The Expedition Journals

Neoprene has long triumphed in water sports as the fabric of choice; providing warmth, a four-way stretch, and impressive durability. Unfortunately, neoprene does not score well in its environmental credentials; containing high levels of oil-based fibres that cannot be recycled at end of life. The new Open Water Swimming Yulex® range from Zone3 looks to revolutionise the open water swimming wardrobe, in a stylish and eco-conscious design. Yulex® is made from natural plant-based rubber, combined with 100% recycled polyester fabrics, to create a fit and performance like that of neoprene, but without the negative environmental impact. Zone3 estimate compared to an equivalent product made of neoprene, Yulex® has a CO2 emission cost 80% lower. I have been swimming and stand-up paddleboarding in the Zone3 Yulex® Long Sleeve Top and Men's Jammers for the last few months, and have been impressed by their performance. Pulling them on you feel stylish, and the fabric is soft and flexib

Fresh from the mountains of Sri Lanka, this is my review of the versatile and sure-footed Merrell MQM 3 Mid GORE-TEX hiking boots.  Merrell shoes have been a trustworthy walking partner of mine for several years now; with previous models reviewed here on The Expedition Journals including the MQM Flex 2.0 and ChopRock Aqua Shoes . The brand's footwear is comfortable, durable, and provides a reassuring foothold on a multitude of terrains. The Merrell MQM 3 Mid GORE-TEX boots were my choice of hiking shoes for a three week adventure to the island of Sri Lanka. With jungle treks, mountain hikes, and days spent wandering through markets and nature reserves, I wanted a pair of lightweight waterproof hiking boots that would be comfortable and reliable – the MQM 3 Mid boots delivered flawlessly. Waterproof hiking boots are the best option when choosing walking shoes for all conditions, in my opinion. Waterproof boots offer all-weather protection, and although slightly warmer than non-wate

Can a pair of running socks warrant a £44.95 price tag? 'The Run Sock' from CEP Sports does, in my opinion. Featuring medical grade compression technology, a second-skin fit to avoid blisters, and anatomically padded zones for improved comfort; these high-end running socks are my go-to for all long distance runs. The Run Compression Socks from CEP Sports use a proven blend of high-wicking yarns, which are designed to body-map to your foot's shape; this significantly reduces moisture build up and fabric wrinkles, both of which tend to encourage blisters when running. Targeted medical grade compression technology wraps around the calves and helps to keep blood circulating to your lower legs. Improved circulation helps extend endurance and improve recovery. In tandem, this compression technology reduces muscular vibrations that happen while running; significantly reducing the chance of shin-splints and muscular fatigue. The compression fit also stabilises your locomotor syste

Whenever I venture out in one of my sea kayaks, I complete a hand written logbook with details of the voyage. There is something very special about reading back through the journal on a dark winter evening, and recalling the adventures. In this blog post, I thought I would do the same with a pictorial log of some of my waterborne adventures of 2022. These paddles were all undertaken from my home port of Bembridge Harbour, and they ranged in length from 15 to 50 kilometres.  The trend if for blue skies and calm seas – that wasn't always the case on my sea kayak outings, but it does lend itself to a steadier hand and a better photo; there were plenty of rough and salt spray soaked days on the water as well, they just didn't make this photo blog... Luccombe Bay – March 2022 Luccombe Bay – March 2022 The Witterings (UK Mainland) – May 2022 Shanklin Bay – June 2022 Osbourne Bay – August 2022 Priory Bay – September 2022 Bembridge Low Tide – October 2022