Contributions by paulba (7)

There is no question that this jacket is the best of the best: fit, design details, materials, performance, and aesthetic are all of the highest caliber. In my opinion, it is literally perfect -- I can't think of a way to improve it. However, I think paying this much for a shell is not worth it for most people; while I love my SV, I am still unsure of whether or not it was worth the heavy dough. This thing sure is nice though... got the bibs too and they're just as perfect as this jacket.

This gaiter employs a very classic design and fit. They work quite well for lighter-weight alpine (or any other) applications. I am looking forward to using them on Mount Adams tomorrow. On first use with crampons i put two small little scuffs in them, however, because the cordura bottom section isn't anywhere near as heavy-duty as that of a classic Crocodile gaiter.

I have owned the Atmos 35 for over a year, and must have used it over 50 times (without ANY wear). The comfort afforded by the airmesh backpanel has the ability to make loads of almost 30 pounds feel like nothing. I started by using it for dayhikes, and there was more than enough room for my stuff, but the compression straps keep it tight and snug against your back. The hipbelt pockets are a great for snacks, camera, etc. The axe loops and ripcord clips can be used to carry trekking poles very securely. I moved on to overnight trips, and to my surprise, found that there was enough room for everything -- including my Mountain Hardwear Raven 2 tent! The packed performed EXTREMELY well on several overnight trips. I have used my Atmos for longer mountain biking excursions when I need more room than my camelback could offer. Indeed, I found it to be more comfortable than the tiny camelback, despite being capable of holding about 20 times as much, even on a long bumpy ride. Now, into my second winter, I am finding that the pack works impeccably for snowshoeing (I found a way to strap snowshoes using side pockets and axe ripcord clips!), and its close conformance to the body make it great for backcountry nordic and touring applications. I went on a trip to the White Mountains two weeks ago involving 12 miles of x-c skiing in the woods while carrying snowshoes and lots of other gear. I could have asked for a better-functioning pack for that trip. I also found the pack to perform incredibly well during alpine climbs in the Presidential Range. Everything about this pack rocks. Those used to the traditional "tube" pack may be perturbed by the curved backpanel, but believe me -- the space of 35 liters is there -- you just have to get used to packing a little differently. The attention to detail is all there, the materials used are so light and so durable. My 2 pound Atmos doesn't have a scratch after a year of HEAVY use. Oh, and I should mention -- it is still the most comfortable pack I've ever put on my back!

this thing is not top-end, but for the price it is nothing short of awesome. I used mine camping once and backpacking three times now, all on the same set of batteries. The light seems as bright as it was when the bats were new. I'm very impressed. This thing rocks!

This is a hard-core fleece. Fabric is sort of stiff because of the tight knit on the outside, but super soft and comfortable on the inner side. The tight knit cuts the wind very effectively. Because of high wind resistance, it can be layered as outer piece to if no precipitation. I wore a light (Rho LT) baselayer under this when climbing Mt. Washington last weekend and was plenty warm during 10-20F windchills. Fit is not tight like many Arc products, but articulated elbows and the cut in general are very nice, designed with layering in mind. Shoulder pocket is handy for 2-way radio, camera, cash + ID, or keys. This fleece is also great looking. Like all Arc products, this is a top of the line piece, at a top of the line price -- but if you will use it for what it is intended (any type of mountain endeavor), it is well worth it. It is so well constructed that I have no doubt it will last for many mountains and many years, and for that reason it is worth every penny.

First off, this is a very lightweight jacket, which is quite warm for its weight. It is not windproof at all, however this is not the purpose of the jacket, so it isn't a downfall. One problem I have with it is incredible amounts of lint and pilling have developed very quickly; also attracts hair like no other. Other than that, great jacket with excellent form fit.