The Review Smiths - Issue 45

THE

Issue 45 August 2024

Review Smiths

Happy August Everyone, We are over the Summer holidays hump, love it or hate it, it is exhausting and disorienting, it feels like it’s been Sunday for the last three weeks, the only clue to what day it is, is whether Eastenders is on. On top of that we have started potty training our 3-year-old because, well, life just wasn’t stressful enough.

So, whilst we wait for the ultimate potty-training gadget to be invented, I’m thinking a sensor that lets you know a wee is incoming, so your carpet isn’t polka dotted with pee patches, we have had plenty of usual and fun things in to review.

A few stand outs included a comprehensive tool kit to help you repair your technology, taking a swipe at our “fast fashion” culture of replacing before repairing. We have the Vivobarefoot Jungle ESC boots which are the Marmite of the shoe world, you must see them to discover which side you are one. We also have a Soda Stream which I have utilised to make Mojitos that I am drinking as I write (I might have mentioned it’s been a tough few weeks).

Alongside those we also have stuff for the audiophiles, gym bunnies, coffee lovers, influencers, photographers, chefs, cyclists and even the kidlings. Enjoy, and see you all in September for our next edition.

Editor and Chief

Managing Director Alex Hilling-Smith Writer Dave Hicks

Editor Emma Hilling-Smith Writer Peter Hilling

For all media related enquiries please contact us at info@thereviewsmiths.com For Advertising Enquiries 0208 191 8472 www.thereviewsmiths.com

CONTENTS

04. Millican Core Roll Pack 06. Topeak PLUG ’n TOOL mountain PRO 08. Ifixit Repair Business Toolkit 10. KitchenAid Go Cordless Chopper 12. 70mai Dash Cam A510 14. Yoto Mini 16. Yoto Player 18. Conqueco Portable Espresso Maker 20. Tomtom Go Navigator 7" 22. Vivobarefoot Jungle ESC 24. Trackements Proper Tomato Ketchup 290g 26. Shokz OpenFit Air 28. Shokz OPENSWIM PRO 30. Wacaco Minipresso GR2 32. Datacolor SpyderX2 Ultra 34. SodaStream Duo 36. Fosi Audio ZA3 38. Gaomon WH851 tablet 40. Rock Fall Silt Neoprene Safety Wellington 42. Ifi Audio Go Blu 44. Juicyretreats Ultra 8000 S4 Self Feeding Slow Juicer 46. ISOtunes Advance 48. ISOtunes Caliber 50. Om Tough TG-7 52. tonies® 54. Primal Magnetic Mini Gym Timer 56. Godox Lux Master 58. Godox X3 Trigger 60. BAM Leam Organic Cotton Cargo Shorts 61. Orbitkey Star Wars Key Organizer Death Star 61. Wacaco Exagram Pro Scale

Pros Internal laptop sleeve (up to 17") and stash pocket External front pocket and key loop All aluminium hardware - no plastic Clip-on bike-light loop Made from 100% recycled PET outer and lining fabrics Vegan friendly Cons No ventilation on back panel Grab handle could be bigger and padded Lacks organisation pockets

A beautiful looking everyday bag that’s just lacking a few basic features for us.

Millican Core Roll Pack 20L The Core Roll Pack 20L from Millican is an attractive bag that comes in four colours, Sunset, Ocean (the version we received), Night and Forest and as the name suggests it holds 20L, it has been designed as an everyday travel bag ideal for the commute or daytrips. It has an internal laptop sleeve (up to 17”) and stash pocket this helps keep your laptop stable and protected whilst travelling, however there is no additional padding at the bottom so its worth being mindful when putting it down. It measures up at H 50cm x W 29cm x D 13cm, and weighs just 600g when empty, the outer and lining fabric is 100% recycled polyester (RPET) and the yarn made from post-consumer waste allowing you to feel good about your purchase, it features a PU1000 back coating, has a C0 DWR treatment – PFC-free and is Bluesign approved, GRS certified and PETA vegan certified.

The outer is water resistant and feels durable enough, the padded adjustable shoulder straps feature aluminium hardware and are comfortable, but a sternum strap would be good, particularly if you are commuting on the bike.

There isn’t any ventilation on the back panelling so things can also get a bit sweaty on warmer days. The aluminium hook closure at the top works as a compression strap, keeping the profile low and your belonging secure. There is an outer pocket for gear you want to keep close to hand and a key attachment loop and underneath the pocket there is a clip-on bike light loop. There is a carry handle at the top on the bag which could do with being a little larger for bigger hands and maybe a bit of padding would make things more comfortable when carrying heavy loads.

The Core Roll Pack is one for the minimalists, it looks beautiful and keeps the storage options to a minimum, it could do with a few added features for comfort, but it is still a functional bag as it is.

£75 For more information on the Millican Core Roll Pack 20L click here

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Topeak PLUG ’n TOOL mountain PRO If your bike needs repairs the last thing you need is to be digging around in a bag for the tools you need or worse, realising you have left it at home, Topeak have come up with a clever design to ensure your gear is always close to hand. This set of three tools are easily accessible and hidden into your handlebar making it a great tool companion for mountain biking, the kits come in a 3.5mm plug insertion tool for tubeless tire repairment and a full set of 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 10mm hex bits, T25 Torx bit, a number two Phillips bit for bike maintenance, and chain tool with chain hook for all speed chains.

It is worth noting that the PLUG 'n TOOL is designed to be used on handlebars with round ends only and should not be used on bars with other shaped ends, it needs a minimum of 128mm in length and a diameter range ø18mm - ø21.2mm. The chain tool is compatible with single and multi-speed chains up to 13 speed, including Sram Flattop chains and Campagnolo hollow pin chains. Theres a ring pull knob that makes it easy to remove the tools and they are made from a robust hardened steel and engineering grade polymer, there are two different bungs so you can get a secure fit, they can rattle a little but its not really an issue and certainly doesn’t damage the tools.

The tools can be a little difficult to get out if your hands are cold or wet, or you have sausage fingers, but it just takes a little time to tease them out, its also important to ensure they are correctly fitted back inside the handlebars are they can wobble loose. All things considered if you have the compatible handlebars, and not everyone will, it’s a clever way to ensure that you always have the right tools with you in case you need them.

£69

A steady and reliable piece of kit For more information on the Topeak PLUG ’n TOOL mountain PRO click here

Pros Stows away in the handlebars All the tools you need Durable Good value for money Cons Won’t be compatible with some handbars Can be fiddly to extract individual tools

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Ifixit Repair Business Toolkit

As technology has moved on at a rate of knots the act specifically, it comes in a super organised padded of repairing your belongings instead of replacing them messenger bag, making it easy to transport and fast to is pretty rare, however with increasing drive towards locate the items you need. There is a collection of opening sustainability more people are looking for help fixing tools, to gain access and the new Anti-Clamp and FixMat their things. The Ifixit Repair Business Toolkit is a whole gives you a station to work at, the mat is magnetic and has repair shop in one bag, this is a professional-level toolkit handy integrated sorting bins. There is everything you and is absolutely chock-a-block with gear, it comes with need to Pro Tech Toolkit, Marlin Screwdriver Set - 15 Precision solve a multitude problem and tidy up afterwards with Screwdrivers, Clampy - Anti-Clamp, FixMat, Digital Dust Blower, Anti-Static Brush, iFixit Screen Saver, and Multimeter, Digital Caliper, iOpener, Portable Anti-Static Microfiber Cleaning Cloths.

