There's no such thing as an all-in-one jacket. Buy the Hercules for the perfect on-the-move, breathable midlayer, and pair it up with the Alpha LT (which is 100% wind and waterproof) when the weather gets real nasty. Most of the time, you're burning up so much, all you'll need is the Hercules (which breaths way better than most softshells). It's a big investment but it's worth it for a match made in heaven. Shop around and you should be able to find them half off at some point.

Go large man.

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.
--

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.
--
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.
--
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.
--
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.

It's way more durable then people give it credit for. It's light, but I've brushed tress while skiing pretty fast- I've ripped several other jackets the same way; the paclite held up fine.I went with the pro shell based on numerous accounts I've read about paclite wearing and tearing.

If you feel that it's a manufacturing defect, contact Arc'Teryx customer service. they have a lifetime warrantee on their jackets; they might be able to help you out.I prefer my Gore-Tex Pro also. It's just twice as expensive.

I'm 6' 4" 180 and the large is a sweet fit, especially the arm and shoulder lengths.

Sounds like an XL would fit you best.I would look for a Tall Large.

The short inseam for Arc'teryx 36 in. pants (large) is 29.1 inches, but, apparently there are no short sizes available for this product right now. I have the opposite problem of finding long sizes.

Get some MSR Lighting Accent's.Better yet, get some Atlas 1200s.

What kinda boot are we talking here, like the description above reads the molded binding on this snowshoe creates a snug fit with your boot, it’s an adjustable binding for various boot sizes and depending on your size you can go with 25 in or the 30 inMost boots should fit (with the exception of some snowboarding boots, which you wouldn't want to use anyway).

These are not a racing snowshoe but if you are a novice racer you will be able to make it work. Racing shoes are small and light.The race shoes (usually around 22 inches) are made for packed trails usually, not deep fluff.

Sorry to hear about the knee! Since I started snowshoeing my skis have been collecting dusts. Well based on your height/weight I would highly recommend the Atlas E10 Series Elektra snowshoe for women perfect for varied terrain small enough not further aggravate the knee, good thing is snowshoeing is a low impact sport and use your ski poles for support and to help relieve some of the strain on the knees. Another good option is the women’s MSR Lightning which may have a little more traction for climbing ski slopes. Btw CW-X Stabilyx tights offer great support to the lower body and knee joints. HEAL FAST.Also, the Atlas shoes have a silicon band that is supposed to releive fatigue and provide some cushioning. My girlfriend has sensitive knees and she loves her Elektras.

I would call Redfeather and ask. They may even fix it for free.

The blip says "The Gold 9s fit feet from women's size five to a men's thirteen." But I'd recommend getting a shoe that is more aimed at your size, not a one-size-fits-all. Look into the Atlas 1223 Elektra.

Check out the Atlas Elektra. They cost a little more but for great quality, including: fatigue-reducing silicon band, easy-to-use bindings, and female-gait-oriented design.

I'd suggest a 30" shoe for the both of you if you plan on leaving packed trails. I really like the Atlas 1230s that I have. The women's version is called the Elektra.

Go large. See above answer. Word.

you should contact a gearhead at Backcountry.A medium profile, insulated boot works best however as long as the binding can fit snugly, wear whatever feels most comfortable. Jeff is right on. You want something warm (insulated) but also fairly light. But really any boot is usable. I have even used sorels comfortably on a number of outings.

My take is that it's better than some (ie. snowshoes with a urethane-coated webbing strap which causes a far greater springing action (example: Red Feather)). They aren't as good as those that have a pivot however (example: MSR Lightning). My experience has been that they will throw snow on your back a bit. This is does not bother me on shorter walks, but on long hikes my back ends up being completely soaked. I definitely feel this is one of Atlas' big disadvantages. I like more of a pivot system that allows the snow to slide of the back of the shoe as you walk.I have the Atlas 12s and have never had a problem with kicking snow. The biggest determinant is your personal gait though. My girlfriend does kick snow with here Atlas Elektras.

