by Mollie Millington | Nov 29, 2024 | gift guide, product review, ski
Happy Black Friday! If you’re new to the tradition, Black Friday falls the day after Thanksgiving (on the 4th Thursday of November) and is known for incredible deals and discounts. To kick off the winter season, I’m excited to share my Black Friday Gift Guide for Skiers and Snowboarders! Over the next few months, my content will focus on all things related to skiing, snowboarding, and snowy mountain adventures. This guide is just the beginning. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, snowshoeing, or enjoying après ski activities, these hand-picked gifts are perfect for anyone who loves snow days and winter sports. Get ready to find the ultimate gifts for outdoor enthusiasts this season (or for yourself)!
Before you go
We start off with getting ready for the trip, you may want to refresh your skills with ski lessons. The options in the UK are limited and I recently tried a new option in Wiltshire. The South Wilts Ski Club* (1) is located in Bapton and offers 30 and 60 minute lessons on a dry slope. James and I shared a 60 minute lesson and after 10 minutes my legs felt jelly. We swapped every 15 minutes and my calves need a good stretch during that break. Even though James had never skied before (he is a ‘boarder), he picked up the basics of “pizza pie” and “French fries” quite quickly. My lesson was a bit of a refresher with pizza pie to get used to the carpeted slope and after my first break, I started to move towards parallel skiing. The instructor, Craig, said it can take people 1-3 sessions to get used to the slope so we were quite happy with how we did on our first go. Even though it has only been open a month, the sessions are full and folks are coming from 1-2 hours away to brush up on their skills before their 2025 ski holidays. Currently, there are membership packages available for both peak and off-peak slots. This club has loads of potential and after sure an explosive opening, I see it continuing to build and create amazing skiers in the Southwest.
The elephant in the room is that skiing is not a carbon-friendly hobby. A lot of travel is involved to find the snow. One way to offset this to repair and refresh your ski gear rather than replace it every trip (especially if you only manage to hit the slopes every other year). Nikwax Glove Proof (3) is a sustainable way to re-waterproof your gloves for the snow without having to replace it. If you want to make sure all your gear will stay dry on the slopes, you can use TX Direct for washing your ski jacket and trouser. They also have down wash and base layer detergent if you want to take care of your kit.
What to pack
Since my ski lesson, I have been reaching for Muscle Mechanics pain relief balm (2). I came across this female-owned small business at Wild Goat Festival and keep my supply nearby at all times. Not only do they have pain relief, but they also have Muscle Balm, Respiratory Balm and a Calm Balm to help with sleeping. Since they come in 50g tins, I keep them in my gym bag and travel bag to help me no matter where I am. You can event take them in your carry on.
If you are lucky enough to be headed out for your first ever ski trip and need to shop for the mountains, you will want to find outerwear that is comfortable, breathable, waterproof and warm. A hat is a good place to start. While I have never skied in Austria, there is meant to be some great slopes there. If you find yourself in St Anton, blend in with the locals with the Frans hat (5). Moving on, you need to have a solid set of base layers to keep the chill away. Artilect Flatiron 185 base layers* (4) are great for temperature control (I took them to Antarctica), with a nice stretch to the fabric, and merino wool helps hold off the smell if you need to wear them a few days in a row (needs must with limited luggage allowance!). A TOG24 Hilder fleece pullover in a bright Starry Night print (6) is useful to have as an extra layer in case you get chilly out on the slopes (it will also make you easy to find in the pub). For outerwear, Ellis Brigham now carries Descente ski gear for men and women (7). I have not tried this line but I have tried their premium running gear and loved the trouser and zip up hoodie I had (to be honest, I am not even sure if they still make running gear).
