KNIFE EDGE OUTDOOR GUIDEBOOKS - Blog

Gear Review: Atom Packs, Atom+ EP40 backpack

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 13:13:23 GMT

As an outdoor writer and photographer, I spend a lot of time on the trail. Long days with a fully-laden pack are part of my job so I am constantly looking for products which help me lighten the load, without a reduction in performance. Often one of the heaviest things a backpacker carries is the backpack itself and the differences in weights between products can be large. The very lightest packs are light because they incorporate the lightest materials available and these are pared down to the bare minimum. Very light materials tend to be very thin. And very thin material is often not very durable. The holy grail of backpacks is therefore one that is light and durable and still performs well.

In recent years, the popularity of the concept of ultralight backpacking has exploded, spear-headed largely by a legion of thru-hikers walking one of the three epic long-distance trails in the US (the ACT, CDT and PCT). To meet demand, lots of niche manufacturers have released ultra-light packs and even the manufacturing giants of outdoor gear have been trying to join the party.

I have used a lot of these super-light packs over the years and in the early days, I found the very lightest packs to be limited in capability. Sometimes the straps were too flimsy to be comfortable. Sometimes the material just did not last very long. Nowadays, however, many of them are excellent and the competition has become fierce, making it much more difficult for manufacturers to make their products stand out. However, the Atom+ EP40 by Atom Packs certainly does just that.

If you haven’t heard of them, Atom Packs is a small manufacturer based in the Lake District in England which focuses solely on backpacks and is rapidly making a name for itself by making bold, bright, ultra-light packs which are brimming with useful and well thought out features. Their incredibly distinctive packs, with their striking colours, have become increasingly conspicuous on the mountain-sides of the UK and international hikers are starting to snap them up too.

Atom+ EP40 backpack

These packs are made to order and you can choose from a variety of bespoke colours, features and sizes to ensure that nobody else will have a pack like yours. If you like ‘em bright you can do this but those who prefer muted colours are catered for too. You can pack the bags with features or you can further lighten them by paring down the external pockets and features.

First Impressions

When you take it out of the wrapping, the colours of the pack immediately jump out at you. Unless you have ordered muted shades, you will not have seen anything else like it. My pack was the default factory design which is lovely: a classy muted blue married with brightly contrasting orange trimming and chequered grey side-pockets.

The next thing you notice is the weight. It feels astonishingly light: barely anything there when you lift it in its empty state. And yet the material feels substantial and strong: much more substantial than the thinner materials used for some other light-weight packs. The main body is made of EPX200 with a DWR finish: it is very light, highly waterproof and feels great. Time will tell but I think that it will last a long time. The straps and buckles are light but well designed and sufficiently padded for most people, I think.
The frame is a very interesting design: a carbon hoop fits into the back panel which you can remove if you want (for a 55g weight saving). I used to worry a lot about these carbon frames but over the years, I have never broken one so I am more relaxed now. This one even seems better protected than many by being shielded within the back panel.

My pack (two side pockets, medium torso and medium hip belt) weighed in at a mere 656g (23.2 oz): less than half the weight of some light-weight offerings by larger manufacturers.

Fitting

Because there are so many sizing options to choose from, if you measure yourself accurately, the pack should fit perfectly. Mine certainly did. Definitely one of the most comfortable packs when loaded that I have ever used. It feels snug, secure and comfortable. Some might question the lack of straps at the shoulders but I found that I did not need them: presumably this is one of the benefits of bespoke sizing. Nor can you adjust the height of the straps but you should not need to if you have measured correctly. Remember that these are bespoke packs made specifically for you.

Testing

To test the pack, I brought it to Nepal where I hiked 350km in the Everest region to research my upcoming book on the Everest Base Camp Trek. With a lot of photography equipment, I carried about 10-11kg.

Comfort: Over more than three weeks, I found the pack to be extremely comfortable. Although the padding on the straps and belt is thin, it is good quality and I had no problems with it. The pack coped admirably with 10-11kg: I think that the 40L volume would restrict its ability to carry much more than that but the material and straps did not seem unduly strained by this weight. I liked the frame very much: it was stable and comfortable.

Durability: it is fair to say that the EPX200 material is very tough. Initially, I found it quite stiff making it harder to roll the top: however, it quickly loosened up with use. Rubbing on rocks and trees seem to cause no problems. In fact, at the end of the trek, I noticed little wear at all. I would be confident that the Atom+ will last me a long time.

Water-proofing: it only rained twice on the trek but the material repelled water well. However, like most packs, the seams are not taped so in heavier downpours I think that there would be a little water ingress. This should not be an issue anyway as it is always good practice to use waterproof pack liners: good ones weigh a mere 20g.

To test the pack, I brought it to Nepal where I hiked 350km in the Everest region to research my upcoming book on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Tough terrain in the Nepal Himalaya

Features

I loved the huge, stretchy Dyneema pocket at the front of the pack: I used it for my rain jacket. It seemed very durable, something that can be an issue with other packs.

Roll-top closure: European trekkers will take a while to get used to the roll-top closure which is quite unlike traditional packs. However, I have to say that I am a complete convert. It saves weight and is very waterproof. You may miss having a pocket on top but this is easily remedied by adding one or two belt pouches.

Side pockets: there are two and they are well-designed, making it easy to reach for a water bottle or other items. They fit Nalgene bottles and the height of them is good, making it easy to access bottles while wearing the pack. If you wish, you can have the pack made without these to save weight.

