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kyle_me

Trail Runner // Camper/Hiker // Climber // Biker // Snowshoer // Backpacker // Camper // Hiker // Boulderer

kyle_me: #1,423 of 166,954 More Information

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    New England
  • Bio:

    If its outside I will give it a try - even better if its active.

    Weekends tend to be the time I wear myself out rather than relax... with no regrets.

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wow-za

Hestra Heli Glove

Hestra Heli Glove

Rating for this product: 5 January 23, 2011

Nice, very nice. Everything about these gloves are top notch from construction to warmth to sizing - all amazing. The second my hands touched the fluff- bunny-esc removable liners I knew I was going to like them. Then the field tests - snow, ice, wind, zero degree temps - cant faze them, even with my historically cold hands.

The closures do a a great job of keeping everything out and the handcuffs have saved me a number of times already aside from just being down right convenient.

Get over the price and just buy the glove - you'll have them for a while.

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what the buttery soft

I/O Bio Merino Contact Crew Shirt - Men's

I/O Bio Merino Contact Crew Shirt - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 23, 2011

I love merino wool and have therefore purchase what could be considered too much by some of my financial standards from many different brands (smartwool, ice breaker, driza=bone, patagonia, stoic and/or backcountry, etc) and this shirt is definitely the softest (and maybe stretchiest). We all know the great stink free thermal regulating properties of merino are inherent in the material so from that aspect its a level playing field for the most part.

This shirt has great flatlock seams, thumbholes (unmentioned in description at time of purchase), lightweight, silky softness. I am a little concerned about how this thing will hold up because it so incredibly soft there's no way it could last too long, but I haven't seen any degradation to back up my suspicions yet, so it must just be all my head thinking its too good to be true.

5'10 165 athletic and the M fits like a baselayer should - close to the body with a tailored feel, super stretchiness takes care of the rest.

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so warm

SmartWool Mocaroon Slipper - Men's

SmartWool Mocaroon Slipper - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 23, 2011

I am not a slipper man - never have been, didn't think i would ever be - enter these bad boys. I love smartwool, so figured I would give them a go and am happy I did. There are times they keep my feet so warm I have to take them off to cool down, but usually they do a good job of regulating the temp.

They are also relatively stylish for slippers (I repeat relatively, you'll still look like a bum if you wear any slipper 24/7) and seem to have a sole and construction that is durable enough to last for multiple years of use and the occasional quick trip outside.

They seem to fit pretty true to size, but considering you aren't going to be doing anything too active in these, size up if you are on the fence or between sizes

My only complaint would be the price if I hadnt been lucky enough to get them on sale.

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what I wanted... nearly

Teva Forge Pro eVent Hiking Shoe - Men's

Teva Forge Pro eVent Hiking Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 January 23, 2011

I really want to love this shoe - it seems to breathe well, great stiff sole and upper for support that isnt so stiff it limits use, good traction, durable toe with ample room, and oh the waterproofness... in fact, the other day I stepped into a 3" deep puddle of snow/ice/water with absolutely no moisture infiltration.

Unfortunately, the combination seemingly high and aggressive ankle cut of the shoe and rugged construction doesn't seem to jive with my bone structure and wore the skin off both my ankles the first day I wore them... and subsequent days following, even with thick socks and insoles and days of rest in between to heal.

In addition to this, the sole, although comfortable, seems a little thick resulting in some heavy-footedness while walking. This could be from overcompensation to the pain caused by the ankle cuts, but I am not convinced that is definitely the cause given if you just look at the pic of the inside view of the sole - borderline orthopedic - also losing it some style points.

All and all I really like the shoe functionally (and mostly aesthetically), so I can't downgrade it too much for not working for my specific foot (even though this has never happened in any other shoe ever), just be mindful that its a possibility before.jumping in.

3.5 stars is probably closer to the truth.

