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Kim Havell

Skier // Climber // Backpacker // Hiker // Mountaineer // Trad Climber // AT Skier // Alpine Skier // Camper/Hiker // Trail Runner

Kim Havell: #16 of 106,199 Top 100 Gear Guru More Information

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    Telluride, CO
  • Bio:

    Based in Telluride, Colorado, Kim Havell began her career in the mountains, innocently enough, as an alpine ski coach. From there, she gradually made the transition to climbing and ski mountaineering, and has since been a guest instructor for the San Juan Outdoor School, CVA, and Babes in the Backcountry, tail-guided for H2O Heli Guides, and been a eleven year member of the San Miguel County Search and Rescue Team, with medical and rescue certifications. Her other sponsors include The North Face, CAMP USA, SMITH Optics and Salomon skis. Kim has made numerous first female descents in Southwest Colorado, climbed and skied both the Grand Teton and Mt. Moran in a 2 day period, completed multiple ascents/descents of 13ers & ten 14ers in Colorado, and cut lines on peaks in France, Italy, Canada, Switzerland, Alaska, Russia, and Japan. Having traveled to over 50 countries, she has also climbed several peaks in the Himalayas including Lobuche (6553m) and Ama Dablam (6888m) in Nepal, as well as an expedition to Gasherbrum II (8032m), Pakistan, with some skiing from 7315m, a womens expedition that skied from the summit of Denali (6194m), and a recent Argentina trip of multiple ski descents in the Horcones Valley and on Aconcagua. Kim is also a ski model and guide for the Telluride Ski Resort, a live host for Black Byrd Media Group, and has a passion for climbing the desert rock of Indian Creek, UT.

    Visit: www.havelltravels.com

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Discrete skiing at 16k on cerro La Cuerno, Argentina

Discrete skiing at 16k on cerro La Cuerno, Argentina

Discrete Banger Pom Beanie

December 21, 2009

photo: steve romeo, www.tetonat.com

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Geishas skiing at 16k on cerro La Cuerno Argentina

Geishas skiing at 16k on cerro La Cuerno Argentina

Salomon Geisha Ski - Women's

December 21, 2009

photo: steve romeo www.tetonat.com

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Prophet Pack at 17k on Denali

Prophet Pack at 17k on Denali

The North Face Prophet 65 Backpack - 4000-4300cu in

December 21, 2009

Reliable and strong under a heavy load in challenging conditions

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Geishas getting prepped for skiing on Aconcagua

Geishas getting prepped for skiing on Aconcagua

Salomon Geisha Ski - Women's

December 21, 2009

getting ready for a ski descent at 19,000ft on Aconcagua- reliable high performance in variable conditions

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TNF duffels in Askoli, Pakistan

TNF duffels in Askoli, Pakistan

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag - 250 - 9070cu in

November 2, 2009

TNF duffels lined out in Askoli for the haul to GII bc, pakistan.

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TNF Mammatus Bib at 17k ft on Denali

TNF Mammatus Bib at 17k ft on Denali

The North Face Mammatus Bib - Women's

October 2, 2009

excellent climbing/ski bib that resist the cold and elements up high.

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Green Mammatus Jkt on Denali summit

Green Mammatus Jkt on Denali summit

The North Face Mammatus Jacket - Women's

October 2, 2009

excellent wind & cold protective layer at 6700meters.

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loading up TNF bascamp duffels at Nagano airport

loading up TNF bascamp duffels at Nagano airport

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag - 250 - 9070cu in

October 2, 2009

yellow bag- medium (great for travel), red bag- large (great for expeditions and large/bulky loads)

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Garmont Radium women's boot on the summit of Denali

Garmont Radium women's boot on the summit of Denali

Garmont Radium Alpine Touring Boot - Women's

July 25, 2009

these boots stayed warm climbing up to 20,320ft and skied down off the summit. excellence in performance.

