Chelston Direct Blog

Walking Good, Running Bad!

2012-01-06T16:13:00.002Z

In a study conducted by scientists at the University of Loughborough, it has been found that whilst regular moderate exercise can help to boost the immune system, too much exercise can have the opposite effect. Professor Mike Gleeson has concluded that activity such as going for a good long walk can help to strengthen the body’s defences against such infections as the common cold, sinusitis and seasonal influenza. Too much exercise could be just as bad as too little for the immune system. According to Professor Gleeson, “different levels of exercise significantly increase or decrease the chances of catching an upper-respiratory tract infection.”

Activity Determines Susceptibility

Putting on your outdoor clothing and undertaking a “brisk walk” each day could “reduce your chance of catching a respiratory infection by up to a third” confirmed Professor Gleeson. If you are taking little or no exercise, you are likely to have an “average risk of catching an infection, typically two or three times a year.” It seems that these “couch potatoes” are just as at risk as marathon runners to catch a cold!

Moderation is the Key

Following prolonged periods of strenuous exercise, Gleeson found that the “likelihood of an individual becoming ill actually increases.” Directly following a marathon, people are between two and six times more likely to develop an upper respiratory infection. It is thought that the heavy training involved in preparing for a marathon suppresses the cells that fight infection, whilst moderate exercise boosts their performance.

New Nova Scotia Ski Helmet Law set to be World’s Toughest

2011-12-30T14:28:00.001Z

From next winter, visitors to Nova Scotia’s slopes will be met with stringent new laws regarding the use of safety helmets, said to be the world’s strictest. Skiers and snowboarders not wearing the correct safety equipment would be hit with a $250 fine from officers enforcing the new law. The law is in response to the statistic that 11 people have experienced traumatic brain injuries since the year 2000 that were related to skiing or snowboarding without using a ski helmet.

Activities that “Should be enjoyed safely”

Maureen MacDonald, the Minister of Health and Wellness is a staunch supporter of the new law, stating, “Many Nova Scotians enjoy activities like skiing and snowboarding, but these are activities that should be enjoyed safely.” MacDonald went on to assert that the use of correct safety equipment could “greatly reduce the risk of suffering a traumatic injury and could be the one thing on the hill that saves a life.”

Not Just Whilst Skiing

The use of helmets in Nova Scotia is not just helping those who prefer to strap on a set of ski boots. The Canadian province boasts the highest proportion of cyclists using helmets, and in turn has the lowest rate of injuries related to cycling. The law for those on the slopes is intended to reduce the risk for winter sports enthusiasts, whilst not impinging too much on their enjoyment of the pastime.

Lost Hiker “Didn’t Think he’d Survive”

2011-12-26T09:41:00.002Z

82-year-old Bruce Charity did not expect to be out for too long when he set off for one of his regular strolls last Monday afternoon. After his walk took a disastrous turn, and he ended up lying down to sleep in a soaking jacket, Charity did not expect to wake up the following morning. At one stage, he remembers looking at his watch, seeing that the time was 10 p.m. and thinking “what the heck? I’m 82 years old; I’ve got to go sonetime.”

A Near Fatal Wrong Turn

Charity’s problems began when he got a bit lost in the woods close to his home, taking a trail “that really wasn’t a trail.” Hoping to find another trail, Charity kept going, but instead got hopelessly lost, and darkness, along with the temperature was falling. In attempting to seek help from a fellow walker with a torch, Charity made what could have been a grave mistake, in misjudging the depth of a stream. He initially believed it to be around a foot deep, but quickly found he was mistaken as he became submerged. Thankfully a police helicopter found him after his wife raised the alarm when Charity did not return home.

Do not Make the Same Mistakes

Going for a lone winter hike can be fantastic, but can be fraught with dangers. Ensure that you have sufficient outdoor clothing for the cold weather, and make sure you have notified somebody of your intended route, and expected time of return. A good torch can also help you to be found if you get lost.

Swindon’s Hikers get Surfing to Find New Routes

2011-12-08T15:55:00.001Z

A brand new website detailing some of the best routes for hikers around Swindon has been launched. The Get Walking in Swindon site is aimed at all those who want to get (or indeed remain) healthy, as it promotes the aims of leading a healthy lifestyle. The site is the result of a partnership between Swindon Council’s leisure services department and the local Ramblers, with some funding coming from an NHS funded project, Walk Swindon. Containing routes and information about walking groups, the site is designed to inspire people to pull on their outdoor clothing and get active.

Encouragement to Enjoy Walking

At the heart of the project is the idea that people should find walking enjoyable, and if they do, they are more likely to continue. The site follows similar projects that have proved popular in Durham, Manchester and Sheffield, and contains routes that have been created by a group of local volunteers. Whilst the first routes have been posted, more are expected in the New Year.

A “Wonderful Project”

The bulk of the routes are short, between one and three miles, but others go up to the five-mile mark. Routes that are accessible to wheelchair users are flagged up on the site, allowing all to get involved and get active. Pat Crabb of the local Ramblers group called the site a “wonderful project. We’ve really enjoyed working with the council to encourage people to get to their feet and experience the benefits of walking.”

British Explorer Finally Begins Epic Antarctic Voyage

2011-11-28T16:09:00.001Z

The 33-year-old British explorer Felicity Aston has at last set off on her epic and historic voyage, as she hopes to become the first woman to cross the frozen continent alone. With no more than a pair of skis, rather a lot of outdoor clothing and her supplies, Aston is attempting a journey of over 1,000 miles, which is expected to take around 70 days. After waiting in her base camp for the weather to improve, the conditions have finally relented, allowing the voyage to begin. Aston announced via her Twitter feed that the epic journey had begun, “having breakfast looking at the mountains. The quiet will take some getting used to. With the first step of my journey, I start the long road home.”

Historic Trek

If she completes the trek, Aston will become the first person to have crossed the continent using muscle power alone, in doing so setting the record for the longest solo polar expedition carried out by a female explorer. In 1997, Norwegian explorer Boerge Ousland took 64 days to cross Antarctica, but harnessed the power of the wind when it blew in his favour using a large parachute style sail.

Heading for the Transantarctic Mountains

Aston’s first challenge on her long journey will be to tackle the Transantarctic Mountains. This will lead her onto the continent’s central plateau. Aston is an experienced adventurer, having previously explored the Canadian Arctic, and crossing the Greenland ice sheet, but this is by far her largest and toughest challenge yet.

Enter Our Facebook Competition

2011-11-23T17:15:00.004Z

Head East for Skiing Bargains

2011-10-27T18:18:00.003+01:00

Holidaymakers heading towards the slopes this winter are being advised to head east in order to keep costs down, avoiding pricier destinations such as Switzerland. As the pound has slumped against the Swiss franc, this already-expensive country for skiing has become dearer still for holidaymakers. Resorts in countries such as Bulgaria are likely to benefit from this situation, offering top quality skiing, and much more bang for your buck.

Costs of Skiing
The Post Office’s annual Ski Resort Report assesses European resorts against a number of criteria, ranking them in order of cost. Various elements, including lift passes, equipment hire, ski tuition, food, and drink are used to determine the most economical ski resorts by the report. Top of the pile is the Bulgarian resort, Bansko, which was £100 cheaper than its nearest rival, Arinsal in Andorra was. Both of these resorts have seen their prices decrease by five per cent since the last report, whereas Swiss resorts have endured a 26 per cent increase, mainly due to currency fluctuation as well as resort charges.

Go East, Skiing’s Cheaper There
If your idea of a great holiday is putting on your ski wear and heading for the slopes, your most economical route is therefore going to be to head away from some of the more established Swiss resorts. Sarah Munro, Post Office’s head of travel money thinks that as pressure on budgets increases, “resort costs are likely to be a key factor in determining resort choice this year.”

Columbia Sportswear Skiing Expert Zach Crist

2011-09-13T16:25:00.000+01:00

Shark Attack Victim Receives Emotional Farewell

2011-09-09T16:31:00.002+01:00

Those in the surfing community will be well aware of the fate met by the unfortunate Kyle Burden last weekend. Whilst surfing in Bunker Bay, the 21-year-old was fatally mauled by a shark. By way of a tribute, over 100 of Burden’s friends, family and members of the wider surfing community attended his memorial service, before around 50 surfers donned their wetsuits and took part in a paddle-out, joining hands at the spot where he was attacked on Sunday.

