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Wafflecone

Nordic Skier // Road Biker

Wafflecone: #303 of 174,454 Top 500 Gear Guru More Information

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    West Central Wisconsin
  • Bio:

    Biking in Spring and Summer, Nordic Skiing in the Winter. Everything else is filler.

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Call me old-fashioned...

Capo Verona Cycling Cap

Capo Verona Cycling Cap

Rating for this product: 3 April 3, 2012

But if sweat in your eyes is a problem when you bike, don't go for a sweatband or wrap or whatever, put on a sweet cap like this one and you're good to go.

The only downside is it is cotton (and I'm usually a merino junkie), so it can get pretty heavy if you pouring out sweat, but it will keep it out of your eyes.

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Call me old-fashioned...

Castelli Podium Collection - Ganna Red Cycling Cap

Castelli Podium Collection - Ganna Red Cycling Cap

Rating for this product: 3 April 3, 2012

But if sweat in your eyes is a problem when you bike, don't go for a sweatband or wrap or whatever, put on a cap like this one and you're good to go. Despite the product description above, you really should wear a helmet, but put the cap underneath.

The only downside is it is cotton (and I'm usually a merino junkie), so it can get pretty heavy if you pouring out sweat, but it will keep it out of your eyes.

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Great, while it lasts

Stoic Merino Comp Trail No-Show Sock - 4pr

Stoic Merino Comp Trail No-Show Sock - 4pr

Rating for this product: 4 April 3, 2012

My wife got these socks and she loves them. Very comfortable, supportive, breathable. But she's worn them so much (which is another form of praise), that the sock is wearing almost through at the ball of the big toe and at the heel. Kind of surprising, but there is a lifetime warranty, so there's the upshot.

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Minimalist sock

Darn Tough Merino Wool Mesh 1/4 Running Sock

Darn Tough Merino Wool Mesh 1/4 Running Sock

Rating for this product: 5 April 3, 2012

These socks are awesome...if you're looking for a wool sock that doesn't add weight, is incredibly breathable (mesh on top), and offers little padding. Don't expect this sock to cushion you for anything, because it won't. But, if you like to have as little sock as possible between you and your shoe, but want that sock to keep your feet dry, then get this sock.

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Under Armour Ultra Light Armourfit Ski Sock

April 3, 2012

I've had issues with over the calf socks not staying put and bunching around my ankles. How do these rate in that category?

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Excellent

Darn Tough Merino Wool True Seamless Over-The-Calf Ultra-Light Ski Sock - Men's

Darn Tough Merino Wool True Seamless Over-The-Calf Ultra-Light Ski Sock - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 April 3, 2012

Never have had a complaint against Darn Tough. They make amazing socks. With the over the calf ski sock here, you get coverage for your lower leg, arch support, comfort, and (why not?) simple style. The best part, if you find out the sock isn't what you thought or if it somehow wears out, you've got Darn Tough's Lifetime Warranty. What's not to like?

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Great Multi-Use Sock

SmartWool PhD Outdoor Light Micro Sock

SmartWool PhD Outdoor Light Micro Sock

Rating for this product: 4 April 3, 2012

I wouldn't say these are the best socks for biking or for running or for hiking, but if I could only have one sock for all these activities, I'd pick this one. It has a good amount of padding where you need it, it is breathable on top so your feet don't overheat, and provide quite a bit of arch support.
The downside is that they've worn out quicker (mostly from pilling) than some of my other wool socks, but these also get a ton more usage, too. Good overall sock.

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Castelli Podium Collection Duran Sock - 3-pack

April 3, 2012

It looks like there is some padding on the ball and heel. How much? Does it make the sock thicker than other socks?

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You will not find a better cycling sock.

SmartWool PhD Cycling Ultra Light Micro Sock

SmartWool PhD Cycling Ultra Light Micro Sock

Rating for this product: 5 November 22, 2011

This sock has it all. Cushioning where you need it. Arch support. Lightweight. Great ventilation. I've biked a ton of miles with these socks and have never had a problem with hot feet. Oh yeah, merino wool whips all other materials for socks.

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Best Sock Ever

Darn Tough Merino Wool No-Show Mesh Running Sock - Men's

Darn Tough Merino Wool No-Show Mesh Running Sock - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 22, 2011

I love these socks for biking, running, and at the gym. Excellent support for the arch, mesh up top for comfort, and merino wool.

