Clothing

Gear

Accessories

Get Your Profile Dialed

Shane O'Donnell

Skier // Camper/Hiker // Climber

Shane O'Donnell: #5 of 91,688 Top 100 Gear Guru More Information

86 Reviews:

Helpful?
25 Yes | 0 No

2 Questions:

Helpful?
0 Yes | 0 No

903 Answers:

Helpful?
104 Yes | 11 No

17 Photos:

Helpful?
3 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments:

Helpful?
0 Yes | 0 No

0 Gearlists:

Helpful?
0 Yes | 0 No

  • Stomping Grounds:

    Northern BC
  • Bio:

    I'm a full time student at UNBC studying Outdoor Recreation and Conservation. One of my main hobbies is to test out and research gear. I am a religiously outdoors person, and love skiing, climbing, hiking and camping, and I try to get out and paddle every now and then. I ski all winter, from first day, to first tracks, to spring corn and slush cup, and I teach younger kids how to make turns, and try and open their eyes to the gorgeous splendor that is the mountains. I am also a ski patroller. Currently, I am training to become an active member of the Prince George Search and Rescue team, and hopefully will be able to put to use for them the skills I have learnt skiing and climbing. I love the climb, it's a newer thing for me, but I have been bitten by the bug so hard it hurts sometimes. Being outdoors is always a fun social activity for me, so hiking and camping with people is always an awesome experience. I am not a weight weenie, I will take it if I can justify it, instead of suffering like some people.

Flag

Un-Flag

Close

Something wrong with this profile?

Thanks for pointing it out. We'll take it down immediately and send it to our clean-up crew.

This profile was: (Optional)

Rankings More Information

Use your real name to add some legitimacy to your content. Real names mean real community, and real community means real knowledge. Gear Gurus who use their real names get bumped up 1.5x for each contribution - you deserve the credit. For more info check out the Help Center.

This is how you compare to all the other Gear Gurus on Backcountry.com. You earn one point for each list / review / question / answer / gear photo / comments / votes you contribute. You gain an extra point every time someone gives one of your contributions a thumbs up, but you lose a point for every thumbs down. Bonus: if you use your real name, your point total increases by 1.5x—you deserve credit for putting your neck on the line to make this community better. For more info, check out the Help Center.

Change me.

This is how you compare to the other Gear Gurus within a group of products. You earn one point for each of your list / reviews / questions / answers / photos / comments / votes. You gain an extra point every time someone gives one of your contributions a thumbs up (killer), but you lose a point for every thumbs down (filler). Bonus: if you use your real name, your point total increases by 1.5x-you deserve credit for putting your neck on the line to make this community better. For more info, check out the Help Center.

Von Zips

Von Zips

Von Zipper Skitch Sunglasses - Polarized

4 days ago

Chillin' out on closing day at the small hill literally right behind my house.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

More Than Just Bouldering

More Than Just Bouldering

La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoe

October 30, 2009

Colin boosting up a 10c lead at the Lost Boys crag in Jasper.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Leading Gambit

Leading Gambit

Five Ten Gambit Climbing Shoe - Men's

October 30, 2009

Senan leading the first route of the weekend, a 5.9 at Juno, in Jasper, Canada.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Rockin' the Spire

Rockin' the Spire

Five Ten Spire Lace-up Climbing Shoe

October 30, 2009

Me climbing a 5.9 at the Evening Rock, a local crag in PG.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Smurfin' It Up

Smurfin' It Up

Five Ten Spire Lace-up Climbing Shoe

October 30, 2009

Edward beastin' his way up this 5.10b at the Lost Boys crag in Jasper, Canada.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Mythos In Action

Mythos In Action

La Sportiva Mythos Climbing Shoe - Men's

October 30, 2009

Gareth climbing a 5.10a at Juno in Jasper, Canada.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Tube Port

Tube Port

Black Diamond Outlaw Winter Pack - 1831-1939cu in

June 8, 2009

This is where your hydration tube goes into the sleeve on the right shoulder. Not a great pic, but you can see it to the right of the orange. Also there is the orange gear loop thinger, whatever it is called, which is good for clipping either gear for, or the hanging hook of your bladder to keep it from moving around too much. One of the aluminum stays is also visible.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

