Kristin Piccirillo

So, I never got the McMurdo Jacket because it has a steez factor of about 95 from the ability to hide various weapondry to the multiple XL sizing and the fur... but these boots were an instant buy because they escape a few of those factors by having a gentle, girly pink accent. They are possibly the warmest boots that I have ever worn. The fur makes the cozy-cozy, the intense rubber makes them ultra-waterproof, and the TNF logo means that they are super good quality. Size-wise, I went up a half size (i'm a 7.5/8.0 and bought an 8) so that I can rock huge wool socks. They are my go-to boots for post-skiing and pre-shoveling.

These are great! I hiked the Inca trail a few weeks ago and rocked these babies for a most of the time out there. They fit well, work excellently hiking, and are super cute too! Patagonia makes excellent products, right down to the undergarments. I really love them!

I thought this was an attractive dress with good lines and everything, but when I got it, I wasn't as stoked on it. I think I could have fixed most of this sizing up, but it didn't quite excite me as much as I though -- Its a little more form fitting than I expected. It was comfortable, soft, and casual, but... a little too Contour-following than contour-wearing.

I am sunglasses OBSESSED, and I needed a new pair to rock around town. These were exactly what I needed: huge, hot, and super sexy. I've been sporting them around LA for months now and I'm so stoked! The double-small logos on the side are kinda a cool alternative to the larger logo and the tortise shell is perfection.

so, I was told I have plantar faschitis (which i totally spelled wrong right there, but since i find everything irritating about it, including its spelling, I'm not going to change it.) and I'm supposed to wear shoes "with support"... now, for most people, they would regulate themselves to sneakers and the like, but I live in SoCal, so i need to be able to wear flip-flops 90% of the year. The Chaco flips can be worn because of their amazing support and style and everything! I love them. They are a little narrow, but I just make sure that I go up a half-size... I love these shoes!

I was kind of stoked on these socks, and they are definitely lightweight, cute, etc. but I had to return them. My shoe size is a 7.5/8.0 and I bought the medium (judging off the other review on them, and the style). When I put them on, the heel was on my ankle! They were just too big in the toes, and around. I think next time I'll get the small size.

Initially, I was all about the BOA version of the Arnuva's, and then I realized that, well, they ate my feet when I wore low socks. I ended up getting a pair of these instead and they are SO much better! My feet are happy because they don't have that dumb dial in the back. The width, size, and cushion of them is excellent... and they are still really lightweight and have held up to distances between 3 and 9 miles on trail and on the road. The blue color is kind of girly, but isn't as bad as some choices out there. All in all, really pleased with them!

Bad Puns aside, this is a pretty sweet watch. I needed something that was a little more casual then a Suunto, but not quite a bad boy nixon watch. This watch fulfills that niche. The blue color is really cool, and it tells time accurately (important, eh?). The only downfall is that its made for a fatter wrists; I'm on the smallest hole.

I right there with the other reviewer who speaks of the 1/2 size too small issue. I have other Simple shoes (that have backs, and shoelaces, etc.) and those are true to size. However, I got these in that same size, and really wonder if I should exchange them because they are "perfect" but sometimes my heel hits the edge. As far as the rest of everything--these shoes are really cute, really comfortable and style-y. The color is really rich and makes these shoes classic enough to be wearable for work while the stitching on the front doesn't go around the whole shoe so it gives it a more unique look. In general, I'm quite pleased, but would be stoked if they were a little bigger.

I needed a 'black belt' but my membership to J.Crew and the Gap only provided 'lame' and otherwise 'boring' belt options. When I saw this belt, I knew that I could fulfill my basic belt needs while simultaneously having the style that I've grown accustom to from this and other skate brands. The lettering is cute; it’s a little skinner than most of my other belts, but is up to the task. The gold buckle is fun and playful, but business-y in the right way. I will admit that the M/L is much more M than L, but works fine for a size 10.

In the dual between the two primary elements of design, I hoped for this mug to render a tie. I love coffee; I love backcountry.com. I would want my coffee mug to display for all to see the joy that both give me. Alas, that didn't happen, and I have to give it a three. The lid doesn't fit right and I spill every time I try to take a drink, so I end up not using the lid, which doesn't keep the coffee nearly as warm.

