Blog

  • Chinese Diesel Heater Controller

    Chinese Diesel Heater Controller

    Chinese Diesel Heater Controller
    Chinese Diesel Heater Controller

    Hello, You have probably found this video if like me, you have recently purchased a diesel heater and realised when you came to fire it up that the controller differs from all the guides online. Don’t panic, I will go through all the features and get you up and running as quickly as I can.

    Check my video out on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/FaO68IhYMp0

    New/Different/Alternative Chinese Diesel Heater Controller

    Introduction

    This alternative type of controller can not be swapped for the other, more common type as it uses a different ECU. You can identify this controller because although it looks identical on the outside, the display will be distinctively different once it is powered up.
    Instead of a Wifi icon, you will see the current ambient temperature. A stop sign in the lower left corner and several other differences.
    As you can see in this video, my van is still a work in progress and has had panels removed to fit new parts for the coming year.

    Priming

    Priming the fuel pump may be even easier on this controller to the more common unit. Simply locate the up and down buttons on the right hand side of the screen, press and hold and you will hear the pump start operating after a few seconds.
    Release the buttons and a few seconds later the pump will stop. Check where the fuel is along the line and repeat as necessary taking care not to flood the heater unit.

    Start Up

    To start your heater, locate the power button, right hand side in the middle and hold it down until the fan icon starts spinning, the glow plug icon lights up and the power bars light up inside the heater. You should also see lights flash alternately in the inlet & exhaust on the screen.
    A short while later the fuel pump icon should light up and you will hear the pump start working. Not long after this the heater should ignite and you can hear it start running.
    The heater will normally start in Manual mode, displaying H3 on the screen but you can switch it into Auto Mode. In either mode you can adjust the temperature using the up and down arrow buttons on the right hand side.

    Shut Down

    Shutting the heater down is exactly the same as turning it on. Locate that power button and hold it until the word “OFF” is displayed. The heater will continue running for a while with the fuel pump off, the glow plug and fans will remain on to burn off any fuel and cool the unit down.

    Alpine Mode

    Alpine mode allows you to reduce the amount of fuel used to compensate for thinner air at higher altitude. To turn on Alpine mode, simply locate the Settings and OK buttons on the left hand side of the unit and hold them down until a mountain icon appears at the top. Turning this mode off is the same as turning it on. Press and hold the Settings and OK buttons and the mountain will vanish. Take that David Copperfield !

    Auto Mode

    Switch between auto and manual modes simply by holding down the settings button on the top left of the controller.
    In Manual mode you will see a set number of bars displayed in the heater on the screen and it should read somewhere between H1 and H6. In Auto Mode the temperature will be displayed in degrees C. I found in a small van like mine, this mode is pointless as the temperature rises to around 25 degrees and continues climbing steadily even with the heater on its lowest setting. However, I did manage to reduce the temperature a little by using Alpine Mode.

    Summary

    Those are the basic functions of this controller and should get you up and running.
    If you found this useful, please hit the like button.
    More importantly if you really liked this video then check out my website and support me in making sustainable outdoor clothing and soaps that are awesome for van life.
    Thank You for Watching.
    Subscribe for more videos about this van build, road trips and other things I do.

  • Royal Mail Strikes

    Royal Mail Strikes and their Impact on Small Business

    As many of you will be aware Royal Mail workers have chosen to strike for a large number of days. This is right in the middle of their busiest period. Royal Mail Strikes are causing a great deal of difficulty for all small business owners. I am not the only one and it is time somebody voiced the effects.

    Normally I hate to put out such negative content as this but this post really is intended to highlight the issues faced and if one other Small British Business owner feels like they aren’t alone then this was worth it.

    What are the effects of the Strikes on Businesses ?

    The effects of these strikes cuts far deeper for small business. Some of us made a conscious decision to use Royal Mail and are now paying greatly for it.

    Larger Businesses have maybe not just one but potentially teams of people to deal with each aspect. When you are one person, you do every role in your business from shipping to accounting to ordering or manufacturing. You are every piece of your business and this reflects back solely on you. As a result you no longer work 9 to 5, 5 days a week. In addition you have no steady income. The Christmas period should be time for you to get your head down, ship as many orders as you can and hopefully make it through the next couple of quiet months with the central heating on (but that is a whole other topic).

