Back to School with Jansport Backpacks

It is “back to school” time once again and so thoughts are turning to purchasing our children’s uniforms, stocking up on stationery and buying backpacks, as we prepare them for their return to classes this September. OutdoorGB.com, who stock a range of outdoor equipment including fitness watches and sunglasses, have a range of hard-wearing and stylish children’s backpacks and rucksacks for sale, which are perfect for the new academic term.

Kids have a habit of being tough on their clothes and their belongings but they also want to impress their classmates with the latest gear. It can be difficult to combine both durability and style but the latest range of “back to school” bags and backpacks to purchase from OutdoorGB are both tough and good-looking – perfect for any child.

Edward Giles, Chief Executive of OutdoorGB.com who specialise in heart rate monitors and backpacks said, “Kids school bags have to be tough to cope with the rigours of books, dirty PE kits, shoes and the rough treatment they receive on a day to day basis. We now offer an affordable range of backpacks and rucksacks for kids of all ages and sizes which are not only extremely resilient but also come in a wide range of styles and colours.”

Jansports’ ‘Superbreak’ bag has been around for thirty years and is one of the company’s best-selling bags of all time. It may have been around thirty years, but the Superbreak Backpack keeps coming back year after year with updated colours in line with current fashion. With a good twenty five litre capacity the bag includes a large main compartment and a front utility pocket and organiser. The Superbreak bag features enough room for several textbooks, a ringbinder, books, a calculator, pencil case, lunch, mobile phone, sweatshirt and an mp3 player. OutdoorGB offer the Superbreak in sixteen colours from plain black to funky bright designs.

Another popular choice is the Jansport Beamer Laptop rucksack. This large backpack allows you to carry your laptop in comfort with clever weight dispersing support and a breathable mesh back. The Beamer Laptop Backpack has several compartments including a padded internal sleeve to fit a 15”4 laptop. The Rucksack also features a smart iPod/mp3 top entry zipped pocket with a music exit port for headphones.

Mr Giles added, “The perfect school bag or backpack should combine comfort, durability and style. For example, the Jansport Trinity Bag offers a large capacity for books and a laptop whilst being extremely comfortable due to the padded back, carry handle and foam shoulder straps. These bags are rugged enough for the roughest treatment whilst coming in a wide range of sizes and colours to suit any child.”

OutdoorGB, leading supplier of Ortlieb and Polar products, also point to the fantastic warranty offered on all Jansport Backpacks and Rucksacks. Jansport offer a thirty year warranty and during this time will repair (or if necessary, replace) any products with defects in the material or workmanship free of charge.

The Wondawedge Inflatable Lounger

Currently mesmerising and amazing all throughout the OutdoorGB office is this....

No, no, no, not the beach, but the blue thing on the beach. We won’t lie, the sight of golden sands and the blue sea along the coast of Australia does mesmerise and amaze us, a lot more than the view out of the window of grey skies and rain beating down off the dull car park, that’s for sure. But we haven’t got that, what we have got is the blue thing.....introducing the WondaWedge Inflatable Back Rest Lounger.

They say it’s the simple things in life that have the most impact, well in the case of our friend the Wondawedge that is very true. Boy is he simple, but like the majority of simpletons, being easily swayed and all, he has a lot of uses. The Wondawedge can be used just about anywhere, whether indoors or outdoors, for health or for recreation. Ideal for the beach as the picture shows (that we didn’t take!) or even our grey car park (which we did take, but won’t show as probably just describing it has depressed you.) However there is one key feature of all his uses....comfort.

We reckon that trip to the beach can be further enjoyed by bringing along your buddy, the WondaWedge. Cutting down what you have to carry, the WondaWedge stops the need for beach mats, loungers and deck chairs; instead you just need something that folds down to the size of a book, easily fitting into your bag. Inflating the WondaWedge is a breeze, no need for fancy pumps or air compressors, just good old human breath will bring it to life. From zero to hero, 1 minute the size of a book, the next minute big enough to sit on in complete comfort.

We have yet to take one, but the next festival we are going to, next month, a WondaWedge is coming along. We aren’t going to bother with camping chairs and stools, past experience from the long walk from the car park to the festival has taught us that no matter how small or compact they profess to fold, they still bash into you as you carry them, make other people angry as the chair bashes into them and are just generally awkward. Oh and camping chairs easily break, the fabric rips away from the frame far too easy, all it takes is you sitting down less than elegantly. The Wondawedge won’t break that easily, we aren’t saying it wont break (jumping on a lot of things destroys them) but it won’t break as suddenly and easily as them rip off folding chairs.

Although we said before the Wondawedge was simple, just like Dr Frankenstein and his monster, the creator isn’t. The WondaWedge was developed by physiotherapists to provide excellent lumbar back support and preserve spinal posture so is designed for health use too.

There are loads of things you can do with the WondaWedge, use it camping, at festivals, on the boat, when watching TV, by the pool, for recuperating with a bad back, for meditation, reading in bed, as a sleep aid, the list could keep going and going!

Want to know more? Find out more about the WondaWedge Inflatable Lounger. Oh and be quick and you could win a WondaWedge!

Splash Out With SailGB.com

With summer finally here, many of us are checking the weather forecasts regularly so not to miss the chance to enjoy the good weather that needs making the most of.. SailGB.com, who stock a wide range of marine equipment, from navigational charts to sunglasses, can help anyone heading to the coast this summer by offering a range of wetsuits suited to every kind of watersports enthusiast.

SailGB offer top specification wetsuits, catering for all purposes including sailing, swimming, surfing, diving and waterskiing.

A main usage for wetsuits in the UK is for surfing. Surfing has become a popular pursuit in the UK in recent years and SailGB.com stock a range of surfing wetsuits for both adults and kids. Featuring integrated buoyancy and shock protectors, multilayer prints and resistant seams the wetsuits offer style, flexibility, comfort and protection at an affordable price.

Edward Giles, Chief Executive of SailGB.com who also specialise in GPS Devices and sailing watches said, “Surfing has really taken off in the UK in recent years. Of course it is massive down in Newquay with the Boardmasters competition and festival taking place there only last week. But there are many other great surfing spots across the UK, with great surfing beaches in the North East, Scotland and Wales, which are all ideal for beginners to the surf. Summer offers the best chance of decent weather, although autumn right through to mid-November is still prime time for hitting the waves thanks to the relatively mild air and water temperatures.”

SailGB.com also offers a range of sailing wetsuits for both cool and warm weather. Rash suits, under vests, wetsuit boots and gloves are also available and complement the wide selection of sailing wetsuits.

Mr Giles added, “In warm weather we recommend a “shortie” suit with short legs and short sleeves which can be complemented with neoprene rashguards or shorts as necessary. In cool sailing weather we would suggest a full suit of 3mm thickness. 5mm suits are warmer but they offer less flexibility.”

In addition to sailing and surfing wetsuits, SailGB.com also offer a wide selection of wetsuits for kayaking and canoeing, waterskiing and for swimming. Specialist wetsuits for triathletes are also available which offer flexibility as well as quick-drying technology.

Editor’s Note: SailGB.com is represented by online advertising consultancy, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 233.

Put Your Best Foot Forward With OutdoorGB.com

Putting your best foot forward on challenging terrain has just got easier, thanks to the extensive range of speciality walking boots and hiking footwear now available to buy online from outdoor clothing and equipment experts, OutdoorGB.com.

The variety of shoes has been carefully chosen by the experienced team at the firm, and is designed to cater for the novice walker through to the well-versed hiker. Engineered for specific terrains and environments, your feet are sure to be the envy of all in your party whether you’re hiking in the Himalayas or just enjoy a more leisurely walk in the Peak District.

