Reviews
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Mountain Hardwear Tempo Windstopper Jacket
Excellent mid-weight layer in winter hiking; wicking sweat perfectly and stopping wind well! Sizing is "athletic" (read small) and sleeves are… votes
2 comments
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2
This tent is great. It's basically a 1-man castle! I have used this tent in all types of weather and never had any problems with it. Setup:…
reviewed by CALAMUCCI
February 1, 2013
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Hilleberg Nallo 2 GT
Rain proof, warm for Brazilian south highlands and only 2,6kg. Much better than famous brands. I recomended for everybody from Brazilian south…
reviewed by Nelson Brügger
January 31, 2013
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Kako IceTrekkers Chains
Great ice traction devices that does not cost too much. Best used for icy streets or light snow. I recently purchased a pair of Kako IceTrekker…
reviewed by mangus7175
January 31, 2013
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ExOfficio GeoTrek'r Long-Sleeve Shirt
If you only have room to bring along one extra shirt — or can only wear one shirt to begin with — no matter where it is you are going, this…
reviewed by James Kennedy
January 31, 2013
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3 comments
Exped Polaris
Superbe tent in all respects save one: not much room for extended stays in tent during storms. The Polaris is a work of art-- eVent fabric means… 
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1 comment
Garcia Backpackers' Cache
Simple to use but, very large. This is everything you need in bear country. It has a lot of space, simple to use, and works great. However,…
reviewed by thegreenthree
January 31, 2013
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Black Diamond Orbit
Great little lantern for backpacking! Lightweight, compact, great light output. I bought this lantern from REI (in the green color) at the end…
reviewed by ashnicole
January 31, 2013
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Gregory Denali Pro 105
As advertised. Well built heavy hauler. I bought this pack for a 10-day Dall sheep hunt in the Brooks Range. My main criteria were weight carrying,… 
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Kayland Vertigo
Very tough, extremely well made boot! Grippy aggressive tread, excellent ankle support. Warm enough for cold weather, will not overheat in summer!
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
January 28, 2013
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GoLite Demaree Canyon 800 Fill Down Jacket
This is a great 800 fill down jacket! Not too puffy, not too flat for high quality goose down. The Men's M/M is a perfect fit for 5'10"/160lbs.
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
January 28, 2013
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Cassin Piu 2
It is a good belay device, with a modern and well designed look. It has all the features you may expect from a versatile piece of gear. The… 
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Rab Latok Jacket
Durable shell, great breathability! This product is made for people who USE their products, although stylish in town! Lots of adjustments, great…
reviewed by Sean Van Cleve
January 28, 2013
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Outdoor Research Alti Mitts
If you absolutely need the warmest mitten available, these are the gold standard as far as I am concerned. The combination of a windproof/waterproof…
reviewed by andrew f.
January 28, 2013
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Vargo Titanium Ti-lite Mug (750 ml)
A good solo cooking pot/mug combo. Lightweight, tough, and plays well with others. I like it. It holds water, it boils water over fire. Not…
reviewed by Pilgrim
January 21, 2013
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Chaco Z/2 Unaweep
If you don't mind a thick and somewhat weighty sole, then strap on the most comfortable sandal you've ever worn. I wish I had bought these years…
reviewed by Nicholas B
January 20, 2013
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Icebreaker Anatomica Brief
As near perfect as can be. Great fit, ideal support that's typically difficult to find, the moisture management of Merino wool and as comfortable…
reviewed by JerseyWreckDiver
January 20, 2013
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Scarpa Mont Blanc GTX
Was warm for a June summit of Mt. Rainier. Felt light on my feet and never had an issue with blisters or wetness. After considering plastic… 
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NEMO Astro Air Short
This non-self inflating sleeping pad/ mattress is light, packable and about as comfortable as a sleeping pad can get for its size and weight.
reviewed by Sir Inch-a-lot
January 20, 2013
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1 comment
Osprey Kode 30
A decent sidecountry pack, but a little too small for full-day backcountry tours. I have used this pack for a couple of seasons, mainly on backcountry…
reviewed by BigRed
January 20, 2013
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Sea to Summit The Kitchen Sink
Stable, high capacity, high compressibility. I recommend two of these for an extended trip. This sink is a great addition to an extended trip…
reviewed by Junglecommando
January 20, 2013
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Petzl Tikka Plus
Three ounces, three settings, and three cubic centimeters. Trifecta of portable, comfortable, efficient lighting. Great gift for curious kids.
