Andrew Philp

The only jacket they make in a tall size is the Alpha SV which was stocked on Backcountry.com for a short while. It is also one of the only pieces they still make in Canada. I'm 6'3" and have monkey arms. Arc'teryx sizing has always been hit or miss for me when trying to balance sleeve length and torso size. Your best bet would be to try some on or take a look at Norrona. Norrona has very long sleeves and a narrow torso (M's usually have enough sleeve length for me, but torso always dictates a L or XL) with similiar, if not higher, quality compared to Arc'teryx.

This jacket does not have a total of 100 grams of insulation. It has 100 grams per meter squared. I assume it also uses the 100g WarmCore in the hood. The 100g Primaloft will be warmer than a lower fill weight assuming the same type of Primaloft, but it will also be heavier. There's not a whole lot of information on the WarmCore as it is proprietary to Helly Hansen. It is used in their "lifestyle, kids and junior ranges", so I assume it won't be as good as something like Primaloft One. It won't be as warm per weight or as compressible, and it probably won't hold its insulation value as well when it's wet.

It does not list soy proteins in the ingredients, but it does contain soy products (soya lecithin).

I also have the Stoic 2.0 and last year's Bombshell and the fit is completely different. I haven't tried this year's Bombshell, but am assuming it is the same as last year's in terms of fit. The Bombshell is much roomier than the Stoic 2.0. I had to wear an XXL in the Stoic 2.0 to be able to fit a decent amount of layers and not have it pinch at the shoulders and armpits. In the Bombshell, I wear a L and still have room for layering (6'3", 195 lbs). Based on your size, I would say that you would be comfortable in a M. See my photo which compares the two jackets mentioned (Bombshell is on top of the Stoic 2.0). As you can see, not a whole lot of difference for an XXL and a L.

There aren't any more of these being received for this season. Your best option would be to go to www.norrona.com and buy direct from them. They have the Caviar in stock in size XS. You'll probably pay a bit more with the exchange rate and shipping. Otherwise, you'll just have to hope someone returns one and check the site daily to try and catch it before someone else buys it.

There aren't any dedicated snowboard loops on this pack. The only way to carry a snowboard would be to place it between the back panel and your back with the base flat against your back and the bindings facing out. The pack is small enough to fit in between your snowboard bindings. You might want to check out the Dakine Heli 11L for a similar sized pack with a dedicated vertical snowboard carry option.

They are essentially the same skins, but the STD skins do not come with a tail attachment. If you already have a tail attachment, then you have the STS skins. If you don't, then these will work with the STD skins.

I believe the only place to get them is direct from Scarpa. I believe you are looking for the Powerblock Tour mechanism which will run you around $60 plus shipping. You can go to their website and find them under Ski>Accessories, or you could check a local Scarpa dealer to see if they could help you out.

You can get them direct from BD. They list prices on their website for the different sizes and model years here:

http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en-us/shop/ski/spare-parts

The BSL in size 25.5 is 295mm.

These actually don't have full length zips. They are 3/4 length zips and they do not have any mesh behind them. They are, however, two way zips to allow for venting.

You don't actually use this device to type. You can create predefined messages on the website with your computer or the app with your smartphone, which can then be sent with this device when in the backcountry. You need a Wi-Fi or data connection when using your smartphone to do this as the predefined messages aren't actually sent or stored by the SPOT. It simply sends a message to the server telling it which predefined message to send and to whom. There is also the option to type custom messages on your smartphone (iPhone, iPod Touch or Android 2.0 or later) while in the backcountry and have the SPOT send these messages through the satellite network. However, there are additional charges to type and send a custom message.

The sizes are for the brake width. Check what size your ski waist is and go with the next larger brake size (for example: a 92mm waist would need a 95mm brake).

Capilene 2 is a lightweight fabric and Capilene 3 is a midweight fabric. Capilene 2 is meant for endurance activities in warm to moderate temperatures whereas Capilene 3 is meant for cool to cold temperatures.

