Outdoor Gear Chat (Cathy Casey and Wayne Singleton)

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Wayne quizzes Cathy on the amazing history surrounding the two shops and learns how they were interlinked from the very start - way before Cathy and her husband Paul became the owners of both. Listen to stories of climbing and fell running royalty, why the shops are pivotal in their local outdoor communities and how Cathy explained to the climbing legend; Mr Joe Brown her ideas for a unique competition involving his nether regions!

You can read the full Big History here: The Big History — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

Why not take part in our permanent challenges:
Ali's Round — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Ali's Family Round — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Cumbrian Centurion Challenge 100 — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

Read the list of climbs involved in the Anniversary celebrations:
50th Anniversary: The Hunt For Joe's Golden Nuts — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
60th Anniversary “Nuts of Legends” — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

Sign up for the Ambleside 25/50k:
Brathay Challenges | Ambleside 25K
Brathay Challenges | Ambleside 50K

Read more about Joe Brown - arguably one of the worlds best all round climbers:
About Joe Brown — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Joe Brown Biography and first ascent list — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

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Cathy and Wayne are joined with new Lake District legend and part time Ambleside staff team member James Gibson as he talks about being the first person ever to complete a continuous round of 214 Wainwrights in the winter of 2021. James had wanted full winter conditions - and he definitely got them, with Storm Barra making an appearance too. Listen to his accounts of snow, blizzards, jaw dropping sunrises, fantastic camaraderie and how he is coping with his new found fame. There's even a bit of talk about kit!

You can read a "realtime account" on The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Blog here:
Winter Wainwright Attempt 2021 — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

To learn more about James and his achievements click through to his website:
James Gibson I Adventure Runner and Mountaineer I No Limits Adventuring (gibsonrunandclimb.co.uk)

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Wayne and Cathy are joined by British Mountain Guide Adrian Nelhams who shares his gargantuan knowledge and experience of ice axes. Together they cover why you might need to carry one, when you definitely need one and talk about why an ice axe is only part of your winter safety kit. Covering everything from walking axes to technical tools they also discuss the big question: to leash or not to leash? And why exactly does going leashless involve still using a leash?? All will be revealed........including what Adrian keeps close to his chest.

Want to know more about choosing the right ice axe for you - then take a read here:
Buyers Guide to Ice Axes — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Watch Adrian's video about choosing ice axes here:
A look at some of the different types of ice axes available | ISM (alpin-ism.com)
Book a course with the International School of Mountaineering:
Guided Alpine Mountaineering Courses, Ice Climbing, Ski Touring… | ISM (alpin-ism.com)
For a great choice of local Guides click here:
Winter Climbing — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Winter Mountain Walking — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Play "Name That Shaft" here:
Name That Shaft! — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

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Cathy & Wayne are joined by Montane Sponsored Athlete Debbie Martin-Consani, first woman to cross the finish line of The Spine Race 2022.
Debbie discusses the highs and lows of completing all 268 miles of The Pennine Way in January; the darkness, the bogginess and how much she enjoyed herself as she carried enough equipment to keep herself alive throughout her non-stop 108 hour challenge.
Sponsored by Montane, this podcast ties in with a fantastic competition to win a Montane Spine Jacket from Joe Browns and The Climbers Shop. There's a lot of love for the Spine Jacket among runners - just take a listen and see.....  ***Competition is now closed

Enter the competition: Montane Spine Jacket Competition (mailchi.mp)
Shop the Montane Range:Montane On-Sale | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)
Debbie's Spine Race blog: DEBBIE MARTIN-CONSANI (ultrarundmc.com)
Chris Worton's Spine Race blog: Confessions of a long distance runner (chrisjworton.blogspot.com)

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Cathy & Wayne are joined by Scott Umpleby from The Brathay Trust, event organisers of the fantastic Ambleside Trail 25 & 50k races.
Join them as they discuss how this event began, how a full Lakeland breakfast and a frittata were highlights the first year and what delectable comestibles will be on offer this year....
Offering not just breathtaking views, great trails and incredible checkpoints The Ambleside Trail 25 & 50k events also raise vital funds for the  work Brathay do with young people in Cumbria and Yorkshire, improving their life chances and mental health.
There is, as always, plenty of talk about kit: what to use, how to choose and favourite items as well as food, trails and where to find information for folks new to trail running.
Sponsored by Montane, this podcast ties in with a fantastic competition to win a Montane Trailblazer LT 28 Pack from Joe Browns and The Climbers Shop. Want to know how to enter? - just take a listen..... ***Competition is now closed

Enter the Ambleside 25k: Brathay Challenges | Ambleside 25K
Enter the Ambleside 50k: Brathay Challenges | Ambleside 50K
Enter the competition: Montane Trailblazer LT28 Competition (mailchi.mp)
Learn more about the Brathay Trust and their work with young people
Stay at Brathay in their Lakeside accommodation: Staycations - Brathay Trust
Shop the Montane Range: Montane On-Sale | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)

A massive thank you to the Ambleside 25 & 50k race sponsors:
Hawkshead Brewery: Hawkshead Brewery. Beer From The Lakes – HawksheadBrewery
Voom Nutrition: VOOM Nutrition | Leading sports nutrition & sport energy products
La Sportiva: Search Results Page (climbers-shop.com)
Ultimate Direction: Search Results Page (climbers-shop.com)
Montane: Montane On-Sale | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)

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"Lakeland Legends" Cathy & Wayne are veterans of a number of Lakeland 50's but why has neither of them stepped up to the Lakeland 100 start line?
Sponsored by Montane, this podcast describes the high's and low's of their respective 50 mile trots around the Lakeland fells, their favourite kit and top training tips. Amid all of the technical info you can also learn why one of them called their Mum, the concerning question of whether being given watermelon by a semi-naked man in the dead of night was, in fact, a reality and just how, exactly Wayne can see to your every need (!)

Perhaps this podcast just goes to prove that what happens on the trail should stay on the trail......

Don't forget to enter our amazing competition to win £250 of Montane kit!!!!! ***Competition is now closed

Enter the competition here: Montane Competition
Lakeland Kit Unboxing with Montane Athletes: Montane Lakeland 50 & 100 - Unboxing the Kit List 2021 - YouTube
Shop the Montane range here: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Joe Brown Outdoor Academy:  The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Running Concierge: The Running Concierge – Bespoke guided running in the Lake District

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There's innuendo aplenty as Cathy and Wayne talk about tents, poles, fly sheets and pegs, pegs, pegs. Listen in for tips on getting it up in bad weather, what constitutes as fondling with your erection and of course - bell ends.
Expect tales of getting wet, how to deal with condensation, pesky moles and even flying tents among such astonishing trivia as why the colour of your tent can be really rather important.