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Soft durability

Backcountry.com Merino Wall T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Backcountry.com Merino Wall T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 October 24, 2010

I own a number of merino wool shirts from a variety of manufactures and love the feel of this shirt. It is so soft, but doesn't sacrifice on durability, construction, or performance. It comes highly recommended as an anywhere, anytime base layer. The fit is a much preferred slim fit, but not restricting because of the stretchable properties of the wool. 5-11, 165 athletic and the M fits amazingly well - as if it were designed for my body.The flatlock seams are great with my only minor complaint is the peculiar look of the collar - which is a hybrid of a crew and a v-neck, which seems to be the result of looking to reinforce the collar for some reason.

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Stoic Somnus 30 Sleeping Bag: 30 Degree Down

October 19, 2010

Can anyone comment on the water resistance of the shell material, Quantum Pertex? The company's website gives a very subjective answer suggesting more geared towards breathability than water resistance (well so is cotton). Owners out there - any complaints about the material? compared to dwr coatings?
Thanks

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

Sold Out

Therm-a-Rest Lite Seat Camp Chair

February 15, 2010

Can anyone comment to the water resistance (or absorption) of this seat? The last thing I want is a sitting pad that wicks moisture to me or absorbs water for me to sit on later. thanks.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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like snow chains for your feet

Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System

Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System

Rating for this product: 5 February 13, 2010

These handle any moderate winter condition with ease:

up, down, sideways
rock
wet soil
ice
snow

The only problems I had were snow over ice in which the spikes couldnt quite reach to bite in. They seem to handle most of the lighter duty things that crampons normally would, but keep in mind MICROspikes dont have toe or heal cleats that project so inclines require a slight "flatfootness" to get a good grip.

On/off in seconds + dont slide around once on your foot.

If you are looking for moderate winter hiking traction, get these, its like hiking without the elements.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

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amaziness

ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Brief - Men's

ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Brief - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 February 8, 2010

So I thought underwear couldnt get any better the first time I tried on patagonia's capilene boxer briefs. But after a few wears of the patagonia's I realized the rear stitching was in a less than comfortable middle of the butt location resulting in underwear about mid-stomach some days . Ex-officio one up's them on every aspect including a more typical stitching pattern. These boxers fit well, stretch with you, support well, wick, dry quick, don't stink, + don't ride up.

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Stoic Luft Insulated Sweater - Men's

January 28, 2010

size + compression-wise this will stuff into one of its pockets with a little bit of work (however, no more work than most). Unfortunately, once its in there it can't be zipped shut particularly easily b/c there is not an interior zip.

But if you are looking to just compress it for throwing in a pack or storage, it does the job.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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a bag that wears like a glove

Osprey Packs Stratos 40 Backpack - 2200-2600cu in

Osprey Packs Stratos 40 Backpack - 2200-2600cu in

Rating for this product: 5 January 27, 2010

I have owned two things in my life that as soon as I put them on I knew I had to buy them, this bag is one of them. It is the most comfortable bag I have ever worn. The mesh suspension is nice in the summer to get air flowing behind your back + just as good in the winter so your back doesnt get all sweaty leaving you cold.

The arc in the frame results in seemingly slightly less capacity, but once you figure out how to pack it works out. For example, I have been able to fit everything I need for an overnight camping trip in it. There are plenty of pockets + access points (vertical zip, belt stashes, camelbak sleeve, side + back elastic pockets) so all your gear can stay put - or strap on a shell or snowshoes to the back compression straps + get rolling.

The construction is solid + I have no fear that the mesh back will hold up as some have expressed. Even if it doesn't Osprey is committed to their products + will take care of you.

For a daypack, short overnighters, or minimal weekenders get this pack.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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light snow blowers with teeth

Atlas 9 Series Snowshoe

Atlas 9 Series Snowshoe

Rating for this product: 4 January 27, 2010

The best thing about these shoes is the "Wrapp" system bindings. It is great, on or off in seconds without your boots slipping around once they are in - its literally step in, pull, + go. And the "go" is so natural because of the shoe's design.

