What GoPro do I need? A Buyers Guide

Whether you want to capture some extreme sports footage or family days out at the beach, a GoPro action camera could suit all of your needs but choosing what package or accessories to accompany your purchase can be a daunting prospect with the wide variety of options available. So what GoPro do I need? This guide will provide you with all the necessary ‘nuts and bolts’ to make an informed decision to pick that perfect package.

There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to choosing a GoPro, ultimately the decision is purely subjective and based on a few bits of key information:

  1. Budget?
  2. What are your performance requirements?
  3. Conditions and Environment mainly used?

This guide will focus on the newest range of GoPros as the new features found in the Hero 4 Black and Silver edition plus the Hero should not to be missed.

Budget ?

As with any new purchase budget is the most important factor. These following GoPros are the newest editions to their existing range and you would think all have a high price tag to match, but no! The new Hero is the most affordable entry level action camera yet. Whereas the Hero 4 Black and Silver feature higher specs so the prices inevitably follow this:

Hero 4 Black  – £409.99

Hero 4 Silver – £329.99

Hero                     – £109.99

What are your performance requirements?

What you want from your camera in regards to image quality and features quickly follows budget, as its important in not only choosing a GoPro that meets your requirements but doesn’t exceed them if not necessary as you could find yourself spending more money than you need to, which could be better spent on accessories.

When it comes to filming or photography would you class yourself as a professional or amateur? The answer to this simple question will help steer you in the right direction to picking that perfect camera.

GoPro Hero

This new entry level camera the ‘Hero’ is perfect for beginners and amateurs who are looking for that step onto the ladder into the action camera world helping people to capture and share their life events around the world.

The Hero is a simplified version of its bigger brother the Hero 3 White but still delivers amazing results and features to get you started in the world of mountable cameras. Visit tallingtonlakesproshop.com for more details about the GoPro Hero.

Hero 4 Silver

The mid ranged camera in terms of spec the Hero 4 Silver will appeal to the amateur who wants more from their camera, this year it has much more in common with the Hero 3+ Black and the Hero 4 Black. The Hero 4 Silver has been given upgraded components and numerous new recording features found in the Hero 4 Black.

Not wanting basic features found in the Hero, or don’t need professional quality images the Hero 4 Silver could be the perfect match for you.

gopro hero4 black action camera
GoPro Hero4 Black for the avid enthusiast or professional photographer.

Hero 4 Black

One for your avid enthusiasts or professional photographer, the Hero 4 Black is finally here and features technology that makes this an unbeatable camera for both build and picture quality. The processors now give twice the power of previous editions with the ability to film cinema quality 4K video.

This is certainly the go to action camera if quality and performance is what you seek.

Conditions and Environment mainly used in?

After choosing what model of GoPro you want it’s important to understand what mounts and housing you get with the standard edition. Whether its surfing, skiing, cycling the GoPro is protected by its own sealed housing, which is waterproof to 40m and impact resistant, giving your camera the best protection available perfect for a variety of extreme sports.

For times when a waterproof housing is overkill simply remove your camera (except Hero) and start filming, this gives you better sound quality and reduction in weight ideal for time-lapse photography or for some inside filming around the dinner table, no matter the condition or environment GoPro has you covered.

skier using gopro
Mount and protect your GoPro whatever the activity!

Standard Edition Hero 4 Black/Silver/Hero

Ideal for a wide range of applications where specific mounts or housings are not needed, this is a perfect starter bundle to get you filming some amazing footage.
Standard Housing
Skeleton backdoor
Touch backdoor (Only available with Hero 4 Silver)
Rechargeable battery
Curved and flat adhesive mounts
Quick release buckles
3 Way pivot arm (Not available with Hero)
USB cable

Note. For you music lovers, the only addition to not have a waterproof housing as standard is the music edition, but if you find a situation which requires additional equipment you then have the opportunity to kit you new Go Pro out with the vast range of unique and exciting accessories.

GoPro Accessories

The new models of GoPro are so versatile they can be used and mounted in a variety of situations, but certain mounts and accessories don’t come in the bundles. Below is a handpicked list of items we feel are important to get along with your camera especially if you like a mix of action and water sports.

Battery Bacpac

For situations where you need a little extra juice, the Bacpac is a removable battery pack that seamlessly attaches to the rear of your GoPro. The new model now features a 15% increase in battery life perfect for a long days recording.

Pole Mount

For situations when you need to mount your camera to a ski pole, handlebar, kite control bar or seat posts, suitable for a thickness between 1.9cm – 3.5cm. Also comes with a pivoting orientation arm to give you 3-way adjustability.

