I always seem to be saying this as an introduction, but it's been a while! I must admit I don't really follow the social media mantra of constantly pumping out content; I'd rather wait until we have something worth saying or sharing.
On that note, I'd like to introduce our latest brand....Haglofs of Sweden. To be honest, I've watched Haglofsever since we've launched in 2011, but didn't feel...
The Right kit
Arctic Expedition training
Posted 11 April 2016
Looking for an Arctic adventure? Want to learn new winter skills to survive extreme conditions, both physical and mental, that you’d encounter on an Arctic expedition? Then read on...
For several years, we’ve been sending our customers on the excellent ATEArctic Training and Expedition courses. Drawing on decades of experience, with expeditions to Antarctica, Greenland, the North Pole and the...
Tuner Twins try out Brynje
Posted 22 September 2015
Hugo and Ross are two charismatic brothers whose curiosity has set them on an unconventional life path that searches for answers by attempting new quests which combine pioneering medical research and unique studies of historic expeditions. The twins’ adventure passion was ignited when Hugo was involved in a freak diving accident- sustaining a broken neck, aged 17. Three hospitals, a neck...
Dermizax - The worlds most famous unknown waterproof membrane
Posted 30 April 2015
We get asked a lot of questions about the waterproof membrane, Dermizax®, that Bergans use in their clothing. So, we decided to put out some information explaining about the membrane, and why a PU type membrane is a very good thing!
This write up is definitely for the gear geeks!
Dermizax® uses membranes made from a super thin film of polyurethane. A PU film performs by moving moisture in...
Short Guest Blog: A "Tough Guy" competitor uses Brynje......and loves it!
Posted 12 February 2015
Tough Guy, not so tough with Brynje........
Having almost exhausted all baselayer options whilst completing my 5 previous Tough Guy events and still not finding the magic bullet, I stuck on an old string vest last year as an afterthought and to my amazement it not only worked but made a noticeable difference. My thoughts then went straight to Nordic Life and Brynje, as I already own lots of their...
Bergans Geita soft shell Winter hiking and climbing trousers
Posted 02 February 2015
It's been WAY too long since I've posted anything.....such is life right now! I've been meaning to post something on these awesome trousers (pants to our American audience) for a while, the Bergans Geita soft shell winter trousers
More and more people seem to be taking to the activity of winter walking, which is great, provided you have the right knowledge, skills and kit (probably in that order)...
More and more people seem to be taking to the activity of winter walking, which is great, provided you have the right knowledge, skills and kit (probably in that order)...
Bergans Sleeping Bags
Posted 17 March 2014
As some of you will know, Bergans have a MASSIVE range of kit they produce, including Ski, hunting, walking kit to tents sleeping bags and rucksacks. We've been sticking pretty closely to the clothing side previously, but we are slowly looking at some of the other options available. Bergans obviously have a very good reputation in Norway, and are well known for their sleeping bags and rucksacks.
So...
So...
Guest Post by Ed Douglas: Following in Shackleton's footsteps in South Georgia
Posted 04 March 2014
What do you wear at the end of the world? South Georgia certainly felt like the end of the world. It’s several days sailing from the Falkland Islands, across what one sailor described to me as the maritime Himalaya. The Southern Ocean is wild, remote and above all windy.
There’s no dress code down there, so you’re on your own – and it’s not an easy decision. You’re going to face pretty much every...
There’s no dress code down there, so you’re on your own – and it’s not an easy decision. You’re going to face pretty much every...
Bergans Krosso - Probably the best trousers in the World....
Posted 28 January 2014
As the title of the post suggest, after a year and a half of wearing the Bergans Krosso trousers, I've come to REALLY like them. I pretty much wear them ALL the time. I've had them scrambling in Switzerland, Wales, Lake District. I've traveled on long haul flights wearing them, all the way through to be my first choice office wear. They are so comfortable to wear, I wish they were acceptable...
Capo Lombardia "First Look" Review
Posted 15 November 2013
There's that time between end of summer and deepest winter where kitting up for cycling can be a challenge. You generally need warmer stuff.....but not winter warm......and you almost always need weather protection.....but not too much or you end up being a sweaty mess! So what could possible fit into that gap I hear you say? Well, there's no denying that the Castelli Gabba has done this very...
Arctic Expedtion Training course - January 22nd 2014
Posted 17 October 2013
Here's a heads-up that we are running our yearly Arctic Expedition Training course again this year, in conjunction with ATE of Norway.
Here's a videowhich basically gives you a good idea of what's on the course. It's an awesome course and gives you a real flavor of what it takes to do a cold weather expedition, large or small. You'll learn skills and techniques that cross over to UK winters as well...