The decks + frames are both well built, solid, + light. The crampons have yet to let me down, even on the steepest inclines, traverses, depths, or snow types.

165 pounds + a loaded pack don't phase these.

The only downside to these is these bad boys is they amount they throw snow because of their binding type. When moving quickly without a pack I have had snow at head level. Nothing a good pair of pants can't handle though.

Fix the snowball fight + this is a 5-star shoe for the price for anyone that isn't looking to climb Everest.

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essential once you try it

Eagle Creek Pack-It 2-Sided Cube

Eagle Creek Pack-It 2-Sided Cube

Rating for this product: 5 November 23, 2009

A coworker recommended I try one of these when I was trying to pack light for a trip last year. Not only does it help you keep the amount of clothes down by compartmentalizing them, but it also helps things from becoming wrinkled.

I typically only pack on one side + as I wear items put them on the other side, so the funk stays segregated. With most trips I can fit everything I need in terms of socks, underwear, + undershirts easily in this (qualifier - I have been told I pack light).

quality zippers + construction will assure you have it around for a while.

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convenient

GSI Outdoors Nesting Wine Glass

GSI Outdoors Nesting Wine Glass

Rating for this product: 4 November 23, 2009

Not exactly "roughing it" when you start bringing wine, but if your on a picnic, sporting event, traveling, or stroll along the beach these "glasses" are great + add no taste. They are durable enough to stand up to the abuse in a pack, light enough you won't notice you brought them along, + compact (unscrew the stem, snaps into cup in seconds) into themselves so size is less of an issue than you may have imagined.

The only downfalls that I have found thus far are they scratch fairly easily + sometimes they dont stay together when in the "stow" position. Neither of these are huge issues considering they dont effect the functionality when actually in use.

buy a few + cheers.

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Sea To Summit Reactor Thermolite Sleeping Bag Liner

November 18, 2009

To the best of my knowledge this liner doesnt have anything to snap, tie, or connect the liner into another bag. However, I haven't found it to be a problem on any of the multiple times I have used it, even with my slick poly-lined bag. To be perfectly clear, the liner stayed on where it should + kept me warm - no bunching, no deforming.

I think any kind of connection would just be cumbersome + pointless considering there isnt anywhere for the liner to actually go once its between you and the other bag. So if that is what is the only thing holding you back from buying this, I would consider it to be a non-issue + snag this portable incubator.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Marmot Leadville Softshell Jacket - Men's

November 18, 2009

The medium will fit nicely. I am slightly smaller (5"-11" 165# trim/athletic) with monkey arms and the small fit my preferred trim (room for a baselayer) before I accidentally over-dried it. The medium should give you a little wiggle room, but still an athletic fit.

As for increasing waterproofness - nothing specific comes to mind because its kind of the nature of a softshell - possibly MHW alchemy or arcteryx solano. Perhaps worth your time to find something with a dwr finish or investigate shells.

If you go the shell route just make sure it has a high breathability rating (15000K min) to keep your skin from clamming - most GoreTex stuff is pretty good. The best bang for the buck is probably the Stoic brand lineup (formally backcountry.com brand). BC owns them + they really dish out the quality stuff.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Marmot Leadville Softshell Jacket - Men's

November 18, 2009

It depends on how "hot" your body runs typically + how much you intend on layering below it. I typically retire this piece from about 40 degrees and below unless I am moving a lot. It is wind resistant, so if you can generate enough heat from your activity you'll be fine, but if its a slow saunter, I would suggest a heavier softshell - if you like this look check out Marmot's Gravity Softshell or go the Mountain Hardware route (alchemy or android perhaps).