A Good Time to Cry

Sharon Burden, Kyle’s mother paid tribute to the police and emergency services who had helped the family deal with their loss, as well as thanking friends and the local community for their support. The occasion was labelled a “good time to cry” by police chaplain Keith Carmody, before stressing that it was also “a good time for people to laugh and share memories.” As well as remembering Kyle, the paddle-out also served a reminder of the constant presence of the ocean’s inhabitants.

Vigilance is Key

The paddle-out was joined by sea rescue craft, as there were shark sightings on Monday afternoon around 50 kilometres south of the area. A great white shark is thought to be responsible for the attack on Kyle last weekend. Surfers signed a surfboard in memory of Kyle, whilst all those present felt that the send-off was fitting for a young man who loved the ocean so much.

“Sick Jumps” Capture the Imagination

2011-08-30T20:19:00.001+01:00

The rise of freestyle ski and snowboard events that has culminated in the addition of new events for 2014’s winter Olympics is built on the audience’s insatiable desire for thrills. When a competitor has hurtled down a slope to catch “the big air”, the audience usually descend into a silent rapture, which only erupts once the jump has been landed. These so-called “sick jumps” are the cornerstone of events in the Winter Games New Zealand, which concluded last week, and are sure to be among the standout images when the Olympic roadshow touches down in Sochi in 2014.

Courage and Skill

Two of the biggest attributes of a successful freestyle skier are courage and skill. A quick and agile mind is almost as useful as a quick and agile body, as calculations of speed, wind, and distance are needed to ensure the jump is not only landed, but the required tricks and combos are pulled off. Such is the importance put on such events nowadays that nations such as China are providing former divers and gymnasts with ski goggles and ski wear to try to get their hands on some Olympic medals.

Have a Go Yourself

For those of us not fortunate, brave or mad (delete as appropriate) enough to be taking part in the Winter Games, the prospect of strapping on a pair of skis and having a go yourself is not too daunting. With quality ski facilities up and down the country, including flagship centres at Milton Keynes and Manchester, there is no excuse not to blast down a couple of slopes.

Teen’s Hiking Death Latest in a Long Line at Yosemite

2011-08-15T11:39:00.002+01:00

A 17-year-old boy, Kao Kue, was last week rushed to hospital with severe head injuries after taking a plunge in his walking boots at Yosemite National Park – the world famous nature reserve in California, USA.

He was out hiking last Saturday when he lost his footing on the steep, rocky Mist Trail, which is renowned for its difficult terrain, despite its popularity amongst visitors.

After four days of fighting for life, the young man passed away at Doctor’s Medical Center in Modesto, Central California the following Wednesday.

Before Kao, 14 outdoors enthusiasts have died this year alone at Yosemite National Park. There have been six drownings, two falls resulting in death, a car accident that led to a death, and five deaths of natural causes, according to a park ranger.

Controversially, Yosemite will not be including the teenager’s death in its annual statistics for Yosemite fatalities as, although the accident took place within the park, the death itself occurred in hospital and not inside park boundaries, so the official total for 2011 still stands at 14 so far. The official total of deaths within Yosemite park boundaries in 2010 was 15.

Perhaps even more controversially, when interviewed, park officials say they do not feel it is necessary to install more warning signs and/or protective measures to safeguard their visitors.
"We are adamant about educating all of Yosemite's visitors about potential dangers, as well as ensuring that it remains a wild place," said the park ranger.

Hiker in Intensive Care After Rattlesnake Attack

2011-06-22T20:21:00.003+01:00

A 47-year-old man from Fayette County, Pennsylvania, USA is currently in intensive care in Ruby Memorial Hospital in West Virginia after he crossed paths with an aggrieved rattlesnake whilst hiking in the picturesque Dunbar Mountains last Sunday with his wife and two teenage children.

The man, who is a resident of Perryopolis in Pennsylvania, was bitten on the hand as he bent over to pick up the walking stick he had just dropped in the undergrowth, according to the chief of Fayette County Emergency Medical Services, Rick Adobato. He was able to hike for another hour to return to his car with his family, who drove until they obtained a phone signal and dialled 911 at around 2.30pm.

The family then drove another mile to the county fairgrounds to meet an ambulance, by which point the injured man was beginning to lose consciousness.

About the incident, Abodato said, "Much longer and this guy probably wouldn't have made it. You got to add to the walking, you've been bitten. Your pulse rate goes up. The venom is circulating through your body even faster at that point.”

The ill-fated hiker, named Richard Lawson, is said to now be in a stable condition.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources have advised that, while timber rattle snakebites are certainly rare, it is always wise for hikers to take precautions in the form of high-topped leather walking boots and an eagle eye for snakes before sitting down or reaching to the ground around brushes, logs, or rocks. All of these simple measures are ones that may save your life.

Hiker in Intensive Care After Rattlesnake Attack

2011-06-22T20:21:00.001+01:00

Body of Missing Skier Discovered in Washington

2011-06-19T12:03:00.000+01:00

Paul Melby, a 40-year-old man from Lakewood in Washington, took his ski wear to the slopes of Crystal Mountain on March 1st and was last seen skiing by himself on the mountain's High Campbell area, a known spot for advanced skiers.

Repeated attempts were made by search and rescue teams to find the missing skiing enthusiast, however the searches were not successful. The mission was temporarily abandoned, but started again at the beginning of June as the deep snow began to melt.

Last Wednesday afternoon the body of the man was discovered in dense woods known to locals as the 'Mine Shaft' at an elevation of around 5,600 feet by an employee who was skiing through the woods and spotted Melby's skis and semi-buried body amongst the trees, said Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol director Paul Baugher.

His remains were discovered in a tree well and it is presumed he fell in whilst skiing and suffocated. The conditions on the day he went missing have been said to be treacherous: stormy and with heavy snowfall.

Baugher went on to say, "This didn't fit the profile where he would go, but the problem is when you're not with anybody you can be anywhere. A guy like that can ski anything.

“The message is not to ski alone. This could have had a different outcome if he'd had someone there," he continued. "When you're by yourself, there's no margin for error. Our thoughts are with all of Melby’s friends and family as they finally get to say goodbye. He will be deeply missed.”

Naked Hiking is a Hit in Germany

2011-06-16T22:02:00.001+01:00

Just over a year ago, Germany opened its first ever 'nude hiking trail' near the town of Dankerode to cater for the country's growing network of outdoors loving naturists. It has been widely reported that this controversial attraction has been a popular hit with its visitors ever since its opening.

Walking boots and rucksacks will be just about all the outdoor wear you will need if you ever choose to take the 11 mile trek through this designated nudist area. Prepare to see signs warning you “Anyone who doesn’t want to see naked bodies may not proceed further!” as you enter the reserved trail, in a bid to protect any clueless, fully dressed passersby from an unexpected shock.

The move to create the country's first official naturist hiking trail came as a response to the growing number of altercations between clothed hikers and nude hikers encountering one another in the great outdoors. It is no great surprise that the trail, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Harz Mountains, has proved to be so popular, given that the German Society of Nudists sports an impressive membership base of 50,000.

Enthusiasts describe naked hiking as like being in paradise and state that the experience is one of freedom and one that floods you with happiness.

Nudist hiking is also a popular pastime in nearby Switzerland, however this country as of yet lacks any designated trails for the uninhibited naturists out there. This may be soon set to change, however, as the issue of nude hiking is set to be raised in Switzerland’s Supreme Court.

National Parks Good for the Economy and Public Health

2011-06-11T20:10:00.003+01:00

Statistics have recently been released revealing that the UK's 15 National Parks receive more than 70 million visitors each year who spend over 160 million days visiting the parks, which contributes an impressive £4.5 billion to the economy annually. Some of the most sought after National Parks, entry to which is free of charge to the public, include (but are by no means limited to) the Peak and Lake Districts, Snowdonia, the Yorkshire Dales and the Cairngorms.

The chairman of the UK Association of National Park Authorities, Carl Lis, commented, "In such financially austere times it’s good to see the significant value and economic benefits that National Parks deliver for society as a whole and our figures support and reinforce the conclusions of the recently published National Ecosystem Assessment by Government.

"Together with others National Park Authorities make sure that National Parks are kept beautiful, open, and accessible so that everyone can take time out from the stresses of daily life to refresh mind, body, and spirit in stunning natural surroundings."