Being the good Girl Scout that I am, I always like to be prepared. Carrying a bag when out skiing allows me to have a few things on hand in case I need them. In case you don’t have time for a proper breakfast as you aim to get first tracks on the slopes, keep a Hydroflask Insulated Shaker* (8) handy. Pop some protein in with warm or cold milk and head out the door. You can enjoy in the car or keep on hand for the chair lift, then refill with water later in the day. The Osprey Firn bag (9) is a good way to carry your shaker, along with snacks and sunscreen. This bag is perfect for the slopes too because it has a ski lasso system which allows you to strap your skis on the pack without having to take it off. This is so helpful if you need to carry your skis from the car to the slope or if you prefer to skin up the mountain. Throw a Paramo Grid Neckwarmer (10) in your bag too because it is so versatile, wicking and quick drying. The fabric also offers temperature control, helping you remain warm or cool. Wear it around your neck, your head, or use as a hankie. The last key item to keep in your bag is a Fold N Roll (11). This innovative packing organizer will keep a spare set of clothes for you or the kids in a neat little bundle. Once you get off the slopes, it is a quick change into dry clothes more suitable for après ski.
These days, a proper skier should wear a helmet. Salomon’s unisex Brigade helmet (12) is the first fully recyclable helmet on the market. It is very light, weighing less than 500g, and offers medium ventilation. It is so important to protect your brain when you head out for adventurous sports. If you don’t have a helmet yet, this is a must-have from Santa. With your head protected, you can head out for speed on the slopes. Leki’s Airfoil 3D aluminium ski poles (13) are perfect for tight turns and the teardrop shape allows for fantastic aerodynamics. The seamless glove to pole contact allows for high responsiveness and the gloves unclip easily when it’s time to ride up the chairlift.
Après ski
After an amazing day outdoors exploring the mountain, it is time to relax back at the chalet by the fire. Enjoy Baileys in your hot chocolate while wrapped in your Simba Hybrid duvet with Strata temperature control* (14). We received one a few weeks ago and it has been perfect to keep us snug at night with the weather changing daily outside. Before heading to bed, apply Voila Pure Retinal Moisturizer (15) to help repair and protect your skin after a day in the sun and wind (don’t forget to wear sunscreen during the day).
My fashion style isn’t the most sophisticated and I love to wear a graphic t-shirt in the summer. For this winter, I would love a Joules Summit Cream Quarter Zip Ski Jumper (16). This long-sleeved top contains recycled wool and is still machine washable. Plus how cute is the back? Keen Howsers are casual slides* (17) that can double as travel slippers to keep your feet warm indoors and out. I took a pair to Japan earlier this year and found them great for flying too (because you don’t have any laces to tie). James is now a convert too and wears his indoors or to pop to the garage.
After a ski holiday away, a sports therapy treatment at Wellness and Beauty Clinic in West Hampstead, London (18)*. The treatment can help ease the pains of the muscles you don’t normally use day-to-day but were in high demand on the ski slopes. Use my affiliate code PTWBC10 for 10% off your first treatment (of any full price treatment, not just sports therapy). Of course, you can also visit the clinic before your trip too to make sure it is in tip top shape for the slopes.
Above is a variety of gift ideas in a wide budget range for your loved ones who are planning a ski trip. There is something for everyone and I hope it helps you find the perfect gift. If you noticed I have left something essential off the list, please do leave a comment below and let me know. For more ski content, keep checking back. In January and February, I am headed to Europe for skiing with the Outdoor Adventure Girls and James. The plan is to share info about the resorts and snow on Instagram in real time. Let it snow!
For items marked with * I was given a complimentary item or experience. All opinions are honest and my own. In addition, Amazon links in this post are affiliate links. Remember, affiliate links and codes cost you nothing extra to use and help me fund this website.
by Mollie Millington | Feb 14, 2024 | gift guide, health
Love is in the air. Happy Valentine’s Day to you! I hope you treat yourself to some amazing self care treats. In the spirit of self love and body acceptance, this gift guide is meant to help people who are going through perimenopause and menopause. It can be a dark journey (with over 30 different symptoms to combat) and I hope that these ideas can help you support people affected in your circle, or even help you cope. Most of these I have not tried myself (I will say if I have) so please do some research before investing in any products or services.
