ensured they didn’t dig in too much at the sides. However, if you find they don’t sit as comfortably as you’d like, the frame can actually be heated up with a hair dryer, allowing you to gently bend out the arms for a better and more personalised fit. Overall, I really liked the overall look and feel of the Towan Sunglasses and found the mix of the light frame and darker lenses added a really nice finish to my outfit.
The lenses within the Towan Sunglasses are polarised Polycarbonate+ lenses, which help to cut down on glare and deliver a clear view. The lenses have an anti-scratch coating on the outside and an anti-reflection coating on the inside of the lens to help reduce reflections so you can go about your adventure without distractions. I love that the lenses have a high level of UV protection with UV400+, which is perfect for protecting your eyes whilst you’re out in the sun. This makes the Towan Sunglasses perfect for summer adventures, including hiking, kayaking, and
even skiing, to cut down on glare and keep your eyes shaded from the sun.
The frames of the Towan Sunglasses are super interesting, especially the sage/ grey pair we got to try, because this colour comes from the original pigments of the fishing nets that have been recycled. As mentioned, Waterhaul recycles marine plastics and turns them into sunglasses frames, and so for the Towan frames, they are made from 100% Traceable Marine Plastic™, and so the frame colour depends on the source plastic that is used to create them. I think this is a great idea as it really highlights the use of recycled plastic in their design. Plus, as an added great touch, you can actually see where the waste plastic was recovered from by scanning the included QR code with each pair, providing a real example of how each pair is helping the environment. For Waterhaul, protecting the UK’s coastline is a key aspect of its operations, and so by purchasing a pair from their collections, you are also supporting the removal of marine plastic from beaches, helping to deliver a cleaner and better marine landscape for wildlife.
Ultimately, the Waterhaul Towan Sunglasses are an excellent pair that are super comfortable to wear, come in a nice natural colourway to give a nod to the recycled nature of the frame, and are designed to keep your eyes shaded all summer long. I love that they’re also available for such an affordable price point and even come with Waterhaul’s Circular Lifetime Warranty, which ensures that broken frames can be repaired or replaced free of charge, forever. This means that for the cost of one pair of sunglasses, you
are effectively getting a pair for life, and when they are no longer functional, they will be returned into Waterhaul’s recycling process to produce no excess waste!
If you’re looking for a new pair of sunglasses for the summer, be sure to check out the range of sunglasses from Waterhaul for a pair that looks great and is part of a mission to clean up coastal areas.
PROS:
- Comfortable and lightweight design ideal for a range of head sizes and shapes
- Frame made from recycled and traceable marine plastic
- Polarised UV400 lenses for clear vision, no glare and eye protection
- Affordable price point – and comes with a lifetime guarantee for repairing and replacing should they get broken
GRANGERS: THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR WEAR CLEANING TOOLS
£5.95 to £10.95
https://grangers.co.uk/
THE SUMMER IS FAST APPROACHING, AND THAT MEANS MANY OF US WILL BE VENTURING OUTSIDE FOR VARIOUS ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING HIKING AND CAMPING, WHERE WE CAN MAKE THE MOST OF THE WARMER WEATHER. FOR THIS, WE’RE PUTTING ON OUR HIKING BOOTS AND GRABBING A WATERPROOF JACKET BECAUSE YOU NEVER CAN TRUST BRITISH WEATHER TO STAY DRY! HOWEVER, WITH ALL THIS GREAT WATERPROOF GEAR, I’VE ALWAYS HAD ONE THOUGHT – HOW ARE YOU MEANT TO WASH THEM?