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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its merino, so its good

Stoic Merino Bliss 150 Shirt - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Stoic Merino Bliss 150 Shirt - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 18, 2009

If you haven't tried a merino wool baselayer yet, do yourself (+ friends) an odor saving, washing machine, softness favor + give it a go. Stoic bliss isnt a bad place to start if you want a zip top. The 1/2 zip is great to cool you down quick, or leave it zipped to keep your neck warmer + let the temperature regulating properties of merino wool go to work. Sweat, roll around in snow, stand around - Merino doesnt care, it wicks, insulates wet, + comes out smelling like a daisy.

This shirt in particular is finely designed, crafted, + assembled - soft, lightweight wool (sufficient weight if under shell in the cold if moving) flatlock seams, a zippered pocket, athletic fit + sleeves with thumbs holes. The only downside I see is the arms are a little long (like many stoic items).

I am 5'11" 165 + athletic - the medium fits pretty good.

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shiny performance

Mountain Hardwear Compressor PL Insulated Jacket - Men's

Mountain Hardwear Compressor PL Insulated Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 November 17, 2009

I want to like this jacket so much, but its so incredibly shiny, especially in "Grill." It seriously is about as shiny as a black trashbag. In fact, I saw it at the bottom of my closet + literally thought it was a trash bag for a second.

Aesthetics aside, this is a very warm, lightweight jacket that can go anywhere. It packs nicely into its own pocket + zips shut. The collar, waist, + cuffs can be tightened to your preference.

The exterior "shell" is pretty wimpy + feels as if any snag or careless rock brush will leave you sewing. This thin material results in the zippers getting caught fairly easily, which can be annoying, but not overcome.

I am 5'11" 165, athletic, + the medium fits great, with room to layer beneath or above. Note, most people feel Mtn Hardware runs small.

At the end of the day this is a great not-so-poofy layer that resists the wind + water fairly well. If you can get passed the sheen + arent too tough on the shell, its well worth it, even if its a "just in case" layer. Fix those problems + Mountain Hardware will have 6 star product

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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rockin' with a few minor shortcomings

Stoic Luft Insulated Sweater - Men's

Stoic Luft Insulated Sweater - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 November 17, 2009

I was on the fence between a Mtn Hardware compressor PL + the new Stoic Luft, so I checked them both out.

They are both about the same light weight, similar synthetic insulation materials, low-loft, highly compressible, highly wind resistant, exterior water-repelling finish, packable into own pocket (Mtn Hardware zips closed, however, but packs slightly larger) + athletic fit.

I found the Compressor "shell" to be about as durable feeling as tissue paper + in the "Grill" color is as shiny as a black Hefty trash bag (seriously). The Compressor does have velcro cuffs + a collar that can be tightened, but those are about the only advantages (possibly slightly warmer).

The Luft sweater exterior DWR finish is much more of a matte, with no more sheen than can be expected from a Nylon product. It also seems more durable - not thornproof, but reasonably durable. The zippers seem a bit filmsy, but get the job done. The interesting stitching serves the jacket well by keeping its "guts" from moving about + the shell from billowing out. One huge advantage is the Luft has internal elastic cuffs - basically powder skirts for your wrists that stay hidden making a jacket-glove- jacket scenario when suited out.

I am a 5'11" 165 athletic guy + the medium fits great and compacts to the size of a liter nalgene bottle... with no internal zipper to zip it closed.

Bottom line, the Luft is a warm, lightweight, athletic fitting powerhouse that keeps pace with the Mtn Hardware Compressor PL, if not surpasses it.

Helpful Votes: 5 Yes

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head koozie

Backcountry.com Himal Beanie

Backcountry.com Himal Beanie

Rating for this product: 4 November 10, 2009

This is one warm hat. The temps haven't gotten bone chilling yet, but it seems to be doing this job thus far. As previous people have noted, there is an inner liner head band of cloudy-softness that gives the ears an extra layer of warmth + chafe relief. I have yet to see the need for a full liner, but in sub-zero temps + gale force winds the unlined top (which nicely regulates temps) could prove to be inadequate.

