Carry on Camping

Posted on August 9, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

Hopefully, I’ll be getting out camping for the August Bank holiday this year… a friend of mine has never been camping so a few of us thought we’d spend the weekend breaking her in to, cooking on a small stove, sleeping in a tent, playing frisbee until it’s too dark to see, card games, midnight walks and sneaky toilet trips in the middle of the night.

I’ll most likely be going to Hadrian’s wall as it’s local to where I live and is perfect for a couple of nights easy camping -

Hadrian’s wall on a good day

My Kit List -

I’ll be sure to take…..

Vango Two Man Tent (pretty bog standard but I’ve had Vango tents for years and they’ve always treated me well – still had my dads original Force Ten until recently)
Deuter Sleeping Bag/Mats/travel pillow etc (may even be super lazy and take an airbed for a bit of luxury seeing as though I’ll be taking my Land Rover as well!)
Cooking utensils and Trangia, fully equipped with my own personal chef (boyfriend).
Walking gear, backpack, boots, food/Water, headtorch
Entertainment (my lovely little Labrador Puppy)
camera for when we go out on the hill
I won’t be taking my ‘Sheewee’. It did not work out so well for me the last time. That’s all I have to say about that.

If you’re thinking of heading out while the weather is nice, Northumberland, Lake District, Yorkshire Dales are definitely on my list of good places to camp in northern England.

- LD Mountain Centre Camping Gear

New brands for the winter!

Posted on August 7, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

So it’s getting to that time of year again for us at the LD Mountain Centre. The (even) colder months are coming round all too quickly again as we will begin to get winter stock at the end of this month. Although we haven’t had much of a summer, we do have exciting new brands to look forward to for the winter.

686

On November 13, 1992, the 686 technical apparel company was formed. The 686 name comes from a crucial date in the life of Mike’s grandmother (June 6th, 1986) and adds up to the age of when he started the company (6+8+6). Since the beginning, 686 has been about providing innovative, fashionable outerwear and technical apparel inspired from the same Los Angeles street culture and mountain lifestyle it was founded upon.

Sweet Protection

Stronger, lighter, better. The Sweet mantra can be traced back to a school paper from 1988, made by one of the founders and design manager, Ståle Møller. Specialising in protective gear, Sweet Protection also stock some great clothing and apparel products….keep your eyes peeled as to which ones we will be stocking!

Dynafit

The Dynafit brand is for people who live mountain sports and Dynafit is committed to serving all ambitious ski mountaineers. They stock a wide range of fantastic products designed for those who are madly in love with winter. We will be testing the water with a few of them by stocking them here this upcoming winter.

Napapijri

Based in Norway, they are a stylish and technical brand with emphasis on comfort to keep you smiling through the bad weather. We will be stocking a few of their apparel products as well as some lovely jackets.

Smartwool

Smartwool is a fantastic brand using the finest New Zealand Merino wool to produce extremely comfortably socks – naturally soft, their fibers do not itch like other wool can do, they breath a little better and are naturally anti bacterial – even better if you’ve been wearing them for a couple of days straight!

Drake Bindings and NorthWave Boots

A variety of Drake boards and bindings, complete the Northwave proposal. These products are suitable for every type of riding in all snow conditions and ensure performances of high levels with a sensation of immediate responsiveness, for a customized set-up for all your needs and with an appealing look.
Drake bindings and boards (the latter introduced in the market only 5 years ago) are decidedly proving increasingly successful with positive feedback among the lovers of this field.

Keep a look out for new products through out site!

Sun, Sea and Heat stroke

Posted on August 2, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

If you’re heading out to warmer climates this summer, it’s vital that you protect your skin from the harmful rays – Especially, if you are pale like me! I was badly burnt in Thailand earlier in the year and stupidly underestimated the strength of the sun, after being on the beach less than 1 hour I ended up with heat stroke, quite badly and a very sore burnt back. Even at 25 years old I should definitely have known better, in my mind I could hear my mum 6000miles away telling me off! Oopsy.