A Look at the Avi Pocket

A Look at the Avi Pocket

Black Diamond Outlaw Winter Pack - 1831-1939cu in

June 8, 2009

Pretty well designed and laid out avi gear pocket. The compression straps on the side of the bag do not inhibit access to your gear. Room for any BD shovel, probe and snow saw. You can just catch a glimpse of the adjustment for the diagonal carry loop in the bottom left corner, found inside the pocket.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

A-Frame Carry

A-Frame Carry

Black Diamond Outlaw Winter Pack - 1831-1939cu in

June 8, 2009

Slide the skis through the large bottom compression straps, and clip the smaller top straps under the toe piece of the binding. Use a ski strap to keep the tips together, and voila.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Diagonal Carry

Diagonal Carry

Black Diamond Outlaw Winter Pack - 1831-1939cu in

June 8, 2009

This is how the diagonal carry of this pack works. It can hold any ski I have ever used, no matter how heavy the rig. The tails go through the loop at the bottom, and then the top snowboard carry strap is used to hold down the top of the skis. If you want added security, clip the included grey strap to one of the loops on the top of the pack, wrap around your skis, and clip to the other loop.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Oakley A-Frames with the G10 MX

Oakley A-Frames with the G10 MX

Giro 2008 G10 MX Helmet

May 19, 2009

Not the best fit compared to other goggles, but definitely good, and the gap is very minimal, almost not there.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

Sold Out

Smith I/O's sitting in my G10 MX

Smith I/O's sitting in my G10 MX

Giro 2008 G10 MX Helmet

May 19, 2009

Great fit, bit of a side view. And yes, I do wear a mouthguard when I ski.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

Sold Out

G10 MX and Smith I/O's

G10 MX and Smith I/O's

Giro 2008 G10 MX Helmet

May 19, 2009

The fit of this with my Smith I/O's. Good fit, no gap.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

Sold Out

YRB Booter

YRB Booter

Rossignol S5 Barras Alpine Ski

May 7, 2009

My buddy Jay throwing it after building a huge booter in an industrial park right off the highway.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

Sold Out

Smith I/O

Smith I/O

Smith I/O Interchangeable Optics Spherical Series Goggles - Mirror Lens

April 21, 2009

My sick white Smith I/O's chillin' after a solid day on the hill.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Double, Say WAH!

Double, Say WAH!

Rossignol SAS2 Ti 140 Wide Ski Binding

April 3, 2009

This is my buddy huckin' the double on a booter he built in an industrial park. He lands with confidence on his SAS2 Ti 140s.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

K2 ObSethed x/ Look PX 15

K2 ObSethed x/ Look PX 15

K2 ObSETHed Alpine Ski

March 12, 2009

These are my ObSethed skis sitting in the snow before one of the deepest days this season at Powder King. 6:15a.m., but totally worth the early wake up once the lifts started rolling.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
See all photos for this product >

Sterling Mini Cord Mini Spool

9 hours ago

Well you would do it in the drop down menu right beside the picture, above the add to cart button, but currently they seem to be out of stock.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Black Diamond Expedition Ski Pole

9 hours ago

No they are supposed to lock tight and not move on you. See if you can tighten it yourself, or contact Black Diamond.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Discrete Albelian Beanie

9 hours ago

It's definitely a bigger fitted beanie, meant to be baggy. That said, I know some people with small heads that seem to dig this one. Kind of more a style choice than anything.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

DAKINE Deluxe Tune Tuning Kit

15 hours ago

Both kits work for skis or snowboards, since they use the same wax and such. If you are wanting to start up a home shop type deal where you can do all your own maintenance, I recommend the Super Tune, because waxing irons work way better than normal irons.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Rossignol SYSTEM S7 Pro Mancini Ski

1 day ago

Well the S6 is more suited for groomers size wise, but the S7 can really tear them up. I would say if you ski tons of pow, and then some groomed, go S7. If its more all-mountain fun and versatility you are looking for, the S6 might be better suited for you.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Black Diamond Transfer 3 Shovel

1 day ago

This shovel moves so much snow, it's kind of ridiculous. We have built quite a few kickers with just a couple of them, and they are great for it. Plus, they can dig out your friend in a hurry, or dig out your snow pit to make sure that that kind of thing won't happen.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Line Pandora Ski - Women's

