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Michael Kisow

Skier // Camper/Hiker // Climber // Snowshoer // Alpine Skier // AT Skier // Backpacker // Camper // Mountaineer // Mountain Biker

Michael Kisow: #8 of 91,688 Top 100 Gear Guru More Information

70 Reviews:

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45 Yes | 26 No

11 Questions:

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0 Yes | 0 No

555 Answers:

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23 Yes | 13 No

13 Photos:

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6 Yes | 0 No

1 Comments:

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1 Gearlists:

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    Park City, Utah
  • Bio:

    www.mikekisow.com

    I live and work in Park City. I work a ton but still find time to get outside and try out all of the gear I buy from BC.com

    Skiing and Biking are my main outlets but caving, climbing, backpacking, SAR, and many other pursuits find their way into my life.

    www.mikekisow.com

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This is how you compare to all the other Gear Gurus on Backcountry.com. You earn one point for each list / review / question / answer / gear photo / comments / votes you contribute. You gain an extra point every time someone gives one of your contributions a thumbs up, but you lose a point for every thumbs down. Bonus: if you use your real name, your point total increases by 1.5x—you deserve credit for putting your neck on the line to make this community better. For more info, check out the Help Center.

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This is how you compare to the other Gear Gurus within a group of products. You earn one point for each of your list / reviews / questions / answers / photos / comments / votes. You gain an extra point every time someone gives one of your contributions a thumbs up (killer), but you lose a point for every thumbs down (filler). Bonus: if you use your real name, your point total increases by 1.5x-you deserve credit for putting your neck on the line to make this community better. For more info, check out the Help Center.

Reactor stove at full boil

Reactor stove at full boil

MSR Reactor Stove

September 18, 2009

>10,000 ft

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New Larger Pot

New Larger Pot

MSR Reactor Stove

September 18, 2009

This deserves a thumbs up

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Spoon Man

Spoon Man

Backcountry.com Long Handled Spoon

September 18, 2009

Long, strong, and light

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0 Comments

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Last Years P4s at PCMR

Last Years P4s at PCMR

Scott P4 Alpine Ski

March 6, 2009

The goat ALWAYS increases horsepower

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Larger Pot Coming

MSR Reactor Stove

MSR Reactor Stove

Rating for this product: 5 July 24, 2009

I saw a larger Reactor pot at Outdoor Retailer. I have no details other than simply catching a glance. I'll try to post a pic here soon.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Brunton Vapor All-Fuel Stove

July 17, 2009

Hummmmm, you may have to go to the manufacture with this question to be sure/safe.

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Backcountry.com Stoic eVent Shell - Men's

July 16, 2009

No pocket. The color looks about the same. It's kinda "rusty". Maybe a tad darker than shown.

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MSR Reactor Stove

July 15, 2009

What do you mean by ruined? Was it not able to come off? Or does a little "goof-off" take care of it?

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Black Diamond Quantum 65 Pack - 3845-3967cu in

July 15, 2009

The material is very thin yet very strong. Of course because it is so thin it does incur holes easier. My only holes came from poor packing and lack of attention to detail when covering sharp points.

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Black Diamond Bandit Winter Pack - 690cu in

July 15, 2009

The 13 inch plastic and Aluminum fit very snug in the shovel pocket. I did a test and found that the 15inch pro fits in the main compartment very well but not in the shovel compartment. The main compartment offers more protection anyways.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Sizing Advice

Backcountry.com Siphon Primaloft Hooded Jacket - Men's

Backcountry.com Siphon Primaloft Hooded Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 May 20, 2009

I'm typically on the top end of Large but I go with XL most of the time with BC.com products. In the case of the primaloft, the XL was a tab long in the waist and also in the arms. I;m about 5'11 190. I have not tried the Large yet because they're out. I'm worried that I will be in between sizes with this product.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Event vs. 2.0

Backcountry.com Stoic 2.0 Shell - Men's

Backcountry.com Stoic 2.0 Shell - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 May 20, 2009

I'm a Stoic 1.0 Event lover but I could not resist from picking up the 2.0 also. Here are the differences. The first thing I noticed was the obvious weight difference. The 2.0 feels much thicker and more cumbersome. As far as a winter shell goes, the 2.0 is not insanely heavy, I'm speaking more in terms of an Event user. The 2.0 reminds me more of a Shift Welder material with a tad more plastic feel. I feel the 2.0 would hold up better to longer trips, rocks, sharp tree branches, and other more burly opponents. The pit zips are needed and welcomed. Overall, decide if you want a super special light weight breathable 1.0 or a high-end (but relatively average) 2.0 that may be more durable. I'll be keeping them both.

