What's New This Spring? - '08 Gear Round-Up

It seems like years since we visited the Outdoor Trade Show to find out what's up and coming in the world of outdoor gear for spring / summer 2008. But eight months, 438 ascents of the local climbing wall, and 5429 cups of tea later (no, we didn't actually count), all that shiny new gear is on the shop shelves.

Look at the links below for our complete series of Spring/Summer 2008 preview articles, taking you through the ins and outs of ultra-light climbing gear, shock-absorbing shoes, and all-singing, all-dancing stoves. Or if you want the fast-track version, here are some items to look out for:

	Arc'teryx brings you Warp Strength Technology harnesses for a pain-free fall (non-harness-related injuries excepted), all in 320g or less. Find out more ...
	Ease your knees by letting the new Compact trekking poles, from Petzl Charlet, take some of your weight, or get cragging with the no-nonsense Bug pack. And if you're feeling broke, how about an LED headlamp for a tenner?Find out more ...
	Get stuck into long distance trail running with The North Face's latest stamina-draining range, or if that sounds too hard core, just snap up some comfy footwear. Dry feet and SnakePlates included. Mud excluded, touch wood. Find out more ...
	Camp under superlight canvas - well, nylon actually - with Mountain Hardwear this summer, and if you've been dreaming of downy sleeping bags, think again. Don't you know it's all about synthetics just now?! Find out more ...
	80% fuel efficiency when you're brewing your cup of tea? No problem, says Primus. Find out more ...
	Forget deodorant, it's all about silver-salt clothing with Haglofs this summer, to keep the whiff away from your post-hike pint. Also, less is more when it's resting on your shoulders. Find out more ...
	It's time for some summer alpine action with Mountain Equipment or, if that's not your thing, prepare for an invasion of hooded soft shells. Find out more ...
	Two layer eVent and down mitts are what it's all about in the world of Rab this summer. Find out more...
	One new pack? Two new packs? No, there are actually nine new packs from Osprey on the shelves, including some strapping big load haulers. Find out more....
	Ajungilak have a sleeping bag that doubles up as a jacket to offer scrabble playing campers who don't have a pub at hand to host their late-night entertainment. Find out more...
	Non-slip shoulders, girlie pants and the chance to plant a T-shirt are what it's all about at Icebreaker - the firm of woolly Kiwi fame - this year. Find out more ...
	Berghaus has a new baby bioflex in its range, along with super shock-aborbing footwear, and lots of, erm, lifestyle. Find out more...

And there's lots more where they came from. Check your wallet and get browsing:-)