Last year, Aussie mountaineer Chris Wills and a small but committed crew set off on an epic 15-day field trip with one goal – to create a documentary on backcountry riding in Australia.

Jack Schmidt put our X-Country 65L Hiking Pack to the test recently while hiking in North Queensland.

For shelter, Jack Schmidt took our highly popular Geo 2-Person Tent and found it to be ideal for an off-track overnighter. Read his full review here.

Ari Comben’s recent Antarctic expedition ensured she would be braving icy cold winds and sub-zero temps.

Read on for Julia D’Orazio's review of our Peak 700 Down Jackets, the men’s Larapinta Convertible Pant and women’s Bellarine Convertible Pant, and Merrel’s popular Moab 3 GORE-TEX® Shoes to see how they fared on the trail.

Travel writer and adventurous Aussie Julia D’Orazio headed west to the iconic trail and put our Geo 2-Person Tent and X-Country 65L Technical Hiking Pack to the test.

With the announcement that iconic adventure race Mountain Designs GeoQuest was going to cross the ditch, there was no way that the Mountain Designs Wild Women AR team were going to miss out.

The Mountain Designs Wild Women Adventure Racing team was the next step for Kim Beckinsale in the sport, following more than 10 successful and rewarding years of racing in the ‘premier mixed category’…

Claire Mackay takes her climbing seriously, and therefore, her gear selection: any small adjustment or change is highly considered. Read her review of the women’s Bellarine cargo pants to see how versatile they really are.

Climbing mountains at altitude means adventurer Claire Mackay knows the importance of layering, and that starts at the base level. For her summit attempt of Mera Peak, Claire opted for undergarments from our 100% Merino Thermal range.

Claire Mackay took our relaunched Pro Elite Alpine range for her chosen comfort and protection. Read on to see what she thought of the latest technical gear to our range.

Viewing the Northern Lights would be on most ardent adventurers' bucket lists…certainly it was a focal point for Zach and Kaitlan Bostock from @justzachandkaitlan who recently headed to Europe on an enviable travel adventure. Braving icy cold temps...

A day hike in cold, wet and windy conditions is probably tolerable when it takes in the majestic scenery of Norway's Preikestolen, otherwise known to English speakers as Pulpit Rock. Breath-taking views of the Norwegian Fjords and steep cliff faces...

The role of a support crew in adventure racing in some ways is just as challenging as racing. It is a great way to be involved in the race and contribute to your team's experience, just without having to do the paddling, trekking, mountain biking and…

A day hike shouldn't leave you feeling like you've just done a multi-day, and the pack you carry plays a big part in that. Comfort, capacity and of course, functional features, should all combine to give you a great day out. For some recent outings in…

The Mountain Designs Wild Women team lined up for the inaugural Legend Expedition Adventure Race in Jindabyne in February 2023. The 500km Wild&Co ARWS Regional Qualifier event was staged in the Snowy Mountains over six days and involved navigating…

A rough and ready day pack with plenty of functional features is your best friend when hitting the trails in the outback. For their recent trip to the top end, Nigel and Sue from @nigelandsueadventures opted for the Outpost 25L Day Pack as they…

The 11th annual Wild Women Adventure Race recently offered up a wild weekend full of competition and comradery. Run in the idyllic Noosa hinterland in Queensland south-east, it's a fully-female adventure race aimed at encouraging women to get…

The 19th Mountain Designs GeoQuest adventure race will take place this weekend with its headquarters set up in the coastal hamlet of Shoal Bay, NSW. Teams of four will race for up to 48 hours - trekking, mountain biking and paddling on rivers and the…

So this year you've decided to step up from the Geo Half to the GeoQuest Full Course? Kudos to you, but like any great adventure, you better be prepared. Team Mountain Designs Wild Women linchpin Kim Beckinsale is one experienced racer and shares these…

The down jacket is a classic staple of every adventurers wardrobe, offering lightweight warmth that can be relied upon in almost all cold-weather conditions. For an Autumn trip to Tasmania and the iconic Overland Track, just as the temperature was…

Whether it's due to long distances covered, rugged terrain or extended stints on foot, a demanding multi-day hike requires lightweight, compact gear that offers mobility and ease-of-use. This applies to everything - clothing, footwear, your pack, your…

The Mountain Designs GeoQuest adventure race has been at the heart of Australian adventure racing for almost 20 years now, inspiring many to take up the sport, and some to organise their own races. Chris Dixon and his team from Wild & Co. have a long...

With winter settled in and temperatures dropping, many hikers will be heading out to tick off some summits. It’s a favourite time of the year for Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin to do exactly that, although his partner Madison is...