I wouldn't let this be a deterrent in purchasing this hat though, it is a great item for nearly every day and use shy of stand alone expedition piece in January at 14,000'. For that, you may want to grab yourself a thin liner. However, I view this as a good thing as to not overheat me in every other situation, so I dont think i would change it even if I could.

The high quality construction + materials ensures I will have this spiffy looking hat for many years - just like all of BC wares.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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daily wear

SmartWool NTS Microweight Crew - Men's

SmartWool NTS Microweight Crew - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 5, 2009

I accidentally picked this up on SaC when some overzealous clicking landed my inventory checking to a package on my doorstep. Backcountry's loss. The way I see it, if I had a warehouse full of these I would pile them up + never leave. The material is a soft, odor fighting, durable, powerhouse that acclimates + responds to your body's heat production.

The flat-locked seams are offset from the shoulders to make way for a pack + the athletic fit makes the M fit on my 5-11" 165 frame nicely.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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bundled up, but not out

SmartWool NTS Midweight Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

SmartWool NTS Midweight Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 5, 2009

The midweight is definitely a must if you are thinking about low output endeavors in cold weather. I use the term "endeavor" loosely because this piece's performance does not limit you to trekking around in the snow, but also good for times when you are just standing around thanks to its great thermal management. Also, there's no sacrifice on street aesthetic, so you can grab a beer or coffee in it without raising an eyebrow (or nose thanks to the odor fighting).

The material is soft + stretchy while fitting close to skin, but not like spandex. I am 5-11" 165 + the medium fits great for my trim cut preference, without looking like a tool. The stitching is also great - flat-locked seams that are set off the shoulders so a pack doesnt dig in.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

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Stoic Luft Insulated Sweater - Men's

November 5, 2009

Would I be correct in assuming that Stoic brand products have the same fit as backcountry.com's stoic line considering the origin? I own a medium in a BC stoic 2.0 shell + it fits great.
Also, would anyone care to comment on the either the "trashbag" look/lack there of of this material or how the insulation stacks up against PrimaLoft (specifically Mtn Hardware's compressor PL)? thanks

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Norrøna Lyngen CLO 100 Insulated Jacket - Men's

November 5, 2009

Does anyone know the cut/sizing of the jacket. I typically run between sizes + prefer a low profile/trim fit, small in most, but brands like Mtn Hardwear or BC I size up to M. Thoughts? Also, what kind of "trashbag effect" does the material have?

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lite light

Princeton Tec Quad Headlamp

Princeton Tec Quad Headlamp

Rating for this product: 5 October 11, 2009

There are certainly lights that weigh less, more rugged, brighter, or that are more comfortable, but its highly unlikely they will be in the same package for such a low price. This light can take some abuse if it manages to somehow come off your head. All around a spectacular light at a relatively low price. No complaints to date.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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heavy material

Columbia Omni-Dry Mountain Tech T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Columbia Omni-Dry Mountain Tech T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 3 October 11, 2009

This shirt seemed to be thicker than any other 100% polyester shirt I have ever owned. This can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on how you look at it. It seemed to wick okay, but since it was so thick, dried slower, was warmer, but was also more durable The stink, still poly-present, but less than some. The fit was less athletically cut than some, but true to size. Good for hiking in non-extreme temps, bad for running

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Marmot Leadville Softshell Jacket - Men's

October 11, 2009

The Leadville Is definitely lighter than the Alchemy + I would presume also much lighter than the BC Shift based on its weight/reviews. I personally love my Leadville - so much so that when I lost it, i bought another. That being said it not a stand alone piece in cold weather without activity (more of a transition seasons 40-65). Its windproof against most any reasonable speed, but its not insulated much, which makes it great for packing size/weight wise. The material is reasonably durable (no wear after a year of constant use + frequent washing), but not at burly as most arcteryx, BC, + slightly less than Alchemy. Water resistant at best, but not a sponge either. Highly breathable, but still has cloth pockets which makes it seem slightly warmer w/o sacrificing much breathability + never clammy after a workout. The fit is athletic, slightly more trim than the Alchemy. For running, my suggestion would be the Leadville.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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lightweight, wicking power

Salomon Trail Runner Tank - Sleeveless- Men's

Salomon Trail Runner Tank - Sleeveless- Men's

Rating for this product: 4 August 14, 2009

Either the description is wrong or I may have gotten a slightly different version, because I have an integrated key flap. None the less, the flatlock seems + super light perforated poly make this a great shirt. Like most poly, I wouldn't recommend hanging out with people following a workout, but this gets the job done during.