Bottom pocket: the stretchy ‘trash port’ at the bottom of the pack is an excellent innovation. It keeps your trash away from the rest of your kit. We loved it!

Shoulder pockets: these are well-designed being bigger than those on many other packs.

Customisation

Atom Pack’s website has an excellent custom pack builder which leads you seamlessly through the process and there are an incredible number of variables:

Capacity: we chose a 40L Atom+ but you can also choose 50L;
Torso Size: 4 different sizes depending on your height;
Hip belt size: 7 different sizes depending upon your waist measurement;
Colours: you can choose different colours for 4 different parts of the pack. For each part, there are thirteen different colours to choose from. Nobody else will have a pack like yours!
Pockets: you choose which ones you want from a variety of different options;
Straps and Elastic: again, you choose which ones you want. You also choose the colour of the elastic and the tabs that hold it in place.

Conclusion

The Atom+ is possibly the best 30-40L pack that I have ever used. It is comfortable, capable and extremely light. It is also very robust for an ultra-light pack and should last a long time. Given the impressively light weight, we would definitely recommend opting for the roomy side pockets. We also liked the hip pockets which come separately and attach to the hip-belt.

The 40L version like mine is perfect for extended backpacking trips where you only need to carry a few days food at a time. The larger 50L version would probably be required for treks where you need to haul food for a week. With the 40L, I was able to carry a 1-person tent, 0C sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping pad and cookset but your gear needs to be compact and lightweight to fit. Those with less compact gear might prefer the 50L: no big deal though as the 50L is only 19g heavier!

The unrivalled degree of customisation is a big draw too. Your pack can be made to be totally unique. All of this does not come cheap: the factory default Atom+ 40L and 50L are £235 and £250 respectively and custom packs are more expensive. However, these are packs that will last a long time so I think they are well worth the investment. I would definitely buy the Atom+ again.

You can check out Atom Packs at www.atompacks.co.uk

The unrivalled degree of customisation is a big draw too. Your pack can be made to be totally unique

Trekking Map: Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

£16.99

Available Now

Waterproof sheet map for Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail): 1:40,000. Includes free GPX downloads for the trails.

The definitive map to Iceland’s two best trails: larger scale and more detail than any other map. Made specifically for the treks by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks.

Waterproof
Free GPX downloads
Tough
Lightweight
All huts/campsites are marked
Information on distances, times and altitude gain/loss between huts/campsites
Hot springs and fumaroles are marked

The Laugavegur Trail is one of the world's most beautiful and aspirational treks. It leads you into the heart of Iceland’s unique ice-capped, volcanic terrain. Experience spectacular and unusual landscapes, the likes of which you will not find anywhere else on the planet. Impressive volcanic peaks are a constant companion and steam gushes from the ground. This is Iceland at its best and it will be an adventure that you will never forget

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Tour of Monte Rosa: Trekking Map

£16.99

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The best sheet map for the Tour of Monte Rosa. Displays the entire route and variants on a single sheet: perfect for planning and navigation.

1:40,000 - larger scale and more detail than any other map.

Made specifically for the Tour of Monte Rosa by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

English/French/German map key
1:40,000
Numerous variants
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear it!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps
Huts/accommodation marked on the map

The Tour of Monte Rosa is one of the classic Alpine treks. It leads the trekker on an epic circuit around the Monte Rosa massif. The largest group of 4000m peaks in the Alps is on display: the Weisshorn, the Zinalrothorn, the Dom, the Täschhorn, the Breithorn and the Matterhorn, to name a few.

It is the sister trek to the Walker’s Haute Route and crosses unspoilt and remote mountain terrain: amazing glaciers, snow frosted summits, beautiful valleys and pastures, shimmering lakes, carpets of wild flowers and the soothing sound of cow bells. This trek should be on your hiking bucket list

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Tour des Combins: Trekking Map

£16.99

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The best sheet map for the Tour des Combins. Displays the entire route and variants on a single sheet: perfect for planning and navigation.

1:40,000 - larger scale and more detail than any other map.

Made specifically for the Tour des Combins by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

English/French/German map key
1:40,000
Numerous variants
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear it!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps
Huts/accommodation marked on the map

The Tour des Combins is an epic trek in the Swiss and Italian Alps. It traverses some of Europe's wildest mountain terrain. The sublime scenery makes it a worthy alternative to the more famous Tour du Mont Blanc (which is only a stone's throw away).

Hike along the edge of the Corbassière Glacier, one of the longest in Europe. Enjoy snow frosted summits, magnificent valleys and pastures, sparkling azure lakes, carpets of wild flowers, the soothing sound of cow bells and easy to follow paths. Stay in spectacularly situated villages and remote mountain huts. This will be a trip that you will never forget

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Everest Base Camp: Trekking Map (includes Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes)

£16.99

Available now!

The best sheet map for the Everest treks: Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes (all clearly colour coded).

1:40,000 - larger scale and more detail than any other Everest map. Perfect for planning and navigation.

Includes walk-in route to Lukla

Made specifically for the Everest treks by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

English/French/German map key
1:40,000
Numerous variants
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear me!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps
Huts/accommodation marked on the map

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Tour du Mont Blanc: Trekking Map

£15.99

Available Now

The only sheet map for the Tour du Mont Blanc that shows all accommodation, food and transport options. The entire trek and variants on a single sheet: perfect for planning and navigation.

1:40,000 - larger scale and more detail than other single sheet maps.