A sleeping bag is a big investment in your outdoor adventure game. While a lot of gear will be multi-functional, making sure you have the right sleeping bag for the conditions you’re encountering is essential. This becomes even more vital as you move…

Tackling any challenging high-country hike requires a good set of hiking poles, some that are durable, lightweight and that pack away nicely. Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin has been busy testing our latest design that meets that...

Getting away for a day or two of camping at Easter time is a great Aussie tradition. Our country has an incredible number of idyllic locations to experience the great outdoors - check out some of our team's favourite spots to escape to at Easter time.

Whether you're chasing the thrill of the ascent, or you're a fitness freak, or it could be the rush of pure elation when you reach the top, climbing attracts all kinds of people and comes in a number of forms. To help you get started, we've put...

When you consider Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Glenn Azar's track record, you'll understand why trail safety has – and continues to be - one of his highest priorities. Glenn is a former soldier of 17 years and now runs adventure trekking...

The first Mountain Designs sleeping bag was designed way back in the mid-70s for a daring alpine expedition to Mt Fitz Roy in Patagonia. Ever since that first model we embraced innovation, and in fact, brought a number of 'technical firsts' to...

What better way to test the new Kalamina and Glenbrook hiking shirts – featuring Polygiene® anti-odour technology – than a hot Australian summer adventure? Mountain Designs ambassador Harrison Candlin and partner Madison recently set off in northern…

Finding adventure in the outdoors doesn't always mean having to head to the outback, overseas or deep into backcountry. In fact, for those who call the big city home, there are many quality adventures right on your doorstep. Check out our team's list...

Summer in Queensland is the usual wet season, where quiet waterfalls and creeks come roaring back to life. For Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin and partner Madison, there’s no better time to get out and explore them. The recent…

If the new year has you thinking about resolutions and reworking your life goals, maybe getting outdoors and on the path to adventure should be put on your list. There’s plenty of studies to show that immersing yourself in nature, testing yourself with…

The vastness and diversity of our great southern land presents Australians with an incredible opportunity to explore. One great way to do this is the classic road trip, taking in the sights at your leisure and moving from location to location with…

December 11 marks International Mountain Day, an occasion designated by the United Nations to annually recognise the importance of mountains to life. It serves to educate the wider public, mobilise resources and steer political power to highlight the…

Summer is on its way, bringing with it the perfect conditions for a weekend escape. Whether you want a relaxing getaway with a coastal view or a thrilling adventure, we've got you covered with 10 weekend escape ideas to get you inspired for your next...

On the 9th of November in 1968, Brisbane rock climbers Rick White and Chris Meadows discovered Frog Buttress, a cliff on the north-west side of Mount French in the Moogerah Peaks National Park in south-east Queensland. While Rick would go on to pursue…

For the uninitiated (or misinformed) outdoor adventurer, a pack probably just seems like, well, every other pack. But a little homework will soon show that’s far from the truth. Yes there are some commonalities but as with all quality adventure gear...

Australia has an incredibly rich diversity when it comes to natural beauty, local wildlife and outdoor adventure. As a country we’re spoiled for choice – golden beaches, lush tropical rainforests, arid outback deserts and dense bushland in equal…

COVID-19 has put some restrictions on just how far and wide we can explore at the moment, but even with border closures there are some incredible sights to be seen in our own backyard. Each state has some natural landmarks that are worth ticking off…

On the 3rd of October, 1984, Tim Macartney-Snape and Greg Mortimer became the first Australians to climb to the top of Mt Everest. In an incredible feat of human endeavour, courage and strength, they braved a previously untouched route and etched their…

There are plenty of amazing people out there – skilled in the craft of photography – that inspire me to do my thing. Read on to meet some of the photographers that inspired me to start this photography journey in the first place, and I’ve since even…

It doesn’t matter whether you’re an amateur outdoor adventurer, a weekend warrior or a seasoned explorer, everyone should own a quality rain jacket. These technical designs are ultimately the single most important piece of clothing to keep rain on the...

Armed with the knowledge and know-how of some basic bodyweight exercises, you can put together a comprehensive workout without the need for too much space or equipment. With COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in place, this means you can stay on top of…

COVID-19 lockdown isolation presents some challenges when it comes to keeping fit but there are certain go-to exercises I use when limited for space and equipment. You can make the overall session harder or easier depending on your level of fitness by…

Planning for an outdoor adventure can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time, but it’s a critical step in order to have an event-free time, to stay safe and to feel fulfilled in your adventure. Here’s a few of my go-to apps and websites to help…

As various stages of COVID-19 lockdown kick in again, many of us will be experiencing a multitude of emotions. Feelings of isolation and loneliness as social interaction and work engagement is restricted, fear of the unknown, anxiousness at what the...

