The sizing goes up to XXL. Some North Face jackets go up to 3X, but I haven't seen that size here on backcountry.com.

The fit is pretty much true-to-size, but the straps are adjustable to get an individual fit. If I were you, I would get the larger size (my shoe size is also 10.5, and size 11 Chacos have always worked just fine for me).

Probably the best way to wash a softshell like this would be using Nikwax Tech Wash: http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Nikwax-Tech-Wash/NIK0018M.html then hanging the coat to dry.

If it seems to be losing its water resistance, either wash with Nikwax Softshell Proof Wash In http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Nikwax-Softshell-Proof-Wash-In/NIK0024M.html

or wash, hang to dry, then treat with Nikwax Softshell Proof Spray-On http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Nikwax-Softshell-Proof-Spray-On/NIK0043M.html

They are actually pretty similar. The Gamma SV seems slightly thicker, and maybe a little warmer, but not by much. As for the fit, the Shift Welder could be a little more fitted than the Gamma SV (so that there's not quite as much room to layer), and the Welder's arms and body are just a little bit longer.

It really depends upon what you mean by warm. It is a serious shell, keeping all the elements and wind out, but it is not an insulated jacket. How warm it is depends upon how you layer underneath it. This allows great versatility, so that on warmer days you can wear just a baselayer, while if it's bitterly cold then you can add a layer or two of fleece, etc to be as warm as you want.

Contact customer service for the site to clarify this. Sometimes, there is a sale price advertised, but this is only for a particular color or size (and the dropdown "Select options" menu will tell you the price for each size and color available). They do ship out of country (I believe that you place the item in your basket and then check out, listing your address; or you can contact customer service).

The Keen website says that the Newport H2 comes in a mens 7 (and 7.5), but it doesn't look like backcountry.com carries these sizes (you might want to contact them to confirm this). If you can't get this size here, you can likely find it somewhere else.

Here's the link to the juliet sunglasses they carry:

http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Oakley-Juliet-Sunglasses/OAK2523M.html

The Arcteryx Delta LT zip pullover is on the long side, and thin (but warm and very soft). It's not too fitted, and very versatile (e.g., can be worn by itself, over a thin baselayer, or even used as a layering piece). This could be just what you're looking for (available at backcountry and backcountry outlet):
http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Arcteryx-Delta-LT-Zip-Pullover-Mens/ARC0136M.html

or:
http://www.backcountryoutlet.com/outlet/ARC0136/Arcteryx-Delta-LT-Zip-Pullover-Mens.html

I always like to have footprints with my tents, and Black Diamond does make one for the Bombshelter. It's called the "Guiding Light/Bombshelter Ground Cloth" (because it also fits the Guiding Light tent). However, it doesn't seem that bc.com is carrying it at this time, but it can be found elsewhere (or you can contact backcountry.com to see if they plan on making it available).

This jacket does have underarm "pit" zippers for core venting.

This jacket provides excellent protection against the wind. It is built to be an external layer (with some room for layering under it) so it might be a little bulky to wear under another jacket, but it is thin enough that it could probably be done.

These boots are pretty close to true to size, tending toward slightly small and narrow. If you are between sizes, then I would size up. If you have especially wide feet, this boot might be too narrow. My feet are between 10.5 and 11, and a little wide. I got the size 11 and have been very happy with them (being able to lace all the way to the toes actually really helps with getting a more custom fit).

It depends upon the size of your package... ;-)

Actually, the mesh liner is fairly roomy, and not constricting. Thinking about it, it is probably a little more roomy than similar Columbia shorts that I own. I've worn these shorts for a number of years, and really haven't ever felt too constricted.

"Backpack" is a generic term that means, not surprisingly, a pack worn on the back. This could be anything from a small rucksack to a week-long, expedition pack. "Daypack" essentially implies a smaller pack that can keep what you need for the day on the trail, at the park, at school, or going to and from work. Some are "technical," designed for specific outdoor pursuits, while others are more designed for students or work use. The size of daypacks can vary greatly, so when shopping for one it's important to know both how you want to use it, as well as how large you want it to be.