Mat, 6x iFixit Opening Tool, 2x Carbon Fiber Spudger, 2x Whether you’re a professional or not there is a forum Halberd Spudger, 6x iFixit Opening Picks, iFixit Battery on the Ifixit website that claims to be the worlds largest Blocker, Plastic Cards, Pointed ESD Safe Tweezers, Nylon online repair community, its here you get tips and answers Tipped Tweezers, Heavy-Duty Suction Cups (Pair), on your repair challenges. The kit comes with a lifetime Anti-Static Brush, Dust Blower, Precision Utility Knife, guarantee and all the tools feel durable making it easy to Polyimide Tape, Tesa 61395 Tape - 2 mm Width, iFixit believe that it will last a long time. It’s not a cheap kit but Screen Saver Device Cleaning Spray, Microfiber Cleaning you get what you pay for, it is a good quality kit that will Cloths, iFixit Skill Badge, iFixit Lapel Pin, Carabiner, help not just professionals but any repair enthusiast.

Magnetizer / Demagnetizer, Self-Repair Manifesto and iFixit Messenger Bag, phew!

This kit has been designed for technology repairs For more information on the Ifixit Repair Business Toolkit click here

This kit can help us move away from disposable technology and learn to repair the products we already own.

Pros Comprehensive collection of tools High quality tools Portable Versatile £274.99 Organised tool bag Cons Price may put some off

9

KitchenAid Go Cordless Chopper I don’t know about you guys but I’ve never had the luxury of a kitchen big enough to make me not consider power cords a constant pain in the backside! From having to tuck them in behind everything to trying to move a cord that has no intention of bending in the right direction out of your way and in to a safe position, they are an irritation I could do without! So, when I saw this cordless chopper, my thoughts immediately went to how much easier my compact little kitchen will be with this in it. And as my partner will tell you, anything to calm me down in the kitchen is a good thing!

Let’s put the fact that it’s cordless aside for now. Other than that, it’s pretty much like most automatic food choppers out there. The bowl is a generously-sized 1.18L container and the blades are stainless steel and multi-purpose. There are 2 standard speeds of ‘chop’ and puree’ and there is also a ‘pulse’ mode to vary that texture you may need. The lid has an unbuilt drizzle tray so that you can add liquid without stopping and there is also a whisk accessory, giving you another way to prep food. Fairly standard stuff but, there’s a reason these things are included, you don’t need much else to do most of what you’ll use this for!

On to the fact that this thing is cordless. The 12V battery is good for about 25 minutes before it needs recharging and takes about 3 hours to fully charge up via a USB-C cable provided in the box. The battery is also compatible with KitchenAid’s other cordless devices so you can just swap it out when you need to use something else. I mean, let’s face it, you’re not going to be using this non-stop for 25 minutes (you’ll probably have evaporated whatever’s in there!) so that ease of use is going to come in pretty handy.

The fact that this is cordless wins it for me – anything that can do the job more safely and with less hassle has to be worth it!

For more information on the KitchenAid Go Cordless Chopper click here

£179

Pros Battery fits and works in other KitchenAid products No cord!

Easy to clean, especially without a cord Decent sized bowl Cons Only 25 minute life means if you’re going on a major cooking sesh, you’re gonna need more batteries!

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Pros Great detail Zoom function on things such as license plates and road signs for added clarity

Road story filter 140° field of view Cons Need to purchase extra attachments to get the full capability out of it

70mai Dash Cam A510

As with most recording devices, dash-cams have come on in leaps and bounds in recent years. Gone are the days when we’re having to squint while watching the latest ‘Cops Chase Bad Guys!’ TV show to actually tell what’s going on (Whatever are the narrators going to do for work now?) and maybe, just maybe, we’ll get some actual footage of ethereal goings-on that doesn’t look like an ink stain travelling across the lens that can be dubiously interpreted however whoever watches it wishes.

But I digress. The point of the above is to highlight the quality of the footage that the A510 provides. The camera records in 5-megapixel 1944P HDR with a 90% low-light image capability enhancement, meaning it should capture every detail in crisp clarity, no matter the lighting conditions. It also has dual channel recording, allowing you to have a rear view on your recordings that you can watch back picture-on-picture, giving you the full story, front and back.

On top of this, it comes equipped with ADAS, advising you of alerts in real-time with a vocal warning including a forward collision alert, front vehicle start alert and a lane departure alert. GPS is also included, giving precise location information to complement the footage, ensuring the veracity of any footage you capture.

Of course, as with all tech these days, there is an accompanying app which allows you to adjust the settings and download footage (which is very useful as the viewing screen on the dashcam itself is a rather modest 2” IPS – presumably to help prevent people being distracted while driving!) as well as having capacity for a micro-SD card enabling you to record up to 256Gb-worth of recordings. There are additional features such as parking surveillance and 4G LTE connection for remote surveillance via your phone but you will need to purchase extra gear to enable these.

A good starting point for a fairly comprehensive dash cam with enough features to work well enough without the purchased extras.

£101.99

For more information on the 70mai Dash Cam A510 click here

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Pros Create playlists with your kids No ads or inappropriate content The blank cards are cheap for what you can achieve with them

Keeps children away from your far more delicate devices!

Cons Honestly can’t see any, it’s a great little device that has had plenty of thought and care put in to it with kids firmly in mind.

£59.99

A great, easy-to-use child-friendly audio unit that you can tailor to suit as well as having the ability to get your kids directly involved with that process. Win-win!

For more information on the Yoto Mini click here

Yoto Mini Nowadays, streaming TV shows and music is common-place and, as is the case with children across generations, they all want to get involved with whatever the grown-ups are doing, at least until they start hitting those awkward teenage years anyway! But, as parents, we’re not always keen to give up our toys to those that can sometimes be a little less than delicate with them, not to mention all the hoops you need to jump through to make sure they can’t access any content they’re not supposed to.

So, the Yoto Mini is a device that helps to bridge the gap between inquisitive young minds and the technology of today. Included in it, you get white noise, sleep sounds, sleep radio and an alarm that can even double up to let kids know when it’s OK to get up, ensuring you can at least get a little bit more sleep in the morning before they go waking you up! There is a Bluetooth connection option but the real strength lies in the cards that you slot in to the device. You can purchase cards with pre-loaded audio stories or music, all available on the site but, even better is the fact that you can purchase blank cards and create your own! Each blank card can have up to 100 mp3 tracks on it with a 100mb max size (for context, Yellow Submarine by The Beatles is only just over 6mb) and you can even record your own audio if you wish. As well as that, the blank cards can be drawn on, further inspiring your kids.

