News

BACK WITH A VENGEANCE: THE FORCE 10 / VANGO ULTRALITE RANGE
March 2008

The revolutionary Force 10 series by Vango is back and better than ever. To meet the demands of the world's greatest mountaineers and adventurers this ultra technical range has been designed with minimum weight, minimum pack size and easy pitch features to take its performance above and beyond the average tent.

Fusing cutting edge technology with trusted design to deliver in the most difficult conditions, the Force 10 Ultralite series comprises of four designs, each with its own unique features and benefits.

The Vitesse (SRP £99) is an ultra lightweight shelter for the extreme racer or an emergency shelter that can be carried at all times in the mountains.

With a minimum pack size, this two person tent has a trail weight of just under 1kg. For extra convenience or when you really need protection on the go the Vitesse can be pitched with walking poles or suspended from trees, canoe paddles or whatever else is around thanks to its hanging loops.

The ultimate in ultralite "twin skin" equipment and weighing in at just 0.9kg (100 model, 1.2kg 200 model), the Helium will challenge your objectives and allow you to move further and faster than ever before, providing real freedom to perform.

Comfort and durability remain uncompromised with this pioneering tent available in one (SRP £170) or two (SRP £200) person capacity.

Featuring a hybrid tunnel design for optimum balance of weight and stability, the Helium also features flat external pole sleeves which are easier and quicker to pitch than inner firsts as well as a flysheet first or pitch-as-one to keep the inner dry during set up.

For three-season use, the brand new Nitro offers the best balance available between performance, stability and weight. TBS Pro streamlined design and top quality materials push this tent to places where no other tunnel tents can go.

This versatile tent starts at a trail weight of just 1.75kg and offers the perfect compromise between stability and weight. Available in one (SRP £180), two (SRP £220) or two plus (SRP £270) capacity, features such as ski compatible peg points provide flexibility that allows this product to be a year round companion.

Flexlite poles allow maximum fatigue life through heat treatment and hard anodising. The TBS - Tension Band System stability provides a unique internal bracing system; ensuring tents perform in adverse weather conditions, especially high winds.

LEAD IN POLE POSITION WITH VANGO'S RANGE OF WALKING POLES
March 2008

If taking to the hills for a hike is your outdoor pursuit of choice, then why not try some walking poles from Vango's great range.
Used for added support and to provide rhythm and pace whilst walking, poles can become a valued part of any walkers kit, with five styles form Vango there is sure to be one to suit you.

Classic by name, classic by nature, the single Classic Cane (SRP £15.00) is a durable alloy 3-part pole with a long T-handle and strap for comfort and ease of use. Available in classic black, it can help with lateral stability and features a carbide tip for additional grip.


Updated for 2008 the Walker (SRP £17.00) is a telescopic walking pole with a new soft handle for improved grip. A perfect aid for crossing soft ground, it also features an anti-shock on/off feature and carbide tip. The Walker comes in pairs and is available in a choice of blue or green.

Also featuring updates for 2008, the Classic (SRP £20.00) telescopic walking poles feature a new bi-injected handle for improved grip made from angled two tone soft rubber. Featuring webbing and neoprene straps, the Classic can increase hill climbing power and is available in three colours.

If its quality and comfort that you look for in a walking pole than the Deluxe (SRP £30.00) is your perfect partner. This strong durable pole features a contoured handle with corrective angled soft rubber and lower sleeve that offers superb fit and comfort. Available in a brass colourway and constructed from T-7075 alloy the Deluxe comes complete with Tungsten tips, making these poles truly deluxe in every sense of the word.

For added luxury the Deluxe Cork (SRP £35.00) shares the features of the Deluxe pole with the added benefit of a contoured cork handle for superior grip and comfort. Available in a silver, the Deluxe Cork offers premium quality for serious hikers.

All Vango walking poles are constructed in three sections using durable alloy and feature an Anti-shock on/off feature for shock impact on hard terrain

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF EXPLORATIONTHE FORCE 10 EXPEDITION RANGE
February 2008

New for 2008 Force 10, the original expedition tent brand offers premium performance and protection with its updated range of expedition tents.

Tested to the extremes both on the mountains and in the lab, the Vortex and Spindrift form the F10 expedition range. The range has already proved its worth as part of the professional kit used by Alan Hinkes to complete his record-breaking 'Challenge 8000' where he became the first Briton to climb all 14 of the world's 800m plus peaks.

The geodesic deigned Vortex offers a combination of space, light weight, stability and protection from the elements. Put to the test in the extremes, the Vortex's strong pole configuration can withstand winds in excess of 75miles per hour.

