I pair my hooded Hercules with the Alpha LT for everything alpine. Match made in heaven.

They are both midweight base layers. The Merino 4 is made of natural merino wool (more warmth, but dries slower). The capilene 3 is synthetic material, which does better with wicking moisture (breathability) but maybe not quite as warm. Both are good baselayers. You should look into windproof fleece jackets, hardhsells or softshells for an outerlayer, depending on your skiing conditions. A pullover version may be the closest thing to a "shirt" though, if that's really what you want.

Here's a link to BC's softshell buyer guide. http://www.backcountry.com/store/dc/650/Backcountry-Softshell-Jacket-Buyers-Guide.html

They aren't insulated so if cold is your concern, better look for a pair that is. As long as you're moving though, you may be fine.

The SV is somewhat thicker weight material and thus designed for more severe (SV) conditions. The LT is made for lightweight enthusiasts, though still quite tuff (I have one). THe length should be similar between the too. Both the SV and LT are strictly hardshells with no insulation (though they stop cold wind like noneother). The fission is insulated.

The only thing I'd be concerned about is the sleeve length. If the medium is just right when you raise your arms than I'd be worried about the extra inch you'd lose by going with a small. I have to draw the waste in a bit too with my large.

The SV (stands for "severe") is a bit more substantial in terms of materials. Softshells tend to have a shorter cut than hardshells but the large should be at least go past your waist. Click on the "chat now" button and ask a BC employee about the actual length though.

Some guys are just into to that too.

Uh, no down does well in heavy rain (that's what hard shells are for). Down is made for cold, dry environments. A blizzard should be fine though, as long as the snow isn't real sloppy. Notice the tech specs say "water-resistant."

I'm in the same boat brother! (except no tramp stamp) BC definitely caters to a shorter crowd. This would be one of my favorites if I were five inches shorter. Don't buy one til it's avaiable in tall. Who knows when that'll be though. I find that Arc'teryx is one of the few that offers fitting tall sizes.

I can't give you a number on the CFM but the breathability is probably about equal seeing as the materials are the same.

Hardshells tend to be a couple inches longer than the softshells.

Hardshells are designed to cause moisture to bead and roll off so it may not soak in like it would with a softshell.

If you're looking for more durability, go with the Pro-Shell.

i second Mike's opinion. I'm 6' 4" 185 and the large is dialed.

No, it's the LT because it's trimmed down (Light). The SV is thicker though, neither has extra reinforced areas.

I'd try XL as well.

Xl might be too large on the waist. This jacket is also pretty short for tall guys on the torso length.

compared to what? Clarify por favor.

They are quite flexible after you stretch them out on the first use. The d30 stuff seems to protect your hands well when you rap your knuckles on hard things. You can also box your roommate with them.

Go Large. I'm 6'4" 185.

As of 2008, yes. Many items in the arc'teryx line got the outsource boot to Asia.

You don't really need vents on these like you would a hard shell pant.

I disagree. I'm 6' 4", 185 and the larges are perfect in sleeve length Mike. You'll likely be disappointed with the waist width of an XL.

They should do fine. North Face shoes are generally on the heavier side and thus on the tougher side. My last pair of Ultras have outlasted two other pairs of running shoes. Granted, I try to avoid pavement because it works over my knees.

They should do fine. North Face shoes are generally on the heavier side and thus on the tougher side. My last pair of Ultras have outlasted two other pairs of running shoes. Granted, I try to avoid pavement because it works over my knees.

I'd say it is closest to the R2, in that it is a high-loft fleece -though even more so than the R2. The R3 and R4 have wind-blocking abilities that this does not. It is designed as a layering piece for balls-cold days. Perhaps a closer comparison is the Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man jacket.

Undoubtedly.

Here you go:
* Alpha: Technical focussed high-end items
* Theta: All Around oriented
* Beta: Trimmed down, minimalist
* Fission: Primaloft Insulated
* Gamma: Softshell
* Switchback: Ultralight Softshell
* Sigma: Windstopper
* Delta: Midweight Insulation - Fleece-like
* Rho: Base Layers
* Gothic: Wool

Abbreviations

* SV=Severe
* AR=All Around
* LT=Lightweight
* SL=Superlight
* SK=Ski/board specific
* MX=Mixed Use

The cuffs are tight but comfortable. Like Justin said, it's usually not an issue under a shell. This piece is not meant for outerwear in rougher weather like the gamma mx or sv because it isn't windproof.

BeeCee, you are a smart fellow. On top of that, I wanted to emphasize that the hercules O2 fabric is significantly more breathable than regular Powerstretch. So it's not as windproof, but makes for a better midlayer.

Check out the chart above.

Among other things, O2 is more malleable (less rigid) than regular Powershield. It is also less windproof but more breathable for better use as a midlayer.

Machine wash cold on gentle cycle. Preferably solo, and with the zippers zipped up. And you're best off hang drying it. No fabric softeners either. At least that's the general procedure for wool. Anyone else feel free to add.
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Word.

