ANNIVERSARY TRAVERSE WHICH WATCH

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Informing and entertaining George Fisher customers since 1992
Image: © Stuart Holmes | The Derwent FDells
Winter 2015 | Issue 93
WHICH WATCH?
How to choose
a GPS watch
Page 6
PORTABLE
SOLAR POWER
ANNIVERSARY
TRAVERSE
NEW GEORGE
FISHER WEBSITE
WIN!
Free, reliable power?
Page 11
Traversing the
Matterhorn
Page 18
It’s live at last!
Page 20
A SPA BREAK AT
ARMATHWAITE HALL
Worth £330 each
SKI EXPERTISE
MOVE FREELY,
EXPAND YOUR PLAYGROUND
Soulquest Collection – downhill performance, comfort and light weight equipment that works together,
enabling access to more terrain, the biggest lines, and confidence to charge it all.
Selecting ski gear requires expert advice,
says George Fisher director ANDY AIREY
D
o you realise that George Fisher Ltd is the
last remaining ski hardware shop in the Lake
District? When I started here in 1990, there were
two on our street alone! Across the country the
number of stand-alone ski retailers has declined
as their owners have found it difficult to remain
profitable. So why are we sticking at it?
Correctly fitting ski boots are far and away the most
important piece of kit for every skier; uncomfortable
boots ruin a holiday. Our boot fitters have built their
knowledge over many years. Their understanding of
boot shape, volume and performance, combined with
biomechanical knowledge of how feet behave whilst
skiing, means that we can ensure you go on your
next ski trip with correctly fitted, comfortable boots.
Our 2015 range comes from Salomon, Rossignol and
Lange; not only do the brands offer different fits, but
styles within each brand give us a number of width/
volume alternatives.
Three of the Salomon boots benefit from their 360°
Custom Shell technology; the X Pro 100 (£290), Quest
Pro 110 (£320) and the women’s Quest Pro 100 (£320).
The 360° Custom Shell allows us to mould the entire
boot to your foot shape, not just the liner. If you have
struggled to find boots with ‘that perfect fit’ then
these will offer a swift solution and instant comfort.
Rossignol boots give us a variety of flex and width
options; the popular Alltrack series is back, with the
Alltrack 90 being a great recreational piste boot
(with a very different fit to Salomon) and women can
try the Alltrack 70, both offering great value at £215.
Lange boots are new to us this season. The company
says that its “consistent anatomical fit guarantees
the highest levels of comfort and performance”.
Lange RX100 LV
Photo © Salomon
©SALOMON SAS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
PHOTOS: SCOTT MARKEWITZ.
We see that ranging and selling ski hardware not
only helps differentiate us from the other outdoor
retailers in the Lakes, it is also a natural extension
of the work we do on customer service; in particular
functionality, performance and fit. Our experience in
fitting tens of thousands of walking boots over the
years has built our understanding of feet and fit to
an extremely high level, and that means when we
come to fit ski boots we can help you identify the
perfect boot to match your skiing style, experience
and, crucially, your feet.
We say that Lange boots give us new options for
people who are looking for a closer fit or have lower
volume feet. The RX100 LV and the women’s RX80 LV
(both £260) are low volume boots on a narrow last,
certainly NOT the right fit for many, if not most, but
people with skinny feet will love these!
As usual, we are carrying a range of children’s boots
from size Mondo 19 (UK size 12). Remember our kids
ski boots benefit from the Junior Boot Exchange
scheme we use with walking footwear. Boots bought
from us, once outgrown, can be returned and we
will offer up to 50% of their original price when you
buy a new pair. This reduces the cost of giving your
children the benefit of enjoying their ski holidays in
their own well-fitted, comfortable ski boots.
Over recent winters we’ve spent almost as much
time talking about helmets as boots! The growing
awareness of how a ski helmet can give protection
has prompted a significant increase in interest.
Salomon has introduced an interesting option with
its Phantom and Women’s Aura helmets using Auto
Custom Air technology, both £120. Auto Custom
helmets feature a foam-filled airtight bladder that
allows some air to escape when you put the helmet
on, creating a precise fit all around your head.
Bollé Backline
Visor Helmet
#EXPANDYOURPLAYGROUND
2
WIN A DREAM TRIP WITH SALOMON FREESKI TV
Last year, Nik Porsch won the chance to live out his ultimate skiing fantasy
with Salomon Team athletes. Tell us where you’d like to go and with whom you
want to ski, and you might just get a chance to live your own skiing fantasy.
Phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight (if over £30 value) 017687 71801
Last season I enjoyed trying Bollé’s Backline Visor
helmet (£190). Instead of using traditional goggles,
the Backline comes with two interchangeable visors
(Category 1 for flat light, and Cat 3 for bright days).
After years of being happy to ski in goggles, I wasn’t
sure how I would get on with a visor. I was pleasantly
surprised to find I felt just as ‘protected’, with no
sense of being more exposed to the elements, plus
extra air circulation eliminates condensation.
Heads come in all shapes and sizes, so with helmets
from Salomon, Bollé and Smith we offer a broad
selection with variations in fit, features and colour.
Take your time, get your head measured then try all
suitable options – you’ll find the one that fits best.
Finally, a quick word about my favourite ski glove;
the Salomon Even (£85). I’m currently on my second
pair. These are leather gloves lined with Primaloft
synthetic insulation making them tough yet
dextrous and, despite them not having a waterproof
membrane, they have kept my hands warm and
dry much better than any ‘waterproof’ glove. The
women’s version is the Native, also £85.
SKI SERVICING
Don’t forget to bring your skis in for a service
so you’re ready for that first day on the slopes.
Ours ski workshop is open at all times except
the Christmas period and during our annual
sale (closed from Tuesday 22nd December to
Monday 4th January).
Edge & Wax just £25 | Full Service £35
Salomon Even Glove
3
WEATHER GUESSING
Soft goods buyer LISA BERGERUD weighs up winter options
Image: © Stuart Holmes
C
urrently my Instagram account is full of people
anticipating the winter and snow. There are the
lucky few to live in areas where they’ve already
had dustings of snow, or people sharing ‘Throwback-Thursday’ shots of last year’s epic days.
Snow shots always make me envious; I love snow.
Isn’t there a saying; there’s no such thing as bad
weather, only bad clothing?
Last year we didn’t have enough snow (for me!) but
what we did have, I made good use of. My backpack
is always at the ready, and my Kahtoola Micro Spikes
awaiting action. Running in the snow is great, but
I swop to my skis as soon as I can see any drifts
building up. I don’t mind putting in the extra effort
of carrying skis as I like going uphill, running or
walking, and being able to ski down is the bonus.