Want to know more about choosing the right tent for you - read here:
Buyers Guide To Tents — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
You can read through a wealth of tent tips here:
Knowledge - Tents — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
For a great choice of high quality tents click here:
Tents And Footprints Camping | The Climbers Shop And Joe Br (climbers-shop.com)
For a great choice of Bivvies, Bothies and Tarps click here:
Bivies, Bothies And Tarps Camping | The Climbers Shop And J (climbers-shop.com)

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Cathy and Wayne are joined by the Czar of Carabiners: Chris Rowlands from DMM Climbing in Wales. If you have ever wondered why Carabiners come in so many different shapes and sizes, if you were looking for the answer to why you shouldn't use WD-40 to maintain your crabs, if you are unsure whether Carabiners should begin with a "C" or a "K" or perhaps considered why there might be a requirement for an Aluminium cookbook.........then clip in, lean back and enjoy.

To learn more about this weeks topic click through:

Buyers Guide to Carabiners — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

Climbing Knowledge — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)

DMM factory tour | DMM Wales

Search: DMM Drone Tour on You Tube. It's amazing!

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Cathy and Wayne are joined by Dr Will Duffin, Joint Medical Director at World Extreme Medicine to chat about why carrying a first aid kit is a REALLY good thing to do when you are out and about in the great outdoors. Among the usual suspects (plasters, paracetamol etc) there are plenty of other things to consider including sanitary towels, duck tape, Buffs and walking poles.
Learn what THE most important piece of first aid equipment is, why you should never take Ibroprufen during an endurance event, what applications of a tampon to avoid and why a tick remover is now an essential piece of kit. All this AND Dr Will's "All You Need To Know About Blisters in 60 seconds" makes this podcast an essential listen for anyone who loves venturing outdoors.

To learn more about this week's topic click through to.....
First Aid And Survival | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Sho (climbers-shop.com)
Blisters. Aaaaaaargh! — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Mountain Medical Matters — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Expedition Medicine | Wilderness Medicine | World Extreme Medicine

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Be prepared for a world of eye protection knowledge as Cathy and Wayne are joined by Barnabé Grison, International Area Manager for French outdoor eyewear specialists Julbo.
From the history of the first glacier glasses to modern manufacturing techniques to fitting tips there really is all you need to know in this podcast to help you buy the right glasses for the activities you do. Learn why fully polarised glasses may not be a good thing on snow, why manufacturers are legally obliged to tell you how much light can penetrate your glasses and get the full  explanation on lens categories and their meaning.
Oh and of course......how to look cool.

Click below to find out more about this weeks subject:

Buyers Guide to Eye Protection
Julbo Sunglasses - Gear Review by Alpinist Tom Livingston
Sunglasses And Goggles | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Sho (climbers-shop.com)
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Cathy and Wayne are joined by Everest Basecamp Trek Leader Paul Poole to chat about what conditions to expect and what kit to pack to enjoy this iconic trek.
Paul has been travelling to the Khumbu region for 20 years and shares a host of top tips on the best time to travel, how to cope with altitude, pack size, what to wear on your feet, how many jackets are needed to star gaze comfortably and how you can save yourself from a world of discomfort just by looking after your wrists (!)

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

To learn more about our FREE Expedition Event please click here:
Expedition Event - Capel Curig 29th - 30th October — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
To learn more about this weeks topic please click below:
Mountain Leader Training Course | Paul Poole Mountaineering | Wales
Need to buy kit for your trek? The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Want to know more about kit? The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Cathy and Wayne are joined by British Antarctic Field Operative Catrin Thomas who gives a fascinating insight into managing clothing systems in the harsh polar environment.
Catrin was awarded the UK Polar Medal in 2019 and describes her wealth of experience in keeping warm and dry among the many climates of the Antarctic continent - a lot of which is surprisingly similar to Scottish winter!
Learn how a mix of synthetic and natural fibres works best, why you can never have too many socks, how to keep your gloves warm when they're not on your hands, why glasses are good when you're working with Penguins, why goggles are better when you're working with Gannets and.............how to go to the loo when you're effectively living in a freezer.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

To learn more about our FREE Expedition Events please click here:
Expedition Event - Capel Curig 29th - 30th October — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
To learn more about this weeks topic please click below:
Homepage - British Antarctic Survey (bas.ac.uk)
Polar Medal winner Catrin Thomas and 17 Antarctic trips - BBC News
Joe Browns and the Climbers Shop
Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Cathy and Wayne delve into what to pack when tackling the three peaks at any time of year.
What's in Cathy's rucsack? What should be on your feet? Why carry layers? Should you train? Why is the material of your socks surprisingly critical? and what is the optimum size packed lunch? (Answer: sizeable)
This Outdoor Gear Chat outlines all of those little kit decisions that can make all the difference to having a GREAT day on the hill.
Don't forget to listen to our previous podcasts to get all the extra expert info......

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: COMMUNITY ACTION NEPAL (canepal.org.uk)

To learn more about our FREE Expedition Events please click here: Expedition Event - Capel Curig 29th - 30th October — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Clothing — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Footwear — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Knowledge - Backpacks — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Hiking — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Need to buy kit? www.climbers-shop.com

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Climber, Alpinist, Himalayan Mountaineer, International Mountain Guide, and Award Winning Author Andy Cave joins Cathy and Wayne to talk about life before Gore-Tex, ye olde plastic boots, fibre glass ice axes, layering, sweat management, why feathers are fab, glove choices, harness culture (yes, it is a thing!), why paying extra for a dry treated rope is well worth it and just when is it okay to use modern ultralight running kit in the mountains.
Learn about layering in action, what to think about when buying kit and, in what is possibly THE most spectacular random deviation of the series ever: the marvels of victorian engineering which run underground between Thirlmere in the Lake District and Manchester.
Andy is part of the Rab sponsored athlete team and has a huge experience of using their full range while pushing climbing to the limit on bold new routes in the Alps, Alaska, Patagonia and the Himalaya. He also hosts Rab's podcasts: The Mountain People Podcast - Rab® UK

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

To learn more about our FREE Expedition Event please click here:
Expedition Event - Capel Curig 29th - 30th October — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
To learn more about this weeks topic please click below:
Speaker, Coach, Mountaineer, Author | Andy Cave
BBC Radio 4 - Andy Cave's Expedition Underground
To buy Andy's award-winning books:
Learning to Breathe - Andy Cave (climbers-shop.com)
Need to buy kit for your trek? The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Want to know more about kit? The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

Get in touch!