The Yoto Mini has the capability of linking headphones either wirelessly or wired and the big chunky buttons are ideal for kiddy hands. The rugged design ensures it can survive a knock or two and the sound output means it can be used at bedtime without headphones getting in the way of a good nights sleep.

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Yoto Player We have reviewed the Yoto Mini which acts like an mp3 player for kids. Well, this version is more like a mini-stereo unit with a little less portability. Think of it as ‘My First Stereo’ and you’re not too far off!

This one, just like its mini counterpart, makes use of cards to provide an easy, kid-friendly way to choose what they want to listen to. There are over a thousand titles to choose from, purchasable on their website and, of course, you can create your own cards, adding whatever you wish to them, including your own audio recordings if you wish. To get started, you will need to connect to the Yoto App but once you’re set up, other than updates, there is no need to remain connected. The Player has the ability to hold over 600 hours-worth of audio (the cards act as triggers to play content already on the player) and the battery can last for 24 hours so if used all day, you should only need to charge it once every couple of days at most.

The big, easy to grab buttons make using the Yoto Player a breeze for small hands and it comes with other handy features such as an ambient night-light with a choice of 8 different colours and a room temperature gauge. These functions are controlled via the app giving you, the parent, ultimate control over what your child is able to do with the unit but also providing a great degree of control for them, giving them a level of independence that you can manage.

The app also gives you access to kid-friendly radio stations, practical things such as audio for controlling how long they need to brush their teeth, a homework timer and many other things to help set good habits without the need for you to constantly badger them! It’s a great tool all round and an easy to use aide to parenting.

Pros A great range of functions available on the app Acoustically engineered stereo sound Wired and wireless headphone capability Night light and ‘OK to wake’ function help your sleep!

Cons Just as with the Mini, I can’t find or think of any faults with this, it’s just a great concept well realised.

£89.99

As Duplo™ is to LEGO™, so is the Yoto Player to whatever device us grown-ups use to play audio on plus it helps develop independence for your children, well worth a purchase!

For more information on the Yoto Player click here

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Conqueco Portable Espresso Maker

In last months issue, I reviewed a manual Espresso maker (not from Conqueco). This time round we have one that does it all by itself, no need for a flask full of hot water, hooray! Whether you’re out in the wild on a long hiking trek, camping or stopping for a bit of a lunch break, a good espresso can give you the boost you need to keep going, not to mention they’re delicious! Funnily enough however, you don’t get many coffee ships or barrista’s where most people go for hiking or camping, at least not in my experience.

This espresso maker clocks in about 2/3’s the size of a hot water flask and is made out of an aluminium alloy so it’s relatively light for what it is at just under a Kg (the Blue Peter fan in me has to say “Just less than a bag of sugar!” here…) and easily transportable. To work it, you simply place a pod in the base, screw it in to place, fill with either 50ml or 80ml (for a double) of cold water and press the button, letting it do its stuff. You also have the option of using your own pre-ground beans or favourite blend through their ground coffee bowls. After about 3 minutes, your drink is good to go and the 15-18 bars of pressure make sure your coffee comes out perfect, complete with smooth crema on top.

You can get about 4-5 hot 50ml espresso’s out of this before you need to charge it up again and this takes about 3 hours or so using the USB-C cable provided. There’s no wall socket included so if you plan to take this in to the office for example, make sure you have a wall adaptor for charging it up. Of course this is no problem if you’re in the car with a USB-C socket but if you don’t have these, don’t forget your USB converter! You can also make coldbrew espresso’s, greatly extending the battery life or pour hot water in before compressing, saving time on the heating process. It’s a great brew either way.

Pros Espresso on the go Good, silky smooth brew Hot Coffee in a pinch USB-C charging

£109.66

Makes a great, hot espresso for when you’re out and about.

For more information on Conqueco Portable Espresso Maker click here

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Tomtom Go Navigator 7" Despite mobile phones getting more and more advanced, allowing apps such as Google Maps to double up as your route finder on journeys, none of them really provide as much information as an actual dedicated SatNav, not to mention the screen size can be too small to see clearly on some models and can prove problematic if you don’t have a navigator with you, and as for getting interrupted by a phone call while you’re at a crucial junction… A SatNav is devoted to one thing and one thing only and TomTom have been doing this long enough to have a fair idea of what they’re doing!

The Go Navigator has a nice, large 7” screen for starters, giving you very clear images and making it easier for those of us with cursed ‘fat fingers’ that smaller screens can’t seem to handle to operate it easily. As well as this, it also has voice recognition so you can just tell it what you want it to do and not be distracted from the road as much as you would be otherwise. The Go Navigator comes with a years’ free trial of speed camera alerts, live fuel prices, EV charging points, weather info and live off-street parking info so, if you travel extensively, this is quite a lot of helpful information. If you’re happy with what you had, it will cost you £34.99 for a years’ subscription after your free trial or you can pay monthly if your next year isn’t full of travel.

Without all those handy bits of information it’s still a useful device if you choose not to subscribe after the free year.

The maps update via WiFi (you can just connect your mobile via Bluetooth and hotspot from that so it’s on the go) and the TomTom Traffic subscription is included with no subscription renewal cost so you’ll still have up-to-date road maps and traffic alerts.

£239.99

An easily viewable and easy to use SatNav with all the bells and whistles – well, for the first year at least!

Pros Big screen Free years’ trial of useful features 3D Buildings on the map Magnetic mount for ease to removing and installing

Cons Many of the features on the subscription are available free elsewhere so may be of limited use after the free year.

For more information on the Tomtom Go Navigator 7" click here

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Vivobarefoot Jungle ESC Mens Now, I don’t know about any of you people reading this but, unfortunately, I’m not likely going to get to a jungle any time soon. But don’t let that put you off, it’s not like the ‘Jungle Police’ are going to come along and demand you remove them if you wear them elsewhere! These boots are suitable for any rough terrain environment and have been designed with exactly that in mind.

Firstly, they’re constructed from recycled, synthetic materials and, as far as the manufacturers can tell, they’re veganfriendly (a few of the components such as dyes for colouring haven’t been fully confirmed as vegan-friendly yet) so that’s a plus point to begin with. The funky patterning on the boots (which I really like!) is all to aid in breathability and flexibility. They have been designed to keep out detritus and moisture yet retain the ability to dry quickly and to efficiently drain any moisture from the inside. They’re also extremely flexible, allowing you to move naturally – a thing that Vivobarefoot are always aiming for in all their footwear and succeeding at here.

