Issue 13, February 2021
THE
Review Smiths FORGING HONEST REVIEWS
KitchenAid Artisan K400 Blender
Wonder Workshop Dash
Arc'teryx Beta LT
Scanmarker Air Revell Jaguar E-Type
Razor Pocket Mod Petite Scooter
JR Puralife P.30
CONTENTS Hi all!
04. Kally Sleep Body Pillow 06. Ruffwear Cloud Chaser Jacket 08. Zungle Viper 10. Wonder Workshop Dash 12. Arc'teryx Besta LT 14. Razor Black Label Hovertrax 16. Razor Pocket Mod Petite 18. Freetrain Vest VR 20. Freetrain G1 Gloves 22. Nudie Jeans Gritty Jackson 24. Nimble Five Day Fast Portable Charger 26. Ekster Modular BiFold Reinvented Wallet 28. Arlo Ultra 4K 30. Thruppeny Bits Blue Stripe Nursing Pillow 34. Nixplay Digital Frame Managing Director 36. Nixplay Smart Frame Alex Hilling-Smith 38. KitchenAid Artisan K400 Blender Senior Writer 40. Cuddledry Bundle Emma Hilling-Smith 42. Puro Sound PuroPro Reviewer 44. Puro Sound BT2200 Peter Hilling 46. Revell Jaguar E-Type 48. DOXA Jett Jacket For all media 52. Vivobarefoot Primus related enquiries please Trail Winter FG contact us at 54. Pulseroll Mini info@thereviewsmiths.com Massage Gun 56. Devolo Magic 2 For Advertising Enquiries 58. JR Puralife P.30 0208 191 8472 60. Lindy BNX-100XT www.thereviewsmiths.com 62. Scanmarker Air 64. Thinoptics Readers
Let us start with a quick well being check, how we all doing? LockDown 3.0, like most sequels, really isn't as good as the original version but we all know why it is so important. If you have a few minutes drop a friend or family member a message or quick call to see how they are, it will make them and you feel better, its win win! We have been keeping very busy this month working hard and playing hard, sometimes in the snow, but mostly on Call of Duty. We have some great products to show you, including specifics for the winter like the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Winter FG barefoot shoes. We have some cool gadgets to keep the kids entertained when they aren't home schooling with the Razor Pocket Mod Scooter and the Razor Hovertrax hoverboard. We have a nursing and pregnancy pillow to take care of those pandemic mummas and not one but two digital photo frames from Nixplay for daily reminders of all your loved ones. Also make sure you check out the first look at the Arc’teryx Beta LT thats due to be released in spring, as well as lots of other premium tech and useful items. So, take a break and have a peak and enjoy a little window shopping. Editor and chief
Kally Sleep Body Pillow The Kally Sleep Body Pillow is a full-length orthopaedic body pillow to make sleep a comfortable experience for those with neck and back pain, during pregnancy, recovery from an injury or post-partum and restless sleepers. This pillow comes in a choice of five colours, Heathered Grey, Navy Blue, Charcoal Grey, Pure White, Stone Blue and Cream and two sizes, this measures up at 160 x 30 x 35cm. All the pillows come with one pillowcase but an additional case can be added at the point of purchase for £9.99 (usual price £14.99). The pillowcase is made from a soft cotton blend (50% Cotton / 50% Polyester) and the pillow is filled with a soft hollowfibre giving the pillow an overall weight of 1.8kg. The Kally Body Pillow has been ergonomically designed to encourage longer periods of deep sleep by providing support for the back, neck, and spine whilst sleeping in the foetal position. If you suffer with leg, hip, back or neck pain it eases pressure whilst there is something wonderfully comforting about cuddling up with the pillow. The hypoallergenic and breathable cotton means that even whilst you curl up with your Kally you don’t become over heated, in fact we found that keeping the knees apart meant we felt cooler than usual. The Kally has the perfect balance of filling with just the right firmness to the take the pressure off the joints and provide a weightless feeling without being too bulky in the bed. The pillow and pillowcase can be washed in the machine as needed to keep things fresh and clean. The only issue we came across is when it comes to turning over in the night, due to the length it can be difficult when sharing a bed so it maybe something to consider if you toss and turn a lot. If you have aches and pains the full body pillow helps you get a comfortable night and even if you don’t have aches and pains it is a lovely soothing way to fall asleep.
Pros Full length orthopaedic
£49.99
body pillow
Aligns your head, neck and spine
Enjoy a
Five colours available comfortable Soft and comfortable Relieves pressure on all night’s sleep muscles and joints with this Machine washable full-length Cons Can be a little awkward orthopaedic to turn over with For more information on the Kally Sleep Body Pillow click here
pillow.
5
Ruffwear Cloud Chaser Jacket Even though our furry friends are strutting about in a fur coat it doesn’t mean they don’t get cold and at this time of the year walkies can be a chilly event, Ruffwear has your pooch covered with their highly functional Cloud Chaser doggy jacket. The Cloud Chaser comes in one design, Obsidian Black and in sizes XXSmall up to XLarge with a handy measuring guide available on the website to help you get the right fit. This lightweight soft-shell jacket has been constructed with a breathable, water and windproof upper panel that can handle rain, snow, wind and the cold, the lower panel has a soft fleece lining, this helps to hold in the body heat whilst shedding the dirt and moisture. The fabric is super stretchy, it lays close to the body but allows for a full range of mad zoomy movements without being restrictive, the little sleeves on the front legs keep the jacket in place no matter what madness they get up to. The zip runs the full length of the body, so it is easy to get on and have a closure flap with a popper to prevent wind and rain getting through the zip. There is a reflective trim for better visibility in low light as well a loop designed to The Beacon light, this is a little waterproof, rechargeable light sold separately for £26.95 with three colours to toggle through. After messy adventures the Cloud Chaser can be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle and air dried ready for next time. This durable soft-shell jacket will keep your puppy pal warm, dry and happy in those colder months, letting them fully enjoy the great outdoors in comfort and style.
Pros Formfitting with
£94.95
sleeves to keep in the heat
Waterproof, windproof and breathable
Four-way stretch sleeves and lower panel for natural movements
Soft fleece lining Reflective trim for low-light visibility ‘Beacon’ light loop for attachment point
This jacket will keep your pooch snug as a pug whilst enjoying walkies in all weather conditions.
For more information on the Ruffwear Cloud Chaser Jacket click here
7
Zungle Viper The Viper sunglasses might look like an attractive yet standard pair of glasses from a distance, however up close it is obvious there is more to them, they have combined two products in one by adding bone conductive speakers into the frame. We received the Viper in matte black, along with the glasses we received the black and orange carry case (sold separately), these strong cases protect the glasses and provide a place for storing the charging cable and spare lenses. Speaking of spare lenses, the Vipers are interchangeable, giving you a whole range of options for various light conditions. We received seven spare lenses including a clear set, red, green, purple and blue as well as two different greys, all lenses have 100% UV400 protection, polarizing finish, hard surface coating with drop ball test and FDA, CE, RoHS certification. Starting with the visuals these shades look great on, the ear temples are a lot chunkier than regular glasses, this has a slight effect on the comfort, especially around the ears but not until after extended periods of wear. The new Vibra speakers sit just in front of the ears on the temples, it is worth saying now it is pointless trying to compare these to regular headphones or earbuds these are a completely different product. You will not get an immersive experience with these but that is the point, they allow you to hear both your tunes and the world around you, the sound quality is a little thin with a soft level of bass, but you quickly get used to it as an enjoyable background noise rather than a distraction. The benefit of this is that you can wear these glasses cycling, running or other sports activities whilst being aware of your surroundings. The sound does leak so if you have music playing on the bus you may be less than popular. Another handy way to use them is to receive navigation notifications, allowing you to keep your head up whilst hiking, running or walking without getting lost. The Vipers connect over Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable connection, you can activate your phones Siri or Google Assistant and take calls hands free (although the quality isn’t great for long conversation its good enough for a quick chat). The Vipers have an IPX4 rating making them both splash and sweat resistant, the battery life isn’t great with just four hours per charge, it takes just under an hour to recharge and requires its own special charger. These glasses are fairly niche but will certainly be a game changer for some, they have more of a fashion design than a sports design, but the audio is more suited for sports, they are a little heavy when compared to traditional running glasses which could put some off.
