Reviews
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6 comments
Mile High Mountaineering Salute 34
This daypack has many features that give you the versatility to store your gear in many configurations for your next adventure. If this is your…
reviewed by Oldman Mike
January 25, 2015
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8 comments
Montane Super Terra Pants
These are rugged outdoor pants which can be used for many different activities. Durable, yet stretchy, Montane’s Super Terra Pants are comfortable…
reviewed by Daniel Oates
January 24, 2015
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Five Ten Guide Tennie
Got these in the Yosemite mountain shop and walked around the valley for two days taking pictures. A little scrambling to get in position for…
reviewed by jeff zuptich
January 24, 2015
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2 comments
Mountain Hardwear Minalist Jacket
Minalist Jacket incorporates the latest Dry Q Elite fabric ,which keeps you dry inside. Asymmetric full length zipper and short expansion zipper… 
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2 comments
Millet Radikal 32
Great little climbing pack. Enough room to spend a night out rough and to bring all your toys with. Stable enough for climbing and biking while…
reviewed by jeff zuptich
January 23, 2015
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12 comments
The North Face Fuse Uno Jacket
The North Face Fuseform Uno is a lightweight (12oz), 3-layer HyVent Alpha, alpine designed shell which boasts an industry changing innovation…
reviewed by Jake W
January 21, 2015
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13 comments
Salomon S-Lab X Alp Carbon GTX
Good for three-season mountaineering from trail head to summit. Now you don't need approach shoes any more. Light is fast and fast is safer.
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
January 21, 2015
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13 comments
Pat's Backcountry Beverages Carbonator Bottle
This is a product for those for whom a little extra expense and a little extra weight is money well spent and weight well carried if it can…
reviewed by Bentbrook
January 20, 2015
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4 comments
Tubbs Flex ALP
I will review my shoes, the 24 inch model, but my husband has the 28 inch version, and his review is the same as mine...we love these snowshoes!
reviewed by Sheila Bergin Goss
January 20, 2015
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10 comments
Sea to Summit Big River Dry Sack
Sea-to-Summit's 35 liter Big River Dry Bag is a voluminous stuff sack that is good for situations where keeping gear dry is top priority. While…
reviewed by G00SE
January 19, 2015
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8 comments
Bergans Tufto Pants
Except in the case of extreme cold or heat the Tufto Pants do everything I need pants to — from hiking and climbing to skiing and biking.
reviewed by FromSagetoSnow
January 19, 2015
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MSR Elixir 3
Wonderful tent! Having been in Boy Scouts for many years and majoring in Wilderness Leadership in college, I have used many different styles… 
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5 comments
Koflach Degre
Fantastic for what it is built to do. I just got back from a 5-day excursion in Northern Ontario. These were the only boots/shoes I brought.
reviewed by Rob Keith
January 13, 2015
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2 comments
Lowe Alpine Contour IV
Durable, stable, comfortable, durable, easily adjustable (older version, not the new one). Bought the old one barely used maybe 20 years ago. 
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Zippo Windproof Lighter
Old reliable — it's been in pockets all over the world in all situations for nearly a century. Zippo's wick lighters, the 'windproof' lighters,… 
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5 comments
ALPS Mountaineering Desert Pine 20
A solid and affordable starter bag that performs ably. Full disclosure: I've had mine for closing on five years now. Take this review both as… 
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8 comments
Swaygo Push Pack
The Push Pack by Swaygo is a completely waterproof, nearly indestructible day pack that proves once again that anything big companies can do,…
reviewed by G00SE
January 11, 2015
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8 comments
Omnibar Energy Bar
Omnibar has created a high quality, great tasting food bar with grass-fed beef to take into the outdoors. A variety of unique flavors keep your…
reviewed by Cody Bartz
January 11, 2015
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8 comments
Patagonia Nano-Air Hoody
If you are a serious four-season outdoor junkie, consider using this jacket. It hits a perfect sweet spot: (from the company) “From trailhead…
reviewed by second gear
January 8, 2015
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5 comments
Sea to Summit Reactor Extreme Thermolite Liner
Provides a 7-9° F increase inside the bag. For the size and weight, I would recommend it as a comfort item, if you can fit it into your budget.