1 day ago

The Pandora is a lot of ski, but I think that you can handle that 172. It will feel different for sure in the tighter trees, but fall line and deep snow you will appreciate the stability that you can get from them. You will probably have to adjust a bit of your style, and ski more aggressively, but I think that these really are the next step for female skiers, who really want to progress. And that size will step up your game for sure.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Sorel Caribou Boot - Men's

2 days ago

They aren't the best for deep snow like that, since no, they aren't very tight around the cuff. Having snow pants with snow gaiters that can cover the boot will make that problem disappear though. Or look for a boot that has a cuff with adjustable fit.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Mountain Hardwear Makalu Pant - Men's

2 days ago

There is a sizing chart right below the drop down menu, which tells you the lengths of Mountain Hardwear clothing. You will probably need a Long pant, but bc.com is apparently out of stock at the moment.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Tikka A Plus

Petzl Tikka Plus Headlamp

Petzl Tikka Plus Headlamp

Rating for this product: 5 3 days ago

Great headlamp. This thing cranks out some light, is lightweight, and burns for days. It does take 3 batteries though, which if they could make it down to 2, would be probably the best small light available. The light that it throws off is great for the trail (high), the bivouac for the bathroom (med-low) and reading in the tent (low). The Tikka packs down pretty small too, so you have no real excuse not to be caught out without a light.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Pat Hat

Patagonia Beanie Hat

Patagonia Beanie Hat

Rating for this product: 4 3 days ago

A standard beanie from a great company. I really have been digging Pat a lot lately, and this hat is just another reason. It is warm, and fits my slightly larger head great. The colours are a bit retro-esque, but the black is nice. It does fit under a climbing helmet, but I have found other beanies better suited for it, and mostly prefer skullcaps anyway.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Pricy But Nice

Arc'teryx Waldo Beanie

Arc'teryx Waldo Beanie

Rating for this product: 4 3 days ago

Pretty much one of my most used beanies. I like the style and the fit, and it functions like you expect coming from Arc'teryx. The price tag is steep, but it will keep you warm, wether you are hiking a line, belaying an ice climb, or marching to support climate action. The colours pop quite a bit, and the medallion is a nice touch.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Marmot Ellsworth Insulated Jacket - Men's

3 days ago

I think that it is something like 1 lb 5 oz/ 595 g. Might be off on that though.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Backcountry.com Merino Zip Tee - Long-Sleeve - Men's

3 days ago

Personally I find them very similar, in weight, warmth and wicking. The fit on the BC.com Tee is a bit better, at least for me. If you love the Ibex, then I say stick with the Ibex, but this is about the same type of deal.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Patagonia R3 Fleece Jacket - Men's

3 days ago

For sure the R3 is lighter than the R4. The R3 is not quite as warm, but probably a bit more breathable, which is hard to compare since they are both breathable. Personally I feel that if you are debating between the 2, the R3 is about all you will ever need for a midlayer, and fall/casual outerlayer.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Armada Plasma Pant - Men's

3 days ago

There is a sizing chart located right below the drop down menu. If that doesn't help much, check the Armada website.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Dalbello Sports Krypton Rampage Ski Boot - Men's

3 days ago

About a size 7. Remember the liners do pack out a bit, but not enough for the 25.5. Maybe a 26.5 or 27 would work best. I have this boot, and love it, in the 27.5, with a size 8.5 foot.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Atomic Bent Chetler Ski

4 days ago

You might actually want a ski that has a narrower waist dimensions. Something like the Armada JJ would be awesome, because it has similar characteristics to the Bent Chetlers, but is narrower. They handle great in the deeper snow, rip groomers, will be more manageable in bumps, and tighter terrain. For sure check out the Volkl's but the JJ would probably be better.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Smith Prodigy Turbo Fan Goggle

4 days ago

It doesn't actually block the air flow too bad for most helmets, but there are some that don't work. Most of the Smith line works great though.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Most Awkward Sizing Ever

