http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/ Get all the latest News about Cotswold Outdoor en-uk Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:46:37 GMT Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:46:37 GMT http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Cotswold Outdoor community@cotswoldoutdoor.com 60 http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/images/common/rss-image.gif http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/2/2/merry-mix-up-winner-collects-grand-prize/   The final winner of our Merry Mix Up Christmas game, Sarah Griffiths, recently visited our Guildford store to pick up her amazing prize. When asked her what her reaction was when she found out that she had won a whopping £1000 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers, this is what she said: "We both are very happy and surprised to have won the merry mix up prize of £1000 worth of vouchers we had been trying with the puzzle everyday throughout to December online. Paul didn't believe it when I said we had won. We have been regular customers of Cotswold outdoor since 1974.We are going to use the voucher win to kit out ourselves and Children with our favourite brand Mountain Equipment." Photo (right): Winner Sarah Griffiths collects her prize from Store Manager Richard Nemeth at our Guildford Cotswold Outdoor store We hope that Sarah and her family enjoy all of their shiny new outdoor gear and can plan some serious outdoor adventures this year! And if you were not a winner this time, then watch this space as we will be posting even more fantastic competitions and giveaways in the near future. Happy adventures to Sarah, and everybody else, from the team @ Cotswold Outdoor http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/2/2/merry-mix-up-winner-collects-grand-prize/ Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:44:51 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/1/30/december-rate-review-winner-announced/ Congratulations to Kathryn Green who is our Rate & Review winner for December There were lots of fantastic product reviews posted in December, but Kathryn's review of the Merrell Women’s Oslo Waterproof Boot was chosen as we believe it was a very informative and useful product review. To say a big thank you, we will be sending Kathryn £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers! Photo (top right): Rate and Review winner for December, Kathryn Green, out on the hill! Kathryn's winning review of the Merrel Women's Oslo Waterproof Boot: [ Live in them year round!   "Bought these from Cotswold Outdoors 2 years ago and I still live in them almost every day! As they are waterproof I use them instead of wellies and even in Summer they are perfect for wet grass in the morning or cold evenings. Look fab with skinny jeans and leggings and I get compliments on them everywhere I go. Due to the fact I wear them constantly they are not looking as good as they were so decided I needed some new boots. Have searched far and wide but can't find any I like as much so will be buying the same boots again. The only reason I haven't given them a 5* is that I hoped they might last a couple more years (waterproofing and zip have now gone), but I do pretty much live in them so they have been very well used!" ]     It only takes a few minutes to write a review and be entered into our monthly competition for your chance to WIN £250! Find out more about our Rate and Review feature here         http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/1/30/december-rate-review-winner-announced/ Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:58:18 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/1/27/cotswold-outdoor-named-best-nationwide-outdoors-retailer/   For the second year in a row, Cotswold Outdoor has received the prestigious Gold Award for Best Nationwide Outdoors Retailer at the Walk Reader Awards 2011. And not only that, but we have also received the Gold Award for Best Online Retailer! We feel that these awards recognise all the hard work that our staff put in this year to be the best at what we do and remain the first choice of outdoor retailer for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.  As a company, we strive to offer best range of outdoor gear, backed up with world-class service and expert advice to make sure our customers get the most out of their outdoor adventures. The 2011 Walk Reader Awards, presented earlier this month at the Outdoor Show, celebrate the best retailers, gear, routes and personalities in the walking world as voted by Walk Magazine readers. We would like to say a big thank you to all of the readers of Walk Magazine who voted for in the Best Nationwide Outdoors Retailer category. Hans Falkenburg, Chief Executive of Cotswold Outdoor, commented, “To be recognised and chosen as the Best Nationwide Outdoors Retailer by Walk Magazine’s readers, not once but twice in a row, is a very proud moment for Cotswold Outdoor. We will endeavour to continue providing services and products that meet our customers’ needs so that we can maintain our position for many years to come.” Again, thank you so much for voting for us - without our loyal supporters and customers, we would not be here. Staff members James Dumas (second from left) and Paul Kitchen (right) collect the Gold Award for Best Outdoor Retailer from the Walk Reader Awards team and Janet Street Porter (third from left). http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/1/27/cotswold-outdoor-named-best-nationwide-outdoors-retailer/ Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:30:38 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/1/3/merry-mix-up-game-winners-announced/   With massive total of nearly 40,000 entries, we wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who got festive and played our Merry Mix Up Christmas game over the last eight weeks.   All winners have now been emailed so if you have not checked your email, make sure you do so as soon as possible. Drawn from all of the Merry Mix Up players, the lucky winner of the grand prize of £1000 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers is Sarah E Griffiths – congratulations from all of the team at Cotswold Outdoor! With an amazing puzzle completion time of 9.2 seconds, Jennifer Trim has bagged the fastest time prize of £100 in vouchers. 