This is where Grangers comes in, offering a range of cleaning products perfect for keeping your outdoor and technical gear clean, odour-free, and as waterproof as they can be! We got to test out a range of products from Grangers, which included the Performance Wash (£7.50). The Performance Wash is the perfect gentle cleaner for waterproof and technical gear to keep it clean and fresh. You just pop half a capful of the wash into the detergent drawer of your washing machine as you usually would, and it will provide a gentle clean that removes all dirt and odour, whilst maintaining the existing waterproof nature of it. This is perfect for cleaning all outdoor gear, as I’ve always worried that regular detergents might make my waterproof clothing less waterproof in the long term. The Performance Wash just needs to be put on a 30°C wash (or follow the items’ washing instructions), and it will come out smelling clean and looking refreshed.
TRYING TO KEEP YOUR TRAINERS LOOKING BOX-FRESH IS ONE OF THE MAIN STRUGGLES WHEN IT COMES TO BUYING NEW SHOES. YOU’VE SPENT A FORTUNE ON NEW TRAINERS, AND ALL IT TAKES IS ONE SLIGHTLY WET AND MUDDY DAY FOR THEM TO BE COVERED IN DIRT AND LOOKING A LITTLE WORSE FOR WEAR. TO HELP KEEP YOUR TRAINERS LOOKING BRAND NEW (AND TO STOP YOU WORRYING ABOUT DIRT WHILST YOU’RE WEARING THEM), CHERRY BLOSSOM HAS DEVELOPED A RANGE OF SHOE CLEANING ESSENTIALS. WE GOT TO TEST OUT THE SNEAKER CLEANING KIT AND MIDSOLE REVIVER KIT, WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO KEEP YOUR TRAINERS LOOKING FRESH AND CLEAN FROM THE FIRST WEAR UNTIL THE LAST.
One of the great essentials kits Cherry Blossom offers is the Sneaker Cleaning Kit, which provides an all-in-one cleaning tool kit. The set comes with a 100ml Sneaker Cleaner gel, a brush and a cloth. Together, these offer reliable cleaning of your trainers with just a simple three-step process. To use the kit, you just clean off any loose dirt and then rub the gel into any marks or stains on the trainer using the brush. I will say, it helps to dampen the brush a little first, to help remove particularly hard spots of dirt. Then, once you’re satisfied you’ve removed as much of the marks and staining as possible, gently wipe off an excess gel using the sneaker cloth, and give your trainer a little rinse. All you have to do is then let them fully dry, and they’ll be looking crisp and brand new.
£194.00
COTTON CARRIER HYKER SLINGBAG FOR CAMERA
https://cottoncarrier.eu/products/new-hyker-slingbag-for-camera
DESIGNED FOR THE PHOTOGRAPHER ON THE GO, THE HYKER SLINGBAG FROM COTTON CARRIER IS THE PERFECT OPTION FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS WHO WANT QUICK ACCESS TO THEIR EQUIPMENT TO CAPTURE THE WORLD AROUND THEM AT A MOMENT’S NOTICE. THE BAG, MADE FROM PREMIUM MATERIALS, OFFERS AN ALL-AROUND USEFUL BAG SOLUTION WHERE YOU HAVE PLENTY OF SPACE TO STORE YOUR EQUIPMENT AND PERSONAL ITEMS IN A LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN THAT KEEPS YOUR CAMERA RIGHT ON YOUR FRONT FOR EASY ACCESS. .
The HYKER Slingbag offers a lovely monochrome bag that features a large, across-body strap that sits over your shoulder and then connects at the front with an added clip for additional support. The exterior feels high quality, with everything from the zips and pockets to the front Twist & Lock camera attachment panel designed for ease of use.