    Having to deal with an exceptional number of complaints due to the inadequate service provided by Royal Mail is adding a lot of time to my working day. I am not the only one, small business owners talk to small business owners. We strive to provide excellent service and are being let down greatly. Furthermore when raising complaints due to late/missing/lost/damaged parcels with Royal Mail we are ignored.

    Royal Mail Strikes reflect badly upon Small Business. In the eyes of our customers we have failed. We are the ones they complain to. Royal Mail does not care about the problems they have caused us. It is not their problem that we are having to work extra hours on top of extra hours to deal with problems of their creation.

    Can you just change to another service ?

    This would be great. Unfortunately as mentioned before when you do everything in a business and there is nobody else to take care of matters and the shipping is integrated into your website with supporting hardware… Not as easy. Combined with what is usually an annual peak in number of orders there just isn’t time to make a switch.

    Grizzly Wears has automated shipping. This means when an order is placed, labels are automatically queued for printing and billing. Something that was set up with the intention of regaining all important time. In addition this means another supplier must offer a similar service and allow labels to be printed in standard 4″ x 6″ format. In the UK this is not a widely offered service without paying a large premium. This is why changing service is not such an easy task and requires more effort than googling another service. To make matters worse there is little contingency if there are issues with the new service and little opportunity to roll back.

    An end to Royal Mail Strikes

    Royal Mail need to stop the impact to their service by any means necessary. Whether it is coming to a deal with workers who are striking or letting them go. Currently we are heading for a recession in the UK. With cost of living prices at an all time high people are struggling to pay the bills each month. I see both sides of the argument but currently feel like if you have a job and steady income you should be grateful for this. Maybe you won’t be able to afford the luxuries you enjoyed as often but priority needs to be given to certain expenses.

    If you don’t like the terms and conditions from your employer or find that work/life balance is not right then you need to be looking for a different job. Having been in this situation several times I know it can be hard. Make time to clear your mind. Learn new skills. Improve yourself. Start looking and applying for other jobs and opportunities to improve. Do not stay in a job you are fundamentally miserable in. Ask for help and seek support if you have to.

    A Conclusion to my thoughts on the Royal Mail Strikes

    These Royal Mail Strikes have greater impact than just Royal Mail. They are affecting everyone who pays for the service which is not being provided. Poor management of the situation is to blame in my eyes. Management so poor that many of the small businesses who rely on Royal Mail service would be bankrupt if they operated this way.

    Royal Mail – You have let down all of your customers and your workers at a time when you should be performing at your best. I find it hard to believe that you could not increase your workforce, pay generous overtime and manage the situation. As a company that has been operating for 506 years I would have thought the experience to deal with busy and difficult times would be present.

    Moving forwards I will be adding options for further postal services. I do not like to operate with single points of failure and feel I have been let down as a customer and let down my customers.

    Support Small British Business

    If you want to help me along my way, please check out my shop. If at all feasible I will hand deliver items locally, Alternatively you can come and see my items in person at my remaining events for this year.

    I’m sorry for all orders that have been and may be delayed at this time.

  • Alternatives to Acrylic Wool

    Alternatives to Acrylic Wool

    Woollen clothing has been around almost as long as sheep. So when did Acrylic take over and why ? When shopping for any kind of knitwear, Acrylic Wool seems to be dominant. With Acrylic being inherently unsustainable I decided to take a look at the alternatives. Of course there is recycled acrylic but not often seen at more than 50% in products. Why are there no 100% recycled Acrylic products and what are the Alternatives to Acrylic Wool ?

    Why did Acrylic take over ?

    Firstly I’ll start with a quick summary of how acrylic came to be. Invented in the 1890’s in Germany and becoming popular in the 1950s. Acrylic is an easier to care for, cheaper to mass produce alternative to wool. These properties meant acrylic could take the market by storm. By the 1990s, acrylic had replaced sheep wool in most clothing, blanket, carpets. Anything really. Sheep wool became a premium product and now has mostly disappeared for several reasons. Critically the price of processing a fleece into yarn meant acrylic was much cheaper to mass produce.

    Holding many advantages, acrylic is:

    • Lightweight
    • Soft
    • Warm
    • Unappealing to Moths
    • Machine washable
    • Quick Drying
    • Easy to Dye
    • Cost Effective

    As well as this list there are a few disadvantages, for the purpose of this blog I am looking at the sustainability. Due to being made from oil, virgin acrylic is not sustainable. Consequently, it is neither biodegradable or compostable and will be around for a long time in landfill.

