I’ve been a road biker for a while, and am just getting into mountain biking. I recently purchased a Specialized Safire Expert to add to my collection of bikes, and am loving it! For as long as I can remember, my roommates have also been cyclists as well, so any time I’ve needed to air up my tires, I’ve grabbed their floor pump, given it a few good pumps and been on my way. However, I recently moved, and when I went to hop on the roadster for a beautiful early morning ride out in Colorado, I realized I had no floor pump. No floor pump, no air, no ride. I was not a happy camper. However, that afternoon, I was even more upset when I discovered buying a floor pump came with about as many choices as buying a new truck.

All I wanted was a decent quality floor pump that I could use to pump both my road and mountain bikes (read- Presta and Shrader valve compatible), that I didn’t have to pay an arm and a leg for. Since I’m not out every day on my bikes, the idea of spending $75+ dollars on a floor pump was less than appealing to me. After some expert consults, I made my choice, and went with the Topeak JoeBlow Sport Floor Pump.

JoeBlow Sport Floor Pump- The Specs

• Comes with a steel bar and a steel base, so you won’t snap it right after the 1st use.
• Twin Valve- Compatible with both Presta and Schrader valves. You don’t have to have the washer adapter, you just switch sides of the hose!
• Easy to read gauge. It’s big and easy to read while you’re pumping, which is nice.
• Comes with ball/air bladder needles, in case you opt for a game of Volley Ball after your ride… Not something I’ve done yet, but hey, everyone likes options…
• After about 6 months of use 2-3x a week, getting tossed in the truck multiple times, and taking a beating in the sands of southern Utah, my JoeBlow Sport is still in great shape.
• Price = $39. Very reasonable

Overall

A great pump at an even greater price. You don’t have to sacrifice performance with this guy. I’ve yet to find any serious drawbacks with my Topeak JoeBlow Sport Pump.

Buy Now!

Topeak JoeBlow Sport Pump

Unfortunately, I’ve been spending more time indoors than I would like as of late. As I finish up internship rotations for my masters degree, I currently spend about 50 hours a week inside Denver Children’s Hospital, running from one floor to the next all day long. However, one thing that has truly made my days at Denver Children’s a bit easier was the purchase of a pair of Dansko Professional Clogs!

As a Speech Therapist at Denver Children’s, I’m required to dress “business casual” every day. As one who normally lives in Mountain Khakis and Chacos, this was pretty much a death sentence for me. The idea of wearing heels on a daily basis was more than I could bear, so I explored my other options, and scored myself a pair of Dansko Professional Cabrio Clogs. They fit the dress code, and didn’t require that my toes were crunched into something awful and pointy. After having worn my clogs day in and day out for weeks now, I’m a Dansko wearer for life!

Dansko Professional Clogs- The Lowdown

• Originally designed and produced in Denmark, these close-backed clogs are now seen in hospitals and offices throughout the country. Dansko translates to mean “Danish shoe.”
• The clogs are popular in professional circles for a reason- the rocker bottom sole propels your feet forward as you walk, and allows for all day comfort.
• Heel counter- the clogs are made for movement. Your feet SHOULD slide up and down as you walk in the shoe. At first, I thought this was a little odd; I figured that meant that they didn’t fit my feet right. However, this movement is intentional, and allows for supreme comfort, and added breathability. This added breathability keeps your feet sweat free and comfortable throughout the day. The thermoplastic heel counter acts as a natural shoe horn, and facilitates that up and down movement in the shoe.
• Footbed- made of breathable open cell foam. Between that and the integrated heel movement, no sweaty stinky feet!
• Available in oiled leather, patent leather, cabrio leather and several different color options. I stuck with brown, so they’d match everything, but I’ve seen some pretty stylish pairs out and about when I’ve been at the hospital.
• The company itself is pretty cool. They support sustainable business practices and treat their employees very well. Be sure to check out their website to learn more about their business ethics. While that doesn’t necessarily affect the performance of the shoe, I like to support businesses with practices and principles like Dansko’s.

Dansko Professional Clogs- Things to Keep in Mind

• Each shoe is hand tooled and stapled, so the fit varies a bit from each pair of shoes.
• If you’ve got a really high arch, you may be out of luck. I have a mid-high arch and mine fit great, but my Mom happens to have an extremely high arch, and she can’t get her foot in the clogs.
• The clogs come in a wide and a narrow version, so they can accommodate different foot widths.
• Dankso makes several different designs and styles. If you’re not a clog person, you can find that same comfort and great construction in a different style of shoe.
• Price = $120. Ouch. However, worth it. I’ve spoken with colleagues who’ve had their shoes for over 6 years and are still wearing them daily. Consider it an investment in your feet!

Buy Now!

Dansko Professional Cabrio Clogs

As you may have remembered, I got the opportunity to take a JetBoil Flash with me on my surf trip to the northwest this past October. After continually using it throughout my surf trip, on backcountry ski trips, and out on long days hiking in the Wasatch, I’ve been really impressed with the whole system. My favorite feature is the Java kit, which turns your personal cooking system into a french press, ensuring you get your caffeine fix no matter where you are- yahoo!

Be sure to check out the pictures of where my JetBoil has made it with me- Lake Quinault, WA, foothills of the Wasatch, UT, Tobacco Root Range, MT, everywhere!

JetBoil Flash Personal Cooking System- The Good

• Everything stores inside the 1 liter cooking cup. Fuel, burner, coffee press attachment (if you opt for one), everything. The lid keeps it all inside, and also serves as a sippy lid for when you’re drinking, or as the housing for the coffee press when you set that up. Very compact!
• Push button igniter. Just twist the fuel onto your burner, burner onto the cup, open up the fuel, and press that button!
• Boils water in 2 minutes (give or take a bit for altitude).
• Newly designed drink cozy turns orange on the side when your beverage is hot- no more opening and checking in on it every 30 seconds!
• Tripod adds stability- you can set up your PCS anywhere. I’ve got mine balanced on some rocks atop a peak in North Salt Lake in some of the pictures.
• Weight = 14 oz! Including the fuel canister.
• Includes a translucent measuring cup, which doubles as a cover for the bottom of the stove when not in use. Bonus- you can use it as a cup and share your drink with a friend!

JetBoil Flash Personal Cooking System- The only “bad”

• The little push button igniter is awesome and super easy to use if you’ve got your hands out and glove free. However, it could use to be a little bigger, so that its accessible even when you’ve got gloves or big mitts on.

Buy Now!

Check out the JetBoil Flash or the JetBoil Flash with Java Kit

I’ve owned Julbo glasses since I started mountaineering, and loved them. I’ve had the old school pair, with the leather side sheilds and the newer, more stylish pair with the plastic shields and the more “modern” shaping to them. However, not until this fall did I ever think I’d own a pair of “women’s specific” glacier glasses! This past fall, Julbo released the Monterosa, their women’s specific pair of glasses, intended to be functional enough to be glacier glasses and stylish enough to be worn on a daily basis.

Monterosa Glacier Glasses- Style Points

Now, I will be the first to admit, I am NOT the person to write a review on what is in style. I live in my mountain khakis, flannel shirts, and rarely glance in the mirror before leaving the house. I readily wore my old Julbo’s as daily sunglasses, oblivious to the fact that I looked a bit out of place until my younger, more hip sister pointed it out one day, informing me that I looked like an ant on steroids. However, when I got my Julbo Monterosa’s, I was given the official “sister seal of approval,” for style. So, when I say that the Monterosa’s are fashionable and in style, rest assured that this has been assessed by a professional.

• “Feminine from peaks to streets” is the slogan of the Monterosa- and I’d say they achieve it.
• Larger, more squared frames look much more like style based glasses than the old Julbos.
• Available in 2 colors- white or black. Each color comes with a second “accent color” on the sides, which is the same color used on the removable side shields.

Monterosa Glacier Glasses- Functional Features

• Removable side shields: as with all of Julbo’s glasses, you still have the removable side shields, so you can get that extra protection when you need it.
• Available with Spectron 4 or Camel lenses. The Spectron 4 are lightweight lenses with category 4 protection (5% visible light allowance, making them acceptable for high altitude mountaineering). The Camel lenses change colors, and when outside darken to a cat 4 protection, but lighten if you are inside or in an area with less sun exposure.
• Grip inserts: Keeps the glasses on your head! And, Julbo has positioned these inside of the side pieces, so they don’t stick to your hair and pull painfully, yet they stay put. Sweet!
• Curved temples: They’ve specifically designed the glasses so that they will fit your face, and also your head. Finally, someone that understands that to be the perfect pair of shades, they must function as both sunglasses AND a headband. I know my shades spend a fair amount of time up on my head when they’re not in use. I hardly ever take them off, just slide them up.
• Case: comes with a soft sided plastic case for storage.
• Uses: So far, I’ve taken my Monterosas mountain biking, road biking, skiing and mountaineering. I love how wide they are for these specific sports- keeps my eyes from drying out. I’m not a big goggle person, so I especially loved them for skiing. I could still get enough coverage to keep my eyes from frying and to keep most of the wind out, without having to wear goggles.

Overall

As with most sunglasses these days, they’re a bit spendy ($160 for the Camel lenses, only $90 for the Spectron 4), but I was impressed with the fit and I know Julbo’s unprecedented reputation for sun protection.

Buy Now

Check out the Julbo Monterosa!

On my surfing trip out on the pacific northwest coast, I got to take a pretty cool new gadget with me! Piled into my Tacoma, along with the dog gear, surfboards, wetsuits, camping supplies and people was my GoPro Surf Hero Camera. This sweet camera fits in the palm of your hand, mounts to your wrist, your surfboard (or a helmet, for other sports), and it’s waterproof! I was able to take pictures under water, in the water and take videos of my horrible attempts to surf!

GoPro Hero Cameras- The Specs

• Mounting info: The hero cameras are intended for action sports- so depending on which mount systems you purchase, you can take it on your wrist, mounted to your surfboard, mounted to a helmet, or mounted to a part of your car. The specific model I tested, the Surf Hero, can mount to your surfboard (via a sticky plate on the front, or a mounting system that uses the hole in the back of the board where your leash threads through), or you can wear it on your wrist. I opted to wear it on my wrist when I used it. Couldn’t quite bring myself to permanently mount anything to my baby.
• Camera: The Hero series cameras now come in High-Def. So when you purchase a HD Hero, you are getting a 1080p 5 megapixel HD camera.
• Audio: Built in microphone, with automatic gain control. I was really impressed with how well the camera picks up sound.
• Storage: The Hero uses an SD card to store pics and video. Not included. I’d recommend a larger card, so that you don’t have to deal with clearing out video and pics during the day.
• Power: Runs on 4 AAA batteries. Recommended lithium.
• Housing: Waterproof to 180 feet.
• Size: 1.6” x 2.4” x 1.2”

Surf Hero- The Good

• You can take pictures and video while surfing! I know, this sounds stupid as one of the “good” features, but really! Helmet cams have been around for a while now, but GoPro ventured into the water with the Surf Hero, and it’s awesome. Now, you can show your friends videos and pictures of all the sweet waves you rocked, instead of just talking about ‘em.

• Excellent picture and sound quality considering the size of the camera! Check out some of the pictures I’ve loaded- all were taken with the Surf Hero.
• Super lightweight! Despite mounting it to my wrist, I hardly ever noticed it when I was paddling out. With housing, the Surf Hero weighs about 6 oz.
• Photo modes: When you’ve got the Surf Hero in Picture mode, you have a choice of single shot mode, triple shot mode, self timer mode, or auto shoot mode, which will take pictures every 2/5/10/30/60 seconds, depending on how you set it. Awesome for getting pictures of a whole ride in! You don’t have to stop and snap, it does it for you.

Surf Hero- The Bad

• Buttons- with gloves on, it’s hard to manipulate the “shoot” and “select” buttons for choosing which mode, and then taking pictures.
• After reading the manual, and playing around with the camera for a bit, I still had a fair amount of trouble selecting the correct mode. I would end up with continuous pictures shooting when I wanted video, video when I wanted self timer, etc. While I’m sure that this would ease with more use, the overall initial user friendliness was a little dissapointing.
• Wrist mount- awesome for when you want the camera to go with you, not your board. However, the wrist mount clearly wasn’t made for people with smaller arms. I had to rig my own duct tape deal to make sure it stayed on, because even secured at the smallest setting, it was too big for my wrist.
• Battery life: even with the lithium batteries, I was getting about 2 hours of use before having to change the batteries.
• If you’re used to immediate feedback when taking digital pictures, don’t expect that from the Surf Hero. To keep it light and small, there is no playback LCD screen on the camera. You just have to wait til you upload those pictures and be surprised!

Surf Hero- Bottom Line

I was impressed! Despite some technical difficulties, I was stoked to have my Surf Hero with me. I got some beautiful pictures, and I know that as I get more familiar with how to operate it, I’ll get even more. It’s already packed in my “Surf Box,” along with my wetsuit and board wax, ready for my next surfing adventure.

Buy Now

Check out the Surf Hero Cameras or other Go Pro Cameras through our vendors!

I have learned that all plastic water bottles are not created equal. I’m not talkin Nalgene-type plastic bottles, but the squeezy plastic type that you’d usually bring with you on a bike ride or a run. When CamelBak asked me to test out a Podium Bottle along with their Delaney Plus running belt, I didn’t think much of it. Figured it was just another plastic squeezy bottle with a CamelBak logo on it. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

I’ve only really used that type of plastic bottle for bike rides, and I had perfected the maneuver of “grab bottle with one hand, wrench open with teeth, squeeze some hydration, jam the bottle up against my hip to re-cap it, place the bottle back into its lovely little cage.” Those of you who cycle, you know exactly what I’m talking about! I first used the Podium Bottle on a century ride when I was running out the door, and grabbed it by accident, thinking it was my usual bike bottle. 3 hours later, I was stoked to have made that mistake. The coolest feature of the Podium Bottle? You get to skip the “wrench the bottle open with your teeth” and the “jam the bottle on your hip to close it before placing it back in the bottle cage” steps! The Podium opens and closes with a valve called the Jet Valve, which operates using pressure. You squeeze the bottle, or suck on it for some water, and the valve opens, allowing water to flow freely. The instant you stop, the flow stops, and the valve is closed. No more opening and closing! I was really impressed!

So impressed, in fact, that I started carrying my Podium with me other places. First, it was just a bike bottle. Then, it came with me on all my runs (even those that I didn’t bring the Delaney on). Then, it also got tossed in my backpack for yoga classes. Next, it was living in my TimBuk2 bag, and coming everywhere with me. I’m currently commuting about 2 hrs a day to and from and internship, and I love my Podium bottle, simply for hydrating in the car. I don’t have to fiddle around with opening and closing a bottle if I want a drink while I’m driving, I just grab my Podium. Comes in handy when I jump straight off my bike and into the car for my hour long commute every morning!

CamelBak Podium Bottle

• Jet Valve allows for easy access to water, and has a lock off feature, for when you don’t want anything getting out of the bottle.
• Bottle is lined with HydroGuard, intended to prevent the growth of bacteria that give bottles that “old, stale water funk.”
• Bite valve is made of medical grade silicon, so when it’s closed, it’s closed. There’s no sneaky leaks of water or gatorade to drip out onto your frame as you’re crankin out the miles.
• Available in an insulate version called the Podium Chill, that keeps drinks cold for hours.
• Around $8.00 per bottle= relatively affordable!

Buy Now

Check it out! The CamelBak Podium Bottle

Have a dog that loves to play with a Frisbee? Tired of replacing the frisbee every third day because your dog shreds it? Ruffwear has the solution for you. The Ruffwear Hover Craft Frisbee is one of the toughest dog frisbees that I’ve come across.

A few years back, Ruff Wear redesigned their Hover Craft Frisbee. It used to be more flexible, and was a floppier design. While that was great for compressing it, rolling it and tossing it in your back pocket, etc, it made the frisbee significantly less durable if you’ve got a dog that likes to chew on his toys while he fetches them. Baker, my black lab/border collie mix, is definitely one of those dogs. The newer Hover Craft Frisbee is super durable, and yet is still soft on dog’s teeth when they’re chewing it while bringing it back!

Key Features of the Ruff Wear Hover Craft

• Available in 2 sizes- small and large. The small one is great for tiny dogs, but I’d say stick with a large if your dog is over 25 lbs. The large is 9 inches in diameter.
• Both sizes come in BRIGHT colors (large in neon green and small in orange), so it’s pretty tough to lose if you’re throwing it into the woods.
• Core of the disc is made of molded foam, which helps it to maintain it’s shape, no matter how many days it sees in the field.
• Easy to hose off, which is great for drool removal after a long session of fetch!
• One thing to keep in mind- this frisbee is not intended to be a chew toy. If you let your pup loose with it all day, it will shred. However, as a frisbee, it’s very durable! Just be sure to get it back from your dog if he’s a chewer!

Overall, I’m impressed! Baker loves his Hover Craft!

Buy Now! Ruff Wear Hover Craft Dog Disc

Over my holidays, I spent some more time working with the guys up at Montana Backcountry Adventures, helping to run their Dinner and Lunch Yurt operations, and spending some time out in the Tobacco Roots at The Bell Lake Yurt, doing some early season yurt maintenance. I was up there for about 3 weeks, and wore my ski boots pretty much each day. Talk about a good recipe for some gnarly foot mank! Each day when I sat down to pull my ski boots off, I was expecting the worst. However, I also wore a few different pairs of point6 wool socks, and was really impressed with the level of comfort, and the complete lack of smell! Gotta love that merino wool!

point6 Socks- The Lowdown

• point6 socks are made of compact spun merino wool. “Compact spinning” removes more air from the wool, making the socks softer and warmer than your traditional merino wool sock. Your average sock company uses only a small percentage of compact spun wool in their products, as it’s a very expensive process. 100% of the wool in point6’s socks is compact spun wool. On top of that added benefit of the compact spun wool, you’ve got the normal temperature regulation benefits of wool; keeps your warm when you need it, cool when you don’t.
• point6 makes a variety of activity specific socks- hiking, skiing, cycling, running… you name it, point6 makes a sock for it! I tried out the Hiking Medium Crew, Skiing Light Cushion and the Skiing Ultralight Cushion, and loved all 3! The Skiing Light Cushions were my favorites- they’re fairly light, so you’re not sacrificing circulation with a bulky sock, have a great amount of cushion over the shin area, and have awesome heel cups.
• After days of consecutive wear (we won’t talk about how many days I’ve actually gone without washing my socks), my point6 socks were the only ones that maintained their shape and comfort level.
• As a gear tester, I’ve tested a lot of socks. point6, hands down, is the best fitting and most comfortable sock for my foot that I’ve seen thus far. Hats off to the guys at point6 for making one (actually several!) really great sock!

point6 Socks- Quick Figures

• Available in sizes small-xlarge, equating to shoe sizes women’s 4 thru men’s 14.5
• Average price for a ski sock = $19.95
• Average price for a running sock = $13.00
• Average price for a hiking sock = $16.95

Doesn’t look like our vendors are carrying point6 yet! Hopefully they catch on soon. For now, check out point6 socks at their own website.

In the past couple of months, I’ve moved across 3 states, been on several different trips, and brought my dog, Baker, along for most of it. The most crucial thing I packed for the dog on each trip? His Ruff Wear Bivy Bowl. Every gas station stop, hiking expedition or ski excursion, the Bivy Bowl came with us as Baker’s primary source of hydration.

Now, I’ve owned collapsible dog bowls before. It’s not like that is a new concept. However, Ruff Wear has re-engineered the design of the standard collapsible dog bowl, and I’m pretty psyched about the results. The single layer material is built so that no matter how many times you smash it down into your pack or cram it into your back pocket, it bounces back up, and retains its shape. No odd creases for food and water to get caught in, and no spilling out the side as your pooch drinks- the walls stand up to anything!