Here's a videowhich basically gives you a good idea of what's on the course. It's an awesome course and gives you a real flavor of what it takes to do a cold weather expedition, large or small. You'll learn skills and techniques that cross over to UK winters as well...
Gloves for Winter - Mitts rule!
Posted 09 October 2013
I find myself sitting here looking at the window on a bright sunny October, 20C outside and I'm thinking about winter mittens! It got too late as we left spring behind this year, to write about all things winter glove related, but as we are getting more glove orders in, I thought I'd better put fingers to keyboard.
So these observations are drawn from my time in Norway on the Arctic Expedition...
So these observations are drawn from my time in Norway on the Arctic Expedition...
Bergans Geita "Best in Test" review by Grough.co.uk
Posted 25 September 2013
OE Magazine "Best in Test" for Brynje
Posted 19 September 2013
Bergans Helium 55L rucksack Review by Section Hiker (aka Philip Werner)
Posted 19 August 2013
If you want to buy one, get in touch email@nordiclife.co.uk
Review of the Capo SC-12 short sleeve jersery and shorts by BIKERADAR
Posted 10 August 2013
TGO and OE Magazine's review of the Bergans Helium womens' jacket
Posted 09 August 2013
You can buy the womens' here .....buy the way, it's on SALE!
Here is the review by TGO Magazine . Buy the mens' version here
One more review......Mountain weekly News . Buy the mens' version here
Here is the review by TGO Magazine . Buy the mens' version here
One more review......Mountain weekly News . Buy the mens' version here
Capo Padrone Bibshorts: Part 2
Posted 19 July 2013
So, as promised, here is the update on the Capo Padrone bibshorts . If you read the last post, you'll have read about the excellent stability, the compressional qualities and the coldblack® cooling technology. The questions is, how much of that performance was down to the technology? Well, after four decent rides in increasingly warmer weather I think I have the answer......
The rides where all...
The rides where all...
Some more reviews of Capo Kit
Posted 08 July 2013
Thought I'd share some reviews of the Capo gear out there to try and balance my own views. Make a cup of tea, grab a chocolate biscuit and have a read!
Older post, but the kit has only improved! Pezcyclingnews
A first look at the summer kit. Girodilento
A view from across the pond! GS-13 review
Check out our Capo collection here
Older post, but the kit has only improved! Pezcyclingnews
A first look at the summer kit. Girodilento
A view from across the pond! GS-13 review
Check out our Capo collection here
First Look at Capo by Girodilento
Posted 14 June 2013
Quick link to a "First Look" at Capo Cycling by the Blog Girodilento
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| Capo SC-12 Short sleeve jersey |
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| Capo GS-13 short sleeve jersey |
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| Capo Pursuit short sleeve jersey |
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| Capo Modena short sleeve jersey |
Capo Padrone Bibshorts
Posted 29 May 2013
It's finally arrived! The latest brand to join the Nordiclife family is Capo ......an American label made in Italy. Click here and scroll down to check out our brief overview.
One of the reasons everyone at Nordiclife is exited about the brand is that it's as yet unknown in the UK. In some states in the US, it holds the honor of second or third best selling brand, but the leap across the pond is...
One of the reasons everyone at Nordiclife is exited about the brand is that it's as yet unknown in the UK. In some states in the US, it holds the honor of second or third best selling brand, but the leap across the pond is...
Bikeradar review of Bergans Kjerag Soft Shell jacket
Posted 15 March 2013
It's a Runners World
Posted 03 January 2013
We have made a brief appearance in this months (actually Feb) Runners World, and we've been working with the team there so they can really put the mesh to the test. Initial results are very encouraging, but there are more reviews to come!
We also had a good review in Trail running. Of course, this kit is already used by runners in Scandinavia but we are helping UK users find out about the benefits...
We also had a good review in Trail running. Of course, this kit is already used by runners in Scandinavia but we are helping UK users find out about the benefits...
Brynje Antarctic Merino jacket
Posted 09 December 2012
So I was out on the Ashdown Forest today and thought I'd make use of my iPhone to filma short clip. It's probably the way forward for reviews as photos are sssoooo last century (I'm told).
Maybe we'll be doing more of these so let us know what you think (yes, I want to hear back from all three of you!).
Maybe we'll be doing more of these so let us know what you think (yes, I want to hear back from all three of you!).
Hestra Tracker Soft shell gloves
Posted 09 October 2012
FINALLY got cold enough to test some of the Hestra Glove range we have got in. Sunday got down to about 5C, so I took out the Hestra Tracker Soft Shell gloves out on our ride.
