Back in 2021 Scarpa released a new version of the Boostic. Whilst it was a lovely shoe, it was far from a direct replacement to the original, as it sought to balance the scales towards sensitivity, and away from the outright stiffness and support of its predecessor. This of course had pros and cons, and made the shoe quite a different proposition. Fast forward to 2025 and Scarpa have released the true heir to the original - the Boostic R. Whilst cosmetically it's been given a facelift, this..." go to full review
This is an excellent, warm, lightweight boot that's proved perfect for technical winter and alpine climbing. You would have to be an exceptional winter climber to outgrow the capabilities of these boots. The uppers are reasonably waterproof - perhaps their only failing in this regard being above-zero Scottish bog walk-ins. By the standards of a modern lightweight boot they have a very durable, yet sticky sole, that Scarpa have designed to be easily resole-able. Whilst heavier leather boots..." go to full review
If you're looking for a fresh set of higher-end technical ice tools, two much-discussed models new this season are bound to turn your head. Enter the Black Diamond Hydra - a highly refined and versatile tool - and the DMM Cortex - a strikingly burly yet lightweight workhorse. Both seem destined to become familiar sights on winter crags in the coming seasons, but which is the axe for you? We put them to the test this winter to see how they stack up for UK climbers.go to full review
The Mosquito weighs in at a scant 240 grams which puts it amongst the lightest fully functional sport climbing harnesses on the market. After several months of use all of the materials are holding up well without any creasing in the legs loops. This has become my go-to harness for sport climbing.go to full review
Overall I’m super impressed with Rapid XT. It’s a solid workhorse approach/trail/hiking shoe that isn’t the lightest (400g per shoe size 42) but not the heaviest either. It’s not quite the holy grail, lightweight, sticky approach shoe I was hoping it might be for summer rock guiding, but it’s pretty damn good. They also look great, IMHO!go to full review