Arc'teryx Covert Beanie

Arc'teryx Covert Beanie

Rating for this product: 2 4 days ago

I really wanted to like this beanie, but even as an under-helmet one it didn't work out for me. The thing doesn't come down over my ears, has very minimal stretch to it, and is too tight for my head. And I mean too TIGHT. It actually started to hurt a bit after just a couple minutes, and I don't really have a huge head. The fabric is really nice, and the hat itself looked alright, but I just couldn't use it.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

POC Lobes Goggle

4 days ago

It kind of depends on your glasses. I have Oakley frames, and they are a wide square frame, which only fits under goggles after some modification to the foam. It isn't hard, just a couple slits and it'll work. If your glasses are fairly small framed, then these should work. If not, try and find a designated OTG goggle.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Full Tilt First Chair Ski Boot - Men's

4 days ago

That is about the same ball-park. The 10 is the stiffest that Full Tilt makes, so can be compared to downhill racers or big mountain boots.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Safari Zips

Von Zipper Cookie Sunglasses - Women's

Von Zipper Cookie Sunglasses - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 4 days ago

Got these for my lady, and man was she happy. They are really nice lenses, great optical clarity, and good light filtration. The Cyan Safari is a little darker than in the pictures, but not much. Super chill looking for hanging out or road-tripping.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Start Wearing Purple

DAKINE Tall Boy Beanie

DAKINE Tall Boy Beanie

Rating for this product: 5 4 days ago

Pretty standard for the style these days, but pulled off with the standards that I have come to expect from Dakine beanies. The colours are bright, and the style is just right for the hill or the class. Keeps your head warm, and stretches for most head sizes and shapes. The purple is a bangin' good time of a colour too!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Not the Best, Not By a Long Shot

The North Face Cable Fish Beanie

The North Face Cable Fish Beanie

Rating for this product: 2 4 days ago

Bought this beanie for my friend, and she didn't like the style of it. Or most other things about it for that matter. The fit was strange, really tight on almost anyone we got to try it. The stitching on parts was starting to blow, and looked unprofessional and sloppy. The material didn't hold in heat very well at all, and was too short to keep your ears warm on cold days outside. Might have gotten a lemon, but I'm having my doubts about TNF these days.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Stylish Beanie

Coal Frena Beanie

Coal Frena Beanie

Rating for this product: 4 4 days ago

Sick style for chilling out in around town, or at the hill. Tons of options colour wise, so you can get more than one, and switch it up sometimes. Not the warmest beanie out there, but it's good for skiing up to about the -15C or so mark. The fit is great, stretches out to match most people. It is long, but hey, that's the style these days.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

The North Face Expansion Triclimate Jacket - Men's

4 days ago

It appears to be a black zipper for it, but best bet is to go on live chat and talk with an actual bc.com rep, who can potentially check their stock.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Smith Method Sunglasses - Polarized Lens

4 days ago

I have tried the Methods, but liked the Supers better for my face. If you felt that the Super was too big, then for sure the Methods will work better. You also might be a border line face, where neither is good, but we can only hope that it works out for you.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

The North Face Base Camp Ski Sleeve

4 days ago

Maybe cross-country gear. But if you look at the dimensions, the bag is only an 8 inch diameter. So if you have 2 skis that would fit in an 8 inch diameter then sure, 2 skis. If you want powder boards and a groomer ski, not going to work, since the pow planks are probably about a 150mm shovel which is 3/4 of your space already.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

K2 Hellbent Alpine Ski

4 days ago

The closer to the core you get, the easier it is to turn them, so I would bet that you should handle them close to the core. That said, mounting at something like +6 would be about all this ski would ever need, and mean that the Schizo's wouldn't really be necessary. If you have the money and want them, then go for it, but otherwise, you will probably only ride them in one mounting position anyway.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Rossignol S7 Barras Ski

5 days ago

They do ski short, but the 188 should be a good length for you.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Great Fleece

Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover - Men's

Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 5 days ago

Essentially my favourite mid-layer for all the seasons, but personally I liked the Flash version better. This one is light and stretchy enough for climbing, biking, or just hiking around the trail. It packs down small for keeping in your pack. The pocket is pretty useful for most things, like an iPod, or camera. But it is also warm enough to ski in, not binding your movements, and not overheating you on the hike up. The checkered pattern of the Regulator fleece is really nice, it reduces the weight and bulk, while keeping you warm and mobile. The only thing that this fleece is not good for is wind, just cuts right through the fabric and into you. The Flash had nice stretch panels that made it more useful for all these applications, but this is good for full coverage fleece. Definitely liked the offset zipper of the Flash better than the straight one, because anyone who has ever got a zipper frozen to their lip knows, offset is a nice feature for no extra weight.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Volkl Gotama Jr. Ski - Kids'

