This pack offers a tremendous value. It is as close to bombproof as you'll need in most cases, but has the great option that you can easily remove the hip-belt, framesheet and lid and you'll something much lighter. Good wrap-around compression straps as well.

My only complaint is one of personal preference; I'd love to add:
- external side pockets
- external shovel/probe pockets
- panel loading functionality

At 20% off right now, it is a no brainer. If you are willing to spend more money, I'd go with a Mystery Ranch pack.

It was time for new boots and after three rounds of trying boots that didn't fit (many hours wasted) I found these one. OK, they were a bit more than I had planned to spend, but what a difference. The inside is very welcoming but yet tight and snug all around the foot. The heal-grip is tight. My feet has some bones that were problematic it the other boots I tried (Lange Fluid 100 and 120, various Nordica, Dabellos, Salomon etc) but there was no pain from the beginning in these boots. After they have been headed and fitted - fo'get abo'it!

1st day on the slop - the flex 90 stiffens up nicely, still tights and hard enough for good control when carving. After 4 hours, my feet were still fresh.

$600 is a lot of money but you'll have these boots for 5-10 yrs depending on use, I consider it a totally worthwhile investment and wish I've bought them earlier!

I've owned/used plenty of fleece jackets over the years but this is my favorite - bar none! Toasty warm, holds up great, no added "features" to make it technical just for the same of it - which makes it a much softer/more enjoyable jacket, e.g. it doubles up as a pillow on a flight, (windproof) blanket for the kids etc.

I'd say it is one of the single best all around warm/windproof fleece jackets you can buy!

I've owned various top quality fleece jackets over the years, but this one continuous to be my absolute favorite!

It is windproof and toasty warm, the fit is very good (e.g. TNF Denali is way too bulky) and I love the fact that doesn't have tons of "technical features" (just for the sake of it), instead it makes it very smooth and comfy - it easily doubles as a pillow on a flight/while on travel or as a (windproof) blanket for the kids (my 2 yrs old LOVE this jacket).

It is well worth the price - I've had it for about 2 years and it looks/performs great. Definitely a pure best buy!

OK, I love Patagonia stuff so I couldn't resist picking up this jacket for the new season. Finally a waterproof Patagonia jacket that I can use to ski which also doubles a nice all around mountain and travel jacket (more rainproof that softshells etc). The build quality appears to be very good, but perhaps still a notch below Arc'teryx to be honest, but on the other hand you get a powder skirt, more pockets, a bit roomier fit (which is good for skiing).

Nit picking: I'd love to see a zip off hood and somewhat longer cut in the back.

I give it 4 1/2 stars, but since that wasn't an option it has to be 5 stars/I love it! :-)