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Mark L

Backpacker // Trail Runner // Boulderer // Hiker

Mark L: #126 of 91,688 Top 200 Gear Guru More Information

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MK Original Mountain Pant

MK Original Mountain Pant

Mountain Khakis Original Mountain Pant - Men's

January 15, 2009

Holds up to wrestling around with big black labs..

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Mountain Hardwear Dragon Softshell Jacket - Men's

February 27, 2009

This shell will stretch, but it would be odd if adding one fleece underneath made such a huge difference that the shell would be forced to stretch at all. Depends on what you're using it for...If it is skin-tight you should size up. A good indicator is probably how the length and the arms fit on the large. Keep in mind that those dimensions will change as well if you move to an XL. Hope that helps

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Mountain Hardwear Xenon Jacket - Men's

February 23, 2009

Definitely. I was very surprised at how articulated, yet roomy this shell is. Mine will fit two wool baselayers, a fleece jacket, and a hooded softshell underneath - And it fits nicely on its own as well, not too sloppy fitting. It is very accommodating.

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Stellar Tent

NEMO Equipment Inc. Losi 2P Tent 2-Person 3-Season

NEMO Equipment Inc. Losi 2P Tent 2-Person 3-Season

Rating for this product: 5 February 20, 2009

I had already reviewed this tent under the Losi 3p tent (I believe that the 2 person was sold out at the time), but I feel compelled to place a review here in case someone might only be looking at only 2 person tents...We had it out in an all-night storm (39 degrees with 40mph winds and rain) and it proved beastly. We were bone dry, including everything under the vestibule. The two-person fit my wife and I plus our two dogs comfortably. Extremely easy to put up, easy to take down. The footprint is a must, as the tent bottom is fairly thin - and the pawprint is a nice feature (sold separately) as you can slide your pads in the slots to keep them in place. Design allows for good air flow and minimal condensation. Listed as a 4 season tent, but would get chilly under 35 degrees due to the air flow. All clips and poles assemble quickly and easily and it was roomier than I expected, as well as light for the size. Plenty of guy line attachments on the tent fly. I'm glad we had it properly staked out -it never budged - but it would have been a few counties away without them. I researched many tents before narrowing down to three finalists, and I couldn't be happier that I chose a Nemo. My new favorite piece of gear

Helpful Votes: 3 Yes | 0 No

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Marmot PreCip Full Zip Pant - Men's

February 11, 2009

Oh yes. For future reference - the description below the pictures provides that sort of information.

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Sherpa Adventure Gear Sardar Short - Men's

February 11, 2009

How long is the inseam on this short? (Or where do they fall on the leg?)Also, I have a 30 inch waist - I see that the sizes are a little quirky...any recommendations?

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Mountain Hardwear WindStopper Tech Jacket - Men's

February 9, 2009

I'd recommend a medium - this jacket runs a little short in torso length, but the sleeves are plenty long. A small fits me snug everywhere and I am 5'8" 150-155lbs. The medium is a bit more loose around the mid-section, but the torso length is better for me. Hope that helps a little.

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SmartWool Midweight Crew - Men's

February 8, 2009

Yes, it is a next to skin layer.

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SmartWool Midweight Bottom - Men's

February 4, 2009

I've worn them every day I've gone out this winter, even though I shouldn't admit to it. No sign of wear thus far

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Arc'teryx Gamma MX Jacket - Men's

January 31, 2009

Try the Patagonia winter sun jacket, MH dragon, or Millet softshells - I've heard good things about them all. Two chest pockets only on the winter sun, though. Also check out the backcountry.com Shift Welder. Longer than the gamma mx, more breathable, just one chest pocket

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Backcountry.com Shift Welder Hoody - Men's

January 24, 2009

Just purchased the jacket and I'm a little worried because I ordered a small. I wear a small in arc'teryx and a medium in MH. Can anyone tell me if the shift welder fit is more or less loose than others? And how about the length? Longer than others, shorter? ANYONE own a small? If so, your dimensions? Anyone have any additional info?

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Mountain Hardwear Xenon Jacket - Men's

January 23, 2009

Check out the dialogue below. It should prove useful and might supply the answer you're looking for. As you will see, numerous others have been in the same or a similar predicament.

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SmartWool Midweight Bottom - Men's

January 22, 2009

They shrink ever so slightly, but it doesn't matter because they are extra long right out of the package. You won't even notice it.