For advanced mountaineering and hiking along high routes in the mountains, Alpine boots are essential. Designed to be compatible with crampons, OutdoorGB.com’s range of Alpine boots are perfect for those requiring specialist support in extreme environments, such as glacier and ice climbing. The Zamberlan Kontact GT RR Alpine Boots 3900 utilises the best of leather and fabric to allow maximum movement while the microtex wicking nylon collar controls excess moisture. The Zamberlan easy “step-in” system makes the boots stiff enough to use with semi-rigid crampons.

Hiking boots for harsher trails are also available from OutdoorGB and give a superior level of comfort, grip and ankle support. The Zamberlan Napo GT Plus Hiking Boots 143 is supple and comfortable and features a low cut design for quicker and easier movement. The boots are lined with innovative Gore-Tex material for excellent protection and breathability and also feature Zamberlan Dual-Grip PU sole for traction, durability and better comfort.

Chief executive of OutdoorGB.com and SailGB.com, Edward Giles, said, “We know how important it is to have the right equipment with you when you set out on a trip, and to have high quality support that won’t let you down when the going gets tough. This is why we stock a high quality range of boots that will ensure your feet stay protected even when venturing in the most demanding of conditions.”

Mountains with harsh terrains call for undivided support for the feet and ankles, and the Zamberlan Baffin GT RR Mountain Boots 634 features a foot wrapping system, which firmly holds the foot in place and allows a precise fit. Zamberlan’s Rubber Reinforcement System enhances protection to the upper, giving a comprehensive mountaineering solution.

Mr Giles added, “We recommend Zamberlan because they are excellent in their craft, thanks to their years of experience. The company is based at the foot of the Italian Small Dolomite mountains, and so their expertise is born of necessity, because they live and work in a mountainous environment.”

The firm also stocks a variety of trekking boots suitable for hiking, long excursions and military use. La Sportiva Trango Trek 347 Micro EVO GTX GRIGIO Trekking Boots give a snug fit and comfort along with the rugged durability that is crucial when going off-trail and carrying heavy loads. For countryside treks and hillside walks, the firm suggest Contour Nevada Walking Boots. The lightweight boot gives padding for sharp or uneven surfaces while the supple calf leather and waterproof, breathable lining ensure feet stay warm and dry on even the most arduous of trips.

Editor's Note: OutdoorGB.com is represented by search engine optimisation agency, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726233.

Hides Sunglasses Skins

Finding somewhere to put your sunglasses when you don’t want to wear them is one of life’s little dilemmas, you know the kind, not exactly handling the fate of the world but still enough to cause frustration for you. Put them on your shirt and they are likely to fall off with any sudden movement and are bound to stretch your shirt. Put them on your belt and you will probably crush them when you sit down or again fall off. So where to put them? You don’t want to carry them around, too much effort, not leaving your hands free and you will probably put them down somewhere and forget about them. What you need is a chain...err no wait that will make you look like an elderly librarian. What you really need are the Hides Multifunction Sunglasses Skins, a mouthful but hey they do a lot, so they probably deserve multiple names for their multiple functions.

Hides Skins will stop you from wearing that ugly chain around your neck, after all why would you want to accessorise your expensive polarised sports sunglasses with a fake bit of gold tat? So what makes the Hides different? Why should you wear the hides you may ask? For a start they look much cooler, coming in different colours and patterns, like snake print, camo and khaki. But funky colours are not the be all and end all, no the Hides Multifunction are a 3-in-1 sunglasses accessory. Why 3-in-1? Hides Sunglasses Skins are 3-in-1 as they easily transform from a cord to a case to a cleaner.

Developed from an idea thought up over a beer and a scratched pair of brand new sunglasses, Hides Sunglasses Skins offer security, protection and performance, all in one product. When they are in cord mode, they look small and sleek, so compact you wouldn’t believe they could stretch to fit over the entire sunglasses. But they can and it’s not some kind of weird practising of the occult either, just pure cleverness, the cleverness is all down to a patented tight double roll of lycra microfibre that will wrap around the lenses of the glasses because of its four-way stretch (sorry to ruin it). Take them off the lenses and as if like magic (remember its not!), the Hides will spring straight back into cord size.

Sunglasses looking a bit skanky? Sweat splattered lenses? As the Hides are crafted from super soft lens-safe microfibre material, the third part of the transformation sees the hides morph into a lens cleaning cloth. Once clean and tidy, either stretch back round to form the case or let the Hides spring back down to become a cord, pretty simple!

Here are at OutdoorGB we aren’t the only ones impressed by the Hides Sunglasses Skins, Hides have won the prestigious ISPO Brand New Award as well as awards from Motorboating Magazine, Backpacker Magazine, the North American Hunting Club and the North American Fishing Club.

Hides come in a few variations, all of which are available at OutdoorGB. For day to day use and for less strenuous activities, the Hides Classic Sunglasses Skins are ideal but when it comes to more high endurance activities and extreme sports like climbing, mountainbiking, sailing and backpacking, you should look to the Hides Technoskins.

Technoskins feature Impact Expansion Joint (IEJ) technology, IEJ acts like a shock absorber on a car and ensures additional security should a high impact situation occur. Technoskins also feature detachable straps which allow you to detach the case and the cleaner from the strap to enable the cord to be adjusted to be tight fitting during more mobile and physical activities. The detached case and cleaner section can then be used to protect/cover/clean a watch, be used as a sweat band, to form a fashion coordinated ponytail, protect another pair of glasses or be used as a low stress tie down.
Not just limited to Sunglasses, Hides also cater for bigger applications with GoggleSkins. Developed specifically for divers, skiers, snowboarders and motorcyclists, GoggleSkins offer the same 3-in-1 properties of the other Hides, just on a larger scale.

Have a look at our range of Hides Multifunction Sunglasses Skins for yourself here.

Water Relief From OutdoorGB.com

The often heard phrase “it won’t hurt, it’s only a bit of water” actually really couldn’t be more wrong, as figures from the World Health Organisation (WHO) attribute 80 per-cent of all travel diseases to contaminated water. With all kinds of bacteria and germs lurking in the water, Outdoor clothing and fitness watches specialists OutdoorGB.com have taken these figures on board and extended their range of water purification products.

Many illnesses can be avoided by taking simple but effective precautions when drinking water in destinations where the source may be questionable, or on excursions where safe drinking water is not readily available.

Chief executive of OutdoorGB.com and SailGB.com the leading outdoor clothing and equipment retailers, Edward Giles, said, “Even a small amount of contaminated water can result in ill health and disruptions to your travel plans. Many outdoor and travel fanatics realise the importance of keeping hydrated and drinking plenty of water in hot and humid climates, especially when participating in rigorous activities, but it is necessary to treat this water before it is consumed.”

“At OutdoorGB.com, we stock a full range of products designed to purify, cleanse and sterilise your drinking water in quick and convenient ways. These are especially useful for times when you may need to rely on natural water sources, which could easily be contaminated.”

One such product comes from trusted brand Lifesystems, which offers Chlorine Tablets that are designed to easily disinfect water. Treating up to 75 litres, the tablets provide a quick and safe way to treat water to drink and to use when brushing your teeth. They are also ideal for rinsing fruit and vegetables in purified water before eating.

The Katadyn Pocket Filter is a comprehensive solution for the frequent traveller, and is suitable for use time and time again, unlike disposable filters. The heavy-duty components allow maximum use with minimal impact on the product, and the filter is the only one of its kind to be backed by a 20-year guarantee. Killing bacteria, protozoa and other disease-causing agents, this travel essential will prove to be a worthy component of any travel health kit. Designed for shorter trips away and also from Katadyn is the Hiker Microfilter, which is lightweight and convenient enough to carry in a backpack.

Utilising UV light as another method of decontaminating water, the SteriPEN Classic Water Purifier allows users to destroy many germs and agents known to cause dysentery, hepatitis and legionnaires disease, and all with a simple stirring motion in the water. The purifier produces results quickly, cleansing a litre of water in little over a minute.