I was excited to be dressed up again for winter, but I felt suspiciously snug in my kit. I had warm bib tights, Brynje Super Thermo 3/4 neck top, Sprint 3/4 neck Zip polo over that with a Altura Transformer jacket to top it...
I was excited to be dressed up again for winter, but I felt suspiciously snug in my kit. I had warm bib tights, Brynje Super Thermo 3/4 neck top, Sprint 3/4 neck Zip polo over that with a Altura Transformer jacket to top it...
The Cycle Show, NEC
Posted 04 October 2012
No reviews here today, just a quick write-up on the Cycle show from the NEC, Birmingham. It was my first year going as a Trade Customer, and the one big difference is......you can't buy anything! Slightly frustrating for a gear nut like myself, but after running into the same issue at several stands, I got the message. I was there to look at the stuff coming down the pipe for next year and to keep...
Bergans Imingen pants go fishing
Posted 09 August 2012
It's been a VERY busy few weeks, although has also been a lot of fun. It all started with a trip to the US to visit family and to go to one of our favorite places on earth, Stehekin, Washington. Nestled deep in the North Cascade mountain range, this amazing little village is the Eastern gateway to the mountains.....and they have some fantastic mountains. I wrote a small piece last year on climbing...
Super Micro T-shirt gets a workout!
Posted 08 July 2012
Have been using the Brynje Super Micro T-shirtall this week due to the "warm" weather. To be fair it was warm on Wednesday when I decided to try running in just the Super Micro T-shirt. It was also a very humid day with the temperature about 22C. One of the great challenges of summer activities is finding something to keep you cool, without getting sodden. There are two obvious reservations for...
Perfection......but just for a few hours!
Posted 20 June 2012
I love it when I get it right. Being male, married and a little outspoken (only in a nice way) I tend to think this happens more often than it actually does......this is where the "married" bit comes in, as my wife is "able" to "help" correct me sometimes.
However, on this particular Sunday morning a few weeks ago, I got it JUST RIGHT! Unfortunately it wasn't picking the winner at Ascot, numbers...
However, on this particular Sunday morning a few weeks ago, I got it JUST RIGHT! Unfortunately it wasn't picking the winner at Ascot, numbers...
A scramble worthy of the name
Posted 12 June 2012
Back in testing mode this week as I had the opportunity to go home to God's country .....Wales (I know, this is a matter of opinion.....but it's my opinion!). I was, of course, spoiled for choice when it came to routes, but I headed up to Tryfan and my old stomping grounds from my youth! Tryfan is my favorite mountain in the UK (OK, I have not climbed them all, but until I do Tryfan has it), and...
New Bergans soft shell trousers and top
Posted 24 May 2012
Ah! Finally the work load of modern life has allowed me a slither of free time to catch up with the blog! Spent yesterday breaking down our camp after the weekend, then the rest of the day putting tents and Lavus back up to wash and dry!
Anyway, it's been a great week for outdoors adventures for me, starting with my trip up Kinder Scout with Jon Doran of Outdoorsmagic. We arranged to meet at the...
Anyway, it's been a great week for outdoors adventures for me, starting with my trip up Kinder Scout with Jon Doran of Outdoorsmagic. We arranged to meet at the...
Outdoorsmagic is really MAGIC!
Posted 18 May 2012
Spent yesterday heading up Kinder Scout with Jon Doran of Outdoorsmagic. Had a great time and talked a lot of kit.....brilliant. I learned a lot from Jon, and his first impressions of the Brynje mesh was very positive.
http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/gear-blog/my-baselayer-is-made-of-holes/9635.html
Will post more later including a review of some of our Bergans kit. Enjoy!
http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/gear-blog/my-baselayer-is-made-of-holes/9635.html
Will post more later including a review of some of our Bergans kit. Enjoy!
Underated kit- The head band!
Posted 05 May 2012
One of the great things about getting old......er, I mean older, is that you're not so worried about how you look, and this opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to kit! Outlandish colours, ill fitting lycra, tight base layers over a pot belly....it's all good! Into this category I would probably put the "Headband". A staple of 1980's basketball players, tennis aficionados and fell...
Bergans - New kid on the block
Posted 28 April 2012
As some of you know, we have taken on another Nordic brand......Bergans of Norway. We are in the process of getting the the website re-vamped to incorporate this, but in the meantime, I've already started testing some of this great kit.
Today, I was scouting out a new mountain bike route with my dog, and threw on my new Bergans Kjerag Softshell.
It's the lightest soft shell they do, and so it's not...