How about a spa break? Using elements ranging from acupressure to phytohormones and more to address the side effects of menopause and enable women to enjoy their wellbeing holistically. Spabreaks.com offer some of the best spa breaks for women in menopause. Spa Breaks.com has 27 different listings that offer this service. Gift vouchers are available if you are not sure which would be best. I know this treatment is on my list for 2024.
Earlier in the year, Charlotte Blackler launched the UK’s first food range specifically designed to incorporate plant oestrogens to bring women natural relief from unwanted symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Eating a diet which contains high levels of plant oestrogens can help keep those fluctuating hormone levels of perimenopause and menopause in balance. Mena Pause shop offers subscription services and bundles of their products to support women by providing tasty grab-and-go options they could easily fit into a busy lifestyle. If you are opposed to hormone replacement therapy, these foods might be of help.
You may recall that in 2022, I reviewed the Forth Perimenopause test and found it very insightful. I was able to take my results (shown above) to my doctor and that prompted them to order a hormone blood test via the NHS. While the at-home kits blood collection is not as good as one with a phlebotomist, I liked how the Forth test kits have you submit samples based on your menstrual cycle, rather than a random day/time like the NHS. Your results will be included in a comprehensive hormone report.
One of the hardest things I have had over the last few years has been poor quality sleep. For a while, I blamed Maple waking up several times a night (and then sleeping on the floor with her). I tried pillow spray, scented candles, essential oils, and couldn’t find a way to improve my sleep. While researching this gift guide, Earth’s Secret Sleep supplements came to my attention. These are formulated to help perimenopausal women sleep easier. For most women, menopause is when your oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate rapidly before eventually dropping. These hormones play a key role in regulating your energy levels. This fluctuation leave you exhausted with low energy levels and can also lead to other symptoms that may interfere with your quality of life. Anxiety, depression, hot flushes, night sweats, and frequent urination can also disturb your sleep or keep you awake and only exacerbate your fatigue and dampen your mood. Earth’s Secret Sleep Complex was formulated to provide the necessary rest that our bodies require to function correctly. Saffron, a rich Indian spice, and other sleep-inducing botanicals are used to improve the quality of your sleep. It is also combined with the power of tart cherry, passionflower, lavender, and chamomile. This may be another product I have to try (although marathon training has helped ensure I have slept soundly over the last few months).
In the research I have done about weight gain and fitness training during menopause to feel fit and healthy again, the answer seems to be lifting heavy weights. Therefore, working with a knowledgeable personal trainer can make a world of difference. Invest in coaching with my friend Elle, a Menopausal Coach and personal trainer. She recently completed a menopause coaching certification and now offers a three month coaching subscription which can make a great gift.
One of the hardest parts of perimenopause for me has been the incontinence. It took me a long time (and lots of pants) to find period pants that worked for my incontinence when at work and when exercising. Cheeky Wipes is a brand I only recently have been introduced to and yet to try. They offer period pants, cloth pads, and incontinence products. Pants and pads can help to manage leaks, floods and clots in a discreet and comfortable manner. Whether you prefer pants or pads is a personal preference. I prefer pants for incontinence and pads for my period.
These are just a few suggestions to help you (or a friend) through the change. With so many symptoms, each person experiences something different and needs assistance in a different way. I posted some of my coping mechanisms here and would love for you to leave a comment below with other products, services, and tips you have for surviving this transition period.
by Mollie Millington | Nov 24, 2023 | gift guide, outdoors, product review, travel
Are you looking for the perfect gift to give the travel and outdoor enthusiast in your life? Whether they love hiking, camping, running, or exploring, we have a variety of gifts at different price points to help you tick their name off of your nice list. For this Black Friday blog post, I have tried to feature British small businesses, as well as those with a sustainability-focus. Remember that you vote with your GBP (or dollars) so be mindful when shopping. Support small businesses, knowing your purchase will directly help someone and their family. Below, you will find gadgets, ways to relax, cozy apparel, travel accessories, and supplements in this gift guide, we have something for everyone! If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your loved one who loves to travel and be outdoors, keeping reading. You will also spot a discount code to Deakin & Blue.