Ruff Wear Bivy Bowl

• Collapsible, lightweight design: Easy to take the Bivy Bowl anywhere with you- it scrunches up easily into your back pocket or the top of your pack.
• Welded seams allow for single layer construction without any leaking.
• No slip bottom keeps the bowl from sliding everywhere as your dog gets that last bit of kibble out!
• Comes in 2 sizes. I’d recommend the larger one if you’ve got a medium or large sized dog- the small one really is tiny.
• Reflective strip around the bowl makes it easy to see in the dark! Awesome for those late night arrivals at campsites when your four legged friend still needs dinner.

The best use of the Bivy Bowl? Food and water for the pup on my pacific northwest surfing trip. Check out Baker snackin’ on the beach in Oregon!

Buy Now! Ruff Wear Bivy Bowl

I like to run. Lots. I usually run about 50 miles a week, more if I have time to squeeze in longer runs between school and work. I have one ancient pair of fraying hot pink running shorts that I run in, every day. Snow, rain, sun… Doesn’t matter. I’ve always hit the trails in my awful hot pink shorts. So when Moving Comfort approached me and asked me to test their Endurance Skort, a running skirt, I was a little hesitant, for a few different reasons. First, how could I possibly leave my hot pink shorts behind? They’ve seen me through hundreds of runs. I felt like I was betraying my best friend… Second, it’s a skirt! Why would I run in a skirt? This was my first question for Moving Comfort- if my shorts function just fine, why in the world would I need to run in a skirt? After getting the run down (no pun intended, haha!), I decided to give them a try.

Moving Comfort claims that running in a skort is more comfortable than running in shorts. Running shorts ride up, wedge themselves in unsightly places, and if you’ve got a pair with that built in mesh liner, you know you’ve spent part of your run digging that thing out of the same aforementioned unsightly place. The principle behind the skort is that there’s a thin, spandex short underneath the skirt, functioning as a liner that doesn’t work its way upwards as you run. Then, the skort on top serves two purposes: 1. To cover up those thin spandex shorts and 2. To look stylish while doing it.

Moving Comfort Endurance Skort: Features

• Boy Shorts: I suppose you could look at it as the “business” end of the skort: they wick away moisture, provide compression, and come with a “crotch gussett” (read- built-in underwear in the shorts). Since they’re made of a very thin material, you don’t have excess material rubbing anywhere while you run.
• Wrap Around Skirt: The “party” end of the the skort. This layer covers the compression shorts and provides that little bit of style the Endurance Skort is known for. The skirt has a slit in the front and darts in the back to really allow it to move with you.
• Internal key pocket
• Non-rolling elastic waistband with a drawstring, so you can really adjust the skort to fit you.

Moving Comfort Endurance Skort: The Numbers

• Comes in sizes XS-2X. I’m normally a size small in shorts, and this was consistent with Moving Comfort’s products: I wear a size small skort. True to size!
• Boy short inseam = 3 inches.
• Skirt inseam = 13.5 inches
• Cost = $42.00

Overall, I think my favorite feature of the Skort was the ability to go straight from my run to running errands without looking like a total doofus in my hot pink shorts. The skort looks stylish, and when you’re out grocery shopping, getting a hair cut, or just takin’ care of business, you’re the only one who knows about those compression boy shorts underneath!

Right now, none of our vendors are carrying the Endurance Skort. However, you can check it out on Moving Comfort’s website!

After getting back from my surf trip to the northwest, I came home psyched for the seasons to change and for winter to begin. Having got my fill of water time in, I was getting psyched to start surfing water in a different form: ski season! 4 days and 6 loads of laundry after my Oregon/Washington Trip, I turned around and headed up to Big Sky, Montana, to help some buddies set up their backcountry ski yurt for Montana Backcountry Adventures.

Montana Backcountry Adventures, started by a couple of “old ski bum bros from Tahoe,” encompasses 3 very unique backcountry experiences based out of Big Sky, Montana. MBA consists of The Bell Lake Yurt, a 20′ diameter backcountry ski yurt situated in the heart of the Tobacco Root Mountains, The Montana Dinner Yurt, a fine dining experience at Big Sky Ski Resort, and new for this year, The Shedhorn Grill, an on-mountain eatery blasting reggae and grillin’ burgers at Big Sky Ski Resort.

The Bell Lake Yurt, which sleeps up to 6 guests, allows backcountry skiers to access some amazing terrain with a moderate approach. The guys at MBA offer a variety of ways for you to access those sweet couloirs of Branham Peaks or the beautiful bowls of Bell Lake Basin that sit just behind the Bell Lake Yurt; fully inclusive trips or overnight yurt rentals. New to the backcountry scene and wanting a seasoned pro to show you all the sick shots? A Montana Backcountry Adventures Guide will meet you at a local coffee shop, coordinate logistics with you, take you into the yurt (a 3 mile snowmobile transport to the trailhead plus the additional 3 mile, 1700 foot skin up the yurt), cook for you, and serve as your in-house resource for locating all the sweetest pow stashes. A backcountry aficionado and just wanting to reserve the yurt for your own use? MBA is psyched to help you out with that too! Self service yurt rentals are totally possible- the guys just require that you take an “Orientation Guide” with you your first time up there, so you know the best and safest way to get to the yurt, etc (You’re only required to have an orientation guide for the 1st little bit you’re up there- so if you’ve got a multi-day trip planned, the guide heads back down right after showing you around, and you’ve got the place to yourselves!) After you’ve been up with an orientation guide, so long as you have a “group leader” with first aid and an Avalanche 1 certification, The Bell Lake Yurt is yours to enjoy without a guide. However you arrive at the Bell Lake Yurt, with or without guide, you’re stylin’ when you get there! 6 cots, wood stove for heating, propane stove for cooking, kitchen supplies, and a nearby pit toilet- what more could you need?

Each season, The Bell Lake Yurt gets transported into its home at 8500 feet just below Branham Peak by some combo of helicopter, a caravan of Toyota Tacomas (seems to be the vehicle of choice up there in MT), snowmobiles, ATVs and sheer manpower. As a member of the “Salt Lake Contingent” of Montana Backcountry Adventures (read: one co-owner of MBA and several friends enticed into hard labor with the promise of out of state beer and possibly some skiing),  I headed up to the Tobacco Roots to assist with the manpower section of yurt installment. 2 days, countless loads, and a few cases of Moose Drool (no, not actual Drool… A great beer brewed by Big Sky Brewery) later, the majority of the yurt materials were settled up in their home, just below Bell Lake. The guys up at MBA plan on setting up the yurt in the next few weeks, now that all the materials are up at the site. Peak yurt season begins in the end of December, so the guys are crankin’ to make sure the yurt is set up and dialed before the big snow flies. Don’t worry though, there’s already snow- when were were up there in mid-October, there were FEET of snow on the ground already.

Psyched about The Bell Lake Yurt? So was Skiing Magazine. Be sure to check out the article in this month’s magazine or online.

So psyched that you want to head up there and check it out yourself? Check the online reservation calendar to see when the yurt is available. Make your reservations soon, the yurt fills fast, especially on weekends. Follow the Bell Lake Yurt blog or check out Montana Backcountry Adventures on Facebook for current updates on snow and skiing conditions.

After my summer trip to Costa Rica, I discovered that I enjoyed surfing so much that I had to get back for more! I planned a trip out to the pacific northwest in October, bought myself a wetsuit, and then began counting down the days til I could be back in the water! After packing 2 people, 1 dog, 2 surf boards, 15 days worth of clothes and food and 2 iPods worth of music into my Tacoma, we were ready to go.

We drove out to Oregon to surf the coast down there first, and had an incredibly lucky weather window! In the days that we surfed there, we had 3 BEAUTIFUL days with no rain, warm temps and calm skies. Pretty unheard of on the Oregon coast this time of year. Each morning, I brewed myself a cup of coffee with my JetBoil Flash and Coffee Press attachment, grabbed my surfboard, spent 20 minutes wriggling myself into my damp wetsuit (a skill I have yet to master) and headed out for the morning session. The days were spent alternating surfing and running on the beach playing with the dog. When each evening rolled around, we packed up the boards and the dog, and would find a sweet spot to cook dinner out of the back of the Tacoma, enjoy some Two Buck Chuck (Another great stop along our trip- Trader Joes!), and watch the sunset. Next morning? Wake up, roll out of bed (not so much roll out of bed as it was “squeeze out of the back of the truck from the top of the built-in bed which leaves you a maximum of 2 inches of head clearance”), repeat! Rough life, I know.

After getting in some great days surfing, the weather and the swell finally took a turn for the worse, and our surfing days were finished for the trip. We decided to head up the coast, following the 101 all the way up to Neah Bay, and then around towards Seattle. The majority of this terrain is a part of Olympic National Park, which boasts more rainforests than I ever thought I’d see in my life! I spent some time exploring secluded beaches, hiking to see huge Cedar trees, and visiting some amazing hot springs.

Eventually, time started running short, so we swung through Seattle for a few days, and then began our drive back to Salt Lake, with a small pit stop in Couer D’Alene and another in Montana. Throughout my trip, I had the opportunity to test out of a lot of sweet gear, including the Flophouse Foam Pad, Hovercraft Frisbee and Bivvy Bowl for Baker (my goofball dog, for those of you who don’t know), the new JetBoil Flash, and a GoPro Camera (which came into the water surfing with me several times!). Be sure to check out all my reviews to see how each item performed in the seemingly never-ending rain and the sand! Check out all the cool pics as well!

As the weather cools back down in Salt Lake City, I’ve been trying to get out and run more. When it’s in the mid nineties, I am less inclined to go on a 3 hour run, and the dog is not psyched at all about running in that kind of heat. However, now that it’s cooler, I’ve had the chance to get out a few times a week for some longer runs, and used my CamelBak Delaney Plus Bottle Belt each time.

Not going to lie, when the CamelBak Rep first showed me the belt at the Outdoor Retailer Show, I  was a bit skeptical. In my mind, it was a glorified fanny pack. I felt like I needed leg warmers, a scrunchie and an oversized sweatshirt to wear it with. However, CamelBak really does seem to know what they’re doing when it comes to hydration, so I figured I would give it a shot.

After a few short runs and several longer ones, I’m sold. The Delaney Plus is perfect for those runs when you need water and a small snack but nothing else. The belt is so well designed that you forget it’s there until you need to pound that Gu and chase it with some H20.

Sweet Features of the Delaney Plus

• 2 pockets allow for enough space for a hat, gloves, and a few Clif Bars and your keys. one thing to beware of- one of the pockets is mesh, so don’t toss anything that is super sensitive to water in that one. I went out last week for a run in the snow, and came back with a soaked cell phone. Whoops.
• Breathable mesh backing allows for maximum ventilation against your skin as you run.
• Dual strap adjustment lets you truly customize the fit, and buckles sit in unobtrusive places near your hips.
• Elastic bungee on outside of bottle holder allows you to cinch the bottle down, and you can also toss a lightweight jacket into the cords if you chose to shed a layer when you’re crankin’ out that uphill section.
• Comes with a squeezable CamelBak Podium Bottle

Buy Now: Search for CamelBak Products

JetBoil Flash PCS

• Color changing heat indicator on the side of the drink cozy: the indicator window turns orange as the contents of the cup heat up.
• New ignitor button: One push button easier to use
• Flux Ring: Helps to adequately transfer and distribute heat, meaning quicker boiling times and less fuel use. And! It sounds like Flux Capacitor, so you might also get transported somewhere in time as you drink heats evenly
• Tripod included for added stability when you’re cooking

JetBoil also mailed me the coffee press attachment, so I can stay caffeinated before and after my surf sessions. Look for a report on that in a few weeks as well. Though none of our vendors are carrying the Flash and the new coffee press just yet, look for it coming out soon!

I looked at a couple of Mountain Hardwear’s Synthetic bags, and arrived at the Switch after deciding I wanted a mid-priced bag with a temperature rating of around 20 degrees that could compress small enough to double as a backpacking sleeping bag without being enormous.

Mountain Hardwear Switch Sleeping Bag

• Weight = 3lbs 10 oz
• Stuffed Dimensions = 8 inches x 16 inches
• Quantum Expander System- the Switch comes with the Quantum expander, a secondary zipper system which essentially makes the bag bigger when you want more space and less warmth. When unzipped, it adds 8 inches of girth to the bag, which provides more space, and more air circulation. When you need that warmth, zip the Quantum Expander closed, and you’re back to a mummy bag to provide ample warmth.
• Comes in both a 20 degree or a 35 degree option.
• Price = $140.00
• Women’s bag means more insulation in typically cold areas, and a shorter overall bag (regular sized women’s bag is 5 foot 6 inches long, and the long one is 6 feet).

Overall, the Switch was the best choice for a versatile bag- I can use it car camping or backpacking, in warmer or cooler temperatures and in the rain or in dryer conditions without worry of losing warming capabilities when it’s wet. The only thing I have yet to truely test is multi-day use at lower temperatures, but I’m sure I’ll have a handle on that after I get back from the Pacific Northwest. Look for an update in a few weeks!

Check it out! Mountain Hardwear Switch 20 Degree Sleeping Bag

As I am packing for my upcoming Washington/Oregon surf trip, I am experiencing a new type of packing. What to bring for the dog, who will also be coming along in the truck for the 2 week trip? Baker will be sleeping in the truck with us, hanging on the beach with us, and will be an active participant in the whole trip! I’ve never brought a dog on a road trip before, so as I started laying out my kitchen box, sleeping bags and other items, it dawned on me that the dog would also need all of these things! I decided the first thing I would tackle would be a portable bed for the guy- everyone likes a place to sleep. I’m bringing along a RuffWear FlopHouse Foam Pad for Baker on this trip.

The FlopHouse Foam Pad seems ideal for our surfing/beach adventure for a few reasons:

• It’s foldable, and can get pretty small, so when we’re not using it, it won’t take up too much space.
• Integrated drain holes in the pad will let water drain out the bottom, instead of pooling and making a soggy bed. This will be great for naps after long days on the beach!
• Inner foam is removable, so it can’t be hosed off and dried out quickly.
• Comes in 3 sizes, which align perfectly with Small/Medium/Large crate sizing and the size of the back of most cars. The Large size fits perfectly in the back of a Subaru Forrester, or in the back seat of a Toyota Tacoma Xtra Cab (where Baker Dog will be staying as we drive cross-country).

Look for a full report when I return! For now, I’m off to finish packing the dog’s bin full of toys/beds/bowls/food/etc. Baker’s new Gourdo and Sqwash toys will also be coming with us!

Check it out! Ruffwear FlopHouse Foam Pad

Search for more Ruffwear gear.

RuffWear, started by Patrick Kruse and his dog Otis, specializes in making “Gear for Dogs on The Go,” and makes everything from dog packs (B-dog has a new Palisade pack that he’s trying out. Look for more on that later this month!), to float coats to collars to toys. I was excited to try out some of their toys as they are rumored to be indestructible, and Baker can certainly destruct things. From Dankos to plaster walls, the Baker dog has certainly shown us his ability to use his teeth!

The Gourdo

• Available now! It’s a natural rubber toy with a rope at the end of it, and makes for a great chew toy, fetching item or tug-of-war toy. Also bounces!
• Comes in 2 sizes, so you can get one for your mini dachshund and one for the great Dane.
• The rubber portion is indestructible! Baker has been chewing on it for weeks now and can’t seem to make a dent in it. However, can’t say the same for the rope end of it- that was gone by day one. He ripped it to shreds. However, the rubber portion still makes a great toy, and Baker hasn’t been able to dismantle it so far.
• The black colored Gourdo is made from recycled rubber, so it an eco-friendly toy as well.
• Price= $11.95

The Sqwash

• Pliable rubber shaped like a squash. The tapered shape allows for small and big mouths to grab a hold and have a good time.
• Tapered shape keeps the bounce lower than RuffWear’s traditional “TurnUp” toy, so it’s great for smaller dogs and puppies.
• Center is hollow, so you can fill it with peanut butter or treats, and use it as a simple chew toy as well.
• I’ve yet to see Baker shred this one! He’s been at it for about a month, and hasn’t even put a hole in it. The pliable rubber makes for a great chewing toy, yet is somehow still bomb-proof (or as we call it in my house, Baker-proof).
• Available this fall.
• Price = $11.95

Both products are holding up great so far with the constant abuse of a 60lb lab puppy! I’m impressed. I’m also impressed with the price on these toys. You can certainly spend far more for a toy that is going to be annihilated quickly. RuffWear has done a great job making a quality product affordable.

Check it out! The Gourdo RuffWear Dog Toy

I’ve never owned a pair of traditional Keen Sandals before (I’m more of a Chaco gal), but when Keen released their Bike commuter shoe, I was excited to try them out! The idea of being able to bike to class in sandals, and then not have to change my shoes when I got there was really appealing to me. Normally, I’d wear my biking shoes, and toss a pair of sandals in my pack, and then proceed to offend everyone in class as I took my stinky bike shoes off and transferred to the sandals in the first 5 minutes of class. It’s a wonder people still sat next to me by the end of the semester. However, with the Keen Commuter Bike Sandals, that’s no longer a problem!

The Keen Commuter Bike sandal resembles Keen’s traditional sandals, but with a few tweaks. First, the Bike Commuters are significantly more narrow and form fitting to the foot than a traditional pair of Keens (a great features for those of us with really narrow feet!). Second, the platform that the shoe is constructed on is much stiffer (for support and strength when biking). Third, the lacing system isn’t the traditional elastic lacing- it’s a regular shoelace to prevent give when pedaling uphill, but still with the quicklock system at the top. I was impressed at the overall pedaling efficiency when using these around town- it felt just like I had my regular Specialized bike shoes on. I’m hoping to use these on a longer bike touring trip this coming summer. They seem ideal for longer rides where you’d need a multi-functional shoe.

Keen Commuter Bike Sandals

• Perfect for days when it rains a bit during the commute! The Keens dry out fast and have a hydrophobic foam on the upper of the shoe, which molds to your foot and dries fast when wet. No more soggy bike shoes.
• Cleats are set into the shoe, so you can walk around without making that clacking noise down halls, or hike small distances in them without the cleats being a problem. FYI- Cleats are sold separately, and the drill pattern is for SPD cleats.
• Webbing allows for great airflow on the warmer days.

Check ‘Em Out! Keen Commuter Bike Sandals

To preface my review, I feel like I should give you a bit of information about me, size wise and activity wise. Let’s just say that when I sat down to meet with Moving Comfort, they looked at me, and then proceeded to ask who as actually going to be testing and reviewing the product, as their bras were intended for women with “a fuller chest” than me. After I informed them that I was, in fact, the one who would be trying out their product, they steered me in the direction of one of their most versatile sports bras for those on the “smaller” side- the Alexis. I am an avid trail runner, cyclist and mountain biker, so these were the activities the ladies kept in mind when choosing the Alexis for me- high impact. While I only tried the Alexis due to size limitations, Moving Comfort has several great lines of products like their Fiona Bra, which is a Sports Bra specific for high impact activities for those of you in the C-DD range, or the Dori Bra, a hook and eye closure racer back bra aimed at the B/C range. Be sure to give those a shot if you’re looking for great support in the larger cup size ranges. For now though, here’s my impression of the Alexis Bra.

Alexis Sports Bra- The Good

• “Smoosh” free design- The Alexis comes with padded cups integrated into the bra, and an overall shape to it. This provides support in a similar way to a normal bra, as opposed to just smashing the girls closer to your body and hoping they don’t move.
• Skinny straps- Nothing digging into your shoulders as you move.
• Back mesh panel- allows for great ventilation
• Moving comfort products are the #1 selling apparel product (pants, jackets, shorts, you name it) in running stores nation wide. They’re onto something for that high impact support category!

Alexis Sports Bra- The Bad

• Even in the smaller size, the padded cups really were overkill for someone of A/B cup size. Definitely made for a “smoosh” free experience, as Moving Comfort advertises, but I felt that compared to my usual preference of a seamless, padding free bra, I was hauling around a lot of extra material for a lot of support that I didn’t really need.

Overall, I was really impressed with the design and thought that clearly went into the development of Moving Comfort’s products! They just weren’t for my specific body type. However, I would highly recommend them to any of my fuller chested friends!

