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Ben brewer

Skier // Backpacker // Hiker

Ben brewer: #76 of 91,688 Top 100 Gear Guru More Information

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    East Tennessee/Western North Carolina and the Pacific Northwest
  • Bio:

    I was born and raised in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains, but I go to school in Portland, Oregon. I ski and hike because it makes me feel alive, not because I want bragging rights.

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Warm, dry, and comfy as can be

Warm, dry, and comfy as can be

SmartWool PhD Ski Mid Sock

February 7, 2009

Driving back from a loooong day with dry, warm feet

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Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland

Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland

The North Face Venture Jacket - Men's

February 4, 2009

This is my 06(ish) venture keeping me fearless in the face of Irish rain

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes | 0 No

1 Comment

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Made in China

Made in China

Arc'teryx Alpha SL Jacket - Men's

February 4, 2009

I love this jacket, but I thought I'd give everyone a heads up that it's made in China, NOT Canada

Helpful Votes: 5 Yes | 0 No

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Made in the Phillipines

Made in the Phillipines

Arc'teryx Silo 18 Backpack - 1098cu in

February 4, 2009

Not that I don't love this pack, but I just thought I'd let everyone know that it is NOT made in Canada.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Hen Mountain, Northern Ireland

Hen Mountain, Northern Ireland

Montrail Blue Ridge GTX Hiking Boot - Men's

February 1, 2009

My Blue Ridges keeping my feet warm, dry, and stable in steep, muddy terrain

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Chimney Tops

Chimney Tops

Patagonia Capilene 1 Graphic T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

January 30, 2009

On the summit of Chimney Tops in the Great Smoky Mountains

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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R1 hiking in Ireland

R1 hiking in Ireland

Patagonia R1 Flash Fleece Pullover - Mens

January 30, 2009

In the Mourne mountains of Northern Ireland

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Warm, thick, soft

Coal Frena Solid Beanie

Coal Frena Solid Beanie

Rating for this product: 4 October 23, 2009

I got this beanie for keepin' my ears cold while walking around campus, and it accomplishes that job pretty well. It's really thick and soft and so far it's kept my ears nice and toasty. It's a little longer than I would like, but that's pretty nit-picky.

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Durable, light, bright

Black Diamond Cosmo Headlamp

Black Diamond Cosmo Headlamp

Rating for this product: 5 June 5, 2009

I love this light. It's lightweight and incredibly durable. I like the fact that you just push the button to cycle through the light strengths. It also fits comfortably on your head.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Great for the money

Black Diamond Ion Headlamp - Assorted Colors

Black Diamond Ion Headlamp - Assorted Colors

Rating for this product: 4 June 5, 2009

As a back-up lamp, this is cheap, TINY, and lightweight. I don't really like the way you have to hold down the switch to turn it on/off, rather than just pressing it, but that's pretty freaking nitpicky. For 20 bucks, why not?

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Pretty cool

Eagles Nest Outfitters SlapStrap - 25mm

Eagles Nest Outfitters SlapStrap - 25mm

Rating for this product: 4 June 4, 2009

These make setting up your ENO hammock sooooo much easier, faster, sturdier. Pretty lightweight and small, but I prefer actual daisy chains.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Great

Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock

Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock

Rating for this product: 5 June 4, 2009

I never go anywhere I know there are trees without my hammock. It's small and light enough that I just toss it in my pack and forget about it until I use it, at which point I become infinitely grateful I brought it along. I recommend daisy chains more than the ENO brand slap straps.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Way better than a tent

Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Hammock

Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Hammock

Rating for this product: 4 June 4, 2009

I use this for summer and spring backpacking in the Smoky Mountains. It's incredible comfortable, lightweight, and small (though "softball size" is an exaggeration). As with any hammock be sure to slip a sleeping pad or some clothes underneath your bag to keep your back from getting cold. Also, I couldn't give this 5 stars because it does not comfortably sleep 2. 2 can lounge, maybe. I use this as a solo hammock though.

