Trail Testers

On the Hill - On the Web

A - We have different criteria for each type of product. We test all the products out on the hill, in the real world, so we can try to convey what is good and not so good about a product.

For instance when we test Boots we first of all break them in slowly in the office, so that they mould to the testers feet. Then we take them out for short walks and when the individual is happy with the boots that they are testing, we subject them to long walks in the hills, with and without a day pack and then a fully loaded 75L rucksack and wear them hiking and wild camping. We get them wet and muddy and see whether they really are water resistant. We trudge through mud, bog and mucky farm yards. We leave them wet and dirty for days, just as you might if you are wild camping and then we see how they dry off and clean up. Each pair is given several weeks intensive testing.

Clothing.

Layers are used on their own and as part of a layering system. We see how they cope and whether or not they keep the tester dry when pushing hard out on the hill. Then we try them out with day and back packs.

Waterproofs are tested up on the tops where we can almost guarantee strong wind and driving rain. The hills and mountains of North Wales is an ideal testing ground for waterproofs!

Tents. When a new tent arrives we make sure nothing is missing and then find a quiet corner of a field to put it up. Once we are satisfied that it goes up alright, we pack it away and take it away for a few days wild camping. We can usually guarantee a variety of testing weather, pitching and striking camp in wind and rain, sunny days etc, so we can see how the tent fairs in a variety of conditions. We test the tent for strength. Is it possible to cook inside safely? Pack size and weight. Does it keep the midge at bay?

Once we are satisfied that we have really tried out an item and found its good and bad points, then we write the review or produce the video.

Q - Are all tests equal or does advertising on the site affect the outcome?

A - We do carry advertising on Trail Testers from a variety of advertisers including outdoors manufacturers and retailers, but we also have a strict editorial policy, which ensures that all products that we test, have to meet the testers criteria. If we test a product and find it does not meet the criteria, then we will say so, ensuring that our readers receive a fair and accurate assessment of that product’s good and bad points.

Q - How do you work out the scoring system for a product?

A - We award all products that we test a possible 100 points. As we test we record the features of the product in the real world. For example if we test a stove and find that it is lightweight and packs away into a small space then that will reflect a high score, but if that same stove is so unstable that it topples over at the slightest puff of breeze, then that will reduce the final score. All products are tested by individuals and each has a preference for this or that. To ensure the review is fair, we try to test each product without pre conceived ideas or opinions and go from there. Once the review has been written or recorded, we discuss the testers findings and award the final score. You will see a possible 10 stars on each review. One star is 10 points so it is easy to understand.

Q - Who judges your competitions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q - Do I need to register to use the site?

Q - How do you test the products?

A - Trail Testers competitions are usually judged by the editor. In the case of a competition where there could be 100 entries with right answers, all the entries are printed off, folded up and placed in a climbing helmet. Then a winning entry is drawn at random. In the case of a photo caption competition, each entry is reviewed on its merits and the caption thought most suitable is chosen as the winner.

Q - Are the prizes genuine?

A - Yes. At the end of a competition either we send the winning entrant their prize from Trail Testers, or in the case of a manufacturer or retailer, we send the winning entrant’s details for the prize to be dispatched. Then we publish the name and photo of the winner. Most competitions are open to all readers. Some prizes may only be offered to certain countries and if so this will be stated on the competition entry form.

Q - Is Trail Testers owned by an outdoors manufacturer or retailer?

A - No. Trail Testers is owned by Buffalo Media, an independent publishing company. We have no ties to outdoors manufacturers, or retailers and our reviews and findings are impartial.

Q - How long does a long term test take?

A - Usually between 12 weeks and a year. Long term items get used over and over again. You can be sure that if we are say testing boots long terms that they will get a good thrashing and weak points will show up!

A - No. However, registering with a username and password entitles you to benefits not enjoyed by other users.These include free entry to competitions, adding comments to reviews, special readers offers, free monthly newsletter, readers surveys. Registering is easy and free. Your details are stored as username, password and email address. We do not record your name or address. You can de-register at any time.