For those who want to remain eco-conscious while travelling safely, the Aquapure Traveller - Portable Water Purifier is the right product for you. Capable of purifying up to 350 litres, the bottle saves the user from relying on buying water bottled in plastic. The portable purifier is the only purifier to be full endorsed by the Hospital for Tropical Diseases London.

Mr Giles added, “Safe water precautions apply to anyone and everyone that decides to travel – whether they are seasoned hikers on expeditions, or if they are embarking on their first journey away from home. As well as supplying our clients all they need to enjoy their activities and adventures, we can give them the essentials they need to stay safe and in good health.”

These products can be viewed here: http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.editAlbumPhotos&albumID=1175474, in addition to on our Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php/?gid=57227299454.

Editor's Note: OutdoorGB.com is represented by online advertising consultancy, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 233.

Exped Sleeping Mats

Ah camping, the joy of the great outdoors, after an extremely active day outdoors, getting a good nights sleep is important. A good nights sleep in a tent you cry? Yes a good nights sleep under the canvas does exist. We know getting a good nights sleep at the best of times can be a challenge, there are always distractions, noises in the night keeping you awake, being too hot, being too cold, someone hogging the covers, the list goes on. So it is therefore no surprise from the word go that sleeping in a tent isn’t going to be the best environment in which to get some sleep. But this can be improved and you can, we repeat can, sleep in comfort.

Getting a comfortable nights sleep will see you feeling refreshed, ready for action, ready to take on the outdoors world and ready to endure another extremely energetic and active day outside, all the qualities of a happy camper. Not getting a good nights sleep will find you feeling tired, unmotivated, and grumpy, basically the perfect recipe for somebody nobody wants to be outdoors with.

If you want to be in the happy camp (you do, you do, miserable-ism is so last year), here at OutdoorGB we have a range of sleeping solutions from Exped that will see you sleeping like a baby (and none of them intoxicating substances!).

Exped Sleeping Mats are the perfect choice for anybody who wants a comfy nights sleep. Sleeping mats keep you warm, they stop you losing heat to the ground through conduction and enable your sleeping bag to work properly, keeping it compressed under you. Sleeping mats also of course keep you comfortable, instead of just being a thin groundsheet and your sleeping bag between you and the hard rocky ground that is littered with stones, roots and who knows what else, there will be a luxurious air filled dream machine. Sleeping mats basically work the night shift for you, leaving you to do some sweet dreaming.

The Exped sleeping mats we sell at OutdoorGB fall into 2 different categories, clever self-inflating types and then those that need a bit of puff.

Self inflating type mats are constructed with a layer of foam sandwiched inside an air tight shell with a valve. Opening the valve, causes the foam to expand and sucks air into the mat. When the foam is fully expanded, as if like magic the valve closes and the mat can be used. Packing away these mats is just as easy, just open up the valve, roll up the mat and squeeze out the air, then close the valve and the mat will stay the same shape.

The Exped Downmat Down-Filled Mats are self-inflating mats that as the name suggests are filled with feather down. Super comfortable, the mat will smooth out uneven ground and the down insulation means heat loss is dramatically reduced. As demonstrated when birds try to squeeze into small spaces, down compresses well too, so the Exped Downmats will pack small.

The other mats we sell are those that need pumping up using a bit of effort, which we will call er non self inflating mats. Non self inflating mats are constructed using the same air tight outer layer and valve as their more active brothers, self inflating mats but don’t feature the layer of foam, as it is the foam that sucks the air into the self inflating mats. Non self inflating mats tend to be thicker and contain more air, giving them a softer feel. Packing the same way as self inflating mats, non self inflating mats are better for those with limited space, as they are lighter and pack down smaller as there is no foam to compress.

A nice example of a non self inflating mat is the Exped AirMat 7.5. Built to be tough, yet incredibly lightweight, the Exped AirMat 7.5 is also amazingly compact. For improved slip resistance, the top surface of the mat is honeycomb patterned.

Find more snug sleeping solutions here.

Bic Sport Windsurfing Boards

Though the name Bic is synonymous worldwide with the ballpoint pen, Bic Sport, the watersports arm of the Société Bic company, are also one of the world’s largest producers of windsurfing equipment.

Encouraged by Bic founder, Marchel Bich’s interest in sailing, Bic expanded into the watersports market with the manufacture of windsurfing equipment in the early 1980’s. Since the beginning, Bic Sport has always been keen to make windsurfing as accessible as possible to just about anyone who wants to get out on the water and have fun. To do this Bic Sport manufacture affordable easy to use windsurfing rigs, boards and sails.

Here at SailGB, we have just launched the 2009 range of Bic Sport Windsurfing Boards. Easy to use and highly practical, there is a windsurfing board in the range for the absolute beginner right through to the seasoned pro.

What we think makes Bic Sport unique is the fact they are the only European manufacturer of windsurfing equipment and the only manufacturer to master thermoforming with aluminium moulds. A highly technical procedure, it allows the boards to be made with only one closure of the mould, greatly limiting any extra material used in the manufacturing process. Put simply, the end result is a board that is both 20% lighter than other thermoformed boards and also a board that is strongly competitive with epoxy sandwich boards.

For the absolute newbie to windsurfing we recommend taking a look at the Bic Sport Windsurfers-Funboards range. Designed to be easy to use in a wide range of conditions up to moderate winds, the Funboards are good boards for those just starting out to learn on. The BIC Sport Jungle Windsurfer is an excellent example of this, a windsurfing funboard that can be taken out on the water even when there is no wind or waves as it can also be used for stand-up paddling. The Jungle board is ideal for beach holidays and for those not taking it too seriously.

For those looking for more of a thrill to their boardriding experience, the Bic Sport Core 133 is a versatile board that is ideal for all kinds of conditions. The Core 133 lets you go very fast, very easily in all kinds of conditions. Made from Thermoformed Glass Composite, the Core 133 offers great stiffness that is very resistant to knocks.

While some like to windsurf for fun as a way of relaxing off the beach and others like to thrill seek, others are more competitive and like to race. If you fall into that the latter category, the Bic Sport Raceboard Windsurfers range is the range for you. Bic Sport Raceboards are designed to perform across the breadth of conditions found in competitions.

For those undertaking slalom courses in races, the Techno Pro 65 is the ideal board, featuring a fast and highly manoeuvrable slalom shape perfect for when the wind gets up and the waves start to swell. Extremely versatile, the Techno Pro 65 allows for pure bump and jump thrills and spills as well as superb acceleration and excellent straight line speed and easy control.

If you are looking to move quickly in a straight line, the Techno Pro 74 is the board for you, a pure race design that is designed to be very fast up to planing and to have greater straight line speed both downwind and upwind in moderate winds.

Bic Sport Shortboards are the choice of the more advanced windsurfer, requiring a lot of skill to use but giving the best combination of speed and performance, resulting in the best windsurfing experience.

Recommended by WIND magazine, the BIC Sport Techno 148 Windsurfer allows the more advanced rider to always be at ease, stable and comfortable, whatever the conditions. Ideal for the performance minded, the Techno 148 is an excellent freeride board.

Those are just a selection of the Bic Windsurfing Boards we stock at SailGB; see the full range of Bic Sport Windsurfing equipment, here. You can also take a look at our sister site OutdoorGB’s Flickr profile: http://www.flickr.com/photos/outdoorgb.

OutdoorGB sponsor Mongolian Charity Rally Participants

During a momentary lapse of sanity (their words not ours!), Edinburgh University graduates Alice Paisley and Juliet Waud decided to take on a massive challenge and enter the Mongolian Charity Rally 2009. After being approached by the girls, all of us here at OutdoorGB were so impressed by the dedication and support for good causes shown by the pair; we thought it was only right we got involved in sponsorship.

The rally really is a mean feat and will see the girls driving 10,000 miles in an ambulance from London to the Mongolian capital, Ulaanbaatar. Along the way they will venture through no less than 10 countries, cross five mountain ranges, two deserts and drive down many many poorly maintained roads and of all of this in..as they put it...temperatures that would even make the devil sweat. Then factor in the opportunist border guards and power happy policemen with AK47’s they expect to encounter and you have got to ask are they mad? (Again their own words). Mad or not, they definitely live up to the slogan they have coined for themselves, No Boundaries, No Limits.