One of the most notable features of the bag is the front Twist & Lock camera attachment, which allows you to connect your camera directly to the front when wearing the bag. Your camera clips into Cotton Carrier’s patented Twist & Lock mechanism, so when you need your camera, you just twist and remove your camera from the bag, and to return it to the bag, you slot it in and twist. This provides a super secure hold for your camera, which is exactly what you need when you’re on the go. But instead of having to store your camera in the bag behind you, it remains on your front, ready to quickly access should a snapshot opportunity show up. To use the camera mount, you just have to attach the included Twist & Lock mechanism to your camera body. Plus, I like that the chest mount even has an attachable quick-release tether, which you can attach to your camera for added protection and prevent any accidental drops! However, this doesn’t mean that the bag itself is pointless – quite the opposite! The main section of the HYJER Slingbag offers a whole range of pockets and compartments to store extra
£39.99
https://provizsports.com/products/reflective-running-hydration-led-vest
SPORTS & FITNESS
PROVIZ REFLECTIVE RUNNING HYDRATION LED VEST
RUNNING IS SUPER POPULAR AT THE MOMENT, WITH SO MANY PEOPLE TAKING UP THE ACTIVITY AS A HOBBY TO STAY FIT. HOWEVER, FINDING TIME TO FIT IT INTO YOUR SCHEDULE CAN BE A PAIN, AND SO, MANY OF US ARE USED TO RUNNING IN THE EVENINGS OR EARLY MORNINGS WHEN IT CAN BE A LITTLE DARKER. THEREFORE, A REFLECTIVE VEST THAT CAN KEEP YOU VISIBLE IS AN ESSENTIAL ACCESSORY TO KEEP YOU SAFE WHILST OUT RUNNING IN THE DARK. .
We got to test out the Reflective Running Hydration LED Vest from Proviz, which has safety and functionality built into the design. The vest is made from a lightweight and flexible mix of nylon and spandex, which makes it feel virtually weightless when running. The vest features side waistband adjusters and front clips so that you can get it perfectly positioned and keep it in place even on long runs.
The vest features multiple zipped pockets, including a waterproof card and phone pocket, a shoulder key pocket and a large rear pocket. These provide ample space for your keys, a card, your phone, and some snacks (ideal for especially long runs), so that you can power through each run without worrying about your keys or phone falling out. The phone pocket even has a small hole at the bottom so you can plug in wired headphones, so you can listen to music whilst running without any cables getting in the way.
I was also super pleased to see that the front of the vest even has a water bottle pocket and comes with a 450ml soft water bottle to put in it. This means you can stay hydrated on your run with ease, and you don’t have to worry about carrying an additional water bottle, which might get in the way. The pocket is large enough to securely store the included water bottle and keep it in place even whilst running.
The safety elements of the vest are where it truly shines, as it has reflective sections, as well as LED lights to help illuminate your presence. The vest features REFLECT360 sections, which ensure maximum visibility from all angles. The front of the vest has a reflective panel on the front phone and card pocket, as well as on the shoulder by the key pocket. Then on the back, there is a large reflective cross shape and two parallel bars across the shoulders. However, one of my favourite additions is that the vest comes with three LED lights: two in white that clip onto the front of the vest, and a red one that you attach to the back. These provide you with vital illumination so that cars and other road traffic can clearly see you even in the darkest of conditions.
Overall, the Proviz Reflective Running Hydrating LED Vest is a great and affordable running vest option where comfort and functionality have been combined with innovative safety features. From the range of zipped pockets to the soft yet quick-drying material, it’s the perfect accessory to help support your running and take on larger runs.
PROS:
- Flexible, breathable and adjustable vest
- Comes with 2 white and 1 red LED lights for added illumination
- Reflective panels for easy visibility in the dark
- Large water bottle pocket and include 450ml soft water bottle
- Affordable price point
(Smoke Edition) £224.99
https://uk.arccosgolf.com/products/smart-sensors
ARCCOS SMART SENSORS
WITH THE WEATHER GETTING WARMER, THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME THAN TO GET OUT TO THE GOLF COURSE AND PLAY A ROUND WITH SOME FRIENDS. HOWEVER, IF YOU’RE ANYTHING LIKE ME, THEN YOU’RE A BIT USELESS WHEN IT COMES TO GOLF AND ARE CONSTANTLY BEING SHOWN UP BY YOUR FRIENDS. THEREFORE, I WAS SUPER INTRIGUED BY THE ARCCOS SMART SENSORS, WHICH PROVIDE REAL-TIME DATA OF YOUR GOLFING PERFORMANCE TO HELP YOU IMPROVE.