Good layering is key in the winter; not overheating
too much on the way up then not getting cold when
speeding down. Then there’s my afternoon tea and
cake stop; I go cold really quickly and usually need
to throw on an extra layer, so the packable warmthto-weight ratio of a down jacket is a great option.
Kept warm I can relax and enjoy the view, then once
refuelled I can often persuade my legs to be tempted
for just one more up and down.
I generally prefer a zipneck top in winter, usually a
Patagonia Capilene or an Arc’teryx Phase and to be
honest it’s whichever colour fits better with what I’m
wearing; both fabrics work well for me. I then like
to use my Arc’teryx Gamma AR softshell jacket. The
fabric is slightly insulated, has a high level of wind
resistance but great breathability, and stretches
4
for comfort. I can put it on and leave it on without
overheating on the way up! That combination has
worked well for me; if it’s been colder I use a Polartec
Power Stretch top for a bit of extra insulation, or an
Arc’teryx Atom LT vest.
For the past couple of years I’ve been using Arc’teryx
women’s GORE-TEX mitts and gloves, they’ve really
thought about the design and perfectly fit my hands.
Much to my surprise I could operate my camera,
and more importantly fiddle with ski boot clips,
bindings and pack straps while wearing them. This
year they’ve improved the construction again, giving
even better dexterity (ideal Christmas gift from my
husband… hint)
There were quite a few days last year when I needed
100% weatherproofing, including a hood that fitted
over my helmet. When skiing in the Lake District in
bad visibility, a helmet is definitely a good idea as we
have quite a lot of unexpected rocks! Also the snow
can be a bit dubious in flat light, going from beautiful
blown-in powder to rock hard old
drifted snow. Trust me; when
the snow is good, it’s really,
really good, but we just can’t
guarantee when or where it
will be. Learning to ski on
grassy tufts also helps.
thinking regarding clothing. I don’t build up as much
heat, so a merino wool base layer helps to keep
me warm under my ski jacket. When it comes to
choosing a skiwear combo, everything goes; are you
dark jacket and bright pants, bright jacket and black
pants, black and black or just total contrast (thus not
getting lost in a snow storm)? We’ve some lovely ski
jacket options from Arc’teryx, Schoffel and Salomon,
plus (new to us this year) Eider. Eider also makes
some great kids ski pieces that should stand up to
all the weather that’s thrown at it! All our skiwear
uses great fabrics and will be waterproof; necessary
if you’re going to be using it as a warm coat after
your holiday. Always selected by us because they
make us feel good, and with everyone using GoPro
cameras to film their holidays, feeling good is the
right start to looking good!
Bring on the snow and have a happy ski season, or
just enjoy walking in our beautiful Lake District with
its snow-capped mountains.
I don’t always just torture
myself, I do like a ski holiday;
what a treat a ski lift is.
Here, I have to readjust my
Kahtoola Micro Spikes
Patagonia Women’s
Capilene Top
5
WHICH WATCH?
a very brief guide to the models we stock
garmin
Equipment and Accessories buyer JON WICKHAM examines watch technologies
Use this flow chart to help decide which watch you need!
what activity?
running
navigating
No
No
Ye
s
No
suunto
ambit 3
sport
Forerunner 620
(soon to be replaced by the 630)
The watch for the serious runner who will
probably be following a specific training
programme, multiple days per week, and working
towards very specific goals like an upcoming race.
garmin
920 XT
Do I want
mapping?
No
s
Ye
garmin
epix
suunto ambit
3 peak
garmin fenix 3
T
echnology is creeping more and more in to the outdoors, and one of the
most obvious signs of this are GPS watches. The plethora of options is
getting increasingly complex so I will try and give you a quick rundown of the
different watches, and how you can make a choice. You’ll also see the nice
infographic we have created on the facing page to help you make your choice.
We stock two brands of watches: Suunto and Garmin. They both specialise in
watches for the outdoor customer, and so are well versed in the need for watches
to be water resistant, durable and easy to use. We believe that this gives them an
edge over other ‘smart watches’ and activity tracker brands. Between these two
brands, we can offer a good range of options to suit most people.
Traverse
Only just released, and best thought of as a Core
with GPS which can give you an OS grid reference
for navigating. Very limited training functions, so
some people may be better off with the Garmin
Fenix or Suunto Ambit range. However, ideal for
many walkers and climbers.
Ambit 3 Run
Suunto’s entry level runners watch (no other
sport modes on this). Goes up against the Garmin
Forerunner 230 and 620. Also includes the ability
to show an OS grid reference, making it great for
those who want a less expensive navigation tool.
Forerunner 920XT
The watch for triathletes. Builds on the functions
of the 620, but adds swim and cycle modes, and
can switch between these mid-race. Also has a
barometer for accurate altitude.
Ye
s
s
Ye
No
Do I want
training
functions as
well?
Do I want navigation
functions?
No
garmin
forerunner 10
suunto
traverse
6
s
Ye
s
Ye
suunto
core
Do I want
ascent/
descent
data?
Do I want to know how hard
I’m working (heart rate)?
Do I want a
grid reference
as well as
altitude and
compass?
Core
Having taken over from the Suunto Vector,
this has traditionally been the choice for
mountaineers and walkers. Altimeter, Barometer
and Compass functions to assist navigation, but
no GPS, Heart Rate or Training functions.
Forerunner 10
A simple watch for runners, the Forerunner 10
has no ability to record heart rate so it’s great if
you just want to see how far you’ve been. All in a
small, water resistant watch.
Forerunner 220
(soon to be replaced by the Forerunner 230)
For more regular runners who wish to record their
heart rate, to ensure they are training at the right
intensity for their goals. The heart rate function
also allows a better idea of calories burnt.
multi-sport
suunto
Fenix 3
Multiple different sport modes available, beyond
simply swim/bike/run. Also includes Altimeter,
Barometer and Compass, making this ideal for
use in the mountains. This and the Epix are the
only watches in the Garmin range which give you
an OS grid reference. Both have colour screens.
Ambit 3 Sport
Going up against Garmin’s Forerunner 920XT,
this is also aimed at triathletes, or anyone who
does a variety of sports. Like the ‘Run’ version
this will also give you a grid reference, but
doesn’t have a barometer.
Ambit 3 Peak
The top of Suunto’s range bringing together
all the previous functions into one watch.
Competes directly with Garmin’s Fenix 3, and
has very similar features.
Epix
The only dedicated sports watch which
can display OS mapping. Takes most of the
features from the other Garmin watches,
making this extremely versatile and capable.
people who are training in more hilly terrain, where this will have a greater bearing
on your training or route, than if you are simply running on, say, a canal towpath.
however for those with narrower wrists it’s a good idea to try the watches on
before buying.
