I just got mine in the mail. While it was enroute, I kept wondering if I should have spent the extra $$$ for the Alpha SV. Based on the reviews, I was worried about the length, the room for layering underneath, and the percieved durability of the material (would I be confident in it?). After receiving the LT, my initial impression is pure awe. The jacket is uber-light. While I don't have a scale, I can't tell any weight difference between it and my Patagonia Rain Shadow. But, despite the light weight, the material seems bomber. The clean construction definitely inspires confidence. The fit is perfect. Being 6'3", the back of the large jacket comes down to the center of my butt and the sleeves reach the base of my thumbs, just like a well-fitted suit jacket:) With an R2 fleece and a Patagonia Micropuff vest underneath it, I still had comfortable body and arm movement. The hood adjustments are a work of art. It just sucks down around your head perfectly.

With the bomber construction and light weight, I'm going to have a hard time justifying the use of any of my older lightweight rainshells. This could be the perfect, allaround shell. More to come as (bad) weather permits.

I love the old ATC, but I love the ATC-XP better. You get the same ease of use and simple utility with the added benefit of extra holding power when needed. If weight's not an issue, I would spend the extra $4 on the ATC Guide for its added functionality.

As most reviewers point out, what's the point? I suppose the sleek, colorful design does look pretty flashy hanging on the gear loop...but no meaningful functional benefit whatsoever.

I've been using the Wave for years and it has been the best out of about 6 or 7 multitools ranging from early leatherman models to several gerber models issued to me in the military. I've always liked the leatherman fold out design as opposed to the "push-out" design of gerbers. But, the older leatherman designs often loosened up faster than I would have expected. The wave, on the other hand, is just like new after about 5 years of use. That being said, the wave has about every tool I ever need, be it tweaking my gear, or make simple repairs around the house. The downside is the weight. I take weight very seriously and almost never justify bringing the wave along on anything besides casual day hikes. There are just lighter, more specialized tools out there, better suited for the other outings I go on.

As other reviewers point out, the scissors are rather inadequate and the tweezers do not inspire much confidence. Out of all the multitools I've ever used, this would be my last choice if I was going somewhere I knew I'd need a multitool. However, the beauty of this tool is that its ALWAYS been there. Multitools are only useful when you remember to bring them along and this tool has saved the day dozens of times simply because I never leave it at home. From cutting cord at the crag to tightening the screws on my office furniture, this tool has been my tool of choice...because it was the only choice available at the time. Bottom line...mediocre multitool/priceless key chain.

I bought this for a compact, light "scrambling" rope to use for short rappels and such. It works pretty well for just that. I have a couple of complaints though. First, I'm not pleased with the dry treatment. I took it out for the first time in the rain and it soaked up water like a sponge. I hung it up in my house and it took about 3 days to dry. I also question the durability. There are small strands of nylon poking out from the sheath after only one use. I don't think it affects the strength in the short term, but I don't expect this rope to last as long as the others. I've used several other ropes and none of them did anything like this.

A good floppy hat. The brim is pretty soft and floppy, but works fine unless it gets really windy. An elastic cord cinches up at the back to adjust to your head size. I have a large head (7 5/8") and it fits fine. The ventilation keeps it nice and breezy. Very lightweight and easily packable.

I used to run up and down river beds in northern Italy with Teva sandals. When I saw these, I was so happy a shoe was finally designed for my hobby. That being said, I never use these. They seem to be designed perfectly with mesh fabric, drainage ports, and a rubber insole. But, when you're not actually in the water, the rubber insole creates alot of friction with your bare skin, making you wish you were wearing socks. Of course, if you're wearing socks, the shoe doesn't work so well when you're in the water. My hope was that they had designed a trail shoe you could take into the water, but I don't think they're quite there. I prefer my old Tevas over these.

On another note, I run in nothing but NB and these fit differently. I wear a 14, but these are a little shorter than most NB 14s.

