Nick

This jacket will keep you dry. Period. I have worn this shell for several years and it still works well. I live in the Smokies, a temperate Rain Forest, so this jacket is tested often. Last summer, I climbed Mt Rainier in this jacket. It rained the whole time we were under the clouds, but I managed to stayed dry!
I don't know what it would take to 'need' a more expensive/'better' jacket, but chances are you don't.
Bottom Line: Save yourself some money and stay dry doing it.

This stove takes it. If you are tough on gear or durability is a concern, this is a fantastic stove. I've used the stove in the rain, snow, heat and -10* weather. The stove cooks beautifully! The simmer control allows actual cooking to occur, and the steady base can support a loaded 10-inch dutch oven. This is the only stove I need.
After 3 years, my Dragonfly broke...or so I thought. The stove split into two pieces, with the flame cup separating from the base. At first, I was ticked, but to my surprise the stove still worked. After 2 years of this separation, the stove is still going. It will not die!

Bottom Line: Cooks like a champ and refuses to die.

What can I say about Mythos that hasn't already been said. If you can only have one pair of shoes, these are the ones. Any style of climbing works well in these shoes and they stay comfortable all day.

If you are looking for a do-it-all pack with no fluff, this is it. I use mine for everything: week long winter backpacking, climbing Rainier, day-cragging and anything else that may come up. If you like extra stuff on your pack (fluff), you will be disappointed. The beauty of this pack is in the simplicity. An added bonus of this simplicity is excellent durability. I have had mine for two years and it still looks and feels new. If packed well, you can comfortably carry 40 pounds. I do tend to carry less than most people, but there is more than enough space for weekend backpacking and summer mountaineering gear.

Bottom Line: After two years of hard use, nothing has broken and I still feel confident with my purchase.

First and foremost, I would like to give you guys a big thumbs up. I placed my order at 9:14PM and the package shipped later that night at 11:14PM. I got my jacket on time and in great shape. I could not be happier with the ordering experience.
Now, to the jacket. This shell is very well made. The fabric feels very sturdy, but the overall package barely weighs a pound. The seams are seamed well, the zippers work fabulously, and the fit and finish are every bit as good as an Arc'Teryx shell. As for sizing, order larger rather than smaller This jacket is cut quite slim. Because of my lanky build, the length is a little short, but most climbers should fit well.