A unique product that combines headphones and sunglasses, we would love to see a sportier version aimed at runners. For more information on the Zungle Viper click here
Pros Excellent optics Continue to safely
Cons Short battery life Only charges via its
hear the world
own special cable
around you
No case included
Interchangeable lenses with the glasses Easy to use Temples thicker than Comfortable traditional glasses Hands free calls and Fashionable style voice assistant
classes with the sporty functionality
ÂŁ182 9
Wonder Workshop Dash The closest I ever got to owning a robot when I was a kid was covering my Ken doll in tin foil and wrapping some pipe cleaners around him, these days children can own their very own robots which are not only fun to play with but teach them valuable skills for the future. The Dash from Wonder Workshop is a sweet little robot suitable for children from the age of 6 and up, it arrives pre-assembled and partially charged which allows for play straight away. To get started simply press the on button and the Dash comes to life, it has a USB charging cord for when the battery runs low, and you get about 2-3 hours play time per 1-hour full charge. Also included in the box are two building box connectors which can be fixed to the head or legs, these can then be used to attach Lego constructions to customize Dash. For interactive play there are a five age-appropriate apps that can be downloaded for free on a smart device, Path, Go, Xylo, Wonder and Blockly, once downloaded all the apps can be used via Bluetooth 4.0 without needing a WiFi connection. Go is used for steering Dash around, like a remote-control car, it can also be used to play with the sounds and lights.
Path allows for control over movement too but this time it is from drawing a path on the screen which Dash will then follow on the floor and various challenges to complete. The Xylo needs the Xylophone attachment (sold separately, $39.99) allowing you to compose music that Dash will play back to you. If there is access to multiple Dash robots an entire orchestra can be created or a marching band. Blockly and Wonder are for older children and introduce coding, Blockly sequences steps by dragging and connecting blocks of code together and then pressing the green arrow to run the program, Wonder is similar in that it builds programs but uses state machines instead of blocks. Dash can also respond to voices and sounds, it can dance and sing, and there is a wide range of accessories sold separately to expand on what Dash can do and games it can play. Dash is super cute, fun and educational, for the price we would love a few more accessories included just to get started with, but its cheeky nature won us over anyway.
For more information on the Wonder Workshop Dash click here
Pros Cute and fun 5 apps to play with WiFi free interaction Highly interactive $149.99 Educational Healthy battery life Cons Could include more accessories Pricey
This sweet little robot will entertain and educate, introducing children as young as six into a world of coding.
11
Arc’teryx Beta LT Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air has been one thing that kept us sane over the summer, but with the unpredictable weather we are enduring right now it is not as appealing when you might get soaked to the skin. However, there is no such thing as bad weather only unsuitable clothing, and we could all use a bit of fresh air and vitamin D more than ever, unfortunately you will have to wait until springtime before you can get your hands on the brand-new Arc’teryx Beta LT jacket. This lightweight jacket has been produced to be a highly versatile hardshell jacket suitable for mountain adventures. The Beta series of jackets represent versatility, providing high performance for diverse activities and conditions. This lighter version of the series, the Beta LT has shaved off weight everywhere they can, the N40d 3L GORE-TEX fabric with tricot backer technology. This powerful material is full of tiny holes that are smaller than water droplets to stop rain and snow getting in but allowing the small moisture particles created by your own body heat to escape. The tricot backer delivers a comfortable layer next to the skin without any sticky feelings or irritation, it has a straight fit that allows you to layer up underneath on colder days. Not only are you well
Pros Light (approx. 420g L) Excellent weather proofing
Adjustable storm hood WaterTight zips Adjustable hem and cuffs Comfortable against the skin
Breathable N40d 3L GORE-TEX fabric
protected from the rain in this jacket, but it also keeps out the wind, the main WaterTight centre front zip seals out water, snow and the cold. These same zips are used on the two hand pockets, which give plenty of space to store away your belonging, they are also located on the ventilation strips found under the armpits, these zips are two way so you can open up just the right amount of a gap in the perfect location. The adjustable storm hood is helmet compatible, it provides a generous amount of coverage without compromising visibility thanks to the stiff peak and can be tightened with the cord inside the hood and at the back of the head (no dangling cords hanging around the neck). All the zips have these RS zipper sliders which are easy to grasp with even the chunkiest gloves on, whilst the adjustable cuffs and a two-point hem adjuster can be used to seal out the wind, rain and cold. The Beta LT will not disappoint, it has everything you need and nothing you don’t, keeping the weight down whilst delivering the high performance you would expect from this brand, now there is no excuse to let the weather stop you enjoying the great outdoors.
This lightweight weatherproof jacket is perfect for taking on the mountains or popping to the shops and everything in between.
RRP ÂŁ350
For more information on Arc’teryx click here
13
Razor Black Label Hovertrax Hoverboards seemed to come out of nowhere and take the world by storm, if you have ever been brave enough to step on one you will know just how much fun they can be. The Razor Black Label Hovertrax is one of the pricier hoverboards on the market but what you get is a robust machine that won’t let you down after a handful of goes. The Hovertrax is suitable for ages 8 and up and can handle a max weight of 176 lbs (12stone 5lbs), it measures up at 23.2 x 7.1 x 6.8 inch (58.9 x 18 x 17.3 cm) and weighs 13.29 lbs (6.026 kg) making it easy to carry and pop in the car to take to appropriate outdoor areas like skate parks for a ride. The Hovertrax comes with three sets of coloured grip tape that can be mixed and matched for a personalised look, the rechargeable 25.2V lithium-ion battery pack takes about 3 hours to fully charge and will provide up to 40 minutes of continuous use. If you are new to hoverboards this is a good place to start thanks to the patented Razor Hovertrax UL 2272 certification which means it meets industry’s highest safety standards, there is also a training mode for first-time riders. The Hovertrax can reach speeds up to 9 mph thanks to the two 150-watt motors, this isn’t the fastest out there but keeps things safe and sensible, the ride itself is very smooth and quiet with intuitive steering via the feet with light pressure forwards and back. The multi colour LED wheel hub and front display adds a bit of fun and colour to your ride, other features include the shatter-resistant polymer body, brushless hub motors, the EverBalance auto-selfbalancing, gyro sensor technology, rubber tyres, as well as a battery power, balance level and mode indicator. A few things to consider is that the Hovertrax isn’t waterproof and you are limited to what you can do, like mount curbs for example, however it is an excellent choice for children, with the safety features and training mode making it easy to get on and get going.
For more information on the Razor Black Label Hovertrax click here
$179.99
A safe and fun
Pros User friendly training mode
hoverboard that helps
LED lights Battery, balance and you get going mode indicators
EverBalance technology
Up to 9mph Changeable grip tape
with a handy training mode. 15
This batteryoperated, Italian style mod scooter can reach speeds of up
15mph that’s a
to
whole lot of fun.
Pros Cons Beautifully designed 12hours charging gives Classical Italian mod you up to 40mins ride design
Up to 15mph Twist and go accelerator
Kick stand Storage under the seat Fun
time
Not easily portable
ÂŁ369
Razor Pocket Mod Petite Scooter As a kid I always wanted a motorbike, if the Pocket Mod Petite Scooter had existed when I was younger, I would have been pestering my folks for one nonstop, in fact when it arrived for review it took a lot of persuading to stop me hoping on it and heading for the horizon. Unfortunately for me, this scooter has been designed for kids 13 and up, it can handle a max weight of 77kg (170 lbs) and comes in Bella (pink) or Vapor (black). The vintage inspired design based around a classic Italian scooter will appeal to other children as it looks like a smaller version of an adult scooter rather than a child’s toy. The study scooter weighs 26.75kg and measures up at 50" x 18" x 30", it requires a small amount of assembly but don’t worry, neither you nor your child has to learn any mechanic skills. Neither will they have to take a trip up to the petrol station thanks to the built in 24V (two 12V) sealed lead acid rechargeable battery system, however this battery will take a whopping 12hours to fully charge. It should be common sense, but it is probably worth mentioning that this scooter is not to be used on public highways (roads/pavements) and must be used on private property with owner’s consent. It is also important that
the appropriate protective equipment is worn at all times as this scooter can reach up to 15mph, that might not sound a lot but it’s faster than most cyclists go and we all know how much falling off your bike can hurt. The Pocket Mod Petite features a step through steel frame, high torque chain driven motor, twist-grip acceleration control just like a real scooter, hand operated rear brake and 12" pneumatic tyres, it even has a retractable centre mount kickstand and under seat storage for your lunch. Due to the size and weight this scooter cannot be easily transported so you will need a suitable place locally to ride it around, it is heavy but it’s easy enough for a 13-yearold to push and manoeuvre into the right position. The other thing worth noting is the battery will only last up to 40 minutes of continuous use which isn’t a huge amount in exchange for 12 hours charging. Battery life aside the scooter is a lot of fun, robust build quality, beautifully designed, easy and comfortable to ride, it should satisfy those young bikers until they are old enough to have get their license.
