Conor R.

I've tried other harnesses out there, but in the end I keep coming back to Arc'teryx. In my opinion there is no better combination of lightweight, comfort and functionality than the new I340a harness.
Arc'teryx has fixed the lack of drop-down leg loops and added ice clipper slots that were lacking on the X350a harness, and have actually managed to shed some weight too.
The WARP technology keeps this harness so light and packable, yet surprisingly comfortable while hanging or belaying.
While a bit pricey, in my opinion, for Year Round climbers, there is no better one-quiver harness out there on the market.

Picked up this pack in July 2009 for a 5 day hike along the Berg Lake Trail in BC, Canada. I'm 5'9" and weigh in at 170 lbs; I had this pack loaded up with 50 lbs on day one, and it felt like a dream.
IMO, the Argon has the best suspension of any pack on the market. If carrying heavy loads over long hikes is what you do, then this pack won't disappoint.

Other features I loved:
1. The removable lid and hydration sleeve were great for day hikes out of base.
2. Lots of compression straps for tightening up your load
3. The WARRANTY is hands down the best on the market; if you break it, Osprey will fix it, no matter what!

Cons:
1. Make no mistake, this is a heavy pack. If you're a fast and light, gram conscious hiker, this is NOT the pack for you.
2. no pockets on the hit belt.

All in all, this is the best expedition pack I have ever used, providing unmatched load bearing capability and comfort.
As always, fit is key, so be sure to get measured up properly. Happy Backpacking!

I purchased these poles for a five day trip along the Berg Lake Trail in BC, Canada.
On the plus side, the cork grips worked great for absorbing sweat during the hot July days we were hiking. As well, the shocks were a welcome relief during the 21km of mostly downhill hiking on the way out.
Now for the not so good... I found the both the shock lock-out and the height lock-put mechanisms had a tenancy to loosen quite quickly, especially the shock, which was not so great. In retrospect, I'd prefer to spend the extra money and have a more secure locking feature like the Black Diamond flick lock system.

I bought these goggles in 2009, and thus far have been extremely satisfied.
Peripheral vision is great. Fit wise, I have a narrow nose and face and find the frame fits comfortably and still provides a solid seal. Venting is great and fogging has been non-existent, even on slow, lazy days at the hill.
The bronze lenses work great in sunny to party sunny conditions, however I find they lack in overcast and snow features all but disappear. (this is what the available, interchangeable lenses are for though!)
All in all a great pair of goggles!

I bought the Petzl Elios helmet this year and have been very pleased with it so far. This helmet is quite light and comfortable to the point where I sometimes forget when I have it on, and adjusts easily to fit over a hat or touque. Venting was good in the summer months too, and my headlamp easily attached to the helmet on a few early morning starts. I haven't taken any hits with it yet, but durability seems quite good; this is a solidly built piece. All in all, this has been a great helmet so far at a great price for all that it offers. Highly recommended!