The first question to ask yourself is, what activities will you be using the watch
for? This is important as some watches have a number of different modes or
profiles, which are designed to make the best its features for a specific sport.
Others only have a single mode, often geared more towards running or walking,
and so maybe a little limiting if you want to use it for a variety of activities.
If you are training, then having the ability to pair the watch with a Heart Rate
Monitor (usually on a chest strap) is a great idea. This will show you how hard you
are working, which allows you to target your training for different end results.
Typically these will either be fat burning, endurance or speed. Most of the Heart
Rate capable watches we recommend come with the strap included, but they can
be available separately.
It is also worth considering whether you will be wearing your watch day-to-day,
or purely for exercise. Some watches definitely shout SPORT, whereas others
are perhaps a bit subtler. Choosing a watch that is aesthetically right for you is
another good reason to try them on in-store.
The next question will be, are you interested in accurate altitude data? GPS
devices themselves aren’t very good at telling height above sea level, so if you are
interested in this then choose a watch with a barometric altimeter. It’s handy for
Checking the fit of the watch is also a good idea. Due to the size of the aerial on
many watches, plus larger faces to display information, some watches can feel
quite bulky on the wrist. We would say that most people quickly get used to this,
Often customers ask which brand is best. The simple answer is that they are both
good, and many of their watches very comparable. Hopefully this guide will show
you a few of the nuances that separate them.
There are many more functions in these watches than I have been able to cover
here. If you would like to know more, then it’s a great idea to pop into the store
so our staff can answer any of your questions and you can see the watches ‘in
the flesh’. Alternatively, have a look at our new website, and contact us by phone
or email.
7
AN ESCAPE SPA BREAK AT THE
ARMATHWAITE HALL COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL
Worth £330
G
eorge Fisher is delighted to team up with the fabulous Armathwaite
Hall Country House Hotel and Spa to offer readers the chance to win an
Escape Spa Break, worth over £330.
Magnificently set in the secluded splendour of 400 acres of deer park and
woodland, bordered by the beauty of Bassenthwaite Lake and framed by
Skiddaw and the Lake District fells, Armathwaite Hall Country House Hotel
is as romantic as the surrounding countryside. And of course close to your
favourite outdoor shop – George Fisher!
Here’s your chance to win a one-night Escape Spa Break for two people
including:
WIN AN ESCAPE SPA BREAK AT THE
ARMATHWAITE HALL COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL
1. Fill in your details 2. Detach the slip 3. Hand in at George Fisher, or
post to: George Fisher, 2 Borrowdale Road, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DA
4. Or go online and enter at www.georgefisher.co.uk/competitions
Name:
Address:
Dexterity. Protection. Comfort.
Introducing the new benchmark in fully-taped
waterproof GORE-TEX® hand protection.
Built the Arc’teryx way.
• Overnight accommodation based on sharing a double or twin bedded
Spa room
• A three course dinner in the Courtyard Brasserie
Phone Number:
• A full Cumbria Breakfast
Email address:
• A one-hour Spa treatment per person
• Complimentary use of the Spa facilities throughout your stay
[ ] Tick here if you do not want George Fisher to send you future details of news
and promotions.
• Exercise classes
[ ] Tick here if you do not want Armathwaite Hall Hotel to send you future details of news
and promotions.
Armathwaite Hall started life as one of the original stately homes of England,
and as a result all the bedrooms are of individual character. All rooms have
views either towards the lake, the gardens, deer park or the Courtyard. The
perfect base for the discerning outdoor enthusiast!
Armathwaite Hall has created a timeless, yet contemporary countryside spa
within a stunning rural setting, offering a relaxed, high comfort, luxurious
facility. Guests can enjoy a bespoke and highly personalised spa experience,
with an extensive range of treatments and therapies designed to enhance
all aspects of wellbeing and relaxation.
Entry deadline is 29th February. The one-night break must be taken
before 30th September 2016, is only available Monday to Thursday
inclusive, excludes school and bank holidays, and is subject to
availability. See entry form for full terms and conditions.
8
George Fisher and Armathwaite Hall Hotel will not share your details with anyone else.
Terms & Conditions
1. The promotion is only open to UK residents aged 18 or over and excludes George Fisher, Armathwaite
Hall Hotel employees and their immediate families
2. A valid email address is required to enter.
3. Two winners will be selected at random at the end of the promotion (midday 29th February 2016)
4. Entries may be made in store, by post or online at georgefisher.co.uk and received by midday 29th
February 2016.
5. Photocopied entries not accepted - entries only on original pages from The Update.
6. The winners will be contacted within 7 days of the draw. In the event that a winner has not responded
within 14 days of notification then the promoter reserves the right to reallocate the prize to a reserve
winner.
7. The winners’ name and county will be posted online at georgefisher.co.uk
8. There is no cash alternative.
9. By entering the promotion entrants confirm that they have read and agree to be bound by these
terms and conditions and by the decisions of George Fisher, which are final in all matters relating to
the promotion. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of the prize. No correspondence will be
entered into.
10. George Fisher will not be responsible for the non-inclusion of entries as a result of technical failures
or otherwise. Proof of submission of entry is not proof of receipt of entry.
11. Winners name and county will be available by writing to George Fisher with a stamped addressed
envelope after the closing date.
12. The one-night break must be taken before 30th September 2016, is only available Monday to Thursday
inclusive, excludes school and bank holidays, and is subject to availability.
9
with Car Free Walks
WALK OF THE MONTH
We’ve linked up with carfreewalks.org, the website for
people who love walking but want to reduce their impact
on the environment, to bring you this great walk.
portable solar power
THIS MONTH’S WALK:
St Sunday Crag and Hartsop over How
© Roger Hiley, loweswatercam.co.uk
Free, reliable power? RICHARD SUDDABY from the Buying Department checks out Goal Zero
T
he Patterdale and Glenridding bus from Penrith
opens up endless options for the car-free
walker, right in the heart of this stunning region.
This walk takes you up St Sunday Crag, across the
summit of Fairfield and down along Hartsop over
How. Enjoy great views of Ullswater to the north and
Windermere to the south.
i The Route
1. Patterdale (bus stop) OS Grid: NY394155
From Patterdale, take the path behind the Post Office. This
leads through farmland at the foot of St Sunday Crag. Pass
a small patch of woodland and there is a path heading
directly uphill after 200m or so.
5. Hart Crag OS Grid: NY368113
1 km (0.6 miles) from 4
This short stretch of ridge walking is actually part of
the Fairfield Horseshow. At Hart Crag, head northeast
towards Hartsop over How.