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Yakima Outdoorsman 300 - Compact

May 10, 2009

The yakima website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 1 No

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Yakima Outdoorsman 300 - Compact

May 10, 2009

The yakima website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Thule Spare Me

May 10, 2009

My bet it yes but the Thule website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Thule Spare Me

May 10, 2009

My bet it yes but the Thule website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Thule Xsporter Truck Rack

May 10, 2009

The Thule website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Thule Xsporter Truck Rack

May 10, 2009

The Thule website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Thule Goal Post

May 10, 2009

The Thule website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Thule Goal Post

May 10, 2009

The Thule website will be your best bet for the most up to date and accurate info. Google it, Good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoe

May 10, 2009

I say get a touring setup also. Although these will "work" you will be miserable. At the 300# range, get the longest ones available. These are very high end snowshoes.

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MSR Denali Classic Snowshoe

May 10, 2009

These are the best entry level snowshoes on the market. Very versatile and works with a wide range of footwear. Very popular with boarders. Get the flotation tails also.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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High Quality

MSR Groundhog Tent Stake Kit

MSR Groundhog Tent Stake Kit

Rating for this product: 5 May 10, 2009

Very high quality and light. I carry a few extra because no "stick or stone" works as well when the storm rolls in.

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Being replaced :(

Black Diamond Avalung II

Black Diamond Avalung II

Rating for this product: 3 May 10, 2009

Sad to say that by beloved stand alone avalung stays at home now due to the amazing BD packs with the integrated avalung. I highly recommend the integrated version as I am more likely to have it on me when it counts.

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Another use

Black Diamond Telekneesis Kneepad

Black Diamond Telekneesis Kneepad

Rating for this product: 5 May 10, 2009

I love these for skiing and patrol but I've started using these as "Just In Case" Mt bike knee pads. I keep them in my pack till I'm at the top then strap 'em on for the down. Very light and comfy. Buy them and you will find many uses.

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Recommended

Black Diamond Bandit Winter Pack - 690cu in

Black Diamond Bandit Winter Pack - 690cu in

Rating for this product: 5 May 10, 2009

This pack serves many purposes. As a touring pack it works great as it will hold you to just the essentials. My deploy 7 shovel (the bigger gold one) DOES fit. Interestingly enough, I have been using this pack for extended Mt Bike Rides. Very comfy on the back and does not feel much heavier or bigger than some camelbacks. This also makes a great "carry on" laptop bag. Very recommended.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Recommended

Red Impact Short - Men's

Red Impact Short - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 May 10, 2009

These have padding in 3 places. Butt, hip, and outside femur. I wear these as "just in case" shorts when mt biking. If you know that there is a good chance you are going to crash..get something better. If you "may" wipe out..these are for you. Very stylish and nobody knows you have pads. The pads do "float" some as Chad said. I bought a pair, fell in love and then got 2 more pairs. I wear a 36 pant and the L fits great.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Mountain Hardwear Pinnacle Stretch Gaiter

May 10, 2009

The Expedition Crocodile Gaiters are AMAZING! But they will be a tad warm in the summer.

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Insanely Long

Backcountry.com Backcountry Logo T-Shirt - Men's

Backcountry.com Backcountry Logo T-Shirt - Men's

Rating for this product: 2 May 10, 2009

This had to be a manufacturing error.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

1 Comment

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Backcountry.com Stoic eVent Shell - Women's

May 10, 2009

Nope, they are not needed with Event. Trust me. The stoic 2.0 has them but that's cause it's not EVENT

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Backcountry.com Luft 800 Down Sweater - Women's

May 10, 2009

Was this ever made in Pink? I saw someone with one. Any chance of getting one?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Black Diamond Fritschi Diamir Freeride Plus Binding

March 15, 2009

You could go either way. Do you plan to buy a larger boot ever? Are you worried about weight?

