I know many people complain about the lack of quality from TNF these days. Im an old school TNF fan and have been using their gear for quite a few years. While I cant disagree w/ anyone about that issue I still personally like TNF gear. If you purchase the more expensive equipment the quality seems to be the same to me as the older stuff. I agree with the reviewer who said it makes a perfect pillow when its stuffed into its stow pocket. That is a great feature. Sizing is precarious for this item because I usually wear a medium but took a risk on ordering the small based on a review below. Im 5 foot 7 about 150 lbs and the small is perfect. Had I gone with a medium it probably would have been a bit more roomy than I wanted this piece to be (I still have plenty of room for a base layer, midwieght fleece, as well as my Montbell UL Down Parka underneath it). Also, while the medium is only 1 inch longer in lenth than the small I wanted to make sure it would be plenty well covered by my rainshell so as not to suck up any moisture during a downfall. I got the Camo becuz it simply rules!!! I hunt so camo is a favorite style for me. Plus Im an old school user of TNF products and can't stand the TNF yuppy trend that has transpired over the last several years....Id hate to go around looking like the TNF billboard and this camo vest should keep me from looking as though Im just another yuppy TNF trendy. However, one look at me would tell you Im not a trendy, yuppy, TNF customer, lol.

Great vest, love it!!!

I first purchased a 50 oz. bladder and soon found out that it just wasnt quite enough and forced me to have to carry a nalgene, which Id rather not do since it takes up more space in my pack. Im more a minimalist so the upgrade to the 72 oz (for only a couple extra bux) was well worth it. The first one I owned started leaking around where the tube connects to the bladder after only being detatched twice for cleaning. I figure this was simply a manufacturing flaw out of the batch that I recieved (first one purchased last year). I have detatched the tube on my new one several times just to make sure it was not going to give me any problems like the last one and it has held up fine. You got to expect at least one bad product from every assembly line. However, these bladders are the greatest. I have put water in these bladders with a little ice and left them sitting out directly in the Louisiana scorching sun for hours on end while fishing and my water stayed cold. It stays cold in every environment Ive used it in. The water tastes great, leaves no odd or plastic taste, and makes carrying enough hydration around a breeze. As stated, Id definitely go with a 72 oz over the smaller ones cuz you dont have to fill it all the way if you dont want to carry the extra weight of the water you wont use on short trips, runs, etc. I can't say enough great things about these bladders, not even after having a faulty one.

I purchased the foon, but recieved the spoon, so I can't comment on the fork portion of this piece of gear. This definitely is not a utensil that you want to dig into really solid food and if you're looking into eating some icecream then I'd let it sit and soften up a good bit. Im not sure where the complaints on the retracting handle are coming from because mine works fine. Handle the retraction with some sense because the plastic could be able to cut you. Ive read reviews stating they've cut themselves on the handle, but as I said...use some sense while handling and you'll operate this cut free. I will say that I love the small size of this utensil and I particularly pack non cooked foods for the back country to save time, space, weight, and labor. However I do carry the staple of outdoor journeys such as mac n cheese and ramens, oatmeal and grits. For such things which are pretty popular trail foods this utensil works great. I can store it neatly inside my GSI Soloist kit which is a big plus for me. It stays safe in there with no worries of it getting banged up or broken. For my use its actually perfect, although it will not replace my Light My Fire Spork for when I catch some trout or drag a good steak into the back country. I'd recommend it for the uses I say its good for.

First off, lol @ DakkaGuru's comment. Goood stuff!

I purchased the foon, but recieved the spoon, so I can't comment on the fork portion of this piece of gear. This definitely is not a utensil that you want to dig into really solid food and if you're looking into eating some icecream then I'd let it sit and soften up a good bit. Im not sure where the complaints on the retracting handle are coming from because mine works fine. Handle the retraction with some sense because the plastic could be able to cut you. Ive read reviews stating they've cut themselves on the handle, but as I said...use some sense while handling and you'll operate this cut free. I will say that I love the small size of this utensil and I particularly pack non cooked foods for the back country to save time, space, weight, and labor. However I do carry the staple of outdoor journeys such as mac n cheese and ramens, oatmeal and grits. For such things which are pretty popular trail foods this utensil works great. I can store it neatly inside my GSI Soloist kit which is a big plus for me. It stays safe in there with no worries of it getting banged up or broken. For my use its actually perfect, although it will not replace my Light My Fire Spork for when I catch some trout or drag a good steak into the back country. I'd recommend it for the uses I say its good for.

Mine didn't have a sticker on it like DakkaGuru's so I haven't had an issue with sticky residue...guess it depends on how it gets packed, etc.

I luv my Karl shirt. Not only is this shirt very comfortable and well made, it will give me an oppurtunity to talk about who Karl is and what it was he was looking to achieve. Even tho he had a run of bad luck and wasn't able to break that record, he at least gave it his all and put forth the effort. I followed his blog while the race was on as I know many ppl did. I fathom sucessfully hiking that trail, but much less running it...at any rate, lol!!! Ill forever be impressed by the effort that guy gave. As for the shirt, not only a conversation piece. Nice fabric, feels good against the skin, well made, fits true to size...great bargain!!!!

I won't give this shirt a bad review cuz I luv BC. Im even giving it 4 stars cuz I luv BC. However, if it wasn't a BC shirt Id probably only give it 2 stars. While it is a shirt, and performs as a shirt should (a shirt that covers my torso, protecting me from minnor elements), Id have to agree with the comsumers reporting it as being like a 'nighty'. I can truly understand how guys keep loosing their shirts to girlfriends for sleeping in, lol. I got the large because of the reviews that refer to it as being way too tight. Im 5'7" ish, 150 lbs...heh, and I usually wear a medium in a tshirt. This thing is almost too tight. Its NOT tight, but for a large shirt it seems to be more like a medium in girth. Unfortunately the sizing goes way off that track in terms of length in the torso. I really thought people were maybe being a lil overstated about the tightness and especially about the length factor. I was wrong. They are right. This thing seriously does hang all the way down past my butt. If I were to put on running shorts and this shirt, lol....Id look like I was running naked with a tshirt on!!! It TRULY is THAT LONG!!!! Fortunately for me my niece is pretty handy with a sewing machine so sizing (as long as not too small) is rarely an issue for me with clothing.