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Suunto Vector Altimeter Watch

January 21, 2009

You can do either. It's quicker if you do it yourself rather than send it off. If you decide to do it yourself, you need to order the battery replacement kit (available from backcountry as well), which includes the new battery, o-ring, and new battery cover. The manual with the watch will explain how to change it out, pretty simple.

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Icebreaker BodyFit260 Leggings w/ Fly Bottom - Men's

January 20, 2009

It is all a matter of personal preference, and everyone will differ in what they feel is "better". I personally prefer my smartwool midweight bottoms. I've tried on both brands and I like the feel of the smartwool better. I'd also recommend you check out both company websites and use them as an additional resource/reference in your decision. Either way I would point you in the direction of a wool baselayer - they're the best at both warming and cooling (in my humble opinion)!

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Mountain Hardwear Offwidth Softshell Jacket - Men's

January 20, 2009

The version of the jacket that I have is black and has the logo above the wrist. This differs from the photos. I don't know about others.

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Backcountry.com Shift Welder Hoody - Men's

January 20, 2009

I'm 5'8" 150lbs. Should I go with a small or medium? I like things to fit slim, but I don't want so tight it won't allow a wool baselayer underneath. Multiple answers welcome. Thanks. ALSO - is this jacket made in Canada?

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Mountain Hardwear Dragon Softshell Jacket - Men's

January 20, 2009

Jon Webb! or anyone who owns the Dragon and other MH shells as well - How does the dragon's cut fit compared to other MH jackets? I have a parbat fleece and Xenon shell and both are mediums. However, I have been running a lot lately and slimming down a bit. I am probably going to hover around 148-150lbs, 5'8"-5'9". My Xenon has a bit of room around the midsection and my parbat fleece fits a little better in that area. Small, or stick with the medium?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Arc'teryx Alpha SV Jacket - Men's

January 18, 2009

The drop back hem really does cover your rear pretty well. The SV is longer than models like the Beta AR, but not quite as long as the Theta AR. The front is near beltbuckle length, if not maybe an inch below. Kind of depends on your torso length.

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SmartWool Sport NTS Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

January 16, 2009

Yes, I am the same height and weight an I wear a small in Smartwool

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Classic MH

Mountain Hardwear WindStopper Tech Jacket - Men's

Mountain Hardwear WindStopper Tech Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 16, 2009

I had this jacket about 4 years ago, until someone hijacked it from me. This was, and still is, one of the best all-around pieces I've ever owned. Efficient at cutting the wind, durable, and (for me) very warm. This is one of MH's first pieces and looks as though it has stayed relatively unchanged. Where else on backcountry.com have you seen something that has 130 reviews and still has 5 stars??? It's for a reason. When I have some extra cash I'll get one again.

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Mountain Hardwear Terra Jacket - Men's

January 14, 2009

Concerning durability, I think the Terra Shell might suit you just fine. BUT, consider this - I own the Xenon and I chose it because I was looking for a jacket that was light (uses Paclite and only 19oz.), durable (70D Outer Shell!) and packed away small. I was looking for something specifically for long backpacking trips with a heavy pack, but that would be durable enough should I decide to use it for a ski trip, etc. as well as be good for all-around wear. The main difference between the Xenon and the Terra is gore paclite vs Conduit, respectively. I believe the Xenon would be much more durable than the Alpha SL because it uses a burlier shell with the paclite laminate. I can't say anything about the terra because I don't know about the durability of conduit vs. gore paclite, but I will say this... The terra is a 3-layer with 20D backing and 20D shell material. The xenon is 2-layer with 70D shell material. As far as size goes, I find that MH jackets all fit the same pretty much across the board (i.e. go for the large). Hope that helps

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Mountain Hardwear Xenon Jacket - Men's