Check It Out! Alexis Sports Bra

In August, I had an last minute opportunity to head down to Costa Rica for about 3 weeks! I’d never been there before, and it has always been a country I’d love to visit, so I booked a plane ticket and 3 days later was on my way down to San Jose, CR. I traveled by myself throughout the country, and had a great time experiencing the food, music, culture, and the biggest part of my trip down there- the surfing!

Never having surfed before, I had intended on taking 1 or 2 days at the beach, giving surfing a try, and then moving on to see Arenal (an active volcano in North-Central Costa Rica), Monteverde (the Cloud Forest), and possibly Manual Antonio National Park, to see some sloths and toucans! My roommate had just returned from a surf trip down to Costa Rica, and recommended a few small towns on the Nicoya Peninsula (on the pacific side of CR) to go to and surf. Again, I was planning on surfing being a rather short lived activity for me- I’m traditionally a mountain gal! I’m not a fan of water I can’t see the bottom of, don’t particularly like sand, don’t really enjoy getting wet, and in general, get bored at the beach. Surfing sounds right up my ally, huh? But I figured I would give it a try!

After an epic travel day, consisting of one 5 hour plan ride, 2 taxi rides, 1 water ferry and 3 bus rides, I arrived on the Nicoya peninsula, and settled into a small surf town, exhausted from traveling. The following morning I rented myself a board, and went straight to the water. I was able to stand up on the board fairly quickly, as soon as I did, I knew I was in trouble- I’d found another outdoor activity to fall in love with! The freedom and the rush I felt when riding the waves was incomparable to anything else I’ve ever done! My 1-2 day surf stay turned into just over a week out on the peninsula. The day consisted of waking up early, sessioning for a few hours, coming back and taking a nap in a hammock, heading back out for the afternoon swell for another 4 hours of surfing, and then coming back in and eating dinner, relaxing with an Imperial (the Costa Rican equivalent of a Pabst), and going to bed. Each day I would eat a “casado” or a plate of food at a local “soda” (small restaurant). I ate loads of “Gallo Pinto,” an incredible rice and bean dish!

After about a week of surfing every day, I began to feel guilty. I had, after all, come down to Costa Rica to see the country! I’m not a surfer, I should be out experiencing something else, seeing the sights and being a tourist! So, I packed up, and moved on to Montezuma, a small town also on the Nicoya Peninsula with some very beautiful waterfalls that you can hike to. I spent one night there, and then hopped back on the bus/ferry/bus combo to get back towards the mainland and head to one of the many national parks in Costa Rica. However, about halfway through the bus ride, I realized that all I wanted to do was surf! So, I got off that bus, hopped on a different one, and 13 hours later (local buses are an experience in Costa Rica… You’ve got to be prepared for everything to take a while!), was in Dominical, another surf town on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, where I spent the remainder of my trip surfing!

On the last day before I had to start heading back to San Jose to catch my flight home, I did stop through Manual Antonio National Park, which was well worth the visit. I saw a sloth, a toucan, several beautiful plants, some cool red and purple crabs, and a beautiful beach. If you head that direction, be sure to bring your swimsuit with you into the park- the beaches are gorgeous and great to swim in! Or, in my case, use you Patagonia undies and sports bra, which can double as a swimsuit in a pinch!

Throughout my trip, I stayed in several small hostels, each equipped with hammocks outside! The hammock nap became such a staple in my day that I bought one and brought it home with me. I met a bunch of really cool travelers at each hostel I stayed at, and hopefully will stay in touch with them! I’m already planning a trip down to Australia to meet up with some of them and surf some more.

Overall, I had an incredible 3 week surf trip down south! Ironic, considering my initial hatred of all things wet. However, I loved it so much that I just recently purchased a new surfboard and wetsuit, and will be heading out to the Oregon/Washington coast in 2 weeks for another surf trip! I’m addicted, that’s for sure.

Recently, I took some time off from school and spent about 3 weeks in Costa Rica. My goal was to see some volcanoes, see some rain forests, and to try surfing. Surfing happened to be the 1st stop on my list, and somehow, my “Travel around-see the whole country-experience all of Costa Rica” trip turned into a 3 week surf trip! Each day I was out in the waves I was wearing my Patagonia Women’s Short Sleeve Rash Guard.

Never having surfed before, I wasn’t sure what the actual function of a rash guard was. I just figured it was part of the “look,” and had seen one on sale before I left the country, so I grabbed it, and figured I’d give it a try. I knew nothing about surfing, had never been before, and was unaware of how stoked I would later be on purchasing this piece of gear. After a few days of surfing, I discovered one of the many benefits of the Patagonia Short Sleeve rash guard- it comes with a UPF rating of 30+, so it keeps you from getting burned! Needless to say, I had a sweet tan line rockin’ after this trip from the rash guard. Also, the rash guard kept wax off my stomach (from the board as I was paddling out), and saved my armpits from getting rubbed raw, also from the paddling.

On top of all these features, however, was the most functional reason for purchasing a rash guard if you’re a female- stable front side coverage. I made the mistake of simply wearing my swimsuit top out to surf one day, thinking that I’d eliminate some of the aforementioned tan line. Within catching the first couple of waves, I was cowering underwater, frantically trying to pull my swimsuit top back down, and hoping that I hadn’t offended any of the locals… The pummeling I was getting by the waves each day was enough to rip my swimsuit top right up! I promptly turned around, walked back to my hostel, and tossed my rash guard back on. It stayed down, and my accidental flashing days were over! Not something I would have initially thought about when purchasing the Rash Guard, but definitely the best reason to purchase one.

Patagonia Women’s Short Sleeve Rash Guard

• UPF 30 for sun protection
• Slimmer neckband doesn’t feel like it’s choking you the entire session
• Seamless underarms and shoulders ensure chafe-free paddling
• Colors designed to match Patagonia’s swimsuit line, so you can be super stylin’ as you catch that wave.

Check it out! Patagonia Women’s Short Sleeve Rash Guard

At this summer’s Outdoor Retailer Show in July, I had the opportunity to meet with a lot of companies to discuss some of their sweet new products, including Five Ten’s Women’s Guide Tennie, Keen’s Commuter Shoes, several Jetboil products, and a whole host of new dog gear from RuffWear. One of the companies I was also fortunate enough to spend some time with was Mountain Khaki, based out of Jackson Hole Wyoming.

I have been a fan of MK products for year, but have never been able to fit into their amazing “Utility Pants.” Until 2 years ago, the women’s version of the pant was a shrunken version of the men’s, with wider hips. I loved how durable these pants seemed, and how easily my guy friends could wear them for an all day crack climbing-palooza, and then head straight out for food and drinks afterwords without needing to think twice about it. However, try as I might, I could not make a pair of the pants fit me. The smallest size was miles too big, and it looked like I had a box around my hips. I eventually gave up on my quest for a perfect pair of Mountain Khakis.

Then! 2 years ago, MK designers completely re-engineered their Women’s line, and someone was doing their homework this time! The pants now fit perfectly! Length, rise, everything. The Women’s Alpine Pant (the female version of the Utility Pant) was now officially the most rad pair of pants I’d ever seen, and they fit me. “Built for the Mountain Life,” as Mountain Khaki describes their product, these pants are definitely my “go-to” pair, for climbing, hiking and everyday wear as well.

Reasons Why I Love My Mountain Khakis

• Mountain Khaki is a member of “1% for the planet,” which in turn distributed MKs donations to the Snake River Fund, The Access Fund, and The Grand Teton National Park Foundation, among other places.
• They come pre-shrunk! Or, as the industry calls it, “garment washed” for “minimal shrinkage.” Nice, so you know that you’re not going to need new pants after the first time you toss them in the dryer.
• Comes in both regular (31 inch) and long (34 inch) inseams.
• >Reinforced hem- in the back portion of the pants, where your heel is, MK has doubled the thickness of the fabric, so you don’t shred the heel if it happens to get stuck under your shoe occasionally.
• >Comfortable, durable pants that have some decent shape to them. Really, need I say more?

Along with their traditional Alpine Utility Pant, Mountain Khaki has a line of Women’s Corduroy pants and Twill Pants. This year, Mountain Khaki also released their Snake River Collection, an entire collection of synthetic pants and shorts. Look for reviews on those other product lines later! For now, check out the Alpine Utility Pant:

Buy Now: Mountain Khaki Women’s Alpine Utility Pant

This past weekend, I headed down to Moab for my last multi-sport weekend before it gets way too hot down there. I grabbed my climbing gear and my road bike and headed south with the intention of some cragging on Potash Road and a ride through Canyonlands National Park. After a sweet day of biking, my partner in adventure suggested something a bit more exciting than the Potash crag- Ancient Arts, a well-known tower in the Fisher Towers area outside Moab. Looking at my gear, I was never so happy to see my “Oh S#!t” kit packed inside my duffel. This little orange stuff sack and its contents come with me EVERYWHERE, including on multipitch climbs. Knowing that I had my little kit with me, I transitioned my day from a day at the crag to my first day of desert tower climbing. I thought I’d offer you some insight into what I bring with me any time I go outside, and why I chose the products I do. Much like the Boy Scouts “10 essentials,” this kit is what I consider my essentials any time I go outside. Do I use every part every time? Nope. Have I been SUPER psyched to have it with me on a few specific occasions? Absolutely.

For all the products that our vendors carry, I’ve included a link to a more detailed review. Be sure to give it a click and check out specifics for each product.

1. Granite Gear Air Bag: Keeps all the below items with me! Lightest stuff sack I’ve been able to find that is still durable.

2. Purell Hand Sanitizer Wipes: Like carrying hand sanitizer with you, but with the added bonus of it being in wipe form, and no danger of it exploding all over your stuff if you change altitudes. Sanitize your hands and wipe off grime at the same time.

3. Coppertone Kids SPF 30 Stick Sunscreen: Wear sunscreen (anyone else remember that sweet song!?). To avoid getting it all over your hands before a climb, I’d use a stick form, and my fav is Coppertone Kids. It’s waterproof and lasts for 6 hours.

4. Adventure Medical HeatSheet Emergency Bivvy: Super compact, and keeps you warm in a pinch.

5. Leatherman Juice Xe6 Multitool: 18 tools in one, including 1 straight knife, 1 serrated knife, screwdrivers and pliers. Great for unlocking frozen ‘biners, severing cord, chopping up dinner or opening the post-climb celebratory beverage.

6. Mini Bic Lighter: Never know when you’re going to need to set something on fire!

7. Honey Stinger Energy Gel or Clif ShotBloks: Delicious! Quick energy when you really need it. Be sure to avoid that bonk!

8. 1 Luna Bar: Something with a bit more substance to snack on.

9. Charmin To Go Toilet Paper: No internal cardboard roll, just TP rolled on itself in a great tiny plastic container to keep the sand out. Great for emergency poos, nose blowings or wiping off your bloodied hands from the gnarley desert chimney you just sent.

10. Potable Aqua Iodine Tablets: If you ever end up somewhere and you’re out of water, yet have access to some source of liquid (snow, river, ice), iodine will keep you hydrated and bacteria free!

(ok, there are 11 things. No one ever accused me of being good at math!)

11. Black Diamond Spot Headlamp: I never, ever, ever, ever leave without a headlamp. Even when you’re leaving at 6am. You never know what’s going to go down that is out of your control, and adding darkness to an already deteriorating situation makes it that much worse.

Depending on the environment and weather forecast, I sometimes also take my Marmot Ion Windshirt, which compresses small enough to fit into my original granite gear stuff sack along with all of my other crucial materials.

So, at full retail, the emergency kit I’ve put together costs about $80 dollars if you don’t include the Leatherman (the most expensive item on my list, by far). If you’re good with watching for deals, you can easily put the whole thing together for under $50, and then add the Leatherman the next time it goes on sale! The whole thing weighs about 2lbs (Leatherman also weighing the most). This way, I’ve got the essentials I feel I need, instead of some formulaic kit!

Not too shabby for a homemade essentials kit, huh?

Details about The Black Diamond Spot Headlamp

• Comes with 2 different types of LEDs. 1 Hyperbright 1 watt LED and 3 Superbright LEDs. Each type of light has 3 brightness settings plus a strobe, so in total you are looking at 6 different light settings and 2 different strobe settings.
• Swivel head allows it to point in whatever direction you need. Ratchets so it will stay up or down.
• Super compact: Elastic band is minimal, and the headlamp itself fit inside my fist.
• On the Medium setting, the HyperBright light will last 150 hours and the SuperBrights 120 hours.
• With batteries, weighs only 3 oz!
• Check out BD’s tech video for more info on the Spot

Check It Out! Black Diamond Spot Headlamp

Charmin To Go Roll

• 55 squares in one small roll. The entire package, including those 55 squares is about the same size as the cardboard tube you find inside your normal TP.
• 1 ply. Not cush. But gets the job done.
• Water resistant dispenser! Allows you to dispense what you need, snap it closed again. This keeps the sand, dirt, bugs, water, etc. out.

Buy Now! Charmin To Go Roll!

The Skinny: Honey Stinger Energy Gels

• Comes in 6 flavors: Gold (? is this a flavor or a color ?), Mint, Chocolate, Banana, Strawberry and Ginsting (Ginsing). Remember going to the state fair as a kid and eating those sticks of honey? In all sorts of different flavors? That’s what the Honey Stinger Energy gels taste like.
• Ginsting shot offers the caffeine option: 32 mg of naturally occurring caffeine. These are the specific shots in my pack.
• Doesn’t come with a “litter leash” to keep that top tab from blowing away. Bummer. Other than that, these shots rock.

Buy Now! Honey Stinger Energy Gels

The Details: Potable Aqua Iodine Tablets

• To treat 1 quart of water you need to drop 2 tablets in and wait 30 minutes. Like I said, not time efficient, but in an emergency, 30 minutes of waiting is better than no water at all.
• Each bottle comes with 50 tablets that are good for about a year. If you keep the bottle closed and don’t expose it to temps above 86 degrees and below 60 degrees, then it’s good for about 4. However, stick to the year as your general rule as to when to replace it.
• Kills bacteria and giardia. Does NOT kill cryptosporidium. Again, not the best system out there, but in a pinch it’s great! Also, for the cost, it’s definitely effective. 50 tablets for around $5 bucks? Awesome.
• Some people don’t like the taste of iodine-ed water. Not to beat a dead horse, but in a pinch, who cares? Slightly different tasting water vs. no water at all? I’ll take the iodine taste please!

Buy Now! Potable Aqua Iodine Tablets

18 Tools: What you get with a Leatherman Juice Xe6

• 420HC Clip Point Knife
• 420HC Sheep’s Foot Serrated Knife
• Needlenose Pliers
• Regular Pliers
• Wire Cutters
• Hard-wire Cutters
• Extra-small Screwdriver
• Small Screwdriver
• Med/Lg Screwdriver
• Phillips Screwdriver
• Scissors
• Wood/Metal File
• Diamond-coated File
• Saw
• Bottle Opener
• Can Opener
• Awl
• Corkscrew (only 3 leathermans come with a corkscrew!)

Phew. That’s a lot of tools. My personal favorites are the straight knife, the scissors, bottle opener and can opener. They see a lot of use with me.

The Juice weighs only 6.7 oz (so far the single heaviest thing in my “Essentials” kit, if you’re keeping track), and is 3.25 inches long when fully closed. It’s stainless steel and comes with a 25 year warranty, so even I’d be hard pressed to break this one!

Check Out the Leatherman Juice Xe6!

The Details

• The HeatSheet Emergency bivvy comes in a small orange stuffsack the size of my fist. I’m a tiny gal, with tiny fists. This bivvy is minuscule!
• Along with being small, it’s light. Weighs 3.8 oz.
• Composed of “vacuum-metalized polyethylene,” which is about the consistency a tin foil/plastic wrap hybrid minus the stretch. This material has a bit of give to it, but will rip if stretched too much.
• 1 side is orange colored- east to spot even in bad weather.
• Sized for 1 adult. In a pinch, you can rip the bivvy at the seams, and wrap it around 2 people. Been there. Done that. Did not enjoy the 6 hour bivvy on a 3 foot ledge in howling wind. But the bivvy did its job, even split between 2. The parts of me that were covered with the bivvy were significantly warmer than the others.

Pick one up for yourself today! Adventure Medical HeatSheet Emergency Bivvy

The Specs

• Comes in 6 sizes, from 2 L through 16L.
• SUPER lightweight: my size 1 weighs 11 oz.
• Made of 30D Sil-Nylon Cordura. I’ve had mine for over 3 years now, and it’s come on multitudes of trips and made it up many climbs with me as my emergency kit container. No holes, no rips, no complaints.
• The fabric is see through, so you can give it a quick visual and ensure that you’ve got what you need in there before you head out.
• Drawstring closure. I beefed mine up a bit to be able to carry it on my harness without ripping the cord, but the area around the drawstring exit is reinforced so you’re not going to blow out seams.

Check it out some of the great Granite Gear options our vendors carry!

I’ve never been a fan of the big clunky battery pack headlamps, but I wanted to try something that could really put out a lot of light in a variety of shapes, and to see what all the fuss was about, so I finally bought a Black Diamond Icon Headlamp.

Key Features of the Black Diamond Icon Headlamp

• 2 different light options- a 3 watt bulb for incredible amounts of light, but lower efficiency, or use the 4 .5 watt LED lights for lower light but long battery time.
• Runs off of 3 AA batteries or a Black Diamond NRG rechargeable battery pack. This is nice because you can charge it when you’re home or basing your adventures from some place with an electric plug. Then, you can switch to AA batteries when you’re out in the field. Less batteries used overall. This is not so nice, however, because you have to buy the rechargeable kit, an additional $29.95. The battery charging kit does have a cigarette lighter adapter though, so you can charge your headlamp up on the drive from one adventure to the next.
• Memory Mode- The Icon remembers the last setting you had you headlamp on, and when you turn it back on, it retains that setting. Nice for nights when you’re in your tent and not wanting to blind your partner as you flip your light back on to search for your socks…
• Cable between the battery pack and the light itself is coiled, so you aren’t mucking with an ill-fitting wire when taking the headlamp from your head to your helmet.
• Just like with other BD headlamps, to navigate between the 4 settings of LED light levels, you have to “half click” the button, depressing it slightly to change the setting without turning the whole thing off. Takes a bit of finesse, but if you’ve had a BD headlamp before, you won’t have a problem at all.

Overall, I liked using my Icon. It was certainly the brightest light I’ve had on my head, ever. The 3 watt beam definitely does stretch far (BD specifies 83 Meters!), and I was impressed with the width on the 4 lower wattage LEDs. There wasn’t anything I couldn’t see. I brought my Icon out for the first time searching for a pair of lost sunglasses left on a trail earlier in the day, and the Icon lit the whole pathway up! By the end of the night, I discovered 2 things – 1)The shades were in my truck and 2)I was psyched to use such a bright headlamp.

Will I completely convert and carry the bigger one with me all the time as opposed to my usual Black Diamond Spot? Probably not. I like my lightweight, streamlined gear. Is it nice to know that I’ve got a higher light quality option in case I decide I want exceptional visibility on one trip? Definitely.

Check It Out! The Black Diamond Icon Headlamp

The weather is a tricky thing, especially on these spring days here in Salt Lake City. One minute, it’s beautiful and you’re 3 pitches up Pentapitch, loving live and stoked to drop down and climb Sasquatch before you head out. Next minute, you’re being pummeled by wind, freezing, and if you’ve got a Marmot Ion Windshirt, you’re psyched!

The Marmot Ion Windshirt is the lightest functional piece of clothing I own! At 4 oz (Ws size Small), you’re not going to get wind and water protection any lighter. With minimalist features, this windshirt is a great piece to toss in a stuff sack and hang off your harness for multi-pitch routes, or to leave in the bottom of a pack for days at the crag. It’s so light, you’ll forget it’s there until the storm clouds begin rolling in, or when the wind picks up just enough to make that belay uncomfortably chilly. Reach into your pack, grab your Ion, and let the fun continue. Also great for trail running!

