Just how bright is bright enough? I'm asking because right now weseem to be in the middle of the headtorch equivalent of a nucleararms race. The light specialists are unleashing brighter and brightertorches - the latest PetzlMyo XP for example

the standard MagLite qualities – decent build, great anodised finish and so on – but it's also pretty bright with an independently-tested 172-lumen output and a range, on high, of 138 metres.That dwarfs most outdoor headtorches – a Myo XP is just 85 lumens

in the complete range of ZIPKA2 and TIKKA2 torches, but with the ingenious free software that allows you to progamme the battery pack for optimum life and light output.More about that on page two, but first a quick view of the hardware and how it works. Our Core

andretails for £110, the same as before. There's also a new fabricPeak GTX at £99 which replaces the Lite Trek. And this is the 2002 Trek with uprated M2 sole unit and lighter weight: £110

are available in four versions; 400, 600, 800and 1000 in regular length only. However they'll soon also ship in-20cm short and +20cm long versions, the longer one for lanky folkwill set you back an extra fiver. Prices range from £65 for the 400, through to £110

satretch waterproof mountain shells made from a 2.5-layer, stretch PU membrane fabric with a claimed 20,000mm hydrostatic head and 20,000 MVT figure. All you need to know is that both figures are respectably high.They're not super lightweight – 365g

's a 0.35l, 0.5l, 0.75l, and full 1.0l flask,. each with a pop 'n' pour spout, and it's own carry case. That's HALF PRICE on each flask...fantastic. To buy, call us now on 01663 765783Hike-Lite Great opportunity to treat yourself to a stunning Go

and warm enough for most situations - and alternative would be the warmer, but still light R2 midweight Regulator fleece • Three pairs of walking socks (wash in rotation) • Warm hat - either

of the few plus points of heavyweight backpacking, or toput it another way, it's nice when it stops. Strangely no-one wanteda feature on heavyweight backpacking - wonder why that is - butlightweight backpacking was another matter.Be warned though, lightweight

You might not think it's spring yet, but in the weird and whackyworld of the gear companies, it's officially spring / summer 2003.What that means is that the new season's kit is coming into the shopsabout now.We've already reviewed some