Issue 5.02
TRENDING PRODUCTS, IN-DEPTH REVIEWS
www.thegadgethead.com
CONTENTS 5.11 AMP72 Backpack 40L • Native Union Dock Wireless Charger • Petromax Dutch Oven (12qt)
GADGETHEAD Senior Writer Emma Hilling emmahilling@littlegatepublishing.com
Sales Director Alex Smith alexsmith@littlegatepublishing.com
Junior Copy Editor Alice Instone-Brewer alice@littlegatepublishing.com
Junior Copy Editor James Lapping james@littlegatepublishing.com
Junior Copy Editor Will Girling willgirling@littlegatepublishing.com
Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com
Publisher Stephen Warman
stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com
TCX Baja Boots • Hangsun Electric Face Brush SC200 • Jabra Elite Active 65t • Spoke London Chinos • Aer Sling Bag 2 Dainese HP1 BL Shirt and Pants • Dreams Sleeppal+ • Cotton Carrier Skout Sling Style Camera Harness • HAIX Blue Mountain SoundMAGIC Vento P55 • Ava Fertility Tracker 2.0 • Mira Advance Shower (8.7kW) • Lowepro ProTactic BP 350AW II • Castore Fusion Solar Jacket Foreo LUNA fofo • Sound BlasterX H6 • StirMATE Automatic Pot Stirrer • Topo Designs Rover Pack • SMART Turn System Lifesaver Jerrycan 20000UF • Maui Jim Lava Tube • Neat Acoustics Iota Alpha • Melitta AromaFresh • Peli 1640 Protective Case Spinlock Deckvest Lite and Lite+ • Rapha Cargo Bib Shorts
5.11 AMP72 BACKPACK 40L
LET’S START OFF BY SAYING ‘THIS ISN’T YOUR EVERYDAY BACKPACK’; IT’S A LITTLE OVER-KILL FOR POPPING DOWN THE PARK OR TAKING TO THE GYM; IT IS SERIOUS ARMY GRADE GEAR, AS WE DISCOVERED WHEN WE READ THAT IT CAN HOLD A 24” RIFLE…NOT SOMETHING YOU WOULD NEED IN A REGULAR CAMPING WEEKEND WITH THE KIDS. The AMP72 (AMP standing for All Mission Pack) is an overnight assignment pack suitable for a few days and nights. It has a main compartment that measures up at 23”H x 12”W x 9”D with a rear compartment of 23”H x 12”W x 2”D, this gives you a 40L of storage. This backpack is Gear Set compatible and features 5.11’s innovative and removable HEXGRID (9x9) load bearing system, this gives you a multiangle load bearing platform which removes restrictions to how you can arrange your gear. The AMP72 has a side opening compartment that holds up to a 24” rifle with MOLLE-based platform, muzzle sleeve and a removable retention strap. There is also a thermoformed ergonomic back panel that has been designed to keep things comfortable, whilst the integrated aluminium back panel frame helps to distribute the weight and protect your back against heavy lifting.
rear compartment, internal loop platform panel, mesh org, admin pockets, CCW pocket with loop panel and webbing strap for holster attachment. The main compartment has a full clamshell opening with Quad-Zip zippers. To ensure the bag can handle the tough environments you will find yourself in, the main body is constructed from a fully water-resistant 500D Dobby Nylon main with a 1050D Nylon bottom, whilst the HEXGRID is made from 420D/1000D Cordura Nylon and is also water-resistant. The AMP72 has premium build quality, it is comfortable and with loads of features to aid you in any mission.
There are four side pockets and one bottom stash pocket, a hydration or laptop
4
Premium build quality and jam packed with features
RRP £235 https://www.511tactical.com/amp72.html PROS HEXGRID multi-angle load bearing platform Gear Set compatible CCW pocket with loop panel and webbing strap for holster attachment Full clamshell opening main compartment with Quad-Zip zippers Internal loop platform panel, mesh org and admin pockets
4 side pockets and 1 bottom stash pocket Secondary compartment for weapon storage up to 24” with muzzle sleeve and removable retention strap Hydration or laptop rear compartment Thermoformed back panel with aluminium frame and load lifters
NATIVE UNION DOCK WIRELESS CHARGER NATIVE UNION ARE VERY GOOD AT CREATING THINGS YOU PROBABLY DON’T NEED BUT WILL ALMOST DEFINITELY WANT; THEY HAVE THE MAGICAL ABILITY OF TURNING THE MUNDANE PRODUCTS THAT USUALLY BLEND INTO THE BACKGROUND INTO SHOWSTOPPING CENTREPIECES. HAVING SAID THAT, YOU ARE, OF COURSE, PAYING FOR THE AESTHETIC UPGRADE. This charging dock has been created for iPhone and Qi compatible devices, which ensures a fast charge for iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, iPhone XR, and all other Qi compatible devices, up to 10W. The Dock would look stylish in your home and professional in your work place, with its combination of premium woven fabric and precision engineered steel (available in Rose or Slate), it looks both homely and ready for action, as well as ensuring its durability and stability. You can load your device in both the portrait and landscape position, allowing for full access to all your phone’s features with optimal viewing angles and multi-view charging. This also allows you to make video calls, use facial recognition and stream videos. The device offers built-in dual coil wireless charging, has thermal protection sensor and foreign object detector to ensure safe operation everyone has heard of the horror stories of dodgy chargers exploding or catching fire in the night, no such worries here: when the charger reaches a certain temperature, it will pause to let the temperature reduce.
6
It comes with a 6.5 foot USB-C to
USB-A braided charging cable (USB wall adapter not included) with a genuine leather strap that matches the high quality design of the rest of the dock. It claims to be able to charge through most cases, up to 3mm, but I had to remove mine, probably because it has a metal ring on the back to help me hold it (the combination of small hands and clumsiness warrants this necessity). For optimum charging speed, Native Union recommends plugging the DOCK wireless charger into a USB wall adapter (5V/≥2A) and for fast charging (with compatible devices) use a Quick Charge wall adapter (QC 2.0 or higher, 9V/≥1.67A).
Hom and r for ac
The Native Union Dock Wireless Charger will make you feel better about the fact you are a slave to the screen in the most sophisticated and functional way possible.
mely ready ction
RRP £69.99
www.nativeunion.com/dock-wireless-charger/ PROS Stylish Fast charging Compliments any interior Durable Stable
Portrait or landscape configuration Thermal protection sensor and foreign object detections
CONS Pricey Had to remove my case
PETROMAX DUTCH OVEN (12QT) PETROMAX IS A BRAND MOST ASSOCIATED WITH HIGHPRESSURED LAMPS, BUT THESE PEOPLE ARE OBSESSED WITH ANYTHING THAT GLOWS AND THAT INCLUDES FIRE; MORE SPECIFICALLY: HOW TO HARNESS THE POWER OF THE FIRE TO COOK A KICK ASS DINNER. The Petromax Dutch Oven is made of cast iron and has a plane bottom surface, designed precisely for cooking and baking in the great outdoors. Cast-iron has been the go-to material of choice since the 18th century - the combination of durability, excellent heat storage and distribution makes for a highly reliable cooking implement. The pre-treated surface (seasoned finish) makes a first seasoning unnecessary, and this sturdy Dutch Oven can be used straight out of the box. The Dutch Oven can be used on an open fire or with charcoal and briquettes. It features raised edges around the lid which make it possible to put embers or charcoal on top of the Dutch oven, thus heating it from the bottom, sides and the top for an even bake. This oven has a 11.5L capacity (providing meals for up to 14-20 people), whilst the lid has 3.5L capacity. It measures up at 39(L) x 42(W) x 20(H) and weighs 14.7kg, so it is more suited for home cooking and glamping then a daytrip or festival. The Dutch Oven features a sturdy handle for easy lifting and has a handy thermometer hole so you can check your food’s progress without removing the lid and causing the heat to escape. However,
8
when you do need to remove the lid, you can use the Petromax Lid Lifter to ensure protection against the heat. The lid has feet on it to keep it raised from the ground when not on the pot and has also been designed so it can be used as a skillet or platter for more cooking and serving versatility. With the Dutch Oven, you can be as adventurous as you like with your cooking: it is capable of everything from your basic noodle dishes, stews, curries as well as cakes and even bread if you are feeling brave enough. The Dutch Oven 12 QT takes you back to a simpler way of cooking and provides both a delicious (and massive) meal, as well as a great sense of achievement.
Fancy baking a cake outdoors?
?!
RRP €104.99
https://www.petromax-shop.de/petromax_en/feuertopfe/petromax-feuertopf-ft12.html PROS Pre-seasoned surface for immediate use Notched carry handle ensures safe and comfortable handling Dutch Ovens can be stacked Plane bottom surface and feet on lid
Thermometer Hole Lid that can be used as skillet or a platter Large capacity
CONS Very heavy
TCX BAJA BOOTS TCX ARE RENOWNED IN MOTORCYCLE CIRCLES FOR PRODUCING GREAT VALUE, HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS. I WAS DELIGHTED TO BE TASKED WITH TESTING THE TCX BAJA MID ADVENTURE BOOT: THESE BOOTS ARE DESIGNED TO GIVE MOTORCYCLISTS MAXIMUM PROTECTION WHILST RIDING, AND YET TO BE EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE WHEN WALKING. The TCX Baja Boots we were sent were a vintage-look brown leather, which had a lovely feel to it and looked superb. They were incredbly comfortable from the off, and the 100% full grain leather will only get softer and more comfortable with time. These boots have a waterproof membrane keeping them nice and dry inside and there is an elasticated top with Velcro fastening to keep water and grime out. The buckles are aluminium and give a good reassuring click when locked in. The protection feels secure, with a reinforced toe box, ankle and sole support. There is also a reflective strip on the back of the boots, so as to be seen when riding at night. The sole is nice and tacky, with a large step between the heal and sole so they fit well onto your pegs. When I was at the Birmingham bike show at the tail end of 2018, I spent a bit of time looking around the boot stalls and
10
it was very apparent that there are a huge range of styles and manufacturers to choose from. However, after trying them, the TCX brand would be at the top of my list for style, quality and cost.