For more information on the Razor Pocket Mod Petite Scooter click here
17
Freetrain Vest VR The VR vest from Freetrain is very similar to the V1 vest but with one very obvious difference, the entire outer fabric is ultra-reflective ensuring you are highly visible when running or training in low light. If you are a stranger to these vests their main purpose is to provide you with a convenient place to store your belongings whilst running or participating in other physical activities. Our phones these days are bigger and heavier but also the device people turn use to track their workout, play music and stay connected whilst working up a sweat. When I first set eyes on the Freetrain Vest I thought why would you choose this over an arm band or a pocket, it didn’t look particularly comfortable, but I was so wrong. The vest is streamlined so that only the essentials are used to ensure there’s no unnecessary bulk whilst keeping things nicely balanced. The VR is comfortable to wear with a fully adjustable waistband to get a precise fit, however the shoulder straps are non-adjustable which is a shame as this would allow more control over the position of the phone. The materials used are durable, lightweight and water resistant, providing a safe, watertight space for your belongings in even the nastiest weather. The VR holds your phone right in the centre of the chest and is attached via a popper so it can be flipped down for instant access to the screen via a touch sensitive transparent panel without the need to fully remove the phone. The way the phone is positioned on the chest means it moves very little whilst running, keeping you comfortable and not bouncing around like it can do in a pocket. The pocket is designed to fit 99% of modern phones and comes with a phone adapter case to make sure your device has a snug fit, the vest fits chest sizes between 28" - 48" chest. The smart materials let the vest expand and mould to your body shape so don’t panic if it feels a little tight in the beginning. There are two extra Velcro pockets on either side that can be used for keys, energy gels or an inhaler as well as a secret pocket inside the phone pouch which can take cash or bank cards.
Pros Cons Evenly distributes weight Shoulder straps Moulds to body over time nonadjustable Belongings don’t bounce around
Instant access to your phone Highly reflective Water resistant Breathable For more information on the Freetrain Vest VR click here
ÂŁ29.99 19
Freetrain G1 Water Resistant Gloves To compliment your running vest there are the G1 gloves, these lightweight gloves are water resistant and designed to help your fingers stay warm and dry whilst working out, the textured palms help to give you extra grip on your smart phone or water bottles for example. The touch screen compatible fingertips let you work your phone without exposing your hands to the cold, there is reflective detailing for extra visibility. There is a light amount of insulation in the gloves which is enough to keep your hands warm when active, however if you aren’t getting the blood pumping enough, cycling for example, you may find they are not warm enough for very cold days. For running these are great gloves, not too bulky, they come a good way up the wrist to help prevent drafts whilst allowing for natural movements and grip of the hand.
Pros Silicone grip on the palm Touch screen compatible Reflective detailing Lightweight insulation Cons Not suitable for extremely cold days
ÂŁ19.99
Combine both the VR vest and the G1 gloves for a truly comfortable run with all your belongings
For more information on the Freetrain G1 Water Resistant Gloves click here
close to hand.
Nudie Jeans Gritty Jackson Nudie Jeans have actively been increasing the share of sustainable materials used in their jeans from their beginning in 2001, since 2012 all their denim is made with 100% organic cotton, ensuring no pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and biocides are used in the manufacturing process. Their jeans are not designed to be used only a few times, they offer free repairs and used denim going back into the system for second-hand jeans or raw material for new products. By working with Fair Wear Foundation Nudie Jeans can ensure ethical working conditions across the whole line of their production. The Gritty Jackson is a new cut brought into production September 2020, there are different dyes to choose from including prewashed and dry. The dry versions require 6 months of wearing no washing, when it does come to washing you get these beautifully natural worn patterns come out in the denim, just like proper cowboy jeans. The Gritty Jackson is cut with a regular straight fit, a mid-waist and zip fly, they have been
designed to sit at the hip with plenty of room from the seat down to the leg opening. The clean silhouette looks smart whilst ensuring the wearer is comfortable whether standing or sitting for both a classic and versatile fit. There are six colours to choose from, we received the Black Forest version, these trousers use 12.5 oz. rigid denim, with black thread on all seams and copper trims, the colour is created by using indigoblue denim that has been garment-dyed black and gently washed to bring out the blue-black look. When it comes to transparency Nudie Jeans reveal all their cards, from information of the raw material used, yarn supplier, trim, warehouse, transport information and more. The jeans were comfortable to wear, they take a bit of breaking in like all good denim should but it’s well worth the commitment for a trusty pair of versatile, long living jeans, they are rare to come by.
Pro 100% organic cotton Comfortable Versatile Ethical and transparent company
Range of colours Free repairs Still looking for the jeans that provide the perfect fit, long life and care about their environmental impact, look no further.
ÂŁ120
For more information on the Nudie Jeans Gritty Jackson click here
23
Nimble Five Day Fast Portable Charger
$89.95
For more information on the Nimble Five Day Fast Portable Charger click here
With technology moving at a rate of knots it is leaving a large amount of waste in its wake, Nimble are a company with a difference that are committed to not only reducing the environmental impact through smarter production means and materials, but by encouraging the Nimble Community to help reduce the amount of eWaste and plastic ending up in our landfills. Nimble offers a pre-paid mail-in label for you to send in old electronic devices, plastic cases, mobile phones, cables, etc, directly to their eWaste recycling partner, Homeboy Electronics Recycling, for safe, responsible reclamation. Check out Homeboy Electoronics Recycling at homeboyrecycling.com to learn more about the good things they do. We received the Five Day Fast Portable Charger from Nimble, this powerful power bank is made from Recycled Aluminium Nimble Plant-Based Bioplastics and comes in plastic-free packaging, even the labels are printed with water-based inks. The inside of the battery pack is made from hard, plant-based plastics like corn and sugarcane, these renewable sources will breakdown overtime unlike traditional materials. The outer casing features a “speckle� texture, and uses the natural mineral crystal, mica, and provides a rubbery, soft-touch with lasting protection and a non-slip grip. It measures up at a compact 3" x 4.25" x 1" and weighs just 340g making it highly portable and offers both 18W Power Delivery (PD) and Quick-Charge 3.0 technology making any charge up to 3x faster. The LED will turn orange when a device is connected and when it is fast charging it will show green letting you know you can get your device up to 80% charge in just 30 mins. The 13000 mAh battery can provide five full phone charges before it needs to be recharged, it works with most devices iPhone, iPads, Android devices and more. Included with the charger is a 12 in. BPA and PVC-free USB-A to USB-C cable making them less harmful to the environment whilst maintaining durability, flexibility and efficiency. The Magnetic Cable Management keeps cables tidy with a detachable, soft-touch storage strap that magnetically attach the cables to the bottom of the charger. This power bank will keep you going for days whilst the sustainable materials and e-waste recycling programme helps you support a good cause at the same time.