The chest harness lets you look at things from a different perspective!

Chest Harness

Ideal when you need both hands free and no other mounting point such as a helmet is available or you just want a lower view of the action, the chest mount makes it easy to capture footage where ever your turn. Come with a wide range of adjustability to suit all sizes.

Floaty Backdoor

After all you wouldn’t want your new GoPro sinking whilst out on the water so why not attach the Floaty Backdoor. It’s quick and simple to attach coming standard with extra strong 3M adhesive glue.

Anti Fog Inserts

Even though the housings are completely waterproof fogging can sometimes occur in extreme cold or humid environments, by placing an anti fog insert inside your housing this fogging is prevent ensuring hours of uninterrupted filming. Each set lasts 4-5 times and can be dry in an oven.

In conclusion no matter what GoPro and accessories you decide to go with you will not be disappointed with quality and whether it’s the Hero or Hero 4 Black/Silver. If you need any more help give us a call and speak with our experienced staff. You can buy GoPro cameras, mounts and accessories form the Tallington Lakes Pro Shop.

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Skiing The Bec Rouge Couloir

I have spent the last eight years wanting to ski the Bec Rouge couloir, and could hardly contain my excitement when we set off at 6am! The
conditions were epic with blue skies as far as you can see, a foot of fresh snow and temperatures set to stay at -10°C all morning.

Halfway through the two hour climb we had the privilege of meeting Marcel Gaidet; who ended up joining us for the remainder of the tour. Marcel’s son Manu was a three times World Freeride Champion. The wealth of knowledge that Marcel has of these mountains was phenomenal and I learnt so much in the remainder of the day.

two skiers
Marcel Gaidet (left) a true inspiration.

Marcel is 67 this year and has had a hip replacement; however he still put in the first track near enough all the way to the top – his level of fitness was truly awe inspiring. To put it in to perspective he averages 50,000 vertical metres of climbing a winter compared to my usual of 10,000. To be around Marcel for the day was amazing. He is just out there doing it and enjoying himself; I can only hope that I am still skiing lines like this when I am in my sixties.

“You have waited so long for all the elements to come together there is so much that goes into it.”

After eight years of waiting the couloir couldn’t of had better snow conditions. It is hard to put into words what it feels like on days like this; you have waited so long for all the elements to come together there is so much that goes into it. It is probably the one side
of the sport that I feel as a whole people don’t appreciate. You have to be so patient, nature dictates the small windows of opportunity you have to ski these lines.

So when you get the chance, you are almost over whelmed. It is just incredible that so many variables can fall into place and that is what makes it so special, I just hope I don’t have to wait another eight years to do it gain!

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Taking Part In A Park Contest

Sometimes it can be hard to get involved in competitive skiing but I would recommend it to everyone. Whether it is competing in gates at your local dry slope, or attending the many events on at
the snow domes or on the piste in Europe there are plenty of ways to get involved for all abilities. For myself it had been several years since I had competed and it made me realise the ways it can benefit your skiing.

Park Contest

The format for the contest required two qualifying runs which would determine the top five through to the final run, where the overall winner was decided. The event had a great atmosphere with a good standard of local French riders. My two qualifying runs went well
and my second a backflip to 540 followed by a successful completion of the rail section on the course got me through to the final.

Unfortunately I fell in the final on my first jump a natural 720 and finished fifth overall in the event. Despite just missing out on the prizes I had such a good day. By competing it pushes you to ski to the best of your ability and naturally encourages progression – this can only be beneficial to all skiers.

skier in the air
On route to the finals!

When I was at University I competed a lot and I remember how much people progressed in that environment. So I would recommend looking into your local ski clubs and dry slopes to see what is available and get involved.

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Keeping Your Head, Hands and Feet Warm In Water

With the high pressure systems becoming more frequent and the air temperatures warming up it won’t be long till the water temperatures around the UK start to catch up. This can only mean one thing! It’s time to brush off the neoprene cobwebs and prepare for the season ahead. But just remember have you got all areas of your body including your head, hands and feet covered with the right gear?

Due to the lack of warmth over the winter many waters around the country will still be well below 10°C, too cold for just a wetsuit alone. Don’t risk getting cold and cutting your session short with cold hands and feet. Let us give you the knowledge to understand the need and options of different gear for your extremities.

It’s widely known that when you get cold your body’s defence is to divert all heat away from your extremities to your core and vital organs, so just relying on a thick winter wetsuit is not enough in cold water. To give you a better idea of what gloves, boots and hoods you could get it’s important to know what time of year you will be going out in, how much use they will get and your budget.