Gadgets
Body Lite Gear’s Night Vision LED Belt is perfect for those who like to walk or run no matter what time of day (including dog walks!). It features a small amount of storage, so you can pack your keys or fuel. Only 90 grams of weight so you will barely notice it when you wear it.
Lumi Mini is a must if you are missing natural sunshine during the winter months. I have a large seasonal affect disorder (SAD) lamp and it takes up a lot of space when I am using it and when I am storing it in the summer. Using the Mini will help boost your mood, alertness, and daytime energy by emitting 10,000 lux at a distance of 12 cm. Have it shining when you eat your breakfast or while reading a book to make the winter months more bearable.
Travel
El Camino bracelet* is something I am super excited about. My bracelet is waiting for me back in the UK. I am telling my ‘running in every country’ story with large and small steps on my El Camino bracelet. You can also customize the steps to commemorate adventures and achievements that you are proud of. The bracelets are designed to be durable, which means I don’t have to take mine off to run, swim or work. Each one is unique to the wearer and I cannot wait to show you mine (so far!).
Your Family Travel Wallet is a PU leather wallet comes that comes in both teal and tan Colours. It can hold everyone’s passports (up to 7) and other important travel documents, such as plane tickets. The handy wrist strap will ensure you don’t drop or loose it as you make your way from check in to security to the gate.
D-Robe roll up rucksack is 35 liters of storage (including a laptop sleeve). The material is durable, waterproof, recyclable and biodegradable TPU, which means the bag can take a beating and still keep your gear dry. The thing that I think makes it unique is the air valve to compress the bag down (and make it fit in the overhead bin!). Internal storage pockets also make it easy to stay organized while traveling.
Outdoors
Amazing Jame thermal half zip is thermal lined, making it versatile for both autumn and winter depending on whether you want to layer it. The fabric is sweat-wicking and stretched four ways while compressing. There are thumb holes, hidden pockets, and a shaped hem for a flattering hem. Did I mention it is named after Mary Earps?
D-Robe Beaufort Outdoor Robe is something you will never want to take off. I wear my outdoor robe at home while on the couch instead of turning up the heat. I take it camping to stay warm around the campfire, during an early morning dog walk and if the temperatures dip overnight. If you like being warm, dry, and/or cosy, this jacket should be at the top of your list.
Deakin & Blue long sleeve swim suit comes in three styles: Hendricks (shown here), Monroe, and Hepburn. Covering your arms may help keep you a bit warmer and reduce risk of sunburn (still wear sunscreen, ok?). There is built in bust support and a back zip to make it easier to put on and take off. If you are an open water swimmer, why not grab a 2litre dry bag too (in pink or blue) to store your wet stuff after your dip? Deakin & Blue have kindly given my readers a special 10% discount off full price items using the code MOLLIEPT. Enjoy!
EcoSki is a platform that allows you to rent, buy, or repair outdoor clothes. What a fantastic way to be sustainable as you hit the slopes this winter. EcoSki makes an effort to feature sustainable brands and sells pre-loved kit too. Another selling point for me is the size inclusivity. The site offers skiwear sized from XXXS to 4XL for women and from XS to 4XL for men. The platform is also stocking a range of kit for skiers and snowboarders who prefer a longer or shorter cut in the leg or arm. So if you struggle to find outdoor gear that fits your body, definitely have a look. The Halti Planker Jacket and pants are what you see here.
1000 Mile’s fusion double layer socks are always the perfect stocking stuffer. This padded sock offers reduced friction and blister protection, making it perfect for long hikes or runs. I personally love how the design protects the Achilles, which is something I definitely need. The ventilation zones helps to keep the foot cool meaning you can stay out all day without issue.