Top of my list style, quality a cost.
for and
RRP £259.99 www.tcxboots.com PROS Quality Comfortable Good looking
CONS Doesn’t give full shin protection (so go for the Baja full boot)
HANGSUN ELECTRIC FACE BRUSH SC200 WHENEVER YOU SEE THOSE SKIN CARE ADVERTS ON TV, THE PERSON ALWAYS WASHES FACE WITH A LITTLE BIT OF CLEANSER BEFORE SPLASHING WATER INTO THEIR FACE (NORMALLY WHILST SMILING) WITH LITTLE CONSIDERATION FOR THEIR CLOTHES OR PARTNER TRYING TO BRUSH THEIR TEETH BEHIND THEM. HOWEVER, SOME DAYS I CAN END UP WITH MOISTURISER, SUN CREAM, MAKEUP, SWEAT AND HALF MY DINNER ACROSS MY MUSH, SO IT WILL TAKE MORE THAN A LITTLE SPLASH OF WATER TO GET IT SQUEAKY CLEAN. The Hangsun SC200 is an Electric Face Brush, kind of like a softer version of those things you use on your patio. It uses vibrations driven by sonic oscillation technology within the facial brush to help deep clean your skin. There are three brushes to choose from the Normal Brush (for normal, combination or oily skin), Sensitive Brush (for sensitive skin) and Body Brush (for your body…obviously. Each brush is lovely and soft against your skin whilst claiming to be x7 more effective at removing makeup and other grot than using hands alone. Additionally: skincare products such as skin creams, serum, cleanser and moisturizers will absorb better. It is suitable for all skin types and many skin conditions from dry, aging skin to oily skin. It can help remove impurities and acne, clear pores and exfoliates even tough skin. The micro-pulsating, high frequency technology combined with 52,000 individual bristles on the brush head, pulsates at 10,000 oscillations for a deeper clean. The SC200 has three speeds: LOW speed for a gentle clean, best suited for compromised or fragile skin, even very sensitive skin conditions; MID for normal
12
daily use, suitable for all skin types; and HIGH speed which is best for deep cleansing, suitable for a comfortable and more intensive cleansing. There are two automatic working modes, either a 30 second and 60 second quick cleansing so you don’t even have to engage your brain in the morning.
6-8 h of use cha
We loved the sleek and compact design: it effortlessly slips into the wireless charger, which provides you with 6-8 hours of use with a standby time of 90 days thanks to the 1200mAh battery. It fits comfortably in your hand and is extremely easy to use - it even has an IPX7 which means you can safely use it in the shower. The Hangsun Electric Face Brush SC200 is a great product, it seamlessly slips into your daily skin care regime and leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth and clean with each use.
hours e per arge
RRP £66.99
https://www.hangsun.eu/products/sonic-face-brush PROS Easy to use 100% Waterproof Wireless charging holder Hi-tech Sonic Technology 300 movements per second
3 Brush Heads, 2 Automatic Working Modes and 3 Speed System Long battery life Attractive designs
JABRA ELITE ACTIVE 65T
CHANCES ARE YOU HAVE HEARD OF THE JABRA BRAND. IF NOT, THEN WHY NOT? THESE GUYS CREATED THE WORLD’S FIRST ULTRA NOISE-CANCELLING MICROPHONE, THE WORLD’S FIRST BLUETOOTH HEADSET AND THE WORLD’S FIRST SPORTS HEADPHONES WITH INTEGRATED HEART RATE MONITOR. I THINK ITS SAFE TO SAY THESE GUYS AREN’T COMFORTABLE COMING SECOND TO ANYONE ELSE. The Jabra Elite Active 65t have been engineered for true wireless music, calls and sport. It features a striking secure-fitting design for enhanced stability when you are working out and includes customisable equaliser and integrated motion sensor. Starting with the overall design, the Active 65t have an attractive navy and copper coloured body. They look rather bulky in your hand, however when you fit them in your ear they are surprisingly discrete, and, although comfortable for an hour or so, but we found they can cause fatigue if worn for too long. They come with a charging case, which is nice and compact although unreasonable fiddly to open. This will give you max battery life of 15 hours (5 in the earbuds with an extra 10 from the case). Before we get onto the sound quality lets take a quick look at the other features the 65t has to offer: starting with the Sidetone mode, this enables you to hear your own voice when you are on a call and the settings can be configured using the Jabra Sound+ app. The Auto-pause feature automatically pauses your tunes when you remove the earbud from your ear, ideal for quickly ordering a coffee, it will then unpause after the earbuds are placed back in your ear within 60 seconds or by pressing the multi-function button. The auto poweroff switches the power off when it is out of range of your phone for 15 minutes and not in the charging case, or when it has been inactive for 1 hour. They connect via
14
Bluetooth 5 (with up to 33 feet / 10 metres range), and they are compatible with Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant, although this can take a couple of goes to activate, you can get it to read back text messages whilst you are on the move. The Active in the name is due to the IP56 rating which protects the earbuds from sweat and dust, you can also track fitness and performance with use of the integrated motion sensor and compatible app. This can be a little hit and miss but a nice added extra as long as you aren’t too serious about the accuracy of your run. In this mode it will also activate the HearThrough feature so you can hear the ambient noises around you, helping you to stay safer when running in urban areas. You can use the right ear on its own, pair them with up to 8 devices, connect to pairs of earbuds to one device and use the Jabra Sound+ app to personalise the EQ settings. Now for that sound quality: these earbuds create a clean, well rounded and balanced sound, with punchy bass, rich mid tones and crisp high tones. Phone calls are also clear but the one thing I really didn’t like was the syrupy little voiced indicator, but that’s because I’m easily irritated and these always bug me. These certainly aren’t the cheapest wireless earbuds out there, but in essence they are worth every penny. They are a healthy all-rounder with a few handy added touches, excellent sound and build quality. As long as you can get in the case, you won’t be disappointed!
RRP £169.99
arrow-alt-circle-right
https://www.jabra.co.uk/bluetooth-headsets/jabraelite-65t
PROS Sturdy and secure Sweat and dust resistant Attractive design Excellent sound quality Integrated motion detector
HearThrough mode Can be used with right ear alone Customisable EQ Integrated motion detector Auto pause and auto switch off
CONS Fiddly charging case Battery life could be better
SPOKE LONDON CHINOS
IT’S MAD TO THINK THAT MOST OF THE CLOTHES WE FIND ON THE HIGH STREET ARE STILL BEING PRODUCED WITH A HANDFUL OF BODY SHAPES AND SIZES IN MIND. NOW, I KNOW WE GET CALLED THE ‘SNOWFLAKE GENERATION’ DUE TO US BELIEVING WE ARE BEAUTIFUL AND UNIQUE, BUT SERIOUSLY: WE ARE NOT ALL SIMPLY TALLER AND SHORTER VERSIONS OF THE SAME SHAPE. Spoke agree that menswear wasn’t inclusive enough, so from 2014 they started to produce clothes that fit…properly fit… as well as look good and feel comfortable. They create timeless products that are built to last. They follow a straightforward three step formula: firstly, they are built to fit. We are all probably guilty of holding on to an item of clothing because you like how it looks on the hanger but looks like hot garbage when you arrange your body into it; Spoke claim to have found the sweet spot between bespoke and ready to wear, letting you enjoy the comfort of tailor-made without the hefty price tag. They achieve this by cutting their clothes in to more sizes and then finishing the order to your personal sizes. Step two of their formula is to focus on doing a few things well rather than many things adequately, this is why they work on just a few garments at a time but obsessively toil over the details, including the fabric, lining, fastenings and wash. The last step is my personal favourite: you don’t even have to leave the house to get your hands on them, they will turn up at your door with free delivery and returns, so you don’t have to strip down to your pants behind some stained curtain in a dressing room/stock room.
16
Production is largely based in Europe, with fabrics and trims mostly coming in from Italy. They also source from Germany, Switzerland, Turkey and elsewhere in Europe, but each pair of trousers is currently hand-finished in the UK. There are five styles of trousers to choose from (as well as polo shirts and shorts) and we decided to test out the Heros in Navy. These are Spoke’s bestselling chinos made from 99% 7oz drill cotton and blended with elastane for just a hint of give and a better fit. The fastening is rather unique and after an initial “what the?”, it becomes second nature and always faster opening than a regular button. These chinos are beautifully made to the highest quality, they look excellent both on and off the body, and there is nothing quite like owning a pair of stylish trousers that feel comfortable and look amazing at the same time. Get your tape measure out and take the plunge!