Key Features of the Marmot Ion Windshirt

• Wind resistant and water resistant. The Ion comes with a DWR coating, so while it’s not waterproof, it’s certainly water resistant.
• That same DWR coating does limit breathability a bit. I actually liked my jacket a bit more after some of the DWR coating had worn off- it offered a bit more breathability, and was still wind resistant.
• Integrated hood
• 1 chest zip pocket, in case you need to stash a Gu Shot or a Cliff Bar. Other than that, no pockets, no frills. Just stripped down, minimalist wind and water protection.
• Packs down to the size of a tennis ball!

Check it out! Marmot Ion Windshirt.

If you enjoy a good beverage a few days into the backcountry, Platypus has designed a new product to eliminate toting all that glass in your pack. The Platypus PlatyPreserve system allows you to take wine from the glass bottle, seal it into a PlatyPreserve container, and open it a few days later, still getting that just-opened taste!

Exposure to oxygen affects the taste of wine, and wine can go bad within 2-8 hours after opening a bottle. Crux! How do you tote you Pinot Noir on your 5 day backpacking trip without a) drinking the entire bottle the 1st night or b) hauling along that cumbersome glass bottle the entire trip and fumbling with gas-exchange systems to retain the taste? Get yourself a PlatyPreserve.

Platypus PlatyPreserve Features

• Collapsible container- when you’ve finished off your beverage, there’s no large container left around to haul for the remainder of the trip.
• The PlatyPreserve allows you to put your wine in, and then remove all the Oxygen from the bladder, eliminating the exposure to any O2. This keeps your wine tasty, even days later!
• No taste transfer! Your wine doesn’t taste like plastic.
• BPA Free- who likes that stuff anyways?
• The average glass wine bottle weighs 2 pounds! Shave that weight off.
• The PlatyPreserve allows you quite the selection of portable wine, as opposed to just the wine that comes in a box…
• $12.95 per bladder. A bit pricey, but think of the weight and space you’re saving.

Check It Out! Platypus PlatyPreserve System

I’ve been doing lots of climbing in the Wasatch Range as of late, and my boyfriend has been off in Yosemite for most of May, and both of us have been using our Beal Flyer II Ropes for everything we’ve been climbing.

The Flyer II is a 10.2mm diameter rope, a nice mid-size between new-age skinny ropes and the massive 10.5mm ropes out there that can be difficult to feed into devices and extraordinarily heavy. The Flyer comes in 2 length options- a 60m rope or a 70m rope. I chose the 70m, for more versatility in what I could climb. I only have 1 one rope, so I opted for a bit more weight in exchange for the versatility I gained with a 70m.

Beal Flyer II 10.2mm Rope

• Rope 101: A rope consists of a sheath and a core. The sheath is intended to protect the core, where as the core is where the strength of the rope lies. When a rope is dry-treated, it’s referring to what parts of the rope have a special treatment on them to resist water. The Beal Flyer II comes with 2 dry-treatment options: 1- Dry-Cover, where just the sheath is treated, or 2- Golden Dry, where both the core and the sheath are treated. I do a fair amount of ice climbing, so it made sense for me to purchase the Golden Dry rope.
• Mid-mark: The rope isn’t bi-colored (a big bummer), but it does have the middle marked with a 3 inch long black marking spot. Still hard to see if you’re pulling rope fast, especially after you’ve gotten some dirt on the thing.
• Wears well! After 20+ pitches on El Cap, the Flyer was showing essentially no wear. I’ve used one for well over a year, and it’s holding up great.
• Handling- one of the slight drawbacks of the rope. It’s really stiff when new, and takes a while to break in and get to that “supple” handling phase. It’s especially kinky when brand new, which is a pain on belays. Be sure to flake it each time as opposed to belaying from a coil or a rope bag- you’re going to get kinks and knots with this one.
• Sweeeet hot pink colors. You’re styling with this rope, for sure.

Overall, the Flyer II’s greatest feature is it’s durability! This rope will last you through whatever you use it for- ice pitches, Lurking Fear on El Capitan, days at the Crag in SLC, a quick trip down to American Fork Canyon, whatever!

Check It Out! Beal Flyer II 10.2mm Rope

I made a trip down to Coyote Gulch a few weeks ago for some light backpacking on my mini summer break, and one product I used every day was my Katadyn Hiker Water Filter (I also used my Black Diamond Lighthouse Tent, check out that review for an awesome lightweight tent).

Katadyn specializes in water filtration systems, and makes a lot of really neat products. From water filters to desalination systems for boats to Micropur purification tablets, Katadyn is your water expert.

Katadyn Hiker Microfilter Specs

• Ideal for 1-2 persons
• Weight = 11 oz. Superlight!
• Max output of 1 liter/minute. I certainly don’t have the arm strength to pump out a liter a minute, but the filter has that capability.
• Filters out Bacteria, Protozoa, cysts, algae, spores and sediments. This includes cryptosporidium!
• Comes with both Nalgene compatible and hydration bladder compatible attachments, so you can attach it right to your water container and worry less about spillage.
• Great for weekend, week-long and day trips. If you’re looking for a product to serve you on a several month expedition, look more towards Katadyn’s Endurance Series filters.
• Filter contains an active carbon core, which reduces “icky” tastes and colors in your water.
• At $59.95, it’s a relatively inexpensive water filter for what you get!

Overall, I was very impressed with my Katadyn Hiker. Lightweight, easy to pump, and adaptable to my nalgene…. No wonder it’s the bestselling filter in its class on the market.

Buy Now: Search for Katadyn Hiker Microfilter

For a lot of my camping, my “tent” is the bed of my Tacoma. I’m usually either parked for a few days at the crag or doing an alpine style push on something, and collapsing in the back of the truck 27 hours later. Recently, I went on a few backpacking trips and used the Black Diamond Lighthouse Tent, and I loved it!

The Lighthouse is a 2 person, 3 season tent, and one of the more roomier 2 person tents I’ve been in! When you set it up, it looks pretty darn tiny. However, after hopping in, you realize it’s got loads of space! The ceiling of the tent is 43 inches tall, so you can definitely sit up and move around in this tent.

You’d think that with being a spacious tent, it would also be heavier. Definitely not true with the Black Diamond Lighthouse. The tent weighs in at just over 3 lbs! Great for superlight backpacking, or anything where you’re wanting to shave off pounds.

Key Features of the Lighthouse

• DAC Featherlight poles- trim down on the weight even more, yet are still durable.
• Tent storage- BD has ingeniously separated the poles from the body of the tent in a unique stuff sack storage system. This way, you can keep the poles and the body separate, making it easy to divvy up gear amongst partners, or store different parts of the tent in different areas of your pack for maximum space efficiency.
• 1 Large front door, 1 small back vent
• Epic Fabric- Repels water while still being breathable.
• Floor- Made from SilNylon, so it’s truly waterproof

For lightweight backpacking in relatively good weather, this is the tent! Super light, durable, and, hey, a cool yellow color to boot! I’m a fan.

Check It Out! Black Diamond Lighthouse Tent

Climbing season! It’s here! Much like a kid at Christmas, I’ve been anxiously awaiting the days where it’s light enough that I can climb for 4 hours after my 5pm class, and it’s finally here! For my longer routes and all my crack climbing, I’ve been using my La Sportiva Mythos Climbing Shoes.

The Mythos are the classic climbing shoe. Uber- comfortable yet high performance, these guys will get you up anything and you’ll still have your toes afterward. For both beginners and experts, this is a shoe you’re going to want to have!

Fit Info

The Mythos are notorious for stretching, as the are made of unlined leather, and I’d say mine definitely stretched. Be sure to size your Mythos down from your street shoe size (opposite of several other climbing companies, like 5.10, who say to size the same as your street shoe size). I’m normally a 37.5 in street shoes (and also my 5.10 Anasazis. Go 5.10 for being accurate with sizing!) and bought a pair of size 35 Mythos. the first 30 minutes or so were uncomfortable, but they’ve stretched out a ton and now fit just right. The Mythos are also significantly more narrow than any other climbing shoe I’ve tried on, especially through the ball of your foot. Again though, these shoes will stretch, so if you’re a bit on the wider side, worry not. Narrow footers, rejoice! The shoes expand to the needs of your feet, but won’t stretch past the tension you put on them, so they’ll stay narrow for you.

La Sportiva also incorporates their sweet Mythos lacing system into the shoes, keeping your heel locked down. It may take a bit of finagling before you get the fit just right for you, but it’s worth it. This keeps your heel down without having to create a shoe with a large and squeezing heel cup. This makes the shoe comfortable enough to wear all day on multi-pitch routes, yet snug and performance-oriented enough to use for those techie finger crack/slab climbing combos we find so often here in the Wasatch.

One side note about fit- I seem to have a small air bubble under the arch of my foot, and as I walk around after a bouldering problem or before I start a climb, that air squeaks out, making a lovely farting noise as I walk. It seems that I’m not the first person to get a case of the “Mythos Farts,” either. Doesn’t affect fit or performance at all, but it does seem to occur to several people who own the shoes…

Features

• Low profile toe fits easily into thin splitter cracks. Beware though- as you continue to jam those toes in, you’re wearing at your laces. Don’t be surprised if you’ve got to replace the laces once within the life of your Mythos.
• Vibram XS Grip outsoles- grippy grippy and perfect for smearing up Wasatch Slabs….
• Mythos lacing system- keep that heel locked down.

These are my go-to shoes for any multi-pitch route, smearing routes and all my crack climbing! For tech-heavy sport routes requiring very exact toe placements, I usually reach for my Five Ten Anasazis. My Mythos are definitely the most comfortable shoe I’ve owned. I’m psyched to see such a great hybrid of performance and comfort!

Check ‘Em Out! La Sportiva Mythos Climbing Shoes

As a grad student, my summer break lasts all of a week and a half. However, over that week and a half, I’ve been cramming in lots of adventures, and all of them have involved my Deuter Guide 30+ pack.

I’ve had limited exposure to Deuter packs. The only other pack by Deuter that I’ve used is their massive NOLS pack, intended for huge loads and long periods of time. The Guide is a smaller, sleeker 30 liter pack (plus an extension), full of features. From the side zip to the ice tool holders, the guys and gals a Deuter have clearly put a lot of thought into the design of this pack.

Fit Info

The SL means that the pack is a women’s specific fit- shorter torso and slightly narrower overall. However- I’m usually a Small frame in BD packs, Arc’teryx packs and Marmot packs, and this SL torso was almost too short on me. If you’re normally on the border between a Small and Regular torso length, I’d say size up with this one.  Shoulder straps are set closer together, and are more narrow than on their regular packs. After wearing mine for a multi-day  backpacking trip and for several days at the crag, I’m impressed at how well this pack carries. Super comfortable with moderate loads! I’ve yet to toss more than 40 lbs in it, but if you’re carrying that much weight, you’re probably looking at a larger volume pack anyways…

The hip belt is conical and contoured up for women’s hips. It also comes with a Vari-Flex his belt  system, which allows the hip belt to pivot with you as you move over varied terrain. This distributes your load evenly, and adds to the carrying comfort of the pack. The hip belt is also removable, in case you want to go super-light one day.

Key Features of the Guide 30 SL Pack

• Compression straps- Make the pack smaller when you’ve got smaller loads. 2 on each side, bottom ones are a hybrid ski strap/compression strap.
• Hydration compatible
• Ice Axe loops- Different than the previous years of the Guide and most packs. No longer do you have to muck with threading your Axe upside down, and then pulling it up to secure it. The ice axe loops on the pack are more like keeper loops- picks of the axes feed into small loops and are secured both at the bottom and the top of the pack.
• Crampon storage- Top of the pack. You’ll need to toss some straps on the top yourself, but it’s reinforced and the right size for storing them.
• Side access zipper
• Rope carrier- Easy rope storage on the top of your pack.

My Overall Impression

I like it! Carries well, narrow profile, and enough cool features to make it interesting without being overwhelming. I’ll definitely be using mine for many adventures. There’s a few areas I think could use a bit of work, though.

• Top of the pack- Small! I’m used to stashing my day’s food, headlamp, cell phone, keys and my emergency kit in the top of my packs. That won’t all fit in this one. Also, the top of the pack is permanently attached to the pack by a piece of fabric. When you’ve got the pack completely full, the top of the pack doesn’t sit properly on top of it, because the fabric section limits how far you can pull the top over.
• Ski Holders- They’re sweet, and double as compression straps. However, when the pack is full, a pair of Karhu Berthas (100 underfoot) won’t fit in the straps. Too wide.
• Compression straps- How many people use a Ridgerest when they backpack? I’d be willing to say a large majority of people out there do. Why is it, then, that ALL pack manufacturers make their straps on the side just small enough that it’s a 30 minute wrestling match to get your Ridgerest onto the side of your pack? Certainly not just an issue with my Deuter Pack. Black Diamond, Arcteryx, Marmot, Gregory, they’re all guilty too. Would it hurt to make that strap 2 inches longer to eliminate all that frustration?

Our Retailers haven’t started carrying the Guide 30+ SL yet… But check out the Guide 35 for an idea on design and check back soon!

As ski season began winding down and climbing season winding up, I told myself I would finally buy a pair of approach shoes, instead of using my chacos for most approaches to climbs. I ended up settling on the Scarpa Women’s Quest Shoes.

The Quest Lady (women’s specific version of the Quest), is a great all around approach shoe. Similar to Scarpa’s Expresso and Zen shoes, the Quest is intended for slightly more technical needs than the Zen and is all leather, unlike the Expresso.

The Quest’s sole is a “climbing dot” sole, and looks very similar to those on other comparable approach shoes (La Sportiva Cirque Pros or B5s, for example). This climbing dot sole provides great traction, but unfortunately, not great durability. As with any approach shoe with this sole, it’s not going to last long if you’re wearing it as an every day shoe. Save it for when you really need the traction, and your rubber will perform the way you want it to.

Scarpa Quest Approach Shoes

• Solid leather upper. The Quest is all leather, unlike the Expresso, with has some synthetic material mixed in as well.
• Rubber toe randing. The randing on the Quest comes up higher than on the Zen, and the toe has a more defined edge. Perfect for edging your way up on a mellow climb.
• Rock shoe last- The Quest is built on a modified rock climbing shoe last, giving you that forward propulsion you feel when you put these shoes on. This lasting makes it easy to get on your toes and edge in these shoes.
• Climbing dot sole- Grippy grippy! I’ve been traipsing all over Little Cottonwood Canyon Granite in these guys, and I’m really impressed with how much traction they provide.

Overall, I’ve been very impressed with my Quests so far. Check back later for a report on season-long durability.

Buy Now! Scarpa Quest Shoe

The 2009 Teva Mountain Games will be hosted in Vail, Colorado from June 4th through June 9th. From the Eukanuba DockDogs competition, to the IFSC Bouldering World Cup, there’s something for everyone at this event. Between the kayaking, biking, fly fishing, and 10k run, there’s quite the selection of events. However, my favorite, and the one I’m currently registered for is the X-1 Mud Run. Approximately a 5k, this isn’t your typical running event. The course consists of several obstacles, and more importantly, lots of mud! Check out the pictures from last year’s race.

Along with all the sporting events, there’s free concerts every evening, film screenings and  a photo competition held throughout the event. Not to mention, all the awesome entertainment and nightlife in Vail on a regular basis.

Hope to see you out there! Head directly to the Teva Mountain Games website to register.

Just as promised, though a bit later than the original March 1 release date, Alpinist Magazine is up and running again, with issue 26 now available on the shelves. 

After naming Michael Kennedy new Editor-In-Chief on March 16, Height of Land Publications (owners of Backcountry Magazine and Telemark Skier Magazine) announced an April 15th release date for Alpinist 26.

After picking up 26, it seems that Height of Land Publications has been true to it’s claim of maintaining the high quality photos, minimal adds and large format that Alpinist has come to be known for. Issue 26 has some great articles about the Jenny Lake Climbing Rangers, old school Everest Climbing, and the high caliber climbing stories its readers have become accustomed to seeing in Alpinist.

Check out the Alpinist Website for more info.

The on and off rain here in SLC as of late hasn’t stopped me from getting out, thanks to my Arc’Teryx Beta LT Jacket.

As with all their jackets, the Arc’Teryx Beta LT Jacket comes with all sorts of sweet features. Before going into the little details though, lets talk about the fabric for a bit. The Beta LT is constructed using 320N GORE-TEX Pro Shell 3L material. This material consists of 3 layers (where the 3L comes from)- a internal GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane, 320N face fabric and a GORE Micro Grid Woven backer layer. This last layer, the Micro Grid, is the key difference between Arc’Teryx shells and others on the market. It’s highly abrasion resistant and yet extremely breathable. This is the layer that really keeps that water off your back without feeling like you’re wearing a plastic bag.

Now, on to the cool little details that make an Arc’Teryx Shell truly top of the line.

• The Beta LT is a hip length jacket, with a drop back hem, meaning your butt gets extra rain coverage from this jacket! The one hand pull cord makes it easy to cinch up the bottom of the jacket when the weather gets fierce.
• Pit Zips! Crucial for venting in fast changing weather.
• Vislon WaterTight zippers- on the front, pockets and in the pit zips, these zippers ensure that your shell is 100% waterproof, 100% of the time.
• Pockets- you’ve got 2 external hand pockets. 1 laminated pocket inside 1 of those external hand pockets, and 1 laminated internal chest pocket. Plenty of space for GUs, other snacks, an iPod, whatever you want to toss in there.
• Moulded zipper garages- when your zippers are all done up, there’s literally a little fabric “garage” for the zipper to pull in to, keeping your jacket as streamlined as possible.
• Hood- stowable (you’ve got a zippered compartment to compress it into) and helmet compatible. I could fit mine over both my Petzl Elios climbing helmet and my Smith Variant Brim ski helmet.
• Weight- a size medium is a measly 12.3 oz.

A few drawbacks to the Beta LT Jacket

• As with all Arc’Teryx products, it’s on the expensive side. $500 dollars for a shell is expensive, no matter how you look at it.
• Because you’ve got that burly 3 layer GORE TEX Pro Shell construction, the Beta LT doesn’t compress down as small as other shells, like a Marmot Pre-Cip might. However, it offers far superior water protection, so it’s worth the extra space in my book.

Buy Now! Arc’Teryx Beta LT Jacket

As an outdoor enthusiast, I spend most of my time and free cash getting cool new toys like cams and harnesses. For this reason, I’m not super familiar with nice cars. I spend most of my time trashing my Toyota Tacoma, filling with with climbing gear, dogs and muddy people. So, I don’t really have a great breadth of knowledge regarding upscale vehicles. However, I recently came to a conclusion. It seems that a few brands within the outdoor industry seem to parallel nice car brands. Arc’Teryx was the first one that came to mind. Expensive, they’re much like the ferarris or a porsches of the climbing realm. They make very high quality equipment. Yet is it necessary to spend all that money to get a functioning product? No. But, ooo, man, does it feel nice to sit in luxury for a bit.

This was the case with my Arc’Teryx R280 Women’s Climbing Harness. Certainly the most expensive harness I’ve had my hands on, I was curious to see if the price difference ($135 new as opposed to a measly $45.95 for a basic Black Diamond Harness) was worth the comfort difference.

Basic Info

• All around harness
• Self locking buckles
• Fixed leg loops
• Weight: 10.1 oz
• Sizes XS thru XL

Pros of the Arc’Teryx R280

• Packable- The R280 gets practically as small as my Alpine Bod Harness, and weights near nothing. The plastic molded gear loops can be snapped on and off, so you can truly use this harness as a lightweight alpine harness. Mine squished down to the size of my two fists combined.
• Comfortable- Warp Strength Technology distributes the pressure of a fall or simply sitting in the harness throughout the entire waistbelt as opposed to simply throughout a single piece of one inch webbing with lots of padding (how harnesses are typically constructed). Despite being thinner than most harnesses, the change in the way this harness distributes weight makes it just as comfortable, if not more so.

Cons of the Arc’Teryx R280

• Pricey! Definitely the most expensive all-around harness I’ve seen.
• The drop seat attachment to the back of the harness isn’t as secure as some I’ve seen. A little time hiking with a pack on over the harness, and I’d managed to accidentally undo my leg loop keeper straps, accidentally dropping my seat.