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TNF dome at BC Gasherbrum II in Pakistan

TNF dome at BC Gasherbrum II in Pakistan

The North Face 2-Meter Dome Tent 8-Person 4-Season

May 7, 2009

The dome at work shedding snow at BC in Pakistan- summer 08. photo: Kim Havell

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Reactor Stove at Camp II Gasherbrum II Pakistan

Reactor Stove at Camp II Gasherbrum II Pakistan

MSR Reactor Stove

May 7, 2009

Kristoffer Erickson boiling with the MSR reactor stove at Camp II- 22,500ft on Gasherbrum II in Pakistan 2008-photo: Kim Havell

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Smith Talents on a sunny ski day

Smith Talents on a sunny ski day

Smith Talent Sunglasses - Polarized Lens

April 13, 2009

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Sold Out

Salomon Shogun Ski

January 13, 2010

Sounds like you definitely want to take out the Shoguns- they fit all the categories that you want them to- great powder ski with amazing flotation courtesy of the reverse camber, good side cut for carving, and full woodcore and bamboo construction that allow for stability and responsiveness. It's an amazing all-mountain performer, that adapts to and makes varying conditions really fun.

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Salomon Shogun Ski

January 11, 2010

The Shogun would be a perfect fit for you- it is an extremely versatile all-mountain/all-conditions ski that you can take from groomers to bumps to deep powder and it will perform reliabley and agressively. It's got the beautiful combination of reverse camber, wood core, and side cut to create a high performance all terrain ski. You most likely will want to go with the 191 with your height/weight/ ski level, but for quicker response/agility, the 182 could possibly work..

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functional and fashionable

Backcountry.com Merino Bliss Lightweight Long Underwear Top - Women's

Backcountry.com Merino Bliss Lightweight Long Underwear Top - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 January 11, 2010

A versatile lightweight long underwear top that has an awesome feminine cut, very very handy zip top side pocket that I use for my ipod (and other items), and a nice high zip neck that protects well from wind and cold. I use this top for climbing, skiing, touring, running, yoga and other sports- it is a piece that can be used for almost any outdoor activity. It also has a nice long fit, which helps greatly in sport so that your entire waist is covered when in motion, and it has long arms that allow for partial wrist/hand coverage with handy thumbholes. The side paneling design is really flattering, and the reflective goat is an added bonus.

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Sweet suit!

I/O Bio Merino Contact Pilot Suit - Women's

I/O Bio Merino Contact Pilot Suit - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 January 11, 2010

This is an amazing one-piece base layer that has nice soft, light non-cumbersome wool and is really warm. Just took this for a skiing & climbing expedition in the Horcones Valley/Aconcagua, Argentina and was impressed with its function and mobility, warmth, and convenience with a great zipper for not baring all when you have to go in the wind and snow. It packs light and small and has a superb warmth to weight ratio. Reliable and ultra comfortable layering outfit. Also like the cute hood and the nice waist tie for synching it in.

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excellent expedition pad

Therm-a-Rest Prolite Sleeping Pad

Therm-a-Rest Prolite Sleeping Pad

Rating for this product: 5 January 11, 2010

The prolite is a reliable, durable, high quality pad for backcountry travel. It's weight to performance ratio is superb, and it is my go to pad for expeditions and other excursions where lighter weight but reliable performance is key. This pad has traveled with me for snow camping on colordo 14ers, pakistan's Gasherbrum II, Denali, Aconcagua and elsewhere. I like the pomegrante color as it makes it easier to locate the stuff sac etc when you're sorting and moving gear. Generally seems to take two rounds of rolling up to get it to fit into the nice uberlight stuff sac, and do have to help it along on inflation.

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Salomon Czar Ski

January 11, 2010

Depends on what type of skier you are and what conditions you prefer to ski...the Salomon Shogun is an amazingly versatile ski and highly recommended for an all-mountain (groomers, powder, bumps) as well as big mountain skier. The Czar is more of a high performance deeper snow specific ski then an agility ski. With your height, and the conditions the Czar performs best in, the 191 would be a better bet.