reviewed by Jason Rea
January 8, 2015
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18 comments
Mystery Ranch Terraplane
The new Terraplane is an excellent pack for expedition use and other “heavy hauler” users, where it is necessary to haul loads up to 80…
reviewed by Bill S
January 8, 2015
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7 comments
Big Agnes Lost Ranger 15°
This is indeed a 15° sleeping bag when used with an appropriate R-Value pad. I have read a lot of very favorable and very negative reviews…
reviewed by Jason Rea
January 6, 2015
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5 comments
Alite Monarch Chair
This was quickly coined the "stupid chair" after I excitedly showed my dad my cool, new chair and he responded: "That's stupid." Here are all…
reviewed by Adam Stuart
January 6, 2015
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13 comments
MontBell EX Light Down Anorak
While simple in design and weighs little, the Mont-bell Down Anorak is unexpectedly warm when needed. The jacket packs down small, taking up…
reviewed by PNW_John
January 4, 2015
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5 comments
The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR
Note, this is a prior version of the shoe, used pretty hard for a few years. Good support, use of running shoe technology, and foot protection…
reviewed by andrew f.
January 4, 2015
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4 comments
Titanium Innovations Illuminati
The best ultralight single AAA 132 lumen light for 2015. At 12 grams (0.4 oz), with the clip attached, there is no lighter headlamp on the market.
reviewed by Joel Irons
January 2, 2015
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1 comment
Dana Design Astralplane Overkill
I lead backpacking trips for my high school students. I've had this pack since 1995 when the capacity was needed to haul my toddler son's gear.
reviewed by Michael Sagehorn
January 2, 2015
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6 comments
Oboz Bridger Mid BDry
I bought these boot just about a year ago and I'm quite pleased. Out of the box fit was good and a trip to REI got me into a size that was best. 
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5 comments
MSR WindBurner Stove System
100km p hour winds — no problems. Back from a 2-day backpacking trip with this new stove. I took an almost exhausted gas cylinder (20% left).
reviewed by Denis Evans
January 1, 2015
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4 comments
Kestrel DROP D2
The Kestrel Drop 2 Datalogger is a tiny sensor that links with your iPad or iPhone to provide environmental measurements remotely. It is handy…
reviewed by Bill S
December 31, 2014
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3 comments
Patagonia Down Sweater Vest
This is a great vest for everyday use, but is also durable enough to use in many outdoor activities. Made from light and fluffy 800 fill down,…
reviewed by Adam Jepson
December 31, 2014
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7 comments
Ibex Nomad Full Zip Hoody
A warm and low-profile insulating layer for active pursuits. It has the benefits of the warmth, versatility, and odor resistance of merino wool,…
reviewed by andrew f.
December 29, 2014
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10 comments
Gregory Denali 100
The standard-bearer for long walks and hard climbs gets a worthy redesign. The ability to still carry 70lb-loads while shedding a pound of weight…
reviewed by pillowthread
December 29, 2014
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4 comments
Gregory Alpinisto 35
For slender not-too-tall people this is a good, even excellent, pack for general use. Taller and wider people most likely will experience problems… 
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4 comments
REI Folding Utensil Set
I originally bought these out of curiosity, but I have learned to respect these utensils. I bought these utensils as a curiosity, but I have…
reviewed by ronrude
December 28, 2014
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2 comments
Morakniv Bushcraft Black
Very solid knife for use anywhere. I really like this knife. It's solid and will hold up well to years of abuse. What I like: Carbon steele…
reviewed by Ryan Bastien
December 28, 2014
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2 comments
Tarptent Contrail
Great bang for the buck! The Contrail is a super lightweight, single wall, one-pole (trekking), 4-stake tent that weathered a variety of weather…
reviewed by Bivouac
December 26, 2014
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9 comments
Moss Tents Starlet (Three-Season)
I was looking for a 2-person, 3-season backpacking tent and saw the Moss tents in REI. This was in 1984 and I recall there was a Star Gazer… 
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5 comments
Snowline Chainsen Pro
The best ice traction pull-ons I have found so far, much tougher than the others. A notch or two shy of crampons in a packable size and weight.