I do have to say I simply love the Jalepeno green color tho and rockin the BC Goat will be great as soon as I get this 'nighty' turned into a 'righty'. Buyer be warned that the ridicules on this shirts sizing ARE NOT people with lousy figures trying to slide into something not proper fit for them. The sizing is HORRIBLE on this shirt. Makes me wonder how it ever got to market in the first place. Hopefully BC will fix this as we can see in the pic review that this is the 2nd time they obviously got this shirt wrong. Better luck next time, BC...third times a charm!!!

nice fabric tho...

I simply LOVE Golite products. Great company, ,friendly staff, and awesome quality for gear. I just recieved this shirt today and wore it to work to try out the fit. It fits true to size and allows full range of motiion. No restricting whatsoever, for me. This thing not only is super light, but it wicks sweat EXTREMELY well. I was simply in awe by the performance of this shirt as I worked my hiney off and it wicked away the sweat like it was no body's business. My co-worker even noticed that I hadn't the look of the 'sweaty patch syndrome' like he was sporting on the back of his shirt. I told him about the properties of this shirt and what its designed for. He says he's going to buy one for every day of the week with his next check based on how well mine performed for me. Can't wait to get out in the back country with this joker!!! Ive never owned a bad piece of gear from Golite; they rule and I highly recommend their gear to everyone!

You've gotta love these Jeruselam Cruisers!!! I've been eyeballing these jokers for quite some time, but I'm one of those people who spend all my money on serious gear. I just couldn't see myself ever paying 50 bux for a pair of sandals. And we all know if it wasn't for the TNF tag on them they wouldn't cost that much. The current sale price is near bout as good as it gets as compared to other retailors online. Fortunately for me I was able to find a pair of these for 25 bux shipped before they ran out of stock. Im hardcore BC; Ill even pay them a few bucks more when someone else who runs a deal for 5-20 bux less on same/similar items simply for customer service. But, as already stated, I spend my money on serious gear so I had to go with the 50% off deal I got elsewhere. Sorry BC...but my reputation with you says enough that I shouldn't feel bad about shopping elsewhere for these flip flops. Its not like you don't get the 75% of my income that doesn't go to bills, student loans, etc. I eat plenty of ramens to keep up my gear purchases from you, lol!!!

Seriously though...if you can see yourself paying 50 bux for some flip flops then these d00ds are stylin!!!! This is the first time I have ever spent over 3 bux for a cheap pair from a dollar general store...freal!!! Anyway, there's no break in period with them, they're plenty comfortable and did I mention they are sweet? I have high arches in my feet but I was honestly shocked because I didnt think that they would have any support at all in that area, but it does have a decent amount. Maybe not as much as some really high dollar 'sandals', but they have enogh for me. The only way I could even justify buying these is because I am gearing up for the AT next year and know that the 3 dollar foam pairs I buy every year would NEVER hold up after 6 months on a trail. These will make great camp shoes and I am very glad I caved in and purchased what I still think is way too much for flip flops...

I was seriously disappointed in this purchase. After all the hype and great reviews I have read about these soles I figured they must be gold. Only becuz they seem to work for alot of people did I not give them 1 star. However, i'm not going to completely bash them becuz if your shoes, boots, etc. do absolutley suck in the footbed area then these might do you some good. I have a high arch foot and figured these insoles would help that out. Well, it helped out the arch support a little but after a week of trying to get used to these I simply couldn't. They were murder on my heels and forefoot. Superfeet for me was more like sadistic feet. The insoles feel like you are standing on concrete...at least to me it was (no padding at all). I ended up shoving some Dr. Scholl's gell soles into my hiking shoes and reinserted the original Merrel insoles over the Dr. Scholl's and now my feet are fine. I should have tried this before I went to the expense of Superfeet, but with all the great reviews I have read I fugred...well...let me just end it on saying for me this was a horribly painful and costly experience. These are definitely going into my BC return/refund box!!!!

I luv these S2S roll top drysacks. They're so light, yet durable as heck! The 8 liter is the perfect size for keeping a weekend, weeklong (if you're not packing like Paris Hilton), or thru hike's haul of clothes. I didn't request it, but got an orange, which should be great for being easily found at night when using as a food hangbag. I truly don't know what else to say about this item other than it truly is a wonderful item for the go-lighter or anyone wanting to keep stuff dry! Try one, I'm sure you'll luv it.

As my question below points out, i've never used poles before. Always used trees for tarp tents, etc. But gettin ready for an AT thru hike I figured they couldn't be a bad idea. However, I simply could not see spending more than a hundred bucks on some trekking poles. Even a hundred seemed insane to me. At any rate I had been drooling over these simply because of the weight. Just as I was getting ready to purchase a 65 dollar pair of Lekis these carbonlites popped up on SAC and I got a steal for $110 shipped. I simply couldnt believe it cuz I religiously watch SAC and have never seen poles on there and as soon as I go to buy some other cheaper ones these $200 poles show up half off. Anyhow, I took these for a stroll thru the FlintHills in KS and they seem to be pretty good at helping distribute weight and keep balance over sketchy terrain. The twist locks seem to be of heavy duty caliber and easy to set lengths. I haven't tried it with frozen fingers but was wearing gloves when I used them and had no problems. I have to say that I am slightly impressed and do see this as being a very wise investment for the future. I don' have a good pair of digital scales to get an exact weight but given the shipping weight was exactly 2 lbs. I would imagine that these poles truly are somewhere around that 14 oz (per pole) advertisement. Thank heavens for the SAC lords as I would have wound up with some heavier, cheaper poles had it not been for the Gods of SAC!!!! I (heart) u BC.com!!!! keep it up!!!!

Woulda got 5 stars if it ran off a cheaper battery. However, this lil d00d is great!!! Uberlite headlamp that, while I wouldn't want as my main lamp, is a go to back up light. A buddy of mine had one with him on a camping trip we took last year in the Ozarks. Supergreat camp chore light, but only a decent trail light. Most times I forgot about it even being on my head. I luv the pivotry and small headband. Stays very securely in place. been using an energizer lamp as a back up to my Everlite Solar powered lamp and like it cuz it has a red gobo filter for really incognito usage; however it is way too heavy by itself besides the three AAA you gotta pack. I saw this ION pop up on SAC for 9 bux and figured I'd get my SAC 'fix on' with it since it can shave significant weight off my pack and accomodate my Everlite while its charging my Ipod, cell phone, gps, etc. Glad I was eyeballing SAC tonight. I'd recommend even at the regular price simply for the quality of the lamp and weight factor!