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Salomon Geisha Ski - Women's

January 11, 2010

hey JB- haven't skied the other 2 products, but the Geisha is an amazing all around versatile ski and performs well in varying conditions. You will love the reverse camber for its stability, speed and flotation in the powder, as well as its basalt & bamboo construction that provides good absorption in the bumps, and all with a nice side cut for groomers and hard pack. This would be great fit for you for high performance and reliability as a patroller on skis on mixed condition days.

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Geisha's got it

Salomon Geisha Ski - Women's

Salomon Geisha Ski - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 January 11, 2010

The Geisha is an amazing all around/all mountain/all conditions ski. So far, I have used it mostly for touring- from hardpack to breakable crust to deeper powder, and the reverse camber construction combined with a wood core and good side cut allow for superb performance in all those conditions. The graphics are specifically for women, but it is the same ski as the Salomon Shogun..so its fun to have a ladies version that isn't "dumbed" down. If you are looking for an advanced to expert all terrain ski- with superb capabilities in big mountain and off-piste terrain- this would be an excellent choice.

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Excellent Ski Glove

The North Face Love 2 Glove

The North Face Love 2 Glove

Rating for this product: 5 December 21, 2009

These are a really warm and comfortable glove for resort skiing or easy alpine climbing. They break in well and mold to your hand nicely. I have a small hand (between a size 1 and 2 BD camelot) and the men's small fits perfectly. I am susceptible to Raynauds, and these gloves have kept my fingers warm below zero temps, and resist wind, snow extremely well.

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Ideal Trekking pant

The North Face Paramount Porter Convertible Pant - Women's

The North Face Paramount Porter Convertible Pant - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 December 21, 2009

An amazingly durable pant for a variety of outdoor activity. The fabric is strong and light, and the pants function phenomenally well for trekking and traveling. Just wore these hiking in to the Horcones valley/Aconcagua, Argentina in high winds and varying temperatures, and they adjusted well from warm to colder days with the zip off or roll up pant legs, and a weather resistent quick-drying fabric (tekware). There is also the added benefit of UPF 30 sun protection. I am 5'8 and athletic build- typically wear a size 6- but in these pants the size 8 is a better fit for freedom of movement. Would recommend going a size up for flexibility and true athletic usage. Great pocket placement, handy to have the belt loops, and good cut for the ladies.

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Salomon Z12 Ti Ski Binding

November 5, 2009

This Salomon binding would be a great fit for you and your needs. If you are looking at touring in the backcountry, and need the flexibility of a free heel mechanism, then another binding would be better. But, if you are looking to lock it down with a light, safe, strong/sturdy and reliable binding- the Salomon Z12 is a great choice.

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Sleek & Superb

I/O Bio Merino Signature Pocket Hooded Sweater - Women's

I/O Bio Merino Signature Pocket Hooded Sweater - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 3, 2009

The cut and style of this hoodie is extremely feminine and also has great length- having a longer torso- this piece covers the waist to the hips well and is ultra comfortable and protective. An extremely versatile layer as it works well for casual daily use, excellent in layering functions for athletic activities, and also works well to guard against the cold and wind. Great pocket placement with zips, warm and cute hoodie, and nice overall zipper function. AIso works great as a travel item as it is durable and regulates/adjusts to changing temps quickly. I am a 5'8 and a size 6/medium, and the medium in this fits perfectly. Functional and fashionable, and a great fit- a very versatile sweater/jacket!

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hot to trot

I/O Bio Merino Signature Track Pant - Women's

I/O Bio Merino Signature Track Pant - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 3, 2009

Sleek, stylish, and warm track pants that are awesome for lounge wear as well as running, hiking, yoga etc. They are definitely great for cold days, but also regulate with your temperature so that you can use them for a wide variety of activities. Really soft and smooth against the body, they flow well and have a nice pocket feature for keys, cash etc. I am 5'8 and typically a size 6/medium, and the medium in these pants fit me perfectly.

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extra comfy, extra warm brief

I/O Bio Merino Contact Boy Brief - Women's

I/O Bio Merino Contact Boy Brief - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 3, 2009

Put these briefs to the test on a ski expedition to Denali, AK this past June and they kept me warm and dry. Having to wear things day after day can get rugged but not with the I/O Bio underwear- these briefs are soft, naturally resist odor, and are very, very warm. Well constructed/durable merino wool with a great waistband, that holds well and is non-restrictive. I am 5'8 and typically a size 6 and a medium, and the MEDIUM briefs fit pefectly. This is a reliable, comfortable and cute option for underwear for all your winter activities.

