Contributions by powstash (55)

I've owned hard shells from most of the other major brands but sought out a shell that was made from eVent and I'm so happy I did. This shell is a solid performer. I wore it while skinning nearly 6000 vertical and then while skiing back down and it was dry inside despite sweating. The cut is perfect for backcountry skiing, ice climbing, etc. No frills, just a solid look at feel. The description says a sleeve pocket but not on this model. The hood covered my helmet when the wind kicked up bigtime. Dry, warm, and it breathes - it's perfect!

I recently upgraded all my runners with the Positron and I'm completely sold on them. Aside from lightening up my trad rack they are very easy to engage, easy motion for clipping gear and like the Petzl Spirit which pioneered the lack of the "C" on the open end the Positron wont catch on your runner when you're unclipping it to lengthen and then need to clip back in to the rope. Super smooth.

I'm not sure what went wrong in the Mountain Hardwear R&D division cause they started with a light fabric that breathes well and is comfortable but that's about all this shirt has going for it. The fabric is very susceptible to snags, more so than any performance tee I've ever owned. The sizing needs help - I got an XL and it's about the width of a XXL and the length of a L. I may wear this shirt at last resort but I think it will endure a lifetime at the bottom of my performance tee stack until I find someone to give it away to (my brother in law most likely). Bummer.

Capilene has come a long way and I'm glad I trusted the Patagonia brand and picked up this shirt. I've used it for trail running and hiking and found it to wick sweat very well and it dries surprisingly quick. It breathes well despite the hot temps and the fit is pretty true to size for performance shirts. If you're on the fence between sizes I'd recommend sizing down for a more trim but still comfortable fit vs. some brands whose shirts look and feel painted on when sizing down.

With a wide forefoot finding a trail runner with ample room but a snug, smaller heel pocket is a challenge. I vary between size 11.5 and 12 and went with the 12 for these. After a few uses I would recommend the 11.5 so you may need to size down. I've run approx 30 miles in these shoes and found them to be very comfortable with quite a bit of fore and aft cushion even on the most rugged trail and the amazing venting kept my feet cool despite the 100 degree temps. Because the shoe is generously wide in the forefoot myself and a buddy both had to snug down the laces as tight as they go. I think that the shoe actually needs one more lace hole farther down towards the toe because it takes full throttle cinch powers to get the forefoot snug. To not follow this advice you may have blisters like myself and a friend did after our first run in them. After realizing the need to snug down the laces all the way, I really enjoyed running in these shoes and would recommend to a wide footed runner.

These socks are so very soft and really quite enjoyable to put on. I was surprised how well they hold up when trail running, especially since my big toe nails usually slice through just about any sock with Chuck Norris precision after only a few uses. Not this sock - not this time Chuck. After washes they are just as soft and durable as fresh off the shelf. I'm a believer in the durability and function of Teko.

I've likely used 10 different brands of cycling socks (mostly road cycling) and found these Sock Guy socks to be the best fitting and supportive enough without the bulk. A lot of socks ball up after washing and these haven't even after multiple washes. I'd recommend these for any cyclist looking to end the search for good socks.

At first these sandals took some time to get the fit just right. With all those straps going in various directions I found myself altering and adjusting for days. But once they are solid you'll never regret the investment in these over some no name brand you considered at Wally World. The toe straps are such that I have often worn them with the main strap loose and they function like a solid flip flop. The anatomical arch support is great for people like me with higher arches. Flat footed people may have issues with these. I expect like my other pair of chacos that these too will last 10 years.

I picked up a couple of each size of these draws (long and short) because the price was right, and I wanted a quick draw I could use for both trad and sport. The bent gate end of the draw is unlike other quickdraws where the webbing is snug - on these it is loose which I've found is great for trad routes where I don't want a long runner but I do want the draw to allow the rope to travel a bit without twisting. For wandering sport routes where the standard quickdraw can create a "z" I usually reach for the Black Diamond Quicksilver. Exceeded my expectations.