RRP £89.00
Tailor-made from the comfort of your sofa
https://spoke-london.com/products/navy-flex PROS Bespoke fit Comfortable Premium construction Timeless style Built to last
AER SLING BAG 2 MY GYM BUDDY AND I MEET MOST EVENINGS AT THE GYM: I ARRIVE IN MY GYM GEAR WITH NOTHING MORE THAN A BOTTLE OF WATER AND A TOWEL WHEREAS MY FRIEND COMES STRAIGHT FROM WORK, ALTHOUGH YOU COULD BE FORGIVEN FOR THINKING SHE JUST JUMPED OFF A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT BY THE NUMBER OF BAGS SHE BRINGS. THE ISSUE SHE FACES IS THAT SHE NEEDS CARRY BOTH HER WORK STUFF AND GYM GEAR WITHOUT EITHER COMING INTO CONTACT ON THE WAY HOME. NEITHER SWEATY GYM SHOES NOR LAPTOP SHOULD EVER KNOW THE OTHER EXISTS! The Sling Bag 2 from Aer could be the very thing she needs: this lightweight gym bag has been designed to carry both your workout essentials and your tablet or laptop in separate compartments, business in the front, party in the back… well, sweating and red face in the back. The Sling Bag 2 is available in Navy, Gray or Black and is worn across one shoulder like a traditional gym bag, however it looks smart enough to take to the office, has a compact profile with dimensions of 18”(L) x 11”(W) x 6”(D), has a volume of 17.2L and weighs just 1.2lb. The Sling Bag 2 has a water resistant 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior (originally developed for military body armour) for protection against the elements on the commute and has both Ykk Japanese zips and Duraflex plastic hardware for durability, whether it’s being stuffed in a locker, pushed under the work desk, or taking a battering on the underground. There are plenty of pockets to keep all your things organised: the front load, quick access pocket is well suited for small items you might need in a hurry like your keys, wallet or phone, however the zip is clearly visible so perhaps it isn’t the most discrete or high security pocket for your valuables. The padded laptop pocket will fit up to a 13” laptop and the multiple internal
18
No m stinky blu
pockets help keep things like cables, USB sticks and pens secure & organised. It also has a large pocket for clothes, but the best bit is the ventilated shoe compartment (suitable for up to men’s size 13), accessible through the bottom of the bag, which keeps stinky creps from coming into contact with the rest of your kit. The shoulder strap is adjustable and can be worn on either the right or left shoulder. Sadly, it offers no padding and looks a little cheap when compared to the rest of the bag. It could also benefit from a removable waist strap, just to give you the option of a stable hold if you ride a bike to work or the gym.
The Sling Bag 2 is a good choice for those who hit the gym during their lunch break and after work. It isn’t the most comfortable thing to wear for long periods of time, so it would best suit shorter commutes.
RRP $80.00
more shoes ues
https://www.aersf.com/sling-bag-2-black PROS Stylish design Water resistant 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon exterior Ventilated shoe compartment (fits up to men’s size 13 shoes) Padded laptop pocket
(fits up to 13” laptop) Multiple internal pockets for accessories Adjustable shoulder strap for left or right shoulder use
CONS Cheap strap Uncomfortable after extended wear
Front-load compartment looks vulnerable
DAINESE HP1 BL SHIRT AND PANTS AS ALFRED WAINWRIGHT SAID, “THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS BAD WEATHER, ONLY UNSUITABLE CLOTHING”, AND, WHEN YOU ARE PREPARING TO VENTURE OUT INTO THE COLD, IT IS IMPORTANT TO GET YOUR FOUNDATION LAYERS RIGHT. THE HP1 BL SERIES FROM DAINESE TAKES CARE OF THIS BY ENSURING YOU ARE STARTING OFF IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. The shirt and pants are sold separately - they understandably work well together but can obviously be used individually. Both are made from 10% Dryarn, 85% Polyamide and 5% Elastane. Designed for skiers (or boarders) who want to push themselves to the limit, Dainese have utilised years of research in the dynamics of the human body to understand which parts of the body are never extended or contracted, they then joined up these points along “non-extension lines” so the pressure placed on the body is kept constant. This research led to the creation of the BIOSUIT which was used by NASA astronauts and has filtered down into the HP1 BL series. It’s good to know you can use these both on the slopes and on the moon! The seamless technology and the Dryarn fabric create excellent insulation with good ventilation as well as a high level of comfort. The ‘non-extension lines’ produce a compression effect that helps keep muscles in position when skiing, along with all the other benefits of compression apparel. The shirt and pants are available in sizes XS/S - XL/XXL and come in either Stretch-Limo/Misty-Rose or Stretch-Limo/ Gunmetal (both basically black). The material is bacteriostatic, hypoallergenic and anti-odour, a must have for base layers, however they shouldn’t make you sweat too
20
much due to the interwoven micromesh sections for improved airflow. The pants feature a ¾ length cut which reduces bulk around the ankles, making it easier to slip on ski boots and technical socks. Both the HP1 BL shirt and pants are wonderfully comfortable: the premium construction ensures breathability and flexibility whilst providing a compressionstyle fit that hugs you in all the right places, keeping you warm whilst you shred up the slopes.
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing
RRP £71.50 (Shirt) £62.50 (Pants)
arrow-alt-circle-right
https://www.dainese.com/gb/en/hp1-blm-shirt/204910019.html?dwvar_204910019_ color=STRETCH-LIMO%2FGUNMETAL&cgid=winterthermal-layers#start=1 https://www.dainese.com/gb/en/hp1-bl-mpants/204910020.html PROS Thermal Comfortable Breathable Compression
Flexible Flatlock seams ¾ length pants
CONS Limited colours (black or black)
Sur f 3 Inspired by mountain bike technology Why choose between a four-wheel urban pushchair or a three-wheel trekking pushchair. With Surf 3 you can have both, uniquely adaptable it can switch between city and trekking modes with ease. Whether you’re in the town or country the unique suspension ensures a smooth ride.
4 wheels for urban use
silvercrossbaby.com
Trekking wheel for multi terrain use
ENTER THE WORLD OF ZWIFT.
© ZWIFT 2017.
An immersive digital cycling experience, Zwift makes indoor riding, training or racing, fun and rewarding.
Available on Try for free at
PC/ Mac
iPad iPhone
ZWIFT.COM
DREAMS SLEEPPAL+
WHEN YOU THINK OF THE BRAND ‘DREAMS’, YOU WILL PROBABLY THINK OF A LARGE STORE WITH LOADS OF MATTRESSES AND A SPOIL SPORT WHO WILL TELL YOU OFF FOR JUMPING FROM ONE TO ANOTHER (AND YOU JUST KNOW THAT’S WHAT ALL THE STAFF DO AS SOON AS THE DOORS ARE LOCKED). HOWEVER, WHAT YOU PROBABLY DIDN’T KNOW IS THAT THESE GUYS ARE SO OBSESSED BY WHAT GOES ON IN YOUR BEDROOM THAT THEY HAVE A SLEEPWELL RANGE WHICH INCLUDES THE SLEEPPAL+. This device has been created to help you track your sleep cycle, as well as your heart rate, respiratory rate, body movements, room temperature and humidity for a complete analysis of your sleep cycle. This all sounds rather invasive and conjures up images of trying to get to sleep whilst covered in wires and sensors. On the contrary, the Sleeppal+ is a super discrete monitor that lays between your mattress and your sheet with a magnetic cover that keeps the base in place. Once in place the Sleeppal+ can then be connected to your smartphone via the Napp app. It is here you will get a break down of all your data in easy-to-translate graphs and a ‘sleep score’, letting you see the quality of your sleep and providing hints and tips as to how it could be improved. Unlike a lot of sleep trackers that work with activity trackers, the Sleeppal+ will provide you with up to 30 days of battery life from one charge. You can input the time you usually go to bed or manually start tracking night by night, then, when you wake up, you simply press ‘Get Up’ and all your data will appear on the app. The strap remained in place over night, however you can feel it through your sheets and could do with having tapered edges
24
for better comfort. We found the results matched up reasonably close to my smart watch. However, therein lays the issue: are people willing to spend so much money on a product that can’t leave the bed when you do? Chances are if you are interested in your sleep health, you will be interested in other areas of your health that the Sleeppal+ just can’t provide.
30 d batter
Overall, if you are simply looking for details about your sleep and don’t have a princess and the pea style constitution (plus the money in your wallet), this could be a good investment for you. However, if you have an activity tracker or smartwatch, or are looking to get one in the future, it doesn’t bring anything new to the table.
days ry life
RRP £69.00
https://www.dreams.co.uk/sleeppal--sleeptracker/p/200-00011 PROS Monitors sleep cycle, heart rate and respiratory rate and body movement. Non-wearable User friendly app
Rechargeable battery lasts up to a month Monitor ambient temperature and humidity
CONS Limited features Some might find it uncomfortable Can take a few times to sync up
Poor construction in parts (tatty stitching) Expensive
COTTON CARRIER SKOUT SLING STYLE CAMERA HARNESS WHEN YOU SEE A BEAUTIFUL PHOTOGRAPH, IT IS EASY TO ASSUME THE PHOTOGRAPHER IS STANDING THERE ADMIRING THE SCENE. YOU FORGET THEY HAVE PROBABLY BEEN OUT POTENTIALLY FOR HOURS WITH A HEAVY CAMERA, JUST WAITING FOR THAT PERFECT IMAGE TO APPEAR BEFORE THEM. The Cotton Carrier Skout claims to be the worlds most comfortable, secure and accessible sling-style camera harness by holding your camera close to you body in a sturdy fashion. After travelling for three weeks with a digital SLR slung around my neck, I know first-hand the pain and discomfort carrying a camera all day can cause. The key element of the Skout is that nothing moves around, it simply hugs your core ready to be released in a discrete and quiet fashion when you see something worth snapping. The Skout has a fixed-position carrying system and uses a patented Twist & Lock mount to secure the camera to your chest. The harness distributes the weight evenly across your body, alleviating pressure points whilst also ensuring your gear is accessible. The harness is an adjustable onesize-fits-all system made from Kodra Synthetic canvas with DWR coating. The hub is C&C machined, anodized aluminium and securely attaches the camera to the harness. The hub can be adjusted to avoid blocking the battery door, whilst the threaded hole allows you to attach it to your tripod without having to remove it. There is a backup safety tether to prevent any accidental
26
Qu and to p
(and very expensive) slip ups, whilst the included G3 weather cover protects your gear from dust and water with 10 inches of clearance inside. Other features include the slim profile that allows you to easily stow it away when not in use and you can easily wear back packs and jackets over the top of it. It is available in either Realtree Xtra Camo or Charcoal Grey.