Pros A powerful charger Internal structure is made that uses sustainable from hard, plant-based plastics
High-Speed charging Compact Fast-Charge indicator Charges four devices at
materials and offers
an e-waste recycling programme alongside their products.
one time
Recycled plastic bag included
Plastic free packaging Magnetic cable management
Partnered with Homeboys Electronics Recycling
25
Ekster Modular Bi-Fold Reinvented Wallet
The Modular Bi-Fold wallet is Ekster’s most traditional looking wallet, no metal or pop-up cards in this wallet but as to be expected from this brand it holds a few tricks up its sleeves. It comes in three colours, Black, Brown and the Caramel version we received, it measures up at 1.1 x 8.2 x 21.5cm that’s about normal height and length for a wallet but slimmer than we are used to seeing. The modular bi fold has been created to adapt to your needs whilst at the same time removing the hassle of transferring cards between wallets. It can fit over 12 cards however they recommend up to 9 to maintain that slim profile, it can also hold more than 10+ bank notes of all currencies. Constructed from top-grain leathers that are tanned under gold-rated environmental protocols using ECCO Leather’s new DriTan technology, this creates a minimal impact on the planet. As with all leather the wallet will age gracefully over time with the wear of your day-today life leaving beauty marks on its surface. Inside the wallet is a removable magnetic cardholder, this compartment has four card slots and can quickly be removed when you want to travel light. This section is also handy to store a travel card or bank card for fast contactless transactions. To protect you on your travels the wallet also has RFID blocking technology and a discrete compartment to tuck away notes and can be used for a small amount of coins. The magnets on the card holder only attach correctly in one direction so you need to ensure the ‘E’ logo is face down, a different colour leather on the right side would make it much easier to identify in low light. The magnets can be dislodged with a vigorous shake, this shouldn’t pose too much of an issue in everyday life but does mean if the wallet gets dropped or drunken flamboyancy ensues the card holder could go flying. Just like all the Ekster wallets you can add the Optional Tracker Card for $49, a solar powered ultra slim tracking device with a two-way ringing system, it connects to a worldwide lost and found platform, Bluetooth up to 60m and can even be used to take group selfies and is voice-activated and compatible with Google Assistant, Alexa and Siri. If you love the Ekster brand but prefer a more conventional style wallet the Modular Bi-Fold Reinvented Wallet is a solid choice.
a more traditional looking wallet but with a
Ekster surprises.
few
For more information on the Ekster Modular Bi-Fold Reinvented Wallet click here
Pros Removable magnetic cardholder $89 Four quick access card slots Stores 12+ cards and 10+ bills Coin compartment/secret pocket Removable magnetic cardholder (holds 8+ cards once removed) Sustainable LWG gold-rated tanneries, with DriTan technology Cons Magnets only connect one direction Card holder can be dislodged with a strong shake
27
Arlo Ultra 4K Camera this high performing
4K camera is packed full of smart tech and features that will help you keep your property and family safe.
For more information on the Arlo Ultra 4K Camera click here
ÂŁ449.99
Just when you thought Arlo home security cameras were already full to the brim of features, along comes the Ultra 4k, this powerful little camera is overflowing with technology to help keep your property and loved ones safe. Let’s take a deep breath and dive right to see what the Ultra has to offer; the image quality is excellent thanks to the high-performance 4K HDR lens, with crisp, clear details and a large 180-degree field of view without distortion, you won’t miss a thing. The integrated spotlight will switch on when motion is detected and paired with the enhanced coloured night vision means you get coloured video at night instead of grainy black and white images. This bright light will also help to deter unwanted visitors by spot lighting them the moment they get too close to your property. The HDR levels out bright and shadowy spots of your land ensuring the correct exposure for a clear view in all areas. A feature we love is the auto-zoom and tracking, this will detect movement, someone sneaking around into your back garden for example, zoom in on them to get all the details and then track them as move around, not missing a moment. The Ultra 4K has the same elegant shape we have seen in their other cameras, looking tasteful on your property but obvious to dissuade strangers. The versatile multi-axis mount makes installation a straightforward process and lets you get the perfect angle, whilst the magnetic charge cable makes it easy to recharge the battery when needed, which should last up to 6 months. The dual, noise-cancelling microphones reduce background noise like wind, rain and street activity, so you hear what you need to hear, and the robust weather-resistant body is suitable for both inside
and out. If you just want to use the camera subscription free you can access live streaming and set up notifications but to get all the benefits, there are two plans to choose from. The Premier and Elite plan open up all the extra features with the Premier costing £2.49/mo. (£7.99 for up to 5 cameras) and the Elite costing £3.99/mo. (£12.49 for up to 5 cameras). Both plans deliver the cloud video history up to 30 days, live video streaming, standard notifications, interactive notifications, person, vehicle, animal detection and package detection to let you know when the post arrives. It also opens up the cloud activity zones which lets you set up specific areas to focus on, and the call a friend function, the only difference is Premier records in 2K and the Elite records in 4K. The app is intuitive and easy to work your way around, it might time a few days to get the settings just the way you want them with so many options but it’s all laid out in a straightforward manner and fast to respond. Other features include (yes there are more) the two-way audio, letting you speak to people on your property, a smart home siren that can be automatically or manually triggered and it is also compatible with Apple Watch, Google Home Hub and Amazon’s Alexa. What can we say, the Arlo Ultra 4K is a superb camera, highly versatile letting you set things up just the way you need for your property and lifestyle, the image quality is great, yes it doesn’t come cheap but we believe you truly get what you pay for.
Pros 6-month battery life Wireless 4K bright and clear images Enhanced Night Vision Integrated Spotlight 180° distortion free, field of view
Loads of features Reasonable subscription plans
Easy to install User friendly app
29
Thrupenny Bits Blue Stripe Nursing Pillow Ultimate Range First off, before I say anything else, I have to say I love the brand name, if you aren’t familiar with cockney rhyming slang, have a look on google to fully appreciate it! Thrupenny Bits was created by Melissa Wyatt, who like so many women, discovered that breastfeeding was not something that came easily. She found the breast-feeding pillow she was using caused more problems than it solved so decided to create something more suitable for her own needs and quickly discovered that the Ultimate and Classic ranges could easily be converted into a bag with an inner pocket and phone holder inside for continued use after little one stops breast feeding. The Blue Stripe Nursing Pillow from the Ultimate Range is a hypoallergenic breastfeeding pillow with a, and I quote ‘non girlie’ design that would look just as good as a loose, boho style bag later on. So, what are the benefits to using this pillow, this crescent shaped cushion is filled with high grade hollow fibre polypropylene, which is fire retardant and hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of allergies for your baby. The straps let you carry the pillow like a bag over the handlebars of the pram or across the body, making it easy to take out with you wherever you go. It has been designed with a lactation specialist to aid breastfeeding with easier latching in multiple feeding positions. The ergonomic design, flexibility and straps that tie around your waist takes the pressure off your arms and shoulders but supporting baby and prevent the pillow from slipping out of place whilst feeding. The material is soft to the touch but hardwearing for a long lifespan, as baby grows the pillow can be used as a prop to help them sit up before turning into a bag, it can even be converted back again for new family members. The pillow is machine washable for those little accidents and to keep things fresh and clean. This nursing pillow ticks all our boxes, makes breastfeeding life more comfortable, protects your back, has an adult design, has a life after breast feeding, its portable and has a wonderful cheeky name.