I bought these wanting a serious winter boot, but found that they are incredibly cumbersome and the design/function is really dated. I normally wear a size 14. I tried on the 13s, but they were just barely too short. The 14s are perfect length, but too wide. As my feet are large, these boots are enormous. They're fine for shoveling the drive or sledding with the kids, but are far to awkward to drive or do anything which requires even moderate footwork. With today's insulation technology, there are much better boots out there in smaller, more technical designs. But, if you want that classic look, you have to consider these. I'll also add that they're incredibly comfortable, like slipping into a pair of fuzzy slippers.

It baffles me that TNF doesn't just include these as standard equipment with their tents. After using these you'll never go back to the old round, peg style stakes. These are lightweight and can be driven into about anything since they don't bend like the standard stakes.

Definitely a step up from my old 1" tubed webbing tied into a loop. Its nice to have the padding and the multi-loops when carrying a ton of gear.

I tried these the first time about 5 years ago and have never switched to anything else. It tastes good, packs alot of energy into a small package, and is easy to eat on the fly. I used to ride my bike to work every day while living in Italy and recall eating one every morning...one hand on the handlebar, and the other stuffing a CLIF bar in my mouth whil crazy Italian drivers whizzed by.

Camelbak has been making this pack for years. For the longest time, this was my pack of choice for most day-long ventures. It holds an extra layer of clothes, food for a day, and a very large amount of water (3L). That being said, I rarely use it anymore. As I've gained outdoor experience, I have found that I rarely need to haul 3 liters of water anywhere. I usually get through any day with a 1-liter platypus (refilling at water sources). And, unlike most "bladder compatible" packs, this pack becomes a very poor choice when used without the bladder (or even a smaller bladder). It has a large insulated compartment with a huge zipper. This compartment is half of the pack's weight and serves no other function than to hold a 3-liter bladder. You can put a smaller bladder or only partially fill your 3-liter bladder, but you still have all of this unused space and pack material you're lugging around. I guess, to sum it up...this is a 3-liter hydration system which functions fairly well as a daypack. I'd much prefer a good daypack which is compatible with whatever hydration system I choose to use that day.

I already had three stoves, but couldn't pass this up any longer. I was the one fiddling around with my white gas set-up or trying to find a level, wind-proof perch for my pocket rocket when the others were cooking up their food and warming up their hands with a Jetboil. Not anymore! While other cooking rigs will beat the Jetboil in one area or the other (i.e. weight, cold weather, etc), I don't believe any other stove matches the convenience and versatility of the Jetboil. It is a smart, convenient rig which will likely have you cooking up a hot meal on outings you normally wouldn't even bother bringing a stove along on.

I used to wonder how these could be that much better than nylon until I bought some. The weight/size benefits of dynex is definitely worth the extra $$. They are practically nonexistent on your rack until you need them...then they unravel into a super-versatile full-length runner.

I had been climbing with an alpine harness, but a couple of falls convinced me that I needed a more "supportive" harness. This harness is light, comfortable, and the right price. I noticed some complaints about the adjustments. I actually have more confidence in the "old-style" double-back adjustments. They're actually quite easy to adjust compared to other harnesses with the same type of adjustment. If you want something that adjusts faster, the Momentum Speed Adjust only costs slightly more.

Well, its a rope bag. I can fit my 60m 10.5mm rope as well as 20m of webbing. You could fit a few more items in there such as a set of quick draws or a top-rope rigging...but not much else. I use this bag for my rope and webbing and carry a separate pack for the rest of the gear. The straps are comfortable and convenient. The material/build is tough and inspires confidence. I find myself lobbing it over steap descents without hesitation.

I love my ATC and this is basically a souped up ATC. For my typical weekend cragging, I still use my old ATC...it does the trick and is actually considerably lighter. But, I can't wait to fire this baby up on some multi-pitches. If you know you'll never progress past sportclimbing or top-roping, I would recommend going with the lighter, old-fashioned ATC.