The fit is nice - 5-11, 165 athletic + I got a medium. its tailored nicely so wind + vegetation don't slow you down, but by no means tight fitting.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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thought I needed a new bag, but....

Sea To Summit Reactor Thermolite Sleeping Bag Liner

Sea To Summit Reactor Thermolite Sleeping Bag Liner

Rating for this product: 5 August 13, 2009

I have a 30 degree bag + as with most bags, this number is more or less irrelevant - temps in the 40s left me frozen, warmer temperatures left waking up sweating.

SOLUTION - this bag liner. It can be used stand alone as a summer bag or inserted as the liner in colder months.

It does look as if its rather wimpy (can see thru it), but seems to be standing up to the (ab)use its getting + dries quickly if it happens to get wet. The material is soft against the skin which is a welcome relief to most bags.

The size, weight, + ease of packing of this thing are great characteristics too. Even if you don't end up using it, you sacrifice the size of a soup can + much less weight.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

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nice mix

SmartWool PhD Outdoor Ultra Light  Mini Sock

SmartWool PhD Outdoor Ultra Light Mini Sock

Rating for this product: 4 August 13, 2009

Great for warm weather hiking (or all year round if your feet stay hot like mine). These socks are long enough to peak out from my boots above my ankle but stay low enough to keep me clear of Squaresville.

I would definitely recommend them for any activity with a boot - no stench, plenty of comfort + support.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Elements beware

Backcountry.com Stoic 2.0 Shell - Men's

Backcountry.com Stoic 2.0 Shell - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 August 7, 2009

This jacket is amazing. The fit, material, performance, everything is top notch.

For starters the fit - I am a trim fit lovin' type of guy. The last thing I want is my gear to get caught in what I am doing + slow me down. I am 5'11" 165 with an athletic build + the medium fits perfectly to my liking. I can throw on a softshell underneath or a base layer + I am ready to hit anything nature has to throw at me.

Speaking of nature throwing stuff - this jacket can take it. Rocks, limbs, rain, snow (assumption b/c it has yet to be tested), rabid raccoon...anything.

BC didnt sacrifice the material comfort in the process. Its a quiet propriety material that feels good against the skin + breathes well. The zippers are the closest thing I have to a complaint and thats only because they are so water tight it can be hard to get them started sometimes (more or less a non issue).

Also, collar has an even softer material on it so the edge doesnt scuff your face up when you find yourself wearing the hood all day.

Stop looking around + just get this one.

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functional style

Marmot Leadville Softshell Jacket - Men's

Marmot Leadville Softshell Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 July 24, 2009

This is my go to jacket for temperatures 30-65, depending on activity level + weather conditions. It fits like a glove, but is stretchy so its non-restricting. I am a trim/athletic 5-11, 165 + got a very form fitting S, but could have worn a M w/ some play in it (depending on your preference).It does an amazing job of keeping the wind out + pretty good in light rain. It doesn't retain heat + smell issues are much less of a problem than anticipated w/ it having a polyester shell. I can easily transition inside - out w/ this jacket on w/o taking it off or w/o looking like I just got off a mountain.

Finally, its comfort - Amazing. Its such a light fabric that feels good against the skin on the inside + out. The zippers all work great (neck protected too), the collar is a great size to retain heat, but not choke.

$150 may be a little steep, but if you catch it on sale like I did, go for it.