2. Harrison Crag OS Grid: NY383150
1.2 km (3/4 mile) from 1
The route starts with a tricky little patch heading up
through Harrison Crag. From here, the going gets easier as
you head up towards Birks. Head to the top of Birks if you
want to bag an extra Wainwright.
6. Bleaberry Knott OS Grid: NY393125
2.7 km (1.7 miles) from 5
Hartsop over How doesn’t have a summit, but is a
pleasant gentle way to head down from the tops. Follow
the path heading along the ridge as it curves round
towards the Patterdale Valley.
3. St Sunday Crag OS Grid: NY369134
Enjoy cracking view of Helvellyn, including the mighty
Striding Edge. Save the memory for your next car-free
walk!
7. Bridgend OS Grid: NY399144
2 km (1.2 miles) from 6
At Bridgend, take the path across the valley. This means
you can take the footpath on the east side of the valley,
rather than a trudge along the side of the A592. At
Rooking, take the small road back to Patterdale. Try the
White Lion or the Patterdale Hotel for a beer before you
get the bus back.
4. Fairfield OS Grid: NY359116
Drop off St Sunday via Deepdale Hause, which drops
steeply to a small corrie before rising up to the summit of
Fairfield via Cofa Pike.
10
Loop or linear?
Loop
Maps:
OS Explorer Map: OL5
The English Lakes: NE area
Total Distance:
12.1km (roughly 7.5 miles)
Total height gain:
988m (3,243ft)
Start &
Finish: Patterdale (bus stop)
OS Grid: NY394155
Bus:
Use the Patterdale bus
to get to Glenridding
Unsuitable for:
Children, buggies, wheelchairs
GET ACTIVEOUTDOORS
WITH BRITAIN ON FOOT
www.britainonfoot.co.uk
Britain on Foot is an initiative with one clear
objective; to encourage more people in Great Britain
to get active outdoors. It’s all about getting fitter,
healthier and happier! This could mean walking
to work, hillwalking, geocaching with the family,
trail running or even mountaineering. Take a quick
look at the Britain on Foot website britainonfoot.
co.uk where you can upload your own activity and
share your experiences with thousands of other
like-minded individuals. It’s a socially interactive,
community-led site that’s continually updated. So
take your first step and sign up today!
W
hen starting to write about using a Goal Zero solar power charger this
summer, I was reminded of a morsel of history. In the equipment appendix
of his marvellous 1976 book Everest the Hard Way, Sir Chris Bonington lists
Olympus OM1 cameras, and solar battery chargers “developed specially by
Ferranti Ltd and the BBC Research and Development department”. The OM1
was often cited in that era because it was a fully mechanical camera (no
batteries required).
It’s really not long since expeditioners would set off without much electrical
equipment, or scrape by with the bare minimum; because they had to. For
years, on wilderness treks, torches would have to be used sparingly because
their incandescent bulbs would eat up battery power in a few evenings, and
the revolutionary Walkmans would remain a bit of a luxury due to the need to
carry boxes full of AAs. My film SLR camera’s tiny button cell batteries lasted for
months, but I often left the tape player at home.
Nowadays some of our electrical gadgets are far less energy demanding –
torches with LED bulbs, the simpler types of mobile phones, and music players
for example. But other pieces of kit have evolved to use more power, or are
completely new concepts (digital cameras, mobile computers and GPS devices).
My outdoor enthusiast physics teacher loved to tell pupils that everything comes
down to energy, and on expeditions he certainly had a point. Thankfully there
continues to be advances in portable solar PV systems and batteries, including
off the shelf products, that enable us to remain powered-up during the day and
after the sun has gone down.
This year, for the first time, my preparations for our family ‘off-grid’ holiday
really had to involve provision for portable power. That we were expecting to
be away from the mains for days at a time wasn’t anything new, but the trend
towards using short-battery-life smartphones for snapping the holiday photos
had become unstoppable. Androids and iPhones ‘have’ to be brought along, even
when venturing far into areas with no mobile phone networks.
Our solution lay conveniently in the travel section at George Fisher: A Goal Zero
Nomad 3.5 solar PV panel with a Goal Zero Switch 8 Li-Ion rechargeable battery
(2200mAh). Together, including USB cables, our solar charging kit weighed-in at
only 440g, took up no more space than a folded map, and cost £100. I took an
additional similar capacity rechargeable Li-Ion battery.
Using portable power systems effectively is like any other good camp-craft
practice: just a little planning and attentiveness required. Our Goal Zero was a
breeze… position the solar panel to be as perpendicular to the sun as possible,
and connect the battery. LEDs on the battery blink to indicate charging, and
also indicate level of charge. When fully charged – typically after four hours –
reconnect the battery to the phone (or other device) to top it up. Meanwhile, take
advantage of all the remaining daylight to charge up the second battery.
With our Goal Zero we had no trouble keeping four smartphones and two Petzl
head-torches powered-up on expedition. It was satisfying to know that five days
could have turned into fifty, and we’d still have been generating electricity from
our pocket sized power station.
We were soon appreciating the benefits of the Goal Zero in other more everyday
situations like alleviating competition for the car’s single USB power socket! It’s
now one of the must have items on my take-it-anywhere-the-sun-shines kit list.
Whilst I used the simplest of the Goal Zero systems, and found it quite adequate
for our needs, other Goal Zero products can be used in flexible and much more
powerful configurations.
11
MOUNTAIN MEMORIES
We’re privileged to gain access to the diaries of mountaineer JOHN HINDE
J
ohn Hinde was an ardent hill-goer and a prolific
diary writer. His diaries give an extraordinary
60-year record of his days on the hill, from the
14-year-old exploring his local Peak District in the
early 1940s to the day before he died, aged 74, in
2002. Now John’s daughter, Fiona Wild, has made
his diaries available online, giving a vibrant record
of a life spent in the hills. To give a flavour, here is
an extract from a week spent in Snowdonia:
Christmas Day Evening 1945
After supper we had a talk from Mr Hood of Manchester,
one of the breed of climbing photographers, who with
his friend Mr Carter, showed many marvellous slides
of the Isle of Skye. It was after midnight when we
retired to bed, tired and happy.
Boxing Day 1945: The Devil’s Kitchen
The morning was fine but the weather deteriorated
during the day. Jack, Bob Stevens and I left Idwal
Cottage for Clogwyn y Geifc and walked around the
east shore of Llyn Idwal to reach that cliff. We were
rather demoralised at the start of the day on Devil’s
Staircase (V Diff). The guidebook describes this climb
as being of the “old-fashioned gully type” – I thought
I had an idea what that meant but never realised that
the pioneers were such good exponents of the art
until I tried the first pitch. I led for fifteen feet to a
good spike belay on a large ledge. We all gathered on
the ledge and then Bob attempted to lead the next
section. The attempt was as far as we got. I tried and
then Bob tried again but one move, only about four
feet above the belay, just wouldn’t go. We tried for
about half an hour and even ate some sandwiches on
the ledge, but eventually we had to leave the climb by
the descent and not in a more satisfactory direction.