Bottom line- Arc’Teryx makes a great, lightweight harness that has redesigned the way weight is distributed on your body. It was incredibly comfortable to climb in, and packed down very tiny- much smaller than I could get any other harness of equal comfort to compress down. Occasionally, it is nice to have a little luxury in your life!

Check it Out! Arc’Teryx R280 Women’s Climbing Harness

As school has been winding down for the semester, I’ve finally had some more free time! So far, I’ve spent most if it climbing or doing yoga in my Verve Sapho Capris.

Verve, a climbing specific clothing company developed in 1988 by climber Christian Griffith, makes some killer tanks, shorts and capris all oriented specifically for climbing. Check out the Verve Lorelli Top that Sarah’s psyched on here. Just as Sarah mentions, Verve’s products are all sewn by “Verve Grannies,” out of Boulder, CO and each piece of clothing has an initial letting you know just who made your clothes. Pretty cool, huh?

Verve Sapho Capri

• Comes in 2 materials- cotton or rayon. I own the rayon ones, and love the way they stretch and move with my body.
• No polyester in materials= no pilling as you continue to wear them. Awesome.
• Scooped waist is just the right amount of “scoop.” Comes down about 2.5 inches below my belly button, so its enough to keep the material out of the way, but still comes up high enough to keep everything covered!
• Draped legs- the Sapho capris widen a fair amount between the hips and your knees, so you’ve got lots of room to move.
• Sizing- Verve makes the Sapho capri in sizes XXS through L. At around a size 2, I am an XS, and the waist fits perfectly, and the legs come down to just below my knees.

Currently, none of our vendors carry Verve products, but you an still buy directly from the Grannies at Verve direct on their website.

Just 2 ski seasons after the K2’s purchase of Karhu Skis, they’re rumored to be dropping the Karhu Telemark line. This would include the Karhu Team 100s, Team 130s, and the Karhu Women’s Berthas (what I ski on).

Karhu, a Finnish brand started in the early 1900s, had an interesting variety of product. From running shoes to nordic skis to alpine skis, Karhu seemed to do it all. Then, in the summer of 2006, K2 bought Karhu telemark, and began marketing and producing Karhu’s brand. Now, not 2 ski seasons later, K2 is dropping Karhu, and some sweet skis are no longer going to be available.

Despite the loss of some pretty rad planks, K2s dropping of Karhu stings on another level. Right about the same time that K2 acquired Karhu, they also acquired Line skis. So, K2, the variable big bad wolf of the ski industry, comes in, swoops up some pretty sweet, smaller companies, and now, 2 ski seasons later, drops Karhu like the proverbial hot potato. Not cool in my book. Smaller companies have been uprooted, moved their central operations to Vermont, and are now owned by the man of the ski industry, K2.

AND! It’s not just skis. K2 also now owns Dana Designs (makers of what I maintain is the sweetest backpacking pack on the market), and Tubbs, a snowshoe brand. For each brand that K2 has purchased, that’s local jobs (Dana Designs was originally based out of Bozeman, MT, for example) that have now been relocated to VT, all to fall under K2s overly large umbrella. Also not cool in my book.

So, k2 acquired a company full of great products, and is dropping them after 2 short ski seasons, effectively ending North American consumer’s access to skis such as the Team 130, Storm and Bertha. Not cool, K2.

As promised when I wrote my quick review of the La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat Mountain Running Shoes, I have put several miles on them and can now provide you with a more extensive review! To get the basic specs and review of the general info about the shoe, check back in on my quick review.

First, lets talk about when this shoe excels. After running these in a variety of conditions for a variety of lengths, the Wildcat seems to have one area of expertise- short runs with relatively level ground. If you’re heading out for a 45 minute run up the foothills on your lunch break at work, up a well beaten path, these shoes are awesome. So lightweight that you can barely feel them on your feet, they’re idea for short runs where you’re looking to move fast and save weight. They’re my first choice shoe for my lunch break runs, or late evening jogs up on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.

Now, let’s talk about when this shoe would not be my first shoe of choice. While the rubber and traction provided by the sole are grippy, the shoe itself does not offer enough support for more varied terrain. If you’re stepping on or over rocks larger than a grapefruit, the Wildcat’s lightweight mesh doesn’t seem to provide quite what your feet will need to have a great run. The same holds true for long runs (in my case, anything over an hour and a half). I reach for a more supportive shoe when I’m out for my longer days. Thought I’m sacrificing the lightweight advantage that the Wildcat’s provide, my choice is more support.

After running in the shoes for a while, the soles are still holding up great. Mud, dirt, trail and a bit of pavement, these shoes have seen a lot in the past few months. Since I’ve had them, I’ve logged about 100 hours in them, and they’re still holding up great. Overall, I have only 1 gripe with the shoe: No pull tab on the back for easy on and off. I’m constantly crushing my fingers or the back of the shoe in an attempt to get them on. The integrated tongue makes it a bit more snug of a fit, and with that added snugness, getting them on without a pull tab is a bit of a chore.

Bottom line: La Sportiva has made a great lightweight trail running (oh, excuse me, mountain running) shoe that excels for shorter runs on well established trails. They stay in my truck as my lunch break running partner!

Buy Now! La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat Mountain Running Shoe

Though not exactly the first thing that pops to mind when I think of gear, I’ve come to realize that my cell phone is pretty high up on my list of things I value function in when playing outside. Recently, I got a new G’zOne Boulder cell phone, and I’ve been nothing but impressed, so I felt I’d pass along the info.

Let’s preface this article with some background information. I am ridiculously hard on equipment. My laptop has a plastic cover AND a case it travels in. I went through 4 cell phones within the course of 12 months. The inside of my truck needs a permanent scotch-guard bath. Not a day goes by when I don’t leave the house with a dog leash, coffee, school books and a bagel teetering in one hand, and my cell phone, keys and jacket in the other, and my backpack full of everything else hanging on my side. I drop things. Frequently.

That having been said, G’zOne markets their phone as being “tough” and ready to “withstand the elements.” I figured that if anyone could break that sucker, it’d be me. With claims such as the phone being dust proof, shock proof and water resistant, I was skeptical, but interested to try it out, and see if the phone was “Claire-proof.”

Key Features of the G’zOne Boulder

• Phone is coated in a silicon rubber, which is basically a built in case, adding durability
• Water resistant- The G’zOne is marketed to be water resistant for up to 30 minutes submerged up to 1 meter. Don’t believe me? Here’s a true story for ya… A friend who also has the G’zOne called me about 6 months ago, and I heard an odd background noise. I asked her what she was up to, and she informed me that she was multitasking- showering and making phone calls. Yes, she called me from the shower. Creepy, yes. Sweet feature of the phone, definitely! Her phone is still working like a champ, 6 months and many wet phone calls later. Also humidity resistant.
• Shock resistant- It’s true. Having had the phone only 2 weeks, its taken a dive down my concrete front steps, and off the front seat of my truck more than once. I can happily report that after these occurrences, the phone looks as good as new, and is in fine working order.

The G’zOne Boulder also comes with 2 batteries when you initially purchase it! Great news for those longer trips when you might need a phone but don’t have access to electricity. Charge both the batteries before you go and you’re set for days.

Overall, I’d say the Boulder makes a perfect phone for tossing in the top of your pack at the crag, toting along as an emergency phone on a backpacking trip, or, heaven forbid, for those tacky summit phone calls back to Mom. It will survive whatever you throw at it. Or whatever you throw it at.

Check it out! G’zOne Boulder Cell Phone

Rarely do I buy things just because I like the color. However, the Black Diamond Aura Sport Climbing Harness was an exception. It’s bright yellow- my favorite color! After getting over the sweet bright color, I was stoked on the harness and all of it’s features.

Both the new Aura and Ozone (the men’s version of the harness) are made with Black Diamond’s Kinetic Core Construction, to save on weight but still offer you enough comfort when you whip on it. Unlike most harnesses, which are constructed by placing padding around a 1 inch strip of webbing that goes the length of the waist loop, KCC harnesses are one continuous piece of material throughout the entire waist loop. This distributes the force of a fall (or just weighting the harness) throughout the entire waist belt as opposed to just through that 1 inch piece of webbing. The idea is that you’ll get the same amount of comfort with less weight.

Key Features of the Black Diamond Aura Harness

• KCC- Kinetic Core Construction. Less weight, same amount of comfort.
• Minimalist Racking loops- 1 on each side allows you enough space for up to 10 Livewire QuickDraws (11 if you really cram them) per side. Not enough space for your trad rack, that’s for sure, but ample space for draws for a sport route and anchor draws.
• Speed Adjust Buckle- Just give it a cinch and you’re set to go. Already double backed.
• Weight- 11 Oz! For a size medium, less than 12 oz. Insane.
• Fixed leg loops
• Sizes- XS through L, fitting waist sizes  Be careful though, the leg loops seem to have shrunk compared to other BD harnesses. Definitely one to try on since they are fixed.

Check it Out! Black Diamond Aura Harness

Despite my attempts at changing the weather with my summer-oriented dressing, it doesn’t seem to be working. To brave the snowing weather, I’ve been running around in my Backcountry.com Shift Hooded Softshell Jacket.

I’ve had a few different softshells before, but never one with a hood. I’m never going back! In terms of weight, I’d say this softshell falls in the midrange. Certainly heavier than the Mountain Hardwear Transition Jacket, but not as heavy as the classic Mountain Hardwear Alchemy Jacket.

Backcountry.com Shift Hooded Softshell Jacket

• Wind-Resistant Polar-Tech PowerShield Lining: Makes the Shift wind resistant yet breathable. Certainly not the most wind resistant softshell I’ve owned, but definitely the most breathable. So, if you’re looking for a jacket with less wind resistance but more breathability, the Shift is right up your alley.
• Pockets galore: Inner iPod pocket (if you’re like me and wondering what exactly makes it an iPod pocket, it’s that small hole that your headphones can come out of without keeping the pocket unzipped), outer upper sleeve pocket that’s just large enough for an ID, credit card and GU shot, plus fleece lined hand warmer pockets.
• Sizing: This is the only area I’d say the Shift goes a bit awry. Normally an XS to a S in jackets, I am a Medium in the Shift. Also, I have a shorter torso, and it fits me perfectly. If you’ve got a longer torso, I’d be sure to try it on!
• 4 Way Stretch Material: Makes it a great jacket to run/ski tour/climb in. It moves with you!

REI’s Ti Ware sets are made of Titanium, which is lighter than stainless steel, yet stronger than aluminum. Titanium is also supposed to conduct heat a bit better than aluminum, leaving less hot spots on your pot.

REI Ti Ware Titanium Cookset

• Cookset comes with a 1.9 liter pot and a 1.3 liter pot. Each pot comes with a lid that can double as a frying pan. 
• Pans are coated in an extra-thick silicon ceramic coating, which means added scratch resistance and better heat dispersion.
• Handles: Each pot and lid comes with a collapsable handle, allowing the pots to nest. I’m a bit skeptical as to how sturdy the handle is when you’re carrying 1.8 liters of water in that 1.9 liter pot! The handles seem a bit wobbly, and are coated with a plastic tube that seems as if it would melt after the second or third use.
• Comes with a stuff sack. Might not seem like a big deal, but when you’re trying to pack effectively and efficiently, having the right sized stuff sack can really come in handy!
• Lightweight: The whole set (2 pots, 2 pans and stuff sack) weights 18 ounces. To give you a point of comparison, the MSR Duralite Mini Cookset, which is 2 pots and 1 lid (no pans/no dual lids) weighs 17 oz. For 1 oz more, you gain a lid, and 2 frying pans. 2 lids allows you to quickly boil 2 pots at the same time, and pans mean eggs for breakfast!

Almost every picture I have of me has 2 standard features: I’m wearing sunglasses and a helmet. Though the sunglasses have changed a bit over the years, my helmet has stayed the same. Since I began climbing, my helmet of choice has been the Petzl Elios Helmet.

From mountaineering to rock climbing, this helmet is the one! Light enough to forget you’re wearing it, yet burly enough to take a few serious impacts, the Petzl Elios Helmet does it all.

Petzl Elios Helmet

• ABS shell with expanded polystyrene liner: Unless you speak engineer, you have no idea what that means… Means you’re getting a lightweight plastic shell with shock absorbing foam on the inside.
• Sizing: Elios comes in 1 basic sizes. Size one = 48-56cm. Size 2 = 53-61cm. Both sizes come with the molded adjustment wheel in the back. Imagine your adjustment on your bike helmet, convert it to a one-handed adjustment, and that is what Petzl has on it’s Elios helmet. Super easy to make your helmet custom fit, no matter if its just your head under there or a hat as well.
• Chin buckle sits off to one side, so it’s not constantly poking at your throat. Cool!
• Compatible with VIZION face shield- so if you want added protection for ice climbing, it’s easy to convert.
• Headlamp attachments: 4 “optimally placed” clips keep your headlamp nice and snug.

Though it may not be the lightest helmet on the market, the Elios is my tried and true choice for any alpine pursuits where I want to protect my grey matter. Only a few ounces heavier, a bit more cost effective, and just as protective, the Elios will always be my brain bucket.

Buy Now! Petzl Elios Helmet

After years of designing skis, Black Diamond ventured into the boot market this year, releasing a whopping 9 new boots! With 6 tele boots and 3 AT boots, Black Diamond has done a great job addressing their target market- backcountry skiers. Since they’ve been making probes, avalungs, skis and all sorts of backcountry gear for a while now, the would seem to be the experts on anything backcountry.

Black Diamond Shiva Alpine Touring Boot- Design

• Alpine overlap construction- allows for a bit more rigidity in the boot
• Liner- Liners are thermo-moldable with a BOA lacing system. For those skeptics out there, the BOA has been bomber in testing and held up just fine! Keeps your liners nice and tight.
• Interchangeable sole blocks- The Shivas come standard with a dynafit compatible rockered lug sole. However, if you want to use this boot in your alpine bindings, you can! With purchasing the Alpine Sole Blocks, you can change out the sole of your boot to be compatible with whatever binding you chose.
• Tour mode- there’s no tongue with these guys, so the whole upper cuff of the boot pivots forward and you’re not fighting that tongue as you move forward. Though not the lightest boot on the market for touring, the extreme pivot on these boots does make touring easy.
• Ski Mode- these boots have been rated at a 100 flex index, and based on the other AT boots I’ve tried, I’d say that’s accurate within the realm of Alpine Touring boots.

Black Diamond Shiva Alpine Touring Boot- Fit

Black Diamond boots are lasted for those with a wide, yet low volume foot. Toe box is the widest currently available in AT boots, yet the heel is narrow and supportive. These boots are definitely low volume! If you’ve got a lower arch, a narrow heel and wide toes, these boots are PERFECT for you. The Alpine Overlap design allows for some pretty tight torquing of the buckles on the forefoot as well, so you can really take up volume if you need to.

Comes in sizes 23 through 26.5. The 23 measures in at 277mm (6mm bigger than Scarpa’s equivalent size 23), so they run a slight bit bigger than other AT boots, but not much.

Overall, I was impressed. A bit stiffer and a bit heavier than my other boots, they made for a better crossover boot into the resort!

Check It Out! Black Diamond Shiva Alpine Touring boot

The women’s specific version of the Momentum harness, the Primrose is a great all around harness. Ice climbing, rock climbing (even canyoneering for a day!), this harness has done it all for me.

The Primrose comes with a variety of buckle and leg loop choices. Let’s break them down.

• Primrose: The straight Primrose name indicates a traditional buckle system for the waist and fixed leg loops.
• Primrose AL: Traditional buckle system for both leg loops and waist. This makes the leg loops completely adjustable, which is idea for ice climbing. Space for added layers, the ability to take your harness off without doing the “hop on one leg” dance in crampons…
• Primrose SA: SA Stands for Speed Adjust- both the leg loops and waist are adjustable, and the buckles are pre-threaded, so all you need to do is give it a pull and it’s safe.

Key Features of the Black Diamond Primrose Harness

• Four molded gear loops- allow you to rack up for a long trad route or grab a few draws and head up that sport climb.
• Clipped leg loops- drop your leg loops quick if you need to make a bathroom run but don’t want to dismantle you’re whole upper half.
• Padded bullhorn waist with increased rise means that the harness really will fit better than a men’s harness. That increased rise means that the waist of the harness will truly sit above your hips, where it needs to be for safe usage. The bullhorn shaped waist also means accommodation for hips, something that men’s harnesses don’t tend to have.
• Comes in sizes extra small – large: Accommodates waist sizes from 24 inches through 36 inches.

Bottom Line= A great all-around harness that fits well! If you’re looking for a sport-specific, even lighter weight harness, try the Black Diamond Diva. If you’re looking for an ice-specific harness, look into the Black Diamond Blizzard.

Buy Now! Black Diamond Primrose Harness

Though not exactly the first thing that pops to mind when I think of gear, I’ve come to realize that my cell phone is pretty high up on my list of things I value function and durability in. Recently, I got a new G’zOne Boulder cell phone, and I’ve been nothing but impressed, so I felt I’d pass along the info.

Let’s preface this article with some background information. I am ridiculously hard on equipment. My laptop has a plastic cover AND a case it travels in. I went through 4 cell phones within the course of 12 months. The inside of my truck needs a permanent scotch-guard bath. Not a day goes by when I don’t leave the house with a dog leash, coffee, school books and a bagel teetering in one hand, and my cell phone, keys and jacket in the other, and my backpack full of everything else hanging on my side. I drop things. Frequently.

That having been said, G’zOne markets their phone as being “tough” and ready to “withstand the elements.” I figured that if anyone could break that sucker, it’d be me. With claims such as the phone being dust proof, shock proof and water resistant, I was skeptical, but interested to try it out, and see if the phone was “Claire-proof.”

Key Features of the G’zOne Boulder

• Phone is coated in a silicon rubber, which is basically a built in case, adding durability
• Water resistant- The G’zOne is marketed to be water resistant for up to 30 minutes submerged up to 1 meter. Don’t believe me? Here’s a true story for ya… A friend who also has the G’zOne called me about 6 months ago, and I heard an odd background noise. I asked her what she was up to, and she informed me that she was multitasking- showering and making phone calls. Yes, she called me from the shower. Creepy, yes. Sweet feature of the phone, definitely! Her phone is still working like a champ, 6 months and many wet phone calls later. Also humidity resistant.
• Shock resistant- It’s true. Having had the phone only 2 weeks, its taken a dive down my concrete front steps, and off the front seat of my truck more than once. I can happily report that after these occurrences, the phone looks as good as new, and is in fine working order.

The G’zOne Boulder also comes with 2 batteries when you initially purchase it! Great news for those longer trips when you might need a phone but don’t have access to electricity. Charge both the batteries before you go and you’re set for days.

Overall, I’d say the Boulder makes a perfect phone for tossing in the top of your pack at the crag, toting along as an emergency phone on a backpacking trip, or, heaven forbid, for those tacky summit phone calls back to Mom. It will survive whatever you throw at it. Or whatever you throw it at.

Check it out! G’zOne Boulder Cell Phone

PrAna boasts that they make sustainable clothing for yoga and climbing, and this company truly lives up to the name sustainable. After checking out their website (www.PrAna.com), I learned about a number of organizations they are allied with (from HERA to the Conservation Alliance), and the National Power Initiative, of which PrAna is a proud member. By supporting renewable resources at their corporate headquarters and within their own homes, PrAna employees have done the equivalent of keeping 2,300 cars off the road. Be sure to check out their website for more cool facts… But now, back to my shorts!

PrAna Bliss Shorts

• Poly/Spandex Blend: stretches with you when running, hiking or just walking around, yet maintains its shape. NOT like that pair of stretchy jeans out own that you can wear once before they’re so stretched out they need to be washed again.
• Side stash pocket: Just big enough to fit a drivers license, credit card and a GU shot. Beware though, this pocket doesn’t close.
• QuickDry Material: Jump off the boat and into the river, hop back out and wait 5 minutes, and these shorts will be dry again.
• 4.5 Inch inseam makes these shorts stylish, yet long enough to still hike in them!
• Comes in sizes XS-XL. As a size 2, I fit comfortably into an XS, so they seem pretty true to size.