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Black Diamond Verdict Ski

March 13, 2009

Get the one 180's. I have naxos on mine and like them. They are much heavier and stiffer than the killowatt though.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Black Diamond Glidelite Nylon Standard Skins

March 13, 2009

These will work fine but I like a tail clip though. STS or Clipfix are options

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Black Diamond Anarchist with Avalung Winter Pack - 1953-2563 cu in

March 13, 2009

The shovel will fit. Trust me, get the 42L not the 32. The separate avalungs MUST ONLY be worn as intended!!! (CHEST)

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Black Diamond Kilowatt Ski

March 10, 2009

These skis are light weight and still real sturdy. For someone your size, I'd steer you towards the 175cm as it'll be easy to re-learn on and will still ski great as your skills and confidence ramp up. Great choice!I agree. - Mike

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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MSR Denali Evo Ascent Snowshoe

March 10, 2009

The tails you need are the Evo 6"Tails. They are only compatible with the Evo Ascent and Evo Snowshoes. You can find them here: http://www.backcountry.com/store/CAS0234/MSR-Denali-Evo-Snowshoe-Flotation-Tails-6in.html.The Denali Classic offers 4in and 8in - Try that if you want more options

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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MSR SimmerLite Stove

March 10, 2009

http://www.msrgear.com/stoves/simmerlite.asp

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 2 No

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Good Buy

Backcountry.com Stoic Inbounds Glove - Men's

Backcountry.com Stoic Inbounds Glove - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 March 10, 2009

This glove is very functional and warm. It works great for patrol. I do feel it runs a tad big however.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 1 No

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Ortovox X1 Avalanche Beacon

March 6, 2009

I'd check out the ortovox website. If you got it from Backcountry, send it there.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Scott P4 Alpine Ski

March 6, 2009

The p4's are quite a bit heavier then the goats and softer, also they don't hold an edge as well on groomers IMO, About half the people i know who demoed p4's did not like them, but i never heard anyone who did not LOVE the goats, IMO stick with the goats or look at the 4frnt vct or line prophet 100 for similar skis to the goats.I happen to feel that the P4's are stiffer than the Goats throughout the middle yet a tad soft on the tip and tail - mk

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Scott P4 Alpine Ski

March 6, 2009

Well, right on! The Black Diamond GlideLite Nylon STS Skins in 140mm will be perfect for this ski. Nice set up!You could easily go 120 or 130 mm - Mike

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Black Diamond Havoc Ski

March 6, 2009

Sounds like a winner, Perhaps the megawatt if you really rip. (Or expect big dumps) This is a tough question to answer without knowing your skiing.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Black Diamond Icon Headlamp

March 6, 2009

I think so.... http://www.bdel.com/pdf/s08/MM6019_C_Icon_InstructWEB.pdf

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 2 No

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Tubbs Xplore Series Snowshoe Kit - Women's

March 6, 2009

Experiment with the boots you have until you figure out your needs and preferences.Recommended Weight: [21in] 80-150lb (36-68kg); [25in] 120-200lb (54-91kg)

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Backcountry.com Shift Welder Hoody - Men's

March 4, 2009

Sooo, what does "Highly water-resistant" and "Highly Breathable" mean in quantitative terms?

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Backcountry.com Stoic 2.0 Shell - Men's

March 4, 2009

Is this eVent? Can anyone outline the differences between this and the last stoic? Why would this version retail for $100 less then the original?

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 0 No

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Black Diamond Spire Contour Trekking Pole

February 22, 2009

Black Diamond Spire Contour Trekking Pole. They are adjustable.

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Love them

Backcountry.com Prime Power Stretch Pant - Men's

Backcountry.com Prime Power Stretch Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 29, 2009

These are warmer and heavier that I had thought they would be. Very Soft. I wear a 36X32 in jeans but the L fits me great.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No

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Sold Out

Good with issues

Backcountry.com Prime Power Stretch Top - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Backcountry.com Prime Power Stretch Top - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 3 January 29, 2009

Great Fabric, great design. My issue is that the stitching has come out nearly after just 2 wears. The wrists are my main area of failure. I also feel it runs larger than most "athletic fit" BC.com products. I'll be sending mine back.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes | 1 No

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Black Diamond Fritschi Diamir Freeride Plus Binding

January 14, 2009

They're the exclusive North American distributors.Thanks, - now they need to work on shortening the insanely long name - mk

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Click to read all of Michael Kisow's contributions... Be patient. It might take a while.