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Great socks for the right use

SmartWool PhD Running Ultra Light Micro Sock

SmartWool PhD Running Ultra Light Micro Sock

Rating for this product: 4 November 22, 2011

These socks have a lot going for them. They're merino, so they won't stick. They're thin, so they don't bunch up on you or weigh you down. However, there is not much padding, so if you're a plodder, these might not be best for you.

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Great Socks, Great Value

Stoic Merino Comp Trail Crew Sock - 3pr

Stoic Merino Comp Trail Crew Sock - 3pr

Rating for this product: 5 November 22, 2011

Good merino wool socks are hard to find. It's even harder to find multiple pairs of good merino wool socks. These socks are excellent for light hiking, biking, running, and relaxing. Plus, you're feet won't stink. You'll want lots of pairs, so why not get three of them at once?

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Wife's had 'em for years

Thorlos Hiking Thick Cushion Thor-Lon Crew Sock - Women's

Thorlos Hiking Thick Cushion Thor-Lon Crew Sock - Women's

Rating for this product: 5 November 22, 2011

Years of hiking and general wear and they still look and fit like new for her. Excellent padding and arch support, I'm told.

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They do what they're supposed to

Under Armour O Series Boxer - Men's - 6in

Under Armour O Series Boxer - Men's - 6in

Rating for this product: 5 November 22, 2011

Running? Everything stays in place. Biking? It doesn't bunch up on you under your shorts. Working out? Keeps your boys covered. Heading out for winter sports? They're warm enough under regular winter wear. I have been quite pleased with their performance in a wide range of activities.

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Under Armour Base 3.0 Quarter-Zip Top - Men's

November 22, 2011

Has anyone used this for aerobic activity (cross country skiing)? How cold should it be before considering to wear this if it's heavyweight?

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Under Armour Base 3.0 Quarter-Zip Top - Men's

November 22, 2011

Has anyone used this for aerobic activity (cross country skiing)? How cold should it be before considering to wear this if it's heavyweight?

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Works like it's supposed to.

Platypus Cleaning Kit

Platypus Cleaning Kit

Rating for this product: 5 August 17, 2011

Nothing too fancy, but it cleans the bladder and the tube really well. I haven't had any problems with odor or mildew or anything after using this with my Platypus.

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Very Comfortable, Durability Concerns

Ahnu Reyes II Sandal - Men's

Ahnu Reyes II Sandal - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 May 15, 2011

I don't think I've ever had a more comfortable sandal. These do a great job of providing traction on a variety of surfaces and are awesome at the campsite after hiking.
The only downside is that the sole has worn out quicker than I would have expected. Little more than a year after I first wore them, the sole is worn through to the foam. Granted, I wore them a lot, like most days in the summer and even fall and occasional (warmer) winter days.
Still these are so good that when I convince myself mine can no longer cut it, I'll buy these again.

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Good jacket, if you've got looooong arms

Stoic Monolith Softshell Jacket - Women's

Stoic Monolith Softshell Jacket - Women's

Rating for this product: 3 May 15, 2011

Bought this for my wife who is normal sized. It fit great in the shoulders, chest, everywhere, except for the sleeves. They were about 3 inches too long for her arms. She doesn't have short arms, in fact, her sleeve length fit perfectly with the sizing chart. If you've got long arms or don't mind extra sleeve length, this is a really good jacket. Otherwise, you might want to check out other options.

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Great for any use

Stoic Merino Comp Trail Crew Sock - 1pr

Stoic Merino Comp Trail Crew Sock - 1pr

Rating for this product: 5 May 15, 2011

Merino is the way to go for socks (well, for almost any clothing, really) and these do not disappoint. These are tall enough for most hiking boots, but can work with running shoes, biking, at the gym, pretty much any place you need comfortable, non-stinky, supportive socks. The coolest thing is that they are labeled left and right...no more worrying whether you have the right sock on the right foot (no pun intended).

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Great Socks, for the price

Stoic Merino Comp Trail No-Show Sock - 2pr

Stoic Merino Comp Trail No-Show Sock - 2pr

Rating for this product: 5 May 15, 2011

First, two pairs of merino socks for so little is cause enough to get them. These socks are great for sports, the gym, etc. (but not for hiking). Stylish and comfortable. They do a good job of keeping feet at the right temp and dry, whether it's cold or warm outside. I wouldn't recommend these for hot, humid summer days, but that's what sandals are for, right?