For more information on the Thrupenny Bits Blue Stripe Nursing Pillow click here
Pros A versatile, high performing and portable nursing pillow, Supportive one baby purchase you will Portable not regret. Lightweight Beautiful adult designs Machine washable ÂŁ50 Multiple feeding positions Converts into a bag after use Hypoallergenic
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Eliminates chlorine for unbeatable tasting water
Purifies water and reduces trace pharmaceuticals and pesticides
Zero chlorine Zero plastic
100% flavor
Stop plastic waste
100%
100% minerals preserved
Preserves the essential
No filter cartridges or maintenance
PURIFY YOUR
TAP WATER IN 15 MINUTES www.lavie.bio
15 minutes Automatic start and stop
BOMBAZINE pendant
YELENA pendant
KEEGAN wall light
ARONA pendant
For stockists, please visit www.darlighting.co.uk or contact our team directly on: 01295 672 200
43
Nixplay Digital Photo Frame 10.1 inch (Non-Wi-Fi)
For more information on the Nixplay Digital Photo Frame 10.1 inch (Non-Wi-Fi) click here
It was perhaps too optimistic to hope that by this stage we might be able to see our families and friends face to face a bit more, however one thing this lockdown has taught us is the importance of capturing the moments when we are together. The Nixplay Digital Photo Frame comes in four sizes, 8, 10.1, 13.3 and 15.6 inches, we received the 10.1 to test out, this frame measures up at 6.89” W x 10.12” H and 1.18” deep without the stand and 3.23” with stand. The HD widescreen 1280 X 800 with a resolution and aspect ratio of 16:10. You can choose between wall mounting the frame or standing it on a counter, however it is worth noting it needs to be plugged into the mains which will restrict where it can be placed. The frame can be set up in either portrait or landscape mode, it is easy to set up, simply plug in and play, it is compatible with JPEG / JPG as well as MPEG-4 / MP4 videos there are two built in stereo speakers. The slideshow can be personalised to play in the order of the date they were taken, the file name or simply shuffle them up for a total surprise, the photos and videos are loaded onto the frame by inserting a USB stick or memory card into the available ports. The integrated clock and calendar and energy saving Hu-Motion Sensors automatically turns the frame on and off, whilst the magnetic remote control gives control over when you see your images. The Nixplay Digital Photo Frame is a nice way to relive those precious moments with a bright, colourful and sharp display without too much complicated technology to get your head round.
Pros Simple to use Sharp HD display Can be wall
£89.99
mounted or free standing
Built in speakers Remote control Motion sensor screen
Con Mains powered only No WiFi
A fuss free Digital Photo Frame with a clear HD display.
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Nixplay Smart Photo Frame 15.6 inch (Wi-Fi) The Smart Photo Frame is their next-generation smart frame, measuring up at 9.96” W x 15.91” H with a 1.18” depth, it has a 1920 X 1080 FHD display and comes in sizes 9.7, 10.1 and 15.6 inches, we received the latter to review. It can be wall mounted or left free standing; the decision is yours but just like the digital photo frame it needs a main connection to operate which needs to be taken into consideration when choosing a location. The 15.6 inch is the biggest Smart Frame there is, letting you see more clearly big groups and smaller details that might get lost on small frames, it has an aspect ratio of 16:9 and supports JPEG / JPG. What makes the Smart Photo Frame a great gift for parents, grandparents and friends we are missing right now is the ability to share your images straight to their frames and get them to send you pictures to your frame in return, you can send whole playlists to different frames creating a lovely network of images and videos with your loved ones. The images are sent safely over the Nixplay App, it’s here you can connect to Google Photos to ensure your frame is up to date, Dropbox, Facebook and Instagram are also supported from the website. The frame will automatically adjust the image into the portrait or landscape placement position, the built-in motion sensor turns the frame on/off automatically when you are nearby and also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, just ask for the playlist you want to see. The two 2 W speakers allow you to hear the audio from the videos received, the included infrared remote gives you control over the settings from the comfort of your chair. This large frame provides a beautiful display for your images and videos, getting a surprise new image from a friend or family member is such a lovely experience at a time like this we believe it is well worth the money.
Pros Share photos and videos privately £269.99 Wireless connectivity Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant Wall mount or free standing 1920 x 1080 full HD IPS display Auto adjusts to portrait or landscape placement
Motion sensor turns the frame on/off automatically For more information on the Nixplay Smart Photo Frame 15.6 inch (Wi-Fi) click here
A lovely and private way to share images straight to loved-ones walls.
37
KitchenAid Artisan K400 Blender
A seriously powerful blender that’s built to last, with highly useful features suitable for a range of needs.
For more information on the KitchenAid Artisan K400 Blender click here
When it comes to kitchen appliances you know you are in safe hands with KitchenAid, it may involve you spending a few more pennies but their products never fail to impress. The Artisan K400 Blender is no exception, the moment it’s out of the box the build quality is immediately noticeable with a solid die-cast metal base and the control knob is heavy and sturdy. As part of the Artisan range it comes in 11 beautiful colours, including the 2020 colour of the year Kyoto Glow as well as the classic Empire Red, Inky Blue and Pistachio, whatever you choose it will look like a stunner on your worktop. This 3-part blending system can smoothly blend whatever you throw at it by using a unique asymmetric blade, ribbed jar and adaptive Intelli-Speed motor which can sense the contents to maintain optimal speed. To avoid causing splatter the moment you switch the blender on the soft start feature begins the motor at a slower speed to fold in ingredients before increasing the speed. You can get the precise taste and texture with the
intuitive control dial, it offers five speeds, a pulse option and three pre-set programs, ice crush, icy drinks, smoothie, as well as a useful self-cleaning cycle. The powerful performance can blend tough ingredients including almonds, chia seeds, ice, ginger root and other fibrous and leafy vegetables, giving you a smooth and palatable texture. One off putting thing with most blenders is the hassle of cleaning them afterwards, however the K400 simply requires a little dish soap, fill it with water and hit the self-clean cycle, the jar and lid are also both dishwasher safe. Whether you are a KitchenAid fan or new to the brand you will not regret paying up for this blender, an absolutely solid machine that will consistently produce wonderfully smooth results in a quick and quiet motion, and even clean itself to finish up.
Pros ÂŁ279 Powerful Quiet blend Unique asymmetric blade, ribbed jar and adaptive Intelli-Speed motor
Self-cleaning mode Five speeds, pulse option and three pre-set programs
Solid die-cast metal base
11 beautiful designs
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Cuddledry Bundle The Cuddledry company was founded in 2006 by Polly and Helen two first time mums who wanted to reinvent the baby bath towel in a safer, easier and more eco-friendly way. The original Cuddledry bath towel went on to win dozens of awards and was offered an investment on Dragons Den (which they declined). The popular Bundle comes with the original Cuddledry handsfree towel in grey star, a set of three supersoft bamboo washcloths and a natural sea sponge, making it a wonderful gift set for new parents. This super soft towel has a hood tucked in one corner and an apron style neck strap at the other end, the towel is then worn like an apron over the adult, helping to keep you dry when little one splashes about. When it’s time to pick up baby they can simply be lifted straight onto your chest before popping on the hood and wrapping them up for a cuddle, making the whole process much easier than trying to pick up a wriggling child as slippery as a bar of soap and wrapping a towel around them. The neck loop can be easily detached via the poppers allowing you to place baby down all wrapped up ready for dressing. The towel is made from two layers of towelling keeping baby snug and warm and
you nice and dry, it is made from bamboo and cotton which feels silky soft against babies (and parents) skin. This combination of materials is also anti-bacterial, eco-friendly, super soft, and absorbent. The towel measures 112cm long and 75 cm wide, the same size as a normal adult’s bath towel and is suitable for new-borns up to about 18 months, ideal for both bath time and swimming sessions. It is recommended that the towel is used for babies until walking age, however many parents simply change the way it is used and carry on using it as a toddler towel and beyond giving it a longer life than some traditional baby towels. The bamboo washcloths and natural sea sponge keep bath time natural and ecofriendly; the washcloths are lovely and soft, ideal for washing baby's face whilst the sponge is recommended as a gentle, natural way to wash your baby's body when in the bath. The Cuddledry Bundle is a lovely little kit, the towel is so simple and effective chances are you will end up getting more than one after your first use. The added washcloths and natural sponge make up a lovely bath time bundle.
An innovative redesign of the baby towel makes after bath cuddles a wonderful experience.
