Vango Capri 500 Airbeam Tent Review

Vango Capri 500 Airbeam Tent.

The first thing I noticed about the Capri 500, was that despite it being a spacious 5 man tent, it packs down to a good size, it isn’t too heavy and it’s easy to carry. That being said, I was more interested in discovering how long it would take to erect the tent. I had heard impressive talk about the ease and speed at which these ‘Airbeam’ tents went up, but I was keen to see for myself.

Upon taking out the tent it becomes clear just how easy this should be. All of these tents have a sewn in ground sheet, which means upon unpacking, everything is in on piece and ready to go. There are no separate bedrooms that need to be put in later, simply a small bag of pegs and a single, collapsible fibreglass pole for the front awning, along with the included air pump.

The air pump feels robust and good quality. It comes complete with a pressure gauge, so you need not worry about over inflating your beams and it also comes with a deflator attachment, meaning that you can be sure that you will expel all of the air from your beams, ensuring a good tight package upon pack up.

Shop Vango Capri 500

I spread my tent out and pegged it at the four main pegging points (two at the rear and two at the front). The next step was to pump up the beams one by one. It was pleasing to see that the air valves were very easily accessible. It’s simply a case of twisting off the valve cap, ensuring that the air valve is set to ‘closed’ and twisting in the air pump. Upon this twist, the pump locks in place, guaranteeing that there are no unexpected blow- outs mid inflation. The pumps are double action, meaning that they are inflating the beam on both the push down and pull up, coupled with the fact that the required pressure for each beam is a mere 7psi, this makes for a super quick inflation. The Capri 500 has three Airbeams and I had these fully inflated in a matter of minutes. It’s worth mentioning, that although 7psi doesn’t sound very much, the beams are very firm and robust. Having inflated the main section of the tent all that was required now was to assemble the single fibreglass pole and thread it through the front awning. This, again, was a quick and easy process, which left me with the final job of walking around the tent and pushing in the remaining pegs, along with tightening the guy ropes. As I mentioned previously, the bedroom comes ready attached inside, so once this tent is up, you are all done. This whole process took an impressive 5 minutes.

Looking inside the tent, there are a number of nice features. There is a clear window with a zip up cover for night time, a large front door, a side door complete with zip up fly sheet and the bedroom is made of a darker fabric, to limit the light that comes through in the morning and it has a removable partition allowing for one large room, as opposed to two slightly smaller. There is also a hanging point for a lantern in the bedroom and in the living area of the tent. All of the Airbeam tents come with the ‘Tension Band System’ and the Capri 500 is no different. This is a system that gives the tent extra strength, should it need it, in adverse weather conditions. This can be constantly left clipped in place, or put up and taken down as needed. The sewn in groundsheet seems to be a great feature as it rules out any unwanted water creeping into your tent and the awning feels like your own, private outdoor space that would be great for cooking, or simply lounging.

I found the pack down of this tent remarkably easy. Simply take out the one pole, unscrew the valve caps and turn the valves to ‘open’. The tent deflates in seconds and then it is just a case of pulling out the pegs and folding the tent up. I was pleasantly surprised at the size of the bag, as previously with tents I have found that after taking them out of the bag the first time, it is near impossible to fold it back to a similar size, making it very difficult to squash back into its case. There were no such problems here as the bag for the Capri 500 was nice and spacious, so although my folding was far from perfect, I had no trouble whatsoever in packing it back in and zipping it up.

I was really impressed with this tent. From the ease of set up, the pump, the tents space and features, right through to the ease of pack down, it definitely comes highly recommended.

Shop Vango Capri 500

Meindl X-SO 30 GTX Hiking Shoe Review

Meindel X-SO 30 GTX Review

At first look these new X-SO 30 GTX hiking shoes from Meindl look pretty similar to any other technical hiking shoe. There is slightly more ventilated mesh used than in similar shoes, the only areas that do not use mesh are the heel cup, which fully encompasses the heel offering great support, and the minimal toe protector. The rest of the shoes design features a mainly transparent rubber ribbing that reduces the weight of the overall appearance of the shoe.

Shop Meindl X-SO 30 GTX Shoes

However under its glitzy facade hides venting that has been adapted from a previous version of Gore-Tex Surround that has been present in urban footwear for some years. The issue with the previous GTX Surround, and why it has not been utilised in outdoor footwear before, was that mud blocked the venting and prevented the vents from well, venting. Enter GTX Surround Outdoor, where the venting has been moved from the bottom of the shoe to the side and base just above the rubber sole unit that runs around the shoe via a 6 mm open cell spacer. This offers a full 360° of venting that allows for better breathability and dryer feet. Drier feet, of course, reduces the likely hood of getting blisters or chafing. The Gore-Tex waterproof membrane is built in to the shoe, like an inbuilt waterproof and breathable sock, completely surrounding the foot.