(Ryan)Besides price there is no difference. Keep in mind the Atlas 1025/1030 have difference specifications. (Eric)I'm not sure what you're asking. All 10-series shoes are the same, except that the length differs. The last 2 digits denote the length of the snowshoe. The difference between the 1025, 1030, and 1035 are the lengths...25", 30", and 35" respectively.There actually is one big difference. The REI version is generally sold by an inexperienced and condescending "outdoor sales specialist." : )

I believe it is a little over 18 oz.

I'd say I have a "lifting-developed chest and shoulders" too and the only problem with the fit is that it is a little short for me (6' 4"). Other then that, the athletic fit has just enough room for a base layer or a thin mid. The neck on a medium is 17". It does stretch too. The details do mention a "wrist stash" which isn't on this one I think.

His feet should be fine on just about any snowshoe binding (they're all adjustable). As for what size...he'd probably need a large shoe like a 35 inch, in order to have good flotation in deep snow. Especially if he plans on taking a pack as well.

I'd look into the "Insulator" version of this same tight. It's here: http://www.backcountry.com/store/CWX0014/CW-X-Insulator-Expert-Tights-Mens.html?CMP_ID=SH_SHP001&CMP_SKU=CWX0014&;mv_pc=r110

Same sock, different photo. Backcountry often has different photos depending on the color shown. Sometimes it may be because they haven't got around to taking their own shots and are using the stock images. Or they were taken at different times. It's funny though how the appeal can change based on how the product is displayed (hence models being pretty people).

They seem to be out right now. Any time you're confused about size conversions, the little "View Sizing Chart" button on the top right has that info.

The Atlas 1235 is rated at "300+" but I'm not aware just how high they mean. Anything smaller than a 35 inch shoe is probably out of the question. On trails the 1235 should work for you as long as the powder isn't too deep and you don't plan to take an extra pack. Also, the Atlas 12 series bindings are extremely quick and easy to use (No laborious tinkering or tightening, just adjust the heel strap length and one quick pull to tighten the foot strap.) I suggest renting the largest size you can find and going from there. Good luck!

Weight (including pack) and possible snow depth are the main concerns. Look on the right side of this screen under TECH SPECS and then look at "recommended wight"--If you're hiking off trail in deep powder get a large shoe for better flotation (especially if using a pack).

Yup. Any sock that offers extra support using synthetic fibers in the design is tentatively considered a "compression" sock. Really though, all socks are technically "compression." Look for words such as "support" in the description, such as the above when talking about the X-Cross bandage. In my running experience, it's whether or not the sock prevents blisters ( I use Wright brand socks) that matters, not support. That's what the shoe is for.

Yes indeedie.

It well might. Any metal will conduct heat well, and titanium is no exception. Plus this plate is very thin. On the other hand, if your food is cool enough to eat, it's probably cool enough to hold.It conducts heat almost too good. Fortunately the plate isn't holding a hot liquid like a bowl or cup which does get to hot to handle, until it cools off a bit.--See answer in above question. Plus here is a site where you can compare conductivities in metals. Aluminum > Titanium > Stainless Steel. http://www.engineersedge.com/properties_of_metals.htm

It would, but it's not supposed to. The sides aren't very high, which I think could be a problem. And it's only 7 inches across. Snow Peak pot lids are actually intended to be fry pans, so I'd go for that, but if you really want to save space, weight, and $$$, go for it. Titanium melts at about double the temperature butane burns at, so it'll hold up just fine.--And titanium is actually a better heat conductor than stainless steel so the pan would heat up faster. Aluminum is substantially better than both, but who wants Alzheimer's?

unless I'm not up to speed on the latest technology, enamelware is metal and metal is never microwave safe.--Yeah, according to an amazon.com review: "Though safe for both the dishwasher and the oven, these dishes are not designed for use in the microwave."

Not very. It's not intended to pack down small. If weight or space are at all an issue, don't get this.--It's full sized cookware.

The only widths I know of are medium/D.---KEEN footwear tends to cater to a wider foot size.

This isn't relevant...but it kind of looks like a short bath robe. From a guy's perspective that is.