Like most everyday daypacks, this is water-resistant and not waterproof. If it is really important to find one that is more waterproof, I would also check out the technical daypack section:
http://www.backcountry.com/store/group/100000046/Daypacks-Technical.html

Some of these packs are constructed to do better in the elements (but they won't have as many pockets or organizational features). Better yet, some technical daypacks come with a built-in rain fly.

The largest size they make is the XXL, which apparently fits a 46" chest (and most Icebreaker tops are on the small size, although this one has a little more room). At 54", the XXL would likely be pretty snug.

It has an adjustable velcro closure.

This jacket really doesn't have much insulating value (although it is a killer softshell). If it's really cold out, you'll need to layer underneath it. Having said this, I will also point out that it is also fairly fitted (and runs a little on the small side), so that there's not a whole lot of room for other layers. If you are between sizes, I would definitely get the larger size.

I've never had much problem with condensation. Since it is a full-mesh tent, the most likely place for condensation would be on the inside of the fly, and I haven't seen much of this (even in rainy weather).

Only if you get the one with fire retardant coating (and keep the doors zipped up).

You can find which colors are discontinued by going to "Select Options" above and looking to see which ones are at the discounted price (at this point, it appears that the Union Blue is a discontinued color).

I can understand your confusion. You are correct; typically, sleeping pads do go *under* the sleeping bag. However, Big Agnes (the maker of this pad) has a system where the underside of their sleeping bags have a separate sleeve into which you slip the pad (you don't actually put the pad into the main compartment of the bag). With this system, you don't roll off of your pad. Also, since the pad is attached to the bag when slipped in the sleeve, they don't put insulation on the underside of the bag, decreasing the weight and packed size of the bag. However, this pad will also work with/under regular sleeping bags, although the mummy shape could be a little narrow for some people. In this pad (for you) I would definitely get the long if you were going to buy one.

Good question. As this model is from two years ago, backcountry.com is no longer selling them, and I'm not sure that Sherpa Adventure Gear is still making the Sardar/Sirdar shorts (or any shorts, other than the Sheetal convertible pant) you may have some difficulty. If it is real important to you, you may be able to google them and find someone who still has them. Otherwise, you'd probably be better off just browsing the Men's Hiking and Climbing short area on backcountry.com to find another brand.

I would guess that a medium would be OK for you. If you look on this page (or go to the TNF site) and click on the "See Sizing Chart" link on the upper right side of the page it would suggest that with a torso of 18" and a waist of 35" the medium should fit:
http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-gear/primero-70.html

If the hipbelt is too small, I believe that TNF does sell them separately, but I don't think that you can get them through backcountry.com.

With adjustable foot braces, you can get most kayaks to 'fit' regardless of your height (unless your legs are exceptionally long). Weight would be the more important concern. The Cayuga 110 is rated at a weight capacity of 250 pounds, so (weighing 220 pounds) this doesn't leave a whole lot of leeway for gear. Actually, the Cayuga 110 is the smallest Cayuga (there are also the Cayuga 130 and Cayuga 146 http://www.oldtowncanoe.com/kayaks/product_list.html).

You would likely be OK in this kayak, but if you are planning on packing quite a bit of gear (or are planning on using it on rough water) you may wish to consider a bigger boat.

It really depends upon your preferences, and your size. If you like being snug in your bag (or are very interested in saving weight) a regular would likely be OK. If you may be pushing the bag to its temperature rating or beyond, a snugger bag may help keep you warmer. But if you want a little more wiggle room then get a long. The long is not only longer, but also a little wider, so if you are a stocky 5'10 then a long might be more comfortable. Personally, I prefer my bags a little on the longer side, because for me the extra wiggle room is more important than the slightly increased weight.

Much depends not just on your height, but on how long your body/torso is.

This page will give you a link to a sizing chart for TNF packs (based upon torso length): http://www.thenorthface.com/catalog/sc-gear/prophet-35.html
(click where it says "see sizing chart" underneath the sizes)

Yes, it does have a waist drawcord.

Yes, you can find it here:
http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Therm-a-Rest-Prolite-Plus-4-Stuff-Sack/CAS0514M.html

Yes, the straps of all three colors are lined with polyester webbing.

