Tommy Chandler

After a few years of not having a board I truly loved, I got the chance to ride one of these and immediately knew I had to have one. True, it's like a rocket...wants to go fast. I noticed the magne traction and like the other reviewer I felt really stable in variable and firm/icy conditions. For a lightweight, modern all mountain slayer, it's worth checking out.

I've got the long sleeve black version and I got many compliments on it when I first got it. It's a good looking shirt for wearing to work, dates, parties, on the town... whatever. But it's still technical, stretchy and comfortable for wearing climbing, fishing, hiking, camping, etc. I'm 6' and 160 lbs and Med fits great.

Really nice and well designed shirt. These are technical enough for wearing while playing outside, but also look good enough for wearing to work or out on the town. I'm 6' 160lbs and I wear Med.

This is my second one of these and the fit is better this go round. Both are large (I'm 6' and about 158lbs) but this one is a little looser while still being an active fit. It's super comfy and the colors are good.

Based on Steph's comments about this being a great thin crack shoe I decided to give it a try. I'm a 10.5 street shoe and I wear a size 9 in the Moccs for reference, and the 9 and 9.5 were way too small in these. Ended up with an 11 which are comfortable (first time I've ever sized UP in a climbing shoe!). As mentioned they turned out to be a really good shoe for desert cracks, especially thin hands and smaller. The sole is thin and you really can wiggle your toes in for better purchase. They are precise on small edges but they are soft so I didn't think they were good for camping on edges. They have stretched to be a little big, so I can wear them with socks. I'd probably be better off with a 10.5. I'm not sure what 5.10 has replaced these with,maybe the Team, but it's worth trying whatever thin soled bouldering shoe they make for this type of climbing. Also worth noting that since the sole is thin, it's not going to last as long or be as durable as a Mocc, so it's definitely more or a quiver shoe.

photo is on Lightning Bolt Cracks, which has some thin hands, and some wideness and they did great on this route.

Back in desert climbing mode so camming devices are on my brain right now. i've got lots of older BD cams and just ordered a new batch of these C4's. I've been climbing on some friends racks who have more new style and they are just so much better than the old ones. Much easier to place and clip, and they are lighter. Make sure you get some Oz biners for each of your cams.

Got one of these pups before my trip to the Bugaboos last summer and it's a nice upgrade from the previous ATC-Guide. Just a little lighter. I use the plaquette mode often when doing multipitch routes and normal belaying and rappelling is super smooth and predictable, with good moderation, especially for skinny ropes. I use the Petzl 9.4 rope for both trad and sport climbing and these work great together.

Love this biner. The perfect addition for your ATC-Guide or even your GriGri.

This stuff is the shiz. I use it before 'cross races, in the mountains, whatever, but it really works its magic when taken before a hard pitch or boulder problem. Seriously, it's the sending sauce. You'll hike the proj!

Pretty impressed with this jacket. I've been using it around town in temps as low as single digits, with just a t-shirt underneath and it's warm. Also I've got about 6 days wearing it at the ski area in very cold temps as well as warm and wet and it's a solid outerpiece for skiing. All days I've just used a mid-weight base layer and I've been totally warm. I do think the OmniHeat technology works. it's noticeably warmer than any other synthetic puffy jackets I have and similar even to a big down parka I have. For the price it's a good deal. Use it for general around town or as your go-to puffy on the ski hill. I probably wouldn't use this for technical stuff like climbing or backcountry skiing because it's a little heavy and bulky.

I'm 6 feet tall, 158 lbs and the large fits me well.

Pretty stoked on this flannel. It's a pretty typical insulated flannel...no frills but does the job good. Originally bought the large, but traded for the medium which fits me better. I'm 6 feet tall and 158 lbs. It's works equally well out on the town or working in the yard in chilly temps.

Ok first off, I got these before my trip to the Bugs in August. I wore them all day for 4 days up there, 2 days in the City of Rocks, about 5 days in Little Cottonwood and three days in Yosemite, so far. I can wear them comfortably with or without socks. I can wear them all day without them killing my feet, and have onsighted 12a cracks in them and they feel solid at everything. I still wear my Miura VS's on more techy or sportier granite stuff, but I think the TC's would be fine on most anything at this point.

Actually heard from a reliable source that TC himself climbs 5.7 to 5.14 on el cap in the same size TC Pro.

My TC Pro's are 42.5, my Miura's are 42 and the VS's are 41.5. All fit great with varying degrees of stretch/break in required. The TC's are comfy, and didn't take much break in, and aren't as stiff as I expected. Because I sized up, they also didn't stretch much. I figure if I got 42, they'd stretch a little more and be a bit better on the tiny edges. I'm glad they are comfortable, because I'm getting old and after a few pitches in tight shoes my feet go bad.