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Stoic Merino 200 Bottom - 3/4-Length - Men's

May 2, 2011

Has anyone worn these under cycling shorts as a base layer for colder days? If so, how'd these work?

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Good, but pricey

Sugoi Wallaroo Boxer - Men's

Sugoi Wallaroo Boxer - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 November 30, 2010

Some people like to wear boxers in their cycling shorts. If that's you and you don't mind spending for it, get these. Merino wool lining is fantastic on cold days and will help keep you warm where you need it. Notice though that these are boxer cut, not boxer brief cut, or shorts cut. They have a pretty small inseam.

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For cold days

Swobo Dolly Knee Warmer

Swobo Dolly Knee Warmer

Rating for this product: 5 November 30, 2010

If you're going to ride in the cold and not get cycling tights, get knee warmers, like this one. This is one of the few I've seen with merino wool lining. Merino wool is your best friend during cold weather activity--keeps you warm and dry. Both very important. As far as knee warmers go, you'd be hard pressed to find ones better than these.

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Descente Wombat Glove

November 30, 2010

How's the grip on these? Any slippage when changing gears? What about the all-important nose wipe? Does this have a designated snot spot?

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Don't need a PhD to figure out these socks are great.

SmartWool PhD Cycling Light Mini Sock - Men's

SmartWool PhD Cycling Light Mini Sock - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 30, 2010

These socks are some of best I've ever had for cycling. They hug your foot without any tightness and support the arch really well. They are thicker than the ultra-light (which I prefer), but they can still be use from near freezing temps to some summer rides--the wool is that great. Get as many pairs as you can, these are great.

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SmartWool is the smart choice

SmartWool PhD Cycling Ultra Light Mini Sock - Men's

SmartWool PhD Cycling Ultra Light Mini Sock - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 30, 2010

These socks are some of best I've ever had for cycling. They hug your foot without any tightness and support the arch really well. They may say ultra-light, but they work from low 40's up for warmth. Even in hot weather, my feet stay dry. Get as many pairs as you can, these are great.

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Kombi Pro-line 285 Boxer - Men's

October 5, 2010

Any one know how tight or loose these are on the legs? That is, do they fit more like a boxer short or like a true boxer?

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Comfortable, but durability an issue

Ahnu Reyes Technical Sandal - Men's

Ahnu Reyes Technical Sandal - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 October 5, 2010

I've had a pair of these for about 2 years. Never had any complaints as far as comfort--I've walked miles and miles in these and my feet felt fine-thanks to the arch support. Watch out for sand and pebbles, though (and pine needles). They can get trapped pretty easily and then you have to shake it out.

My complaint is simply that after 16 months or so, the sole showed significant wear and now there is pretty much nothing left on the sole. I've had sandals that lasted 4-5 years before significant wear started showing. But very comfortable for end-of-the-day wear and in the canoe/kayak as it dries pretty quick.

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Flawless

Platypus Drinking Tube Kit

Platypus Drinking Tube Kit

Rating for this product: 5 September 4, 2010

If you need a new tube for your Platypus, this is what you need. The best part is the lapel clip so the tube isn't flopping all over the place as you hike or ride. Highly recommend.

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Works great for biking, too

Platypus Hoser Hydration Bladder

Platypus Hoser Hydration Bladder

Rating for this product: 4 September 4, 2010

I've used this mostly for my longer rides when a water bottle won't cut it. It holds a lot (I've got the 2L) and the water (or Gatorade, or whatever) tastes great even at the end. It's easy to clean, though I recommend getting Platypus' specific cleaners. I downgrade it only one star because getting ice cubes in is near impossible (unless you have the narrow tube kind). But, if you partially freeze overnight and top it off in the morning before you head out, it's perfect.

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Darn Tough Merino Wool True Seamless Over-The-Calf Ultra-Light Ski Sock - Men's

June 23, 2010

I've got a pair of the Darn Tough Nordic socks (http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Darn-Tough-Merino-Wool-Nordic-Boot-Ultra-Light-Ski-Sock/DRN0003M.html) and these look pretty similar. But I'm wondering if these are ok for nordic skiing? Sometimes, I like to have a longer sock on.

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Cutter Hoodlum Shirt - Men's

June 18, 2010

Does the sizing run on the small side or big side or right on?

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Swix Elite Ski Pole

June 16, 2010

Are these more for training or racing? Both?

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

January 6, 2010

37 is your best bet, and, as of today, 37 is that last remaining size available. And it's on sale! Snatch it up!

