James Phelan

Bought last years version. I've had them about 9 months so far. I bought them at the beginning of the hiking season and continue to wear them. Hold up well. I was not sure about the "waterproof" KeenDry as they didn't seem to work the first time out. It was my fault though. Seem to keep me dry now. They are about out of life at 9 months old. The soles are starting to wear bad. The toe cap and the where the soles meet the leather sides near the toe cap are starting to delaminate. Overall they are doing very well as I usually destroy shoes in about 6 months. The most comfortable shoes I have ever owned hands down. Virtually no break in and roomy toe box as other say. Despite the problems I've had, I will probably buy again...

Couldn't decide between the 46L or the 58L. I tried both the 46L and 58L in both medium and large. I purchased the 46 in medium despite the hip belt almost being too short. I later returned the 46L and got the 58L instead. The hip belt fits better (despite what people say, I think they are slightly different). I figured that for about the same weight, I could have a much larger capacity, less compression of bag, etc. Awesome construction. Lot's of neat little features. Probably the lightest option for something this large of a capacity...Osprey Rules!

Got this one on SAC for just over $100 shipped. I looked at other tents on BC.com and REI and for the price/weight I could not find anything better. To get a 5lb tent that will sleep 3 people and cost about $100 bucks is impossible. Each guys share is about 1.6 lbs and $33 bucks. Thats nuts!!! I dare you to find a better value...

Bought this on SAC for $30 shipped. I was really hoping to be able to use it in place of my BC.com 700ml mug with the added advantage of a lid that doubles as a "pan". Unusably small for a pan. If you want a "pan" buy pan. If you want a 1100ml mug and can live with a pan/lid/thingy then get this. I returned and got the 1650ml set instead. They both weigh the same and the lid is much larger in diameter.

I got this one on SAC for $35 shipped. Good size, I usually use the BC.com 700ml mug, but for me and my two sons this will work better. Good quality, lightweight, and cheap. What more could you ask for.

These things are magical. These are super supportive and yet still light enough to keep you thinking you forgot to put something on. I usually have trouble with chafing during hikes, but these breath well and don't ride up while hiking. I thought the price was high, but after wearing them I'm totally sold.

This is a great bottle for everyday use around the house, gym, or at work. The downside it that it has parts, and parts break. I would not advocate this as a backcountry bottle, instead go with a traditional bottle with screw cap. I did break the cap on my first bottle and it was easier to just buy a new bottle...again not a backcountry type bottle.

These are the current socks in my 3 season backpacking setup. Keep my feet warm in cooler weather and cool in warm weather. If you are prone to really hot feet you may go with something else, but for regular folks they are great. I recently took a hiking short cut through a coastal estuary (don't ask why) and soaked these with nasty bog water and mud. I rinsed them out at the next water stop and hung them to dry. They never got stinky and dried quickly. They are also fitted and feel great on your foot.

I bought the 2/3 size and it works great. If you can deal with a pack under your feet you should be fine with a 2/3 size. I am a side sleeper and this thing lets me get a good night sleep without my hips going numb. Like everyone else is saying, the trick is to get all settled and then let 1/3 to 1/2 of the air out so that you settle in and get supported. If you don't you will be sorry. Material is sturdy and tough, but be sure to keep valve threads clear of sand and dirt.

I own two of these knives, one for everyday use and one for backpacking. The pocket clip is better than other brands making it more comfortable to carry and retrieve. Blade is stable when fully opened and under heavy load. Also, you can take the thing completely apart and clean it out.I abuse mine everyday and they keep on going. SOG makes the best knives hands down.

I had a hard time deciding what filter to finally buy and chose this one and I have NO regrets. It's easy to use, works great, and packs small and light. I have used it in lakes, rivers, and streams with no problems. Compared to other people's equipment that I have hiked with it seems easier and faster than many other brands out there. You won't be disappointed.

This is a great light for all occasions. I replaced my smaller and lighter (1oz) cheapo headlamp and was worried about the added 2oz. After using it I can say that it was worth the extra weight. Between the different intensity settings and the diffuser this thing could weight 10oz and I'd probably still use it. One thing I did was change from standard alkaline batteries to lighter weight lithium ion ones to save a little weight. You can't go wrong here.

Small, light, and dries super quick. Look not further, no need to buy any other towel. I bought the large, and can dry my whole body off if I have to.

Small, light, and fits my whole cooking setup. Perfect for solo backpacking. Note that only smaller gas canisters will fit inside.