That is the European style of things (same as women's jackets in the US). I have not come across a Stoic jacket with that before, but do have several European brand jackets and fleeces like that. I don't even notice it when switching between jackets and am starting to prefer the European side. Give it a few weeks and I'm sure you won't have any issues with it (especially if you like everything else about the jacket).

The Nikwax can be found here:

http://www.backcountry.com/nikwax-tent-and-gear-solar-proof

There are lots of options for pack covers, but here are two:

http://www.backcountry.com/sea-to-summit-ultra-light-siliconized-pack-cover
http://www.backcountry.com/integral-designs-silcoat-pack-cover

You can probably use a size S from Integral Designs and an XS from Sea To Summit for a snug fit.

The Twilight is 60" wide at the head, but tapers down to 49" at your feet. Aside from tapered tents, there aren't many out there that are wider than 52" (in the two man category). There are a few at 54" (e.g. North Face Rock 22 Bx) and Big Agnes makes the Salt Creek 2 and Lynx Pass 2 which both come in at 58" wide (although without vertical side walls). You may want to look into three person tents if you think that 52" is a little too narrow for comfort. You may be able to find a two person if you don't mind it tapering down at your feet so that you get a little more width for your torso. Good luck!

I don't have any experience with the Marmot Twilight, but I have to recommend the Big Agnes Slide Mountain 2 in this category. The Slide Mountain has nearly vertical walls and around 40" of height. I have comfortably slept two adults and a 50 lb. dog in this tent (I'm 6'3"). It is a little bit lighter than the Twilight and I think the Big Agnes tents use better materials and construction (no offense to Marmot). The Slide Mountain has been discontinued and is on clearance, which makes it $20 more than the Twilight with the footprint. The Slide Mountain also has four mesh pockets built into the corners and an additional two mesh pockets beneath each door. The Slide Mountain uses a BOA system for tightening the rain fly from inside the tent. While a nice feature, it is a little bit gimmicky and was likely the downfall of this tent due to the added cost. I think if you are comfortable with a 2 person tent, and want one with vertical walls, then you can't go wrong with the Slide Mountain 2. You could also look into the Big Agnes Gore Pass 2 which is the same tent minus the BOA rain fly system. It also has a fast pitch option which the Slide Mountain does not.

The BSL ranges are: short (260-315mm), medium (285-340mm) and long (330-365mm).

89" x 61"

This jacket has a hood as pictured. Backcountry makes mistakes in the description sometimes.

These do not include the bindings, but Backcountry does have last years model in 160cm in stock with bindings here:

http://www.backcountry.com/k2-charger-ski-w-marker-mx-14.0-binding-k2s0759

If you want another size with bindings, then you will have to take a look at this years model here:

http://www.backcountry.com/k2-charger-ski-with-marker-mx-14.0-binding

This does not come with a footprint. Kelty makes a footprint specifically for the Gunnison 2.1 Pro which retails for $34.95.

The fabric is not waterproof. At this price point and size, you're not going to find any packs that are. If you choose to go with this pack, your best options would be to treat it with Nikwax or buy a pack cover. The Nikwax will not make it waterproof, but will add quite a bit of repellency that should allow you time to get indoors before your things get wet. If you're heading into the woods, then your best option would be a pack cover.

These do not come with bindings. Check out this link for the T-Nine First Luv with bindings:

http://www.backcountry.com/k2-t-nine-first-luv-fastrak2-10.0-ski-womens

The 29.5 has a BSL of 336mm and the 30.5 has a BSL of 346mm.

7.2 oz without the tag (my dog hates tags).

The Mission doesn't have any ski carry options and the side compression straps aren't meant to hold skis. You may be able to rig something up, but I wouldn't recommend it due to the wear and tear those compression straps would see over time. There are lots of packs out there that have specific ski carry systems and I think you would be a lot happier with a pack that is designed to carry skis. Take a look into the BD snow series, the Gregory Targhee and Arc'Teryx Silo (just to name a few ski specific packs).

This has 9 slots for credit cards and an internal, zippered pocket that can be used for coins.