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Best thing in my closet

Backcountry.com Shift Welder Hoody - Men's

Backcountry.com Shift Welder Hoody - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 June 4, 2009

I have been lusting after this jacket for quite a while, and I picked it up on SAC recently. It would be an understatement to call me a jacket whore, and I felt guilty about ordering another. Until I got it in the mail. This thing is AWESOME and a half. It's super comfortable and it looks killer (I am 6' and 145 pounds and the small fits snug but not tight) It's quite breathable and it pukes heat. I had this packed for a backpacking trip, hoping to only use it at night for lounging around camp. A few miles in, it started raining and I pulled on the Shift Welder expecting to be MISERABLE in the 80 degree heat and Tennessee humidity. Granted, I was toasty, but I was dry inside and out and far from miserable. I could go on an on, but I will stop here. Buy one.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes | 0 No

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Makes sense

Sea To Summit iPOOD! Pocket Trowel

Sea To Summit iPOOD! Pocket Trowel

Rating for this product: 5 May 5, 2009

This trowel is great. It's small, lightweight, compact, strong, and has a storage compartment. Get one...for everyone's sake

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Flawless

Mountain Hardwear Phantom Sleeping Bag: 15 Degree Down

Mountain Hardwear Phantom Sleeping Bag: 15 Degree Down

Rating for this product: 5 April 6, 2009

This bag is incredible. Very warm and definitely true to the temp rating. What I really love is the compressibility. I have fit this bag in some TINY stuff sacks before. The fabric is thin but pretty durable and the draft collar and hood work great. Only one complaint: the pocket on the inside is nearly impossible to reach with the bag zipped all they way up.

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Difficulty adjusting DIN

Rossignol Axial2 120 Pro Wide Ski Binding

Rossignol Axial2 120 Pro Wide Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 4 April 1, 2009

I have these bindings mounted on some Rossi S3s and so far they have been great. The only problem is that adjusting the DIN setting on the back piece is next to impossible. Granted, I'm no body builder, but I've never had trouble adjusting it on any of my other skis.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Patagonia Powder Bowl

Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket - Men's

Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 March 23, 2009

I got this jacket a couple weeks ago but I didn't get to use until yesterday. Wow. Wow. Wow. Even with the extra room from the baggy fit this jacket was flawless. The pockets are handy and easy to open even with gloves and the pit zips puke body heat. I am 6' and 140 lbs and I am perfectly content with a medium, even though a small might be a little better. I might also that it appears to be tough as nails though I haven't truly put it to the test yet.

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Great straps. Period.

Voile Ski Straps 9 Through 25 inches

Voile Ski Straps 9 Through 25 inches

Rating for this product: 5 March 23, 2009

These straps are perfect. Lightweight, durable, and unbelievably versatile. Keep a few on hand for anything and everything.

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Noronna Narvik

Norrøna Narvik Soft Shell Jacket - Men's

Norrøna Narvik Soft Shell Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 March 19, 2009

I just got back from using this jacket on a beautiful blue bird day in Colorado. It's a great weight and material for spring skiing. The water resistance is SERIOUSLY water resistant and the wrist gaiters are comfortable and functional. My only gripe concerns the pit vents. They are placed in a really awkward position and are hard to open with one hand. Also they don't really dump as much as heat as other vents. Overall, however, an awesome jacket, especially at 50% off!

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SOG Knives Flash II

SOG Knives Flash II Knife

SOG Knives Flash II Knife

Rating for this product: 4 March 19, 2009

I got this knife as a Birthday present and I really like it so far. The spring assisted open is really cool, but it's not the easiest knife in the world to close. Feels pretty sturdy, especially for a plastic handle. Overall, a pretty sweet knife.

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Norrøna Narvik Soft Shell Jacket - Men's

March 18, 2009

Am I correct in assuming all the extra buttons on the bottom of the powder skirt would allow me to connect the jacket to Norrona pants?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Great Shirt

Backcountry.com Goat Not Cotton T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Backcountry.com Goat Not Cotton T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 February 16, 2009

This shirt feels wonderful against your skin and and it wicks sweat really well. Overall pretty incredible, especially at the sale price.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Armada Driggs Down Jacket - Men's

February 14, 2009

Is this seam taped/welded?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

Sold Out

Columbia Timber Suit - Men's

February 8, 2009

Judging by the sizing chart, it looks like it runs a little long. The inseam on a small is 31 inches, medium is 31.5, etc.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Arc'teryx Scorpion Ski Jacket - Men's