Due to these treacherous conditions they are set to face, we are supplying Alice and Juliet with a SPOT GPS Location Tracker that will ensure vital contact with emergency services, let loved ones know they are safe and also allow everyone back home to keep tabs on exactly where they are.

Driving a Nissan Terrano II SE TD ambulance affectionately named “Norbert”, Alice and Juliet are raising money for the Save the Children charity, so perhaps they are not mad. Funds raised by them will help the poorest children receive healthcare, food, education and protection. Then once they have arrived in Mongolia, “Norbert” will be auctioned off for the further benefit of the local communities.

The rally is set to take the pair 6-8 weeks to complete, during this time we will provide updates as and when we receive them.

Anyone who would like to sponsor them can do so by logging on to www.justgiving.com/aliceandjuliet

Three Out of Three for Brownlee

Great Britain's Alistair Brownlee has made it a hat-trick of wins after victory in the latest stage of the Suunto sponsored ITU World Championship series in Kitzbühel, Austria. Crossing the line in 1:43:13, 21 year old Brownlee finished the swim with the leaders but almost fell back after losing his shoe during the transition to the bike. After recovering the shoe, Brownlee edged his way towards the front of the pack during the 40km bike ride then entering the 10km run, he wasted little time in closing the gap and took the leadership within minutes.

Elsewhere in the women's race, Australia’s Emma Moffatt clocked in her second victory of the championships with a time of 1:54:37. Moffatt, an Olympic bronze medallist broke away halfway through the run to finish 34 seconds ahead of European champion, Nicola Spirig from Switzerland.

2009 Kitzbühel Dextro Energy Triathlon - ITU World Championship - Elite Men's Results

Gold - Alistair Brownlee (GBR) 1:43:13

Silver - Javier Gomez (ESP) 1:43:21 +0:08

Bronze - Laurent Vidal (FRA) 1:43:24 +0:11

2009 Dextro Energy Triathlon - ITU World Championship Elite Men's Rankings

After Race Four of Eight

1. Alistair Brownlee (GBR) 2400pts

2. Javier Gomez (ESP) 2368pts

3. Laurent Vidal (FRA) 1963pts

4. Maik Petzold (GER) 1951pts

5. Brad Kahlefeldt (AUS) 1813pts

2009 Kitzbühel DC Dextro Energy Triathlon - ITU World Championship -
Elite Women's Results

Gold – Emma Moffatt (AUS) 1:54:37

Silver – Nicola Spirig (SUI) 1:55:11 +0:34

Bronze – Andrea Hewitt (NZL) 1:55:16 +0:39

2009 Dextro Energy Triathlon - ITU World Championship Elite Women's Rankings

After Race Four of Eight

1. Emma Moffatt (AUS) 2640pts

2. Andrea Hewitt (NZL) 2229pts

3. Emma Snowsill (AUS) 1818pts

4. Jessica Harrison (FRA) 1722pts

5. Helen Jenkins (GBR) 1710pts

To mark the Championship Series, Suunto have released a special edition t6c, find out more about it here.

Be Campsite Savvy This Season With OutdoorGB.com

With camping having become the new fashionable choice of getaway, many people are choosing to holiday closer to home, with this in mind OutdoorGB.com, the leading outdoor clothing and equipment retailers, are launching their very own guide to selecting the right camping stoves to bring a bit of home comfort to the campsite.

If the weather is miserable, getting some hot food inside of you is the perfect feeling, no one wants to rely on crisps and sandwiches at mealtimes nor do they want to be walking about in rainy conditions in pursuit of their dinner, especially during festival season, where fast food vans engage in the annual price hike.

Although some festivals ban the use of gas stoves, LPG stoves such as the Coleman Fyrestorm Stove or the Optimus Nova+ Lightweight Compact Multi-fuel Stove are ideal, as they provide a more controlled option. The Coleman Fyrestorm Stove, a specialist omni-fuel stove, is lightweight, wind resistant and powerful, ideal for camping in the British countryside, where temperatures can fluctuate at the drop of a hat. Once placed in to liquid fuel mode, priming or pre-heating is no longer required thanks to the Reflex™ technology and in LPG mode; a unique butane/propane cartridge adapter is designed to invert the cartridge, optimising performance for lower temperatures and higher altitudes.

Chief executive of OutdoorGB.com and SailGB.com the leading outdoor clothing and equipment retailers, Edward Giles, said, “It is essential that if you are choosing a new camping stove that you decide exactly what you are going to be using it for and how many people will be eating, carrying a large stove for only one person is just a waste of vital pack space. Also consider the conditions in which you are using it, if you are going to be using it in bleak weather conditions, go for a model like the Jetboil which will still offer great performance.”

In some areas and indeed countries you may find it difficult to get hold of your preferred fuel, however with some more versatile stoves, you can use a range of fuel types. Stoves from brands such as Optimus, Jetboil, Primus are ideal for outdoor adventures, where getting a particular type of fuel could prove tricky.

The Jetboil Camping Stove (Personal Cooking System), is one of OutdoorGB’s best selling products. Multi-award winning, this lightweight stove has revolutionised outdoor cooking and is extremely popular amongst outdoorsmen and campers due to its super fast boil times and ability to operate in the bleakest of weather conditions. The Jetboil will boil 500ml of water in just two minutes, approximately half the time of a standard camping stove, which means that you have more time to enjoy your holiday.

Alternatively, the Optimus Crux Lite Lightweight Stove could also be your ideal companion. Considered to be one of the world’s most lightweight stoves, weighing in at just 72 grams and measuring 75 x 57 x 55mm, this stove includes a burner with valve and stuff bag, ideal for transportation to and from the campsite. For more information on the huge range of stoves available from the outdoor equipment specialists at OutdoorGB.com, please visit their website at http://www.outdoorgb.com.

Editor’s Note: OutdoorGB.com is represented by online advertising consultancy, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 07792638394.

The Dakine 2009 Summer Collection at OutdoorGB.com

Introducing the Dakine 2009 Summer Collection, down at OutdoorGB we have recently brought our Dakine range right up to speed to include all the latest products from the newest Dakine collection. Dakine, named after the Hawaiian Pidgin word meaning ‘the kind’ or ‘the best’ (though can be used to refer to virtually anything good!), specialise in outdoor clothing and equipment for all the alternative sports that matter.

Dakine was established in 1979, when Rob Kaplan started manufacturing the Dakine Surf Leash in Haiku, Maui, Hawaii. Built to withstand the rigorous Hawaiian surf conditions, the success of the Dakine Surf Leash saw professional windsurfers ask Kaplan to help build footstraps for their new wave boards. Dakine later developed the first adjustable footstraps, seat harness and waist harness. The creation of the coffin board bag was a revolutionary step in surfing, making travel easier for athletes.

Today, Dakine create products for surf, skate, snowboarding, ski, windsurfing, kiteboarding and mountainbiking. So whatever alternative sport gets your pulse racing there is going to be a Dakine product for you.

Highlights of the new 2009 Summer Collection:

Part of the Dakine Summer 09 Skate Collection, the Dakine Covert Skate Pack is a rugged backpack featuring solid construction, hot designs and excellent functionality. Whether you are skating or studying, the Covert Skate Pack can suit your needs, a wide strap on the back enables you to carry your skateboard or if you prefer, your laptop with the internal padded laptop sleeve. An integrated organiser pocket ensures your pens; keys and mobile are kept safe and secure.