Hoods & Beanies

Recent research has shown that heat loss through your head of around 45% is a myth and is actually around 10%, never the less it’s extremely important to cover your head in cold water. Despite this myth and lower figure, surfers still regularly wear a hood due to the increased chance of being submerged or covered by a crashing wave. This rapid change in head temperature can lead to brain freeze which no rider wants.

Full Neoprene Hood

Full wetsuit hoods vary in thickness from 2-3mm to provide a perfect balance of warmth and flexibility suited to any condition you may throw yourself into. Most hoods come with a peak this provides two functions; gives extra protection against the crashing waves/spray and gives added protection against the bright sun on those rare days.

O'Neill 3mm Cold Water Wetsuit Hood
O’Neill 3mm Cold Water Wetsuit Hood

Many people ask the question to tuck or not to tuck your hood? The real answer is whatever you feel comfortable with, try both ways and you will soon find out which is best for you and your style of riding.

Neoprene Beanie

When a full hood is over kill a wetsuit beanie could be an excellent alternative, suited to lower impact sports and warmer conditions. The possibility of losing your beanie out in the surf is high so many beanies now come with an attachment strap as standard giving you the confidence to take on some huge waves.

Beanies are generally thinner than full face hoods around 2mm due to being used in warmer water, as a result they have increased comfort and flexibility. For that perfect beanie visit (Link to wetsuit)

Boots

Whether you’re planning on spending hours in the water or having fun on the beach being equipped with the right feet protection is important. As a general rule of thumb if you’re wearing a full wetsuit a neoprene boot is best whereas if you’re walking around the beach visiting rock pools a neoprene reef shoe will be best.

Reef shoes are thinner at around 2mm but have a thicker sole perfect for walking across sharp rocks whilst keeping cool at the same time. For extra protection against the cold a full boot 3-5mm thick would be used in conjunction with your wetsuit providing a perfect seal against any water seeping through.

O'Neill Heat 5mm Round Toe Wetsuit Boots
O’Neill Heat 5mm Round Toe Wetsuit Boots

Split or round toe design? Is a frequent question asked by many water sport enthusiasts. The advantage of spilt toe design ensures your feet stay planted in your boot and reduce slipping which could affect your ability to surf. Whereas round toe designs are generally more comfortable and give extra warmth as all your toes are together.

You wouldn’t get the wrong size shoe and wetsuit boots are no different. Too small they rub and feel uncomfortable whereas too big can cause the boot to fill with water.

Gloves

Head, check. Feet, check. Next is picking the perfect wetsuit glove which can be a daunting prospect with the numerous variations and styles out there! With an item such as gloves facing a lot of punishment, being either single or double skinned is an important aspect. Single skin gloves are generally smoother and repel water more efficiently but less durable whereas double skinned are much more durable and slightly stiffer due to the increased thickness a favourite for many people.

O'Neill 3mm Psycho Single Lined Wetsuit Gloves
O’Neill 3mm Psycho Single Lined Wetsuit Gloves

Another factor to consider is the neoprene thickness, this can vary from 1-5mm the thicker the glove the more warmth it provides but gives less feedback to the user, so finding that perfect balance is key. The Psycho Double Lined (DL) is the thinnest fully sealed glove on the market at just 1.5mm, perfect for most UK waters.

Having a glove that is too small can cause poor circulation and cold hands whereas gloves being too big won’t retain the heat so it’s important you follow our size guide link to help choose the right size for you.

Neoprene Maintenance & Care

As with any neoprene product it is important to clean and store them correctly. To ensure your boots, gloves and hoods stay mould free and last for years rinsing after use in salt water and thoroughly drying is a must! And finally store them in a dry environment out of direct sunlight.

This guide should help you pick all the right gear but if you’re still unsure why not pop into store or give us a call and speak to one of our experienced staff.

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Liquid Force Limited Edition Wakeboards

Liquid Force have produced a series of limited edition wakeboards for 2015. These special boards have been pluck form their vast array of quality boards, and given their own look. The technology and shaping is the same; but the look is unique! Take a look at the video below:

There are selected Liquid Force stores in the USA selling these wakeboards; and only seven stores in the UK have been chosen to stock them.  We have gone for the cable specific Liquid Force  Peak LTD wakeboard, in all four sizes: 133 137 141 and 145cm.

They are only available in store, no buying online or iver the phone. So if you want to get your hands on a unique wakeboard; pop down to the Pro Shop and grab yourself a ‘stand out’ board – because once they are gone; there gone!

 

 

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