Pros ÂŁ48.97 Perfect new baby gift Luxuriously soft Makes drying baby an easy and lovely experience Simple yet highly practical design Double layers of towelling keep you dry whilst cuddling
Eco option available with biodegradable bag and instructions
Soft washcloths that wash out well Gentle natural sponge Anti-bacterial, eco-friendly, super soft, and absorbent materials For more information on the Cuddledry Bundle click here
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PuroPro
£147.89 Puro Sound Labs were created by Niki Russell and her family after she was diagnosed with Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) which left her partially deaf in both ears. This preventable condition was caused by her headphones when she was young, listening to them too loudly for too long which over time damaged her hearing. She is not alone however as 1-in-5 teens (approaching 1-in-4) will lose their hearing in the exact same way, this is why the family decided to produce good quality headphones that will protect kids, teens and adults hearing. The PuroPro come rather impressively packaged in a wooden box where inside you will find a good quality hard travel case, tucked away in the case are the folded PuroPro headphones. The earcups have feature protein leather cushions and headband for a comfortable all day wearing, the earcups form a decent seal to help block out external noise. The Premium Active Noise Cancelling Technology offers second level of noise reduction, there are two levels of ANC to choose from with level 1 providing a deep noise reduction of 32dB and level 2 for general noise reduction of 15dB which can be switched on via the right ear cup. The level 2 doesn’t have too much of an impact with the level 1 being much more effective, however if you are looking for a way to truly block out the world these might not be the right headphones for you. There are 5 microphones in total including 4 for ANC and 1 for phone calls, and two volume limits to toggle between. 85dB and 95dB max volume setting help to protect your ears against permanent hearing damage the 85dB is the maximum safe sound listening level that is recommended for use (by WHO, OSHA, etc.) and can be enjoyed for up to 8 hours of safe listening. The 95dB can be used safely for 50 minutes, the question is can you resist the temptation to drop it down after 50 minutes. The PuroPro uses 40mm dynamic drivers and the Puro Balanced Response Curve, this provides an impressive sound quality that takes on a range of genres with ease as well as pod casts and audio books. The battery life is excellent with 28hours with ANC active and 32hours without as well as 300 hours of standby time, the included audio jack means then if the battery does run out you can enjoy wired connectivity instead. These headphones connect over Bluetooth 5.0 for a stable stream with zero latency that lets you watch movies without disturbing those around you. The PuroPro are incredibly comfortable headphones, the ANC could be stronger, but it is easily forgiven for the sound quality, healthy battery life and the reassurance that your hearing is well protected from damage. For more information on the PuroPro click here
Pros Great sound quality Two sound limits to choose from
Bluetooth 5 connectivity Up to 32hours battery life Two levels of ANC to choose from
Cons ANC could be better Quite bulky headset
These comfortable headphones protect your hearing without compromising on sound quality.
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Puro Sound Labs BT2200 Volume Limited Kids' Bluetooth Headphones Love it or hate it kids are going to find their way onto a screen at some point, moderate use can give them a little entertainment, some sneaky education and you some much needed peace, the downside is the mindless kiddy music might drive you mad. That’s where a decent pair of child suitable headphones can come in handy, you don’t have to listen to the tedious music or worry about them damaging their hearing. The BT2200 Volume Limited Kids' Bluetooth Headphones from Puro Sound Labs provide just that, it comes in four colours, Teal, Pink, Lime Green and Sapphire Blue and feature smaller ear cups and volume limits. These headphones have been designed to protect young listeners’ eardrums from early hearing damage following the World Health Organization’s recommendation of an 85dB-limited volume range. The BT2200 are easy to connect so the kids can do it themselves (let’s be honest they are better at this than we are). With one-touch Bluetooth will pair with iPhone, Android, and other compatible devices and provide a 30-foot range allowing them space to dance about. The wireless mode eliminates any risk of entanglement in the cables, the rechargeable battery provides a generous 18hours payback with 200hour standby and the patent-pending Puro Balanced Response Curve provides your kids or teens with solid audio all with an 85 dB limiter. The headband and padded earcups are especially created for little ears, this design also blocks 82% of the ambient noise (@ 1 kHz) and are light enough to wear for long periods of time, full length movies for example. The overall design looks modern and stylish, not childish so it will appeal to tweens and teens, whilst the construction is tough enough to withstand the rough play of younger children. The Puro Sound Labs BT2200 are a great choice for young listeners, durable construction and with the type of sound quality you would want as an adult. The sound limits protect little ears from damage and you don’t have to listen to whatever irritating song has recently gone viral, it’s win win.
Pros 85dB-limited volume range Good sound quality 18 hours of battery life Durable build quality
$79.99
comfortable
82% background noise reduction One touch pairing Cons Expensive (especially if you have more than one child) For more information on the Puro Sound Labs BT2200 click here
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Revell Jaguar E-Type (CoupĂŠ) Kit Revell have a wide range of car models from vintage classics to modern racers all with precisely constructed components and accessories, they capture the unique details that makes these cars the beauties they are. Each vehicle is a mini work of art that can be proudly displayed decorative pieces on a shelf, a focal point on your office desk or presented as a gift in a glass showcase. The Jaguar E-Type (CoupĂŠ) is an iconic British sports car manufactured between 1961 and 1975, it combined the looks, performance and competitive pricing making it world renowned with Enzo Ferrari calling it "the most beautiful car ever made". The E-Type could reach 150 mph (241 km/h) top speed, with a sub-7-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h), unitary construction, disc brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and independent front and rear suspension which set this car apart and provoked industry-wide changes. This 1:24 scale model is suitable for ages 10 and up, it measures up a 187L x 72W x 51H mm, it comes with 142 parts and is rated a level 3 kit, this means you will have to obtain the glue and paints separately as there is painting and gluing involved requiring a little bit of skill and patience. It comes with illustrated, multilingual assembly instructions and decals featuring various licence plates from different countries (D, A, F, B, NL, GB, I, USA). This 1961 model featured an extra-long bonnet and has a multi-piece six-cylinder engine with optional left-hand or right-hand drive versions and a movable bonnet. This exquisite kit is a must have for car and model lovers alike, it will look stunning when completed giving you a real sense of achievement.
For more information on the Revell Jaguar E-Type click here
â‚Ź30,49
A magnificent replica of the classic Jaguar E-Type (CoupĂŠ)
Pros 1:24 scale model High quality components Different licences available Left- or right-hand drive Movable bonnet Multi-piece six-cylinder engine
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DOXA Jett Jacket Core
€120
For more information on the DOXA Jett Jacket Core click here
DOXA is a Danish company developed by runners, for runners, produced to withstand the ever-changing Scandinavian climate. After more than 20 years of running understanding they wanted to focus on the runners' needs namely protection against wind, rain and snow in the winter and keeping dry, comfortable and cool in the summer. The founder, John Hansen a life-long competitive runner with a professional background in fashion, launched the brand in 2016 and has been creating versatile apparel ever since. The Jett Jacket Core is a lightweight unisex running jacket that comes in sizes X-Small through to X-Large, it comes in black and that is your only option, we would love to see high vis options available to just make it safer when training but you can always pop a vest over the top if needed. There is some reflective detailing with the DOXA logo on the front and the coordinates of the brand on the back that will be picked up by car headlights to help you to be seen. The premium bi-elastic (92% Polyester and 8% Elastane) makes for a superlight combination, adding zero bulk on chillier days, it is also stretchy allowing you to move completely naturally in all directions from gentle jogs to powerful sprints. There are thumb loops on the cuffs for a secure fit, keeping the hands warm and dry and the wind out, the material here is silky soft to prevent any irritation on the skin. The hood has an elasticised edge for a snug fit to hold the body heat in, the zip guard prevents the cold zip from touching the skin, although the zip pull can be a little fiddley to retrieve with gloves on. The two generously sized zip up pockets can be used to store essentials like keys, cards or gels, there is a light mesh under the armpits for better ventilation when you get warmed up. There is an adjustable drawstring in waist hem to guarantee a slim profile and stop water splashing up from puddles or the wind getting in. We loved the feel of this jacket, it’s comfortable to run in and stands up well against wind and rain, ideal for year long running, but it’s worth considering the black design if running on country roads in rural areas.
Pros Lightweight Stretchy Breathable Suitable for year-round training and races
Adjustable drawstring in waist hem
Cons Black only
A versatile running jacket for both training and competitions all year round.