After using this a fair amount, I wanted to add that the "v" notches do make a big difference with new, stiff, slippery, or small-diameter ropes. While the ATC Guide may not be for everyone, I would recommend looking the ATC Guide or the ATC-XP as a primary belay device. The extra friction does inspire a little more confidence than the old ATC in certain conditions.

I bought these for hiking, climbing, scrambling, etc. I really love them. The material is stretchy so you never find the pants limiting your movement. They are super tough as well. I've worn them in the worst conditions and never had so much as a frayed thread. In fact, I've lost considerable weight since original purchase and actually had them professionally altered in order to get a couple more years out of them. I'll also add that they're really comfortable for just hanging out as well (if you're a man who feels comfortable wearing knickers out on the town like me).

I've used this jacket on a mid-winter overnighter of Mount Iwate (2K meter volcano in northern Japan) and I've worn it skiing the northern foothills. The jacket worked brilliantly in both situations. Its the warmest, most comfortable coat I've ever worn. It allows layering underneath without being too baggy by itself. The huge inside pockets are also great for carrying anything...I keep my water bottle in there to prevent freezing. BTW...I'm 6'3" 185lbs and I find the Large size to fit perfect...even a bit on the loose side.

I've had mine for a couple of years now. I use them primarily during the winter time for snowshoeing and trail running. They have always done splendidly and I have had no problems with durability or quality. I particularly like the strings as opposed to the straps many gaiters have on the instep. If one of them breaks, its an easy fix.

The cheapest biner out there...great for racking gear.

You can never have too many. They do what they're designed to do and are cheap enough to stock up on them.

I've come to the conclusion that there is no pack that does it all and my backpack collection is starting to resemble my wife's purse collection. With most of my packs designed for fast/light pursuits, I needed a rockclimbing bag that could hold up to the extra weight and abuse. This is a bomber bag with the perfect amount of space for a day at the crag. It fits everything I need INSIDE (60m rope, 50m webbing, harness, helmet, shoes, quickdraws, chalkbag, lunch, first aid kit, etc). If I run some cord through the loops on the lid and strap my rope to the outside, it opens up some space for my lightweight sleeping bag and bivy. I'm very confident that the material and build will hold up for a long time.

There is absolutely nothing like a cold drink from a fresh mountain stream. This filter gives you gallon after gallon of easy, trouble-free ecstacy without any awful side effects. The attachments let you attach either to a wide-mouth nalgene or a bladder system. Unfortunately, I use platypus bottles and have to fumble around with holding the hose and pumping the filter at the same time.

I have a 1L and a 2L. I fill up the 1L before I hit the trail and use the 2L to fill up at the last water source on the way to camp. When I'm not using the 2L, it folds up and fits anywhere in my pack. Doesn't take up the space of a nalgene and easier for multi-use (i.e. cooking) than a bladder. Also, for winter activities, there's no hose to freeze like on a bladder.

I took a belaying class awhile back which they taught with the grigri. While the autolocking feature is pretty much fool-proof, I found it rather difficult to control the speed of descent. After the class, I ordered the ATC and started climbing with it. I found it much easier to use than the grigri. While I'm sure the grigri has a ton of great uses, I would just advise beginners out there that a cheaper atc-type belay device is money much better spent when starting out. Once you progress, I'm sure you may someday benefit from the grigri, but it'll never replace the atc. Also, in regards to teaching new belayers...an auto-locking device should never replace another experienced belayer at their side.

The harness really has one function. It is to introduce new folks to the sports of climbing, rappelling, etc. As I don't run a climbing school or anything like that, I needed a single harness that would fit a wide variety of individuals with little to know climbing experience. This harnesses has a wide adjustment range and a single tie-in point which makes it the best for that application. If I introduce someone to the sport who wants to take it up a notch, I point them towards other harnesses. Of course, I trust BD with my life and this harness has lived up to BD expectations thus far.