We were very impressed with the Skout: it is quick and easy to put on, lightweight, there is a zip-up pocket for small accessories and most importantly it is comfortable. The only issue we came across was the lack of integrated ventilation, meaning things get a little sweaty on the back and around the strap. However, that is a price we are willing to pay for the security, support, comfort and accessibility it supplies.
uick d easy put on
RRP $79
https://www.cottoncarrier.com/pages/camera-sling PROS Premium construction Even weight distribution Comfortable Easy to put on a adjust
Slim profile Thick padding Secure attachment point Stable
CONS Lacks ventilation
HAIX BLUE MOUNTAIN HAIX, LEADING FUNCTIONAL FOOTWEAR SPECIALISTS, DESIGN A WIDE RANGE OF SAFETY SHOES AND WORK BOOTS, INCLUDE THOSE FOR THE FIRE BRIGADE, RESCUE SERVICES, POLICE AND MILITARY. UNSURPRISINGLY, THEY ARE A POPULAR CHOICE IN FORESTRY AND THE CRAFT TRADE INDUSTRY THANKS TO THEIR REPUTATION OF HIGH-LEVEL PROTECTION. As well as ensuring the wearer’s safety, HAIX strive to create comfortable shoes and boots for daylong wear in both men’s and women’s sizes. The Blue Mountain Chainsaw boots have been specifically designed with a whole host of features to aid with safety and comfort in the forestry industry. These boots are the big brothers of the successful Blue Ridge Chainsaw boot but with some added extras, including a fully waterproof Gore-Tex membrane that has been abrasion tested to 500,000 rubs for an extended lifespan. The Blue Mountain are a Class 1 Chainsaw boot that means you will be protected to 20m/ sec. They are constructed from 2.52.7mm leather that is waterproof, hydrophobic and breathable. The footbed insole is anatomically formed and can be fully removed for washing or replaced entirely. They offer good moisture absorption for those hard-working feet and dry out quickly. The protective anatomical toecap is well padded for comfort on the inside of the boot, whilst offering maximum protection from heavy falling objects. The MSL-System is in place for increased impact absorption and isolation whilst the HAIX Climate-System promotes air circulation with every step - this works by releasing the moist air and pulling fresh
28
air in through the vent holes. The Gore-Tex Climate lining not only provides excellent waterproofing but also allows for moisture and heat to escape the shoe, helping you remain comfortable throughout the day. The Blue Mountain has a 20cm height, smooth lacing element for quick entry and removal and the toe area has reinforcement in the form of a rubber toecap, this adds to the wear resistant construction of the outer shell. The sole has a street/ terrain tread, which provides excellent traction on dry and wet surfaces alike. The boot is also both oil and petrol resistant as well as nonmarking characteristics.
Breat and w
The Blue Mountain boots are wonderfully breathable, warm and with plenty of flex to allow for natural movement, whilst at the same time providing that high level of protection HAIX is known and celebrated for.
thable warm
arrow-alt-circle-right
RRP £173.56
https://www.honeybros.com/Item/Haix_Blue_ Mountain_Chainsaw_Boots PROS Waterproof, hydrophobic, breathable leather Class 1 cut protection to 20 m/sec Anatomically formed footbed Washable/replaceable insole Well-padded protective toe cap
Haix® Climate-System Flexible protective through-sole Gore-Tex Climate membrane Highly wear-resistant Good traction
SOUNDMAGIC VENTO P55 THE VENTO P55 ARE SOUNDMAGIC’S FIRST HEADPHONES WHERE EVERY COMPONENT IS MANUFACTURED IN HOUSE. I DON’T KNOW WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT, BUT YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT QUESTIONS MIGHT POP UP IN THE PUB QUIZ, SO, WHILE WE ARE AT IT: THE NAME VENTO COMES FROM THE ITALIAN WORD FOR “WIND”; WE CAN ONLY HOPE IT REFERS TO THE WEATHER RATHER THAN BUTT ACOUSTICS. Anyway, I digress. Starting with the look of the headphones, you can be forgiven for thinking they are much more expensive than their wallet-friendly price tag suggests. The combination of a brushed stainless-steel headband, aluminium earcups, leather earpads and premium plastic creates a stylish and minimalist look with a slim profile and accessories equal in quality. The earpads are soft and comfortable and the lightweight headset (285g) makes them suitable for extended periods of wear. Also included in the box is a 1.2m audio cable, 1.2m “C” audio cable with mic and remote, VoIP adaptor, phone adaptor, a soft carrying pouch and good quality hard case. The included “C” cable means you can plug into your smartphone and answer incoming calls via the remote. As well as start and stop tracks, skip tracks and control the volume, the two included cables also mean you can swap between you phone a regular aux device. The 40mm proprietary driver has been developed from the ground up by SoundMAGIC’s team of engineers. It uses ultra-thin copper winding imported from Japan, resulting in a good quality of sound. It is formed very much around the mid-tones, providing a pleasant listening experience for most genres of music and tv
30
audio, however it is a little flat at either end on the spectrum and could benefit from a tighter high end and punchier bass. Having said all that, I think most people would be pleased with the balance of sound and combined with the Vento P55’s good looks and build quality, they represent a good value for money set of headphones.
Good value for money
RRP £189.99 https://soundmagicheadphones.com/products/soundmagic-vento-p55-closed-back-headphones-withreplaceable-cable-and-mic PROS Stylish stainless steel and aluminium construction Comfortable leather ear pads Lightweight build Closed earcups for excellent noise isolation
Replaceable cable Integrated mic and smartphone remote Skype/VOIP adaptor included
CONS Limited features Soft bass and slightly dull high tones
AVA FERTILITY TRACKER 2.0
WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT ONE OF THE MOST NATURAL THINGS IN THE WORLD COULD BE SO DIFFICULT? PEOPLE OFTEN ASSUME MAKING A BABY WILL BE THE FUN - I MEAN ALL THOSE EARLY NIGHTS, GREAT RIGHT? HOWEVER, FOR MANY COUPLES IT CAN QUICKLY BECOME A STRESSFUL, NEVER ENDING CYCLE OF APPS, THERMOMETERS, VITAMINS, COUNTING DAYS AND PEEING ON STICKS. TO TOP IT OFF: THE STRESS OF IT ALL CAN RENDER YOUR HARD WORK NULL AND VOID. The Ava 2.0 aims to remove the stress by combining all the multiple tracking methods into one little device you simply wear through the night. The optimised sensor pod tracks your cycle and lets you know when you have the best chance of conception in your cycle (tested for cycles 24 – 35 days and not tested for PCOS). At first look the Ava 2.0 looks like a regular activity tracker: it has a super slim design with a flexible silicone strap that remains comfortable all night. My only complaint here is that when you are dozy and ready for sleep, the springy wrist strap can be difficult to put on with one hand and the two loops that hold the excess strap in place are awkward to slide along the main strap (this makes me unreasonably mad when I’m hormonal). Like everything in life these days, you will need an App to work alongside the Ava 2.0. You will be asked as series of questions to set up your profile and then you will be asked to pair the device with your smartphone; it is all straightforward
32
stuff. Throughout the night the Ava 2.0 tracks your resting pulse rate, this is the main way it detects when your body is preparing to ovulate. By taking an average temperature during the night, it provides a more accurate reading than a one-off reading when you first wake up (sometimes I manage to wrap myself up in the duvet in the early hours, which could affect a one-off reading). Alongside this, the Ava also gives you an insight into your physiological stress level, sleep quality and resting heart rate, helping you make changes to your life style to ensure your body is healthy and ready for pregnancy. The Ava detects an average of five fertile days per cycle and provides all your data feedback on the App. I found I needed to sync the device 1-3 times each morning before the data appeared, but this is no different to my other activity tracker, it just means if you are in a hurry you might have to come back to it and sync it later in the day (Ava recommends you sync it every day for the most accurate predictions). The
app also lets you track symptoms and if you become pregnant you can change the settings and receive explanations of what to expect from your body and the baby as it grows. This includes a weekly weight gain recommendation, as well as continuing to track your sleep, physiological stress and resting pulse rate. I tested the Ava alongside a digital fertility monitor (the peeing on sticks kind) and received similar results. I also get ovulation cramps which tied up with the Ava predictions, so I have faith that it is providing me with accurate results. The Ava can be used to track your cycle, aid conception and track your pregnancy. Some people might be put off by the rather large price tag, but when you consider it can take couples up to 2 years to conceive, you can easily spend that on ovulation sticks (not to mention the added hassle of using them). If you are looking for a discrete, low maintenance and accurate way of tracking your cycle, I would happily recommend the Ava 2.0 if you have the budget.