Relax
Amazing Jane tie dye pajamas are a great option when taking a day or two to recharge at home. Designed and manufactured in the England but a female owned business, you can wear in bed or as loungewear. The relaxed fit with a brushed fabric make these both comfy and cosy.
Earth’s Secret sleep mask* will help you block out light when sleeping at home or when traveling. I have been using it at my mom’s and will be trying it on my overnight flight home. The eyes are cupped so you don’t need to worry about your eyelashes as you sleep. The fabric is breathable and you can adjust the band, as well as cup placement.
The Munros: The complete collection of maps from HARVEY maps looks great on your coffee table and can help you plan your next Scottish adventure. For those who don’t know, a Munro is a hill over 3000 feet. Not only can you use the book as inspiration, but you can also use it to capture memories for the hills you have climbed.
Supplements
Osavi joint and bones collagen* has been my favorite collagen product to try this year (and one of these days, I will tell you about them all). The powder is taste-free so I add it to my juice, yogurt, porridge, whatever I am having for breakfast. The bioactive collagen peptides have helped relieve me of my mystery shoulder pain that I have attributed to perimenopause. My hair quality has also improved (according to my hair dresser). I have also tried tendons and ligaments and am currently making my way through hair and nails (which I won as a prize).
Planthaya Lion’s Mane* I have been taking on and off all year. These 1000mg capsules help improve cognitive function (something I have been struggling with is brain fog) as well as promoting a calm and relaxed mood. I am hoping to be diligent with these for the rest of the year to help me cut back on caffeine consumption. It is time I kicked that habit!
I have written several gift guides over the years and know that there are plenty of other things out there that my readers would like. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please leave a comment below and let me know. Or come back after Christmas and let me know what Santa brought you.
* Item was kindly gifted to me as a PR sample. All opinions are honest and my own.
by Mollie Millington | Feb 1, 2022 | affiliate, fashion, gift guide, outdoors, product review
Can you believe it is already February? Your Christmas decorations may be packed away by now but it is time to do a bit of shopping again. While I understand that some people may think Valentine’s Day is a marketing ploy to sell flowers, wine and chocolates, I love a day that gives me an excuse show people that I love them. There is nothing like choosing the perfect item that makes your bestie smile! The list below includes gifts for people who love the outdoors, whether that is while running, hiking, camping, swimming, or relaxing. I chose items that are under £40 to keep it affordable too. These Valentine’s Day ideas are for men, women, friends, and family. Some of these I have tried myself (*gifted PR product) and others I like the looks of. If you have any other Valentine’s Day gift ideas, please leave a comment below.
For those who run commute: Nuasan Active Body Wipes* are my workplace essential. I can freshen up my face if my mask gets too hot or do a quick wipe down after a run (£13.26).
For the chocoholic: 80Noir Ultra dark chocolate was designed for your recovery and wellbeing. With a UK-based female-founder, this small business is one you should support (spices start at £2.00, chocolate at £5.50).
For al fresco lovers: The Hydro Flask Wine Bottle* has been on my wish list for a while. Perfect to avoid glass on the trial and to keep your wine at the perfect temperature (£35.00). The wine tumbler* can be used on the go, at work, and around the campfire too (£24.00). (Wine sadly not included)
For dog walkers and campers: SealSkinz has an amazing waterproof LED beanie* that is perfect for early morning dog walks and year-round camping. No more searching in the tent for a head torch. The built-in light has 240 hours of battery life and visibility of up to 500m (£35.00).
For those who live far away: Monty & Ridge letterbox gifts are the perfect care package for the adventurer in your life. With over a dozen themed-boxes to choose from, you can’t go wrong (from £17.95).
For those who lift: Grass-fed and additive free, the Organic Protein Company’s Strawberry, Elderberry, and Beetroot bag* is a fun pink whey protein powder to try this Valentine’s Day. It tastes good too! (£24.00).