It looks like I'm with serenslipi2132526. I have the older model as well. By today's standards, I wouldn't call this tent lightweight. But, it is much more solid than lighter 3-season tents out there. I've been on trips in the Italian alps where my friends' lighter tents were getting drenched and blowing away while I was sleeping like a baby. I've seen other sites advertise this tent as a 3.5 season tent. I would tend to agree. The fly and poles are pretty bomber for a 3-season tent. There's just too much mesh on the inside to make this a 4-season tent. When I'm hiking with a partner I don't mind sharing the tent with, I bring this along. Otherwise, I bring my bivy sack.

I bought this for my oldest daughter who is currently 8 years old. Overall, its a great little backpack. The external frame has endless adjustment options. I'm sure my daughter will be able to use it for several years. I that's one big advantage over an internal frame pack. The pack holds my daughter's sleeping bag, an extra change of clothes, a small water bladder, her flashlight, and some snacks. We recently hiked the Hakkoda loop in Northern Japan which gives some adults trouble. But, she kept trucking along (w/ only minor complaining;).

That being said, it is still an external frame backpack. With backpack technology today, this thing seems ancient.

I originally bought the 1.1L for backpacking. The pot is nearly indestructable, cooks great, and the locking lid will protect anything you put inside the pot. But, unless you're car camping or have hired a sherpa, I say spend the extra $$$ on titanium. Titanium is way lighter, just as strong, and cooks just as well. I do still use mine for car camping, but with car camping, I could just as easily use the pots already sitting in my kitchen cabinet.

I bought a #1 and a #3. I put all of my cooking gear in the #3 and all of my survival stuff (first aid, headlamp, compass, etc) in the #1. These stuff sacks are perfect for use with a toploader backpack as they allow you to organize your stuff while sacrificing almost no weight gain. I will likely order one more of the largest ones to replace the heavy stuff sack I currently use for my clothes.

I have these glasses with VR28 prescription lenses. I've never been a fan of Oakley sunglasses for their style. Personally, I think they all look rather futuristic...like something the designer came up with after watching a Star Trek episode. But, after trying the Half Jacket XLJs, I've come to use these glasses during all sorts of outdoor activities. I see them simply as a great piece of gear. Whether I'm mountain biking, rock climbing, snowshoeing, etc, these glasses shield my eyes from the sun, stick to my head, and provide a level of physical protection. Just like a good climbing helmet or an ugly pair of clip-in biking shoes, I will continue to use these...regardless of how rediculous I think I look in them. Of course, I wouldn't be caught dead in them at a social function.

I've got an entire capilene 2 set-up to include long-sleeve top, bottom, and boxer briefs. Having bought other baselayers, I always end up wearing these. They're softer, less restrictive, and more comfortable than say, UnderArmor, but performs just as well.

I've got an entire capilene 2 set-up to include long-sleeve top, bottom, and boxer briefs. Having bought other baselayers, I always end up wearing these. They're softer, less restrictive, and more comfortable than say, UnderArmor, but performs just as well.

The one thing I don't like about Under Armour is that it tends to be tight, and although not necessarily restrictive, restrictive feeling. I do not like to use it under other layers because it just feels like I'm stacking other layers on an already tight under layer. I don't know how else to explain it... I just don't like it. However, I tend to use them as outer garments in situations where I want tight layers which minimize chafing while maximizing sweat wicking. On wintertime long distance runs, I use these bottoms under my running shorts... essentially as running tights. They work fabulous for that. I just don't like them under other layers.

I was lucky enough to get one of these issued at work. As a layer under a shell, this is fabulous...lightweight, stretchy, and breathable. As an outer layer, it does not do so well...the slightest wind goes right through it. Traditional old Polartec 200 fleece is more windproof than this making it a better outer fleece, but not as good as the R2 under a shell. I also would never pay $150 for this thing. Bottom line... great if you want to invest in a very high quality, but expensive layering system, look elsewhere if you want a versatile fleece usable as an insulation or outer layer.

Great stove. Easy to Use. Easy to find fuel canisters (even in Japan).