Check Them Out! PrAna Bliss Shorts

Lets go back to my shoe obsession for a moment. For my dedicated readers (of which there are… Three… Maybe…), you know I’ve got a thing for trail runners, ice climbing boots, hikers, rock climbing shoes, pretty much any type of shoe. An obsession I haven’t talked about yet though, are my Chaco Hipthong Sandals.

An awesome hybrid between a basic flip flop and your standard Chaco (z1s or z2s), the Chaco Hipthong Sandals are great to slip into after you’ve had your feet in rock shoes all day, or for just kickin’ around town in.

Chaco Hipthong Sandals

• Strap at forefront of shoe is fixed, like a normal flip-flop sandal
• Straps at instep of foot are adjustable, allowing you to get a “custom fit” out of a flip-flop!
• Polyurethane footbed offers decent arch support and is still fairly lightweight and flexible
• As always, sweet colors!
• Chaco seems to be pretty standard across the board with sizing. I’m a 6 in the pair of Z1s that I have, a 6 in the Z2s and a 6 in the Hipthongs.

Check ‘Em Out! Chaco Hipthong Sandals

Continuing with my adventure in my Five Ten Canyoneer 2 Shoes, I also needed something to keep my sandwich, camera and topo dry for the day for my first canyoneering experience! Since my stop in Zion was not planned, I hadn’t come prepared with my pelican case for keeping things waterproof. All I had that was accessible and waterproof was my Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack.

Normally a home for my sleeping bag, my Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack had already served me very well as a compression sack for my down bag. Thankfully, I had yet to have an experience where I had really been able to test the waterproof-ness of my stuff sack. A day in the canyons of Zion in March really put the eVent fabric to the test.

Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack

• eVent: What a cool idea for a stuff sack. Allows air out, but doesn’t allow water in. No valve necessary for air escape, and totally waterproof.
• Reinforced stitching at crucial points: After hauling this compression sack up Shasta, Rainier, Baker, throughout most of Switzerland and down into the canyons in Zion National Park, none of the seams are even showing wear.
• Pull handle makes for easy grabbing, even if it’s at the bottom of a pack.
• Comes in multiple sizes, from volumes of 6 liters up to 30 liters.

Puttin’ it to the test!

Buy Now! Sea to Summit eVent Compression Sack

After climbing a few pitches in these shoes, they began to settle in, and I was super excited to finally have a shoe that truly fit my foot. Though I wouldn’t quite call them comfortable, they climb like rock stars.

Five Ten Anasazi LV Rock Climbing shoes

• Synthetic upper= Minimal stretching. After about 10 pitches, mine had stretched a little bit, but just enough to accommodate my slightly larger right foot. After that, no more stretching.
• LV= Low volume (no, it’s not “Lady’s Version”). Boy, does Five Ten mean low volume. I have a mid-volume foot, and the “split overlapping” tongue barely overlaps. If you’ve got a really low volume foot, you’re psyched about these shoes!
• Heel= Awesome! Full rubber coverage offers great traction on all parts of your foot, and the 2 “pull-on” loops make for easier shoe entry. Still had to yank on them pretty hard, but totally worth it for the fit of the heel.
• Velcro closures= easy on and off.

Buy Now! 5.10 Anasazi LV Rock Climbing Shoes

As soon as my spring break started last week, I headed south! Among my many adventures, I tried canyoneering for the first time. Gear nerd that I am, I was almost as psyched about the Five Ten Canyoneer 2 Shoes that I was wearing as I was about the canyon I was in!

Never having canyoneered before, all the required gear was new to me. Dry suits, neoprene socks, specific shoes, packs with drain holes, the whole spot was full of gear I wasn’t familiar with! However, I was familiar with Five Ten, their rock climbing shoes, and their reputation for making great footwear. I was psyched to try out a different shoe that they produced.

Five Ten Canyoneer 2 Shoes

• Stealth C4/S1 hybrid rubber grips great when dry AND when wet! Downclimbing in these shoes was a piece of cake, and felt like I was wearing normal approach shoes.
• Synthetic upper does a great job keeping grime out of your feet when you’re jumping into those pools you can’t see the bottom of. 
• Comfy comfy! I was in these for about 12 hours, and was never uncomfortable! A bit different than my Five Ten Anasazi LV rock shoes!

A Word About Sizing

I am normally a Women’s Size 6.5-7. When I wore my Canyoneer 2s, the weather dictated that I also wear neoprene socks with them, so as not to lose my toes! WITH the thick neoprene socks, I was still a size 7. Five Ten recommends sizing up a full size when wearing these neoprene socks. This definitely didn’t hold true for me. I have a fairly narrow foot, and with the neoprene socks, I had to torque the buckles all they way down to keep my foot in line. If I were going to wear these shoes without a neoprene socks, or even with a thinner one, I would definitely need a full size smaller than I normally would wear.

Bottom line- What a cool thing to do! I will definitely be spending some more time in Zion’s canyons this summer, and I will be rockin’ the Five Ten Canyoneer 2 Shoes!

Check ‘Em Out! 5.10 Canyoneer Shoes

When I need a big bag to haul all my schoolwork, clinical paperwork, water bottle and my rock climbing shoes around SLC in, I grab my TimBuk2 Messenger Bag. Inspired by bike commuters, this bag is also great for anyone needing a versatile messenger bag for day to day travels as well.

TimBuk2 Messenger Bag

• Classic messenger bag comes in 2 basic fabrics: Ballistic nylon and then a polyester blend option (which you can get as 100% recycled polyester, a hemp/poly blend or as plain polyester).
• 5 sizes- XS, S, M, L and XL. To give you a good reference for sizing, I have the Large bag, and it comfortably fits a 17 inch laptop (without the laptop case option), 2 2″ 3 ring binders, a coffee mug, Sigg Water Bottle and my running shoes. If I need to, I can cram my running clothes on the top of the bag. I have a friend with the XS bag and it makes a great purse.
• Removable reflector tails really make this bag a bike commuter friendly bag. For those of you who won’t be needing reflection on your commutes, the tails clip off easily.
• One disadvantage- the shoulder strap is rather uncomfortable unless you get the optional shoulder strap pad.

Bottom line- choose your size, and it can function from a purse all the way to a portable wardrobe and office!

Added bonus that TimBuk2 points out: Material is waterproof, so you can empty out your laptop and work supplies, toss some ice in, and you’ve got yourself a sweet cooler! If only I could figure out a way to haul both my laptop and a 6 pack at the same time in the bag!

Buy Now! TimBuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

I think I am at the point in my life where I could consider myself an energy shot/bar/block connoisseur. I’ve tried tons. Mountaineering, climbing, running, cycling, all of these sports leave me starving and needing food on the go. However, new to me were the Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews, and I’m definitely glad I tried them!

Know that odd aftertaste that seems to come with Cliff Shot Bloks? Don’t get me wrong, I love it. My mind knows that odd aftertaste means calories and energy are shortly on their way. However, I realize that the aftertaste might be a bit of a turnoff for most normal people… The Honey Stinger Energy Chews, in both flavors, completely lack the aftertaste!

Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews- The good and the bad

• 2 delicious flavors: Fruit Smoothie and Cherry Blossom. No joke, these things taste just like the fruit snacks you ate as a kid.
• To create that delicious taste, the Honey Stinger Chews contain more sugar that competitors, which can be a good thing (more calories) or a bad thing (more sugar) depending on how you look at it.
• Serving size is 1 bag, which contains 10 chews, with a total of 160 calories. This chew to calorie ratio is a bit lower than other brands, meaning you’re going to have to eat more for the same amount of calories. However, with this product, eating more is not a problem! They’re yummy!
• Only one serious disadvantage- the Cliff Shot Bloks come in that great new FastPak, so you can rip the top off, and squeeze them out with gloves on. Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews come in a baggy, similar to the older Cliff Shot Bloks.

Overall, I was impressed. Definitely tastes better, and doesn’t have that aftertaste that a lot of other brands do. Check it out for yourself!

Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews

They’re Not Shoes. They’re Sandals.

This is what Jeff Kelley, owner and creator of Sanuk “Side Walk Surfer” Sandals kept insisting to me when we met at the Winter Outdoor Retailer show. Looking at what I thought was obviously a shoe, I thought the man to be a bit loony, but I figured, hey, they look comfy! I was stoked to try them, shoe, sandal, whatever they were.

The basic idea behind Sanuk Side Walk Surfers? Sanuk’s (meaning happiness and balance in Thai) goes with the “lazy feet” idea. Never heard of it? There’s 2 basic ways you can go with footwear: uber padded and teched out, providing all sorts of support for your feet, OR very minimalist, sandal-esque if you want to call it that. The theory behind the minimalist shoes is that it forces your “lazy feet” to make themselves stable within the shoe or sandal. This is the “un-technology” behind Sanuks. Minimal materials which allow your foot to create its own stability.

The Basics

• Sanuk sidewalk surfers come in both men’s and women’s styles and sizes
• Ridiculously lightweight and packable! Need a second shoe for an activity (i.e. you want to walk to the crag, but not in your rock shoes!) but don’t want to be bogged down with extra weight? Grab the Sanuks.
• Sandal OR slipper. The backs of these shoes fold down easily and you can slide your foot right in.

Bottom line- Thus far, I’m in love. A die hard sandal gal, the sanuks are a great transition to regular footwear for me. Added bonus; I’m only allowed to wear closed toed shoes at work, and my Sanuks feel like sandals, yet meet dress code requirements!

Look for an update in a few months after I’ve worn them to the crag, to the beach and around town to see if the honeymoon period lasts! My bet- I’ll be wanting more pairs soon!

Buy Now! Sanuk Side Walk Surfers

Not to beat a dead horse, but grad school really does suck away a lot of my time. Due to this, a lot of my current recreating occurs in the wee hours of the morning (i.e 4:30am dawn patrol skiing) or late hours of the night (10pm trail runs). Because of my current schedule, I was psyched to meet with GoMotion at the Outdoor Retailer show, a company specializing in lighting packs and belts for trail runners, hikers, and skiers.

GoMotion’s tag line of “Extend the Day,” caught my eye immediately. Clearly, this is what I need to do! Started by Jonathan Craig and Bob Hunnewell, a pair of Boston-based runners who were tired of post-work runs being lit by bouncing headlamps and reflective vests, GoMotion products are aimed at safely and effectively lighting your path.

GoMotion boasts products such as the SportRunner Lite Belt, a waist belt with an integrated lamp to light your way without having to follow a bouncing headlamp path as you are running. They also make small packs, both with integrated lighting systems across the sternum strap in front and a flashing safety light in back. Look for a more extensive review of the TrailRunner LiteVest in a few months after I’ve had more time to run with it. A 1 liter hydration compatible pack with space for a snack and the integrated lighting sternum strap, the TrailRunner LiteVest looks like it might be my solution for late night runs.

Check out the whole GoMotion Product Line

Alright, I’m boldly going where no Gear.com writer has gone before- Dogs. Being the only writer on staff with a furry 4 legged friend, I was the only one who at the recent Salt Lake City Outdoor Retailer Show was super excited about walking by the Lupine Dog Products Booth.

With a recently adopted 2 year old blue heeler/husky who feels it his job in life to eat absolutely EVERYTHING (see my review on the Smith Whisper Interlock Sunglasses and why I needed to purchase a new pair), Lupine’s slogan caught my attention immediately: “Guaranteed EVEN if Chewed!” I made a beeline for their booth, and spent some time discussing their collars, harnesses and leads with an employee, and left with one of each for the Taz-man.

After about a month of use, I can happily report that my lead and collar are still in one piece! Though Lupine guarantees their product for replacement even if chewed, it appears that their initial construction deters a lot of the need for that. My dog feels that the best way to hint at needing a walk is to pick up his leash, and carry it over to me. Constantly. Until he’s outside! With a month of this, games of tug of war with the leash, and some anxiety induced collar-gnawing, they are both still intact!

Bottom line- Lupine makes incredibly durable products and then is willing to warranty their product if you’re new best friend chews it up! A company willing to warranty for something that certainly isn’t a product malfunction? I’m impressed. They clearly have a team full of people who knows dogs and dog lovers alike.

Also, to our dog-loving readers out there: look for more canine-friendly reviews in the next few months! Taz and I will be testing out some new dog packs, toys and other products aimed at the outdoor enthusiast who brings their dog with them when they head out!

Check ‘Em Out! Lupine Dog Collars and Leads

For those of you who were crushed when the news broke that after issue 25, Alpinist Magazine was closing its doors, rejoice! It’s coming back!

January 16th, the owners of Telemark Skier and Backcountry Magazine (Height of Land Productions) announced they would be purchasing Alpinist and resurrecting it. Seems that dedicated readers will still be able to look forward to the same caliber of climbing articles, pictures, and large paper format. As of last update, it looked like HOL productions was hoping to keep Christian Beckwidth on as editor, though no current news has surfaced as to whether or not he has decided to continue.

All current subscriptions of Alpinist will be honored, and issue 26 is scheduled to be released March 1! Be sure to keep an eye out for it within the next few weeks.

Look for current climbing news, subscription updates and amazing pictures on the Alpinist Website.

The Banff Centre, based out of Banff, Alberta, Canada, hosts an annual film and book festival for outdoor enthusiasts, and the in the following months, a selection of films from this festival goes on to tour throughout the US and Canada.

This week, the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour made its annual stop in Salt Lake City, this year boasting 3 (up from the usual 2) nights of incredible films! I had the privilege of making it to one of the evenings, and thought I’d highlight where the tour heads in the next few weeks and some of the interesting films I saw.

The Films

The SLC showing of Banff films included some interesting environmental issues, some sick climbing, and of course, dropping some sweet pow lines! If showing in your town, be sure to check out Red Gold, a film regarding the controversial Pebble Mine in Alaska and Under the Influence, a great ski movie out by the TGR guys. Also, for you biking addicts out there, Crux shows some of the craziest things I’ve ever seen done on a bike!

Upcoming Cities

Denver, CO- Feb 26th and 27th

Colorado Springs, CO- Feb 28th

Moab, UT- March 9th

Las Vegas, NV- March 12th

Anchorage, AK- March 21st and 22nd.

Tuscon, AZ- March 27th

The Tour also appears to be making several stops in CA during mid-march! Be sure to check out what’s coming close to you on Banff’s Tour Website.

While I was at the OR show, I also had a really neat meeting with La Sportiva, learning about all the new products they will be releasing within the next 6 months or so. Out now, and of great interest to me as an avid trail runner (or, as La Sportiva would call me, a “Mountain Runner,”) is the Women’s Wildcat Mountain Running Shoe.

The Wildcats look like a great cushioned trail runner. An entire mesh upper will offer great breathability and an integrated tongue will keep the rocks and crud out of your feet as you’re cruising up rocky trails. The soles of these shoes look like they’re in it for the long haul; aggressive enough to give you the traction you need yet burly enough to last you more than 3 runs before you’ve worn them down to nothing.

I just picked these guys up last week, so I’ve yet to have the opportunity to really give them a beating, but here’s the basic specs for now. Look for an update in a few months when I’ve had the chance to put some mileage on them. Also, be sure to check out Jason’s impressions of the Men’s Wildcat.

La Sportiva Women’s Wildcat Shoes

• Sizes: 36-43 with half sizes available.
• Width: Medium
• Colors: Grey/Mint and Grey/Plum
• Price: $100

Check ‘Em Out! La Sportiva Wildcat Mountain Running Shoes

At the Winter OR show last month, I had the opportunity to check out a lot of really cool products. One of the more surprising things I encountered at the OR show was the Injinji Sock Company. Injinji socks are toe socks, aimed to be performance oriented socks for hiking, skiing and running.

I know what you’re thinking- Toe socks? Really? The last time I wore toe socks, they were knee high, rainbow patterned, and worn with flip flops and shorts, and worn on my swim teams “Silly Spirit” days in high school. Functional toe socks? I was skeptical, to say the least. However, I got a hold of a few pairs, and gave them a shot.

Injinji Socks

• Comes in 2 basic material- Coolmax, a synthetic material great for wicking sweat and warm weather activities, and NuWool, a merino wool great for winter weather activities.
• After running in them for a few long runs, I think that I can, in fact, tell a difference from a normal sock. The biggest difference for me was the absence of “swamp foot,” where the whole toe section of my normal socks becomes a small pond of sweat. I’m sure you’ve all experienced a similar condition known as swamp butt… The individual toes kept the sweat pooling from becoming an issue.
• Disadvantage to individual toes- you lose that warmth and insulation of having your toes next to each other when you’re out in the cold. Even in the wool pair, my toes felt a bit chilly when isolated like that (like the gloves vs. mittens difference for fingers). I went for a 2 hr hike in the snow with 1 regular sock and 1 tetrasok, and the normal sock was definitely a bit warmer.
• Best feature, hands down- CHACO COMPATIBLE! I have a pair of the z2 chacos and wear them year round, regardless of the weather. I now own socks that I can wear with my chacos! Yes, I’m aware that I look ridiculous but my feet are warm and I don’t feel constricted within shoes. Love it.

Bottom line- great for warmer weather and year round Chaco wearers! I will certainly be picking up a few more pairs.

Buy Now! Injinji Performance Socks

Normally, I can’t stand when people do things just because they are “trendy.” However, as of late, there is one trend people seem to be following that I am stoked about- being more environmentally friendly! Whether people are doing it because they care about the environment, or because it’s just the “cool” thing to do, I’m not sure- but who cares?! Either way, people are being more conscious about our world’s resources, and this can be seen with the rising popularity of Sigg Water Bottles. Why use a disposable bottle and fill landfills when you could rock out with a stylish Sigg Water Bottle.

It took me a while to hop on the “metal water bottle” train. I was hesitant due to the “tinny” taste and seemingly unportable designs when compared to other plastic bottles. However, with the recent BPA scare in certain plastics, my hypochondriac mother immediatly mailed me 3 metal water bottles, concerned about what chemicals I might be ingesting with my apple juice. I gave the particular brand she mailed me a shot, eventually bought myself a Sigg, and I’m sold!

Sigg Water Bottles

• Smaller mouth opening than other metal bottles. Perfect size for swigging, and you won’t spill all over yourself if you attempt to take a drink while driving.
• Sweet designs! I know, not really necessary for the functional success of a water bottle, but who doesn’t love to sport cool mountain sketches on their bottle?
• No odor retention or tinny taste! Water tastes normal, and if you put another liquid in there, next wash there is no leftover smell or taste. I mean, I like my juice and all, but not 3 weeks later as an aftertaste to my regular agua!

Check ‘Em Out! Sigg 1L Water Bottle

I like versatility. I like options. So when Black Diamond came out with their Viper Android lce Climbing Leash system for their Vipers and Cobras, I was stoked! Easier to place a screw with, easier to flip between leashed and leashless climbing, and a shorter and better swing than a regular lockdown leash, the Androids are definitely the way to go if you do a lot of leading or like to run leashless on occasion!

Viper Android Leashes- The Good

• Super easy to place a screw. Just unclip your leash and you’re free to move about as you need. Much quicker than taking your hand out of a Lockdown leash, and much faster to replace your hand and keep on movin.
• If you’re new to the leashless arena, the Androids are a great way to give it a try. Adjust your leashes, and start climbing with them unclipped, climbing leashless. Then, if you get pumped out half way up the climb, you can clip your hands in and hang on your leashes, and you don’t have to have an anxiety attack about dropping a tool because your hands are so worked!
• Black Diamond clip system is more user friendly in big gloves than Petzls. Easier to unclip and reclip.

Viper Android Leashes- The Bad and The Ugly

• Android leashes are NOT included when you purchase a new set of Vipers or Cobras, whereas Petzl tosses their version in with the tool when you buy Quarks. At $44.90 apiece, it’s not cheap to outfit your tools with these guys.
• When cinched all the way down, the leashes are just snug around my hand with a large glove on. If I were to move to a thinner glove, I wouldn’t be able to get my leash snug enough around my hand. Tiny handed climbers- be sure to bring your gloves with you and try em out to make sure they’ll work for your hand.