He also went on to note the many benefits that local businesses and communities see as a result of the tourism in the these unspoilt beauty spots in the form of revenue generated in B&Bs and hotels, shops, eating and drinking establishments and local services.

From the 25th to the 31st of July, it will be the annual National Parks Week again in Britain, in celebration of these awe-inspiring beauty spots and in an attempt to raise awareness of their existence and appeal. Various exciting events and activities will be on offer around the country, so why not strap on your walking boots, and get involved?

Famous Rapper Injured in Jet Ski Accident

2011-06-02T19:04:00.002+01:00

World famous hip hop and rap artist Sean Kingston was seriously injured on Sunday in a jet skiing accident at Miami Beach in Florida, USA.

Both he and an unnamed female passenger crashed head on into a bridge at around 6pm local time whilst riding their jet ski, and went into the sea. Crew on a passing boat raced over in their life jackets and hauled the pair out of the water.

The two victims were rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami and reports say both were taken to the trauma ward, suggesting that they might both be in a critical condition. Official reports are vague, however, with one of Kingston's representatives releasing the following short statement: "Sean Kingston was in an accident today. No further details are available at the moment. He and his family thank everyone for the well-wishes."

Police are investigating the incident and have reported that they do not suspect that alcohol has played a part in the incident.

People around the world will be praying for a full recovery for the 21-year-old “Beautiful Girls” singer and his female friend. After news of the accident surfaced, social micro blogging site Twitter erupted with get-well messages for the star, from both fans and celebrities.

"got my friend @seankingston in my prayers tonight. a true friend and big bro. please keep him in your prayers tonight as well." tweets young singer, Justin Bieber.

Meanwhile Rihanna tweeted "Sean we praying for u baby".

Within hours of the news breaking, the number one topic of discussion on the site became #prayforseankingston, with Jet Ski Crash ranking number seven.

Ireland's 'Holy Mountain' in Danger of Ruin

2011-05-16T18:45:00.003+01:00

Concerns are rising in Ireland over the state of the country's holiest mountain, Croagh Patrick. Locals say the mountain is being worn down and damaged by modern hikers who are failing to respect the nature of the land.

Legend has it that in 441 AD St. Patrick resided on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights whilst fasting, making this a monumental landmark in Ireland's history. However, if popular opinion is right, the mountain may not be there forever if no preventative measures are taken against the damage that is being caused by the hiking enthusiasts in their outdoor clothing.

A local priest, Father Michael Macgreil, warns, "If we don't do something about Croagh Patrick it won't be there in the future" at the latest Western Tourism Organisation AGM in Mayo.

"The growing number of climbers on the mountain is now cutting into the mountain and their heels are digging into the shale on the path. It is not like when pilgrims went up in their bare feet; they didn't damage the path."

It is reported that areas of the pathway that leads to the top of the peak are now virtually inaccessible as a result of the harm being done to the land, which has led to nine medical emergencies to which the Mayo Mountain Rescue team have been called out.

Sadly, visitors are now being warned to avoid climbing to the summit in order to prevent further injuries because of the erosion and treacherous terrain.

Man Killed in Tragic Surfing Accident

2011-05-09T15:42:00.002+01:00

People who were surfing at Currumbin Alley off the Gold Coast of Australia at 8:48am on Sunday 8th May have been left reeling in shock after a man in his forties was killed in a freak accident whilst riding the waves.

The surfer, who has not yet been identified, failed to catch the crest of a wave and as he was coming down a fibreglass boat following shortly behind collided with him, causing serious injury.

The boat did a U-turn to return to the aid of the surfer, and fellow surfers in the surrounding waters also rushed over in their wetsuits to the scene.

Surf-skier Sharon Kyme gave the following account of the tragic events: “I was holding his head and …we had to bandage his head with a towel.

“Once we got him to the boat ramp the lifeguards and ambulance came quickly, helped keep him still, and gave assistance.

“He was not talking, but was breathing.”'

Regional duty officer Inspector Geoff Palmer said that in “an area with surf across the bar and boats going in and out, this had a propensity to happen”. The surfer was rushed to the Gold Coast Hospital in a critical condition where medics were unable to save his life and later pronounced him dead.

The boat driver is said to have been treated for shock.

Palmer warns that this sad event should be a reminder to both surfers and boat users to be more aware of one another when riding the ocean.

Californian Hiker Killed in Tragedy

2011-05-05T15:53:00.002+01:00

When Sean and Christopher Davis, brothers from Rancho Cucamonga, California, put on their outdoor wear and headed for Cucamonga Canyon the last thing they imagined was that only one would return. But after a devastating turn of events this became a reality for the brothers after the pair fell around 100 feet near a waterfall in the Canyon during their hiking trip at 10:15am last Sunday.

However while 22 year old Christopher had his fall broken, his 26 year old brother continued to fall a further 260 feet down the mountainside, making this horrific accident a fatal one for Sean Davis.

Christopher sustained severe leg injuries but was able to crawl to a nearby hiking trail where he was found by a fellow hiker who called Rancho Cucamonga Fire Department for help. A search and rescue team was sent out to find his brother and the Sheriff-Coroner Department pronounced him dead at the scene after the sad discovery had been made.

The sheriff's Air Rescue 6 helicopter embarked upon a rescue mission at 11am to hoist Christopher Davis to safety. He was transferred to a local hospital where he has been treated for serious injuries including a compound fracture to the leg.

It has been reported that the pair of brothers fell from an elevation of 2,300 feet in the Canyon. In a news release the Sheriff's Deputy Carlos Quezada described the area they fell as "very rough, extremely steep and very rugged” and said "People do not normally climb down from the specific section where they had fallen”.

Bodies of Tragic Skiers Uncovered in Wyoming, USA

2011-04-27T10:24:00.002+01:00

Walker Pannell Kuhl and Gregory Seftick, two men in their late twenties and early thirties who had slung on their ski jackets cheerfully on Saturday April 16th, the last day they were seen alive, to embark upon a two-day skiing adventure, were reported missing the following Monday after Kuhl failed to turn up for work.

After an exhausting six-day search, hopes never fading that the pair would be found alive, the bodies of the two men were recovered from beneath 13 feet of snow at 9,000 feet in Garnet Canyon of Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming.

It is thought that an avalanche swept the men away and buried them while they were inside their tents and sleeping bags.

The bodies of the men were discovered after search teams' transceivers detected a signal being emitted by the one of the skiers' avalanche beacons. The searchers are now trying to establish why the signal was only detected late on Saturday, when they had been searching that debris field for two days.

The team were forced to retire before being able to uncover the bodies on Saturday as daylight was fading and the search helicopter's flying hours were limited by regulations, but the rangers flew back to the site on Sunday morning and the sad discovery was made.

The bodies of the men, an emergency room doctor and a US Treasury Department employee, were airlifted to a mortuary in Jackson, Wyoming to be met by their grieving relatives, some of whom were in the valley when the bodies were discovered.

Scottish Skiing Season to be Prolonged by Bubble Wrap

2011-04-19T09:49:00.003+01:00

Skiing enthusiasts in the Cairngorms might be able to don their skiwear for an extra week or two next season, if Professor John McClatchey, a scientist working for the University of the Highland and Island's Environmental Research Institute, has his way.

As climate change is believed to have been leading Scotland's skiing season to progressively shorten year after year, climatologists such as Prof McClatchey have been scratching their heads over how to tackle this growing problem.

The wind, rain, and sun have been plaguing the bank balances of ski resort owners for a lengthy period of time since the conditions have been both blowing away and melting the snow prematurely and creating weak patches on the pistes, cutting the season short by an average of two more days each year.

As McClatchey has proved, sometimes the best ideas are the simplest. In an interview with BBC Radio Scotland he revealed that he had been testing out his theory that bubble wrap laid over areas of ski slopes could delay the snow's deterioration. "I used single coverings, double coverings and ones painted silver to increase the reflectivity of the material” he said, going on to state that ordinary and silver-painted coverings worked best in reducing the effects of the elements.

Ski resort managers will now be looking into the practicalities of McClatchey's recommendations and are hoping to utilise them so they can stretch their skiing seasons out by a further couple of weeks every year.

Columbia Omni-Heat

2011-03-03T18:26:00.002Z

Visit Chelston Direct for more info.

