Reviews by User: yada. yada. yada (172)

These skis float over crud, slide through the pow, and turn effortlessly on the groomers. I truly love riding these skis as my all-around ski... don't really need another.

This pole is super reasonably priced without any bells or whistle or much of anything else. It’s a great pole for just having as an extra when something happens to your main set. They aren't the sturdiest, but they definitely get the job done really reasonably.

I've been hiking for years and I swore up and down that I didn't need hiking boots to go hiking; my trail running shoes were sufficient. I had a pair of heavy hikers (ASOLOs) for a month-long trip and was all but miserable from the blisters for most, so it was with great concern when I got these hiking shoes as a gift. However, I think I'm going to continue to hike in appropriate footwear. These fit comfortably, they give great support, and are decently waterproof (especially with the help of some Nikwax). They are still definitely light-hikers, and if you turn your ankle easily, or are continuously carrying a third of your body weight, you might need something a bit more involved. These work for day trips and short excursions where your pack is smaller and you don't need your ankle to be continuously static.

I finally got a pair of these after a rough debate between Sorels and any other boot on this website. Though I can't really say if I would have been happier with Sorels, I can definitely say that I'm stoked on these. They are SUPER warm, very waterproof and extra-durable. Also, they actually fit true to size which I found to be one of thier best features. I'm really glad I did these over the over-rated Chilkats--The fur is a really nice benefit.

The fit is great; just right under the Giro Helmet, and perfect for my normal girl-sized face. They give you an extra rose colored lens to expand the use in different lighting conditions. Also, The Tiffany Gloss color is way cool—totally unique and a change from the boring goggles you usually see on the mountain.

I've been excited about this jacket for months. In fact, I even created a new designation for outdoor gear when it arrived. "Technical Casual" is the fusion of technical elements (Hyvent, waterproof fabrics, etc.) with Casual Ideals (women's fit, the belt, bell-sleeves). Anyway, the Grace jacket has provided me with opportunities to sway the thought processes of formal gear-geeks, business colleagues, and friends with its elegant and graceful look and ability to keep the rain at bay. I enjoy the opportunity to wear it. The only down fall is that the sleeves are a little long.

The seam down the front is siiick. The pants fit well, however they are a bit long for those of us who are only 5'4" and normal build. The vintage stretch is the way to go! The wash is a bit light, but works well for end of summer, fall colors and did I mention that the seam down the front is siiick?

I was warned about the single wall tent- I believe the phrase was "sweat-box", so when I took this out on a few trips, I braced myself, and ended up being really pleased. 2-person is kind of a stretch; unless you REALLY like the person you are sharing with, or space/weight is an issue. This tent is part of a crazy-light package from TNF, so what it misses in breeze, it makes up for it packability. Its phenomenally easy to set up, take down, etc. I'll admit its tough to go from a two door system to a one front door, but the vesibule is decent size, so it works. Overall, this tent is completely worth it.

The first pair of Patagonia Baggies I owned were bought in 1999 before I went on a NOLS trip to the Absorka Mtn. Range in Wyoming. A lovely shade of sea-green, not only did they survive 28 days in backcountry without being washed (swimming in rivers doesn't technically count) but they made it 6 years and 1 warranty repair. I finally retired them early this year when I picked up some pairs. These continue to be my favorite short for hiking, running-- everything. I bought a couple of men's ones a few years ago, but the lining is irrating and the pockets aren't as nice. The lines on the back are also much nicer on the women's design.

So, you could try to make fun of me for the fuzzy boots, but I dare you to wear these and NOT love them. Its like walking on cushy-air. They have negligable functional value (don't try to navigate slippery slopes or go shreddin' in these puppies), but they are so worth every penny. They fit true to skate shoe size, too. I have size 8 other DC shoes, and am happy with the medium.

