Contributions by doghiker (8)

These boots were too loose and large for my long, narrow feet. I need to be able to tighten laces across my toes for a snug, no-slip fit, but the laces on these boots stop mid-foot, moccasin style. Perhaps these would better fit someone with a wider, higher-volume foot.

I thought these boots fit my long, narrow feet quite well, but I did not think they would provide adequate support for carrying a heavy backpack over uneven terrain, which was my planned use. I think they would probably serve well for dayhiking with a light pack.

This is my 4th season using this stove backpacking in the Rockies (elev's 7500-11,700'), and I still love it. Easy & fast to assemble/disassemble, simple to light manually (do not have auto igniter), boils water quickly, excellent flame control allows simmering down to almost no flame. Lightweight and compact, always gets the job done, has never disappointed. Have not tried this for extended winter camping, but had no trouble lighting or using at ~20 degrees F. My only complaint is susceptible to wind--need to devise your own windbreak, as MSR warns against & does not provide any sort of wind screen for canister stoves.

I actually have the Kelty Clark model, which I'm pretty sure is the predecessor to the Crestone. This is my 7th season using this tent in both the southern Appalachians and the northern Rockies, and it has performed very well: easy/fast to pitch, sturdy construction, compact & lightweight for a double-wall tent, reliably waterproof, withstands high winds & snow weight, warm but well ventilated/minimal condensation. Enough room lengthwise(I'm 5'5")and widthwise (for 1 person + dog or gear). Height is debatable--I find it fine for sleeping, but being a little claustrophobic, I do not like to spend much conscious/non-sleeping time in it, and I change clothes inside it--possible but cramped--only if it's raining or very cold outside. One small complaint is no see-through window to outside (although this may not be true for Crestone?)--I'm thinking of sewing in my own. For the price (& it comes factory seam-sealed!) and weight, this has been a quality solo tent that has always provided warm, dry shelter.

Pros: spacious space-to-weight ratio (roomy fit for 2 plus gear),lightweight, sturdy in high wind, fast and easy setup, clever dual use of trekking poles. Cons: heavy condensation occurs inside even in relatively dry alpine climate and only 1 person inside! must seal many long seams yourself (sealant not provided) or will leak badly, drafty (wind blows under the walls without floor), must add weight of floor/ground cover if you want this, no bug protection

Good support, comfortable fit if a little wide for my feet (did not have my length in women's model), and no blisters (yet)!

Very lightweight and strong poles as advertised. Wrist straps took a little getting used to, but I think I've finally gotten them adjusted properly. Just watch out for loose fiberglass hairs on the poles when you first get them. Wear gloves and give them a quick sanding or you'll get glass splinters like I did.

I bought this pack for long day hikes and backcountry ski tours, although it also has features for rock climbing gear. Most importantly for me, it fits my torso (med. women) well and carries the load (25lb max so far) comfortably on my hips, the main problem with the last two daypack models I've tried. The bag is well-stitched with heavy duty fabric. However, the hip belt is skimpy on padding and width (same width as shoulder straps). The complex bag cinch strap system takes some figuring out, but the instructions with drawings help. I have my doubts the cam-locks on some straps will hold, but I honestly have not yet used them. Overall, I’m happy with the bag so far—have not yet taken it on a ski tour.