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lightweight with great performance

CAMP USA Corsa Nanotech Ice Axe

CAMP USA Corsa Nanotech Ice Axe

Rating for this product: 5 November 3, 2009

Unbelievably lightweight and reliable axe...used this recently on a ski expedition to Denali and the weight saved was really appreciated, and the axe performed solidly on mixed snow and short ice sections. Also used it skiing 14es this past spring, and it performed well again in the occasional & short (non-vertical) ice bulges. Because it's so minimal in its construction, it's easy to just add it to your gear for trips, and you'll be glad you have it. Great grip, and a s strong pick which makes it very useful for ski mountaineering and other snow climbing objectives.
Per CAMP-USA, the axe incorporates "SANDVIK NANOFLEX®" which is an innovative patented steel alloy that is 60% stronger than normal steel that allows for a significant reduction in the amount of metal used, thereby decreasing weight while maintaining strength.

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Salomon Shogun Ski

November 3, 2009

The 191 would probably be better for your height/weight for speed and powder, that said, depending on how aggressive a skier you are and if you prefer smaller radius turns to larger radius turns, and are a more agile/quick response skier vs. big mtn skier/big arcing, then the 182 might work well for you.

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Salomon Shogun Ski

November 3, 2009

Sounds like the 173 would be a better fit for you for performance and agility. Since the Shogun's woodcore (and 101 width underfoot) inherently creates great flotation and stability, you might do better with the slightly shorter shogun for the rebound and edge transfer, giving you more versatility and flexibility in your on and off piste adventures.

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ultra cute beanie

The North Face Memphis Bell Beanie - Women's

The North Face Memphis Bell Beanie - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 3, 2009

This is really cute beanie for women, with a pretty flower design and nice cut to the hat that is flattering for women. I have a small head and this actually fit, though slightly large, so I intentionally shrunk it one round in the hot dryer and now it is perfect. The interior fleece lining is very soft and warm and covers about 2/3 of the hat in height. Great for streetwear as well as for skiing, hiking etc.

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Pants for all seasons

The North Face Apex Big Wall Pant - Women's

The North Face Apex Big Wall Pant - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 2, 2009

A versatile pant that works well for trekking, climbing, hiking, mountaineering, bc skiing and summer weather days. Extremely durable fabric that is water and wind resistant, with excellent stretch and breathability. Built with some room, I am 5'8 with an athletic build, typically a medium, and wear a size 6 in this pant- and that stills gives me some good room for layering & great freedom of movement. Love the solid snap waist and good pocket placements. Packs light and works great for a variety of outdoor activities.

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Excellent Purifier

MSR MIOX Purifier w/ Batteries

MSR MIOX Purifier w/ Batteries

Rating for this product: 5 November 2, 2009

This is a light and easy purifier..used this as one of our main water treatment applications for a long trek in and out from GII bc in Pakistan, and it worked extremely well. Liked that the water tasted "clean" and that it was a fast, simple, and light system to use. I would order the extra salt package available for longer periods of travel to ensure that you don't run out. Highly recommend this product- when every ounce counts, this wins on weight to performance ratio, and we definitely put it to the test in areas and environments where there was a lot of fluctuation in temps, and exposure to foreign bacteria.

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fantastic winter boot

Salomon Lhasa Winter Boot - Women's

Salomon Lhasa Winter Boot - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 2, 2009

The Lhasa is an extremely warm, soft and comfortable winter boot. Great grip in the soles that hold well on snow and ice, with good traction. The boots are rated for (-1F, -18C) and deliver as promised in these temperatures. I wear an 8.5 in normal footwear and the 8.5 Lhasa fit me perfectly with a normal streetwear sock. Definitely a stylish boot option that you can tuck pants into or wear over. They resist snow and water solidly, protect well in even the biggest storms, and transition really well into apres ski and other relaxing activities.