Ski Patrol Dog Rescued

2011-03-02T20:48:00.003Z

A lost ski patrol dog was stuck down a hole in the Scottish hills for two days before being rescued.

Bode disappeared while on her morning round, checking for hazards on the ski runs, with Kate Hunter, head of ski patrol at the Glenshee centre.

The young cross-collie disappeared at about 1030am on Saturday.

Kate's friends found Bode down a 5ft (1.52m) hole in peat, which was buried under heath and snow close to the centre, late on Sunday afternoon.

Kate said: "She was cold and wet but otherwise okay. She was allowed to sleep on the sofa on Sunday night."

Snow forecast in Europe

2011-02-15T20:47:00.001Z

According to today’s weather forecasts, snow is expected across our reported resorts in France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy in the next 9-10 days.

If you going skiing this half term be sure to check our weather reports here:

http://www.chelstondirect.com/info-hub/ski-weather-reports.html

For Ski Wear visit our online shop here: http://www.chelstondirect.com/

Reichelt wins Super-G

2011-02-06T22:54:00.001Z

Austrian Hannes Reichelt beat Benjamin Raich to take the World Cup Super-G at Hinterstoder.

Reichelt finished 0.34 seconds ahead of Raich to record his fifth World Cup victory. Overall World Cup leader Ivica Kostelic of Croatia took fifth place, with Switzerland's Carlo Janka in fourth.

Reiter Lamborghini Gallardo Strada Goes Skiing

2011-01-18T16:25:00.001Z

Heavy snowfall in French & Italian resorts

2011-01-14T15:36:00.001Z

After a prolonged dry spell heavy snow has returned to many ski resorts in Europe.

The snow arrived this week, with the Italian resort of Chiesa seeing the bigest dump (70cm). Serre Chevalier had 50cm and La Grave 35cm.

Snowfall in Austrian resorts, where conditions have been warm a couple of weeks, has been more varied: St Anton and Ischgl had just 5cm of fresh snow this week, while Ellmau and Söll have reported no significant falls since late December. The best conditions remain at higher altitudes.

Ski Sunday Returns!

2011-01-09T16:20:00.000Z

Graham Bell and Ed Leigh present coverage of the men's giant slalom from Adelboden in Switzerland. Austrian Benjamin Raich has won three of the last four giant slaloms at the Kuonisbaergli course, including most recently in 2009. He was denied the chance to add a fourth win when 2010's event was cancelled due to fog. There is also some spectacular action featuring 16 of the world's best snowboarders going head-to-head at the Oakley Air and Style Big Air snowboard event in Beijing.

17:00 on BBC Two

Annecy 2018 Winter Olympics bid may bring games nearer

2010-12-12T13:48:00.003Z

Effective and efficient transport links from the UK to the French Alps, especially Annecy, will improve opportunities for skiers and snowboarders from Britain to take part in the 2018 Winter Olympics, if Annecy`s bid for the games is accepted.

Already in place are the existing links to the French Alps via the Eurostar and the airports of Geneva and Lyon. Geographically, Annecy with its lakeside location, at the base of four mountains, is in an excellent position to host the games.

The area is already on the map sitting just an hour away from Chamonix where the 1924 games were held. Alpine skiing and ice hockey competitions would use this venue. The iconic and hugely challenging Mont Blanc could be the scene of dramatic competition.

Other venues will benefit from being improved from the 1992 Albertville games. It is planned that Les Houches and La Plagne will host the Bobsleigh, Luge and Skeleton competitions. Annecy will host the skating and curling events whilst La Semnoz will have responsibility for Snowboard and Freestyle skiing. Nearby, La Clusaz and Le Grand Bomand will host Nordic events.

Annecy wants to offer visitors the best experience during the games and complimentary tickets to the events will be on offer to visitors holidaying in the host resorts.

July 2011 marks the date when Annecy, alongside fellow candidate cities Munich and Pyeongchang, face the vote of IOC members at their annual conference in Durban, South Africa.

Meanwhile, Annecy`s promotional campaign is well under way at a series of World Cup Competitions this winter. Look out for the Cross Country in La Clusaz in December,Men`s Downhill in Chamonix in January and the Ski Halfpipe in La Plagne in March.

Trespass Ski Wear at Atomic Freeski Academy

2010-12-05T23:03:00.005Z

ChelstonDirect.com stocks a huge selection of Trespass ski wear,
visit our website today!

Chemmy breaks leg in training run

2010-12-05T22:43:00.004Z

Skier Chemmy Alcott has reportedly broken her shin and perhaps fractured another bone in her right leg. The injury was sustained whilst training in Lake Louise, Canada.

Alcott said on Twitter: "Thank you everyone for everything. Insane that something that brings you so much pleasure can also bring so much pain."

The three-time Olympian and British number one female skier has been working towards the World Cup season since competing at this year's Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

The British Ski and Snowboard chief executive Dave Edwards gave the following statement:

"Chemmy is a great athlete and has worked very hard to be ready for the World Cup season, so missing it will be a big blow. Naturally, we wish her all the best and hope that she makes a rapid and complete recovery."

Weston-super-Mare Snow dome?

2010-11-02T12:36:00.000Z

A multi-million pound snow dome could be built in Weston-super-Mare, it has emerged.

Leisure Dome UK is in talks to purchase land on the Weston Airfield development to build the south west's first indoor ski centre featuring real snow.

If planning permission is approved by North Somerset Council, the venture could be up and running within two years.

The development would also feature a spa and skateboard park.

Columbia Omni-Heat

2010-10-13T22:22:00.006+01:00

Columbia Omni-Heat

Glencoe ski site 'is world's snowiest'

2010-10-13T22:20:00.000+01:00

The ski centre at Glencoe Mountain had the most new snow of any winter sports resort in the world on Wednesday, its operators have claimed.

Spokesman Andy Meldrum said data collected by the British Ski Club revealed the area experienced a fall of 80cm over 24 hours.

Heavy snowfalls were also experienced at other Scottish ski resorts.

Snow fell to a depth of 70cm at CairnGorm, 60cm at both The Lecht and Nevis Range, and 50cm at Glenshee.

Mr Meldrum said: "We have had a colossal amount of snow. At car park level we've probably got a metre of snow.

"The amount of snow on the mountain is absolutely epic."

Mr Meldrum added: "We must have a metre and a half of snow up there."

Glencoe came out ahead of the Sugarbush and Mount Snow resorts in the USA which had 76cm of new snow on Wednesday.

Midsummer skiing at CairnGorm

2010-10-07T18:03:00.001+01:00

Skiing could take place at the CairnGorm Mountain resort at midsummer for the first time in living memory.

The site's Colin Kirkwood said skiing would be available this weekend for the first time since 1992 but skiing could continue until after 24 June.

CairnGorm Mountain's season will continue over weekends while there is enough snow.

The Ptarmigan Bowl and the resort's sledging area still have deep coverings of snow.

CairnGorm, along with ski centres at the Lecht, Nevis Range, Glencoe and Glenshee, benefited from heavy snow and freezing conditions over the winter.

Mr Kirkwood said: "If there is skiing at midsummer then that would be the first here in living memory."

The season ends when ski tows and the ski patrol no longer operate.

Figures recently released by Ski Scotland showed the country has had its best season in 14 years.

Since late November, Scotland's five mountain resorts have attracted 373,782 customers.

The ski season is estimated to have attracted £37.5m into the local economy.

Rise in Popularity Barefoot Running

2010-09-19T18:19:00.001+01:00

Footwear constricts our feet. The rise in popularity of barefoot activity in the UK is undeniable. Health experts and habitual barefooters generally have stronger feet, better flexibility and fewer ailments. Going along with nature, baring your sole, walking your socks off, are commonly used phrases by advocates and enthusiasts who cannot get enough of the sensory delight the experience offers.

World history and context offers a background. In China, reflexology paths paved with stones have been used for thousands of years to enhance physical and mental well-being.

Bavarian monks in the 19th century believed that wading barefoot through wet grass or shallow water stimulated internal organs, strengthening the immune system, and helped the body to heal itself. Today, variations of this `Kneipp` therapy are practised in spas worldwide. In the late 1960s, hippies shunned footwear, forcing authorities to introduce policies against bare feet, causing the practice to become out of style.