The lack of a rubber rand around the base of the shoe, that allows this extra breathability, and shallow lug pattern mean this shoe will not be the best for tackling rough terrain. However as a warm weather walking shoe it really will excel.

Shop Meindl X-SO 30 GTX Shoes

Guest Blog from Anevay for Penrose Outdoors

The Super Efficient Anevay Stove!

April 2015

Summer is so close we can almost taste it! 

One of the great things about living in Cornwall is that we can live our lives like we are on holiday-everyday!  Stunning coastline and landscapes surrounds us; there is literally always a new adventure on our doorsteps.

Unfortunately it is easy to get bogged down in the everyday.

Eat, sleep, work, repeat. 

Let’s break that cycle!

One really easy way to do this is to eat dinner Al Fresco! On your way home pick an exciting little spot to spend a few hours whilst you cook your dinner. One of my personal favourites is the secluded spot Trevellas Beach near St Agnes.

Now we all know BBQs aren't always the most portable of items. They also take a long time to heat up and then a long time to cool down when you want to leave, which can be frustrating if you don’t have much time to spare.

We recommend you take a Horizonstove with you.  The Horizon stove comes from another Cornish Company called Anevay. These little guys are great- lightweight, portable and they promote sustainability.

Horizon Stove

You can cook on them using only a handful of wood. You can take your Horizon Stove to the beach after work and cook on it using only the driftwood and twigs you find there. How amazing is that?

They come in a bag made from recycled inner tubes and are ready to cook on moments after lighting.  Perfect if you don’t have much time to spare. Oh and did we mention that they are smoke free? No more will you get a surprise face full of smoke when the wind suddenly changes!

So what are you waiting for? Don’t waste these lovely summer evenings. Get yourself a Horizon stove and get down to the beach!

Get involved and share some pictures of you enjoying your evenings in your favourite Cornish spot. 

We would love to hear from you. 

New 2015 Salomon Footwear

New 2015 Salomon Footwear

Looking to find your first pair of walking footwear, or looking to update your winter boots to a lighter, fresher pair for the spring? Want to part from your beloved Brasher’s and try a new style? Penrose Outdoors’ New for 2015 Salomon footwear is now in stock and it will not disappoint…

Since 1947, Salomon has been committed to delivering highly technical, superbly designed clothing, footwear and accessories, and 60 years on, they’re still expanding their collection!  Salomon’s collection features a variety of lightweight, protective footwear for people who like to move speedily in the mountains and encounter a range of terrain.

Women’s X Ultra 2 GTX

The Women’s X Ultra 2 GTX is a sleek, low-cut shoe with Gore-Tex performance technology. Soggy, waterlogged, uncomfortable feet are a thing of the past! The quicklace system makes putting the shoes on and off effortless and extremely quick. The minimalist, strong lace allows for one-pull tightening giving a great hold all day and no wasting time doing up laces.  There is a lightweight advanced chassis positioned between the mid and outsole which will enhance energy management, maximise motion control and provide an efficient, stable and responsive ride.

Both style and technicality make the X Ultra 2 GTX a must have for your walking adventures in 2015.

Men’s Techamphibian 3

With a striking blue, yellow and black colour scheme, you definitely won’t go a miss in the Men’s Techamphibian 3 walking sandals- the newest evolution of Salomon’s classic amphibian shoe.  As well as featuring the same quicklace system as the X Ultra 2 GTX’s, Salomon have also added a convertible heel to provide a patented option to convert your shoe to a comfortable, easy to use slide on. Formulated especially to maximize grip in wet, slippery and amphibious conditions, Salomon's Non-marking Water Contagrip technology will keep you sure footed. It leaves no traces whatever the terrain!  Shop - Techampibian 3

Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX

Updated for 2015, the Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX keeps it incredible traction and stability, with a gusseted tongue for improved comfort, laces that stay tied better, and fresh design details. The boots high-cut profile increases ankle support, stability and protection and the special Gore-Tex technology will keep your feet dry from the outside, as well as the inside! This midweight boot is stable enough for harsh terrain, thanks to Salomon’s Non-marking Contragrip outsoles. The 4D Advanced Chassis gives ultimate foot control and protection with active comfort, courtesy of the two different midsole components.       Shop - Quest 4D GTX

Women’s XA Pro 3D

The eye-catching, prominent red colour of the Women’s XA Pro 3D off trail shoe will make you feel ready for your summer adventures early! An incredible fit, ultimate stability and improved durability make this an all around winner in Salomon’s adventure shoe collection. The sensifit system works to support the foot providing a precise, secure and overall excellent fit. Salomon's Contagrip outsoles use the ultimate combination of specialized rubbers for each specific use; whether you’re running, walking or trailing. Combining a specific Ortholite foam and an EVA heel cup, the Ortholite sockliner will create a drier, healthier, cooler, better-cushioned environment beneath the foot, without breaking down or losing effectiveness over time.       Shop - XA Pro 3D

Don’t fret men; a male alternative is also available in the X Ultra 2 GTX and the XA Pro 3D!