With both front and rear doors, the Vortex has been engineered in a wind tunnel for optimal aerodynamic performance. Available in two (SRP £300.00) or three (SRP £350.00) person capacity, this performance tent uses innovative design to provide convenience, comfort and quality. Added protection is provided through rainstop flysheet doors, snow skirts on the porch area and optional cover on flysheet vents. Anchor straps are also incorporated enabling the user to adjust flysheet tension, whilst reflective piping on vents allow you to find your tent at night or in adverse weather conditions.

The daddy of all base camp tents just got better. The other half of the expedition range, the Spindrift (SRP £400.00) comes in three person capacity and is packed with all the features required for exploratory trips to the worlds harshest environments.

Flat external pole sleeves mean easy pitching in all conditions, offering a full geodesic haven in the shortest possible set up time. The construction also allows for maximum stability, especially from side winds and expedition conditions.

If you require extreme performance from your tent then look no further than the Force 10 Expedition range.

KIT FOR ALL YOUR COOKING NEEDS- NEW NON STICK RANGE FROM VANGO
January 2008

Non-Stick Cook Kits
Providing years of use and little maintenance, the Non-Stick Cook Kit is ideal for camping, offering all the necessary essentials to make your camping trip a success when it comes to cooking. The set includes a frying pan, large pot, small pot and cups, all with a five year guarantee.

Easy to store, as each piece nestles into the other - features include stainless steel upper, copper base and removable handles. Each cup also features handy measure markings should you be planning on taking your recipe book with you.

The Non-Stick Cook Kit is available for one (SRP £12.00), two (SRP £15.00), three (SRP £18.00) or four (SRP £20.00) people.

Vango also offer a stylish Stainless Steel Cook Kit available for one (SRP £15.00), two (SRP £18.00), three (SRP £20.00) or four (SRP £22.00) people. The robust and durable kits will provide years of use.

Stainless Steel Food Flask
Brand new for 2008, Vango have also introduced the Stainless Steel Food Flask. With a screw top and push-top pourer for hot liquids it is perfect for those chilly days in the outdoors. The Food Flask offers an 1800ml capacity (SRP £18.00). Ideal for those who enjoy eating and drinking on the go, the flask comes equipped with a shaped carry handle and strap.

Stainless Steel Flask
To keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold the Stainless Steel Flask is available in 350ml - 1litre sizes (SRP: £ 7.00 - £10.00). With a screw top, pouring spout and plastic lined drinking cup it can keep temperatures stable for up to 24 hours.

DON'T TAKE TENTS LIGHTLY- VANGO LAUNCHES NEW LIGHTWEIGHT COLLECTION!
January 2008

Modern adventure seekers everywhere are bound to be blown away by Vango's latest ultralight tents. Light enough to be carried anywhere, Vango offers the superb Ultralight and Spirit tents for those seeking to carry a lighter load while on their adventures.

Without compromising on performance and protection, each tent is remarkably light. The Ultralight has a trail weight of either 900g (1 person capacity) or 1200g (2 person capacity), while the Spirit boasts trail weights of 2.20kg to 2.80kg, depending on size.

The Ultralight (SRP £130 - £150) is perfect for those mountain marathons and gruelling adventures. Along with its many features there is a variable air flow stability vent for increased tent stability in high winds, and with single skin 'as one' pitching your guaranteed to get under cover quickly.

The Spirit range (SRP £200 - £300) offers comfort and protection for 2-3 people. The technical tunnel tents address the demands of even the most adventurous travellers, with lightweight fabrics and pole technologies in a trusted and reliable formula. The new Spirit range also offers a longer inner and an extended porch area for taller outdoor enthusiasts.

Vango's ultralight tent range boast Protex 3000 ripstop nylon coating, a TBS Pro Tension Band System to ensure performance in all conditions,  and Powerlight 7001-T6 allow poles to provide strength, lightness, flexibility and corrosion resistance.

PLATINUM QUALITY, PLATINUM STYLE- PREMIUM TRAVEL LUGGAGE FROM VANGO
January 2008

For bags of style, why not invest in one of Vango's platinum series of accessories. The lightweight yet hardwearing design is perfect for weekends away or weeks abroad.

As part of the Vango travel range, the platinum series features stylish and robust product, ideal for everyday use - the 20 litre Shoulder Bag (SRP £20.00) is stylish shoulder bag for easy transport of documents and files. It features an internal retaining strap as well as a front buckle and velcro closure to keep items safe and secure. For easy carriage, the bag features a soft carry and shoulder strap, and front and back zipped pockets that are great for accessories.