Yes, there are (5) belt loops.

There are velcro tabs to keep the sides of the brim flipped up.

Yes, it fits just the same as a Nalgene. The diameter of both bottles is the same. Actually, with my Bora 80, the 40 oz Klean Kanteen is a little easier to get out because of the loop on the cap (and the longer neck).

Yes. They're $49.95 here on backcountry.com:
http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Katadyn-Mini-Replacement-Element-Ceramic/EXT0037M.html

It doesn't have a dedicated pocket for a hydration bladder. However, it does have a "elastic compression padded laptop sleeve" which would work for a bladder, and does have a hydration port.

It's interesting that you had this experience, because with fairly clear water you should be able to filter much more water without having to clean the filter. However, I have had a similar experience. When I first got this filter, I was able to filter probably 30-40 gallons of murky water with little problem. However, I eventually replaced the filter, and on my last trip I had to clean it after only about 20 gallons of relatively clean water.

Yes, it can be cleaned in the field (without fully dissembling it). Drain the water, turn it inside out, and then take the mesh off of the filter and clean it (there is a tubular netting that slips off of the filter and allows you to unwind the mesh). Then, I put the filter in the water and (underwater) scrub it with a sponge or clothe. This can improve the flow for a while.

One other trick I have found is that if the filter begins to slow down, with the bag still full of water I will pinch the bag and 'rub' the filter through the bag. This usually speeds up flow for a little while.

When this filter works, it works great. However, I am always sure to have another filter (or water purification method) just in case.

This jacket would probably work for this. However, it is really just a shell, so while it will protect you from wind/snow/rain, for any real warmth you'll need to layer underneath. With a mid to heavy-weight fleece you'll probably be OK, but there's really not much that can make you toasty warm when it's -35F and windy.

This shell is made out of Mountain Hardwear's Conduit material. While this does pretty good against the elements, it's not as good as Gore-Tex shells (but it also is much less expensive).

One question is really whether this shell is too "technical" for your needs (e.g., will you really use the pit zips, or will they just irritate you?) Will you always have on enough clothing underneath to keep you warm? If warmth is your primary concern (and you want to stay with a Mountain Hardwear product) I would give consideration to a jacket that has some insulation built-in, such at the Mortise or Dado Jackets. When it's seriously cold out, an insulated jacket not only keeps you warm, but allows you to have fewer layers to take off once you get inside.

No powdah skirt (but it does have a drawcord hem).

The North Face pants I own (including ski pants) tend to be fairly roomy (but not baggy) in the thighs.

This is a thin, lightweight shell that provides wind protection and mild water resistance. For any real warmth, you'll need to be layered underneath it (but, even then, this is not designed to provide serious warmth).

You are making sense. :-) Yes, there is a mesh panel. You can find a better picture of it here:
http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en-us/shop/mountain/shelters/tripod-bivy

15.8 ounces (448 grams) per pair

Both the Z/1 and the Z/2 are made in wide versions. The footbed itself is wider, but I can't say by how much. Also, with both the Z/1 and the Z/2, the straps usually go around (rather than over) the widest part of the foot, so by adjusting the straps it is usually possible for people with wider feet (or even a bunion) to get a comfortable fit. For people with narrow feet, it can be a little more difficult.

These might actually work for fly fishing, depending upon how you use them. They would probably work best if you spend most of your time fishing from shore, only occasionally wading into the water. The sole looks fairly grippy, but all bets are off on slippery river rocks. One concern would be that if you are going to be spending a lot of time in the water, gravel will tend to accumulate in the shoes (and there don't appear to be good drains to help prevent this), then you would need to untie them and take them off to get the gravel out.

One problem in finding good shoes for flyfishing (including the ones made specifically for this purpose) is that the ones that seem to work best in the water look like, well, water shoes (which limits their use when not fishing). The best shoe that I have found (based upon comfort and traction) is the North Face Padda http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/The-North-Face-Padda-Amphibious-Shoe-Womens/TNF2843M.html

Other water shoes can be found here:
http://www.backcountry.com/store/group/170/Womens-Water-Shoes.html

No, it is not removable.

