Outdoor Focus Winter 2019 | Page 11

Highly Commended David Lintern One Wild Night From sowing to sewing, we wanted to know that the choices we were making, and recommending others should make, were the best possible for all involved. These days, when we’re reviewing kit, we’re not afraid to ask brands about the ethics of their products; to challenge their claims and demand clear, accurate information that customers can easily find. We’ve introduced ‘ethical choice’ awards so people reading our reviews know which brands are doing well and which brands should be doing better. In writing our Green Light feature for Runner’s World magazine we wanted to combine some hard- hitting facts, interesting and informative details and useful, practical advice on how to buy well and look after kit so it performs at its best for as long as possible. We wanted to highlight some of the brands we felt were shining examples of great corporate responsibility, alongside those that still have a way to go. We also wanted to encourage runners to look beyond cheap kit for its real cost to people and planet, and consider whether it’s still good value, particularly if it doesn’t perform or last as well as a slightly more expensive alternative. We really believe that it’s only through knowing what is involved in the production of our kit that we can all make properly informed buying choices. And it’s through these choices that we can change the world of outdoor gear for the better. WHAT THE JUDGES SAID... Readable, thorough - highlights importance of the subject, gives political economic background, and loads of practical advice. Loads of useful boxes highlighting stuff you want to know. The article was illustrated with great useful images. Judges Carlton Reid (founder of On Your Bike magazine/former OWPG member) and Elizabeth Multon (Commissioning Editor of Adlard Coles Nautical, Bloomsbury Publishing) The Technical Feature Award is sponsored by Cicerone, a specialist publisher of walking, trekking, mountaineering and cycling guidebooks. winter 2019 | Outdoor focus 11