5 days ago

At the very least get him the 148cm length of this ski. I would almost say look for an adult ski that comes in something like a 156, since it would give him the float he wants, stability for powder, speed, and landings, and he could do some growing before you would have to replace his skis again. You can easily find an adult park ski, which are about the same waist dimensions as these, for him.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

K2 Apache Raider Ski w/ Marker M2 11.0 TC Binding

5 days ago

I would say that you could easily get away with getting him the 177cm ski. That size would be stable enough, unless he is a heavier guy. But in general you only really need long skis on groomers for stability, so if he loves the high speeds, I would look into something maybe a bit longer.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Patagonia Capilene 1 Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

October 30, 2009

I use it in all conditions. It is cool and breezy in the summer, but still keeps the heat in nicely for skiing and winter hikes.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Awesomest Base Layer... EVER

Patagonia Capilene 1 Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Patagonia Capilene 1 Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 October 30, 2009

Been loving Patagonia a lot lately. I have several different base layers, and the Capilene 1 from Pat is by far my favourite. It keeps sweat down when hiking and touring, moves well with you climbing and the white can help keep you cool in the summer. The material is really soft, and feel just super comfortable to be in, either all day, or all weekend. Dries out pretty good, so I like to take it on paddle trips. Put it under a t-shirt and it's super stylin' for the classroom or pub. I find that the HH Dry bases, even though I love those, tend to dry out my forearms where I can get pretty bad eczema, but the Cap 1 keeps my skins moisture where it belongs.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Mitts for Cold Female Hands

The North Face Montana Mitten - Women's

The North Face Montana Mitten - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 October 30, 2009

Bought these mitts for my lady, and she digs them. They keep her hands warm when she is skiing. She likes being warm. It makes her happy. So what makes her happy makes me happy.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Solid Gambits

Five Ten Gambit Climbing Shoe - Men's

Five Ten Gambit Climbing Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 October 30, 2009

Pretty solid all around shoe. It edges kind of good, but the Onyxx rubber really excels at smearing in this shoe. I can tell a difference from other Stealth shoes I have tried, but it might just be because it is slightly softer in the sole, for a better bend and catch of the rock. They don't push my toes together too hard, which is why I don't think they are really edging shoes at all, but with the fairly pointy toebox, they do toe-in great. The ones I tried, and the ones my buddies climb in don't seem to be having the durability/peeling off of rubber problems that others have had, so I'm going to go ahead and say that they will hold up to quite a bit of abuse, 2 full summers now for one guy I know.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

POW, Right in the Kisser

Pow Gloves Sniper Glove

Pow Gloves Sniper Glove

Rating for this product: 5 October 30, 2009

Love these gloves! Got a pair last year, of the older model, and they are ballin'! The liner is great for just driving to the hill, or the added warmth on the cold days, and I skied some cold days with these, as in -30C. For some warmer days, ditch the liner, and warmer yet, just use the liner separate. It's awesome. I really dig the short neoprene wrist closure, keeps snow out when you bail, and doesn't mess with how my jacket sits. Plus you avoid the skier faux pas of having cuff outside of sleeve. The inside of the glove is nice and soft for comfort, and the vent on the back is nice for sweaty hands.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Mythos

La Sportiva Mythos Climbing Shoe - Men's

La Sportiva Mythos Climbing Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 October 30, 2009

Great all day shoe. I know so many people that climb with these, so I gave them a try for a solid weekend of climbing. The can be very comfortable, or fairly aggressive. I had them sized down half a size, and found them to be comfortable after a little time in them. The rubber was really nice, smeared super well. Held a decent edge, but not as good as some shoes I have tried. Since I'm still a little new to the game, I can't offer a good comparison between 5.10 and La Sportiva shoes, it's just what works best for you. Heel hooking was good in the Mythos. The heel was really tight in this shoe for my foot, which is a little wider, and gripped me in nice. It also seemed to put power to my big toe in an almost perfect way for my foot size.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