For the impossible to buy for: Sport Pursuit offers short-term deals on all the outdoor kit you didn’t know you needed. Clothes, trainers, SUP boards, sleeping bags, protein bars, and more from the brands you know and love. They don’t offer gift vouchers but have a look for the perfect gift anyways.
For those looking for health and happiness: My book, 52 Weekend Challenges, is available on Kindle or as a printed paperback. Each week there is a small goal to achieve to help you step outside your comfort zone to find something you love. Available on your local Amazon site (£15.85).
For those who can’t sleep/need to relax: R3ST 500mg CBD spray* from R3 CBD is something I have been using since the 2020 Running Show South. I spray it under my tongue after I brush my teeth to help me relax a bit before bed. CBD also helps some athletes with recovery (£24.99).
For those who work for the NHS: Donate to Duty To Care in their name. Duty to Care provides free wellbeing services to anyone with a NHS email address. From counselling, to yoga, to physiotherapy, to personal training with me, I am so grateful that Duty to Care is helping those who need it most.
For those who are environmentally conscious: dewerstone Chunky Knitted Beanie hat will keep you up on the bobble hat trend while doing good for the planet. dewerstone takes part in 1% for the Planet where 1% of their annual revenue goes directly to non-profit environmental action groups. Plus their products are Climate Neutral Certified and for every product they manufacture, they plant a tree (£19.95).
For those who want to run faster: Superfeet carbon insoles make the idea of using carbon technology to improve your performance without a hefty price tag (£40).
For those who always have cold feet: Rab Cirrus Hut Slippers look like small sleeping bag shoes, don’t they? Filled with recycled PrimaLoft Luxe synthetic insulation that comes from post-consumer waste, this material retains twice the loft of down when wet, breathes, has no allergens and retains warmth when wet. Available through specialist outdoor retailer, Trekitt (£36).
For those who cold water swim: Zone3 Neoprene Heat-Tec Warmth Swim Socks have a titanium lining on top of being 3.5mm thick. There are no more excuses to avoid open water swimming in the winter (£39.00).
For those with a ponytail: MAAREE Secret Pocket scrunchie two-pack in red and pink have clever little zip pocket to stash your locker key (£12).
For those who don’t wear sunglasses: On Cloud Lightweight unisex cap with laser-cut ventilation is lightweight, breathable, and comes in several different colors (£32).
For those who like to pack light: Paramo neck warmer is multi-functional and comes in a variety of colours. It will keep you warm or cool due to the Parameta G (R) fabric, depending on what you need, because it is fast drying and moisture wicking (£20.00).
For those who love pink: Designed By Sport Pink Amnesia leggings will make you smile each time you put them on. Featuring both thigh and waistband pockets, these high-waisted leggings are also squat proof (£39.99).
For those who love fun socks: Thought’s Heck Athlete socks are made from bamboo and come in a little gift bag. Patterns range from runners, to bicycles, to pugs, to robots, to polar bears. There is something for everyone (£7.99).
For those who need more support when train: Crossfly Men’s Performance Underwear can help men by offering additional support where they need it. The unique design of 3D breathable, fast-drying panels and a 7″ inseam plus anti-microbial fabric means you will be returning your cotton pants for good (£24.99).
For those who like to have their phone handy: Ultimate Performance Ridgeway phone holder arm band is a low-tech and comfortable solution for carrying a phone while on the move (£15.99).
I had a few other ideas I wanted to list, but they cost more than £40. Let me know if you would be interested in more gift guides here on the blog. There are already a few, which you can find here. Hope this list gave you a few more Valentine’s day gift ideas.
*Thanks to the brands for sending complimentary samples. All opinions are honest and my own. This post contains affiliate links which doesn’t cost you anything additional. I receive a small fee for each purchase to help cover the costs of running this website.
by Mollie Millington | Dec 18, 2019 | clothes, gift guide, product review, Uncategorized
Even though I am 40, I still enjoy a funny logo t-shirt or sweatshirt. A few have recently tickled my fancy, so I thought I would post them here. I only have one of them (marked as a * and it was gifted to me), but would love to see the others in my wardrobe soon.