I use these primarily for winter hiking in the Hakkoda Mountains of Northern Japan. The area is known for tons of powder all winter long. The bindings work great, even when packed with ice. They are also relatively easy to adjust/remove with thick gloves on. I'm often puzzled by the the "hiking" vs. "backcountry" snowshoes. Are they implying that the snow is somehow different on the frontside of the mountain than the backside? I'm sure more expensive snowshoes have nice features, but these seem to do everything a snowshoe should. I already use them to climb snowcapped volcanoes and wouldn't hesitate to walk into the backcountry with them.

As most already point out, this pad is great other than that its incredibly bulky. As part of my lightweight hiking set-up, I slide this inside my bivy between the ground and my sleeping bag. Its relatively warm and comfy for a closed-cell foam pad. My only wish is that it could pack down tighter. I strap it to the outside of my backpack where it doesn't effect the weight, but can be a pain when maneuvering through tight spots. The pad is also relatively tough. Despite many a meeting with sharp branches and rocks, its holding up much better than the old generic blue foam pads.

I wanted to get more serious about my running so I bought this thing. I've now logged nearly 700 miles this year and I'm training for the Tokyo marathon. No more planning is required. I just strap this thing and take off. If I want to run 10 miles today, I just run out until this thing tells me I've run 5 miles and then I turn around. I plug it into my laptop and upload the data to the internet where it displays my run on Google Map and even tells me the temperature and wind speed/direction while I was running! I take the distance/time data and load it up to my running database where it displays my run stats on my blogsite. Me and a few friends located around the globe keep an eye on each other's blogs as a friendly competition. For outdoor activities, I still grab my old trusty Magellan Sportrak since I can change batteries on it in the field. But, the device I use day in and day out for my running is this. It has never failed me and has helped me take my running to another level.

I use these as a middle layer (between capilene base layer and hardshell outer layer) for winter activities. They are form fitting for effective moisture wicking and much less bukly than traditional fleece. Great pants, but a bit pricey.

I'll never stop wearing these. Every time I wear a pair out, I buy another pair. Comfortable and convenient. I live in Japan as well where I have to remove my shoes all the time. With these, I can respect the local customs without fumbling around with laces and rock some fly shoes at the same time ;)

If you have BD poles and you plan on hitting the snow, you need these. Its very easy to switch back and forth between these and the normal trekking baskets. Also, unlike other poles/baskets I've tried, these twist past the threads into an area without threads where the baskets essentially "float". I've had other poles where the baskets thread on and the threads end at the stop. The downside of the latter is that the baskets constantly thread off and easily get lost. With the BD pole/basket setup, you do not have to worry about this.

This is one of two "lightweight" rain shells I have and this one seems to weigh much less than the other one. Although the weight is actually about the same, the Rain Shadow's fabric seems less "stiff" making it more comfortable and pack down tighter. However, I was lucky enough to get this jacket free from work. In the world of high tech softshells, I never carry this unless I'm planning on running into some torrential rains.

Believe the hype...this is an awesome lightweight backpack. If you want a pack loaded with compartments and durable enough to launch off the crag, this is not it. But, if you want something durable enough to hold up to a typical backcountry through-hike and light enough to let you enjoy it, this is the pack.

I was able get my base pack weight (before food and water) down to 13 lbs and this pack feels soooo light and comfortable when loaded up for a weekend trip. The backpanel has great padding and the hipbelt is the most comfortable I've ever used. I'm 6'3" and the long version of this pack adjusts to me perfectly with adjustment room to spare.

I do have just a couple of complaints. The water bottle compartments on the outside are a pain with the compression straps running on the outside of them. The "sleeve" at the top is ridiculously long and just creates an additional hassle when trying to get something out of this toploader.

Lastly, the pack is so roomy that it often tempts me to overload it. But, in the end, I can't see myself ever buying a different backcountry pack.

