Gadgethead summer 2024

Summer 2024

MUSIC DISCOVERY

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Hexcal Desk Mat Bundle

Hexcal Magnetic

Epomaker TH80 PRO V2 Keyboard

TwelveSouth BookArch Flex Laptop Stand (Chrome)

QDOS PowerSnap with Stand

LinkPod iWALK Mini Portable Charger Punkt. MC02

QDOS SnapStand 3-in-1

Wireless Charger

Ikago Heat Coaster Pro Full Set

Splash Apparel Colour Changing Swim Shorts

CoreBalance Studio

Aerobic Step

CoreBalance Mini Resistance Bands (5 Piece)

CoreBalance Balance Trainer with Resistance Bands

Withings ScanWatch 2

Withings Body Scan

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask

FOREO PEACH™ 2.0 IPL

Hair Removal Device

b.box Insulated Drink Bottle

b.box Sippy Cup

QDOS MUSE folio iPad Case (10th Gen)

STM Goods Power Adapter

Universal Travel Plug

Blurams Dome Nexa

Security Camera

GameBall

STM Goods ChargeTree Mag

MyTravelPal® UK to European Travel Adaptor with USB-C

MyTravelPal® Pro: Universal Travel Adaptor

Stanley Aerolight IceFlow Bottle

Build Your Own Wallace and Gromit Sets

Gecko Run Series

Technaxx Foldable Solar Camping Table 20W TX-251

Christow Potting Table with Wheels

HOUSEHOLD AUDIO

Christow Cantilever Parasol and Base

Kyloe in The Wild Falcons Active Sunglasses

PHOTOGRAPHY

OUTDOOR GADGETS

AnySharp Knife Sharpener

ION 8 Waterbottle

Swan Portable Garment Steamer

Swan 12’ Silence & Turbo Desk Fan

Swan Desktop Air Purifier

Swan Carpet Cleaner

StoryPhones Story Telling Headphones for Kids

How Am I Weird

Kyloe in the Wild Voyager Active Sunglasses

Kyloe in the Wild Primal Water Resistant Cap

Trail 45L Cool Box

Trail Brazen 4 Man Air Tent 5000mm

Trail Folding Beach Trolley

Ekster Grid Backpack

KAIWEETS KGM01

Metal Detector

SPORTS & FITNESS HEALT & BEAUTY

Edifier MS50A Wifi Smart Speaker

Edifier Wh700NB Headphones

iFi GO Blu

iFi hip dac 3

JOBY Wavo™ PLUS

PSB M4U 9 Premium

Wireless ANC Headphones

Shokz OpenSwim Pro

BAM Clothing Men’s

Novea Training Vest

BAM Clothing Mallea Yoga Leggings

Deddy Bears

SpyLabs Secret Codes and Ciphers

SpyLabs Fingerprinting Kit

SpyLabs Secret

Message Tools

SpyLabs Invisible Ink

Pen and UV Light

SpyLabs Pocket Metal

Detector

SpyraGO

SpyraBlast

SpyraColor

TOYS & GAMES CONTENTS

Peak Design Slide Camera

Sling Strap

SJCAM C200 Pro Action Camera

VanTrue Nexus 5

Dash Camera

VanTrue Falcon 1

Bike Camera

CARLEUX Air Wireless Adapter

Camera

$138.00

www.hexcal.com/products/desk-mat?variant=48497757880638

GADGETS

HEXCAL DESK MAT BUNDLE

I SPEND SO MUCH OF MY DAY AT MY DESK REPLYING TO EMAILS, WRITING AND RESEARCHING FOR MY JOB. HOWEVER, OVER TIME I’VE NOTICED THE STRAIN THIS PUTS ON MY WRISTS. TO COMBAT THIS, I’VE BEEN ON THE HUNT FOR A WRIST CUSHION THAT CAN PROTECT MY WRIST, AND MAYBE MAKE MY DESK LOOK A LITTLE FANCIER IN THE PROCESS. THIS IS WHERE THE HEXCAL DESK MAT AND WRIST CUSHION COME IN, WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO GIVE A SMART AND STYLISH LOOK TO YOUR DESK, WHILST ALSO SUPPORTING YOUR WRISTS IN THE PROCESS.

The Hexcal Bundle includes a desk mat and an ergonomic wrist cushion. The desk mat we got to try came in a lovely brown leather-look style, sitting across your desk at 80cm x 40cm long providing a stylish yet comfortable place to put your keyboard and computer mouse. The mat is super sturdy but feels soft to the touch made from a lovely vegan leather. Also included in the bundle is the ergonomic wrist cushion that is designed to provide next-level support for your wrists. The cushion sits across the entire length of the desk mat and means that no matter where you lean to use your mouse or keyboard you have an extra bit of cushion to protect your wrists. I’ve loved being able to rest my wrists on the cushion for a more comfortable experience at my desk over the past few weeks. I especially love that the wrist cushion has been designed to magnetise to the desk mat to ensure that when in use it does slip around on top of the desk mat. This means that your wrist support is always in place,

and continues to provide a seamless and stylish look across the whole of my desk set-up.

The overall look of the desk mat and wrist cushion is super sleek. The brown colour gives a nice warm tone to my desk, which is completely timeless and will look great in my office for many years to come. I love that it is waterproof, so should any drinks get knocked, I can just wipe them away without much fuss. The large size gives a super premium feel to your desk, essentially giving it a complete leather look top to it. However, I will say that if you have a small desk you might want to check the desk mat size, and it may be too large for smaller work setups.

After using the Hexcal desk mat and wrist cushion over the last few weeks I’m super impressed. It looks great, feels great, and makes me feel supported throughout the day. If you are looking to step up your desk set-up or are on the hunt for a desk mat/cushion that provides just a little more support, the desk mats and wrist cushions by Hexcal are top quality. I think this would make an excellent gift for someone who works from home a lot to give an extra stylish look to their desk and provide a little more comfort. Also – if the brown colourway doesn’t suit your desktop aesthetics, Hexcal also have the same bundle in black too!

PROS:

- Vegan leather design for comfort and easy cleaning

- Large desk size for complete desk coverage

- Supportive wrist cushion for increased comfort

CONS:

- May not be suitable for smaller/compact desks due to its large size

$39.00

www.hexcal.com/products/magnetic-charging-cable

WIRES HAVE AN AWFUL HABIT OF GETTING TANGLED UP ON MY DESK, AND SO I WAS ON THE HUNT FOR A SOLUTION THAT WOULD KEEP EVERYTHING ORGANISED WHILST ALSO LOOKING SLEEK AND STYLISH.

The Hexcal Magnetic cable aims to make wire tangles a thing of the past with a 1-metre-long USB-C to USB-C cable that usefully coils up into one magnetic loop for easy storage. Straight out of the box, the cable looks great with a grey and black woven material. The textured wire usefully magnetises to itself, and so when not in use you can compactly pack it away.

I love that the cable has also been designed with USB-C on each end so that it is completely reversible and makes both charging and data transfer a breeze. I particularly like using the cable for charging my phone as it is sleek and minimalist and has a 240W capacity, so it also supports fast charging – perfect for taking with you on the go. For data transfer, it can support up to 480Mbps, making it great for working from the office or home.

My only wish is that the cable was a little longer. The 1-metre length is great for my office, but when trying to charge my phone at night it’s just a little short to reach between my plug and my nightstand. The magnetic aspects would still work well, as any excess wire would be magnetised together to prevent tangles, but it would personally provide greater functionality for my needs. Overall, a magnetic cable is a brilliant way to transform your cable needs and make your desk space or even your nightstand a little less chaotic. Its compact magnetic design makes it super easy to use, and perfect for throwing in a bag and taking with you on the go.

PROS:

- Magnetic design to ensure no tangles

- Sleek textured look

- Fast charging and data transfer capacity

CONS:

- The cable is only 1 metre long which may be a little short for some users

$99.99 epomaker.com/products/th80pro-v2-via

EPOMAKER TH80 PRO V2

EPOMAKER ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR EXCELLENT RANGE OF KEYBOARDS WHICH ARE DESIGNED FOR OPTIMIZED FUNCTIONALITY WHILST ALWAYS DELIVERING PRODUCTS OF AESTHETIC BEAUTY –AND THE TH80 PRO V2 IS NO EXCEPTION. THE EPOMAKER TH80 PRO V2 IS A COMPACT AND CUSTOMIZABLE GAMING KEYBOARD WHICH IS DESIGNED TO STEP UP YOUR GAMING EXPERIENCE AND MAKE EVERY KEYSTROKE COUNT.

Upon opening the box, I was immediately impressed with how compact the keyboard was compared to a full traditional keyboard. However, despite its reduced size, the functionality of the keyboard is just the same, if not better than any standard keyboard I’ve tried before. I loved the slightly retro-inspired design of the TH80 Pro V2 with an off-white colour you’d expect from a more retro finish, mixed with the fun dark red and purple accent keys. However, the keyboard features an extra modern twist with the addition of a 1.14-inch RBG screen in the top righthand corner which you can program to show the date, time, logo or even game stats. This screen adds a nice little futuristic touch to the keyboard, which allows you to put your own personal

touch on your keyboard. In addition to the screen, the keyboard has south-facing LED lights which glow a rainbow across the keyboard whilst it is on. For me, the overall design of the TH80 Pro V2 is exactly what I’ve come to expect from EPOMAKER, with a funky retro feel and a plethora of futuristic aspects which ensure that the keyboard is eye-catching on any desk or gaming set-up.

I’ve had the TH80 Pro V2 on my desk for a good few weeks now and I am thoroughly pleased with its design. The smaller size saves a ton of space, and with the tri-connectivity, I can easily connect the keyboard to my PC, tablet, or device with a wired, Bluetooth and wireless 2.4Ghz

connection. I loved the wireless 2.4Ghz connection, which just needs you to plug in the included wireless USB receiver into your PC and you can then use the keyboard without any wires. I hate having so many wires on the desk, so this was perfect for keeping my set-up tidy and functional. Now, I can’t highlight how great the keyboard is without discussing the satisfying click of the keys. Each key feels soft to the touch and makes the typing experience very enjoyable. Although, whilst I loved the clicking, those in my office did find it a little annoying, especially in very quiet moments. So maybe think about this if you want the keyboard for a quiet office instead of a gaming set-up!

As with most EPOMAKER keyboards, all the keys are 3/5-pins so are hot-swappable so you can customize your keyboard to your needs. However, EPOMAKR has gone one set further and has designed every single key of the TH80 Pro V2 to be VIA programmable, so you can make shortcuts that work for you no matter whether you’re writing an email or playing a game. To do this you need to download the Via Json file from the EPOMAKER website, after which you will be able to make all the changes you need to make your keyboard completely unique to your needs.

As a gaming keyboard, the TH80 Pro V2 is an excellent choice with its compact, multipoint connectivity and complete customizability to make every gaming experience catered to you. However, even as a standard keyboard in an office, the space-saving design and ease of use make every task just that little bit more functional – with the addition of a fun rainbow light glowing behind it! For any gamer, or anyone looking for a new space-saving keyboard, the TH80 Pro V2 is an excellent choice and would make a great gift for yourself or a loved one.

PROS:

- 8 ports for a range of USB, USB-C, audio jack, SD and Micro SD card readers and HDMI cables

- Seamless, stylish and lightweight unit perfect for travelling

- Great for those who work on the go a lot and need greater laptop port availability for things such as charging or data transfer

CONS:

- The charging speed is impacted the more cables you add to the PowerLink Combi unit, but this is to be expected when charging/ using multiple functions of the device simultaneously

£59.99

https://twelvesouth.co.uk/products/bookarc-flex

TWELVESOUTH BOOKARC FLEX LAPTOP STAND (CHROME)

WHEN WORKING FROM HOME HAVING ENOUGH DESK SPACE FOR MY LAPTOP TO SIT ALONGSIDE MY MONITOR, KEYBOARD AND MOUSE CAN BE A LITTLE BIT OF A STRUGGLE. OFTEN, I’M LEFT CAREFULLY BALANCING MY LAPTOP SOMEWHERE SO I CAN STILL USE IT AS A HUB OF MY WORK WHILST MAKING THE MOST OF A LARGER SCREEN AND SEPARATE ACCESSORIES. IN THE PAST, I’VE FOUND TRADITIONAL LAPTOP STANDS STILL TAKE UP TOO MUCH SPACE ON MY SMALL DESK. THEREFORE, I WAS THRILLED TO GET TO TEST OUT THE BOOKARC FLEX FROM TWELVESOUTH WHICH PROVIDES ALL THE SAME FUNCTIONALITY OF A LAPTOP STAND, WHILST TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THE MACBOOK’S SLIMLINE BUILD TO HOLD IT VERTICALLY ON THE DESK INSTEAD.

The BookArc Laptop Stand is designed to carefully clip your laptop in a vertical position so you can use it as a hub for your work where you can connect a screen, keyboard, and mouse too – all without the need for the laptop to be open and taking up space on your desk. For me, this is perfect for holding up my laptop behind my monitor so I can use all the functionality of the laptop without it hanging over my desk on a large laptop stand.

The BookArc Flex I tested out came in a lovely chrome colourway, which looked super sleek and added a nice touch of elegance to my desktop set-up. However, if chrome isn’t your thing, the BookArc Flex is also available in black and white, so there is a colourway perfect to fit in with any set-up and perfectly complement your other accessories. The BookArc Flex comes ready to accommodate laptops of up to 1 inch in thickness and roughly 16 inches in width. This size range ensures that it is perfect for a range of laptop brands and models, for both your laptop now and any variations in the future. This flexibility

means that should you change laptops in the future, flick between a personal and work laptop, or have a slightly thicker laptop than a MacBook, you can still make the most of everything that the BookArc Flex has to offer without needing to buy another one.

The BookArc Flex provides a minimalist design whilst delivering full functionality and that’s exactly what we have come to expect from TwelveSouth. The modern architecture-inspired design looks lovely sitting on my desk, keeping my laptop securely held and out of the way whilst still making it functional for use. My only slight concern is that as the laptop is held vertically, so if the laptop is knocked a little too hard, you could run the risk of the whole BookArc Flex falling over. However, this just needs to be taken into account when you decide where to place the BookArc.

Overall, if you are looking for a sleek yet stylish way to use your laptop without the need for large amounts of desktop space, the BookArc Flex is an excellent choice. With a great look and easy functionality, I found it kept my laptop out of the way and let me get on with my work without too much fuss. I personally love the flexibility of laptop sizes which the stand provides to ensure that once you buy the BookArc Flex you will not need to buy it again as it is designed for your laptop now and for a variation of sizes which you may use in the future. However, should it not fit your new laptop a range of inserts are also available on the TwelveSouth website, so you can keep using your BookArc Flex as normal.

PROS:

- Stylish stand so you can use your laptop whilst saving space

- Designed for a variety of laptop widths – perfect for your laptop now and in the future

- Minimalist modern design with a beautiful chrome finish adding a great look to your desktop set-up

CONS:

- As your laptop is held vertically, it could lead to more opportunities for it to easily be knocked over and potentially damage your laptop in the process

QDOS POWERSNAP WITH STAND GADGETS

£39.99

www.qdossound.com/products/powersnap-

with-stand-magsafe-wireless-charger

WIRELESS CHARGING IS NO LONGER A THING OF THE FUTURE, AND WITH THE QDOS POWERSNAP, YOU CAN EASILY CHARGE YOUR PHONE WITHOUT THE NEED FOR EXCESSIVE WIRES. WITH FAST CHARGING SOFTWARE BUILT IN, THE POWERSNAP WITH STAND PROVIDES AN ALL-IN-ONE WIRELESS CHARGING STATION THAT DELIVERS GREAT CHARGING SPEEDS AND DOUBLES AS A USEFUL STAND.

The QDOS PowerSnap may look small, but it delivers topnotch functionality, and superior charging through its magnetic charging connection. This means that if your phone supports MagSafe, or is wireless charging enabled, you can snap it to the PowerSnap and let your phone charge away wirelessly.

The unit is fairly small and looks sleek and minimalist on my nightstand. The charger is lightweight with a premiumfeeling aluminium exterior, supported by a non-slip backing to protect your phone from any scratches. However, one of the perks of the PowerSnap is that it also comes with a handy little stand built in so you can charge your phone whilst propped up to watch videos at the same time.

I personally love using a wireless charger as you just attach your phone via the magnetic connection and you’re already charging without the need to plug in a wire to your phone. This was a game changer at night when I’d usually be fumbling for my charging cable in the dark. However, with the PowerSnap, it attaches with ease and will charge away overnight leaving my phone ready to go the next day. The only wire you ever do need to worry about with the QDOS is the universally compatible USB-C cable which connects the PowerSnap to the mains. The cable comes included in the box, and after connecting it to a plug and

then to the PowerSnap it was ready to use as a wireless charging station.

If you are on the hunt for a new charging station which is designed to deliver top-notch wireless charging functionality as well as a useful stand, then the QDOS PowerSnap is the perfect, no-fuss, option for you.

PROS:

- Secure and safe magnetic connection for seamless wireless charging

- Useful in-built stand for functional use whilst charging

- Comes with a universally compatible USB-C cable in the box

www.amazon.co.uk/iWALK-4500mAh-Portable-Charger-Compatible/dp/B0CHVJPGKT/ref=sr

_1_5?marketplaceID=A1F83G8C2ARO7P&qid=1668060329&s=merchant-items&sr=1-5&th=1

LINKPOD IWALK MINI PORTABLE CHARGER

THERE’S NOTHING WORSE THAN WHEN YOU GO TO USE YOUR PHONE AND REALISE IT IS OUT OF CHARGE AND YOU’RE WITHOUT YOUR DEVICE UNTIL YOU CAN GET HOME AND CHARGE IT. IT’S EVEN WORSE WHEN THIS HAPPENS JUST AS YOU’RE TRYING TO CAPTURE A GREAT MEMORY ON HOLIDAY OR FIND DIRECTIONS TO THE RESTAURANT FOR THAT EVENING! HOWEVER, WITH THE LINKPOD IWALK MINI PORTABLE CHARGER, YOU NEVER HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THIS AGAIN WITH A COMPACT POWER BANK THAT QUICKLY CHARGES YOUR PHONE AND MEANS YOU’LL NEVER BE CAUGHT OUT WITH NO CHARGE AGAIN.

The LinkPod is, as the name suggests, a very small portable charger that sits neatly under your phone connected via the charging port. At roughly the same size as a lipstick or lighter, the charger is super convenient to plug into your phone without too much hassle. I personally find other battery power banks which require a wire between your phone and the power bank a little bit of a pain as I’m forever accidentally catching the wire on something and not realising that my phone is not connected to it anymore. Therefore, I loved getting to test out the LinkPod which removes all need for a wired connection, and instead provides a secure connection right at the base of your phone so you can still use it as normal without being tethered to a hefty power bank all day.

One of my favourite aspects of the LinkPod is that it is designed to deliver fast charging with a 20W output, similar to

what you’d achieve with a typical fast-charging plug and wire. Therefore, it takes a lot less time than many power banks for your phone to reach full charge - which for me is a massive perk for such a small device! Once the battery has run down on the LinkPod, you just need to plug it in using the included USB-C cable in the box and it will recharge in a few hours ready to take with you on your next adventure

The LinkPod is a must-have for summer trips to ensure that no matter where you are, your phone (or any device which charges via a USB-C port) will be fully charged and ready to go no matter what your adventure brings. I’ll definitely be taking this with me on long car journeys and trips over the summer to ensure I can keep capturing memories and watching my favourite shows no matter where I am.

PROS:

- Lightweight and small device perfect for travelling with - Stable and secure connection

- Fast charging speeds of quick recharging

PUNKT. MC02

£599.00

https://mc02.punkt.ch/

WE LIVE IN A WORLD WHERE ALMOST EVERYONE HAS A SMARTPHONE IN THEIR POCKETS CONNECTING THEM TO THE BUSY ONLINE WORLD. THESE PHONES CONSTANTLY INUNDATE US WITH EMAILS, TEXTS, SOCIAL MEDIA AND NEWS THAT SOMETIMES CAN BE COMPLETELY OVERWHELMING. I KNOW PERSONALLY THAT BEING CONTINUALLY CONNECTED TO THE ONLINE WORLD CAN BE DRAINING, AND I’VE HAD TO BECOME MORE INTENTIONAL ABOUT SPENDING MY TIME ONLINE AND HOW I CHOOSE TO INTERACT WITH IT OVER TIME.

This focus on intentional smartphone use, and how our data interacts with the world is something that the Swiss company Punkt. took on board as it began developing electronics that are designed to work well for us. Punkt. has developed the MC02 smartphone which is the first model on the market which is designed with this intentionality in mind by developing towards a future where our privacy, data and security are made a priority.

When the Punkt. MC02 arrived on my desk I was very intrigued, as the MC02 does not use the same operating systems that I was familiar with, but instead offers a unique form of smartphone which is completely designed to protect your personal data. Punkt. are very aware that today we are tracked, traced, targeted, profiled and analysed across the internet via our smartphones. Therefore, the MC02 has been designed as an

alternative option for those who want to protect their data and stop big tech companies from profiting from the sale of this information. The MC02 is consequently a secure smartphone model which protects your data with a minimalist operating system that focuses on transparency to ensure that you know where your data is going and how it is being used.

When I first opened the box, I was impressed with how minimalist the phone design is, with a 6.7-inch high-definition screen and an all-black backing. The only branding on the phone is a small white ‘Punkt.’ logo on the back bottom corner which is super subtle and gives a nice modern look to the phone. I found setting up the phone was a little more complex than previous smartphones as changing to a new operating system always comes with a little learning curve. However, after

a little practice and reading the set-up booklet, I was quickly able to transfer my contacts over and begin to build the phone to my preferences.

When you first set up the phone you are met with the secure ‘home space’ of the phone, which is supported by Apostrophy, the software developer supporting the MC02 model. Here you can find the basics you need to get started with emails, calendars, contacts, notes, storage, and the Aphy Store. From here you can begin to customize your phone to you and begin to download the apps you’d usually use for your device. However, I will note that the Aphy store does not have every app you may desire as each needs to be vetted by Aphy’s team to ensure that your personal data can be protected when using them.

After I was set up and had downloaded the necessary apps to

the phone, I was impressed with just how much it focused on ensuring you are aware of your privacy and your footprint across the internet. One of the best ways the MC02 does this is with a built-in VPN.

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, allows you to remain untraced whilst searching on the internet by creating a remote connection between your phone and the outside world to ensure that any information can remain protected, untraced and will not end up being utilised for targeted ads or sold on to other companies.

I love the refreshing take the MC02 has on internet data privacy, as not only does it come with this VPN built in but each phone has a Data & Carbon Ledger section so you can get a real-time view of your presence online and see the impact your data has left. This focuses on making the user more aware of the potential risks and highlights Punkt.’s commitment to transparency regarding data and security across its devices. The phone doesn’t hide where data is used and allows you to take more purposeful control over what data you choose to share and what data you choose not to. All data gathered by Punkt. is therefore protected under Switzerland’s data privacy constitutions and laws.

Using the phone is a fun experience that provides everything you need to connect to the world whilst making sure you remain intentional about your usage and how your data. I personally found the camera was great quality, and the back camera was perfect for taking pictures and videos of everyday life. However, the front camera, like most phones, does leave a little to be desired. In terms of connection, the MC02 supports 5G and so had a great signal no matter where I was which was also great.

One thing I must note is that the MC02 does utilise a subscription model to use the phone and its secure systems. The phone comes with a 12-month subscription upon purchase, however, beyond this, the subscription is CHF 14.99 a month (roughly £13). To buy the phone and then have a subscription on top

does add to the overall price of the phone and its continued usage. Whilst the price is to cover the ongoing secure data systems and things such as the VPN, it does make the overall price something that should be factored in when purchasing. However, the MC02 is a unique phone that provides something new to the smartphone market, so the price and functionality do seem to balance out. Overall, the MC02 is a unique and intriguing smartphone which is focused on providing a secure connection to the internet, whilst keeping you and your data safe. If you are looking for a new way to use your phone where your information isn’t up for grabs and you can remain more aware of the impact of your data online, then the Punkt. MC02 is a perfect choice for you. Whilst the price is high and it does require a subscription after the first year, if you’re serious about protecting your data then the MC02 is definitely worth looking into.

PROS:

- Provides a secure and safe smartphone model for protecting your data

- Phone includes a built-in VPN for secure online searching

- Minimalist and sleek look

CONS:

- Requires a subscription service after the first year of use

GADGETS QDOS SNAPSTAND

3-IN-1 WIRELESS CHARGER

£79.99 https://www.qdossound.com/products/snapstand-

3-in-1-wireless-charger-space-grey

WHEN I’M PACKING FOR A TRIP, HAVING TO MAKE SURE I HAVE A CHARGING WIRE FOR EVERY SINGLE DEVICE FROM MY PHONE TO MY WATCH AND EARBUDS CAN BE A REAL HASSLE, AND TAKES UP VALUABLE LUGGAGE SPACE - NOT TO MENTION THE NEED FOR ADAPTERS DEPENDING ON WHERE I’M TRAVELLING TO! THEREFORE, QDOS HAVE BUILT AN ALL-IN-ONE WIRELESS CHARGING UNIT THAT IS PERFECT FOR CHARGING ALL YOUR DEVICES IN ONE PLACE AND AT THE SAME TIME.

The SnapStand 3-in-1 Wireless Charger utilises the magnetic MagSafe connection of your devices to offer a space for your phone, smartwatch and earbuds to seamlessly connect to the same charging unit. The unit has been designed to be super portable and so folds down into a pocket-sized flat unit which can easily be thrown in your bag making it great for travel.

When I first saw the unit, I was super impressed with the outer casing that felt sturdy and premium, made from 100% recycled zinc alloy. This premium quality is what I’ve come to expect from QDOS who deliver top-quality units every time which don’t miss a beat on the aesthetics either. The entire space grey unit is made using 60% recycled materials and is part of QDOS’ mission to deliver more environmentally sustainable models to force the wireless charging industry to follow suit. To add to the already great aesthetics of the SnapStand, QDOS have even put a useful LED light on the front which changes from blue when charging and red when idle for even greater ease of use.

In terms of charge, the SnapStand does very well. The phone charging space delivers 15 watts of Qi Wireless Charging

output, and only took my phone a few hours to charge. This is a little longer than with my typical plug-and-wire charging setup, however, I normally only charge my phone overnight, so this wasn’t too much of an issue for me. The earbud space on the base of the SnapStand and the fold-out watch stand on the back also delivered good charging speeds and meant I woke up to fully charged devices every day.

One of my favourite aspects of the SnapStand is that it uses the magnetic connection on the back of your phone to hold it in place, so you can rotate your device and use the unit as a phone stand for watching videos whilst also charging your phone at the same time. This is great for watching TV shows in bed, and then leaving your phone where it is to charge overnight. Also, to make the design just that bit useful, the SnapStand uses a single USB-C charging cable making it a pretty universal wire type should you forget yours at home!

PROS:

- Compact and foldable design perfect for travel

- Made from 60% recycled materials and 100% recycled zinc alloy in the housing

- Universal charging wire for great ease of use

If you’re on the hunt for a great phone, smartwatch, and earbuds charger then the QDOS SnapStand is a perfect all-in-one choice. Using only a single wire and folding down into a small compact unit, the SnapStand is the perfect addition to your travels this summer and will leave you with fully charged devices every day all from just one unit!