I'll second Jason's recommendation on the hard anodized aluminum with the non stick coating. I just used one last weekend to cook up a meal with my MSR Pocket Rocket while camping at 10,500 feet. A few items looked like they had burned to the pan, but all it took was one swipe with a paper towel for clean up. I might just replace all of my pans at home with these.

This will fit your car. The QuickGrip system is mounted on rails that are adjustable to accomodate different cross bar spread distances. The minimum cross bar spread is 23-5/8".

It really depends on your stove. It will be a little hot in the middle if you use something like the MSR Pocket Rocket, but you can mitigate this by simply turning the gas flow down. The Pocket Rocket is meant for boiling water, but I have had success using it to cook in a skillet. You shouldn't need to have your stove on full flow when using a skillet anyways. If you pair this with something like the SuperFly or WindPro which disperses the flame a bit more, then you would likely have more success in avoiding hot spots.

This will fit your car. The QuickGrip system is mounted on rails that are adjustable to accomodate different cross bar spread distances. The minimum cross bar spread is 23-5/8".

Any canister with a Lindal valve will work (Jetboil included). The Jetboil canister is slightly narrower (and has slightly less fuel) than the MSR canister which makes it easier to fit in many pots.

There is no fast pitch (i.e. fly only) option with this tent.

Based on my first impressions, I would consider this to be a much more durable, full featured jacket than the Vaporshell. Miles is spot on with the Bombshell "light" designation. The face fabric feels nearly identical to the 2010/11 Bombshell. It is very soft and on the verge of being a softshell rather than a hardshell. It appears that the material may simply be a 2.5 layer version of the 3 layer Bombshell. I didn't weigh it, but I would say the specifications are accurate as it felt very light. In addition to the two side pockets, pit zips, velcro cuffs and welded seam construction, this jacket also includes an internal electronics pocket on the right chest and a fleece lined chin guard. I don't remember a wire brim on the hood even though that is a feature I was hoping Stoic would add to their light weight shells. Also, the hood has traditional cord locks instead of the foam ones that Stoic and Backcountry have been so found of over the past few years.

For what it's worth, I believe the mountaineering boots (e.g. Raven Combi GTX) are made in Romania.

I'm guessing it is a typo on Backcountry's part. Ortovox provides a 5 year warranty from the date of purchase or 6 years from the date of manufacture (whichever comes first).

The Forerunner automatically receives this information from GPS satellites. The only options you have are to set your time zone and whether or not DST is active (go to Menu/Settings/Time to adjust).

This price is for the skis only. If you would like the bindings included, then check out these links:

http://www.backcountry.com/k2-a.m.p.-photon-fastrak2-10.0-ski
http://www.backcountry.com/k2-a.m.p.-photon-m2-10.0-q-ski

I don't have the Nano, but I have another Paclite jacket with a wire brim and have never had any issues rolling it into a ball and stuffing it in a bag or pocket. The wire brim should be very flexible and bounce right back.

Evernew is based in Japan and their titanium cookware is also made there.

These bags are extremely waterproof and will stay dry even if temporarily submerged (although submersion is not what this is designed or recommended for). When using fabric, roll top dry sacks, Sea To Summit recommends that all electronics be double bagged. If you are just going to be hiking, you may want to invest in a rain cover for your pack which would have the added benefit of keeping all of your pack's contents dry. If you are still concerned, you could always use a large Ziploc bag to keep your camera dry. There's also a company out there called Aquapac that makes waterproof camera bags and pouches (although for a premium).

The Hubba Hubba HP has a fabric canopy versus the mesh canopy of the Hubba Hubba. This results in a warmer, more durable tent that will better resist blowing snow, wind and sand. If you are only using the tent in summer conditions, then the Hubba Hubba will be more than adequate. If you are planning any fall excursions to high altitudes where snow storms can sneak up on you, then the HP would come in handy. The HP also has a more waterproof floor as compared to the Hubba Hubba.