Cathy and Wayne are joined once again by World Extreme Medicine Joint Medical Director Dr Will Duffin as they tackle the murky world of water purification and how to keep healthy in the wilderness.
Learn the difference between filtration and purification, understand the different types available and why there are so many, how to choose your water source, why it's not just drinking water that needs to be pure, why you should consider carrying a form of filtration to use in the UK and how you can get clean water to drink without spending any money at all!
Not necessarily a podcast to listen to while you are eating; there is lots of discussion about "travellers tummy", the curious ability of a sheep to die in a water source, how drinking your own sweat can get you out of a sticky situation and, in the type of magnificent random deviation that you can only experience on Outdoor Gear Chat: a rather terrifying description of how easy it is to die in your own tent.

A note on using chlorine tablets during pregnancy:
"As a general rule it appears most chlorine-based products are considered ‘safe' if used at recommended concentrations. Having said this, as with all medicines in pregnancy, there is very limited good quality evidence and uncertainty remains. It’s important that the risk of harm from chemical treatment is balanced with the risks of water borne diseases in pregnancy. In my view, whilst chlorine-based products are probably ok, filtration and boiling should be preferred options while we await more definitive answers from the scientific literature. Always refer to manufacturer's instructions." Dr Will Duffin

Listen, learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

To learn more about our FREE Expedition Events please click here:
Expedition Event - Capel Curig 29th - 30th October — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
To learn more about this weeks topic please click below:
World Extreme Medicine: Pioneering Remote Medicine
Worldwide Expeditions — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
To buy from our range of purifiers and filters click below:
Water Purification And Treatment Camping | The Climbers Sho (climbers-shop.com)

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Cathy and Wayne are joined by Scarpa UK Core Sales Director Glyn Padgett to discuss what sets mountain boots apart from regular walking boots.
Learn the difference between B1, B2 & B3, why stiffness is critical when using boots with crampons, why size matters (even more than usual), why you shouldn't get the hump with gaiter zips, why it's not just materials that make a boot vegan friendly, amazing aftercare and the bizarre link between the boots on your feet and a famous Irish dry stout. All this and some serious tittering over lubricants!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

To learn more about our FREE Expedition Event please click here:
Expedition Event - Capel Curig 29th - 30th October — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
To learn more about this weeks topic please click below:
Technical - SCARPA UK
What is a B1 or B2 boot? | ISM (alpin-ism.com)
Need to buy Mountain boots? The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Want to know more about kit? Footwear — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Cathy and Wayne are back to talk about the humble hat and the many headwear items designed to protect your head from the cold, the heat, the sun and vicious biting mcbeasties.
What fabrics work well, what features should you look out for, why is a hat so important, does a hat define who you are, when would you want to wear one under a hood, why did Wayne look like a member of the French Foreign Legion while running the Marathon des Sables and does Cathy really have a collection of fascinators?
All this and much, much more to help you remember to protect your head in every adventurous situation.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
See The Climbers Shop and Joe Browns full headwear range here
For tips on how to keep warm in the mountains click here

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Cathy & Wayne are joined by Rab athlete Jon Gupta who has a wealth of experience climbing and guiding the worlds highest peaks - so many, in fact, just listening to the intro is exhausting!

Kick back and join in the mirth as this chat offers a rare insight into life at high altitude and how little bits of kit and experience can make all the difference to being successful on a major expedition. Vital tips such as why you should never put your down suit on for the first time at 7000m, what is the ONLY eating implement you need, the importance of pillows, what type of deodorant works at altitude and just what is the mysterious item that always appears at the bottom of a pan of freshly melted snow?

With thanks to Rab for making this podcast possible.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

Joe Brown's and The Climbers Shop are proud to be pro stockists of the Rab range and have a wide range of expedition clothing and footwear in stock.
The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Learn more about our Expedition Event: Expedition Event 2022 Round up — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Expedition Tips: https://www.joebrownoutdooracademy.com/knowledge-expeditions
Climb with Jon: Home // Mountain Expeditions (mountain-expeditions.co.uk)

Get in touch!

Ever wondered how to zip up a jacket when you only have the use of one hand? Or how to get in and out of a tent when half your body is paralysed?

Cathy and Wayne are joined by the inimitable Paul Pritchard who re-defines "disabilty" with his continual adventures and expeditions after suffering a severe brain injury during a climbing accident.

This podcast is a fascinating insight into adapting and using outdoor equipment for high altitude traverses, desert crossings, rock climbs and navigating that most extreme of environments - the airport. Full of dodgy humour and some gruesome descriptions of blisters, listen in to Paul's adaptive life...... and why he's looking forward to someone stealing his car.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

Joe Brown's and The Climbers Shop are proud to stock all of Paul's books:
Search Results Page (climbers-shop.com)

Paul's Films:
The Journey: An Award winning film from Griffon Media about Paul Pritchard's recumbent trike 'pilgrimage' to Mount Everest. Accompanied by Carol Hurst the ride took them on 1150km across the Himalaya from Lhasa to Kathmandu via Everest Base Camp.

To The Rainbow: Paul Pritchard climbing The Rainbow Slab with Johnny Dawes. To The Rainbow is a Bamboo Chicken Production.

Larapinta Adaptive Traverse: The "Lowest To Highest' all-abilities team attempt to  traverse the whole 237km spine of Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges on the challenging Larapinta Trail.
Paul is also recording the Larapinta Podcasts

The Mountain Path A video introduction to Paul's latest book. Watch and Read!

Rite Of Passage: In his first film 12 year old Eli Pritchard takes his disabled dad, Paul to the Himalaya. Together they climb a peak. A simple coming of age story of a boy becoming a man.

To learn more about Paul: Paul Pritchard

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Cathy and Wayne are joined by engineer, sewer and outdoor equipment and clothing repair specialist; Rosanna Watson from Snowdonia Gear Repairs to delve into how to make your gear last longer.

Learn about tapes, sealants, zips, seams and all the little replacement gizmo's available to make your own repairs as well as the wealth of fixes that can be done to clothing, sleeping bags, rucsacks and tents so they can be used and kept out of landfill for as long as possible. Packed full of tips, Rosanna also explains how she can customise garments for MRT's, how to spot if a garment is easily repairable and how to get the best value for money (spoiler - this may not necessarily mean buying the cheapest).

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

Our shops have a large range of repair tapes, sealants, buckles, tapes and cords permanently in stock. They're dead easy to find in the shops and we're working on improving their visibility online:

Clothing/Tent and Rucsack Spares and repairs: Repair Products Camping | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown S (climbers-shop.com)
Cordlocks: Lowe Alpine Cord Lock - Assorted Coloured (climbers-shop.com)
Cord: Ropes Cords Climbing Equipment | The Climbers Shop And Joe (climbers-shop.com)
Footwear Spares: Proofings, Aftercare & Repair | The Climbers Shop (climbers-shop.com)

To find our how to send your item back to Snowdonia Gear Repair please click here: Snowdonia Gear Repair

Our key brands all have their own repair/servicing and advice portals here:
Rab Service Centre - Rab® UK
Returns | Mountain Equipment (mountain-equipment.co.uk)
Care of Your Product – Mountain Equipment (mountain-equipment.co.uk)
Montane Repair Service | Extend the lifetime of your product. – Montane - UK
Climbing / Walking Boot Repairs & Resoles (UK) - SCARPA UK
La Sportiva - Official Website

Other outdoor specialist repair companies in the UK:
Outdoor Gear Repairs - LSR (lancashiresportsrepairs.co.uk)
Scottish Mountain Gear
home | Llanberis Resoles | approved Scarpa and La Sportiva resoler.