CONS:

- Charging speeds are not as fast as with a standard plug and wire connection, however for an all-in-one unit that charges 3 devices at once this is to be expected

www.amazon.co.uk/ikago-Smart-Mug-

Warmer-Thermometry/dp/B0BML12VKN

IKAGO HEAT COASTER PRO FULL SET

THERE’S NOTHING WORSE THAN MAKING YOURSELF THAT PERFECT CUP OF COFFEE IN THE MORNING AT WORK, BUT THEN GETTING SO DISTRACTED WITH EMAILS AND CALLS THAT BY THE TIME YOU RETURN TO IT, IS COLD AND PRETTY GROSS TO DRINK. HOWEVER, WITH THE IKAGO HEAT COASTER PRO SET COLD COFFEE WILL BE A THING OF THE PAST, AS IT WORKS TO KEEP YOUR COFFEE HOT FOR AS LONG AS YOU NEED IT!

I was super excited to try the ikago Heat Coaster Pro Set as I’ve become known for leaving half a mug of cold coffee on my desk most days as I can’t bring myself to drink cold coffee. I hate how much I end up wasting, therefore, having a coaster which will keep my coffee at the perfect drinking temperature no matter how distracted I get is a big win in my books.

Inside the box is the coaster plate, along with a lovely mug, spoon and lid. Every component feels super study, with the coaster plate in a silver and matt black design, and the mug, spoon and lid all finished in the same matt black finish. I love the cohesive look this gave the unit on my desk; however, I was super happy to read that the coaster is actually compatible with any ceramic mug so it can still be used while the main mug is being washed up.

So how does it work? The coaster plate delivers an infrared beam through the cup to heat its contents to the perfect temperature which has been preset on the coaster digital interface. The interface allows you to set your desired heat setting between 105175 degrees Fahrenheit, and then you can see in real-time what temperature your drink is at. Now, as someone who lives in the UK, I did have to Google the conversion of Fahrenheit to Celsius, but once I’d found my perfect setting I was very thankful to see the coaster remembered this temperature, so I didn’t have to make this search every time I wanted to use it!

One of the big perks of the heating method using infrared is that it maintains the desired temperature of your coffee without overheating. This meant that every sip was as good as the last and for once, I actually finished my coffee! I personally loved that when the mug is removed from the coaster it instantly pauses heating to ensure that it is not mindlessly heating away which could cause a hazard, however, once you return the mug to the coaster it begins heating it to your desired temperature again.

Ultimately, the ikago Heat Coaster Pro Full Set makes a perfect addition to anyone’s desk, especially for those who get a little too distracted with tasks to drink their coffee whilst it’s still hot. With Father’s Day fast approaching, this would make the perfect gadget to get the father figure in your life to make their morning coffee just that little bit more luxurious.

PROS:

- Real-time drink temperature is shown on the screen so you can see when your drink is perfect

- Compatible with many different types of ceramic mugs

- Automatically stops heating when the mug is removed and enters into standby mode after 15 minutes of inactivity for safety

CONS:

- My only slight complaint would be that the cord could be a little longer – it’s a good size currently but in my office, I’m running out of plug space so had to move things around a little to keep it on my desk which was a little inconvenient –just something to consider if you are running low on plug space near your desk.

QDOS MUSE FOLIO (IPAD 10TH GEN)

https://www.qdossound.com/products/muse-folio- case-for-ipad-10-9-2022-10th-gen-clear-grey

WHEN SO MUCH OF OUR LIVES AND WORK IS ON OUR DEVICES, YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO CAREFUL ABOUT KEEPING THEM PROTECTED WHILST IN USE AND ON THE GO. THIS FOCUS ON PROTECTING YOUR DEVICES IS SOMETHING THAT QDOS ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT, AND SO THEY HAVE CREATED A STYLISH AND PROTECTIVE CASE FOR IPADS WHICH ENSURES YOUR DEVICE REMAINS UNDAMAGED WHILST ALSO LOOKING GREAT.

I personally love using my iPad for work on the go as it has just a large enough screen to do everything I need whilst still being compact enough that it fits in my bag with ease. Therefore, I was super excited to see the MUSE folio case by QDOS come across my desk which is designed to deliver nextlevel protection, whilst also operating as a useful stand for all my typing, video calling and proofing needs. The case is stylish with a clear back casing and a black woven material front. The case is made from a durable polycarbonate, and the front cover has a soft microfiber lining to protect the screen from scratches whilst in your bag.

My favourite aspect of the MUSE case is the tri-fold front covering, which can be folded to create a stand perfect for doing emails with a connected keyboard, or for propping up the iPad camera to a great height for video calls. The multiway fold design means that you can fully adjust your iPad to suit your task which is great for taking with you on the go. Also, the front cover magnetises to the iPad screen, which means that when you open the case it automatically wakes your iPad, and when you close it, it puts your iPad into sleep mode. This is perfect for preserving battery life and ensuring you don’t end up randomly messaging and calling someone whilst it’s in your bag!

I also loved that the case even has space for your Apple Pencil, as I’m forever losing it in the bottom of my bag whilst on the go. With the MUSE case, your pencil just clips seamlessly

PROS:

onto the side, so it is ready to go when you are.

If you have a 10th-generation iPad and are currently looking for a new case; the QDOS MUSE folio Case is a perfect choice that is no-fuss, seamless to use and provides a stylish yet protective look to your device. This would make a perfect gift alongside an iPad for a loved one to ensure they can keep their device safe and protected for longer.

- Durable shell casing great for protecting against drops with shock-absorbing corners

- Tri-fold cover design for perfect positioning of iPad for tasks

- Saves battery life with auto wake and sleep function built into the case

STM GOODS POWER ADAPTER UNIVERSAL TRAVEL PLUG

£49.99

https://www.amazon.co.uk/STM-3-Port-Charger-USB- C-Universal-White/dp/B0D2LDRF5D?ref_=ast_sto_dp

TRAVELLING ABROAD USUALLY COMES WITH THE LAST-MINUTE DASH TO THE SHOPS TO BUY THE CORRECT ADAPTER FOR YOUR DEVICES AHEAD OF A TRIP. FOR ME, THIS IS USUALLY AS I’VE LOST MY ONES FROM THE PREVIOUS TRIP, SO WHEN I SAW THAT STM GOODS HAS A UNIVERSAL POWER ADAPTER I JUMPED AT THE CHANCE TO TEST IT OUT

The Power Adapter by STM Goods is designed to fit UK, EU, AU and US plug sockets all within the single unit. The front of the adapter has 2 USB-C ports and a USB-A port. Each of the USB-C ports delivers a max output of 65 watts, with the USB-A port delivering a max of 30 watts output. These are suitable for powering most phones, tablets, and laptops, supported by fast charging. Therefore, the Power Adapter is perfect for taking with you whilst away to keep your devices fully charged and ready to capture all those precious summer memories.

The unique design of the STM Goods’ Power Adapter means that the adapter has the US plug type integrated into its design, and to transform it into an EU, UK or AU plug type you simply have to snap in the correct country plug type, which come with the unit. The different plug types snap super easily into the main block and lock using a little orange slider on the top. To unlock, you move the slider and can change the plug to a different one. This is perfect for if you are travelling to multiple countries in a single trip as you can change the adapter to suit every plug you use.

I personally loved this all-in-one design as it means I do not need to worry about buying multiple different adapters, and

instead, I can use one single unit that is designed to be compatible with so many different countries in the world. This is perfect for me as I can leave the Power Adapter in my suitcase ready for my next adventure knowing it more than likely will be able to support my charging needs wherever I go.

My only slight downside of the Power Adapter is that it is only suitable for USB-C and USB-A connections, so if you need to take larger appliances such as hair straighteners or a hair dryer with you on holiday, you will still need additional adapters for this. However, I personally don’t need much more than a charger for my phone when I’m away, so for device charging the Power Adapter is a great choice.

If you’re heading off on a trip this summer and don’t want the hassle of remembering multiple different adapters to charge your devices for a single trip, then the STM Good Power Adapter Universal Travel Plug is a good option. It features 4 different plug types suitable for so many countries across the world, and so it’s a great option to throw in your bag knowing you can charge your phone pretty much wherever you go.

PROS:

- 4 different plug types in 1 unit

- Fast charging supported for quick charging on the go

- Secure design and locks for each adapter

CONS:

- If you need to take larger appliances such as a hair dryer, you will need to purchase additional adapters as the unit is just for USB-C/ USB-A connections

BLURAMS DOME NEXA SECURITY CAMERA

£29.99

https://www.blurams.com/pages/a33

WE ALL TAKE HOME SECURITY SUPER SERIOUSLY, ESPECIALLY DURING THE SUMMER WHEN WE’RE AWAY FROM OUR HOMES ON HOLIDAY. FOR MANY OF US, THE BEST WAY TO ENSURE OUR HOMES HAVE AN EXTRA LAYER OF PROTECTION IS THROUGH SECURITY CAMERAS.

I have a stationary camera that watches the door and allows me to check up on my cat whilst I’m out during the day. However, my main problem is that I only have a limited view of the room, so cannot always see where my cat is to check on her. Therefore, when I saw the Dome Nexa Security Camera, I was super excited, as it provides up to 360° view of your home, with a 110° vertical scan to provide great coverage of your home for security purposes, whilst also allowing you to keep an eye on your pets at the same time too.

The Blurams Dome Nexa Security Camera is designed to deliver next-level home security, as well as pet, baby and elderly monitoring using smart AI detection to spring into action in response to motion and sound. The camera captures and records 12-second-long clips, through a complete 360° view of your room. This can be completely controlled wirelessly via your smartphone, so you can move and view the camera no matter where you are in the world. Plus, if you do not want the camera to record for any reason, you can simply slide the front up to reveal the SD card slot, which covers the camera within the white base for extra added privacy when needed. The complete control, view and privacy of the security camera can be managed through the Blurams App. The storage system for the Dome Nexa alone records 12-second clips when it notices noise or motion, which are then stored in the Cloud for up to 24 hours. If you choose that you’d like to keep these recordings for longer or record longer clips, the Dome Nexa supports a Micro SD card with up to 128 GB of storage on it. This means that

even without a subscription model, you can save your clips for longer. However, the camera does not come with a SD card so this will need to be purchased separately.

One of my favourite aspects of the Dome Nexa Security Camera is that it has a built-in microphone so you can talk directly with your baby, relative or even your cat whilst you’re away from home. This is great for helping soothe a baby back to sleep, checking up on an elderly relative, or even stopping your pet from destroying the furniture! This was great for when I had a friend staying over to look after my cat whilst I was away. I could use the camera to check my cat was okay during the day, and even thank my friend when she arrived to look after her. However, I know this would be a game-changer for parents who want a great camera to use as a baby monitor in their kid’s room. The night vision feature would be particularly useful for this, as it uses infrared 940nm IR lights to deliver crystal clear video even in complete darkness.

The Blurams Dome Nexa Security Camera makes a great choice of both a security camera and a pet/baby monitor. With the plug, cables, and everything you need in the box to get started, you simply have to plug in and download the app to get started. I would suggest buying a Micro SD card just for extra peace of mind to keep larger clips for a longer period of time. However, even with this, the camera is at such an affordable price already for the level of security and protection that it doesn’t seem too much of an issue to me.

PROS:

- Wide view of your room for full-view security protection

- Superb night vision camera which would be excellent as a baby monitor

- Built-in microphone so you can talk to who or whatever is in the camera’s view

CONS:

- Storage is limited without the subscription plan or the additional purchase of a MicroSD card for longer recordings and storage

£143.00

www.gamingtrackball.com/products/ gameball-standard-edition-black-ball

GADGETS

GAMEBALL

DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR GAMERS, GAMEBALL HAS DEVELOPED A NEW AND UNIQUE MOUSE THAT USES ITS INNOVATIVE TRACKBALL DESIGN TO MAKE EVERYTHING FROM SURFING THE WEB TO TACTICAL GAME MISSIONS SO MUCH EASIER WITH PRECISION FINGER-TIP CONTROLS.

When I first heard about the GameBall, I was a little sceptical as to how a trackball could improve the accuracy of my movements more than the standard mouse I use every day. However, the GameBall features a unique ball optical sensor, which allows you to drag, roll and manoeuvre across the screen with complete ease – all without having to move the mouse across your desk at all.

The mouse comes in a sleek all-black design, with the GameBall Logo subtly illuminated when plugged in. The top part of the mouse has a large trackball, which is designed so that you can rest your palm on the mouse like with a standard mouse but use your fingertips to flick across the screen by placing them on the trackball. This design means that you don’t need to move the mouse physically, and in turn, avoids repetitive strain on your wrists or elbows. To scroll down you roll the right side of the ball, and to scroll horizontally you scroll using the right side. The trackball ensures pinpoint accuracy with a PixArt optical sensor, which makes navigating about a webpage or a game easy and precise. Plus, the Gameball actually has a 1000hz polling rate which is unheard of in the trackball world and does seem to make the difference in communication speed through its USB connection.

Having tested out the GameBall for a few weeks I’m impressed. The GameBall mouse is great for small spaces, as you don’t need to physically move it, so the mouse remains stationary whilst in use. However, I did find this lack of movement came with a little bit of a learning curve to remember to use the trackball instead of trying to move it – but this is something I got to grips with eventually. In terms of its functionality, I found the trackball was good for searching the web and getting general emails done, as well as for playing games with seamless movements. I did find it occasionally lagged a little when scrolling and made my

screen suddenly jump, but I think this is something that has got better as I’ve got more familiar with the mouse controls. Plus, I think I may just need to do a little more fine-tuning with the dpi settings to get them perfect for my needs.

After a few weeks, I like having the GameBall on my desk. Not only does it have a fun and unique design, but its functionality is pretty decent too. The GameBall’s ergonomic design fits nicely in your palm, the trackball moves seamlessly, and the buttons are fairly intuitive for right and left clicks. While I’m not sure it completely replaces my previous wireless mouse, I do appreciate that it helps reduce the number of repetitive movements that could lead to strain on your arms and provides a unique mouse perfect for precise tasks.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a fun new way to change up your gaming or desk setup, this is a great choice as it provides a new way to scroll and move about in games whilst protecting your wrist from repetitive strains. I think this would be an ideal gift for the gamer in your life, who is limited on desk space but likes the freedom of in-game movement that a trackball can provide.

PROS:

- Ergonomic design great for reducing repetitive wrist and arm strain

- Unique yet sleek look on your desk/as part of your gaming set-up

- Precision optical sensor trackball for more accurate movements

CONS:

- Does need a little finetuning to get it perfect for your gaming or desk set-up to find a dpi setting that suits your needs

- Comes with a bit of a learning curve to get to grips with scrolling in a new way

£89.99

https://www.amazon.co.uk/STM-ChargeTree- Mag-3-1-Black/dp/B0CKQY15T5

GADGETS

STM GOODS CHARGETREE MAG

SOLVE THE DREADED CLUTTERED NIGHTSTAND AND CHARGE YOUR PHONE, EARBUDS AND SMARTWATCH ALL IN ONE CONVENIENT CHARGING UNIT. THE STM GOODS CHARGETREE MAG MAKES THE MOST OF YOUR DEVICES’ MAGSAFE CONNECTION TO EFFICIENTLY CHARGE THREE DEVICES AT THE SAME TIME, AND THEN FOLD UP INTO A COMPACT UNIT PERFECT FOR THROWING IN YOUR BAG AND TAKING WITH YOU ON THE GO.

I was impressed with the look of the ChargeTree Mag, which is stylish with an all-black mono-chromatic exterior which added an aesthetically pleasing seamless charging unit to my desk. I love that you can use the ChargeTree Mag in a variety of ways from leaving it flat and compact and just charging your phone on the top, or you can fold up the unit to reveal a back charging plate for your earbuds. You can then also fold out a swing arm from the back which provides yet another charging space, designed specifically for your smartwatch.

The compact yet 3-in-1 design makes it the perfect addition to your desk or nightstand for an all-in-1 charging station. However, with the summer months coming up I think this would be perfect for taking with you on holiday; not only can it be folded up into a compact unit, but it saves the need for taking three separate chargers which will take up vital luggage space. With the ChargeTree Mag, you just need one seamless unit and you’re good to go.

I took this with me on a weekend away and was super impressed with its functionality. I could connect my phone, earbuds and smartwatch before bed, and I woke up with them all fully charged and ready for the day ahead. I will say the charging

speed is a little slower than a direct plug and wire connection, however, this is to be expected when the unit is charging three devices simultaneously. I personally found charging them all overnight was fine, and I didn’t notice the extra time it took at all.

However, I must note that the ChargeTree Mag does not come with a plug, even though the unit requires a 20W plug to function. Whilst most of us are likely to have a compatible plug, it would be nice to see a plug included in the box that supports the required wattage. However, the ChargeTree Mag does include a USB-C to USB-C wire in the box for charging and it is a great length for easy charging no matter where your plug sockets may be.

If you are jetting off this summer and are looking to save some luggage space and or just want to cut down on the amount of wires needed to charge all of your devices, the STM Goods ChargeTree Mag is a great choice with its compact, foldable and 3-in-1 charging design –perfect for charging on the go!

PROS:

- Compact and foldable design to save space when travelling

- High-quality and sturdy design to support three devices at once

- Good charging speed for three devices simultaneously

CONS:

- Does not include a 20W plug which is required for the ChargeTree Mag to work

£15.99

https://www.mytravelpal.co.uk/products/uk-to-

UK TO EUROPEAN TRAVEL ADAPTOR WITH USB-C

european-travel-adaptor-with-usb-c-type-e-f

TRAVELLING ABROAD CAN COME WITH SO MANY STRESSFUL SITUATIONS, AND SO IT IS MYTRAVELPAL’S MISSION TO MAKE FINDING THE RIGHT ADAPTOR EASIER TO REMOVE AT LEAST ONE OF THESE STRESSORS.

TO ACHIEVE THIS, EACH ADAPTOR MADE BY MYTRAVELPAL HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO DELIVER FAST, RELIABLE AND COMPATIBLE ELECTRICAL POWER WHEREVER YOU GO. .

We got the chance to test out the UK to EU Travel Adaptor, which allows you to plug in a typical 3-prong UK plug, as well as 2 USB-A cables, and 1 USB-C cable. These 4 different plug and port options mean that the adaptor can be used to effectively charge 4 devices at once. This is perfect for when travelling abroad to charge your phone and headphones, whilst also being able to use appliances such as hair dryers or straighteners at the same time. I tested the adaptor out while on a weekend away in Paris and was super impressed with how easy it was to plug in and use everything I needed at the same time.

I was actually super impressed with how quickly my phone charged, as I often find typical charging speeds with adaptors can usually be reduced a little. However, the MyTravelPal adaptor ensures that it charges your devices 70% faster than standard chargers. This is perfect for quickly charging your phone while away to keep capturing memories and navigating your way around.

PROS:

If you are on the hunt for a UK to EU adaptor for an upcoming trip, MyTravelPal’s adaptors are a great choice being both affordable and reliable. Therefore, With MyTravelPal you are sure to find the right adaptor for your trip every time.

- Can charge 4 devices at once with a plug, 2 USB-A and a USB-C port - Supports faster charging than standard chargers - Affordable price point for reliable and sturdy adaptor

£25.99

MYTRAVELPAL® PRO: UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTOR

https://www.mytravelpal.co.uk/products/

mytravelpal%C2%AE-worldwide-travel-adaptor-ungrounded

WHEN HEADING OFF ON HOLIDAY THIS SUMMER, REMEMBERING TO TAKE THE APPROPRIATE TRAVEL ADAPTER CAN BE A HASSLE – ESPECIALLY WHEN, LIKE ME, YOU HAVE A HABIT OF FORGETTING TO BRING AN ADAPTER WITH YOU AT ALL. THEREFORE, WHEN I HAD THE CHANCE TO TEST OUT THE MYTRAVELPAL UNIVERSAL ADAPTER I WAS SUPER EXCITED. IT IS DESIGNED TO BE COMPATIBLE IN OVER 150 COUNTRIES, REMOVING THE NEED FOR REMEMBERING SPECIFIC ADAPTORS, AND INSTEAD OFFERING A SINGLE ADAPTOR SOLUTION THAT I COULD LEAVE IN MY SUITCASE KNOWING IT WILL WORK EVERYWHERE I GO.

The Universal Travel Adapter is uniquely made with 4 side sliders which allow you to pop out the necessary components for use with different plugs. This means that when using a USA plug whilst travelling in America, you just slide the ‘USA’ slider to the front and the US charging prongs are revealed. However, if you were to then go to Europe or Australia, you can instead slide out the EU or CN pin plug types, and the same adapter will work here too. This is excellent as it removes the need for multiple different adapters which can take up valuable packing space when travelling to multiple countries over a short period. Plus, on the front of the adaptor where you would attach your devices or appliances, you can plug in almost any plug type which ensures that no matter where you are, the Universal Adapter should work for you.

One of my favourite aspects of the Universal Adapter is that the side has two USB-A slots and a USB-C slot, so you can plug your charger directly into the side of the plug. This means that you can charge 4 devices at once and without the need for both your typical charger plug, and then the adapter as well. Instead, you can just plug your cords directly into the adapter – saving space and time!

Plus to ensure that the adapter remains super safe, each plug connection has a ground/earth connection meaning you can use the adaptor with any high-powered appliance without

any worries. Also, should any power surge occur when in use, the adaptor has been designed to automatically shut down and protect your devices and appliances.

If you are heading off on a holiday this summer, then MyTravelPal is essential and will make charging your phone or using your appliances so much easier. I loved that with the Universal Adapter I don’t even need to think about what adaptor to take, instead it just stays in the suitcase and is ready no matter where I’m heading. Plus – it’s at such an affordable price and especially when it effectively replaces the need for all other plug adaptors!

PROS:

- Universal travel adaptor compatible in over 150 countries

- The slider function is easy and practical for revealing the necessary compatible components

- Affordable price point

- Has additional USB-A and USB-C ports for easy and direct device charging

- Safest Adapter you can get

£129.99

EDIFIER MS50A WIFI SMART SPEAKER

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-Microphone- Supports-One-Piece-Bluetooth/dp/B09YMGQLR3

NOTHING IS BETTER THAN A GREAT WIRELESS SMART SPEAKER THAT ALLOWS YOU TO BRING THE PARTY TO WHICHEVER ROOM YOU CHOOSE. THEREFORE, EDIFIER HAS DESIGNED THE MS50A TO DELIVER GREAT SOUND AND TOP-QUALITY STYLE, ALL IN ONE SEAMLESS UNIT THAT YOU’LL BE PROUD TO DISPLAY IN YOUR HOME.

Opening the MS50A I was immediately impressed with how stylish and minimal the unit is. The speaker is made with a walnut veneer and a dark grey material front, with a black top and base. The touch controls on the top are intuitive and allow you to easily pause, play, or quickly mute the speaker. I was especially impressed with the clockwise/counterclockwise touch control which you slide your finger along to turn the sound up or down. Connecting to the speaker is super simple via Bluetooth, and in just a few seconds it was ready to start playing my music for the whole house to hear. You can even connect the speaker to another MS50A for a multi-room concert experience across your home. This is an option available in the Edifier Home App which is designed to make your listening experience easier. In terms of sound, it is exactly what we expect from Edifier – top quality! The speaker has the latest AP6265 chip, as well as AMP and DSP technology which works to bring you a powerful sound.

To get the most out of your listening experience the MS50A is compatible with a whole range of streaming and media apps including Alexa, Apple Airplay2, Spotify, etc. Therefore, at your fingertips is a whole world of music, delivered to you via this powerful but stylish unit. I personally love how Edifier’s products are designed to deliver exceptional sound so you can enjoy your

favourite tunes across your home, but they also don’t forget about how the speaker will look. Edifier’s speaker designs are made to seamlessly integrate into your home for a listening experience that not only sounds good but looks good too!

This speaker would make an incredible Christmas gift and allow the whole family to enjoy those festive tunes this December. Everyone needs a good smart speaker, and with Edifier, you can be sure that it will continue to deliver great sound and great aesthetics all at a very affordable price for a home speaker.

PROS:

- Stylish look to seamlessly fit into your home

- Great sound quality

- Intuitive touch controls

CONS:

- Quite a heavy speaker so not as easy to move about your home as a portable speaker

£39.99

EDIFIER WH700NB WIRELESS NOISE CANCELLATION OVER-EAR HEADPHONES

www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-WH700NB-Active- Cancelling-Headphones-Black/dp/B0CFVLVD46

DESIGNED TO LET YOU DROWN OUT THE NOISE OF YOUR COLLEAGUES OR THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE ON YOUR MORNING COMMUTE, THE WH770NB OVER-EAR HEADPHONES ARE EDIFIER’S AFFORDABLE ANC OPTION TO HELP YOU ENJOY YOUR MUSIC IN PEACE. I RELY HEAVILY ON NOISE CANCELLATION DURING MY MORNING COMMUTE AS THERE’S NOTHING WORSE THAN BEING CAUGHT OUT SITTING ON THE TRAIN WITH NOTHING TO LISTEN TO. THEREFORE, I WAS THRILLED TO TEST EDIFIER’S NEW ANC-FOCUSED HEADPHONES.

Straight out of the box, the headphones look great –mine came in a lovely grey colour which added a stylish change to the standard black headphones I usually use. The matt grey finish is accompanied by super soft ear cushions, and a firm but comfortable headband. The side of the earpieces have a subtle Edifier logo which I liked as it maintains the rather minimalist and sleek overall look of the headphones. However, should the grey colourway not be to your liking or aesthetic, they also come in black, white, and blue options.

Putting the headphones on felt comfortable as they had a firm hold on the head with a decent amount of head cushioning in the ear pads and headband for comfort. After wearing the headphones for a few hours, I was impressed with how comfortable they were to wear. I especially loved how the ear cups sit around the ears, rather than on them so there’s no uncomfortable squashing. The true test of the WH700NB was in the sound quality and effectiveness of the noise cancellation. The WH700NBs are

designed with 40mm dynamic drivers, which deliver exceptional sound quality for such an affordable price. However, a big draw of the WH700NB is that they have active noise cancellation to help you focus on your listening experience and drown out background noise. I personally found the sound quality excellent with each song and podcast meeting sounding just as good as some of my more expensive headphone models. I also found the ANC pretty substantial as it did cut down on excessive outside noise whilst I was on the train and in the office.

The WH700NB boast to have up to 68 hours of continuous playback when the ANC is turned off, and 45 hours of playback when it is turned on. I used the headphones for a few days and after an initial charge, I didn’t have to recharge them again for a long while which personally is a big plus for me. To make this playback possible, the WH700NBs are fitted with a V5.3 Bluetooth Chipset which delivers a stable connection to your headphones and ensures that the sound quality remains high. In fact, you can connect the headphones to two outputs at once, so you can flick between them and different activities with ease. Whilst the headphones are not going to be able to rival some of the most expensive ANC-focused headphones on the market which have a hefty price tag due to the top-of-the-line mechanics, the WH700NB Headphones are still way ahead of the competition for under £50. Therefore, I think the Edifier WH700NB are a great choice for those who want a great level of ANC and great sound quality for everyday use at an affordable price point.

PROS:

- Great sound quality and reliable ANC

- Strong wireless connection for stable playback

- Affordable price point for the sound quality and ANC tech

- Excellent battery life

CONS:

- My only fault is that when listening to loud music, a small amount of the sound leaks out so those around you can hear your audio a little which isn’t super great in quiet settings.