The outsole is from Michelin and has a 2.5mm base with a 7mm lug height for a total of less than a centimetre so it’s no wonder you have such a freedom of movement. Combined with the flexibility I mentioned earlier, this makes for really secure footing whether you’re actually traipsing through a jungle or if you’re amongst rocky terrain. The heel treads are also quite emphasised, giving you a great ‘braking’ system if you end up slipping backwards on treacherous terrain. Going back to the jungle theme, they’ve also made efforts to ensure the tongue is secured high up, preventing creepy crawlies and vegetation from getting in. And, to be doubly sure, the inside is brightly coloured so you can easily spot if anything has crept in there overnight, potentially saving you from some nasty unpleasantness first thing in the morning.

Pros Made from recycled materials Extremely flexible ‘Barefoot’ feeling Look really cool!

Cons Despite how good they look, you’re kind of overspending if you’re not planning to use them as intended.

£220

A very well-designed set of rough-terrain boots that may make you finally get round to that jungle trip you’ve been promising yourself For more information on the Vivobarefoot Jungle ESC Mens click here

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Trackements Proper Tomato Ketchup 290g Perfect for BBQ season, this is the King of Ketchups. Simple, hearty and no nonsense, it is made with the juiciest Mediterranean tomatoes and a subtle blend of spices for a perfectly balanced flavour. It’s brilliant in a bacon or sausage butty, with hot, fluffy chips or any barbecued meat.

£3.85

For more information on the Tracklements Proper Tomato Ketchup Sauce click here

Shokz OpenFit Air We have reviewed plenty of Shokz bone conductivity headphones in the past, so we were excited to see what the open ear design has to offer. Open ear is exactly what it says on the tin, your ears remain open so you can continue to hear the world around, making the ideal for cycling or running, you can even chat to your mate whilst keeping the motivation up you’re your favourite tunes.

These earbuds use Shokz DirectPitch tech, for reduced sound leakage, there are specially designed tuning holes that are there to keep your tunes clear and natural. These compact devices are packed with a custom dynamic driver unit, a composite diaphragm and a dynamic Range Control (DRC), the EQ levels adapt in real-time, and you can personalize your sound in the Shokz App with four preset EQ modes. This all adds up to really impressive sound quality, we were surprised how something so small could kick out well balance tones with a healthy dose of bass.

The OpenFit Air come in three colours Black, White and Pink, they weigh 8.7g and have a soft silicone outer with an earhook design this creates a snug, wobble-free fit, you can even wear glasses over them. They remain in place even with some vigorous exercise and remain comfortable for long periods of time. The battery life is good with one full charge providing up to six hours play back and up to 28hours with the charging case, just 10 minutes charge provides two hours playback, so you never have to wait long for your tunes.

Other features include the four integrated microphones allow you to clearly take calls or activate your devices smart assistant, it has an IP54 rating making it sweat and water resistant, it offers multipoint pairing with Bluetooth 5.2 and will simultaneously syncs with two devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets, on Android, iOS, or Windows. The touch controls can be a bit fiddly, but I always find it tricky to remember what does what, you can customise buttons in the app to make things more intuitive.

Excellent open ear headphones, enjoyable sound with a comfortable fit whilst maintaining awareness of the world around you.

£199

For more information on the Shokz OpenFit Air click here

Pros Open air design Comfortable Up to 28hours battery and fast charge Sleek design Premium build quality Cons Touch controls can be fiddly Pricey but worth it 27

Shokz OPENSWIM PRO For too long the sports tech has been generously handed out to cyclist and runners whilst the swimmers had to make do with manual lap counters and that big old clock on the wall, thankfully things have caught up a bit and we have awesome gear like the Shokz OPENSWIM PRO. These earphones have a durable IP68 waterproof rating, which means they can be submerged up to 2 meters for 2 hours whilst seamlessly playing your tunes, they come in two colours Grey and Red. The sound is delivered via PremiumPitch 2.0+ bone conduction technology this keeps sound leakage low, and the ears remain open, the sound quality is good, its worth remembering you will always lose some detail with bone conductivity but its still holds up well. The dual noise reduction technologies, ENC, and DNS, intelligently adapt to your environment to reduce ambient noise and echoes for clear calls.

The open-ear design means you can hear the world around you, listen out for instructions and be aware of the people near you keeping you safe whilst at the same time enjoying music, podcasts, motivational speeches, whatever you like.

One thing we love it the choice of Bluetooth connection or built in MP3 that has 32GB of memory (that’s about 8,000 songs), letting you load it up with your favourite audio and disconnecting from your phone entirely (please note you can only listen to the mp3 underwater as the water will block the Bluetooth signals).

You get nine hours play time on Bluetooth mode and six hours with the MP3, the quick charge means just 10 minutes gives you three hours of listening time. They remain comfortably snug with flexible, ergonomically shaped ear hooks and a nickel-titanium alloy headband and its not just suitable for swimming, you can take it running, cycling or just popping to the shops. However, as they have been designed for the pool it might come as no surprise that it seamlessly integrates with swim goggles and swim caps as well as helmets, and other sports gear, making a good choice for training and triathlon.

There are physical buttons allow you to navigate music and calls with simple key combinations, it can take a bit of getting used to but it easier to workout with instant feedback, especially with wet and potentially cold hands.

The OPENSWIM PRO are a great choice for swimmers and active types, the sound is enjoyable and the headphones are comfortable, the added choice of mp3 makes them even more versatile.

A great set of headphones for swimmers looking to enjoy their audio whilst remaining aware of their surroundings. in with most desk set-ups.

For more information on the Shokz OPENSWIM PRO click here

£169

Pros Bluetooth and MP3 option Plays underwater Open ear for awareness Fast charge, up to 9 hours battery life Secure fit Physical buttons

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£49.90

Pros Espresso on the go Easy to use Completely manual – no power source required Small and compact Cons A rough guide fill-line in the basket would have been useful, especially for those of us that can’t weigh out 8 grams of coffee grind while out and about. Pre-weigh at home and store in little bags perhaps?

Wacaco Minipresso GR2 I love a good coffee just as much as the next person but, when I’m off on a trip somewhere, I inevitably end up making a batch, shoving it in a flask and sipping on it several hours after making it. As you can imagine, it doesn’t quite taste the same as it does when freshly brewed, taking away some of that magic. Bringing a whole cafetiere or coffee machine is obviously utterly impractical so my taste buds were absolutely delighted to give this minipresso GR2 from Wacaco a go – plus it meant I could actually enjoy a full-flavoured espresso while out and about, not something I would normally be able to indulge in.

It's a compact little thing (appropriate for making espresso’s really) that works very easily. You put your grounds in to the basket (this one is adjustable so you can have from 8-12 grams of coffee – great if you want that double hit!), pat them down and screw the basket back in place. Then you pour in your hot water (you’ll still need to bring that flask!), extend the pump from the side, give it 8 pumps or so to pressurise and keep on going until you have the desired amount of coffee in the little cup provided. Sit back and enjoy! There’s a host of other things included that make life easier such as a brush to make sure grounds don’t get caught up in the thread and a funnel for when you pour them in as well as a scoop and drip tray. Furthermore, there’s no power requirements, the whole thing is manually operated so will always work and you also get that lovely crema on top, making for a smashing little espresso.