My first pair of Merrel. I decided to go with Merrels because a friend of mine has neuropothy in his feet and is a land surveyor and says he can't work in nothing but Merrels. I tried several styles and like these the best. I stand behind a counter on a hard concrete floor all day and my feet have hurt so bad lately that some days I just simply want to cry out in pain. i've never experienced foot pain like it since I took the job I have. After purchasing these shoes I have not had a single day of foot pain in my arches. They have GREAT arch support for you high arch footers like myself. As noted by another review the footbed is a simple piece of thin foam, which is why I couldn't give these shoes 5 stars. My friend tells me every pair of Merrels he has owned in the last decade have had these type footbeds in them. We figure Merrel must expect aftermarket footbeds to be purchased. But I'm not complaining cuz not having to deal with the pain in my arches make this shoe a life saver for work. I ordered the green superfeet for insoles; can't wait to get them in. The shoes are great for hiking.I love the vibram soles! Great lugs!!! Only when I'm standing in one place at work all day do I realise the lack of great footbeds. During my hikes I feel like I'm walking on air. These are a great alternative to heavy hiking boots. They really do look and feel like they should be able to hold up a great deal. I guess the AT next year will put them to the real test! Sizing seems right on as I typically wear a size 9 and my Merrels are a size 9 as well. Better footbeds would have gotten em 5 stars; however, 4 stars is still great in my book and these shoes are a God send for work, much less play!

I like the ultra-lightweight of these socks and the mesh upper knit breathes very well. This should be a decent sock for summer hikes. The only thing I don't like about the socks is the super thin material in the heel. I am very hard on socks from all the hiking and day to day walking that I do. I'm just not sure how well/long the heels are going to hold out. However, they may surprise me and if so I will purchase more of these. At any rate, if I at least get a few months out of these socks it will be worth it for the ventilation they provide my feet since they already sweat pretty badly regardless of low or high temps.

I don't give things 5 stars unless they amaze me. These pants amaze me! I been making a transition from old school to lightweight backpacking/camping over the last 1 1/2 years. In the case of these pants it meant trading in the old faithful cotton fruit of the looms for a lightweight baselayer. I went back and forth trying to decide which brand and style to go with and the Capilene's seemed to be overall the most favored. I am glad I went with these for several reasons. First, let me get out of the way what I think may be important to some...

I am a 32/34 waist and am about 5'7". For those of you somewhat fitting my description and want the painted on pants look I suggest you get a small, not a medium. My mediums aren't 'baggy' but they arent exactly tight fit either. For me they are perfect as I don't like really tight fitting baselayers. My 'boyz' don't like the cramped quarters either, ya know!!! While they aren't overly bunched up around my ankles due to the longer length for my short legs there is a little. However, this is not a problem for me as I am pretty used to that with nearly all baselayer long johns Ive owned, fruit of the looms included.

Ok, here's what I love about these pants: the waist band is super soft and very comfortable. I have been wearing these all day and have not noticed the band rubbing around my waist like the old faithfuls are notorious for. The cuffs at the feet are a half inch hem as opposed to the 3 inch hem on old faithfuls. They helped keep my legs warm in the upper 30s this morning and didn't make me hot after it warmed up to the mid 60s. Even after it got warm and I was still rather active I honestly couldn't tell I was wearing a baselayer, especially since they wick away the sweat so great. That's deinitely a big change form old faithfull. These pants also weigh nothing at all and can almost be packed down like a pair of womens pantyhose; it's insane looking at the comparison between them and my old faithfull FOTL's. I can't believe it has taken me so long to get with the times and come around...my goodness at the weight and sheer volume I have been packing all these years. I understand you can run down to WalMart and get some FOTL undies for cold weather for bout 10 bux, but do yourself a favor and spend the extra 25 bux for some Capilenes. You will definitely be glad you did!!!! I highly recommend The Patagonia Caps and will personally be getting entire sets of these from tops to bottoms to briefs. Oh yea, one more thing I found people complaining about in reviews but I luv the easy access P fly. Who wants to fight to free Willy when ya gotta pee and its quite chilly? LOL, freal tho...those days are quite over as the Caps offer easy access to the Chief!!!

It's gotta be WOW for me to give it 5 stars! I've never used gaiters before. Gearing up for a thru hike of the AT and figured they couldn't be a bad idea. I chose these because I couldn't see wearing the knee highs AT ALL!!! These don't look too silly, they just look like very useful pieces of gear. I dunno what some people refer to as being hard to put on cuz I have no experience at all with any styles of gaiters and I snapped them right on with no qualms to fuss about. I guess it's all in the user. For a trial I strapped them on and went postholing through a few dozen 10 ft. tall dirt mounds where they're digging out basements for the housing development in my neighborhood (I'm sure the contractors will wonder what happened there, lol). I did not get a single pebble in my shoes nor was there any dirt to notice on my pants where the gaiters were covering. One thing I can note that I truly was questioning before I recieved them was how well they would actually stay up. They stay up pretty well. The cinch strap is pretty tough and the gaiters didn't budge much, if any, at all when tromping through all that dirt. I was pretty impressed with the job they did. I can definitely see them getting good use on a thru hike. The 2 snaps (top and bottom) along with the velcro make for easy on/off action and the leather strap seems as though it should handle alot more than some of the wimpier straps I've seen on others. And the price on these dudes can't be beat. I am more than happy with this purchase and would highly recommend these to anyone shopping for or curious about the usability. They will make a great addition to my hunting gear as well. I've always wore hiking shoes for hunting and hated going thru the muck to get to a stand but its always beat heavy hiking boots; however, I can take these dudes from now on and no longer have to worry...shoulda bought these a long time ago!!!