I have been stoked on these pants for awhile. They are awesome for riding or (horror of horrors!) dropping a knee on almost any day. A lightweight base layer does the trick for the more chilly days. They definitely run a bit big (I’m a 10 and the medium is perfect in the waist and still looks baggy in a good way.) The lines are clean though and the vents, pockets, ghetto slits, etc. are all awesome touches. They are my go-to pant this season.

The size, the women's specific fit... I'll be the first to admit my obsessive, compulsive tendencies, and this backpack works with my type A personality and everything that I demand from my gear. I have used this pack countless times, and I don't know if I will ever get another pack (sorry sales people... you can't sway me from the Bora 62).

I'm packing this puppy. Its HUGE! I went to Europe for a couple weeks (family trip--I had to have the range of clothes!) and I packed this bag and still had room for my ridiculous souvenirs for the flight back. (I had to pay the oversize fee, but still--I needed that t-shirt from that street vendor!) Anyway, there are some excellent features inside too. A shoe pocket, the padding, etc. It was awesome to wheel around the airport too.

Snazzy, white, low cut shoe; Comfortable. I had to size up half a size from my normal 7.5, but beyond that, I've been happy with the fit and feel of these.

A bit more snug than the Hergo (read: sexy), the Bandita's low rise and fit work well (read: sexy). The inseam is Super long, but I've hemmed them and they work better (read: sexy).

I have been in awe of this jacket since someone I know got it in the red color. It just looked so good! So I bought it, and wear it all the time. It’s heavy enough for chilly winter mornings in the mountains, and light enough to wear as a base layer under the ol' ski jacket. Plus, the red is Hot!

This pack can go from town to the backcountry with ease. Lots of places to be mildly organized, but also a large enough main pocket to fits all of the 10 essentials (if that includes a REALLY pack-able rain jacket). There isn't much excess room, but it will satisfy most short day hikes or for work or airplane carry-on.

Anytime I wear the Polka Dot Goggles on the hill, all the guys stare. It’s a bit intimidating when I'm riding a gnarly hill, or acting silly in the lifeline, but I show them the way and who could blame them. These goggles are hot. Oh—and they work really well too. I haven't had issues with fogging (beyond the every once in a while weather issues.) The mirror lens works well for all bluebird days, and even in low light in a pinch. Rock on.

Really, there aren't too many reasons to wear gaiters. They give you strange tan lines and most trails are maintained well enough to keep from needing to bushwhack. But there are those occasions when gaiters are needed, and these fit well, are of burly construction and work fabulously. I was really happy with them snowshoeing over the winter and traipsing through the woods this summer.

These bindings are very responsive, and great! I've been super happy with their performance and ease of use. Everything is dialed while wearing the stilettos.

If you don’t already own a Jetboil—buy one, and if you do, you need this too. With the companion cup you can make coffee/tea/what-have-you in the original, and use the companion cup to boil water for oatmeal. Really, the possibilities are endless and you need this!!

This was the first sleeping pad I ever bought and it continues to be a key part of my gear closet. The Ridge Rest is super lightweight, is easy to pack (In the cavernous backpack I surround the inside with the ridge rest to have the pack keep shape), and has come in handy with an Achilles injury (just cut off a corner for a heel lift!) I have finally purchased an inflatable, but they work together to make a pad system, not one or the other. This pad is super affordable, even though it isn't quite as luxurious as an inflatable--it does the job for a third of the price.

So, "technically" I haven't worn this jacket riding yet. Hope as I might, we just don't have quite enough snow this Sept. to get out there. BUT I got this in the mail, and I'm even more stoked on riding this winter. This fit isn't as ghetto-baggy as past burton jackets. (I'm a 10, bought a L. The sleeves are a bit long, but the cut is perfect with a long sleeve layer, wool or light fleece). The fabric is shiny without being silly-looking, and really soft, but seems durable. There are all kinds of cute, well thought out features. The pass pocket, the side zip for your neck, the hood is just the right size. Even the powder skirt lines up perfectly with the asymmetrical zipper. Anyway, I love it.