Get in touch!

In this episode Cathy and Wayne are joined by The Climbers Shop Manager and Spine Race veteran Chris Worton to talk about the wonderful world of trail shoes.

Why are there so many different types? How is a trail running shoe different from a road running shoe? Can the right shoes make you feel less tired? How can you make shoes last longer? What is the difference between pronation and supination? What is meant by drop? gait? neutral shoes? This episode is packed with facts and information about shoes, socks, gaiters, microspikes, laces and....... marmite - Wayne even get's grossed out about toenails.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

Click the link to see our huge range of men's trail shoes
Mens Trail Running Shoes And Fell Running Shoes (climbers-shop.com)
Click the link to see our huge range of women's trail shoes
Womens Trail Running Shoes And Fell Running Shoes (climbers-shop.com)
Click the "Running" tab to see our full range of clothing and accessories
The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Tips on fit, nutrition and ultra's:
Running — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Cathy & Wayne are joined by Author, Walking Leader and Outdoor Swimming Instructor Suzanna Cruikshank to talk about women's technical clothing for sizes beyond the norm.

This fascinating insight into clothing fit follows on from our extremely successful online symposium held back in 2021. Listen as we discuss what is available, the difficulties of finding technical equipment for larger body shapes, why technical shops can be intimidating, colour, features and dodgy swim models.

But what is being done about it?

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

To see our plus size women's clothing range: Womens Outdoor Clothing And Womens Outdoor Jackets (climbers-shop.com)
To see our XXL men's clothing range: Mens Outdoor Clothing And Mens Outdoor Jackets (climbers-shop.com)
Watch our online symposium here: Women’s Technical Clothing: Fit, Form and Function — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Technical Plus Size Patterns to make: Sew Outdoorsy | Outdoor & Activewear Sewing Patterns for Plus Sizes

Lake District Wild Swimming (suzannaswims.co.uk)

Get in touch!

In September 2023 Outdoor Gear Chat Co-Host Wayne Singleton stepped into the water at Bowness-on-Solway on the North Cumbria coast to "celebrate" an upcoming birthday. Some say he'd taken a wrong turn as originally, he'd started out planning to swim the English Channel. When he couldn't find a pilot he decided on a different type of swim challenge, one no-one had ever tried before - to swim the entire coastline of his home County of Cumbria.
With no idea what to expect, no idea if three years of training was enough, 10 days off from work and an acute fear of sea wildlife, Wayne describes dark depths, terrifying tides and the truly monster jellyfish he came across on his journey.

You can read a "real time" account of Wayne's epic swim here:
News - The Running Concierge
To donate to Wayne's Challenge and raise money for the Brathay Trust:
Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)
To learn about the great work of The Brathay Trust with young people in the North West:
Inspiring young people to make positive changes - Brathay Trust

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If trekking in Nepal is on your bucket list then join Cathy and Wayne as they chat with Denise Prior at Community Action Treks. She has 20 years experience and along with Nicola Terry from parent charity Community Action Nepal, explains not just the importance of packing the right kit but also how to travel and trek while having a positive impact on the country you are travelling in.
Both Community Action Nepal and Community action Treks were originally set up by mountaineer Doug Scott - who summited Everest in 1975 alongside Dougal Haston making them the first Brits to do so.

You can find out more about the Treks offered by CAT here:
Community Action Trekking (catreks.com)
You can donate to Community Action Nepal here:
About Us | Community Action Nepal (canepal.org.uk)
Everything you need to trekking anywhere; from water purification to boots to sun-cream to down jackets is available here:
The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Discover a TON of free equipment and clothing advice here:
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

Get in touch!

Are you baffled by the number of different ropes available? Cathy and Wayne talk with Edelrid UK Representative Alex Smurthwaite and discover how not all ropes are equal......

Learn the difference between single/half/twin and triple ropes, why there are so many diameters, how a dry treatment keeps out more than just water, why colour is important, how to wash your rope, what the Bluesign logo means and why a "glorified angle grinder" is part of the Edelrid testing process!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

Click here to see our range of Edelrid climbing ropes and equipment:
Search results for 'edelrid' (climbers-shop.com)
Purchase a Beal Rope Brush here:
Beal Rope Brush (climbers-shop.com)
To learn more about climbing equipment click here:
Climbing Knowledge — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Edelrid Cut Resistance of Rope Test:
EDELRID Knowledge Base - Cut Resistance of ropes - Part 1 - YouTube

Get in touch!

Cathy and Wayne are joined once again by the brilliant Stuart Smith to discuss  undergarments.

You'll hear all about why a baselayer should be close fitting to work effectively in our climate, how they work, why some niff more than others, how to make a stinky baselayer smell better (and last longer), the difference between natural and man made fibres and what is good merino vs bad merino.
There are tales a-plenty (including vanishing underwear) but beware - you may never be able to eat a Polo mint again!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

Buy Men's Baselayer is available here:
Men's Baselayers (climbers-shop.com)
Buy Women's Baselayer here:
Women's Baselayers (climbers-shop.com)
Buyers Guide to Baselayers:
Buyers Guide To Baselayers — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Need to wash those stinky baselayers?
Proofings Clothing Care & Proofing Essentials | The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)
Learn more about technical clothing here:
Clothing — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

Listen to Stu Smith discuss Stoves:
Episode 8: Stoves - Burning Ring of Fire (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

Cathy and Wayne are joined by Voom Brand Manager and Team GB Triathalete Beau Smith to seriously geek out on nutrition for endurance sports.
Listen and learn what energy bar ingredients mean, the difference between caffiene and guarana, what are the key causes of stomach issues (and potential solutions), why hydration is so critical alongside energy foods, how electrolyte drinks work, why B vitamins are so important, discover that Recovery Fudge is a "thing" and how plant protein is increasingly popular in race nutrition. From baby milk to hangover cures - we discuss the lot!

Grab a brew (and possibly a dictionary) to enjoy this episode to the max.


Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is swimming the coastline of Cumbria for Brathay Trust

Buy Voom nutrition here:
Nutrition | The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)
Full range of Endurance Sport nutrition here:
Nutrition | The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)
Learn more about endurance race nutrition here:
Running — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Visit the Voom website here:
VOOM Nutrition | Leading sports nutrition, energy & recovery products

Get in touch!