February 5, 2009

I would go with the medium. I almost exactly your measurements and I always go medium in Arcteryx. You'll definitely want room to layer

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Marmot Power Stretch Pant - Men's

February 5, 2009

From the picture it doesn't look like it. Get on live chat if you want to make absolutely sure

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Arc'teryx Alpha SL Jacket - Men's

February 4, 2009

I have the alpha sv, I know it's not the same jacket, but similar. If you'd like to layer and not have it be too tight, I'd suggest the medium. The sleeves are a better length for me with the medium. I'm also 5'9".------------------------I am 6'0, 140 lbs. and I wear the medium. It layers perfectly at that size.

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SmartWool can do no wrong

SmartWool Ski Sock - Medium

SmartWool Ski Sock - Medium

Rating for this product: 5 February 4, 2009

I have never owned a pair of Smartwool socks I have not been pleased with, and these are no exception. They are warm but aren't too thick. Even after a full day, they keep my feet dry from sweat, and if they happen to get wet from snow, they dry out quickly. They protect your shins and they never bunch up and fall down your legs. Primo.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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love em

SmartWool PhD Running Ultra Light Micro Sock

SmartWool PhD Running Ultra Light Micro Sock

Rating for this product: 5 February 4, 2009

I love these socks to death. I own several pairs and they are the only socks I wear if I have to wear shoes during the summer. They wick sweat well and they keep you blister free. Wonderful.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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A little too warm

SmartWool Adrenaline Mid Crew Hiking Sock

SmartWool Adrenaline Mid Crew Hiking Sock

Rating for this product: 4 February 4, 2009

I love these socks, but they are my least favorite SmartWools. This is only because they can sometimes overheat my feet. That being said, they wick sweat so well, it doesn't cause me to blister or soak through the socks, it's just a nitpicky detail. Otherwise, they work great, especially for long hikes where cushioning is important. Love them.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Marmot Exum Jacket - Men's

February 3, 2009

I don't know about this specific jacket, but Goretex Pro is generally very durable.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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MontBell Ultralight Down Parka - Men's

February 2, 2009

I think MontBell clothing is one size small. I normally wear a large but wear an XL in MontBell. So an XL should be just fine for your needs.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Incredible

Patagonia Footwear Toast and Jam Shoe - Men's

Patagonia Footwear Toast and Jam Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 February 2, 2009

I got these shoes last Christmas and they are my absolute favorite shoes. The leather feels so INCREDIBLE against your skin and they don't hurt my feet even after LONG days of heavy walking. I have nothing bad to say about these shoes.

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WARM but bulky

The North Face Denali Fleece Jacket - Men's

The North Face Denali Fleece Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 3 February 2, 2009

Though this jacket has kept me very warm on the occasions when I have used it, it is WAY to heavy and hard to back for any backcountry usage. I have several lighter, more compressible fleeces that insulate just as well. For this kind of money, look elsewhere.

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Perfect ski mask

Seirus Combo Clava

Seirus Combo Clava

Rating for this product: 5 February 2, 2009

I bought this mask during a trip to Solitude when the mercury dropped to -14 this year. Amazingly, this mask kept my face toasty and dry, much to the jealousy of my friends who were wearing iced-over bandannas. It fits under my helmet and I forget I'm wearing it. Get two.

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Recommended

The North Face Venture Jacket - Men's

The North Face Venture Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 February 2, 2009

I used this jacket for nearly two years before someone stole it. It always kept me dry, inside and out, while hiking in both 90 degree + humidity days and serious downpours. I never thought it was very comfortable though. That being said, when it was stolen I chose to replace it with an Arc'teryx Alpha SL. The venture just didn't fit me well, but I have small shoulders, scrawny arms etc. I would still recommend the venture, especially for the price

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes | 0 No

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Patagonia Footwear Huckleberry Approach Shoe - Men's

February 1, 2009

Yes they do. I am a true 9 and wear 9 in that shoe-----Mine fit perfectly true to size

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Arc'teryx Stinger Jacket - Men's - DO NOT USE