The GR2 is made partly with wheat-based polymers rather than plastic wherever possible and stainless steel and weighs less than 300 grams. It also comes in at less than 5” long so can fit easily in your pocket if you have nowhere else to store it, although it does come with a little travel bag. And, at just under 50 quid, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth out of it.

An affordable, manual espresso maker for those out and about and on the go that’s easy to use and that makes a great drink every time.

For more information on the Wacaco Minipresso GR2 click here

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Datacolor SpyderX2 Ultra

The SpyderX2 Ultra from Datacolor is a colour calibration tool for display monitors, for the perfect image you need all your displays to be in sync to ensure things look the same all the way from the shutter to printer. Designed for photographers, videographers, digital designers, content creators and HDR content producers/consumers and works with tethered shooting; outdoor shoots, location shooting (photo or video) and studio work.

It works along side the Spyder software which you will need to download and set up then the Spyder device is placed on the screen of your display it will take a series of measurements to build the ICC profile and help you adjust your display’s brightness. The SpyderX2 is lens-based and uses an expanded X2 sensor for enhanced colour/brightness range calibration in today’s HDR/high-brightness monitor market, up to 2000 nits. You can learn more about yours displays colour, brightness, contrast, gamut, tone response and white point, as well as checking screen brightness, colour uniformity, and display colour accuracy.

There is side-by-side calibration with Studio Match for multiple computers/displays, the video and cinema targets offer a more concise user interface (UI) experience, it includes video calibration targets Rec. 709 and Rec. 2020. The calibration settings are unlimited, they come with industry-standard presets, you can customise settings including gamma curves, white point, and brightness settings. The soft proofing mode lets you simulate other displays and devices on your calibrated screen, for printers, you can see how prints will look for a specific printer model, paper and ink, and upload ICC printer profiles.

Room light monitoring uses the integrated ambient light sensor to measure the light in your room throughout the day ensuring your display is always correct, the software can either warn you to recalibrate or do it automatically. The SpyderX2 Ultra takes the hard work out of display calibration making it quick and easy to get everything in sync and to stay that way, no risk of over saturation or disappointing end results.

A quick and easy way to get the low down on your screens display and calibration to ensure consistent, true to life results.

£299 Pros Lens-based, expanded X2 sensor capabilities Updated UI Easy to use Multiple monitor calibrations Room light monitoring Studio match mode 33

For more information on the Datacolor SpyderX2 Ultra click here

A new sleek model from SodaStream

For more information on the SodaStream Duo click here

SodaStream Duo For those unfamiliar with SodaStream (or think it’s still a lost relic from the 80’s/90’s), it’s basically a system that allows you to create your own sparkling drinks. You can get branded soft drink syrups (such as Pepsi or 7Up) as well as SodaStream’s own branded flavours (including such delights as Crisp Apple or Blackcurrant Bliss) or even just use a squash concentrate if you wish. Simply load up a CO2 cannister, insert your bottle full of water and press the button, you then have your sparkling water and can choose to mix with whatever you fancy. That’s it - easy, sparkling drinks with minimum hassle.

Although SodaStream is a great way to save money and give yourself and your family a wide variety of sparkling drinks, it was always a little limited. Carrying around a glass bottle when you’re out and about is hardly convenient (not to mention a little unsafe for the little ones in your family) so SodaStream have released this version of their classic carbonation system that includes a plastic bottle as well as the classic glass one. Now, as well as having a bottle on the table ready for meal times or keeping chilled in the fridge, you have the option of carrying around a lighter, safer version, ideal for picnicking or giving to children for when they are playing outside.

SodaStream have also taken the opportunity to redesign the gassing unit. The CO2 cannister makes use of a patented quick connect system that means you can simply slot it in and lock it home and the front has a stainless steel cannister that the bottles just rest in while you lock them in by lowering the top part. Press the button a couple of times and you have your drink. It looks modern, it’s neat and tidy and won’t look out of place in any modern kitchen.

£164.99

Pros Replacement gas cannisters come with a returns box and postage is paid

Make any drink you wish carbonated

Both plastic and glass bottles give you options

Neat, tidy, modern look

35

Fosi Audio ZA3

An audiophile’s quest for perfect sound is never ending and to say there is an abundance of choice out there is an under-statement! In fact, there never will be a single amp that’s going to suit everybody, life would be far too boring then. But, good quality will always stand out and so we come to Fosi Audio’s latest amp offering which uses their previous V3 amp as a starting point. The first thing to note is that this amp provides both stereo and mono modes, the first time Fosi Audio have provided this option on any of their models. The stereo mode pumps out at 180W’s while the mono mode brings it up to a max of 235W’s. Of course, if you bought two of these amps, you could link them both up, giving you 2 mono outputs with up to 235W’s, nice!

The design of the amp has been optimised to cut out ambient sound wherever it can, ranging from the heat dissipation design (larger chassis, dust covers, vents moved to the side as well as a heat sink built in to the middle) to an audio signal input connector that supports both XLR and ¼” TRS plugs so less clutter inside and less chance of vibration disturbing your listening experience.

The 12V trigger-in connector is designed to allow for smoother connection between your devices and the amp is equipped with the TPA3255 Class D amp chip. The rest of the amp combines Japanese Sumida conductors, NCC filter capacitors and ELNA audio Coupling Capacitors as well as German WIMA capacitors to achieve its aim. The SINAD rating is up to 89dB’s and the SNR is 106dB’s giving the amp a nice low distortion factor. Once you plug this in, you can hit decent volumes without losing out – which is kind of the point!

For more information on the Fosi Audio ZA3 click here

£149.99

Pros Better than some much more expensive amps out there

This little unit does an excellent job at this price point and better

Stereo and Mono Easy to set up Looks good Cons Channel balance is not

than others priced much

great at lower volumes

be disappointed.

higher! If you’ve wanted an amp but have not yet taken the plunge, give this one a go, you won’t

37

Gaomon WH851 tablet Pen tablets are no longer the purview of those who are just wanting to do art the old-fashioned way but utilising technology. Nowadays, they are a useful and ubiquitous tool for any person to make use of. Whether you find yourself all thumbs and no fingers while typing, want to get a genuine signature on an online document or just miss that pen and paper feeling when working digitally, a pen tablet can really help you out.

This offering from Gaomon connects via Bluetooth as well as via the provided USB-C cable but the Bluetooth has a decent range of 5-10 metres, giving you plenty of room to get yourself comfortable and still remain connected. It’s also Android and macOS compatible and, when you’re using it with your mobile, it automatically switches the ratio aspect to suit so you don’t end up going ‘over-the-lines’ so to speak! It comes with 8 function buttons and a mechanical dial which can all be re-programmed within the Driver software to suit whatever use you need them for.

