Intrepid Traders

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Intrepid Traders

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South Africa's specialist supplier of climbing, sports performance and training equipment.

From climbing walls and crash mats to agility, rugby, boxing and conditioning equipment, we help schools, clubs, gyms and athletes train with confidence.

13/11/2026

****FRIDAY MUSING****

“You are never homeless with a tent and a sleeping bag.”
― Steven Magee

12/11/2026

Another climbing grip order getting ready to head out! 🧗‍♀️

A great mix of shapes, sizes and colours to bring a climbing wall to life.

Whether you're building a new wall, upgrading an existing setup or adding variety to your routes, we've got the grips to get you climbing!

Build for Adventure. Build with Intrepid Traders.

📩 Get in touch for enquiries and orders.

11/11/2026

**** COACHES CORNER****

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TENT & SLEEPING BAG

Planning your first overnight hike? Before you head out, make sure your shelter and sleeping gear are suited to the conditions you'll be facing.

A good night's sleep and a reliable shelter can make a big difference to your outdoor experience!

****CHOOSING THE RIGHT TENT****

Look for:

Season rating: A 3-season tent is a versatile starting point for most moderate spring, summer and autumn hiking conditions.

Weather protection: Check the waterproof ratings of the flysheet and floor, and make sure the tent is properly secured with guy ropes and pegs.

Weight and ventilation: Choose a tent that's practical to carry, with mesh panels or ventilation to help reduce condensation.

Avoid:

Choosing a tent based on capacity alone. A two-person tent can be quite snug once your gear is inside.

Assuming every 3-season tent is suitable for severe storms, strong exposed winds or heavy snow.

Buying a tent without checking its packed size and weight.

****CHOOSING THE RIGHT SLEEPING BAG****

Look for:

Temperature rating: Choose according to the coldest temperatures you realistically expect on your trip.

Insulation: Synthetic insulation is a practical option because it retains some insulating ability when damp and is generally easier to care for.

Fit and pack size: Make sure you have enough room to sleep comfortably, without excessive empty space that makes it harder to retain warmth.

Avoid:

Choosing a bag based only on its lowest advertised temperature. Understand the difference between comfort and transition/limit ratings.

Assuming your sleeping bag alone will keep you warm. Your sleeping mat is equally important because it helps insulate you from the cold ground.

Packing a bag away while damp or storing it compressed for long periods.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HIKING POLES
Hiking poles aren't just for steep mountain trails. They can help improve balance, stability and confidence, particularly when carrying a loaded backpack.

Look for:
- Adjustable length: Poles should be easy to adjust to suit your height and the terrain.
- Comfortable grips and wrist straps: A secure, comfortable grip makes a difference on longer walks.
- Reliable locking mechanisms and tips: Check that the poles lock securely and have suitable tips for the surfaces you'll encounter.
Avoid:
- Buying poles that are too heavy or awkward to carry.
- Using poles with loose or slipping locking mechanisms.
- Relying on poles instead of proper footwear, balance and careful foot placement.

****COACH'S TIP****
Always test your tent at home before your trip. Practise pitching it, check that all the components are there, and make sure you know how your sleeping bag works.

A little preparation goes a long way when you're spending the night outdoors!

10/11/2026

****TUESDAY TRAIL TALK****

Day Tripper or Overnight Hiker?

Given the opportunity I would pick overnight hiking over day hikes.

There's something about finding places just out of reach of civilisation that makes the wild woman in me stir.

What do you prefer? Have you tried overnighting before? Would you? If so, what is stopping you?

09/11/2026

****READY TO TAKE YOUR HIKING FURTHER****

Thinking about moving beyond day hikes and trying your first overnight trail? Having the right basic equipment can make all the difference!

You don't need to buy everything at once. Start with a few versatile essentials that will help you get comfortable spending a night outdoors.

A RELIABLE TENT
The First Ascent Starlight II is a compact 2-person, 3-season hiking tent. At 2.3 kg, it's a practical shelter for weekend adventures and multi-day trails.

A WARM SLEEPING BAG
The Amplify 1800 Synthetic Sleeping Bag offers a 0°C comfort rating and -5°C transition rating, making it a good option for cooler nights and autumn, spring and winter camping.

SUPPORT ON THE TRAIL
The Hyrax Trekking Pole Twin Pack provides extra stability and balance on uneven terrain. Adjustable in length and supplied with different tip accessories, they're versatile companions for changing trail conditions.

A few essentials. A little preparation. A whole lot of adventure!

Whether you're planning your first overnight hike or adding to your existing gear, explore our hiking equipment range.

📲 Need help choosing? WhatsApp us on 061 787 1431.

INTREPID TRADERS – HIKE • CLIMB • EXPLORE

06/11/2026

****FRIDAY REMINISCENCE****

Many many years ago I was gifted an overnight hike to the Tugela Falls in the Drakensberg. Before then I was an indoor cat.

Back then there was limited information on the internet and I frankly did not do enough research.

I went on that hike drenched in cotton ( see the Coaches Corner why this isn't a good idea), packing a light sleeping bag meant for hot summer days and night in the bushveld, a wardrobe for days in my backpack and Old Browne Sherry ( NOT one glass bottle BUT TWO)

The seasoned hikers out ther will be cringing reading the above, and its a surprise I made it out loving hikingas opposed to wanting to throw in the towel ( which I wanted to many a time on that trip).