You've got to love Golite! I bought this pack (1500 ci) last year from Golite.com before BC ever got their hands on them (or even heard bout em from what all the gearheads told me...tried to get it from BC). After a year of use I can tell you this guy is my GO TO pack for quick trips in and out of the back country. Not all the time do I have the need for my Golite Jam2, which is a marvelous pack, but many times when I'm just heading out for a couple nights in the woods either camping, hunting, fishing, etc. this is my pack of choice. I've carried it through briar patches that would shred most lightweight fabrics, but this lil dude doesn't have a snag anywhere on it. I am the envied party when heading out into the woods for a lil game hunting with my friends because their packs all weigh over 5 lbs empty. Mine doesn't weigh that much with a camel bak full of water. I can fit my tent, sleeping bag, bladder, change of clothes, cooking equipment, first aid kit and many other items in this cute lil thing. I travel quite often back and forth across the country to visit my physician back in Louisiana...at least 3 times a year. There is nothing worse than having to carry a bulky, heavy backpack with just a few days worth of clothes and whatnot through the Greyhound terminals. In the last year I have used this pack to take everything I could possibly need with me on my travels to see my doctor and having no more than a few lbs to drag around on a Greyhound expedition is nice, especially during long layovers when you'd rather roam about the city than wait with your God awful heavy bags at the terminal. Now, I can easily stroll around towns during stops with everything I have on my back at under 5 lbs. and get to hit the pub in Denver while waiting on that next bus to roll in 4 hours late. It's great! While it does't have a hydration sleeve or sipping tube thread-thru, it does at least have a clip on the inside to hang your bladder from. Hey, it cuts weight and works for me. I can't honestly say that it's 'waterproof', but it does shed light precipitation pretty well. I keep a Glad heavy duty trashbag stowed in it for heavy down pour emergency situations. I can't say enough bout this pack so I guess I'll leave it at this! 50 bux is a great investment for this thing for a variety of purposes! Minimalist ready!

Bought this shirt for myself about a month ago and love it. My brother told me he must need one too since he sees me wearing mine so much. He liked the material and soft feel. My brother is a big guy; not what you would call an athletic build at 5'11" 285. I checked BC to find they had one XXL left in the Olive green, but I was hesitant to purchase it for his b-day present due to the way clothes fit him...however I got it anyway. Gave it to him last night at his party, he tried it on this morning, fit great, wore it to work and loves it. Now he fits in @ the office with all the other TNF billoards, lol. At any rate, you can see my previous review below but one more thing I could definitely add after having this shirt for a while is that I haven't washed it yet...yea, get over it...but I have been bent over campfires, stoves while cooking, smokers in a car and this thing honestly still has that fresh packaged smell to it. Its kinda strange actually. Also something else I find odd is the amount food and drinks I have dribbled on it and with a light, easy scrub with a damp cloth it hasn't retained anything. You simply can't tell this shirt has been worn many times over in all type o conditions while having food and drink spilled on it (lol). This is super nice to know I have a no frills, foolproof, uber-great shirt for the AT and my brother can fit in with all the other wanna be outdoorsmen office yuppies!

Stuff sack is not exactly what I was thinking I would get. As the last review stated the xs, which is what I oredered, and the L (I suppose based in their review) don't have the roll top closure. I wasn't exppecting a cinch cord. I guess I can understand that on the xs, but on the L...???? Just don't understand the logistics of that one. At any rate, I was going to need a stuff sack about this size and the cinch cord instead of the roll top band makes it a lil more light weight so I'm not going to be upset. However, BC SHOULD look into changing this listing to clarify this issue, cuz I REALLY did need a stuff sak with roll top closure about this size for electronics and such. It gets 3 stars, not because it isn't a decent product; it is. 3 stars because it is only adequate, not extraordinary!

Already reviewed these socks but got email from BC wanting me to review this item (I guess based on the last order I made for them). Only thing I guess I could add is that I put these socks to the dirty test. As already noted in my last review my feet sweat badly most of the time and we all know the ill effects of that, lol. However, I recently wore a pair of these socks through a 12 hour shift, hopped in my van and drove 12 hours to see a physician, stayed at a buddy's house that night, made that 12 hour drive back home and straight into another 12 hour shift. When I finally got home after these three days of wearing the same socks in my brand new Merrell Outlands I was surprised to find when I finally took them off that my feet stayed dry the whole time (they didnt peel off, lol), didn't stink and my new shoe smell was still in tact. I simply LUV these socks...

can't say enough good things about 'em!!!

This is a great product. I was turned onto this stuff back in my corporate days when I bought a high dollar pair of suede shoes. Was living in Denver at the time and due to the snow I didn't want to ruin those shoes walking through downtown for lunch and commuting. Asked the retail guy who sold them to me for some stuff they had on their shelf and he told me not to waste my money on their product and go visit the local REI in Lakewood, CO which was actually a few blocks from my apt. He obviously musta been an outdoorsman. Applied this product to those suede shoes...didn't fade the suede either which concerned me from the get go but figured wet weather would do them more harm than the Nikwax...took em for a stroll through downtown in the snow for lunch amd watched my high dollar suede shoes repel all the moisture. Co-worker asked me if I was crazy going out in the snow in my brand new KC's...shook my head, broke out the Nikwax, let him get a few spritz for his new suedes and we were both confidently strolling downtown around in the snow!!!! Just bought a pair of Merrell Outlands and figured I might as well nab some good ol Nikwax suede/nubuck proctector to keep em in good shape.

Was able to nab the last kit they had!!! I own alot of silnylon and am gearing up for the AT. Saw a buddy patch his tent a couple years ago with this stuff and he says his tent is still rockin so I figured I might wanna nab one of these kits to store in my bounce box for the trail. Hopefully I won't need it but would rather have it and not need it then need it and not have it. Honestly, sitting here looking at it I just may even throw it my emergency kit in case I honestly do get out there and need it instead of having to hussle to the PO for a mail stop. It's tiny and leight weight enough. As one review noted, it's only for a single or few use repair so keep that in mind if you need a large amount of repairs.

That's bout all I can say for this sack is WOW!!!! I'm an ol skewler and have recently gotten into the ultralite/lightweight packing in the last year. Been gearing up for the AT next year and have poured over Backcountry.com and Backpacker magazine for tips on what gear to purchase. I've never used a dry sack, ever to be honest, but knew I would need some form of one for at least my sleeping bag. I own the Lafuma X950 Pro so I bought the Small sized event dry compression sack. I haven't tried it out in wet conditions...but after all the gear reviews I have read here and various other places I am confident my bag will be safe from water. However, if you are new to roll top closure bags there is a learning curve; don't feel ashamed to have to conjure up a gear head through the online chat feature here to get some advice on exactly how that works, lol!!! Long story short, once I finally figured out how this thing closes up I pulled my sleeping bag out of its tote bag and stuffed it in my event sack. After kneeling down on my bag with one knee I was able to cinch the compression straps within an 1/8 inch of their maximum. To put it in a nut shell I just cut 6 inches vertical packing height (if I remember my math correctly that wouold be 42 cubic inches altogether since its app. 7 in diameter...may be wrong) from my packing interior of my bag. That may not seem like much but I am only using a 3000 cu. in. pack for the AT so app. 42 cu. in. is a world of difference in this pack. I guess the lafuma pack bag now gets duty for something else that doesn't need water protection. Some people may think the price for this item is steep, but to me it is worth every penny just for cuttin down on packing volume, I'll say it again, "WOW!!!!" If you're interested in this then I highly recommend because these compression straps haven't budged one bit and loosened up since I cinched it all down...nice!!!!! I will be getting more of these for my clothing and electronics.