Made specifically for the TMB by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

Facilities marked on map: accommodation, food, transport
English/French/German map key
1:40,000
Numerous variants
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear me!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps

The epic Tour du Mont Blanc traverses the mountains of France, Italy and Switzerland as it circumnavigates the mighty Mont Blanc (the highest peak in the Alps).

Unspoilt and remote mountain terrain: snow-frosted summits, beautiful valleys and pastures, sparkling azure lakes, carpets of wild-flowers, the soothing sound of cow bells and easy to follow paths. This trek should be on your hiking bucket list.

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Torres del Paine: Trekking Map: the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes

£17.99

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The only sheet map for Torres del Paine that shows all accommodation, food and transport options. The O, W and Q treks are set out in full. Also, shows day-hikes. Perfect for planning and navigation.

Made specifically for Torres del Paine by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

Facilities marked on map: accommodation, food, transport
Full elevation profiles
Distance, time and elevation gain/loss provided for each stage
English/French/German map key
1:40,000 - larger scale and more detail than other sheet maps
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear me!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps

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Trekking the West Highland Way: Two-way guide

£16.99

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The definitive two-way guide to the West Highland Way: both northbound and southbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: Full Ordnance Survey Explorer mapping inside (1:25,000)

17 different itineraries: schedules of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 days for hikers and runners. Includes both southbound and northbound itineraries. Difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain are done for you.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Full accommodation listings: the best inns, B&Bs and hotels
Detailed section on camping
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on geology, history, plants and wildlife
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

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Trekking Map: Walker’s Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt: 1:40,000 mapping; Free GPX downloads

£16.99

Available Now

The best sheet map for the Walker’s Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt. This is the only map available that displays the entire route and numerous variants on a single sheet: perfect for planning and navigation.

1:40,000: larger scale and more detail than any other map.

1:10,000: for select areas where navigation is challenging.

Made specifically for the Walker’s Haute Route by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

1:40,000/1:10,000
Numerous variants
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear me!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps
Huts/accommodation marked on the map

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Trekking the Dolomites AV1 (2024 updated version)

£16.99

Fully Updated for 2024!

The only guidebook exclusively for the AV1.

Real maps inside (Tabacco 1:25,000): the finest maps available for the Dolomites.

Everything you need to know to plan and walk Italy's most popular long distance route.

Also includes:

Numbered waypoints linking maps to text

Unique Itinerary Planner: plan a bespoke itinerary to match your ability and vacation schedule. All difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain are done for you

7 Proposed Itineraries of between 6 and 11 days

Everything the trekker needs to know to plan the route: route descriptions, costs, budget, difficulty, weather, how to get there, and more

Full accommodation listings: spectacularly situated mountain huts

Section on Camping

Exciting variants to the main route

Information for both self-guided and guided trekkers

Edge to edge colour: the most modern and beautiful guidebooks

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Trekking the Corsica GR20 (2025 2nd edition)

£17.99

Available now! The new 2nd edition.

The only two-way guide to the GR20: both northbound and southbound routes are described in full.

Real IGN Maps included (1:25,000): no need to carry separate maps.

15 different itineraries: schedules of 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 days. Includes both northbound and southbound itineraries. Difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain are done for you.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Detailed information on getting to/from all trail-heads
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Full accommodation listings: spectacularly situated mountain huts and campsites
Information for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions
Information on Wildlife and Plants

Buy me!

Trekking Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

£17.99

Available Now!

The definitive two-way guide to Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail): both southbound and northbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: full mapping inside (1:40,000), made specifically for the treks by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks. All accommodation/campsites are numbered and marked on the maps.

14 different itineraries: schedules of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 days for hikers and runners. Includes both southbound and northbound itineraries. Difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain/loss are done for you.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Full accommodation/campsite listings
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather and more
Travel to the trail-head
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on the volcanic sights along the route
Information on plants and wildlife
History of Iceland
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

Buy me!

Trekking the Mallorca GR221

£16.99

Available Now!

The definitive two-way guide to the Mallorca GR221 (the Drystone Way): both northbound and southbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: Full mapping inside (1:25,000) by Editorial Alpina. All accommodation is numbered and marked on the maps.

12 different itineraries: schedules of 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 days for hikers and runners. Includes both northbound and southbound itineraries. Difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain/loss are done for you.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Full accommodation listings: the best hotels and refugis
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Public Transport map and information
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on the drystone structures along the route
Information on plants and wildlife
History of drystone structures along the route
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

Buy me!

How to Pronounce Tour du Mont Blanc Place Names

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 13:44:18 GMT

I get asked repeatedly how to pronounce some of the place names on the TMB. French words, in particular, are difficult for English speakers to get right. So I have put together a series of short sound recordings which should help: click on the button or the image to get the full article.

Let me know if there are any other TMB place names that you would like me to add to the article.

Happy New Year!

TMB Place Names

Gear Review: Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L backpack

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 10:54:50 GMT

The holy grail of backpacks is therefore one that is light and durable and still performs well. I have used a lot of packs over the years and had never found the very lightest packs to be very good. Sometimes the straps were too flimsy to be comfortable. Sometimes the material just does not last very long. In 2020, I tried the Zpacks Arc Blast 55 backpack and that changed everything for me. At 569g, the pack was super light for a framed pack and the material was pretty durable considering its low weight. Over time, I did notice some very minor wear around the bottom corners of the pack but once noticed, I minimised this by taking more care of it. With the Arc Blast, the lightweight carbon frame needed to be tensioned by the user: at first I was terrified of breaking the thin carbon but over time my confidence in the durability of the carbon grew and I have never had any issues with it. I would say though that I was always very careful with it, not wanting to take the risk of a break while on the trail.