As much as I had tried to prepare I had made some spectacular blunders, like thinking there was a restaurant, ablution and rubbish facilities on the mountain.

Lo and behold I got up there - not a building in sight, not a bin, not even a bush to take a p*e behind.

Thankfully we were fed well by the adventure guides we went with so my stomach was full. Then there was the problem of two bottles of sherry. I fixed that by drinking and sharing what I had but still had to carry the bottles back with me down the mountain ( you dont leave anything up there....EVER!)

I got cold, despite my overflowing backpack full of clothing most of them were inappropriate for mountain weather, even when layered , even in my sleeping bag ( that was woefully not suitable) . I didnt freeze. I didn't feel warm either. It was a long night.

Made worse when I eventually couldn't hold my p*e in and had to venture out in the dark misty hours, atop a mountain with a 1km sheer drop to the bottom somewhere in the clouds. I needed to make sure I was well away from the water source and my camp mates when I used the loo AND try not to fall off te mountain. I was scared like I had never been in my life.

We know that I made it out alive, and had it not been for the glorious sunrise that I was awake to see that morning, I would not be an avid hiker today.

There were many lessons learned that first trip and I was lucky that my unpreparedness had not led to more dire consequences.

What have I learned....perpare for the worst, be pleasantly surprised whe that does'nt happen.

ALSO...don't be afraid to ask if you dont know...its the difference sometimes in joy and despair, life and death.

05/11/2026

****INTREPID TRADERS – FESTIVE SEASON 2026****

CLOSING: 15 DECEMBER 2026
REOPENING: MONDAY, 11 JANUARY 2027

ORDER DEADLINES FOR PROCESSING & DELIVERY IN 2026
13 NOVEMBER: Crash Mats, Advertising Wedges, Athletics, Boxing, Exercise & Agility Equipment
30 NOVEMBER: Custom Climbing Grips & Holds
13 DECEMBER:: All other products, subject to stock availability.

Any orders received after the applicable cut-off dates will be processed when we reopen.

Please note that products with limited stock availability may sell out before the stated deadline. If you need an order by a specific date, we recommend contacting us in advance to confirm availability and production timeframes.

Thank you for your support throughout 2026. We wish you and your family a wonderful festive season!

05/11/2026

****CLIENT FEEDBACK****

We love to hear your feedback!

If it's good, we know we are on the right track with our products and service.
If it's bad, we know where to improve or change our products!

04/11/2026

COACHES CORNER: WHAT NOT TO WEAR ON A HIKE!

That favourite pair of jeans might look great in your hiking photos, but is it really the best choice for the trail? 👀

When preparing for a hike, choosing the right clothing isn't just about looking the part. It can help you stay comfortable, manage changing weather and avoid unnecessary problems along the way.

Here are 5 things to think twice about wearing on your next hike!

1. COTTON — “COTTON KILLS!”

You've probably heard this phrase in hiking circles, but what does it mean?

Cotton absorbs sweat and water and dries slowly. When it gets wet, it can leave you feeling cold and clammy, increasing the risk of hypothermia in cool, wet or windy conditions.

Rather choose moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics or suitable wool layers that help manage moisture.

2. JEANS & HEAVY CLOTHING

Denim can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet, take a long time to dry and restrict movement. Heavy clothing can also make it harder to regulate your temperature as your activity level changes.

Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely, and dress in layers for changing conditions.

3. INAPPROPRIATE FOOTWEAR

Flip-flops, fashion sneakers, high heels and shoes with smooth, worn-out soles are poor choices for most hiking trails.

Uneven ground, loose gravel, mud and wet rocks call for footwear with a secure fit and suitable grip.

Choose well-fitting hiking shoes or boots appropriate for the terrain. Some easy, well-maintained trails may be suitable for sturdy trail-running shoes, too.

4. NO WEATHER-PROTECTION LAYER

A sunny morning doesn't guarantee sunshine for the whole hike! Weather can change quickly, particularly in the mountains.

Don't rely on a hoodie or thin fashion jacket alone. Carry suitable rain and wind protection, plus an extra insulating layer when conditions call for it.

5. CLOTHING THAT RESTRICTS MOVEMENT OR LEAVES YOU EXPOSED

Clothes that chafe, are too tight to move comfortably in, or leave you inadequately protected from the sun, insects or scratchy vegetation can make a hike miserable.

Choose comfortable clothing suited to the trail, season and expected conditions. Consider sun protection and longer sleeves or trousers where the environment calls for them.

COACH'S TIP: DRESS FOR THE CONDITIONS, NOT JUST THE FORECAST!

Before heading out, check the weather, consider the terrain and pack an extra layer. Your clothing should help you manage sweat, rain, wind and temperature changes — not make them harder to handle.

YOUR TURN!

What's the biggest hiking clothing mistake you've seen — or made yourself? 😅

Tell us in the comments! We can all learn something from each other's trail experiences.

INTREPID TRADERS | CLIMB • TRAIN • EXPLORE

03/11/2026

****TUESDAY TRAIL TALK****

Shorts or Longs?

When you are out on the trails do you prefer wearing shorts or longs?

Having hiked for more than a decade I have prefered longs almost every time.

Your preference?

Address

Boksburg

Telephone

+27617871431

Website

https://intrepidtraders.co.za/

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