I bought the small size that is suppose to max out @ 3000 cu. in. This more than swallows my Golite Jam2 3000 cu. in. pack when it's fully loaded. The neatest thing to me other than the fact it feels like it weighs next to nothing is that it packs up into its own attached stuff sack...great bonus!

Bought this shirt bout a month ago and have worn it as a next to skin layer for wicking sweat (which works wonderfully) and wear it to work all the time because its just so comfortable and if.when I do work p a sweat then I'm not sportin the 'ball of sweat' look on my back. It's really cool and comfortable, works great as a next to skin layer, and not at all expensive for what it is given it dons the TNF logo and tag. Great buy IMO!

I was skeptical about the performance of this jacket and especially weary of spending 160 bux on it. But, I figured with the BC no frills return//refund policy and all the great reviews I'd give it a try. WOW! I am more than happy with thihs purchase. I had to give it a few weeks before I wrote a review cuase Kansas was having some rather unheard of warm weather the week I got it. However, that didn't last long and the high wind gusts and low temps came right back at us. This jacket is PERFECT! I bought it for my AT trip that I am planning for next year. I was hating the idea of having to carry a heavy coat during the cold months cuz I wanna keep my weight down. But after having been in way below freezing temps with serious constant wind gusts I am more than certain this lil 7 ounce dude is ALL I will need. And it paacks down to NOTHING and comes with its own stuff sack....if only it could cook and clean!!!

Definitely worth the money and I am very very happy with my first Montbell purchase.

Bought these socks based on the reviews here. I've never given thought to wool socks until I started gearing up for the AT. I knew I would need soome wools to help keep my feet dry thru long hot hikes. Never before would I have ever given thought to spending over ten bux on a single pair of socks, but then I do realise that comfort for feet are priceless in the outdoors. I have to say I am converted. Its going to hurt economically but I gotta get me a pair for each day of the week. These socks are soo comfortable I just love wearing them. My feet typically sweat alot so I hate having on socks all the time but these are great to wear and keep my feet dry. I even wore these socks to a concert last night (Black Label Society) in one of those rough crowds of drunken bikers with lots of pushing and shoving....in other words it was one of those concerts I normally come out sweaty as hell. Well, I can attest that while the rest of me was dripping with sweat my feet were comfy and dry. Even on that unforgiving concrete floor for 8 hours these socks added padding and comfort. If you're in the market for a good pair of woolies, I highly recommend these. Also, although I have only had them a few weeks I can see why they are called darn tough cuz they look and feel as though they can withstand alot.

bought this shirt for a warm layering base for my shoulder season AT hike next year. It's super warm for such a lightweight fleece, which is what I luv about it. It works great under a wind/rain proof shell cuz it breathes easy. Along with a good base layer to wick moisture away from your body underneath this shirt coupled with a windshell and/or rainshell and you should be good to go anywhere. I live in KS where the winds never stop so I can warn anyone who lives in windy areas that this shirt will NOT keep you toasty in cold temps where high winds are present. This shirt is made to breathe, not dissipate wind. So don't get mad at TNF if you run into this problem. But when used how and what it is designed for it is perfect. I can't say enough good things about this shirt. I wear it probably more than I should given I bought it for an AT trip next year but summin tells me its not going to wear out anytime soon and will still be good to go next spring. Thanks TNF and BC.com for such a great deal and as always superfast free shipping and friendly customer service!!!

was able to actually snag the very last one of these BC had in stock for 10 bux. I bought the new series thermarest air matress and it fits perfectly. I can't complain about this item as it serves its purpose well, however I can't give it a 5 star rating simply because there is nothing 'fantastic' about it. although it would have added a tad more weight, some form of compression system to cinch it up a bit more tightly (diameter, not length) would have got it 5 stars. but as noted no complaints and does a great job for what it is...definitely worth having with the pad...lil extra room in it but I'm positive I can find something in my pack to take up that wasted space left over in the length....and pretty sure I can find a way to tighten it up.

can't give it 5 stars simply because it doesn't exactly work the way all the hype about it says it does. or maybe I got one that aint workin like it should...id hope that isnt the case...however...

I have never used a sleeping pad in any way, shape or form before this purchase. I guess I'm just old school and hard core but I always felt if you needed a sleeping pad then you might as well buy a camper or stay in hotels and out of the woods. However, I am gearing up for the AT in 2010 and figured this couldn't be a bad idea since I will spend the majority of 5-6 months sleeping on the ground. I have skimmed over many reviews of various brands and forms of sleeping pads and these thermarest seem to be the favorites. I think I remember using a cell foam pad once way back when I was a child at a church camping trip but it didn't seem to make much difference, hence never trying any others until now. I took my new thermarest (new series short version) out for a trip last week and it was great to say the least. I can comfortably sleep on the ground as is, but do have to admit it was nice to blow this puppy up and have a lil cush under my tush. I got the short version to save space and weight, but I'm all of 5'6" so its truly all I need. I can use a pack should I need more insulation under my legs in shoulder seasons. Having never used one of these I'm truly not sure how this whole 'self inflate' thing is supposed to work but I released the valve, let it set for a while and it really didn't inflate much of anything. However, a few puffs from the plenty of hot air I have in me, heh, and this thing is good to go. After an entire night of sleepinng on it I didn't notice a bit of air loss and temps were well close to freezing...so I would have to say that this is a very truly great product that I would recommend, especially since the prices aren't quite as steep as the Pro3 and 4s were. If I could roll it out and it truly inflate itself all the way without any effort from me (which truly isnt much at all to begin with so no complaint) then I'd give it 5 stars. But to me four stars IS perfect while 5 stars are for the 'extraordinary'.

hope this helps for anyone curious about the new models.