The Arccos Smart Sensors are a range of 16 sensors that you twist into the end of your clubs. The Smart Sensors are then linked with the Arccos app and will provide detailed shottracking data and performance insights to highlight strengths and areas of improvement. I love how easy the Smart Sensors are to set up and connect with your app, and then they provide a surprising amount of data about your performance, taking into consideration things like the course layout, elevation, wind, temperature and even humidity. It does this using GPS data from the Arccos app and its mapped course database. These metrics really help to provide unique feedback based on your specific golfing conditions and landscape. In fact, the Smart Sensors use Arccos’s AI-powered analytics through the Arccos App,
to provide AI-powered insights and strategy recommendations based on over 1.5 billion shots, as well as your tendencies gathered across your use of the sensors, course layout, wind and elevation.
The Smart Sensors use Arccos’ Smart Club Distances measurement to show your average and optimal distances for each club based on actual on-course performance. This is ideal for understanding the amount of power you
need for each distance, to better assess how you tackle courses in future. The Smart Sensors, then, feature Strokes Gained Insights, which is where it gives you in-depth strengths and weaknesses in your performance. The insights take into consideration your target handicap to offer real feedback on how to improve the overall quality of your game. The feedback from the Smart Sensors is super detailed, but be ready to be humbled, as the sensors
are designed to help you improve, so they will highlight every aspect of your performance that is weak to help you make better decisions when it comes to playing a round of golf in the future! To view your stats and a full breakdown of your performance, you just have to look at the Arccos app, which covers every shot, every club and every round you play, which can be presented in a range of ways to help you really focus in on areas you want to improve. I have to say, with the Arccos Smart Sensors in your clubs, it feels a bit like a cheat code, offering invaluable insight into your performance, to help you improve and tackle each shot – so you don’t make a fool of yourself in front of your friends. In fact, the Smart Sensors are so welltrusted that they’re the official game tracker for the PGA Tour, and are used by thousands of golfers around the world to track their performance so they can play smarter and lower their scores with every hole they play.
I will note that using the Arccos Smart Sensors does come with a membership that needs to be renewed. Whilst the initial purchase comes with a year’s membership, the membership then requires an ongoing Arccos subscription ($199.99/yr) to allow you to keep using the Arccos system and use the Smart Sensors. This does add an ongoing cost to the Smart Sensors; however, with the renewal of your membership each year, you do receive an additional 5 new sensors, which are designed to replace any that no longer
course database, featuring mapped GPS data for 40,000+ courses worldwide through the Arccos app. The Smart Laser Rangefinder factors in all these external factors, to then offer the smartest way for you to personally tackle each shot. This innovative addition makes the Smart Laser Rangefinder so much more than a distance measurement, but instead it’s a nifty bit of tech specifically designed to enhance your performance.
The Smart Laser Rangefinder pairs with the Arccos app to sync distances and enable advanced features, offering a handy tool that will help change the way you play every hole. I love how easy it is to use, and that you only need an active Arccos Rangefinder subscription to use it. Instead, it’s a standalone golf laser rangefinder well suited to help you see distance and the best shots possible. However, using the Smart Laser Rangefinder alongside things like the Arccos’ Smart Sensors would provide a super in-depth view of your performance, allowing you to track shot data and performance with the sensors.
Overall, if you love a round of golf and are looking to not only get more insight into the distances and clubs required for each shot but also the environmental factors that could cause your ball to go astray, then the Arccos Smart Laser Rangefinder is a great option. As a premium device, with additional value unlocked through the Arccos subscription, it’s a super handy gadget to have in your golf bag, to enhance your performance and get handy feedback to help you tackle every hole with as much information as possible.