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Nice Travel Pant

The North Face Descent Khaki Pant - Women's

The North Face Descent Khaki Pant - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 November 2, 2009

Very durable pants that are well constructed and have great stretch and freedom of movement for low key activities and travel. They are a more substantial pant and so don't breathe quite as well on very hot days but work great in temps that range from 30s/40s to 70s/80s- depending on how hot or cold you run. Nice slim pockets and good colors, the pants wash well and resist abrasion nicely. I am 5'8 and typically wear a medium/size 6, and the size 8 in these pants fits the best.

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All activity Vest

The North Face Thunder Down Vest - Women's

The North Face Thunder Down Vest - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 2, 2009

The Thunder is a warm and functional down vest. It packs a lot of punch in it's weight to performance ratio- it is a thin vest but at 800 fill down, it keeps the core extremely warm. As per TNF, the fill type maximizes insulation where grams and warmth are crucial to success e.g. expeditions, long days outside. This vest works in any range of activities from running to mountaineering to backcountry skiing. If you buy the right size, it all fits correctly- I am 5'8 with an athletic build and a medium is perfect- in usage as both an outer layer and an underlayer. The cut and baffeling are very feminine, and very efficient. This vest wears well in high performance activities, and also transitions nicely into street wear. Design elements include 2 well placed pockets and a nice high collar to block wind and cold.
It features a water repellant finish which works great, and has "down show thru"- which means that because of the technical fabric, durability and compressability, the down can show through.

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Solid tuke

The North Face Ski Tuke II Beanie

The North Face Ski Tuke II Beanie

Rating for this product: 5 November 2, 2009

Since this is a one size fits all, the hat comes pretty large..but you can shrink to fit it in the dryer hot cycle. It is fairly lightweight with a small pom so it handles activity/sport and motion well. Good solid colors that don't run in the wash, cozy and soft fleece lining, and very durable wool. Resists the elements well, and is comfy. Think this is being pitched as a men's hat, but it suits the ladies pretty nicely as well.

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Multi-sport, Multi-weather jacket

The North Face Cipher Windstopper Jacket - Women's

The North Face Cipher Windstopper Jacket - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 2, 2009

This is an amazingly versatile and light, packable jacket that protects you/ and is lightly resistant to quite a few of the elements- wind, cold, light rain/snow..functions well as an outerlayer for hiking, climbing, mountaineering, running, and spring skiing. Great playful colors and design with a nice extra light hood piece, well placed front pockets, and strong velcro tabs for wrist cinching. Excellent fabric and cut for ease of movement.

I'm 5'8 and athletic build and the women's medium is a perfect fit. The Cipher makes for an excellent layering piece and it is the perfect weight material for its functions.

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Sanuks got a corner on comfort

Sanuk Donna Hemp Shoe - Women's

Sanuk Donna Hemp Shoe - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 November 2, 2009

Sanuk refers to these shoes as "sandals"/"sidewalk surfers" and that is a better description of the form and function of this ultra comfortable footwear. Not made for rugged environments, the donnas are perfect for casual use. I wear a women's 8.5 generally and the size 9 fit me perfectly. Definitely more ideal for warm climates/seasons and strolling along beaches, and boardwalks.
Sanuk's selling points include-
-"aegis microbe shield"- which controls odor, staining, and deterioration
- the natural construction which allows for natural torsion control, flex control and width control for the most naturely support design
- and it is also made with eco-material and fibers, so you can feel good about your shoes while feeling good in them.

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truth in advertising

Sanuk Yoga Mat Sandal - Women's

Sanuk Yoga Mat Sandal - Women's

Rating for this product: 4 October 9, 2009

These flops do actually feel like you are on a soft cushioned yoga mat- the material feels identical, with enough girth and width to them, that they provide absorption as well as room for your feet to spread and mold to their natural shape. They are great lounge wear for your home, the beach, or strolls in modern environments- not the choice for more aggressive activities but they are perfect for comfort and protection for easy movement. So very, very soothing to put on after a long day out in the hills. The padded straps also add to the overall feel and softness of the sandal. After a long day, Sanuk take me away...