    Can’t you Recycle Acrylic ?

    Absolutely, acrylic is one of the most recyclable plastics. The problem is that it just isn’t often recycled. Green acrylics are becoming available on the market however are not typically available in the fashion market. As a result Grizzly Wears Clothing tries to avoid any use of acrylic. The best I can find is 50% recycled acrylic yarn and to me, that’s just not good enough. Furthermore I have not found information on how this material can be recycled again.

    Alternatives to Acrylic Wool

    So here are some of the alternatives which I am looking at…

    1. Sheep’s Wool

    When it comes to producing wool, sheep do a pretty good job. Here in the UK we tend not to have many merino sheep that produce a lot of very soft wool. This means that Australia is the main source of merino wool. Sheep must be sheared to maintain their health, the result is thousands of tons of wool that gets sent to landfill, burnt or composted because it costs more to process.

    2. Cotton

    Cotton can be spun into yarn, much like wool, choosing organic and fair trade is better.

    3. Tencel

    This fabric is made from wood cellulose. With the ability to be produced in a closed loop system, meaning water and chemicals can be reused and not disposed of, Tencel is a good alternative.

    4. Hemp

    Natural and biodegradable, this material is often used in blended fabrics and doesn’t require any pesticides to grow, which makes it ideal for organic farming.

    5. Soybean fiber

    This material is free from petrochemicals and is completely biodegradable. It drapes like silk but has the comfort of cashmere, which makes it perfect for knitwear.

    5. Linen

    A material that needs no chemicals at all and offers resistance, durability and a gentle touch on sensitive skin.

    6. Bamboo

    If grown in the right conditions, bamboo can be very sustainable – but try to steer clear of rayon, a highly chemical-intensive bamboo-derived material.

    7. Woocoa

    An innovative material created by a group of university students in Colombia, Woocoa is a coconut and hemp fibre “wool” treated with enzymes from the oyster mushroom. It isn’t widely commercial yet, but it’s an exciting development for the future.

    8. Nullarbor

    Developed by Australian material innovation company Nanolloose, this is a fabric created by using bacteria to ferment liquid coconut waste from the food industry into cellulose.

    From cotton to coconuts, natural vegan materials have never been more readily available, versatile or stylish.

    Today’s conscious consumers have a vast choice beyond animal-derived or petroleum-based fabrics, which is a sign of how far material innovation has come and the exciting developments that are still to come.

    Handmade Merino Wool Hats

    Handmade Merino Wool Hats

    • 100% Merino Wool
    • Made in Britain
    • Snug Fitting
    • Soft Feeling
    • Thermal Regulating
    £39.00

    Take a look at our 100% Merino Wool Hats

  • Single Bar Adventure Soap

    Black Bear Grease – Single Bar Adventure Soap

    Black Bear Grease has been specially formulated to work well at all jobs you may need it to perform on any adventure. A true Single Bar Adventure Soap !

    Click here to order your soap now or read about all the natural ingredients and benefits below…

    Black Bear Grease Natural Single Bar Adventure Soap
    Black Bear Grease Natural Soap

    Naturally Great Ingredients

    Black Bear Grease contains only natural Ingredients, It contains no Phenoxyethanol , SLS, SLES or MPG and uses an Aloe Vera base. Although it has not been tested on animals it should be safe to wash your dog with as long as they are not sensitive to Tea Tree Oil *(See FAQ’s). In addition we add activated charcoal as it has great cleaning power and is an antioxidant.

    Aloe Vera

    An excellent natural base for soap and well known for its cleansing and soothing properties. Rich in polysaccharides that trap moisture in your skin cells and lock in the moistness for a long time. Soap base aloe vera ensures that your skin does not suffer from dehydration and prevents dryness as well. Used in skincare products for over 5000 years, aloe vera is a well established super plant.

    Furthermore aloe vera promotes the production of elastin fibers and collagen in your skin cells. It also fights wrinkles, fine lines, and other aging signs effectively. As a result, your skin remains soft, supple, youthful, and beautiful.

    Our natural Aloe Vera soap strengthens your hair roots. It also repairs the hair follicles that are damaged due to environmental pollution and aging. Moreover, it may also induce hair growth and it is also suitable for oily hair as Aloe Vera Soap Base cleanses excess oil and dirt from your hair effectively.