That's bout all I can say for this sack is WOW!!!! I'm an ol skewler and have recently gotten into the ultralite/lightweight packing in the last year. Been gearing up for the AT next year and have poured over Backcountry.com and Backpacker magazine for tips on what gear to purchase. I've never used a dry sack, ever to be honest, but knew I would need some form of one for at least my sleeping bag. I own the Lafuma X950 Pro so I bought the Small sized event dry compression sack. I haven't tried it out in wet conditions...but after all the gear reviews I have read here and various other places I am confident my bag will be safe from water. However, if you are new to roll top closure bags there is a learning curve; don't feel ashamed to have to conjure up a gear head through the online chat feature here to get some advice on exactly how that works, lol!!! Long story short, once I finally figured out how this thing closes up I pulled my sleeping bag out of its tote bag and stuffed it in my event sack. After kneeling down on my bag with one knee I was able to cinch the compression straps within an 1/8 inch of their maximum. To put it in a nut shell I just cut 6 inches vertical packing height (if I remember my math correctly that wouold be 42 cubic inches altogether since its app. 7 in diameter...may be wrong) from my packing interior of my bag. That may not seem like much but I am only using a 3000 cu. in. pack for the AT so app. 42 cu. in. is a world of difference in this pack. I guess the lafuma pack bag now gets duty for something else that doesn't need water protection. Some people may think the price for this item is steep, but to me it is worth every penny just for cuttin down on packing volume, I'll say it again, "WOW!!!!" If you're interested in this then I highly recommend because these compression straps haven't budged one bit and loosened up since I cinched it all down...nice!!!!! I will be getting more of these for my clothing and electronics.

I bought these about a year ago and I can honestly say they have kept me bone dry during some tremendous downpours. When I say tremendous I refer to flashflood type downpours, not just cats and dogs!!! The one thing bad about these pants are poor ventillation, which is why I won't give them five stars. These pants can double as a second layer for cold seasons, but even in the cold the sweat builds up while hiking. However, they do a heck of a job at blocking wind and rain so...

The pants really seem like they can take a beating. Some refer to them not being that durable, but summin tells me they were trying to kid themselves on the size and have too much junk in the trunk for the size they chose. That could have easliy been remedied by exchanging for a proper size. I have bushwhacked through briar patches in Arkansas, swamps in Louisiana and mudslid through Kentucky...these pants still look like they are new and as already stated...I've never gotten wet, not even when sitting directly in pools of water.

...one thing to note on the pocket is that it is not totally waterproof...had my lighter in my rain pants once and it went out until it was able to dry out...but the smokes in my pants pocket UNDERNEATH these pants keep my smokes nice and dry while fishing in the rain!!!

Don't trust the pocket, expect to build up a lil inner moisture, be honest with yourself how much room your butt truly needs and get a proper fit even if that size may make em a lil long...and these pants can keep you dry and save you some cash!!!

...on another note, the tote bag that comes with these pants are great!!! Not sure what gram counters may complain about, but as another has noted, weighs less than a single coin. Even has enough room to accomodate my Golite Virga rainshell, so I was more than pleased with the tote bag because it has a sturdy clip that you can snap on to a gear hoop on the outside of your pack!

ok, so I'm an ol school bushwacker from Louisiana who always thought these things just didn't look as kewl as a good ol canteen out on the trail. also I have heard people complaining about bladders busting on them and soaking their gear. I always thought that was a sad story and poor excuse for 'looking cool' in the outdoors. Well, I decided last year to plan a hike thru the AT in 2010 and started gearing up. After checking out a video @ Backpacker.com where a guy runs a filled camelback over with a SUV I figured this might be worth a try. I was glad I made the purchase of this bladder and could care less how ridiculous I may look to my friends with it's tube running out of and dangling from my pack. Heh, my friends call it my colasthomy bag, but I think they're just jealous cuz I'm the only one with water every bit as kewl as it was when I filled it even after its been set directly in the sun. No joke, this thing can not only take a beating, but even placed in the direct sun of a 100+ day in smoldering Louisiana my water stayed very cool (aside from the obvious amount that stays trapped in the tube if you don't blow it back into the bladder after sipping). And to top it all off, to my amazement was how much like water my water really tasted coming out of this thing. No funky plastic taste or nothing...even tastes better coming out of the bladder than out of the tap...like it's an improvement. I could NEVER see going back to using canteens again...I can't now imagine an outdoors adventure without my camelback. From extensive reviews I have read I doubt I would ever purchase a bladder from anyone but camelback. Some people complain about the opening being hard to open up...I dunno bout that....I mean it even has a grip for unscrewing that enormous hole that I love...I think some people just need summin to complain about...

If you're curious or have had a bad experience with another brand of bladder hydration then I suggest you give this one a try; you'll love it!!

also, the hydrolock and cleaning kits are very convenient if you have one of these. I didn't notice any issues with leaking before I installed the hydrolock, but at the same time I didn't have the bladder long before I installed the hydrolock so...

I'm new to hydration bladders, so I'm not sure if there was a small bite valve on older versions of camelbak bladders or what. I ordered one of these along with my bladder and to my surprise this is the same size as the one that came with my bladder. I bought them about a year ago. I'm not upset or anything, but the only reason I bought this valve was becuz all the reviews I read on the bladders talked about having to have the big bite valve to make the bladder 110% kick arse...so hopefully this review may save someone a few bucks who is looking into one and not sure about the bite valve size like I was or maybe for some who may own an older version or similar bladder with comparable drinking tube looking for a bigger bite valve. At least I have a back up as I'm sure the bladder is going to last quite a few seasons, if not a lifetime!

works great tho!!!!

I'm fairly new to hydration bladders. I've owned my camelback for bout a year now and love it. However, before I ever bought it I had read many reviews on bladders altogether. It seems camelbak makes the only foolproof non-burstabble bladder, which is why I got camelbak. At any rate, the one thing I noticed to be a non-stop complaint with any manufacturer's bladders was the 'drip effect'. I am gearing up for a hike thru the AT and the last thing I would want is a leaky hose drippin all over me and loosing valuable water during a thru hike. So, I purchased this hydrolock to compliment my bladder and have never had the first issue with it. I am very pleased that I spent (come on) 6 xtra bucks to have this feature with my hydration system. Do yourself a favor and throw this in with your bladder purchase!

...side note = I also purchased the cleaning kit along with my hydration system and it is a nice/convenient addition as well...def. worth 10 bux!

definitely worth having if you own the bladder!

