Gear Radar for March 2026

March 2026

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March 2026

New and interesting gear we’ve discovered this month

Petzl Actik Core $189.90 | 88g

Petzl’s popular lightweight head torch, the Actik Core, has been updated to 625 lumens and now has USB-C charging, meaning one less cable to carry into the hills with you. This all-round tramping and camping torch has the benefit of accepting AAA batteries as well as its CORE rechargeable 1250 mAh battery. It has a 7hr burn time on the medium 100 lumen setting and has more powerful lighting options.

Silva Smini Fly $109.99 | 39g

Fast and light adventurers might take note of the featherweight Silva Smini Fly, a minimalist 250-lumen backup or fastpacking torch with three brightness levels and a burn time ranging from 1.5hr (high beam) to 20hr (super-low beam).

The minimalist 3mm headband is both stable and comfortable, and the USB-C rechargeable torch module features Silva’s Intelligent Light design, combining a distance beam with a diffuse floodlight. It easily fits in a pocket yet is bright enough for evening runs, in-camp duties and limited on-track route finding.

Norsewear Endurance Micro Crew Sock $34.95

As enduring as their legendary fleck wool tramping socks, Tararua District brand Norsewear continues to expand its impressive range of homegrown woollen socks. The Endurance (available in three lengths) is a targeted-cushion merino/nylon-blend sock that tackles durability issues common with merino multisport socks. For walking, running and biking, this highly breathable lightweight sock could become a go-to in your wardrobe.

Mark Watson

About the author

Mark Watson

Wilderness gear editor Mark Watson divides his workdays between graphic design, writing and photography. His passion for tramping, climbing, cycling and storytelling has taken him all over Aotearoa and the world in search of great trails, perfect moves and epic light. He has published four books and his photographs have featured in numerous publications. Especially motivated by long distance travel, he has tramped Te Araroa and cycled from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

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