    People who suffer from sunburns, itching, rashes, and skin redness can use the soaps made from Aloe Vera soap base. The soothing effect of Aloe Vera reduces all types of itching and inflammation and provides quick relief. The cooling sensation created by it can also be used to reduce tanning and it can also be used to heal sensitive and dry skin.

    Activated Charcoal

    Scientifically proven to remove toxins from the body, Activated Charcoal is quickly becoming popular in the cosmetics industry. Absolutely a different thing to what you would use on your barbecue, cosmetic grade activated charcoal contains no toxic substances which your body can’t tolerate. It is created at higher temperatures and exposed to steam or hot air to make the surface more porous and absorbent.

    With an ability to absorb as much as 1000 times its own weight, Charcoal is fantastic at removing toxins from the skin. Furthermore it can be used to purify water and as an emergency treatment for poisoning. Only a tiny amount is required to be an effective cleanser. Critically, Charcoal soap can help remove unnecessary oils and dirt from the skin to leave you with a smoother complexion. It is effective on the face, body and hair

    Acne and pimples can be effectively treated with activated charcoal as it helps to deep clean pores and reduce their size over time. Unlike some acne treatments, charcoal can be much gentler and more soothing on the skin. In addition, charcoal can prevent skin infections with its antimicrobial properties. Furthermore charcoal has been used in the effective treatment of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis and reduce inflammation.

    Due to its slightly gritty texture it is a mild exfoliant and very effective at removing dead skin cells. If all of this isn’t enough, charcoal has been known to reduce the effects of ageing. It can tighten your skin and help to prevent wrinkles and fine lines from forming.

    Tea Tree Oil

    Last but not least, Tea Tree Oil. Another great natural ingredient which has been used in skincare for a long time.

    With insect repellent properties I thought this was the final missing key ingredient of a true adventurists soap. This final key ingredient makes Black Bear Grease a fantastic all rounder. It cleans everything, it heals the skin and it keeps away insects. Tea tree further adds to the hair cleaning benefits as it remove dandruff and itchiness.

    Tea tree can help to soothe skin, by reducing itching, swelling and irritation. With anti inflammatory properties it is also great for combating acne and other skin conditions. It can also help in reduction of scarring and redness. As a powerful antimicrobial agent, tea tree oil helps to kill off bacteria, viruses and fungi. Being an antiseptic it is also good at treating cuts and bruises which you will definitely pick up if you are having proper adventures. Effective relief of ringworm, athletes foot, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis have also been credited to tea tree oil.

    This rounds up our list of ingredients and as you can see (if you have read this far), Black Bear Grease has many great properties for daily use or as a single bar adventure soap.

    FAQ’s

    Can I use this on my Dog ?

    This particular ingredient is highly toxic to dogs but the amount used in Black Bear Grease is well under the threshold considered dangerous in normal circumstances. Given the varying degree of sensitivity to Tea Tree Oil in dogs we can not be held responsible for any reactions and advise immediate vet treatment if any adverse reactions do occur. I would strongly advise using with caution and doing your own research before applying this to your dog or any other pet.

    Can I put this up my bum ?

    Often puzzled by the statement “for external use only” and wondering who this is for, I thought I’d better reiterate. No, don’t put it up your bum or eat it. It is not for cleaning inside your eye holes, ear holes, nose holes. You have been warned !

    Are natural products safe ?

    Natural products are generally safer but if you are allergic to any of the ingredients or have an adverse reaction we would recommend not using this product and consulting a medical professional. There are many unsafe natural products. Whilst I do my best to formulate these soaps to be safe there is always a slight risk. I use these soaps regularly and have never had any problems. Many people have tested them and none have had issues. If you are sensitive to any of the ingredients please avoid them.

    Is the packaging environmentally friendly too ?

    All of my soaps are packaged in food grade paper bags with recycled paper labels. Zero plastic used here and as with all other products our compostable plastic shipping bags with a bioenzyme to break them down faster are used.

  • Best Boxer Shorts for Cycling

    Best Boxer Shorts for Cycling and Mountain Biking

    Grizzly Wears Boxer Shorts have been developed to reduce friction and give maximum comfort. They truly are the best boxer shorts for cycling. When used as a layer between your shorts/padding and skin they are so comfortable and smooth you will forget you’re even wearing them !