50 lucky players have also received £20 in vouchers after being picked as the winners of our daily Merry Mix Up draws. You can view the full list of daily winners here by clicking on the “winners” tab. Andrew from Salisbury was our winner on Day 3 – he has already decided how to spend his vouchers: “I went and visited the store in Salisbury, and after much browsing, decided to use the vouchers towards the Leatherman Style and V9 combo. It's a great little set to be able to attach to my keyring.” Well done to Puzzle Master Tim Trevor who had the fastest average completion time of 9.4 seconds  - and to Fiona Millard and Kim Allen, who both played the Merry Mix Up game over 40 times and still managed to remain on the Puzzle Masters board with fantastic average completion times of around 20 seconds! If you have any comments or feedback on the game, or even ideas for future games – please leave your thoughts in a comment below. We hope to be able to bring you even more fantastic interactive games in the future, with lots of great prizes to be won... so stay tuned for some serious outdoor fun in 2012! http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2012/1/3/merry-mix-up-game-winners-announced/ Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:13:26 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/12/7/the-uks-largest-range-of-osprey-packs/   At Cotswold Outdoor, we are always looking for new ways to give our customers just that little bit extra. This time, we’ve gone all the way and now you can find the most extensive range of Osprey packs available in the UK here on our website Our classic core range, which can be found in our stores as well as online, features a hand-picked selection of the most popular Osprey packs including the Talon series. Now, in addition to this, we are proud to offer our customers a new online-only extended collection with a vast range of Osprey products in all sizes, shapes and colours. From highly technical, ultra lightweight packs to large robust luggage options, whatever you are looking for.... we hope you’ll be able to find it right here. With over 90 Osprey products available to order online, you won't find a better range anywhere else. View our Osprey extended range now > Find out more about Osprey packs > http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/12/7/the-uks-largest-range-of-osprey-packs/ Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:06:55 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/30/cotswold-outdoor-donates-boots-to-kilimanjaro-porters/ When our friends at Charity Challenge mentioned that a group of porters in Tanzania who climb mountains for a living would really love some new boots to make their daily lives easier, we were determined to do our best to help them. After checking the stock in our warehouse for something suitable, we were able to donate a number of pairs of nearly new mountaineering and walking boots to the group of porters who work full-time for The African Walking Company. Climbing the highest mountain in Africa at least twenty times a year, each porter’s feet are his most valuable asset. Durable, quality footwear will ensure that their feet are warm, protected and supported during this physically demanding job. Charity Challenge Operations Director Josh Davis explained how important these kind of donations are to the well-being of the porters: “It can be very hard for the porters out in Kilimanjaro to get hold of decent outdoor clothing as there is no manufacturer or shops selling any equipment. Anything they have is usually left by climbers or is not suitable for the harsh environment in which they work. To be donated top of the range walking boots like this will vastly improve their comfort and safety on the mountain and can also help the porters to make the step up to becoming guides on the mountain” The boots were shipped out at the end of August and distributed to the porters on arrival. Richard from The African Walking Company has recently sent us some fantastic photos of the porters showing off their new boots as you can see here! You can find more photos here Richard Marsden, General Manager of The African Walking Company said: “The porters were delighted to receive the nearly new boots which will no doubt get very good use!” We would like to thank Charity Challenge for organising the shipment of the boots to Tanzania and also Kenya Airways, who generously transporting them free of charge. About Charity Challenge: Over the last 12 years, Charity Challenge has enabled thousands of people to push their limits and challenge themselves to do something different. From climbing to the summit of Kilimanjaro to trekking The Great Wall of China, Charity Challenge participants trek, climb, ride and raft throughout the world raising money for their chosen UK charity. These life-changing experiences provide funds that will change the world, one step at a time. We have been working with Charity Challenge for some time now - a relationship that has been cemented by a shared passion for supporting the outdoor community. We offer Charity Challenge participants a discount at Cotswold Outdoor to help them buy the quality gear they need for their next fundraising adventure. Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to give expert advice on the right kit for every expedition so that Charity Challenge participants can really push their limits and trust their gear to keep them safe. To find out more about Charity Challenge, visit the Charity Challenge website or become a fan on facebook http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/30/cotswold-outdoor-donates-boots-to-kilimanjaro-porters/ Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:28:48 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/24/new-edinburgh-store-opens-25th-november/   Our fifth store in Scotland opens it's doors this week.   To provide our customers in Scotland with even better access to the best range of outdoor gear for any adventure or expedition, we will be opening a brand new store in the centre of Edinburgh. This fantastic new store will be situated on Rose Street, a vibrant high street shopping location in the beautiful Scottish capital. In store, you'll be able to browse an incredible range of high quality outdoor clothing and equipment, as well as getting expert advice from our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Come along to the opening of our new Edinburgh store this Friday from 12 noon onwards for a complimentary mug of mulled wine and a mince pie, as well as goody bags for the first one hundred customers and some special opening offers. You can find out more about the store opening and how to get there here. We are really looking forward to meeting you. Click here to find out more about our new Edinburgh store Now with five stores in Scotland: Livingston, Glasgow - Silverburn, Glasgow - West End, Aberdeen and Edinburgh. There’s always a Cotswold Outdoor store within easy reach to help you prepare for your next adventure. http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/24/new-edinburgh-store-opens-25th-november/ Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:00:36 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/18/meet-us-at-rgs-explore-2011-in-london/ As one of the biggest events in the expedition calendar, the annual Royal Geographical Society’s expedition and fieldwork planning weekend (18th - 20th November) is a must for leading explorers and field scientists. Explore 2011 is designed to inspire explorers, both young and old, as well as offering a forum to make great contacts and new friends. Attendees also have the chance to talk to outdoor professionals and experienced explorers to get some invaluable expert advice for their next adventure. The event, which is held at the RGS in Kensington, London, whincludes lectures and workshops with a host of inspiration speakers. What the Royal Geographical Society say about Explore 2011: “The emphasis is on small projects with a research component but anyone planning an overseas expedition or fieldwork is welcome.  