The only thing I can say negatively about this item is that the clips open very easily, SO don't expect this thing to work as a key chain or else you will be like some of the others on here complaining about loosing keys. However, I'm not sure what kind of moron would opt for this as a key chain over let's say...a KEYCHAIN...but I actually think the easy leverage clipping on these are great for not having to fight with it when pulling it out for whatever millions of uses you will find for it. Here's just a few that I have found throughout my year of having one...

hanging food in camp
hanging light in camp (from tree, etc.)
hanging dog in camp, hehe just kidding PITA...although I have used this many times to clip dog's leash to zip line in camp
hanging headlamp in tent
makeshift fishing string (the kind you put your keepers on, not fish with, lol!)
clipping rain suit to pack
clipping solar panel to pack
hanging hydration bladder in tent and various places
hanging bug light/candles in camp
hanging deer scent
the list goes on....

been gearing up for a trip thru the AT and this item caught my attention in Backpacker magazine gear reviews for 08 so I decided to get some. I plan on ordering at least one of each size cuz there are endless capabilities for these things anywhere, but especiially for all your outdoors needs. I have the #2, which is suggested for up to 10 lbs, but I have used it for more than that (not recommended for #2)and haven't noticed it give any at all. Great quality craftmanship and they woon't break your back if you're a gram/ounce counter. Like I say, the clips are not flimsy, but not stiff so if you're in need of a keychain...please, buy a key chain or get one of those heavey duty biners you see at the local auto zone, oreilleys or wal mart automotive dept....use THESE for what they're made for........

I'll get the negatives out of the way. First and foremost is the mount for this lamp. It's about as limp as an 80 year old man. Sux to need it to stay in a perfect fixed position only for it to flop down and out of viewing feild...especially when bushwhacking and you hear the rustling in the bushes and ya REALLY wanna KNOW what THAT was, lol!!! Also, the one thing I wasn't expecting to have to do was use the headlamp as the powerplant for energy. What I'm saying is I truly was expecting to be able to plug my usb and 12v adapters directly to the solar panel and charge them thru there. As is, you have to charge whatever device you may be charging via the headlamp plugged into the solar panel. Unless I'm dumb...but I have owned this for a year now and have not found away around this. However, this is not a complaint as much as I find it a production flaw...they thought this far, they could have thought a lil further on behalf of charging devices directly through panel. Seriously though, unless I just got a bad mount it IS WEAK!!!! Was seriously disappointed after it gave way in the first couple weeks of ownership.

Anyhow, all and all I think this is the greatest thing since even before peanut butter and jelly...freal!!!! It's friggin awesome not to have to worry about lugging around batteries for lights and knowing I can keep ipods, cameras, gps, cell phones and so many other things running on and on without need to resupply with batteries. This thing has been a dramatic piece of equipment for my outdoors adventures and will be irreplaceable on my AT trip next year. I have charged, drained, charged, drained, charged, drained the solar panel over and over and over and over many many many times. It never has seemed to build up a memory of any kind, which was something I was concerned about over its longterm usage. the panel charges great in good light and surprisingly well in overcast. My older toshiba laptop crapped out finally and I was broke and without the money to replace it at the time a while back and thank goodness I still had my trusty everlite to keep my ipod charged...nice!

The panel has nice sized holes and rails along the sides and corners of it to make it easy to clip on a pack, in/on a tent and what have you. Everlite truly made a name with this piece of eqipment as someone else pointed out that even Backpacker magazine listed it in their 08 gear reviews as one of the best and handiest products available. Only downside is that friggin mount and that horridly limp hinge, ugh...but it'll still do what I got it for overall...that's the only reason I CAN'T give it 5 stars....

I know the outdoors is supposed to be where we set aside all things worldly and get back to the way it used to be...

...yea, that all sounds good, but if I can choose to keep my Ipod and cell phone or GPS running and not have to carry or resupply batteries for my camera during camping or hiking...or simply whatever the purpose...then I'll take the outdoors with a dash of MyTunes thru Itunes solar powered baby!!!! I bought this adapter and its 12v sibling to go along with the everlite solar headlamp for gearing up for the AT. I have owned the unit for a year now and have countless hours of charging my Ipod and many other devices. This is the most ingenious thing for outdoors that has come along EVER for this digital world. If you're like me and like to spend alot o time outdoors and hike and different things then you'd probably like the idea of having all your music as well as your Kodak moments available at all times not having to worry about batteries. Get this puppy with the headlamp and you will be all the envied the next time you and your friends go out on the trail or to camp...nuttin like having the soundtrack to your life in the great outdoors with mothernature your power supply!!!

I now use this more than my laptop or computer to charge my Ipod becuz I can stuff this in a pocket on the go in case I'm away from any other usb power source for too long....it makes Ipods, and many other things, so much more mobile friendly...better than cheese and bizkits!!!!

this is a must have item with the solar headlamp. don't get me wrong, I use its usb sibling more than I ever would the 12v adapter, but I do know it works and it will be a lifesaver for many when I go out on the AT next year. While I'm not crazy about the weak hinge on the headlamp mount the 12v and usb adapters along with the headlamp set is by far one of the best purchases for gear I have made not only for the AT but for many outdoors adventures to come in the future!!!!

buy it, ppl will envy and hate you for not having to carry batteries and will most likely feed you their extra goodies on the trail for use of your 12v charger to get that ever so needed 'if I only had just ONE bar on my cell phone' fix, hehehe!!!

I went with the full meal deal when I bought the everlite solar headlamp (headlamp, usb, 12v, ac adapter) and if you're going to have the headlamp I feel you might as well have each piece to it. Backcountry sells each piece idividually but you can buy the package from everlite, at least you could last year when I bought all this rom Backcountry. However, given free shipping over 50 bux and the no frills return policy from backcountry I figured I'd have to be a moron to only save 10 bux fromm buying the package shipped from everlite. I bought the entire package for my trip thru the AT next year. I was suprised to see that the power brick was not as heavy or chunky as I thought it would be before I recieved it. I have been more than pleased with this item. It has an led on it to let you know its activity, nice!!! Highly recommend if you own the headlamp!!!

