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Aaron McCarver

Climber // Camper/Hiker // Skier // Paddler // Backpacker // Road Biker // Mountain Biker // Trad Climber // Sport Climber // Backcountry Snowboarder // Boulderer // Mountaineer // Snowboarder // Nordic Skier // Kayaker // Camper // Hiker // Snowshoer

Aaron McCarver: #3,662 of 167,331 More Information

31 Reviews:

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14 Yes

2 Questions:

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3 Answers:

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    The mountains of Central Idaho
  • Bio:

    I have too many hobbies.

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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.

MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoe

December 28, 2010

Do the "televators" really work? I'm skeptical about them staying locked into place and not bending under my weight (6'2" 200lbs).
Thanks!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Pull the trigger on this one.

Westcomb Mirage Jacket - Men's

Westcomb Mirage Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 20, 2010

I have an older version of this jacket, sans pit-zips and with pockets placed lower on the jacket. I've been wearing it for...at least three years and it is still my go to jacket for when performance matters. eVent is a vastly superior fabric (I've tried them all) and breaths very well. The only thing that would make this jacket better, in my opinion, would be a powder skirt. It's an expensive shell, but it will last a very long time.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

1 Comment

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Mountain Khakis Original Mountain Pant - Men's

January 5, 2010

No. My button fell off my MKs after a couple of years and some of the stitching is coming undone. I don't even wear them that much. I tried to contact them to BUY a new button and didn't even get a reply. Buy the Carharts.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Super!

MSR Hubba Hubba  Tent 2-Person 3-Season

MSR Hubba Hubba Tent 2-Person 3-Season

Rating for this product: 5 September 23, 2009

This tent is the tent other tents are designed after. It's light, water-tight and you'll fit just right. I have heard some say it's too short for the tall type, but at 6'2" I find it fine. The two doors/vestibules make for a quiet exit for a midnight pee and the cross ventilation cannot compare to single door tents. It is pricey but it will last you longer than you'll need it to and is absolutely worth it. The hub and pole system takes a little getting used to, but you can do it.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

0 Comments

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Good rope for the $

Beal Edlinger 10.2mm Standard Rope

Beal Edlinger 10.2mm Standard Rope

Rating for this product: 4 May 20, 2009

A little stiff when new but seems to soften well. Even without the dry coat it holds up surprisingly well, even on sharp granite. If low on cash but want a dependable rope, this is a good option

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Mixed

Petzl Grigri Belay Device

Petzl Grigri Belay Device

Rating for this product: 5 May 20, 2009

I was super resistant to the grigri after learning with an ATC, but I have grown to appreciate it. It's just as easy to belay with as an ATC (when you get used to it) and adds an extra layer of safety incase someone freaks out. The best part of using it is while belaying my child and can use both hands to help him out.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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If you like your melon....

Petzl Elios Climbing Helmet - 2011

Petzl Elios Climbing Helmet - 2011

Rating for this product: 4 May 20, 2009

Just this weekend I was reminded of how much I appreciate this helmet. Ramming my head into the chicken-head on an overhang at The City would have felt much different without the Elios. My only gripe is I wish it had some sweat absorbing pads like bike helmets do. With that addition, the helmet would be perfect.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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The standard

Black Diamond ATC Belay Device

Black Diamond ATC Belay Device

Rating for this product: 5 May 20, 2009

The device all others are compared to. The ATC is light, easy to use and is a must for any rack.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Sold Out

The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket - Men's

February 12, 2009

The Bionic is a great "casual jacket". It is, at best, 40F comfortable. I am <5'11" and 150# athletic and wear a medium. This jacket is v. slightly tight (but stretchy) in the shoulders, long in the sleeves, but wide in the body and waist. You may be happier with the Pamir. It is an athletic cut with room for layers, and would rate it 45F. Both are great jackets, but i think the Pamir is more technical, and the Bionic more everyday.I am 6'2" 200lbs and the large fits me great in the arm length, but a little wide in the torso. It's not annoyingly wide and gives you plenty of room for the layers you will need if it get really cold. I think the medium for you would be too short in the arms and torso.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Good biking socks