Even if you don’t have a firm idea for your expedition, then don’t worry, there will be an eclectic mix of people to help you over the weekend.” At Cotswold Outdoor, we recognise the importance of this unique weekend and that is why we wouldn’t want to miss it. We will be exhibiting at Explore 2011, so please pop over to our stand and say hello to Chris or Dave if you are attending. We’re looking forward to sharing our experiences with you and providing expert advice on the kit you will need to help you plan your next expedition. If you would like to attend Explore 2011, visit the Royal Geographical Society’s website: www.rgs.org. The delegate cost is £85 (standard rate) and students or the unwaged will be applicable for a discount rate of £65. We look forward to seeing you there! http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/18/meet-us-at-rgs-explore-2011-in-london/ Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:21:29 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/16/exclusive-ranges-launched-at-knightsbridge-store/   Cotswold Outdoor Knightsbridge now offers outdoor adventurers living in and visiting London something a little bit extra special.   This store has become a concept in itself, with an exclusive and unique new range of outdoor products. You will find exciting new gear from brands such as Bergans of Norway,Canada Goose, Haglofs, Aigle and Patagonia combined with classic mountaineering brands from Rab, Mountain Equipment and Arcteryx . With all this, plus the favourites of The North Face Summit Series and Berghaus Extreme, we hope that our new range will exceed your expectations, whether it be on an Arctic expedition, Alpine ascent or a snowy walk in Hyde Park. If you’re off to the slopes, make sure you check out our fantastic range of winter sports gear from Icebreaker, Spyder, Eider, Schoffel and The North Face. You’ll find everything you need to make the most of your ski or snowboarding adventures. Off on Safari or a winter sun trek? Then our travel ranges should be just what you’re looking for. From money belts to water purifiers and luggage that’s as home in the city or strapped to the top of a 4x4, we have the kit to get you travelling safely this season.The team at the Knightsbridge store are avid travellers, so come in and ask for some advice or just chill out on one of the comfy sofas whilst spreading out a Michelin map or browsing the latest lonely planet guides. The new look Cotswold Outdoor Knightsbridge isn’t just about clothing - we still have our legendary climbing department,  specially selected footwear, rucksacks  and camping range that will ensure you have plenty of choice backed up by the traditional Cotswold staff knowledge and customer service. Whilst the ranges may be brand new, this special addition to the Cotswold family still offers all of the fantastic Explore More benefits and deals for group customers that you love.  And don’t forget we still have our full ranges a few minutes away in our 7000sqft Piccadilly store. The team are looking forward to welcoming you, so head over to our Knightsbridge store on Brompton Road and take a look around! Also, don't forget to check our the Knightsbridge store page for news, photos & more...   http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/16/exclusive-ranges-launched-at-knightsbridge-store/ Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:02:30 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/16/meet-the-gps-experts-in-store/ Cotswold Outdoor have teamed up with Magellan and Satmap to offer free in store advice.  Over the last few years, breakthroughs in GPS technology have revolutionised navigation on the hill. During the next six weeks, outdoor GPS experts from some of the top brands will be touring our stores to offer you free technical advice and providing demonstrations of the latest products. Whether you are thinking about buying a GPS and not sure which one to get, or have already got a GPS but would like some expert advice on how to get the most out of it, head to one of our "Meet the GPS experts" events that will take place in store between 21st November and 22nd December. Magellan and Satmap experts Mark and Dan will ready to answer all of your questions on all aspects of GPS operation from start up to advanced use. Find out where your local "Meet the GPS Experts" event is: 21 Nov - Preston 21 Nov - Brighton 22 Nov - Carlisle 22 Nov - Tunbridge Wells 23 Nov - Maidstone 24 Nov - Durham 24 Nov - Orpington 25 Nov - Solihull 25 Nov - Kingston 28 Nov - Shrewsbury 28 Nov - St Albans 29 Nov - Ipswich 30 Nov - Liverpool 30 Nov - Norwich 1 Dec - Manchester 1 Dec - Burt St Edmunds 2 Dec - Droitwich 2 Dec - Watford 5 Dec - Bournemouth 5 Dec - Milton Keynes 6 Dec - Chichester 6 Dec - Leeds 7 Dec - Southampton 7 Dec - Harrogate 8 Dec - Salisbury 8 Dec - Nottingham 9 Dec - Brecon 9 Dec - Peterborough 12 Dec - Exeter 12 Dec - Cambridge 13 Dec - Plymouth 13 Dec - Islington 14 Dec - Truro 14 Dec - London Leyden Street 15 Dec - Carmarthen 15 Dec - Piccadilly 16 Dec - Cardiff Talbot Green 16 Dec - Guildford 19 Dec - Cirencester 19 Dec - London Knightsbridge 20 Dec - Birmingham 20 Dec - London Holborn 21 Dec - Bristol 21 Dec - London Covent Garden 22 Dec - Cardiff City 22 Dec - Reading Visit our stores page to find out more about your local store.             