February 1, 2009

I am only a couple inches taller than you but have similar measurements, and I went with the medium. I love the way it fits, especially for layering purposes

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

Sold Out

Patagonia R1 Pant - Men's

January 31, 2009

The inside of the fleece is little squares, but the outside is smooth

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Arc'teryx Sidewinder SV Jacket - Men's

January 31, 2009

I am 6'0 and 145 and I wear a medium in all my arc'teryx stuff. It leaves plenty of room for me to layer. I think a large would be overkill

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Patagonia Footwear Toast and Jam Shoe - Men's

January 30, 2009

I have had these for just over a year and the removable rubber sole shows ZERO wear. If you wear the shoes on concrete or anywhere outside your house without the rubber soul they can get a little bit-up. Overall, however these shoes have been incredibly durable

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Lightweight

Arc'teryx Alpha SL Jacket  - Men's

Arc'teryx Alpha SL Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 29, 2009

I love this jacket. It's probably the most diverse item in my closet. I currently use it for skiing in every condition imaginable and I can't to use it for backpacking this summer in the MUGGY and RAINY Smoky Mountains. It breathes well but it is completely impenetrable.

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Versatile

Patagonia Classic Retro-X Vest - Men's

Patagonia Classic Retro-X Vest - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 26, 2009

I've had this vest for a little over a year and keep coming back to it. The fit is snug (but certainly not tight) and it keeps me warm. Not to mention, I always get compliments on it when I wear it around town.

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Simply perfect

Patagonia Active Boxer Brief - Men's

Patagonia Active Boxer Brief - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 26, 2009

I have used this pair of underwear for everything--working out, indoor soccer, skiing, day hiking, backpacking, running, and playing cello in a tuxedo (it gets hotter than you might think). In every situation and in every condition, these bad boys have kept me dry as a bone. Beautiful.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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High performance, low comfort

Patagonia Active Sport Boxer Brief - Men's

Patagonia Active Sport Boxer Brief - Men's

Rating for this product: 3 January 26, 2009

Though these wick sweat better than any base layer I own, they NEVER stop riding and bunching up. Not too bad for hiking, TERRIBLE for skiing.

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Columbia Boundary Run Pant - Men's

January 24, 2009

Columbia is not on the list of brands that Backcountry can't ship outside of the U.S. Try getting on live chat if you wanna double check

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Mountain Hardwear Skyledge 2.1 Tent 2-Person 3-Season

January 21, 2009

I own this tent and although I have not used it in the Ozarks in the summer I would imagine that the fact that the tent is completely made of mesh, save the fly, would make it as ideal as any for a hot and humid Ozark evening. The mesh does a great job of keeping the bugs at bay as well. Also, it only weighs 3lb. 14oz.!!-----------------------------------------I own this tent for backpacking in the Great Smoky Mountains (also extremely muggy in the summer) and it works like a charm. Highly recommended for that environment

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Great Liners

Patagonia Lightweight Ski Sock

Patagonia Lightweight Ski Sock

Rating for this product: 4 January 20, 2009

I three or four of these socks super cheap and I use them just as liners. For that purpose, they work really well. They wick sweat and add insulation but are then enough to slide under my thicker Smartwools comfortably. With that in mind, I'm not sure I would pay full price for these.

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Love em

Oakley Wisdom Goggle

Oakley Wisdom Goggle

Rating for this product: 4 January 20, 2009

I have used these goggles in all kinds of conditions and they haven't let me down. I have the H.I. Persimmon lenses and they are GREAT for night skiing when it's snowing and goggles are a must. They also work well in regular sunlight. My only complaint is they can be difficult to situate on a helmet.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Protect your investment

Electric Single Goggle Case

Electric Single Goggle Case

Rating for this product: 5 January 20, 2009

If you're going to cough up the cash for some nice goggles, doesn't 20 bucks to protect them make sense? This case works great.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Great for hiking

Sherpa Adventure Gear Sheetal Convertible Pant - Men's

Sherpa Adventure Gear Sheetal Convertible Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 January 20, 2009

I got these pants for a trip to Colorado in October and they worked well. They breathe really well, and if that's not enough, you can always zip them off! Though they work really well as technical pants, I would never wear these off the trail. Not-stylish is an understatement.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Heavy drinker

