After 17 days of sweat-harvesting expedition wear on Denali’s West Buttress route, I have to confirm that Icebreaker’s claims of making “stink proof” base layers were spot on! My kit of Icebreaker Meld Zone Sports Bra, Icebreaker Women’s 200 Zone…
The Deuter Trail 28 SL accompanied my partner and I on my climb of Skywalker Couloir, a snow climb in the Indian Peaks Wilderness of Colorado. We hiked through several miles through backcountry forests, crossed raging streams, and ultimately climbed…
Performance These tools are equally at home on moderate to steep ice as they are on mixed or dry routes. I have climbed for two seasons (200+ routes) with these tools and have been impressed with their performance each and…
The waterproof and minimalist backpack ready for your next alpine adventure. The alpine provides conditions that are harsh, and sometimes inhospitable. High winds, cold temperatures, and freezing rain can be common occurrences up high where the trees don’t grow. Despite…
As an ice climber, I am always searching for the perfect quiver of gear that will keep me warm in the coldest environment. Something simple, yet precise, that will provide just the right amount of warmth on high output days…
Mayhem – a situation in which there is little to no order or control. Every time I pack for a trip, jackets, shirts, and pants are thrown over every chair, and gear covers every inch of the floor. What does…
C.A.M.P. is a company entrenched in experience. Founded in 1889 they’ve been doing this for a while. Like most things Italian; they focus on thoughtful design coupled with style, elegance, and functionality. Much like a Ferrari. Through experience, you get…
Outdoor Research, you’ve done it again! I had the pleasure of reviewing the Outdoor Research Women’s Iceline Versa Pants. While these are often used for ice climbing, I had a blast testing out this crowd-favorite while skiing and snowshoeing my way…
The HIMALI Annapurna softshell jacket, intimately tied to Nepal and the Himalayas, is designed to withstand the planets harshest conditions, and a mission to support the communities around them as well. In reviewing gear, I give consideration to two categories.…
I was really excited to test this jacket from BlackYak. Based on my social media feed this season, they seemed like the hottest new thing in town. It turns out BlackYak has been making mountaineering gear since 1973 in South…