https://www.avawomen.com/order PROS Records temperature, resting pulse rate, breathing rate and physiological stress levels Comfortable Easy to use Discrete and convenient Accurate data Track cycles, fertility and pregnancy Use friendly app Provides you with your five most fertile days
CONS
RRP £249.00
12hour battery life will only last 3-4 days Strap can be fiddly Takes a couple of times to sync Expensive one-off cost
MIRA ADVANCE SHOWER (8.7KW)
IF YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE A HANDLE ON LIFE, THERE’S NOTHING LIKE TRYING TO USE SOMEONE ELSE’S SHOWER TO REMIND YOU THAT YOU ARE BASICALLY A MONKEY WHACKING A COCONUT AGAINST THE FLOOR TRYING TO GET IN. SOME SHOWERS HAVE SO MANY DIALS, KNOBS AND BUTTONS THAT IT LOOKS MORE LIKE THE COCKPIT OF A PLANE RATHER THAN SOMETHING TO WASH THE FILTH OFF. The Mira Advance Shower has been designed in such a simple, intuitive way that anyone can figure it out first time… even with a hangover. Joking aside, there is an important reason it has been designed this way and that is to ensure people with limited dexterity, impaired vision, hearing, or vulnerable users can use the shower safely and efficiently. This electric shower comes with useful safety and navigational features for ease of use and claims that it will outlast the competition thanks to the best in class Mira Clearscale Pro technology. The easy to use control is comprised of a central loop handle for temperature control and a large button to turn the unit on and off that doesn’t depress much. The Mira Opti-flo Pro provides a consistent showering experience no matter what the shower pressure is: the temperature can be set to four different maximum limits to prevent accidental burns, whilst the extralong slide bar allows for easy adjustment for a wide range of heights with a friction grip shower head holder. There is a clear, audible beep to indicate when the unit is turning on/off or has reached the desired temperature and an audible click with each turn of the temperature dial. The unit’s phased shut down also ensures all hot water is flushed from the tank, making
34
it ready for the next user. There are high contrast visuals on critical touch points, this means the bits you interact with are black in order to stand out from the otherwise antiglare matte white construction. The large 110mm shower head also offers an expansive spray area with a choice of three spray modes.
Best in Mira Clea Pro Techn
The Mira Advance is a well thought out piece of kit that provides an enjoyable shower experience with a whole host of useful features to ensure safety and functionality, particularly for vulnerable or elderly users.
class arscale nology
RRP £307.50
https://www.mirashowers.co.uk/showers/electricshowers/mira-advance-87kw/ PROS Easy to use central loop handle and large on/off button Audible beeps and clicks High contrast touch points Anti-glare matte finish Phased shut down 4 maximum temperature limits
Extra long slide bar with friction grip Large shower head with 3 spray modes
LOWEPRO PROTACTIC BP 350AW II THE PROTACTIC BP 350 AW II BACKPACK HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO TRANSPORT PROFESSIONAL CAMERA GEAR AROUND EVEN IN THE MOST RUGGED TERRAINS, WITH A WHOLE BUNCH OF PRACTICAL FEATURES TO PROTECT AND ORGANISE YOUR VALUABLES. The 350AW II comes with the Lowepro Backpack, flexible padded dividers, utility pouch, water bottle holder, tripod cup, adjustable quick straps and rain cover to make sure you are ready for anything. This bag has a highly adaptive interior thanks to the adjustable padded dividers, multi access points and convertible utility belt. It has a dedicated laptop compartment suitable for up to a size 13” laptop. This compact bag measures up at 11.81 x 7.09 x 18.5” exterior with a 10.24 x 4.92 x 15.75” interior, giving you 15.89L and weighing just 4.89lb in total. Don’t let the size deceive you, however, as the 350AW II has a healthy gear profile of one or two DSLRs, one with 24-70mm f/2.8 lens attached, up to eight lenses and a whole load of accessories including flash units, tripod/monopod and your laptop. You can quickly access your gear through any of the four opening points which are located on the top, both sides and on the back, meaning you’ll never miss a photo opportunity. The body is made with a composite-shell construction and uses FormShell technology on the top opening for protection against impact. This also helps when opening the bag, as the ridged structure lifts away cleanly in one piece. The ActiveZone has been created to provide support around the shoulder blades, back and waist and has been structured in a way that allows air to pass through for ventilation. The raincoat hugs the back,
36
protecting all your stuff from rain, snow, dust and sand, and can be stored away when it’s not needed, whilst the system of compatible loops and tabs make a convenient way of adding pouches and cases to store along water bottles, memory cards and more. The ProTactic BP 350AW II from Lowepro is a great allrounder: it’s an ultraversatile bag that will keep your gear safe from bad weather and external knocks, plus you can easily organise all your accessories and access the camera quickly.
Great all-rounder
RRP £259.95
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lowepro-ProTactic-Backpack-Mirrorless-LP37177-PWW/dp/B07J1ZXSGH PROS Four access points ActivZone back panel All Weather AW Cover Includes utility pouch, water bottle holder, tripod cup and two Quick Straps Adjustable interior dividers for snug, secure fit and easy customization. SlipLock-compatible strap system
Multiple organiser pockets and adjustable dividers Comfortable Premium construction
CASTORE FUSION SOLAR JACKET DID YOU EVER HAVE THOSE LITTLE STARS STUCK ON YOUR CEILING AS A KID THAT GLOWED YELLOW WHEN THE LIGHTS WERE TURNED OFF? THANKFULLY, TO AVOID THE HASSLE OF HAVING TO APPLY THESE INDIVIDUAL STARS ALL OVER YOUR BODY, CASTORE HAS CREATED SOMETHING COOL USING THE SAME TECHNOLOGY. The Fusion Solar Jacket has been created to be the ultimate training jacket for athletes who train both early in the morning and late in the evening, in all weather conditions. Available in Small, Medium and Large, this jacket is super lightweight at just 60GSM - it’s practically see-though; you can comfortably tie it around your waist when not needed without adding any noticeable bulk or weight, and, even better, it packs down into a compact little piece inside its own pocket with no need for any additional stuff bags. What sets the Fusion Solar jacket apart from other training jackets is its solar storage capability: the outer is constructed with a unique membrane that has particles integrated into the fabric, these particles hold energy received from the sun when worn in daylight and can release it for up to 24 hours, providing you with 360 degrees of reflectivity. As well as turning you into a glowing vision of fitness, this jacket also protects you from the rain thanks to the 4L membrane fabric and fully taped seams, giving you a waterproof protection of up to 20,000mm. The Fusion Solar is comfortable to wear and has a stretchy back which gives
38
you ample room to layer up underneath, as well as allowing you complete freedom of movement. The slim, seamless cuffs prevent chaffing and most importantly allows you to focus on your ride instead of the time of day.
Energy release for up to 24 hours
RRP £295.00
https://castore.com/uk/fusion-solar-jacket PROS Solar energy storing provides increase visibility Waterproof protection up to 20,000mm Stretchy Super lightweight Packs into its own pocket
FOREO LUNA FOFO YOUR DAILY SKINCARE ROUTINE CAN NOW GET AN UPGRADE WITH THE APP-CONNECTED LUNA FOFO. This smart cleansing and massaging device gives you a personalised facial at a touch of a button. The ultra-compact design means that it can easily travel with you and the straightforward functionality makes it a quick and simple process to use, wherever you might be. To get started, you will need to need to download the FOREO ‘For You’ app and follow the onscreen prompts to set up your skin profile, then sync the fofo to your app and you are ready to go. To get an analysis press and hold the ON button for five seconds until the camera symbol begins to flash, then follow the on-screen directions for where to apply the dual sensors. There are four areas on your face that it will take readings from. Once your results appear on the screen (and are saved to the fofo), it is time to cleanse with your favourite product. Dampen the fofo and start the massage by pressing ON (hold for one second) and move the device in small circular motions; there will be a pause to indicate when it’s time to move to a new facial area. You don’t have to go through the analyse step every time but it’s worth doing regularly as your skin can vary from week-to-week and even dayto-day. The 24K gold plated skin sensors measure hydration, as it believes this is the key to smoother and younger looking skin. It will use your results to set the intensity
40
and duration for each key facial zone, whilst the high frequency T-Sonic pulsations and delicate silicone bristles cleanse skin of oil, dirt and makeup residue, gently exfoliating away dead cells. The fofo is available in seven colours and will provide you with 400 uses straight out of the box before you will need to replace the AAA batteries. It is constructed from quick drying, nonporous silicone which is completely bacteria resistant. After two months of use, my skin felt softer and had a nice glow about it. I can’t say it had any effect on breakout’s or made me look any younger, but it felt nice to use and fits easily into my skincare routine.
400 uses p charge
per
RRP £79.00
https://www.foreo.com/luna-fofo PROS Personalised skin analysis Massage and cleansing in one Compact design Companion app easy to use
Skin feels soft and clean after use Easy to use Seven colours available
CONS Expensive Had no visible effects on breakouts or youthfulness of my skin
SOUND BLASTERX H6
THE SOUND BLASTERX H6 IS A 7.1 USB GAMING HEADSET WITH VIRTUAL SURROUND SOUND FOR PS4, XBOX ONE, NINTENDO SWITCH, AND PC (CHECK COMPATIBLE SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS). It comes with the headset, 2M USB Cable and 1.5M 3.5mm Audio Cable. This headset has custom tuned 50mm Neodymium drivers to provide a loud and accurate sound, it even includes Scout Mode which allows you to hear the enemies before they have had a chance to hear you. There is a detachable noise-reducing ClearComms microphone for in-game voice communication and three professionallytuned hardware EQ profiles. The main thing you will notice straight out of the box is the generously padded earpads. These earpads are breathable thanks to the mesh fabric which allow the heat to escape and the thickly padded with memory foam which moulds to the shape of your ears and head. They are also fully replaceable for an extended lifespan - when combined with the reduced clamping force of less than 600g and padded headband, this is (unsurprisingly) extremely comfortable headset. Comfort is pointless, however, if the sound quality isn’t up to scratch, but that isn’t something we have to worry about with the H6. As well as being impressively loud, the 7.1 virtual surround sound makes for a fully immersive experience, allowing you to hear tiny details (including footsteps and reload) and quickly locate their source. This makes it a great choice for first person shooters, open world, and Battle Royale style games. The microphone ensures your teammates hear your voice loud and clear
42
whilst the mic monitoring feature lets you check how your voice sounds over the mic. Yes, they can hear you eating and yes, you should stop! There is also a red LED for quick reference when you have muted it. Other features include the downloadable Sound Blaster Connect software on your PC to use instant audio enhancements such as Surround, Crystallizer, and Bass, allowing you to tune it to your perfect audio balance. The Ambient Monitoring lets you to listen to your surroundings whilst keeping the headset on, ensuring you don’t miss anything important like a knock at the door or a call down to dinner without the sound also being transmitted to teammates. You can easily reach the controls on the left ear cup, making it handy for right handed PC users, but lefties and console users will just have to deal with it. Lastly, you can customise the earcups with the Aurora Reactive RGB Lighting display with 16 million colours and special effects to play with. Winning has never looked so exciting! For a headset in this price range, you will be hard pushed to find something more comfortable. The sound quality is loud, rich and immersive and all the added extra features make for exceptional value for money.