IFI GO BLU

£199.00

https://ifi-audio.com/products/go-blu/

GET READY TO TAKE SUPERIOR SOUND QUALITY WITH YOU ON THE GO WITH IFI AUDIO’S GO BLU PORTABLE HD DAC/AMP. THE GO BLU IS DESIGNED TO BE YOUR LIGHTWEIGHT COMPANION, PERFECT FOR SLIPPING INTO YOUR POCKET OR BAG TO DELIVER SEAMLESS BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY FOR THE HIGHEST-QUALITY AUDIO EXPERIENCE NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE.

Upon first opening the GO blu, I was impressed (and a little shocked) that such a small device boasts some big sound quality specs. The device is only a few centimetres in height and width and has a lovely, brushed copper design to it. The side of the device has a ‘ChronoDial’, designed to allow you to perfectly adjust your music’s volume, pause, play, and skip tracks, whilst also offering the option of activating the voice assistant of your core device. On the base, there is a USB-C input for charging, or connecting a device via USB instead of Bluetooth. Then, on the top, there is a balanced headphone 4.4mm jack and a single-ended 3.5mm headphone jack. The GO blu is compatible with most wired headphones and earphones through one of the two jack options and it even has a CMOS-MEMS microphone built into the bottom so you can make the most of hands-free calls on the go too.

So how does it work? The GO blu is designed to connect via Bluetooth to your device, which could be your phone, tablet, or laptop. Then, you just need to plug in your wired headphones to the GO blu and it provides you with excellent audio whilst allowing you to enjoy your music without being tethered to your device. As soon as I connected the GO Blu to my headphones, I was thrilled with just how lightweight it felt, something I’d want when going for a wireless catering device.

The GO Blu is only a remarkable 26 grams; however, it still boosted the audio quality of my music significantly – something I thought may be difficult when using wireless options as I assumed there would be more interference causing some sound quality to be lost. However, the GO blu has been built with a Qualcomm fourcore QCC5100 Bluetooth processing chip which is designed to deliver highdefinition Bluetooth audio across every device by providing exceptional range and connection stability to ensure toplevel audio performance.

Having tested the GO blu for the last few weeks the superior sound quality and seamless connectivity really shine through. If it wasn’t for the superior sound, I’d have easily forgotten I was even using it as it was just so lightweight and added barely any weight to my headphone wire. However, with such a small device that already has so many benefits, you’d be forgiven for thinking there must be some downside like poor battery life, but iFi Audio have even thought of this and in fact, the GO blu provides up to 10 hours of battery life. This means you can use the amp whilst on the move for hours at a time without worrying about recharging – perfect for adventures this summer if you ask me!

Ultimately, if you are looking to enjoy the benefits of amplified sound but love the freedom of remaining hands-free, then the iFi GO blu is a perfect choice. It’s small, and powerful and works to deliver superior sound quality for every listening experience.

PROS:

- Powerful sound quality packed into a tiny unit

- Super lightweight and intuitively designed

- Loaded with reliable Bluetooth connectivity to remain hands-free without sacrificing the music quality

- Great battery life

CONS:

- Wireless connectivity relates to the source device, rather than the earphones/ headphones which still are required to be wired. This means it cannot be used with the common wireless earphones that many of us use for everyday listening. For those looking for superior sound quality and don’t mind using wired headphones connected to the GO blu rather than their device, this isn’t too much of an issue, but for the average user who doesn’t have or use wired headphones everyday, this may be a little inconvenient.

£199.99

https://ifi-audio.com/products/hip-dac-3/

IFI HIP-DAC 3

DESIGNED AS THE PERFECT STEPPING STONE BETWEEN YOUR DEVICE AND HEADPHONES, THE IFI HIP-DAC 3 PROVIDES A PORTABLE HI-RES DAC/HEADPHONE AMP WHICH DELIVERS POWERFUL SOUNDS FOR EVERY LISTENING EXPERIENCE.

I was super excited to see the hip-dac 3 come across my desk as I’ve been a big fan of the superior sound quality that iFi Audio delivers for a while. Straight from the box, I was met with a beautiful aluminium case in a lovely grey colour. The hip-dac 3 feels super high quality and being only the size of a hipflask, it is the perfect shape to fit into your pocket or your bag whilst on the go.

To use the hip-dac 3 you simply connect your device via the USB-C port at the base and connect your headphones, earphones, or in-ear monitors to the jack ports at the top. Therefore, the hipdac 3 acts as a middleman between your device and headphones to enhance the quality of your audio and deliver rich and dynamic sound to your ears. To ensure that the hip-dac 3 is compatible with a variety of devices from phones, tablets and your PC, the box thankfully includes three different cables which allow for USB, USB-C and MFI lightning cable connection to the hip-dac 3. The inclusion of the three wires is super useful, as I could use the USB-C cable to connect my phone whilst out and about, and then plug it into my laptop when I was at the office for continued excellent sound quality whilst I got work done.

The main purpose of the hip-dac 3 is to transform the sound of audio in your headphones, with iFi Audio boasting that it is 10x more powerful than an iPhone 15 for sound quality. To achieve this high level of sound the hip-dac is fitted with the Burr-Brown chip you can expect from many of iFi Audio’s products, but they have gone one step further and feature a 16-core XMOS microcontroller which has been designed by iFi’s teams to optimise the sound quality – a perfect pairing for the Burr-Brown DAC. The hip-dac

3 has also been developed with a true balance circuit design, which reduces signal distortion to ensure a more stable and full sound. This is hard to get at this price point, so for iFi to have included such high-quality mechanics inside the hip-dac 3, highlights the company’s commitment to delivering top audio experiences with every device. To further ensure that the user gets the most out of the DAC/amp as possible, the hip-dac 3 also has a switch on the base to cater the output to the sensitivity of your headphones - this is especially great for those buying the device for use with in-ear monitors as it is designed to significantly cut down on hiss, whilst celebrating the dynamic range of the audio. Whilst, I personally have not tried the hip-dac 3 for inear monitors, I can say that using it with my regular wired headphones has significantly increased the sound quality from my device without compromising on the ease of use or functionality of my wired headphones.

Ultimately, the battery-powered headphone amp delivers tailored, highresolution, and clear audio experiences, all of which are supported by up to 12 hours of playtime. Therefore, the hipdac 3 is perfect for taking with you on the go to deliver exceptional sound no matter where you are. If you are looking for a powerful headphone amp which delivers a rich and dynamic sound in a compact and portable device, then the hip-dac 3 is a perfect choice for you. The hip-dac 3 has been expertly developed with convenience and powerful sound delivery in mind, all of which are packaged in an affordable amp perfect for all music lovers.

PROS:

- Portable design for great audio wherever you are

- Top quality sound specs for both professional to everyday use

- Compatible with a range of devices and comes with cables to make this possible

CONS:

- The included cables are great – but are a little short in length meaning your device and the hip-dac 3 must be kept quite close which can be a little more cumbersome whilst on the go.

HEALTH

JOBY WAVO™ PLUS

£189.95

https://joby.com/uk-en/wavo-plus-jb01734- bww/?___store=joby_new_uk_en

PERFECT FOR THE BUDDING VLOGGER OR FILMMAKER WHO WANTS TO STEP UP THEIR AUDIO QUALITY, THE JOBY WAVO™ PLUS SHOTGUN MICROPHONE DELIVERS TOP-QUALITY AUDIO TO MAKE EVERY CLIP SOUND CRISP AND CLEAR. DESIGNED WITH COMPACT PREMIUM CAMERAS IN MIND, THE MICROPHONE CLIPS SEAMLESSLY ONTO THE TOP OF YOUR CAMERA READY TO DELIVER GREAT AUDIO WITHOUT ANY FUSS.

When I first attached the Wavo PLUS to my camera I was impressed by its lightweight design which didn’t make my set-up feel too top-heavy. It was super easy to attach, and with a few wires and switches, the microphone was ready to test out. I loved that all the necessary wires were included in the box, including a TRS to TRS, TRRS to TRS, USB-C to USB-A and a USB-C to USB-C cable, so you have everything you need to get started.

Once attached the microphone shows a green light to indicate that it is fully charged – I loved that as the battery went down the light would change from green, to amber and then red so you had a good idea of how many hours of battery you had left with it. After testing the microphone out over the past few weeks, it has only just reached red indicating that it holds a substantial amount of charge so you can be safe knowing it’s not going to run out fast whilst you’re out shooting on the go. Plus to better save the battery, the microphone is designed to turn on and off with your camera, so you know that when your camera isn’t in use your microphone isn’t needlessly losing battery.

The Wavo™ PLUS is a directional microphone that helps to cut down on background noise and is built with a 100Hz High-pass Filter which helps to avoid low-frequency rumbles from overtaking the audio. This ensures that the sound quality of your audio is always clean and clear. Also, by cutting down on background noise, there is less editing required for your videos, so you can capture, edit, and upload your content online so much quicker. However, for even greater control over your audio, you can attach headphones to the Wavo™ PLUS to monitor the audio quality whilst filming and adjust

using the red back dial where necessary. This means that vloggers and filmmakers can feel more confident capturing content knowing they will not lose any clips due to poor sound quality.

The threat of losing video clips from poor sound content is something that JOBY has focused on further with the Wavo™ PLUS in the Safe Track feature which registers at -10db to ensure that sound captured even at its lowest will not be lost and works alongside the Safe Audio setting which provides a second audio track if necessary for greater backup.

Having tested out the Wavo™ PLUS for a few weeks I was super impressed with the audio quality. Whilst I’m no vlogger, I found capturing videos with friends and family super easy and every clip had great sound quality. The only time when the sound had a little struggle was outside with a bit of wind, as it caused a bit of interference – but this is common with most microphones I’ve tested. Thankfully, we also got to try out the JOBY Wavo™ Windjammer PLUS (£21.95) which provided great protection for the microphone from dust and moisture outside, whilst cutting down on wind noise almost completely. I’d definitely recommend this when buying the Wavo™ PLUS, as it made shooting outside so much easier and ensured a crisp and clear sound quality no matter where I was filming. If you’re looking to better the audio quality of your videos, you can’t go wrong with a microphone from JOBY who are committed to making camera accessories that make the filming process a breeze. Therefore, the Wavo™ PLUS provides great sound quality and will deliver excellent results for those who want to step up their audio game.

PROS:

- Top quality microphone that fits easily onto compact premium cameras

- Easy and intuitive to set up and use – all buttons and dials are easy to operate

- Allows you to monitor and adjust your audio in real time to minimise editing and avoid wasted shots

CONS

- I’d recommend purchasing the Windjammer with the Wavo™ PLUS as it greatly improves the performance – I wish this came with the microphone as standard instead of as an additional purchase

PREMIUM WIRELESS ANC HEADPHONES

£449.00

https://www.psbspeakers.com/uk/m4u- 9-premium-wireless-anc-headphones

WHEN ON A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT THERE’S NOTHING WORSE THAN BEING SAT NEAR A SCREAMING CHILD, OR AWFULLY CLOSE TO SOMEONE WHO IS SNORING THE WHOLE FLIGHT. THIS CONSTANT NOISE, HOWEVER INNOCENT, IS ENOUGH TO DRIVE ANYONE A LITTLE INSANE AFTER A FEW HOURS. SAFE TO SAY, THIS IS NOT HOW ANY OF US WANT TO START OFF OUR VACATIONS, SO A PAIR OF NOISECANCELLING HEADPHONES IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST IF I’M TRAVELLING ANYWHERE. THEREFORE, WHEN I GOT THE CHANCE TO REVIEW THE PSB M4U 9 PREMIUM WIRELESS ANC HEADPHONES I JUMPED AT IT AND WAS IMMEDIATELY BLOWN AWAY.

The headphones come in a premium black travel case which is round and has the simple PSB Speakers logo on the front. You just have to unzip the sturdy hard-shell case, to reveal the allblack headphones. The headphones feel sturdy yet lightweight, with a plethora of useful buttons on the right ear cuff. The headband is expandable and supports the cushioned earpads. Each earpad has been carefully designed by PSB Speakers to sit at a tilted 15° angle, which aims to deliver superior comfort on the ears, as well as providing a great seal between the ear cuffs and

your head. I found even from the first wear the design makes the headphones feel super comfy as I could adjust the headband to suit my head, and the ear cuffs sat perfectly over my ears. I personally don’t like headphones that sit on the ears rather than over them, and so I was thrilled to see the PSB M4U 9 Headphones sit completely over them which brought with it next-level comfort, as well as superior sound. What really shines about the PSB M4U 9 Headphones is of course the sound quality. The headphones are built to deliver pristine sound supported by graphene-infused drivers, so every music experience is top-quality. The headphones feature side joysticks which allow you to adjust the volume of your

music or calls super easy and intuitively. These buttons are accompanied by the Bluetooth connection button and the USB-C charging port on the right ear cuff. However, one of the special features of the PSB M4U 9 Headphones is that through the PSB Headphone app, you can completely adjust the settings to suit your needs. Through this, you can access the adaptive technologies behind the headphones which ensure that every listening experience is just like you’re in a room with a top-quality speaker through a natural sound dispersion design. This means that no matter where you are, every song, podcast or call is top quality. An additional way you can achieve this personalised experience is

with the Audiodo Personalised Sound™ setting, which asks you questions and uses precise audio tests to cater the headphones to your ears and specific audio preferences.

One of my absolute favourite aspects of the PSB M4U 9 Headphones is the wireless ANC. I’ve used so many headphones over the years that claim to deliver great ANC, but none ever seem to fully shut out the world around me. However, this was thankfully not the case with the PSB M4U 9 Headphones, as they deliver superior noise cancellation to block external noise and allow you to truly get into your music without distractions. This was essential on a recent trip where we’d missed our connecting flight due to weather delays which meant we had to spend a few hours waiting around in the noisy airport until the next flight. The noise cancellation allowed me to completely block out the hustle and bustle of the airport and allow me to create my own little calm bubble –something super essential for me when the whole flying experience is a little stressful!

Overall, the PSB M4U 9 Wireless ANC Headphones deliver top sound quality supported by a personalised, ergonomic and comfortable design for a next-level listening experience every time. However, I can also appreciate that the headphones do have a luxury price point of £450. Therefore, I do see the headphones as more of a luxury gift to either treat yourself or a loved one, if you’re a music enthusiast who is always in need of noise cancellation.

PROS:

- Top-quality headphone design for a secure and comfortable listening experience

- Personalised sound through the PSB Headphones App to set it to your unique preferences

- Comes with a sturdy travel case, and everything you could need from additional ear cuffs covers to a plane adapter for use wherever you go

CONS:

- The Velcro closure of the travel case pocket doesn’t feel super premium – I’d have liked to have seen a zip for the price

- A premium price point which isn’t super accessible to everyone – but PSB Speakers does have a range of price points across its Headphone and Earbud offerings which can suit more budgets

SHOKZ OPENSWIM PRO

£169

https://uk.shokz.com/products/openswim-

pro?variant=48872516714829

TAKE YOUR TUNES WITH YOU FROM THE GYM TO THE POOL WITH THE SHOKZ OPENSWIM PRO HEADPHONES, WHICH ARE BUILT TO WITHSTAND ANYTHING FROM THE SWEATIEST OF WORKOUTS TO LENGTHS IN THE POOL. WITH IP68 WATERPROOFING YOU CAN BE SURE THAT THE OPENSWIM PROS WILL DELIVER RELIABLE, SAFE AND TOP-QUALITY AUDIO WITHOUT HINDERING YOUR ABILITY TO REACH YOUR GOALS THROUGH EVERY ACTIVITY.

I’d never considered headphones for swimming before, mainly as I assumed most earphones aren’t waterproof, and those that are, look like they’d get easily lost in the pool. Therefore, when I got the chance to test out the Shokz OpenSwim Pros I was super excited, as I do find swimming lengths can be rather dull after a while. Straight out of the box, the OpenSwim Pro headphones have a unique neckband style which sits comfortably around the back of your head just resting on your neck, and the earpieces hook over your ears. I loved the neckband design as they felt super secure on my head, and the ergonomic ear hooks ensured that no matter how much I moved my head they were hooked onto my ears. The sound is then delivered through the open-ear bone-conduction design which means you can remain aware of your surroundings, whilst still making the most of your music for whatever activity you choose.

To ensure that the OpenSwim Pros are suitable for the pool or even super sweaty workouts, they are designed with IP68 waterproofing which means the casing has been designed with a triple seal to keep water out and ensure that even if submerged in

water up to 2 metres for almost 2 hours, they will remain working perfectly fine. This is great for swimming as it means you can get in all your usual laps, and the music never has to stop to give you that little push of motivation to reach your goals.

To keep the music going, the OpenSwim Pros are designed to be compatible with Bluetooth, so you can pair them with your phone whilst in the gym. However, as Bluetooth connections don’t work underwater, the headphones are built with 32GB of MP3 storage, so you can store all your songs and playlists right on your headphones so they’re ready to go as soon as you need them. This is great for the pool or even when you don’t have a phone signal, as it means you can just switch over to the MP3 and you can keep the music going.

My favourite aspect of the OpenSwim Pro Headphones is that the sound quality is excellent using the bone-conduction design. The sound is rich and delivers a powerful base, but I love that when I’m commuting, out on a run, or even in the gym, I can remain aware of my surroundings for extra safety. Plus if I get a call, the built-in ENC and DNS filter out excessive background ambient noise to make voices just that bit clearer.

I loved testing the Shokz OpenSwim Pro Headphones in the gym as they sit comfortably in my ears and helped me push through each movement supported by motivating music without feeling cumbersome in my ears. After my gym session, I went to do some laps in the gym’s pool, followed by a quick dip in the hot pool to end my workout. Throughout this, I could listen to my favourite tracks using

the MP3 setting and make the wind-down part of my routine a little bit more relaxing with my normal cool-down playlist. The headphones remained working perfectly fine even after being submerged in the pool, and I loved that I didn’t have to worry about them falling out or getting damaged from sweat whilst in the gym – plus the useful neck and ear hook design means they never get caught in the way of your movements so remain firmly in place whatever you’re doing.

My only slight complaint is that in very quiet settings the open-ear bone conduction design means that people can hear my music. This isn’t a big issue whilst in the gym or at the pool, however, I used the Shokz whilst on the train and my friends could hear my music a little - just something to be taken into consideration if you want them for very quiet settings too!

The Shokz OpenSwim Pro are the perfect partner for hitting the gym and the pool. The waterproof design ensures that they can withstand anything you throw at them whilst remaining comfortable and secure with each activity. If you are an avid swimmer and are looking for a way to make lengths just that little bit more enjoyable (or even a big hiker or runner), the Shokz OpenSwim Pro Headphones are an excellent no-fuss option. The OpenSwim Pro let you store all your favourite songs right in your headphones so you can either connect to your Bluetooth or completely detach from the outside world with the MP3 setting whilst ensuring that every activity is supported by Shokz top quality sound and innovative design features for a great audio experience every time, no matter the conditions.

PROS:

- Bone-conduction design for safety and awareness

- Comfortable and secure fit great for the gym, a walk or even in the pool

- MP3 mode can store up to 8000 songs for easy listening whilst not connected to Bluetooth

- Waterproof triple-sealed design for use in water up to 2 metres for 2 hours

CONS:

- Bone-conduction design means that in quiet settings others can hear your music a little

https://bambooclothing.co.uk/shop/

mens-novea-training-vest-pear-green/

CLOTHING MEN’S NOVEA TRAINING VEST

WHEN I’M WORKING OUT, I WANT CLOTHES WHICH ARE SIMPLE, LIGHTWEIGHT, AND EASY TO THROW ON SO I CAN SPEND MY TIME FOCUSED ON GETTING A GOOD SESSION IN. WITH BAM’S MINIMALIST AND EASY-TO-WEAR DESIGNS, SUCH AS THE NOVEA TRAINING VEST, I CAN SIMPLY THROW IT ON AND GET GOING – PERFECT!

The BAM Novea Training Vest has been designed with ease of movement, in mind with a breathable and soft fabric. I tested out the vest for a run on a rather sunny spring afternoon and was super impressed with the feel. I found it hung super nicely on the body and was just loose enough that it felt breathable without getting in the way of more dynamic movements. The vest is made from BAM’s nature-based fabric Novea, which blends bamboo with Naia™ for quick drying. This material was perfect for practising some sprints. Usually when sprinting I’m left a little hot and sweaty with my t-shirt sticking to me, but with the Novea Training Vest, I remained cool and dry throughout.

One thing I especially loved about the vest is its lovely pear green colour which makes a nice change from my typical black or dark grey gym clothes. On the back and sides, there

are grey panels and a lovely minimalist reflective detailing. I love the simple design, and the reflective dots and dashes actually spell out Bamboo Clothing which is a nice but subtle way of getting some branding onto the item vest without a giant logo on the front – something I typically try to avoid as much as possible.

One perk of BAM’s clothing is that every piece has been made with sustainability in mind. For every piece, BAM has carefully designed them to deliver performance, whilst also being made from bamboo which continues to help the planet. Bamboo is known to absorb 5x more carbon than hardwood trees and is one of the fastest-growing crops on the planet, consequently, it makes a great choice for use in clothes as an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil-fuel-based fibres. Therefore, with BAM Clothing you can have piece of mind that you are purchasing from a company that really cares about the planet and puts this at the forefront of every single design.

Ultimately, the Novea Training Vest is designed to feel great, look great and not get in the way of working out – a big win for me! I loved the feel and will definitely be adding this into my gym wardrobe rotation as I know it will be perfect for some nice summer runs as the weather continues to improve, as well as some high-intensity gym sessions. If you, or someone you love, is on the hunt for a new vest for working out then BAM’s Novea Training Vest is an easy choice.

PROS:

- Sustainably made material designed for quick drying

- Stylish and minimalist look with nice reflective detailing

- Affordable price for highquality and sustainable training vest

CONS:

- I’d love to see some more colour options – the pear green/grey and black/blue are lovely but I’d like to see some more colour variety options for summer

£59.99 https://bambooclothing.co.uk/shop/mallea-yoga- leggings-2-lengths-spring-rain-print/

SPORTS & FITNESS

BAM CLOTHING MALLEA YOGA LEGGINGS

BAM CLOTHING IS DESIGNED TO DELIVER PREMIUM QUALITY ACTIVEWEAR PRODUCTS WHICH ARE FOCUSED ON DELIVERING NATURE-BASED FABRICS THAT WORK TO PROTECT PEOPLE, NATURE, AND THE PLANET. FROM DESIGN TO PRODUCTION, EVERY PRODUCT IN BAM CLOTHING’S LINE HAS BEEN CAREFULLY CRAFTED TO ENSURE THAT THEY DELIVER MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE WHILST STILL WORKING TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY. THEREFORE, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO TRY OUT SOME OF BAM’S MALLEA YOGA LEGGINGS FROM THEIR NEW SPRING AND SUMMER 2024 COLLECTION.

The leggings I tried came in a funky Spring Rain print which has greens, oranges, yellows, and browns mixed in an abstract rain-inspired pattern. The leggings were in the 7/8th length which sat just above my ankle with a 60cm inseam. However, should the pattern or length not be for you, BAM offers a whole range of lovely colours from a standard black to some extra funky pattern options and even a full-length version with a 70cm inseam. Therefore, with BAM you are sure to find a pair of leggings to suit your style and length preferences. Straight out of the parcel, I was impressed with just how lovely and buttery soft the material was with a supportive yet stretchy waistband. After putting them on I was thrilled with how supported I felt without feeling restricted at all. According to BAM, the fabric was carefully designed by yoga experts to be breathable, soft, and stretchy, while offering all the support needed for each yoga movement without chafing or digging in. I tested out the leggings for a yoga class and was very impressed. I was able to freely move through each pose whilst feeling super comfortable and confident. Plus the fun pattern was a big hit

with my fellow yoga friends, adding a fun pop of colour to an otherwise dreary spring day.

My only slight complaint with the Mallea Yoga Leggings is that they are not currently available in extended sizes. I love the feel and sustainable aspects of the leggings, but I wish they were available in a larger size range so every body type could buy them. I really do hope BAM is looking to expand its size range in the future to make its high-quality and sustainably made leggings more widely accessible. Ultimately, if you are on the hunt for a new pair of leggings that are made

with sustainability in mind, whilst delivering exceptional performance in the yoga studio, then the Mallea Yoga Leggings are a great choice for you. I personally loved the feel of the leggings, and with the great sustainability factors behind them, they make a perfect gift for yourself or a loved one who is looking for a great pair of leggings that deliver comfort, style, and support for whatever exercise you throw at them.

PROS:

- Buttery soft material that is supportive but comfortable

- Great colourful selection of leggings to suit any style and length preference

- Leggings are made with sustainability in mind throughout the entire process so you know you’re buying from a brand that cares about the planet

CONS:

- I wish the leggings had a much larger size range to suit more body types – this would enable more people to have access to the high-quality yet sustainable clothing options that BAM has to offer

SPLASH APPAREL COLOUR CHANGING SWIM SHORTS SPORTS & FITNESS

£19.95 https://www.splash-apparel.com/ products/kids-colour-changing-swim-

shorts?variant=47150586331475

BEING ABLE TO SWIM IS SUCH A VITAL SKILL FOR KIDS TO HAVE TO HELP THEM (AND YOU AS A PARENT) FEEL MORE CONFIDENT THAT THEY WILL REMAIN SAFE WHEN IN WATER. THEREFORE, TO MAKE THE WHOLE LEARNING EXPERIENCE EXTRA FUN AND PROVIDE THAT MUCH-NEEDED CONFIDENCE, SPLASH APPAREL HAVE INTRODUCED THEIR COLOUR-CHANGING SWIM SHORTS TO ADD A COLOURFUL FLARE TO THE WHOLE SWIMMING EXPERIENCE.

The swim shorts are made of a soft yet durable material with a blue base colour and red waistband. The shorts are covered in a white lightning bolt pattern, however, when wet the lightning bolts are transformed into many different colours. Then, when the sun hits the shorts and they begin to dry, the white lightning bolts return ready to be transformed into a colourful pattern with water once again.

The colour-changing pattern of the swim shorts are sure to be a big hit with kids and are now available in a range of colourchanging patterns including a turtle and jungle pattern. The

shorts would make a great gift for your kids, especially if they are big fans of swimming and going to pools both whilst at home and on holiday. I especially think these make a great choice for kids who are a little apprehensive about swimming as the lightning bolt pattern is designed to give those who wear them a superhero feeling as they step into water and see the colour-changing powers of their shorts.

Overall, if you are looking for a unique gift for your child or grandchild, that will make swimming, beach days or water park visits just that little bit more fun, then these are a great choice for you.

PROS:

- Unique colour-changing design when in contact with water

- Range of pattern options to suit your child’s needs

- Soft yet durable material

£47.99

https://www.corebalance.co.uk/studio-aerobic-step+color-grey

SPORTS & FITNESS

COREBALANCE STUDIO AEROBIC STEP

A GREAT WAY TO STEP UP AEROBIC EXERCISES IS TO ADD IN HEIGHT, THIS ALLOWS YOU TO MAKE MORE DYNAMIC MOVEMENTS AND INCREASE THE INTENSITY OF YOUR WORKOUTS. HOWEVER, KNOWING WHERE TO START CAN BE QUITE DIFFICULT, AND EVEN DAUNTING WHEN FIRST ENTERING THE GYM. THEREFORE, COREBALANCE OFFERS THE STUDIO AEROBIC STEP WHICH ALLOWS YOU TO ADD HEIGHT INTO YOUR MOVEMENTS IN A CUSTOMISABLE WAY, TO PUSH YOUR BODY TO WORK HARDER AND BUILD MUSCLES, BUT ALL FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME.