Cathy and Wayne are joined by outdoor cook and all round smashing bloke Harrison Ward to talk about getting out in the fells to cook.
Perhaps better known by his Instagram handle @Fellfoodie, Harrison shares his own version of haute cuisine among his native Lakeland Fells alongside his personal recovery from alcoholism and poor mental health.
Harrison openly describes how combining his newly found passion for hillwalking with cooking tasty nutritious food has lead him into a new realm of positivity and ultimately, the realisation of a childhood dream.
There is plenty of talk about kit, camping, laughter among the reflection and a sizeable plug for Harrison's excellent new book "Cook Out" packed full of scrumptious recipes to cook outdoors and enjoy with friends.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

You can buy signed copies of Harrison's book here
View our range of stoves here
Thinking of upgrading your kit? Read our wide range of Buyers Guides
Knowledge — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Find out more about Harrison here: Fell Foodie | Outdoor Cooking | Mental Health Speaker
If you need support don't put it off, click here

Get in touch!

Join Cathy and Wayne with Dr Matt Fuller, for a fascinating insight into down and it's amazing ability to keep us warm!
Matt has a PhD in Feather and Down Structure and is Product Engineer at Mountain Equipment.
This episode is a real journey, explaining how ethically sourced down ends up in your jacket, sleeping bag, or suit  from source. Learn how down is almost structurally perfect, how it works, it's longevity, why insulated legwear and skirts rock, what "clumping" is and what to do if you've got it.
If you have ever wondered about the difference between cheap down and responsibly sourced, what a Down Codex might be, or even if it is true that the original down jacket was invented by a chap named Finch (!) then this is definitely the podcast for you.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

If you would like to trace the down in your Mountain Equipment product, use the Down Codex here: Down Codex - Mountain Equipment (thedowncodex.co.uk)
Buy Mountain Equipment Products here: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Learn more about outdoor clothing and equipment here:  The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Don't forget to listen to our other podcasts about down:
Episode 4: Sleeping Bags - Slip Into Something Silky (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 12: Insulated Jackets - Snug As A Bug (buzzsprout.com)

Episode 23: Kit Lists - Everest Basecamp Trek (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 24: Kit Lists - Polar Travel (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 26: Kit Lists - Expeditions with Andy Cave (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 30: Kit Lists - 8000m Peaks with Jon Gupta (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 36: Kit Lists - Trekking In Nepal (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

Cathy and Wayne are joined live from Colombia by Ben Davies and Felix Sullivan from the El Rio Hostel in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains.
This very special episode talks not just about the kit needed for the nearby trek to the Lost City but also the unique relationship between The Climbers Shop and the El Rio Foundation. Listen to how buying great kit from us helps fund vital work with children in post conflict Colombia - and how you can help kids learn simply by visiting the hostel and buying a beer!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider making a donation to help further the vital work of the El Rio Foundation here.

Follow El Rio Foundation:
Instagram: @elriofoundation

Find out more about El Rio Hostel: Rio Hostel Buritaca
Read more about the El Rio Foundation: The El Rio Foundation – We are the charity arm of Rio Hostel Buritaca (elriofoundationco.org)
How buying great kit in Ambleside can have a positive impact on kids in post conflict Colombia: How Your Purchases With Us Help Others Too — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
To see our travel and trekking range: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Further kit information: The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

Related Outdoor Gear Chat Episodes:
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 27: Water Purifiers - That's Quite A Thirst (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 22: Sunglasses & Goggles - Eye Eye! (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 21: First Aid - I've Got An Ouchie (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 10: Rucksacks - What's in your sack? (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 6: Walking Boots - When Size Really Matters (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 3: Socks - My Feet Stink (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy of Moisture Management (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through to My Undies (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

Cathy and Wayne talk about the NEW Mountain Goat Circuit/ Cylchdaith Yr Afr Fynydd, a spectacular 50km loop in Snowdonia along the skyline from the Joe Brown's Capel Curig shop to Llanberis and back.

Joined by Rab Global Sales Operations Manager Chris Vanderhoven, they discuss how the idea came about, the route, the terrain and there are lots of tips on what kit you'll need depending if you run, fastpack or backpack what is sure to become an iconic round of it's own right. The odds are good you'll see one of the famous Snowdonia Mountain Goats en route too!

For more details about how to get involved:
For suggested kit lists:
Check out the full range of great kit available at www.joe-brown.com
For tons of great skills and kit advice check out: www.joebrownoutdooracademy.com

Related Outdoor Gear Chat Podcasts:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through to My Undies (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy of Moisture Management (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 3: Socks - My Feet Stink (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 5: Gloves - Mittens vs Fingers (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 6: Walking Boots - When Size Really Matters (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 10: Rucksacks - What's in your sack? (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 21: First Aid - I've Got An Ouchie (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 22: Sunglasses & Goggles - Eye Eye! (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 29: Hats - The Importance Of Head Protection (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 33: Trail Running Shoes - Nice Lugs! (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit (buzzsprout.com)

Planning to camp?
Episode 4: Sleeping Bags - Slip Into Something Silky (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 8: Stoves - Burning Ring of Fire (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 11: Lighting - Beam Me Up (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 19: Tents - Erections Of All Sizes (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

This week Cathy and Wayne talk about head protection with Petzl sponsored athletes and climbing giants: Emma Powell and Neil Gresham.

Whether you are trad, sport, winter climbing or dry tooling we delve into why you might choose to wear a helmet when you climb, different construction types, testing, safety, how to check your helmet, how to tell when your helmet should be retired and why recycling them is so difficult. Packed full of technical geekery, anecdotes and possibly a little too much information from Cathy, this an essential listen for climbers everywhere.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

For full information how how to check your helmet: Climbing Knowledge — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
To see our full range of climbing helmets: Climbing Helmets Climbing Equipment | The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)
Visit Neil Gresham's website: neilgresham.com
Visit Emma Powell's You Tube Channel: Emma Powell Climbing - YouTube
For a wealth of technical climbing information: Tech tips by activity - Petzl United Kingdom

Other Outdoor Gear Chat Posts you might be interested in:
Episode 7: Trad Climbing Gear - Nice Rack! (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 9: Rock Boots - Trust The Rubber (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 15: Ice Axes - Take Your Pick (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 20: Carabiners - I Need A Screw (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 37: Ropes - All Tied Up (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

Ever wondered what's involved in starting a new outdoor clothing brand?

Cathy and Wayne are joined by Artilect Co-Founder Trent Bush to chat about the incredible amount of passion, science, skill and global logistics involved in getting a product from concept to shelf.