RRP £69.99 https://uk.creative.com/p/gaming-headsets/soundblasterx-h6 PROS Very comfortable 7.1 virtual surround sound Immersive sound quality Low cost Detachable ClearComms Unidirectional Condenser Microphone Ambient Monitoring Breathable, replaceable memory foam earpads
Aurora Reactive RGB Lighting 50mm Audio Drivers Scout Mode Sound Blaster Connect software Three professionallytuned hardware EQ profiles
STIRMATE AUTOMATIC POT STIRRER AS SOMEONE WHO HATES COOKING, I AM MORE THAN HAPPY TO LET ROBOTS TAKE OVER ANY PART OF THE TEDIOUS CHORE. I WAS EXCITED TO SEE WHAT THE STIRMATE HAD TO OFFER IN THE WAY OF CONVENIENCE. This device comes in one size and attaches to pots 6 to 13 inches in diameter and 3 to 9 inches deep, freeing up both your hands for other things like opening a bottle of wine. It has been designed and developed by professional chefs, but it isn’t the most stylish of things. It also looks complicated, but I assure you it isn’t. It attaches to the pot in a matter of seconds by a simple, yet sturdy clamp. Once fitted the stirring arm self-adjusts to the depth of the pan. When not in use it folds away into a slim profile for easy storage in a cupboard or draw. There are two arms that stick out from the central pole, the smaller one sits in the middle of the pot and mixes the contents nearer the top, whilst the bottom arm keeps the mixture on the bottom of the pan on the move to prevent it sticking or burning whilst cooking. It will work best with straight side/flat bottom pans - any warped old pans are a no go! It features a high torque gear motor which is whisper quiet and powerful enough to work on both thin foods like soup and sauces or thick foods like risotto or porridge. It is constructed with FDA High Temperature (520° F) food-grade plastic, so you don’t have to worry about the arms melting or scratching the bottom of your pans. The StirMATE comes with a rechargeable Li-ION battery and a charging
44
adapter. You will get about 13 hours of use per charge - it cannot be used whilst plugged into the charger, but it doesn’t take long to recharge. We enjoyed the convenience of the StirMATE, however it isn’t perfect: with only the one stirring speed to choose from, it does mean some things like toffee or cameral will burn as it simply isn’t moving fast enough, so we recommend you keep a close eye on certain recipes the first time to ensure it moves fast enough for your ingredients. All things considered this is probably one of the few kitchen gadgets you will end up using regularly; it’s so easy to clip on and go, meaning you can carry on preparing the rest of your meal or catch up on your social media.
Cooki a sto
arrow-alt-circle-right
ing up orm
RRP $38.95
https://www.stirmate.com/product-page/stirmate-iismart-pot-stirrer PROS Easy to use Quiet 13 hours per charge Compact size for easy storage
Works with both thick and thin foods Easy to clean
CONS Speed isn’t adjustable Only one stirrer included
TOPO DESIGNS ROVER PACK
ALTHOUGH THE TOPO DESIGNS BRAND HAS DEVELOPED WITH MOUNTAINS AND OUTDOOR LIVING IN MIND, THEY HAVE ALSO TRIED TO INCLUDE FEATURES AND STYLES THAT WON’T LOOK OUT OF PLACE IN THE CITY ON THE DAILY COMMUTE OR DOWN THE LOCAL GYM. The Rover is a multifunctional daypack that features a simple and userfriendly design. Topo Designs go as far as to describe it as the ‘Goldilocks of rucksacks’not too big, not too small, not too fancy, not too simple and happy to steal from hard working bear families...or something like that. The Rover Packs are all handmade in Colorado, constructed from a tough 1000D Cordura® which helps to keep the weight down whilst also providing a durable and water-resistant outer. It also has a straightforward cinch top closure. We received the Navy edition to test out and along with the Ballistic Black, these are the more reserved colours available. However, if you are feeling a little bolder, there are the Navy/Red, Forest/Black, Olive/Khaki, Turquoise/Clay and Silver/ Charcoal options to choose from, which use two blocks of colour for a striking look. The Rover measures up at 11”W x 17”H x 10”D, holds up to 20L and weighs 589g. The heavy duty YKK zippers ensure a reliable closure whilst adding a distinct look to the bag; you won’t need to struggle with these zips, as the zip-pulls make it easy to access your gear with gloves on. There is a large main compartment with easy access for clothes and bulky gear, two large exterior zipper pockets provide fast access to smaller
46
items, maps, phone or snacks for example, the dedicated inner 15” laptop sleeve protects your valuables whilst keeping it secure, and the two side pockets can be used to carry water bottles/any extra gear you might want to grab without removing the bag from your back. Other features include the flap top with dual side-release buckle closures for added protection to the main compartment and a padded base that prevents your valuables meeting the ground. There are dual side compression straps to slim down the profile when it isn’t fully loaded, as well as a top carry handle, travel bag attachment loops and padded shoulder straps with mesh backing for comfort and ventilation. There are a few things we weren’t too keen on, like the lack of both a waist strap or sternum strap. There isn’t any kind of a ventilation system where the bag meets your back and the dangling straps (the excess from the compression straps and adjustable straps) can get caught on things. However, we did like the overall look of the bag: it was comfortable (if you exclude the ventilation) and the bright yellow liner in the navy edition made it easy to locate items in the bottom of the bag.
RRP £135
Goldilocks of rucksacks
https://topodesigns.com/products/rover-pack PROS Durable Large main compartment Padded internal sleeve fits most 15” laptops Side water bottle pockets
Dual side compression straps Padded backpack straps with mesh backing Heavy-duty YKK zippers Travel Bag attachment loops
CONS Lack ventilation Dangling straps Limited features No waist or sternum strap
SMART TURN SYSTEM MOTORCYCLISTS ARE SOME OF THE MOST VULNERABLE PEOPLE ON THE ROAD AND IT ONLY TAKES ONE SILLY MISTAKE TO PUT THEIR LIVES AT RISK. THAT ISN’T AN OVER STATEMENT, AS A CLOSE FRIEND OF MINE HAD A VERY LUCKY ESCAPE WHILST DRIVING DOWN A STRAIGHT SECTION OF ROAD; A CAR PULLED RIGHT OUT IN FRONT OF HIM FROM A JUNCTION ON THE LEFT (DUKE OF EDINBURGH STYLE) AND UNKNOWN TO HIM, HIS LEFT INDICATOR WAS STILL TICKING AWAY FROM A PREVIOUS MANOEUVRE, LEADING THE DRIVER OF THE CAR TO BELIEVE IT WAS SAFE TO PULL OUT. THANKFULLY BOTH PARTIES WERE OK, BUT THIS TYPE OF ACCIDENT IS SADLY ALL TOO COMMON. Enter the Smart Turn System (STS), the first self-cancelling turn module that can be installed onto your motorcycle, which senses when the bike has completed its turn and switches off the signal for you. This clever little device recognises all types of turns and manoeuvres, ensuring your indicator is never sending out the wrong signal. It is surprisingly simple to install but I wouldn’t say it’s easy (check the website for compatibility). Someone with a little mechanical knowledge and patience is more than capable of setting it up, but if you are concerned you can always take it down to your local garage. The unit itself is very compact: once installed it does add a little resistance to the indicators, but other than that you wouldn’t know it’s there – it measures up at just 32x32x45mm and weighs 155g. As mentioned, the STS recognises all types of turns: left and right, roundabouts and lane changes, and if no turn is made after 15 seconds the indicator will automatically switch off. The STS works off a 12VDC power supply and won’t drain
48
your battery. It comes with a 50cm cable and is made with reinforced automotivegrade polyamide housing. It doesn’t affect the motorcycle’s electronics and has builtin protection from electric shocks. The Smart Turning System does exactly what it promises, deactivating your indicator after each turn so you don’t have to (or forget to), helping you concentrate on what’s ahead of you rather than checking the dash and keeping you safer on the road.