Backcountry.com Merino Trail Sock - 3 Pair

Backcountry.com Merino Trail Sock - 3 Pair

Rating for this product: 4 February 4, 2009

These are my go to cycling socks and they are nice. They fit well, dry fast and are merino-rific.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Not bad

Therm-a-Rest Trail Sleeping Pad

Therm-a-Rest Trail Sleeping Pad

Rating for this product: 4 February 4, 2009

I bought the short version for my kids and have heard no complaints. This is a very basic mat and I am a little concerned with yhe durability of the material. No issues yet though.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Haven't died yet

Black Diamond Dynex Sewn Runners

Black Diamond Dynex Sewn Runners

Rating for this product: 5 February 4, 2009

These runners are almost too light. Weight to strength rating ratio is surprising.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Just what you need

DAKINE Deluxe Tune Tuning Kit

DAKINE Deluxe Tune Tuning Kit

Rating for this product: 4 February 2, 2009

This pack has all you need for a good homegrown tune.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

0 Comments

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Basic

Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant - Men's

Arc'teryx Beta AR Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 February 2, 2009

These pants are nothing more that Gore-tex and stitching. If that's all you want, these are the ones. I actually wanted a little more so I returned them for Patagonia Light Smoke Flash. Customer service here is the best!

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Nice Jacket

The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket - Men's

The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 February 2, 2009

This is my around town jacket and I love it. Not as windproof as I had hoped, but not too bad. It get cold where I live (-18 two nights ago) and this jacket and a thick fleece kept me warm for short stints outside. I think TNF outer where runs a little large and this jacket is true to form.

Helpful Votes: 5 Yes

0 Comments

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Good Biners

Black Diamond Mini Pearabiner Screwgate

Black Diamond Mini Pearabiner Screwgate

Rating for this product: 5 February 2, 2009

I trust my life to these.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket - Men's

January 30, 2009

I would recommend an XL due to what you said about his shirt he wears. Because with sleeve length, the same rule applies to coats- he won't want his sleeves to rise up every time he reaches. I am 6'2" and 200 and the large fits me. The chest area is actually a little big and the sleeves are perfect.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great Rope

Beal Edlinger II 10.2mm Rope DO NOT USE

Beal Edlinger II 10.2mm Rope DO NOT USE

Rating for this product: 5 January 30, 2009

Why spend more on a rope when this one does it all? Seems to be holding up well and feels a little thinner than a 10.2mm. I will buy another one when mine goes south.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

0 Comments

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Black Diamond Outlaw Winter Pack - 1831-1939cu in

January 20, 2009

Does anyone know the dimensions of this pack? I'm wondering if you can fit a pair of size 12 snowboard boots inside it. Thanks!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Good

Patagonia Beanie Hat

Patagonia Beanie Hat

Rating for this product: 5 November 28, 2008

It's a hat, what can you say? It keeps my head warm.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

0 Comments

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These are the ones

Patagonia Light Smoke Flash Pants- Men's

Patagonia Light Smoke Flash Pants- Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 28, 2008

I tried on a lot of ski/snowboard pants and these were the winners. Tough, stretchy, good pockets and venting and long enough (I'm 6'2"). They run a little large, like the rest of the Patagonia line.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Good Size

GSI Outdoors Ultralight Nesting Bowl and Mug

GSI Outdoors Ultralight Nesting Bowl and Mug

Rating for this product: 4 November 28, 2008

This thing seems like a good idea and I'm sure it will work. My only concern is bowl fits on the outside of the cup which will likely lead to oatmeal residue on the outside of the mug. There are worse things.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

2 Comments

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Nice pants, big bucks

Mountain Khakis Original Mountain Pant - Men's

Mountain Khakis Original Mountain Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 3 February 13, 2008

I have mixed feelings about these pants. They are very well made, comfortable and tend to be the pants I wear the most lately. Having said that, they are a bit overpriced and ride a little higher than I’m used to. After years of deliberation about dropping the dough on MKs I’m glad I did once, but won’t be buying more unless the price drops. This site is still the best though!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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The perfect light glove/liner