As an excuse we could not even use the fact that the
rock was running with water, as that is its general
condition. There have been some landslips on this
part of the crag, and at least one fatal fall from Devil’s
Staircase itself.
Up Devil’s Kitchen (Severe) all in boots.
We left Devil’s Staircase and entered the awesome rift
of Devil’s Kitchen. Never have I been in a place that
made me feel so small. There is an atmosphere of
devilry, the cleft is pregnant with disaster and gloom.
The Welsh name Twll Du (the Black Hole) is extremely
apt. The huge crack goes into the cliff for about two
hundred yards or so, at its head a stream falls down
with a thundering roar filling the cleft with a mighty
volume of sound. Slimy black walls of dripping rock
overhang above so that only a thin strip of sky can
be seen. Couple with these facts our knowledge that
the climb is notorious for its loose and rotten rock
and that more than a few climbers have been killed
there, and you will understand some of my feelings. I
have yet to understand why I climb places like Devil’s
Kitchen for pleasure, yet pleasure I do extract from
most climbs, but in this case, there was no pleasure
for me until the danger was over. The climb, as far
as technicalities go, is not too difficult. Indeed its
classification of Severe is only because of the aweinspiring position. I could lead easily any part of the
climb were it not for the fact that the thundering
waterfall, the atmosphere of the place, and the day
of wispy mist played on my nerves. I have to say, if
this diary is to be truthful, that never in my life have I
Llyn Ogwen, Devil’s Kitchen and Y Garn. 21st Jan 1948.
“I could lead easily any part of the
climb were it not for the fact that the
thundering waterfall, the atmosphere
of the place, and the day of wispy
mist played on my nerves.”
been as scared as in the quarter of an hour or so I spent in ascending the cracks and traverse of Devil’s Kitchen.
The actual climb is about 150ft up the left wall of the cleft close to the waterfall. Two awkward cracks bring one
up to the level of the capstone of the fall and then there is a traverse for 50ft to the capstone itself.
We reached the foot of the climb after scrambling steeply up the bed of the stream that rises in Llyn-yCwm, plunges over the capstone and down the cleft of Devil’s Kitchen, eventually to find its way down the
steep boulder-strewn slope below, to Llyn Idwal. The scramble, quite difficult, is interesting and in terrifically
imposing rock scenery. The foot of the climb is as far as many climbers aspire.
There were two parties already there; the eminent rock climber John Barford was leader of one, and a German
climber was second in the other. We had to wait for a long, long time, all the time getting colder, and I anyway,
more nervous. Eventually Bob started to climb. He took an extremely long time. I’m afraid that in that situation
I did not give him any confidence, I prated constantly at the delay; but since then I have realised why he took
so long as I could never have led the climb at all.
It started to drizzle and get dark, just two more things to demoralise me. At long last the rope above me
tightened, Jack telling me to come up. I climbed, but how I climbed! I am ashamed of the exhibition I gave. I was
left alone on a belay with a fifty foot traverse above the gloomy chasm ahead. I
will not dwell on that traverse except to say that I found it more easy (or shall I
say less difficult) than I had expected. We returned to Idwal in darkness down the
South Rake of Clogwyn y Geifr, along below Idwal Slabs and by the eastern shore
of Llyn Ogwen. For me the return was the most enjoyable part of the day.
Walker lost on Snowdon Horseshoe.
We were talking around the common room fire that evening, of the merits of
rock-climbing against hill-walking - a subject that has no end and no satisfactory
summation - when two climbers came across from Ogwen Cottage to tell us
that a walker had got lost on Snowdon Horseshoe that same afternoon. Three
volunteers were needed to form part of a search party to operate from Pen-y-Pass
before dawn the following day. Of course we were all willing to help, but Jack,
Bob Stevens and I were the only climbers at Idwal that night, all the others were
walkers or cyclists, so we, being the most useful, were chosen.
We went across to the Ogwen Cottage drawing room to make plans with Hood,
Carter and the rest. As the search party was to start from the Pen-y-Pass at six
the following morning we were to be awakened before five and driven round to
that hotel. “Mrs Skip” stayed up all night in order to get our wet clothes properly
dried and to get breakfast and lunch packs ready.
December 27th morning, 1945
I seemed to have only just got to sleep when I was woken up, but we quickly
dressed in warm dry clothes – the first time our climbing rags had been dry since
we first arrived in Wales – and ate the good breakfast that Skip’s excellent wife
had prepared for us.
For more diary extracts see www.diariesofjohnhinde.wordpress.com
Editor’s note: What do readers think? Why not share your thoughts on our
Facebook page, or tweet us using the hashtag #onlineadoration
Friz, Jack and John at Ogwen. Y Garn behind. 11th June 1946.
12
13
gear for greenland
SPECIAL WALKING
CLINIC DATES
Andrew Stanley’s in-store podiatrist clinics continue
O
ur walking health clinics have been a huge success, with customers
benefitting from the professional medical advice of podiatrist Andrew
Stanley (The Rebound Clinic) who runs our in-shop Rebound Lower Limb
Injuries Clinic. People are often amazed that pain and discomfort can be
eased or even eradicated from just one consultation.
If you think that Andrew could help, why not come and see him? Simply book in
for treatment at any George Fisher morning clinic – call 01729 825900.
On selected dates The Rebound Clinic runs normal treatment clinics in the
mornings and free advisory consultations in Saturday afternoons in our boot
room. Dates: 15th/16th January, 5th/6th February, 4th/5th March. Ring to book
on 01729 825900 (strongly recommended) or turn up on the day and wait your
turn (may be take some time!). Note – these consultations are purely advisory
and do not include any treatment, services, equipment, kit or appliances.
You can also have treatment at the main Rebound Clinic in Settle if this is
closer or more convenient – call the same number.
HEELS NOT RIGHT,
TO WALKING THE
WAINWRIGHTS!
Powder skiing above the sea ice of Ammassalik Fjord, East Greenland. Photo: Helen Russell
U
nlike backcountry skiing in the Alps,
where stable weather systems often mean
waterproofs can be left at home, Matt Spenceley
and Helen Russell are based in Greenland where
they routinely undertake big expeditions where
they have to pare things to a minimum, but need
gear that will withstand wild weather. Matt and
Helen give us an insight into what they’ll take into
the mountains.