K2 Hellbent Alpine Ski

October 30, 2009

I think you will feel a lot more float and control in the deep stuff than the JJ's, which are nice in it, but sometimes feel a little lacking. The 'Bents will have a hard time feeling lacking in the deep. The 189's should work for you if you kill it on the 185 JJ. Remember they are actually longer than 189, about 193-194, since K2 posts effective edge, and the rocker makes it shorter.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Black Diamond Megawatt Ski

October 29, 2009

I have skied them at +2, which is where I always ski unless I'm in the park. They handle really well, especially since it shortens up the swing on them, and makes trees slightly easier. +1 wouldn't make a big, noticeable difference in the performance I don't think though.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Von Zipper Trike Goggle - Kids'

October 29, 2009

They are for small to medium sized faces, so it might not work out. It is always hard to know for sure without testing them. Try a smaller full sized adult goggle on him, and if that is too big, then try a larder youth model.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Full Tilt Konflict Ski Boot - Men's

October 29, 2009

A number 8 flex could probably be compared to something quite a bit stiffer than the Nordica 100 flex. 100 is about a 5-6 in the Full Tilt scale.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Osprey Packs Argon 70 Backpack - 4300-4700cu in

October 29, 2009

It has 2 front pockets like the 85 does, but which one are you thinking of? There is the bottom sleeping bag zippered pocket, and the pocket that lets you access the interior of the pack.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Hippie Shoes

Simple EcoS Hemp Shoe - Men's

Simple EcoS Hemp Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 October 29, 2009

Definitely a great pair of shoes. They are comfy as all get up, easily can stand most of the day in them, but they don't have the best bottom cushioning. They start to smell and hold that smell for a while if you decide to wear no socks, which I learnt the hard way. The reused tire has a surprising amount of grip on slippery pavement, or wet downhill sections on local trails. Not a very good shoe for a trail, but they work for parks and stuff. The inside of the heel has started to blow, after 4 months of solid everyday use. This is a place that always blows out on every shoe I have ever owned, so it wasn't surprising, and has held up just as well as or better than most other shoes I have worn. The bike tire keeps out shallow puddles, and looks cool. And really, who doesn't want to be a hippie at least sometimes.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Line Pandora Ski - Women's

October 28, 2009

You will have to bend out the brakes for it to work. A 110 brake can fit up to a 110, but not much more.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Rossignol Voodoo Pro BC110 Ski - Women's

October 28, 2009

The 176 is actually 110 underfoot, so not the same size as the S7. If I am not mistaken Rossi made it for women, and didn't just shrink it and pink it.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Rossignol Voodoo Pro BC110 Ski - Women's

October 28, 2009

If you consider yourself a good skier, and can ski fairly powerfully, then for sure as a powder ski I would say the 176. Longer is always nice for deeper snow. If you aren't an aggressive skier, than the 166 might feel more comfortable to you.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Smith Variant Brim Helmet

October 28, 2009

Measure your head around, as in the circumference. If it is 23.5 inches, which is what a 7.5 sized hat actually is, then you will be able to get the Large sized helmet. If it is bigger, then you will have to keep looking around for an XL.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

DAKINE Poacher Backpack - 2300cu in

October 28, 2009

Depends on personal preference. I wouldn't want something this big on my back if I'm just inbounds all day, mostly since I could never justify a pack this big for using inbounds. I like smaller (BD Bandit) size packs. If you are planning on lapping sidecountry and using the groomers to get back to the lifts, then sure, it should be fine. You will most likely have to remove it from your back though, since most places won't allow a pack this size.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Volkl Gotama Ski

October 28, 2009

Well I would say grab the 178cm. The float and stability will definitely be a plus, and you should still be able to drive them around. The AT will still be good for you on the 178 too. The little extra weight shouldn't change the touring capabilities too much either.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Suspension

Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier Tool

Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier Tool

Rating for this product: 3 October 27, 2009

Pretty solid multi, but after a while you can definitely tell that it isn't made quite as nice as a Leatherman or a Victorinox multi-tool. This is a big step forward for the Gerber line-up, which hopefully continues doing what it is doing, and getting better. The lock up is pretty tight, the blades come sharp, and the tools are functional. But personally if I could only have one tool, it would be a Leatherman, since I know from long experience how well they are all made.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Better Bottle... than some

CamelBak Better Bottle w/ Bite Valve - 1L

CamelBak Better Bottle w/ Bite Valve - 1L

Rating for this product: 4 October 27, 2009

Pretty nice bottle, good to drink from while walking, and you have hands for it, but if I have only one hand for the bottle, I sometimes struggle to get the flip-up bite valve open. It is better than say a screw top, but pop tops are just easiest for me. The flow is a little poor, you really have to take a pull to get a good amount of water. Doesn't spill though, so it is good for the gym.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Best Small Bottle

Nalgene Wide Mouth Tritan Bottle - 16oz

Nalgene Wide Mouth Tritan Bottle - 16oz

Rating for this product: 4 October 27, 2009

This is a great sized bottle for a short, light hike; chilling out around campus; or busting around town. It weights very little while full, so sometimes I forget I have it, and it will disappear into my pack.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Spork Me!

Snow Peak Titanium Spork

Snow Peak Titanium Spork

Rating for this product: 5 October 27, 2009

Very much so my favourite eating utensil. I love my Spork! The weight is crazy little, which isn't why I bought it since I'm not a weight weenie, but it is nice. It does everything I need it to; eat ramen, stews, stab meat, and stir my pot. Only utensil I bring with me, including to university when I brown bag it. Have stepped on it, dropped it, abused it mercilessly, and it still has not even bent, never mind broke. Super durable.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

SealLine Zip Dry Duffle Bag

October 27, 2009

Not on the back of a motorcycle, but a friend of mine has one, and he brought it with us on a trip to Jasper a little while back. It was in the box of the truck, pouring rain going about 110 km/h and was completely dry to the touch on the outside as soon as we were out of the storm, and was bone dry inside when we arrived.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Great Compression

Outdoor Research UltraLight Compression Sack

Outdoor Research UltraLight Compression Sack

Rating for this product: 5 October 27, 2009

I definitely would recommend this to anyone looking for a compression sack. I grabbed a 15L one, and was a bit skeptical that my -20 Hybrid bag from MEC would fit, but somehow, this sack just kept swallowing it up. It got a bit tight near the end, making it a little difficult to stuff in, but she fits, and compresses down pretty small. I had problems with the MEC suppled sack as it wouldn't fit in any but my biggest packs, so this is great, taking it down to a size that will easily store in my Osprey 33L, or my BD 30L. There is a small pocket on the inside of the top portion, which I find no use for other than stowing the sack into, but some people might find it handy. The material is pretty light weight, and while I trust it to hold my bag while in my pack, I wouldn't want to hike with it outside my pack, since I feel light material punctures and rips way easier than some companies advertise. Pretty water resistant, but not waterproof.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

0 Comments

View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Outdoor Research UltraLight Compression Sack

October 27, 2009

If it is a down bag or a pretty light weight synthetic I would say the 15L, or if it is a heavier synthetic they recommend the 25L.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Oakley Splice Goggle

October 27, 2009

The H.I. Yellow is an awesome lens from Oakley, probably one of may favourite. It definitely sucks for super bright conditions, but it works for everything from medium, to flat, to overcast, to night skiing, and it does all that really well. The H.I. Persimmon is also pretty good, but a little worse for overcast and night.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Osprey Packs Talon 44 Backpack - 2600-2700cu in

October 27, 2009

I have the Talon 33, not the 44, but it is great for a day of cragging, holds rack and other gear super well, one of the more comfortable packs for sure for climbing. I haven't tried a load on the 44, since I don't have it, and I haven't used it multipitch since I don't have access to much where I am but if you need it for a day at the rock, then its definitely comfortable.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

K2 GotBack Alpine Ski - Women's

October 27, 2009

They are pretty good skis as I am hearing from some friends that got some early snow. They love them in the deep. If I was you I would check out the 160cm or the 167cm. If you ski aggressive and go for it, then you shouldn't have problems with the longer ski.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Look PX 12 Jib Wide Ski Binding