Today, I was scouting out a new mountain bike route with my dog, and threw on my new Bergans Kjerag Softshell.
A new combo - Super Micro with Windproof shirt
Posted 28 April 2012
Yesterday was a fairly quiet day so a friend and I decided to do a fast 28miler during lunch. We both had kids to pick up at 3pm so we had to "get it done"!
It was 14C but windy.....a cool wind, so I though it was warm enough to try the Brynje Super Micro T-Shirt with an Altura Transfomer wind jacket over it. This was a new combo for me, but I wanted to test my dressing skill, and thought it to be...
It was 14C but windy.....a cool wind, so I though it was warm enough to try the Brynje Super Micro T-Shirt with an Altura Transfomer wind jacket over it. This was a new combo for me, but I wanted to test my dressing skill, and thought it to be...
Brynje in the worlds Highest mountain bike race - YAK ATTACK!
Posted 24 April 2012
We recently gave some kit to the organizers of Yak Attack....the worlds highest mountain bike. This is what they had to say about the Super Thermo long sleeve shirt.....
"Byrnje Super Thermo Long Sleeve shirt.
Packing for Yak Attack, the highest mountain bike on Earth, is a challenge in itself. With a 10kg luggage allowance and a temperature range from +30c during the first few days down to around...
Packing for Yak Attack, the highest mountain bike on Earth, is a challenge in itself. With a 10kg luggage allowance and a temperature range from +30c during the first few days down to around...
A drowned rat? Not I!
Posted 19 April 2012
So I've just got back from Norway and brought a few new prototypes back with me to test. There's nothing like going round a factory going "I'll have one of them....and ooo! That's looks cool , I'll have one of them too!" However, the reality is they need to be tested and so it was I headed out after work to take the dog for a run on the Ashdown forest......in the rain. Yes, it has actually rained...
A Norseman tribute-These guys are nuts!
Posted 12 April 2012
Guess what kit they are wearing underneath? For a clue....check out the Balaclava at the end!
Review by Dr Rory O'Connor after his recent Antarctic crossing
Posted 02 April 2012
Here is a review by Dr Rory O'Connor on Brynje clothing during his crossing of Antarctica. The Norwegian team that Rory traveled with all wore Brynje, and Rory's kit was sponsored by Nordic Life.
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Run in the Spring sun.....what to wear?
Posted 27 March 2012
Finally time to sit down and share some knowledge on what I've been wearing the last few weeks.....sounds a bit voyeuristic, but hey I do wear mesh underwear for a living(almost!).
So the weather has been getting better day by day almost and profits are getting worse and worse! So how can you use the Brynje kit to run/bike/ walk or climb in this warmer weather?
I was out on a run last week when I...
Video promo of trip with ATE
Posted 22 February 2012
I still owe everyone a write up on Day three....I know, I know.....in the meantime here is the promo video for the course.......spot the Brynje kit!
Arctic Training and Expedition part 2
Posted 20 February 2012
Sorry for the delay.......I told my folks I'd be writing about this trip and they expected it all done by the next day! Modern life just doesn't allow it! Anyway........!
Day 2 started very nicely with a great breakfast at 8am. We also made sandwiches for lunch, which I like, because you can load them up to your hearts content.....unlike some of the skimpily filled store bought sandwiches. Needles...
Day 2 started very nicely with a great breakfast at 8am. We also made sandwiches for lunch, which I like, because you can load them up to your hearts content.....unlike some of the skimpily filled store bought sandwiches. Needles...
Arctic Training and Expedition part 1
Posted 13 February 2012
I have spent the last four days running through ATE's Arctic Expedition training intro course and hence have not had time to write about it......so here it is a few days late!
First of all a quick intro.....ATE are a company based in Central Norway made up of experts in the field of Arctic travel and expedition. They also have access to experts in outdoor skills, cooking and living in nature....
First of all a quick intro.....ATE are a company based in Central Norway made up of experts in the field of Arctic travel and expedition. They also have access to experts in outdoor skills, cooking and living in nature....
First visit to the Cairngorms
Posted 27 January 2012
Earlier this week I had the great privileged of visiting the Cairngorms with Chris Townsend of TGO Magazine . He is a very experienced walker/skier/winter climber and has fantastic local knowledge and history of the area.
We met up at the obligatory Mountain Cafe in Aviemore, where I proceeded to tell him all about Brynje, piling clothes high up in front of him so by the end I could barely see him!...
We met up at the obligatory Mountain Cafe in Aviemore, where I proceeded to tell him all about Brynje, piling clothes high up in front of him so by the end I could barely see him!...