When I think of fishing, I tend to conjure up the image of lounging about on the riverside in the sunshine, maybe taking a snooze. However, I was shocked to learn that some people who go fishing actually like to catch fish - I know, crazy right?

The Factor Techlace cycling shoes are a race-bred shoe that has the benefits of the Giro Techlace system, the Boa dial for easy adjustment, and has an impressively low weight of just 210g (at size 42.5). The D-rings have been replaced by a Techlace system, this creates more flexibility across the forefoot and in the event of any damage or wear though prolonged use, the laces can easily be replaced. The upper is a one-piece design, with a breathable Evofiber SL, breathable Teijin microfiber, and the Techlace + Boa IP 1 dial (1mm +/- with macro release).

You cannot help but be hit in the face with the design of the Giro Empire SLX Lava Reflective. Inspired by a dorm room lava lamp, this limited-edition Empire SLX features a reflective lava graphic, which inspires a love or hate reaction, personally I am not a fan but I respect the risks Giro take with their colours and patterns. It makes for an exciting collection and brightens up the shoe rack, if nothing else!

The Giro Empire ACC continues to try and push the boundaries of high-performance cycling shoes, this classic laced closure offers seven points of fit adjustment and includes a breathable Evofiber synthetic upper for a close fit and comfort. The Easton EC90 ACC is a full carbon sole that offers the stiffness needed for excellent performance whether you are using them in Grand Tours or gran fondos, they have an ultra-low 6.5mm stack height for a close connection to the pedals.

The Fitbit Flex 2 is slimmest wristband Fitbit has released so far and can be customised with a range of bands, bangles & pendants. It is Swim-Proof (yay finally well done Fitbit), tracks your swimming, reminds to move every hour and has auto-exercise recognition.

The Bont Riot MTB is the world’s first carbon composite heat moldable entry level MTB shoe to offer in the marketplace. The Riot MTB has combined the pro series technical features including the power transfer platform, replaceable sole guards, anatomical shaping and competition grade materials. The upper is constructed from a strong microfiber outer layer with mesh inserts that help the breathability of the shoes, the carbon composite construction has been specifically designed to keep the weight low.

The first and most noticeable thing about this latest jersey from Rapha, is the design print, supposedly this has been inspired by the “dynamic visuals of the Rapha Rides campaign”. For me it looks like it has been inspired by the pattern on our local park and ride bus seats. It is clear to say that I am not a fan of the pattern but hey, even Rapha can’t get it right 100% of the time. Aesthetics aside, what really counts is how this jersey performs.

Never has a wetsuit looked so good on! That was my first impression of the Vision from Zone3, it has metallic blue detailing around the cuffs, ankles, across the shoulders and back, and it is flattering to the figure (obviously this isn’t the main reason you should invest in this wetsuit but hey, it always helps).

The OptiShot 2 is the world’s most popular golf simulator; it can help you improve your game, play all year round or compete with friends and family. You can play OptiShot 2 on your computer or  pair it with your HDTV or projector. In the box, you get everything you need: the OptiShot2 Infrared Optical Swing Pad, OptiShot2 Software (download), 10ft USB Cable, adjustable rubber tees, two foam practice balls, instructions, a one-year warranty and software updates.

The LD2 by GolfBuddy is a GPS golf watch designed for women, because all women have evolved from magpies (true story). We are all instinctively drawn to shiny objects so the LD2 wouldn’t be a “ladies” watch without some Swarovski crystals stuck on it. Needless to say I am not a fan of the pointless sparkle on a chunky digital watch, but the added bling may attract some people. More importantly is how the LD2 performs as a technical accessory. It is small, lightweight (1oz with battery) and comfortable to wear.