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BOMBAZINE pendant
YELENA pendant
KEEGAN wall light
ARONA pendant
For stockists, please visit www.darlighting.co.uk or contact our team directly on: 01295 672 200
£135
Don’t get caught out the morning after
One in five drink drive prosecutions happen the morning after†, many unaware they still have alcohol left in their system after a few drinks the night before. AlcoSense quickly and accurately shows your blood alcohol level, so you know when you’re clear. “a fresh level of accuracy in consumer breath testing”B
£69.99
£99.99
- Successor to the multi award-winning AlocSense Elite 1 and 2 - Premium semi-conductor sensor - Reads up to twice English limit - Don’t drive alert when close to English, Irish or Scottish drink drive limit - Accurate to +/-0.20‰BAC
- Uses a 64mm2 version of exactly the same fuel cell sensor used in several Police breathalysers - Adjustable don’t drive alert to any limit world-wide - Full colour screen and easy to use interface - Multi award-winning
2018
Next day delivery available online, or buy in-store
ALCOHOL
B R E AT H A LYS E R
Order securely at alcosense.co.uk or call 0800 195 0088 †: Source: DfT Road Accident Data 2015, B: Review of the AlcoSense Pro, 24/12/15. Intellectual Property: www.alcosense.co.uk/ip. © AlcoSense Laboratories, part of Now Group UK Ltd, Unit 3 MEC, Cordwallis Street, Maidenhead SL6 7BE
Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Winter FG Barefoot running has cemented itself into the mainstream with Vivobarefoot shoes leading the way by reconnecting people with the planet through sustainable materials and a natural running experience. However, it is hard enough to poke your toes outside the duvet right now, let alone sending them out for a run unprotected, fear not though the Primus Trail Winter FG shoes ensure you can carry on Barefoot running in the colder weather. This new edition to the Vivo family comes in two colours in both the men’s and women’s design Obsidian (both men’s and women’s) Drift Wood (men’s only) and Aurora (women’s only), sizes 6-14 in men’s and 3-9 in womens. The FG in the name refers to the Firm Ground Outsole used in this shoe, this is a highly abrasive sole, with a low-profile, multi-directional lugs for traction on the trail and a sticky rubber compound coating for all terrain durability. It has a base and lug height of 2.5mm – 4mm is thick enough to change the ground feel in an urban road run but it has been designed perfectly for wet and dry and more rugged surfaces. There is a textured arch that has been added to provide a zonal grip on technical trails,
whilst the concave hexagonal design adds to the grip, giving you more confidence in each step. These winter shoes are water resistant, yes we want to feel closer to nature but frost bite is a step too far, thanks to the waterresistant treatment on the upper materials. Just like many of this brands footwear they have utilised recycled PET plastic bottles into the production of the shoes, giving it a second life and taking it out of the landfill, they are also Vegan and made entirely from animal-free materials. The flexible sole provides instant sensory feedback with the bio-based BLOOM foam performance insole offering only the protection needed, the shoes feel lovely and light which adds to that feeling of a free and natural run. The Primus Trail Winter FG are comfortable straight out of the box the thin, seamless tongue rests gently on the top of the foot and the lace system evenly pulls the shoe together for a comfortable but unrestrictive fit. Whether you are already a fan of barefoot running or fancy taking on a new hobby this year, these winter runners are a great option, enjoy all the benefits of a natural run whilst protecting your feet and the planet.
£130
For more information on the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Winter FG click here
Pros Water resistant upper Highly abrasive Grippy, multi-directional Sensory feedback Tough and flexible outsole Recycled PET plastic waste Vegan 2-3hours Robust construction
Don’t let the cold weather stop you from getting your bare foot on, these shoes will protect your feet whilst providing enjoyable sensory feedback.
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Pulseroll Mini Massage Gun Massage guns are becoming more popular as an effective way to massage aching muscles and warming up, however these guns are rather hefty, fine for using at home but not ideal for taking to the gym, or to sports events. Don’t let its small stature fool you, this gun has plenty of power packed into its 1kg body, it comes in a compact, hard carry case which stores all the attachments, if you prefer just the one attachment it makes the Mini Massage Gun even more portable. If you have never used as massage gun before don’t be intimidated by its’ looks, the rapid strokes stimulate blood flow to the muscles, helping in recovery, releasing tightness, increasing flexibility, flushing away lactic acid and reducing DOMS. This kit includes the massage gun in the distinct Pulseroll red and black design, the type-c recharger cable and four attachment heads. The small round head has been designed to provide an overall, full body muscle massage and can be used for a focused and deeper muscle massage, the pneumatic head (sounds scary but feels amazing) is perfect for sensitive muscles, working out those painful areas. The spinal head, as the name suggests, is suited for a spinal muscle massage, with two areas that sit either side of the spin and lastly the bullet head has been designed for trigger point therapy and can be used for advanced localised deep muscle massage. The built-in lithium-ion battery can last up to 6 hours depending on the power setting and will take about 3 hours to fully recharge. The gun can level up from 1500 rpm, to 2000 rpm, 2500 and reaching 3000 rpm ensuring you get the right pressure for those specific muscles. The LED screen displays both the battery life and the power setting. The Mini Gun is easy to use and its smaller body actually makes it easier to access some areas, unlike the rollers you cannot work on your own back so you will need to ask a buddy for help. There isn’t much not to love about this massage gun, it feels amazing after a hard workout session, it is reasonably quiet (some massage guns make a hell of a racket), super user friendly and wonderfully portable.
For more information on the Pulseroll Mini Massage Gune click here
£129.99
A portable mini massage gun that provides effective relief for tired muscles.
Pros Portable User-friendly Good value for money 4 speeds, up to 3000rpm 4 attachment heads LED display Not excessively loud Cons 3-hour recharge time 55
Devolo Magic 2 Before moving out of the city we took a lot of things are compatible with all routers, network devices, Devolo for granted, one in particular being a decent internet Magic adapters and products certified by HomeGrid connection, in our new home the internet seems to be Forum, dLAN Powerline adapters, other HomePlug AV reluctant to move out of the kitchen into the rest of the products including the Devolo Outdoor WiFi Powerline house (just like me during lockdown). The Devolo Magic 2 adapter, are not supported. The Magical Mesh WiFi is a good way to share the internet across the house, letting system is suitable for surfing the web, UHD streaming, you stream a movie in one room, whilst someone can get and gaming, even in the remotest corner of your home, it lost in a computer game upstairs. The Devolo Magic 2 is a provides a stable and fast connection, no longer can you starter kit that can be adapted with additional add ons to blame the internet lag for your terrible scores on Call of suit your specific needs, it comes with the Magic 2 LAN Duty. The wireless installation is straightforward and Adapter, Magic 2 WiFi Adapter, installation guide and a convenient in maintaining a tidy finish in the home, with two-meter ethernet cable. the combination of powerline and mesh WiFi networking Designed to get through thick walls and out into your you get a strong and functional connection you can rely garden the Magic 2 can push your internet up to 500m on. and speeds of up to 2400 Mbps. Devolo Magic adapters
Pros Up to 2400 Mbps Mesh WiFi and Powerline Expands WiFi up to 500m Tidy and discrete Additional adaptor sold separately Cons Expensive initial set up
For more information on the Devolo Magic 2 click here
ÂŁ169.99
Eliminate internet dead zones in your home whilst maintaining internet speed and stability.
57
JR Puralife P.30 Our homes have recently become a place of rest and play as well as our workplace, schools and gyms, that paired with the cold weather forcing us to stay inside and windows closed results in a whole lot of indoor air pollution. The Puralife P.30 from JR (Juicy Retreats) is part of the P series which also includes the small P.20 version, the big brother version, the numbers are taken from the area size they can accommodate with the P.30 being suitable for a 30m2 room. It comes in a clean white gloss finish and measures up at 19.5L x 19.5W x 37H cm, weighs just 1.5kg and has a 1.2m main cable, for some, this may restrict where it can be placed. Along with the main unit you get spare Hepa 13 antibacterial filters (RRP ÂŁ39.99), this makes up just one part of the purification system, the P.30 also has an activated carbon Filter, pre filter, UVC light and the Anion Ionisor. The first stage, Pre-Filter, catch and neutralise the larger air particles including dust, fluff, pet dander, mould, fungi and larger bacteria molecules and pollen often the causes of hay fever and allergies. The Activated Carbon Filter uses high quality activated carbon to neutralise potentially poisonous gases like formaldehyde from carpets and floors, nitrogen oxide from gas stoves and car fumes, as well as benzene and VOCs from household cleaning products and scented candles. The Hepa H13 Filter comes into action at stage three, this captures up to 99.97% of harmful ultra fine particles down to 0.1pm size such as germs, bacteria and viruses. Stage four uses the UVC Air Sterilization which also take on viruses, bacteria, mould, fungi and as germs hate the sunshine, the UV light shines directly onto the purified air before sending it back out into the room. The last stage tackles negative ions, the P-Series are in fact one of the only air purifiers to effectively neutralise micro-pollutant particles in the air before they even reach the purifier. This diffuses harmless, invisible, negatively charged Ions into the air which attract positively charged pollutants and nano particles to stick to them like a magnet causing them to become heavy and fall to the floor ready to be vacuumed away. The P.30 runs quietly at less than < 30dB, the sleep function ensures you can run it at night without being disturbed, additionally there are two speeds to choose from. The Remote control allows you to control the P.30 without getting up from your desk or bed, as well as the intuitive, integrated touch panel on top of the unit. With air quality potentially being up to five times worse than outdoors (especially right now) the P.30 is a welcome addition to any home, simple to use it does all the hard work for you so all you need to do is enjoy clean and purified air. For more information on the JR Puralife P.30 click here
Bring a breath of fresh air into the house with this high performing purifier.