reviewed by Junglecommando
January 20, 2013
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Big Agnes Fly Creek UL3
Very light 2-3 person tent. First impressions of the tent, and of BA customer service. This tent is uber-light. I found it at the REI garage…
reviewed by Junglecommando
January 19, 2013
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Black Diamond I-Tent
This is the best of the best. The I-Tent was i-awesome long before any glamorous media gadget. This is the alpha dog of two-person four-season…
reviewed by Junglecommando
January 19, 2013
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3 comments
Eureka! Spitfire 1
More tent than I expected for the price. Redesigned 2012 Canadian model has good improvements. I spent six months with the 2012 Spitfire (Canadian…
reviewed by Islandess
January 19, 2013
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Patagonia Torrentshell
Hard shell jacket? Hardly. Get this jacket if you want it for one thing: torrential rain. This is my emergency jacket that sits in my scooter…
reviewed by Junglecommando
January 19, 2013
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Arc'teryx Alpha SV Jacket
Bought this jacket 10 years ago, and it has served me very well for ten full years of abuse. Multiple times I have slipped while stemming in…
reviewed by Junglecommando
January 19, 2013
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1 comment
Osprey Stratos 34
This is a well-made, well designed pack, designed to fit everyone from the slim lady to the more robust guy. It is the only pack I carried for… 
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Harmony House Backpacking Kit
The Harmony House Backpacking kit is a tremendous value, offering 3.5lbs of dehydrated food in small, resealable ziplock bags. This kit has…
reviewed by G00SE
January 18, 2013
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La Sportiva Ganda
Super-capable neo-approach shoes that climb “the gnar” and last 5000 miles of hiking. Put the Gandas on and do things you want to do. Forget…
reviewed by pillowthread
January 18, 2013
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9 comments
Power Pot The PowerPot
True innovation, leave those batteries at home! Fire+Water=Electricity. That is the company motto of Power Pot, and they certainly delivered…
reviewed by TheRambler
January 18, 2013
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2 comments
Patagonia Nano Puff Pullover
The Nano Puff Pullover is a lightweight, windproof, water-resistant three-season jacket. It is made with 60 grams of highly compressible Primaloft…
reviewed by Devil Dog
January 18, 2013
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Hilleberg Akto
I've been camping for 40 years, and had numerous tents, but this hurricane defying, quality tent knocks spots off them all and it must be the… 
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2 comments
MSR PocketRocket
A great small canister stove that work in most 3-season activities, but that can be pushed to for season use for day or short trips. It is perfect…
reviewed by Gavin Clarke
January 18, 2013
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eGear Focus Control 200
A bright light for a low price, but you get about what you pay for. The focusing is limited and the light a bit uneven. The low setting is a…
reviewed by BigRed
January 18, 2013
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Gregory Jade 60
Excellent choice for a female of short stature and abundance of space! I bought this backpack following extensive research as to which backpack… 
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GoLite Quest 50L
Simple, inexpensive, quality, no-frills pack that carries like a dream. The ability of this pack to carry heavy loads is really surprising. vote
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
Super light, but not very comfortable. This foam mattress is one of the most popular sleeping pads for ultra-lite backpackers, and for good…
reviewed by writerinthewild
January 17, 2013
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Big Agnes Insulated Air Core
Most comfortable pad I've used. Durability may be a problem. What I love the most about this pad is that it's so comfortable. Despite my 230…
reviewed by writerinthewild
January 17, 2013
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GSI Pinnacle Soloist
Nice pot that packs up small and fits your cooking gear inside. But the rest of the set sucks. After two years of use, I'm not very impressed…
reviewed by writerinthewild
January 17, 2013
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The North Face Orion
Lightweight and compressible sleeping bag that won't lose insulation if wet. I was looking for a sleeping bag comparable to the weight and compressibility of…
reviewed by writerinthewild
January 17, 2013
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Big Agnes Fairview 1
Great tent. Great price. I admit I was hesitant at first because of the price, and the fact that I hadn't heard anything about it, but I trusted…
reviewed by writerinthewild
January 17, 2013
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Therm-a-Rest Lite Seat
The Therm-a-Rest Lite Seat is a self-inflating seat that is great for taking a seat just about anywhere that needs a little cushion. It is a…
reviewed by Devil Dog
January 17, 2013
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Coleman Crescent 15
Great budget bag. It will keep you warm, and won't break the bank. The first thing I noticed when I pulled it out of the box is how sharp it…
reviewed by writerinthewild
January 17, 2013