If it worked right, I'd be stoked.

*Disclaimer 1 - I know others with this mug, and they don't spill nearly as much as I do, so it might be "partially" user-error, but not all.
*Disclaimer 2 - I didn't mean to rhyme, but it entertains me, so I'll keep it.

This is great pack; I've used it for every type of hike. For a couple summers I worked as a ranger at Philmont and this pack started off as a "I'll risk it and try to pack this light" and then it turned into, "why take anything else?" If you are out for short time, it'll fit everything. If you have less group gear, you can make it work. Its very streamline and minimalist, it just all around solid. It also fits in the overhead compartments on airplanes, so its awesome for those short trips home.

Ok, so I don't have kids of my own, but that just means that I can spoil my nephew who is now 6 months old. And, though my sister is tiny, he is a 'healthy' baby. Therefore, when I got this for him for Christmas, I really should have sized up. Even though I have to exchange it, I'm still super stoked on these overalls. They are very soft, have great snaps on the under-part, and are all around the cutest thing ever!

Thanks!

Its mellow exterior aside, this stove rages with the inferno of many stoves! Simmering is indeed difficult, but not impossible (I baked cinnamon buns a few times on this puppy.) I used this on NOLS for 28 days, and didn't dread having to work with it ever. Its SO easy to use, lightweight, and easy to clean. Though I now have a Jetboil, the whisperlite will continue to be a classic way to prepare any number of dishes for a larger group.

This shirt is so much better than a piece of long underwear. Partially because it's stylish enough that I can wear it to work or around town (after skiing, etc.) But mostly because it's just a great shirt. The thumb loops, the medium weight, un-stinky fabric, and the cut are just some of the reasons that this is a great shirt. The collar is higher than most, but that just helps on the super-cold days.

I got a couple pairs of these and am really happy with how they have performed though a variety of events. From running to biking, to even just wearing around, they are my favorite pairs of socks.

I got these shoes in an 7.5 (I'm a skate shoe 8, running shoe 7.5) and am super pleased with their fit and performance. They aren't as burly as my montrails, so I can wear them on the road approach too! They also offer more support than my normal road shoes, so I've been stoked on using them for everything! All in all, these are great shoes!

I used to be addicted to my Dragonfly; I thought it was the most amazing thing to happen to backcountry cooking. THEN I went on a camping trip with a guy who had a Jetboil... next thing I knew, I was ready to sell my dragonfly on geartrade and pick up a Jetboil. I've used this on camping trips (car and backcountry) and its so easy to use, clean and store.

I used to be addicted to my Dragonfly; I thought it was the most amazing thing to happen to backcountry cooking. THEN I went on a camping trip with a guy who had a Jetboil... next thing I knew, I was ready to sell my dragonfly on gear trade and pick up a Jetboil. I've used this on camping trips (car and backcountry) and its so easy to use, clean and store.

Good enough for me! Ok, So Dean, where do I begin? You run marathons--ultras, Badwaters, 50 marathons in 50 days and these are YOUR SHOES! And that, alone, was kind of why I got them. However, little did I realize that if you don't look like a small, greek, negligible fat-percent ultra-marathoner, you probably won't run like one either. So, well I like these for 3-8 mile runs, I wasn't a big fan of them for anything longer. Another Dean-obsessed friend of mine is more built like him (not greek, but no-fat) and she LOVES them. I'll probably still run marathons in Brooks Adrenalin's, but these are pretty good to rotate into the mix. They also fit true to size and I did like the BOA system.

This is great pack; I've used it for every type of hike. For a couple summers I worked as a ranger at Philmont and this pack started off as a "I'll risk it and try to pack this light" and then it turned into, "why take anything else?" If you are out for short time, it'll fit everything. If you have less group gear, you can make it work. Its very streamline and minimalist, it just all around solid. It also fits in the overhead compartments on airplanes, so its awesome for those short trips home.

I can't say enough nice things about this pack. It's seriously far and away the greatest pack out there! 62L is a great size for almost every event. The women's specific fit makes it even better. The way it sits on your hips, and stays on your shoulders. I'll be the first to admit my obsessive, compulsive tendencies, and this backpack works with my type A personality and everything that I demand from my gear. I have used this pack countless times, and I don't know if I will ever get another pack (sorry sales people... you can't sway me from the Bora 62).