Pros Removes 99.97% of harmful airborne particles and pollution
2 speeds plus sleep mode 5 stage filtration system Whisper quiet Optional UVC function Remote Control Sleek, modern design
ÂŁ339.99
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Lindy BNX-100XT Wireless Headphones We were able to review the BNX-100 from Lindy last year so we were excited to see what changes they had made with the new 100XT. The first thing we noticed was the design, the XT are all black this time with a minimalist design making them a good-looking pair of cans. The charging port has been upgraded to a USB C connection making it more compatible with the modern-day devices, the battery will last up to 15hours (12hours with ANC activated), not recorded breaking but enough to get you through the working weeks’ commute. The included 3.5mm audio cable means that when the battery runs out you can carry on enjoying the music via a wired connection, the charge status can be viewed with the integrated battery monitor, or on the screen of compatible iOS devices. The 100XT also comes with a 6.3mm Adapter, Dual-plug flight adapter and hard carry case, they connect over Bluetooth 5.0 and deliver a reliable and lag free stream and now feature twin pairing technology. The Auto-Pause Technology means your audio will stop playing as soon as the headphones are removed, and automatically restarts when they are replaced, so you won’t miss out on anything if you need to take a quick break. The Audio-Pass Through mode can let a little of the outside volume in without the need of removing the headset at all, the Hybrid Noise Cancelling uses noise detection microphones both externally and inside the speaker driver. This can be activated to deliver the noise cancellation which reduces the ambient noise up to 95%, this works effectively and drowns out even the deepest tones. However, the ANC also has an impact on the quality of the audio and flattens the sound, without it the sound is sufficient, bass heads might prefer a bit more umph, but the mid and high tones are enjoyable. All things considered the BNX 100XT hits the mark for its price tag, if you already have the 100 we wouldn’t recommend rushing out for an upgrade but if you are after a comfortable pair of entry level wireless headphones with ANC, look no further
£99.99
Reliable and comfortable entry level wireless
ANC headphones. For more information on the Lindy BNX-100XT Wireless Headphones click here
Pros Active Noise CancellationAuto-Pause Twin Pairing Connectivity Reasonably priced Audio Pass-through Technology Comfortable and light Cons Bass isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that intense Average battery life ANC flattens the sound slightly
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Scanmarker Air The Scanmarker Air aims to make revision, note taking and research a faster and more user-friendly process with this digital highlighter. It certainly feels more like a highlighter than a pen in your hand with its chunky design, but it is comfortable to hold and incredibly light weight at just 60g, the downside to this is that the plastic casing does feel a little fragile and it only comes with a draw string pouch to protect it in your bag, they do sell hard cases on their online store to make you feel a bit safer.
including some rather obscure ones, it will do a good job at getting the basic information of the text, but you will certainly need to review it to correct grammar and slang words.
All the text can be edited via any computer application, allowing you to adjust the notes straight away or save them for later. The Air can read aloud in real-time which is really helpful for people with difficulty to read (i.e. dyslectic). The Air recognises 3000 characters per minute, The Scanmarker Air is compatible with devices with that’s a full line of text within one second and can scan Bluetooth 4.0 or newer, Windows 7+, Mac OS X 10.10+, text from sizes 6 – 24pt, it can also be configured for Android 4.3+, iOS 7+ and iPhone 4S/iPad 3+. Packed both left and right-handed uses. A few things to consider, with tech the Air has a scanning width of 1cm (0.4 Inch) you will need WiFi and Bluetooth activated for all the with a transparent plastic tip and light making it easy to functions, the battery will last up to a couple of hours direct, you don’t have to press down but be aware that the with constant use, the company guarantees at least 500 tip can leave marks on soft or old pages (if you don’t apply scans between charging which last for a typical user for too much pressure no marks are left), you may also not be 4-6 days. You just have to make sure that the initial 3 allowed to use the light on certain texts. Once connected to hourse charge is performed) but it is easy to recharge your smart device simply scan the Air across the page and from your laptop via the USB charger, your device the text will appear on your screen in real time, it proved needs to be within one metre of the Scanmarker for a highly accurate. Things get a little trickier when it comes to stable connection. The Scanmarker Air is a handy tool using the translation feature, with over 40 languages if you spend a lot of time annotating, note taking and translating for various projects, it certainly isn’t perfect when it comes to translation but it much better than trawling through a translation dictionary.
For more information on the Scanmarker Air click here
Ditch the yellow highlighter and upgrade your note taking to the digital age.
Pros Lightweight Comfortable to
$116
hold
Fast, real time scan Cons Short battery life to screen Translations will Ready out loud feature
need editing
Translates over 40 Could use a more languages
protective case
Compatible with a
Scanning can leave
range of apps and
marks on delicate
devices
paper
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ThinOptics Readers + Universal Pod Case
The number of times I’ve been out with parents and wanted to show them a quick photo of something on my phone, it then turns into a mad search through bags and pockets to find their glasses, the right glasses, by which point our coffee is cold and my phone battery has died. With the ThinOptics there is no confusion as to where your glasses are thanks to the universal pod case, this attaches via the included non-residue adhesive strip to the back of a phone case, alternatively they can be slipped into a wallet, purse or pocket if preferred. These are the world’s thinnest readers making them easy to tuck away anywhere and leave the big bulky glasses case at home, the pod comes in either black and white to compliment your phone/tablet case or even your laptop. This case is super thin but that doesn’t mean it is fragile, it is tough enough to withstand the rough and tumble of daily life, ensuring the glasses are well protected. The Readers are equally durable, made from a shatterproof, thermo-injection moulded, optical-grade polycarbonate, the bridge uses a shape-memory metal called Nitinol, which is 10x more elastic than spring steel and encased in medical-grade silicone tubing. The frames come in Jet Black, Azure Blue, Ruby Red, Amethyst Purple, Espresso Brown and Crystal Clear, with strengths varying from +1.0. +1.5, +2.0 and +2.5. Readers, unlike reading glasses, don’t have temples to pop behind your ears, so how do they stay on, well when you first pop them on simply apply a bit of gentle pressure and the soft, grip sensitive nose pads will hold the readers in place. Obviously if you decide to go running or dancing in them then yes, they will probably fall off but why on earth are you doing that, in normal reading conditions you can look up and down, side to side without them going anywhere. The ThinOptics Readers have been designed to fit the vast majority of noses, it might take a few goes to find if they need to be positioned higher up or down the nose for a comfortable grip, for those that can’t find a suitable way to wear them the company offers a 30-day, money-back-fit guarantee. The visual quality is just as you would expect from regular reading glasses, this is because they use the same lens material regularly used in high-end prescription glasses and are made by one of the most advanced optical lens manufacturers in the world. The ThinOptics Readers are really handy little readers, you will always know where they are and their super thin design makes them highly portable. For more information on the ThinOptics Readers + Universal Pod Case click here
Pros Worlds thinnest readers and case combined 6 colours to choose from 4 strengths Durable pod case Included non-residue adhesive strip Soft but grippy nose pad Comfortable
ÂŁ54.99
An extremely handy pair of super thin readers, always know where they are with the universal pod case.
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