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Melissa Harper

Camper/Hiker // Trail Runner // Snowboarder // Snowshoer // Nordic Skier // Kayaker // Backpacker // Camper // Hiker // Paddler

Melissa Harper

  • Backcountry.com Employee Backcountry.com Employee

32 Reviews:

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18 Yes

1 Questions:

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11 Answers:

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1 Yes

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    Ogden, UT
  • Bio:

    I love to backpack, camp, hike, travel, swim, snowshoe, cross country ski and snowboard! I love being outside at any time of the year. I was born and raised in Utah and and can't imagine living anywhere else.

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Very cozy

Kavu Sundowner Jacket - Women's

Kavu Sundowner Jacket - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 January 26, 2009

This jacket is the perfect fall jacket. The duck canvas makes this a perfect durable camping jacket, without feeling like I am wearing my Husbands clothing. It definitely runs small so I would recommend going up one size.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Kavu Sundowner Jacket - Women's

January 22, 2009

Okay so usually in KAVU I would go down a size but this jacket runs small. I had to go up to the large (I normally wear medium).

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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fits like a glove

Marmot Chamonix Insulated Pant - Women's

Marmot Chamonix Insulated Pant - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 January 12, 2009

I bought these pant as a gift for my sister who like the reviewer jam2540966 get freakishly cold! She just loves them. They fit like a glove and add just enough additional insulation. She stays warm and toasty.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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toasty goodness!

Salomon B52 TS GTX Winter Boot - Women's

Salomon B52 TS GTX Winter Boot - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 January 12, 2009

I am one of those people that once my toes/hands/person gets cold, I stay cold for long periods of time! These boots never allow my footsies to get cold, thus making the rest of my body very jealous.

These boots are lightweight, warm, and very comfortable. Great for everything from snowshoeing to shoveling the walk!

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Like cocoa...but on the outside...part duce

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Down Parka - Women's

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Down Parka - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 January 12, 2009

I originally bought this jacket for my sister for her Birthday. My Mom was so impressed with the jacket that I had to get one for her Birthday! She has many cold issues, so this jacket is perfect for her. I got her the Blue River color to match her blue eyes.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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So comfortable.

Mountain Hardwear High Step Pant - Women's

Mountain Hardwear High Step Pant - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 January 4, 2009

These pants are so stinking comfortable. I use them for pretty much everything. Running, hiking, climbing, bumming around the house...you get the picture.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Happiness

Mountain Hardwear High Step Capri Pant - Women's

Mountain Hardwear High Step Capri Pant - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 January 4, 2009

These pants are so stinking comfortable. I use them for pretty much everything. Running, hiking, climbing, bumming around the house...you get the picture. The shorter length is perfect for summer activities. I practically live in these from April to October.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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So Useful

Granite Gear Toughsacks

Granite Gear Toughsacks

Rating for this product: 4 January 4, 2009

These stuff sacks are fabulous because they come in so many sizes. Outside of the obvious storage uses you might think of, these are also great as a bear bag, toiletry kit, 72 hour bag, etc... Super tough so you know they'll last for a long time.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Great Pants

Columbia Ridge Run Pant

Columbia Ridge Run Pant

Rating for this product: 5 January 4, 2009

I was actually pretty surprised with these pants. They are great quality. I needed a pair of pants for my husband and didn't want to spend a ton. These have all the bells and whistles of pants twice their price. Very comfortable and very functional.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Simple and Clean

Columbia Sapphire Sky Fleece Vest - Women's

Columbia Sapphire Sky Fleece Vest - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 January 4, 2009

This vest is very nice because it has a simple, clean line. It is very flattering, but I would agree that you should go a size down. I am usually between a Medium and a large, and the medium fit baggy.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great for the price

Columbia Cathedral Peak Vest - Men's

Columbia Cathedral Peak Vest - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 January 4, 2009

This fleece vest is excellent for the price. It is very soft and has a great fit. Perfect for Fall temperatures.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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sleeing like a baby

Big Agnes Dual Core Sleeping Pad - Mummy

Big Agnes Dual Core Sleeping Pad - Mummy

Rating for this product: 5 January 4, 2009

So so comfortable. Now I now that is not a full sentence, but that is what I sound like when I am lying on this pad, incoherent! I got this for Christmas and can't wait to try it out in the real world. I was a bit worried about rolling off the mat, but was able to fix the problem by letting out a bit of the air. If you are sick of waking up with sore hips when you are camping (especially the gals out there), get this pad!!