January 14, 2009

Everyone is likely to give their two cents, so knowing that... presently the MH Xenon and Pinnacle are approximately the same price ($100 cheaper than the Arcteryx Beta AR). And I personally believe that the Beta AR is not $100 better than either. There are the throngs of Arc lovers that will pay above and beyond for the logo and I truly believe that it is rarely 3 times better than other product (as the price would imply). One exception being the Alpha SV jacket (legendary). Having said that, the pinnacle is made using MH Conduit technology whereas the xenon is Gore. I've never heard anything negative about the Conduit technology - it is legitimate. Gore-tex is..well, Gore-tex. Trusted. It seems as though the xenon is taped and the pinnacle is welded. Personally, I prefer taping to welding without it. Sacrificing a few ounces for taping is worth it, in my humble opinion. Both jackets are comparable in weight. The xenon is made with Paclite (the lightest of Gore products) and a 70D outer layer. Very stout. As you can read in the other question/answer dialogue - most shells are made three layer with 40/30D. To summarize, I'd choose the Xenon shell because it is everything you require at the best price: 'very durable...waterproof...light'. As a matter of fact, I think I just talked myself into buying one.-------------------------Great answer. Cheers!-------------------------So I did buy the jacket, as stated, and thus far LOVE it. I will review it after it has seen sufficient testing/use

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Arc'teryx Theta AR Jacket - Men's - DO NOT USE

January 14, 2009

The Alpha SV has what is termed a "storm hood". As far as I know, this means that the hood and body are all one continuous piece. I have the gamma mx hoody, which has a similar design. It can be zipped up all the way, but at times the hood will draw the chin area back (slightly irritating to the neck, but minor) if the hood is not over your head but instead hanging behind you. The Theta AR hood is attached to the neck of the body, but will 'drop back' and allow you to zip up the body of the jacket without the hood drawing the chin area back and against your neck/chin (if it is not in use). That's the best way I know to describe it. If you compare the photos you'll see the difference. As far as performance and functionality go, both are helmet compatible, neither is able to be rolled-away/stowed. Other than that, if anyone else has additional info - please add.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Arc'teryx Alpha SV Jacket - Men's

January 14, 2009

The Alpha SV has what is termed a "storm hood". As far as I know, this means that the hood and body are all one continuous piece. I have the gamma mx hoody, which has a similar design. It can be zipped up all the way, but at times the hood will draw the chin area back (slightly irritating to the neck, but minor) if the hood is not over your head but instead hanging behind you. The Theta AR hood is attached to the neck of the body, but will 'drop back' and allow you to zip up the body of the jacket without the hood drawing the chin area back and against your neck/chin (if it is not in use). That's the best way I know to describe it. If you compare the photos you'll see the difference. As far as performance and functionality go, both are helmet compatible, neither is able to be rolled-away/stowed. Other than that, if anyone else has additional info - please add.

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Arc'teryx Gamma MX Hooded Jacket - Men's

January 12, 2009

you put your weed in there.....Useful? Maybe. But necessary/practical? You decide.

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Marmot Highland Jacket - Women's

January 9, 2009

This jacket is not zip-in compatible. It is a rain jacket and is very thin. It will allow for a few thin layers worn underneath, but won't give you much room for layering something such as a fleece.

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Hmm.

Marmot Randonnee Glove

Marmot Randonnee Glove

Rating for this product: 2 January 9, 2009

I cannot give this glove an entirely negative review (I realize that two stars isn't exactly positive), but I will impart my own experience with it. I bought this glove and was happy with it until the second time I wore it. While tightening the wrist cinch, the rubber grip sewn to the webbing ripped right off. I paid retail for them, so I was more than disappointed that something broke so soon. The problem lies in the design: the rubber grip is sewn at the most apical portion of the webbing and is not reinforced with so much more than a single-stitch line. This is minor, I realize (unless you are attempting to cinch down with a gloved hand - inevitable on at least one glove!), but I returned them because at that price, this should not happen. They were warm, indeed, but I couldn't grab the webbing (sans grip) with a gloved hand. I then purchased an old model Patagonia Stretch Element glove (removable liner and eerily similar features with better articulation) at a discounted price and couldn't be happier with them. Disappointing, because Marmot has always been good to me.

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Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's

January 8, 2009

My sundowners were made in Italy, but I don't know if this version is still available. They're 15 years old, been worn on three continents and still function well.They did offer the sundowner classic, then moved production to China. Then, they made the Sundowner MX2, but they are no longer in production.

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Nikwax TX-Direct Spray-On

January 7, 2009

I'm wondering what Nikwax product would be best on an Arc'teryx Gamma MX Hoody? I see that Nikwax makes a 'softshell proof' but I worry about it affecting/comprimising the soft inner lining or breathability in my softshells...is this better to use? Or would the wash-in Softshell Proof work better? What about for my fleece? Again, will a wash-in be best ('polar proof') or a spray-on treatment?