I’d never been anywhere that hot before and soon had to push my factor 30 up to factor 80! I wasn’t even aware they made factor 80 – I looked like a Greek statue and had to apply it like I was cementing a wall! Anyway, not only using sun screen helped but covering with clothes will also help to block out the harmful rays - Good examples of fabrics contain full percentages and/or blends of heavy weight natural fibers like cotton, linen and hemp or light-weight synthetics such as polyester,nylon, spandex and polypropylene. Natural or synthetic indigo dyed denim, twill weaves and canvas are also good examples. However, a significant disadvantage is the heat retention caused by heavier weight and darker colored fabrics – So do stick to lighter colours to reflect heat.

ROYAL ROBBINS
Expedition Light LS Shirt

ROYAL ROBBINS
Women’s Essentials Tank

UPF RATING	PROTECTION CATEGORY	% UV RADIATION BLOCKED
UPF 15 – 24	Good	93.3 – 95.9
UPF 25 – 39	Very Good	96.0 – 97.4
UPF 40 – 50+	Excellent	97.5 – 99+

I was doing OK with my trusty factor 80 – I had also burnt my face quite badly, which eventually went all swollen and I looked like the elephant man, only female and more pink – I do have a photo but I’m not posting it on here! I was quickly put onto a prescription strength ibuprofen cream and tablets, antihistamine and some form of ‘calms’ as it was quite unpleasant! I was told to stay out the sun for a couple of days which proved quite difficult in Thailand! I made sure I sat under the trees on the beaches, and any dips in the ocean were done so with shorts, my boyfriends t’shirt, sunglasses and a nice big hat – Not quite the ‘beach babe’ look I was going for!

Paclite, Pro, Active?

Posted on August 1, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

The Women’s Alpine Project Jacket is from The North Face’s Summit Series™ which is designed to be the strongest and lightest gear available, gear designed to withstand the planet’s harshest environments. The Alpine Project Jacket is an ultra-light alpine shell designed for the most demanding mountain conditions. The Gore-Tex® Active Shell construction uses a lighter, thinner Gore-Tex membrane to deliver the ultimate 3-layer waterproof and breathable construction for active mountain athletes. Designed for use under the worst weather conditions, the Women’s Alpine Project Jacket has a fully adjustable hood with a wire brim, a brushed chin guard and pit zip vents.

Women’s Alpine Project

There are some opinions that Active Shell will eventually replace Paclite Gore-tex as Active Shell is supposed to be as light, but with more durability – almost like a lighter version of Pro Shell. I think there is still a market for Paclite Gore-Tex at the moment as quite a few Active Shell jackets are designed for anything from ski touring, cross country bike routes to climbing, whereas, Paclite gore-tex is designed to be brought out for short bursts of rain in the spring/summer months, perfect for walking the dog, wearing around town, shorter walks to the Lakes or the Yorkshire Dales – Pro Shell and Active Shell do have a bit more durability about them for when you are out in the elements for a longer amount of time.

It’s always good to have the correct layering system to make your jacket perform at its best – i.e cotton t-shirts do not breathe and therefore will hold any moisture/sweat on the fabric, causing you to feel damp or even think the jacket is leaking, potentially making you very cold if the weather does get bad. Polyester or merino wool baslayers teamed with a fleece will work well to keep your boy temperature regulated. I tend to go for thinner layers and always have a spare as I get quite warm when out walking. I feel like I have more movement and the option to take a layer off if feeling too hot. It does depend on the individual as everyone feels the cold differently.

There’s something for everyone out there, each brand and jacket will have different features and fits (and price!) to suit your needs.