In summary, I found the Arc Blast 55 to be perfect for backpacking trips that required me to carry up to 4-5 days food. However, if I needed to carry food for 6-7 days then I found it to be slightly too small for me. When I heard that Zpacks had redesigned its Arc Haul range, I thought that I would try one. I only needed a little extra space for a couple more days' food so the Arc Haul 60L backpack looked like it was just what I was looking for.

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L on the trail in Iceland

First Impressions

As I unwrapped the new pack, it was the Ultra 200 material of the outer that instantly stood out: it looks great and feels more robust to me than the Dyneema of the Arc Blast. Zpacks say that the Ultra 200 is in fact heavier than the Dyneema but, because it requires fewer reinforcements, the end product is lighter. It would be interesting to see which performed better in the field. The straps and buckles have much in common with those on the Arc Blast: very thin but similarly well designed.

As I looked closer, I noticed that the frame design was completely different from the Arc Blast. I was pleased to see that the carbon frame appeared to be much more robust than that on the Arc Blast: it is much thicker and the cross-section is rectangular rather than circular. But more importantly it has been pre-tensioned so the users do not have to undergo the scary tensioning process themselves.

The overall weight of the pack is astonishing: it feels like there is barely anything there when you lift it in its empty state. It is even more impressive when you consider that the Arc Haul is 5L bigger in volume than the Arc Blast but (at 592g) it is only 18g heavier than the current version of the Arc Blast.

Ultra 200 Outer

Pre-tensioned Carbon Frame

Fitting

I found that fitting the Arc Haul was easier than fitting the Arc Blast because the frame has been pre-tensioned. There is a good video on Zpacks’ website which clearly shows you how to adjust the straps, etc. Once fitted properly, the pack feels snug, secure and comfortable. There are few manufacturers which give such good guidance on fitting.

I am 183cm tall and I chose the medium size: apparently almost nobody goes for the large. It fitted me well but only just. I think that anybody slightly taller than me might find the medium to be too small. One minor observation: I have both the Arc Haul and Arc Blast in the same sizes and I found the Arc Haul to be ever so slightly smaller than the Arc Blast. With the Arc Haul, I was at the very limits of the size band but with the Arc Blast I had a tiny margin to play with.

Testing

To test the pack, I walked Scotland’s Cape Wrath Trail, 400km of some of the wildest terrain in Europe. Over the full distance there is only a handful of settlements and wild camping is the order of the day. I took full camping gear and had a base weight (excluding food and water) of 6kg. At times, I was carrying 7 days food so my maximum pack weight (with food and water) was 13kg. The terrain I walked was extremely rough and challenging: for long periods that are no paths and often the ground is wet and uneven.

Comfort: Over 17 days in very rough terrain, I found the pack to be extremely comfortable. Although the padding on the straps and belt is thin, it is good quality and I had no problems with it. The packed coped admirably with 13kg and I would be confident that I could carry heavier loads with it. I liked the frame better than that on the Arc Blast: it seemed more stable to me.

Durability: it is fair to say that the Ultra 200 material is very tough. Tougher I think than the Dyneema on the Arc Blast. Rubbing on rocks and trees seem to cause it little problems. On the Arc Haul I have none of the minor wear I noticed around the bottom corners of the Arc Blast. I think the frame is tougher too. I would be confident that the Arc Blast will last me a long time.

To test the pack, I walked Scotland’s Cape Wrath Trail, 400km of some of the wildest terrain in Europe

Tough terrain on Scotland's Cape Wrath Trail

Water-proofing: I tested the pack over 17 days in the wettest part of a very wet country and I found that the Ultra 200 material is very waterproof. I noticed no difference in this regard from the Arc Blast which also performs amazingly. There are a few places where a small amount of water does get in but this is a minor gripe as the pack scores far better than its competitors in this regard. I would still carry a dry-bag though on longer trips but that is no issue as good ones weigh a mere 20g.

Features

The huge mesh pocket at the front of the pack is excellent in size: I used it for my rain jacket and drying wet items of clothing. On the version that I tested, the pocket was made of lycra with was different from the tough mesh on the Arc Blast. I did not find it to be as durable as the mesh used on the Arc Blast as it ripped quite easily. However, I understand that Zpacks are now manufacturing the Arc Haul with the same mesh as the Arc Blast (instead of the lycra) so that particular issue has gone away.

Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L inside view

Roll-top closure: European trekkers will take a while to get used to the roll-top closure which is quite unlike traditional packs. However, I have to say that I am a complete convert. It saves weight and is very waterproof. You may miss having a pocket on top but this is easily remedied by adding one or two of Zpacks’ excellent belt pouches.

Side pockets: there are two and they are well-designed, making it easy to reach for a water bottle or other items. They fit Nalgene bottles but I would prefer them to be ever so slightly bigger but that is a minor gripe.

Conclusion

As well as Scotland’s Cape Wrath Trail, I have also now carried the pack for many weeks in the tough and wet environment of Iceland. The Arc Haul Ultra 60L has now replaced the Arc Blast 55L as my ‘go-to’ pack for long-distance treks. It is only 18g heavier than the current version of the Arc Blast yet it is 5L bigger, with tougher outer material and frame. In fact, it is almost unbelievably light. Yet I found it to be stable, durable and very comfortable. Unlike most other packs, it is almost completely waterproof. Despite the lightweight construction, it performed extremely well. At $399 it is not cheap but if you like to travel ultralight then it is a price worth paying.

