Are you getting started outdoors, gearing up for a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, or just need to save a few quid? We all need to get out, even in this economy. Here’s the lowdown on the best, more budget-friendly backpacking kit our team have reviewed over the last year or so, in one place for the first time

The latest gear and fly-tying materials for discerning game-fishers

MCN STAFF RATE THEIR RIDING KIT

Dan Webb takes a first look at NuFish’s first foray into the rod market

Mark Sawyer and Dan Webb test a pair of 8ft feeder rods at differing ends of the price spectrum

Planning an international trip to beat those winter blues? Gear guru Chris Townsend and Mountain Leader Fiona Russell test the best shirts designed for hiking in warmer weather