I got this board even though I'm probably more on the "beginning" side than the "advanced" side of the snowboarding thing. I was initially a little worried about it being to stiff for me, but have been nothing but pleased with its performance and forgiveness for anything that I use it on. It’s a great board. I'm 5'5" and about 150; I'm riding the 155 and it's the right size.

Like a fine wine, the Carb-boom gels have mellow undertones of flavor that only with a tasting can you discover. I mean, I guess its gel, and you are used to it tasting like CRAP, but these actually surprise you. My favorite flavors are the vanilla/orange or strawberry/kiwi and I'm not a fan of apple/cinnamon. In comparison to other gel-options, I would say these are more like a powergel than a clif gu. (I hate gu. A LOT!)

I owned a Nuptse before, but found when I was winter camping, it was just too bulky and annoying. So I got an Optimus. It rocks. I found that beyond just providing a lightweight, packable insulating layer, the Redpoint Optimus is awesome for wearing around town or under a shell for skiing. The toughest thing was deciding the classic black or the blue. I went blue and am really happy.

Bought these shoes in my "normal size" of 8, and have been wearing them a ton. However, I kind of wish that I bought them a little bigger, my normal feet are just a tad too wide for the shoe. Bummer, but I still wear them anyway. The strappy look paired with the comfy soles make these ideal for dressing up or lounging about.

Took this pack on a crazy trail run and then another couple hikes. The fit was great. It stayed right on my shoulders and didn't irritate anything. However, the breathable mesh back paneling was not so breathable. Hey what do you expect, right? It’s a pack. All in all, I’ll definitely use it. Just only with a tank top or something super-well wicking so I don't have as much back-sweat.

The Lexan JavaPress works wonderfully in the backcountry or in case you don't own a Mr. Coffee in your tiny, tiny apartment. The grounds stay firmly beneath the press to create a satisfying brew, but the sweet nector of the gods trickles out a little slowly through the second filter at the spout, but it tastes too right in the morning to do without...

I got an Apex Bionic last year, and got the Magic this year, now I never want to wear my old softshell. This jacket has a sexy-great slimfit, is super lightweight, and works for layering or on its own.

I went on a ridiculous 8- mile-in-4-day hike with some hard core peeps with a goal of going as light as possible. This was only possible with this pack. Its large enough to fit my sleeping bag, tent and food, as well as the layers needed, but not too much more. PROS: It caries REALLY WELL for fastpacking. The material is super-light, but puncture-resistant. The roll-top allows the pack to be used for anything from overnighters to 4/5 days. CONS: It’s so streamline that there is no "good" place to put a Nalgene. (You pretty much have to use a CamelBak.)

I worried about trying out a fixed waist short for running--I'm just so used to elastic, but the fit and fabric work really well. The only downfall, they are a bit big (I wear a 10 usually) and ordered an L.

Finally a pair of TNF shoes that are true to fit--7.5 is a 7.5--awesome! and the yellow color is super flashy! I wore them a bit running on the road and had no issues. They were supportive and breathable; I figured they could handle a trail, BUT they ate my right heel on a rather hilly trail run in CA. Needless to say, they are going to be cool shoes for walking around town, no more.

I can't say enough nice things about this pack. It's seriously far and away the greatest pack out there! 62L is a great size for almost every event. The women's specific fit makes it even better. The way it sits on your hips, and stays on your shoulders. I'll be the first to admit my obsessive, compulsive tendencies, and this backpack works with my type A personality and everything that I demand from my gear. I have used this pack countless times, and I don't know if I will ever get another pack (sorry sales people... you can't sway me from the Bora 62).

This is great pack; I've used it for every type of hike. For a couple summers I worked as a ranger at Philmont and this pack started off as a "I'll risk it and try to pack this light" and then it turned into, "why take anything else?" If you are out for short time, it'll fit everything. If you have less group gear, you can make it work. Its very streamline and minimalist, it just all around solid. It also fits in the overhead compartments on airplanes, so its awesome for those short trips home.