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adaptable warm layer

I/O Bio Merino Contact Tight - Women's

I/O Bio Merino Contact Tight - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 October 6, 2009

The contact tight is smooth, soft and warm. I am a 5'8 athletic build (with skier legs) and the Medium fits me perfectly. I brought these on a recent expedition to Denali- and used these as my only base layer on summit day. They are tremendous performers in the fluctuations of hot to cold- adapting well in varying degrees of temperature. They resist moisture and odor well (I wore these at least 10-15 days in a row), and are a fantastic insulator against the cooler temps. Highly recommend these for skiing, mountaineering, alpine climbing or even just lounging around the house- but for that they have the "Contact Track pant" which are also extremely comfortable and stylish.

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The North Face Mammatus Bib - Women's

October 2, 2009

Yes, these pants have internal gaitors that protect boots from snow- they work great. The back of the bibs go about 1/2 way up the back (higher in the front) with the upper back part having a cross section of the straps.

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Salomon Shogun Ski

October 2, 2009

The ski has a lot of snap, and is highly responsive- bamboo fibers in the wood core allow for absorbtion and pop. With some sidecut and a transitional tail, it edges well and maneuvers/responds quickly, & agressively in the bumps.

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Salomon Shogun Ski

October 2, 2009

This is a solid ski that will work great in versatile endeavors- on the resort, backcountry, hucking, tricks etc. The big mtn guys love this ski and so for your height/weight it should be just fine. It is considered an all-mountain freeride, and some folks love the twin tip in the backcountry. It performs well on hard pack as well as in flotation and glide through powder. In the right length, this ski should be a great fit for your diverse needs.

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Amazing Resort Jacket

The North Face Auxiliary Down Jacket - Women's

The North Face Auxiliary Down Jacket - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 October 2, 2009

This is an excellent resort jacket that withstands the cold and wind tremendously. I love the form and fit of this (excellent flattering female cut), as well as the functionality. It is very warm and has a fabulous protective, soft high zip collar that guards really well against wind/snow. The vibrant blue color really pops, and it has the added benefit of RECCO- The RECCO system consists of two parts: a reflector integrated into clothing, boots, helmets, and body protection worn by skiers and riders; and a detector used by organized rescue teams. Great components- zippers, pockets, cuffs, cut, and neck design are well placed and styled, along with a nice powder skirt liner and insulater. Though warm, it moves well and is an agile jacket for the more agressive on piste skier and adventurer...it is too heavy for serious hiking or touring.
I am 5'8 with athletic build & typically a medium, and wear a medium in this jacket.

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The North Face Thunder Down Jacket - Women's

October 2, 2009

Fill is measured in cubic inches per ounce. So higher number of cubic inches of loft means that for the same weight, much more air is trapped and the jacket is a lot warmer. More warmth for the weight, plus higher fill compresses more, hence the price difference. The higher number means more finely lofted feather which produces many more smaller air pockets in the down and increases the volume while maintaining the same density (weight). Also it is stated that as long as it retains its loft, it works for every day usage. The higher down numbers (+800) matter most for expedition usage.

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a down must have

The North Face Thunder Down Jacket - Women's

The North Face Thunder Down Jacket - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 October 2, 2009

This is a phenomenal down jacket- it is extremely light weight, packs very small, but is also incredibly warm. I am 5'8/size 6 and wear a medium. The Thunder is a must have for the outdoor clothing arsenal/back-up layer for your pack. It provides good protection against the wind, and when temperatures get chilly it is an easy layer and light piece to throw on. I wear this out the door for ski-touring in as low as 5 degree weather, as well as an outer layer at 13,000ft in a biting cold wind to ski back down. It functions perfectly, and allows for great movement and flexibility. Reliable warmth and well cut for women, I also like the stitching and pocket placements. This is a fantastic go-to jacket for outdoor women and versatile for all kinds of activities. The weight to warmth ratio is it's biggest selling point..