A down jacket is a timeless clothing piece that anyone heading outdoors should own. Whether exploring backcountry, camping out overnight, or travelling abroad, they’re perfect for cooler climates as they provide excellent thermal insulation through the…

Layering is a basic wardrobe skill that every adventurer needs to understand. It all starts with the base layer and this is where thermals come in. As their life on the road rolls on, Mountain Designs ambassador Harrison Candlin and partner Madison…

Everyone has their go-to jacket for adventuring. For outdoor photographer and Mountain Designs ambassador Harrison Candlin, it's the Mountain Designs Peak 700 down jacket. Designed for cold climate day hikes, travel and everyday exploration, it…

When Australian adventurer Claire Mackay recently set off to summit Aconcagua in the Andes mountain ranges of Argentina, her biggest fear was the bitter-cold nights. Mountain Designs equipped her with the UltraTek 900 down sleeping bag, knowing it was…

Australian adventurer Claire Mackay recently returned from a successful mountaineering expedition to Argentina, where she summited Aconcagua in the Andes mountain ranges. Kitted out in Mountain Designs gear, the insert-year-old from regional New South…

Gear testing the UltraTek 900 down sleeping bag is not for the faint-hearted – the fact is that this is a bag with a limit rating of -17°C and an extreme rating of -39°C. Thanks to Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin and his partner…

Adventure is truly in the blood of Australian mountaineer Claire Mackay, who recently conquered all 6,962 metres of Aconcagua in Argentina. The highest mountain outside of Asia, summiting Aconcagua requires courage, commitment and the ability to deal…

Ever since company founder Rick White stitched together the first Mountain Designs sleeping bag back in the mid-1970s, we have been using world-class technology and manufacturing techniques. This allows us to achieve excellent quality, high performance…

Australian adventurer Claire Mackay recently summited Aconcagua, the 6,962-metre giant located in Argentina in South America. Amongst her Mountain Designs gear was the Pioneer 60L Technical hiking pack, which proved to be up to the task of climbing…

The 8th of March marks International Women's Day and to recognise the occasion, we're celebrating those Australian women who are getting outdoors and inspiring others through adventure...

Temperatures dropped on Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin and his partner Madison as the Canadian winter they were enjoying gave them a firsthand account of just how cold it can truly get...

Located just two hours off the eastern coast of Australia, but only accessible to 400 visitors at any one time, Lord Howe Island is one of the world's most incredible hidden paradises. For adventurers and families alike, it is a haven of tranquillity...

Lord Howe Island is an idyllic sub-tropical paradise found in the Tasman Sea, just hours away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney. With just over 380 permanent residents and only 400 visitors allowed at any one time, it’s an...

An increasing number of clothing brands, especially in the outdoor adventure industry, are starting to harness the many benefits of hemp. Often misunderstood despite its usefulness…

Spending the best part of a year on the road, exploring everything the western stretch of the US has to offer, means you're going to encounter a few wet days...

Equipped with just a car, a camera and some camping gear, Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin and his partner Madison continue their amazing road trip throughout the expansive western states of the USA...

Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin and his partner Madison continue their grand journey across the western part of the US, this time testing the quintessential outdoor garment - the down jacket. Read on for their gear reviews...

Arguably the most critical factor when choosing your sleeping bag is its warmth, and how much it will provide. Obviously you want to be comfortable when the temperature starts dropping, but you also don't want to overheat if conditions are mild.

Life on the road can wear you down - even when the location provides you with some of the most incredible landscapes in the world as your backdrop - so a good night's sleep is vital...

While a multi-day hike doesn't have to be an epic expedition, the chances are you'll need to put in a bit more effort than when taking a simple stroll in the local park. Having high quality and functional gear no doubt makes life easier on the trails...

Our new Heritage tees have just landed and while they look like simple T-shirts, there is so much more to them than meets the eye. Read on to learn about how each of these unique garments speaks to our brand DNA and how we are paying a fair share to...

We're excited to announce our official sponsorship of the A1 Adventure Racing series in Australia. The Mountain Designs A1 Australia series will feature some of the most gruelling races on the planet, with this new partnership set to propel adventure…

Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin recently took to Californian high ground with his partner Madison for some R&R and to capture the incredible views of the Sierra Mountains. We gave them some fleece jackets to test, which proved to be up for their...

Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin and partner Madison visited Point Reyes on California's northern shoreline last month, where they were met with some crazy coastal weather. Here they review the performance of our Alta and Perisher softshell...

As part of our recent brand relaunch, we ensured some of our more iconic products were reintroduced too. The Travelite Down Sleeping Bag has long been a Mountain Designs customer favourite since it first appeared back in the 90s, and the...