Based in Boulder Colorado, Artilect offer men's and women's ethically produced base layer, insulation and waterproof clothing packed full of  innovative technologies and centered around the outdoor user.  This is a fascinating behind- the-scenes insight into the passion, knowledge and expertise poured into technical outdoor garments.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

See our full range of Artilect: Artilect (climbers-shop.com)
For more expert knowledge on outdoor clothing: Clothing — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
To keep your kit working for as long as possible: Repairs and Servicing I — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy


Other outdoor Gear Chat Episodes you may be interested in:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through to My Undies (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy of Moisture Management (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 12: Insulated Jackets - Snug As A Bug (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 34: Women's Technical Clothing Fit and Function (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 41: How To Keep Warm With Dr Down (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

Planning an expedition to Greenland?

Cathy and Wayne are joined by Olly Sanders to chat about how to prepare, what kit to pack, why climbing style may be dictated by your kayak, the effect of comms and tech on expeditions and why wellies are always on his kit list.

There are top tips on how to travel with minimal impact, information and funding advice for those planning their own adventures all interspersed with how to pack your boat, where to strap your gun and the very real discovery that Polar Bears are REALLY big when you're lying down!

If that's not enough - we even talk Batman stunts.

This show has it all!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

See our full range: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Free kit advice: The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Olly's website: All About Rock & Sea Adventures (rockandseadventures.co.uk)

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through to My Undies (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy of Moisture Management (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 3: Socks - My Feet Stink (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 4: Sleeping Bags - Slip Into Something Silky (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 5: Gloves - Mittens vs Fingers (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 8: Stoves - Burning Ring of Fire (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 11: Lighting - Beam Me Up (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 19: Tents - Erections Of All Sizes (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 21: First Aid - I've Got An Ouchie (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 22: Sunglasses & Goggles - Eye Eye! (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 27: Water Purifiers - That's Quite A Thirst (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 37: Ropes - All Tied Up (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 41: How To Keep Warm With Dr Down (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

There are big changes happening in the world of waterproofs . They're a long time coming and are great news for the environment BUT we will all need to learn how to use and maintain the new technologies. 

In this first of three special podcasts, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Debbie Read, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Equip Outdoor Technologies to discuss why chemicals that have been used in waterproof garments for years are being phased out and how this will effect performance. 

As technical garment users, we all need to better understand why these changes are needed, how they will impact our time in the hills and why we will need to wash and re-proof our waterproof garments more regularly. 

There is a world of science in your waterproof jacket - we're here to help you understand it.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

See our full range: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Free kit advice: The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

To learn more about how Rab are phasing out PFA's and what is in your garment:
https://rab.equipment/uk/material-facts-faq
https://equipuk.com/blog/our-commitment-to-phase-out-pfas
https://rab.equipment/uk/pfas

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through to My Undies (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy of Moisture Management (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

There are big changes happening in the world of waterproofs . They're a long time coming and are great news for the environment BUT we will all need to learn how to use and maintain the new technologies. 

In this second of three special podcasts, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Laura Howe, Fabric Technologist at Mountain Equipment, to discuss how new waterproof fabrics are chosen, tested and built in to technical garment design.

As technical garment users, we all need to better understand why these changes are needed, how they will impact our time in the hills and why we will need to wash and re-proof our waterproof garments more regularly. 

There is a world of science in your waterproof jacket - we're here to help you understand it.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

See our full range: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Free kit advice: The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

To learn more about how Mountain Equipment are phasing out PFA's:
Aiming to be PFAS free by Winter 2025 | Mountain Equipment (mountain-equipment.com)

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through to My Undies (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy of Moisture Management (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

There are big changes happening in the world of waterproofs . They're a long time coming and are great news for the environment BUT we will all need to learn how to use and maintain the new technologies. 

In this final part of three "waterproof special" podcasts, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Tim Francis Regional Trainer and Account Manager for Grangers International, to discuss why new waterproof fabrics will need to be washed and re-proofed more frequently than older garments and how you can do this simply and easily at home.

As technical garment users, we all need to better understand why these changes are needed, how they will impact our time in the hills and why we will need to wash and re-proof our waterproof garments more regularly. 

There is a world of science in your waterproof jacket - we're here to help you understand it.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

See our full range: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Free kit advice: The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

To learn more about how simple it is to wash and re-proof your garment at home:
Washing Your Waterproof Clothing — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
For a list of care and repair facilities throughout the UK:
Repairs and Servicing I — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through to My Undies (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy of Moisture Management (buzzsprout.com)
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit (buzzsprout.com)

Get in touch!

Part 1 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 season

Cathy talks with Jon Frederick, Group Marketing Director for Equip (Global) about their key brand Rab.

Recorded in front of a live Audience this fascinating episode gives a real insight into how your favourite outdoor garments journey from concept to reality. This years festival theme is "Balance" and this podcast looks not just at how we, as users, offset or compare the value of one garment over another but also at how production has evolved to balance growth with sustainability, how we are all responsible for how we buy our kit, how product is tested and how, since the very beginning, Rab's partnerships are key to building the best clothing and equipment possible.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: COMMUNITY ACTION NEPAL

See our full Rab range: The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK (climbers-shop.com)
Free kit advice: The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Rab® Official Site. High performance outdoor clothing, down jackets, GORE-TEX, sleeping bags and packs. | Rab® UK

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 47: New Waterproof Fabrics - What You Need To Know Part 1
Episode 43: Kit Lists - The Mountain Goat Circuit
Episode 30: Kit Lists - 8000m Peaks with Jon Gupta
Episode 26: Kit Lists - Expeditions with Andy Cave
Episode 13: Joe Browns and The Climbers Shop - The Big History

Get in touch!

Part 2 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 season

Recorded in front of a live audience at Kendal Mountain Festival, Cathy chats with KMF CEO Jacqui Scott about their unique journeys into and through the Outdoor industry, how they have balanced motherhood through their careers and how they are helping those just starting out.

Fair warning: there is a little bit of language, a lot of crazy stories and plenty of laughter but if you are expecting advice on how to be a perfect mother - this may not be the best place to find it!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure
The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 13: Joe Browns and The Climbers Shop - The Big History

Get in touch!

Part 3 of our Kendal Mountain festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Malcolm Rudge, Product Design Manager at Mountain Equipment.

If you have ever wondered how a glove is made, how many pieces are in a glove, how they are waterproof and why certain gloves work with a smart phone and others don't then you will find all your answers here!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: https://www.canepal.org.uk/

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 13: Joe Browns and The Climbers Shop - The Big History
Episode 5: Mittens vs Fingers

Get in touch!

Part 4 of our Kendal Mountain festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Catriona Shearer, UK Account Marketing Manager and PR Specialist for W.L.Gore Ltd.

We chat about fabrics, testing and how Gore-Tex is changing to reduce it's impact on the environment.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: https://www.canepal.org.uk/

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Gore-Tex Virtual Lab Tour

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 49: New Waterproof Fabrics - What You Need To Know Part 3
Episode 48: New Waterproof Fabrics - What You Need To Know Part 2
Episode 47: New Waterproof Fabrics - What you Need To know Part 1
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm wet through to my undies

Get in touch!