I have nothing bad to say about these pants. They fit true to size; they are comfortable; they are soft, but... they didn't really do it for me. I guess its because they weren't really gray enough. I expected Graphite to be Gray, but they were a brown-ish gray and I didn't really have a place in my closet for them. However, besides that, they were really nice.

I love hoodies. There is something about the comfort and coziness of something with a hood, and the Lupine keeps that theme going. I wasn't too sure about the pockets on the ribbing, but its really cute. The 'Rare earth brown' is an awesome color too... Just heathered enough to be different and really cute. Additionally, it fits well and true to size.

I really like they way they fit and feel at the gym or on the road running. They are a little shorter than I'm used to, but I've been really pleased. They sit low, fit right, and feel good.

I can only confirm what the other 60 people above have said about the Nuptse. Its a solid jacket--warm, packable, even fashionable. I actually wear mine more for winter camping, etc. and have been satisfied with its performance. It will shed sometimes, but in general, I know that it's there for me.

On can forget that these are under the men's category... but really they are unisex. I got a checked pair (size 6.5) and am so stoked on them. I find myself wanting to buy more stuff to match my shoes! (ok, that was really girly, but still). They fit well and look good. Thanks.

Seriously. I still remember the first time I skied there: The snow, the terrain, the tram, the fact that the season is SO INCREDIBLY LONG! I mean, you can't go wrong. Additionally, other people who aren't into skiing (my sister) can spa it up at the Cliff, and we can meet later after I've shredded all day.

Every season Brighton pushes to open first, so I get a day or so in there, and I always want to jump ship and ski Brighton all season. The backcountry access, the flair-bears killing it in the parks and fun runs off virtually every lift (especially Great Western) make it an awesome place to ride, or ski.

I had a little bit of a hard time thinking about how to start this review. I go to Alta, and I ride up Collins or Supreme, and I just sit there, in awe. It's just far and away my favorite place to ski. It's so un-prentious, even the new Wilson Shelter--it has awesome food but looks like a bomb shelter. There are killer runs, unbelievable snow, and some of the most beautiful skiers that I have seen anywhere (ski style, not necessarily hotties). I'm just happy when I get to go.

The banana taste isn't too overbearing, and the nutty combination means that these would work well for anyone who wants something a little different than the same old powerbar. They pack a ridiculous amount of calories, protein and carbs into one place; I tend to buy chocolate covered powerbars, but actually really liked the healthy, non-chocolate taste of these.

Like a fine wine, the Carb-boom gels have mellow undertones of flavor that only with a tasting can you discover. I mean, I guess its gel, and you are used to it tasting like CRAP, but these actually surprise you. My favorite flavors are the vanilla/orange or strawberry/kiwi and I'm not a fan of apple/cinnamon. In comparison to other gel-options, I would say these are more like a powergel than a clif gu. (I hate gu. A LOT!)

A few years ago I went to park city and had a good time, but over the last couple of years I've gone to The Canyons. This year I took a friend who was out visiting... he confirmed what I had been thinking--The Canyons is way better. Its less crowded, there is a ton of variety, and its super easy access to the backcountry, or whatever you are looking for. Plus, this deal is pretty sweet. Skiing is starting to get pricey, and 3 tickets for under $150 is difficult to find.

Seriously. Ages ago I was able to move from NM to UT with just my car (yes, its a gas-guzzling SUV, but still.) Now, however, I've aquired more gear than is healthy, and to go anywhere, I need to have the Flat Top on my car to move my skis around (2 pairs and a snowboard). It was super easy to install on my factory rack, and is sturdy and easy to use. I'm really glad I got the six-capacity one also! I definitely recommend getting lock-cores too (buy more than you think you need, so when you buy a bike rack and boat carrier, use still only need one key!)

Like I wrote over on my ski carrier review, you definitely should buy MORE lock-cores than the current number of locks you have. This way when you pick up another carrier (for your other car, or another sport) you can use the same key! These are seemless to install and give great peace of mind.