reviewed by BigRed
December 25, 2014
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7 comments
La Sportiva Bushido
Nimble, light, but robust trail runner. Narrow last, great protection. Fit: This shoe fits narrow. If you have wide feet you can stop reading…
reviewed by Jakuchu
December 24, 2014
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4 comments
Mountainsmith Tour TLS
Some people might think a fanny pack will make you look like a nerd. But its durability and comfort make the Mountainsmith Tour TLS pack a great…
reviewed by CO_west
December 23, 2014
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7 comments
Adidas Terrex Swift Climaheat Frost Jacket
An insulated jacket that isn’t afraid of getting a little wet. Designed and fitted for active use this hooded jacket uses a blend of synthetic…
reviewed by LoneStranger
December 23, 2014
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23 comments
MSR WindBurner Stove System
The MSR Windboiler is a one-trick pony — it boils water efficiently even in high winds — and it does that one trick extremely well. But…
reviewed by BigRed
December 23, 2014
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6 comments
Cold Cold World Chernobyl
This pack is tough as nails. Its single-minded devotion to vertical adventures limits its usefulness for other activities, but that's not really…
reviewed by CO_west
December 22, 2014
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5 comments
Kelty Continental Divide 5300 (External)
Some people will look at this pack and say it has an identity crisis. It is basically an internal frame bag attached to a narrow external frame.
reviewed by CO_west
December 22, 2014
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4 comments
P-38 U.S. Military Can Opener
Swiss army of the can openers. Actually, it was a gift from a fellow eBay seller many years ago. I've kept it all these years in a slit like…
reviewed by aoaltunel "al"
December 22, 2014
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9 comments
ZPacks Triplex
The ZPacks Triplex tent combines wonderfully lightweight and compact packing with roominess for two (and adequate for three). It would work…
reviewed by Bill S
December 21, 2014
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8 comments
Montane Trail Stretch Gaiter
A low trail gaiter that finds a pleasing blend of light weight, durability, and functionality. This product is especially good for trail routes…
reviewed by Patman
December 19, 2014
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3 comments
Sierra Designs Stretch Dome 3
Why read a review of a tent no longer being manufactured? It may very well help you decide what to buy on the current market. Though no longer… 
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7 comments
Sierra Designs DriDown Rain Jacket
The Sierra Designs DriDown Rain Jacket is billed as "a single solution for wet, cold environments." It is a waterproof rain shell insulated…
reviewed by TJ1984
December 19, 2014
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4 comments
Big Agnes Late Lunch Vest
** Please see the addendum at the end of this review Big Agnes has applied their knowledge of down to their foray into apparel. The women’s…
reviewed by second gear
December 17, 2014
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5 comments
Icebreaker Flexi Chute Neckwarmer
This neck gaiter is a winter companion that will keep you warm (and happy) for years! Made of soft/non-itch Merino wool, this accessory is an…
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
December 17, 2014
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9 comments
Outdoor Research Lucent Heated Mitts
The Outdoor Research Lucent is a battery powered heated mitten that boasts impressive dexterity, warmth and durability. There is extra attention…
reviewed by Jake W
December 17, 2014
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1 comment
Black Rock Gear The Original
The best of the best. Handmade with care in the USA by a small business. Excellent customer service. Crazy warm and soft. Does not squeeze your… 
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1 comment
Eureka! Timberline 4
Great motorcycle/car/canoe tent have had mine for over 20 years. A few years back I got a Timberline 6. Don't like it nearly as well the extra… 
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2 comments
EMS Velocity 1 Tent
Great tent for when you have to sleep alone. I bought this tent to add to my backpacking arsenal because I was tired of carrying around a 2-person…
reviewed by arcana1973
December 12, 2014
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1 comment
MSR SimmerLite
If you are still able to acquire one of these stoves (they are discontinued) I would recommend it. First off, this stove is no longer available…
reviewed by arcana1973
December 12, 2014
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3 comments
Marmot Alpinist Climbing Jacket III
This jacket has to be the most durable jacket I have ever owned. Marmot keeps replacing any ripped or burnt panel. Sometimes I can forgo a light… vote
2 comments
Mountain Hardwear Plasmic Pant
Lightweight hard shell pants with excellent breathability in a variety of conditions. In all the years I've been exploring in the outdoors,…
reviewed by David Link
December 11, 2014
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8 comments
Fällkniven PXLwh
Does exactly what I want and need for what I consider to be an essential hiking tool. Safe, reasonably light, durable, and sharp. For those…
reviewed by andrew f.