I personally love integrating a step into my workout routines, whether to extend my split squats, for smaller box jumps, or even to follow along with an online step class. Therefore, I was super excited to test out the Studio Aerobic Step from CoreBalance as they are experts in developing top-quality workout equipment.

The Studio Aerobic Step is a sturdy and supportive step made from a high-density PE, featuring a PVC top with a unique anti-slip grooved design perfect for maintaining a solid grip on the step throughout each movement. I personally love how solid the step feels, whilst still being shock-absorbent enough to support my joints when using it for dynamic jumping exercises. The original step is 10cm high, however, one of the main perks of the Studio Aerobic Step is that you can add an additional 10 cm to the height, through two 5cm risers. Each riser clicks into the step top and is wide enough to ensure that the step remains stable and secure throughout each movement. To help with stability, the risers also have TPE stoppers on the bottom to prevent the step from moving whilst in use, and to also prevent

any scratches on your floor.

After using the step for a few weeks for my home workouts I was super impressed. The step is sturdy yet lightweight enough to move around the house so I could easily integrate it into my routine without much difficulty. I found it allowed me to step up my movements and push myself that little bit harder throughout each training session, and all from the comfort of my own home. The grippy surface made me feel more comfortable doing moves such as elevated press-ups on the step without fearing that my hands would slip out from under me if I was a little sweaty.

My only slight downside of the step is that at 109-41cm in size, it’s not super easy to store if you are limited in storage space. I personally live in a small flat that is already lacking in storage, and therefore the step does take up quite a lot of room even with the risers removed. However, if you have a dedicated studio space or adequate storage space, I’m sure this wouldn’t be a problem!

If you’re looking to introduce a new piece of equipment into your home workouts that will push you a little harder and allow you to do more dynamic workouts, then the CoreBalance Studio Aerobic Step is an excellent choice. It comes ready to go and is super easy to adjust depending on your movement, and with a price tag under £50 - whilst being made from top quality materials – it really is a great piece of equipment.

PROS:

- Top quality design with durable, shock absorbent and non-slip materials

- Affordable price point for the range of exercises that it can accommodate

- 3-level height adjustability perfect for beginner, intermediate and advanced users

CONS:

- Large makes it difficult to store

SPORTS & FITNESS COREBALANCE BALANCE TRAINER WITH RESISTANCE BANDS

£47.99 https://www.corebalance.co.uk/balance-trainer.html

BALANCE AND CORE STRENGTH ARE SOMETHING THAT I’VE BEEN REALLY WORKING ON THE OLDER I GET. NOT ONLY DOES IT HELP MAKE GYM SESSIONS A LITTLE EASIER, BUT I FIND BUILDING UP MY CORE PROVIDES SO MANY BENEFITS FOR MY MOVEMENT IN EVERYDAY LIFE. THEREFORE, WHEN THE BALANCE TRAINER WITH RESISTANCE BANDS WAS DELIVERED, I WAS SUPER EXCITED, AS NOT ONLY WILL I BE ABLE TO STRENGTHEN THESE AREAS OF THE BODY, BUT IT CAN BE USED ACROSS SO MANY EXERCISES AS A MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PIECE OF EQUIPMENT.

The Balance Trainer comes deflated and attached to the 60cm diameter platform, however in the box is a hand pump so you can easily inflate your dome to your desired firmness ready for a whole range of activities. Also included in the box are two durable resistance bands which attach to the platform sides using strong metal carabiners. I personally loved the colour of the Balance Trainer with a teal dome and black platform. The dome features anti-slip rings, whilst the platform has a unique textured design. These features ensure that no matter which way you place the platform, it will not move out from under you so you remain safe throughout every exercise.

There are two main ways to use the Balance Trainer, the first being with the platform face down on the floor. With the platform to the floor, you can stand, sit or lean on the dome whilst doing your exercises. The dome being inflated means that it moves a little when pressed on, and so when balancing on it you need to use your core to remain balanced. Then, once

you’ve perfected your balance, you can then integrate the resistance bands and do things such as lateral raises or bicep curls. This ensures that you are working not only your arms but your core in the process to make each exercise just that little bit more complex and challenging for your body.

You can also use the Balance trainer with the dome up to support planks, lunges and even seated rows using the resistance bands. I loved how versatile it was to complete a wide range of movements, and I think a key part of this is the resistance bands, as they allow you to add in more upper-body strength training whilst also working on your core. The resistance bands feel super sturdy with a comfortable ergonomic handle and nice textured grip for more secure movements. However, should you really want to put your core strength and balance to the test, you can flip the Balance Trainer over so that the dome is to the floor. With the dome underneath, you can then step onto the platform and attempt to balance. I found this was much more difficult as the flat platform made the dome underneath a lot wobblier, so I really had to engage my core to stay standing. I did worry that using it this way I could risk it slipping out from under me, however, the dome’s antislip rings meant that it stayed perfectly in place – even if I struggled! Plus, you can inflate and deflate the dome to your preference, so the less air - the more wobble on the board. This means that you can adjust and deflate/inflate the dome as you wish to make each workout

just that little bit more difficult. Overall, the CoreBalance Balance Trainer with Resistance Bands is an excellent bit of workout equipment. It’s great for working on your balance and core strength, whilst remaining functional for a whole range of movements. The price is super affordable for all that it delivers for under £50, and I loved using it at the end of my workouts to build core strength over time. If you are looking for a multifunctional bit of gym equipment the Balance Trainer with Resistance Bands is a great all-round choice.

PROS:

- Multi-use piece of equipment for a range of exercises

- Strong and secure resistance bands for strength training and muscle development

- Custom inflatable dome as it comes with a hand pump so you can adjust the dome to your workout needs

SPORTS & COREBALANCEFITNESS MINI RESISTANCE BANDS (5 PIECE)

£7.19

www.corebalance.co.uk/mini-resistance-bands-set.html

DESIGNED TO HELP YOU TARGET SPECIFIC MUSCLE GROUPS AND CREATE A GREAT MIND-MUSCLE CONNECTION, RESISTANCE BANDS ARE AN EXCELLENT WAY TO SCULPT AND TONE YOUR BODY. I PERSONALLY LOVE RESISTANCE BANDS AND HAVE USED THEM FOR MANY YEARS TO MAKE MY MUSCLES WORK A LITTLE HARDER IN EACH GYM SESSION. HOWEVER, I ALSO LOVE USING THEM FOR WORKING OUT AT HOME OR WHILST AWAY WHEN I DON’T HAVE THE SAME ACCESS TO WEIGHTS. THEREFORE, WITH A TRIP COMING UP, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO SEE HOW WELL THE COREBALANCE MINI RESISTANCE BRANDS COULD HELP ME MAINTAIN MY ROUTINE WHILE AWAY.

The resistance bands come in a useful small carry pouch, which holds the 5 stretchy resistance bands in various colours. The colours indicate the resistance of each band which correlates to different weight levels. The teal band is the lightest weight at only 5 lbs of resistance and is designed to help with injury by offering a gentler approach to movement to help muscles recover. The purple light band is designed for legs and arms providing 10 lbs of resistance and the blue medium resistance band provides 15 lbs of resistance ideal for the back and chest. Finally, the red (20 lbs) band and black band (25 lbs) provide heavy and extra heavy resistance, perfect for building large muscle groups such as glutes and thighs.

My favourite aspect of the bands is that they are made from a durable natural latex which provides great resistance whilst remaining comfortable on the skin and not causing any irritation during repetitive movements. I especially loved that each one is 5cm thick as I found this extra width helped with preventing the bands from falling and rolling down too much during each movement – something that I’ve found quite common when testing resistance bands in the past.

The travel bag made them perfect for throwing in my suitcase and taking with me on my trip. Each morning I was able to get my typical home workout in, with the support of the resistance bands working across the whole body. From squats to bicep curls, I could use the bands to target so many different parts of my body and feel confident I was meeting my goals even when away from my usual gym/home workout equipment.

Ultimately, I think the CoreBalance Mini Resistance Bands make a brilliant addition to any gym or home workout routine. They provide a great extra level of resistance to target specific muscle groups which is perfect for getting in a quick training session no matter where you are. The bands are a great option for taking with you whilst on trips this summer if you still want to maintain part of your routine even whilst away. However, I know they’d be perfect for any avid gym goer to add a little extra challenge into every gym session.

PROS:

- Durable natural silicone bands that are soft on the skin yet study for movements

- 5 different levels of resistance to target multiple muscle groups

- Travel Friends pouch for easy workouts whilst on the go

CONS:

- The bands do roll a little at the edges during some exercises – however, I’ve found this is a common experience with many resistance bands

£319.95 https://www.withings.com/uk/en/scanwatch-2

& BEAUTY

WITHINGS SCAN WATCH 2

EVERY DAY WE PUT IN THE WORK TO TRY AND MAINTAIN OUR HEALTH AND KEEP FEELING OUR BEST, BUT THERE’S SO MUCH WE CAN’T SEE THAT WOULD HELP US TO BETTER UNDERSTAND HOW OUR BODY IS WORKING BOTH FOR AND AGAINST US. THIS IS WHERE SPORTS WATCHES HAVE TAKEN HOLD OF THE MARKET. HOWEVER, OFTEN THESE DON’T LOOK SUPER STYLISH OR CLASSY FOR WEARING THROUGHOUT THE DAY WHILST AT WORK OR EVEN FOR A NICE DINNER WITH THE FAMILY. THEREFORE, WITHINGS HAS DEVELOPED SCANWATCH 2, A STYLISH EVERYDAY WEAR SMARTWATCH DESIGNED TO LOOK GOOD WHILST PROVIDING YOU WITH USEFUL HEALTH DATA AND NOTIFICATIONS TO REVOLUTIONISE THE WAY YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR HEALTH.

Boasting 30 hours of battery life on a single 2-hour charge, the ScanWatch 2 utilises TempTech24/7 Module technology to provide you with 24/7 tracking on things such as temperature, heart health, respiratory system, physical activity, and even sleep. However, straight out of the box, the ScanWatch 2 looks just like a regular watch, with only the black OLED screen at the top suggesting there is something a little extra special about the item. To get set up you need to download the free Withings App from the App Store or Google Play

& BEAUTY

and pair it with your watch. From there, you can decide what is shown on the watch’s face so you can see your real-time metrics whilst on the go. When using the watch it records your temperature fluctuations using a miniaturised heat-flux sensor which sits on the underside of the watch against your skin. Through this sensor, the ScanWatch 2 can establish a baseline temperature and notify you when changes to this baseline are made. These changes are thought to be useful for indicating the onset of an illness or health condition, and in real-time help you to adjust your

activity for better performance and recovery to keep you in tip-top shape. Alongside temperature fluctuation monitoring, the watch provides data on heart health by monitoring our heart rate through ECG and AFib detection. Other monitoring metrics include sleep monitoring to provide you with an insight into how much sleep you get impacts your energy every day, and respiratory monitoring to keep track of blood oxygen levels. These monitoring metrics help you to understand how your body works and which fluctuations are normal to you. However, one of my favourite

WITHINGS SCANWATCH 2

aspects of the ScanWatch 2 is that you can use the watch and synced App to track your physical activity. The watch uses real-time data during your workout to help you make meaningful active lifestyle choices which benefit your health. I personally love walking and using the ScanWatch 2, I could monitor things such as how far I’d travelled, how high my heart rate was and how many calories I’d burnt during a walk. This was great and allowed me to compare the data from previous days to see how well I was performing and which areas I’d like to continue to develop.

One of the benefits of the Withings App which goes alongside the watch is that you can keep a record and remain motivated in your fitness or health journey. By purchasing the ScanWatch 2 you gain access to Withings+ the premium side of the app for 3 months. This allows you to make the most of even more programs, workouts, and recipes for an even better health companion. However, the free version of the app has been made by Withings to ensure that you still get the most out of your device and I personally found everything I needed was on the free version. The app is super easy to use and syncs with the watch well. I loved how via the app I could decide what would show on the watch face throughout the day for whatever activity I was undertaking or which metric I wanted to monitor that day.

Overall, the ScanWatch 2 is a brilliantly designed watch which delivers the same functionality as many of the typical smartwatches on the market, but instead focuses primarily on health monitoring and

PROS:

delivering metrics to help you maintain your well-being – all packaged in a stylish and minimalist traditional watch design. I had multiple people compliment my watch whilst wearing it, and when I got to tell them it was recording a whole range of health metrics, they were super impressed! If you are looking at implementing a smartwatch into your daily life, but aren’t a fan of the typical sports watch models, then the ScanWatch 2 makes a great addition to your or a loved one’s life to help maintain the thing that is most precious to us all – our health.

- Smartwatch capabilities in a stylish and traditionallooking watch face

- Great metric monitoring with real-time feedback and notifications for fluctuations

- Works seamlessly with the Withings App for metric monitoring and storage

CONS:

- I found wearing the watch overnight was a little uncomfortable - The clock face has the usual side dial which sometimes pressed into my wrist whilst sleeping which wasn’t super comfortable so would be my only downside.

WITHINGS BODY SCAN

£349.95

https://www.withings.com/uk/en/body-scan

FOR MANY, STEPPING ON A SCALE OFTEN COMES WITH LITTLE MORE DETAIL THAN A NUMBER WHICH DOESN’T GIVE THE FULL PICTURE OF OUR HEALTH. THIS NUMBER DOESN’T TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THINGS LIKE BODY COMPOSITION, GOALS, OR EVEN MORE HEALTHFOCUSED METRICS WHICH PROMOTE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE.

THEREFORE, WITHINGS HAS REVOLUTIONISED THIS PROCESS AND TODAY DELIVERS THE BODY SCAN; A COMPLETE AND CLINICALLY VALIDATED CONNECTED HEALTH STATION READY TO HELP YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR HEALTH IN A WHOLE NEW WAY.

When the Body Scan first showed up on my desk, I was a little sceptical that a scale could tell you so much about your body, but how wrong I was! I opened the scale up, turned it on and connected it to the Wi-Fi and with the Withings App via Bluetooth. It was super easy to connect the scale to the app, and within a few short minutes, I had a full account and was ready to step on the scale.

Using the scale is remarkably easy, you just step on and pull up the top bar which is attached via a cable to the scale. Holding the bar still with both hands firmly on it and with your feet on the scale you just have to wait 90 seconds and your daily scan is done. The scale shows a range of metrics on the screen, however, to get the full picture you simply go to the app on your phone and can see all the measurements the scale takes. These metrics include a heart health assessment which records cardiac rhythms using an electrocardiogram (ECG) test to detect atrial fibrillation. This can report back on cardiac anomalies which could indicate potential health conditions.

However, the heart is not the only thing the Body Scan records, as it also focuses on nerve health and provides detection of peripheral autonomic neuropathy, which is often associated with the first signs of diabetes. Therefore, the Body Scan provides a daily check of the heart and nerves to monitor these baselines and irregularities to provide you with the info you need to take better care of your health and potentially seek medical intervention earlier.

However, one of my favourite aspects of the Body Scan is that not only does it provide a precise weight measurement, but it also provides you with a better understanding of body composition. This

is vital as a weight measurement alone doesn’t always take into consideration where the weight is focused with muscle mass and fat being grouped together. Therefore, with a central focus on the torso, arms and leg, the Body Scan provides body fat and muscle mass percentages so you can focus on areas that you’d like to develop in training.

As someone who is currently working on building muscle mass, this was super helpful as often when I’d step on a scale I wouldn’t be able to tell which aspects of my weight were the cause of any muscle-building or just normal weight fluctuations. On the Withing’s App, you can see a 3D version of you with the fat and muscle percentages shown in an intuitive and easy-to-understand way which I really found helped develop a better mind-body connection when I was training.

I personally loved trying out the Body Scan as every day I just needed to step on the scale, and I was provided with essential information to help me better understand my health. I loved seeing all the metrics and insights in the app in an easy and information-led manner, which made me feel more in control of my health. Plus, the whole family can use the scale with up to 8 profiles - the scale can even automatically detect just from stepping on the scale!

Whilst, I don’t think the scale and its various monitoring systems should be used in place of medical services, it is super useful in providing a little insight into how your body is functioning that day to make better choices for yourself and your needs. This would make a great gift for yourself or a loved one who is conscious about their health, especially as they age and want to take control of their health a little more.

PROS:

- First kind of connected health station on the market delivering a whole range of health metrics

- Detailed metrics available on the scale screen and through the app for a better understanding of your body

- Body composition metrics to understand the role of muscle mass and fat percentage in weight

- Super easy to use and offers automatic user detection

CONS:

-The Body Scan is at the more luxury end of the scale market as it is designed to be so much more than just a scale. If you are serious about understanding your health in a whole new way the price is worth it, however, if you’re just looking for a weight scale then this maybe is not the best option for you.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

MAVOGEL COTTON SLEEP MASK

£6.99

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cotton-Sleep-Eye-

Mask-Comfortable/dp/B07D3M5TTZ?th=1

GETTING A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP IS ONE OF THE MOST VALUABLE THINGS WE CAN DO TO SET OURSELVES UP FOR THE DAY AHEAD. BUT FOR MANY OF US, GETTING TO SLEEP AND STAYING ASLEEP CAN BE A BIG STRUGGLE SO WE OFTEN TURN TO SLEEPING MASKS TO BLOCK OUT LIGHT AND HELP US TO STAY ASLEEP. HOWEVER, I’M SURE I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO HAS EXPERIENCED SLEEPING MASKS SLIDING DOWN DURING SLEEP, OR PRESSING UNCOMFORTABLY IN DIFFERENT SLEEPING POSITIONS WHICH ULTIMATELY WAKES YOU UP! THIS IS SOMETHING THAT MAVOGEL NOTICED, AND IT BEGAN DEVELOPING SLEEP MASKS WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO ENSURE THAT EVERYONE CAN GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP.

The Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask is designed to sit securely across your eyes with a cotton triangle wing design to provide next-level support around the sides of your head, so it stays in place all night. The eye covering has 5 layers of material for superior light blocking and a delicate feel across the eyes. There’s nothing worse than an eye mask that feels rough across the eyes or uncomfortably squishes you. I tested out the Mavogel Mask for a few nights and was impressed with just how comfortable it felt, I did worry that being a little larger than other ones I’ve used it might be a big heavy or press excessively on the sides of my head, but it didn’t, and I got a great night’s sleep.

One of my favourite aspects of the Mavogel Sleep Mask is that it has an ergonomic design to ensure that no light gets in through the nose section – something that many other sleeping masks on the market struggle to do. The nose section has a patented bending cartilage design which can be adjusted to your nose share to firmly block out all light no matter which

way you turn in your sleep. This was a game changer for me as the current light mornings mean that I’ve been waking up so much earlier as light comes into my room. However, now with the Mavogel Sleep Mask, I can get in those precious few hours of sleep in the morning before my alarm goes off. I already know this will be a game changer this summer whilst on longhaul flights. With this mask and some great noise-cancellation headphones, I’m going to be having a lovely peaceful sleep on my future trips! If you’re off on holiday this summer, I’d definitely recommend trying out the Mavogel Sleep Mask for that extra bit of comfort and sleep aid while away.

Ultimately, the Mavogel Sleep Mask is an affordable and well-designed sleep accessory which is sure to help you get to sleep and stay asleep longer. As we approach Father’s Day, the Mavogel Sleep Mask would make an excellent gift to help the Dad or Father figure in your life improve their sleep and make those inevitable afternoon naps just a little more luxurious.

PROS:

- Handmade mask with seamless edges for extra comfortable wear

- Wide winged sides for a secure fit

- Ergonomic nose panel for supreme light-blocking

- Breathable cotton material

FOREO PEACH™ 2 IPL HAIR REMOVAL DEVICE

£259 https://www.foreo.com/peach-collection

AS WE ENTER INTO THE SUMMER MONTHS, MANY OF US TURN TO SHAVING TO ACHIEVE SMOOTH SKIN PERFECT FOR HEADING TO THE BEACH IN A BIKINI OR WEARING A LOVELY DRESS DURING THE WARMER DAYS. BODY HAIR AND THE REMOVAL PROCESS IS A VERY PERSONAL CHOICE WITH PEOPLE CHOOSING TO LEAVE IT, SHAVE IT, WAX IT, OR FIND ANOTHER MEANS SUCH AS INTENSE PULSE LIGHT (IPL) TREATMENTS TO REMOVE IT.

I personally have always been a fan of shaving; however, the results don’t last long, and I end up spending so much time and money on razors. Due to this, I’ve been on the hunt for an IPL device that is effective and affordable - but knowing where to start can often be a struggle with so many on the market to choose from. Therefore, seeing the FOREO PEACH™ 2 land on my desk has made my venture into the IPL world a little easier. At just over £250, the FOREO PEACH™ 2 sits in the middle of models on the market in terms of price - I’ve seen devices ranging up to £400 and all the way down to under £100. Upon opening the FOREO PEACH™ 2, I was super impressed with the quality feel and attractive aesthetics in a lovely peach colour. The IPL device has the treatment head on one end with the treatment window contained inside the circular head. On the back of the treatment end is a silver casing which allows the device to blow air through the head to keep you cool throughout your treatment process. The soft touch of the device felt sturdy in my hand, and whilst I personally don’t need my IPL device to be super aesthetically pleasing, it’s clear FOREO wants to make the IPL hair removal process feel a little more luxurious as it looks and feels like a top-quality device.

So how do you use it?

Use of the FOREO PEACH™ 2 begins with shaving to ensure you have a blank canvas to work with. After shaving, you apply the PEACH™ Cooling Prep Gel (£23), plug in your device, and set it to your perfect setting via the app or using the intuitive buttons on the handle. You then either glide or stamp the head over your skin depending on the area. Gliding the device over the cooling gel makes the movement so much easier for an even IPL treatment, and for your face when you’re only focusing on smaller areas such as the upper lip where the skin is more delicate and hair is finer, a gentler stamping method is the most effective. This is made super comfortable and easy to do with the self-adjusting head which gently bends with your body to get to every single inch of skin super easily.

As directed in the FOREO manual for phase 1 of the treatment process you use the device on your chosen body part once every two weeks over 12 weeks. By the end of the 12 weeks you should have achieved great results, and either be at your desired hairless goal or will have already seen a vast decrease in the amount of hairs produced in your treatment area. Therefore, Phase 2 of the treatment is for maintenance to be used once a month or as required until you get your desired results.

After trying out the FOREO PEACH™ 2 over the last few weeks I was super impressed with how easy it is to use. The cooling gel feels great and allows for a nice even treatment across my legs. However, as I’ve only used it a few times I can’t say more about the long-term results – but the FOREO website is littered with glowing reviews

FOREO PEACH™ 2 IPL HAIR REMOVAL DEVICE

on its long-term effects, so I will continue to use the device and hopefully be able to provide a longer-term update in a few months! However, I do think all IPL devices do vary in efficacy across their users, and will it take some longer than others to see results dependent on things such as hair thickness and frequency of use – so this is something to keep in mind with the FOREO PEACH™ 2, or any IPL device you’re looking into buying.

Despite not knowing the long-term effects yet, I’m already pretty happy with the FOREO PEACH™ 2. From first use, I didn’t feel any pain, something that I was fearful of having heard horror stories about IPL devices which feel like they’re burning. No, the FOREO PEACH™ 2 was easy to use, kept the skin cool with the inbuilt fan, and, when paired with the cooling gel provided a super cool and seamless treatment process that didn’t take much time at all. I’d say it took no more than 5-10 minutes to do both of my legs and just a minute or so to stamp the FOREO PEACH™ 2 across other smaller areas on my face and arms. This was much faster and less hassle than the shaving part of the process, and, as I hopefully begin to see results over the coming weeks, I look forward to not needing to shave my legs as much anymore!

So do I think the FOREO PEACH™ 2 is worth it?

For the speed of use, personalisation within the app and luxury feel of the experience, I do think on first impressions alone the FOREO PEACH™ 2 is a great choice. Whilst I appreciate the price is a little more high-end, if worked out by cost per use it is pretty affordable and will hopefully replace the need for razors and so save you money in the long run. I have high hopes for the long-term effects, but this will take some time – the only small downside of IPL options as results do take time instead of being instant…

PROS:

- Easy to use and pain-free treatment

- Sturdy handle and easy operation

it’s a long game but worth it if it works! If you are on the hunt for a new IPL device, or like me were lost on where to start, then the FOREO PEACH™ 2 is a great option. It looks great, is easy to use and makes the whole hair removal process a breeze.

- Suitable for use across legs, arms, bikini line, and face

CONS:

- Long-term effects and length of treatment needed to achieve desired results can vary between users

B.BOX INSULATED DRINK BOTTLE

£19.99

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07KYPWPYL/ref=twister_

B09BKNJGN9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

STAYING HYDRATED IN THE SUMMER HEAT IS SUPER IMPORTANT, AND ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT FOR KIDS AS THEY RUN ABOUT ENJOYING THE SUNSHINE. HOWEVER, WITH MANY PLASTIC WATER BOTTLES, DRINKS GET WARM AND THEN KIDS DON’T WANT TO DRINK THEM! THEREFORE, I WAS PLEASED TO SEE B.BOX HAS DEVELOPED AN INSULATED DRINK BOTTLE DESIGNED FOR KIDS TO HELP KEEP THEM HYDRATED WHETHER AT SCHOOL OR PLAYING IN THE GARDEN.

The 500ml insulated bottle feels sturdy with a stainlesssteel body and colourful flip-up lid. When the lid is flipped up a straw is revealed, making it even easier for kids to drink with the free-flow straw design. However, I love that when the lid is shut it has been designed so that it is completely sealed, and water won’t end up leaking all over the place.

One of the big perks of the insulated bottle is that it is dishwasher safe so that the cap and bottle can be easily washed up. However, the straw does take a little more work and needs the silicone straw top to be removed, and then the straw stem. I’d recommend getting a straw cleaner for these to really make sure there are no hidden germs left behind. Sadly a straw cleaner is not included in the bottle, but I thankfully had a few straw cleaners lying around from other cups so this wasn’t a super big problem for me. However, I’d definitely recommend looking into getting one alongside the bottle for easy cleaning. The bottle boasts to keep drinks cold for up to 15 hours and warm up to 8. Whilst I haven’t tested out the warm side as we are currently in the midst of summer, the cool insulation has been great and I was even impressed with how cold the water still was when emptying what was left at the end of the day.

BABY

PROS:

- Dishwasher safe

If you’re on the hunt for an insulated bottle to keep your kids’ drinks cold and encourage them to drink more during the day, the b.box Insulated Drink Bottle is an excellent choice. It is pretty easy to clean, keeps drinks cold for a long time, and has a functional straw/seal lid to make drinking fun whilst avoiding leaks.

- Keeps drinks cold for up to 15 hours

- Fun straw design that doesn’t leak

CONS:

- Does not come with a straw cleaner

£16.99

B.BOX SIPPY CUP

https://tinyurl.com/htnjxkt4

WITH B.BOX’S INNOVATIVE SIPPY CUP, HELPING YOUR KIDS MOVE FROM BOTTLE OR BREASTFEEDING TO MILK IN A CUP HAS NEVER BEEN SIMPLER. WITH AN AWARD-WINNING WEIGHTED STRAW DESIGN, YOUR KIDS WON’T MISS A DROP AND CAN STAY HYDRATED ON THE GO.