Carrying the name of South African professional surfer, Jordy Smith, the Dakine Jordy Smith 26L Surf Pack is an all-rounder surf backpack. Perfect for storing your kit in at the beach when surfing the waves, though equally as at home when surfing the street. Surfing, skating or studying, the Jordy Smith 26L Surf Pack has space and attachments for your skateboard, wetsuit bag and a padded sleeve to carry your laptop in safety. Solving the problem of where to put your sunglasses when the sun goes down, the backpack features a fleece-lined pocket stopping those sunglasses getting scratched.

Boasting a look that definitely isn’t spandex, the Dakine Guys' 8 Track Bike Shorts are a pair of baggies that offer a cool casual look but contribute comfort and convenience. Three zipped pockets give you plenty of stash space, keep your phone close to hand or grab some instant energy by storing a couple of bars there. Dakine know mountainbiking can get strenuous, so to save you from sweating have added inner leg vents and a moisture wicking liner for when things really start to heat up. Looking good and performing damn good, the 8 Track Shorts have a high back with a back stretch panel that offers a secure fit with little chance of catching, ensuring they ride well.

Going back to one of Dakine’s original stand out products, the Dakine Regulator Triple Travel Board Bag is just the ticket for your next road trip with your surfboards. Holding 3 boards plus all the essentials, the Regulator board bag offers maximum protection ensuring your pride and joy is kept safe with a heat reflecting energy shield on the bottom stopping your boards from cooking.

Another old school Dakine product brought bang up to date with a 2009 colourway, the Dakine Blast Men's Windsurfing Harness is absolutely loaded with features. Adjustable spreader bar height, self-tensioning leg straps, internal load equaliser patches, power clip buckle system and an 8-point load dispersion system offer everything needed to surf with fluency and with the least effort possible. To ensure maximum comfort and avoid skin abrasions, the groin straps and edges of the trapezoid are completely covered in neoprene.

Waterproof cases and drybags at SailGB.com

Water and electrical items don’t mix, perhaps one of the simplest things you learn as a kid. Whether your lesson about the potentially fatal mix of the elements was by having it installed into you by your parents or by the other extreme, namely that time you decided to play with mum’s hairdryer in the bath and the reason you now have a clump of white hairs at the crown of your head. Now as much as it seemed like a good idea at the time, we don’t recommend drying your hair in the bath, but here at SailGB we do recommend a range of waterproof solutions that will stop plunged phones, immersed iPods and waterlogged laptops.

Whether you are at the beach, by the pool or on the boat, getting your belongings wet is never going to make for a pleasant experience. At SailGB we have a range of top-quality waterproof cases and drybags, suitable for all areas of marine use, excellent for stopping water and electricity mixing but also absolutely ideal for ensuring your shoes don’t get saturated, your money doesn’t get mushy and your sandwiches don’t go soggy.

Coming in all shapes and sizes, we have waterproof cases, drybags, dry tube bags and holdalls that will fit your iPod, camera, VHF radio, laptop, mobile phone, clothes and perhaps most importantly when out at sea, your lunch.

Here are a selection of our waterproof storage solutions:

Like a conventional backpack but with a twist, the OverBoard Carbon 25 L Backpack is 100% waterproof. This means it can be fully submersed in the water, leave it in a puddle on the deck of the boat all day long without fear of the contents getting soaked. As the OverBoard brand name suggests, the Carbon backpack is safe should it go over board, we are not saying you should throw it off the boat for the sake of it, but should it grace the surface of the water it will simply and safely float.

Comfort isn’t sacrificed for cleverness; the Carbon is waterproof and wearable. Conventional features such as a comfortable back panel with air-flow design, padded shoulder straps, lumbar support and an adjustable sternum strap and waist belt ensure the carbon isn’t a chore to wear.

Not just waterproof, the unique ‘high frequency’ welded construction will protect your stuff from dust, dirt, sand and most other substances that threaten damage.

For some, no matter if they are at the beach or on the boat, they can never give business a break, for those guilty, the Peli 1090 Hardback Laptop Computer Case is perfect as it provides ample room for a 15 inch laptop with space for various cables and a mouse. The Peli 1090 features a plush thermal formed fabric lining with small shock absorbing cells, an automatic pressure equalisation valve and a solid design crafted from high-impact composite material, put simply the case is watertight, crushproof and dustproof.

Perfect for Apple users, the 15 inch Macbook Pro will slot right inside the Peli 1090 case and exactly like a Mac, it offers style and performance. Should it not perform, which isn’t very likely, the 1090 Case is covered by Peli’s guarantee of excellence, the highest guarantee a manufacturer can offer, an unconditional lifetime guarantee.

The Ortlieb Sailing Dry Bag is at home in any harbour in the world, durable and rugged, it is designed for wet and humid areas on board the boat. Manufactured from tear and abrasion resistant polyester fabric, the Sailing dry bag features a bottom loop and D-rings at the closure to provide 100% waterproof storage. Keep a bundle of clothes bone dry in the most wettest of conditions, also ideal for your sandwiches and ensuring you don’t create a new meaning for the term ‘liquid lunch’.

Resembling a standard kit bag but offering total waterproof protection, the Overboard Waterproof Sports Bag is excellent for a weekend away on the water or for taking a lot of stuff to the beach. 100% waterproof, the Waterproof sports bag is manufactured from rugged, durable materials for heavy-duty use. Features multiple pockets, so you know exactly where everything is.

Most people these days are lost without their phone, even if they are relaxing on the boat or at the beach. The Aquapac Waterproof Mini Phone/GPS Case solves the potential problem of sand or worse water invading every nook and cranny of your phone’s inner workings. When using the case GPS signal will remain unaffected, making it ideal for use with the iPhone and smaller GPS units. Talk as normal through the case and with the LENZFLEX window on the back you can even continue to take pictures as the camera lens is left without obstruction.

Manufactured with tough vinyl construction, the Aquapac Waterproof Mini Phone/GPS Case is foam padded for extra comfort and protection and will even float with your phone inside, enabling you to use your phone safely in all conditions.

Take a look at more waterproof cases and drybags that can provide the solution to your watery woes, here.

Polar Fitness Watches

From a pledge to lose weight that sees you running round the block a few times a week to the committed athlete training for a competition, here at OutdoorGB we have a Polar fitness watch that will suit your exact needs.

Polar was founded in 1975 by Professor Seppo Säynäjäkangas after meeting up with an old friend working as a cross-country skiing coach. The friend, venting his frustration at not being able to accurately record his team’s heart rates inspired Säynäjäkangas and opened his eyes to the benefits of portable heart rate monitors. In 1979, the first patent for wireless heart rate measurement was filed by Polar and by 1982; Polar had launched the first-ever wearable heart rate monitor, changing the way athletes trained forever. Now over 30 years since that moment of inspiration, here at OutdoorGB we have a range that includes basic models to help motivate and inform beginners to complete training systems for world champions across numerous disciplines.

The basic premise that Polar can teach us is that to get the most out of your training doesn’t necessarily mean pushing yourself to the extreme and working harder or faster. The best way to get the most out of your training, watch yourself improve and start seeing results is to train at the right intensity. With a Polar fitness watch you can make sure you are not over or under training and make each session count with the ability to view the results of your workout instantly.

The range of fitness watches from Polar aren’t just limited to one type of training, all of the models in the range enable you to feel free to train the way you want to train. One day you may want to run, the next perhaps you want to do cardio and maybe for your next session you just want to sweat away your worries at the gym. Whichever it is, a Polar fitness watch will help you to train at the right intensity and start seeing results.

The range of Polar fitness products at OutdoorGB covers a wide spectrum, so whether you are an athlete looking to improve your performance or just intend to lead a healthier lifestyle, below we have something for you.

The Polar FS1 Fitness Heart Rate Monitor Wrist Unit is the entry level model in the Polar fitness range. Entry level may mean basic features but don’t automatically assume basic features equals poor performance. With heart measurement with ECG accuracy, target zone exercise guidance but with uncoded transmission, the FS1 is ideal for those without a gym membership, those who are just taking to pounding the pavement in order to lose a couple of pounds and improve their health.