This sock from Fox River has been the longest-lasting most solid performing hiking/trail running sock I've ever owned. Sure, with time (a couple of years) it isn't quite as cushy it's not nearly as thin as other brands that have seen half the use. The multi-weave on the arch gives good support and a perfect fit. I think this great fit helps to eliminate blisters as I've never had them using these socks. They are so comfy and durable I wear them just as much to the office as I do in the hills.

I picked up this pack since the Heli Pro just didn't seem to hold everything I wanted to take on a quick tour. The bonus with the Pro II is that it can hold enough gear to convert that yo-yo side-country lap to an all day event if you want to. One thing I found useful is when I wanted to cross-carry my skis and the pack was pretty full if I moved the shovel blade from the shovel pocket to the inner compartment it allowed the skis to ride a bit better. Aside from the typical strapitis that DAKINE packs suffer from, the weight isn't too much. One lap or all day, this pack is good to go.

My son was at the low end of the weight scale when we got him this harness. Although he is slim it was a bit loose on the leg loops (as snug as the straps allow) but the waist was good to go. He hasn't complained once about the fit or rubbing. It's nice to see him climbing without reservation from the harness and it makes me feel more secure when belaying him.

Upon opening my first Superfood Slam I thought, "It's green?!". Yep, like real food it's green. The Superfood Slam is like nothing on the market and tastes pretty dang good! It's nice to know that I can both enjoy this meal replacement/energy bar as well as get some important nutrients and anti-oxidants. It's definitely hard not to eat an entire bar in one sitting but if you have more will power than I the package is generous enough in size that you can preserve the rest for later down the trail. Fruit, nuts, bits of chocolate...I'm going back for more!

Trust me, don't put too many of these in your desk at work, your car or your back pack. They are so good you'll find yourself 3-4 bars and 1000+ calories later wondering what just happened. My kids loved them too. But look at all of those stellar ingredients to the right - PROBAR packs in the nutrition and even though they may look spendy per ounce they compare and often beat other bars on the market.

I bought these pants a few years ago and am pleased to see that 1) Patagonia still makes them and 2) that they are still going strong. I've used them for backcountry skiing in the spring, climbing Rainier in all types of weather, rock climbing in cooler temps and more. These pants hold up very well to abrasion, wind and water. (they are not waterproof but do shed water). The cargo pocket on the right leg is a plus for hikes or touring. I suspect these will last another 5 years.

I overheard a co-worker lament in fear that original flavor items all taste bland. I had to speak up and tell her that is not the case with Art's Original Blend. I ate half of one while road biking the other day and after a few moments it tasted so good that I pulled out the other half and ate the rest of it. They are that good. When was the last time you couldn't wait to pound another energy bar? Art knows his stuff!

I've been out riding with these bibs about 6 times so far and no complaints at all. The shami is top notch and the fit is solid. I like the mesh on the back so I don't overheat but still get the performance and fit of a bib. The seams are flawless and you don't even know they are there. For the price and quality this is the best bib out there.

The PROBAR is packed with enough calories (the good kind) to get you through a long hike/ski tour and as the packaging says makes for a great meal replacement when the cubical world has you tied down. Good flavor and mix of ingredients to give you energy and nutrition. It's a pleasure to eat one of these, not a chore.

I picked up these socks nearly 2 years ago when they first came out. They do take some getting used to and are slow to put on and take off (not ideal for quick transitions like a triathlon) but the performance of these socks are tops! Because each toe is flying solo I found that in the heat my feet were cooler as air flowed between the toes. The other bonus is that when I felt like a blister could come on wearing other socks I'd put these on and run/hike without worry. I'm definitely buying another pair and can't wait until they make this sock from merino or a more technical weave.

I rode this tire last summer and they held up very well for over 1500 miles. Just enough grip for corners and bomber against the glass and rocks that make other tires nervous. For climbing and downhills I have no complaints. I liked them enough I picked up another set.