    Zero Friction by Nature

    Firstly, because Grizzly Wears Boxers are made from super smooth bamboo, they naturally reduce chafing. This incredible fabric is softer than silk whilst remaining incredibly strong. Bamboo is a fantastic natural fabric with many inherent qualities that make it perfect for this application.

    Importantly, bamboo is breathable but a great thermal regulator. It stays warm when the weather is cold and cools when the weather is hot. This makes our boxers fantastic for all seasons. As there is current ongoing arguments about how much of the antibacterial qualities of the plant remain when it is turned into a fabric we would not claim any antibacterial properties. However the fibres do not retain odour like polyester can. This makes bamboo products easy to wash at low temperatures. They also resist picking up odours and are ideal for longer adventures where you may not get chance to change every day.

    Lastly, bamboo fabric resists stretching. I’m sure you have got to the end of the day, taken off your boxers and found the fabric has stretched to a larger size. Bamboo retains its shape and support all day long.

    Grizzly Wears Bamboo Boxer Shorts

    Grizzly Wears Bamboo Boxer Shorts

    Premium quality bamboo boxer shorts. End of Line Stock Release Pricing (per pair): 1 £7.50 : 3+ £6.50 : 5+ £5.75 : 10+ £5

    Original price was: £15.00.Current price is: £7.50.

    Engineered to Perfection

    In addition to the fantastic features of bamboo, these boxer shorts have flat seams everywhere. Having flat seams removes usual points which can cause areas of discomfort, especially when you are working hard and sweating. Furthermore, by carefully placing seams in the right locations we have removed the risk of the legs riding up and causing issues. The last thing you want to happen when you start riding is to find your underwear is uncomfortable shortly into a ride. This can definitely make a good ride less enjoyable. And I’m sure you’ll know once the issues start they only get worse !

    Ultimate Quality

    Every pair of Grizzly Wears is made to the highest standards. When designing these boxers, every aspect was considered for all day comfort and no expense spared. The craftsmanship really is top level and they are built to last. Choose a pair of these boxers if you want guaranteed comfort. You don’t have to wear them exclusively for cycling. Capable of performing well for every activity and daily life these can be your new default boxers to use all the time. Once you grab a pair of Grizzlies, you’ll never want to go back !

    Best Boxer Shorts for Cycling

    Grab a pair of the Best Boxer Shorts for Cycling

    Visit my shop and pick up a pair of the best boxers now. You can also drop by and feel them for yourself at the National Cycling Show.

    Also check out my T-Shirts, there are cotton and 100% recycled polyester available. Great for the planet, the Gym and the Pub !. See the full range of Sustainable Bamboo Running Clothes

    Finally for more tips about Cycling, Running, General Adventuring, check out some of the other posts on my blog

  • Transit Custom Camper Van

    Transit Custom Camper Van

    An Exciting new chapter in the Grizzly Wears story starts with the addition of a Ford Transit Custom. This will grow over time, I will add guides and reviews. In addition I am going to explain this simple, probably unconventional conversion. Stay up to date and follow the journey to see a standard van turn into the Grizzly Wears Transit Custom Camper Van !

    Like many businesses we rely on vans for transport of goods. This is probably where the similarity ends. Not only does this van need to be able to carry large loads for exhibitions but it also needs to be off grid capable for a few days, comfortable enough to live and work from for possibly weeks. This van will take us on many short adventures around the country. Importantly it will carry everything we need for shows, exhibitions, markets. It has to do a lot of things well. Traditionally the problem with camper vans is they have no space for carrying goods and it is also hard to get bikes inside. This means that everything must be removable which also means it can not officially be registered as a camper.

    A Man with a Van and a Plan

    Firstly, I can’t go down the traditional kitchen plus rock ‘n roll bed route. I also don’t think this is the best set up for me. I won’t be adding windows or removing the bulkhead. Both of these mean I would need curtains and from previous experience curtains aren’t the best idea in a van full of muddy bikes. This van is going to be bear necessities and some parts will be from my old van. (Yes – I have done this before). I will try to capture everything I do and make videos for YouTube so you can follow if you want to do similar. Or just decide my way is wrong. Either way, every camper conversion seems to follow a certain set of rules and come up with the same solution. I guarantee this will be very different. The Transit Custom camper van plan is:

    • Wrap with awesome Grizzly Wears Graphics.
    • Leisure battery and inverter.
    • Split charging.
    • Install mains electric with changeover relay.
    • Interior Lighting.
    • Facelift the cabin.
    • Insulation.
    • Carpet and Lino.

