my first axe, so not much to compare to other than what i've seen in the stores. Bombproof and lightweight compared to others. Solid forged head is visually stronger than others. I bought this for its weight and full "T" rating and so far has been great.

I used these to summit Mount Whitney in the snow and ice. I wore them over my Montrail Hardrocks and it worked well. Make sure to spend extra time making sure the straps are adjusted just right! These are not full blown crampons that clip into plastic boots, but they work pretty good with trail shoes. They got me to the top and back!

These bottoms provide just the right amount of insulation for me when I work hard in the cold.

I wore this jacket to summit Mount Whitney. It worked well as an outer layer. While I have not used it in a severe rain shower, I recommend it to everyone.

I’ve been using the Gust pack for about a month since I got it from this site. I was worried about being so lightweight, but I had convinced myself that this was the way to go. The Dyneema material is great, surprisingly strong. I’ve thrown this pack around trying to abuse it, just to see if I could destroy it, with no results. The lack of sternum strap is not an issue. This pack is huge, but keep your pack weight under 30 lbs and you won’t have any issues. This pack is for lightweight gear!!! Also proper packing of your gear is essential to make it comfortable on the back. Not hydration compatible, but just slide your bladders down the side of your gear once you get it packed and run the hose out the top. Dynema is not waterproof so bring a pack cover as well. The smaller outside pocket is small not being bellowed, but it works. Remember this pack is 20 oz, and 100 bucks, and for that it delivers everything you could want while being durable!