I had skied and climbed in the Tetons for years but had no idea how rich and interesting the history of the area really was. And full of fascinating characters. I saw this film at the premier in Salt Lake and have to admidt despite a few audio and video imperfections from this first time film producer, this documentary is a must for any Teton skier or any skier who has longed to ski big lines in those amazing mountains.

I've used nearly every Dakine pack made, from the Heli Pro to the Poacher - the Ridge is the best resort, side-country, or single day backcountry pack I've yet seen from them. The back panel/main pocket access is very efficient with a front pocket that stores my shovel blade and some extras. The hydration sleeve is a bonus although I prefer water bottles. A soft pocket on top for food, goggles, extras, and you're set. It rides well whether nearly empty or completely full. I don’t know why this pack is still a secret among backcountry skiers/snowboarders. 5 stars for sure!

I upgraded from the Scarpa Matrix this year and have found these boots to be a bit stiffer with an improved tongue. I also would prefer a stiffer tongue but for the weight of these boots they have performed well and are supporting enough for my 6'4" 200 pound frame. For a wider foot these boots are a better fit for me over other brands. Be sure to have the liner heat molded and you're set!

Like every glove from Black Diamond that I have owned this glove is super warm and built to last. I really like the fact that the gauntlet is shorter in length than an "elbow gauntlet" that other gloves have. My only beef with this glove and it was enough that I sold them to a friend is that the pull string and cinch on the gauntlet doesn't close tight enough to keep the snow/wind out. The placement of the gauntlet cinch and the fabric surrounding it bunch up and didn't perform to my expectations. It could be me and/or the jacket I wear but I'd like to see this re-done before I'll buy another pair of this particular BD glove. Good thing they make other models - I'm sold on BD!

I upgraded from the Scarpa Matrix this year and have found these boots to be a bit stiffer with an improved tongue. I also would prefer a stiffer tongue but for the weight of these boots they have performed well and are supporting enough for my 6'4" 200 pound frame. For a wider foot these boots are a better fit for me over other brands. Be sure to have the liner heat molded and you're set!

I picked these socks up with some hiking in the Teton Range in mind. Not only were they warm, very comfortable (thanks to the ergo fit) but I came back without foot pain - a first. hey support the foot well and didn't rub or chafe. I know use them in between hikes for wearing around. One of the socks has a "run" in them starting at the interface between two different fabric types next to the ankle. Although I was a bit disappointed that such an expensive sock would tear after such a short time I am still sold on the performance of the sock.

I wansn't sure who Lorpen was but a buddy suggested I try these as my Smartwool socks were beat. Great sock, loved it! I like the different densities in zones like the shin bone and the bottom of the foot. These are not ultra-thin as described but they fit very comfortably in my backcountry skiing boots (Scarpa Spirit 3) or my alpine boots which are form fitted Surefoot liners (Head Race boots). Durable and long lasting (I've owned this pair for a year now with 60 days of skiing - no holes or flaws) I'm definitely sold on Lorpen socks.

I've used this jacket for ski touring, climbing in wet weather and for walking in the rain. It's out shined other jackets in the keep my dry from the outside department but when doing more aerobic activities it doesn't breath as well as was "promised". Can't give it 5 stars but I certainly don't regret the purchase.

Even though I am 6'4" and the biggest length the Havoc comes in is the 183 I've found that after one season of using this ski for backcountry power, corn, steep lines, ski mountaineering, etc that this ski can do it all. Even in deep Utah blower powder these skis are solid. No complaints at all!

Picked these shoes up a few weeks back and have been pretty stoked. With a wide forefoot, these shoes are just a bit snug but not enough that it hasn't kept me from wearing them nearly everyday. Gavin Classic is a keeper.

This pack has been a solid performer for my longer ski tours in the Wasatch, Cascades, and the Tetons. The back panel is key for accessing gear when you've got skis strapped to the pack or other items - meaning you don't have to pull everything off to open the pack in a traditional fashion. Comfortable waist- belt and a sturdy frame came in handy when the loads were heavy. Like other DAKINE packs, the excessive strap lengths are a bit annoying but nothing a knife couldn't fix. Although it's not the lightest pack around, it's a keeper.