Today there is a massive resurgence. In 2000, John Woodward, an Alexander technique teacher, launched barefoot running courses in the Lake District. 2006 saw the UKs first outdoor barfuss (german for barefoot) trial open in Nottingham, followed by another in greenwood forest park in Gywnedd in 2009. Many intellectualise about the increased popularity, or illustrate the health benefits; others claim that the experience is for fun!

The growing catalogue of scientific reference and support for barefoot running and activity, is impressive. Daniel E Lieberman, professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard, has conducted his own research, and concludes that people who don’t wear shoes when they run have an astonishingly different foot strike. Barefoot runners who land on the middle or front of the foot, experience very little impact collision, and much less than most shod runners generate when they heel strike. Runners and walkers alike, will say that heel striking is painful, and can be damaging unless rectified. It could be argued therefore, that barefoot running can lead to a reduction in repetitive stress injuries.

Ted McDonald, featured in McDougall`s ‘Born to Run’ book, cites barefoot running as the only solution he could find to unbearable lower back pain. It is also relevant and interesting to see that he became the only barefoot runner in the copper canyon Mexican ultra marathon.

Barefoot running is still quite rare in elite competitive situations. Previous exponents, such as Abebe Bikila; Rome Olympic marathon champion in 1960, Tegla Laroupe, and Zola Budd regularly competed unshod. For lesser athletes and those going barefoot for fun, a gradual approach is likely to reap most reward! Walking barefoot, then starting to run on grass and or concrete, strengthening the feet skin, and increasing time and distance will allow that sensory delight to develop!

Vibram Five Fingers are available from Chelston Direct.com

SnOasis - Suffolk Snow Dome

2010-09-18T13:18:00.002+01:00

SnOasis is a unique concept in sporting excellence and family activity holidays, based in East Anglia, amongst fine countryside. The SnOasis is a centre which will be used by British teams at all levels, and amateur enthusiasts across the age and ability span.

SnOasis is an all encompassing tourist destination, built on a 350-acre site and entirely privately funded. With an estimated construction time of 30 months, this project creates 3500 jobs and, on completion, the equivalent of 1800 full time positions. It is at the forefront of technologically advanced planning to cater for projected visitor numbers of 650,000 per year. It plans to generate 75% of energy used from low carbon and renewable technologies all closely monitored by developers and governments across the world.

This winter sports academy offers extensive and first class facilities for elite and visiting athletes, students, school parties, families and individuals all requiring the best in winter sports opportunities and the best in accommodation -hostel, apartments, or log cabins. All this and more is designed on one site, with every holiday activity right on your doorstep.

At the heart of SnOasis is Europe’s largest ski slope: 415 metres long and 70 metres wide, incorporating 100 metre vertical drop, enough to challenge and satisfy dedicated and fun seeking skiers alike!

The centre offers world class facilities in 14 different winter sports, incorporating a 400 metre ice skating track, a cross country skiing circuit, and 100 metre bobsleigh push start track.

SnOasis is designed with the family in mind and offers a fast transition from street to snow. The 100-metre long nursery slope is designed to build confidence and skill. There will be a luge run, a bobsleigh fun ride, an ice climbing wall, leisure ice rink, swimming pool, fitness gym, jogging track, skate park and 10 pin bowling alley plus other fun activities housed in the dedicated entertainment dome.

Also, SnOasis incorporates water-based activities: fishing, windsurfing, rowing, canoeing, and sailing. The entertainment dome features a snooker/pool hall, rock climbing wall, squash and tennis, and 5 a side football facilities.

It is planned that this East Anglian gem is easily accessible by road, rail and air. The project includes improvements to the A12/A14 road intersection, and a new mainline station, giving a direct link to Liverpool Street and more. Cycle tracks, planting 130 000 trees and working to offer the best experience to all visitors is the driving aim of the project.

Ski and Snowboard Show

2010-09-01T15:58:00.000+01:00

This winter the Ski and Snowboard Show will return to London Olympia from the 20th – 24th October having secured a three year dual media partnership with The Independent and London Evening Standard.

The media partnerships reflect the new direction in which the annual consumer ski and snowboard show is moving, as it introduces a range of activities and ticket packages aimed at attracting a broader spectrum of visitor.

Tim Holmes, Head of Snowsports said:

“We are extremely excited about teaming up with the Independent Newspaper and the London Evening Standard. The partnership is perfect for the show in that it combines the renowned travel editorial position of the Independent with the ability to target a precise London audience through the Evening Standard. The long term nature of the deal represents a huge potential for growth in the audience of the show as well as providing our sponsors and exhibitors with the support they require from national UK newspapers.”

The dual media partnership will see both publications have a presence at the show and will support the annual event through both advertising and editorial coverage.

Simon Calder, Senior Travel Editor of The Independent, said:

"The Independent Traveller has always sought to inspire, inform and entertain skiers and snowboarders, with top-class writers including Stephen Wood and Tam Leach carving new frontiers in winter sports. We are thrilled to be supporting the UK's premier ski show in 2010 and beyond, and look forward to an exciting event."

Jon O'Donnell, Advertisement Director of the Evening Standard said:

“A long term partnership with the Ski and Snowboard Show makes absolute sense for us at a time when they are focussing even more on attracting our key audience - young, upmarket Londoners. As London's quality newspaper we've consistently supported the kind of events and exhibitions that affluent Londoners love, and our greater reach and readership means that we can do this even more effectively than ever before.'

Previous partner Land Rover returns to the 2010 show after signing a two year deal with VOS Media to become the Official Vehicle Sponsor. This year they will support three areas of the exhibition including a free Land Rover ice driving experience for visitors.

The annual consumer event will also host an all-new Mountain Theatre with talks from awe inspiring explorers such as Sir Ranulph Fiennes along with Winter Olympians and world class ski and snowboarders. The new theatre takes its place alongside popular existing attractions, Destination Quebec Husky Lodge, Trespass Big Air Competition and Les 3 Vallees Resort Bar.

A new pricing structure has also been launched with 500 exclusive passes entitling visitors access to an Aosta Valley VIP Lounge, sample food and drinks from the region, front row seating for the Mountain Theatre and wintersports kit.

World Bellyboarding Championships

2010-08-28T23:27:00.003+01:00

The World Bellyboard Championship is a celebration of how surfing began in Britain more than a century ago.

Surfers of all ages gather together on Chapel Porth beach near St Agnes with wooden belly boards to ride.

Surfers from as far away as New York, Denmark and Australia have taken part in the event in previous years.

Now in its 8th consecutive year, the event is organised and hosted by the National Trust.

The event has gone truly global in recent years with entrants from Australia, New York, San Francisco and British Virgin Islands.

Robyn Davies, contest director
The celebration of all things connected with the art of traditional wooden board riding is held on the first Sunday in September.

Two friends came up with the idea for the event in 2002, to remember a holidaymaker from London, the late Arthur Traveller, who used to bring his wooden board to Chapel Porth every year.

Keen surfers Chris Ryan, who's the National Trust Car Park Attendant at the beach, and Martyn Ward, an RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor, have seen their creation take off from its small beginnings.

Robyn Davies, contest director and NT surf guru says, "The World Belly Board Championship celebrates all that is good about surfing! This event brings a communal stoke factor back to an ever growing sport.

The National Trust feel it's really important to highlight the pressures put on the coast and the beaches and what better way of doing this than by dusting down your old plywood stick, grabbing your brand new shaped model or unveiling your homemade creation and heading down the beach for a whole load of fun!"

The first surfers in Britain are believed to have been soldiers returning from the Great War in the 1900s. Stories of surfing from South Africa, Australia and Hawaii led them to copy the Hawaiian wooden 'Paipo' boards, which had no fins.

When Captain James Cook and his botanist Joseph Banks sailed into the Hawaiian Islands in 1778 they recorded sightings of natives riding waves stood on wooden boards.

Records show that it wasn't until the late 19th century that Hawaiian surfers travelled to California and ridden waves.

More info: http://www.bellyboarding.co.uk/

Vibram Five Fingers Footwear

2010-08-20T09:42:00.000+01:00

Vibram Five Fingers Footwear

2010-08-19T20:48:00.002+01:00

For those who crave the sensation of running barefoot but want the protection and grip afforded by running shoes, Fivefingers are the solution. Those who have used them are truly converted to this new way of running, feeling more in tune with nature and reaping the benefits of improved balance and agility.

