I was initially skeptical of Backcountry Access’ (BCA’s) new Scepter Carbon Poles. With the backcountry ski industry ramping up we see new designs and changes popping up every year. After my first ski tour with the Scepters I was sold this…
When covering ground is more important than creature comforts around camp, then light is definitely right. Nothing brings this up more than trying to pack for a bikepacking trip, and it’s refreshing to see that NEMO Equipment has stepped up,…
As a mountain guide, I spend a significant portion of the year using ice axes. While this item, like many others in my kit, has become a quiver item, I find myself reaching for the Petzl Sum’Tec more often than…
I made a resolution eight years ago, deep in the Glacier backcountry, after spending the better part of a night getting stalked by a grizzly bear with only a dim headlamp between my brother and I. Having to track those…
The Bergans of Norway Moa Pant is a softshell, full length pant that makes its name as a lightweight and breathable windproof pant for all occasions. The 4-way stretch pant has a zippered thigh pockets that is appropriately situated to…
The Mountainsmith Scream 25 is lightweight, frameless, durable, and has minimal padding, which makes it a great choice for a day hike. It packs down well to fit in a larger backpack or drybag, and folds into its own stuff…
For the month of September I had the opportunity to test out the Sterling Evolution Aero 9.2 Bicolor Dry 60 meter rope in the Sawtooth Mountains and the Pioneer Mountains of Idaho. We climbed the Direct Becky (5.11 Grade IV) and…
At MSR we believe in the power of technology to transform lives. We’ve witnessed how a stove can help change mountaineering history or how a tent can help enable a record-setting expedition. But this may be the most important piece…
The Rab Aeon Tees have become one of my favorite baselayers and active layers this summer and fall. I’ve taken them on the river, on bike rides, and on runs. The fabric is light, breathable and wicks very well. Color…
The Instinct lace-up is another great climbing shoe by Scarpa. It’s made for steep face climbing and feeling secure on small features, but is also good for bouldering and thin cracks. The Instinct has a moderately aggressive downturn, making it…