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Favorite

SmartWool Adrenaline Light Crew Hiking Sock

SmartWool Adrenaline Light Crew Hiking Sock

Rating for this product: 5 January 7, 2009

My favorite socks. Will buy more in the future - not that I need them.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Mountain Hardwear Beryllium Jacket - Men's

January 3, 2009

I don't personally own the Beryllium but both of my other MH jackets are mediums and fit great - I am 5'9", 155lbs. Hope that helps

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Nice little Jacket

Marmot Highland Jacket - Women's

Marmot Highland Jacket - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 January 2, 2009

If you're looking for PreCip functionality with a little more feminine cut, this is it. I Bought this jacket for my wife. Cut long enough to keep the thighs dry - my own PreCip would soak my legs (due to 'runoff' from the upper body) if I was wearing jeans in a downpour. I would be curious to see how this jacket fares on the trail - it is tight-cut and tight-fitting and I fear it might rip or tear as it does not have much wiggle room. Overall, does what it says. Only gets 4 stars b/c it's a city jacket

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Ol' Faithful

Black Diamond ATC Belay Device

Black Diamond ATC Belay Device

Rating for this product: 5 January 2, 2009

Best to learn on, hands down. A classic piece that needs no improvement. Also lighter and takes up less room than a grigri

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Classic, basic and reliable

Petzl Ecrin Roc Climbing Helmet

Petzl Ecrin Roc Climbing Helmet

Rating for this product: 5 January 2, 2009

Worked at a camp that provided the Ecrin Roc for kids ranging from 3rd grade through high school. It was the helmet of choice because it was easy enough for the kids to fit quickly, as well as reliable and safe enough to warrant its use when liability was an issue. Easy to adjust while it is on the head. The wheels are a simple but well thought out feature. Can't go wrong with it.

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Miss the good old days...

Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's

Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's

Rating for this product: 2 January 2, 2009

I'm severely disappointed that Vasque chose long ago to move production of this boot from Italy to China. I owned a pair of the Italian-made sundowners and they were great. In the day of the sundowner and the skywalk, Vasque was THE boot to have. Sundowners are a legendary name on the trail and I think anyone purchasing a pair now will feel disappointed, to say the least. You can tell the difference between the old and new by simply looking at them. I give them two stars only for the memories I have of the better days. I now own a pair of Sundowner MX2's (made in Italy) and I am once again in love!

Helpful Votes: 4 Yes | 1 No

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Patagonia Capilene 3 Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

January 1, 2009

Looks like they might have only had a few sizes left when you last checked (as now this color is no longer an option). The fog X-dye is merely a different color.

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Patagonia Capilene 3 Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

January 1, 2009

Capilene 3 might suit you best. At the upper range of the temps you gave, Capilene 4 could be a bit more than you need. In terms of layering over it, maybe a midweight pullover or lightweight jacket/softshell. Once you're moving you may find that the capilene is sufficient on its own. Its really up to you

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Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's

December 31, 2008

Sundowners are fairly middle of the road in terms of volume. I have a low volume foot and the sundowners I had fit me well. They do run true to size - order your normal street shoe size. You'll still be able to fit a liner sock with thick socks.

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Marmot Highland Jacket - Women's

December 31, 2008

Yes, it does.

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The makes-you-sleepy kind of Soft

SmartWool Midweight Bottom - Men's

SmartWool Midweight Bottom - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 30, 2008

Plenty of length in the leg so you won't end up with high-waters after washing. Soft waistband and fly. Chose smartwool because of the supreme softness - even compared to capilene. Not to mention the fact that they do a much better job of cooling (seems counterintuitive being wool) than synthetics. I am converting to smartwool for all of my baselayer needs from now on, not only for the comfort and performance, but for their sustainability practices. Highly recommended