My Favourite Jacket

Posted on July 31, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

Some of my colleagues here at the LD Mountain Centre often comment on the number of jackets I have calling me the Imelda Marcus of the outdoor Jacket world. Alright I admit it I am kit geek and I do have one or two jackets but I do use them all or most of them. Don’t tell the other jackets but I do have a favourite one, that gets used a lot more than the others. My favourite is the May THE NORTH FACE Super Zephyrus Hoodie.

https://www.ldmountaincentre.com/product.aspx?id=7809

The Super Zephyrus is the new version of the Repoint Optimums Belay jacket from the North Face Summit Series which is designed to be both durable and lightweight in even the harshest environments on the planet. The Super Zephyrus Hoody has an athletic fit designed to keep you warm without limiting movement or breathability. With a primaloft insulation and a water resistant PU kiss coated nylon rip stop shell, the Zephyrus hoody can be packed down small and carried in your pack weather you choose to wear it while on belay or to put it on to keep you warm when you stop for a break on a bike ride. The Super Zephyrus is the jacket of choice for instructors at Go Ape high ropes courses and proves to be more than up to the task.

Midge bites suck.

Posted on July 25, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

In Scotland, 37 different species of midges have been recorded. Now that’s a horrible thought.

“Culicoides impunctatus, which is responsible for up to 90% of the bites on humans, occurs throughout the country, although it is most abundant in the west and the north, where the boggy and acidic ground provides an optimal environment for breeding. Midges are at their most numerous at lower elevations, and are seldom encountered above about 500 metres, where the wind reduces their ability to fly.”

Most people I know have experienced a bite from a midge – they can affect some people more than other’s – Myself being ‘some people’ and I blame my Yorkshire blood for it!

I wouldn’t say my visits to the Scottish Highlands have been ruined by midges, but they are a nuisance at this time of year and I do seem to react when bitten. There are loads of remedies to choose from to repel the insects as well as relieve bites if bitten. I’ve used the 100% Deet repellents before by LifeSystems and find it a bit strong for me personally so do be careful with this product if you have not used it before – I find the 50% Deet a little better for my skin – if your skin is sensitive or you are prone to eczema or other skin allergies I would recommend against Deet products. There is the natural one which has eucalyptus oil and other active ingredients that shouldn’t melt your skin off. I’ve also been told that Avon Skin So Soft works a treat – apparently it has almond oil in that scares the wee beasts off – But don’t quote me on that as it isn’t proven, I heard it from my boyfriend who used it during his training expeditions with the army…….yeah.

If bitten, I tend to use the Bite Click Relief – I was a bit scared at first as you can see the little electric charge like on a gas hob, but not as strong! It numbs the itching and is much better than putting on more cream or roll on relief stuff (It was also great against mosi bites when I was mauled by them in Thailand)

There’s a whole range of gear you can use to arm yourself against midges – treated nets, spray for your clothing and fabrics and everyone will react differently to both the bites and the treatments, so do check each label of whichever product you may wish to use.

At least with our grim summer, the reports have shown that midges are very low this year….so you may not even need any repellent at all!

An Introduction to Trail Running

Posted on July 16, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

Running in the Alps

Trail running is one of the fastest growing running disciplines in the UK and is a great excuse to get out in the hills allowing you to cover bigger than normal distances and get fit in the process. Trail running allows you to explore the hills in a different way, moving swiftly it brings freedom and endless views, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Running through woods

At its heart, trail running is very simplistic, all you need is a pair of decent shoes, and the motivation to get out and explore. From your local suburban park paths, to the fells of the Lake District or mountains of Scotland and beyond, the options are endless.

Rough ground and increased twists and turns can seem tough at first, but regularly heading off-road will help you cultivate stronger ankles, knees and quads, solid core stability, and a sharper running technique.

If you are sticking to your local park and summer running then your usual road shoes should be fine, but on more technical ground and in wetter conditions you will want to look at a trail specific shoe, perhaps something like the Salomon XA-Pro or La Sportiva Wild Cat.

Lovely Lakeland trails

A trail shoe will have increased traction, to grip in wet and muddy conditions, toe bumpers to protect your toes from rocks and roots and a more durable fabric to help keep mud and water out. A slightly lower heel allows for more ankle flexibility and cushioning is reduced as trail running is much softer than pounding the concrete.

