In a product category that seems to have exploded in the last several years, the Transcendent jacket dominates the competition.

The features that set this coat apart from other lightweight down layers are:

- The brushed Tricot lining around the collar: comfortable, soft and warm.

-The napoleon chest pocket: my go to stashing pocket.

-Elastic finishes on the cuff and hem give it a finished look and better feel.

Don't let the comparatively inexpensive price dissuade you, this is the lightweight down layer you have been searching for.

The original dynafit binding is still the best in the line. Durability and lightweight. I have used others in the line and the metal heel riser is absolutely the best feature of this binding. Like Andrew mentioned, a spare toe (perhaps even a heel) is the best option for an expedition repair kit. To give you an idea about there durability, i've seen the heel of a boot break before the binding!

The only drawbacks are the lack of adjustability for using multiple boot sole lengths and the all plastic crampon mount. Confident users, looking for the best touring binding on earth should look no further!

Expert skiers looking for lightweight but responsive boards have come to the right place. Long ski tours with equal amounts of up and down will be perfect for the FreeRANDO! Often seen on the feet of european ski tourers on long high alpine routes, with big vertical, long distances, and leg burning descents. If weight is of high importance, and you can hold your own making small short turns, this is the ski for you.

While ski trab often ships tip/tail attachments to work best with the duo tip. I have found that a more traditional tip look (the wide ones) also works quite well with these. Pair them with a set of fast gliding mohair skins for the best performance.

This interface has proven to be the best of the best, however splitboards still have their issues.

When guiding groups of splitboarders, I always keep a #3 posi-drive screwdriver at the ready. Guests with the inevitable loose binding/screw are often smiling saying "that's why you get paid the big bucks!".

If you are still snowshoeing for your turns in the backcountry, join the split-board revolution and change your backcountry experience for the better!