Vibram Five Fingers are available from Chelston Direct.com

Five Finger footwear can be used for a variety of activities from fitness training and yoga, to running and trekking, to kayaking and sailing.

Surfing on the Lincolnshire Coast

2010-08-09T11:29:00.001+01:00

When thinking about surfing we think of far flung exotic beaches, not necessarily the Lincolnshire Coast.

According to the Lincolnshire Surf Club it's a growing sport with more surfers being seen in Lincolnshire.

The Lincolnshire Surf Club was established in 2006 to bring together the growing band of surf enthusiasts enjoying the Lincolnshire beaches.

These include traditional stand up surfers but also body boarders along with kite and wind surfers.

Matt Strathern from the Lincolnshire Surf Club said: "The club's primary function is to bring together like minded individuals. Lincolnshire and the North Sea isn't readily associated with surfing but with regular Northerly groundswells and prevailing SW offshore winds the conditions here can be good."

Chelston Direct Introduces New kigo footwear Styles to European Market

2010-07-22T14:10:00.000+01:00

Chelston Direct has added kigo footwear to their offerings, becoming the first retailer in Great Britian to carry the newest style lines. kigo footwear is eco-friendly minimalist shoes that are stylish enough for everyday wear and durable enough for wet or dry athletics and outdoor activities. The company is gaining increased awareness as durable, versatile footwear, especially among active individuals.

kigo footwear shoes are designed with lightweight, water-resistant materials and a slip-free flexible outsole, which offers a protected barefoot feel when worn. The design also creates easy portability. A unique foldable outsole and compressible materials make the shoes ideal for transitional footwear, travel or sport activities.

SeaSpecs Now In Stock

2010-07-15T09:47:00.013+01:00

The SeaSpecs Extreme Surf Sunglasses have now arrived.

All SeaSpecs come with Polarized lenses and offer 100% UVA & UVB protection.

They feature an easy adjustable and comfortable secure strap, keeping your sunglasses on your head during extreme watersports.

SeaSpecs feature a full wrap-around frame offering complete protection from sunlight and sea spray from your eyes.

Visit our shop at http://www.chelstondirect.com/seaspecs-extreme-surf-sunglasses.html

Testimonials

Owning and operating a full time surf tour operation, I surf on average between 4 and 8 hours per day, and at 29 years old I have already suffered from multiple bouts of long-term sun blindness and have a pterygium encroaching on my iris. Ever since I started wearing SeaSpecs, however, my eyes have been perfectly fine. Matt Rott at "Sidedish" - Kosrae, FSM.

What a great product! I am a 62 year old surfer and have been looking for this type of eye protection, and your SeaSpecs are perfect. Chuck MiddletonSan Onofre Beach (Dog Patch)

Riding the waves in Morocco's surf capital

2010-07-08T10:20:00.001+01:00

As Abdul Nasser Ouahad walks out of the water and up a sandy Moroccan beach the thing that stands out most on his white surf board is the word "Moor".

Morocco may not be the first place that springs to mind when one thinks of a surfing paradise.

But Mr Ouahad, in his 30s, is one of a new breed of sports entrepreneurs in the North African kingdom.

He is combining his love of the waves with the benefits that come from having a monarch who is a fan of water sports.

Abdul Nasser Ouahad learnt how to surf by joining a royal sports club "I began surfing when I was young," says Mr Ouahad, who runs Explora - one of the most popular surfing shops in the Moroccan coastal town of Essaouira.

"I joined one of the royal sports clubs here.

"In those days it was the only way of learning how to surf and being able to borrow a board."

Nowadays there are companies all along the bay of Essaouira offering tourists the chance to buy or rent all the kit needed to surf, kitesurf or windsurf at a low price.

First discovered by Europeans for its year-round waves and wind which favour different types of surfing depending on the season, the beach in Essaouira stretches the entire length of the town.

Although it has more than a mile of golden-yellow sand because of the constant wind blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean, it is not a place to lie and sunbathe for hours at a time.

The hip crowd sit in the beach-front cafes and sip soft drinks.

And the music they listen to is more likely to be Gnawa, a deep soulful sound derived from sub-Saharan Africa, than the Beach Boys.

For the last few years, the town has been cashing in on the world's surfing fraternity as the waves can vary from half a metre in summer - safe for beginners - rising to three metres in the winter.

Essaouira's winds gust from two directions, so the waves vary in size Hassan Quessan, who is the Moroccan co-ordinator of Union of Open Air Sports Centres, feels that warm weather and the safety offered by the bay has helped win Essaouira the title of "Morocco's windsurfing capital".

"We offer training for would-be kitesurfers from Europe," he says.

"But we don't only get beginners. The conditions appeal to those at an intermediary level and those with experience.

"We bring groups over from France on package holidays."

You get more help here than elsewhere because the residents of Essaouira are so friendly. Some of the profits from the water-sport tourists are channelled into getting local Moroccan children interested in the water.

Primary school groups and youngsters from orphanages are encouraged to get their first taste of the sea under the watchful eyes of trained Moroccan monitors.

They learn to swim and are taught about the marine environment as well as initiated into ecological awareness and safety.

Gul Surf Night Video

2010-06-24T21:03:00.001+01:00

Night Surf victory for France's Gordon Fontaine

2010-06-24T12:18:00.001+01:00

France's Gordon Fontaine was crowned the 2010 Night Surf champion after overcoming Reuben Ash in the final at Fistral Beach.

Newquay's Ben Skinner won the longboard title for a second year running, with a win over Ben Haworth in the final

The women's division title went to French surfer Anne Cecille, who beat defending champion Beth Mason.

The Stand Up Paddle competition was won by Chris Griffiths, with Elliot Dudley coming home in second.

news.bbc.co.uk

Devon's Surfing Beaches

2010-06-16T09:20:00.001+01:00

Surf's up and everybody's going board crazy as Devon's long relationship with surfing continues to go from strength to strength.

Not since the early 80s, when the county boasted its own English and British champions, has the sport attracted such large numbers eager to ride the waves which pound the county's beaches.

With a coastline as diverse as its landscape, Devon has waves to suit all abilities.

Croyde Bay, on the north coast, is one of the main draws courtesy of its hollow powerful low tide waves which on their day produce beachbreak waves as good as anywhere in the world. Winds from an easterly direction are offshore.

Situated just a few miles from Barnstaple, and with a rich surfing history stretching back over forty years, Croyde has spawned some of the sports top competitors.

Former English and British champion Richard Carter and Ralph Freeman are just two surfers who have contributed to Croyde's reputation in the British and European competition arena Scott Rannochan heads the new crew taking the sport to new heights.

With North Devon bearing the brunt of atlantic swells, the area boasts several other top surfing locations.

Travel north from Croyde and you are faced by the sweeping sands of Woolacombe Bay.
Nestled in its southern corner is Puttsborough.

It comes into its own when the south westerlies blow high cliffs diverting all but the strongest of gales away from the breaking waves.

Despite not having the same power as Croyde, the waves can pack a punch when they pass the mid-tide sandbanks.

BBC Website

Surf's up at new Bedford attraction

2010-06-14T15:32:00.002+01:00

A facility which allows people to surf indoors has opened in Bedford.

The operators of FlowHouse say it is the UK's first indoor surfing attraction, aimed at surfers, skaters and complete beginners.

The centrepiece is FlowRider where people can try 'flowboarding', which bosses say is influenced by surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding.

It uses technology that allows riders to surf on a "high-energy film of water".

Construction of the facility began in October 2009 and members of the public can ride the wave for the first time on Sunday.

Skechers Tone Ups Now Available

2010-06-09T12:06:00.008+01:00

Here at Chelston Direct we have just launched Skechers Tone Ups.

Designed to improve your life by changing the way you walk, Tone Ups feature a unique, soft, kinetic wedge insert to simulate walking barefoot on a giving surface such as sand or grass.

Mens Columbia Walking Shoes Under £40

2010-06-01T11:27:00.003+01:00

Make every step count in the Firelane Mid Omni-Tech®, a waterproof, multi-functional hiker built to enhance your trail time, rain or shine.