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Mountain Hardwear EV 2
Strong single walled winter tent. Lightweight, easy to set up, with good "livability" features. My wife and I have the EV2 and use it for multi-night…
reviewed by PJWalchenbach
January 17, 2013
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Backcountry Access Tracker 2
This is such a simple transceiver to use. I'd recommend it for any recreational user. It's also commonly used by ski patrollers. This transceiver… 
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Dynafit TLT 5 Mountain TF-X Boot
This is an extremely light boot that is ideal for fast touring. If you value the up as much as the down, this boot is great. Even if the down… 
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Petzl Tikka XP
Years of flawless performance, still like new. I have used this lamp nearly every day in the house, on the trail, and wherever I have needed…
reviewed by soleful2001
January 17, 2013
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Black Diamond Whippet
The Whippet will give you added security in places where falling will have dire consequences. You have to know how to self-arrest for it to… 
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Osprey Kestrel 48
The Osprey line of backpacks is one of the most highly praised in the oversaturated industry of outdoor recreation equipment, and with good…
reviewed by outlan
January 17, 2013
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Princeton Tec Apex
Using it caving. The Princeton Tec Apex is an adjustable headlamp providing 4 levels of brightness, 150 hours of useable lighting, and a maximum…
reviewed by G00SE
January 17, 2013
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Trangia Spirit Stove
Although the Trangia Spirit Stove is heavier than the traditional pop can stove, it is far more versatile and the user is able to conserve every…
reviewed by G00SE
January 17, 2013
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MSR PocketRocket
The MSR PocketRocket is a quality, lightweight canister stove that is easy to use in 3.5 seasons. It can bring 2 cups of water to a boil in…
reviewed by G00SE
January 17, 2013
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2 comments
Kelty Grand Teton 2.0
The Kelty Grand Teton 2 is a decent backpacking tent with a small vestibule and narrow width. Billed as a "two-person" tent, I can only advise…
reviewed by G00SE
January 17, 2013
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1 comment
Kelty Red Cloud 6650
The Kelty Red Cloud 6650 is a cavernous 109 liter pack ready to swallow up anything you want to put into it. Weighing 6lbs, the Red Cloud 6650…
reviewed by G00SE
January 17, 2013
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Grand Trunk Funky Forest Tarp
The Grand Trunk Funky Forest Tarp is a HUGE hammock tarp with a 14.8' ridgeline. Being so large, the coverage is phenomenal, keeping this hammock…
reviewed by G00SE
January 17, 2013
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Fitbit One
Fitbit One is an extremely accurate pedometer and a fitness monitor rolled into one tiny little unit. The word mile is derived from the Latin…
reviewed by schifferj
January 17, 2013
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Asolo Chameleon 6
They should call this the big top. You could hold a circus under its vestibule. The peek hight is tall enough for a pygmy giraffe. If bigger… 
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180 Tack 180 Stove
Very Light and compact backpacking stove that eliminates the need to buy and carry fuels. The 180 Stove weighs the same as a micro stove and… vote
Kelty Gunnison 2.1
I've had the standard (not the "pro") Gunnison 2 person tent for approx. 5 years and have used it in a variety of locations and seasons. I haven't…
reviewed by Alcap
January 16, 2013
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Osprey Hornet 46
The Osprey Hornet is a quality built, rugged little pack with enough space for your 2-3 day excursions. The waist belt is very comfortable and… 
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CamelBak Rim Runner
A fantastic day hike backpack with an integrated hydration system. Plenty of storage in three zippered compartments and side pouches for bottles. 
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Mountain House New Orleans Style Rice with Shrimp and Ham
This is backpacking food that is good enough to eat at home! It's fantastic as is, or can be augmented with some jerky or Slim Jim for a great…
reviewed by bigger al
January 16, 2013
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2 comments
Mountain Hardwear Epic Gloves
Great snowball gloves! Or slushy mild winter days in general. I got these gloves for sugaring (ie. collecting sap for maple syrup). At the beginning…
reviewed by MoZee
January 16, 2013
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Black Diamond Ultra Mountain Carbon
Crazy light poles that fold small and have an ingenious locking mechanism... all without sacrificing strength. You get what you pay for! These… 
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Big Agnes Insulated Air Core
The Insulated Air Core pad is a great value for a 3+ season sleeping pad. Comfortable, warm, light and compact it is a great upgrade from a…
reviewed by MoZee
January 16, 2013
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Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants
A fine cold weather outer layer that works well in a wide range of conditions. Clearly designed and sized with winter in mind but also a good…
reviewed by andrew f.