October 27, 2009

They aren't too wide, should be fine with them. They won't drag while up I'm pretty sure, so, yeah, fine.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Mammut Basic Chalk Bag

October 27, 2009

No, just a holder for one if you have your own.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Black Diamond Whippet Self-Arrest Ski Pole

October 27, 2009

That does sound a bit crazy, but to each his own. SInce I don't know what the middle piece diameter is for the Expeditions, you will have to do your own measurements for it, but the top portion of the Whippet is 16mm, or 0.63 inches. The lower is 14mm/0.55inches, so that's what the Expedition would have to be for it to work. Hope that helped you man.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

K2 ObSETHed Alpine Ski

October 27, 2009

I find that they hold up to abuse super well, except the topsheet, which chips like all sandwich construction skis do. They pound through some pretty gnarly conditions, and I use them as my all-mountain/big mountain do almost everything ski. The Shogun is good for powder mostly, and I don't personally like the feel of them when I push them too hard. That might just be me, but I would say that in every category, the ObSETHed wins, with exception to the weight, cause they are a bit on the heavy side.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

K2 Pontoon Alpine Ski

October 27, 2009

I know people that have done this with Duke bindings, which seems to work pretty good for them for short sidecountry trips. You don't need custom skins per se, just the biggest ones you can get, and that still isn't wall to wall, which isn't always 100% necessary. The shovel does pose a bit of a problem for the skins, but it might work, and if not, you can pretty easily rig something for that. The reverse camber can make touring difficult, but not un-doable. You would need the 130mm brakes for the brakes to be functional, but most people on 'Toons I know don't have functional brakes.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Oakley Splice Goggle - Polarized

October 27, 2009

Grey is actually a fairly neutral (aka. useless in many conditions) lens, basically just to cut glare. The VR28 has a 28% light transmittance, and is for flat to medium light. YOu can go to the Oakley site, and click on the Splice, there should be a tab right below it that says lens tints, and you can select the tint you want to see how it looks looking through it.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

K2 Apache Coomba Alpine Ski

October 27, 2009

The recommended point is 2cm forward of the traditional mounting point, or about 4.5cm back from the core center. They run pretty solid at this point, which is my favourite mount for almost any ski except full park. And they do run a little bit longer, not quite 4-5cm, but 2-3 for sure. This is from the slight early rise, but the effective edge and therefore the way they ski handles is as stated. At 181, if you want something a little longer (185 like you said), I would recommend going up to the 188 not down. You won't regret this ski.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

K2 Apache Coomba Alpine Ski

October 27, 2009

The 167 should be alright for you, and even the 174 if you are really pushing hard. I always like a longer ski, just for the stability, and the extra float. But for sure the 167 is manageable for you.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Osprey Packs Switch 26 Pack - 1500-1700cu in

October 27, 2009

Depending on what lenses you plan on taking with you, I would say that you for sure could use this pack. The tripod should fit fine on the outside, and body, first aid, couple snacks and couple lenses should fit. I haven't tried a big load out of camera gear in this particular pack, but it does hold quite a bit of gear. A more all-seasons orientated pack might work out better for you though, for some more external storage to keep the body and lenses in the main pouch and water bottle or snack on the outside, easily accessible.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Osprey Packs Switch 26 Pack - 1500-1700cu in

October 27, 2009

I wouldn't trust it for too much, but if your boots are relatively light or you aren't going too far, it should be alright. If you plan on throwing the bag around with the boots hanging from it, it might not hold.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Osprey Packs Switch 26 Pack - 1500-1700cu in

October 27, 2009

It sometimes gets a little floppy, but nothing super bad. You might want to size down to something else though if that's all it will ever hold.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Backcountry.com Liner Glove - Men's

October 25, 2009

Not 100% sure, they seem to be about the same to my hands though. Check the sizing chart for these, and that should give you a good idea.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

DAKINE Pro 2 Backpack - 1600cu in

October 25, 2009

Best way to tell you is to show you, so here is the Dakine site. Click the pictures until you see the one with the shovel.

http://www.dakine.com/snowboard/packs/snow/pro-ii/

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

View Product Details >
Read all Q&A about this product >

Click to read all of Shane O'Donnell's contributions... Be patient. It might take a while.