The Firewire (SRP £20.00) is extremely versatile for use as a work bag or an urban daysac. The 25 litre sack contains a padded foam back and a shaped shoulder harness for improved stability and comfort. Features include an entertainment port, two zippered compartments for all your essentials and a daisy chain on the front for easy attachments. There's also an internal padded section with retaining strap to protect your laptop.

For clothing and overnight essentials the overnight case (SRP £50.00) is a must for short stays leaving plenty of room for overnight essentials. It features air mesh on contact points for comfortable carrying and a soft carry handle for easy mobility. Other features include a padded laptop sleeve and security strap, front organiser, zipped front pockets and a mobile phone pocket for organised storage.

Increasing the volume, the 60L Roller Bag (SRP £60.00) is ideal for longer stays and weeks away. It comes with excellent storage in side pockets and features a wheeled chassis and extendable handle. The Roller Bag contains internal securing straps for clothes, a side accessory pocket for travel documents and a zip around opening.

PERFECT PARTNERSHIP: THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH'S AWARD RECOMMENDS RANGE OF VANGO PRODUCTS

Vango, the leading outdoor and accessories specialist has announced that The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is to endorse its Mountain and Lightweight range of products. Having supported The Duke of Edinburgh's Award for over 30 years, the endorsement was secured, further strengthening Vango's reputation as a premier outdoor brand and close to the youth of today.

The three year deal will see the Award endorse a number of products in the Vango Mountain and Lightweight ranges including a collection of tents, sleeping bags, rucsacs and sleep mats.

As the only brand in the outdoor sector to receive the Award's endorsement of its products, the partnership is of particular prestige to Vango. Alastair Moodie, Director of Marketing at Vango comments:

"We are very pleased to receive official endorsement from The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, the skills and qualities the Award provides to young people is something which remains unrivalled, and something which Vango is very proud to be associated with. We have supported the Award for over 30 years and Vango has always been the product of choice. We will continue our support for the programme on a local and national level and look forward to the commencement of our three year partnership."

Both Vango and the Award have conducted extensive field testing on the chosen products, and have earmarked them as being performance led, easy to use and suitable for the variable conditions encountered.

VANGO TEAMS UP WITH MARKET LEADING PROVIDER TO OFFER SAFE AND SECURE TRAVEL TO CUSTOMERS
September 2007

Vango, the leading outdoor specialist, has teamed up with emergency assistance provider Emergencyabroad.com to offer customers peace of mind, safety and security whilst travelling through Europe.

Targeted at the independent traveller, Emergencyabroad.com provides customers with seamless access to an extensive list of emergency services throughout Europe including Doctors, hospitals, car breakdown, electricians, taxis, hotels and even a translation service for members in need of assistance.

Vango is working in partnership with the organisation to offer an exclusive three month trial FREE to its customers. Alastair Moodie Marketing Director of Vango comments:

''Safe travel has always been at the top of our agenda when it comes to our consumers. This partnership allows us to go beyond just providing products for customers to use for travel, allowing us to add to their experience by providing safe and secure travel and peace of mind.

'The unique service Emergencyabroad.com offer reinforces Vango's reputation as a true consumer brand, going one step further to provide customer satisfaction. The service is particularly useful for those who are engaging in outdoor adventures whilst abroad where other services are not readily accessible.'

Emergencyabroad.com offers a unique service designed to help members resolve their problems immediately using a simple and readily accessible service. Simply call one central telephone number for any emergency and receive access to over 500,000 service providors throughout Europe.

The offer will be available through point of sales promotions on Vango products in retailer stores, and is expected to run until Spring 2008.

VANGO SUPPORTS SUCCESSFUL POLARQUEST EXPEDITION
August 2007

Southern Journey: In November 2006 a four man team of Royal Navy Marines set out on a 2,800 kilometre, 65-day, return ski to the geographical South Pole. They successfully completed the expedition, survived to tell the tale and recently updated us on their trip. Here's how they got on.

The trek was aimed at the more experienced ranks of the Naval service and their outstanding achievement saw them meet all of their expedition objectives and set the following records. They became:

• The first service Expedition to reach the South Pole since Captain Scott in 1912
• The first British military 2,000 mile return journey to the South Pole in history
• The first Royal Marines to walk unsupported to the South Pole
• Part of only 8 Britons to have ever completed the overland ski journey into and out of the Pole
  
  

Pictured above: Sean Chapple (Leader), Andy Brown (Doctor), Craig Hunter and Paul Mattin.