If you are interested in an easy-access, all-mountain experience then definitely look to Park City Mountain Resort. Where else can you ski down to town to grab a 'real' lunch, or go hit up a couple runs at night? There are some cool areas to the mountain too (I won't divulge on this, but check it out, you might be lucky to find them!) There's a reason why people love to ski Park City... its worth it!

I feel to go indepth on the carhartt is to almost give in on the secret of the club. I mean, these pants are probably one of the most worth-while investments that you can make as far as work pants go. I did fire rehab work in New Mexico and wore these EVERY DAY. Now, I wear them post-skiing because I've broken them into the point that they are more comfortable then most jeans. They fit true to size, and are really the stanard in work pants.

I skied a pair of Crispi's last season and liked them fine, but decided to treat myself to a new pair of boots this year. Boy, am I glad that I made the commitment to tele and these boots. They are very supportive, very responsive, and very, very awesome. They inner thermo-fit liner is everything I could hope for, and so far, I really think my skiing has gotten BETTER because of these boots. As far as sizing goes, I actaully went down about 0.5 from my alpine boots (weird, I know).

The other review that spoke about the surprising satisfaction with these dumb-looking shoes was spot on. They definitely aren't flashy, or really all that cute, but they are far and away the most durable trail runners I've come across in a long time. The way the tongue is attached means that they fit snug on your feet. They are very supportive on the trails, and worked wonders on the Trail marathon I did. (I survived). They also fit true to size, so I was stoked I could actually order them online and not worry about the fit.

This hoody is definitely cozy. The fabric is warm and nice, but all in all, I wasn't a fan of the way that it ended up fitting. I have other HT stuff, so I don't think its everything they make. I'm a size 10, and have some shape to my upper body, and it ended up hitting to high on the waist-line; I didn't like it as much as I could have. I'm sure I could have gone up a size but ended up just buying a The North Face one.

I went on an all-out-no-holds-barred black fleece jacket hunt last month. We're talking lots of procrastination (uh, research?) at work looking for the penultimate in fleece jackets. I definitely found it in the monkey woman. Its SO warm, SO flattering, and SO, uhh fleecy (?) that I don't have to worry about being cold or uncomfortable. This is the jacket.

Aliterations aside, this vest is great for when you need to be seen. Its simple, easy to use, and fits most people. We bought some for the Wasatch Back Relay and were very pleased.

This is one of those pieces that doesn't so much need real words to describe its comfort--sounds will do. Its just that cozy. I concur with the shedding thing in the dryer, but figure that the green fuzz all over the place just reminds me that I should be wearing this sweatshirt instead of whatever else I thought about wearing. (PS, I'm a size 10 and the Large was perfect.)

This movie is really good. Its not quite the same watching it in an apartment as it is at a Supershow, so I just make sure to turn up the music even louder and run into my furniture a couple times. The skiing is killer, and the soundtrack is awesome.

I was at a party the other evening, and someone popped in this video; the entire room went silent. Ok, so maybe we are a little obsessive, and a bit too into skiing, but watching this movie we were quite close to putting down our drinks so we could get an early start the next morning (not really). Anyway, this movie has some rad segments, and I'm in awe of Victoria Jealouse, so I liked it. Additionally, the black and white was kind of cool.

For a while, I used to just wear whatever free socks I could snag from my mom's sock drawer, or could finagle from a give-away. Then, this one time, I actually bought ski/snowboard socks. I realized that they actually do something different than my smartwool hiking socks. They are supportive and fit well in my boots. These are a little thicker than I'm used to, but since my favorite boots are a little packed out, these are perfect. Plus, the design is really cute and I like to wear them after riding also!

These bags are bomber. I'm really hard on gear, and though I throw this around, it is still going strong! I have the small size, and though it fits all the stuff I need on most days, my laptop has wider screen, so it can't fit in my laptop sleeve and then in the bag (its fine sans sleeve). Other than that, though, all is more than well.

I finally got a pair of these after a rough debate between Sorels and any other boot on this website. Though I can't really say if I would have been happier with Sorels, I can definitely say that I'm stoked on these. They are SUPER warm, very waterproof and extra-durable. Also, they actually fit true to size which I found to be one of thier best features. I'm really glad I did these over the over-rated Chilkats--The fur is a really nice benefit.