Automa deactiv indicato manoe
atically vates or after euvre
RRP £84.95
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Smart-Turn-System-automatic-cancelling/dp/B07CHT3PLX PROS Automatically deactivates indicator after manoeuvre Recognises all turns and manoeuvres STS device cancels turn-signals according to road rules Auto cancels after 15sec if no turn made High performing
Allow you to focus more on the traffic and riding itself Doesn’t drain battery Compact
LIFESAVER JERRYCAN 20000UF THE KIND OF WATER CONTAINERS LIFESAVER PRODUCE ARE NOT THE SORT YOU WILL SEE IN THE OFFICE OR LOCAL GYM: THEY MAKE SERIOUS GEAR FOR SERIOUS SITUATIONS AND COULD POTENTIALLY SAVE YOUR LIFE (HENCE THE NAME, DUH!) The Lifesaver Jerrycan comes in either 10000UF or 20000UF - we will be looking at the 20000UF in a little more detail. Unlike its little brother which is only available in one colour, the 20000UF comes in either Tan, Green or Blue, so you have the choice of either blending in or standing out from your surroundings. This super robust water purifier is capable of filtering 20,000 litres of skanky water you wouldn’t want to touch your shoes into clean drinking water. It has a replaceable microbiological water filter that uses ultra-filtration technology removing >99.99% of viruses, > 99.9999% of bacteria and > 99.9% of parasitic cysts. The LifeSaver Jerrycan holds up to 18.5 litres of water at any one time, designed for groups on expeditions and adventurers on overland travel or simply families setting themselves up for offthe-grid living. The jerry can allow you to carry and store dirty water and then filter it only when you need it, preventing recontamination of previously filtered water. The filtered water can be used for drinking, cooking and washing and with the addition of the LifeSaver shower attachment, it has an activated carbon filter which removes chlorine, taste and odour. It doesn’t taste like regular tap water, but it certainly doesn’t taste bad. The Jerrycan
50
measures up at 36 x 18 x 51cm and weighs 4.35kg when empty. You will have to look over the instructions when you first use it, but it is simple enough and becomes second nature very quickly: just fill, pump and drink; the water will be ready to drink instantly, and the materials used are both BPA and BPS free. There is also a failsafe automatic indicator to let you know when the cartridge needs replacing. The Lifesaver Jerrycan is a great product, it does exactly what is promises to do and can provide you safe drinking water time and time again. It is tough enough to ensure the both of you will survive even the harshest environments.
Fill, pump and d
drink
RRP £239.99 https://iconlifesaver.com/product/lifesaver-jerrycan20000uf/ PROS Provides 20,000litres of clean water Durable materials Easy to use 3 colours available Shower attachment available Failsafe indicator
MAUI JIM LAVA TUBE
OK, SO THE MIDDLE OF WINTER ISN’T NECESSARILY THE TIME YOU WILL BE LOOKING FOR SOME NEW SUNGLASSES. HOWEVER, WITH WET ROADS AND THE LOW SUN, IT IS JUST AS EASY TO BECOME DAZZLED AT THIS TIME OF YEAR AS IT IS IN SUMMER, PLUS EVERYONE LOOKS COOL IN SUNNIES AND IT WILL DETRACT FROM THE EXTRA CHINS YOU GAINED OVER CHRISTMAS. The Lava Tube from Maui Jim is one of their newest styles, named after the stunning Lava Tubes in Hawaii, it may seem unconventional to name a pair of sunglasses after the only place in Hawaii you won’t need protection from the sun, however they are both beautiful in their own way, so we will let it slide. These glasses have a squared aviator design that will suit ‘medium face shapes’, which we will take to mean most face shapes (or at least everyone in our office). We received the MAUI Sunrise lenses with the Satin Sepia frames, but they are also available in Black Matte, Satin Dark Gunmetal and Gold Matte. The frame is constructed from a strong and lightweight titanium to ensure flexibility and daylong comfort. They also have Maui Jim’s most advanced and lightest lens material: the MauiBrilliant, featuring optics nearly as clear as glass but with just one third of the weight. The pink mirror coating creates a striking and stylish look whilst also enhancing the colour and clarity of the world around you. Maui Jim recommend this design for fast action activities like knock and run or less anti-social activities (well, that’s how we interpreted it). The Eye measures up at 57mm with a 17mm double bridge and 145mm temples with three-barrel optical hinges, the nose pads are adjustable and
52
have a non-slip finish. Like all Maui Jim’s, they come with a high-quality protective clam style hard case as well as a colourful soft micro-fibre cloth case that doubles up as a lens cleaner. These gorgeous glasses will protect you from UV light, glare and the fashion police, whilst giving you a warm rose-tinted outlook on the world.
Squared aviator design
n
RRP $299
arrow-alt-circle-right
https://www.mauijim.com/US/en_US/shop/sunglasses/aviators/lava-tube PROS Ultra-light weight Comfortable all day long Stylish Provides colour enhanced clarity Four colour combinations available Protective hard case and soft case/lens cleaner
NEAT ACOUSTICS IOTA ALPHA THE IOTA ALPHA SPEAKERS FROM NEAT ARE A DARK HORSE AMONG THE MORE ‘HIGH-END’ STEREOS ON THE MARKET. WITH THEIR STRANGE LOOKS, ALMOST LIKE A CROSS BETWEEN A TUMBLE-DRIER AND A HALF-FINISHED ROBOT FROM A 50’S TV SHOW, IT’S EASY TO THINK THAT THEIR SONIC OUTPUT WILL BE SIMILARLY WHACKY. HOWEVER, THESE LITTLE KNEE-HIGH SPEAKERS HAVE GOT A FEW SURPRISES INSIDE THAT SHATTER THESE MOCKING FIRST IMPRESSIONS. Construction-wise the Iota Alpha’s look and feel pleasantly solid, with a nice finish available in either Natural Oak, American Walnut, Black Oak or Satin White applied to the exterior, and featuring four sharp (but not too sharp) feet that can dig the speaker into carpets with relative ease. At the compact dimensions of 45 (+spikes) x 20 x 16cm, they are small enough to comfortably manoeuvre and position exactly as your room’s acoustics dictate. The guts of the Alpha are derived from its 2011 predecessor: the top part of the speaker is a sealed box housing a 50mm Emit magnetic/ planar tweeter and a 10cm polypropylene mid/bass unit, with a 13.5cm paper-cone bass unit also located at the bottom of the cabinet, providing a 2.5-way driven design. There is also a bass port at the lower-rear of the unit to really get the ‘bounce’ going on floor, so make sure you bed those sharp feet in correctly, otherwise you’ll miss out on some of the low-end frequencies. Top marks for the build-quality, but now the all-important questions: how do they sound? Despite them being small enough to trip over if you’re not paying attention, these speakers certainly pack a punch that belies their size. With the speakers placed at an upwards angle, the sound experienced in the room is both spacious and immersive. The treble and
54
mid-tones are stately and confident, with plenty of drama and no loss in precision as the volume got cranked up. It would be an overstatement to say everything is perfectly balanced, but, for a casual listening experience, the Alpha’s exceed all expectations: the bass-end really delivers the necessary drive and the rhythms are pretty irresistible. Obviously these little speakers won’t be powerful enough to fill a cathedral, but for a living-room, den, or bedroom, they are liable to totally blow you away. The Iota Alpha speakers from Neat are like a shot of over-proof rum: a big effect from a little container. After you’ve heard your favourite music come exploding to life, you’ll instantly fall in love with everything, from the EQ to the Alpha’s unconventional looks. The amount of enjoyment you derive will ultimately come down to what kit you run through it – the better the amplifier, the more the Alpha’s will reveal to you, although even mid-range equipment will probably hold you suitably captivated. The only downside is the fierce & strong competition among speakers at this price range: there are certainly similarly priced units with stronger bass and a greater expanse of mid/high tones. However, in terms of the ‘size/output’ ratio, the Alpha’s are well worth the investment.
RRP £1,470 http://neatacoustics.com/iota-alpha/ PROS Compact, well-made design Easy to manoeuvre & position Immersive sound quality
Bass, treble and midtones very satisfying Little precision lost in overall tone at louder volumes
CONS Strong competition among speakers at this price-range
MELITTA AROMAFRESH
FUN FACT: MELITTA BENTZ INVENTED THE FIRST COFFEE FILTER IN 1908 - GET THIS WOMAN A STATUE! THIS OPENED A WHOLE NEW WAY OF PREPARING THE BLACK WAKE UP JUICE. TODAY MELITTA AROMAFRESH (NOW YOU KNOW WHY THEY USE THAT NAME) ALLOWS YOU TO WAKE UP TO A CUP OF COFFEE MADE FROM FRESHLY GROUND BEANS OR PRE-GROUND COFFEE; THAT’S ALWAYS WORTH GETTING UP FOR! The Aromafresh comes with the Aromafresh Grind and Brew filter coffee maker (Black/Stainless steel), 5 1x4 filters, Borosilicate glass jug and cleaning brush. It’s a rather big boy at 650g and dimensions of 30.2(L) x 31.2(W) x 51.5 cm(H), so make sure you have the counterspace before investing! The transparent water tank claims to hold up to 10 cups at 150ml each, but with the average cup being 300ml we are realistically looking about 5-6 cups. The integrated grinder means you don’t have to lift a finger to prepare the coffee, however you can easily switch it off if you choose to put ground coffee directly into the filter. You have settings to choose between fine and coarse ground coffee, the brew’s strength (mild, medium or strong) can be programmed into the device, and it can keep your coffee warm for a selected amount of time: 20, 40 or 60 minutes, the AromaFresh will then automatically switch off at the end of the programme. You can prepare the machine to make your coffee at the right time, like first thing in the morning, for example, with the Timer Function. There is also an Anti-drip system, LCD screen with time display, water hardness adjustment, detachable filter holder, and a descaling indicator and program, it also has dishwasher safe detachments for easy cleaning. On paper the AromaFresh looks
56
g r e a t , however it won’t make the perfect coffee for everyone. Because there isn’t a sprinkler head the water hits the middle of the coffee only and it passes through at a fast speed, this can result in a weak tasting coffee, especially when making a full jug worth. People who are used to cafetière-style coffee will probably find it too weak. We experimented with using two filters which resulted in a stronger coffee. We also found the anti-drip system wasn’t very effective and the coffee would hit the heat plate when the jug was removed. The grinder occasionally produces a lower yield of beans, which will result in a jug of yellow water rather than a coffee - I could probably forgive the occasional miss-grind if only the coffee was stronger.