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one setback

Patagonia O Web Belt

Patagonia O Web Belt

Rating for this product: 3 July 24, 2009

I want to love this belt so much, but one of its greatest assets is also creates its greatest flaw. This burly belt will probably last until my unborn children or possibly grandchildren lose it.

It is the thick rigid polyester that also prevents the belt from lying flat - it literally creates a gap between the buckle + your pants. Perhaps this will change with time as it conforms to my body (at which time it will receive 5 stars), but after a few uses there has been no change + the awkward protrusion remains.

Fortunately, this lack of body confirmation doesnt seem to prevent the belt from keeping your pants up or staying tight. The buckle creates a nice "bite" that won't let go unless you want it too... even on that beer you can open with it.

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versatile water

Nalgene Wide Mouth Tritan Bottle - 32oz

Nalgene Wide Mouth Tritan Bottle - 32oz

Rating for this product: 5 July 23, 2009

You will lose this bottle well before you manage to find a way to break it.

Can be used for everything from a pillow (or at least neck support) to a mallet to drive tent stakes in - all while holding your favorite liquid w/o retaining flavors

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all around great

Thule Speedway Bike Mount

Thule Speedway Bike Mount

Rating for this product: 5 July 22, 2009

This rack is simple, solid, durable, + easy to install.

When I say easy to install, I mean it. Open the arm up to the required setting for your vehicle, clip onto the vehicle, + tighten the straps.

Bikes stay in place, doesnt damage the vehicle, + you are off riding in seconds.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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dense nutrition, no sacrificing

Clifbar Clif Bars - 12 Pack

Clifbar Clif Bars - 12 Pack

Rating for this product: 5 July 21, 2009

Powerbar may have made the industry, but they sure do taste terrible (texture even worse)- like the unfortunate result of a night of Ms Syrup + Mr hotdog.

Not the case with Clif Bars, responsibily packed with tons of nutrients, vitamins, protein, etc from real food sources. This bar not only delievers you from hunger, but does so deliciously.

These are not to be mistaken for supermarket variety granola bars. Clif packs much more of a punch + therefore can sustain you on long hikes, rides, or workouts as either a pickup or in a pinch a meal replacements. I take them everywhere.

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minimalist

Columbia Rapidfire Windshell - Men's

Columbia Rapidfire Windshell - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 July 17, 2009

Insanely lightweight + packable. I take this everywhere I go now b/c its so light + if need be will pack into itself to about the size of a baseball. I have literally worn it on the street + put it in my back pocket once inside.

I find the velcro on the cuff to be somewhat speculatively suspect as to its durability because they are small tabs, but has held up so far. The material is light + thin (light colors are partially see thru), but doesnt seem to hinder performance or durability. The zippers seem pretty solid + don't stick.

The fit is great - trim, but not binding or limiting (5'-11" 165, athletic - got the medium). The back vent lets wind thru nicely + the draw strings/ hood cords are very accommodating to body types.

I have yet to wear it in extended downpours, but it has been great in minor extended rains + short harder ones.

Probably not the best for winter use or running through thick brush , but it will hold its own if need be.

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durable + simple

Chaco Flip Eco Tread Sandal - Men's

Chaco Flip Eco Tread Sandal - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2009

These flips rock. Sturdy durable sole (Vibram EcoStep) with great arch support + very little break in time, if any. 1-1/2 yrs in with no visible wear. Dont lose grip or comfort when wet + dry relatively quickly.

Worth the money because you will have them for years.

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solid for poly

Mountain Hardwear Super Wicked Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Mountain Hardwear Super Wicked Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 July 17, 2009

you may smell a little when you get done w/ a day in this shirt, but there is a good chance you won't sweat as much either (the nature of the poly beast). Even if you do sweat, it wicks great + the zip is a nice cool down option that doesnt chafe.

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transitions + more

Arc'teryx Gamma AR Softshell Jacket - Men's

Arc'teryx Gamma AR Softshell Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 July 17, 2009

pretty rock solid for transition month casual wear, winter activities, or layering whenever. low profile amazingness.