December 10, 2014
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2 comments
Limmer Light-Weight
Out of the box these are beautiful boots. Their quality construction is immediately evident. But they are not for people with wide feet Taking… 
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3 comments
SIGG Steelworks Thermal .75 Liter Ring Bottle
This is my go-to insulated drinking vessel, especially for cold weather activities. It's the ideal size and does an outstanding job of keeping…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
December 4, 2014
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7 comments
Hydro Flask 64 oz Wide Mouth Growler
More than just an oversized water bottle, this vessel goes everywhere with me. Keeps soups and hot drinks hot, and keeps cold adult and non-adult…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
December 4, 2014
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5 comments
Eureka! Spitfire 2
A spacious one-person-and-dog to two-person tent for most conditions. The Eureka Spitfire 2 is my first tent. I've had it for almost four years,…
reviewed by ZoeBones
December 2, 2014
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1 comment
Scarpa Barun GTX
Excellent medium-duty backpacking boot. I have owned and worn these boots as my primary hiking and multi-day backpacking boots for more than…
reviewed by Gareth Davies
December 1, 2014
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13 comments
Cotopaxi Nepal 65
The Cotopaxi Nepal 65L pack has a number of innovative features, and is appropriate for trips of a few days or longer. While it didn’t work…
reviewed by bheiser1
November 30, 2014
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1 comment
Alpina Alaska 75
Ultimate off-trail x-country boot. I have been an avid nordic skier for more than 30 years. My everyday skiing is off-trail x-country through…
reviewed by Gareth Davies
November 30, 2014
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Madshus Epoch
Versatile off-trail xcountry ski. This ski is identical to the Karhu XCD 10th Mountain. This ski is marketed as a hybrid between a telemark…
reviewed by Gareth Davies
November 30, 2014
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1 comment
Madshus Eon
Versatile and efficient off-trail xcountry. This ski is identical to the Karhu XCD GT. This ski comes in either a waxable base or a waxless…
reviewed by Gareth Davies
November 30, 2014
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3 comments
Madshus Annum
Ultimate off-trail xcountry ski: trail breaker/deep snow. I have been an avid nordic skier for over 30 years. My everyday skiing has always…
reviewed by Gareth Davies
November 30, 2014
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1 comment
Granite Rocx The Cascade
The Cascade is an all-in-one convenience pack that delivers on many levels. There is ample storage and multiple compartments to store everything…
reviewed by Ashley Alex
November 29, 2014
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8 comments
U.S. Armed Forces ECWCS Gen II Brown Bear Jacket
This is an old school fibre pile jacket made for extreme cold weather. It's not pretty, but it works! I purchased this item a few years ago…
reviewed by North1
November 28, 2014
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Belleville Mini-Mil TR102
This "military" boot is a minimal boot designed to give the user enhanced ground feel and flexibility, while providing enough protection to…
reviewed by Meeotch
November 26, 2014
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Esbit Titanium Stove
The lightest stove option out there, and it's cheap! At less than a half ounce, this stove is a wonder. If you are wanting to simmer food (actually…
reviewed by Joel Irons
November 26, 2014
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4 comments
iTP A3 EOS Flashlight
Ultralight, half ounce AAA flashlight with 96 Lumens. This is one of the world's smallest and brightest mini flashlights. 2.5 inches long…
reviewed by Joel Irons
November 26, 2014
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5 comments
Deuter Pace 36
The Pace 36 is a weight-shaving daypack with a very light frame and wide mesh hip belt. I applaud Deuter for figuring out how to make a bag…
reviewed by andrew f.