Feel the burn and say goodbye to calories with the Polar F4 Fitness Heart Rate Monitor Wrist Unit. Ideal to help you towards effective calorie burning, the Polar F4 enables to reach your goals by monitoring and displaying on screen your calorie consumption based on age, gender and other essential training information. Tone up your body and see how the intensity of your workout affects your heart rate with average heart rate of total exercise and maximum heart rate of total exercise. Polar’s Own Code technology means the unit has coded heart rate transmission which prevents crosstalk from other heart rate monitors, making it ideal for use in the gym.

Need some motivation when training? Not anymore. The Polar F7 Heart Rate Monitor acts like your own personal coach, taking note of your current condition to ensure effective training. Depending on your body’s daily condition, you might benefit from either a low or a high intensity training session, the F7 will check your current physical condition and guide you to a suitable intensity. See how many calories you are burning onscreen whilst you are training, then once you are back home, transfer your exercise data from your wrist unit to polarpersonaltrainer.com to make training more fun. Challenge friends to virtual sports competitions, store your training in an online training diary, interact with other users, get online tips for your workout and tailor your training programme to your individual needs.

The most advanced unit in OutdoorGB’s range of Polar fitness products, the Polar FT80 Training Computer is the most dedicated training partner for the most devoted fitness enthusiasts. Featuring the Polar STAR training programme, the FT80 adapts to your training habits and gives you new targets and guidance to help you achieve maximum efficiency and reach your workout targets for both cardio and strength training. With a built-in GPS sensor, the FT80 allows for speed and distance to be measured in outdoor sports. Check how quickly you can relax with Own Relax technology, a quick and easy way to check your body’s state of relaxation. Do the 5 minute relaxation session to measure your heart rate and heart rate variability and you can see how relaxed your body and mind are.

See the full range of Polar Fitness Watches here. You can also view other fitness watches on OutdoorGB’s Flickr profile: http://www.flickr.com/photos/outdoorgb/sets/72157617423513173/.

Victory in Washington for Brownlee and Moffatt

Alistair Brownlee makes it two in a row after victory in Madrid and now victory in Washington D.C. in the Suunto sponsored ITU World Triathlon Championships. The mens racing got underway at 9am with a 1500m two lap swim in the Potomac River, using the same tactic as he did in Madrid, Brownlee hammered the opening kilometres of the run to try and break the resolve of his opponents though found Spain's Javier Gomez hot on his tail. Brownlee, however was too quick for Gomez, outpacing him and leaving Gomez to pick up the Silver medal.

The woman's race, which kicked off just before 12.00pm, saw Emma Moffatt rally strongly in the swim, though beaten out of the water by Sarah Haskins and staying part of a pack in the bike ride, Moffatt took the lead after a few kilometres of the run and eventually won the race.

2009 Dextro Energy Triathlon - Mens ITU World Championship Rankings

After Race Three of Eight

1. Alistair Brownlee (GBR) 1600pts

2. Brad Kahlefeldt (AUS) 1536pts

3. Courtney Atkinson (AUS) 1437pts

4. Javier Gomez (ESP) 1425pts

5. Jarrod Shoemaker (USA) 1372pts



Dextro Energy Triathlon - Womens ITU World Championship Rankings

After Race Three of Eight

1. Emma Moffatt (AUS) 1818pts

2. Emma Snowsill (AUS) 1540pts

3. Jessica Harrison (FRA) 1525pts

4. Juri Ide (JPN) 1448pts

5. Daniela Ryf (SUI) 1405pts

To mark the Championship Series, Suunto have released a special edition t6c, find out more about it here.

OutdoorGB.Com Launch Travel Accessories Ahead Of The Great British Getaway

With the Great British getaway commencing, attention turns to packing, planning and preparing for summer holidays. Getting the right luggage and travel accessories can be a chore especially when you have to contemplate trawling through airports, getting in taxis and checking into hotels. When constantly on the go, it is essential you have everything you need to hand, for this reason OutdoorGB.com, the leaders in outdoor equipment and climbing gear have a vast range of new extremely useful travel accessories, absolutely ideal for your annual break.

With over 60 per-cent of the UK population taking at least one holiday in a given year, it makes sense to stand out from the crowd and invest in luggage with a difference. Stocking a wide range of solutions suitable for all aspects of travelling, from daytrips to long haul, OutdoorGB.com even offer a dedicated section on the site aimed at child travellers.

Chief executive of OutdoorGB.com one of the leading outdoor clothing and equipment retailers, Edward Giles, said, “We are now providing new travel accessories from leading brands like Lifeventure, Deuter, Tatonka, and all just in time for summer! Those going away often under estimate the importance of carry cases and baggage, but you need a whole host of different travel accessories, from wash bags to camera cases, and it is certainly better to be prepared.”

Picking out suitable wash gear for a big trip can be tricky, and common concerns can include the size of the wash bag, how much space it will take up in your case and if it will hold the goods securely. The brand new Deuter Wash Bag Ii, is an extremely sensible solution to all of these problems. This large foldout wash bag features a hook and a mirror with two zipped pockets, five insert pockets and buckle closure.

The Tatonka Travelkit, is another great with useful extras such as a padded back, mirror and rotating metal hook and plenty of sensibly organised storage space allowing you to take more than just the essentials with you.

For the traveller who doesn’t like to be left in the cold (literally), the new micro-fibre trek towels from LifeVenture, are a novel travel must-have. These micro fibre towels are lightweight, compact and absorbent, drying six times faster than the traditional beach towel, solving the problems associated with swimming on the day of departure!

Mr Giles added, “Another great idea for the traveller who likes to be prepared, are our LifeVenture Passport Wallets, ideal for protecting your passport and carrying your ID and credit cards. Alternatively, for heightened security, you could try our Deuter Organiser Belts complete with Seven interior pockets and a separate zipped front pocket ensure that things are kept neatly organised.”

Whether it is a Bank Holiday in Bognor or backpacking round Bali, OutdoorGB have luggage, travel accessories and general travel solutions to suit every need.

Editor’s Note: Outdoor GB is represented by online advertising consultancy, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 0800 094 9001, Option 7.

Silva at SailGB: Essential For Navigation At Sea

Essential for navigation at sea, the compass is a precision instrument that has aided marine navigation for many years and will continue to aid those at sea for years to come. With no batteries to go flat, the compass is perfect for nautical navigation. Here at SailGB we have just introduced the new range of Marine Compasses from Silva.

Silva are a respected name when it comes to navigation and are the leading manufacturers of compasses worldwide, after all in 1933 it was the Kjellström brothers, founders of Silva, who invented the world’s first liquid filled compass. With the head office situated north of Stockholm, Sweden, today Silva manufacture compasses for all aspects of marine usage.

At SailGB we stock marine compasses for sail boating that are suitable for yachtsmen demanding absolute accuracy and a steady card in all conditions and high heeling angles. There are also compasses suited for elite sail racing, developed by the world’s top racers and Olympic sailors, featuring tactical scales and quick readability to give a critical advantage. For Power Boating, there are specialised compasses that give exceptional stability in all conditions, featuring a cone-shaped NO SPIN card that is virtually unaffected by boat speed or engine vibration. With a main steering scale on the horizontal part of the compass card and a direct reading on the vertical edge of the card, these compasses are ideal for cockpits where steering is done both sitting and standing.

Designed for Sail Boating, the Silva Marine Sail boat compass 100P utilises the same method used in orienteering on land, allowing you to set your desired course on the memory ring to then keep the needle parallel to the lines. Fully externally gimballed, the Silva Marine Compass 100P can be fitted horizontally or vertically or on any angle between.

For Sail Racing, the Silva Marine 102B/H Bulkhead Compass is easy to read featuring big digits for reading at a distance and built-in red illumination for the best contrast at night. Features a big full cover, all UV resistant materials including the capsule filled with UV resistant liquid and two lubber lines at 45°, allowing for reading from the rail.