X Ultra 2 GTX

XA Pro 3D

Check out Penrose Outdoors.co.uk for sizing, styles and a wider range of Salomon footwear…

Berghaus Vapourlight Hyper Smock 2

New for 2015, the BerghausVapourlight Hyper Smock 2, which weighs a mere 75 grams, sets a new standard as the lightest waterproof jacket in the world!

Specifically designed with trail runners in mind. Each design feature is well thought-out, from ultra-lightweight taped seams, to a snug fitting hood with tab down feature that reduces weight and flapping. The jacket is also breathable that allows excess body heat to escape, keeping your body temperature regulated for all-day comfort. There is also a neat chest pocket to keep the bare essentials close at hand.

Berghaus have 50 years of experience in creating waterproof garments for outdoor enthusiasts, all products are rigorously tested in the harshest conditions to assure the innovative new super-lightweight Hydroshell fabric of the Hyper Smock will keep you drier for longer.

The jacket packs down extremely small, fitting neatly into its own perfectly sized stuff sac that features a belt loop so it can be stored when not in use. Nylon face fabrics and the jackets sustainable water repellency means Hydroshell lasts longer, requires less reproofing and consequently reduces the impact on the planets resources through reduced water consumption.

The Vapourlight Hyper Smock is covered by a lifetime adventure guarantee. Berghaus’ Hydroshell products are made to last, so if your jacket isn’t performing to the standard expected, or there is a problem with it, Berghaus will repair or replace it free of charge!

Shop the Berghaus Hyper Smock 2                                                                PenroseOutdoors.co.uk

Chatham Great British Nautical Shoes

Penrose Outdoors now is proud to stock Chatham Nautical Shoes!

Chatham have delivered outstanding quality footwear for the past 25 years and following the traditional nautical design in their products has lead this British company to the top of the league in sailing footwear. Chatham prides themselves upon the durability, quality, performance and style their products provide and their collection of classic sailing kit, country footwear, deck shoes, loafers, brogues continues to grow in 2015.

We stock a range of Chatham deck, boat and sailing shoes, for both men and women in a range of styles and colours.

The Holly Women's Deck Shoe

Made with a striking blue canvas and leather upper and a complementary white non-slip, non-marking rubber sole, with leather laces and stitching. The striped textile interior enhances the shoes nautical feel. Chatham have got it so right with these lovely ladies deck shoes, comprising both style and performance, all in one!

Julie Women's Deck Shoe

The ladies Julie Deck Shoe has a canoe fronted, 2 eyelet classic design. Not only does this shoe look great, ultimate quality is also assured, thanks to the shoes premium soft leather construction and non-slip, non marking rubber sole.

For Men, check out the Armada Boat Shoe…

Square toe boat shoes made with the finest soft leather upper, a leather lace, a contrasting blue and white sole and a leather sock with an Eva heel cup. Chatham have put a trendy twist on the classic deck shoe design with the Armada Boat shoe making them sophisticated yet fun!

The Commodore Men's Boat Shoe

The Commodore is a wonderfully stylish, quality moccasin constructed men’s boat shoe. The shoes 2 eyelets, leather laces, and padded EVA insock make this a 10/10 for comfort.

Yachting II Men's Boat Shoe

The Yachting II Men's boat shoe is an update of Chatham’s classic hardwearing boat shoe style, which now features classic leather colour combinations and a leather insock. An all around lace adds functionality and a nice padded collar for comfort. The rubber sole unit is non-marking, non-slip, and features water channeling for extra grip.

Check out Penrose Outdoors’ website for our range of Chatham Nautical Deck Shoes.

                       

Vango AirAway Awnings Demo Day

Don't miss our Vango, drive-away van awnings, Open Day - 

We are hoping to pitch our new 2015 Vango AirAway Awnings near Truro on one of the coming weekends. This will give you the opportunity to see the awnings pitched alongside the vans so you can see the differences between the models, sizes and how they attach to the vans. Models include the Idris, Kela 2 and Saperra 2 models of AirAway awnings.

If you would like to register your interest please email us at:

enquiry@penroseoutdoors.co.uk

Please leave us with your name, telephone no. and email address.

Date to be confirmed, but we will let you know as soon as possible.