With a waterproof suede and mesh upper that incorporates a waterproof-breathable Omni-Tech membrane to keep the foot dry and comfortable all day, this midcut trail shoe supports the foot and ankle as you take on tough terrain. A gusseted tongue keeps debris out and a rubberized toe overlay adds durability and protection to the forefoot. Inside, the Contour Comfort™ 2D footbed offers personalized cushioning while AgION® anti-odour treatment combats “the funk” after a long day on your feet. Columbia’s innovative Techlite™ midsole provides lightweight cushioning and houses an exposed shank to deliver excellent torsional rigidity and support. Omni-Grip® traction gives optimal grip on rocks and trails, making this a solid choice for the weekend warrior or hardcore hiker.

Waterproof suede and mesh upper

Gusseted tongue keeps debris and moisture out

Omni-Tech waterproof-breathable membrane provides dry, comfortable environment

Rubberized print toe overlay for abrasion resistance

Contour Comfort™ 2D footbed with AgION® anti-odor treatment

Techlite molded midsole for lightweight cushioning and comfort

Exposed shank provides torsional rigidity and support

Non-marking Omni-Grip rubber compound with a stable hiking design for ultimate traction on any terrain.

Buy from our shop

British ski team secures funding

2010-05-27T11:38:00.000+01:00

Britain's top skiers have secured funding for the next two years, ending months of uncertainty after the governing body went bust.

Prior to the Winter Olympics in February the team had to fund their own training after SnowsportGB went into administration, owing £300,000.

But the newly formed British Ski and Snowboard has found an as yet unnamed sponsor for the 11-strong senior squad.

The money will enable skiers to pay for coaches and organise race programmes.

Britain's top skier Chemmy Alcott and slalom specialist Noel Baxter had warned they were considering their futures in the sport because of the financial situation.

But they have agreed to carry on - along with Ed Drake, Dougie Crawford, Andy Noble, Dave Ryding, Jan Kochalski and Pam Thorburn.

606: DEBATE
Give your reaction to British ski team's funding boost
The sponsorship deal means there is also funding to enable youngsters TJ Baldwin , Jai Geyer and Louise Thomas to make the step up to the senior squad.

Chief executive Dave Edwards told BBC Sport: "We have made some really good progress and are in much better shape than we were three to four months ago.

"The funding is secure for the next two years and the athletes are keen to get stuck into their summer programmes.

"This is an exciting group of athletes and we will do everything we can to ensure they deliver great results in international competition."

There will be changes in the coaching staff with Alcott's coach Mark Tilston deciding not to carry on.

Mike Pilarski will take up the position of head coach and it is hoped Alcott will benefit from a collaboration with the United States ski team.

"There's no doubt that British skiing has been through a difficult period recently so it's great to put the coaches on a firm footing," added Edwards.

He estimated £1.5m per year was needed to fund the ski and snowboard teams, which includes alpine, cross-country and freestyle.

Edwards added BSS would continue to seek new sponsorship opportunities - possibly tapping into a link between the leisure skiing industry and the racing one - to raise further money.

http://news.bbc.co.uk

Boscombe's £3m surf reef 'sub-standard'

2010-05-20T11:24:00.001+01:00

The performance of Boscombe's £3m artificial surf reef since it opened has been sub-standard, Bournemouth Borough Council has confirmed.

The findings came from experts at Plymouth University who assessed the quality of waves enhanced by the underwater creation over six months.

The team found the surf reef only achieved four of its 11 objectives.

The council said it would withhold a £150,000 payment from its creator, ASR Ltd, until it is satisfied it works.

The New Zealand-based firm denied the reef failed and said it was only one of the criteria - the wave lengths - which it had not met.

Plymouth University, home of the UK's first marine institute, has been assessing the quality of the reef's waves and the number of days suitable for surfing since last September.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/

One of the best Surfing Videos

2010-04-27T09:53:00.003+01:00

One of the best Surfing Videos:

Croyde Bay, Devon

2010-04-23T14:27:00.003+01:00

Croyde Bay in North Devon is excellent for families and surfers alike. Croyde village is a little hamlet of thatched cottages with many places to eat, buy gifts and hire surf equipment - including surfboards. Croyde Bay sits in between the neighbouring beaches of Saunton Sands, Putsborough and Woolacombe.

Croyde Bay in Devon is best known for its beach with its wide sheltered bay and excellent surfing. The beach is privately owned and has lifeguards patrols between May and September. Baggy Point and the adjoining National Trust land has some delightful walking with brilliant views.

There are a variety of restaurants and pubs in the area, along with numerous options for accommodation to make your stay in North Devon an enjoyable one, no matter what time of year you visit. Croyde is perfecet for experienced and novice surfers.

Gul Rash Vests

2010-04-23T12:41:00.010+01:00

Chelston Direct stocks a wide range of Gul Rash Vests:

Gul rash vests feature overlock seam construction and UV sheild.

From £17.99

Provides additional comfort under a wetsuit and provides protection from the sun. Very comfortable stretchy nylon & spandex.

Bristol Surf Show April 2010

2010-04-23T11:49:00.002+01:00

The UK's only surfing show, which aims to inspire the public about the environment, comes to Bristol in April.

Surf Show 2010 will feature technical workshops with industry professionals, exercise sessions, live music and the WaveRiders Film Festival.

The Surf Show started in 2008, with an aim to promote surfing culture and lifestyle in the UK.

The event, on the 24 and 25 April 2010, will take place at the Anson Rooms on Queens Road.

Surf Show event director Edryd Kaill said: "The Surf Show is a great mix of exclusive film premieres and insightful workshops, making this event a great day out for the whole family."

For more information about the event, including ticket prices, check out the Surf Show 2010 website.

Royden Bryson wins Cold Water Classic Scotland

2010-04-22T11:57:00.009+01:00

South African Royden Bryson won the O’Neill Cold Water Classic surfing competition at Thurso.

The 27-year-old from East London held his nerve to defeat Brazilian Yuri Sodre in the head-to-head final at Thurso East.

Thurso Cold Water Classic

2010-04-14T14:52:00.002+01:00

The O'Neill Cold Water Classic Series is taking place in Thurso - where the average water temperature is just 6C. Almost 130 surfers will compete for the $50,000 price money.

Andy Bain the event organiser said despite the cold conditions the event was attracting some of the world's top surfers.

He said: "Scotland has always been under the radar in terms of its surf but it's starting to get recognised now.

For more info visit:
http://www.oneill.com/cwc/scotland/

Surf 360 Video

2010-04-08T09:13:00.006+01:00

Chelston Direct to sell Typhoon surf gear

2010-03-26T12:24:00.006Z

Chelston Direct introduces a new range of Typhoon surf gear. Products include: wetsuits, boots, rash vest, masks, snorkel and fins.

Chelston Direct Launches Info Hub

2010-03-03T17:51:00.002Z

Chelston Direct are pleased to announce the launch of their new outdoor clothing information service ‘Info Hub’.

The new section http://www.chelstondirect.com/info/ will allow customers to browse through the extensive additional information before buying a product.

Managing Director, Rob Simon added, “We wanted to enable our customers to make informed decisions about which products are best for them.”

Users of Info Hub can also leave comments to help inform other customers.

Chemmy Alcott takes 13th in Downhill

2010-02-18T14:32:00.000Z

After delays and setbacks caused by conditions in Whistler, Chemmy Alcott was finally able to get her Olympic sojourn underway with the Women’s Downhill on Wednesday 17 February.

Racing second in a field of 45, Alcott held the gold position briefly following the crash of event opener Klara Krizova and finished in an impressive 13th overall, narrowly missing out on a top 10 finish.

In fact, Alcott was racing so hard that she crashed into the safety barriers in the finish area before jumping up unharmed. “I just did that to give everyone a close-up look of a proper alpine crash” joked the ski racer. “I just forgot to slow down at the finish”.

The British number one enjoyed taking to the course at Whistler Creekside remarking “it’s the perfect women’s downhill, the best I’ve ever skied”. The ski racer, who is known for her aggressive skiing added “it’s bumpy, it’s icy and it’s great fun. You look at this and you think to yourself ‘this is what we do this sport for’.

“I lost a bit of time at the top in the soft stuff, and that affected my run” commented Alcott, who finished in a time of 1:47.31. “I think I could have gone quicker but I made a few silly mistakes. But it’s the Chemmy way - I went for it totally and when you ski like that, it’s hard to avoid a couple of tiny slips. It’s always like that with me”.