The overall feel of the cup is super sturdy, with a matte finish and a light pink lid and clear bottle. The side of the cup has sturdy handles to help kids have a more sturdy grip on the cup too but even if it does get dropped the bottle has a unique twovalue system to ensure that drinking is easy without any leaks.

The Sippy Cup has been carefully designed so that no matter the cup’s angle, the straw will move with the liquid so your kids can always get their drink easily. This design is perfect for making sure drinking is super easy, and to encourage kids to stay hydrated with its functional and easy-to-use flip top and straw. Plus, for parents, the flip-top means that it can easily be taken with you on the go without worrying about anything getting into the straw or any leaks.

The cup is made from PP and silicone and is completely BPA, Phthalates and PVC free, so parents can let their kids use it knowing it’s super safe. In terms of washing, the cup is quite easy to hand wash, as each part can be removed fairly easily. However, I would recommend purchasing the replacement straw and cleaning brush set in addition to the Sippy Cup, so you always have a clean straw ready to go. I do wish a cleaning brush was included with the bottle as making sure there’s no residue left in the straw is super important.

Overall, if you’re on the hunt for a great bottle to help your kids transition away from breastfeeding or formula bottles, the b.box Sippy Cup is a great place to start. With an innovative straw design to make drinking easier, the Sippy Cup is a great all-round option for every parent.

PROS:

- Innovative weighted straw

- Sturdy handles for easy grip

- Two-way value to avoid leak

CONS:

- Does not come with a straw cleaner

STANLEY AEROLIGHT ICEFLOW BOTTLE

BY NOW WE’VE ALL HEARD THE HYPE SURROUNDING STANLEY CUPS, WITH THE 40OZ QUENCHER GOING VIRAL ONLINE. HOWEVER, STANLEY HAS NOW INTRODUCED THE NEW AEROLIGHT ICEFLOW BOTTLE DELIVERING ALL THE INSULATED JOYS OF THE QUENCHER, BUT NOW IN A CONVENIENT ENCLOSED CARRYING STYLE PERFECT FOR THOSE WITH AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE.

£39.99

https://www.johnlewis.com/stanley-aerolight- iceflow-recycled-stainless-steel-leak-proof- drinks-bottle-600ml/lilac/p111206580

Now I’m already a massive Stanley fan with my current Quencher cup coming with me wherever I go, but it does have some downsides being that it’s not completely leakproof and the lid is not insulated so my drinks often get warmer a little quicker than with a fully insulated bottle. Therefore, I was so excited to see the IceFlow bottle come across my desk as it deals with all of these issues by delivering a leakproof and insulated bottle perfect for taking with you on the go.

The IceFlow I got to try was in a lovely bright blue colour, with a blue handle and cap. The bottle has the same quality feel that I’ve come to expect from Stanley, with the lid, screw-top drinking spout and handle all carefully designed to optimise function and deliver a superior drinking experience.

One of my favourite aspects of the IceFlow is that the handle is on the top which allows the bottle to remain quite slimline. The handle allows you to carry your bottle without fear of your drink spilling out, and when in use it even has a perfect cap holder in the handle. The cap fits securely to the handle and makes it perfect for drinking whilst on the move. I loved using the IceFlow whilst on a walk, as I could easily hold the bottle by the handle as I walked and then I could also throw it in my bag without much fuss as the completely enclosed design is perfect for ensuring there is no leaking. One of the main benefits of the IceFlow is that it will keep your drink cold for hours! I poured some cold water into my bottle with some ice before a walk, and it remained icy cold the entire journey, later into the evening and then even the next morning the water was still cold. I was super impressed by this, as the bottle boasts to keep drinks cold for up to 10 hours and iced for 2 days. Whilst I don’t think I’ve ever left a drink in it for more than a day or so, I’m pretty confident that for most people’s needs the bottle delivers more than

enough insulation for a refreshing cold drink every time.

A key perk of the Stanley range is that the bottles and cups are completely dishwasher-safe. For me, this is a game changer for cleaning as you don’t need to faff about with specialist cleaning brushes or delicate sponges to reach the base. Instead, you can take apart the lip, cap and bottle base and pop them all in the dishwasher for an easy and carefree, clean. This is one of the things that continues to draw me back to Stanley products as they are designed for convenience and durability to make your whole drinking and cleaning experience much easier.

By choosing the Stanley IceFlow Bottle you’re choosing a great, convenient, and durable bottle that is designed to deliver excellent insulation, a top-notch drinking experience and easy cleaning. I think the IceFlow is a little more convenient for those on the go and with an active lifestyle than the Quencher, as the IceFlow is completely leakproof and can easily be thrown in your bag or carried via the handle without worrying about spills. Therefore, I think the IceFlow is an excellent choice that delivers everything it says and will leave anyone looking for a great insulating bottle with a big smile on their face.

Also, if you are on the hunt for a good gift for a loved one, this would make a great choice! The IceFlow is at a slightly more luxury price point in the insulated bottle market, but with so many great qualities behind it, it then makes a perfect present for someone in your life that you want to spoil a little.

Available now from John Lewis.

PROS:

- Easy cleaning in dishwasher and a wide opening for ice

- Superior Insulation – 10 hours cold and 2 days iced

- Functional design – great for fitting in cup holders and features a cap holder in the handle

CONS:

- The only downside of Stanley products is that they do fetch a more luxury price tag compared to some other insulated bottles on the market. Without having tried any products from Stanley I was also a little sceptical, but the convenience, ease of cleaning, and functionality –not to mention the hours of lovely cold water you can get with them – I personally think the price tag is worth it.

ANYSHARP EVO KNIFE SHARPENER

£14.99

https://www.anysharp.com/pages/anysharp-evo- the-worlds-best-knife-sharpener-hands-free

WE ALL KNOW THAT BLUNT KNIVES ACTUALLY LEAD TO MORE ACCIDENTS THAN SHARP ONES, AS WITH A BLUNT EDGE YOU’RE MORE LIKELY TO SLIP AND CATCH YOUR FINGER. THEREFORE, KEEPING YOUR KNIVES SHARP IS AN IMPORTANT TASK, BUT FOR MANY OF US KNOWING HOW TO GO ABOUT DOING THIS WHILST NOT HARMING OURSELVES OR THE KNIFE IN THE PROCESS ISN’T AS STRAIGHTFORWARD AS IT MAY SEEM. THIS IS WHERE THE ANYSHARP EVO KNIFE SHARPENER COMES IN TO DELIVER HANDS-FREE, RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT KNIFE SHARPENING.

The Evo Knife Sharpener we tested was super intriguing in its all-red exterior and compact size. To use you simply place the knife sharpener on a smooth surface and push down the builtin arm which creates a secure suction for the sharpener to your surface. I would definitely suggest checking it is securely fitted before trying to sharpen with it, just to make sure it’s stable and safe. However, once secure you then can run your blades through the groove in the top for perfect knife sharpening every time.

The groove sharpens knives at a pre-set 20° angle, which is widely believed to be the perfect angle for a sharp knife. One of the best bits about the Evo model from AnySharp is that the sharpener blade has been moved towards the front of the sharpener so you can get a sharp edge all the way from the tip of the knife to the handle. This means that no matter when the knife you are using to chop, it will consistently be sharp to prevent accidents caused by blunt knives. The sharpener is even suitable for both hardened steel and serrated edge knives, which means that with a single unit, you can effectively sharpen almost any knife in your kitchen.

One of the innovative features of the Evo Knife Sharpener is that there is a collection tray beneath the top, which can be accessed by taking off the top knife groove section. This ensures that all metal fillings are safely kept together and can easily be disposed of after using the knife sharpener. This feature makes the whole process messfree and easy to use. However, I would suggest giving all knives a quick wash once sharpened to ensure there are no filings left on the knife before you use it. Plus, once you’re finished with the knife sharpener you can just throw it into a cutlery or utensil drawer as it is super compact in size too.

Overall, the AnySharp Evo Knife Sharpener is a great option for anyone who loves to cook but always finds their knives are blunt. I personally know the struggle of trying to chop things but the knife simply just doesn’t cut through well making it slip and risking cutting yourself. Therefore, the knife sharpener makes a great addition to any kitchen, as it allows even a beginner to sharpen their knives completely handsfree for a safer and more precise slice each time.

PROS:

- Suction design for sturdy and handsfree knife sharpening

- Pre-set 20° angle for easy sharpening without needing to find the correct angle to not damage your knife

- Compact design great for storing in a drawer when not in use

£19.99

ION 8 INSULATED STEEL 500ML WATER BOTTLE

tps://www.ion8.co.uk/products/ion8-leak-proof-slim-water-bottle- vacuum-insulated-ditsy-floral-500ml-17oz

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STAYING HYDRATED IS SUPER IMPORTANT IN THE SUMMER, AND HOW BETTER TO DO IT THAN WITH A BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED, AND AESTHETICALLY PLEASING BOTTLE THAT WILL NOT LEAK!

I’ve been a big fan of the ION 8 water bottles for a long time as they look great and deliver great insulation for both hot and cold drinks. We got to try out the Ditsy Floral colourway which is a lovely light purple covered with delicate little flowers and plants in a variety of colours. The design looks super pretty on my desk and was a great summery addition to my ever-growing ION 8 collection.

One of my favourite aspects of the water bottle is that the cap is designed to be completely leakproof. It achieves this through a unique lid design which has a silicone stopper that sits firmly over the drinking spout when closed to create a leak-proof seal. The lid can then be locked shut on the front with a catch and slider. This makes the bottles ideal for throwing in your bag without the worry that it will damage anything from leaks. Once you’ve used the bottle you just have to take the lid off, and you can throw the entire thing in the dishwasher making it super easy to clean. This is great as one of my least favourite things about reusable water bottles is the hassle of hand washing them when they’re usually hard to get right to the bottom of. However, being able to just put it in the dishwasher and then it is clean and ready to be reused is much more convenient.

I love that I can put both cold and hot drinks in it, making it ideal for all year round. Plus, its sleek design means that it fits in almost all car cup holders, making it super convenient to take with you on the go – and save some money from buying bottles

of water or hot drinks whilst out and about.

If you’re in need of a new water bottle or want one that won’t leak in your bag then the ION 8 Water Bottles are great options. Across its range, there are multiple different size options, as well as patterns and colourways that will suit almost anyone’s style, and all for such affordable price points for an easy clean reusable water bottle.

PROS:

- Range of aesthetically pleasing designs to suit everyone’s style

- Leak-free design for no spillage

- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

HOUSEHOLD

SWAN PROSTEAM GARMENT STEAMER

£34.99

https://s hop.swan-brand.co.uk/products/swan-portable-garment-steamer?utm_

source=Google-Ads&utm_medium=PPC&utm_campaign=Smart-Shopping&gad_sour

ce=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI79WfqPyAiAMVIYpQBh27qCyMEAAYASAAEgKwjfD_BwE

I PERSONALLY HATE IRONING, AS IT TAKES TOO MUCH TIME AND YOU NEED THE SPACE FOR AN IRON AND IRONING BOARD – SOMETHING I DON’T HAVE IN MY SMALL FLAT. FOR THIS REASON, I HAVE FOUND STEAMERS ARE THE BEST FOR ME BEING BOTH COMPACT, SMALL AND QUICK TO USE. THE SWAN PORTABLE GARMENT STEAMER BOASTS TO MEET THESE NEEDS, WHILST ALSO BEING MADE TO ELIMINATE ODOURS AND BACTERIA ON EVERYTHING FROM CARPETS TO SOFAS. THEREFORE, I COULDN’T WAIT TO PUT IT TO THE TEST ACROSS MY FLAT TO SEE IF IT COULD SEAMLESSLY STEAM MY CLOTHES AND FRESHEN UP MY SOFA TOO!

The Swan Portable Garment Steamer is designed to get rid of creases through its continuous 1500w stream of steam. To use the steamer you just have to fill up the detachable water tank which has a useful 300ml capacity, which is great for long steaming sessions. Once plugged in you press down the steaming button and you can get started. Plus, the button even has a lock function, so you don’t have to keep your finger on the button for long steaming sessions.

One of my favourite aspects of the steamer is that it has been designed for a whole range of materials, so it can carefully steam anything from delicate silks to more rugged carpets and sofas. It achieves this through the ceramic-coated steam plate, which is designed to seamlessly glide over fabrics to remove all creases whilst delivering heat to kill 99.99% of bacteria and remove odours in the process. I personally love that it can be used across so many fabrics, and with the detachable fabric brush and the jet steam mode, you can really get into the fibres of the sofa or the carpet for an extra fresh clean.

For clothes, the Swan ProSteam is super-fast, and it only took me a few minutes to remove all creases from my clothes whilst on a weekend away. The speed with which you can remove creases, without the need for an iron and ironing board is perfect for my needs, and left all my clothes looking as good as new even after being folded in my suitcase.

If you’re limited on space for an ironing board and want a useful device that actually does so much more than just remove creases, the Swan ProSteam Garment Steamer is an efficient, reliable and affordable steamer option that is perfect for use about the home or even for throwing in your bag for crease-free clothes whilst on holiday.

PROS:

- 300ml detachable water tanks for lots of steaming in a single session

- Carefully designed ceramic plate for all types of materials

- Kills 99.99% of bacteria and removes all odour

SWAN 12” SILENCE & TURBO DESK FAN

£34.99

https:// shop.swan-brand.co.uk/products/swan-12-inch-silence-turbo-desk-fan

AS THE WEATHER HAS BEEN HEATING UP IN RECENT MONTHS, I’VE BEEN RELYING HEAVILY ON MY FAN AT NIGHT TO KEEP MY ROOM COOL AND ALLOW ME TO SLEEP WITHOUT OVERHEATING. HOWEVER, MY CURRENT FAN IS QUITE LOUD AND NO LONGER DELIVERS THE SAME LEVEL OF COOLING AS IT ONCE DID. SO, WHEN I SAW THE SWAN 12INCH DESK FAN WHICH HAS BOTH A SILENT AND TURBO FUNCTION, I KNEW I HAD TO GIVE IT A GO.

The Swan 12” Silence & Turbo Desk Fan delivers efficient air circulation capabilities to deliver powerful and customised cooling. The fan achieves this through its 5 top-quality blades, which efficiently circulate air in two main functions. The first function is turbo, to deliver a higher windspeed for faster and more powerful cooling. This setting puts out only about 68 dB of sound, making it great for cooling large rooms or offices.

However, my favourite part of the fan is the silence function, which delivers great cooling and airflow, while only outputting 42dB of sound. This was a game changer for sleeping at night, as I no longer had the loud humming of my fan keeping me awake. To switch between the settings and change the speed of the fan you just need to move the intuitive dial on the front of the fan making it super easy to use.

The desk fan does take a little assembly straight out of the box, as you need to install the back casing, then the fan, and finally the front casing. I did find this a little fiddly but it didn’t take too much time to have the fan ready to use. Once assembled the oscillation of the fan is super great, although I do think it needs to be put on a slightly higher-up cabinet or nightstand to deliver a more even all-round cooling at night. I personally sat it on my desk next to my bed and it was perfect for all-round cooling at night.

If you’re looking to make your office or room more comfortable at all times of the day, the Swan 12” Silence & Turbo Desk Fan is a great all-around option. From its quiet setting for sleeping to optimum power output on the turbo setting, you never have to suffer in the heat again. I especially think it makes a great option for students who are about to start university, as a great desktop fan is essential for keeping those small dorm rooms cool!

PROS:

- Useful control dials to control settings

- Turbo setting which is great for quick and efficient cooling

- Silent 43dB noise setting for easy sleeping at night

CONS:

- A little fiddly to put the main casing together

HOUSEHOLD

SWAN AIR PURIFIER

£59.99

https://shop.swan-brand.co.uk/products/swan-desktop- air-purifier?srsltid=AfmBOorh_W86vUdLqw-NQXYYebc_ x0qtxYSN_29vEzXpW1dKOeGtxVjb

DURING SUMMER MY HAY FEVER IS OFF THE CHARTS, AND I SPEND HALF THE DAY SNEEZING OR WITH MY EYES FEELING A LITTLE ITCHY. SO, I’VE BEEN ON THE HUNT FOR AN AIR PURIFIER WHICH CAN HELP FILTER THE AIR IN MY HOME AND HOPEFULLY REDUCE MY SYMPTOMS IN THE PROCESS. THEREFORE, WHEN THE SWAN AIR PURIFIER CAME ACROSS MY DESK WHICH AIMS TO DELIVER CLEAN AND HEALTHY AIR, THAT IS PERFECT FOR ALLERGY SUFFERERS I KNEW I HAD TO GIVE IT A GO.

The air purifier is a compact white unit that is designed to sit comfortably on a desk or small table. It looks super sleek, and I was pleased to see it was super quiet whilst in use. The air purifier has 3 speed functions, as well as a quiet sleep mode at only 25dB. These settings can be accessed from the top control panel and allow you to adjust the filtering to your needs and keep the air in your room feeling fresh and clean even whilst asleep. The unit has a 120m3/h CADR rating, which means it is perfect for even large rooms up to 14m2 in size. This is perfect for bedrooms or offices, to keep the room feeling well-ventilated and circulating fresh air.

To achieve this level of filtration, the air purifier has a pre-filter, HEPA filter, and a carbon filter system which work together to ensure that 99.95% of allergen-causing particles are removed from the air so you can breathe easier. Plus, the air purifier has a useful indicator light for when the filter needs replacing so you know that you’re always getting clean air from it. However, the filters last a super long time and boast to filter for about 2000 hours per filter for cost-effective and consistently purified air.

One of the interesting aspects of the Swan Air Purifier is that it actually features an essential oil diffuser. This means that you can add in some nice oils, and your home will be filled with a lovely fragrance too! This made a lovely addition as the unit then doubled as both an air purifier and a nice scent-boosting option for the house.

If you’re on the hunt to make your spaces feel more ventilated and ensure that the air is purified, the compact Swan Air Purifier is a great choice. It is quiet, efficient and reliable at removing particles from the air every day, whilst also offering a scent-boosting treat with the diffuse too!

PROS:

- Easy to use and compact in size

- Useful replacement filter indicator light for easy replacement

- Features a diffuser mode

HOUSEHOLD

SWAN X LYNSEY CARPET CLEANER

£59.99

https://shop.swan-brand.co.uk/products/lynseys-range-handheld-carpet-cleaner?variant=42625574928575&curr

ency=GBP&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-OyQ55-BiAMVQ5WDBx2NoSPwEAAYASAAEgKp0PD_BwE

ANYONE WITH CHILDREN OR PETS KNOWS THAT SPILLS, MUDDY FOOTPRINTS AND DIRT ARE AN ALMOST DAILY OCCURRENCE, AND SO MANY OF US SPEND AT LEAST A FEW MINUTES A DAY CLEANING UP SOME SORT OF MESS FROM OUR CARPETS BEFORE THE INEVITABLE STAINS SET IN. ONE OF THE BEST WAYS I’VE FOUND TO MANAGE THIS IS BY INVESTING IN A HANDHELD CARPET CLEANER TOOL. HOWEVER, THESE ARE OFTEN HEAVY OR AREN’T SUPER EFFECTIVE WITH ONLY A SINGLE WATER TANK WHICH GETS DIRTY QUICKLY.

This need for a dual tank, lightweight and effective handheld carpet cleaner was noticed by Swan and so they developed the Handheld Carpet Cleaner. However, it is not just any handheld carpet cleaner, instead, this unit is in collaboration with homecare expert and TV cleaning guru Lynsey Crombie, who has put her seal of approval on the unit for its deep carpet cleaning functionality.

The Swan X Lynsey Carpet Cleaner is designed to get deep into your carpets, mats, rugs and upholstery to deliver a thorough clean, whilst eliminating odours in the process. The hand-held carpet cleaner achieves this with a useful two-tank design with one holding 300ml of clean water, and another with a 200ml capacity for dirty water. This means that as you move the carpet cleaner across your carpet it sucks up the dirt and debris, with the help of the inbuilt cleaning brush, and delivers this contaminated water to the dirty water tank. This is great for ensuring that your carpets are not reintroduced to the same dirt again and again, and so you can get longer cleaning sessions out of each use. However, I would suggest emptying out the dirty water periodically so it doesn’t fill up too fast, and so you can see how effective the cleaning is after a few passes.

I found using the carpet cleaner was super easy. The unit does need to be plugged into the mains; however, it comes with an extra-long 5-metre cord, so you don’t have to worry about it not reaching where you need it. I found the length perfect for covering the whole of each room, and I only needed to unplug and move it when I went to a different room. After filling the

clean water tank, I just had to use the top buttons to deliver water and suck the dirt from the floor. I tested it out on a rug we have by the door and it was filthy! The water I emptied out was disgusting, but thankfully after a few uses it had removed pretty much all the dirt and debris stuck in it. I’ll definitely be keeping the Swam Carpet Cleaner on hand for future rug and carpet cleaning, as well as in case of any spills.

If you’re on the hunt for a carpet cleaner which delivers efficient cleaning in a lightweight ergonomically designed unit, then the Swan X Lynsey Handheld Carpet Cleaner is a great choice. It’s been tested out and given Lynsey’s seal of approval, and after testing it out myself I can see why.

PROS:

- Lightweight and ergonomic design for easy function

- Extra-long cable to easily reach across the whole room

- Innovative dual tank design for deeper cleaning

CONS:

- It left materials quite wet as the suction wasn’t as strong as I’d hoped – this meant it took a while for the carpet to dry which was a little inconvenient

£85.00

https://www.argos.co.uk/search/storyphones/?cli

ckOrigin=searchbar:home:term:storyphones

TOYS & STORYPHONESGAMES

STORYTELLING HEADPHONES FOR KIDS

PARENTS TODAY FACE A BIG CHALLENGE OF SCREEN TIME WITH THEIR CHILDREN – MANY APPRECIATE THE CONVENIENT ROLE SCREEN TIME PLAYS IN EVERYDAY LIFE, BUT MANY PARENTS ALSO DON’T WANT THEIR KIDS IN FRONT OF A SCREEN 24/7. THEREFORE, FINDING A SOLUTION WHICH KEEPS KIDS OCCUPIED WHILST ALSO ENHANCING THEIR IMAGINATION AND LEARNING WITHOUT A SCREEN CAN BE A DIFFICULT BALANCE TO STRIKE. THEREFORE, WITH STORYPHONES, PARENTS CAN PROVIDE THEIR KIDS WITH AN AUDIO STORY THAT SPARKS IMAGINATIONS WHILST KEEPING KIDS AWAY FROM SCREENS TOO!

StoryPhones provide kids with audio stories, music, learning and adventures based on various popular childhood stories (many of which include those from Disney) as well as lullabies or even personalised family stories which you can record yourself. The library of StoryShields, which just click on the headphones, has continued to grow and now offers even more learning options including Lingokids to help your little ones learn to read via song.

We got to test out the pink Minnie Mouse-themed headphones, which come with the Disney Minnie StoryShield. The Shield has 6 Minnie Mouse stories and 1 story from Sofia the First. I personally loved the cute pastel pink colour, which I know my niece would be absolutely thrilled with. Alongside the headphones is a travel bag, the story shield, an audio cable for when wanted for wired music playback and a USB-C charging wire.

To set up the headphones you need a network connection and a smartphone, but one of the major draws of the StoryPhones

is that once set up they do not require an internet connection, so they make a perfect activity for children to have whilst on the go or out and about. I think these would be a game changer for travelling this summer, especially if you’re hoping to keep your kids distracted on planes or long car rides. The stories provide an immersive story experience which will help them to pass the time, whilst also ensuring that they are not just sitting watching a screen the whole time.

However, I also loved that the headphones can also be used regularly for music, videos or even calls. These then do need a smartphone connection either via the wire or Bluetooth. Therefore, the headphones offer an all-round great option for kids to learn and explore their imagination through stories, whilst also remaining functional for use outside of screen-free time.

With the summer holidays fast approaching, and many family vacations soon to take place, I think the StoryPhones are essential for the little ones in your life to give them a fun and imagination-building activity which will keep them away from screens – at least for a little while!

PROS:

- Great activity which provides learning and imagination building through audio instead of screen time

- Functional as headphones as well as with the StoryShields

- Wide variety of StoryShield options – these cover childhood favourite Disney stories, as well as provide the option for parents to record their own stories for their kids to listen to

- Volume limiting circuitry to ensure they do not get too loud for young ears

CONS:

- With only a few stories on each StoryShield I think kids would need quite a few to remain occupied as after a while the same stories may grow boring

https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Am-Weird-Wonderful-Hilarious/dp/B08KT8SLCJ?th=1

TOYS & GAMES

HOW AM I WEIRD

HOW AM I WEIRD IS A FUN CARD GAME THAT ALLOWS YOU TO EXPLORE YOUR WEIRDNESS, AS, IN THE GAME, GIVING THE MOST WEIRD AND WONDERFUL ANSWER IS THE WHOLE POINT!

I was super excited to try out How Am I Weird after seeing it win the best party game at the UK Games Expo 2023. I brought together a group of delightfully weird friends, and we gave it a go. The game is fairly simple; the game is split into 3 card types which are life cards, comeback cards and weirdo cards. To play each player is given 8 comeback cards which have a range of weird (as the name of the game suggests) reactions, which will be played when a life card is played each round. The life cards outline a situation for that round, which requires each player to choose a comeback card in reaction to this. However, should you not like the comebacks in your hand, or you can think of a weirder and often funnier response, each player is given a weirdo card which they can play and then provide their own comeback. The winner of each round is decided the ‘Big Chief Weirdo’ of that round based on which comeback answer they like the most. The winner takes the life card, and the next one is flipped to enter into the next round. The goal is to win as many life cards as possible and determine yourself as the chief weirdo of the group.

The game is super easy to play and even has a more compact version of 300 cards that is perfect for taking with you on the go this summer. We all loved playing this game and witnessing all the weird comebacks that people came up with. We especially loved that you could completely cater the time length to how long you have, as the number of rounds you play is completely determined by how many life cards you choose to play – this can be anywhere between 10 or all 100 in the set. However, playing all 100 at once may take some of the fun of the randomness in future plays when all the players have seen every card already. But I don’t think this is too much of a problem when the comeback cards are so random,

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and the weirdo cards present a whole host of funny and organic comebacks for each game.

If you’re on the hunt for a new game that is quick and easy to play but will have your entire group of friends laughing at the weirdness of people’s responses, then this is a perfect choice. The standard (500 cards) and square editions (300 cards) mean you can pick the best one for you determined by whether you’re bringing it out for a game night with friends or throwing it in your bag to play on the go. Ultimately, How Am I Weird is a fun game that everyone will love.

PROS:

- Square and standard editions to choose from

- Super easy to play and doesn’t take long to set up

- Weirdo cards mean lots of weird and wonderful comments will be made which will have everyone laughing

https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/search/?text=deddy+bears

DEDDY BEARS

PERFECT FOR THOSE WHO LOVE THE SLIGHTLY WEIRD AND WONDERFUL, DEDDY BEARS ARE A FUN YET SPOOKY TAKE ON COLLECTABLE PLUSHIES. WITH 8 DIFFERENT CHARACTERS TO COLLECT, THE DEDDY BEARS ARE SURE TO BE A FUN ADDITION TO YOUR GROWING PLUSHIE COLLECTION.