Yes the rands get a little bit worked and de-lam (see photo), and hopefully Sportiva will fix this, but a little seam grip will help prevent this. That minor flaw wouldn't keep me from buying another pair.

So, to sum it up they pretty much climb as well as a Miura and are more comfy, which makes them perfect for long routes, easy or hard.

Pretty simple really, Petzl nailed it with this one. Easy to adjust, great fit with or without a hat on, and super light. A great reason to wear your helmet more often.

In the past I've worn really old petzl helmets and more recently Black Diamond Half Dome and Tracer. The tracer is the closest competitor to the Meteor and I think the Meteor beats it on fit and how comfy it is, not to mention it's a little bit lighter.

Super comfy and great looking for the office, outdoor work, around the house, out on the town, etc etc. It's my first pair and I'm sold. I know several people who seem to have four or five pairs of these and they all swear by them.

These sounds great, and block out a lot of the ambient noise in the office or plane, etc. Only problem with that is when you are trying to use them as your phone headset, you can't hear your voice, and it's hard to tell if you are talking too loud.

These jeans are awesome and fit great. I waiting on more sizes to come in so I can order another pair. Stoked.

Hands down the best belay/rappel glove made. I now carry these on long routes where it'll be chilly and I'll be doing lots of raps to get off. Actually they never leave my climbing pack as I use them almost all the time for whatever type of climbing I do. They are warm, supple, fit great, have a loop for clipping, and are tough.

These are great tasting bars. I like the chocolate almond fudge flavor the best.

Just got one of these and seems like a nice technical shirt. I cannot agree on the odor control thing though. Out of the box and one day of climbing at Castle Rocks, Idaho and it's RIPE. I've tried many shirts over the years that claim to have something in them that controls odor and none of them have ever worked. It's probably just me.
Also noticed that the fit was kind of interesting. I'm 6'0", 160lbs and the large fits well for active stuff like climing, but it is cut unlike any other shirt I've ever had being tight under the armpits and across the back. Not uncomfortable though, just a little different. I'd recommend this shirt but don't expect it to control odor.

Finally got my pair of these and and they are breaking in nicely. I did size down a 1/2 size from my Miura's and I still think this is the way to go. (42 in Miura/41.5 in Miura VS). Had to wear them at home while watching TV (which sucked) to get them stretched out a bit, then shifted to bouldering in them for a bit and now they are stretching out and breaking in to be my tech trad face/crack shoe. They do stretch but it takes some time and pain equity. The nice thing is that when they do break in they become really comfortable, but stay very precise and technical.

Had high hopes for these shoes. After my first run on a rocky trail I realized they weren't going to work there. Then I used them around town, to work or the gym and they are good there. Then I decided to try them on climbing approaches and they failed miserably there. They have very little protection from rough surfaces or rocks or trail irregularities. Maybe I misunderstood what this shoe is for (road running?) but it just didn't work for me. I will say they are comfortable and lightweight which I do like. If you are looking for a rough trail shoe keep looking.

Perfect belt. Looks great, is simple and handles just about any situation. Wore it during a bouldering session on friday, followed by a wedding friday evening and a desert tower on saturday.

This is my second pair of these after wearing out the first. Not as burly as the super heavy duty Carhartt's but still love 'em. Just grovelled around in the dirt at Joe's Valley yesterday and they were great. Great desert climbing/bouldering pant.

I handed off the medium sized hat (see below) to my lady and tried the large. No go. Too big. Oh well I guess it's not going to happen for me. Still a great hat tho.

These are nice socks but I was hoping for a little thinner socks, like the Pearl Izumi Attack socks which weren't in stock. I returned these and will look for the PI Attack's. Good sock just a little thicker than I wanted.

I bought the L/XL and they are too big for me. Returning for the smaller size. There isn't a sizing chart currently for these on the site. I think they will be good socks though as I've used the ski version of these and they are great.

I've only tried these on, but I agree sizing down 1/2 size from your normal Miura size is the way. I've heard the same thing from other climbers and shop employees who've used them. Word on the street is that they are rad and better than Miura. I'll report back after I get my pair.

This Cytosport recovery stuff is like superpowered ice cream. I use it after a session at the climbing gym, a long ride or a run. Tastes good and if you are out playing hard day after day this stuff makes a difference.

This thing is pretty cool- light and useful. The med fits my head perfectly, which is the problem, I'd like it to have a little elastic so it was stretchy. Sometimes it's too tight, especially when my hair is a little longer. Worthy though.