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

January 6, 2010

http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Alpina-Blazer-Touring-Boot/ALP0129M.html. It's the newest model and currently has both 45.0 and 46.0 (11 and 12 sizing). Act fast though, so that you can get them this time around.

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

January 6, 2010

Whenever you need it, if you go to http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Alpina-Blazer-Touring-Boot/ALP0129M.html. It's the same boot, but the next model, so it's got virtually all sizes remaining, including 39...as of today.

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

January 6, 2010

Given the limited options, you might want to go to http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Alpina-Blazer-Touring-Boot/ALP0129M.html. Newer model, more sizing options.

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

January 6, 2010

They won't be ordering any more of this one, because it is last year's model. Check out http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Alpina-Blazer-Touring-Boot/ALP0129M.html. It's basically the same boot with more sizing options, including 40/41 (as of today).

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

January 6, 2010

This is the close out model. Sizing is extremely limited. You might want to check out the current model: http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Alpina-Blazer-Touring-Boot/ALP0129M.html. 9.5 in ladies is going to be a 41. Sorry, but the low price doesn't carry over.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Rossignol Explorer Nordic Ski Pole

January 6, 2010

Quite simply, they just aren't that common. You may need to look at the more expensive ones that come in that length.

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Rossignol Explorer Nordic Ski Pole

January 6, 2010

Depends on if you want to classic or skate ski. Classic, probably aim for 135-140. Skate, aim for 145-150. If you've got long arms, go on the shorter side, if you've got shorter arms, go longer for the poles.

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Salomon Escape 9 Pilot Ski Boot

January 6, 2010

If you want SNS Pilot systems, these boots will work. In fact, Pilots typically are torsionally rigid so that's better for classic striding. Of course, if you're getting new bindings and new boots, you can also check out NNN systems. Just make sure that boots and bindings are compatible with each other. As for SNS Pilot classic bindings, check out: http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Salomon-SNS-Pilot-Sport-Classic-Binding/SAL1423M.html.

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Salomon SNS Pilot Sport Classic Binding

January 6, 2010

You can, they both have the SNS Pilot binding system. However, you should consider the skate binding version of this item (http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Salomon-SNS-Pilot-Sport-Skate-Binding/SAL1255M.html). It is designed for skate skiing and for skate boots and for skate skis in mind, so that's your best bet.

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Salomon SNS Pilot Sport Classic Binding

January 6, 2010

You probably could use them (both are SNS Pilot), but you might lose some performance. You should just get the Salomon SNS Pilot Skate binding (http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Salomon-SNS-Pilot-Sport-Skate-Binding/SAL1255M.html). Same price, no risk of mismatch or lost performance.

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Swix Waxing Table - Small

January 6, 2010

You'll probably want to get vises for this table. You need to make sure the ski doesn't move, pivot, turn, whatever, while you wax. Just make sure the set you get accepts your binding.

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Alpina BC 200L Touring Ski Boot - Women's

January 6, 2010

If you'll be cutting your own trails, make sure you get a rugged boot like this one. It'll be heavier, but it'll keep your feet dry. If the parks have groomed trails, you could get a sleeker, lighter boot. You'll also want to figure out if you'll do classic or skate skiing, as that will affect boot type, ski type and length, and pole length. There are lots of reasonably priced options available for those getting into nordic skiing. Best of luck to you!

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Easy Application

Swix F4 Universal Glide Wax - Aerosol

Swix F4 Universal Glide Wax - Aerosol

Rating for this product: 5 January 6, 2010

For those who want to do as little as possible and still get good glide, this works. Rub it on your skis, let it dry and you're ready to go. You can scrape and re-apply and/or brush and reapply, like with a wax block and iron, and you'll get better durability and performance, but it's not necessary (I recommend it, though).This can be used on all ski and snowboards, but make sure you only use it where you want glide (classic skis, I'm looking at you), because there is no grip with this wax (there shouldn't be).

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Supportive and comfortable

Under Armour Boxer Jock - Men's

Under Armour Boxer Jock - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 6, 2010

The 'pouch' is perfect and keeps things in place. I haven't had any bunching, which means good range of movement for all activities. Thin material so you can use it as THE base layer for whatever you're doing (under training shorts, tights, etc) and it doesn't hinder you at all.

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Under Armour Boxer Jock - Men's

January 6, 2010

True to size, but remember that they do have some stretch to them, so, if in doubt, go down one size.