When two Deddy Bears appeared on my desk for review I was very intrigued, as the lovely soft and squidgy plushies were actually laying in their own ‘Deddy bags’ resembling a body bag. A slightly spooky and a little sinister take on a stuffed toy if you ask me!

Each body bag had an attached autopsy report which identified that I had ‘Spekter’ a ghoulish-looking thing with an equally peculiar probable cause of death: ‘dissolved into at least 1000 tiny particles. Accurate number not available’. The other body bag had ‘Zombear’ a bright blue and pink zombie-ish creature who is thought to have died from ‘damage to brain and body by Zombie virus, caused by a large bit on left leg’. Now I’ll be the first to admit that the body bag and autopsy report style is a little eery, but when you open the bags and are met with the rather cute and very soft plushies you begin to forget about this. Each bear is roughly 30cm in length and is made from super soft material. Each one had their own little peculiarities with the Zombear missing one ear, presumed to be the source of the virus-spreading bite, and Spekter having his ghoulish tail rather

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than legs. This attention to detail can be seen across the collection with the likes of mummies, vampires, skeletons, and even a werewolf; each one with its own special characteristics to make collecting them all so much more fun. Also, with such a wide selection of options available, you can easily pick between the characters based on your or your loved ones’ interests.

If you’re on the hunt for a new plushie collection and are a fan of the more spooky Halloween season, then the Deddy Bear collectable bears are a perfect addition to your collection. Each Deddy Bear is designed for a little added fright whilst also remaining very adorable – even despite their eery body bag appearance!

PROS:

- 8 plushies all with their own peculiarities which are great for collecting

- Affordable price point for high quality made teddies

- Unique take on plushies perfect for someone who likes spookier things

CONS:

- The body bag and autopsy report whilst entertaining and very tame in reality, can be a little eery which may not be suitable for some kids who aren’t a fan of spooky

SPYLABS SECRET CODES & CIPHERS

£5.99 https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/product/ spy-labs-secret-codes-ciphers/

SECRET CODES, ENCRYPTED MESSAGES AND UNCOVERING MYSTERIES – THAT IS WHAT SPYLABS’ SECRET CODE AND CIPHER KIT IS ALL ABOUT. FOR THE BUDDING SPY AMONG US, THE KIT WILL HAVE YOU REVEALING SECRETS ALL OVER THE PLACE AND WORKING ON DEVELOPING UNIQUE CODES TO WRITE SECRET MESSAGES YOURSELF. SPYLABS HAS CREATED A RANGE OF PERFECT POCKET-SIZED TINS WHICH ARE FILLED WITH EXCITING AND SPY-BASED ACTIVITIES AND METHODS FOR LETTING YOU PLAY SPY FOR THE DAY.

Packed tightly inside the tin is everything you need to decipher and write your own codes with 4 different code types across a range of spinning decoders and coding sheets. I personally loved that with the codes you can play in teams to write and decipher codes from each other. These competitive games are outlined in the included code and cipher manual and provide a fun group activity.

The manual is super easy to follow and offers an accessible way for children to learn about codes and how they can be used to relay and intercept secret codes. If you have a child who is super interested in all things spy and is always trying to make up their own secret codes, the SpyLabs Secret Codes and Ciphers kit is perfect for them. With 4 different code types to pick from, the set provides loads of choices and different coding activities for hours of spy-focused fun.

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PROS:

- 4 different types of codes to learn and use

- Contains instructions for games to play using the codes

- Compact and travel-friendly kit

CONS:

- Would have loved to have seen even more historical educational material about the history of codes/ciphers and their uses

£4.99

https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/product/spy-labs-fingerprinting-kit/

SPYLABS FINGER PRINTING KIT

LITTLE DETECTIVES CAN NOW TAKE ON A WHOLE NEW ROLE IN APPREHENDING SUSPECTS USING FINGERPRINTING TECHNIQUES - JUST LIKE REAL DETECTIVES! INCLUDING EVERYTHING YOU WILL NEED, THE SPYLABS FINGERPRINTING KIT IS YOUR POCKET-SIZED COMPANION TO HELP BUDDING DETECTIVES LOCATE, DEVELOP AND LIFT FINGERPRINTS AND FIND SUSPECTS FOR THEIR OWN INVESTIGATIONS.

Inside the pocket-sized tin is a dusting brush, black fingerprint dusting powder and clear stickers. To record fingerprints, little detectives just need to use the black powder and brush to dust across fingerprints, which will reveal the unique patterns of each one. Then, using the clear stickers in the set, you place the sticker over the powder to pick up the print, and then stick the sticker back down it the fingerprint chart or your own detective notebook as evidence.

The method of dusting for prints is something many kids will have seen in films and TV shows, so now getting to do it themselves will have any young detective excited. The activity of finding and dusting for prints is perfect for all of the family and will have everyone looking for fingerprints and discovering which surfaces are best for picking up the clearest ones. I love that the set provides a great educational element for kids to understand the unique nature of fingerprints and are given an idea of how they can be used to find suspects in real crime cases –

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however, all of it is delivered in a childfriendly and fun way.

If you have a budding detective at home or are looking for a fun yet mildly educational tool for your kids, that is also super affordable, then the SpyLabs sets are a perfect pick to help them discover the fun and the science of fingerprinting.

PROS:

- Fun and easily accessible way to learn about the process of fingerprinting

- Affordable price point for an educational activity that the whole family can get involved in

- Pocket-sized activity tin for a fun activity whilst on the go this summer

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SPYLABS SECRET MESSAGE TOOLS

£5.99 https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/product/ spy-labs-secret-message-tools/

AS ALL SECRET SPIES KNOW, YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO CAREFUL WITH VALUABLE INFORMATION, AND NOW WITH SPYLABS’ SECRET MESSAGE TOOLS, LITTLE SPIES AND DETECTIVES CAN KEEP THEIR NOTES AND MESSAGES SECRET AND PROTECTED FROM INTERCEPTORS. INSIDE THE DURABLE TIN ARE TWO PENS WHICH ALLOW YOU TO WRITE AND REVEAL YOUR OWN SECRET MESSAGES –A PERFECT TOOL KIT FOR THE SPY AMONG US!

The pens in the kit allow you to write messages, which once dried will disappear from the page and can only be revealed again when the other pen in the kit is scribbled over it. Once the other detective or spy has revealed the secret message, they can respond with their own pen which will also disappear from view, only to be revealed when the other pen in the kit is used over it too. This allows spies to communicate secretly – however, once the message is revealed it cannot be concealed again!

I especially loved that the set also includes a petri dish and brush, which allows you to carry out experiments. The included booklet highlights how things such as milk were used in history to write secret messages, and once heated up would reveal messages on the page. This allows little spies to understand the role and tools used for secret messages throughout history, adding a great little educational element to the kit too!

This makes the perfect gift for kids that lets them learn a little about the history of secret message sending, whilst also getting to play spy with secret messages themselves – and all at such an affordable price point!

PROS:

- Affordable and fun activity with two disappearing ink pens

- Includes extra tools for home experiments with an educational influence

- Comes in a compact tin great for travelling

SPYLABS INVISIBLE INK PEN AND UV LIGHT

£11.99

https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/product/

spy-labs-invisible-ink-pen-uv/

MAKE EVERY MESSAGE TOP SECRET WITH THE SPYLABS INVISIBLE INK PEN THAT HELPS BUDDING SPIES COMMUNICATE WITH FELLOW AGENTS WITHOUT BEING DETECTED. THE DOUBLE-FUNCTION PEN LETS YOU WRITE WITH INVISIBLE INK, WHICH IS UNDETECTABLE BY THE HUMAN EYE FROM POTENTIAL INTERCEPTORS. HOWEVER, WHEN YOU WANT TO REVEAL THE MESSAGE, YOU JUST FLIP OVER THE PEN AND USE THE UV LIGHT ON THE OTHER END WHICH REVEALS THE GLOWING MESSAGE.

I remember having a pen like this when I was a child and absolutely loved leaving secret notes and messages for my siblings around the house. Therefore, the invisible ink pen and UV light are a great gift for your children to allow them to explore their own spy world with secret messages and codes which only they know and can discover.

The pen does require a screwdriver and a battery to get it working, so kids may need a little help to get started. However, once set up the pen delivers invisible ink from one end and then has the UV light on the other. The pen feels and looks like a super fun spy gadget which I know with be a big hit with budding spies.

If you’re on the hunt for a fun little gadget which will provide hours of fun spy activities for your kids then the Invisible Ink Pen and UV light is a great choice under £15.

PROS:

- Fun double-function gadget pen

- Affordable price point

- Compact tin for easy portability

CONS:

- Requires a AAA battery and screwdriver to use the UV light which are not included in the tin

https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/product/spy-labs-metal-detector/

SPYLABS POCKET METAL DETECTOR

DETECTIVES NEED ALL THE PERFECT TOOLS TO UNCOVER EVIDENCE AND FIND HIDDEN OBJECTS. THEREFORE, WITH THE SPYLABS’ POCKET METAL DETECTOR IN HAND, KIDS CAN DISCOVER THEIR OWN CLUES AND EVIDENCE PERFECT FOR BUILDING THEIR OWN CASES.

Inside the tin is a small hand-held metal detector which alerts to the presence of metal objects with an audible beep. The detector isn’t super powerful, as it is only a pocket-sized detector - however, it is perfect for kids to use to find buried treasure or uncover metallic clues.

I think the metal detector would be the perfect tool for games where coins and objects are hidden in sand or in material for kids to discover using the metal detector. The detector can find objects through thin layers of soil, sand, fabric, or paper so makes a great tool for both evidence hunting and for detecting games. Also, I liked that the sensitivity of the metal detector can be increased using the dial on the front, so can be adjusted to the game or activity.

The metal detector is an affordable and fun toy that makes the perfect gift for a budding detective. Let your kids play detective for the day and search for vital clues for themselves!

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PROS:

- Affordable kid-friendly metal detector

- Great for making games and discoveries

- Has a dial to turn up the sensitivity

CONS:

- Requires a screwdriver and 2 AAA batteries which are not included in the set

£44.00

https://uk.spyra.com/products/spyrago?variant=47825367499090

AFTER TRYING OUT THE SPYRATHREE LAST YEAR I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO SEE THAT THE NEW SPYRAGO WAS AVAILABLE TO REVIEW, AS IT BOASTS TO BE THE LIGHTWEIGHT SIBLING OF THE PRO MODEL WHILST DELIVERING ALL THE SAME WATER BATTLE FUN.

The SpyraGO utilises all the precision shot technology that you love from the previous models and has packaged it into a lightweight and more affordable option. The water gun delivers 120 blasts per minute, through its precision single-shot technology which packs a punch whilst still being a great option for battles whether young or old.

Much like the rest of the SPYRA models, the water gun is unique in that it requires USB charging to keep it delivering its innovative water shots. However, the SpyraGO has a battery cover which needs to be removed using a screwdriver to access the charging port. This ensures that the port stays protected from any water but does make charging a little more of a hassle. Plus, young players will require the help of an adult to do this. Thankfully, the SpyraGO does come with a small screwdriver to make this possible, as well as a short charging cable. I found charging took about 2 hours to fully recharge, and each charge is boasted to deliver 9000 blasts – perfect for the ultimate battle.

In terms of power, the label ‘featherweight fighter’ really does it justice. Weighing only 3 lbs when fully loaded with water, the SpyraGO still manages to deliver powerful shots over an 8-metre range. The lightweight design makes it easier to run about and battle with friends, and with the unique transparent tank you can easily see when you need to refill. To do this you just simply pull back the tank slider on the top, and you can pour

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PROS:

water directly in from a bottle, tap, or even from a SpyraBase to refill and return to your battle.

The SpyraGO feels top quality with the trigger, textured handle and easy re-fill all having been carefully crafted to take your summer water fights to the next level. If you’re interested in the water guns by SPYRA but are looking for a more affordable option, the SpyraGO is a great place to start. It delivers the same shot technology that is loved across its range but delivers it in a smaller and more lightweight package perfect for all the family.

- Lightweight model with single shot technology and 8m range

- At a more affordable price point than other SPYRA models and good as an entrylevel option

- Easy and quick refilling so you can spend more time battling

CONS:

- The charging cord is super short, which makes charging using it a little inconvenient.

SPYRABLAST

£14.90

https://uk.spyra.com/products/spyrablast?variant=47825368088914

WATER BALLOON FIGHTS WERE A BIG PART OF MY CHILDHOOD. HOWEVER, THE AFTERMATH OFTEN RESULTED IN THE GARDEN BEING COVERED WITH SMALL BITS OF BALLOON – SOMETHING MY PARENTS WEREN’T THRILLED WITH. THEREFORE, WHEN I SAW THAT SPYRA HAD DEVELOPED A REUSABLE WATER BALLOON-STYLE OPTION, I WAS SUPER INTRIGUED.

The SpyraBlast are SPYRA’s answer to a water bomb or balloon, which utilises cutting-edge magnetic technology to seamlessly be filled, thrown and reused leaving behind no waste and all the same fun. In the box, we got 6 SpyraBlasts, with 3 in blue and 3 in red to signify each team. Each one is made from an anti-slip rubber coating, and the edges utilise strong magnets so that once filled with water they can be shut and thrown. However, the magnetic seal is designed so that when they hit someone or something, they come apart easily and suitably drench your opponent.

I did fear that with such a good magnetic connection they could be a little painful when thrown at someone as I wondered the level of impact needed to open. However, after throwing a few between some friends, none of us noticed them being particularly painful at all. Whilst, the level of impact is very much dependent on how hard they are thrown, and a more powerful throw will make a larger impact, and you will feel it – it shouldn’t be painful! Instead, each one easily opens, delivers a decent amount of water to soak your opponent, and can then be refilled.

The only slight downside of using the SpyraBlasts is that you have to retrieve them after they have been thrown to refill, and we found that the opposing team stole them a few times as additional ammo! Thankfully, we had our SpyraGO and

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PROS:

- Great sustainable option for a water fight

- Innovative magnetic design to seal and open on impact

- Affordable price point

SpyraThree water gun with us to make our way over to them without being completely defenceless.

The SpyraBlasts make a great addition to any water fight, as they’re quick to use, impactful, and ensure that no parents are left picking up leftover bits of balloons from their gardens afterwards. Plus, at such an affordable price, I’d recommend getting a few packs, so each team has plenty to work with and take any water fight to the next level!

https://uk.spyra.com/products/spyracolor?variant=47825367859538

SPYRACOLOR

CAN YOU EVER REALLY TELL WHO HAS WON A WATER FIGHT? BOTH TEAMS ARE USUALLY DRENCHED, SO HOW DO YOU KNOW WHO GOT THE MOST SHOTS ON TARGET, AND WHO IS THE REAL WINNER? WITH SPYRACOLOR YOU WILL NEVER HAVE TO ASK AGAIN, WITH EACH HIT HIGHLIGHTED IN THE OPPOSING TEAM’S COLOUR.

The SpyraColor work much like bath bombs, and when put into your water fight reserves, dye the water in your team’s colour so you know which team got the most hits. Eash SpyraColor works for 16 litres of water, so you can fill a bucket or your SpyraBase with water and throw one in. Once dissolved, you’re ready to fill up any of your Spyra guns or SpyraBlasts and take them to the battlefield. This ability to see who got more hits really stepped up a water fight with my family, as we split into two teams – red vs. blue. After agreeing that the fight was over when each team had emptied their SpyraBase, it was clear that the blue team were a better shot, as our entire team was covered in the blue water. Therefore, we could easily declare the blue team the winner.

Despite the colours used in the water, parents can be happy that the SpyraColors have been specifically designed to be completely washable, so they will not leave behind any residue after the fight. This is great to ensure that any garden furniture or clothes aren’t going to be ruined as a result of the colour cubes. Instead, the SpyraColor cubes are completely safe, FDAapproved and perfectly fine with even sensitive skin. Plus, the colours will hopefully help reduce arguments about the winner afterwards too!

Overall, the SpyraColor make a great addition to any water fight by providing each team with their own colour for a better understanding of the winner, and to make the whole thing just a

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little more fun. I love that they’ve taken into consideration the potential for staining on clothes, and have developed the cubes to prevent this. Therefore, the SpyraColors makes a perfect choice for parents and players alike.

PROS:

- Each team has their own water colour so a clear winner can be seen

- Cubes are designed to not leave residue or staining behind

- Compatible with all Spyra products

CONS:

- Each box only includes 2 of each colour, so will need to be repurchased frequently for multiple water fights

Fathers McGraw –£14.99 / Gromit –£14.99

BUILD YOUR OWN KITS: WALLACE AND GROMIT

https://buildyourownkits.com/

I THINK IT’S SAFE TO SAY MOST PEOPLE YOU’LL ASK WILL SAY THAT THE WALLACE AND GROMIT FILMS HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN THEIR HEARTS. THEREFORE, BUILD YOUR OWN KITS HAVE CREATED THEIR OWN SETS WHICH LET YOU CREATE YOUR LOVABLE COMPANION GROMIT, OR EVEN THE CRIMINAL MASTERMIND THAT IS FEATHERS MCGRAW TO ADD TO YOUR MEMORABILIA COLLECTION OR FOR FREE PLAY ACTIVITIES WHERE KIDS CAN ACT OUT THE FILMS THEMSELVES.

I was super excited to see these come across my desk as a big Wallace and Gromit fan. Each set provides the sturdy cardboard constructions we can expect from Build Your Own, now themed to each character. The Gromit set features 85 pieces which are slotted together without the need for scissors and glue. The final Gromit figure is a remarkable 20cm long, and even the ears and tail have been designed to move showing Gromit’s usual silent but complex emotions. I especially liked that in the set you can construct or pop out a small photo frame with a picture of Wallace and Gromit together in it, his water bowl, a bone and even some slippers. Each piece is made from sturdy cardboard and just needs to be popped out and slotted together.

Then, in the Feathers McGraw set (my personal favourite character) there are just 66 pieces which slot together to make the penguin figure which stands at almost 30 cm tall. Much like the Gromit set, Feathers McGraw also comes with a remote control for his masterful plans and a diamond – presumably stolen in some kind of heist! I like that the set has been designed so you can make Feathers walk – although the movement is definitely in a similar robotic way as we see with Wallace’s walk in ‘The Wrong Trousers’ Film.

Both of the Wallace and Gromit Build Your Own sets have been designed with fans in mind with well-constructed character designs which are true to the ones we see in the films, as well as with the addition of accessories perfect for each character too. These accessories are perfect for kids to use when creating their own scenes using the characters during free play time. I know my niece would be a massive fan of these and would get hours of playtime creating her own scenarios with Gromit and Feathers.

One of the best aspects of all Build Your Own kits is that they are designed to not need glue or scissors, so parents can buy them knowing that it’s a mess and hassle-free activity. In terms of construction difficulty, they aren’t super hard and come with super clear instructions for each set. I think only smaller children may need help from a parent to put it together, but then the construction can become a family activity too!

If you’re a big fan of Wallace and Gromit, or have a little one who loves the films, then the Build Your Own Gromit and Feathers McGraw sets are the perfect choice. Easy to put together, mess-free and all for an affordable price – a great activity all around.

PROS:

- Affordable price point - Hours of free-form play once constructed

- Easy and mess-free construction – great for children

https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/shop/?filter_brand=gecko-run-series

GECKO RUN SERIES

EXPLORE THE WORLD OF PHYSICS WITH THE GECKO RUN: MARBLE RUN SETS WHICH ALLOW FOR ENDLESS EXPERIMENTATION OF TRACKS ALL IN A VERTICAL FORMAT. THE GECKO RUN SETS, AS THE NAME SUGGESTS, ARE USEFULLY DESIGNED TO ATTACH MARBLE TRACKS (LIKE A GECKO) VERTICALLY TO SURFACES SUCH AS WINDOWS, DOORS, OR EVEN THE FRIDGE. ACROSS THESE TRACKS, YOU CAN THEN PLAY AROUND AND EXPERIMENT WITH HEIGHT, ANGLES AND ADAPTERS TO RUN A MARBLE DOWN YOUR TRACKS CREATING EXCITING NEW PATHWAYS AND CONFIGURATIONS FOR TRICKS.

The Gecko Run starter kit provides you with everything you could need to get set up with 27 adapters, 12 lanes, 2 levers, 4 track turns, 3 track bridges, a switch, a funnel, 7 steel balls/ marbles, and 40 nano adhesive pads. One of the major aspects of the set is that it includes nano-adhesive stickers which have been designed with both kids and parents in mind; for kids, they are super easy to attach and reattach so you can move around your constructions to test out new theories and setups. However, parents do not have to worry about sticky residue left all over windows or surfaces; the nano adhesive stickers have been designed specifically to not leave behind a sticky mess whilst still providing enough support to keep the tracks in place.

One of my favourite aspects of the Gecko Run sets is that they are completely vertical and so are great for allowing kids to explore gravity and velocity by constructing the tracks. The construction is super easy and intuitive, with attaching the adhesive sticker to your surface and then attaching the adapters and lanes to set up each route. Each one requires a few attachment points, and at the end of each, you can completely

experiment with putting in and moving around the extra parts such as a bridge or funnel.

However, to experiment further, Gecko Run have expansion packs to add things such as a trampoline and loop into the track systems. My personal favourite was the trampoline set where you can angle the track to run the marble down towards the trampoline and bounce the marble to a different level. I have to say I did spend a lot of time trying to angle the set to bounce the marble up to a higher level and use the funnel to catch it - which was super fun. The trampoline expansion set includes the trampoline, a trampoline rubber, 4 adapters, 2 tracks, a track bridge and 9 nano-adhesive pads.

Another key expansion pack is the loop set, which includes a loop to run the marble through, as well as 4 adapters and more tracks, track bridges and nano-adhesive pads to build out your routes further.

These sets provide an affordable expansion to the original sets which extends the tracks and provides new and exciting twists to the constructions. Other expansions include twister and snake components for even more construction possibilities!

If you are on the hunt for a fun STEM-focused set which encourages experimenting with physics in a fun way, whilst keeping floors clutter-free then this is a perfect choice. I loved the experimentation side of these sets, and that with each expansion you can build upon your constructions to make harder runs and tricks.

PROS:

- STEM-based activity focused on gravity and velocity to achieve runs and tricks

- Completely vertical activity to keep floor space clear

- Adhesive stickers that no don’t leave a sticky residue –great for moving about and keeping parents happy with no mess left behind

CONS:

- The marbles are quite easy to lose if they come out of the tracks, but thankfully the starter set has 4 in it - so plenty to have in case a few go missing!

OUTDOOR

TECHNAXX FOLDABLE SOLAR CAMPING TABLE 20W TX-251

£68.99

https://www.technaxx.de/products-detail/?pid=5083&cid=522

AS THE SUMMER MONTHS BEGIN MANY OF US WILL BE HEADING OUT INTO THE COUNTRYSIDE TO ENJOY A LITTLE BREAK AWAY FROM THE CHAOS OF EVERYDAY LIFE. HOWEVER, ONE OF THE MAIN DOWNSIDES OF BEING IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE IS TRYING TO FIND A SOURCE OF ELECTRICITY TO RECHARGE YOUR DEVICES. FOR MANY, A LARGE POWER BANK IS THE ANSWER, BUT THEY’RE ALWAYS QUITE HEAVY AND EVEN THEY HAVE A LIMIT BEFORE THEY NEED TO BE RECHARGED FROM A POWER SOURCE AGAIN. HOWEVER, TECHNAXX HAS DEVELOPED A SOLAR TABLE WHICH, AS THE NAME SUGGESTS, DELIVERS POWER TO RECHARGE YOUR PHONE OR TABLET USING ONLY SOLAR POWER.

Straight out of the box, the camping table was super easy to put together. The base needed to be opened out and then the attached support bars clicked easily into place going across the sides. The top solar table panel then clicks directly onto the support base and has two pockets attached to either side for storage. However, for a little extra storage, you can even add a small square mesh canopy across the base legs. The assembly only took a few minutes and then I had a perfect camping table. The tabletop is a good size and is fairly sturdy with the solar panels on the top. The idea of the table is that whilst camping, you set it outside your tent next to your chairs for use as a table, however, throughout the day this will slowly generate electricity through solar power. Then, when you need to recharge your device, you just attach a cable to the power port on the underside of the table and connect it to your phone.

One of my favourite aspects of the Solar Camping Table is that the two side pockets, which come already attached to the tabletop, provide great storage for your campsite, whether to hold snacks, reading materials or even your device whilst charging. It is clear Technaxx has taken into consideration the functionality of the table, and, with these pockets, the tablet is doubly functional for holding your cups and snacks, whilst also producing power at the same time. Plus the table even comes with a carrying strap for easy transportation to your camping sight!

I tested out the camping table on a lovely sunny day and was impressed with how easy it was to set up and use almost forgetting it was producing power in the process. The table was the perfect height next to our deck chairs and was super useful for providing a nice space to hold drinks, some snacks and my Kindle. However, as my Kindle began to run low on charge, I just plugged my usual wire into the USB-A port, and it began to charge. Now, I will note that the charging speed isn’t anywhere near as quick as you’d expect from a wall plug, however, to charge your devices whilst away from a mains power source it is a great option. After a few hours it had charged up a decent amount but would probably need a much longer charging time to get to full power. Therefore, I do think if you need to charge your phone it may be best to leave the table out in the sun all day and then charge it using the stored-up power overnight for best results.

My only concern is that you do need the sun to produce power, so whilst it is great as a foldable camping table, with typical British weather you may only get the use it as a camping table when the sun isn’t out but that’s to be expected with solar powered items. Also, to make the most of the solar panels it is best to not cover too much of the tabletop area, while this may seem obvious, when using it as a table you have to be mindful that you’re not covering too much as the solar panels will not be able to get any sun!

Overall, the Technaxx Foldable Solar Camping Table 20W TX-251 is lightweight, easy to assemble and built with functionality in mind. The solar

power table top is well designed with both a USB-A and USB-C port to deliver great power – especially when you’re camping in the middle of nowhere. It’s a great and functional alternative to a heavy power bank or battery that is completely powered by the sun which is a perfect choice for camping this summer!

PROS:

- Lightweight and foldable design with lots of storage

- Solar-powered charging –great for when away from power sources whilst camping

- Compatible with USB-A and USB-C chargers

CONS:

- Does require sun to operate the charging aspect which isn’t always possible with typical British weather!

£63.74

https://www.christowhome.co.uk/potting-table-with-wheels.html

OUTDOOR

CHRISTOW POTTING TABLE WITH WHEELS

ONE OF MY FAVOURITE ACTIVITIES IN THE SUMMER IS TENDING TO MY GARDEN, AND IN PARTICULAR, POTTING MY FAVOURITE HERBS AND FLOWERS READY TO BLOOM THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER AND WELL INTO AUTUMN. WHEN THE SUN IS OUT, MY GARDEN PATIO IS ALWAYS LITTERED WITH LITTLE POTS FILLED WITH BASIL, MINT AND PARSLEY, AS WELL AS VARIOUS SEEDLINGS HOPING TO MAKE IT INTO MY RAISED FLOWER BEDS. THEREFORE, WHEN I SAW THE CHRISTOW POTTING TABLE I WAS SUPER EXCITED, NOT ONLY WILL IT MAKE POTTING A MORE FUN EXPERIENCE, BUT IT IS DESIGNED TO BE AN ALL-IN-ONE POTTING STATION TO KEEP MY GARDEN TOOLS AND MATERIALS ALL TOGETHER. The Potting Table comes flat-packed and takes a little bit of assembly to put together. Thankfully the assembly wasn’t super difficult, and the box included clear instructions and all the fixings I needed to put it together alone. The assembly took me no more than 20 minutes, and I was left with a beautiful potting table in a lovely soft light wood that has been pressure treated to protect it from rot or damage. I was also glad to see that the wood is sustainably sourced by Christow to ensure that the table meets the highest environmental standards.

