Gear Guide
We put the latest outdoor clothing and equipment to the test
Vango Apex 2 Sleeping Bag, £140
UNPACKING Vango’s Apex 2 ahead of a camping trip, I already loved the way the item felt. I’m always a bit wary when anybody says synthetic material can imitate the characteristics of real down. However, in the case of the Apex 2, which is filled with Ecoloft® insulation, I was proven wrong! The lining felt so authentic that I went back to check it wasn’t the real deal. The outer layer is made from recycled fishing nets, which is another win for the eco-conscious among us. There also isn’t too much rustling when moving around when inside.
A more important consideration than the feel is whether the sleeping bag is warm. The Apex 2 delivered here, too. The auto-lock on the zip is a great addition, and I was amazed by how much warmer it kept me than other sleeping bags I have tried.
At £140 it is an investment but, judging by the cosy night I had despite fairly low temperatures, I would say it is a worthwhile one.
Salomon Genesis Trail Shoe, £140
NEW running shoes always make for a bouncy run, but the energy foam in these Salomons took this to another level. They didn’t need breaking in at all, and were comfortable from the first run. I tried them out on a route which took me along a towpath, grass and road, and they are great for switching between surfaces. The cushioning built in makes them ideal for running on stones, and the grip they offer is better than any other running shoes I’ve used.
I would recommend these for anyone who regularly runs mountains, especially if, like me, you’re prone to rolling your ankles when running on uneven surfaces. These sturdy shoes will see you through. However, as strong as they are, they are also wonderfully lightweight. Additionally, the material is tear-resistant – which I can confirm really works – so you don’t have to worry about damaging the shoes, no matter the terrain. I consider them good value at £140, offering a lot more than other similarly priced ones I’ve used.
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