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Darn Good

Darn Tough Merino Wool Nordic Boot Ultra Light Ski Sock

Darn Tough Merino Wool Nordic Boot Ultra Light Ski Sock

Rating for this product: 5 January 5, 2010

Used these when I did some touring in fresh snow. Snow got all over my boots, and in, too, and my feet stayed warm, but not over-heated, dry and comfortable the whole time. These are thin, but they work great. Get 'em while they last!

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Under Armour Boxer Jock - Men's

December 23, 2009

It seems like these are intended for warm-weather activities. Has anyone used these for winter sports? In particular, cross country skiing or snow-shoeing? I don't want anything, um, frozen, if you know what I mean.

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Great little tool

Swix Synthetic Cork

Swix Synthetic Cork

Rating for this product: 5 December 23, 2009

If you wax, heat is required. If you don't want to spend a lot of money (for an iron), then a cork is what you need. This (fake) cork works well with a variety of kick waxes, so get the wax on, heat with the cork and go ski (assuming you've got your glide wax on too).

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One Way Diamond 600 AV Ski Pole DO NOT USE

December 21, 2009

Has anyone used this pole? Is it any good? Is it stiff? Responsive? Heavy? For use on groomed trails? anyone?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Gets the job done

Swix Racing Pro XC Ski Straps

Swix Racing Pro XC Ski Straps

Rating for this product: 5 December 21, 2009

Nothing too complicated about these. Slide 'em on to hold the skis together, while preventing rubbing/scraping. Slide 'em off to go skiing (or tuning, or whatever). I've got narrowish classic skis and there is still some room left. Not too sure if wide back-country skis would fit, but, then again, they are calling racing straps.

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Stoic Merino Bliss 150 Shirt - Long-Sleeve - Men's

December 17, 2009

What are people's experiences with this top in terms of layering. Is this top fine for nordic skiing at 20F? Is it only a baselayer and should have a top layer when it gets below a certain point? What are your thoughts?

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

December 10, 2009

As of today, there is a 37.0 boot available. And on sale to boot! I couldn't resist.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

December 10, 2009

check http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Alpina-Blazer-Touring-Boot/ALP0129M.html. Same shoe, newer model, more choices.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

December 10, 2009

You won't be able to get the dirt cheap price listed here for the close out of the older model, but you can get the same boot for about $75 at http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Alpina-Blazer-Touring-Boot/ALP0129M.html. Is just the new model, but everything looks to be the same.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Alpina Blazer Touring Boot DO NOT USE

December 10, 2009

You might want to contact customer service directly, but I think the ones here are the 09 model on close-out. The link you have is for the 2010 model.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great sock, but with one small problem

Backcountry.com Midweight Merino Ski Sock - 2 Pair

Backcountry.com Midweight Merino Ski Sock - 2 Pair

Rating for this product: 4 December 9, 2009

2 pair for under $20 is a pretty good deal in the first place. The socks are warm, fit nice, and are quite comfortable. One sock, however, developed a hole near the ankle, on the front (see those grooves in the picture...right there).

BC.com has a great return policy and these socks have a lifetime warranty, but, unfortunately, this model is out-of-stock. In other words, I can't exchange it for a non-holed sock; I can either return both pairs (even the one that has no problems) and get a refund or get the refund and purchase another item with the exchange value.

Neither is a great option, in my opinion, so I'm going to keep both pairs and use the (slightly) busted pair for lounge socks/fall yard work. All in all, though, (if these were still available,) I would recommend these socks to others.

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Swix Groove/All Purpose  Scraper

Swix Groove/All Purpose Scraper

Rating for this product: 4 December 4, 2009

Works really well at scraping, like it should. Where it really shines through is with the knobs/angles at the edges that help with grooves and edging. Only downside is if you apply too much pressure (which you shouldn't), it may bend and weaken the plastic. Be careful and use as directed and this is a handy item to have.

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First time user, worked great

Swix Base Cleaner Set

Swix Base Cleaner Set

Rating for this product: 5 December 3, 2009

I went Nordic skiing for the first time last year (on waxless skis) and enjoyed it. I got my own (used) skis, poles, boots, etc., and needed to do some waxing. This cleaner worked fast and loosened the wax that remained after scrapping. The Fiberlene towel worked great at wiping it away. I don't know if there are better options out there, but I do know this combo pack is easy and effective.

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