Across the potting table, there are three main levels, a top shelf level where you can put pots once you’ve planted seeds in them, and a main base table which features a removable tray. The tray is perfect for filling with compost, so you can scoop directly from the tray into a plant pot and stop excess compost from spilling everywhere. The final level is a slatted shelf that sits just off the floor above the wheels. This provides a great space for putting spare pots and compost bags when not needed. I often plant directly on the patio and then I’m left trying to clear up the excess compost that I’ve inevitably dropped all over the floor. However, with the potting table tray, you can remove it and pour any excess straight back into the bag making it a lot less messy. The innovative design also features a small drawer under the main tabletop which is perfect

for putting labels, seeds, and various tools that might get blown away in the wind. For me, the overall design is super effective and has been well thought out by Christow to make potting plants easy, mess-free, and fun.

However, what makes the potting table just that little bit more useful is that one side has 2 wooden wheels so you can manoeuvre the potting table around the garden. This is great as I used the top shelf for holding my various herbs, and I could move them into the sun during the day and then move them back onto my patio where they’re protected from the elements overnight. While the wheels are not made to scale harsh terrain, they held up pretty well in my small garden, although, I wouldn’t suggest that they be used to move the potting table over more harsh terrains or steps as this could harm the wheels and in the process.

Overall, I think the Christow potting table would make an excellent gift for the gardener in your life as it

provides all the necessary levels and features to make potting super easy and to keep all potting essentials items together. With the summer months coming up, this makes the perfect addition to any garden and will set you or a loved one up with the tools to grow plants and flowers all year round.

PROS:

- Useful three-level design for easy potting and storage

- Made using environmentally sustainable wood

- Comes flat-packed for easy delivery and simple assembly

CONS:

- The wheels are sturdy but do not look substantial enough to support

£199.99

CHRISTOW 2.5M CANTILEVER PARASOL & BASE

https://www.christowhome.co.uk/cantilever-

parasol-with-base.html

I LOVE SITTING IN MY GARDEN IN THE SUMMER AND I RECENTLY PURCHASED SOME LOVELY OUTDOOR FURNITURE SO I COULD ENJOY TIME OUTSIDE WITH MY FAMILY AND EVEN HAVE SOME MEALS AL FRESCO. HOWEVER, I’VE BEEN ON THE HUNT FOR A PARASOL THAT COULD SHADE THE TABLE WHILST WE ARE EATING AND PROTECT US FROM THE SUN A LITTLE MORE WHEN WE ARE OUTSIDE DURING THE DAY. THEREFORE, GETTING TO TEST OUT THE CANTILEVER PARASOL FROM CHRISTOW COULDN’T HAVE COME AT A BETTER TIME!

Straight out of the box, the parasol was quick to assemble, and I was left with a lovely 2.5m2 parasol which is supported by an aluminium and steel structure, as well as base weights. The parasol has an offset design, where the main part of the canopy extends way beyond the base, and so it has been built to withstand the weight of the canopy and utilise the structure to remain counterbalanced and firmly in place.

I got to test out the grey version of the parasol, which is made from 180g/M2 polyester and features an innovative air vent design to keep you cool whilst you’re under it. I was thrilled to see that the canopy is designed to deliver UPF protection of 30+ so you can happily sit under it all day without worrying about potentially burning you or your loved ones. I personally loved the grey colourway as it matches many of my other outside furniture pieces and provides a lovely stylish look to my garden – great for upcoming summer parties and barbeques!

One of my favourite parts of having a parasol is that I can comfortably sit outside whilst still being in the shade. The canopy is

large enough to cover my outdoor dining table that seats 6 people, but it would also be perfect for a good-sized outdoor seating area. However, should you want the parasol to tilt or move with the sun, you can turn the parasol 360° whilst also adjusting the angle of the parasol to directly block out the sun. To achieve the perfect sun shade, the parasol actually has 5 different angles which can be used and easily adjusted up to a 45° angle for more focused sun shading. Along with the parasol, we got to test out the Concrete Parasol Base Weights. I will note that when the parasol base weights first arrived, I was

shocked at how heavy they were. They came in a few different boxes, however collectively they weighed 50kg which made them a little bit of a struggle to move about easily. Each base plate is made with concrete to provide a secure and weighty base that helps the parasol counterbalance its weight and stay upright. The base weights were perfect for holding the parasol in place, and I never worried about it falling over even with a little wind. However, when ordering I’d make sure someone strong is on hand to help carry the base weights when they arrive as I struggled a little alone!

With Christow’s Cantilever Parasol, you really can’t go wrong; it’s large, does its job and is easy to use to ensure you have great sun shading in your garden this summer. If you are looking to upgrade your garden furniture and want to make your outside spaces a little extra comfortable with a large and stylish-looking parasol, the Cantilever Parasol by Christow is the perfect choice. However, should this particular model look a little large for your garden needs, Christow offers a whole range of parasols in various sizes and styles which are sure to provide everyone with great sun shading options this summer!

PROS:

- Large canopy area to cover the whole family

- Sturdy, secure and counterbalanced stand to ensure it will remain in place all summer long

- 360° movement, and 5 different angles to suit all sun shading needs

CONS:

- Base weights are super heavy which makes unboxing and setting up a little trickier – but would be perfectly fine with two people!

KYLOE IN THE WILD FALCONS ACTIVE SUNGLASSES

£62.99

https://kyloeinthewild.com/collections/falcons/ products/camokazi?variant=41017072025648

FINDING A RELIABLE, COMFORTABLE AFFORDABLE AND STYLISH PAIR OF SUNGLASSES THAT DOESN’T BREAK ON YOUR FIRST WEAR IS A SURPRISINGLY HARD FEAT EVEN WITH TODAY’S EXPANSIVE MARKET. THEREFORE, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO COME ACROSS KYLOE IN THE WILD, WHO SAW THIS ISSUE WITHIN THE SUNGLASSES MARKET AND SET OUT ON A MISSION TO DELIVER COLOURFUL, AFFORDABLE, NOFUSS SHADES THAT WILL DELIVER EVERYTHING YOU NEED WHETHER FOR SKIING, HIKING OR JUST CHILLING BY THE POOL.

Each pair of sunglasses by Kyloe In The Wild comes in a fun and colourful box, with each pair concealed within a black drawstring dust bag. I got to try out the Falcons Active Sunglasses which have a traditional aviator style. I tested out the Camokazi colourway which has a semi-opaque olive-green frame and polarized black lenses. When I first put the shades on, I was immediately impressed - not only do they look super sleek, but they feel sturdy and well-made. The frames are made from recycled materials and are designed to be super-flex to withstand whatever you throw at them. This design highlights Kyloe’s commitment to creating sunglasses which are built sustainably and made to last.

The lenses of the Falcon Active Sunglasses use ULTRA+ lens technology to deliver crystal-clear clarity no matter the occasion, with 100% UV400 protection and anti-glare thanks to the polarized design. I personally loved the style of the Camokazi Falcon Active Sunglasses as they deliver a cool fashionable style that is easy to pair with any outfit, whilst being sturdy and reliable enough to last more than a single trip to the beach. One of the best features of the Falcon Actives is the non-slip frames,

PROS:

- Unisex stylish aviator design that is built to last

which ensure that the sunglasses do not slip down your face. I hate when my shades are constantly falling down, so the fact that Kyloe has considered this in the design is a big win for me!

If you are on the hunt for a great pair of sunglasses that are built to last, made with recycled materials, and deliver top-quality sun protection – all contained in a stylish and wearable design – then the Falcon Active Sunglasses in the Camokazi colourway are a great option for you! However, even if the aviator style or colourway isn’t to your liking, you will definitely be able to find a style perfect for you on the Kyloe In The Wild website.

- Non-slip design so you can focus on your activity without the added fuss

- Provides 100% UV400 protection

CONS:

- One set size which is medium/ large – this was perfect for me but maybe a little too large for someone with a smaller head size. However, Kyloe in The Wild do have a whole range of different frame options from Aurora, Hero, Muckles and even kids sizes to suit every head size!

£68.99

KYLOE IN THE WILD VOYAGER ACTIVE SUNGLASSES

https://kyloeinthewild.com/collections/voyagers/ products/the-hulkster?variant=40825991561264

I MADE IT MY MISSION AT THE START OF THE YEAR TO GET BACK INTO RUNNING, AND NOW WITH THE SUMMER FINALLY HERE, I WAS ON THE HUNT FOR A PAIR OF SUNGLASSES THAT I COULD USE FOR RUNNING TO KEEP THE SUN OUT OF MY EYES WHILST STAYING ON MY FACE WITHOUT ANY FUSS. THEREFORE, WHEN I GOT THE CHANCE TO TEST OUT SOME SHADES FROM KYLOE IN THE WILD I WAS THRILLED AND PICKED OUT THE HULKSTER VOYAGER ACTIVE SUNGLASSES.

The Hulkster’s are a medium/large-sized pair, with an opaque black frame and a polarized green-blue mirrored lens. Each ULTRA lens is designed to deliver top-quality optical clarity, as well as 100% UV400 protection from the sun. The overall feel of The Hulkster’s is excellent, with the frames feeling super sturdy and made with Kyloe’s innovative super-flex design so they can withstand almost any environment you throw at them. They look super nice, and the polarized lenses are perfect for stopping glare on those early morning and evening runs when the sun really gets in your eyes – plus the green-blue mirrored design looks super cool with my running gear!

However, my favourite part of the Voyager Active Sunglasses is that they’ve been designed to be non-slip, and so even whilst I was super sweaty, they weren’t completely falling off my face like other sunglasses I’ve tried. They dealt with the shaking from me running super well and felt secure enough that I’d throw these into my bag no matter the activity as I’m pretty sure they’d fair very well. In fact, I plan on taking them with me on a skiing trip later this year, as I think they’ll be a game

PROS:

changer for limiting the glare from the snow whilst firmly staying in place as attempt to make my way down the slopes.

The Hulkster Voyage Active Sunglasses have made a great addition to my summer running attire, and provide comfortable protection whilst looking good, and remaining affordable compared to other running sunglasses on the market. If you are a very active person, I’d definitely recommend the Voyager Active Sunglasses from Kyloe In The Wild, however, even if you’re not super active, they look and feel so comfortable they’d be perfect for just lounging by the pool too!

- Green-blue mirrored polarized lenses are great for shading from the sun and reducing glare whilst looking stylish

- Non-slip design which is great for a whole range of activities

- Sturdy and flexible frame for greater durability

CONS:

- One size only – which may be too large or too small depending on head size. However, Kyloe in The Wild has a whole range of frame sizes, including Hero, Aurora, Muckles, and even kids sizes to suit any head size!

KYLOE IN THE WILD PRIMAL WATER RESISTANT CAP

£46.99

https://kyloeinthewild.com/collections/caps/Caps

WHETHER SITTING BY THE POOL OR PLAYING GOLF, HAVING A RELIABLE AND GOOD-FITTING HAT IS ESSENTIAL FOR PROTECTING YOUR HEAD AND EYES FROM THE SUN. I PERSONALLY LOVE TO WEAR A HAT WHILST I RUN AS IT KEEPS MY HAIR OUT OF MY FACE. HOWEVER, I HAVE FOUND THAT WHEN RUNNING HATS CAN OFTEN BE TOO WARM WITH NO VENTILATION OR ARE NOT MOISTURE-WICKING ENOUGH TO HANDLE INTENSE WORKOUTS.

Therefore, the Primal Water Resistance Cap from Kyloe In The Wild was an exciting find, as it aims to deal with all of these problems whilst looking stylish and capable of withstanding the unpredictable nature of the weather in the UK.

We got to test out the sky blue and black versions of the Primal Water Resistant Cap, and they felt super sturdy but lightweight. I have a rather large head so worried about them not fitting being a ‘one size’ design. However, the caps actually come with a 55-60cm circumference that is perfect for even the largest heads! Each cap features a classic 6-panel design, with the majority of the cap made of a breathable mesh perfect for keeping you cool when out and about in the summer. However, should you start sweating each cap has a built-in sweat-wicking band to keep you cool and the hat looking great!

My favourite nifty feature of the hats is that they actually have a secret pocket to store your keys in. Just inside the front of the cap is a small little pocket, perfect for fitting a few keys into. This would be great if out on a run, or on a hike where you have very limited pocket space and worry about a key falling from your pocket. Instead, you can just pop the key directly in your hat for safekeeping – genius idea!

One of the main draws of the Primal Cap is its water-resistant qualities, as Kyloe In The Wild is all too familiar with the unpredictability of the weather being a Scottish company. Therefore, they have designed each cap with water-repelling materials to keep your head dry no matter the adventure. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a new cap that is designed to deliver sun, sweat and water protection then the Primal Water Resistant Cap is an easy choice. Whilst I’ll admit, it’s not the cheapest for a cap compared to others on the market, every aspect of its design from its water-repellent fabric, to its hidden key pocket, and even its reflective minimalist logo has been carefully crafted to ensure that no matter the adventure, the cap will deliver everything you need from it!

PROS:

- Water-repellent material for great protection against sudden rain showers

- Useful hidden key pocket for safekeeping whilst on a run or at the gym

- Large size with a range of adjustability space to suit most people’s heads

- Mesh design and sweatwicking band to keep you cool

CONS:

- It is a little pricey for a cap but Kyloe in The Wild are currently running a buy one get one free offer which makes them more affordable!

£79.99

https://www.trail.co.uk/large-45l-cool-box-on-

wheels.html#key-information

OUTDOOR

LARGE 45L COOL BOX ON WHEELS

WITH THE WEATHER FINALLY STARTING TO WARM UP HERE IN THE UK, MANY OF US WILL BE OFF CAMPING OR AT THE BEACH TRYING TO SOAK UP EVERY SECOND OF THIS LOVELY WEATHER. HOWEVER, ONE OF THE MAIN PROBLEMS WITH BEACH DAYS, CAMPING, OR EVEN PICNICS IS HOW TO KEEP YOUR FOOD AND DRINK COLD ALL DAY EVEN WITH THE SUN BLAZING DOWN. THIS IS WHERE TRAIL’S COOL BOXES COME IN WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO KEEP YOUR FOOD AND DRINKS COLD FOR UP TO 72 HOURS. THEREFORE, WITH A BEACH BARBEQUE COMING UP WITH FRIENDS, I KNEW THE BEST WAY TO PUT IT TO THE TEST.

The Cool Box I got to try was one of the larger ones from Trail with a 45-litre capacity. The dark blue cool box looked great with a hard exterior made from PE and PP designed to be rugged enough to tackle whatever you throw at it from the camping field to the beach. However, to make it even easier to transport, the cool box has wheels and a tow handle. I loved the handle as it meant I could fill it up as much as possible without having to worry about having to lift it and I could instead pull it behind me. The lid of the cool box is hinged and has locking catches to ensure that the insulated PU cell remains firmly shut when closed to keep all your things inside cold. The best way to keep your food cold is to use ice blocks or bags of ice surrounding your food to help keep everything cold. Once ice and your products are put into the cool box, it boasts to keep them cold for up to 72 hours – perfect for long beach days. I took the cool box with me for a beach BBQ and packed some drinks, a few burgers, sausages and various chilled snacks surrounded by ice blocks to help maintain the cold temperature. By the time we got around to cooking the food in the late afternoon, I opened the cool box, and everything was still super cold. My friends even commented on how cold the drinks I gave them were, as many of their drinks had got warm over the day from the sun – but mine were all kept super cold, perfect for a refreshing drink whenever I needed one. After the beach day, I was super impressed with how easy it was to clean the interior. The interior is designed to be

stain-resistant and even has a drainage plug to let out any water from melted ice making it super easy to drain and then wipe clean. In fact, the interior is BPA and HDPE-free, so it’s safe to have direct contact with your food. Also, should you want to keep cooked food warm, the cool box can actually be used to insulate hot food and keep it warmer for longer. Whilst I am yet to test out this function, I know it will be super useful to take hot food to an event or even to take leftovers home with you!

One of my favourite aspects of the Cool Box is that the lid also doubles as a mini table with cup holders built in. I loved this as I could sit it between some beach chairs, and we could use it as a table throughout the day. However, all drinks will need to be moved before you can get something out of the cool box which can be a little annoying, especially if there are a lot of drinks on it. My only slight complaint about the cool box is that the wheels didn’t deal with the sand on the beach super well. The wheels were fine on more sturdy ground, but it was definitely a little more of a struggle on the sand. Thankfully with the rugged design of the exterior shell, I could still pull it along the soft sand using the handle without too much concern.

The Trail Cool Box on Wheels does exactly what it says on the tin – it delivers great cool box function, useful wheels and handle for easy transportation and even a useful cupholder design top for multi-functional use. The cool box is therefore essential for camping, beach days or even picnics to ensure that all of

your food and drinks stay cold and safe throughout the day. Across Trail’s line of cool boxes, you are sure to find one that meets your needs from a smaller carrying box to this 45-litre Cool Box on Wheels for a large event. I will definitely be getting a lot of use out of the cool box this summer!

PROS:

- Large capacity size for lots of food and multiple drinks

- Rugged exterior fit to withstand most terrains – plus the handle makes pulling it super easy

- Sturdy top with cup holders for use as a mini table

CONS:

- Wheels can struggle on some soft surfaces such as sand where there is little traction

TRAIL BRAZEN 4 MAN AIR TENT 5000MM

£299.99 https://www.trail.co.uk/brazen-4-man-air-tent-5000mm.html

I THINK WE CAN ALL AGREE THAT TRYING TO SET UP A TENT CAN BE A REAL STRUGGLE, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU’RE FIGHTING WITH POLES AND CORDS TO JUST MAKE A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN SLEEP FOR THE NIGHT. THEREFORE, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO TEST OUT TRAIL’S BRAZEN 4 MAN AIR TENT WHICH CLAIMS TO INFLATE IN UNDER 5 MINUTES.

The Brazen Tent comes in a large heavy-duty bag which includes the air tent, a pump, ground pegs, high-vis guy lines and canopy king poles. To inflate you just have to lay out the tent and then use the included pump to inflate the tent to 7PSI. The tent is supported by external TPU air poles which when at the maximum firmness are actually stronger and more rigid than the standard PVC poles used to support many tents. One of the best parts of the included pump is that it ensures that the tent cannot be overinflated to damage the structure by purging extra air over the 7PSI limit.

Once inflated, the tent comes with high-vis guy lines and ground pegs, which use Trail’s Advanced Guy Line System to attach the tent to the ground using multiple connection points for greater strength and security to the ground. I was super impressed with how easy the tent was to set up; from pulling the tent out of the bag to it being fully inflated and attached to the ground, it took less than 10 minutes. The speed to get the tent up and running is remarkable, as every aspect of the tent has been designed to make the whole camping experience so much easier.

The first section of the tent is the living area which is 195cm high and has a fitted tub groundsheet. The height means that as long as you’re 6ft3in or under you can fully stand up in the living area. Plus the living area features a light grey roof to allow more light in during the day, along with the half mesh and half PVC window panels. However, my favourite part of the Brazen Tent is the dark zone bedroom which has been

designed to block out light. The bedroom section is designed for 4 people and aims to ensure that sleeping is so much easier by removing as much sunlight as possible through the clip-in sleeping pod. However, to ensure that it doesn’t get too warm, the tent also has a mesh vent and zip curtain, so you feel comfortable all night. Plus, the sleeping pod has internal walls to hold all your camping essentials and a sewn-in groundsheet for added comfort and functionality.

One thing that has to be taken into consideration when buying a tent in the UK is the weather, which typically will inevitably include some rain. Therefore, the Brazen Air tent has been designed to stand up against the rain with 5000mm weatherproofing to ensure that you and all your items are kept safe and dry. This superior rain protection, along with the canopy ensures that even during a downpour you still have space to sit and wait out the rainclouds. The canopy, which can also be used for sun protection, is the only part of the tent that uses fixed king poles which can be fixed into the ground and then attached to the edge of the canopy adding further outside space to the tent.

The tent was perfect for a weekend camping trip with some friends as we didn’t have to spend hours putting it up, instead, we could just pump it up, attach it to the ground, and it was ready to use. I know this would be a game changer for a festival as it is super easy to set up and the black-out sleeping pod would be perfect for nursing a hangover in!

If you’re on the hunt for a new tent then the Brazen 4 Man Air Tent is

a perfect choice – it is easy to set up, does not require any more tools than a mallet, and is all contained inside a useful bag to take with you to a festival or camping trip. Plus, the tent is at such an affordable price for how easy it is to set up!

PROS:

- Fully inflatable in 4 minutes –quick and easy to set up

- Separated sleeping pod that blocks out the sunlight for better sleeping

- Exceptional waterproofing –perfect for British weather!

CONS:

- The tent is quite heavy and could be a little bit of a struggle carrying it alongside your other things to a faraway camping site at a festival

£79.99

https://www.trail.co.uk/folding-beach-trolley.html

TRAIL FOLDING BEACH TROLLEY

THE SUMMER WEATHER BRINGS WITH IT BEACH DAYS AND FESTIVALS, TWO PLACES THAT I HAVE A TENDENCY TO OVERPACK FOR AND THEN STRUGGLE TO CARRY ALL MY THINGS TO THE CAMPSITE OR WHERE WE’RE SITTING ON THE BEACH. THEREFORE, I JUMPED AT THE CHANCE TO TEST OUT THE FOLDING BEACH TROLLEY BY TRAIL

AS I KNEW IT WOULD BE A GAME CHANGER FOR TREKKING ACROSS FIELDS TO FESTIVAL CAMPING GROUNDS AND MAKING BEACH DAYS FEEL JUST THAT BIT EASIER.

The Trail Folding Beach Trolley straight out of the box looks rather compact at only 21cm in depth and completely folded down. However, you just have to fold up the trolley and slide over the wheels and you’re ready to go. The unfolded beach trolley is pretty large at just over a metre in length and 51cm wide - perfect for filling with all your camping or beach essentials.

The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was the wheels, which are super wide and feature a deep tread. Each wheel moves 360° and provides a super sturdy base for the trolley to sit on. Having taken the trolley to both a beach and a field campsite, I was super impressed with how great the wheels were at navigating any terrain I set it on. This was particularly impressive on the beach, where I worried it wouldn’t be able to manage the soft sand. However, the wide wheels glided over the sand easily and had pretty great traction on both the sand and stones.

The trolley compartment is made from a 600D polyester liner with various mesh storage pockets great for putting your

keys, SPF and a few snacks in. The liner is designed to be UV-resistant which means that even if you sit it outside in the sun all day at the beach or on a campsite it will not discolour. The trolley liner is supported by a strong steel frame which makes the whole thing feel super stable and durable. The top-quality liner, frame and wheels collectively ensure that the entire trolley will survive even the most hectic festival days so that when you’re done for the day or weekend, you just need to throw all your things into the trolley, and you can leave knowing it will do all the heavy lifting for you. I took the trolley to a festival a few weeks ago and it was a game-changer for carrying all of the bags and our camping chairs across the field. Plus, it even managed the slightly muddy ground super well

and only needed a quick wipe over to clean when I got home!

If you’re heading to a festival this year, or love a fun beach day, the Trail Folding Beach Trolley is essential to make the whole experience a little bit easier. Its entire construction ensures the durability and stability of its movements are reliable enough to support 60kg of weight without any struggle. Therefore, the Folding Beach Trolley is a definite must-have for the upcoming summer months.

PROS:

- Foldable Design perfect for storage

- 360 rotating deep-tread wheels for seamless easy movement

- Range of useful storage pockets in the liner to hold important things like keys

£214.00

https://www.ekster.com/en-gb/products/grid-

backpack?variant=39876831608895

EKSTER GRID BACKPACK

FOR A WHILE, I’VE BEEN ON THE HUNT FOR A RUCKSACK THAT HAS THE CAPACITY OF A CARRY-ON SUITCASE, WHILST ALSO BEING COMFORTABLE AND SMALL ENOUGH TO CARRY AROUND LIKE A TYPICAL RUCKSACK. SO, WHEN THE EKSTER GRID BACKPACK ARRIVED ON MY DESK, IT SEEMED ALL MY WISHES HAD COME TRUE.

The Ekster Grid Backpack is a top-quality backpack that features a full 180° opening to neatly fold and store all of your clothes and items just like you would in a suitcase. This design makes it super easy to access your things and I personally found it made packing easier as I could see everything in it immediately - unlike a typical backpack where everything is packed on top of each other.

However, the large capacity is just one of the brilliant features of the backpack. In terms of storage, the Grid Backpack also has a protective lined soft tech pocket large enough for a 16-inch laptop at the back, along with an additional mesh pocket and magnetic pouch for smaller items. There is also an RFIDblocking side pocket and a useful mesh pocket on the outside for a water bottle. Inside, the front of the bag has two large pockets, perfect for putting toiletries or small items in. At the back of the main section, there is an additional A4 sleeve pocket for more tech. I was super impressed with the amount of storage available across the bag, with all of these pockets being in addition to the large main backpack compartment. This was a lifesaver when I went on a long weekend away in Italy with my partner. We had decided to only take carry-on luggage, and with the Grid BackPack I had so much space, and each pocket or divider made organising my things so much easier.

One thing that you can’t miss about the Ekster Grid Backpack is just how top-quality every aspect feels. The outside material is made to be waterproof, with every zip even having a waterproof encased design to ensure that if you’re caught in a rain

shower your items won’t be damaged at all. This attention to detail is even seen across all the hardware which feels heavy and durable, making the entire bag feel sturdy yet sleek. Plus, the design is made functional, with the size-adjusting straps also being useful for clipping larger additional items should you need them.

The bag was a big win for my trip away and fitted everything I needed in perfectly, without being over the designated carry-on size allowance. Plus, even with such a great amount of space where I had lots packed in, the design ensures that it remains comfortable to wear. I think a large part of this is due to the structured nature of the main section of the bag which helps keep everything balanced. Plus the bag straps are ergonomically designed to be super comfortable with breathable padding. This made carrying the bag super comfortable - even in the hot heat of Italy!

Overall, I’m super impressed with the Ekster Grid Backpack. It feels premium, is super well-designed and looks great when carrying. However, I can appreciate that it does come with a high price point for a backpack even with how premium it feels. Therefore, as it is on the higher price end, I think this would be an ideal gift to treat the avid traveller who spends half their life on a plane, as its design delivers just about everything they could need, and all with a little touch of luxury.