East Greenland, March 2015: We’ve dogsledded into
a high cirque of alpine peaks on one of the wildest,
most remote coastlines on earth. Within six hours, a
fierce north easterly – known to the Inuit as Nakkaja –
will sweep in. With the tents sheltering behind stout
snow walls, the following day passes in a blur of
severe gale force winds, blizzards and snow clearing.
A tough 24 hours, but to what end? When the storm
clears, Helen and I are surrounded by some of the
most inspiring backcountry ski terrain imaginable;
weeks of beautiful first descents ranging from
couloirs that rise from the frozen ocean, to open
powder faces falling away below sharp summits.
It’s this kind of adventurous skiing we love the
best. Whether exploring in Greenland, abseiling into
a couloir in the Dolomites or finding deep powder
on the forested volcanoes of Hokkaido, Japan, ski
mountaineering can be seriously committing and
challenges us to carry just enough of the right
equipment – kit that can handle big storms and
multiple days out, but is light enough for big ascents.
Here’s some of the kit we’ll be using this winter:
Black Crows Navis Freebirds/ATK RT bindings: Skis
have got a lot wider in the last few years. At 102mm
under the binding, these planks are light, dependable
in steep icy conditions but great in deep snow. Fitted
with super light ATK bindings (170g).
Haglöfs Shield Hood: a featherweight wind top we
wear pretty much every day of the year. Cuts out
the wind, but minimises overheating. When it’s not
raining/sleeting, this is what we wear on the ascent.
Haglöfs LIM III jacket: a super lightweight Gore-Tex
Paclite jacket that stuffs down very small but has all
the essential features of a serious mountain jacket.
Doubles up as a second layer over Shield jacket on
cold ascents.
Haglöfs Rando shell pants: light but robust; thigh
pockets for on-the-go kit changes like hats and
gloves.
Brooks Range stretcher: With drilled ski tips and
tails, this specialist kit is used together with a
K2 Rescue+ shovel to build a sturdy stretcher to
evacuate anyone with a leg injury.
SOL emergency bivvy bag: ultra light but robust
emergency bag.
Rubber ski straps: essential! From field repairs to
splints.
Dynafit TLT6 boots: light with great ankle articulation
for the ascent, but locks down to aggressively drive
skis on the descent. Great performance for such a
light boot.
Grivel Haut Route crampons: Special light, but
effective crampons for ski touring. Steel front
points for effectiveness on mixed ground and ice;
lightweight aluminium back plate.
Grivel Air Tech Racing axe: light ski touring axe.
Transceiver, shovel & probe: Mammut Pulse (or
Element), Ortovox carbon 240cm probe and a metal
(not plastic) shovel like the K2 Rescue+.
Medical kit: packed into a small drybag.
Rucksack: size depends on the trip: ranging between
20 and 35L.
Repair kit: a light set of pliers, wire, duct tape,
zip ties, spare screws, wax and glop stopper (for
discouraging build-up of wet snow on skins).
Matt Spenceley (an IFMGA alpine guide) and Helen
Russell, both sponsored by Haglöfs, are passionate
ski mountaineers following the winter 7–8 months
of the year. Based out of their ski lodge in a tiny
village in East Greenland, or travelling to other
wild spots around the world to ski, they most like
searching out new lines in wild mountain regions.
www.expeditiongreenland.com
Haglöfs Essens Mimic Hood jacket: a synthetic
insulated jacket that still functions when wet.
Backed up with a Haglöfs Magi II down jacket on
colder/more committing days.
14
Another success story for our in-house podiatrist
ANDREW STANLEY
Small Brands can
Change the World
I
had been suffering for over 18 months with severe heel pain (diagnosed as
Plantarfasciitis), so much so it was even difficult to walk to the kitchen to
make a cup of tea without pain. I really thought my walking days were over!
I had been seeing an excellent physiotherapist in the Midlands who suggested
I needed to see a podiatrist who specialized in walking injuries. I knew that
George Fisher hosted a regular walker’s clinic with a podiatrist and knew that
with their reputation, he must be good.
From the moment I rang to make the initial appointment I was very impressed.
Andrew gave me immediate advice that would assist until I could get up to
see him. During that consultation I was given a thorough examination, the
condition was explained to me, then a pair of temporary corrective insoles
were made and fitted. I was also given exercises to do, before impressions of
my feet were taken for the production of my made-to-measure orthotics.
I was told that there would be a steady and progressive improvement and
not to be impatient; this proved to be exactly the case. After ten weeks I
was convinced that the prototype insoles were improving things a lot and I
was well on the way to recovery, and therefore instructed Andrew to make
my permanent orthotics. These were later fitted and felt even better than the
temporary ones; more comfortable and supportive.
By the Autumn I was back to gentle fell walking, and by New Year my walking
was better than it had been for many years. To date I have achieved my
ambition of finally completing all the Wainwrights, something I thought I would
never be able to do before being treated by Andrew.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank George Fisher and The Rebound
Clinic for their very professional and friendly treatment and guidance which
has allowed me to get back on the hills and to enjoy my walking once again.
Hilary Linnington
Available at George Fisher now.
SNOW BETWEEN THE TOES
GRAHAM THOMPSON, Technical Editor of Trail Magazine is also a fully qualified
pet behaviour counsellor. This month: essential prior planning
staff profile
This issue featuring MARTIN BOWLES
I
have lived in Sussex on the south coast of England
for all of my 64 years, give or take spells in
Germany, Ireland and America until my birthday in
May this year. My wife and I decided at Christmas
last year to cut out the horrid M25 part of the
journey to Cumbria by moving north to the Lakes,
buy a house and retire. So in mid May we had sold
up everything, loaded the wagons and moved to
The Lake District with our flock of spaniels and
walking boots.
thinking I knew about most equipment, to knowing I
knew almost nothing about any of it.
Not wanting to do nothing in life but walk every day,
and having a very low boredom threshold, I applied
for a part time position at my favourite outdoor
store, George Fisher in Keswick. Having been a
customer since the early seventies and owning
enough gear to equip five normal people, I thought
it can’t be hard to sell a few jackets and shirts. Well,
how wrong can you be?
So having gone from smug to thick in the first hour,
enter John Owens and Mark Wright to train me; these
are people who really do have a vast knowledge of
all the equipment gained over years of field use and
professional sales training. After six months I now
know enough to be confident in saying, “That’s not
the jacket for you sir, try this one because…”
My knowledge of the equipment sold by George
Fisher was limited to that of an end user, someone
who bought a particular brand of jacket or whatever,
and knew it did the job on the hill. Well the first
day on the shop floor soon changed my mind from
L
ike their owners, some dogs just love running
through snow. However, dogs are not great
at realising when danger is close, or what the
consequences might be when they joyfully play in
the powder. So it is up to us dog owners to take
a little more care and to do what is best for our
dog’s long term welfare, rather than just short
term enjoyment.