Gearing up for an outdoor adventure involves packing a mix of apparel and equipment. When it comes to the clothing side of things, the way you layer your outfit can have a huge impact on reducing the amount of kit you eventually take with you, but...

If you ask any adventurer worth their salt about waterproof protection, chances are they'll soon start talking about GORE-TEX®. Read on to learn more about this iconic technology brand, why you want a GORE-TEX® garment...

Down insulation is made from goose or duck down, the lofty, fluffy layer found underneath the feathers and predominantly around the chest area. Down is commonly mistaken for the feathers but in actual fact is the bird's undercoat...

With winter soon upon us, some of you may be snuggling up indoors away from the cold. For the more adventurous, however, winter is a great time to get into the great outdoors. The Australian wilderness provides some incredible places for cold-weather...

Tied into the rope, chalking up my hands, I observe the climbing route before me to establish what is required both mentally and physically. Do you want some beta? asks a fellow neighbouring climber with a hopeful look on his face.

Fuel your body the right way on your next expedition with hiking food that keeps you going. Tracey and Adrian from Take Shape Adventures live and breathe fitness, nutrition and adventure. They share their top hiking food...

We have a range of stuff sacks and dry bags that can help to make a huge difference for your packing, organisation, and protection of your gear, including: Mesh Stuff Sacks, Compression Stuff Sacks, Regular Stuff Sacks, Dry Bags...

“Chasing the awe and wonder of our beautiful backyard will always push me to explore more and is the testing ground for challenging myself to be more than I am.”

While Emma-Lee Whyte’s passport is both full and varied with destinations from all across the world, it’s the North American wilderness that really holds a special place for her.

In this visually-masterful short film by Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin, we follow Alysha and her aim to educate the masses about conservation practices and the importance of protecting the wild.

Nearly one year on from the documentary's own successful release, we caught up with Kate to reflect on how the film was received and gauge the impact it had on women’s/non-binary sport.

Check out some of the epic imagery the awesome team of Christopher Wills, Tim van der Krogt, Divya Gordon and Aaron Dickfos wanted to share with you.

We sat down with Chris Wills, who produced the documentary along with Tim van der Krogt and Rampage Media, to get an insight into the makings of this masterpiece.

The very cool 36° South is a film about the Australian alps and what it has to offer those chasing the ultimate pow ride down under.

Following a team of four adventurers that head into the Australian backcountry looking for the steepest terrain the red continent has to offer, this is a story filled with stoke and snow.

Winter might be crawling towards us this year, but that’s no reason to not get stoked for some time in the snow.

With a background in marine science and food sustainability, Ari Comben recently had the unique opportunity to put her skills to work in the name of helping create a more sustainable future.

Julia D’Orazio's destination guide here gives a full insight into the 125km trail in Western Australia that thousands of Australians hike each year.

Zach and Kaitlan are two Aussies off on an adventure to see more of the world. Kandersteg was one place they would recommend to anyone heading to the Alps as nothing beats being surrounded by mountains and crystal blue lakes to swim in.

Zach and Kaitlan, two Aussies from Queensland set off on the trip of a lifetime. When they found out how big bikepacking is in Europe they had to get on a bike and give it a go

Jet-setting off from Brisbane, Australia, Zach and Kaitlan have made it their mission to find unique corners of the world.

As Karen Loudon entered the final 6-week preparation phase of her summit attempt of Nemjung in Nepal, we were granted an incredible insight into this adventurous woman’s mind…

Meet Karen Loudon, who is as normal as any of us. Except she also runs marathons and climbs mountains that are over 7,000 metres high in elevation.

You may recall our adventurous mountaineering friend Claire Mackay from her previous climbing escapades in South America…well late last year Claire was back at it again, this time returning to Nepal for a summit attempt on Mera Peak.

Adventure-loving couple Zach and Kaitlan - who recently jetted off to Europe on their once-in-a-lifetime trip, have found the next incredible location to tick off their travel bucket list - seeing the Northern Lights. Watch their video and read their…

Do you love the fresh crisp air on your face? The smell of pine, cobbled streets, wooden boardwalks, getting lost in the mountains and immersing yourself in the Fjords? Then Norway is for you! Zach and Kaitlan are an adventure-loving couple from…

After solo cycling across eight countries including Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Cambodia and Vietnam, I was searching for a bigger endurance challenge and where better than Australia. I have learnt copious lessons from my past tours and I have had time to…

The Blue Mountains, located in New South Wales, Australia, are steeped in rich history and natural beauty. Dating thousands of years back, the Gundungarra and Darug tribes were the traditional custodians of the Blue Mountains area. They hunted…