I was lucky enough to pick one up pre-china manufacturing switch + from my experience the first china run seems to be lacking in fit consistency. I tried them (canada vs china) on side by side + the china one seems to be much more baggy around the ribs + pits, which is not a good thing as far as I am concerned. Hopefully they will work thru this hiccup.

Performance-wise, it will stand up to wind + water with the best of the softshells, but I can't recommend it for a deluge (which is not what its for anyway).

The chest pockets are less cumbersome/awkward than I anticipated even without a pack on.

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light + comfortable

CamelBak M.U.L.E. Hydration Pack - 520cu in

CamelBak M.U.L.E. Hydration Pack - 520cu in

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2009

I love this bag. It carries the essentials for day hikes, rides, + trail runs. It sits high on your back so the 3L of water is barely noticeable, other than the slight bulge when full because there is no plastic structure.

It vents relatively well (small footprint) + is pretty sturdy w/o using the waist belt (more like stomach) or chest clips, which i rarely use unless running.

It is big enough for a day of essentials shell, lunch, water, gloves, + that is before you start clipping things on to it.

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easy + effective

CamelBak Brush Kit

CamelBak Brush Kit

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2009

I felt so defeated when I had to break down + buy this. Once I swallowed my pride, I was able to get back to drinking clean water instead of the gang from Fraggle Rock that had congregated in my tube.

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long sleeve too

Patagonia Capilene 1 T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Patagonia Capilene 1 T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 July 17, 2009

I have the long sleeve version + am pretty happy w/ everything but the smell that eventually creeps up late in the day despite the measures patagonia has taken. This minor setback that I probably would have accepted if I had not had the pleasure of owning a Wool 1 layer from patagonia.

The long sleeve is still my go to for cool morning runs b/c its so comfortable + great at wicking.

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life changing, not sock changing

SmartWool PhD Running Light Micro Sock

SmartWool PhD Running Light Micro Sock

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2009

These socks changed the way I thought about socks (as in I never had before).

Super soft, durable, smell resisting, arch-supporting, circulation promoting, multi-day wearing powerhouses.

Its amazing how well your foot temperature is regulated by wool. They are a little warmer than standard socks when just standing, but when activity strikes, there is no contest in their performance.

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solid

The North Face Paramount Convertible Pant - Men's

The North Face Paramount Convertible Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 July 17, 2009

I may have the older version, but they work great! The main objection I have is how short the shorts are, but in the end it may be for the best because it doesnt limit range of motion.

The pockets are super deep (go to the hem of the shorts) for storing maps or whatever w/o anything falling out. The wind, water, + abrasion resistance is pretty solid as well. Just be careful around fires because sparks can have their way w/ this material pretty quickly.

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so smooth

Patagonia Active Boxer Brief - Men's

Patagonia Active Boxer Brief - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2009

pricey, but effective. I have worn these from everything to weddings to trails + they keep you feeling cool + comfortable.

Although gross, upon purchasing my first pair I wore them 5 days straight as a pseudo-field test. They stood up great + after a sink wash they were ready to hit day 6 + beyond...

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mmm... nice

Patagonia Wool 1 T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Patagonia Wool 1 T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2009

pretty spectacular once you get past the price. The ratio of merino wool : polyester doesn't seem to effect the odor resistance much if any + its so incredibly soft/ light.

So far I have used this for running, light hiking, + cycling w/o any problems, even after I a few spills.

I would rather have 2 or 3 of these shirts than the 8+ of polyester w/ partially effective anti-microbial wizardry that end up stinking by the end of the day anyway, let alone the next day. Far superior to capilene as far as odors are concerned

As for sizing, I am 5-11, 165 lbs, + athletic build - the medium fits great (as most of my shirts are mediums) w/ some wiggle room so it can transition from trail to street easily w/o looking freakish.

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