I never thought Bridgedale would steal my heart away from brands like Smartwool and Lorpen but these socks are top shelf in my book. Even when ski touring with temps near zero I wasn't cold. My alpine ski boots have foam fitted liners and these socks are thin enough to fit well but still kept me warm at the resort. Makes me want to purchase another pair so I've got a backup plan after 5 days of skiing in a row.

Like the original Capilene from Patagonia this lightweight base layer is my go to piece when I'm backcountry skiing, climbing, or out in the cold shoveling snow all winter. The zipper is smooth and doesn't catch like other base layers I own and the soft Capilene keeps me warm and dry even when on a long ski approach when perspiration is at its peak. The under arm panels allow for even smoother movement. I know this one will last for years, just like the last one I bought from Patagonia.

This new flavor was as expected - tasty and full of engery. I've tried all three flavors and this one is my favorite. I've found if it's cold out when hiking - put them in your pocket so they'll stay warmer and not rock hard. Either way, ProBar is a great way to get energy in the mountains without the gag reflex of other energy bars.

I got my National Parks Pass before a trip to Moab and while what seemed like the rest of the western United States was lined up to purchase park entrances to Arches National Park we flashed the pass and were in like Flynn. The cool thing was I purchased the pass in May but didn't use it until June and didn't miss out on the extra month since they quickly punched the month of June as my start date of the 12 month period. Just a little tip - buy and use your pass at the beginning of a month, and you'll get 13 months use.

I've been running with this Motion Cap since last fall. I love it! I've worn 5-6 different types of running hat and none are as breathable and more importantly comfortable as this one. The easy-to-adjust back buckle is flat and isn't felt while running. It has a sweat band built in. Washes fine in the wash machine and the brim holds its form. I liked it so much I bought both colors.

These eggs are simple and easy. Eating them plain may take an exceptionally hardy or hungry climber/hiker/camper. I took along a couple of soft taco shells, some taco bell salsa pouches, a small Roma tomato and used these eggs to make breakfast burritos while on a four-day climbing trip into the Tetons. Voila! Gourmet and hardy.

I used this saw recently for both digging snow pits and brush on a brushy approach. In both situations this saw performs flawlessly. I like its small size and surprisingly the grip is well designed over other saws I've used. The sheath is dainty, but stays on most of the time. Left handed folks could find the grip uncomfortable.

I've worn these pants for about 3 months now. At first I wanted to keep them all nice and without blemishes as I've been building a home. The reality is that they hold up better than any pant I own, and even working out in the cold I've found them to be warmer than regular jeans. Despite framing, finishing work, digging dirt, building decks and the like the only thing that has started to break down is the pocket edge where I continually clip my measuring tape. I doubt they were built for this. I usually wear a 36x34 and found that they shrunk just a bit in length - I still wear them 2-3 times a week!

I've owned the X6HR for just over a year now and have used it in all sorts of applications. My primary use for this watch is backcountry skiing, for which I really like the altimeter functions of ascent and descent rates which is different from most other Suunto models. The standard Suunto features are solid as usual. One of the best features about this watch is the Heart Rate monitor and software for determining and graphing your fitness levels from your workout or outdoor acitvity. Suunto takes mountain fitness to the next level and the graphs are very informative - particularly the level of intensity measurement which determines how intense your heart and body are working. If you're into fitness and outdoor activities like trail running, skiing, snowshoeing or others where you want altitude/elevation info with all the fitness stats, this watch is primo!

I bought this stove two summers ago and used it for the first time on Mount Rainier where it worked well. In the very cold at 11,000 the auto igniter was hit or miss (which I attribute to the extreme cold), but I, being prepared, brought along some matches and thus did not starve. I've since used it in the Tetons, Uintas and even car camping with the kids for melting snow, boiling water and cooking. No complaints. I bent the auto igniter to be a bit closer to the burner and it works even better. For anything but high altitude extreme cold (where MSR recommends the Whisperlite and not this model) I'd say this stove is primo!