The pen weighs in at a comfortable-feeling 12g’s and has no battery itself (it relies on the Electro Magnetic Resonance of the tablet to provide its energy) so you never need to worry about recharging and it is holstered in a pen sleeve on the side so it won’t go missing. You also get 20 spare nibs included (these will last a looong time, don’t worry!) and it can work fine at up to 60° tilt, easily covering the majority of people’s pen-style. It also comes with a couple of reprogrammable buttons, adding to the versatility of the pad with its own 8 buttons and mechanical dial. Finally, it has a pressure level of over 16000 so the contact feels realistic and the battery life on the tablet is good for about 18 hours before it needs recharging.

An easy to use, self-programmable writing tablet for a good price with loads of nibs!

Pros Battery-free pen Re-programmable buttons

Nice paper and pen feel

Compatible with Android and macOS Cons Pen may seem a little too sensitive until you get used to it

£58

For more information on the Gaomon WH851 tablet click here

39

Rock Fall Silt Neoprene Safety Wellington

Rock Fall boots are specialist work boots that use technologies, materials and components from around the world to keep the wearer safe, Rock Fall boots feature everything from Welding and Foundry boots to Rigger boots. They have been designed for the harshest environments and are developed with clever components which include highly durable scuff caps, kick protectors and limited stitching (stitching used on tents and other outdoor products).

The Fall Silt Neoprene Safety Wellington is 100% non-metallic, it comes with a protective toecap and midsole, making it suitable for agricultural, construction, highways, quarry, rail, utilities and housebuilders. The Silt is highly robust and developed with specialist durability materials including FORCE10® components, an Activ-Step® PU footbed and 5mm neoprene upper.

It comes in sizes 3 up to 12 the upper is made from a waterproof 5mm neoprene which give you the freedom of movement when walking or crouching down. The fibreglass toecap and composite anti-penetration flexi-midsole adds much needed protection whilst keeping the weight down. On the inside the lining is made up of a moisture wicking breathable mesh fabric lining, this keeps wicks away moisture from the feet keeping them cool and dry and avoiding uncomfortable chaffing. The FORCE10 solid nitrile rubber outsole has been tested to extraordinary abrasion, heat and cold performance levels to guarantee protection in the harshest of environments.

The Activ-Step PU anti-fatigue comfort footbed provides a soft but secure hold with each step, the boots are also antistatic, oil resistant, SRC slip rated, cold Insulation, heat resistant up to 300°C, fully waterproof and vegan friendly.

The Rock Fall Silt are robust and highly protective work boots, suitable for a number of environments and will keep you safe and sure footed whilst you work. Stocked in stores nationwide.

Pros Anti-Static Protective Toecap Protective Midsole Oil Resistant SRC Slip Rated Cold Insulation Heat Resistant Outsole to 300°C Fully Waterproof

RRP

A highly

£74.99 protective work boot suitable for a wide range of work sites.

For more information on the Rock Fall Silt Neoprene Safety Wellington click here

41

Ifi Audio Go Blu Well, this is something a little different. Usually when we review amps, they’re designed for use with home sound systems so it’s something a little different getting a pocket-sized one designed for when you’re ‘on the go’. Although thinking about it, it makes complete and utter sense – you insist on good sound when at home, why not when out and about too? Especially when it weighs less than an AA battery and is about the size of a matchbox!

So, how have Ifi got away this? To begin with, the unit is equipped with Bluetooth 5.1 so it can connect to anything with Bluetooth which is most music players these days and it has 2 separate ports for your headphones, 4.4 and 3.5mm so able to handle whatever wired ear gear you’ve got without the need of an adaptor. As well as this, the USB-C port can also double up as an audio-in port for when Bluetooth isn’t an option. Don’t forget, it’s also got the DAC gear and the amp itself, all in that tiny little box. Given the size, you would be forgiven for being skeptical as to the sound quality but what Ifi have done is built those 3 distinct components on separate platforms within the housing, minimalising any interference from the components. Even the casing has been designed to reduce interference, being made from a soft-touch polymer rather than any kind of metal material At the core of the amp is the QCC5100 Bluetooth chip allowing the Go Blu to support every current Hi-Def format as well as being usable on both Apple and Android platforms. It also supports all Bluetooth formats, covering all the codecs and updates ensure that this amp should work with whatever device you’re using for as long as you’re going to be using it for! It may seem a little pricey but the longevity this provides along with the sound quality, makes this portable amp definitely worth considering.

Ifi have a good reputation when it comes to amps and they have done a really good job using their experience to provide a ‘micro’ one for when you’re out and about.

£199 Pros Smaller than a matchbox, lighter than an AA battery About 10 hours battery life Looks good Wired and wireless connection to music player Cons Bit pricey For more information on the Ifi Audio Go Blu click here

43

Juicyretreats Ultra 8000 S4 Self Feeding Slow Juicer

Juicing can be a good way to getting healthier food if you do not like the taste of them or don’t have the time to cook and consume them, it is also a lovely treat especially on hot days where if you are anything like me eating anything seems like an effort. The Ultra 8000 S4 is absolutely packed with features it comes with a three in one straining system, two jugs, a pusher, cleaning brush and recipe card for inspiration.

So, what exactly is a Self-Feeding Slow Juicer, well it has been crafted to extract all the goodness from your ingredients, the Self-Feeding Mechanism navigates through fibrous produce effortlessly with a self-feeding mechanism and a large 135 cm feed chute (one of tha largest on the market). All you need to do is fill the 1.8-litre juicing bowl with food, close the lid, and let the machine do its thing. The clog-prevention structures is designed to tackle highfibre foods like celery without suffering from blockages. The 3-in-1 strainer system means you can select exactly how thick your juice becomes based on the ingredients you are using.

The high-torque 300-watt motor is robust and maximizes juice extraction, fewer juicing parts mean more force is directly applied to the food, the ultra-slow 37 RPM preserve nutrients and taste with gentle squeezing. The Smart Juice Cap allows for more juice to be held inside the bowl with the juice cap closed, it also prevents drips onto the counter when closed after juicing. The juicer itself has a compact sleek design that looks good on the countertop without taking up too much space and the high strength BPA-free parts, feel durable enough to last many a juicing. It isn’t too loud, 50-60 dB means you can get away with making something in the morning without waking up the whole house.

This robust juicer can blitz through anything whilst leaving you with fresh and flavourful recipes, its compact stature and ease of cleaning are the cherry on the top.