http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/11/16/meet-the-gps-experts-in-store/ Wed, 16 Nov 2011 09:59:35 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/10/28/september-rate-review-winner-announced/ Congratulations to Marie Stamp who is our Rate & Review winner for September   There were hundreds of great product reviews posted this month, but Marie's review of the Yaktrax Pro Ice Grip was chosen as we believe it was the most informative and useful product review we received in September. To say a big thank you, we will be sending Marie £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers! Marie is an extremely determined walker and has completed the 630-mile South West Coast Path - which she told us was one of the best things she has ever done. Marie wrote a book about this experience called "She Won't Get Far Her Bag's Too Heavy" which can be found on Amazon.   Photo (right): A triumphant Marie Stamp after her 630-mile journey along the UK coast.     Marie's winning review of the YakTrax Pro Ice Grips: Bring on the ice and snow   "Last year with record levels of ice and snow I noticed with increasing regularity, tracks that I later found out were Yak Trax.I have just purchased a pair to put on my boots when the weather turns slippery again and will know people will follow in envy as they slip and slide while I walk sure footed.Bring on the ice and snow!"     How to win Every month, we will be giving away £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for the most informative, interesting and useful customer review on our website. Just find the product you wish to review and click "Write first review" or "write a review".  When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month. So what are you waiting for?  It only takes a few minutes to write a review. Find out more: here   About our Rate & Review feature To help our customers choose the right gear to maximise their outdoor experience, we have added a new Rate & Review feature. This enables our customers to share their experiences with a product to inform others, as well as letting us know what YOU think.   * Full Terms and Conditions apply       http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/10/28/september-rate-review-winner-announced/ Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:15:14 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/10/7/august-rate-review-winner-announced/       Congratulations to Dan Roberts who is our Rate & Review winner for August!     Out of all the product reviews that were posted on our website in August, we felt that Dan's review of the Scarpa ZG65 XCR walking boot really gives other customers an insight into this product and some great advice to go with it too!   To say thank you, we will be sending Dan a whopping £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers to spend on some shiny new gear this autumn.   Here is Dan enjoying a spot of the great outdoors with his trusty Ordnance Survey map!       Dan's winning review of the Scarpa ZG65 XCR walking boot:   Slippers of the wilderness     "My old Trezetas had finally come to the end of their useful life. Now was the time for an update and I'm so glad I chose these. On my first outing I trekked across Kinder Scout without a hint of ache or soreness. They held their grip superbly in the wet too. My wife got the women's version (after trying on many different pairs) so they must be good. You know what women are like with shoes ;)   The best thing though is getting your feet measured. I absolutely recommend this process at the Cotswold stores as you really get a sense that they know what they are talking about and what products are suitable. Brilliant boots. Excellent service. "       How to win   Every month, we will be giving away £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for the most informative, interesting and useful customer review on our website. Just find the product you wish to review and click "Write first review" or "write a review".  When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month.   So what are you waiting for?  It only takes a few minutes to write a review. Find out more           * Full Terms and Conditions apply       http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/10/7/august-rate-review-winner-announced/ Fri, 07 Oct 2011 10:36:11 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/9/8/july-rate-review-winner-announced/     Congratulations to Janet Finlayson who is our Rate & Review winner for July!         We've been so busy with the launch of our new autumn winter range that we've only just been able to choose our Rate & Review winner for July! After careful consideration, Janet Finlayson's review of the Rab Womens Vidda Jacket was chosen as we believe it was the most informative and useful product review we received in July. To say thank you, we will be sending Janet £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers.   Janet's response:    "Wow, that is terrific news, thanks very much."   When asked if she had an idea of what she would spend the vouchers on she said: "Another RAB jacket, maybe a Down one for winter or a new sleeping bag!"         Janet's winning review of the Rab Womens Vidda Jacket:     This is the ideal hillwalking jacket     "I have been wearing my Rab Vidda jacket all year round for about 3 years now, and it's still performs 100%, and that's saying something since I live in rainy rainy rainy Scotland! It is light enough to stuff in your sack and wear in Summer yet also ideal for keeping the rain, wind and snow out through Winter by just wearing insulation underneath. The Vidda jacket is a better length for hillwalkers too (unlike the Latok Alpine for example, which is shorter and geared more towards climbers). Rab is a UK brand so the size is correct (no need to refer to confusing size guides for UK shoppers). I love this jacket, it is my one essential piece of kit. When it finally gives up on me I'll just buy another one...maybes in a different colour. "       How to win     Every month, we will be giving away £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for the most informative, interesting and useful customer review on our website. Just find the product you wish to review and click "Write first review" or "write a review".  When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month.   So what are you waiting for?  It only takes a few minutes to write a review.         About our Rate & Review feature       To help our customers choose the right gear to maximise their outdoor experience, we have added a new Rate & Review feature. This enables our customers to share their experiences with a product to inform others, as well as letting us know what YOU think.     * Full Terms and Conditions apply and are supplied on the Rate & Review pop-up when you review a product online.       http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/9/8/july-rate-review-winner-announced/ Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:07:15 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/8/3/june-rate-review-winner-announced/     Congratulations to Jade-Lauren Cawthray who is our Rate & Review winner for June!     