    In comparison to most conversions this is a very short list leading to a very versatile vehicle. Importantly this van has to remain capable of transporting gear. It is going to work for a living. Furthermore it needs to take 3 bikes and people on adventures. Likewise there is a need to live and work from the van. This van will be uniquely converted to do all of these things. Equally Important, this conversion has to be cost effective and I will be doing all the work myself.

    Lastly, like most campers, I will need to cook in the van. Having a fixed kitchen is not an option. Therefore I will also have to get creative and add some extra storage as the project unfolds.

    Day 1 of Van Life…

    Today I collected my van. This is the start of some great adventures and the Transit Custom Camper Van project.

    The main reason for me choosing a Ford over a VW is the cost and size. VW Transporters are smaller and the extra size whilst retaining the ability to fit in a parking space is important. I have driven many vans and Ford Transit’s always seem to drive better, coupled with the amazing number of storage spaces and cup holders just make this the best in my opinion. The Transit Custom steps up a level with a nice interior. In addition, cost of parts and servicing is much cheaper. I fully get the VW scene but you won’t change my mind. Furthermore, with the current price of vans being very high and VW’s demanding a premium, the Ford is even better value for money currently.

    First Impressions

    I like this van. The handling is good, there doesn’t seem to be any major problems. The van itself is in good condition. I did intend to get some decent drone footage but was rained off on my first outing !

    I will update this with pictures and videos if I actually got any worthwhile footage at a later date. It would have been good to get some footage of the van before work started but I really need to get going whilst the weather is OK. I’m pretty sure everybody has seen a white transit before too. At this stage it is really nothing out of the ordinary.

    In Summary…

    This is going to be an ongoing project. Nothing at this stage is set in stone and there may be a few diversions to the plan. Follow my journey on YouTube and Instagram for latest updates.

    Lastly, support me by visiting my online shop. Treat yourself to a fantastic pair of adventure capable boxer shorts, plus a t-shirt and help me make some more interesting content along with exciting adventures around the UK.

  • Why we choose Bamboo for Boxer Shorts

    Why we choose Bamboo for Boxer Shorts

    Bamboo is a fantastic fabric. It has many great properties that make it excellent for the right applications. Furthermore there are great reasons why using Bamboo over other fabrics can help the planet too. Here are the reasons we choose Bamboo for Boxer Shorts.

    Grizzly Wears Bamboo Boxer Shorts

    Grizzly Wears Bamboo Boxer Shorts

    Premium quality bamboo boxer shorts. End of Line Stock Release Pricing (per pair): 1 £7.50 : 3+ £6.50 : 5+ £5.75 : 10+ £5

    Original price was: £15.00.Current price is: £7.50.

    A Superior Product

    Firstly, bamboo is a very premium fabric. We believe it is worth the cost for a long lasting, hard wearing, good feeling product. By choosing bamboo the main features we inherit from the fabric are:

    • Extremely soft.
    • Incredibly strong.
    • Odour Resistant.
    • Easy to wash.
    • Renewably sourced material.

    In summary this means Grizzly Wears boxer shorts have a higher tensile strength than steel but remain softer than silk. This is an important factor for comfort, especially during sports because the boxer shorts reduce friction and eliminate chafing. Being naturally odour resistant and easy to wash means they can be washed with less water and energy than other materials. Essentially, this all adds up and makes a difference over the long lifetime of the boxers.

    Choose Bamboo for Boxer Shorts - Contains Natural Products
    CCCC

    Sustainability

    Although Bamboo is not a perfect material to produce and does have negative effects, I strongly believe the positive impacts of using bamboo in fashion outweighs the negative effects. As much as fabrics claim to be “eco friendly” or we assume that they are, All seem to have downsides. Rather than overlook these effects, I prefer to raise awareness around them and make a judgement over whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Being honest and upfront about problems means we are aware of them and can tackle them. Ignoring problems definitely does not make them go away. In previous posts I have written about sustainable balance and possible negative effects of using too much bamboo. This is something we should be aware of with every fabric.