Critical to the success or failure of the expedition was the selection of suitable, reliable and proven clothing and equipment. In helping the Marines achieve their objectives and be record breakers, Vango supported the expedition by supplying a 4 person Storm Shelter, capable of withstanding the extreme conditions they encountered and five of Vango's elite Fitzroy mountain rucsacs - renowned for their comfort, stability and reliability in the most extreme environments. In addition, Vango staff offered invaluable advice on how to get the best out of all equipment supplied.

Captain Sean Chapple of the Royal Marines and Expedition Leader for Polar Quest said: "Taking a rest break in Antarctica at minus 40 degrees Celsius in 30 knot winds is not pleasant, unless you have a Stormshelter. This really was a mission critical piece of equipment.

"To embark on a record-breaking ski return journey to the South Pole is a high risk and ambitious undertaking. The team must fit, the fiances must be in order and equipment must have the right features. The support of Vango to the Polar Quest expedition was pivotal in ensuring that we got the equipment bit spot on."

For more information on the expedition visit www.polarquest.co.uk

KILLINGTON RECALL - UPDATE
July 2007

Dear Consumer

As you may already be aware, we recently withdrew our Vango Killington 600 & 900 tents from circulation, to ensure that our commitment to producing the highest quality products was not compromised.

This 2007 model was found to have a production problem that could allow water ingress at the anchor points on the flysheet.

Following this recall, we would now like to update consumers who are eagerly awaiting the re-introduction of the Killington as to what the current situation is.

Initially it was our intention to repair the fault and re-introduce the tents at the end of July 2007. However we have now decided to replace the 2007 model with the 2008 model, which has many new features and benefits.

The 2008 version will be available from December 2007.

For any customers not wishing to wait until December 2007, Vango would recommend the Diablo 600XP or Diablo 900XP as a suitable replacement.

If you have a Killington tent and have not experienced water ingress at the anchor point, then the likelihood is that your tent is not one of the faulty batch.

However, if you have any concerns regarding the performance of your Killington tent, then please do not hesitate to contact your retailer who is authorised to offer a replacement or similar tent of the relevant size.

The Killington 400 and all other Vango models are unaffected. If you require any further clarification, or are unsure of what to do next, please e-mail aftersales@amg-group.co.uk

VANGO STAFF RISE TO THE DIRTY THIRTY CHALLENGE
June 2007

Vango staff pushed themselves to the limit recently and put their equipment to the ultimate test along with retail partners: 9-1-4 Outdoor, as they rose to the challenge and successfully completed the Lochalsh Dirty Thirty.

In its first year, the annual challenge took flight on Saturday 9th June and participants had to complete the 30 mile round trip starting at Shiel Bridge Campsite in just 24 hours. Katy Buchan, Product and Design Manager for Vango said: "This was the most difficult physical challenge of my life and probably one of the hardest things I've ever done but it was really worthwhile and the overall event was great!"

"We decided to get sponsorship for the event to raise funds for a worthwhile cause and we're all so proud to have completed the challenge in such good time."

In all, five members of the Vango team took part in the Dirty Thirty, which took them up the side of Loch Duich, then around the coast and onto the final stretch ascending the Allt à Ghleannain and back down to Lochalsh. The route offered outstanding views of the Isle of Skye along the way as well as two of the best examples of Brochs in the Highlands at Gleann Beag.

'Team Vango' finished the challenge in less than 15 hours, with their finishing times ranging between 8 hours 30 minutes and 14 hours 30 minutes. Between them, the team raised a total of almost £450 in sponsorship for the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland.

Team Vango - Graeme Campbell, Katy Buchan, Glenn Andrews, Gordy McIntyre and Martin Jones.

Margaret Arscott, secretary of the Lochalsh Trail Club, which organizes the event added: "We were delighted with the success of the first ever Dirty 30 Challenge - it was everything we'd hoped for. The weather was fantastic and all of the participants were so enthusiastic."

"I'd like to thank all our event sponsors - including Vango and 9-1-4 Outdoor and I'm really looking forward to planning for next year's event, which will take place on Saturday 14th June!"

For further information about the Dirty Thirty Challenge, visit www.lochalsh-trails.co.uk

CONSUMER CHAMPIONS NEEDED.
May 2007

We're listening...

We are looking for Vango families and individuals to help us research and plan our products for the future. Here at Vango we really value our customers and we want to produce products with which you are 100% happy, and what better way to do that than to ask you. We will be holding events up and down the country over the next few months so hopefully one will happen near you.