The Chilkats. Great name. These boots from The North Face provide the user with un paralleled warmth in the coldest of winters, and the much needed grippiness on icy parking lots. Not really for hiking, but in a ski town in the winter, these are a key asset.

Just got this one and I'm totally digging it. Great for climbing, biking, running, etc. It's soft, wicks well and so far resists the stink pretty good. Just a good feeling shirt. Other people seem to think it's funny and cool. I'm 6'0" and 158lb and the Large fits perfect. I happen to drive a beater and for the most part am one on skis, so it's perfect for me.

I bought two pairs of these prior to a week-long hut trip with Valhalla Mountain Touring in B.C. These are a variable thickness ski sock that was thin in the toes, thick in the mid section, and have a nice heel pad to help keep it in place. Overall I am very pleased with the Bridgedale socks and have no reason to buy anything else.

The Reef Heritage jeans are pretty sweet. They fit great and are really comfy. They have a newschool, classic fit, which means they are aren't too tight and not too baggy with a little skate/surf style. I'd definitely recommend them.

These Mountain Hardwear Alpinist pants are a super versatile pair of pants for everything from alpine rock climbing, ice climbing, backcountry skiing, or winter hiking. They work great as a do-it-all pant for all of these activities. If the temps are cold, just put a pair of long johns on and you are set. These are techy, but not too techy. Highly recommended if you want one pair of pants that will do it all.

I bought The North Face Chilkats because they were inexpensive and I needed a warm, waterproof winter boot for kicking around in the winter. At first they gave me some shin bang (actually on the front of the ankle) but that seems to be going away now that they are getting broken in. They are super warm and water proof. They are actually pretty lightweight too.

I'm not really a gear geek, but sometimes I find something that just makes life in the hills a little bit better. I already owned a Transition Zip-T, which I love for cool, or windy conditions when climbing, backcountry skiing, running, or biking. This jacket takes it to a whole new level. The hood is form fitting, blocking the wind, and the thumb loops are great for keeping your hands warm by keeping the blood flow in the wrist warm. At least thats what I heard about how it works. And it does. The cool thing about this piece is that it'll keep you warm when it's cold and windy out, and when it warms up it seems to regulate the heat well. You can just keep on going and not worry about stopping to shed layers. This thing is the perfect piece of clothing for Alpine Rock Climbing and Backcountry Skiing. And other things.

Haven't used my watch much, but it's a good, simple, solid watch for basic timing. Good price too.

I'm on my second pair of these and as I near the time to buy a new pair it's looking like I'll stick with these. These are very comfy and durable and are great for running in the wasatch. I'd classify these as on the stiff side and I rarely feel rocks underneath, although this makes them a little less cushy, but they work for me so I'm staying true to the Hard Rock.

This is an amazingly versatile piece of gear. It's now my go-to piece for cold weather running, climbing and ski touring. I can wear it alone, or with a light base layer if it's colder and it works great. Especially for ski touring, it's great for the skin up and when I get to the top I put on my puffy jacket and am ready for the ski down. It's a really simple, lightweight and effective system. It has replaced my midweight layer altogether, and I even use it for cool weather mtn biking.

This is a good lighter weight pair of Carhartts that I bought for climbing among other things. They work good for whatever kind of climbing, but are great for the desert. Maybe the double knee'd version would be more durable, but they are also heavier and not as flexible as these. They also look good as just a casual around town pair of dungarees, as well as a work/painter pant of course.

These are a good, economical pair of lightweight long underwear bottoms. I was a little disappointed that they don't have any stretch to them, so this makes them a little less ideal for climbing and skiing, but they still work fine, especially as one of the less expensive pairs these guys sell. They would be perfect if Mountain Hardwear built them with a little spandex to make them more flexy.

These boxers rule. Pretty much the only boxers I wear.

I've been climbing in Misty Mountain harnesses for years (I'm from NC), and this is the first Black Diamond harness I've felt was on par with my Misty Harnesses. This is now my main all around rig for everything from Maple bolt clipping to climbing on El Cap. It's the do-it-all rig for sport and trad, and even aid fests if you aren't into the huge Cadiallac type harness. It's got up turned gear loops which I prefer for trad climbing because I think they are easier to get gear onto and off of. Seems like the true measure of a good harness is forgetting that it's there, and this lives up to that. It's also priced pretty economical and of course looks good.

The best camming devices, period. I worked at Black Diamond for years and even helped test these as they were being developed and they are worth every penny. Super burly, light, great function and should last a lifetime.