The race was a great Olympic opener for Alcott, who achieved 11th position in the same event in Turin. “The race was an awesome experience. I’m doing a few events here, so that was an amazing way of getting rid of some cobwebs” said the alpine skier. http://www.skiclub.co.uk/

Olympic training scaled back to protect snow

2010-02-06T22:06:00.001Z

VANCOUVER—They're expanding the search for snow to cover bare patches on Cypress Mountain, where freestyle skiing and snowboard events are slated to take place at next week's Winter Olympics.

Officials Saturday also said they've had to cancel two of the five days of training for halfpipe snowboard athletes because of the lack of snow on Cypress.

This past month was the warmest January on record in Vancouver, and the snow at Cypress has been hard to come by. They've moved truckfuls of the stuff from higher parts of the mountain and also have brought it in by helicopter from nearby hills.

Saturday they announced they'll start hauling the white stuff in by helicopter from Yak Peak in the Coquihalla Pass/Coquihalla Highway region, which links the Okanagan area and the interior of B.C. to the lower mainland.

The weather forecasters are calling for slightly cooler temperatures in Vancouver as the week goes on, but not particularly cold. It's supposed to be 11 degrees on Sunday and the forecast shows the lowest high temperature for any day this week will be 6 degrees.

VANOC officials wouldn’t say how much the snow effort is costing. But they said most snow venues haven’t had problems and that overall contingencies for all the venues are helping cover the extra Cypress costs.

http://olympics.thestar.com/2010/article/761644--olympic-training-scaled-back-to-protect-snow

CASCO become Official Helmet and Goggle Supplier to the British Children’s Ski Team

2009-12-14T09:32:00.004Z

CASCO are pleased to announce they are now the official helmet and goggle supplier to the British Children’s Ski Team. The Team are to be supplied with the SP Race helmets and goggles fitted with the new Vautron lens. The first group took delivery of the new kit at the Team’s final UK training and fitness session on the 22 November at The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempsted.

British Children’s Ski Team Head Coach, Gareth Trayner, commented “The Team are really looking forward to a long and prosperous relationship with CASCO and we thank them for their support. All the athletes are looking forward to sporting their new helmets and gearing up to go super fast this season!”

CASCO UK Agent, Graham Slack added “CASCO have a reputation of supporting top athletes and we are delighted to continue this reputation by supplying the British Children’s Ski Team. The safety aspect is the primary concern for us and is taken to the highest levels. Probably the highest accolade for ski helmet safety is that most of the European ski jumping teams use CASCO. New technology allows the helmet to be constructed in a unique way giving an ultra light weight and safe helmet. Sir Chris Hoy and many of the British Olympic cycling track squad wear the CASCO helmets. The ski helmets and cycle helmets are extensively tested in wind tunnels for aerodynamic efficiency”.

CASCO ski helmets and goggles are the cutting edge of design and technology. The Edelholz style has a stunning Wood laminate finish! This being probably the strongest material used in helmet manufacture today. The Vautron lenses come from the technology used in the Apache helicopter widow screens. It is shatterproof, optically corrected and photocromic.
CASCO would like to wish the British Children’s Ski Team every success and enjoyment with their new kit.

Casco Ski Helmets at ChelstonDirect.com

London - Metro Ski and Snowboard Show

2009-10-18T17:26:00.004+01:00

The Metro Ski and Snowboard Show opens this Wednesday. Organisers of the show are transporting ten tons of the white stuff in refrigerated trucks from the Milton Keynes Snowzone to Olympia in London - and they want as many people as possible to start throwing it around in an attempt to get into the Guinness Book Of World Records for the biggest indoor snowball fight ever recorded.

The five-day show at Olympia, which starts on Wednesday, will be followed by yet another winter sports extravaganza in London - the Freeze Snowboard, Ski and Music Festival, more of which later.

Centre-stage at the Metro Ski and Snowboard Show will be a 50ft-high kicker where some of the world's best freeride skiers and snowboarders will be dazzling us with jaw-dropping aerial stunts as they compete in a range of Big Air competitions.
One to watch will be snowboarder Ben Kilner, who is hoping for a place in the British Olympic squad heading for Vancouver and Whistler for the 2010 Winter Games in February.

Entertainment at the show goes well beyond the kicker. The ever-popular skating rink has increased in size to 450sq ft and is free to use.

You can also research and book your ski holiday and try the kind of food you might enjoy at European, North American and Japanese mountain resorts. If a taste of apres-ski action is what you're after, there will be bars featuring live slots from DJs and comedians.

On the opening day of the show, Robert Swan, president of the Ski Club of Great Britain, will give a one-hour talk about his North and South Pole expeditions and outline his next adventure in 2012. The Ski Club stand will also be hosting daily avalanche awareness talks.
Adult ticket prices are £5 for the Wednesday, £9 (advance) or £12 (on the door) Thursday and Friday, and £13 (or £16) for the weekend. Read more:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1221232/London-Metro-Ski-Snowboard-Show-Freeze-Festival-bring-winter-sports-capital.html#ixzz0UJ1Jm0Vl

Ski 2009-10 Range

2009-10-18T17:00:00.004+01:00

Chelston Direct's new ski range is now available:

We stock a wide selection of ski jackets, pants, hats, goggles and accessories.

Click Here to Visit

New Hiking Equipment

2009-08-29T13:57:00.007+01:00

Chelston Direct has just launched a new range of hiking equipment and GPS systems.

Products include hiking shoes, torches, clothing and GPS systems:

To view the whole range please visit: http://www.chelstondirect.com/hiking-camping/

2009-06-22T12:37:00.000+01:00

Gul International - Gul Wetsuits Scotland Sessions 2006

Gul Surf Night

2009-06-07T08:51:00.001+01:00

The Gul Night Surf on the 12th 13th and 14th of June will hold the first Stand up Paddleboard competition on the Pro surf tour.

The tour and will attract the top Stand Up paddle boarders in the UK. Stand up Paddle board has increased in popularity in the UK over that last few years and it is fantastic for the sport that it has been given a place in the prestigious UK Pro surf tour. The event will undoubtedly create a lot of interest and will bring some big crowds down to Fistral Beach Newquay.

The Gul Night surf is a one of a kind event being the only Night surf in Europe, there will be entertainment and events throughout the weekend with live music, Volleyball competions and product testing. There will also be a spectacular firework show on the Saturday night over the surf. After the events finish on the Friday and Saturday night Gul will host 2 after party’s at the beach café in Newquay, to ensure that the buzz around the Night surf can continue into the early hours of the morning. There will be live music, DJ’s and body artists and extra giveaways. The weekend and the event will be the foundation for the Gul Night surf to be the UK’s most talked about Surf event on the UK Pro surf tour.

UK Everest Charity Challenge

2009-06-07T00:14:00.001+01:00

Chelston Direct are proud to be a main sponsor of the UK Everest Charity Challenge starting in mid August 2009. Bryn and Darren are aiming to ascend beyond the height of Everest by ascending the UK's highest peaks.

UKEC founder Darren Edwards states "I think I've been an incredibly selfish individual all of my life thus far, and now I think it's time to give something back! It sounds so exceptionally cliché, but I do think Karma goes around and comes around [maybe I've watched too many My Name is Earl episodes?]. We lead our lives at almost break neck speed, deep in daily grind we rarely stop to see the pain of others, unless of course it happens to us first. A child with cancer, a person in pain and soldier crippled. It means so very little to us, apart from a fleeting emotion, it's just the news after all".

Team member Bryn Posey's reasons for signing up are quite clear "I lost my father to leukaemia back in 1999 and for many years didn't dwell on it and pushed it to the back of my mind, locking it away. In 2006 I realised I had spent a lot of time focusing on my life and on my personal achievements. I was not really sure where or what I was doing with my life.

On new years eve 2007 I made a resolution to do something for someone else, that in no way benefited myself (directly). Since then I have run the London Marathon for Children with Leukaemia [dressed I might add as Mr. Tickle!]. At the end of that race I was so elated and realised I had made a difference; yet I realised I could do so much more, this is my motivation".

New Osprey Wetsuits

2009-06-06T23:37:00.004+01:00

We now have a full range of new Osprey full and shortie wetsuits.

The new Osprey wetsuits are great value featuring windproof rubber chest panel. They are great for surfing, body boarding, windsurfing, snorkelling, water skiing and canoeing

Please go to: http://www.chelstondirect.com/wetsuits/