We require some basic details so we can invite you to the right event so please reply to iain.crawford@vango.co.uk with the following information:

Name, address with postcode, email and a day time telephone number
Age Group: under 16, 16 - 24, 25 - 34, 35 - 44, 45 - 54 or 55+
Details of how, where and with whom you normally travel with
Whether you own or use any Vango products at the moment
Which other brandsyou own in tents, rucsacs or sleeping bags
What type of leisure activities are you involved in

We look forward to hearing from you.

AND THE PRIZE GOES TO...

Over 3000 of you let us know your views on Vango and the outdoor industry, helping us to develop products that meet the requirements of you guys, the heartbeat of the great outdoors. Selected at random, the 5 lucky winners of a Summit 5000 sleeping bag are:

Shauna Reeves, Essex
Tom Raven-Martin, Manchester
Chris Fisher, Edinburgh
Lee Smith, Leeds
Keith Onions, Surrey

Congratulations to you all!

Look out for more chances to win coming soon.

EXPERIENCE CAMPING WITH ULTIMATE OUTDOORS & VANGO!
May 2007

From taster sessions and seminars to camping in the wilderness
Thought camping was all soggy sleeping bags and tins of beans? Then think again. Campsites, tents, equipment and food have really evolved over the last few years and as part of the first Keswick Mountain Festival (www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk), Ultimate Outdoors and Vango teamed up to give the low down on camping by offering a range of seminars and taster sessions to prove that camping really is a great experience, as well as offering participants the chance to win some great kit!

Lucky Winner
Vango provided their latest tent, sleeping bags, rucsacs, cooking equipment, furniture and other accessories for the taster sessions and the lucky competition winner this time was David Hill, who bagged over £400 worth of Vango camping goodies that he'd already been able to put to the test in the wild.

Seminars
The events kicked off on Wednesday 16th May with two specialised seminars where outdoor enthusiasts as well as beginners got the chance to try out equipment, receive hints and tips and pose questions to the Ultimate Outdoors and Vango expert panel. The first seminar, ‘Get Packing', provided all there is to know about back-packing including choosing a bag, planning what to take and tips on how to pack, whilst the second ‘Happy Camping' seminar introduced beginners to various types of tents, tent erection and care, sleeping bags, camping equipment and accessories. This also provided the perfect opportunity for the seasoned camper to see what improved products are new on the market.

Taster Sessions
For those who fancied something more practical, the Vango and Ultimate Outdoors camping experience was the perfect way to get started. There were four overnight taster sessions running over Friday 18th and Saturday 19th May, in which Camping experts (including Vango's Matt Graves and Ivan Davis, along with a fully qualified mountain guide) provided introductory talks about the equipment and also gave some top tips on what you should know before heading outdoors.

The fantastic family camping taster session took place at the award winning camping and caravan club site on the shore of Derwentwater, just a couple of minutes from the centre of town, providing a beautiful backdrop for the training. There were ten groups (of up to nine) camping each night which made for a great atmosphere and all groups were allocated space to have a go at pitching their own tent whilst experts were there to lend a hand when necessary.

The great outdoor experience
The adventure really began when the groups then headed to Dale Head Tarn on Friday to experience camping in the wild, again with experts from Vango and also Glaramara. All participants were offered advice and tips on finding a pitch and setting up camp for the evening and there was even an opportunity to give night navigation a try!

Overall, the sessions were a great success and all the groups had a fantastic time. Following the success of this year's taster sessions, Ultimate Outdoors and Vango are looking forward to working together again next year to help more people discover how the great outdoors can change their lifestyle for the better!

Watch this space for details on similar events in the future.

VANGO'S SPIRIT 200 LITE AWARDED BEST TENT BY TRAIL MAGAZINE
January 2007

Vango's TBS Spirit Lite 200 has been awarded winner of Trail magazine's prestigious Gear Guide 07 under its 2 Person Tent Category.

New in 2006, the TBS Spirit range of tents was designed to address the demands of the modern adventure seeker. Using the latest, lightweight fabrics and pole technologies and with the inclusion of Vango's patented TBS® Tension Band System, which keeps the poles rigid, this lightweight tent is reassuringly strong in all conditions.

Part of Vango's Expedition/Mountain range, the TBS Spirit 200 Lite is regarded by Trail magazine as offering "the best balance of price and function for typical UK backpacking"

For 2007 the Spirit range of tents has been updated, with each model benefiting from the addition of new colour combinations, a new flysheet fabric and a reduction in overall weight.

For additional peace of mind the Vango's entire range also comes with a Lifetime Guarantee.