Andrew McCluggage is an outdoor writer and photographer. He is also the CEO of Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks. He has written many books for walking and trekking including The Tour du Mont Blanc, Trekking the Dolomites AV1, Trekking the Corsica GR20, Trekking the West Highland Way, Trekking the Hadrian’s Wall Path, Trekking the Coast to Coast Path and The Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt. His latest book is Trekking the Mallorca GR221. Follow Andrew on Facebook and Instagram: @knifeedgeoutdoor

Trekking the Corsica GR20 (2025 2nd edition)

£17.99

Available now! The new 2nd edition.

The only two-way guide to the GR20: both northbound and southbound routes are described in full.

Real IGN Maps included (1:25,000): no need to carry separate maps.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Detailed information on getting to/from all trail-heads
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Full accommodation listings: spectacularly situated mountain huts and campsites
Information for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions
Information on Wildlife and Plants

Trekking the Mallorca GR221

£16.99

Available Now!

The definitive two-way guide to the Mallorca GR221 (the Drystone Way): both northbound and southbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: Full mapping inside (1:25,000) by Editorial Alpina. All accommodation is numbered and marked on the maps.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Full accommodation listings: the best hotels and refugis
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Public Transport map and information
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on the drystone structures along the route
Information on plants and wildlife
History of drystone structures along the route
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

Trekking Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

£17.99

Available Now!

The definitive two-way guide to Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail): both southbound and northbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: full mapping inside (1:40,000), made specifically for the treks by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks. All accommodation/campsites are numbered and marked on the maps.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Full accommodation/campsite listings
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather and more
Travel to the trail-head
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on the volcanic sights along the route
Information on plants and wildlife
History of Iceland
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

Trekking Map: Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

£16.99

Available Now

Waterproof sheet map for Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail): 1:40,000. Includes free GPX downloads for the trails.

The definitive map to Iceland’s two best trails: larger scale and more detail than any other map. Made specifically for the treks by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks.

Waterproof
Free GPX downloads
Tough
Lightweight
All huts/campsites are marked
Information on distances, times and altitude gain/loss between huts/campsites
Hot springs and fumaroles are marked

Everest Base Camp: Trekking Map (includes Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes)

£16.99

Available now!

The best sheet map for the Everest treks: Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes (all clearly colour coded).

1:40,000 - larger scale and more detail than any other Everest map. Perfect for planning and navigation.

Includes walk-in route to Lukla

Made specifically for the Everest treks by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

English/French/German map key
1:40,000
Numerous variants
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear me!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps
Huts/accommodation marked on the map

Trekking Everest Base Camp: Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes: 1:40,000 mapping

£19.99

Available Now!

The definitive guidebook for trekking in the Everest Region: essential reading for both guided and self-guided trekkers. This book really knocks the ball out of the park. It fully describes the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek, 3-Passes Trek, Gokyo Lakes & 7 other incredible treks. It contains all the information you need to plan and execute your trek including:

How to organise a trek in the Everest region: booking a guided trip, independent trekking (which is still permitted around Everest), guides & porters.
Detailed advice on choice of trek: 29 different itineraries.
Altitude acclimatisation: how to avoid altitude sickness (AMS).
Travel to the trail-heads: air travel & hiking into the Everest region.
What equipment you need to bring.
What to expect on the trail: accommodation, food & daily routine.
Describes the walk-in route from Jiri/Bhandar to Lukla.

The book is also packed full of information that you will not find in any other guide:

Orientation charts show exactly which peaks are visible from each significant viewpoint: it a trip of a lifetime so we want you to know exactly what you will see from each viewpoint.
1:40,000 scale mapping: the most detailed mapping available for the Everest region: all villages and accommodation locations are marked on the maps.
Detailed sections on Buddhist monuments and Sherpa culture.
Detailed information on Yetis.

Torres del Paine: Trekking Map: the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes

£17.99

Available Now!

The only sheet map for Torres del Paine that shows all accommodation, food and transport options. The O, W and Q treks are set out in full. Also, shows day-hikes. Perfect for planning and navigation.

Made specifically for Torres del Paine by Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks:

Facilities marked on map: accommodation, food, transport
Full elevation profiles
Distance, time and elevation gain/loss provided for each stage
English/French/German map key
1:40,000 - larger scale and more detail than other sheet maps
Includes free GPX downloads for the trail
GPS compatible
Tougher than traditional maps: try to tear me!
More water-resistant than traditional maps
Lighter than traditional maps

Trekking Patagonia’s Torres del Paine: the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes

£18.99

Available Now

The definitive guidebook for Torres del Paine National Park. Covers all the treks including the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes. Full information for both campers and those staying in huts: everything you need to plan and hike in Torres del Paine so there is no need to spend hours trawling the internet for scraps.

Also includes:

Bespoke 1:40,000 mapping: all accommodation, facilities and transport are shown clearly on the map. Perfect for planning and navigation. No other book has this.
Unique Itinerary Planner: plan a bespoke itinerary to match your ability and vacation schedule. All difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain are done for you.
18 different multi-day itineraries of between 3 and 10 days.
Full accommodation/campsite listings.
Travel to the trail-heads.
Equipment and travelling light.
Everything the trekker needs to know to plan the route: route descriptions, costs, budget, difficulty, weather, how to get there, and more.
Information for both self-guided and guided trekkers.
Info on the November 2025 O-trek tragedy.