If your BSL is 300mm, then you are right in between both the short (260-315mm) and medium (285-340mm). You could use either, but the short is typically on sale for more than the medium. If you ever plan on reselling, there will probably be a larger market for the mediums. I'm not sure of the exact weight difference, but the short would be a little bit lighter which is always a nice feature.

It includes stakes. The Spitfire 1 has a custom footprint, but oddly it doesn't appear that the Spitfire 2 has one. You would just have to go with a standard rectangular footprint or use a tarp.

Both of these jackets are very similar. Despite the specifications on the Alpha LT, both products use 3L Gore-Tex Pro Shell (not Soft Shell). The main difference is the length of the Theta AR compared to the Alpha LT. The Theta AR will sit around mid-thigh whereas the Alpha LT will sit around your waist. They both have two external and one internal chest pockets. The Theta AR adds an additional sleeve pocket. The Alpha LT pockets are meant to be used in crossover style (right hand, left pocket) whereas the Theta AR uses standard chest pockets. The Theta AR also has the Drop Hood feature which can make it easier to pull up the hood over the helmet without first lowering the main zipper. Overall, they are very similar and either would serve as decent ski jackets and all around rain jackets. If you want something more ski specific (powder skirt, pass sleeve, RECCO reflector) and want to stick with Arc'teryx, then you could look into the Stingray (almost twice the weight of the Alpha LT).

Green is your only option for the Tempest.

All Black Diamond tents and bivys carry a one year limited warranty. Any tents or bivys with specifications to the contrary are in error. Check the literature on BD's website. The footprint is sold separately.

Yes, the fly is symmetrical so that it has a zipper for each vestibule.

The brakes are made of hardened steel which can't be bent easily. You'd likely have to heat it so that you could bend it and the resulting brake would be much more brittle. The 108mm brake might just clear a 115mm waist as they are slightly wider than listed (I measured exactly 115mm). You could just go with the 120mm brake and save yourself the hassle of bending or worrying if the 108mm will fit.

I wouldn't recommend bending the brakes. Just pick up the 120mm brakes. The sizes are short (260-315mm), medium (285-340mm) and long (330-365mm).

The small fits boots between sizes 4.5 and 9. Make sure you check your boot sole length as that is what really determines the size binding you need and it can vary between manufacturers. The small binding fits a BSL between 260 and 315mm.

I believe the 120mm brake is the widest available from Fritschi. They may fit a ski slightly larger though. I have the 108mm brake and it would fit a ski up to approximately 115mm in the waist.

On your Arc'teryx jacket, it sounds like the DWR has simply worn off. As long as water isn't penetrating all the way through the fabric to the inside, then you simply need to rejuvenate the DWR with Nikwax or Granger's. On the other two jackets you mentioned, the Typhoon does indeed use Gore-Tex Paclite while the Rain Shadow uses the proprietary H2No. Just because something isn't Gore-Tex doesn't mean it won't perform as advertised. Patagonia is one of the biggest names in the industry and they wouldn't be using the H2No if it didn't work. One of the biggest issues with Gore-Tex is its breathability. I own a Gore-Tex Paclite jacket that can withstand torrential downpours, but can also get very clammy during warm rainy days or a rainy run. There are newer fabrics on the market that tout the same waterproofing as Gore-Tex with much greater breathability (although at a much higher premium than the two jackets at which you are looking). I don't have any first hand experience with Patagonia's H2No, but I wouldn't hesitate to trust it in a heavy rain storm. I think either of these jackets would be a great choice, but don't buy into the Gore-Tex hype that it is your only option if you want to stay dry. If you haven't already, and if possible, go try them both on and that should make the decision for you.

Yes, it uses a BPA free and food grade polyurethane lining.

This pack is designed as a hiking pack and does not have any ski carry loops. The loops you see in the picture that you may be confusing for a ski carrying mechanism are actually trekking pole loops.

You'll have to do a bit of trimming, but I'd go with the 140mm for maximum coverage of your bases.

