Contributions by Robert McLaughlin (5)

Bought these "lightweight" hiking boots after 2 years of having the shoe version. Like the shoe version, these Nubuck Beauties achieve comfort right out of the box. Please note: These hikers are not full backpacking boots, rather a lightweight, day-hiking mid. I took them on a 12 mile, 1.5 day/night trek with 25 lbs. on my back in the Mt. Rogers National Rec' Area. Although they had great ankle support, the soles are not meaty enough for rocky or rooty trails. I had several "I can feel the rock come right through the sole" moments. I also found it difficult to tighten the lower laces on descents to avoid my toes hitting the front of the boot. I suspect as I break them in, over time they may soften enough to tighten the instep laces. Also, I liked the slightly wider feel which allowed ample space for a liner and medium wool sock. Great day hiker, not recommended for multi-day backpacking trips.

I ordered a size 12, I'm usually a straight 11.5 US D width and sometimes a little wider. Tried them on with wool liners and a heavily padded Smartwool mountaineering wool sock. The first thing I noticed is the heel pocket was too tight squeezing my heel towards uncomfortable. After several walks around the I knew these were not the hiking boots for me. I like the meaty Vibram sole, and wondered why this boot didn't have some extra toe protection other than the suede leather. Generally speaking I think Vasque makes a good boot, however most models are too narrow for my barely beyond "D" width preference.

First let me start by saying I've had this tent for 2 years, and it just keeps on working. Lightweight, packs up small, and roomy laterally. On the downside, getting in and out of this puppy is a head scraping experience, but just barely. Also, be prepared to bring plenty of stakes to get a stable platform. During one high-wind situation, I had to reposition the tent to increase stability. Hope Big Agnes considers two hubs in the poles versus the current one to increase stability (e.g., MSR EoS). Lastly, I do most backcountry in the Appalachian's, and I have yet to wake up to a wet interior; great ventilation!

First let me start by saying I've had this tent for 2 years, and it just keeps on working. Lightweight, packs up small, and roomy laterally. On the downside, getting in and out of this puppy is a head scraping experience, but just barely. Also, be prepared to bring plenty of stakes to get a stable platform. During one high-wind situation, I had to reposition the tent to increase stability. Hope Big Agnes considers two hubs in the poles versus the current one to increase stability (e.g., MSR EoS). Lastly, I do most backcountry in the Appalachian's, and I have yet to wake up to a wet interior; great ventilation!

Neg: No core ventalation, specifically in the chest area, price Positive: walked 6 blocks in face-wind pooring rain and showed up dry (even my head due to the quality of the hood/pulls); my unprotected pants even "felt" drier because of the confidence this good looks jacket has. Good fit, I ordered a large and I'm a solid The North Face medium. Like the unexposed in the hand pocket pulls for the power skirt base hem.