The Silva Marine 100BC Compass is a front reading compass designed for power boating. Featuring two side view lubber lines at 45° offset, 100BC Compass allows easy reading and also allows for mounting the compass to one side of the steering position. Features a built-in compensator.

OutdoorGB.com To Offer High Tech Solution For Triathletes

Boosting workouts everywhere, OutdoorGB.com, the leading retailers of outdoor clothing and equipment online, are offering their customers the chance to own one of the forward thinking heart rate monitors now available from brands such as Suunto, Garmin and Polar. Ideal for multisport and triathlon use or indeed basic exercise, OutdoorGB.com pride themselves in having solutions to suit all budgets and requirements.

For the avid athlete looking for a high-tech solution to their requirements, OutdoorGB.com is constantly expanding upon their current product range with a selection of Heart Rate Monitors that are used by professional athletes in training for events such as the ITU World Triathlon Championship Series, various marathons and of course the Olympic Games.

Chief executive of OutdoorGB.com from the firm who offer backpacks, fitness watches and sports action video cameras, said, “Triathlon is a, fresh and exciting sport, it was only developed in the 1970’s yet made its debut at the 2000 Sydney Olympic games – no other sport has achieved Olympic programme status in such a short time frame. It is rapidly growing with many people in the UK already undertaking this innovative new sporting activity. We are really pleased to be able to offer an equipment solution to those keen to pursue Triathlon as a sport, which is why providing such high level heart rate monitors is of major importance to the team at OutdoorGB.com.”

Now providing the Polar RS800CX Multi Heart Rate Monitor Watch, the Polar CS300, the Suunto t3c Black Arrow Heart Rate Monitor and the Garmin Forerunner 310XT Multisport GPS Training Watch, OutdoorGB.com are currently experiencing a huge demand for their newest products, especially ahead of the latest stage of the ITU World Triathlon Championships in Washington D.C. on June 21 and the championships coming to the UK with the London stage in Hyde Park on August 15^th.

The innovative Polar RS800CX heart rate monitor is a staple of the current range, measuring an athletes heart-rate, speed and distance in addition to their body’s response to training. This novel monitor makes use of Polar ProTrainer 5 software, a high performance training diary and analysis tool which enables the user to plan, create and customise training sessions. For more information on any of the heart rate monitors available please visit the OutdoorGB.com site at www.outdoorgb.com.
Editor’s Note: OutdoorGB.com is represented by online advertising consultancy, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 233.

Better Safe Than Sorry With OutdoorGB.com’s Safety Equipment

OutdoorGB.com the leading outdoor clothing and equipment retailers are launching a range of work and rescue equipment to coincide with shocking safety issues uncovered by a recent Health and Safety Executive report. The HSE report found that 2.2m people work in the construction industry in the UK, making it one of the country’s biggest industries – but also one of the most dangerous. The inspectors visited over 1,700 sites in March this year and said that twenty per cent were substandard with safety. Over 250 prohibition notices were filed about work being done at height.

OutdoorGB.com is a reliable, responsible and informative place to source your work place and safety equipment needs. As stockists, OutdoorGB.com sell a range of products that offer security for potentially dangerous conditions when working at height is essential. Equipment is available for working at height, working in confined spaces, scaffolding, rescue, canyoning and water rescue.

All products are manufactured within ISO9001 quality assurance system to provide complete peace of mind and approved to the relevant European Standards (CE) and comply with the Work at Height regulations (2005). The main product areas include the Height Safety Harnesses, which are full body harnesses for general work at height, Confined Work Space harnesses, which are full body harnesses for use in confined spaces and suitable for use near vertical suspension when being lowered into a work or rescue situation with limited access.

Their new Fall arrest Devices are also a staple of the new range and are ideal for work where maximum mobility is required whist protecting a worker from falling. OutdoorGB.com are also stockists of Recovery Devices and Winches which can offer help and safety when working in potentially dangerous situations and confined spaces.

The Work at Height Safety Association recommends that Specific rescue equipment should always be present at the worksite. This equipment should be sufficient to carry out a rescue of an individual from any situation on the site. Rescue systems may be designed specifically for rescue or for evacuation and may allow only lowering, only raising or both.

Key products offered by OutdoorGB include the AB15 Fall Arrest Device, which is a standard arrest device to provide protection from falls from height. A retracting lifeline pays in and out of the device as the worker moves. In the event of a fall, a brake engages arresting the fall of the user with a controlled deceleration force. The integral carrying handle also acts at the anchor point. The ABBC Work Positioning Chair is a lightweight chair for working at height. Easy to assemble, includes pockets to store tools. The Abrah Rope Access Harness is another key product essential to provide safety.

Edward Giles from OutdoorGB said, “The equipment we have available includes basic safety equipment at work items and specialist products for situations such as working at height, mountain rescue, safety at work, safety at sea, marine rescue and rope access situations.”

Mr Giles also stressed that it is important that prior training and instruction has been given to all users of the items featured. With over 2,800 deaths over the last 25 years in the construction industry it is vital not to compromise on any aspect of safety in the work place or a rescue environment, so contact OutdoorGB.com to secure your equipment.

Editor’s Note: OutdoorGB.com is represented by online advertising consultancy, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 233.

Deuter Sleeping Bags at www.OutdoorGB.com

So officially summer is in full swing, the temperature has sky-rocketed, then sort of sunk and if you go by previous form, will likely see-saw. Here at OutdoorGB we have just started selling a range of sleeping bags perfect for a summer of uncertainties, the Deuter 2009 range. The 2009 range of sleeping bags from Deuter are ideal for a comfortable nights sleep whatever unpredictable weather condition comes your way.

Best known in the UK for their range of rucksacks, Deuter are a company with a long and illustrious history. Established in Augsburg, Germany in 1898, Deuter started out making sails, sacks and tarpaulins before moving on to luggage in 1919. Deuter’s worth was proven in 1953, when Hermann Buhl became the first man to conquer Nanga Parbat (8,125m) in the Himalayas with his rucksacks, sleeping bags and tents all supplied by Deuter.

While there are sleeping bags in the Deuter range at OutdoorGB that are suitable for expeditions in extreme conditions, there are also those more suited to the realistic, i.e. camping holidays and the UK festival season.

For a fantastic affordable, all-round sleeping bag, look to the Deuter Dream Lite 250. Offering a warm comfortable sleep, the Dream Lite 250 offers the reassurance of independently tested temperature ratings measured in accordance with EN 13537. A contoured functional hood is perfect to keep comfortable on the often bumpy ground found at festival sites.

For those who need extra leg room, as the name suggests, the Deuter Space I is absolutely ideal for extra space. Coming in a rectangular shape, the Deuter Space I is ideal for those who feel claustrophobic in a mummy sleeping bag. The all-round zips also mean it can easily be transformed from a sleeping bag into a blanket. The Space also stows away into a handy stuff sack that resembles a carrier bag and can double as one too, handy for going and grabbing your breakfast in the morning or carrying a couple of cans or something.

Perfect for the girls is the Deuter Dream Lite 350SL, offering a warm comfortable sleep, the Dream Lite 350SL features an ergonomically designed shape to best suit the female form for increased thermal effciency and also features a fleece lined foot area. Ideal for valuables, the Dream Lite 350SL features an internal security pocket with zip closure.

Orca Bay Deck Shoes at SailGB.com

Fresh designs and fresh to SailGB, sister site of outdoor equipment specialist OutdoorGB, comes Orca Bay deck shoes. Taking the classic, tried and tested deck shoe and revitalising it with funky colours, tough leathers and a manufacturing process with great attention to detail, Orca Bay shoes offer classic nautical style wherever you may be.

The nautical look is once again a key trend this summer, horizontal striped tee’s, white cotton trousers, fitted sailors jackets, tailored boating shorts and of course deck shoes. Nautical style is bang on trend for both men and women this season and Orca Bay deck shoes definitely fit right in for authentic mariner mode. Whether you are a boater or a blagger, a pair of Orca Bay deck shoes will ensure you have the look of the French Riviera, even if it is only Fleetwood in which you are holidaying.