Black Diamond Powerstretch Glove Liner

Black Diamond Powerstretch Glove Liner

Rating for this product: 5 January 25, 2008

I use these gloves for skate skiing and they are perfect. Just warm enough, but breathable to ditch the heat when my mitts get toasty. The leather palm grips poles securely. Is also nice under a ski glove on those extra cold alpine days.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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The classic

Patagonia Capilene 3 Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Patagonia Capilene 3 Crew - Long-Sleeve - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 January 25, 2008

The new capilene seems softer than my old stuff, but just as functional. Warm and thirsty fabric keeps you comfy whether powering up the hill or resting on the windy ridge. The neck is a little bigger than it should be though.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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feels good....for a helmet

Smith Holt Helmet

Smith Holt Helmet

Rating for this product: 5 January 25, 2008

After years of dragging my feet, the Mrs. convinced me to put some plastic on my head. I actually hardly notice it’s there. Decent venting and a simple, clean design made this the obvious choice. I have not hit anything with it so I cannot attest to its strength.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Keep your butt warm

Burton Expedition Pant - Men's

Burton Expedition Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 25, 2008

After riding many days in single digit temps with thin base layers, it was time to upgrade. These pants are thick, but not too thick, and have a great stretch you don’t find in many fleece pants. Very comfortable and warm

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Room for junk

The North Face XTC Midweight Tight - Men's

The North Face XTC Midweight Tight - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 25, 2008

These are the best lightweight base layer pants I've tried on. I've been a die hard Capilene fan for many years, but these have taken over. The best feature is the extra fabric in the groin area, giving your business a little room and not that shrink wrapped feeling you get in most long johns.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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bueno!

Chaco Z/1 Unaweep Sandal - Men's

Chaco Z/1 Unaweep Sandal - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 28, 2007

After nearly 20 years in Tevas I made the switch; and I'm glad I did. Bomber sandals!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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The one, the only!

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Rating for this product: 5 December 28, 2007

I finally out grew my 12 year old Timbuk2 so I had to upgrade. Notice I didn't say "wore out" my old bag. These things last forever.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Its a very nice, yes.

Five Ten Coyote Laceup Rock Climbing Shoe

Five Ten Coyote Laceup Rock Climbing Shoe

Rating for this product: 5 November 13, 2007

I bought these as my first pair of climbing shoes and they have not let me down. The to-the-toe lacing provides infinite adjustment options to make them fit exactly how you like. I did buy a half size smaller than I normally wear, to allow for stretching, and couldn't get my foot in. A simple, pain free exchange through this fine purveyor and I can't stay off the wall. My only suggestion to 5.10 would be to fill the whole heel area with rubber. There are little patches of exposed leather on the sides of the heel that might wear before the rest of this durable shoe.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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You will like this, or else.

Black Diamond Momentum AL Harness Package

Black Diamond Momentum AL Harness Package

Rating for this product: 5 November 13, 2007

New to climbing and not sure what to buy? Go with this package and a pair of shoes and you will be very happy. The harness is much more comfortable than the all nylon ones you may have tried and adjusts easily. The belay device is the standard for the business and the locking biner is nerve calmingly burley. Throw in the chalk ball and bag (as they did) and you, my sweaty fingered friend, are on your way.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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My new favorite layer

Marmot Silkweight Boxer - Men's

Marmot Silkweight Boxer - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2007

These chonies are so comfortable you hardly notice them. I do concur with the reviewer who said the fly opens a little easy and the elastic band can roll. The pros, like super fast drying and just the sheer comfort, way outweigh the cons.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Great size

MSR Fuel Bottles

MSR Fuel Bottles

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2007

Just the right size for solo outings or even a couple of days with a small group if you're not melting snow.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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me like

Patagonia Footwear Huckleberry Approach Shoe - Men's

Patagonia Footwear Huckleberry Approach Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2007

These are exactly the shoe you would expect from the powerhouse that is Patagonia. They are very comfortable and seemingly durable. I’m going to step out on a limb and say they feel like the marriage of a trail runner and a climbing shoe.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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over a decade of use

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bags

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bags

Rating for this product: 5 July 17, 2007

I bought my Timbuk2 messenger 12 years ago and am just now looking at replacing it. It's still hangin' tough like NKOTB but my commute requires a larger size. If you are even thinking about buying one, do it. You won’t be sorry.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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