It's made in Canada. I've heard at the same factory that some Gammas were/are made? But that's just hearsay.

I'll one up you Angus and go with -- semi-glossy nylon : ) Just like a down bag Zi.

The lady has pair and the length is dialed. They flair a little less than the photos make it seem but they still look fantastic -- whether for layering or solo.

It should because they stretch well. I'd consider looking at some other options if you plan to use these for something more than casual.

Great coverage, though the fleece lining is only on the inside of the flaps and a band around the bottom. Still sweet though.

The MSR Denali Evo and Ascent shoes are the most durable. This is their best attribute. The Lightning Ascents on the other hand are lighter and more difficult to manufacturer. They also offer better traction. Usually when you combine 'lighter' and 'better performance', it also means more expensive. The Lightning Ascents are MSR's flagship snowshoe.Th plastic material on the Evos also gets pretty banged up around the edges after a few years. The lightning has an aluminum frame which will not really get damage much over time. Perhaps that's the reason for the price disparity.

No.
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The tag said it is, at least a little.

I would go large.

That sounds right.It may be a little loose but the length should be good.

Yup. Go for the Backcountry.com Shift base model. The not limited edition version.http://www.backcountry.com/store/BCC0056/Backcountry-Shift-Softshell-Jacket-Mens.htmlYou would think they'd pick a different color if it was limited. Because this color seems to not be so popular.

Well Matt, I'm not familiar with the Beta but I have the Alpha LT and the fit is fantastic with plenty of length in the front and back. I'm 6' 4" and have a large. It falls about three inches below my waist.

Large!---Hard to say, I'm 6' 4" 185 and the large is great but it could be a little big for you.

No hand warmers, Bri. It is strictly a hard shell. And the pockets are high so they are still accessible with a harness on. They are also made for accessing by crossing the arm over the chest. i.e. the right hand pocket is on the left side of the jacket. I definitely recommend this shell though.

Very much so! This is really quite a warm jacket....and moves extremely well!And dudes dig the flattering fit.

The teaberry is a very orangey red, yes. The sizing I can't help with, but Get on Live Chat and they'll be able to tell you.

This is pretty damn big. Too big for your pocket for sure.Try the Black Diamond Jive wire (key chain biner) or the camp nano wireThough it may look impressive to the ladies if you did have this in your pocket with your keys.

I am not 100% on this one, but it looks like you twist it and then move the slider down, then you can open the gate.It's twist and lift my friend.

better fabric, construction and design. It's a shell, and as such doesn't offer much warmth by itself but with appropriate layers you will be comfortable.It blocks 100 percent of wind, which is essential for cutting out cold drafts.

Basically it's the same jacket without the hood. They're amazing jackets too. I use mine for just about everything. They're insanely comfortable! The waist actually isn't tapered but right at the cuff of the sleeves it is just barely tapered. I am 6'1" and right at 175lbs. Also my dress shirt sleeve length is 34/35. I got a size large and it left just a little room for some layering. I would consider bumping up to the XL if I were you. Extra length in sleeves won't cause issues with this jacket due to the tapering of the sleeves. You could always order a L and XL and send back the one that doesn't fit but I'm willing to be that the XL is going to fit the best.Hope that helps.
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I'd go large. Any larger and the waist would be to wide.

Soft fleecy goodness on the inside and amazingly waterproof powershield material on the outside. These pants will keep your buns dry as long as you aren't wading. No softshell material can beat a good hardshell in terms of waterproofing and windproofing, but as long as you aren't falling all over the slopes, these will be more comfortable, and will let you breathe more. Unfortunately the inseam doesn't get much longer than a little over 32 inches. Click on the little ruler in the top right to get the exact numbers.

Not at all.--They do block a little wind. And they are fantastic for runs, though maybe not the bike? It is a fantastic base and you can't beat the price.

Yup. These are basically tights so they should fit great. They stretch amazingly well and are a great base. Robin Hood would be jealous.

1235s are rated 300 +lbs, as you may already know. I freakin love this shoe and highly recommend it for extensively snowy outings (ie, the Cascades in winter). As long as you are wearing a boot that isn't overly bulky (such as a sorel, snowboarding boot,etc) than the fit should be fine. Bring your boot into a local outdoor store and check the fit before you buy.

I'm 6'2" 190 and the large is perfect for me. I would definitely go to XL, especially if you have long arms and a skinny trunk, like I do.--Yeah, Rhino, I too wonder why it is assumed that if one is tall, one must surely be overweight. Alas, Arc'teryx is about as good as it gets for sizing for tall, lean dudes. I have a friend who has even had some of his dead birds tailored.

I upsized 1/2 size. I would give you a word of warning. I could only get about 20-30 miles of trail running out of these shoes. The soles literally wore out that quickly. I went through 4 pair in 6 weeks. Luckily backcountry.com has the most rockin return policy.Just food for thought!The fit was equivocal for me. But the support and comfort wasn't there.