This month, it was extremely difficult to choose a winner from the large number of fantastic product reviews that have been posted. However, after careful consideration, Jade-Lauren Cawthray's review of the Womens Spectrum Fleece and Tech T Pack was chosen as we believe it was the most informative and useful product review we received in June. To say thank you, we will be sending Jade £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers.   Jade's response:    "I am so pleased to have won as I am working on a very large challenge that I will commence in April 2013 and this will help me in getting some of the essential kits that I need."       Jade's winning review of the Womens Spectrum Fleece and Tech T Pack:   My First Fleece     "Stumbled across this beauty of a deal this weekend in Bury St Edmunds and couldnt resist the deal. This is my first ever fleece and its smashing. Not only is it soft and cosy but it keeps the body at a comfortable temperature and is thin enough to wear under my light Berghaus jacket. The t-shirt was a fabulous bonus and is actually doing a fantastic job as my running top! Love this deal. "           How to win   Every month, we will be giving away £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for the most informative, interesting and useful customer review on our website. Just find the product you wish to review and click "Write first review" or "write a review".  When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month.   So what are you waiting for?  It only takes a few minutes to write a review.         About our Rate & Review feature   To help our customers choose the right gear to maximise their outdoor experience, we have added a new Rate & Review feature. This enables our customers to share their experiences with a product to inform others, as well as letting us know what YOU think.     * Full Terms and Conditions apply and are supplied on the Rate & Review pop-up when you review a product online.       http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/8/3/june-rate-review-winner-announced/ Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:11:16 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/28/may-rate-review-winner-announced/     Congratulations to Callan Stroud who is our Rate & Review winner for May!     After careful consideration, Callan's review of the Black Diamond Momentum AL climbing harness was chosen as we believe it was the most informative, useful and interesting product review we received in May. To say thank you, we will be sending Callan £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers.   Callan is a keen climber, and when we asked him how he was intending to spend his gift vouchers, this was his response:    "I don't know what I'm going to spend the full amount on and I'll probably save some for later in the year, but for now a Helium Friend or two wouldn't go amiss in my rack so they will be on the list!"       Callan's winning review of the Black Diamond Momentum AL climbing harness:   Excellent. Just excellent.     "I spent a long time in a Cotswold branch over in Hedge End hanging off the ceiling in a variety of fetching harnesses before selecting this one. I'm a student and so was after something cheap, but after my last harness I was unwilling to compromise on two things: comfort, and gear loops. Don't think that safety and style had completely left my thoughts, mind, but I had to keep my priorities straight! In the end it came down to the Momemtum AL or the DMM Renegade, and I settled for the Momentum. It's very comfortable, and I liked the feeling of security given by the old-style double-back buckles over the sliding zip-lock approach of the Renegade. While I loved the 7 gear loops on DMMs offering, I found those on the Momentum functioned well, being easily within reach and designed in such a way that gear was distributed evenly and cleanly around my waist. Four was the minimum number I'd have settled for, and fortunately Black Diamond thought to provide not only these four gear loops but a haul loop on the rear of the harness as well, upon which I now keep a mallion and prusiks in case of emergencies. I'm uncertain as to how BD managed to bring such a quality harness out at such a reasonable price, but I'm very glad they did."       How to win   Every month, we will be giving away £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for the most informative, interesting and useful customer review on our website. Just find the product you wish to review and click "Write first review" or "write a review".  When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month.   So what are you waiting for?  It only takes a few minutes to write a review.         About our Rate & Review feature   To help our customers choose the right gear to maximise their outdoor experience, we have added a new Rate & Review feature. This enables our customers to share their experiences with a product to inform others, as well as letting us know what YOU think.     * Full Terms and Conditions apply and are supplied on the Rate & Review pop-up when you review a product online.       http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/28/may-rate-review-winner-announced/ Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:28:58 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/24/win-an-exclusive-gore-tex-active-shell-jacket-worth-200/     Do you want to be one of the first to experience GORE-TEX® Active Shell?     Cotswold Outdoor have got the WORLDWIDE EXCLUSIVE on new GORE-TEX® Active Shell bringing you two great jackets now, that you won't be able to get anywhere else until September!   We're giving you the chance to WIN a brand new GORE-TEX Active Shell jacket worth £200 so that you can really push your limits this summer...     All you have to do to enter is go to http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/activeshell-competition/ and give us the correct answer to the outdoor question provided.  One lucky winner will be chosen from the entries with correct answers and they will receive their choice of GORE-TEX Active Shell jacket - either the  Mountain Equipment Firefox Jacket  or the Berhaus Velum Jacket. Find out more about the jackets and the technology below...       About GORE-TEX Active Shell   You might ask, what's so special about Active Shell? Well, it's all about speed, agility, comfort and protection. This new waterproof fabric is extremely breathable and very lightweight, but offers unrivalled and durable protection from the elements and also feels great next to your skin. Active Shell is not for the faint-hearted - it is designed for high intensity activities such trail running, mountain biking, racing and fast alpine ascent, that demand the latest in technology.   