Be happy*– While this isn’t a technical piece, it encompasses several things about me- being outdoors and happiness. You will know which strangers you should be friends with based on whether they smile after seeing this shirt. Plus, the brand plants 10 trees with every purchase (hence the brand name TenTree). Their outdoor/travel range of responsibly made clothing ticks the sustainable and super comfortable boxes. I received two weeks ago and wore it for three days straight as it was so soft. There was a small wooden ornament on the tag that lets me track the trees that are planted. Pretty cool!
All I want for Christmas– Ain’t this the truth! Whether you go CrossFit, parkrun or ultras, who doesn’t want to improve their performance. Comes in men’s and women’s, red or blue. You can’t loose with this one. Set aside some time to nosy around the rest of their site for some other fantastic gift ideas.
Kinda wanna go for a run– Every year, Sarah Marie Design Studio creates so many clothing designs I want, it is lucky there isn’t a store in the UK. Shipping overseas includes extra taxes and such so I only treat myself once in a while (such as when my mom comes to visit). SMDS- if you ever want to open a store in London, I am your girl to help you launch it!
I just want snacks– Story of my life here on a sweatshirt. On a recent trip to Shoreditch, I discovered Limpet Store in the Women Who Give a Sh*t (WHGAS) pop up in the Boxpark. I couldn’t stop smiling as walked down each aisle at the uniquely curated selection. Limpet Store had many things I loved, but this was my favorite. Comes in white, black or grey. I insist you visit the Limpet Store online and if you can, the WHGAS pop up in London asap. So much good stuff in both!
MOVE– I am not even sure you can get this sweatshirt anymore but I saw it when I recently popped into their Shoreditch studio. It makes me a little nostalgic because FRAME was one of the first studios I worked at in London back in 2012. Shoreditch was the only studio back then and looked fairly different when you first walked in. Fast forward to 2020, and the team are planning on opening studios in Bristol and Brighton after already having over a half dozen in London. This logo captures their energetic branding but would also hopefully inspire people who read it to be more active.
Self-love recipe- H&M surprised me with this pretty pastel pink number at an affordable price. I cropped it quite a bit so you can read what it says on the back. Remember this list over the holidays and take a time out if you need it.
Love the miles/Love the rest days- We Are Daybreak is a friendly running community in London who offer free workouts on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as weekend trail running adventures. They just started selling technical tees, cotton t-shirts and sweatshirts just in time for the holidays. Their usual motto is “love the miles” (as shown in photo), I want a sweatshirt for the finish line, which is why I prefer “love the rest days” (photo coming soon, but take the format above and change text). Their official shop is nearly ready to launch but in the meantime, join their group on Facebook to order your shirt today (search DB LOVE THE MILES, will be posted after Christmas).
What is your favorite sweatshirt in your closet? Is because of a happy memory, how it feels, or because you love what it says?
by Mollie Millington | Dec 4, 2019 | gift guide, travel
One thing I have been trying to do more of sharing my active travel and adventures here on the blog. I love to take adventure of all the local outdoor activities when I am in a new place, rather then over indulge on food and drink. For each new destination, I have had to acquire new pieces of kit and now have a living room that overflows with stuff. To help you not over buy, I have listed gift items that are useful on the road and at home. Anything marked with a * i have received a complimentary sample of and enjoyed testing out. The rest are suggestions that I have yet to try.
Paramo Expedition Towel– It is perfect for your gym bag or hand luggage. Made from Parameta® S fabric, this towel provides a luxurious feel with unique water-management properties to give a low bulk, rapid drying towel, ideal for expedition and general travel use. It can even be recycled by Paramo if you don’t want it any more.