Patagonia Capilene 1 Graphic T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Patagonia Capilene 1 Graphic T-Shirt - Short-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 19, 2009

I use this mostly on summer hikes and it always brings its A game. Like others have said, it keeps you super dry but doesn't hold the water. Not to mention it looks good enough for just rollin around town

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Pretty sweet

Arc'teryx Silo 18 Backpack - 1098cu in

Arc'teryx Silo 18 Backpack - 1098cu in

Rating for this product: 4 January 19, 2009

Got this with some Christmas money and I have been super pleased with it. Even though it doesn't have a "belt," it does have does have a waist strap. If you cinch it down it stabilizes enough, at least for me. The pockets are well thought out and the straps and back panel are incredibly comfortable. I forget I'm wearing it when descending

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Great

Montrail Blue Ridge GTX Hiking Boot - Men's

Montrail Blue Ridge GTX Hiking Boot - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 19, 2009

I use these mostly in the Great Smoky Mountains, but I have taken them through bogs in Ireland, up and down Colorado, and through Northwestern drizzle. My feet have stayed completely dry every time. They provide uncompromising ankle support and after the initial breaking-in they feel great on your feet. HIGHLY recommended

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Montrail Blue Ridge GTX Hiking Boot - Men's

January 18, 2009

These boots are waterproof. The leather has been treated and the Gore insert keeps all water out. Either the Torre or the Blue Ridge would fit your needs perfectly. Which one do you like the looks of better? Cheers!--------I have walked through creeks up to the top lace in these boots and stayed bone dry

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Get two or three

Patagonia R1 Flash Fleece Pullover - Mens

Patagonia R1 Flash Fleece Pullover - Mens

Rating for this product: 5 January 14, 2009

This pullover is an ESSENTIAL part of my set up. Wicks sweat, insulates, and feels soft against the skin. Fits true to size. I am normally a small, but I got a medium as a gift. In my excitement, I disregarded the long sleeves and yanked off all the tags. Even with a size up, this jacket constantly performs beyond my expectations

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Unholy attraction

Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man Fleece Zip T - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man Fleece Zip T - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 14, 2009

Let's forget for one second that this thing keeps you toasty when you really need it. Let's forget that it fits me perfectly and has thumb holes (one of the little things in life that makes my insides smile). Even if all that wasn't true, this jacket would be worth it simply for the feeling of the fabric. I got this jacket on Friday. It's now Tuesday and this jacket has yet to see my floor/closet/hamper

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Sleeves are somewhat short

Arc'teryx Covert Zip Neck Sweater - Men's

Arc'teryx Covert Zip Neck Sweater - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 January 14, 2009

I love this jacket. The fleece feels nice and the sleeve pocket is good for money/cell phone/whatever. My only complaints is the length of the sleeves. The waist fits fine but sleeves hit just shy of my wrists. Overall, I'm quite satisfied

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 1 No

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Pricey but nice

Backcountry.com Siphon Street Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt - Men’s

Backcountry.com Siphon Street Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt - Men’s

Rating for this product: 4 January 14, 2009

When this jacket first came, I didn't take it off for almost a whole week. It feels great against the skin and it kept me warm on some days in the 30s just running around town. That being said, I got this for 50 bucks of steepandcheap and I would NEVER pay full price for it. I love the thing, but 110 for a mainly casual, mainly polyester hoody? You have got to be kidding me. If you can find a good deal on it, grab one quick. If not, I'm not sure this is worth it

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wonderful pants

Patagonia Capilene 2 Bottom - Men's

Patagonia Capilene 2 Bottom - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 7, 2009

These tights have never let me down. I usually wear them when my patagonia Wool 2 pants are unnecessary but I still need a little extra protection from the cold. Not only do they insulate well, but they allow a full range of motion and they feel great against your skin.

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Good for COLD weather

Mountain Hardwear Power Stretch Tights - Men's

Mountain Hardwear Power Stretch Tights - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 7, 2009

I have to be honest, I bought these pants mostly because of how incredible they felt. Now that I have used them, however, I am glad I did. They are warm, breathable, and obscenely comfortable. They kept me warm without overheating me all day on the slopes and then kept me alive as I waited for 2.5 hours in line for a ski 'n ride bus. Beautiful.