If you're serious about moving faster, harder and for longer, then GORE TEX® Active Shell will allow you to push your limits.       The products     Mountain Equipment Firefox Jacket Ideal for fast, high intensity activities where you need durable protection combined with breathability, the Firefox jacket is a super lightweight shell featuring innovative GORE TEX® Active Shell technology. The fantastic colour shown below is EXCLUSIVE to Cotswold Outdoor so you won't find it anywhere else.                     Men's Firefox Jacket                          Women's Firefox Jacket     Berghaus Velum Jacket With a minimalist design and engineered with new super breathable 3 layer GORE TEX® Active Shell, the Velum Jacket means that you can experience ultimate freedom and comfort on the hill, trail or mountain in all weather conditions.                      Men's Velum Jacket                             Women's Velum Jacket       The Technology   "Garments engineered with GORE-TEX® Active Shell are built for extreme breathability and provide durable waterproof and windproof protection for optimum comfort, guaranteed. Featuring a lighter weight, streamlined 3 layer construction, this completely new class of waterproof garments delivers extreme breathability and excellent next to skin comfort. Ideal for all weather fast forward athletes seeking durable protection and comfort during highly aerobic, done in a day activities such as trail running, mountain biking, and fast alpine ascent."     The competition closes on the 31st July 2011.       *Terms & Conditions apply: •  Competition closes on 31/07/2011 at midnight •  Entries limited to one per customer •  Entrants must be 18 or over •  Open to UK residents only •  Competition winner will be informed via email/telephone within 60 days of the competition closure •  Winner must claim their prize within 30 days of being notified •  No entries from employees of GORE-TEX®, Mountain Equipment, Berghaus or Cotswold Outdoor will be accepted. •  No purchase necessary, for postal entry send your name and address to Cotswold Outdoor GORE-TEX competition, Unit 11 Kemble business park, Malmesbury, Wilts, SN16 9SH     http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/24/win-an-exclusive-gore-tex-active-shell-jacket-worth-200/ Fri, 24 Jun 2011 17:23:07 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/23/petzl-issues-recall-on-grigri-2/     For customer safety a recall has been issued on all Petzl GriGri 2 belays where the first 5 digits of the serial number are between 10326 and 11136.     Petzl has discovered that exerting excessive force on the fully extended handle of the GRIGRI 2 can cause internal damage, such that the GRIGRI 2 handle may become stuck in the open position.   When the handle is stuck in this position the assisted braking function is disabled. A damaged GRIGRI 2 in this configuration will function similarly to a manual belay device (e.g. tube style device).   When using a damaged GRIGRI 2 with the handle stuck in the position as shown in Figure 1, failure to control the braking side of the rope will increase the risk of an uncontrolled descent. A GRIGRI 2 with a damaged handle must be immediately retired from service.   As of June 20, 2011, seven damaged products have been returned to Petzl through our worldwide distribution network. Petzl has no knowledge of any accidents resulting from a damaged GRIGRI 2 handle.   Says Romain Lécot, Petzl General Director: "While the potential risk of damaging the GRIGRI 2’s handle is very small, our total commitment to the safety of our users has led us to make this decision. With the summer climbing season just beginning, Petzl understands that this recall comes at an inconvenient time and we are working hard to ensure that everyone receives their replacement GRIGRI 2 as quickly as possible. Everyone at Petzl is committed to resolving this issue. We thank you for your continued support."       If you have purchased a Petzl GriGri 2 from Cotswold Outdoor, this can be returned to one of our stores for replacement.     Click here for more information on this recall http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/23/petzl-issues-recall-on-grigri-2/ Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:51:36 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/16/be-the-first-in-the-world-to-experience-new-gore-tex-active-shell/     New GORE-TEX® Active Shell jackets in stock now!     We're always excited when a new technology is announced that will revolutionise outdoor clothing or equipment - so when we heard that leading manufacturer GORE-TEX® was bringing out a new fabric, we were determined to bring this to our customers first.   That's why we've got the WORLDWIDE EXCLUSIVE on GORE-TEX® Active Shell bringing you two great products now, that you won't be able to get anywhere else until the autumn!   You might ask, what's so special about Active Shell? Well, it's all about speed, agility, comfort and protection. This new waterproof fabric is extremely breathable and very lightweight, but offers unrivalled and durable protection from the elements and also feels great next to your skin. Active Shell is not for the faint-hearted - it is designed for high intensity activities such trail running, mountain biking, racing and fast alpine ascent, that demand the latest in technology.   If you're serious about moving faster, harder and for longer, then GORE TEX® Active Shell will allow you to push your limits.       The products     Mountain Equipment Firefox Jacket Ideal for fast, high intensity activities where you need durable protection combined with breathability, the Firefox jacket is a super lightweight shell featuring innovative GORE TEX® Active Shell technology. The fantastic colour shown below is EXCLUSIVE to Cotswold Outdoor so you won't find it anywhere else.                     Men's Firefox Jacket                          Women's Firefox Jacket     Berghaus Velum Jacket With a minimalist design and engineered with new super breathable 3 layer GORE TEX® Active Shell, the Velum Jacket means that you can experience ultimate freedom and comfort on the hill, trail or mountain in all weather conditions.                      Men's Velum Jacket                             Women's Velum Jacket       The Technology   "Garments engineered with GORE-TEX® Active Shell are built for extreme breathability and provide durable waterproof and windproof protection for optimum comfort, guaranteed. Featuring a lighter weight, streamlined 3 layer construction, this completely new class of waterproof garments delivers extreme breathability and excellent next to skin comfort. Ideal for all weather fast forward athletes seeking durable protection and comfort during highly aerobic, done in a day activities such as trail running, mountain biking, and fast alpine ascent."     