Manufactured in one of the few remaining hand-stitched moccasin factories in the world, the shoes are crafted using genuine moccasin construction, a process with excellent attention to detail yet a process so rarely used in this day and age. Due so much care and consideration being taken with each pair of shoes (it takes 20 minutes per pair just to stitch the front vamp), Orca Bay shoes don’t just look good they perform too. Whether you a serious sailor or just looking to emulate the style, these are shoes that are brilliantly suited to the boat. Many styles feature razor-cut soles, providing excellent grip in both wet and dry conditions while salt-resistant eyelets and leather will ensure a bit of seawater won’t ruin your shoes

Highlights for us here at SailGB, in the new Orca Bay range include:

Orca Bay Creek Classic Deck Shoe – Living up to its name, the Creek offers the classic look of a deck shoe but with Navy and Elk colours available, a bit of contemporary style is added. Not only stylish, the Creek has features including a non-slip and non-marking sole, salt resistant eyelets and leather and shock absorbing heel-cups, which make it ideal on deck.

Orca Bay Bay Deck Pumps – So suited to the bay, they named it twice; the Bay Deck Pumps translate classic deck shoe style into an ultra feminine, ultra cute pump. What more, no need to worry about them getting dirty as they are machine washable, simply sling them in 30° wash and watch them return to their former glory.

See the full range of Orca Bay Deck Shoes, here.

Nautica Watches at SailGB.com

Combining nautical styling, bold colours and contemporary Italian design, Nautica watches fuse together class and technology with modern fashion and marine inspiration.

Introduced in 1994, the contemporary Italian styling featured in Nautica watches comes straight from Nautica’s design studio in Milan. Nautica watches are true statement pieces with impressive attention to detail, which make them beautiful to look at. However it is not just about the visual aspect with these watches, Nautica watches offer authentic marine technology to provide excellent performance when sailing.

The excellent sailing performance Nautica watches offer has been recognised with the brand being named as an official sponsor of the “Round the Island Race 2009”. The Round the Island Race sees competitors from all over the UK and some as far afield as the USA and Europe follow a 50 mile course round the Isle of Wight. Being named as an official sponsor for the race, continues the longstanding involvement Nautica has internationally in sailing sponsorship and timing.

Here at SailGB, sister site of OutdoorGB, we stock many impressive timepieces from Nautica, all of which are ideal suited should you be at sea, on the shore or taking to the streets.

The Nautica Yachtimer has an impressive look but importantly doesn’t fall down on functionality; instead this watch features a range of authentic nautical functions. The key feature of the Yachtimer is the yachting-mode adjustable countdown timer. The countdown timer allows the user to choose the time to be counted down from 10 minutes to 1 minute, fitting the format of any race. To alert the user at each countdown interval, a beeper sounds. For the ultimate timekeeping accuracy, the Yachtimer is driven by a Swiss movement. As can be expected for a watch that is carefully designed in the Milan design studio, the Yachtimer looks absolutely stunning, with the oversized case perfectly complimenting the intricate design detail of the dial. Also available as part of a boxset featuring 3 interchangeable straps.

Another watch that is leading in the looks department is the Nautica NMX 300 Series. Drawing inspiration from marine heritage by referencing the vintage deep sea diving helmets of the early 1900’s, the NMX 300 offers a truly unique look. Like the classic diving helmets, the key design element is the protective metal cage that frames the dial. Again like the classic deep sea diving helmets, the NMX 300 is not scared of the water, being water resistant to a depth of 100m. The NMX 300 Series is available with a 3-hand analogue movement or with a Japanese chronograph movement.

The Nautica BFC 46 Watch is a classic analogue watch boasting a bold, clean design. Minimalist in styling, the BFC 46 combines clean detail with an oversize case to create a clear status statement that has one primary function to tell the time whilst looking good.

Second leg of the ITU Triathlon World Championship Series This Weekend

This weekend sees the ITU Triathlon World Championship Series move to Madrid for the second leg of this years competition.

Currently leading the pack for the women is the Suunto sponsored athlete Emma Snowshill and standing at the top of the Mens table is New Zealander Bevan Docherty.

To mark the Championship Series, Suunto have released a special edition t6c, find out more about it here.

OutdoorGB.com To launch An Innovation In Eyewear

OutdoorGB.com the leading outdoor clothing and equipment retailers, are taking heed of the medical warnings associated with the increased exposure to UVA and UVB rays this summer, with the launch of their 2009 sunglasses collection featuring designs from Serengeti, Julbo and Bolle. Shocking figures show that daily exposure to UVB in very bright sunlight over long periods may cause cataracts, aging of the delicate eye area and even loss of sight in extreme cases.

Chief executive of OutdoorGB.com, Edward Giles, said, “We have all been eagerly anticipating the launch of our new sunglasses collection, and we are delighted that we are able to offer designs from Serengeti, Julbo and Bolle. When looking for a new pair of sunglasses, it is advisable to choose ones that offer at least 98 per-cent protection from both UVA and UVB rays. If your budget will allow for a more expensive product, this may be advisable, as these can often block 100 per-cent of UV rays.”

Born in Florida, the Serengeti range of sunglasses combine performance, elegance, protection and style, ideal for a sun soaked beach holiday or when hitting the slopes. Making use of photochromic technology, each lens reacts to UV light intensity and automatically alters the amount of light allowed through the lens, depending on the conditions, proving to be an innovation in eyewear design.

When you purchase a pair of Serengeti sunglasses, Spectral Control technology provides unparalleled hi-definition contrast and superior colour enhancement by filtering specific colours in the visual light spectrum. Resulting in clear images and a crisper images, this process means that the images you take in maintain a natural non-distorted colour balance.

Endorsed by the Hollywood actors Val Kilmer, Peta Wilson, Patrick Dempsey and James Denton, there really is no compromising when it comes to style. The brand has even teamed up with the winner of 51 Grand Prix, Formula 1 Great, Alain Prost, who not only endorses the brand, but has offered his input in the creation of the Alain Prost collection.

Edward Giles, from the firm who offer watches, heart rate monitors, and outdoor clothing, said, “ Julbo sunglasses are another staple product in the new collection and since they first begin making eyewear in 1888 from their headquarters high in the Jura Mountains of France, Julbo have manufactured multi-sport eyewear for elite outdoor athletes as well as mainstream users. These sunglasses are extremely hardwearing and the new collection is extremely innovative.”

Making use of PolarHD lenses, the travel range of eyewear has been tailored to suit those indulging in watersports or diving, as they actively work to eliminate glare from the water’s edge, whilst still providing the user with unbeatable high definition vision.

Suitable for mountainous areas and desert landscape, Cameleon Lenses from the Julbo range, are light sensitive and turn lighter or darker depending on the conditions, making use of polarisation, glare from the snow can be eliminated.

Finally, the last brand to grace the new range is Bolle. Creating premium sunglasses, ski goggles, safety eyewear and military and tactical eyewear since 1888, Bolle sunglasses combine fit, fashion and comfort and offer the user with advanced sport-specific lens technology. Their Coral Sunglasses are ideal for a variety of sports and their Thermogrip rubber nose pads ensure that these frames do not slip off your face, even when taking part in the most vigorous exercise. Making use of Polycarbonate lenses, Bolle sunglasses not only make use of premium-grade plastic resin lenses, they are 20 times more resistant than glass, and a third of the weight.

Mr Giles added, “We are really excited about our new sunglasses collection, and encourage anyone looking to purchase a new pair of shades ahead of the summer season to visit our website at www.outdoorgb.com.”

Editor’s Note: OutdoorGB.com is represented by online advertising consultancy, Top Position. Please direct all press queries to Tina Clough. Email: tina@topposition.co.uk or call: 01623 726 233.