Continuing my feature of sharing my favourite outdoor-related blog posts from the last week, here is my pick from week beginning 14 Feb 2011:

How not to hike a National Trail

Blog: UKMASE | Published: 13th Feb 2011 | On Twitter:@ukmase

In this post, Paul has some great tips for anyone thinking of undertaking a National Trail. I would especially agree with him on the importance of training and on equipment – you don’t necessarily need all the latest ultra-light gear, it is certainly important to reduce weight where you can and to only take what you need so you can enjoy the experience.

You can read the post at: http://ukmase.wordpress.com/2011/02/13/how-not-to-hike-a-national-trail/

5 minutes to go…

Blog: Glasgow tae Somewhere | Published: 15th Feb 2011 | On Twitter:@german68

What would you do if you only had 5 minutes left to leave? A really thought provoking post!

pour a last dram of the Usige Beathe, raise a toast the north wind, to absent friends then say “cheerio” !

and I completely agree with Graham’s comment that once you have thought about it, you can get on and do it all now, as life is too short!

You can read the post at: http://gckelly.blogspot.com/2011/02/5-minutes-to-go.html

Remote Canister Gas Stoves for Winter

Blog: Lightweight Outdoors | Published: 16th Feb 2011 | On Twitter:@philoutdoors

Another great video from Phil, this time testing four lightweight remote cannister stoves.

When I chose my stove for Offa’s Dyke, I have to admit that my decision was significantly swayed by a group test in Countryfile Magazine. In the end I went for a Primus EtaPackLite – it certainly would not be classed as lightweight – coming in at 692g (although that includes an integrated pan), but when compared to the Optimus Stella+ it had significantly quicker boil times (1.5 mins against 3.25 mins) and used much less gas to boil 500ml of water (6g against 20g). After watching Phil’s video (love the penguin suit by the way), I still feel happy with my choice!

You can read the post at: http://lightweightoutdoors.com/?p=1811 (the video is embedded below)

Others

Other interesting posts this week:

• Going Lighter – First Steps Targets II – Stoves on Must Be This Way