    Secondly, being a natural fibre, bamboo can break down in landfill over time. As a long lasting product, they also help to reduce environmental impact as they do not require replacing as often. However when we look at the advantages of growing bamboo there are even more great benefits.

    • No Fertilizer or Pesticdes necessary.
    • Little requirement for water.
    • No need to replant after harvesting.
    • Helps to stop soil erosion
    • Consumes more CO2 per acre than trees.
    • Very fast growing.
    • Reduces Greenhouse gasses.

    In my opinion, this means bamboo is a fantastic resource in the battle against climate change. As I have said before, it is all about balance. By using bamboo for things which it is good at, we can create better products which go towards helping the planet.

    why we choose Bamboo for Boxer Shorts - Bamboo Forest

    To summarise why we choose Bamboo for Boxer Shorts

    Keeping this fairly short and not too long, we definitely make a better product. In the process we help the planet. There will always be two sides to every story. Google has a great way of presenting both sides of an argument if you search for the correct terms. I try my best to look at both sides with a balanced view and create a product range that follows.

    Lastly, be sure to check out Mens Bamboo Boxers and other items in my Online Store.

  • Zero Waste T-Shirts

    Zero Waste T-Shirts

    Sadly in this day and age, a claim of “Zero Waste T-Shirts” is very bold and usually not entirely true. When it comes to the Grizzly Wears Recycled Range, they actually divert waste.

    Each of our T-Shirts contains an average of 8 plastic waste bottles. The exact number varies on size but 8 is roughly correct. This means, for each tee sold, waste is diverted away from landfill and reused. Furthermore, as everything in our recycled range is 100% polyester, it can be recycled again !

    Why Recycled Polyester ?

    Recycled Polyester is a great tool in the battle for climate change. A large portion of clothing uses polyester. By recycling rather than creating new we save energy, reduce landfill waste and contribute to a circular economy. As I have mentioned in many other posts on my blog, polyester has unmatched properties. These characteristics make polyester great for sportswear. It is breathable, dries quickly, easy to wash and soft on the skin. Having these properties are what has led to the large market demand and growth of this fabric.

    Polyester is not degradable, biodgradable or compostable. To reuse existing polyester instead of new helps to reduce landfill waste. By only using 100% recycled polyester we ensure that our products can be recycled in the future. Although technology to recycle blended fabrics exists, it is not easy to access. This is the reason we avoid blends like polycotton. Furthermore, as we move forwards as a business, work is being carried out to provide a service where we take used clothing and have it recycled for you. This is something I would like to encourage people to do and would like to offer discounts in exchange for used items. Looking further ahead, it would be good if we can take in other brands of clothing for recycling but the problem is that we could just end up with a large amount of waste we need to pay to send to landfill.

    Is this really Zero Waste ?

    Absolutely. And even better it is waste reducing. Firstly, they are made from otherwise waste material, post-consumer or industrial waste. Secondly, any offcuts are fed back into the start of the cycle. Lastly, when a product has reached the end of its usable life, we will ensure it is recycled again. By contributing and making products in a circular economy, we push this method forwards. By producing items from recycled polyester we create more demand for it.

    Finally, if you haven’t already, take a look at some of the sustainable clothing in my store, and follow me on Instagram for latest news and updates !

  • OnePlus 10 Pro Long Term Review

    OnePlus 10 Pro Long Term Review

    Instead of updating my initial review of the OnePlus 10 Pro, I will create a OnePlus 10 Pro Long Term Review. This is just to highlight a few reasons why I like the phone and what I have been using it for. Also a few accessories that I use or are on my list to get. I will make this more of a timeline. Partly because it will be interesting to see if my opinion changes over time. Check out my initial review for the first thoughts and unboxing. Disappointed to see the 12gb model only came in diarrhoea green, I chose the 8gb sexy black. It would have been fantastic to see the rumoured blue at launch too.

    A quick timelapse taken on my OnePlus 10 Pro

    22/04/2022 – After 2 weeks…

    I still stand by everything I said on the first day. This phone has great battery life, I use it heavily and often have 75% or more battery left when going to bed. Strava tends to use battery a lot but this is more about the app than the phone. I like the camera and have some good photos. A JOBY GorillaPod has been my first accessory. I find that I want to use this phone for time lapse videos, maybe even night lapse. I have made one quick video as I haven’t had time to do more but hoping over the next few days I will get chance. Initially I had no intention of using the phone for this but now I want to see how well it does. Can it rival my GoPro Hero 9 ?