Beyond this your normal running clothing will crossover from town to trail. For longer runs you need to make sure you carry a protective layer in case the weather turns nasty so you may wish to use a small rucksack or hydration pack, maybe something like the CamelBak Octane XCT 3 or Osprey Talon 8. If you are heading to more remote areas its worth carrying a mobile phone, a map (you can always cut it down to just the area you need), compass and whistle and a couple of energy gels.

Running in the Lakes

The UK is full of potential trails, all you need is an OS map, a compass and a little imagination… But if you aren’t ready to head out on your own, then speak to your local running club, most will have at least a few members running off road regularly.

Having to navigate and move over challenging terrain, takes your mind of the running, meaning that runs seem much shorter and more interesting than regular pavement pounding. Trail running is much more about enjoyment than numbers, so don’t focus too heavily on how fast and far you are running, instead focus on where you are and the views surrounding you!

This is all you need to head out and hit the trails, as your new found passion develops you might want to look at entering one of the many trail races that are springing up all over the country! Let us know how you get on and if you have any tips for aspiring trail runners we would love to hear them!

Ridge Running

USE YOUR HEAD GET A HELMET

Posted on July 4, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

As part of their safety and good practice work in 2012, the BMC are running a campaign to raise awareness about climbing helmets. We thought we would have a look at climbing helmets in our latest blog post.

Why Wear A Helmet?

Why do we as climbers wear a helmet? The main reason for wearing a helmet is to protect against debris from above, loose rocks or stones, snow or ice if you’re on winter or alpines routes, or a bit of badly placed gear, or worst case another climber. A second less considered reason would be to protect the head in case of a fall and any possible impact from the fall weather it is off the face as you go inverted or as you deck out. In the BMC Campaign document it mentions that the Mountain Rescue Stats show the majority of climbing injuries are lower leg injuries, but the majority of climbing fatalities are due to a head injury..

Type of Helmets

There are three main types of climbing helmets. They are hard shell, foam and hybrid.

Hard shell

Hard shell helmets are as the name suggests rigid shell helmets, with an internal webbing cradle. Hard shell helmets are robust and durable good against top impact from rock or ice fall. Hard shells are ideally suited for mountaineering, longer routes, groups, caving and rescue work. The draw back with hard-shells is they offer very little off centre impact.

Examples of hard-shell helmets are: http://www.ldmountaincentre.com/product.aspx?id=8198&categoryid=248

http://www.ldmountaincentre.com/product.aspx?id=1347&categoryid=248

Foam Helmets

The typical Foam climbing helmet is made from expanded polystyrene with a very6 thin polycarbonate shell. Compared with hard shell helmets foam helmets are often lighter and better ventilated, the foam helmets also offer a better level of off centre protection. On the down side large impacts can cause the foam to crumble, for this reason a foam helmet is not the best choice for mountaineering, or longer routes where you can’t just head home. Foam Helmets are most suited for short routes, outcrop and sport climbing.

http://www.ldmountaincentre.com/product.aspx?id=8201&categoryid=248

Hybrid Helmets

The Hybrid Helmet gives you the best of both worlds being light and durable and ideally suited to the climber who is a true all-rounder. The fairly rigid plastic shell is combined with foam inner for protection.

http://www.ldmountaincentre.com/product.aspx?id=8198&categoryid=248

Looking after your helmet

Always store your helmet in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight

When packing does not cram your helmet in your pack or place heavy objects on top

Keep your helmet away from aggressive chemicals and solvents (check your bug Juice)

Avoid stickers or Marker Pens being used on your Helmet

Do not Force Dry your Helmet

Climbing and Mountaineering are high risk activities and professional training is strongly recommended. For further reading check out he BMC site:

http://www.thebmc.co.uk/bmc-helmet-campaign

Getting started. Climbing indoors

Posted on June 13, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

For those of you who are learning, or looking to learn to climb– Here are a few ideas for your first pieces of climbing gear.