8.75 inches

No, I don't believe that it is (i.e., there is no inside sleeve for a reservoir, or a portal for a sip tube).

Yep. It does great with hot liquids (except that the metal itself gets hot). I like to fill my Klean Canteen with hot coffee (I always worried about doing this with my Nalgenes, for fear that the plastic would leach into the fluid). Of course, it has no insulation to keep beverages warm, but it also doesn't retain the smell or taste of previous beverages.

Many Oakleys can be purchased with prescription lenses, but it usually needs to be through a prescription dealer (and not backcountry.com). Here is where you can find which ones are available in prescription (and I don't think that the Livestrong Radar Path is on this list):
http://www.oakley.com/search/men+prescription+sunglasses

I'm sure that it would probably work. However, this system is really for people who are running (or on a bike), to make it easier to carry and access water. If I were in a canoe, I would probably rather have my water in the canoe, rather than having to wear it (unless it were a non-stop race, where this system could have some advantages).

20 inches wide (and 72 inches long for the regular bag, 78 inches long for the long bag). So most regular pads will fit, except for the large (25 inch wide) pads.

This pad would probably work for you (but, given your height, you would probably want to get a long one). It is made to be slipped into the sleeve of a Big Agnes sleeping bag, so when using another bag there is a chance that you'll slip off of the pad (particularly if sleeping on any sort of incline). Since you are not slipping the pad into a sleeve, you can also consider getting a non-mummy pad (either regular or long size) and this would decrease the chances of you falling off. But if you are sleeping on level ground, for comfort and price this pad is hard to beat.

"All Oakley Eyewear meets or exceeds ANSI Z87.1 standards for optical clarity and impact resistance."
http://www.oakley.com/customer_service/faq

This is a self-inflating pad. Essentially, that means that you spread it out and open the valve, and (over time) it mostly inflates. You can then breathe into it to get it to your desired firmness.

Yes, it comes with a stuff sack and a repair kit.

The description states, "The durable polyester seat fabric holds up to three hundred pounds..."

No, you really don't have to have the stuff sack (and I agree that it really should be included with the pad). For a while, I just put a rubber band around my NeoAir, then put it in a plastic bag (that my newspaper was delivered in). But then I decided that since I spent so much on the pad, I should probably try to protect the pad with the stuff sack (and it does work well for a stuff sack, and the pad fits in it very easily). I realized that if $15 was really that big of a deal, I probably shouldn't have forked out all the cash for the NeoAir in the first place.

The fly does extend to the ground. You can find a photo of it here:
http://www.kelty.com/Kelty/products.php?type=8&cat=62&id=146&image=382

Yes, it would probably work. This bag will fit pads that are 72" by 20" (http://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Detail/Bag/SaverySL), and I believe that the SynMat 7 Pump is 70" by 20" (but the SynMat 7 Pump DLX will not fit, because it is 26" wide and 76" long).

The only question is that since the SynMat 7 Pump is 2.8" thick, it may take a little work to get it into the sleeve (I use a 2.5" thick NeoAir with my Big Agnes bag, and it is somewhat of a tight fit).

When it says "$21.24 - $84.95" what it means is that some are $21.24, and others are $84.95. When you pull down the "Select Options" menu it will list the color, size, and price. Currently, it appears that the only ones that are $21.24 are the Size 6.0 Sandy shoes. So, really, the price at the top only tells you the price ranges, and you have to check the actual price based upon the color and size. (I, also, found this confusing at first)

An XL would probably be just about right. With a light fleece, there won't be too much room to spare (and there probably wouldn't be room for a bulky midlayer), but this jacket is not quite as fitted as some other backcountry.com clothing. The sleeves are on the longer side, so you shouldn't have a problem there.

This pad should be OK with the Edna SL. The Edna SL description says, "Half pad sleeve with adjustable strap holds ANY 20" wide rectangular or mummy shaped pad." http://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Detail/Bag/EdnaSL

However, the Big Agnes Roxy Ann, Ethel, and Lulu petite bags require a pad that is shorter (20 X 66 inches). Here's where you can find the specs and requirements for Big Agnes bags: http://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Specs/Bag

No, it doesn't come with a footprint (and I'm not sure that backcountry.com sells one for it). However, you can buy a footprint from other retailers (usually for $40-50).