Adjust coffe streng
We appreciated the ease of use and sound build quality, plus with a few tweaks you can increase the strength, but should you have to compromise in the first place? We will leave that for you to decide...
table ee gth
RRP £164.99
arrow-alt-circle-right
https://www.melitta.co.uk/en/AromaFresh-802,64775. html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIiaCcg8qI4AIVEFXTCh0DfQv yEAAYASAAEgJuKfD_BwE PROS Easy to use Solid construction Integrated grinder Adjustable coffee strength
Dish washer proof Transparent water Timer feature including clock with LCD display Programmable warm keeping time
CONS Anti-drip feature needs improving Grinder can be inconsistent
Large
PELI 1640 PROTECTIVE CASE IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON TRAVELLING WITH DELICATE OR EXPENSIVE EQUIPMENT, PELI IS THE BRAND YOU SHOULD LOOK FOR. The 1640 Procective Case has internal dimensions 632mm (L) x 632mm (W) x 364mm (D) with external dimensions of 691mm (L) x 698mm (W) x 414mm (D). This large square case is waterproof, dustproof and crushproof, manufactured with Copolymer Polypropylene and uses an open cell core and solid wall construction, both for strength and durability. The neoprene O-Ring seal ensures your cargo is protected from water and dust by forming a watertight seal when the case is closed, the double-step easy-open latches make it quick and easy to access your gear whilst also protecting against accidental opening on transit. There is an integrated automatic pressure release valve which quickly equalises the changes in atmospheric pressure, making it ideal for taking with you on flights. If you have ever taken a packet of crisps on a flight, you know the damage pressure can do. The 1640 has quiet roll wheels with stainless steel ball bearings for durable and smooth rolling. The retractable handle isn’t the easiest to slide back in, but it does provide a sturdy support when rolling the case behind you. The rubberised handles give you a sturdy hold on the case even in the rain and the stainless-steel pins used
58
for the hinges, latches and handles prevent corrosion. The 1604 is available both with or without foam inserts for interior protection. It has a waterproof buoyancy up to 165.56kg, an IP67 rating and weighs 15.42kg when empty (17.24kg with foam). The Peli 1640 Protective Case offers powerful protection to your valuables whilst ensuring easy transportation by feet, wheels and wings.
Waterproo Crushproof Dustproo RRP £375.05 (with foam) £342.54 (without)
arrow-alt-circle-right
of, and of
https://peliproducts.co.uk/1640-protector-case.html?g clid=EAIaIQobChMI5ammmNaI4AIVCrvtCh3DqwFnEA AYAiAAEgL3R_D_BwE PROS Waterproof, crushproof and dustproof Automatic pressure equalisation valve Easy-open latches Rubber ‘O-ring’ seal
Quiet rolling wheels Available with or without foam
CONS Retractable handle awkward to slide back in
SPINLOCK DECKVEST LITE AND LITE+ THE SPINLOCK DECKVEST LITE AND LITE+ ARE SUITABLE FOR FAST CRAFT, RIBS, POWER BOATING, SAIL BOATING, PADDLE SPORTS, FISHING, OPEN POWERCRAFT, ETC. BASICALLY, IF THERE’S WATER AND YOU’RE NOT MEANT TO GO IN IT, THE DECKVEST LITE/LITE+ HAS GOT YOUR BACK…AND CHEST. The difference between the Lite and Lite+ is simple, the Lite+ comes with an integrated deck safety harness with a soft loop for safety line attachment. Now that complicated explanation is out of the way, the rest of this review will treat them as one and the same. The Deckvest Lite/+ have been created to be a compact and lightweight life vest to ensure you are free to move about naturally without restriction whilst keeping you safe in the event of going overboard. So, hold tight as we dive deeper into the extensive functions that make up this life vest. Starting with the most important feature - the UML Mk5 Inflator it is water sensitive and will automatically be activated when submerged. It uses a compressed paper capsule which dissolves when wet, which then releases a spring to puncture the CO2 cylinder. The cap has been designed so that it will only activate when water is flowing upwards through the unit when you are going down into the water. This means you don’t have to worry about spray, rain or even your coffee running down the jacket. As we mentioned before, the Lite/+ has a low weight at just 860g. It is easy to put on thanks to the side donning and single crotch strap with recessed clip. There is a toggle attachment point for a Chest Pack and the optional Pylon Light, a high intensity, water activated flashing
60
LED Light on a 23cm flexible antenna wand which gives improved visibility above your head and the water. Other extras include the LumeOn, which provides lifejacket bladder illumination lights, a sprayhood to reduce the risk of secondary drowning and the RescueMe AIS MOB1, which can be purchased as a stand-alone unit or supplied integrated within a Deckvest. You can convert the Lite/+ to manual only activation with the manual conversion kit and by registering to ‘Through Life Support’, you extend the product warranty to five years. The Lite is available in five colours: Black, Pacific Blue, Tropic White, Grenadine Pink and Flow Green, but the Lite+ is currently only available in black. The Lite is CE Approved and has ISO 12402-3 Lifejacket (170N) approval, whilst the Lite+ is additional ISO 12401 Deck Harness approval. You can’t go wrong with the Deskvest Lite and Lite+ thanks to the premium build quality, slimline profile, light weight and fast activation in an emergency.
fro
fro
RRP om £129.95 (Lite) om £139.94 (Lite+) (inc VAT)
https://www.spinlock.co.uk/en/categories/lifejackets/product_groups/deckvest-lite-and-deckvest-liteplus PROS Ultra-lightweight Slim profile Comfortable design Premium build Automatic inflating lifejacket (with manual conversion kit) Easy side donning Toggle attachment point for Chest Pack
Optional Pylon Light, Lume-On, Sprayhood and RescueMe AIS MOB1
RAPHA CARGO BIB SHORTS WITH THE NEW YEAR COMES THAT MOMENT OF SELFREFLECTION: COULD I STEP MY FAVOURITE HOBBY UP A GEAR? IS IT TIME TO TREAT MYSELF TO SOME NEW APPAREL? WHERE THE HELL DID THESE LOVE-HANDLES COME FROM? WHATEVER YOUR MOTIVATION IS, RAPHA IS HERE TO GET YOU BACK IN THE SADDLE! The Cargo Bib Short have been created to allow you to carry everything you would in a jersey. They have been tested for over a year across Europe, Australia and Argentina to ensure they can hack both extreme conditions as well as casual cycling. There are pockets on both legs and the upper back, where you can store snacks, money, your phone, keys - whatever you need on the ride without committing to a jersey. This means you can wear whatever you like, be it a looser-fitting t-shirt or a high vis vest. Constructed from 71% nylon and 29% elastane, these bib shorts are super lightweight as well as water-resistant. This means the rain can never be an excuse not to ride as the water simple beads off as you pedal. They are suitable for up to 30 degrees centigrade and the perforated chamois allows for both ventilation and quick drying, whilst the regular fit provides a close but relaxed comfort. It is longer in the torso and well suited to longer rides. For extra visibility there are two reflective stripes on both legs and a reflective stripe
62
Leg Poc with se stretch c
on the back of the shorts, where it can be clearly seen by other road users. The low-cut front upper has been designed for comfort on and off bike, as well as making things more manageable for when nature calls, whilst the secure stretch closure on the pockets makes sure your items are kept safe no matter how hard you work.
The Cargo Bib Shorts are a great allrounder: suitable for all types of cycling, they allow you take your essentials with you and keep you cool and dry throughout the ride.
ckets ecure closure
RRP £195.00
https://www.rapha.cc/gb/en/shop/cargo-bib-shorts/ product/BRC01XX PROS Leg pockets with secure stretch closure Back pockets Two reflective stripes on both legs and back Regular fit for comfort Lower front yoke makes it easier for toilet breaks Brevet chamois pad, perforated to dry quickly
TERMS & CONDITIONS OUR AIM IS TO GIVE OUR READERS THE MOST HONEST REVIEWS WE CAN. WE ALSO WANT TO ENSURE ALL MANUFACTURERS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE THEIR GOODS REGARDLESS OF THEIR FINANCIAL STANDING. IN FACT WE ARE INCREDIBLY PROUD THAT START UP COMPANIES HAVE JUST AS MUCH CHANCE OF PROMOTING THEIR GOODS AS DO ESTABLISHED BRANDS. OUR POLICY IS SIMPLE IN THAT WE DON’T OFFER RETURNS UNLESS PREVIOUSLY AGREED. WE ALSO RESERVE THE RIGHT TO KEEP OR SELL THE GOODS TO FUND OUR WRITERS AND KEEP OUR MAGAZINE ACTIVE. WE DO NOT OFFER SPONSORED REVIEWS WHERE WE ARE PAID DIRECTLY FOR THE REVIEW AND WE FEEL THAT THIS MODEL IS THE BEST WAY TO GET AN OBJECTIVE AND IMPARTIAL REVIEW. SO WHILST WE WON’T GUARANTEE A FAVOURABLE REVIEW, WE WILL GUARANTEE AN HONEST ONE. PLEASE CHECK OUT OUR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS ON WWW.LITTLEGATEPUBLISHING.COM WE ARE DISCLOSING THIS AS WE LIKE TO BE TRANSPARENT ABOUT OUR REVIEWS.
64
EXPLORE. ENJOY.
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
Sponsor of the LCR Honda MotoGP Team.
Find more than 900 accessories at www.givimoto.com