By far these are the best bindings I have used (compared to older Burton Missions, 07 Ride SPi). The straps solved pressure points I have fought with, and are amazingly responsive.

On a good powder day, this board is just insanely fun! Lack of a tail means that it can turn like a Porsche. I have discovered all sorts of tight tree lines that are fun on this board but likely to make you a "tree hugger" with any normal board. Large nose allows you to float and relax on those 30" days.

This is an application-specific board. On a powder day, nothing is better. On hard pack, the asymmetry (short tail) makes this board painful. It is not the board for all days, but nothing is more fun on a big powder day.

Great jacket, fits great and looks good. Arcteryx has managed to make waterproof zippers that actually zip! (As opposed to some that are too stiff to move). The various pulls have plastic ends that make them easy to feel with gloves on.

Still...there are a few weak spots. For reasons I don't understand, Arcteryx put the zipper for the chest pocket in the middle of the pocket (instead of to the side). This means that, while the pocket is normally sized, it is difficult to even get a Cliff bar in there! The hood barely fits over a Giro ski helmet. I have yet to find a real use for the arm pocket, seems it adds cost without adding value.

Despite a few complaints (and the high price), this is by far the best hardshell I have seen.

I find it works well for up to 4 screws. Yes, it is basically a plastic carabiner, but the rubber strap secures it so it stays put while you're clipping/unclipping the screw (unlike a 'biner). Plus, it is 1/2 the price of a biner!

Comfortable, fit well, function like they should...what more could I ask of a pair of boxers???

These spike guards are simple but work awesome. Buy an extra pair for your climbing partner. Consider it an investment in protecting your gear from his/her tool points! The math is simple:
Spike guards: ~$4
Hole in your pack/jacket because your buddy didn't have them: ~$50
Aggravation factor: Unmeasurable

I just spent most of two weeks in my new Marmot Pinnacle bag. The coldest I'm aware of was mid-20's (bag is rated to 15) but I stayed plenty warm (sweating a little). I was wearing a layer of capilene, but just because I don't like the feeling of nylon on skin. I love the way the draw cords are designed and REALLY love how small it packs. My TNF Prophet pack is now a multi-day pack! (Thanks to small sleeping bag). The stiffener around the zipper keeps it from snagging the nylon - a constant aggravation for me with my old TNF bag.