The peaks of Torres del Paine National Park are some of the most distinctive in the world. The park is named after the spectacular Torres del Paine: three imposing granite pillars, overlooking a surreal turquoise lake, which are the favourites of so many trekkers that their status is practically mythical. However, the famous Cuernos del Paine are even more beautiful: so strikingly unusual that they could almost be the setting of a children’s fantasy story, their otherworldly appearance is hauntingly beautiful and utterly unforgettable, especially at sunrise and sunset. There are legions of other beautiful mountains too: they are steep-sided, jagged, swathed in vast blankets of the whitest snow, adorned with enormous sparkling glaciers and unattainably high. This wonderful mountain range is best experienced on one of the park’s incredible treks: the O, the W and the Q.

Trekking the Dolomites AV1 (2024 updated version)

£16.99

Fully Updated for 2024!

The only guidebook exclusively for the AV1.

Real maps inside (Tabacco 1:25,000): the finest maps available for the Dolomites.

Everything you need to know to plan and walk Italy's most popular long distance route.

Also includes:

Numbered waypoints linking maps to text

Unique Itinerary Planner: plan a bespoke itinerary to match your ability and vacation schedule. All difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain are done for you

7 Proposed Itineraries of between 6 and 11 days

Everything the trekker needs to know to plan the route: route descriptions, costs, budget, difficulty, weather, how to get there, and more

Full accommodation listings: spectacularly situated mountain huts

Section on Camping

Exciting variants to the main route

Information for both self-guided and guided trekkers

Edge to edge colour: the most modern and beautiful guidebooks

Trekking the West Highland Way: Two-way guide

£16.99

Available Now!

The definitive two-way guide to the West Highland Way: both northbound and southbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: Full Ordnance Survey Explorer mapping inside (1:25,000)

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Full accommodation listings: the best inns, B&Bs and hotels
Detailed section on camping
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on geology, history, plants and wildlife
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

Trekking the Hadrian’s Wall Path (2024 Updated Version)

£16.99

Available now!

Real OS maps 1:25,000

The definitive two-way guide to the Hadrian’s Wall Path: both eastbound and westbound routes are described in full.

14 different itineraries: schedules of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 days for walkers and runners. Includes both northbound and southbound itineraries. Difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain are done for you.

Also includes:

Extraordinary detail on the history and construction of Hadrian’s Wall
Section on the unmissable forts of Hadrian’s Wall
Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Full accommodation listings: the best inns, B&Bs and hotels
Information for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

Hadrian’s Wall was one of the Romans’ most ambitious structures. When completed, it ran for 73 miles between the west and east coasts of Northern England. It crossed the crags and hills of some of Britain’s wildest and most beautiful terrain.

The Hadrian’s Wall path is one of England’s official ‘National Trails’. It leads you on an unforgettable journey of discovery along the route of the Wall. Discover the incredible surviving sections of the Wall and its forts, milecastles and turrets.

Trekking the South Downs Way

£14.99

Available Now!

The definitive two-way guide to the South Downs Way: both westbound and eastbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: Full Ordnance Survey Explorer mapping inside (1:25,000)

18 different itineraries: schedules of 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 days for walkers and runners. Includes both westbound and eastbound itineraries. Difficult calculations of time, distance and altitude gain are done for you.

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Full accommodation listings: the best inns, B&Bs and hotels
Detailed section on camping
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on geology, history, plants and wildlife
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

The South Downs Way leads you on an unforgettable journey of discovery through the magnificent chalk hills of Sussex and Hampshire. It travels the length of the South Downs National Park across wonderful hills and meadows bedecked with wild-flowers, through endless fields of shimmering golden corn and along the edge of the epic white cliffs of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head. It is one of England’s official ‘National Trails’ and is an unforgettable experience

Gear Review: Zpacks 10F Full Zip Sleeping Bag

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 11:02:30 GMT

As an outdoor writer and photographer, I spend a lot of time on the trail. Long days with a fully-laden pack is part of my job so I am constantly looking for products which help me lighten the load, without a reduction in performance. A sleeping bag is one of the heaviest items that a backpacker carries and the differences in weights between products can be large. The very lightest sleeping bags are light because they incorporate the lightest products available and these are pared down to the bare minimum. Very light bags normally use goose down as the fill because it offers the most favourable warmth to weight ratio: obviously, the more fill you include, the heavier the bag. However, the outer materials of sleeping bags vary greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer. To keep weight down they tend to be very thin. And very thin material is often not very durable so that is something that I pay close attention to. The holy grail of sleeping bags is therefore one that is very warm, very light and very durable. And I have to say that Zpacks’ Full Zip Sleeping Bag is as close to perfection as I have seen.