ive owned this stove for about a year now. have been gearing up for the AT next year. never used a stove like this and weighed the pros and cons of what stove to go with (butane, white gas, alcohol, etc.) then I almost got a particular coleman stove but Backcountry was out of em so I go this one and after a year later looking at all the reviews and hype still coming from this stove I am glad I got it. I have used it many times in the backcountry over the last year and it has never failed me. Ive never tried it in any cold extremes but I recently fired it up in Kansas where the wind gusts are constant and this thing never once sputtered or acted like the wind was phasing it. all in all it may have taken an extra 60 seconds to boil my ramens...geez...I was amazed...the wind carried away my make shift windscreen but the pocket rocket kept on boiling and never missed a beat. as everyone points out it is economic, efficient, conservative, and convenient!!!!

what can I say about this thing that hasn't been said...

not much other than even the ppl I show it to who could care less for the outdoors thinks its the coolest thing they've ever seen. Women love it. Even my not so outdoorsy friends have mentioned its size and portability along with my MSR pocket rocket gives them second thoughts on possibly strapping on a pack and headin out with me one day!!! Bought this about a year ago while gearing up for a trip thru the AT next year. Have used it many times and it has been the best thing as far as cooking goes for a fast packing soloist kit. Got the tip from Backpacker magazine 08 gear review guide and didn't think twice bout the choice I made. Thanks Backpacker and Backcountry!!!

Im new to these fuel stoves. Im ol school and have always stoked fires and brought tin foil for the cooking on campin trips. However, a couple years ago I decided to take a hike thru the AT in 2010 so I knew I needed to get me a good lightweight stove. I opted for the MSR pocket rocket and it has done me well thus far. I got this brand of fuel well, becuz it was recommended. I have been advised that any such fuel will work so I also bought a can of Brunton. The MSR was the first one I tried and because it has lasted so much longer than I had expected I still havent tried out the other brand. I have boiled dozens of ramens and made many hot chocolates and this one can still has life in her yet. I'm seriously thinkin bout goin with the 8 oz canisters on my next order because I have read many reviews that state they also will nest inside my GSI Soloist cookset. Should at least cut down on the resupply thru the AT. All in all, given its been my first experience Im happy boiling ramens and water in under 3 minutes.

Bought this pack about a year ago gearing up for the AT next year. Thus far I have used it nearly everyday since I got it. If its not out in the woods with me its carrying my camelbak, laptop, change of clothes, tech gadgets, etc. It truly has become my 'home'. On most days I even have all my gear in it as if im constantly in 'survivorman' mode waiting for emergency or something. I have loaded this thing down with a lot of weight and it packs well, can hold tons, and is rather comfortable given its not fat ladden with thick padding. Ive heard ppl complain about the lack of padding around the hips but I dont find it to be that uncomfortable. I guess it all depends on your stature and fitness level. I grew up lugging army canvas rucksacks so this thing is a dream. I like the fact that it is stripped down with only the one front pocket (not counting the side pockets of mesh). It kinda helps you keep that light weight stripped down edge cuz if you aint got the pockets to stuff uneccesary crap you learn to utilize whats necessity. The gear hoops on it are convenient for my solar panels and fishing gear. And another complaint I see from time to time about the pack is the extra long cords on the compressions system (which rules) I think are a plus cuz it gives you means to strap other stuff that may come in handy at some point along the way.

A 3000 ci pack in under 1 1/2 lbs with all the features anyone could need (not want maybe, but need) for under 100 bux is aight by me!!!! You will need a raincover for it if you expect lots of downpour but its tough as heck and goes thru backcountry briar bushes without the slightest whimper....

bought these pants for their weight, durability, convertibility and over all quick access to ALOT of handy and useful items when on a trail. Haven't gotten to test them on a 'trail' yet, however, I bought these pants based on reviews here and other sites all over....I got these pants 3 days ago and prayed for hell and thunder, lol, and that's what I got was God's Kentucky fury with wind gusts of up to 60mph when I set out on my 3 miles hike....

All I can say is this...will be the PERFECT pair of pants for my AT hike next year and I gotta get another pair...

CON
Buyer beware!
I'm 5'7" and am 32" waist with a 31" length. I bought the medium sized regulars and they are about 4" TOO long (others complain bout sizes and fit obviously), I am fortunate enough to know a great seamstress who can easily remedy my problem. SO, if you're about a 33-34" waist you truly ought to try the medium regulars...just sayin...mine are WAY too long (tuckin em in boots and that's not kewl!). Also even with the waist strap cinched up on the pants they are still slightly too baggy in the hips. I refuse a belt cuz I'm goin lite on the trail....hell, a string would work, lol!!!!

BUT PERFECT PANTS THAT CAN BE MADE A PERFECT FIT!!!!!!!!!

I bought this rain/wind coat due to the recognition it got in Backpacker Magazine 08' Gear reviews. I just received it a few days ago and all the sudden NO rain in North KY. I brought it to work with me, praying that it would rain cats and dogs so I could test it out after 3 days....

the minute I left work it started lightning and thunder claps like bombs...I hurried home, threw on the North Face Paramount convertibles pants I bought...I can tell you this...those are great pants but you can see my review on those...my bottom got NOT SOAKED, but damp when I set off into my 3 mile hike. By the way, the outer layer of those pants got soaked, but completely dried in drizzling rain after bout 45 minutes.

I got struck by about 45-60 mph gusts of WIND and RAIN downpouring on me for bout an hour...My body was dry by the time I got back home from my stroll, and this upper jacket IS TINY and WILL keep you and EVERYTHING else dry IF you know what you're doing. The pockets ARE handy, especially the INSIDE ones, however I have many reviews on this coat and its got its flaws like the outer pockets. They seem a lil flimsy, but due to this jacket's weight. I understand and am not mad about that at all. However, I am reluctant to want to even open them if not necessary due to their flimsiness. It's GoLite, it's lite.

I am not unhappy with this purchase AT ALL, but I would recommend people adhere to what most other people mention about the sizing. I am naturally a medium sized T shirt although I always wear large shirts. Well, I noticed comments left here and other sites and decided I better order a large intead of a medium. Well, the verdict is in. Let's just say I am 5'7" , 38-40 chest...

I'm not a big guy (32" waist) so this large fits me PERFECTLY....if you truly are a large...get a proper size...contact golite and size from there then come back to spend you're money @ this site, lol!!!!

With HARD winds I could see how this coat would get a good/bad review on the hood it has, but I just nearly got blown over by the wind outside on my trek and the hood over my cap kept my brand new adidas cap from getting soaked...my uppers were more dry than my downers, hehe!!

GREAT COAT ...buyer beware of sizing!!!!!!!