PROS:

- Luxury feel with top-quality finishes

- Large capacity size great for long weekends or work trips

- Functional and ergonomic design for easy and comfortable carrying

CONS:

- High price point for a backpack

OUTDOOR

KAIWEETS KGM01 METAL DETECTOR

£112.00 https://kaiweets.com/en-gb/products/kgm01-metal-detector

AS THE WEATHER BEGINS TO WARM UP, WE’RE ALL LOOKING FOR FUN ACTIVITIES WHICH WILL GET YOU AND YOUR FAMILY OUT OF THE HOUSE AND ENJOYING YOUR SURROUNDING LANDSCAPESESPECIALLY WHEN THESE LANDSCAPES MAY BE THE PERFECT PLACE TO FIND HIDDEN GEMS! THEREFORE, METAL DETECTING HAS BECOME A BIG SUMMER ACTIVITY WITH DETECTORISTS TAKING TO FIELDS, BEACHES OR EVEN THEIR OWN BACK GARDENS TO SEARCH FOR BURIED TREASURE.

I’ve always been fascinated by history and have seen the brilliant artefacts and coins that people have discovered using metal detectors, so when the KAIWEETS KGM01 Metal Detector came across my desk I was thrilled as now I could have a go myself and try and uncover some hidden gems.

Straight out of the box the detecting base ring, adjustable arm and LCD screen were all separated and just needed a few simple steps to put them together. I was then left with a fairly lightweight metal detector in a sleek red and black design which looked and felt sturdy. The box also includes an armrest/brace which you just attach to the top of the detector and provides support for your elbow and wrist whilst you gently scan over the ground. Also included in the box are a set of headphones and a carrying case, perfect for hearing the audible beeps of the detector even better and making transportation of the detector whilst not in use super easy.

One of the main perks of the KGM01 Metal Detector is that it has 6 detection modes: all metal, disc, notch, memory, coins, and pinpoint. These modes allow you to adjust your detector to pick up on the things and metals you want to find and avoid any pointless digging for unwanted objects. I personally loved using the coins mode as it (as the name suggests) just alerts you to coins buried in the ground. With a detection depth of 11.8 inches, I was able to find a few random coins that had been dropped. Whilst I didn’t find any super old coins, I did discover a few 2p and 5p coins which made a fun discovery either way!

I loved how adjustable the detector was not only between

the 6-detection mode, but you could actually adjust the height on the arm attached to the detecting base ring making it perfect for any height, so even kids can give the metal detector a go. Another key adjustable component of the KGM01 is that you can adjust the sensitivity and utilise the ground-balancing effects to help you remove unwanted alerts and find any present metals more easily. All of these modes are easy to navigate on the LCD screen display which is easy to use and provides a clear view of when metals are detected.

When you do discover something, the detector provides an audible beep, and with the headphone jack, you can attach the included headphones to the detector so you never miss any objects and potential exciting discoveries. The metal detector disc head has IP68 waterproofing so you don’t have to worry about it getting wet when going over damp grassy areas, which is a great addition and makes it perfect for English weather when you never can tell when it will start raining. However, the control box isn’t waterproof so probably not great for a complete downpour!

If you’re on the hunt for a metal detector, you can’t really go wrong with the KAIWEETS KGM01 Metal Detector; it is easy to use, has great adjustability for your required exploration and can be completely folded up for easy transportation. I loved getting to scan

across my garden for any exciting finds, and whilst the discovery of treasure is not guaranteed, it makes a great activity for all the family this summer.

PROS:

- Adjustable metal detector for height, metal detection setting and sensitivity

- Completely foldable design for easy transportation in the included bag

- Arms/elbow support for more comfortable metal-detecting sessions

CONS:

- The headphones aren’t the best quality but are fine for the job or could easily be replaced

PEAK DESIGN SLIDE CAMERA SLING STRAP (COYOTE COLOURWAY)

£59.99

https://uk.peakdesign.com/products/slide

PEAK DESIGN’S SLIDE CAMERA SLING STRAP HIGHLIGHTS THE CORE MISSION BEHIND THE COMPANY; TO PRODUCE INNOVATIVE AND BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED PRODUCTS WHICH RIVAL SOME OF THE BEST CAMERA ACCESSORIES ON THE MARKET. THEREFORE, WE WERE SUPER EXCITED TO TRY OUT PEAK DESIGN’S FLAGSHIP SLIDE CAMERA SLING STRAP IN THE NEW TAN COLOURWAY ‘COYOTE’, WHICH FEATURES PEAK DESIGN’S INNOVATIVE WEBBING AND QUICK ADJUSTERS FOR SUPERIOR FUNCTIONALITY.

I love the sturdy feel of the Slide Camera Strap which has a wide seatbelt-style strap designed to prevent accidental drops and make taking pictures on the go so much easier. The strap features Peak Design’s innovative padded nylon webbing which is designed to slide smoothly over clothes for easy use of your camera whilst out and about. However, the strap also features a grippy side, perfect for ensuring a secure grip when using the strap to carry your camera on your shoulder.

The Slide Camera Sling Strap has three carrying modes all in one single strap. With full adjustability, you can extend the strap to be worn as a sling across the body, or it can be shortened to wear over your shoulder or around your neck. This adjustability is brilliant as it allows you to make the most of the single strap for a variety of carrying options and removes the need for multiple straps in your kit.

I was super impressed with just how easy the strap was to connect to my camera. The anchors have an angled but compact design which makes attaching your strap to your camera super easy. Then, once connected, the low-profile nature of the anchors provide a reliable and secure connection without hindering the functionality or feel of the camera for shooting. This is one of my favourite aspects of Peak Design’s camera straps and attachments, as they are designed to deliver great functionality

(it can hold up to 200 lbs of weight on a single strap) whilst still maintaining a low profile for the aesthetics of your camera. Therefore, the Slide Camera Strap makes a great choice for ease of use whilst still ensuring your camera and strap look great.

A big advantage of Peak Design’s products is that the company is committed to leaving the planet in a better condition than it found it, and so, throughout every design and product, sustainability has been factored in. The Slide Camera Strap in the coyote colourway, includes Hypalon accents, premium tubular seatbeltstyle nylon webbing and an embedded PVC shoulder strap which have all been designed and manufactured with its environmental impact in mind. One way Peak Design minimises the effect of the Slide Camera Strap on the planet is through the solution dyeing of the strap. This preserves the water and energy that so often is lost in traditional dyeing processes, whilst still delivering camera straps and accessories of colourful aesthetic beauty.

If you are an avid photographer who is looking for a secure, reliable but also aesthetically pleasing camera strap that delivers everything you could want from this kind of camera accessory, then the Peak Design Slide Camera Sling Strap is a perfect choice for you. I love the new colourway addition which brings even greater variety to its product offerings, all whilst still delivering all the functionality and reliability that we have come to expect from Peak Design.

PROS:

- Fully adjustable and quickly connectable camera strap

- Provides 3 different carrying modes and the webbing to support the stability for this – cross-body, neck, and shoulder

- Camera Strap made with sustainability in mind

CONS:

- I love the new colourway and the muted and classy look of the camera straps – but I’d still love to see some patterned or brighter colours to be able to put a little more of my personality into the camera strap

PHOTOGRAPHY

SJCAM C200 PRO ACTION CAMERA

£109.99

https://shop.sjcam.com/product/cameras/action-cameras/c200-pro/

CAPTURE YOUR ADVENTURES ALL SUMMER LONG WITH THE SJCAM C200 PRO ACTION CAMERA, DESIGNED TO BE YOUR PERFECT CAMERAMAN WHETHER HIKING, SKIING OR SURFING. BUILT WITH TECHNOLOGY TO MAKE EVEN THE SHAKIEST OF VIDEOS SMOOTH, THE C200 PRO GUARANTEES TO LET YOU RELIVE YOUR TRIP AND WATCH BACK YOUR TRICKS AS IF YOU WERE VIEWING IT AGAIN IN REAL-TIME.

When I first opened the C200 Pro Action Camera I was impressed with how compact and lightweight it was, especially as it boasted so many high-quality camera and video recording specs. The C200 Pro is a small rectangular shape, with the camera on the front and a viewing screen on the back. Included in the box are a waterproof case, a back clip, frame mount, base mount, curved and flat mount, a screen, the USB charging cable, some adhesive sticks and a cleaning cloth.

The C200 Pro camera offers a 4K/30fps video quality and a 20mps camera setting which is exceptional considering the size of the camera. The lens used is an ultra-wide angle lens which provides up to 135° field of view much like that of the human eye. This means that every video looks just as it does when you were there yourself. I personally loved that the camera even includes intelligent algorithms which ensure that there is no fisheye effect caused by this wide view, instead, they balance out the image to make it feel like you’re actually there. Plus, you never have to worry about being too overexposed as the C200 Pro has a built-in HDR setting which balances the image brightness for perfect shots and video capture every time.

The camera is pretty intuitive to use and with just a few clicks and the downloading on the SJCAM app, the camera was ready to record and send the pictures or videos via Bluetooth straight to my phone. I loved that I could then edit the video whilst on the go, and was able to share snippets of my hike with friends and family whilst still away. Plus, the back touch screen is super responsive which makes it super easy to navigate the camera’s settings and capture footage with ease even whilst on the move.

I loved that the camera has been designed for even the most extreme of sports in mind. For sports like skiing or surfing the camera is likely to shake a lot, however, the C200 Pro has a builtin six-axis gyro anti-shake technology which utilises even more algorithms to offset and stabilise the shake, so every shot is as smooth and fluid as possible. This means you can spend more time enjoying the activity than worrying if you got the shot!

In addition to the stability and top-quality image, the camera is actually waterproof up to 5 metres, and this is increased to 30 metres with the addition of the included waterproof case. Therefore, the SJCAM C200 Pro can be used for anything from hiking to scuba diving to record your adventures all on one compact little camera device. To make this even better the camera is also designed to be drop, dust and shockproof for even greater durability no matter the adventure.

One of my favourite features to play around with was the slow motion setting which records at 120fps. The multiple frame-per-second shooting means that it would be perfect for recording stunts or tricks. I think this would be perfect for a skiing trip to capture your friends as they come over jumps and then be able to watch them back in slow motion. Plus, if you’re heading to somewhere like Norway or Iceland the camera can record great timelapses for a great chance to capture the northern lights using the 120fps setting too!

We also got to test out the Magnetic Lanyard (£14.77) which is

designed to hold the SJCAM securely to you so you can capture your adventures hands-free. This made a great and useful addition to the camera, and can be purchased from the SJCAM site along with other useful tools such as a remote-control wristband for the camera and various tripods should you want to have even greater control over your C200 Pro.

If you’re on the hunt for a durable camera which can capture every second of your holiday adventures then the SJCAM C200 Pro Action Camera is an easy choice. It’s been designed to make every shot and video super high quality and ensure you can relive your memories as if you were there for many years to come.

PROS:

- Top quality 4k camera with inbuilt algorithms to balance shots

- Waterproof up to 30m (with the included case) for any activity

- Compact and lightweight design perfect for travelling

£319.99

VANTRUE NEXUS 5 DASH CAM

https://www.vantrue.com/en-gb/products/nexus-5

THESE DAYS YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO SAFE ON THE ROAD, WITH ACCIDENTS UNFORTUNATELY HITTING AN ALL-TIME HIGH DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS. THEREFORE, THE NEED FOR A DASH CAM FOR YOUR CAR HAS BECOME A FIRM MUST-HAVE PIECE OF TECH TO PROVIDE A DIGITAL WITNESS TO ANY ACCIDENTS THAT COULD OCCUR.

When I got the chance to review the Nexus 5 Dash Cam from Vantrue, I was super excited as it boasts to provide a complete 360° view across 4 cameras which captures footage both outside and inside your car. I found setting up the Nexus 5 system was a little more complex than a standard front dash camera, however with the help of the installation manual it was set up and ready to go in a few steps.

The front camera is attached to your front windscreen and provides a 1944p resolution and 30fps with a 158° view of the road ahead thanks to a Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 + WDR sensor. However, on the back of this camera is a smaller front cabin camera that delivers 1080p resolution and 30fps video capture with a 160°view inside the car of the driver and passenger seat. When testing the camera, I was impressed with how high quality the image is, which remained high in resolution no matter the time of day.

The front camera plugs into the main auxiliary power outlet of your car, and then, using the cables included in the box, you run these cables along the interior roof of your car to the rear camera which sits inside the car’s rear window. The rear camera provides a 1080p resolution and 30fps camera, which also has a 165° view behind the car, and on the reverse is a back rear cabin camera which is directed at the back seats capturing footage in 1080p and 30fps with a 160° view, much like the front cabin camera. These cameras combined provide a complete view of both inside and outside of your car for careful accident

monitoring whilst you’re on the road, and for checking your kids are okay in the back seat on a long drive too. All recordings from the cameras are linked to the Vantrue app, but the dash cam system does require a SD Memory card to store all the footage. However, a SD Card is not included in the box so must be purchased separately.

The Nexus 5 does so much more than just record the road whilst you’re driving, in fact when you’re parked the car Nexus 5 system has a 24-hour parking mode which detects motion or collision using a low bitrate and low framerate to ensure that even if your car is hit or even broken into whilst parked, the cameras across the car will capture the perpetrator in the act or the vehicle and license plate of the offending driver. In addition to this, the Nexus 5 has a buffered motion detection setting

which records 10 seconds before and 30 seconds after a detected event to ensure that it captures anything awry whilst you’re away from your car. However, to utilise the parking mode you need to hardwire the dash cam into your car, which may require the purchase of a Vantrue hardwiring kit which is not included with the Nexus 5.

One of my favourite aspects of the Nexus 5 is that you can utilise voice controls to take photos, mute/unmute the microphone, and record or lock videos all without touching the screen. This is great for capturing something on the road, or, as the cameras also point into the car, you can actually take photos inside the car too! Whilst taking pictures of the backseat is not something I’d have thought about when driving it can make a fun little addition when on a road trip to capture the memories.

Ultimately, having tested out the Nexus 5 over the last few weeks, I’m super impressed. I felt safer on the road knowing that I had an extra layer of protection watching the road and recording everything just in case of an accident. However, I love that the Nexus 5 also delivers so much more than just a dash cam, with a bunch of extra parking and monitoring features to provide you with even greater visibility across your car whether parked or driving. Therefore, for me, the Vantrue Nexus 5 Dash Cam is now an essential accessory that will be staying in my car for the foreseeable future. I appreciate it is a pricey dash cam, however with camera quality, 360° view and the fact you’re getting 4 cameras for the price of one, for me it is 100% worth the price point.

The Vantrue Nexus 5 Dash Cam would make a perfect gift for a new driver, or even someone who loves to drive all the time. Plus, if you’re off on a road trip this summer, the Nexus 5 makes a great addition to your car set-up to make sure your trips are supported by a complete monitoring system for extra protection on and off the road.

Also - According to Martin Shang Chun, Director of Marketing Strategy at Vantrue, the N5 will also support a 4G LTE version, which is expected to be available to consumers in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Available from: www.vantrue.com

PROS:

- 360° view of the road across 4 cameras

- Top quality camera quality for a greater view of the road

- Has voice controls for hands-free operations of photo and recording settings

CONS:

- Does not include a SD Memory card in the box which is essential for footage storage

£315.00

https://www.vantrue.com/en-gb/products/f1

VEHICLE

VANTRUE FALCON 1 BIKE CAM

I HAVE BEEN RIDING MOTORBIKES FOR OVER 40 YEARS AND NEVER HAD A DASHCAM ON ANY OF MY BIKES, WHEREAS ALL MY CARS HAVE CAMERAS AND HAVE DONE SO FOR YEARS. I HAD BEEN HOPING FOR A DECENT MOTORBIKE SYSTEM TO COME TO MARKET AS IT SEEMS THAT MOST ACCIDENTS GET ARGUED AND SETTLED AS 50/50! A MATE OF MINE WAS T-BONED AT A JUNCTION AND THERE WAS NO WAY IT WAS HIS FAULT, BUT THE OTHER DRIVER CAME UP WITH A STORY AS TO WHY IT WASN’T THEIR FAULT AND THE INSURANCE COMPANIES SETTLED ON 50/50. HIS INSURANCE PREMIUMS THEN TOOK A BIG HIKE AND PERHAPS IF HE HAD A BIKE CAM - A DIGITAL WITNESS TO THE EVENT - HE WOULD HAVE BEEN ENTITLED TO A REPLACEMENT BIKE AND FULL REPAIR FROM THE OTHERS’ INSURANCE COMPANY.

Therefore, when I got the chance to test out the F1 on my bike I jumped at it. The fitting isn’t as simple as with cars which are typically a plug-in-and-play system. Instead, I had to undress the bike but taking panels, the seat and the petrol tank off to run the wires from the front 4k camera and rear 1080p rear camera to the centre where the battery lives. Once the cameras were stuck in place and I’d tie wrapped them to the frame, I had to connect it to the battery with one wire to the positive, and one to the negative. Thankfully, this was fairly simple as I could loosen the connections and slide the wires in. However, the yellow wire is to be connected to the ignition so that the F1 turns on and off with your bike. I found this was the trickiest part but was doable after reading through the instruction booklet a few times. Once connected, the system alerts you to needing a high-speed memory can which was a nice touch to ensure you didn’t ride off with no way of storing the footage. However, the F1 does not

come with a memory card in the box, so this is an additional necessary purchase to store your recordings.

Once I had the cameras connected to my bike, I just needed to download the Vantrue app and connect it to my F1 camera. I was then able to view both cameras on my phone screen and could make any final adjustments before I set off to test them out. After using the F1 for a few weeks I was super impressed, not only does it provide a great view of in front and behind the bike, but the

image quality is also super clear – this gave me great peace of mind knowing if an accident was to occur, I had an extra layer of protection recording everything occurring around my bike. In fact, I was super thrilled to see that the image quality at night was comparable to that during the day, ensuring that no matter when I decided to take a ride, I knew the cameras were there to record should anything happen.

The overall quality of the F1 is excellent, and it is clear that Vantrue is

passionate about making dash cameras that are easy to use and durable enough to withstand their function – something that’s super essential for a motorbike camera as it is always exposed to the elements. Therefore, I was super glad to see the F1 was rugged, sturdy and waterproof to tackle even the wettest of British summers!

I was initially interested in a bike dash camera to record my rides and act as an extra pair of eyes should I be involved in an accident. However, after exploring the Vantrue app, I was thrilled to see that the F1 actually does so much more even when you’re not on the bike. The F1 provides a 24/7 parking guard, which will capture footage should your bike be hit whilst you are not near it. The F1 awakens and records the movement, meaning that even whilst parked the camera is ensuring that your bike is protected. This footage is then stored on the app, much like the footage from every journey, and so can be sent to insurance companies or the police if necessary. Plus, another great bonus of the F1 is that it has an inbuilt GPS which can record your journeys and driving speeds, so you can see your routes all mapped out – a nice little added touch.

Overall, I have to say I’m super impressed with the F1 Bike Dash Camera, and it has become a key part of every ride for a little extra peace of mind. Years ago I started wearing an air vest for safety when on my bike, and on the odd occasions that I ride without it now, I feel so wrong – I can already tell this is going to be the same for the Vantrue F1 camera system as I can’t image riding anywhere without it now!

If you’re an avid motorbike rider and are looking for top quality bike dash cam you really can’t go wrong with Vantrue’s F1 Bike Dash Camera. I will admit it is not the cheapest bit of kit, but for the camera quality, sense of protection and other useful parking features it really is worth the price. I personally learned many years ago with motorcycle gear, that if you buy cheap, you buy more than once until you bite the bullet and buy the best – and the F1 is certainly the best.

PROS:

- Top quality camera for clear footage both night and day

- Parking mode for added protection when you’re not on your bike

- Dual camera system for the front and back of your bike for extra security when riding

CONS:

- Is a little more tricky than car dash cams to install and does require wiring into your bike yourself

CARLUEX AIR WIRELESS ADAPTER

https://www.carluex.store/en-gb/products/carluex-air

WITH THE SUMMER NOW TAKING SHAPE MANY OF US WILL BE HITTING THE ROAD TO DESCEND ON HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS, OR EVEN PARTAKE IN A FEW ROAD TRIPS. THEREFORE, OUR CARS PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN MAKING SURE THESE JOURNEYS ARE A BREEZE WITH NAVIGATION AND MUSIC SYSTEMS KEEPING YOU EN ROUTE AND THE ATMOSPHERE HIGH. THEREFORE, WHEN I HEARD ABOUT CARLEUX’S AIR WIRELESS CARPLAY/ ANDROID AUTO ADAPTER I WAS INTRIGUED – HOW COULD A LITTLE DEVICE MAKE THIS EXPERIENCE EVEN BETTER?

The CARLUEX AIR is a small dongle which connects to your car’s display screen to transform it into a smart tablet device featuring all the apps you love on your phone. The dongle itself looks great in a sleek car-inspired design which is no more than a few inches long and has a magnetic circle on the base for easy connection to metal/magnetic car interiors. In the box alongside the CARLUEX AIR is a USB-C cable and the Quick Start Guide – providing you with everything you need to get started.

So how does it work? The CARLUEX AIR connects via USB cable to your car’s display screen to transform it into a smart screen that features all the apps you know and love. To set up you need to plug in the CARLUEX AIR to your car using the included cable, and then you connect it to your phone. Once you’ve connected it to your phone you can activate the Bluetooth connection, so that when you get in your car you are already connected to your car’s smart screen. This is great as it removes the need to connect your phone with a wire every time you get into your car just to access the navigation and apps you love.

Once all connected and set up, the CARLUEX AIR transforms your usual display into an intuitive CARLUEX homepage featuring the date, time, and a bunch of pre-installed apps such as YouTube, Netflix and Google Maps. From the home screen, you can navigate to the Google Play store and download any further apps you might need. For me, I installed Spotify as I love listening to podcasts on long drives and this was super easy to do all on the touch screen display. Once you’ve downloaded all the apps you could need, you can pin some to the homepage for easier navigation whilst on the go.

I personally needed Google Maps on the homepage as I’m pretty useless with directions, and I loved how easy it was to

navigate and view on the screen thanks to the CARLUEX AIR adapter. I actually found this super useful when a road I typically take to work was unexpectedly shut causing me to have to divert on a new route I wasn’t super familiar with. However, with the CARLUEX I could utilise the voice commands of my car and access Google Maps with ease. With a few commands and taps, I was on the way to work and could drive with confidence knowing where I was going and if there was any traffic up ahead.

However, one of the main perks of the CARLUEX AIR is that you can access streaming sites such as YouTube and Netflix straight on your car’s display screen, so you can watch your favourite shows or films wherever you are. This made for a fun adventure with my friends as we went and got some takeaway and then parked up ready to eat and watch our favourite show together. It definitely added a luxury feel to my car with being able to stream directly onto the screen, as when using the CARLUEX AIR you essentially are implementing a smart tablet into your traditional display. I found the playback was pretty seamless and utilised the best of my car’s speaker systems for a great all-around viewing experience.

My only main concern with the CARLEUX system is that you can access streaming platforms whilst on the move, which seems to offer the chance of unsafe driving. Whilst CARLUEX does not encourage using these apps whilst you are driving, I do worry it could lead to an easy distraction which would be breaking the law in the UK. I personally would love to see some kind of lock available on certain apps to prevent this possibility.

Overall, the CARLUEX AIR is a small sleek device which makes the whole driving experience just that bit easier and more seamless. With great connectivity, a plethora of great apps available and seamless integration into your car system, the CARLEUX AIR is a great choice if you spend hours driving and want to transform your display into a smart screen.

PROS:

- Small sleek device which removes the need to plug your phone into your car every day

- Transforms your display screen into a smart screen full of all the apps you could need

- Seamlessly integrates into your car’s system and can be used with voice controls

CONS:

- Streaming service apps are available whilst the car is moving which could cause hazardous misuse

VEHICLE

NAVITEL R2 FULL HD DASH CAMERA

£44.99

https://www.currys.co.uk/products/navitel-r2- full-hd-dash-cam-black-10228981.html

IT’S SUMMER, SO MORE OF US ARE ON THE ROADS GOING ON FUN DAYS OUT AND TRAVELLING TO HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS. HOWEVER, WITH THIS INCREASE IN CARS ON THE ROAD, A RELIABLE ROAD ASSISTANT IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER. I PERSONALLY DON’T GO ANYWHERE WITHOUT A DASH CAM IN MY CAR AFTER SEEING SO MANY PEOPLE PAYING OUT EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS WHEN INSURANCE COMPANIES CANNOT DETERMINE WHO WAS 100% AT FAULT FOR AN ACCIDENT. SADLY, ACCIDENTS DO OCCUR AND WITH A DASH CAM IN MY CAR, I FEEL WAY MORE CONFIDENT THAT I HAVE MY OWN EYEWITNESS TO EVENTS. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO TEST OUT THE NAVITEL R2 FULL HD DASH CAMERA WHICH AIMS TO DO JUST THAT THROUGH ITS TOP-QUALITY CAMERA.

The Navitel R2 Full HD Dash Camera uses a 4-layer glass lens to capture top-quality 1080p video at 30 fps. The camera captures an excellent view of the road with its 140° camera angle, so you can drive safely knowing it is recording all traffic both in front and in nearby lanes too.

To use the dash cam, you simply plug it into your car’s auxiliary power outlet and attach it to the front windscreen using the included suction holder. Once connected, you need to input a MicroSD card which will store all of your footage. However, this is not included in the box, so will need to be purchased separately. Once connected you are ready to use the dash camera, and with the intuitive front buttons, you can record and playback footage with ease. I especially loved that the dashcam has been designed to turn off with your car’s engine so once in place, you never have to worry about reinstalling or fiddling with it too much. This makes getting where you need to go easier, supported by the watchful eye of your Navitel R2 Dash Camera.

One of my favourite aspects of the dash cam is that it has a parking mode which can detect vibrations and will start recording even whilst you’re parked. This means that even if

you’re away from your car, and the dash camera has been turned off, it can still turn on and record in an emergency. This is essential for capturing if your car is hit whilst parked, or if someone tries to break into your vehicle. I loved the extra bit of peace of mind this gives even when you’re not in the car.

Overall, the Navitel R2 Full HD Dash Camera does exactly what it says it will; it delivers crystal clear recording whilst on the move and even whilst parked to ensure that should anything occur you have your own record of events. With Navitel you’re in safe hands and can enjoy all of your road trip adventures this summer knowing you have this nifty bit of kit recording every step of the way.

PROS:

- 1080p and 30fps recording quality

- Easy to install and intuitive to use

- Parking mode for added protection even whilst the car is parked

CONS:

- Does not come with a MicroSD card, so this does need to be purchased separately.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

AT GADGET HEAD, OUR AIM IS TO GIVE OUR READERS THE MOST HONEST REVIEWS WE CAN.

We also seek to provide all manufacturers with an equal opportunity to promote their goods: in fact, we are incredibly proud that startup companies have just as much of a chance to feature in our magazine as established brands do. How do we ensure all of this? Our policy is simple: we do not offer sponsored reviews. Instead, if you send us goods to review, we reserve to right to keep and sell these on. By funding our magazine in this way, we can guarantee that we are not publishing paid-for opinions or prioritizing larger companies, and there are no hidden fees to having your product reviewed and featured.

Copy Editor Carley Fallows hello@thegadgethead.com

Lead Designer Adam Knights

Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com

Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com

MAXIA 4 THE NEW GENERATION OF THE LEGEND

GIVI’S most popular top case, totally redesigned. Stylish as never before, versatile and as strong as ever.

• ABS cover with a new design

• Internally strengthened outer edge

• Double cover made from plastic and aluminium

• New outer band

• New optical reflectors with small reflector on the outer band

• Capacity: 56 lt