We have road tripped to Australia's Red Centre four separate times and fallen in love with the harsh beauty, the endless expanse of red-coloured country and the wide open spaces. This time however, we wanted to experience it in a different, more…

Meet Nigel and Sue, an adventure-loving Aussie couple passionate about the outdoors, who since the beginning of 2021 have been travelling Australia in their self-converted Mercedes Sprinter Van. Producing weekly films showing you the highlights and the…

Part 2 of Top Hikes In The Top End sees our intrepid travellers Nigel and Sue venture through Nitmiluk National Park. A challenging day walk took them to the magical Butterfly Gorge, scenic Jedda’s Rock, Pat’s Lookout and more. Watch their video here…

Nigel and Sue head to Litchfield National Park for Part 3 of their Top Hikes In The Top End series. Here they wandered the Cascades, experiencing an epic day hike full of challenging climbs, amazing landscape views, refreshing rockpools and even an…

Many a photographer has captured the celestial brilliance of the Milky Way. But trying to orchestrate its location with clear weather and moon phasing from a nearly-inaccessible slot canyon that plays a significant part of the framing? Well that's…

Hopefully by now you've seen our brand project 'A Shot In The Dark', a short film that follows an adventurous crew aiming to capture a unique astro shot of the Milky Way. The 6-strong party - led by producers James Bennett and Clyde Vaughan - were…

If you're into your outdoor photography and you've checked out our brand project 'A Shot In The Dark' then you'll know the complexities of pulling together an incredible outdoor photograph or film. We sat down with James Bennett and Clyde Vaughan...

Earlier this year when international borders reopened, we were as keen as anyone to get back out and start adventuring again. So we tagged along with Jasmine and Bevan, two well-versed Aussie travellers with a penchant for exploring new cities, delving…

Intrepid Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Harrison Candlin recently had a case of summit fever, keen to experience the euphoria of sitting atop an elevated peak with camera in hand, partner Madison by his side and a step-count in the many…

At 8:45am Australian time (4:30am Nepal time) on May 14th, 2022, Gabby Kanizay took her step to stand on the summit of Mount Everest (8,848 metres). In doing so, it made Gabby the youngest Australian to ever summit the world's highest peak, the young…

On May 14th, 2022, Gabby Kanizay become the youngest Australian to summit Mount Everest. In doing so at the ripe old age of 19 years and 68 days, she broke the record of fellow mountaineer and Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Alyssa Azar, who…

One of my absolute favourite trips to take is from the Blue Mountains to Kosciuszko National Park. Leaving the hustle and bustle of Sydney for the alpine region of Kosciuszko gets me excited every time. As you drive closer to the Snowy Mountains, the…

If you drive 10 hours north-west from Brisbane, what you'll find will leave you speechless. A true hiker’s paradise of massive sandstone walls, hidden gorges, towering trees and crystal clear creeks rise out of the surrounding desert plains. This is…

Madison and I were stoked that we recently had the chance to travel to North Queensland for a week of road tripping and adventures in August. Living out of a van for the week definitely brought back memories of our time in the US and Canada last year…

It’s a strange thing to try to fulfil someone else’s bucket list but that’s exactly how Candice Wyatt found herself in Nepal on a trek she had never intended to take. Read on to hear about the Network Ten news presenter’s journey to the Annapurna Circuit…

At this time of year, as ANZAC Day approaches, I would normally be somewhere remote along the Kokoda Track. But with COVID-19 changing the current landscape of the world right now, guiding groups of people in the outdoors (let alone overseas in Papua…

With a resume that includes Kala Patthar, Imja Tse, North Annapurna Base Camp and Everest Base Camp in the Himalayas, Australian adventurer Claire Mackay is far from an amateur mountaineer…

If anyone understands the importance of preparation and perseverance, it's former AFL star Alex Johnson. The 27-year-old footballer spent countless hours preparing for the big stage of his 47 AFL games...

The 2019 Mountain Designs A1 Racing season culminated recently with another epic adventure, this time Wildside Adventure Race Southern Highlands Edition throwing out the challenge to all-comers...

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa is one of the most physically and mentally demanding challenges that anyone could face. At 5,895 metres above sea level and as the highest free-standing mountain in the world, you can understand why. The high...

For most people, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro - the world's tallest free-standing mountain at 5,895 metres above sea level - would be a once in a lifetime experience. For Meg Draffin and Nath Roye, it was an opportunity they never imagined would come...

Mountain Designs Hells Bells was recently hosted on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland by Wild & Co event director Chris Dixon, and as per previous editions this year’s course was certainly one not to be underestimated. We caught up with Kim Beckinsale...

Under new event director Chris Dixon and his Wild&Co team, Mountain Designs GeoQuest delivered to the adventure racing community an event of epic proportions. After completing Australia's premier adventure race...