Route choice is the first consideration, and it is
important not only to consider the route itself but
what options are available if the weather changes
or your dog just is no longer enjoying the walk. This
means a sensible route plan that includes options
to escape the intended route and beat a retreat to
easier ground or even a pub with a log fire! It is very
difficult estimating how any dog will cope with snow
and ice, but this is even more of a challenge in the
hills when no one can predict the snow conditions
accurately.
Every year dogs wander onto ponds and rivers and
break through the ice and drown themselves, or
their owners when trying to rescue them. This is
partly because dogs are easily disoriented when
they are walking on white ground or through white
mist, but also because they often run across frozen
ponds to reach water if they enjoy water. So having
a good lead, as well as a training line or extending
lead, is essential to allow you to maintain control of
your dog.
16
Dogs are not great at managing their own body
temperature and their ability to do this will vary
greatly with their size, the amount of running they
do, and the weather and snow conditions. They
may need some help to stay warm, particularly if
the conditions change during the walk. So even if
your dog does not wear a dog coat throughout a
walk, having one ready to throw on may make the
difference between your dog enjoying the walk or
you having to beat a retreat earlier than expected.
Dedicated dog products such as the Ruffwear K9
Overcoat are a good option for owners to stash
in their rucksack and deploy as necessary during
winter walks.
A common problem for dogs is when snow sticks to
their hair. This can be prevented from happening
on their bodies by fitting a dog coat, but it may still
stick around their face so you need to be prepared to
brush this off or turn back if it becomes a problem.
Snow also sticks to the hair between the toes of
dog paws very easily, and this can be managed by
checking paws and brushing out the snow. But also
it is worth trimming back the hair between the toes
to help prevent the snow clinging to this area. On
some walks you may also follow paths that have
been gritted and this can cut paws or just irritate the
dog, so it is important to brush this off. In extreme
cases you can fit doggy boots such as Ruffwear Grip
Rex boots.
In winter, finding water to drink can be challenge
so always take extra water as you cannot rely on
streams being accessible for your dog. So that
means packing water in your rucksack for your dog
to drink as needed. Of course, you could just time
your walk so you stop off at a pub where food and
drink is readily available. But not all pubs welcome
dogs, so you may end up having to leave the dog
outside or in the car. Remember in cold conditions,
hypothermia can occur after just a few minutes
in freezing temperatures and can kill. Due to their
smaller size, our pets are even more at risk than we
are, so if a pub does not accept dogs you may just
have to keep walking. If you have a car, and have
driven to the pub, then again it is better to stay with
the dog in the car than leave it on its own where it
may get cold. Of course, if the pub does accept dogs
then there is probably no better place for you and
your four legged pal to end a winter walk than beside
a cosy fire!
Saying a jacket is very breathable and completely
waterproof just don’t cut it on the George Fisher
sales floor. You have to know what the shell fabric is
right down to the thread count, what the membrane
is and how it works, why it works and where it works.
And how to keep it in tip-top condition. That goes for
all the products sold in store.
I’ve been lucky enough to have travelled quite
widely, touring through America and Canada in the
late seventies, doing all the State and National Parks
west of a line from Dakota to Texas. I’ve pursued my
passion for fly fishing which has taken me to The
Bahamas, America, Cuba and beyond. Whether it’s
the hot sun on the flats of Andros Island, freezing
winds and cold in Alaska, dust and sand in the Arizona
desert, or heavy rain in the Canadian northwest, you
will need reliable, quality equipment to get the very
most enjoyment out of your adventures in the wild
places of the world.
I really enjoy working at the shop, meeting people,
hearing where they’ve been or where they’re going
next. After working in the telecoms industry for
the last 38 years, this job is just good fun. So come
and see us at George Fisher; we love to talk to you
about what you’ll be doing, hopefully giving help and
information that will make your trip more enjoyable.
WITH ICEBREAKER
BASE LAYERS
Graham Thompson is the Technical Editor of
Trail Magazine. He also an Msc in Companion
Animal Behaviour Counselling and is a Full
Member of the Association of Pet Behaviour
Counsellors, a Certificated Clinical Animal
Behaviourist and he is on the Animal Behaviour
& Training Council Register of Clinical Animal
Behaviourists.
NEW SEASON AVAILABLE AT GEORGE FISHER NOW
17
ANNIVERSARY
TRAVERSE
abraham’s cafe
takeaway
Our man in Chamonix, mountain guide
MARK SEATON, describes his standout climb
this year: a traverse of the Matterhorn.
No, we’re not offering a takeaway service from our famous Abraham’s Cafe
just yet. But by popular demand we do have two new offerings; the justpublished Abraham’s Café Recipe Book, and our iconic placemats are now
available to buy in store or online at www.georgefisher.co.uk.
T
his is a brief account of an ascent of the Matterhorn via the Italian Lion
Ridge, followed by the descent of the Hornli Ridge into Switzerland. Our
climb was made even more special because it coincided with the 150th
anniversary of the first ascent of the Matterhorn.
Abraham’s Café
The Recipe Book
I have read a lot about this famous first ascent and the conclusion I have come
to is that the climbers were, in hindsight, ill-advisedly cobbled together at the
last minute by Edward Whymper. Whymper was undoubtedly a very brilliant
mountaineer, yet possibly a driven over-achiever and the desire to be first on the
summit of the Matterhorn may have clouded his judgement. The team consisted
of a couple of inexperienced aristocrats plus Swiss and French mountain guides;
critically, none could speak each other’s languages! It is well documented that
half the team did not make it back.
For Charles Sherwood and I, attempting a traverse like this out of the normal
season (it was a snowy September) has its advantages and disadvantages. The
clear advantage is that the mountain is not mobbed by loads of other climbers.
Nor is it so warm (therefore less risk of rock fall), and often the weather is more
stable. The disadvantage was that the route had a lot of late season snow on
it. We didn’t know if this would make the route more difficult or impossible. In
addition, the mountaineering infrastructure (cable cars, mountain huts etc)
begins to close down.
I say begins, but in fact it had already closed down in Italy, thus leaving us
nowhere to stay and a massive approach walk to get into position. We started
by taking the lift formerly known as the Klein Matterhorn, but now bizarrely
renamed the “Alpine Glacier Mountain Paradise”, to its summit and then walking
down the summer ski piste until we arrived at the very comfortable Theodul
Refugio where we spent the night. Next morning we left at about 7.00am and
walked down the pistes towards Cervina. A more inauspicious start to our trip
is hard to imagine. We were now below the summer skiing, and Cervina without
snow is not a pretty sight. We arrived at the lowest cable car in Cervina, Plan
Maison, turned right and started the 1,345m ascent to the Carrel bivouac hut,
stopping en route by the frustratingly closed Abruzzi Refugio to fill our water
bottles. The Carrel doesn’t have a reliable water supply.