Peter, Metolius recommends that you first mount the Simulator to a 5/8" or 3/4" piece of plywood, then mount the plywood to studs above a doorway. You can find these instructions at www.metoliusclimbing.com/howto-installboards.htmJC--Metolius recommends that the plywood be anchored into at least two (preferably three or four) studs. By mounting it on the plywood first, the weight is distributed evenly over the studs. It also provides a spacer so that the hangboard is flush with any trim around the doorway.

The Shift is going to be lighter than both the Gamma MX and the Welder Hoody. As far as I know, the MX and Welder weigh about the same. The Welder weighs ~22oz for the largeAs far as materials though the Gamma SV is comparable.

It's not looking like that is the case for this year. I love the carbon but I realize it's not the best color for snow.

Slim fit like most dead dinosaurs. It would fit under a hard shell but also acts as an outerlayer on it's own, though not as water or wind resistant as the Gamma MX or SV. Check out BeeCee's posts below. Also, most hard shell hoods are large enough to fit a hooded midlayer (such as the hercules) underneath.

It's all shell and no insulation. I'm 6'4" 180 lbs and a large is the most dialed shell I've ever seen. It is an athletic fit like most arc'teryx clothing, but it still has room for a base and mid layer. I'd go medium unless you have real long arms and broad shoulders.

These stay up extremely well, even without having to over tighten them which is nice. They're great gaiters!Hope that helps.AS Kisow's review says below, they are a larger circumference. I wear a 12.5 boot and sized down for a large and the fit is good if I layer.

Check this: http://www.backcountry.com/store/ARC0707/Arcteryx-Hercules-Hooded-Fleece-Jacket-Womens.htmlYou'll have to click on the sizing chart to check the fit.

I'd look elsewhere. Too much money for poor breathability.

Nearly every Atlas shoe uses the spring-loaded suspension strap, which results in a similar response in all the shoes. I've found that the biggest determinant on whether or not you kick up snow is your own personal gait. I don't kick any snow with my Atlas shoes but my girlfriend does with her Elektras. I'd rent a pair if you can and find out. Even if they do, Atlas shoes are amazing on many other levels. Also, it seems like the longer the shoe the less likely it is to flick up during your stride.

You may not need snowshoes with feet that wide! But seriously, look into the Atlas 1230s or 1235s. The bindings seem pretty compatible as long as you're not using an extremely bulky boot. Also, it may be a long shot, but try calling some manufacturers and seeing if there is the possibility of a custom binding.

These are in universal sizes. Check out all of backcountry.com's beanies. They're really nice for fit, warmth and longevity! I've been really happy.In my experience men and women don't have different head sizes.
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The Himal is wunderbar. It fit's over the ears nicely. The fleece part only covers the ears though and the hat is not wind proof obviously.

These snowshoes are really amazing for everything with the exception of backpacking in the snow. They don't do that well with large amounts of weight. Sounds like they'd be perfect for what you're looking for. I would definitely go with these over any of the Tubbs line. Jeez, what a nice person.....I need more friends like you:)Look into the Atlas Elektras too.

With proper layering the Alpha LT is a fine jacket to use while skiing inbounds/backcountry. It's my main jacket while skiing in inbounds/BC in Whistler. I havent had any problems with maintaining a good body temperature. If it's too hot for the slopes, it's only 12.9 ounces of too hot.Strength wise, it's still durable that it shoudlnt make that big of a difference for you, plus this lighter jacket allows you to use it in more varied situations then the Alpha SV

How is it made? I don't understand the question. You should really check out thenorthface.com and read up on their propaganda for your answers.It does have a higher loft polyester fleece, creating more room for heat to sit. But so do other jackets. Fleece in general is just pretty toasty. Ironically, the recipe has stayed fairly consistent for years, and the prices still stay high. My guess is that the $165 tag is because every frat guy and their mom wants one of these.

That means it doesn't zip into anything.Yeah. Some fleece midlayers or other liners can be zipped to connect it with a shell.

The outlet has just a couple larges left in the "utility brown" color. That's all for that price.

This is a great mixed use boot. I have a buddy who uses his for minor ice climbing and hiking and is planning on getting another pair soon. If you want a boot for the all around then this is it. Also check out the Kayland MXT Mountaineering Boot in the outlet. It is a similar makeup though not as sweet looking. Neither have insulation though. So if you are going real cold, the Nepals may be what you want. Plus I believe the Nepals are a little more rigid for ice climbing.

Are you thinking about the buying the Golite Sun Dragon 2? I also have a very narrow size 10 foot, I've demoed the Sun Dragon and really wasn't impressed, I just could get use to the lugs plus I've had friends complain about the durability and have had the fabric tear on the toebox. I would highly recommend the Montrail Hardrock for running, work and hiking it's a great all around durable trail shoe.The Go-Lites do come with inserts to narrow the fit to your preference. They also provide some additional padding on the ball of the foot.