Leki Micro Vario Carbon poles- Do you love sporty trekking and are often on the go? The Micro Vario Carbon, equipped with lots of details, supports you uphill and downhill and helps you save energy. In addition to the anatomically formed AERGON Thermo Long Grip and the super simple Speed Lock 2 Adjustment System comes the newly developed ELD External Locking Device, which ensures more stability and safety on the mountain thanks to its special construction. The pole can be folded together to a pack size of 40 cm at the push of a button and can be stored in any backpack. Weighing in at just 240 g, it is a real all-rounder. You might not have a use for this at home but perhaps you can lend them to a friend?
Kathmandu Small Departure RFIDtech wallet– Protect yourself from digital theft with this space saving Departure Wallet. With a few precisely designed sleeves and slots, including two safe RFIDtech pockets, you’ll be able to easily keep all your essential travel documents organised. When you are not travelling, you can also store leftover currency and spare SIM cards.
Furoshiki slip on shoes– these Vibram shoes are super comfortable for exploring cities on foot yet stylish enough to wear almost anywhere. Without laces to try, they make airport security a piece of cake. They do have a zero heel drop so you will probably need to get used to wearing them at first. Another bonus? They pack down small so won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. You can also use them as slippers at your Air BNB.
Osprey Transporter zip bag*- I have been testing out the 30L rollover top bag in teal. It is a little more slick than the traditional backpack I normally use. It has a laptop sleeve, lots of internal organisation and side zips for a water bottle or snacks (which I always have on hand). The material is also water resistant, which is handy in London! Chest and hip straps mean you can travel, hike or run with it too.
Oatein snacks*- I highly recommend their Millionaire squares. Indulgent, portable and filling too which is why I will pack them on my next trip out of town. Did you know the Millionaires are also vegan, contain zero sugar, and are palm oil- and gluten-free?
Miss Plume Bowling Bag– Part of a lightweight and stylish range, this bag adds some sparkle to your carry-on. With a 14L bag capacity, you have room for overnight necessities or gym kit for your weekly personal training session.
Hydro Flask coffee flasks*- These are very versatile for hot or cold drinks (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, water, beer, wine, whiskey). The lid doesn’t leak (bonus) and you will be saving the environment too. I used mine at Love Trails Festival this summer as I don’t drink but I do enjoy JD and coke. There are a few different sizes available, depending on how much coffee you normally drink.
1000 Mile compression socks*– These socks are great for helping maintain your leg circulation when flying (I need to wear these because I have a history of blood clots) and to aid in recovery after long days of walking around town. The bright colours makes me smile too. You won’t loose these in your suit case.
Sherpa Amdo crew sweater– A portion of each Sherpa Adventure Gear sale supports children in Nepal so why not get a new jumper this Christmas? Featuring a unique design inspired by the Dhaka textiles, the Kopan Crew Sweater in Peetho White feels super soft against your skin thanks to the blend of extra fine merino wool, alpaca wool and synthetic fibres. Naturally odour resistant and moisture wicking, the Kopan keeps you cool and stays fresh throughout the day. Pair with jeans for the office or layer up under a waterproof for those outdoor adventures. Merino will help keep the your body temp in check and the smell at bay.
Salomon Supercross trail running shoes*– Great for running trails, pounding pavements and treading on snow. GTX means your feet stay dry. There are lots of colours available, quicklace for ease, and a protective toe cap to avoid injury.
Kathmandu Trailhead rain jacket– Available in both men’s and women’s, everyone can be prepared to ignore bad weather with the Trailhead Rain Jacket. This coat is always a good idea to have in your travel bag. This jacket was engineered for easy hikes, with pack-friendly chest pocket and a fit that moves with you as you explore your environment. An inner zip lets you adapt to changing temps by attaching the Trailhead fleece, which you can buy separately.
This list has me excited about all the places I will go in 2020. What is a travel essential you can’t live without that I forgot to put on this list?
Recent Comments