Helpful Votes: 3 Yes

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Great dog finder

Nite Ize SpotLit LED DO NOT USE

Nite Ize SpotLit LED DO NOT USE

Rating for this product: 5 January 4, 2009

I got this for my mother-in-laws dog. As loveable as he is, he is not the brightest bulb in the bunch. This little light is perfect to keep track on him.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Like cocoa...but on the outside

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Down Vest - Men's

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Down Vest - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 21, 2008

My husband is very happy with this vest. He has the matching jacket so I was certain the vest would be a hit for his Birthday. He works outdoors year round and this vest add just enough warmth. It is a bulky piece, but luckily it is all focused at the core so it feels like you are wearing a snuggly sleeping bag around your mid section.

I would recommend this to anyone.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Versatility

Black Diamond 3/4 Baskets

Black Diamond 3/4 Baskets

Rating for this product: 5 November 18, 2008

I love BD! I have had my trekking pole for about 3 years now and use them everywhere. That is why I love the snow baskets. I like that I don't have to buy a separate pair of poles for snowshoeing and winter hiking. Super durable and cheap to boot!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Snuggly Goodness

Baffin Cush Slipper - Men's

Baffin Cush Slipper - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 18, 2008

I really like these slippers for a few reasons. They are really lightweight, comfortable, warm and compact. Perfect for backpackers who need a way to warm up in their tent or yurt. I got myself a pair, then ordered them for all of my friends for Christmas!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Baffin Cush Slipper - Men's

November 17, 2008

Ehh, you could but I wouldn't recommend it. These are really meant for walking around the house. I agree, I would not get these wet. They are not designed for it and you will have mighty cold tootsies!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Support our feet!

Dansko  Professional Cabrio Clog - Women's

Dansko Professional Cabrio Clog - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 17, 2008

These shoes do just as the title suggests. I can stand all day long and not get tired.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Grip

Black Diamond Trekking Pole Tip Protector

Black Diamond Trekking Pole Tip Protector

Rating for this product: 5 November 17, 2008

If you do a lot of hiking in the dessert like me, you need these tips. Hiking in Arches was so much easier with these rubber tips. Plus I didn't have to worry about the tips of my poles breaking off. These are a great bargain!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great Support

Superfeet Trim-To-Fit Blue Insole

Superfeet Trim-To-Fit Blue Insole

Rating for this product: 4 November 17, 2008

These saved my favorite hiking boots. My boots' uppers were perfectly broken in, but the insole left much to be desired. I tried other insoles, but they didn't offer the support I needed. I put the superfeet in and felt like I had a whole new boot on. I have since put them in my running shoes, snowboard boots, and even my hockey skates! I love them.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great Shower Shoes

Reef Rubber Sandal - Women's

Reef Rubber Sandal - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 October 26, 2008

I bought these to use at the gym, because I was tired of my cloth flip flops taking forever to dry. Great for a day at the beach or shower shoes when at the gym or traveling from hostel to hostel. The only down side was that they were a little snug across my foot. I don't think I would like to walk great distances in them.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great Size

Pacsafe CableSafe Cable Lock

Pacsafe CableSafe Cable Lock

Rating for this product: 5 October 26, 2008

Nice small lock for the unexpected situations. I know what you are thinking...when would you unexpectedly need a lock! Mine has been great for Biking, travel, and a little extra security on my car rack. For the price, it's a great lock to have around.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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The perfect size

Eagle Creek Pack-It Sport

Eagle Creek Pack-It Sport

Rating for this product: 5 October 26, 2008

I bought this one to use in my gym bag. I used to have a smaller kit, but I just couldn't fit the daily essentials (such as a full bottle of shampoo...very important). Big open compartment makes things easy to find, and the detachable mirror means I don't have to be a contortionist to get ready!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Just enough

Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube Cube

Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube Cube

Rating for this product: 5 October 26, 2008

This cube is the perfect in between size when you are low on packing space. I have fit quite a bit more in this puppy than I thought possible. I usually use them in my gym bag to carry a change of clothes, and my workout clothes. I can usually fit a pair of pants and a top with no problems.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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A great buy

Black Diamond Gizmo Headlamp

Black Diamond Gizmo Headlamp

Rating for this product: 5 October 26, 2008

This little head lamp packs a lot of power for 19.90. I needed a light weight, small, cheap backup headlamp for my fishing box. This one definitely fits the bill. 3 led lights takes care of me when I need to hike, cook, play cards, read...you get the idea! I also like that this lamp takes AAA batteries instead of hard to find expensive coin batteries.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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great layering fleece

The North Face TKA 100 Glacier 1/4 Zip Fleece Top - Long-Sleeve - Women's

The North Face TKA 100 Glacier 1/4 Zip Fleece Top - Long-Sleeve - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 October 26, 2008