I cannot get my head around the fact that this is only a bivouac hut by the fact
there is no guardian. It is easily busy enough to warrant one. Despite it being low
season, it was packed and because there was no guardian to police the place, a
sort of chaos ensued. It doesn’t bear thinking about what it must be like in high
season.
The hut dormitory was a double bench on either side of the door which stretched
the length of the room, with a jumble of manky blankets which were necessary
because it was cold. We carried our own stove, which was just as well because
there was considerable competition for the dodgy hut gas burner.
Soon after dinner, our morale was dented by the return of party of three who had
spent 15 hours failing to get anywhere near the top. Still at least they returned...
Breakfast didn’t come around fast enough and we were off at 5am. Immediately
we were in a queue behind two parties. The first were so scared of the overhanging
combination of rope and chain that they freaked out, and were passed by Charles
and I and another Guide and his client. Fortunately I decided to tuck in behind
this Guide and it was therefore he who took the rock on the helmet and not me.
Despite feeling dizzy he promised me he would be okay and so we forged ahead
and immediately found ourselves in the dark and alone.
18
“The route is consistently
steep, intimidating and
strenuous; far more difficult
than the Hornli ridge.”
The route is consistently steep, intimidating and strenuous; far more difficult
than the Hornli ridge. Dawn broke as we ascended to the distinctive horizontal
section of the ridge before the final steep tower. Progress along the flat bit
was slower than anticipated because it is in fact full of notches that have to be
negotiated by firstly climbing down into them and then back up again, while not
actually making much useful progress. It was at one of these notches that we met
a soloing American climber. Although he caught us up, he was reluctant to pass
and wanted to become my second client of the day. I rather view gaining another
client halfway up a route, rather like a ship taking on salvage: Potentially a
nightmare situation. My solution was to avoid the discussion by dithering around,
fiddling in my rucksack and generally not moving till he got bored and decided he
would be better off on his own.
At the heart of our store is Abraham’s Cafe
with its spectacular views; the perfect
place to relax, unwind and plan your next
adventure. We create our delicious dishes
from locally-sourced produce to create a
wide-ranging menu for lunch, tea or just a
reviving coffee. Here’s the perfect present for
fans of Abraham’s Café in the George Fisher
store! We hope that you enjoy recreating some
of our café’s favourite recipes at home as much
as we have enjoyed serving them to you since
1991.
Recipe Book: £6.00
Abraham’s Café Placemats
At long last, and in response to years of requests… here they are! A series
of laminated Lake District pictorial maps that make perfect presents. Plan
a walk over breakfast, reflect on a ramble in the afternoon, or remember
great days on the fells and travelling around. A great conversation piece
for your table settings or a chance to daydream from a distance.
THE
T I L L E Y H AT
Placemats: £10.00 for a set of 4
GUARANTEED FOR LIFE
More fixed ropes which you have to climb hand over hand (which is hard at over
4,400 metres) then an overhanging rope ladder, then finally the summit slopes.
We arrived on the Italian summit at 10.30am. The position was jaw dropping; an
incredible place to be. We then traversed to the Swiss summit. As always with the
Matterhorn, you need to save two thirds of your energy and concentration for the
descent. The real business starts now.
The descent of the Hornli ridge was as we anticipated - snowy. However, the snow
was néve and it actually made it easier than when it is just rock. It also made
route finding easier because all we needed to do was follow the footsteps in the
snow. Normally as a guide you are constantly saying go left, go right to your
client who is roped in front of you on the descent. We passed many weary parties,
some who were still on their way up. Eventually we arrived at the Hornli hut,
the traditional starting point for climbing the Matterhorn from the Swiss side.
Although we were tired we elected to continue on down to the Schwarzsee Hotel
where we knew the accommodation and refreshments were at a different level to
the Hornli Hut. An hour and a bit later we finally stopped and celebrated with a
couple of big beers each: one for the thirst, and one for the pleasure!
I N D I S P U TA B LY T H E F I N E S T
OUTDOOR HAT IN THE WORLD.
HANDCRAFTED IN CANADA SINCE 1980,
FOR MEN AND WOMEN WORLDWIDE.
Tel: 01326 574402
prize winners
Winners of the Patagonia Refugitive Jacket competition in Issue 92
are Zoe Hancock from Kings Lynn, and Adrian Cook from Macclesfield.
Staying locally? Ask your accommodation provider for a George
Fisher Walk Plan and you could be a winner. The winner of the latest
‘Walk Plan Draw’ is Chris Wallis who was staying at Goodwin House,
Keswick. Chris and the guesthouse owner both get £50 George
Fisher vouchers.
www.Tilley.com
19
OUR NEW WEBSITE IS LIVE!
A
t last, we’ve finally launched our new website. As you would expect, it is responsive
to all devices and has a much improved and efficient e-commerce platform. However,
as well as improving our ‘shopping pathway’, we have spent a lot of time and effort on
creating a website that reflects the retail experience you get when visiting our George
Fisher store in Keswick.
Rather than build a site that pushes products and deals, the new georgefisher.co.uk site is
based on interaction, engagement and inspiration. As well as being an outdoor retailer, we
are also outdoor enthusiasts and we want to show what inspires us to get out and active.
One of the most regular comments from people who visit our store is their pleasure
in finding a set of people who understand their passion for the outdoors and are able
to help them prepare for their next adventures. The community aspect of our website
mirrors this aspect of the George Fisher ‘bricks and mortar’ experience, and gives you
a chance to find some inspiration for your next journey into the outdoors. Everyone will
have the opportunity to contribute their enthusiasm for the outdoors by sharing images
and outdoor experiences through blogs, galleries and reviews - between us we can build a
website that will inform, entertain and inspire!
As you can imagine there’s still lots to do with the website as it stands - it’s still very much
a work in progress. Take a look, sign up to join our community, explore what we’ve created
and let us know what you think.
Published by George Fisher Limited, 2 Borrowdale Road,
Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DA
Tel: 017687 72178
Website: www.georgefisher.co.uk
Email: customerservice@georgefisher.co.uk
Contributions welcome. The publishers of The Update would like to thank all contributors to this edition, noting that
the opinions expressed in submitted articles are those of their authors, and not necessarily of George Fisher Ltd.
Editor: Clive Allen | Design: MountainCreative.co.uk
Printed by Reeds Printers Penrith (Tel: 01768 864214)
Printed on 100% Recycled Paper

ANNIVERSARY TRAVERSE WHICH WATCH

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