http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/6/16/be-the-first-in-the-world-to-experience-new-gore-tex-active-shell/ Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:46:57 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/5/24/april-rate-review-winner-announced/     Congratulations to Penny from Greece who is our Rate & Review winner for April!   After careful consideration, Penny's review of the Jack Wolfskin Gossamer tent was chosen as we believe it was the most informative, useful and interesting product review this April. To say thank you, we will be sending Penny £100 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers.     Penny is an avid horse rider and spends a lot of time on long distance treks with her horse George. She chose to review the Jack Wolfskin Gossamer ultralight bivvi tent after she made it her outdoor home for three months whilst trekking through the Greek mountains.   Click here to read Penny's winning review. Penny has also provided us with some inspiring images of her 3 month horse riding expedition....     Here is her horse George next to her Jack Wolfskin Gossamer bivvi in the Greek Mountains -     Jenny and George near the summit of MT Vardousi in central Greece - they have ridden over 8,000km in the Greek mountains in total!       How to win   Every month, we will be giving away £100 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for the most informative, interesting and useful customer review on our website. Just find the product you wish to review and click "Write first review" or "write a review".  When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month.     This May only, you could be in with a chance of winning a special prize of £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers if you Rate & Review a product on our website...     So what are you waiting for?  It only takes a few minutes to write a review.         About our Rate & Review feature   To help our customers choose the right gear to maximise their outdoor experience, we have added a new Rate & Review feature. This enables our customers to share their experiences with a product to inform others, as well as letting us know what YOU think.     * Full Terms and Conditions apply and are supplied on the Rate & Review pop-up when you review a product online.       http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/5/24/april-rate-review-winner-announced/ Tue, 24 May 2011 16:56:29 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/5/16/win-a-7-night-adventure-getaway-to-belize-in-central-america/     Your chance to discover Mother Nature's best kept secret is only a few clicks away...   Enter the Pacsafe® Belize competition and you and a loved one will be in with the chance to win a 7 night adventure getaway to Belize in Central America.   From tropical, unexplored beaches and dense jungle to exciting water sports and cultural Mayan wonders, Belize has it all and more. Get off the beaten track, and make the most of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, courtesy of the Belize Tourism Board and Pacsafe®.   Two lucky runners-up will also receive Pacsafe goodies.     The Prizes   The Grand Prize: •  2 round-trip tickets from London to Belize •  7 nights accommodation at The Placencia Hotel •  Mayan Ruins Tour •  Round trip transportation from Belize Airport to the hotel •  2 Pacsafe® VenturesafeTM 27L anti-theft backpacks   Runner-up prizes: •  2 Pacsafe® VenturesafeTM 50 anti-theft Digipouches     How to enter   To win this incredible adventure, all you need to do is: •  Pick up a leaflet in store for your winning code •  Visit www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/pacsafebelize •  Enter your details and the winning code into the online form   The competition closes on the 11th July 2011.       *Terms & Conditions apply: •  Competition closes on 11/07/2011 at midnight •  Entries limited to one per customer •  Entrants must be 18 or over •  Open to UK residents only •  Competition winner will be informed via email/telephone one week after competition closure •  No entries from employees of Pacsafe, Cotswold Outdoor or Burton McCall will be accepted. •  Winner must hold valid UK passport •  No purchase necessary, for postal entry send your name and address to Cotswold Outdoor Pacsafe competition Unit 11 Kemble business park, Malmesbury, Wilts, SN16 9SH     http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/5/16/win-a-7-night-adventure-getaway-to-belize-in-central-america/ Mon, 16 May 2011 13:52:48 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/5/4/win-250-in-gift-vouchers-when-you-rate-review-a-product-online/   Rate & Review a product on our website and you could be in with a chance of winning £250 in gift vouchers!   We got some extremely interesting, informative and useful product reviews last month, so we have decided to give away £250 in vouchers for the best customer review this month too. To enter the competition, just choose any product on our website that you wish to review click on "write a review". When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month.   Our panel will then select the best review and the winner will receive £250 in Cotswold Outdoor gift vouchers to kit themselves out with outdoor gear this spring.   So don't miss out  - it only takes a few minutes to write a review.   How to win   Every month, we will be giving away £250 in Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for the most informative, interesting and useful customer review on our website. Just find the product you wish to review and click "Write first review" or "write a review".  When you have completed your review, you will automatically be considered for our prize at the end of the month.   So what are you waiting for?  It only takes a few minutes to write a review. About our Rate & Review feature   To help our customers choose the right gear to maximise their outdoor experience, we have added a Rate & Review feature. This enables our customers to share their experiences with a product to inform others, as well as letting us know what YOU think.   * Full Terms and Conditions apply and are supplied on the Rate & Review pop-up when you review a product online.   http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/5/4/win-250-in-gift-vouchers-when-you-rate-review-a-product-online/ Wed, 04 May 2011 16:51:53 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/28/attention-rock-rats-ukclimbing-plas-y-brenin-to-host-the-big-climb/     Experience interactive workshops, inspirational lectures and meet some of the UK's best climbers at The Big Climb this May     If you consider yourself a bit of a crag rat, or even if you are an enthusiastic novice, don't miss out on a weekend packed full of climbing fun in the heart of beautiful Snowdonia on 14/15th May. The Big Climb weekend is a great way to consolidate your existing skills, develop your experience and boost your confidence ahead of the coming rock climbing season.     