The Cataylst pack is fantastic and performs exactly as advertised. Loaded with 55lb, for the first time I was able to walk rather than plod up a 30 degree pitch and with absolutely no hip stress (I currently own an Osprey Cresent). I would love to have this pack. So what is the problem? The North Face refuses to provide dealers with different size hip-belts and shoulder harnesses for a proper fit. The large torso pack has a 36in minimum waist hip-belt and an overly long shoulder harness which together probably fits about 1% of the backcountry public. I have a 33in waist and need a 20in+ torso length pack. This arrogance on the part of TNF typifies a company in decline.

I have both the 04 Naxo and 04 Freeride bindings on different pairs of skis. Each is durable, well constructed, and functions very well in alpine mode. However, the Naxo stands alone in touring mode and ease of use. Gone is the "tromp-clack" of other AT bindings. The stride is smooth and natural, enabling a true glide. Entry and manual exit require minimal force and the binding centers the boot perfectly. One minor criticism: the boot length scale and its adjustment mechanism appear to have been designed by committee. The scale is in 4mm increments whereas most boot soles are sized in 5mm increments. A true 320mm boot sole reads 324mm on the adjustment scale. And because the adjustment mechanism is not continuous but jumps in 4mm increments, a correct forward pressure setting is all but impossible.

Current magazine reviews notwithstanding and at the risk of being judged insane, I will state upfront that the Atomic TM:X is the worst ski I have ever used, barr none. As a former alpine coach and now backcountry AT enthusiast, if you know how to set an edge and carve a turn, do not buy this ski! It will not hold an edge on firm or hard snow, let alone ice. It will not hold even on a simple traverse. It is unstable at speed and easily deflected. Its only redeeming quality is in deep powder or mush. It floats nicely, it is quick and it will plow through soft crud. I generally love Atomic skis but I don't know what they were thinking with this model.

The Silvretta 500 is an excellent mountaineering binding that can do occasional alpine duty. However, because of a somewhat dubious release mechanism for slow twisting falls and stiffness/durability issues, it should not be used routinely as an AT binding. For touring or mountaineering, it climbs effectively at all heel positions and should be used with the provided leash. The optional brake has limited application; the optional crampon is easy to install and very effective in icy terrain. For safety with leather boots, use the lowest release setting needed for retention under rigorous climbing conditions.

The MHW Hooded SL is a true alpine jacket and an understatement of quality, function and warmth. It is both waterproof and very breatheable. It kept me warm for 2 days at 12,000 ft, 5 degrees F and with a steady 20 mph wind. With layering, it has an easy comfort range of -25 to 20 degrees F. It is not a yuppie street jacket. The jacket is cut snug so if you are in the upper half of your size range, buy the next larger size, especially if you layer for cold temperatures.