A powerful and compact self feeding juicer that makes that makes light work of whatever ingredients you throw its way

£494.99 Pros EasyFeed Juicing Technology 37 RPM Rotation Robust 300 Watt Motor 50-60 dB noise level BPA Free Dishwasher Safe Plastics Up to 30 Minutes run time

Forward and Reverse Functions Overheat and overload cut out safety system

For more information on the Juicyretreats Ultra 8000 S4 Self Feeding Slow Juicer click here

45

£149.99

Pros Automatically protects hearing when sound breeches 85dB Bluetooth 5.0 Amplifies background noise when needed Hearing Protection Rating SNR 33dB Siri / Google Voice Compatible Noise-Reducing Microphone Volume limited to 82dB IP67 rating Cons Battery life could be longer but there is a lot of tech at work her For more information on the ISOtunes Advance click here

ISOtunes Advance ISOtunes are effectively your ears best friends, they provide hearing protection, hearing aids and ear phones all in one nea little package, the Advance has been specifically designed with Tactical Sound Control Technology to protect the ears from gunshot noise. These one-of-a-kind earbuds work by using omni-directional microphones to pick up outside sounds and amplifies them through your hearing protector, similar to a hearing aid or enhancer. The control buttons lets you to choose your preferred amplification level, you can wear hearing protection and still hear the world, when outside noises, in this case gunshots, breach 85 dB the Advance responds by reducing the harmful sound down to help protect your eardrum in just 2 milliseconds.

The Advance comes with six pairs of eartips to ensure a precise and comfortable fit, the earbud weighs just 23.5g, they are suitable for a whole host of environments thanks to the IP67 sweat and waterproof rating and dust tight casing.

The built in Bluetooth 5.0 means when you do not need the hearing protection, they can be used to enjoy music or take calls with ease and can connect to two devices for automatic syncing.

A controller has tactical raised rubber physical buttons make track selection, answering calls and adjusting TSC levels simple and practical even whilst wearing gloves. It has a reasonable battery life of 10hours and 30hours standby, the Advance will automatically switch off after being dormant for two hours to save the battery.

The audio sounds balanced enough to enjoy your music or podcasts, unsurprisingly there is a volume limit of 82dB, the built in microphone allows you to access your devices voice assistants. The Advance block 33dB of damaging noise, most gunshots will register around 150-170 dB, and at these levels hearing damage can occur quickly.

The Advance are the perfect companion for shooting but you will find yourself using them in plenty of situations, they protect your hearing when you need it, increase your hearing when you want it and feed your ears with tunes when it’s time to relax.

These one of a kind earbuds are ear defenders, hearing aids and Bluetooth headphones all rolled into one.

47

ISOtunes Caliber If wireless earbuds are more your thing Isotunes Caliber have a lot of tech crammed into one small package, they feature the same Tactical Sound Control (TSC) as the Advance but this time in a wireless set up. They come with a portable charging case, six pairs of eartips and a usb-c charging cable, they are super lightweight at just 8g per earbud.

The inbuilt TSC is a level-dependent technology that uses omni-directional microphones to block out the harmful gunshot noise whilst letting the safe sounds to pass through. This all happens ultra fast, the digital circuitry suppresses sound in under 2 milliseconds without you needing to press a button or anything.

The casing is IP67 rated, which means it is well protected against dust, sweat and full water submersion, it has a 13hour battery life or 16 hours of TSC battery life with two full additional charges stored in the rechargeable case.

They have a standby time of 60 hours and will automatically switch off after two hours of inactivity. When protecting against damaging sounds the hard-to-notice environmental sounds can be amplified up to eight times, this means your ears are protected whilst you remain aware of your surroundings.

The Caliber can block out 32dB of noise, most gunshots will register between 150 - 170 decibels, these are hearing damaging levels. When hearing protection is not needed the build in Bluetooth 5.2 lets you listen to your favourite tunes or podcasts, they have a volume limit of 82dB for further protection. The integrated microphones allow you to take calls and access the voice assistant on your device.

The audio is clean and balance enough to be enjoyable, its not going to be one for the audiophiles but will satisfy most people, it will automatically connect and sync to two devices. These are perfect for those looking for some lightweight and versatile hearing protection that offers the choice of listening to music or increased communication whilst shooting.

Excellent hearing protection whilst shooting, with options to increase the safe sounds and enjoy audio over Bluetooth.

£179.99

Pros Tactical Sound Control Technology Certified 32dB SNR IP67 Sweat and water resistance Up to 13 hour battery life Siri / Google Voice Compatible Noise-Reducing Microphone Bluetooth 5.2 For more information on the ISOtunes Caliber click here

49

£499

Pros Virtually indestructible Plenty of shooting modes to play with Excels at marco and underwater shoot Shock, freeze, water, crush and dust proof Anti fog lens Lots of available accessories For more information on the Om Tough TG-7 click here

OM System Tough TG-7

When the OM System Tough TG-7 turned up on my desk the first think I thought of was my old clubbing days when we would go out with a digital camera, I realised how the humble compact digital camera has disappeared from use.

However, this is not a humble digital camera, the clue is in the name an this baby is tough, another immediate benefit is having the option to capture the moment whilst ditching the phone and constant notifications.

So to start off the TG-7 is waterproof, weather it accompanies you diving your accidently takes a plunge down the loo, it’s no problem, it can handle up to 15m, it is also shockproof with drops up to 2.1m and freezeproof down to -10°C. The casing is also dust proof, it handle the beach and other dirty areas, it is also crushproof and can withstand loads up to 100kg. To top it all off no matter what the conditions you don’t have to worry about the lens fogging up and ruining your picture.

It is well suited for adventures under the sea with various underwater photography specific settings, the grip and camera controls placement has also been considered to give you the best handling even under challenging conditions.

Theres is a whole line of accessories and products designed around your various needs, from lens converters to floating straps and cases to kit it out your hobbies.

The TG-7 isn’t just a tough body, on the inside it has all the tech to produce beautiful images, it has bright F2.0 lens, it has a fun and functional macro settings with four different macro modes and a 1cm focusing distance, the TG-7 comfortably focuses on subjects that are even uncomfortably close. The microscope mode provides you with up to 44.4x display magnification, there is also five underwater imaging modes covering everything from macro images to wide-angle shots. It does just as well on dry land with 12.7mp resolution and 22 shooting modes in total. There is also video recording, editing, filters, RAW function, wireless flash options, GPS and manual controls to play with.

This beast of a camera is pretty much indestructible, perfectly suited for any adventure but particularly adept at underwater photography and close ups, there is definitely still a place in the world for compact digital cameras.

Capture the moment whilst freeing yourself from your phone and truly embracing adventure.

51

The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Friends tonie

For little munchers always hungry for one more story, this classic Eric Carle collection will help fill them up. All they need to do is pop the always-hungry caterpillar on top of a Toniebox for deliciously delightful creature tales, fun facts, and sensational songs.

For more information on The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Friends Tonie click here

£14.99

The Snail and the Whale & The Smartest Giant in Town Tonie Enjoy two popular tales by unstoppable duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, The Snail and the Whale and The Smartest Giant in Town. Follow the adventures of a tiny snail who hitches a ride on the tail of an enormous whale, and meet George, the scruffiest giant in town, who smartens up his act only to find his new clothes are needed elsewhere!