Wild camping in the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland

"I would honestly say that this is the gold standard for sleeping bags"

However, before we get into that in detail, let’s go over a few basic facts about sleeping bags. Each bag has a ‘comfort rating’: this is the lowest temperature at which the standard woman should enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep. There is also a ‘lower comfort limit’ which is for men. That may sound simple but it is not. Although all reputable sleeping bag manufacturers use the same independent standard, the bags are not tested in the same place so there is a lack of consistency amongst ratings. Also, the ratings are designed with an average man and woman in mind but every person is different: some people get colder than others. The ratings should therefore be used as a guide only and it is wise to choose a bag with a comfort rating which is a few degrees lower than the night temperatures that you will encounter.
I have used a lot of sleeping bags over the years but have rarely found that the very lightest bags perform well at the lower end of their intended temperature range. Now it is fair to say that, as I am skinny, I tend to ‘sleep cold’ and am therefore pushing my sleep systems to the limit: I rarely find that I can get a comfortable night’s sleep if outside temperatures drop to the bottom of the sleeping bag’s comfort limit. Accordingly, I think that my body provides science with a sensible guinea pig to test bags in the real world.

Over here in Europe, I had been hearing great things about Zpacks’ sleeping bags. Zpacks is a US manufacturer and I was very impressed with their Arcblast 55 backpack last year so I was very keen to get my hands on one of their sleeping bags. I had a trip to Patagonia planned so it would provide the perfect opportunity for me to test a bag rated down to 10F/-12C. Accordingly, I chose Zpacks’ Full Zip 10F which has a good reputation in the US as an ultralight option for multi-day treks. I tested the long version (as I am 6’1”/183cm in height) with the standard width. It weighed 760g without the included dry-bag. Because the bag has no integrated hood, I also used one of Z-packs’ Goose Hoods.

First Impressions
As you unwrap the sleeping bag, it is the rip-stop outer which is immediately striking: it seems very thin and you can even see the down itself through the outer. The drawcord is thin and light, however, the zip seems larger and heavier than that on many other bags. Five minutes after unwrapping the bag, the loft was impressive. I was very confident that it was going to perform well from an insulation point of view but I had my doubts that the outer would survive all the abuse of a long unsupported backpacking trip.

Using Zpacks' excellent Goose Hood

Zpacks Full Zip Sleeping Bag zipped up

Zpacks Full Zip Sleeping Bag unzipped

Fitting
At 183cm tall, I was in the middle between the medium and the long size. I chose the long length and I did not regret this choice. Zpacks’ sizing seems very accurate. Although, it was slightly too long for me, it has no integrated hood so I was able to snuggle down and pull the material up around the side of my head. I hate having my feet wedged against the bottom of a smaller bag. Anybody slightly smaller than me might go for the medium.

Testing
Unfortunately, the Covid epidemic dragged on and so a week-long winter backpacking adventure in the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland had to do instead of the wilds of Patagonia. Fortunately, the weather ‘played ball’ and threw some challenging night time temperatures at me: the bag was tested all the way down to -8°C over a seven night period. I used two different sleeping pads over that period: a Thermarest Neo Xlite and a Thermarest Neo Xtherm. I chose these because in Europe they are probably the most commonly used pads for long-distance backpackers. The Xlite has an R-value (insulation rating) of 4.2 and the Xtherm is 6.9 so the Xtherm is a good bit warmer than the Xlite. I wore the same thin merino baselayers (long arms and legs) in the bag throughout the week.

Comfort: Over 7 days in temperatures down to -8°C, I found that the bag performed extremely well. Using Zpacks goose hood for my head and the less-insulated Xlite pad, I was warm and comfortable throughout the night until about 5 a.m. when the temperature I recorded was at its lowest (-8°C): at that point I simply slipped another layer on my torso and I was warm again. To be fair, I would not normally use the Xlite pad in such low temperatures.

Using Zpacks goose hood and the more-insulated Xtherm pad, I was extremely warm and comfortable all night, even in the early hours of the morning. I have used plenty of sleeping bags that will keep me warm at such low temperatures but never one that is as light as Zpacks’ offering. At only 760g, the level of heat insulation is remarkable: apparently, it has 30% more 900 Fill Power Premium Goose Down than is necessary for maximum loft to account for any future down compression.

Frost and ice on the tent during testing!

Thermarest Neo Air Xlite

Thermrest Neo Air Xtherm

The outer is water-repellent and the down is water-resistant so I found that the bag did not lose heat even when the outer was damp with condensation. This is a very important consideration when cold weather camping because condensation is unavoidable. The draft tube along the zip was effective and I did not feel that much heat escaped from there. I found no ‘dead spots’ in the insulation either: it is obvious that this is a premium product.

I liked the draw cord which was thin but easily strong enough. It is clear that many manufacturers are over-specing drawcords. I also liked the clip at the top of the zip which stops unintentional unzipping.
I was concerned about the lack of an integrated hood but in fact, this has completely changed the way that I look at sleeping bags. The separate goose hood was a revelation for a front/side sleeper like me. You can twist and turn in the sleeping bag without the main body of the bag turning too. This ensures that you stay warm all night. It works so much better than an integrated hood if you do not sleep on your back.

My only slight niggle is the zip which seems overly robust and heavy compared to the zips used by some other manufacturers such as Thermarest. Could there be a potential weight-saving here?

The foot of the Zpacks 10F

The sleeping bag in its waterproof bag

Durability: Backpacking in the wild puts a lot of pressure on gear. However, over 7 days I noticed no wear at all on the outer and I found it to be very robust. Of course, there will be bags that have tougher outers but not at this weight. Personally, I would rather carry a very light bag and try to take good care of it.

Conclusion
The Zpacks’ Full Zip Sleeping Bag 10F is now my ‘go-to’ bag for backpacking in temperatures below zero. It has easily the best ratio of warmth to weight that I have ever experienced and it is the lightest bag I have ever used that actually keeps me warm at -8°C. I expect that those who sleep warm would easily be able to use it down to 10F/-12°C.