Part 5 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Isla McCay, Communications Officer for Glenmore Lodge, the National Outdoor Training Centre.

Glenmore Lodge has consistently delivered world class training in a wealth of outdoor activities for 70 years from it's stunning base nestled at the base of the Cairngorm Mountains. Isla explains how courses are continually evolving and how your course may not be in Scotland......

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Glenmore Lodge

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Expeditions With Andy Cave
First Aid - I've Got An Ouchie
Ice Axes - Take Your Pick
Lighting - Beam Me Up

Get in touch!

Part 6 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Alice Sainsbury, Product Designer for Berghaus Adapts.

This is a fascinating insight into Berghaus' drive to create adaptive outdoor clothing for adventurers with additional needs where we discuss garments adjusted for limb length, additions to aid moving limbs and design features allowing for catheters.

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Berghaus Adapt and Ed Jackson

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 31 - Adaptive Outdoor Kit With Paul Pritchard

Get in touch!

Part 7 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Lucy Speakman, Director of Addidas, Terrex and 5:10 and Andrea Paulson, Senior Vice President of Innovation and Technology at Primaloft.

Primaloft is an industry leader in synthetic insulation and in this episode you'll hear about the passion that goes into every stage of creating the award winning Terrex Xperior jacket.

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Addidas Terrex Xperior Jacket

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 12: Insulated Jackets - Snug As A Bug
Episode 2: Layering - The Art of Moisture management

Get in touch!

Part 8 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Matt Haigh, Key Account Manager for Osprey.

Osprey celebrate their 50th Anniversary this year and in this episode we chat about the history of a company that specialises in Rucsacks and load carrying systems.

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Osprey

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 10: Rucsacks - What's In Your Pack?

Get in touch!

Part 9 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Tim Francis, Regional Trainer and Account Manager for Grangers International.

We chat about the new changes in waterproof fabrics, why and how we need to look after them differently - including why you may wish to tumble dry or even iron your waterproof garments! Grangers have been offering a wealth of cleaning and proofing products since the 1930's and are very proud to be the official partner of the RNLI.

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy


If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 49: All You Need To Know About New Waterproof Fabrics Part 3
Episode 48: All You Need To Know About New Waterproof Fabrics Part 2
Episode 47: All You Need To Know About New Waterproof Fabrics Part 1
Episode 2: Layering - The Joy Of Moisture Management
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through To My Undies

Get in touch!

Part 9 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Billy Ridal, La Sportiva Sponsored Athelete.

Listen in awe as Billy describes how he retired from indoor competition climbing and took a trip out to Yosemite with his friend and climbing partner Alex Waterhouse to become the first Brits to make a free ascent of the world famous Nose on El Capitan, Yosemite. The route was first climbed by Lynn Hill in 1993 and has subsequently only received eight ascents in 30 years. 

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Film Trailer - Nose Job

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 7: Trad Climbing Gear - Nice-Rack
Episode 9: Rock Boots - Trust The Rubber
Episode 20: Carabiners - I Need A Screw

Get in touch!

Part 11 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Mountaineer and Deuter Athlete Tamara Lunger.

After summitting her first 8000m peak at the age of 23, Tamara went on to become the second Italian woman to summit K2 without oxygen. Tamara's passion for the mountains extends to her equipment - testing Deuter rucsacks in the worlds harshest environments.

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Learn more about Tamara


If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 10: Rucsacks - What's In Your Pack?

Get in touch!

Part 12 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Adventure Athlete and Montane Ambassador Jenny Tough.

If you have ever wondered about how kit is tested - take a listen to Jenny describing how she took her Montane Trailblazer pack and ran mountain chains in 6 continents. Solo.

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Learn more about Jenny
Jenny's videos and films
Jenny's review of the Montane Trailblazer 30 Backpack


If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 39: Endurance Sport Nutrition - Will It Stay Down?
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit
Episode 32: Spares and Repairs
Episode 12: Insulation - Snug As A bug
Episode 10: Rucsacks - What's In Your Pack?
Episode 5: Gloves - Mittens vs Fingers

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Part 14 and the final podlet of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy is joined by Ourea Event Director Shane Ohly.

Shane is the man leading the team behind the legendary KMF Terrex 10k and the new KMF The North Face 50k Ultra and gives a peek of what goes on behind the scenes at these really popular events that go ahead - whatever the weather!

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Learn more about Ourea Events


If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 39: Endurance Sport Nutrition - Will It Stay Down?
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit
Episode 56: Terrex and Primaloft
Episode 33: Trail Running Shoes

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Part 12 of our Kendal Mountain Festival 2024 Season.

Recorded live out and about at the festival, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Kerry Page from Community Action Nepal.

Founded by mountaineer, the late Doug Scott as a means of giving back to the communities that had given him so much, CAN works with local people and the Government to build, maintain and run health posts, porter shelters and schools in remote regions of Nepal. Their sister company Community Action Treks offers tailor made trekking trips with all profits going to the charity.

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Kendal Mountain Festival | Share the Adventure

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Community Action Nepal
Community Action Treks


If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 13: Joe Browns and The Climbers Shop Big History
Episode 23: Kit Lists: Trekking To Everest Basecamp
Episode 36: Trekking In Nepal

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Wayne chats with Cathy about her wander along the UK's most remote long distance path; The Cape Wrath Trail.

After a 15 year search for two friends willing to trek 220 miles through Scotlands wilderness, Cathy chats about their fantastic 12 day trip involving camps, bivvies, bothies, hostels, river crossings and a LOT of bellowing stags. Listen to tips on planning, training, logisitics, spreadsheets, blister management, cooking, packing and clothing as well as middle age, dodgy knees and falling over.

And laughter. Lots of laughter.

You can see some of the incredible pictures from the trip here: Blog: Cape Wrath Trail

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through To My Undies
Episode 2: Layering - The joy Of Moisture Management
Episode 3: Socks - My Feet Stink
Episode 6: Walking Boots - When Size Really Matters

Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit

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Cathy and Wayne are joined by Lake District Sky Trails creator and Race Director Charlie Sproson.

Listen in to learn about the evolution of Sky Running, what courses and events entail, the kit and skills required and why comfy shoes are a necessity.

Charlie gives a fantastic insight into all aspects of the sport as well as drilling down into kit lists and why training is key to coping with those times when things don't always go to plan. Shoes, poles, race vests and bivvy bags - we cover them all!