I am fairly new to climbing and recently had to buy my first climbing shoes. I wear a 14 and I live in Japan, so shopping locally was out of the question. I bought 2 different pairs online...the Five Ten Anasazi and the Five Ten Spire...both in size 14. I made it about 5 minutes before I decided the Anasazi was not for me. They tortured my feet and would have never allowed me to get through a climbing session without wanting to give up. The Spire was comfortable, but snug. I've since become quite fond of my new sport and I'm progressing to more difficult climbs. The Spire is my shoe.

I understand the concept behind tight shoes and I think the Anasazi probably fit perfectly. But, I'm not at a climbing level where a tight shoe gives me a climbing advantage. I'll leave the ridiculously tight shoes to the expert boulderers out there. Maybe I'll join you later;)

I primarily use this jacket for running. It works in an incredible range of temperatures. Whether its close to the 50s and it looks like it may rain or its in the 30s and snowing, I grab my Cipher and go running. While not waterproof, it will keep you dry in all but a downpour.

The fit is slim/athletic. I'm 6'3" 175 lbs and I wear the large. The fit is perfect.

With this stove, you get everything you pay for. Its cheap, lightweight, and easy to use. The only thing I don't care for is that it can be difficult to light/use in windy areas. Recently, I had a hell of a time trying to warm up my tea while atop Mount Iwatesan. Due to the stove design, a windshield could cause the fuel canister to overheat. Some of the new self-contained systems, i.e. Jetboil, seem like they'd be better for the lone adventure-traveler (although you pay more).

I own four different stoves. I paid as much for this one as the other three put together. It is unreliable and dangerous. The white fuel is only reliable when the canister is near full. On the second day of camping and less fuel, you may starve to death trying to get this thing lit. The butane setup is dangerous. I tried using it on a snowshoeing trip last winter. The gas valve kept developing ice around it and would start leaking butane directly into the flame. The result was a succession of huge fireballs and some frightened Japanese hikers who were sharing the mountain rescue cabin with me.

Coleman's customer service also sucked. Despite the fact that I'm an American who bought this stove through an American vendor (not Backcountry.com), they kept referring me to the Japanese rep who couldn't speak English. Unfortunately, I'm still stuck with this POS stove.

Indestructible and super-light. Perfect size for single camper. The handle does get hot. I usually have to use a glove to handle it. Don't waste your time with other materials. Aluminum won't last as long and stainless will just add needless weight.

Light and indestructible. Perfect for a cup of hot tea or for sharing sake! Titanium is expensive, but worth it. It cooks well and is tough like stainless, but light like aluminum. You could spend the same amount of money replacing aluminum over the years or save some money and lug a bunch of heavy stainless steel all over the place. I'll stick with the titanium.

This hat really has it all. The lightweight, breathable comfort of fleece with the warmth and wind protection of a thick, itchy wool hat. I often stayed away from fleece hats because they tended to be too thin and stretched out too easily. With the windstopper material inside, this hat is super warm, windproof, and maintains its shape great. I use this hat for everything from winter trail runs to keeping my noggin warm on cold nights sleeping outdoors. I just wish they'd offer some cooler colors. I have an older model which is red with a black rim around the bottom.

I bought this to add to my lightweight 3-season backpacking setup. This bag is everything its advertised to be...incredibly light, packs down small, and holds up to its temp rating. My lightweight setup includes a cheap bivy which suffers from condensation problems. Being a synthetic, this bag continues to keep me toasty, even with a good amount of condensation on the outside.

I use this biner as my primary belaying biner. I use the Black Diamond Alpine harness so I need a large biner that will easily fit around the waist belt as well as the "crotch" loop. Smaller biners are sometimes a hassle to get around this material and still mate with a belaying device. This biner is the perfect size and the lock works easily and quickly. The color does wear fast but I'm really not too concerned with the color of my hardware, but more with the general durability. I'm completely confident in this biner.

I had originally bought this biner for my primary belay biner. It ended up being too small for that purpose and I switched to the bigger BD Rocklock. I think a collection of these would be good for setting up anchors, top-ropes, and such. I've got a collection of Omega Pacific D-biners which I use for this purpose, so this biner just happens to always be the odd-biner out and rarely gets used.