Here's a link to SOG's suggestions on care/maintenance. Hope it helps. http://www.sogknives.com/service/care/

I'm not really sure. Seems like backcountry has been doing a lot of this. They will put something on sale and only have one color out of 10 on sale. Seems like they have sold out of last years sale tent and only have the new model. Which isn't on sale. This has been bothering me as of late with these guys.The price has been tweaked.Sometimes BC leaves discounted items in the "store" and doesn't put them in the "outlet" because there are more discounts available in the outlet than the store. So that way 40 percent off coupons and the like that can be applied in the outlet, cannot be applied to them.

Sorry, it's made with wool. The North Face Elevation Pom Pom Beanie is all cotton though.

A large (35-41mm) . The specs are in the box on the right side.

1230 indeed Ryan. I just bought a pair (6' 4" 180 lbs). It provides enough support to allow me to carry a pack as well.

While this fleece isn't as athletically cut as other fleeces, it would still fit fine under a shell. The hoods on fleeces are generally not removable either.

That's what it's for.Everest is in the Himalayas too.Ben: It also works on Mars. Look in the "Tech Specs"

I have a Aethos 60 and have the same problem with it, so have to use a medium. I don't think it is interchangeable.

I skimmed the northface site and couldn't find any 2008 model compatible with them. Kind of TNF to think of product longevity, huh?

Why does Colgate make 50 types of toothbrushes? It's also similar to the Rush jacket. I'm assuming they are banking on a slightly different design/color scheme to boost sales. But I'm also just bitter that the big outdoor suppliers are selling out : )

I'm not seeing it on sale, only the $98.00 price. However, sometimes they will put one type of an item (maybe color, size, etc...) on sale yet leave the other versions of that same product at a different price. Maybe that's what you were experiencing? yea, what he said...What is "this" your referring to? - mikeIt's usually a discontinued color or abnormal size that is discounted. With limited quantities.

I was told at the local gear store to flush it out with purified or tap water a few times.

A medium unless you have real long arms. Backcountry's customer service for returns is incredible too, so getting another shouldn't be a problem.

Gore did away with production of it's XCR fabrics in fall of 2007. This 2008 model uses Pro Shell which Gore claims is lighter (about 50% lighter), more durable and allows for more freedom of movement. And as always it is guaranteed to keep you dry.Here's a link I found about it by outdoorsmagic.comhttp://www.outdoorsmagic.com/news/article/mps/UAN/4480/v/1/sp/

Shell only on this puppy and yeah it is good for any weather, but unless it is raining on you I bet the summer hiking will be a little hot. Pit zips help that though.I agree with Spencer. But when the weather is a little bipolar (rolling thunderstorms) than I'd recommend the Alpha LT for summer (every season though too). At only about 12 oz, it is one of Arc'teryx's lightest jackets. And it's Gore Pro Shell so you'll stay as dry as the Clear Eyes guy. And when the weather is bueno then you can just stow it away.

Both are a great choice! I have the same issue. I looked at both of those jackets but ended up with the Outdoor Research Mentor jacket. I had to size up to an XL for arm length, which was the case with every jacket I could find, but it works out okay for the layering factor.Hope that helps.I would go with the Theta AR. At 6'2/180, the large has ample spacing. But as you mentioned for sizing, look into the Norrona Narvik C/S Jacket. They are nearly identical. I have a large Alpha LT and the fit is the best I've seen in any shell. It doesn't have that "bell" shape like on most larges and it is a dialed fit but still has room for layering. The length I found to be excellent. 6' 4'" 180 lbs.

I've used this pack before and it worked well for me. I'm 6' and have a 34" waist. It's primarily for those weekend length trips but if he's a light packer then go for it. The sleeping bag compartment is bigger than appears from the outside of the pack too. I must add the padding on the straps and back are super comfortable. Both Backcountry and TNF have a lifetime guarantee (your life, not the products). Ben: I use a medium Osprey Aether 60 Pack, which is also 3700in cu, for week long trips and it has all the space I need. If he packs light then this sized pack should work great. Plus, you usually save more than a pound in weight with these smaller packs.

Jamie, Your son will most likely take a large. The pack to purchase is determined by torso length. Underneath the pack options at the top is a link that opens a sizing chart and it gives directions on how to measure his torso. Ben: If your son is lean though a medium might be preferable. I'm 6' 4" and 180 ibs and I still have to cinch the waist belt all the way up.

Dos amigo.

One pair of baskets.