Adventure racing is all about pushing the physical, mental and emotional boundaries of the human body. Hear from Kim Beckinsale and Jan Leverton, two members of the Mountain Designs Wild Women team, who this week will be tested to the max...

There's a lot more to Melbourne than its trendy bars, delicious bakeries and thriving live music scene. Beyond the city you'll find spectacular hiking trails just waiting to be explored. Here are some of our top picks...

Deep in the mountainous province of Guizhou, an ancient death-defying practice is alive and well. A handful of locals free climb enormous cave walls to gather rare medicinal herbs for their village. These daring climbers are known as Spider-Men...

It's no secret that Canada is a popular destination for winter sports and activities. What you may not be aware of, is that for 24 years now, it has also been home to the world's longest recreational walking trail -The Great Trail...

Are you ready to experience some of the most breathtaking trails in the world? From single-day hikes to multi-day treks, here are 10 incredible walking tracks that will make you want to get packing, tie up your hiking shoes and head off.

Not sure what to expect while you're travelling Australia? Who better to ask than other people who have done the trip themselves? We've done the ground work for you, gathering some important tips and tricks from some of our favourite...

Did you know Australia is considered the world's sixth-largest country in terms of total area? That means there are a lot of places to visit and adventures to be had when you're road tripping across this vast land.

The Bibbulmun Track is one of the world's great long distance walking trails, stretching nearly 1000km from Kalamunda, a suburb in the hills on the outskirts of Perth, to the historic town of Albany on the south coast.

Understand... After walking the Kokoda Track over a dozen times now you might wonder why I keep going back. I smile to those who ask, knowing they have not been there or they would not ask the question for those who go.

The Blue Mountains are a unique mountainous region in New South Wales that offers challenging and varied climbs, stunning landscapes and huge sandstone walls that make you feel as small as you are against them.

For an unforgettable holiday adventure to a seemingly lost part of the world, it's hard to go past the peace and tranquillity of Lord Howe Island. Renowned for its incredible natural beauty and relaxed island vibe, it is a hidden jewel in the Tasman...

Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassadors Glenn and Alyssa Azar regularly take groups to the top of Australia with their Adventure Professionals trip, The Aussie 10 Peaks Challenge. Here they provide expert insight into what gear you'll need to pack...

Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassadors Alyssa and Glenn Azar recently lead a team of adventurers to the summit of Mount Elbrus in Russia. Here they offer an insight into what you'll need to pack, providing a gear list based directly on their experience...

There's something about tapping back into our primal skills and getting back to basics in the great outdoors that makes camping so appealing. Whether you're comfortable in a sleeping bag on the ground under a tarp or you prefer...

Day walking is a great way to escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in the wilderness. The relaxation that comes from the sights, sounds and smells makes it worth every effort. But you never know what Mother Nature...

Keen to feel the rugged terrain of a backcountry trail under your feet? Whether you're taking off overnight or you're up for a multi-day trek, it's important to make sure you've got everything you're going to need. Pack light but pack...

There's nothing quite like backpacking - new places, new people, new languages, new cultures. As the excitement builds and you're thinking about all the sights, food, bars, and experiences you'll encounter, there's always the temptation to throw your...

Tackling the slopes or building snowmen, whatever your thrill, the snow is a fascinating travel destination with much to see and do. To make sure you're going to stay warm and organised, use this packing list as a guide for your...

From visiting far-off places to meeting people and experiencing their way of life, travelling is all about embracing the adventure. There's a whole world out there for you so use this gear list to help pack everything you're going to...

So you'd rather go over it than around it? We think it's more fun that way too. This gear list will help you get going onwards and upwards! Clothing & Footwear: T-Shirt, Shorts, Head buff, Climbing shoes and Sandals. If it's cold...

If the mountain summit is your destination of choice, you'll need to be super prepared in both training and gear. Use this gear list as a guide for what you will need for your expedition to the top of the world.

For those who thirst adrenaline and competition, adventure racing offers a mentally, physically and emotionally challenging journey set against the backdrop of epic natural landscapes. Having the right gear is essential to beating the clock and your…

For the minimalist explorer, a tarp is arguably the most lightweight, easy-to-pack shelter. Shelter here is the operative word, however, because if you don't know how to set it up properly, you're likely not going to have a great night's sleep. Using…

Intensive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) rays can cause skin damage from sunburn to skin cancer. To avoid these effects when you’re outdoors, you need to protect your skin. Clothing can help shield UV radiation, so to help you make sun-smart…

Whether you’re a first-time traveller or you fancy yourself an overseas aficionado, a few tricks can make a world of difference to your trip. So if you’re planning on getting away overseas or interstate, try out this list of simple travel hacks we’ve…