November 25, 2014
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1 comment
Marmot Nusku 2P
This Nusku 2 has become my most used tent. It packs small enough for use on a motorcycle or tobaggan and can be relied on in any weather. I…
reviewed by Chuck
November 23, 2014
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5 comments
Friendly Swede Paracord Bracelet
Officially called "The Friendly Swede Adjustable Premium Paracord Bracelet with Fire Starter and Sharp Eye Knife," this paracord bracelet includes…
reviewed by Bentbrook
November 23, 2014
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2 comments
Altra Superior
This would be a great mid-distance, less aggressive trail shoe for anyone who's into zero drop. The Altra Superior is a relatively slim zero-drop…
reviewed by John Beliveau
November 22, 2014
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2 comments
Kelty SB 20
Testing the SB20 down to 13 degrees. After an exhaustive search for a shoulder season bag, I stumbled across the SB20 on sale and couldn't…
reviewed by Joel Irons
November 22, 2014
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2 comments
Mountain Hardwear Taurine 2
This tent is the jam. Man, I love this tent. The storage space inside is something that really comes into play for extended stays and not only…
reviewed by Rob Keith
November 21, 2014
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7 comments
Tarptent Double Rainbow
This is a very lightweight, single wall, two-door tent that is very durable, easy to set up and withstands inclement weather (especially high…
reviewed by Earth Pig
November 21, 2014
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6 comments
Asolo Piuma
The Asolo Piuma is a light, articulate mid-height boot well suited to hiking, backpacking, and general outdoors use. Despite some minor issues…
reviewed by Seth Levy
November 21, 2014
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Woolrich Wool-Lined Mountain Parka
Great three-season outer layer. Warm, durable, water resistant. The Woolrich Mountain Parka has been a very important outer layer for me for… 
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2 comments
Luke's Ultralite Silnylon Rain Shell
This is a light, packable, and well made rain jacket that is excellent for wind protection and light rain. This is a well made silnylon rain… 
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4 comments
Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Hooded Down Jacket
A super light and deceptively warm down sweater. Moderately roomy cut allows some layering underneath. In keeping with the jacket's absurdly…
reviewed by andrew f.
November 19, 2014
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2 comments
Altra Lone Peak 1.5
Very comfortable zero drop trail shoe with some cushion. Well, my first Altra trail shoe was the original Lone Peak, so it seemed when the…
reviewed by John Beliveau
November 19, 2014
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1 comment
L.L.Bean Down Sleeping Bag with DownTek, Rectangular 20°
Very happy with the flexibility we have with these sleeping bags. Good product! There are very few conventional rectangular sleeping bags out…
reviewed by D williams
November 18, 2014
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2 comments
Big Agnes Fly Creek UL1
Some help with your decision whether to purchase the UL1. And it is freestanding! First start with the specs: Fly 9 oz; Inner 10.2 oz; Poles…
reviewed by Joel Irons
November 18, 2014
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Sierra Madre Research Pares
A really comfortable hammock for tall people, the quality from Sierra Madre is great and the Pares hammock is built with durability in mind. 
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1 comment
Big Agnes Two Track
My best pad, period. Just attach it under the lid at the top of you pack or strap it to the sleeping bag compartment, and you are good to go.
reviewed by Jerry Meagher
November 16, 2014
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5 comments
UnderGround Quilts Flight Jacket 30°
Warm, comfortable, excellently made, and made in the U.S. So, back in August, Missy at UnderGround Quilts (UGQ) posted to their Facebook page,…
reviewed by DonP
November 16, 2014
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8 comments
Helly Hansen Odin Minimalist Rain Jacket
For under 6 ounces, this rain shell makes a lightweight addition to a pack. Used as an emergency layer, it breathes as well as a waterproof…
reviewed by Daniel Oates
November 15, 2014
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5 comments
Altra Lone Peak 2.0
If you're looking for a zero drop, distance trail shoe, this is it! This shoe has been a great long distance trail shoe for me. First stepping…
reviewed by John Beliveau
November 15, 2014
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8 comments
Climb On Bar
Not just for climbers!!! This all natural, chemical free product helps repair sore fingers and knuckles. "If you can't eat it, don't put it…
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
November 13, 2014
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6 comments
FITS Sock Medium Hiker Crew
Try a pair of Fits socks and never look back. Andrew F has a great review of these socks. The owner of the outdoor sports store I frequent says,…
reviewed by PaulaG
November 12, 2014
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1 comment
Astral V-Eight
Very comfortable and does the job... This is just a little info from our experience that you may not see in reviews of places that sell the… 
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2 comments
Clif Builder's Chocolate Mint Bar
For less demanding pursuits, this is a good-tasting bar. For its intended purposes (post-workout boost), it didn't hit the mark. I purchased…
reviewed by KiwiKlimber
November 10, 2014
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1 comment
Optimus 8R
Bought mine in the '70s, ancient times now, backpacked all over the U.S. Fell down a steep ridge once, stove and extra fuel bottle took a few… 
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1 comment
Vargo Triad XE
This stove works as advertised. It'll heat enough water for your meal and a hot drink. But there are issues. I've used this stove perhaps 40… 