It's not exactly heavy, but I wouldn't consider it light weight at 24 oz. It also depends on what you are using it for. If you are just looking for a simple rain jacket on a budget and like Marmot, then check out the PreCip which comes in at only 12 oz. If you are looking for something a little more durable but with a similar weight to the Marmot PreCip, then look into any Gore-Tex Paclite jacket. A Paclite jacket will likely be slightly lighter and more expensive than the PreCip, but it will be more durable as it utilizes a membrane on the interior surface. The PreCip uses a DWR coating on the exterior surface which can wear off over time.

I believe it is simply a rebranding of the name for 2011. I recently purchased a pair of 2010 Techamphibian 2 and can't find any differences in the description or appearance between those and the TA 2 Mat now being sold.

I would recommend the XL. The main reason being that BSL varies by boot and manufacturer. You may decide to try a different boot in the future with the same size as your current boot, but a BSL of 343mm.

You will definitely need the 110mm brakes. You can't really have too much brake and they can be very hard to bend if they're too small. Also, the larger brake will give you more options if you choose to mount them on another ski in the future. These bindings will work with any boot that has a tech fitting (BD Method included).

This ski would work fine with an AT binding like Dynafit or Fritschi. The construction of modern telemark skis is very similar to AT or alpine skis. Modern telemark skis are typically marketed as AT skis as well. Traditionally, telemark skis have had a softer flex, but with modern bindings and boots some telemark skis actually have a stiffer flex than AT or alpine skis. Telemark specific skis will typically be lighter than an alpine ski and may not perform as well on hard packed groomers or in crud. Additionally, telemark skis may have reinforcement in the binding area to deal with the extra forces and torques. I don't have any experience with this particular ski, but it sounds like it has fairly good stiffness due to the metal cap and performs adequately in all conditions. Check out some reviews and decide if it sounds like this ski fits your style, but don't fret about the telemark designation. If possible, always try before you buy.

These come with the Ride sole which is a standard DIN sole for use in alpine bindings. You also have the option of buying the Rally sole which gives you more traction for hiking, but still wouldn't allow this boot to work with Tech bindings. I have this boot with the Ride sole and have used it in both Salomon alpine bindings and Fritschi AT bindings with no issues.

They definitely will not be too wide. Any wider waist and you'd have to go with a larger brake or try bending it. You'll only have 5mm of clearance with the 120mm, but that will work just fine.

These will not fit. You will need to go with either the 400XT or 400XTR Aero Foot Pack. The XT utilizes the standard square load bars and the XTR utilizes the oval shaped aero load bars. I have the XTR with the aero bars on my '08 Jetta and don't have any complaints. They integrate into the style of the car very nicely and go on and off relatively easily once you get everything figured out. There is a link at the top of the page for the Thule FitGuide just above the product title. This will walk you through everything that is needed to set up your rack.

Yes, just rinse it out with warm water when you are done. Don't use soap as it may taint any future wine you store in the Platypus.

They'll fit as long as you don't mind the more traditional BD attachment system instead of the K2 Z Clip attachment that the skis were designed for. You have 37mm difference between your waist and tip, so you could probably go with the 110mm width and still have adequate coverage and a little extra glide up front. If you want full coverage for optimal grip and don't mind the extra trimming and waste, then you could go with the 125mm width.

I don't have a Bushbuddy Ultra, so I'm basing this response on it having a diameter of 4 1/4" and a height of 3 3/4". The pot has a diameter of 4 1/2" and fits a MSR Pocket Rocket case which has a height of about 4 1/2". It might be a little tight on the diameter, but should fit without a problem. If you want a little extra room for other items in the pot, the 1650ml would definitely fit your Bushbuddy for only a few dollars more.

Each cap full is 50ml. Nikwax calls for 2 caps (100ml) for 1 season bags (between 1 lb 12 oz and 2 lb 8 oz) and 3 caps (150ml) for 2-4 season bags (between 2 lb 8 oz and 5 lb 8 oz).

Yes, these come in both small (265-325mm) and large (305-365mm). If your BSL is 295mm, then you will need to go with the small. It looks like that size is currently out of stock.