Check ‘Em Out! Black Diamond Viper Android Leashes

Between skiing, mountaineering, ice climbing, biking, trail running and, oh yeah, school, I seem to have a sock for every occasion. Is this overkill? Perhaps. But Darn Tough Socks, based out of Northfield, Vermont, appears to have all my needs covered.

What do I really look for in a sock? I mean, does one have “sock standards?” Its not like it’s a shoe we’re talking about here, it’s just another layer between your body and the outside elements, right? Not in my world. I need something that will keep me blister free, and most importantly, will last! Wash after wash, run after run, climb after climb, I can’t seem to kill my Darn Toughs!

Darn Tough Socks- Darn Tough is right!

• Virtually indestructible. No holes, no loss of padding in key areas, no loss of integrity as they go through the wash.
• Merino Wool = STINK FREE! Well, as stink free as you can get with a sock, anyways. After my first Icebreaker piece, I was totally sold on the Merino Wool, and of course, am now a fan of it in my socks as well. But, for those socks you don’t want to be fully insulated and toasty, they also have a line of CoolMax socks, my favorites for summer running.
• Versatile sock lines- Darn tough makes”On Mountain,” (Skiing/Riding) “In-Country,” (Hiking/Mountaineering) and “In Town,” (Lifestyle) lines, basically covering any event where you might need to wear a sock.

Buy Now! Darn Tough Hiking Crew Sock

For those skiers who don’t really fit the Dynafit profile (strictly backcountry, and looking for a superlight setup), there are 2 basic ways you can go in terms of choosing an alpine touring binding. Fritschi, who makes the Freeride Plus and the Explore, or Marker, who makes the Baron and the Duke.

Fritschi Freeride Plus and Explore Bindings

Fritschi is the way to go if you’re a 60/40 backcountry to resort skier, and not a crazy charging alpine skier. The Freeride Plus comes with a brake (though not included with the Explore) and an added stability plate. However, this “stability plate” raises the binding, elevating you more than normal. For high speed skiing, this added height ends up costing you some stability, and adds unwanted lateral flex. DINs on the Freerides go up to 12 and Explores only to 10, so if you’re a larger charger, these DINs might not cut it for you.

Biggest advantage of the Fritschi over the Markers? The touring mode. Freerides and Explorers are both significantly more user friendly for touring, and can be popped into tour mode without taking off your boot. The climbing mode on both the Freerides and the Explore’s have 3 different height settings, Marker bindings only have 2. The tallest Freeride touring “heel” is longer than the Marker’s longest climbing bar. Fritschi’s touring heels can be adjusted by maneuvering your pole the right way, Marker’s require you to bend down and engage it with your hand.

Marker Duke and Baron Bindings

Are you a monstrous resort skier who occasionally ends up in the backcountry or sidecountry? The Marker’s are the way to go for you. A much more stable binding that skis just like an alpine binding, you won’t be sacrificing any of your power transfer just for a tour mode on your binding. With DINs up to 16 on the Dukes, the burliest of skiers can work with this binding, no problem.  The Duke and the Baron are both the exact same binding as the Jester and the Griffin, mounted on a different plate which allows for touring mode.

Disadvantages of the Duke and Baron? Touring in these guys is kinda a chore. The Dukes and Barons require you to take your boot out to switch to tour mode, the climbing wires are small, and the bindings themselves are heavy. Though only 10 oz more than the comparably size Freeride, weight starts to add up.

Overall, both companies are making a killer alpine touring bindings! The big decision comes down to where you’d like the most performance- skiing or touring. Personally? I’m a small, non-aggressive alpine skier who loves to tour but still wants resort capability, so the Freerides are for me. My ski partner? Very aggressive expert alpine skier who occasionally joins me on a tour or two- he’s in the Markers!

Check ‘em out! Fritschi Freeride Plus Bindings OR Marker Duke Bindings

I’ve been on a Smith kick as of late. A year ago, I owned none of their product, and I now sport the Smith Interlock Whisper Sunglasses, the Smith Variant Brim Helmet and most recently, the Smith Heiress Goggles.

Single greatest features of the Heiress- the size! My previous goggles dwarfed my face. They hung down over most of my nose and were basically massive. Granted, there’s a good chance my older goggles were manufactured in a decade that I might not have been alive in, but age aside, they were not a good fit for my face. My other option had always been kids goggles, which usually didn’t have a wide enough strap to fit around my helmet and head!

Smith Heiress Goggles

• Part of the “Spherical” series, the Heiress is a great option for those who the I/O is too big for, but still provides lens interchangeability and Vaporator Lens technology.
• “Articulated outrigger positioning system”- basically means that the straps aren’t fixed directly to the goggle, but to a pivoting plastic joint, so you can wear the smaller lenses with a helmet and not have your frames yanked off your face.
• If you’ve got a Smith Variant Brim, you’re psyched about these goggles! The integration is seamless. No gaper gap (that unsightly space between your helmet and your goggles). The venting is incredible! The brim keeps the top of your goggles snow free, allowing for optimal airflow through your goggles. No fogging! Even when you’re sweating on those warmer days, the vents in the helmet and the vents in the goggles integrate and keep your vision at 100%.
• Stylin’ designs! Normally I’m a simple kinda gal, black or white is about the extent of my color palate. However, I now own the “South Beach” design of the Heiress, and I rock the pink and green stripes like a pro. They match my pinstriped Variant Brim!

Check ‘Em Out! Smith Heiress Goggle

My old ski helmet was a joke. It was big and bulky, didn’t fit right and had a hideous pattern on the side. Nonetheless, I loved it. However, after prodding and some mockery from my friends, I finally got a new Smith Variant Brim Helmet.

1st and most important- fit! Smith Variant Brim Helmets come with a “Helmet Fit System,” a ratcheting system similar to those found on bike helmets, so you can really customize it to fit your head. They come in 3 sizes (S, M, L) and you can adjust each as needed. No more helmet drooping down over my eyebrows! This one fits right and stays in place.

Smith Variant Brim Helmet

• Venting system! I’ve never had a helmet with vents before. If you’re sweatin’ up a storm on the hill, flip your vents open and you’ve got an instantaneous breeze on your dome. Too cold? Close em up with the simple flick of a finger.
• X-static lining fabric- Supposedly regulates odor and eliminates static… Your hair won’t stand on end when you take the helmet off.
• Sweet designs! Smith has really pioneered the market of making helmets and goggles fashionable. The Variant Brim comes in several different designs, from a matte black for those conservative types to a blue floral or white pinstripe for those of you wanting to make a statement.
• Ear pads are removable, and can be interchanged for audio compatible ones or a bluetooth compatible phone system.

Last thing- the brim! I was not psyched on this idea at first. Why do I want a brim? I almost got a regular Variant Helmet, but after some convincing, went with the brim. Definitely the right choice! When paired with Smith Goggles, the venting system that is created is the greatest! The brim redirects airflow, keeping your goggles fog free. Also, it’s great for keeping some of the sun out on those sunny days and the snow out on the days it’s nuking. My only gripe- I ride with my goggles up on my helmet unless the weather absolutely necessitates some ocular protection, and getting them to sit up there takes a bit of finesse.

Buy Now: Search for the Smith Variant Brim Helmet

I love Clif shots and Clif bars. On climbs, I live off of these things! For my car to car escapades, I often only eat shots and bars! However, recently, Clif came out with a product that is my new favorite snack- Clif Shot Bloks! They’re gummy snacks like you’d eat in the second grade, but instead with extra carbs and that energy boost you need.

Ok, so the Shot Bloks have been on the market for a while now. Why am I just now stoked on these things? Because Clif redesigned the packaging! Old shot bloks came in a little baggy which required ripping open, and then fumbling around (especially if you’re in gloves!) trying to grab a hold of these small gummy squares. The FastPak is designed like a tube, where you rip off the top, and then can squeeze from the bottom (in a very “tube of toothpaste” sort of way) and the shots come popping out, one at a time. No mess, no digging for the shot bloks, just quick carbs that taste better than pounding a regular Clif Shot. FastPak is totally manageable with one hand, so it’s great for running. No need to stop!

Clif Shot Blok FastPaks come in the same great flavors that the regular Clif Shot Bloks come in, though my two personal favorites are Black Cherry and Margarita (which tastes NOTHING like a margarita, but definitely satisfies my salt cravings). Each cube contains 33 calories, and there are 6 cubes in a pack, so if you’re a calorie counter, its easy to figure out what you’ve consumed on a run.

Bottom line- quick calories that are easy to eat. You don’t even have to stop to re-fuel!

Buy Now! Clif Shot Bloks

I recently adopted a 2 year old blue heeler/husky mix, and within his first week at the house, he devoured my treasured favorite pair of sunglasses, which of course, had been discontinued and no longer exist. So, I branched out, tried a new brand, new style, new everything, and I’m psyched! I am in love with my Smith Whisper Interlock Sunglasses!

With the new Smith Interlock System, changing lenses is no longer a hassle, so you’ve basically bought yourself 3 new pairs of glasses. Lets face it, old sunglasses came with other lenses, but who really changed them? I certainly didn’t, mainly out of fear of snapping both the lens and the frame with the awkward popping out process. Since purchasing the Whispers, I’ve used all 3 different tints of lenses!

Smith Whisper Interlock Sunglasses

• Whisper fits mid to small sized faces
• Lenses provide ample coverage without being huge! I’m not into the “bug” look with big glasses, despite how in style it may be. I like my smaller, sleeker sunglasses.
• Standard lenses are Polarized TLT lenses, with clear (perfect for protecting the peeps while ice climbing!) and “ignitor” (purplish, intended to highlight shadows- good for low light ski days!) lenses as the optional ones, but you can purchase up to 14 different types to change out.
• Comes with a case! It’s the little things in life, right? I’m stoked any time a company want to help me keep from breaking my stuff!

Check These Out! Smith Whisper Interlock Sunglasss

Last week, before the crowds descended for the Ouray Ice Festival, I had an opportunity to get away from work and spend 4 days climbing in the Ouray Ice Park. Though the weather was beautiful and temps optimal, I still relied on my Black Diamond Mercury Mitts to keep my hands warm between climbs.

After years of trying different mittens to keep my low-circulation hands warm, the warmest mitt I’ve found (with the exception of OR’s Expedition Altimitts and BDs Absolute Mitts, both intended for extreme cold weather mountaineering and certainly NOT dexterous or practical for daily climbing use) is the Black Diamond Mercury Mitt. With removable liners, the mitt is ideal for warming your hands up after a cold climb or for spending a day resort skiing in. The gloves still have enough dexterity to belay in, and have a great leather palm that offers resistance for those same belays and for great grip on ski poles.

Cool Features of the Black Diamond Mercury Mitt

• Removable Liner- allows you to efficiently dry the mitts out and ensure both the shell and insides get dry. :Liner is made of primaloft, and it provides some primo insulation! Also, “lobster claw” feature isolates your index finger from the other 3, allowing for more dexterity.
• Big gauntlet! I can put these gloves on over my softshell and MH SubZero Hooded Puffy, and they fit easily over the layers around my wrist, and still come with a drawstring to tighten.
• “Dummy Straps”- certainly not the technical term, but I can’t seem to find the official name for them. Know the straps that come on the mitts so you can attach them to your wrist, and then be able to yank them off real quick without losing them? Crucial feature for me. I can’t count the times my mitts would be down the hill if it weren’t for those guys. Surprisingly, many adult mitts don’t come with these! Apparently when you’re past the age of 6 you’re supposed to be able to keep track of your stuff without strings on it… Right…

With a temperature rating down to -20, these are great mitts for cold days at the ski resort to to warm up pumped hands after a cold climb! The only disadvantage might be that these gloves can be too warm for regular resort days or all day wear. Toasty toasty!

Check it out! Women’s Mercury Mitt

After switching back to skiing after 12 years of snowboarding, boot comfort was of high importance to me for my Alpine Touring setup. After trying on several different boots, the best choice for my foot was the Scarpa Diva AT Boot.

A great lightweight 4 buckle touring boot, the Diva also charges the downhill effectively as well. This versatility is created by the interchangeable tongue system. The Diva is normally equipped with a hinged walk tongue, which puts the boot at a flex index of 90, which is great for all day tours. When you’re out for a resort day and want that extra downhill stiffness, swap the tongue out for the additional Ski tongue, which increases the flex on the boot to a 110. This makes the Diva a great crossover boot for those wanting something that will perform equally well in the backcountry and for resort days.

The Heel Retention Strap system and 4 buckles allow you to really crank down on this boot, offering great stability and support. The walk mode on these boots is great with the walk tongue in it, though not as free-pivoting as Black Diamond’s new Shiva AT boot.

Scarpa Diva AT Boots- Fit info

• Wider last than Garmont AT line
• Higher shell volume than Garmont AT line-  great for high arches or higher volume feet
• A word for those with smaller feet- Scarpa shells are the smallest AT shells available. A 22.5 in Scarpa is comparable to a 23 in Garmont, but actually 2mm smaller.
• Heel is a bit sloppy after some packing out, but a pair of butterfly fit modification pads seems to eliminate that problem entirely. If you have wide heels, no problem!
• Thermo-Moldable liners allow for great flexibility in fit. Though you can wear them right out of the box, thermomolding fixes any hot spots you may have and adds comfort. Specifically, the Diva comes with an Intuition Precision Lady liner, which is slightly narrower than their regular liners and engineered for a womens’ foot.

Scarpa Diva AT Boots- Pros

• HRS Strap really does help keep your heel in place, and the ratcheting buckle system can be easily cranked down in gloves.
• Ski/Walk button is a great big knob that is also easy to access and use with gloves on. No more fumbling with the light switch style toggles.
• Comfy! Not quite a snowboarding boot, but as close as I think I’m gonna get!

Scarpa Diva AT Boots- My only gripe!

• How many women’s products can the outdoor industry possibly name the Diva? I believe I own a harness, headlamp, pack and now ski boots, all with the same name! But, princess names aside, I love my boots!

Buy Now! Scarpa Diva AT Boot

I don’t normally drink coffee. However, as of late, between grad school, 2 part time jobs and all my time outside, 2 cups before breakfast has become the standard. As usual, I need something indestructible that I can carry from the backcounty to class, and the REI Vacuum Infuser Mug has become my favorite coffee mug.

I frequently drop things, spill and am a general klutz. This coffee mug is perfect for me! Despite multitudes of drops down stairs and trail alike, being tossed into the back of my truck, it always stays closed and I have yet to have a coffee spill disaster! I love it.

REI Vacuum Infuser Mug

• Maintains temperature like no other thermos! I can pour a cup of coffee in at 6am, go out for a quick tour, head to class for a few hours, and then break into the coffee, and its still as warm as it was at 6am.
• Detachable infuser plate allows you to brew tea in the mug! Toss your tea leaves in the bottom, add hot water and enjoy! Doesn’t work as well for coffee, however. The mesh of the screen isn’t quite fine enough, and you end up drinking grounds…
• Indestructible. The mug has fallen out of my bag on climbs, rolled around the back of my truck and survived my first semester of graduate school with me, and I’ve never seen it leak!

Check it out! REI Vacuum Infuser Mug

I have a new obsession with thumb hooks on things! And, it appears I have a thing for jackets… So, The North Face Momentum Jacket was just my style! For trail running, light hiking and around town errands, this jacket is perfect.

The North Face Momentum Jacket is made of TKA superstretch material, so its fleecy and warm, yet still form fitting, making it ideal for climbing as well.

The North Face Momentum Jacket

• Zip in compatibility! If you have a North Face shell and want to make it a bit warmer, you can zip your Momentum right into it.
• Monkey thumb hooks keep your jacket sleeves in the same place even when you move your arms above your head (making it ideal for a layer climbing).
• Left “napoleon” pocket on upper jacket is a great place for you to stash a license, chapstick, credit card.

Bottom line- The North Face has created a great multisport jacket that can be worn alone, or zipped into a shell layer.

Buy Now! The North Face Momentum Jacket

Winter mountaineering guarantees two things for me- cold toes and frozen camel bak valves. Last season, I switched to carrying my water in a Nalgene, insulated by an Outdoor Research Water Bottle Parka. No more frozen water!

The Outdoor Research Water Bottle Parka does an awesome job insulating, and also makes it easier to access your water when hiking with a pack on. Just attach the hook and loop closure snap to any part of your pack, and you’re set. I attach mine to the bottom of my shoulder straps on my pack, making it easy to grab some water whenever I feel like it!

Outdoor Research Water Bottle Parkas

• Two different sizes- liter and half liter
• EVA molded foam around base and lid is great reinforcement! Drops, snags, rubs against rocks, the foam survives it all!
• Functions for both keeping things hot AND cold. Keeps your water from freezing, but can also double as a lightweight thermos! Hot coffee, anyone?

Buy Now! Outdoor Research Water Bottle Parka

My friend is visiting from Boston this week, and today we went skiing. As I pulled out my plastic tub full of baselayers to outfit her for the day, she commented that I looked like a North Face long underwear ad! The tub is brimming with silkweight and midweight tops and bottoms, most of which are The North Face. Here’s a quick smattering of my favorites!

General Info- The North Face Baselayers

• The North Face makes 4 different weights of baselayers- lightweight, midweight, expedtition weight and wool weight.
• Carbon from Bamboo Technology- adds increased wicking powers and better odor absorption than regular baselayers

Carbon from Bamboo technology is a method of enhancing the performance qualities of fabrics used for active outdoor endeavors. In this highly specialized process, dried bamboo is carbonized in a kiln at nearly 800 degrees Celsius, then ground into a fine powder. The Carbon from Bamboo powder is blended with a polymer to form fibers that are woven or knit into fabric

• All Baselayers come with flatlock seams for added comfort.
• Because of Carbon from Bamboo Technology, the baselayers have an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 30.

My favorites for resort days include the Women’s XTC Midweight Crew and Women’s XTC Expedition Tight. For Ice climbing, I’m usually in the Expedition Tight and Expedition 1/4 Zip, and for backcoutry touring days, where wicking is key, I’m usually rocking the XTC Lightweight Tights and Crew. Check em out!

I have been using the same pair of cheap headphones that came with my Apple Shuffle since I got it over 5 years ago… This Christmas, some kind soul noticed that perhaps I could use an upgrade, and got me a pair of Skullcandy TiTan In-The-Ear Headphones.

I’ll admit, I’ve been hesitant to make the switch to Skullcandy. I’m not the massive blinged-out bright gold and teal headphone kinda gal. I need something sleek to run with, that provides me with enough sound to tune out the world as I crank out the miles. The Skullcandy TiTan Headphones were a great choice for me. A mid-priced ear bud, they come with enough power to get the job done, and a perfect for those not wanting to drop a bill on headphones.

Skullcandy TiTan Earbuds

• COMPLY Foam Tips are like a memory foam bed for your ear canals! Stick these in and they mold perfectly to your ear, not allowing for any outside sound to enter your musical experience.
• Come with a great little carrying case for those of us who tend to be prone to tangled headphones or losing them entirely!
• Cool colors!

After running with them every day since Christmas and skiing with them twice, I’m sold! It feels like you’re in the middle of live concert each time you put ‘em in!

Buy Now! Skullcandy TiTan Earbuds

This year, I made the switch from snowboarding back to skiing after 12 years of boarding. Naturally, I couldn’t be seen wearing my ridiculous and baggy snowboarding pants while ski touring, so the switch in sports necessitated new pants. I went with a bomber pair of versatile bibs, the Arc’Teryx Theta SV Bibs, and man, did I end up with a killer pant!

The Arc’Teryx Theta SV Bibs are made of GORE-TEX Pro Shell material, so they’re fairly light and very water repellent. The bib style was new to me, after years of low-hip riding Burton snowboarding pants, but it’s quickly growing on me for skiing and alpine climbing.