I skied a pair of Crispi's last season and liked them fine, but decided to treat myself to a new pair of boots this year. Boy, am I glad that I made the commitment to tele and these boots. They are very supportive, very responsive, and very, very awesome. They inner thermo-fit liner is everything I could hope for, and so far, I really think my skiing has gotten BETTER because of these boots. As far as sizing goes, I actaully went down about 0.5 from my alpine boots (weird, I know).

I've had a fair assortment of hydration packs in my past, and this one is my current favorite. While trail running (all over) it stayed steady, didn't chafe, and held more than enough water for whatever I put it through. It didn't seem "too big" for short trips, but had enough space for an afternoon of hiking with the ten essentials. The on/off switch was easy to use on the fly and it prevented leaking.

This is the second Icebreaker piece that I have purchased here. The merino is soft and comfortable in all circumstances. The cut is slimming, yet moves well. The thumb holes are an excellent touch. This top is great for layering for skiing, running, or just wearing around. The temperature regulation is awesome—even with a double layer weave it’s not too warm or too cold. I have worn it to work, and get loads of compliments each time. The coco/bone is really a lovely deep brown color too.

I couldn't believe how easy the lever-action makes filtering water. I don't have to sit there and pump forever--The Sweetwater is possibly one of the easiest filters I've ever used. It’s also super easy to clean and lets you convert to a purifier with just a couple drops of stuff. I've been really happy with it.

I love Smartwool. The socks are super durable, the wool doesn't smell—ever, and your feet are content in any tight ski boot you would have. The light style provides enough warmth without forcing the ski boots to be any larger, and they are just comfortable!

These boots provide an excellent level of support for a great price. The have just the right amount of flex and are comfortable for a whole day of riding. I do find myself tightening them up more frequently than I would hope, but all in all a nice boot. I have been very pleased.

These sunglasses work well for small to medium size faces. The angle at the top is not very "cat-like" but it’s just enough shape to look cool. The wine-fade color is lovely, also. Different from most sunglasses that you see on the market. I am also super hard on my gear and these sunglasses have held up to my tough love.

I've always been in awe of telemark skis and finally, this year, I'm stepping up to be one of the cool kids. These skis are helping my cause too. They are responsive enough to handle even my most pathetic attempts at turning, while providing enough stiffness so that when I get to the next level these skis will be with me. They are MUCH better on-piste then my pocket rockets too! They are super light for touring too. Really pleased with them.

I really like these sandals. I have a few variations from other companies (Gravis, etc.) and these seem to be holding up better than some of their competitors. I don't find them slippery like the other review, but maybe I'm more used to walking around barefoot and I'm carrying a bit more grit around in general. They fit true to size, and I like that they are wide enough for my feet, but still look dainty.

Alright, so this is way cute. I really didn't need another skirt, but couldn't ignore this--its different and casual, and since I'm over riding (blasphamy, i know) I got it. And I like it--a lot. However, it doesn't really look like the picture so much... I bought the "Brown Olive" one, and the "green" is not "olive", its more "leaf" and the "brown" is significantly more "gray" than anything else. Also, the picture looks like its knee length, and that might be true if you have no bum, or if you have REALLY short legs. I rock it about hip level so that it actually goes to about my knees. So, be warned. Its cute, just not exactly what I expected.

I needed a 'black belt' but my membership to J.Crew and the Gap only provided 'lame' and otherwise 'boring' belt options. When I saw this belt, I knew that I could fulfill my basic belt needs while simultaneously having the style that I've grown accustom to from this and other skate brands. The lettering is cute; it’s a little skinner than most of my other belts, but is up to the task. The gold buckle is fun and playful, but business-y in the right way. I will admit that the M/L is much more M than L, but works fine for a size 10.