I was in need of a new backpack after finally wearing out my 10 year old TNF Recon. I just got a new 14" laptop so safely carrying that was a priority. I also wanted pockets and places for carrying other assorted things like pens, portable hard drives, ipod, etc. The Surge has it all. Aside from the padded laptop slot, which fits snugly against your back, the Surge has three compartments. The main compartment is perfect for books, clothes, and any other larger items. The middle compartment has a lot of smaller pockets for organizing medium sized items and for things you need quick access to. The front pocket has even more zippered compartments and a nice padded pocket for your mp3 player. The bottom of the Surge has a small zippered pocket for carrying your laptop's power cable. The outside has two water bottle pockets and compression straps. On top of all of this, it is completely waterproof. I ride a Genuine Scooter's Stella, so this thing is subjected to ALL the elements. I ride all year round and the Surge has protected my stuff from thunder storms and even sleet.

This is the ultimate urban backpack for those needing laptop storage (up to 17") plus plenty of space for books and other electronics. I hope this pack lasts me another 10 years.

I've had my The North Face Venture for around 5 years. I take it practically every with me. If I'm not wearing it to block the wind or rain, I keep it in my pack just in case. I normally wear a medium, but got a large to fit as an outer shell over multiple layers. It has elastic drawstrings in all the right places, especially around the hood which has a terrific fit. I just recently washed it for the first time per the directions on the tag and it developed a small tear in the inner fabric. I'll tape it up and continue to use it as long as it sheds the elements. It has been a great shell that has served me well in all my travels. Rain, snow, wind - this will stop it. When it dies, I think I'll try out Patagonia's Rain Shadow shell.

I got the Fuse as a gift while working for the National Park Service. I carry it at all times, and find uses for it everyday. It doesn't have a wide assortment of tools, but it has the most common ones needed. I did manage to bend the flat head screw driver the first time I used it, but I was using it on something that truly needed a full size screwdriver in terms of strength. The knife is super sharp and the pliers are very handy. I don't use the case it came with since I don't often wear a belt. I normally just throw it in the pocket of the jacket I'm wearing. It's a practical multi-tool with lots of every day uses. It seems pretty solid and I'll probably even take it backpacking with me and see how I like it.

The Sonora was my first pair of prAna pants and they sold me on the brand. I wear a 34" and the large is a perfect fit. I don't climb, but I've taken these on numerous hikes and backpacking trips and the sturdy, yet very soft, canvas has held up extremely well. They have actually gotten more comfortable over time as I've worn them in. I really like the velcro on the back pocket - perfect for securing your wallet while traveling. The gusset allows good flexibility while hiking and I've never felt restricted because of them. They look just as good for casual wear too. Throw on your favorite t-shirt or polo and you're set. I think I'll grab a pair of the prAna Zion pants next. I'm eager to see what else they have to offer!

This fleece gaiter from Patagonia is part of my essential cold weather gear. No, it does not block the wind like some other higher priced gaiters, but it does keep you toasty. I wear it like an extension of my Synchilla fleece and then zip a shell over it all for protection from the wind and other elements. So much better than a scarf and with that Patagonia quality!

I've had these boots for almost 2 years and they have held up to everything I've thrown at them. I took them on a backpacking trip on the Ozark Highland Trail without even breaking them in first and they kept my feet very comfortable, dry, and gave ample ankle support. For the price, these boots are wonderful. I have the brown and they look great for casual wear too. I like to throw them on whenever the it rains or the weather gets a little chilly.

Solid construction, looks great, comfortable, good price - couldn't ask for more!

I wear a 34x32, so a 34 Reg fit perfect. These pants are light weight, soft, and extremely comfortable. These are hands down my favorite pants right now. They look great with boots or tennis shoes too - very versatile. They are very durable and have held up to a lot of abuse. I would take these on camping trips for sure, but they look just as great out on the town. I plan on buying a few more pairs in different colors.

This fleece is absolutely wonderful. I hardly take this thing off (unless my girlfriend steals it from me!). This is a mid-weight fleece so it doesn't block the wind, of course. Just throw a shell over it for that. Nice and lightweight for layering. For a cold day I usually throw on a level 2 or 3 Capilene, my Synchilla Fleece, and then a shell. Keeps me warm and dry all day. Patagonia makes some of the best gear out there and you can feel good about buying from a company who is as dedicated to the environment as they are their gear. Thanks BC for a great price too!