Arc’Teryx Theta SV Bibs- Favorite Features

• Bibs are high waisted! Definitely took some getting used to, but in the end, it keeps all the snow out of your backside on pow days (which have been plentiful in the Wasatch as of late!). The back panel on the bibs is a stretch panel, so you still have some moveablity. Also, they come with a built in “belt” so that you don’t have extra material sagging around your waist.
• Suspenders on bibs can be unhooked at the front- so if you really don’t want those bibs to feel like bibs, you can unhook the front, and roll the top down over the “belt.” I tried this, and though it seemed to work, in the end, I just got so comfortable with the bibs and suspenders that I left it alone!
• Articulated knees and seat- great for the newbie skier (me!) who might be spending some time on their “seat”!
• Powder cuffs on pant- really adjustable! Fit around every boot I could try them on with, from alpine touring to ice climbing boots. Inner powder cuff has a great hook that attaches to shoelaces like a gaiter.

Overall, Arc’Teryx was right on with the sizing, and did a great job engineering these pants, from the chapstick pocket to the 3/4 length leg zippers for venting. I’m excited to take these pants out on an extended day mountaineering excursion, and experience what a truly waterproof shell pant feels like.

My only complaint would be that I’ve worn these pants for this season only, and after a few days of touring, I had ripped a small tear into the reinforced inner panels of the bottoms of the pant. Reinforced though they may be, they don’t appear to be “Claire-proof!” With a little bit of repair time and some seam grip, I’ll be back out in them, and happier than I’ve ever been with a shell pant. I’m taking them to Ouray next weekend for some ice, we’ll see how they hold up down there!

Buy Now! Arc’Teryx Theta SV Bibs

I tried something new! I branched out from my usual Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX XCR trail runners, and bought a pair of The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Hiking Shoes to test along side my tried and true Salomons. With grippy vibram soles and an antimicrobial footbed, I figured this trail runner/hiker would fit my needs (read- I want dry and stink-free feet!).

Hedgehog Stats- Get the Skinny

• Gusseted tongue keeps rock and snow from sneaking in as you’re runnin them into the ground!
• Hedgehog is sturdy enough to use as a regular hiking shoe as well as a trail runner. Great versatility.
• Vibram soles are great and tred is perfect for variable terrain. Soles on these hikers definitely surpass those on the Salomon in terms of grip and ability to handle terrain changes.

Hedgehog Stats- Sizing Info

• The North Face shoes seem to run a bit wide. After running in mine for a few days, I had to go back to my Salomons. The toe box would be perfect for someone with a wide foot at the front and a slightly narrower heel. My foot is narrow all over, and they just weren’t going to fly for me. Wide foot runners- enjoy! I’m jealous!

Buy Now! The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR Hiking Shoes

I spent my holidays traveling home to Colorado Springs, CO, and next week will head back for a 4 day suffer-fest in Ouray, CO for some ice climbing. For both my trip back to see family and my trip out for the ice, I will be bringing along my North Face Rolling Thunder Duffel.

The North Face has done an incredible job with their expedition duffels, mainly the Base Camp Series. The Rolling Thunder Duffel is an improvement on an already awesome design. Who doesn’t love wheels!? The duffel comes with rollerblade-style wheels which motor over just about anything.

The North Face Rolling Thunder Duffel- The Good

• Top of duffel has an organizer pocket for easy access to plane tickets, passports or whatever you need to keep handy.
• Handles are wing-designed. They can wrap up around the bag to create extra compression and closure, or lay down flat if you need to tie it to a roof!
• Retractable handle makes wheeling the Rolling Thunder through crowded airports an easy feat.
• Comes in medium (80L) and large (138L). Medium size comes with a kickstand to allow bag to stand on its own. For those of you who don’t think in liters, the Large rolling thunder easily fits 2 pairs of ski boots, full ski gear outfits for two, helmets, and regular clothes for about a week.

The North Face Rolling Thunder Duffel- The Bad

• All that reinforced PVC tarpaulin material makes for a HEAVY bag. Between the reinforced zippers, wheels, and retractable handle, you’re looking at about 10 lbs for the medium size, 15 lbs for the large!
• There is some debate as to whether or not you can take a size large TNF Rolling Thunder on the airplane… Apparently the Large is 1 inch too long, and is considered to be odd sized luggage, instigating an extra fee at the baggage check. However, in all my travels, I’ve never had an issue. Still something to keep in mind though.

BUY NOW! The North Face Rolling Thunder Duffel

I have a new “Date night in cold weather” jacket! The Penfield Millis Women’s Down Jacket. I’ll be the first to admit, I normally traipse around downtown SLC in my bright orange SubZero down jacket, certainly not the pillar of fashion. However, since acquiring my Millis jacket, I can now walk around in style, and still be incredibly warm.

Penfield, a company based out of Massachusetts, has been around since 1975, and this year released a women’s line, which will be expanding further next season. They do a great job of blending trendy with functional.

Penfield Millis Women’s Down Jacket

• Water resistant and windproof outer material does a great job blocking out gusts in the city.
• Removable hood snaps on and off easily
• Drawstring hem keeps cold air from sneaking in from the bottom.
• Coolest feature on the jacket- Pockets! The front pockets look like snap-top closure pockets, which I was originally really disappointed with. Where do I put my cold hands?! However, if you look a bit harder, you discover Penfield has created the Millis jacket with a second hidden, fleece lined pocket directly behind the stylish snap-top one. Just what my cold mitts were looking for!
• A great around the town jacket in colder temps. Definitely not for expeditions, ice climbing, ect, but perfect for warming up on those frozen days in January. Has the warmth of a technical down jacket without making you look like you’re headed to Everest.

Bottom Line- Penfield has done a great job with their first line of Women’s gear. Warm, super stylish and true to size, I’d recommend this jacket for anyone looking for something to keep them warm but still look trendy and hip.

Check it out- Penfield Millis Women’s Down Jacket

I headed back to CO for Thanksgiving to visit family, and while traveling, I love to have a warm jacket that doesn’t make me look too teched out. For this, I brought along my Mountain Hardwear Monkey Woman Fleece Jacket.

Mountain Hardwear Monkey Woman Fleece

The Good

• Comfy, true to size, and just warm enough. A 300 weight fleece, it will work great for crisp mornings and cooler evenings.
• Power stretch panels around waist and around wrists allow for a great range of motion in the arms- no feeling restricted in this jacket!
• Monkey Phur material allows for greater breathability that an average fleece.
• Nice narrow cut- no excess bulk material around the waist.

The Bad

• Eventually the fleece looses its fuzzy appeal and loft. I wear an across the shoulder messenger bag daily, and there’s a permanent crushed down pattern right across where my strap falls. I’ve washed it a few times and that doesn’t seem to help. However, never loses its warmth!

Check It Out! Mountain Hardwear Monkey Woman Fleece

So, we’re going to try something new here. I’m going to mass review The North Face’s Casual Wear Tops, since I have far too many of them to actually review each piece. Overall, TNF does a great job with their designs and their sizing seems to be right on for me.

One of my favorite North Face tops is The North Face Ex-Beau Shirt, a 3/4 length sleeve button up that I can wear to class and on dates, but then also roll the sleeves up and bust out a few routes at the climbing gym as well. Best Feature- sleeves can roll up, and then stay up with the button loop closure TNF has added to each sleeve. I happen to own this shirt in 4 different colors… I think that qualifies as an obsession.

Another great North Face top is The North Face Falls Creek Woven Long Sleeve Shirt. Similar to the Ex-Beau, it also has those cool little sleeve button-up loops. Nicer for cooler weather, the Falls Creek Woven Shirt is just as versatile as the Ex-Beau as well.

For short sleeves, my favorite is The North Face Sabrina Shirt. Wicking, UPF 30 fabric and a stretchy material make for a great all around T.

Overall, The North Face seems to size true, and the tops are all cute enough to wear out but burly enough to spend a day at the crag in. My favorite combo!

I am a wuss. It’s true. When it comes to rappelling especially, I hate it when my hands get rubbed raw from holding the rope in the break hand as I head downward. To limit the wuss-factor, I use a pair of Metolius Climbing Gloves. Being that I am a bit on the lighter side, I am usually having to pick up the rope and actually feed it into the device, so these gloves see a lot of regular wear when I’m climbing.

Get the Facts on The Metolius Climbing Glove

• 3/4 length fingers allow you to maintain dexterity while still providing a good amount of coverage
• Webbing hooks allow for clipping gloves with a carabiner to wherever you want them
• Velcro wrist closure keeps gloves snug
• Great for rappelling AND belaying- palms are reinforced
• Again, a word about sizing- I have kinda tiny hands, and the XS is almost too big on me. The sizing chart from the Metolius website indicated that I would need a size Small glove, and those were definitely too big. Be sure to try them on if you’re got hands on the extreme end of the spectrum, be it large or small. Also, keep in mind that they’re going to stretch a bit.

Check ‘Em Out! Metolius Climbing Gloves

I love these pants. I LOVE these pants. For climbing in desert sandstone to chilling in the Tetons, the Patagonia Canvas Shop pants are rugged, yet still maintain some shape to them, so I don’t look like I’m wearing man-pants.

Personally, Carharts don’t fit my body shape. Being short, smaller and having no hips, they just always seemed to be falling off me. I was bumming, and also lacking a pair of pants to do burly sandstone climbs in. Then I found a pair of Patagonia Canvas Shop Pants, and my problems were solved!

Patagonia Shop Pants

• Inseam comes in Short, Regular and Long! Finally, pants that I’m not rolling up a bunch just to avoid stepping on them.
• Constructed of tough organic cotton- environmentally friendly AND indestructible.
• Lower waistband adds comfort. No more pants riding up at your belly-button. They sit right below my waist loop with a harness on, which works out great.
• Bombproof. I can’t seem to wear them out or put a hole in them, despite multiple Moab trips and everyday wear.
• Again with Patagonia and the sizing- if you’re on the fence between sizes, go smaller.

Check ‘em out! Patagonia Shop Pants

Let’s talk about speed. Specifically, the Speed and how fast you can move when carrying it. The Black Diamond Speed pack is a stripped down, alpine-style pack burly enough for all your speed ascents without adding extra weight.

A top loading pack that comes in 30 or 40 Liters, the Speed can be used for a multitude of adventures. Personally, I own both the 30L and the 40L size (yes, I know, I am a gear freak… Some women buy heels. I buy gear), and I use them for most all of my car to car climbs, a pack for a multipitch rock routes or a larger day hike pack.

Black Diamond Speed Pack- Loaded with cool features!

• Dual ice axe loops
• Crampon patch is reinforced so you can keep the ‘pons on the outside of the pack and not worry about skewering it!
• Built with 210d Nylon… Which looks so light, it’d rip if you breathe on it wrong. However, after car to car ascents on Rainier, Hood and Shasta, and traveling around Europe for a month this past summer, I have HAMMERED this pack, and the material is still in top notch condition!
• Top of the pack is completely removable, so you can strip down more weight if you’re not using it.
• Comes in a Small/Medium frame size or a Medium/Large frame size!

BUY NOW! Black Diamond Speed Pack in 40L or 30L

Whoever is designing this year’s line of ice tools over at Black Diamond is my new favorite person! This year’s Black Diamond Cobra Ice Tools are the first set of tools that I feel really accommodate those of us with smaller hands, who still want an aggressive set of spikes for ice.

The redesigned carbon fiber Cobra is lighter, has a smaller grip and a more curved shaft shape than the older models. The grip is actually narrower, which makes getting a good grasp on the tool fairly easy.

Black Diamond Cobra Ice Tools

• Run them leashed or leashless! Attach the Android leash if you’re not feeling up to leashless climbing one minute, unclip them the next.
• Comes with a fang and strike, both of which are removable.
• Comes standard with the BD Laser pick, which has a thinner nose and body, allowing the pick to penetrate with less ice displacement.
• Hammer and adze available
• GREAT for women or dudes with smaller hands. I tend to lose circulation in my hands from gripping to hard on tools with a wider grip (i.e older BD Vipers, Grivel Alp Wings). Not the case with these!

BUY NOW! Black Diamond Cobra Ice Tools

Ski season is upon us. Which, in Salt Lake, means ice season is close! Yahoo! While getting out and touring I am also getting my ice climbing gear together, including a new pair of Black Diamond Punisher Ice Gloves.

The Black Diamond Punisher Ice Gloves are a great mid-weight glove for single pitch ice climbing days, or all day adventures if you’ve got warmer hands. These gloves manage to maintain dexterity while providing insulation and being waterproof.

Black Diamond Punisher Gloves- The Details

• Knuckles are padded with EVA foam, keeping the brusing to a minimum on those swings where your hand may hit at the same time as your pick does!
• Outer shell of gloves consists of BDry, a waterproof material, and abrasion resistant stretch Schoeller, which allows you to keep that dexterity! Grab screws off your harness, set up and anchor or open your thermos, you still have the ability to do all these things in these gloves.
• Fleece lined for added warmth.
• Leather palm is great for belaying!

A few downsides- small hands might be out of luck. I wear an extra small in these gloves, and they work fine. Any smaller though, and I’d be looking for a kids version of this glove! Also, the fleece liner and BDry shell material pretty much guarantee stinky gloves by the end of the season. Sweaty hands in a minimal breathing glove are a good recipe for a funk worse than my rock shoes. However, smelly or not, I love these gloves!

BUY NOW! Black Diamond Punisher Glove

After a long day of classes yesterday, a friend and I decided that to waste the new snow would be sinful, so we headed up Big Cottonwood Canyon for some nighttime touring. I ran straight from classes to the hill, again totally psyched on gear that can perform in both situations. This time I was wearing my Arc’Teryx Rho LTW Zip Top.

The Arc’Teryx Rho LTW Zip top is a great layering piece for adding warmth and still keeping you dry. The Merino wool (see, I told you all I was addicted!) insulates when wet, wicks great, and of course, keeps the stink to a minimum.

Arc’Teryx Rho LTW Zip Specs

• Great fit! Close to skin, but not 80’s spandex tight. Definitely true to size, and nicely cut for a woman’s figure.
• Laminated sleeve pocket is great for credit card, driver’s license or iPod
• Zippered collar allows for some extra ventilation when you want it, or keeps your neck toasty when it gets a bit colder.
• Works great as a mid layer. I wear a super lightweight short sleeve underneath this most days. Functions as either a heavier next to skin layer or a lightweight mid layer, depending on what your system is, what the outside temp is and how active you’re planning on being.

BUY NOW! Arc’Teryx Rho LTW Zip

So, I have never really been a fan of wool. The idea of the itchy, scratchy material up against my skin all day doesn’t really sound appealing. However, I decided to branch out and give it one last try with an Icebreaker Merino Wool Nature Ultra Lite Top. I am now what you would call a wool addict. I can admit it, I have a problem.

After purchasing my first Icebreaker piece, I proceeded to wear it for a week straight, testing out the “Stink Free” claim Icebreaker makes so confidently. Though it was nowhere near the current record of 200+ days of continuous wear, within my week trial, I still smelled great! I’m sure my classmates and co workers were a little concerned about my lack of changing however…

The Good

• Itch-free! Merino wool feels great against the skin
• “Nature” line consists of stylish pieces that still do a great job insulating- I can go from the slopes to class and not change my shirt!
• Merino wool is an environmentally friendly renewable resource. Icebreaker has also gone the extra step with accountability in production- each garment comes with a “Baaa Code,” which you can type on the Icebreaker website, and track exactly which production center your garment was made at and view the conditions in that production center. Pretty cool!
• 160 weight wool is a great first layer- keeps you warm enough but isn’t insulation overkill.

The Bad

• We all know everything of quality comes at a price… And my Icebreaker garments are some of the most expensive layering pieces I own. Definitely pricey for a baselayer, but it will last.

Buy Now! Icebreaker Nature Ultralite Top

It DUMPED here in the Wasatch yesterday! So, between my 8am mid term and 12:20pm class today, I headed up to Alta to get some pre-season touring in. I cruised up in a pair of shell pants and my Patagonia Capilene 3 Bottoms.

Patagonia Capilene 3 Bottoms are great for those of us who get cold legs when kickin’ it in the outdoors. Even while touring, my lower body is always cold. Top half, I’ll be in a short sleeve shirt, but my bottom half seems to always require a bit more insulation. Patagonia Capilene 3 Bottoms appear to be just the right weight for me, from touring to keeping warm on the downhill as well.

Patagonia Capilene 3 Bottoms

• Mid rise waist fits nicely compared to other bottoms. You’re not dealing with fabric all the way up your rib cage, but there’s enough there to get the job done.
• Gusseted crotch allows for a great range of motion, ideal for that back and fourth touring motion.
• Sizing runs on the larger size. At 5 foot 3 inches and 110 lbs, I needed an extra small to get the waist to fit just right. I’m usually a small in bottoms, not an extra small.
• Great wicking! Moisture is drawn away from your body very efficiently.

BUY NOW! Patagonia Capilene 3 Bottoms

Back to shoes, again. But this time it’s mountaineering boots. Specifically, my Lowa Mountain Expert GTX Mountaineering Boots. I have never owned such a versatile pair of boots! From ice climbing to mountaineering to hiking in the snow to mixed rock routes, these leather boots are always my first choice.

With the Cordura and leather uppers and Vibram soles, these boots withstand just about anything. I’ve taken them up Rainier, Baker and Shasta in the Cascades, the Great White Icicle in the Wasatch and up Mt. Olympus when there’s a decent amount of snow, also here in the Wasatch.

Lowa Mountain Expert GTX Boots

• Added primaloft insulation to the GORE TEX liners increases warmth exponentially! I’ve yet to have cold feet in these boots.
• Boots are Automatic crampon compatible.
• Full rubber randing around boots makes for great grip on rock when you need it, and also increases durability.
• Vibram sole with an edging area at toes for added climbing ability.
• One of the few mountaineering boots that seems to fit low volume, narrow feet!

BUY NOW! Lowa Mountain Expert GTX Boots

Ok, so I know it’s not exactly swimsuit season. I understand we are moments away from ski season. Recently I stayed with a friend at an apartment complex with a hot tub, and was reminded of how much I love my Patagonia Clare Bidart Racer Swimsuit. Perhaps I’m partial to the name, too…

I love the racerback design of this suit. Personally, I’m not a “lay out at the beach in the sand” kinda gal. If I’m out in a swimsuit, I’m doing something active, like body surfing or swimming. This suit offers a great compromise between fashion and function (this appears to be a theme in things I review!).

Both the top and bottom offer great coverage, so you can be active in them without worrying about exposing yourself to the world as you dive headfirst into the waves! The top follows the same trend that most of Patagonia’s bras do- great support for small to mid sizes, but definitely not recommended for fuller chested women.

Check it out! Patagonia Clare Bidart Racer Swimsuit!

For my light and fast alpine adventures that require a little more warmth than my transition tights, I love to use the Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants. The perfect weight for a lightweight softshell, they are awesome on their own in warmer temperatures, and make for great cold weather wear when paired with a baselayer.

The Alpine Guide Pants are super stretchy and also wind resistant, so they work great for those colder days at the crag at the end of the season, when you’re trying hard to stretch rock season as long as it can go (much like all of us are doing here in the Wasatch Range right now…)!

If you are wanting to invest in one softshell pant that will serve a variety of uses, I would get this one!

Women’s Alpine Guide Pant

• Belt Loops! My favorite feature on any climbing pant, and surprisingly enough, not a lot of pants have them.
• Pant legs have a zippered cuff, and also an elastic drawcord, so you can cinch them down tight when necessary or open the zipper for more space.
• DWR (Durable Water Repellent) Finish makes these pants great in snow and light rain.
• Low profile zippers on pockets keep them out of the way when not in use, still leaving you access to a total of 4 pockets, but not in an obtrusive way.

A quick word about sizing- I am about 5 feet 4 inches, weighing around 115 lbs. Normally, in Patagonia’s casual pants, I fit in a size 2. In these pants, I wear a size 4. I also own the backcountry guide pant, and am a size 6 in those! Be sure to pay close attention to measurements online or try on in person before purchasing!

BUY NOW! Patagonia Women’s Alpine Guide Pant