For the Wasatch back relay (a 2-day race from outside Logan to Park City) our team relied on the pieces in the package. With 3 race sections of 3-8 miles, there were definitely blisters and the first-aid kit was helpful to contain other minor set-backs. In addition, the vest was needed for the long trudge through the night. Finally, you can never go wrong with the Petzl Tikka! And we did pretty well on the run too!

I've had a slew of headlamps throughout the ages, and The Tikka is one of the top ones out there. It’s small (fits in a pocket), bright (all the levels are useful), and functional. I'm really pleased with it.

I got this jacket for my dad for Christmas, and he's been so happy to replace his more fashion-y Polo Rain Jacket. The black color has nice lines and fits well. Its great for golf, walking around on vacation, etc. When I drag him out camping, he'll bring this too! He's 6 ft. tall and pretty normal build and the XL works well.

Large glasses have reached new extremes, and I'm stoked to be right there. Since I got these sunnies I've packed up all my other sunglasses and am wearing these non-stop. The gold/gold combo rocks! They are comfortable and aren't overbearing on my normal-sized head. Wearing them I feel like I should be rolling down Laguna Ave. in my convertible instead of on the back roads to grocery store, but I don't care... cause I rock these shades everywhere! Thanks!!

I originally considered getting this jacket for technical pursuits--skiing, riding, etc. But then when it arrived, I quickly determined that it is much better suited to the technical walking down Main St. Park City during Sundance. Its definitely warm, very sleek fitting (I have a North Face shell size Med. But got this in a Large) and like someone else mentioned, does ride up slightly sometimes. The picture doesn't show it exactly, but the ribbed part isn't connected to the bottom of the down part; its connected slightly above so it doesn't poof out funny. I still love it, I just had to acknowledge its real purpose: Looking cool.

I was warned about the single wall tent- I believe the phrase was "sweat-box", so when I took this out on a few trips, I braced myself, and ended up being really pleased.
2-person is kind of a stretch; unless you REALLY like the person you are sharing with, or space/weight is an issue. This tent is part of a crazy-light package from TNF, so what it misses in breeze, it makes up for it packability. Its phenomenally easy to set up, take down, etc. I'll admit its tough to go from a two door system to a one front door, but the vesibule is decent size, so it works.
Overall, this tent is completely worth it.

So, "technically" I haven't worn this jacket riding yet. Hope as I might, we just don't have quite enough snow this
Sept. to get out there. BUT I got this in the mail, and I'm even more stoked on riding this winter.
This fit isn't as ghetto-baggy as past burton jackets. (I'm a 10, bought a L. The sleeves are a bit long, but the cut is perfect with a long sleeve layer, wool or light fleece). The fabric is shiny without being silly-looking, and really soft, but seems durable. There are all kinds of cute, well thought out features. The pass pocket, the side zip for your neck, the hood is just the right size. Even the powder skirt lines up perfectly with the asymmetrical zipper.
Anyway, I love it.

Like the other reviewer above, these tights pleasently surprised me. They are comfortable without being restrictive, breathe well in warmer weather, but still work fine in a little chillier atmosphere. I've used them with my bike shorts in cold weather and its a great combo. They fit true to size.

I could have probably stopped at the title because it explains it all, but I'll elaborate. The DIAD is ultra-lightweight and packable to a small pocket in a camelbak. It works well in a deluge, or even a light sprinkle. It took a bit to get used to the lack of pockets, but it gives clean lines and is really appealing.

Mary Janes makes amazing food. While hiking the highline trail, we tried a variety of items, and since we were covering A LOT of miles, never seemed to be satiated. However, this pasta was fabulous and makes a big difference in keeping us happy and full! It’s super easy to make and really good.

I'm a big fan of these socks and have already put a fair amount of miles on them. They are comfortable, breathe well and keep me free from blisters. Teko also is very considerate of the environment through smart production, packaging, etc. and I really appreciate products and companies I can believe in.