PROS:
- High accuracy yard measurement – both for straight line and plays like
- Factors in slopes and environmental factors for personalised course conditions
- AI insights to help you play each hole in the most effective way possible
- Comes with a handy carry case, but is also magnetic to easily attach to a golf cart or bag
CONS:
- High price point, but a worthy investment for the high level of detailed feedback you get on each hole and its conditions
TOYS & GAMES
CANDYCAR ROADWORKS
£29.99 https://www.littleconcepts.co.uk/ collections/roadworks-by-candylab
BRINGING TOGETHER THE WORLDS OF PHYSICS AND ENGINEERING, CANDYCAR ROADWORKS PROVIDES FLEXIBLE, MODULAR ROADBUILDING PLAYSETS THAT LET KIDS JUMP, SPIN AND RACE CARS ACROSS A RANGE OF CAR TRACKS. WE GOT TO TEST OUT THE TWOLANE STUNT JUMP, ALONGSIDE ONE OF THE TOONS CAR COLLECTIONS, WHICH OFFERS A FUN AND EXCITING JUMP TO SEE HOW FAR YOU CAN FLY A CAR AND HIT A TARGET.
The Two Lane Stunt Jump (£29.99) is one of the full starter playsets that is ready to build and play with straight from the box. The set comes with 4 tracks, a barrier and 6 bone links to build the jump. This then connects with the 7 scaffolding pieces to form a freestanding jump that is ready to be used. However, for extra fun, the set even comes with a ring of fire, which you can place at the end of the ramp to launch the included TOONS Stuntvil car through. The assembly of the track is fairly simple, and the set comes with a guide to provide step-by-step instructions on how to put it together. Each piece of the set is well designed and feels durably made, which is ideal when cars are being thrown down the stunt jump at speed!
I was also super impressed to see that the box itself can be used with the jump because there is a pop-out bullseye in the
side of the box. This means you can line up your jump and see how much force you need to add to help your car jump through the ring of fire and then reach the bullseye. I was excited to see that the Stunt Jump is designed with STEM in mind, but in a fun and active way that encourages kids to explore ideas of physics and gravity while still being accessible. This makes the set not just a fun activity, but one that is helping support the development of young minds into the world of STEM.
Alongside the Stunt Jump, we also got to test out a range of the CandyCar TOONS cars. The set we tested was the Rust Patrol 4-Car Assortment Pack (£29.99), which offers a range of mini cars that can be used with the Stunt Jump. Each car has been thoughtfully designed, with the box providing a little backstory on the cars. The cars range slightly in size and design, offering kids the chance to race the cars to see which shapes and weights are better for
flying further. I like that the TOONS cars are a collectable item, providing ongoing interest and exploration into the roadworks sets.
Much like the edition of new cars, the Roadwork’s sets are actually designed to work with the whole set of starter packs, add-on kits and expansion packs. Each pack features a large letter of either P (full playset), A (add-on kit), or X (expansion packs). This is super ideal for parents to know which sets are the best to buy, not only as the first set, but for future expansions, so you know which ones they likely already have. Each of the sets connects together, offering a complete Roadwork set-up that could feature circuits, loops, banks and bridges, and then can be added to with various track expansions. This keeps the sets super fun and can continually be built upon, offering vital construction and engineering-themed play.
If you are looking for a fun way to incorporate science, technology, engineering and maths into your kids’ playtime, then the CandyCar Roadworks sets offer a variety of opportunities to explore these ideas in a fun and accessible way. Each set is super easy to build, and the collection of cars will have kids looking to expand their collections. This would make the perfect present for any kid who loves science or just wants a fun way to race cars down a track!
PROS:
- Easy-to-assemble kits that are ideal for kids to put together
- STEM-focused activity that is still fun and accessible
- Durable construction with great detail across the pieces
- Great range of cars, which can be bought as a bundle with the packs
- Can join with other kits on the Roadworks set for endless building and testing fun
Available now at Little Concepts & Co - littleconcepts.co.uk
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Copy Editor Carley Fallows hello@thegadgethead.com
Lead Designer Adam Knights
Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com
Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com
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