For more information on The Snail and the Whale & The Smartest Giant in Town Tonie click here

£14.99

We're Going on a Bear Hunt Tonie Wiggle into your wellies and head off on an adorable adventure of discovery with Stan, Katie, Rosie, Max, the baby and their pet dog Rufus. Join them as they Swash through grass, squelch through mud and splash through rivers on an expedition in search of bears. This very special Tonie is based upon the award-winning film adaption of We're Going on a Bear Hunt, based on the bestselling bedtime book, written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.

For more information on The Snail and the Whale & The Smartest Giant in Town Tonie click here

£14.99

For more information on the Tonies We're Going on a Bear Hunt click here

53

Pros 8 preset timer functions Digital clock Vibrant LED display Compact design Convenient magnetic capability Re-chargeable including cable Cons Pricey

£59.99

A handy magnetic digital timer to help motivate you through your workout.

For more information on the Primal Magnetic Mini Gym Timer click here

Primal Magnetic Mini Gym Timer When it comes to exercise, particularly HIIT training I HAVE to be able to see just how long I have left to go, relying on some sadistic PT to count me down makes me irrationally angry and quite a bit sweary. The Magnetic Mini Gym Timer from Primal is a great way to keep you motivated knowing exactly how far you have come and how much you have to go. This digital clock has a magnetic backing which is handy to stick it somewhere in eyeline, your garage gym door, the bench you are working on, the rig or rack, wherever.

There are eight preset timer functions to choose from, 24H/12H clock, MIIT, HIIT, Tabata, 5min workout (WO)/1min rest x5, 5mins WO/1min rest x3, 1min WO/no rest x17, 1min 30secs WO/1min rest x17, then there are 10 groups of customisable programs, count up, count down and stopwatch. There are physical buttons on the top to set up what you need, it takes a bit of practice to get used to the programming but there instructions included are clear enough .

It comes in a compact little body 130mm x 39mm x 23.5mm, dinky enough to throw in your gym back without taking up too much space, the vibrant LED display stands out clearly, it has a healthy battery life and is easily recharged when needed. It is perhaps a little pricey for what it is but it feels robust and does what it needs you to help you get through the workout.

55

Godox Lux Master There’s something endearing about an old-style reflector flash on a camera. It lends a certain gravitas to taking photo’s that some may consider lacking otherwise I feel. Or I’m just a sucker for nostalgia which, let’s be honest, is probably more like it! Regardless, there’s a certain level of charm given to taking a photo when you’ve got all the gubbins attached that makes it feel that little bit more special than just snapping a pic with your phone.

There’s a lot more to this flash than just nostalgia of course and, although it may look old-school, the tech and design involved is anything but. The touchscreen for example, allows you to effortlessly switch between lighting modes or settings with just a flick of your finger or thumb so there’s no need to even put the camera down allowing rapid responses to changing conditions. It can also sync wirelessly with Godox’s flash triggers including the X3 (reviewed elsewhere in this issue), XProll and X2T, giving you greater exposure speeds and it also supports TTL auto flash, further increasing the accuracy of your flash when taking your photo’s.

On the physical side of things, the Lux Master features a tiltable head that can range from 0-90° (in increments of 30°) allowing for bounce flash effects and rolls in at under 500 grams so it shouldn’t prove too weighty or unwieldy after a lengthy session. The battery is good for about 460 flashes before it needs recharging and this only takes a couple of hours via a USB-C cable. It all packs neatly away in to a storage bag, including the reflector folding down into a single panel size, much like a ladies’ fan of old! All-in-all, if you want to look fancy while retaining the ability to take professional looking photo’s, you can’t go too far wrong with this.

If you love an old school, nostalgic look but want modern capabilities in your flash, you won’t go too far wrong with this!

For more information on the Godox Lux Master click here

Pros You can purchase different types of fans for different lighting features to go with this.

Relatively short charging time Proper retro-look Packs away all neat and tidy Cons If you’re going for a modern look, this probably isn’t for you!

£235

57

Godox X3 Trigger For anyone serious about photography, flash triggers are an essential device. Although practically all cameras these days come with a flash built-in, they suffer from the flaw of only coming from one angle – that of the photographer. If you want to broaden your photographic range, you’ll eventually migrate to off-camera flashes and for this, you’ll need a trigger, much like this one from Godox.

To begin with, this trigger is wireless so no annoying wires getting in the way or awkward positioning to ensure ports match up. It’s a simple matter of selecting ‘wireless sync’ on the touchscreen and doing the same with your flash and that’s it, you’re done! It works particularly well with the Lux Master flash reviewed elsewhere in this issue but a quick firmware update for other flashes from Godox will see them working in the same way such as their new AD600 Pro II. The wireless operates at 2.4 GHz and also has multiple channels to choose from so that you can avoid any crosscontamination from other wireless triggers or flashes. Even better, there is also a ‘spare channel’ scanning function just in case interference does occur. The unit charges via a USB-C port that also allows firmware updates and takes around 2 hours to fully charge and the One-Tap Sync function simplifies setup just press a button to sync automatically.

The X3 Trigger also has the ability to group together your flashes so you can try out different lighting emphasis with the touch of a button while taking your shots and not having to stop and start to re-set each time. You can also control the exposure rate, giving you the versatility to handle all sorts of situations such as action shots, portraiture, weddings, anything you care to take a go at in fact! It’s also very lightweight at just under 50 grams and comes with it’s own little snug carry case.

If you’ve got Godox flashes, this will be ideal for you, making your flash photography far less hard work and far more fun.

£82

For more information on the Godox X3 Trigger click here

Pros Wireless Multiple channels and spare channel scan Grouping of different flashes Compatible with Canon, Fuji, Nikon, Sony and Olympus Cons Only works with other Godox devices

59

BAM Leam Organic Cotton Cargo Shorts

£59

These practical shorts are made for adventure with oversized cargo pockets, back and hip pockets, they are constructed from a soft organic cotton with elastane for stretch and comfort.

They are given a garment dye so every pair catches the colour differently – no two pairs are the same.

For more information on the BAM Leam Organic Cotton Cargo Shorts click here

Orbitkey Star Wars Key Organizer Death Star This key organiser is inspired by Death Star, printed on a deep space black leather band, paired with matching black hardware, it comes in a custom packaging with a collectable character card. Transform your keys into a neat and silent stack, it can carry 2-7 keys, plus car keys and fobs on the D-ring.

For more information on the Orbitkey Star Wars Key Organizer Death Star click here

£37.90

Wacaco Exagram Pro Scale

This pocket-size scale fits most brewing devices and espresso machine trays. Its accurate weight measurement helps you to dialin espresso with convenience and ensure repeatability of perfect extraction shot after shot. It has a handy built-in timer, that helps you get the perfect timing for your brew.

£41.90 For more information on the Wacaco Exagram Pro Scale click here

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BOMBAZINE pendant

YELENA pendant

KEEGAN wall light

ARONA pendant

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