Taking a trip into the wild during the peak of summer can get a little uncomfortable at times. The good news is, with a couple of extra additions to your packing list, you can maximise your comfort. Here are our top ideas for making the outdoors your…

Rainy weather doesn't have to ruin your day out on the trails. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can keep the good times rolling even when the heavens open up. Here are our top tips for hiking in wet weather: Hacks For Hiking Comfortably In…

When embarking on a hike or travel, never underestimate the importance of pack organisation. It can affect your comfort, centre of balance, back health (if worn for extended periods) and accessibility to items. Use this guide to ensure you're packing…

Knowing how and when to use a different shutter speed in certain situations can help you create dynamic photos that can either speed up or slow down movement in an image. For example, running water from a waterfall can be slowed down to give it a…

I shoot the bulk of my work directly into the sun. I love the backlit feel, with sun rays shining through and the silhouette possibilities. I know for a lot of photographers this is their worst nightmare, especially in film days, but with the post…

One thing that makes a photo ‘great’ is the ability to convey an emotion. Often, landscape photos can be beautiful but nothing more than that they can be empty with no feeling to connect the viewer. Here are some tips on how to create a shot that…

Getting back to nature is a beautiful thing – but what about when nature actually calls? Experienced adventurers would have their ways but for the first-timer, knowing how to relieve yourself in the wild might be a foreign concept. There’s many ways…

A big part of adventure photography is knowing how to shoot a subject in the outdoors, be it a person or a product. For me, the bulk of my work comes from shooting people moving in – and connecting with – wild places. I also spend a lot of time doing…

Waking up to a wet sleeping bag or cold water dripping on your forehead are pretty high up there on the list of unpleasant experiences in the outdoors. You’ve bought yourself a high quality, waterproof tent – so why is this happening? It doesn’t matter…

Snuggling around a campfire in a warm sleeping bag, hot cuppa and toasted marshmallows in hand, with the freshness of the cool winter air slowly circulating, is a truly beautiful experience. But what if you're not so snug and warm? Keeping warm is one…

Your perfect tent will provide you with the right weather protection and space at a low weight. With this in mind, you should be considering the weather conditions you expect to meet and how many people you want to accommodate. Then you can compare…

Choosing the right pack or bag is essential to your adventure. It will be your companion – sometimes even your house – wherever your journey takes you. Too big and you'll have too much extra weight to carry, too small and you'll never fit anything in...

Adding a sleeping mat to your outdoor gear will increase your comfort levels at night considerably. Obviously sleeping mats provide cushioning from the ground but they also play a big role in thermal insulation. Read on to learn more about the things…

Keeping your tent and its surrounding area clean and tidy will make your days around the camp site much more enjoyable. With a bit of basic organisation...

Choosing the right jacket for an outdoor adventure can be difficult because of the huge range of options available to you. You'll have to consider all the technical and functional features you need for your chosen activity and destination...

The key to a memorable and enjoyable road trip is planning well and covering your bases before the ride. Whether you're escaping for a long weekend or planning a bigger trip, there are some simple things you should check off before hitting the road...

When it comes to the outdoors, you need to use gear that suits your adventure, and this notion is even more relevant for trail running given the high performance nature of the sport...

Most hiking poles are designed with wrist straps, and knowing how to work with them will go a long way towards using your hiking poles effectively in the great outdoors...

Like with all your outdoor gear, using a sleeping bag that is fit-for-purpose will help make your outdoor adventure more comfortable, enjoyable and safe. But choosing the right sleeping bag can be tricky...

Most hiking poles are constructed with a carbide tip at the pole end to provide greater traction on standard trails or on slippery surfaces such as ice, snow and mud. These tips can also be covered with a rubber foot for...

Layering clothing is crucial for the comfort and protection of any adventurer. This simple concept allows you to make quick adjustments based on your activity level and changes in the weather. Call it an art or call it science, when the...

From a casual bush walk to a rugged alpine trek, there is no more important asset for hikers than their feet. To optimise the performance and comfort of your hiking boots, there are a number of methods to lacing them...

When you're setting up camp for the night, all you want is to get your tent pitched quickly so you can sit back and relax. This becomes even more crucial if bad weather has rolled in and you have to bunker down.

One of the keys to a comfortable backpack is to get a pack that is the right size for you. Your torso length - not your height - is the key measurement. Hip size can also be helpful. Follow these simple...

One little blister can mar an otherwise wonderful hiking trip. The best way to ensure your feet keep you moving forward out on the trail is blister prevention. Before heading out, ensure that you have chosen moisture wicking socks, the right shoes...