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warm visor beanie

The North Face Preppy Cable Visor Beanie - Women's

The North Face Preppy Cable Visor Beanie - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 October 2, 2009

A really warm beanie that comes one size fits all. I have a smaller head, so I often have to throw hats in the dryer to shrink to fit. This hat comes slightly larger in order to accomodate large to small. Now that it's shrunk, it fits great and also maintained it's color and shape through a lot of heat time in the dryer. It is a thicker material so does the job on very cold days but also through its cable weave, allows for ventilation. Fun style, good colors, and sassy small visor.

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The North Face Preppy Cable Visor Beanie - Women's

October 2, 2009

No- it is one size fits all. I have a smaller head, so I often have to throw hats in the dryer to shrink to fit. This hat comes slightly larger in order to accomodate large to small. Now that it's shrunk, it fits great and also maintained it's color and shape through a lot of heat time in the dryer.

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ultimate travel bag

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag - 250 - 9070cu in

The North Face Base Camp Duffel Bag - 250 - 9070cu in

Rating for this product: 5 October 2, 2009

A superbly strong and resilient travel bag that resists all elements and serious wear & tear/travel abuse. The bags I have used for trips have maintained both their external and internal fabric despite being tied on yaks & other animals, thrown around on the dirt and on and off airplanes, and subjected to intense weather- snow, sun, and rain. The compression straps combined with the malleable tarapaulin fabric allow you to adjust the bag to your load- whether long and lean, or fat and bulky- very helpful component. It has all the basics, and no extra frills that just add unnecessary weight- just enough to carry it anywhere and tie it down to anything.

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Salomon Shogun Ski

September 14, 2009

The Shogun should suit your needs perfectly. It is a much beefier ski then the Fury, and a step up in width underfoot from the Gun/Sandstorm. With the rockered tip, it has great flotation for powder and crud. If you're looking for a stable, fast, floater, the Shogun should probably suit you better then the Fury- especially with your height, weight, level of skiing etc.

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Info for Shogun on Youtube

Salomon Shogun Ski

Salomon Shogun Ski

Rating for this product: 5 September 14, 2009

Info on the Shogun from Salomon Alpine Product Manager Mike Aicher:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNgJWKMLAa0

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Sweet Ski

Salomon Czar Ski

Salomon Czar Ski

Rating for this product: 5 September 13, 2009

Love this ski for big turns, lots of powder, and big terrain. These skis ski more specific for me then an all mountain ski but are amazing in performance on a big snow or crud day. I am 5'8 female and have the 174s, which are the perfect fit. The skis allow you to bust through most anything and also fly on top of and off things at higher speeds. They are graceful under pressure, and extremely stable. Took these skis to Silverton & also use them for snow days on and off area in Telluride- they are high performance and with a rockered tip, leave your legs lasting longer due to their glide and power capabilities. Highly recommend for a quiver for your snowier days. The Czars are stiffer- wood core, and a bit heavier/less playful then the Guns/Sandstorms, and so ski differently but are still very responsive. Word has it from the men of the Salomon freeski team that a more forward mount for an expert skier will further heighten the performance, straightline capacity, and agility of this ski.

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Salomon gives you Wings

Salomon XT Wings Trail Running Shoe - Women's

Salomon XT Wings Trail Running Shoe - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 August 7, 2009

These are a phenomenal pair of trail running shoes that are extremely durable and exceptionally comfortable. Great fit, excellent tread, and good support. These have worked well running trails, pavement, climbing approaches, rocky/mixed terrain. A great all around athlete's shoe. The size fits true to size- I am an 8.5 and the 8.5 fits perfectly. Love the colors too- bright and well designed. Features a "quicklace" set up that makes for long lasting laces and fast on/off and tightening/loosening.