I have been in awe of these boots for AGES--however, I wasn't able to pick up a pair until almost the end of the winter, so I didn't wear them as much before the heat wave hit. However, the few times I did--man, it doesn't get much better. They are squishy and comfortable; they are stylish-for sure. I think sizing follows the size chart well. (I'm a 7.5 and foot size fine. I do have MONSTER calves, and they are a little snug for the med. but not bad). All in all I'm counting down the days till the next snowfall, so I can break them out again.

I went on a ridiculous 8- mile-in-4-day hike with some hard core peeps with a goal of going as light as possible. This was only possible with this pack. Its large enough to fit my sleeping bag, tent and food, as well as the layers needed, but not too much more. PROS: It caries REALLY WELL for fastpacking. The material is super-light, but puncture-resistant. The roll-top allows the pack to be used for anything from overnighters to 4/5 days. CONS: It’s so streamline that there is no "good" place to put a Nalgene. (You pretty much have to use a CamelBak.)

Really, there aren't too many reasons to wear gaiters. They give you strange tan lines and most trails are maintained well enough to keep from needing to bushwhack. But there are those occasions when gaiters are needed, and these fit well, are of burly construction and work fabulously. I was really happy with them snowshoeing over the winter and traipsing through the woods this summer.

I don't necessarily agree with the previous post about the tightness of the fit. After an exhaustive search through all the pants I could find, I FINALLY picked up a pair of the divine capris, and found them heavenly. Yes, they sit a bit low (if you brought them to your waist it might be tight) but they are really cozy and comfortable. The lycra stretch fabric moves with you. The leg openings are a little wider than I expected, but it just makes them that much more relaxed.

I've had a fair assortment of hydration packs in my past, and this one is my current favorite. While trail running (all over) it stayed steady, didn't chafe, and held more than enough water for whatever I put it through. It didn't seem "too big" for short trips, but had enough space for an afternoon of hiking with the ten essentials. The on/off switch was easy to use on the fly and it prevented leaking.

I concur that this sweatshirt is a little small, but I still got the "right" size and it fits fine, just not for layering. It's plenty warm for shredding in the spring and wearing around. It's REALLY cozy and soft inside. The patch is ultra-funky and kind of fun, while the zippers on the sleeves are kind of random, but cute.

I first saw Icebreaker when I was over in New Zealand and was traveling around. It looked so luxurious, but I couldn't necessarily afford to pick up a shirt. I've finally gotten, not one, but two Icebreaker pieces and absolutely love them. They don't stink, are soft, have a flattering fit, and all around work for skiing and running. I've been very pleased and am all but converted to wool under layers.

I was super stoked to get this tank. Look at the picture--it's so cute looking. However, when I got it, I wasn't as excited. The colors are still really cute, but its definitely more "sporty" than casual. The neckline is more of a wide-scoop than a v-neck, and it's more boxy than fitted. Still, cute colors, and a good material.

I've been excited about this jacket for months. In fact, I even created a new designation for outdoor gear when it arrived. "Technical Casual" is the fusion of technical elements (Hyvent, waterproof fabrics, etc.) with Casual Ideals (women's fit, the belt, bell-sleeves). Anyway, the Grace jacket has provided me with opportunities to sway the thought processes of formal gear-geeks, business colleagues, and friends with its elegant and graceful look and ability to keep the rain at bay. I enjoy the opportunity to wear it. The only down fall is that the sleeves are a little long.

The first pair of Patagonia Baggies I owned were bought in 1999 before I went on a NOLS trip to the Absorka Mtn. Range in Wyoming. A lovely shade of sea-green, not only did they survive 28 days in backcountry without being washed (swimming in rivers doesn't technically count) but they made it 6 years and 1 warranty repair. I finally retired them early this year when I picked up some pairs. These continue to be my favorite short for hiking, running-- everything. I bought a couple of men's ones a few years ago, but the lining is irrating and the pockets aren't as nice. The lines on the back are also much nicer on the women's design.

I first bought this as a size "L" (I wear a size 10 in traditional trousers, 11 in Volcom/Junior Sizing) but it was about a foot too long. I returned it and got a medium instead. As I put the med. on, I put it on the SMALLEST buckle hole. Awesome for me, but kind of tinier than I would have expected. As for the style, it’s really cute. The cursive "Burton" accent is really nice and the printing gives it a different look than a normal old belt. All in all, I'm very pleased.