There are few better feelings than waking up in the outdoors as the sun creeps up over the horizon, and the sound of birds chirping and the smell of nature fills the air. Your sleeping mat has a big impact on...

When embarking on a hike or travel, never underestimate the importance of pack organisation. It can affect your comfort, centre of balance, back health if wearing for extended periods, and accessibility to items. Use this guide to ensure...

A peaceful night of rest is essential after a long day of hiking. Your sleeping mat plays a big part in whether you wake up the next day ready to hit the trails again, or feel like you've been run...

Your hiking poles are designed to enhance stability and provide support on a variety of trail surfaces. To get the most out of them you need your poles set at the correct height, which varies from user to user depending on...

At 8:45am Australian time (4:30am Nepal time) on May 14th, 2022, Gabby Kanizay took her step to stand on the summit of Mount Everest (8,848 metres). In doing so, it made Gabby the youngest Australian to ever summit the world's highest peak, the young…

On May 14th, 2022, Gabby Kanizay become the youngest Australian to summit Mount Everest. In doing so at the ripe old age of 19 years and 68 days, she broke the record of fellow mountaineer and Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassador Alyssa Azar, who…

At this time of year, as ANZAC Day approaches, I would normally be somewhere remote along the Kokoda Track. But with COVID-19 changing the current landscape of the world right now, guiding groups of people in the outdoors (let alone overseas in Papua…

Taking a group of adventure-seekers to the highest points of Australia is all in a day's work for Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassadors Glenn and Alyssa Azar...

Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassadors Alyssa and Glenn Azar recently took on the might of Mount Elbrus, Europe's highest peak, when they lead a team of adventurers on the 5,642-metre summit attempt. Here Glenn recounts the remarkable journey to...

Mountain Designs Adventure Ambassadors Alyssa and Glenn Azar recently lead a team of adventurers to the summit of Mount Elbrus in Russia. Here they offer an insight into what you'll need to pack, providing a gear list based directly on their experience...

For many of us setting out on weekend hikes or even month-long overland treks, the prospect of scaling the loftiest of peaks - Mt Everest herself - seem far off, the result of years of training and conditioning. Fewer of us still were...

Alyssa Azar recently returned from successfully summiting the dangerous and unpredictable Mount Elbrus. At age 19, Alyssa has now completed four of the Seven Summits. We caught up with the determined adventurer to talk about her Elbrus climb and...

You've been keeping pretty busy since your Everest Summit. What are some highlights from the past year? It has been a busy year since Everest. The highlights would be the release of my book, receiving the Key to the City of Toowoomba...

Alyssa's Everest Summit is a story of sheer determination, strength, courage and human endurance. After surviving two natural disasters on previous attempts, Alyssa has finally become the youngest Australian to reach the summit of Mount Everest.

Armed with unwavering determination, Queensland teenager Alyssa Azar has become the youngest Australian to reach the Summit of Mount Everest! After being stopped by natural disasters two years in a row, Alyssa returned this year for her third attempt.

Since we arrived in New Zealand, the world as we know it has been turned upside down and reshaped over the space of two months. We were ordered to six weeks of strict lockdown, with only a local walk and drive to the supermarket permitted. No other…

Hello all. Once again, thank you for stopping by and reading the monthly Journals. We’ve now really settled into life here in Queenstown, we’ve found a new house, and everything has worked out better than expected. We’re now in the smack-bang middle of…

Touch down in New Zealand. Back in our favourite country on earth, and probably staying here for a while. Our plan is to live here until July and then see where to next when the time comes. We had departed Canada abruptly three days before Christmas…

For the month of December, we made it to the great white north – Canada. From our first time driving on ice, to sleeping in a frozen car at -16°C, this month had plenty of rough times, learning curves and times where we questioned if we were doing the…

Hi everyone, we’re back again for instalment 5 of The Journal. Thanks for sticking around and following along with our travels. Our journey is starting to get really interesting, nights are getting really cold making it more of a struggle to live out…

After a quick trip home to Australia to see our family, Madison and I got back to The States refreshed and ready for our next adventures. We left California at the end of September ready to see another new area of the country: The Pacific North West…

This month has been one of our favourites. Constant sunrise to sunset days and a whole lot of good light, weather, memories and people. We spent almost two weeks in Wyoming, a state that we never knew much about nor ever really wanted to visit.

Here it is, the second instalment of the monthly Journal. I hope you are all ready for it. We travelled far and wide this month, definitely covering most of our ground yet. We took a 3-week trip starting in Big Sur, turning it east to the Sierra...

This month has been a whirlwind but also better than I could have imagined. We arrived in San Francisco on the 17th of June to a hot stinker of a summer's day. Since then it's been pretty mild with some cold days. Odd for summer. We've been planning…