The flicklock is totally reliable, even if it doesn't look as smooth as twistlocks. Which matters more?

I wouldn't rely on the probes in real avalanche territory, but that's okay. Reliable poles are worth the price.

These skins are easy to trim to match your skis (the "Bottom Line" is wrong; you will need the included cutting tool), and only takes about 10 minutes from start to finish. It might be a little frightening to cut into your brand new gear, but once you get past that, it's too easy. In the field, they're simple to get on and off, and I've never had trouble getting them back in the bag, except when I've got mittens on. They're not delicate - use the screen they come with, fold them a few times, and manhandle them in. Don't forget a couple of wipes with a wax block before you go, in case you get them wet. Once they're wet, snow sticks to them underfoot, and you're in big trouble.

After several months of use (and probably overpacking), the stitched lid tore off. I sent it back to OR, and they sent me a brand new one about a month later. Thanks OR!

These boots are the standard for plastic mountaineering boots. They're not perfect for ice climbing, your less technical routes on glaciers or while snow climbing, these boots can't be beat. The sole is stiff as steel, so your heavy winter backpack won't crush you, and they fit my wide foot very well. Don't be scared to buy them a size small, as they run a little big.

After retiring my charlet-moser, the Raven-pro was the only way to go. Black Diamond is ultra-reliable, so I knew I'd be getting a quality product. I almost went for the Raven Ultra for the cool piolet, but when I considered how often I go on unroped-rappels, it made sense to stick with the spike. After a season of climbing, it's a little scratched up, but no worse for the wear.

Skip the tactical folder; you're not stabbing al Qaeda. This is the knife to bring to the field. The carabiner is a little goofy, since no one wants a knife bouncing around, but there's always a few things you're never going to use. What's the "reamer" for anyway?

Titanium is nice and light, but it transmits heat too efficiently. It's good for boiling water; does the job for ramen - take care not to burn your stew. Also, be careful where you grab it when drinking your hot toddy. If you're going to hump a fifth all the way to the summit, you don't want to sacrifice your warm adult beverage to the mountain gods.

It might be indestructable and look really cool, but it's too heavy for the trail. It's also inappropriate for the winter; no one likes freezing fingers and lips to their water bottle. It would be great for the office or classroom, except for the unavoidable annoying squeak that lets everyone know you're about to take a drink.

If you're going to DIY a first aid kit for you and a partner, this'll do the job. It's got room and organizers for your moleskin, tap, asprin, and the other stuff you hope you never use. There are a lot of little pockets that seem useless, but they don't take away from the overall value. It's also nice & light, and has plenty of seperate zippered compartments.

These glasses look good on everyone. Just say no to goofy diva glasses. These simple classics say "Hey, I like to keep the sun out of my eyes", not "Hey, I'm a douchebag".

I'll never buy a regular flashlight again. This thing is good in all conditions, has all the settings I need, and is reasonably priced. It's also got an easy-to-use button that works great when you've got ski gloves on.

There are better poles out there for the money. The twist-lock system just doesn't cut it. I love the shock absorbtion, but for this kind of cash, I want gear I can rely on.

This thing is a beast. This is the stove for long-term backcountry adventures and winter camping. It's a little loud, but that just means it's working. It's not small enough to support your dinky titanium mug, but if you're man enough to carry this stove, you can handle a pot or two in your backpack as well.

It only took me 4 years to figure this bag out. I'd been making the pivot system too tight all over the world. What a waste. Now that I'm in the know, I'm much more impressed. This system is very comfortable. Surely it would have been the industry standard if it's secret wasn't so counter-intuitive.

This thing is airline indestructable. I've flown with this thing a dozen times without a hitch.

I picked up the Namches because I love my Torres, and needed something lighter. The Namches seem to have solid construction. I wonder about the exterior mesh, but haven't had any problems yet. They breathe well. I have a wide foot, and the boots don't pinch anywhere. They're a little more red than brown. So far I'm very happy. These boots fit the bill.