I've been wearing a Versa Move tee for the past few months about half the time I go running. It wicks moisture well, doesn't reek like cotton, and doesn't cling funny like some lightweight crew shirts. It’s been great under a long sleeve for skiing, and even better for wearing on its own. The random reflective strips on the side are surprisingly slimming and add just enough so you don't look like you are wearing a plain shirt.

Been a fan of Oakley tees for awhile; they tend to make some super cutie icons or designs to accent what would otherwise be a simple crew top. The texture on this one also is really fun and playful. The only bummer is that it’s SUPER long, but not quite to the-over-the-butt hipster look. Other than that, it’s great!

It’s a pretty mellow mountain in terms of terrain, but who needs steeps when you can get killer turns in freshies 90% of the time you go there? I had never even heard of this place before this year, and now I'm conflicted between telling everyone about how great it is, and wanting to keep it my own little powder secret. The people are friendly, the hills are wide open, and did I mention that the snow is always good? This place rocks!

I've always been in awe of telemark skis and finally, this year, I'm stepping up to be one of the cool kids. These skis are helping my cause too. They are responsive enough to handle even my most pathetic attempts at turning, while providing enough stiffness so that when I get to the next level these skis will be with me. They are MUCH better on-piste then my pocket rockets too! They are super light for touring too. Really pleased with them.

Anytime I wear the Polka Dot Goggles on the hill, all the guys stare. It’s a bit intimidating when I'm riding a gnarly hill, or acting silly in the lifeline, but I show them the way and who could blame them. These goggles are hot. Oh—and they work really well too. I haven't had issues with fogging (beyond the every once in a while weather issues.) The mirror lens works well for all bluebird days, and even in low light in a pinch. Rock on.

The scallop was a bit more of the torn look than I had expected, but its still super cute. The cotton is really soft and comfy while the price was too good to pass up.

I owned a Nuptse before, but found when I was winter camping, it was just too bulky and annoying. So I got an Optimus. It rocks. I found that beyond just providing a lightweight, packable insulating layer, the Redpoint Optimus is awesome for wearing around town or under a shell for skiing. The toughest thing was deciding the classic black or the blue. I went blue and am really happy.

This is the second Icebreaker piece that I have purchased here. The merino is soft and comfortable in all circumstances. The cut is slimming, yet moves well. The thumb holes are an excellent touch. This top is great for layering for skiing, running, or just wearing around. The temperature regulation is awesome—even with a double layer weave it’s not too warm or too cold. I have worn it to work, and get loads of compliments each time. The coco/bone is really a lovely deep brown color too.

This jacket totally kills it. It’s super burly, but lightweight. Totally waterproof, but completely breathable. I have been nothing but satisfied with this jacket. For Skiing, backpacking or just wearing around town, this is the only jacket you need. The fit is forgiving and flattering, the pockets are well-positioned and good sized. That, and the red color is beautiful.

If you don’t already own a Jetboil—buy one, and if you do, you need this too. With the companion cup you can make coffee/tea/what-have-you in the original, and use the companion cup to boil water for oatmeal. Really, the possibilities are endless and you need this!!

The interchangeable lenses make any type of light or environment just right. They fit a small-medium sized face perfectly and the root beer fade-bronze mirror is hot! They are definitely my favorite pair of sunnies.

I have a pair of Z/2s and thought I would try out the Zongs... and I'll never go back. The Zongs are an awesome combination of flip-flop style and Chaco form. The colors are sweet and the comfort is stellar. I was surprised I had to go up a size from normal though--I guess my feet are fatter than I thought.

I couldn't believe how easy the lever-action makes filtering water. I don't have to sit there and pump forever--The Sweetwater is possibly one of the easiest filters I've ever used. It’s also super easy to clean and lets you convert to a purifier with just a couple drops of stuff. I've been really happy with it.

Better than some of the other options on the market but a little syrupy/sticky. The flavor combinations strike me as slightly odd too. I like simple--vanilla, orange, but you mix these fruits together and it’s a bit difficult to eat the whole thing in one chug. Banana/Peach is better than the Strawberry/Kiwi.