Sustainable adventures: a conversation with OLPRO

Hi Daniel, before we hear about OLPRO, we'd love to know more about your love for the outdoors.

I’ve always worked hard, so getting away from everything and switching off is key – that’s why I’ve always loved being outdoors. It’s a chance to disconnect but also to achieve something. Every walk or run means achieving something new – trying a different route, walking a new trail, or beating a personal time.

I grew up in Sheffield and spent a lot of time in the Peak District. Even though I’ve lived in Snowdonia and the New Forest and spent time in the Lake District, I’d always say the Peak District is my favourite place – especially around Castleton or Edale. Of course, I can’t leave out the Malvern Hills, as that’s where OLPRO is based.

What is the best Cicerone guide you’ve used?

Scrambles in the Dark Peak – the best part of the Peak District is the north side, and scrambling through these areas is great.

What is a good trail for camping?

The Monsal Trail is a great trail and gives you an opportunity to camp around Bakewell, a great base for exploring the Peak District. Dartmoor, far from where I grew up, is incredibly scenic. Reaching Yes Tor, one of its highlights, is a fantastic experience, with plenty of great spots to camp along the way.

Tell us about OLPRO and the company ethos. How has it evolved over time?

When I founded OLPRO, my goal was to ensure we stood out from the crowd. At the time, most camping brands were producing the same dull blue and grey tents with little to no innovation. Our ethos is to prioritise innovation – every product we make must offer distinctive features – and to design tents and campervan awnings that truly stand out. While sustainability should be standard in the industry, it’s a defining aspect of OLPRO. As a B-Corp-accredited brand, we are committed to advancing sustainability in everything we do.

Why are sustainable gear choices important?

To truly enjoy the outdoors, we must first take care of it. Our actions while on the trail should ensure we’re not harming the environment, and the gear we use should at the very least not contribute negatively to the planet. At OLPRO, all of our tents are made from recycled single-use plastic bottles, meaning we avoid using new polyester and instead repurpose existing waste. We also plant trees to offset the travel and dispatch of our tents and continue to drive sustainability throughout our brand. It’s vital that walkers make sustainable choices to help protect the natural spaces we all love.

Tell us about OLPRO’s pre-loved range

We occasionally receive products back from retailers, either used or unused, which can’t be sold as new. We also loan out products, and after several loans, these too can’t be sold as new. All items are tested, repaired if necessary, and sold as Pre-Loved.

This offers affordable camping gear to those just starting out and helps prevent waste by keeping tents out of landfill. For Cicerone readers, OLPRO’s Pre-Loved range is a great way to pick up a high-quality, value-for-money tent made from recycled materials. Plus, we plant trees for every Pre-Loved product sold and provide support to ensure you get the most from your gear.

What’s coming up next on your adventure list?

In January, I’m tackling a 56-mile walk from Brecon to Worcestershire Beacon in the Malvern Hills, aiming to complete it within 24 hours. In July, I’ll be walking the Worcestershire Way again to raise funds for a local hospice charity. In between, I’ll be in North Wales and the Peak District testing out new gear.

That sounds like a fantastic set of adventures ahead, best of luck!

Thank you.