According to Oakley, "all [flak jacket] lenses feature the unbeatable clarity of Oakley’s HIGH DEFINITION OPTICS® (HDO®)."
http://oakley.com/pd/4672/15241

How waterproof a fabric is can be described in 2 ways: either PSI, or mm/24 hours. The 10K is mm/24 hours. What this apparently means is the fabric can withstand 10,000 mm of water/24 hours before you get wet (that's a lot of water). 20K would have twice the water protection.

More information can be found here:
http://www.backcountry.com/store/newsletter/a254/Waterproof-Breathable-Explained.html

Oakley does make prescription lenses for the titanium whisker. The question is whether or not your existing pair can be retrofitted (I would think that they probably can). However, I don't believe that backcountry.com sells prescription Oakleys or their lenses. If I were you, I would contact Oakley (at 800-501-5899) and they will likely refer you to an authorized prescription Oakley dealer to have this done.

I believe that you just order one bag at a time. If you order "Assorted #1" you will get one of the #1 size bags. What is "assorted" is the color, so that you specify the size and they surprise you with the color.

I'm really not sure what you mean my vibram technology, but this shoe has a Vibram Ecostep sole.

Of Ecostep, Vibram says, "Developed for the soles of casual footwear, ECOSTEP is an innovative eco-compound, capable of reducing waste and the use of virgin materials by up to 30%, while still offering the kind of high quality product for which Vibram is known."

The sizing is US. You can click the "View Sizing Chart" link in the upper right to get the sizing conversion.

Lots more pockets than the description says. Two velcro cargo pockets, and a zippered cargo pocket on the right. Hand pockets, and two back pockets.

Keen does apparently make these in size 7.5 (and 7). I would contact backcountry.com to see whether they can get this shoe in a size 7.5. You may be OK with the 8's, but Keens generally run fairly true-to-size (and a little wide) so while you can tighten the drawcord the 8's may still be a little big. If they can't get the 7.5's one other option would be to order the 8's and if they are too big you can send them back.

Yes, these are U.S. sizes. To view the size conversion, click the "View Sizing Chart" link in the upper right.

The replacement filter is the Hiker Pro replacement cartridge:
http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Katadyn-Hiker-Pro-Replacement-Cartridge/EXT0047M.html

The mesh lining isn't especially tight (and the leg-holes can be stretched out even more if you desire). However, like most liners it can chaff if you spend long times hiking in them.

Usually there's not much that can be done for scratched lenses (and the Iridium coating can scratch fairly easily). Even though you've had them for less than a year, Oakley states:
"Scratched lenses are not covered under Oakley’s warranty policy. Replacement lenses can either be purchased through your local Authorized Oakley Dealer, Oakley.com, or by calling toll free (800) 431-1439"
http://oakley.com/customer_service/warranty_policy

If it bothers you enough, you can get replacement lenses for about $40 from Oakley. I would consider contacting them to discuss your situation.

Actually, you can buy one from backcountry.com (under stove accessories):
http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/MSR-Windscreen-and-Heat-Reflector/CAS0088M.html

It is a Gore-Tex Pro hardshell (so it is waterproof). It doesn't have a powder skirt, but it does have an adjustable hem drawcord.

Of course, it's hard to tell how sunglasses are going to fit without trying them on. Having said this, these are large, full-coverage glasses. If you go to the Kaenon web-site, you can see how they look when they are actually being worn.
http://kaenon.com/product/11_rhino.html

No, Kayland is still making the Contact boot.

From what I can tell, the weight appears to be similar: 29 oz for a pair of size 9's. The older Z/2's are about 3 oz heavier.

Yes, backcountry.com is very good about this. Their return policy is:
"Unconditional 100% Guarantee
We guarantee complete satisfaction and an unlimited lifetime warranty. If at any time -- now, next month, in 30 years -- you're not 100% satisfied, send your gear back for a full refund. No questions asked."

Yes, they have a "built-in mesh brief."

The HydroTrak soles of the Padda are non-marking.
http://www2.thenorthface.com/eu/technologies/technologies-FO43.html