UPDATE: I've really grown to love this biner and have bought more. I love the price and the weight.

I primarily use this light for nightime trailrunning. Its affordable, lightweight, and super-bright. I usually use the lowest light setting which is still adequate for nighttime running and the batteries seem to last forever.

Bought this for my 8-year old daughter. She's pretty tall for her age, but skinny as a beanpole. Although the leg loops are a bit loose on her, she hangs in it securely and comfortably. I took her to the crag for the first time 2 weeks ago and she loved the experience. This will work great for a safety rope on more technical hikes as well.

I just started climbing fairly recently. I took a belaying course where we were taught belaying with a Grigri. I personally did not like the Grigri as it takes quite a bit of time to get a feel for it and accurately control descents. So, when I bought my own gear, I followed alot of online advice and purchased this. I use a 10.5mm rope and this works great. Secure and easy to control; I can't imagine a better set-up to learn on. I've taught a couple of friends with this device and they like it too. I think it says alot when I trust this device in the hands of a rookey belaying partner while I'm hanging from the wall. Plus it weighs almost nothing compared to other devices.

I've come to the conclusion that there is no pack that does it all and my backpack collection is starting to resemble my wife's purse collection. With most of my packs designed for fast/light pursuits, I needed a rockclimbing bag that could hold up to the extra weight and abuse. This is a bomber bag with the perfect amount of space for a day at the crag. It fits everything I need INSIDE (60m rope, 50m webbing, harness, helmet, shoes, quickdraws, chalkbag, lunch, first aid kit, etc). If I run some cord through the loops on the lid and strap my rope to the outside, it opens up some space for my lightweight sleeping bag and bivy. I'm very confident that the material and build will hold up for a long time.

I started rock climbing fairly recently and bought this for my first harness. I really like it and can't see myself buying a different one unless this one wears out. I use it primarily for simpler, single-pitch routes and have had no issues with safety, durability, or comfort. I think the best thing about this harness is that it is also very versatile. I'm a "gear junkie" with way more hobbies than I can afford. Its nice having a harness that can be used for rock-climbing, mountaineering, scrambling, via ferrata, etc. If you're a hardcore rockclimber with a little extra cash, you may want to experiment with some fancier harnesses. If you need something simple, affordable, and functional, be confident that this harness will do the job great.

All I can say is "Flicklock". I tried these out after another brand with the old twistlocks failed on me during a snowshoe trip. Try making it down a mountain with a foot of fresh powder and poles that collapse everytime you put any weight on them. When twistlocks fail, you're done as the adjustment occurs when you lock the poles and if that doesn't work, it means the hardware failed. The Flicklock systems is much simpler and exernal so you can easily adjust or diagnose any hardware problems.

Aside from the great BD locking system, these poles are light, strong, and comfortable. The handles are soft and comfy as well as the straps. I often find myself leaning into the straps to rest because its so comfortable and sturdy.

I was lucky enough to have these issued to me at my work. I've used them mostly for rock climbing and hiking during the monsoon season. They're nearly indestructible, they breathe well, and they shed moisture well. What more could you ask for in a pair of pants? The one bad thing is that I'm 6'3", I have a 34" waist, and the inseam is just short enough to prevent me from comfortably using the foot cord loops. They're fine otherwise, but just too tight when sealed up at the bottom. I'm also pretty confident I wouldn't pay $145 for them.

This was my first climbing helmet and its great. Lightweight, comfortable, and compact. Perfect for scrambling too. I was looking for a helmet for my 8-year older and realized that my helmet adjusted down and even fit her so I bought a second one. That way, I can take my daugher or a new climbing buddy without buying 2 extra helmets. I will note that I had rented the old style half-dome with the velcro adjust instead of the new "dial" adjust and the new "dial" adjust is much easier and actually adjusts much bigger (I have a big head).