After using the hire kit at the indoor walls you may soon realise it’s a good idea to get your own as 1) It will be cheaper in the long run and 2) If you want to climb more regularly or progress to climbing outdoors, it’s good to have your own gear. 3) Hired harnesses are not the most comfortable in the world!

For belaying, I would recommend Black Diamond Airlock Screwgate with a matching Black Diamond ATC XP Belay Device would be a great starter when first learning to belay. Both reasonably priced and easy to use – This was my first belay device and carabiner.

To view our belay devices click here…

For your harness, I would strongly recommend a harness fit from your local outdoor shop. We have plenty of staff members here that are able to fit the proper size harness to your body shape. It is extremely important that you make sure your harness is the correct fit for you as it may not keep you 100% safe if it is too small or too big. Remember that most shops will not let you return a harness (or any other safety gear) once it has left their shop.

Harnesses do vary in features and comfort but when you are beginning to climb and are getting used to being on the end of a rope, I would always go for comfort!

Men – I would recommend the Petzl Corax. Nicely priced in the range of harnesses at £59.99 RRP and a comfortable in terms of fit. Also you’re able to fully adjust the leg loops giving you the option to climb all year round if you are wearing thicker trousers in winter or shorts in summer. Comes in sizes 1 & 2.

Women – I have the Petzl Luna. A women’s specific fit – again nice and comfortable with fully adjustable leg loops suitable for year round climbing. Very comfortable and breathable and sits middle of the price range at £69.99 RRP. Comes in sizes S, M & L

For more information click here…

Climbing is a high risk activity and it is the individual’s own responsibility to learn and understand the proper techniques associated with safe participation. Any local climbing wall would be happy to introduce you to the skills and techniques required for climbing and belaying.

Norrona Summer 2012, sneak peek!

Posted on March 12, 2012 by ldmountaincentre

Norrona has been a strong seller for us over the past couple of winters so we’ve decided to introduce it to our summer range. For those of you who aren’t aware of the brand they were established way back in 1929 in Norway making canvas backpacks and cotton clothing. Today the Norrona range covers snow sports, outdoor, biking, running and hunting using fabrics of their own and from renowned manufacturers such as Gore-Tex.

The Bitihorn dri1 jacket is Norrona’s lightest waterproof jacket. It is ideal for hiking, biking and trail running. It offers great breathability with pit zips for effective underarm ventilation. The Bitihorn dri1 jacket packs into its own pocket making it very easy to stash away in your rucksack. The jacket features adjustable velcro cuffs, chest pockets, storm hood and a waterproof centre front zipper. The Bitihorn dri1 is available in both a mens and women’s fit.

You can pre-order the men’s here… and the women’s here…

Staying with the Bitihorn range, the light weight quick drying knee-length short comes with a custom-fit quick waist system. As well as having roomy cargo pockets with contrast zips there is also a secret waist pocket to hide cash / cards and a mesh pocket to store your mobile phone. If you mange to run out of space there is a pocket in the rear of the short as well.

You can view the Bitihorn Light weight short for pre-order here…

The Svalbard cotton anorak is already a firm favourite with staff. Norrona’s fashionably retro organic cotton anorak mixes classic design with contemporary style. Made from a soft and durable windproof organic cotton and recycled polyester fabric the anorak is perfect for the beer garden after a summer evenings adventures. There is a kangaroo pocket to stash your belongings and fleece lined hand warmer pockets for the chilly walk home.

You can pre-order the Svalbard Cotton Anorak here…

The Fjora short is designed for all day technical trail riding. Meshed side venting will help keep you cool on the long climbs to the top of a trail and the rear stretch panels help with movement as you throw your bike around on the way back down. The shorts have enough room for a padded under-layer and feel as good as they look.

To preview or pre-order the short click here…

Below is a video from Norrona’s Vimeo page promoting the Fjora range and making all of the staff here at LD Mountain Centre envious of the beautiful Norwegian trails.

NORRONA (V) MAGAZINE fjora replayed from Norrøna on Vimeo.

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