Geodesic mountain tent in the Alps

Shelter for Self-Supported Adventures

By Kenny Stocker

At Alpkit, we believe that the right shelter can make or break an outdoor adventure. Whether you're hillwalking in the Scottish Highlands, climbing in the Peak District, cycling across Europe, camping in the Lake District, trail running in Wales, or paddle boarding down a serene river, having a reliable and comfortable place to rest is crucial.

Over the years we have poured our hearts and souls into designing and producing a range of shelters, sleeping bags and camping mats that cater to all types of self-supported adventures.

Our journey began with a simple question: How can we create shelters that not only protect you from the elements but also enhance your outdoor experience?

The answer, we found, lies in a combination of innovative design, sustainable practices, and a deep understanding of what outdoor enthusiasts really need.

When it comes to tents, we've developed a range that covers everything from ultralight solo shelters for minimalist backpackers to spacious family tents for group adventures. Our design philosophy is rooted in the belief that a good tent should be more than just a waterproof cover – it should be a home away from home, which is why we coined the phrase 'Liveable Space'.

We focus on features that we know will make your camping experience better, like easy setup, excellent ventilation, and strategically placed pockets for gear organisation. We've even incorporated recycled materials into our tent fabrics, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.

But we know that sometimes, even a tent can feel too confining for true adventure seekers. That may sound ironic, but we are using here in the sense of ultimate freedom. This is where our bivvy bags and tarps come in. These lightweight, waterproof shelters offer the ultimate connection with nature, allowing you to sleep under the stars while still being protected from dew and rain. We've designed our bivvies to be breathable and comfortable, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready for another day of adventure.

Of course, a shelter is only as good as the sleep system inside it. Our sleeping bags are engineered to provide warmth and comfort in a variety of conditions. We offer options filled with ethically sourced down for maximum warmth-to-weight ratio, as well as synthetic alternatives for those who prefer animal-free products or need something that performs well in damp conditions. And let's not forget about sleeping mats – the unsung heroes of a good night's sleep outdoors. Our range includes everything from ultralight foam mats for minimalist backpackers to luxurious inflatable options for those who want a bit more comfort.

But at Alpkit, we believe that creating great outdoor gear is only part of our mission. We're equally committed to breaking down barriers to the outdoors and building strong outdoor communities. That's why you can explore our tents in our stores or at outdoor events, allowing you to try out different shelters before making a purchase. We also run workshops and events where you can learn about proper shelter setup and maintenance, share your experiences, and connect with like-minded adventurers.

Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond just using recycled materials. We've implemented a repair service to extend the life of our products, reducing waste and saving you money. We also partner with outdoor education programs, providing gear and expertise to help introduce more people to the joys of outdoor adventure through the Alpkit Foundation and our own Big Shakeout Festival.

We're constantly innovating, seeking new materials and designs that will make outdoor adventures even more accessible and enjoyable. We're exploring ways to further reduce our environmental impact, from our manufacturing processes to our packaging.

Whether you're planning your first overnight hike or preparing for a multi-week bikepacking expedition, know that we at Alpkit are right there with you, working tirelessly to ensure you have the best shelter for your adventure. Because at the end of the day, we're not just selling tents, sleeping bags, and mats – we're helping to create memories that will last a lifetime.

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