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Stellar Tent

NEMO Equipment Inc. Losi 3P Tent 3-Person 3-Season

NEMO Equipment Inc. Losi 3P Tent 3-Person 3-Season

Rating for this product: 5 December 29, 2008

I own the Losi 2p, but assume that the 3p is comparable with more square footage. We just had it out last night in an all-night storm (39 degrees with 40mph winds and rain) and it proved beastly. We were bone dry, including everything under the vestibule. The two-person fit my wife and I plus our two dogs comfortably. Extremely easy to put up, easy to take down. The footprint is a must, as the tent bottom is fairly thin - and the pawprint is a nice feature (sold separately) as you can slide your pads in the slots to keep them in place. Design allows for good air flow and minimal condensation. Listed as a 4 season tent, but would get chilly under 35 degrees due to the air flow. All clips and poles assemble quickly and easily and it was roomier than I expected, as well as light for the size. I researched many tents before narrowing down to three finalists, and I couldn't be happier that I chose a Nemo. My new favorite piece of gear

Helpful Votes: 4 Yes | 0 No

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Great pant, - HOWEVER...

Mountain Khakis Original Mountain Pant - Men's

Mountain Khakis Original Mountain Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 December 21, 2008

Figured it'd be useful to review these separate from the alpine utility pant by MK. If you're looking for a more burly pant, go with the Alpine Utility. They are heavier, but the reinforced knees and seat are solid. Probably better used in harsh and rigorous activities. Not that the Original Mountain pant isn't durable. As in the review on the Alpine Utility pant...MKs are sturdily constructed, and yes - pricey. But, like all other gear are an investment. That being said, I love MKs. Have bouldered and hiked in them and I know plenty of people who routinely climb, travel, kayak, and backpack in them. I have multiple pairs, which brings me to my only qualm... MK seems to have a quality control issue with their sizing (as one can see from previous reviews). Each pair of my 30x32 pants fits differently. I highly recommend buying them IN store rather than online, unless you can readily return them if they do not fit properly. Love the product, but they need to improve upon this one fault.

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Suunto Vector Altimeter Watch

December 16, 2008

As you can see, there are mixed reviews concerning the waterproofness of the vector. I personally have had no problems with mine, and it has been frequently submerged while collecting samples in rock jetties and sandflats/mudflats for biological research, as well as while snorkeling. The sand did get wedged in between the watch body and the rotating bezel on the face, but it easily came out using a toothbrush under running tap water, good as new. Anytime sand is involved, it can mean trouble for a watch and I'd recommend looking into the Suunto Mariner or Yachtsman as they are made more specifically for watersports. It sounds like you'd use the altimeter function less and require more on the waterproof end. Suunto also offers other dive instruments/wristop watches that might give you a few unneeded functions, but could guarantee you waterproofness. Check out their website under 'diving world'. Hope that helps, they make great products.

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Black Diamond Momentum Harness

December 12, 2008

Not sure what you're talking about with the sizing chart, but it suggests small. I'd go medium so you can put a sweatshirt or something on under it if you need to.I have a size 30 inch waist and a small fit me just fine. The fitted leg loops were snug on me (good) but I have larger thighs.

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La Sportiva Venom Climbing Shoe

December 12, 2008

i would go with a 41.0 i am an 11 to an 11.5 and i find 41.5 to be good for me. so 41 should be good for 10.5This also really depends on your personal preference for fit in a climbing shoe. Do you like your toe circulation cut-off or a fairly comfortable shoe? Some like the feel of a tighter shoe on the rock

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Nice aggressive shoe

La Sportiva Venom Climbing Shoe

La Sportiva Venom Climbing Shoe

Rating for this product: 5 December 12, 2008

Great shoe for bouldering and gym use. Very aggressive downturned shape makes it good for pulling with toes. Heel has never slipped on me and elastic is a nice feature. Toe box is rather narrow and if you have a wide foot your toes can be smashed together. Wish I'd have ordered a larger size simply for my toes' sake!

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Good stuff

Metolius Super Chalk

Metolius Super Chalk

Rating for this product: 5 December 12, 2008

Does what it's supposed to. Haven't tried a lot of different chalks, but this is my choice of those that I have tried. Great for bouldering

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Order a half size up

Merrell Chameleon Wrap Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe - Men's

Merrell Chameleon Wrap Gore-Tex Hiking Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 12, 2008

Unlike most burly waterproof hiking shoes, this shoe is fairly quick to break in and doesn't feel like a wooden clog when off the trail and on the pavement. I haven't tested mine out a great deal yet, but have thus far proven waterproof and comfortable. Fits wide feet, which is nice, but size up by half a shoe size. Mine are a little snug in the toe (my fault for not reordering a larger size).