This fleece is the perfect weight for layering, or for wearing out on a chilly day. Super soft with a flattering fit. I would highly recommend this to anyone needing a good basic piece.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great for Backpacking

GSI Outdoors Gourmet Stacking Cutlery Set

GSI Outdoors Gourmet Stacking Cutlery Set

Rating for this product: 4 October 26, 2008

This silverware set is a great alternative for someone who doesn't want to take the titanium plunge! Compact and lightweight when every ounce counts, and they stack together so I don't have to dig for each piece.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Warm Snuggly Goodness

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Down Parka - Women's

Mountain Hardwear Sub Zero Down Parka - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 September 30, 2008

Ok, I am usually not a pansy, but I cannot really go anywhere without this jacket. Camping, Backpacking, Running Daily errands...you name it, this jacket can do it. It's 650 fill down keeps me warm and snuggly in almost any conditions. The pockets are lined with gold.....I mean fleece that makes my hands sing! And the hood is detachable making it a very versatile piece. Runs a little bit on the big side, so your natural size will be sufficient for layering.

Helpful Votes: 7 Yes

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Mmmmmmm.....Toasty

Carhartt Thermal-Lined Full-Zip Hoodie- Men's

Carhartt Thermal-Lined Full-Zip Hoodie- Men's

Rating for this product: 4 September 30, 2008

I bought this jacket for my husbands annual hoody fest (he gets a new one each fall) and I haven't seen him out of it since. Burly lining keeps out the cold.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Redfeather Snowshoes Trek Series Snowshoe Kit w/ Poles & Tote

September 29, 2008

Try the MSR Denali Evo Ascent. These are made with a pin instead of a band. This will greatly reduce the amount of snow that is kicked up. Try to stay away from Atlas Snowshoes.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Osprey Packs Waypoint 60 Backpack - Women's - 3500-3700cu in

September 29, 2008

denpends on how long you intend to travel, what the climate will be like, and what you intend to take. I lived out of a 4000 cubic in pack for a month in Alaska, but it was a snug fit. I had to carry my sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, and cold weather gear. If you are traveling in a warmer climate, you should have no problem fitting it all in.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Osprey Packs Waypoint 60 Backpack - Women's - 3500-3700cu in

September 29, 2008

Gear loops are places where you can attach things like carabiners (attach shoes, water bottles, etc...) and sleeping pads. Very handy when you run out of room on the inside of the pack.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Eagle Creek Travel Towels

September 29, 2008

I took mine on a 30 day trip to Scotland where we only had accesses to laundry facilities once, and it worked great! Washes nicely in bathroom sinks, and dries overnight.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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The North Face Prophecy Hiking Shoe - Girls'

September 28, 2008

They are designed for light hiking, so they will not perform ideally in rough terrain (your feet will probably fatigue quicker).

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Back to the Nest

Coleman Egg Carrier - 6 Count

Coleman Egg Carrier - 6 Count

Rating for this product: 5 September 26, 2008

This egg carrier is the perfect size (honestly who needs 12 eggs!). I love the stabilzers inside that keep my eggs from rattling around and making a mess of my backpack.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Makes packing a breeze

Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube

Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube

Rating for this product: 5 September 26, 2008

Being a travel-o-holic I know the importance of an organized pack. In my opinion, this is one of the best products out there. Makes it really easy when you have those random inspections at the airport. And since they come in a whole bunch of sizes, you can pack everything under the sun...and still be able to find it!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Love it

Eagle Creek Pack-It Sacs

Eagle Creek Pack-It Sacs

Rating for this product: 5 September 26, 2008

Like all of the products you can get from Eagle Creek, this one is a must have. Works especially good for things like shoes, toothbrushes, soap, and lotion. I probably could travel without them...but I don't want to!

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Durable

Klean Kanteen Water Bottle - 40oz - DO NOT USE

Klean Kanteen Water Bottle - 40oz - DO NOT USE

Rating for this product: 4 September 25, 2008

I really like this water bottle because it is durable, easy to clean, doesn't make things taste funny. Not the greatest insulator, but I can live with that. Also you can't really put hot things in it without burning your fingers (the only reason this guy didn't get a 5 star rating).
Other than that I like it!

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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My Favorite Tent

MSR Hubba Hubba  Tent 2-Person 3-Season

MSR Hubba Hubba Tent 2-Person 3-Season

Rating for this product: 5 September 16, 2008

I absolutely love this tent for summer camping.
Because of all the mesh it feels bigger than it actually is. This tent is lightweight, durable, and will hold up in a storm. Can be cold in the fall and winter, but perfect for warm weather camping.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Harmony MP3 Dry Flex Case

September 4, 2008

Does this have an external headphone jack, so you don't have to take your ipod out to listen to it?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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