I am super impressed with how these came out. I used early versions during the development stages, and saw all the hard work that Black Diamond put into these and I think it was worth it. These make previously unprotectable (without bolts) stuff safe. The narrow head is going to be great for pin scars in Yosemite as well as for any time you need a little piece of mind when other gear just won't go in. They action is little stiff, but you get used to that, and they are going to be very durable. They are pretty lightweight too. Two thumbs up!

There are lots of these types of devices out there and Black Diamond has come out with arguably the best one. It's super smooth, versatile and just works great. I really like it.

This lightweight tent is great for times when you know the weather is going to be not so bad, and you don't want a full on heavy four season tent. It'll handle a bit of snow or rain, but I wouldn't take it out if I expected to get dumped on. I also hear it's a great tent for higher altitude mountaineering, where you need some protection from the wind and snow, but again need to go light. The big front door makes it feel roomy and is perfect for warmer weather.

These are great all around lightweight gloves. I use them for cold weather running and driving to work in the winter. I also clip them onto my harness with a lightweight fleece beanie (MHW MicroDome) for long rock routes where it's either going to get chilly or a night out is a possibility. Not that I've ever been benighted...wink wink.

These are indispensible for your Vipers. I actually climb leashless with these more often nowadays. I recommend putting a little grip tape on the shaft and also get the upper pommel thing that Black Diamond makes and you've a great do-it-all tool.

Sometimes all you really need is a the MegaLight. You can save so much weight and be so comfortable. I've used them all over, but once I sat in Camp 4 in a four day rain storm, and had to dig trenches around the tent because of all the water. It was grim, but three of us and our gear were dry and relatively comfy the whole time. We didn't even have the floor - just groveling in the dirt..oh yeah-gotta love the valley.
If you are a minimalist you probably already own one of these, if not it's worth a try.

Mine has lived in my car for going on eight years. It's a little dried out and flaky, but still works. Sometimes I'll do three sets of 50 for each hand on the way to work. If you use it too much it could be bad, just be careful and you'll be ok.

Shorty hit the nail on the head with this one...

The Stubby actually makes an excellent crag pack. I have used mine lots at indian creek where you have more cams and stuff and it's easy to just dump it all in there and go. It's not so big that you'll overstuff and be crushed by the weight either (which I've done with the touchstone). It's not the most comfortale pack in the world, but if you've got a pack full of cams no pack will be. It's also a good second haul bag for the wall climbers in the bunch. I really like this thing and use it a lot. Oh and it's super durable so you'll never wear it out unless you're doing walls all the time.

This is an excellent lightweight version of Black Diamond's venerable Bullet Pack. I use mine on long rock routes to hold a water bladder and extra food and a windbreaker. I also use it as a pack for mtn biking, replacing my Camel Back. It's the do it all small pack. The material is pretty burly for how light it is. Another great well thought out, simple design from BD.

What sets this chalk apart from the rest? The packaging or course.

These skins are my faves of the Black Diamond skin line. I used them on the Crossbows and now my Verdicts. It's just kind of a no brainer- they work really good and I don't worry about it. Well- I am worried that I got too much wax on them after their first day this year, and now they aren't sticking too good- so I need to fix that problem, but otherwise they work really well.

First of all the Neutrinos rule for racking cams and making superlight draws and runners. Definitely the best trad biner for the reasons I just mentioned. These make trimming the ounces off your rack easier (well not so easy on the wallet). It's handy to have them color coded with the cams too. If it's time to lose some weight this is a good way to do it.

The Vipers are great all around Ice Tools. One of the coolest things about this tool is that you can use it as a leashless tool when you want to and then with the Viper Android Leash just clip in and you are climbing with leashes. When in Ouray for example- you are probably just going leashless and they will definitely work well on the Ice and Mixed routes there, so you don't need a second pair of pure leashless tools. If you are doing a long route and aren't comfortable with the possibility of dropping a tool, then the option is there to just use leashes. And as mentioned above, you can go back and forth too. And of course they have a good swing weight and stick really well. Two thumbs up.

First of all this pack is super durable lightweight and comfortable. I've taken this pack on two expeditions to china, used it as an ice pack, crag pack, lightweight backpacking pack, and it just keeps on ticking. I don't have or really like the bigger frame packs, so I end up fitting everything I need into this one. For example- a couple days in the Winds this past labor day I took my sleeping bag, pad, cooking gear, food, a light rack and rope, other climbing gear, a few extra clothes and a couple 24 oz PBR's. If you have this pack you are forced to trim down what you take but it's kind of nice to simplify a little and cut away all the excess junk you think you need in the backcountry. You can always lash a lounge chair and down booties to the outside if you really need too...