Unlike many other bags, it has both water-resistant outer and down which is an important and much-overlooked characteristic. It also comes with a waterproof Dyneema bag which is extremely tough and light. The outer seems to be sufficiently robust if you take good care of it.

The full zip provides welcome flexibility: if you ever get too warm you can simply stick your feet out the bottom. Bags with ¾ length zips do not allow for that.

At $469, it is not cheap but if you like to travel ultralight then it is a price worth paying. Without hesitation, I would honestly say that this is the gold standard for sleeping bags. And it comes in four different colours: see images below.

If I had to find a fault, it would be the zip which seems to be a little over-speced. Could Zpacks not save even more weight by using a lighter zip such as the one on the Thermarest Hyperion? But honestly, that is the only fault I can find with this exceptional sleeping bag

Colour Option: Blue

Colour Option: Green

Colour Option: Orange

Colour Option: Black

Andrew McCluggage is an outdoor writer and photographer. He is also the CEO of Knife Edge Outdoor Guidebooks. He has written a large number of books for walking and trekking including Tour du Mont Blanc, Trekking the Dolomites AV1, Trekking the Corsica GR20, Trekking the West Highland Way, Trekking the Hadrian’s Wall Path and The Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt. Follow Andrew on Facebook and Instagram: @knifeedgeoutdoor

Trekking the West Highland Way: Two-way guide

£16.99

Available Now!

The definitive two-way guide to the West Highland Way: both northbound and southbound routes are described in full.

Real Maps: Full Ordnance Survey Explorer mapping inside (1:25,000)

Also includes:

Detailed information on equipment and travelling light
Everything the trekker needs to know: route, costs, difficulty, weather, travel, and more
Full accommodation listings: the best inns, B&Bs and hotels
Detailed section on camping
Essential info for both self-guided and guided trekkers
Information on geology, history, plants and wildlife
Numbered waypoints linking the Real Maps to our clear descriptions

Turbo Trekking the TMB
File Size:	2374 kb
File Type:	pdf

KNIFE EDGE OUTDOOR GUIDEBOOKS - Blog

Gear Review: Atom Packs, Atom+ EP40 backpack

First Impressions

Fitting

Testing

Features

Customisation

​Conclusion

Trekking Map: Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

Tour of Monte Rosa: Trekking Map

Tour des Combins: Trekking Map

Everest Base Camp: Trekking Map (includes Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes)

Tour du Mont Blanc: Trekking Map

Torres del Paine: Trekking Map: the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes

Trekking the West Highland Way: Two-way guide

Trekking Map: Walker’s Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt: 1:40,000 mapping; Free GPX downloads

Trekking the Dolomites AV1 (2024 updated version)

Trekking the Corsica GR20 (2025 2nd edition)

Trekking Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

Trekking the Mallorca GR221

How to Pronounce Tour du Mont Blanc Place Names

Gear Review: Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L backpack

First Impressions

​Fitting

​Testing

To test the pack, I walked Scotland’s Cape Wrath Trail, 400km of some of the wildest terrain in Europe

​Features

​Conclusion

Trekking the Corsica GR20 (2025 2nd edition)

Trekking the Mallorca GR221

Trekking Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

Trekking Map: Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

Everest Base Camp: Trekking Map (includes Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes)

Trekking Everest Base Camp: Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes: 1:40,000 mapping

Torres del Paine: Trekking Map: the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes

Trekking Patagonia’s Torres del Paine: the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes

Trekking the Dolomites AV1 (2024 updated version)

Trekking the West Highland Way: Two-way guide

Trekking the Hadrian’s Wall Path (2024 Updated Version)

Trekking the South Downs Way

Gear Review: Zpacks 10F Full Zip Sleeping Bag

"I would honestly say that this is the gold standard for sleeping bags"

Trekking the West Highland Way: Two-way guide

Trekking the Dolomites AV1 (2024 updated version)

Walking Chamonix Mont Blanc

Walker's Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt: 2nd Edition (2025)

Trekking the Corsica GR20 (2025 2nd edition)

Trekking the Hadrian’s Wall Path (2024 Updated Version)

Trekking the Mallorca GR221

Trekking Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

Trekking Map: Iceland's Laugavegur Trail (& Fimmvörðuháls Trail)

Everest Base Camp: Trekking Map (includes Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes)

Trekking Everest Base Camp: Classic EBC, Three Passes & Gokyo Lakes: 1:40,000 mapping

Torres del Paine: Trekking Map: the O, the W, the Q and day-hikes

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Walker's Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt: 2nd Edition (2025)

Trekking the Dolomites AV1 (2024 updated version)

Trekking Map: Walker’s Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt: 1:40,000 mapping; Free GPX downloads

Trekking the Tour des Combins: Two-way Guide: 1:40k mapping; 10 different itineraries

Tour of Monte Rosa: Trekking Map

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The Tour du Mont Blanc Handbook (two way): 2nd Edition

Trekking the Dolomites AV2

Tour of the Ecrins National Park (2nd Edition)

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Should I book the AV1 for 2021?

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Walker's Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt: 2nd Edition (2025)

Trekking the Dolomites AV1 (2024 updated version)

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Trekking Map: Walker’s Haute Route: Chamonix to Zermatt: 1:40,000 mapping; Free GPX downloads

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The Tour du Mont Blanc Handbook (two way): 2nd Edition

Trekking the Dolomites AV2

Conclusion

Fitting

Testing

Features

Conclusion