Listen ,learn and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Community Action Nepal

Lake District Sky Trails
The Climbers Shop and Joe Brown Shops | Outdoor Clothing & Equipment UK
The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

If you found this interesting then don't forget to download:
Episode 1: Waterproofs - I'm Wet Through To My Undies
Episode 2: Layering - The joy Of Moisture Management
Episode 33: Trail Running Shoes - Nice Lugs
Episode 38: Baselayers - Tight Fit

Episode 39: Endurance Nutrition - Will It Stay Down?

We also have a number of episodes chatting about kit lists for other key running events including the Lakeland 50/100 and The Spine Race, which you can check out here

Get in touch!

Cathy and Wayne take a light hearted look at the science of waterproofs: the history of waterproofs, just how wet you can be in waterproofs, why your need to wash (and tumble dry) your waterproofs much more frequently than you used to and why Wayne is planning on being wet through to his undies, on purpose......

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide to Waterproofs — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog
Gore-Tex Talk Sustainability in Chamonix — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog
Washing Your Waterproof Clothing — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog
Clothing — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

2024 - There are lots of changes happening to waterproof fabrics. Yake a listen to our three part special where we discuss changes for the better with industry experts:
Episode 47: New Waterproof Fabrics. What you need to know - part 1
Episode 48: New Waterproof Fabrics. What you need to know - part 2
Episode 49: New Waterproof Fabrics. What you need to know - part 3

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Cathy and Wayne take a light hearted look at the science of layering: why we sweat, why "wicking" is important, how layers keep us cool AND warm, why more and more clothes are being made from plastic bottles and tree fibres, nasty chafing and why, when it comes to technical underwear, going large is good. In fact there is a lot of talk about underwear. Men's and Women's. It is also highly likely that this is the first ever Podcast to coin the term "Hurty Boob Day"!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide to Layering — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Clothing — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
How to Layer like a Pro — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)

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Cathy and Wayne take a light hearted look at the science of socks and how looking after our feet is critical to enjoying our time outdoors. Listen as they get down to the nitty gritty of footcare, foot smell, blisters, dry skin, sweat glands and trench foot. This is NOT a podcast to listen to while eating!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide to Socks — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Blisters. Aaaaaaargh! — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
» History of Socks (outdoorgearcoach.co.uk)

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Cathy and Wayne take a light hearted look at the science of sleeping bags: why choosing to use a sleeping bag generally gives you a better nights sleep (!), sleeping systems, how to clean a bag at home,  why your choice of zip side is important, the differences between synthetic and down, how to make sense of temperature ratings and why a women's specific bag is a great idea if you are a.....woman!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide to Sleeping Bags — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
A (sleeping) Sound Investment — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Knowledge - Sleeping — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Down Codex - Mountain Equipment (thedowncodex.co.uk)
Rab Wash - Rab® UK

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Cathy and Wayne take a light hearted look at the science of gloves: why a tight glove isn't a good thing, why a large glove isn't necessarily a good thing either (!), why you may want to layer, which gloves are easiest to get a wet hand in and out and why choosing one with a nose wipe is a really good idea. All this AND why Wayne conducted the entire podcast in rubber....!!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide To Gloves — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Caring for Gloves and Accessories – Mountain Equipment (mountain-equipment.co.uk)
Warmer hands and feet in the mountains - ...all but essential travel...

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Join Cathy and Wayne for a second season of science stories and laughter. This episode explains why there are so many boots to choose from, the differences between fabric and leather, how boots should fit, why colour shouldn't matter, the importance of lacing and why the size you were expecting to buy might not be the size you walk out with. There is also mention of saveloy!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

To learn more about this topic please click through to:
Buyers Guide To Walking Boots<br/> — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
How To Lace Your Walking Boots — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Blisters. Aaaaaaargh! — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Footwear — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Wayne's getting into trad climbing so he and Cathy are joined by British Mountain Guide, Author and DMM Ambassador Libby Peter to discuss what gear he should select for his first rack and why. Learn about why there are so many different types of nuts, cams, hex's and krabs, when you may want to use an extender, why coloured karabiners are a great idea and how Cathy unintentionally made an American climber very, very happy!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity:
Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide to Building Your First Trad Rack — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Skills : Climb — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
Climbing Knowledge — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy
The British Mountaineering Council (thebmc.co.uk)

You can buy Libby's book here:
Rock Climbing: Essential Skills and Techniques (climbers-shop.com)

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Cathy and Wayne talk stoves and fetishes in this episode - just how many stoves does a person need? Joining them is special guest Stuart Smith whose experience using stoves across the globe in hot, cold and wet environments shines through with descriptions of fire rainbows, sinking stoves and little prickers. Learn the difference between integral canister systems, multi-fuel stoves, why all gas is not equal and just how reading gas canister instructions helped Stu become an accomplished linguist.

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

Buyers Guides to Stoves — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Knowledge - Cooking — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

For Events, Skills, Guiding and Event Safety:
NAV4Adventure

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Wayne's getting into his climbing and wondering if he needs to buy rock boots. This week's talk with Cathy journeys through rubber, precision placements, flat toes, squished toes, slip lasts, leather and why tear inducingly tight climbing shoes might not always be a good thing. Good footwork, however, most definitely is!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Young Minds Matter Appeal | Brathay Trust

Buyers Guide to Choosing Rock Shoes — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Footwear — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Join Cathy and Wayne as they talk about rucksacks and load carrying. Learn the importance of your squishy bits when it comes to measuring backsize, why most rucksacks aren't waterproof, why you might want to consider a "rucksack filing system" and how, when it comes to what you put on your back; big may not always be better!

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide to Rucksacks — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Knowledge - Backpacks — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

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Cathy and Wayne take a light hearted look at the science of headtorches: learning about lumens, marveling at "intelligent" lighting, discovering what exactly an IP rating is along with the revelation of what type of inflatable impresses Cathy!!! If you have a pony tail, wear a helmet or are fed up with getting blinded by your tent mate then this is the podcast for you!

Incidentally - SOS in morse code is ... --- ...

Listen ,learn, laugh and if you are able, please consider donating to our chosen charity: Wayne Singleton is fundraising for Brathay Trust (justgiving.com)

To learn more about this weeks topic click through to:
Buyers Guide to Choosing Lighting — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Camping — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy

Lighting Headtorches | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)
Lighting Lanterns | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)
Lighting Handheld | The Climbers Shop And Joe Brown Shops (climbers-shop.com)

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Join Cathy and Wayne as they chat about the wonderful world of insulated clothing. Learn the difference between feather and down, why "fill power" is a good thing to know and understand why most insulated jackets aren't waterproof. There's laughter, there's techy stuff, there's the word "poofiness", there's an explanation of why you need tennis balls to wash a down jacket and perhaps most impressively, another of Cathy's podcast visualisations!


Links:
Buyers Guide to Insulated Clothing — The Climbers Shop / Joe Brown Blog (theclimbersshopjoebrownblog.co.uk)
Clothing — The Joe Brown Outdoor Academy