    Being someone who doesn’t particularly look after phones I need something tough. The OnePlus 10 Pro does well here, after 2 weeks of being handled with dirty hands, dropped once or twice, shoved in bags and pockets there are no visible marks. The case is also clean, mark free and doing well. The screen is remarkably resistant to what I rub on it (so far wood glue, paint and filler, various food too). The fingerprint reader struggles when you dye your fingers black. Not entirely unexpected.

    At this time I am not disappointed with anything. Everything works well. It is not wearing or damaging easily. The phone does everything I require well.

    If you found this useful, buy a pair of my boxer shorts !

    Grizzly Wears Bamboo Boxer Shorts

    Grizzly Wears Bamboo Boxer Shorts

    Premium quality bamboo boxer shorts. End of Line Stock Release Pricing (per pair): 1 £7.50 : 3+ £6.50 : 5+ £5.75 : 10+ £5

    Original price was: £15.00.Current price is: £7.50.

  • OnePlus 10 Pro Review

    OnePlus 10 Pro Review

    This is my opinion on the OnePlus 10 Pro as a real person. I am not being endorsed and I am also not a professional tech reviewer. Just an average user giving an honest OnePlus 10 Pro Review.

    After eagerly awaiting the release of the OnePlus 10 Pro to find it was only available in “disgusting green” when going for the 12gb version. I was a little disappointed. So I opted for the beautiful matt black 8gb version. Having pre-ordered the phone I also got the OnePlus Buds Pro.

    Unboxing & First Impressions

    Firstly, everything arrived well packed and safe. Packaging was not excessive. The phone and buds were each packed in high quality, premium feeling boxes. There were some instructions which I ignored and got the phone out to play with. The OnePlus 10 Pro feels weighty and of good quality but not heavy. It is certainly thinner and lighter than my long lasting Razer Phone 2. This is impressive since a larger battery has been packed inside.

    Inside the box with the phone is a charger and type C cable. I was surprised to discover a case too although I also purchased the Sandstone Bumper case. One more is always useful. There is a plastic screen protector already fitted to the phone (or maybe just plastic I am supposed to remove).

    Not being much of a headphone user I thought I would sell the Buds Pro but after checking the price decided to keep them. I’m glad I did because the sound quality is amazing.

    The screen on the OnePlus 10 Pro immediately made my Razer phones screen feel like a step back in time and although both phones pack 8gb ram, the OnePlus feels much more responsive. That being said my Razer has been well used for a long time and I certainly don’t feel it has been a let down.

    OnePlus 10 Pro Review - Test Photo of Dog.
    The Dog Test Photo

    Day One

    I made the decision to write down a few thoughts and Impressions at periodic moments. This is partly to show if my opinion changes over time. Currently I have not owned the phone for 24 hours. The Things I like so far are; easy to set up, feels good, camera is a definite upgrade, can go to the kettle and back on a morning and still be on 100% battery, not 90%.

    Oxygen OS definitely feels very smooth and responsive. I like this. Waiting for apps to respond is something I find annoying. I like having a flavour of android that is closer to vanilla and doesn’t have bloatware.

    The display is good, and so is the audio. There is no reason you can’t take this phone on holiday and watch movies on it. The Buds Pro also add to the experience with good quality sound and noise cancelling. The phone charges very fast and the wireless charger appears to be right in the middle too, I haven’t got the official wireless charger however I am thinking I will upgrade.

    I am yet to go give the camera a proper testing but initially happy with a few test photos of the dog. Really like all the settings and versatility it provides in the “pro” setting and that super wide angle is something I will probably use a lot! There may even be some star lapses attempted to see how this stacks up against the mighty GoPro.

    Is the OnePlus 10 Pro any good ?

    For me, Yes. When upgrading from an aging phone that I held on to for a long time because I loved it I can see the advances. I didn’t shop around too much, the OnePlus 10 Pro just appealed as I like all the features. I am a little disappointed that the 12gb version only came in a colour I can’t stand but I am not disappointed with the 8gb option. It is early days but so far so good.

    In addition to this review I have decided to do a Long Term Review. Check out whether I have/will change my mind as time goes on. Can the OnePlus 10 Pro keep up with my lifestyle ?

    Check out my Instagram to see how I am using the OnePlus 10 Pro !