During the weekend, you will be able to take part in a series of interactive workshops and inspirational lectures covering a diverse range of climbing skills and techniques. From bouldering to rockaneering, there's something for everyone whatever your ability. You'll get to quiz a number of hand-picked top UK climber at the "Expert's Corner" and share your ideas and experiences with other "Big Climbers" throughout the weekend.     This is a unique opportunity not only to be inspired but also to have the chance to question, learn from, drink with and chat to other climbers who have been there and done that.     To find out more, click here to visit Plas y Brenin's website.   Cotswold Outdoor are proud to support Plas y Brenin as part of the Cotswold Outdoor Community.   http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/28/attention-rock-rats-ukclimbing-plas-y-brenin-to-host-the-big-climb/ Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:58:58 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/25/learn-more-about-navigation-at-one-of-our-ordnance-survey-workshops/     Get the chance to brush up your navigation skills at a Cotswold Outdoor Ordnance Survey Workshop near you.   Our Ordnance Survey Workshops are designed to help you improve your map and compass work giving you even more confidence to get outside and explore this summer.   Workshops will be held at venues across the UK between April and August. Tickets are FREE and can be picked up or reserved over the phone at the relevant store. You can find events in your region below:     North Newcastle store - 19th May Chester store - 12th May Leeds store - 12th April     Midlands / East Anglia Birmingham store - 4th May Cambridge store - 7th June Milton Keynes store - 24th May     South / South West Bristol store - 14th April Exeter store - 22nd June     London / South East Guildford store - 9th June London Holborn store - 25th May London Knightsbridge store - 10th May Tunbridge Wells store - 2nd June   Wales Carmarthen store - 5th April Betws-y-Coed - 8th June   Scotland / Northern Ireland Glasgow store - 20th April     Also, why not get some expert advice and field test a wide range of tents at your local Cotswold Outdoor Tent Show - Click here to find out more     Happy adventures!     The Team @ Cotswold Outdoor   http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/25/learn-more-about-navigation-at-one-of-our-ordnance-survey-workshops/ Fri, 25 Mar 2011 13:41:45 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/25/cotswold-outdoor-tent-shows-coming-soon-to-a-venue-near-you/     Get some expert advice and field test a wide range of tents at your local Cotswold Outdoor Tent Show.   With the weather warming up and spring in the air, it is time to start planning your escape to the great outdoors this year. If you love camping as much as we do, why not come and check out our camping gear and get the chance to speak to some of our knowledgeable staff at one of our Tent Shows.   Tent Shows will be held at venues across the UK between April and August. You can find your local show below:   North Durham Durham 6th Form - 22nd April - 25th April Preston Trebaron Garden Centre - 25th June - 3rd July Keswick Rawnsley Centre - 20th August - 29th August   Midlands / East Anglia Bicester store - 28th May - 7th August Birmingham store - 28th May - 5th June Bridgemere store - 30th July - 7th August Droitwich store - 16th July - 31st July Nottingham store - 29th April - 1st May Peterborough store - 11th June - 26th June   South / South West Southampton The Royal Victoria Country Park (SO31 5EY) - 16th July - 17th July Bournemouth Bournemouth School For Girls (BH8 9UJ) - 18th June - 19th June Exeter store - 28th May - 12th June Cirencester store - 29th April - 2nd May   London / South East City of London Honourable Artillery Company - 15th May - 17th May Maidstone store - 27th May - 24th July Tunbridge Wells Chilstone, Victoria Park, Langton Green (TN3 ORD) - 4th June - 5 June St Albans store - 23rd July - 24th July   Wales Betws-y-Coed Cae Llan (village green) - 29th April - 2nd May Brecon Libanus Mountain Centre - 22nd April - 25th April Brecon Libanus Mountain Centre - 27th August - 29th August   Scotland / Northern Ireland Belfast store - 30th April - 8 May   For those of you who love to explore off the beaten track this summer, why not brush up on your navigation skills at one of our Ordnance Survey Workshops at a venue near you - click here to find out more     Happy camping!     The Team @ Cotswold Outdoor http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/25/cotswold-outdoor-tent-shows-coming-soon-to-a-venue-near-you/ Fri, 25 Mar 2011 13:03:06 GMT http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/24/cotswold-outdoor-staff-face-sub-zero-challenges-in-sweden/     Cotswold Outdoor Staff attend Academy of Sweden - Outdoor 2011   Fresh snowfall and sub-zero temperatures await five lucky Cotswold Outdoor staff today, as they embark on a 5-day trip of discovery and learning in the Swedish mountains.   Every year, the Outdoor Academy of Sweden handpicks 50 participants who are actively working within the outdoor industry to join them and experience the vast amount of outdoor opportunities that Sweden has to offer.   Cotswold Outdoor staff will get the chance to try their hand at a range of exciting activities, including alpine downhill skiing, dog sledging, ice climbing, horse riding, ziplining, tour skating and ice fishing. Testing out new equipment and learning about how to use it correctly will be an important part of the Academy and this inside knowledge will be invaluable to our staff.   Evenings will also be spent outdoors in sub-zero temperatures and participants will also spend a winter night camping out in the mountains.But it does not end there - participants will also visit the Lundhags factory and get to see how their boots are made and Woolpower to see their production of thermal underwear. In addition, they will learn about the traditions of the Sami, the aboriginal people of Sweden who are native to the mountains.   Look out for updates on how our team are doing from Ashley and Jenna on the community blogs page.   http://community.cotswoldoutdoor.com/news/index.cfm/2011/3/24/cotswold-outdoor-staff-face-sub-zero-challenges-in-sweden/ Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:24:56 GMT