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Crucial to the Arsenal

Black Diamond Whippet Self-Arrest Ski Pole

Black Diamond Whippet Self-Arrest Ski Pole

Rating for this product: 5 August 7, 2009

This is a crucial piece to own for the ski mountaineer or a steep skiing backcountry adventureer. To have an axe readily available while in motion in more challenging terrain is an incredible asset to your safety. The whippet has saved me in several moving snow scenarios as it is extremely reliable and solid in its purchase to bed surfaces- it will work in self-arrest scenarios. It is also extremely handy in uphill challenges for the occasional section of ice or steeper terrain. It also hooks rock features well and can be a nice tool for reach in scrambling. This is a pole that could save your life as well as enhance your climb any day out in the real deal backcountry. Features include a really nice & comfortable hand grip, collapsable shaft for travel, and nice sharp axe head (with cover).

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The North Face Atlantic Jacket - Women's

August 7, 2009

hi there, my best answer would be that I am an exact medium in all their jackets, and I weigh in at 138 and am 5'8. The length of sleeves, waist and cut are all perfect for me at the medium. You may actually be better in a SMALL due to your build, though your height would suggest a medium.

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Solid Sleeping Bag

The North Face Solar Flare Sleeping Bag: -20 Degree Down

The North Face Solar Flare Sleeping Bag: -20 Degree Down

Rating for this product: 4 August 7, 2009

Just used this sleeping bag on Denali and it worked really well. I am 5'8 with an athletic build and the regular size offered plenty of room in length, and was generously cut in width, even with a mummy cut. This bag's strengths are its weight(it is lighter in comparison to other -20 to 0 degree bags), its got great features for synching around the head and neck for added warmth, great functioning details with the zipper, good color that resists wear, and nice 800+ goose down loft- that fluffs out well even after being compressed for long periods of time. Features to note are the anti-compression pads that add support, warmth, and improve thermal efficiency by up to 13% with some added comfort to the head, shoulders and feet, and also includes trapezoid box baffle that ensures a constant in volume with the added box baffle construction to areas vulnerable to cold for additional loft and warmth. A nice, cozy bag for winter excursions or expeditions. For men, this easily meets the standard of warmth, for females it just barely gets you to the -20.

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Light & Reliable

The North Face Trajectory Hybrid Jacket - Women's

The North Face Trajectory Hybrid Jacket - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 July 6, 2009

This is an amazing all around shell. A very light jacket that works extremely well in the wind, snow and rain. It is completely reliable in the elements and does a really good job blocking them. I use this as a layering piece as well as an external jacket. There is one main external pocket at chest level- but no hand pockets. It is a good length, good fit for your appropriate sizing. Excellent piece for any and all outdoor activities from skiing & ski touring, to running to walks on the beach. It also packs really small and really light. Great hood that works well.

I am 5'8, size 6, and wear a Medium in this jacket.

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Light & Serious

The North Face Prophet 65 Backpack - 4000-4300cu in

The North Face Prophet 65 Backpack - 4000-4300cu in

Rating for this product: 5 July 6, 2009

One of the lightest big mountain packs out there. You save a lot of weight with the finesse of this pack with its light material and hip belt. It fits and handles big loads- I just used this for hauling up to 100lbs loads up on Denali. It also cinches down much smaller..also with a removable top. A simple, uncomplicated and reliable pack for multiple mountain uses. The A-frame ski carry works great, with enough loops and basic extras to attach what you need externally. There is a hydration back sleeve internally, excellent strap adjustment system, and a comfy back panel. Save the weight, and get the goods!

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High Performance Touring Boot

Garmont Radium Alpine Touring Boot - Women's

Garmont Radium Alpine Touring Boot - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 May 14, 2009

To date, this is one of the most powerful and light touring boots on the market for women. It is easy to put on and take off- a consideration on cold days or at altitude. It is also extremely easy to put in walk or ski mode- with no forward flexion necessary to put it into forward flex. It is extremely comfortable and it's weight to performance ratio is phenomenal. A great boot in which to scramble on ridges or to ice-climb or to perfect a great turn. Reliable in the steeps, strong for turn initiation, and it provides great comfort. A solid performer for the backcountry, powder, steeps, and resort skiing.

On sizing, found this a bit tricky. I am a 24.5 and found the 24 shell with the 24.5 liner to be a bit too constricting. This boot does not pack out quickly but is comfortable from day 1. Recommend getting your true size for the shell...or even a 1/2 size larger.

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