The North Face Class V Hat is not just for boaters, although the floating bill is sure nice for summer swims and river crossings. I've owned this hat for a number of years and its lightweight quick drying fabric is perfect for hiking, backpacking and climbing trips that I've used it on. The bill stays pretty much in the same shape because of the nylon stretched out over it so tight which bummed me out for a minute or so since I wanted to flex the bill a bit more, but all in all this is a great summer cap to have around.

I've owned these glasses for 2 years now and worn them skiing, climbing, hiking but primarily for driving and hanging out looking good. They are built to last. Other glasses that I've had and put through all the activities I've mentioned haven't held up nearly as well as the Hudson. Probably not for the narrow head folks, these shades are wide in size and the wide side arms would drown a smaller face/head. I love ‘em though cause I've got a big melon.

I'm on my third pair of the Vitesse and have found them to be unmatched for rugged and rocky trails but equally comfortable for mellow double track or gravel trails. The sole is very thick which adds a bit of weight but also is phenomenal padding for longer runs on the most rugged trail. I've put over 500 miles on each pair I've owned and never had a sharp rock bruise my feet. The mid sole has a torsion stabilizer that helps from rolling an ankle. For hot climates this shoe may not breathe as well as others on the market but they are surprisingly breathable for how little mesh material is visible. Solid lacing system and a comfortable fit = can't go wrong with these. They also do great for hiking if you want a shoe that will trail run and hike.

Dakine didn't miss a thing with this pack. Extras abound - fleece lined sunglasses pocket, CD/MP3 player pocket with port, separate and well padded laptop sleeve and EXTRA THICK padded shoulder straps so you don't feel like you're carrying a ton of stuff are just a few things that stand out. It's comfy and looks good. I like the curve fit so it's a smooth fit when you throw it over your shoulder not a stiff daypack feel. Nice work DaKine. I'm stoked!

The Head Monster 85 can become your everyday ski if you're in the West where there's an ample supply of powder and lots of cut up powder days. It's wide enough for even the deepest day at Snowbird but it's stable construction will take care of you on the traverses and groomers as you bomb back to the lift. Cut up powder? No problem - it plows through it like an M1 tank. It's a stiff ski and a bit heavier than other skis in this category - so I only gave it 4 stars. For a lighter weight skier this ski could prove to be too much for them. However if you're a strong skier looking for a solid powder ski that will take care of you all over the mountain, the Monster 85 will not disappoint.

For years I've heard the term "all mountain" ski and finally someone hit the nail on the head - no pun intended. This ski absolutely rocks in all conditions. With the Intelligence Chip it is very stable at all speeds and all turn radii. With a 75 mm waist and generous shape it's quick enough for most short turn guru's and wide enough for everything but the deepest day of the year. I skied it at Deer Valley, groomer capital of the west and the next day it also performed exceptional at Alta, powder capital of the west. Head skis are the real deal and this one leads the pack. In my opinion this is the TRUE All Mountain ski by which to define All Mountain.

The Salomon STL 551 Jacket has been one of the best purchases I've made in a while. I bought this jacket for its looks but have found that it's functionality is what makes it special. I've used it skiing on sunny resort days, stormy powder days, and backcountry touring. It's held up well – COMPLETELY waterproof and windproof. It breathes well on warmer days and when touring. The high collar keeps the cold out. The cinch cord waist with the mini powder skirt keeps the jacket bottom in place so it won't ride up. I've received many comments on how cool/good it looks – not only will it hold its own on the slopes but out on the town as well. I'd make two small additions to this jacket: 1.) I'd add a collar cinch to it so that when it's snowing like mad you can keep the cold and snow from getting in – especially handy when you forget your neck gaiter. (I plan on having the local alteration shop do this for me.) 2.) I'd move the two hand warmer pockets up a bit and instead of fleece backed pockets make them mesh backed pockets so they could double as vents. [This jacket isn’t officially waterproof, but rather highly water-resistant. This customer’s review reflects just how water-resistant. –BackcountryStore.com]