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Essential

Patagonia Capilene 4 Zip-Neck - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Patagonia Capilene 4 Zip-Neck - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 4, 2009

I never leave home for skiing, winter hiking, etc without this layer. It's soft, it wicks moisture, and it looks good even for casual wear. Like others have said, it keeps the stink down, which is always a plus.

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Wonderful

SmartWool PhD Ski Mid Sock

SmartWool PhD Ski Mid Sock

Rating for this product: 5 January 4, 2009

It seems like, in my experience anyway, smartwool can do no wrong. These are padded where they should be and not padded where they shouldn't be. My feet stay warm and toasty but never get sweaty. Comfortable feet are worth the extra few dollars.

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Comfy but not very technical

Mountain Hardwear Micro Dome Beanie

Mountain Hardwear Micro Dome Beanie

Rating for this product: 3 January 4, 2009

I'm not sure how I feel about this beanie. I've had it for over a year and sometimes it works great and other days it seems like it won't stay on my head. You have to roll up the back to make it fit correctly, but the fleece is really soft and warm. Worth it for the money.

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Comfortable and durable, but a little too tight

Mountain Hardwear Voyager Short - Men's

Mountain Hardwear Voyager Short - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 January 4, 2009

I got these pants as a gift a year or so ago and I've gotten a ton of usage out of them. They are really soft on the skin and they stood up bravely to some SERIOUS abuse. That being said, when sitting down they can feel a little too small. I'm 6'0, 140 lbs (I have the 28), so needless to say, I'm a pretty scrawny dude. Maybe if you have really muscly thighs or just big legs in general these might not be the best choice for you.

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Super Comfy, Super Functional

Patagonia Wool 2 Bottom - Men's

Patagonia Wool 2 Bottom - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 29, 2008

I bought these at the beginning of last ski season and I have worn them everyday I've been on the slopes since. Not only do they insulate/breathe better than any other baselayer I've tried, they feel incredible against your skin. The only thing I have to say negatively is that they are an inch or two too long, but that doesn't affect their performance. Oh, and did I mention I used them for over a month without washing them and they never once smelled?

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Very Pleased

Outdoor Research Sequence Zip T Pullover - Men's

Outdoor Research Sequence Zip T Pullover - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 29, 2008

I bought these in place of Patagucci's wool 2 because I was trying to save money and I could not be more pleased. It feels great and it performs even better. The fit is a little roomy, especially length-wise, but it still works well.

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warm, roomy, stylish

Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T Fleece Pullover Jacket - Men's

Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T Fleece Pullover Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 December 29, 2008

I bought this last year because my cousin recommended it to me and I have been pretty pleased with it. The fleece is soft, warm, and comfy, and the jacket is stylish. The only complaint I have is the super roomy fit. I am 6'0" 140 lbs and the small is too roomy to fit under any of my other jackets. For this reason, I have never used it for anything other than everyday casual wear. That being said, I really love this fleece for that purpose.

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Favorite Shorts

Patagonia Stand Up Shorts - Men's

Patagonia Stand Up Shorts - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 29, 2008

I live in the southeast, so, needless to say, I live in shorts during the summer months. More specifically, I live in THESE shorts. They are sturdy, comfortable, and stylish. And yes, I am 17, and I like the short inseam. It's functional, if nothing else, not to mention that the fact that most high fashion labels (Dior, D&G, etc) favor shorter inseams.

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Could be more breathable

Patagonia Rain Shadow Pant - Men's

Patagonia Rain Shadow Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 December 29, 2008

I bought these for a trip to Oregon and I was slightly disappointed. While they are ridiculously lightweight and completely waterproof, I felt they could definitely have been more breathable. Overall, however, I am pleased with these pants.

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Osprey Packs Talon 44 Backpack - 2600-2700cu in

December 26, 2008

I have taken my talon 44 on all kinds of planes and never had a problem. I generally just pack everything I need for the trip in it and then I don't have to deal with checked luggage. It can be a tight squeeze in the overhead compartments of small planes, but I've never had any real trouble

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