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Nice general harness

Black Diamond Momentum Harness

Black Diamond Momentum Harness

Rating for this product: 4 December 12, 2008

I owned this harness before selling it (I boulder mostly and just needed one for a summer job at a camp)(and had no trouble finding takers for it) and it is a nice novice harness. It is comfortable and light, nice padding, fitted legs are snug, and does the job for a low price. You don't need all the bells and whistles if you're not using them.

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Love the fit

Mountain Hardwear Offwidth Softshell Jacket - Men's

Mountain Hardwear Offwidth Softshell Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 12, 2008

This jacket fits WONDERFULLY! The arms are adequately long and the torso isn't cut super short like some MH jackets. The first jacket I've ever found that felt so loose and comfortable while still looking sleek and form fitting. Great range of motion. Will update after getting it outdoors more...until then it gets 5 just for the cut (5'9" 160lbs medium fits perfectly).

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes | 1 No

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Unmatched.

Chaco Z/1 Unaweep Sandal - Men's

Chaco Z/1 Unaweep Sandal - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 9, 2008

Durable AND comfortable. Teva does not make a product that can hold a flame to the Chaco line. The new unaweep sole design cuts on the weight a bit, which is nice, but the weight goes unnoticed because of the supreme comfort of these sandals. I routinely compare them to Birkenstock in the comfort category. Can be re-soled, re-webbed, and Chaco customer service is the best I've ever dealt with, hands down. They are courteous, efficient and eager to help, and they stand by their product. Try on a pair and see why everyone loves them.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Great pant, BUT -

Mountain Khakis Alpine Utility Pant - Men's

Mountain Khakis Alpine Utility Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 December 9, 2008

MKs are sturdily constructed, and yes - pricy. But, like all other gear are an investment. That being said, I love MKs. Have bouldered and hiked in them and I know plenty of people who routinely climb, travel, and backpack in them. I have multiple pairs, which brings me to my only qualm... MK seems to have a quality control issue with their sizing (as one can see from previous reviews). Each pair of my 30x32 pants fits differently. I highly recommend buying them IN store rather than online, unless you can readily return them if they do not fit properly. Love the product, but they need to improve upon this one fault.

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Reliable and worth the price

Marmot PreCip Jacket - Men's

Marmot PreCip Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 9, 2008

I've never owned another rain jacket, mostly because I haven't needed to retire the PreCip yet. I don't know if this makes this review less reputable or more significant - you decide. Mine is going on five years' use and still holding up. I must say that I'm surprised - it seems so lightweight and delicate. It has never leaked, never ripped, never lost its capability. The first summer I purchased it while instructing at a camp (outdoors every day of the week) and it rained nearly three times a week on average. This summer I did notice that the seam taping along the back of the neck (base of the hood) was peeling, so it may be nearing its end, but I am still staying dry. Like all rain jackets, if you are wearing short sleeves, it can feel slightly clammy against your skin (I think a lot of reviewers have the misconception that this is precipitation leaking through when, in fact, it is perspiration), but the gigantic pit zips can remedy this quickly. It is plenty roomy for base layers,fleece, etc without feeling loose and sloppy. I hate to think that someday I will have to part with this jacket...

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Durable, Lightweight, and useful

Suunto Vector Altimeter Watch

Suunto Vector Altimeter Watch

Rating for this product: 5 December 9, 2008

Reading the manual front to back upon receiving the Vector is highly recommended. Like anything else, becoming familiar with it will greatly increase the ease of use. It is extremely lightweight, which is nice in any outdoor endeavor. I have personally had no problems with it leaking underwater. I have worn it snorkeling during my honeymoon in the caribbean as well as during a marine biology research trip in which it was frequently submerged. Many useful functions. The altimeter is "accurate to within 100 feet" an associate told me. This has proven true in most cases. Beware that the altimeter is based on barometric pressure readings, so if the weather is changing, the altitude measurement becomes inaccurate. It is easy to tell if you can rely on your altitude measurements by using the barometer's difference mode to check changing conditions (sounds complicated but is like second nature after a few weeks). Face of the watch can scratch and is very large, so take care. The compass bearing mode is a great feature, as well as the barometric trend monitor. Common sense is to use the traditional tools in the backcountry such as a topo map, compass, etc. This should not replace such items, but is useful in a pinch. Easy to calibrate, easy to read, lightweight, durable.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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