January 16, 2013
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Warbonnet RidgeRunner
A hammock you can lay on your stomach in? It's true. I am a devoted stomach sleeper and find this hammock to be my answer to a comfortable night's… 
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MSR WhisperLite
Simply the THE BEST compact camp stove I've ever used! I've had mine for 20+ years and still have not found anything better for canoe trips… 
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Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket
The Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket is a an ultralight, breathable, and compressible rain/wind shell. The shell is made of 2.5-layer 30D Pertex…
reviewed by Devil Dog
January 15, 2013
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8 comments
Brooks-Range Mojave Jacket
New technology used by Brooks-Range Mountaineering treats the down fill, which allows it to dry fast and retain its loft. The Brooks-Range Mountaineering…
reviewed by Arson
January 14, 2013
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Chaco Z/1 Unaweep
Very rugged outdoor sandal; heavy and possibly too supportive. I've owned my Chaco Z/1 Unaweep sandals with Terreno soles for 10 years now.
reviewed by alexdesvagues
January 14, 2013
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Stoic Alpine Merino 150 Crew - Long-Sleeve
Great layering piece that does all they claim. The Stoic Alpine Merino Bliss 150 is hands down the best layering piece I’ve ever owned. I…
reviewed by Linda Navroth
January 14, 2013
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Drymax Maximum Protection Trail Running Sock
Took my Drymax Maximum Protection Trail Running Socks for a long trail run on The Appalachian Trail across the Cumberland Valley in Pa. It was…
reviewed by Perry Ligon
January 14, 2013
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Warbonnet Blackbird Double Layer 1.7
The best hammock I have had the pleasure of using to date. With an interior storage area, attached mosquito netting and a footbox that allows…
reviewed by JFAR
January 14, 2013
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SOL Emergency Bivvy
A great go to emergency shelter that's size allows it to be carried anywhere on any trip. This bivy is great for its interned purpose which…
reviewed by Gavin Clarke
January 13, 2013
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MEC Tarn 2
Three season, two (1.5, really) person tent. Single entry, pyramid design, ply/nylon construction. Intended use, backpacking. A little heavy… votes
1 comment
Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack
Perfect compression sack. It's been a while since I've been backpacking, and when assembling some gear to get back into it, I realized I'd need… 
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MSR MiniWorks EX
Reliable, easy to use, works with Nalgene bottles and MSR dromedary bags, filter lasts a dang long time. Traveled to quite a few place with… 
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Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo
Lightweight one- to two-person cooking set. Good for the weight conscious backpackers, mountaineers, and adventures who are looking for a cooking…
reviewed by Gavin Clarke
January 11, 2013
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Exped DownMat 9
Very comfortable, well built and warm pad. If you want to be comfortable and warm in the backcountry this is the pad to get! In fact it is good…
reviewed by Montana Ski and Sail
January 10, 2013
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3 comments
Eddie Bauer First Ascent Downlight Sweater
This being the first puffy down jacket I have ever owned, I do not have a lot to compare the Eddie Bauer First Ascent Downlight to. But, I must…
reviewed by outlan
January 10, 2013
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Platypus Origin 9
Really functional and tough little pack for day tripping or riding. I just used the pack for a week in Hawaii. I can't begin to describe how…
reviewed by AndreaF
January 10, 2013
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1 comment
Kelty Red Cloud 90
Overall this pack fits the niche very well. For me its a great pack to store my supplies plus supplies for the group. This bag is well constructed… 
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3 comments
Vasque Snowblime UltraDry
I was hesitant to try these at first, thinking these would be too heavy and tiresome to wear. Boy, was I wrong! I wanted to do some snow hiking…
reviewed by Linda Navroth
January 9, 2013
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1 comment
Rab Neutrino Plus Jacket
The Rab Neutrino Plus is an overall very solid cold weather performer. The Rab Neutrino Plus is a nice jacket! I own one other Rab product,…
reviewed by Cody Bartz
January 9, 2013
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Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1
I needed a good lite weight solo tent. I wanted to update to a good lightweight solo tent. I spent some time researching most of the current… 
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1 comment
Platypus plusBottle
A water bottle that stores flat or rolled up, takes up virtually no space, is durable, and weighs just .8 oz. What's not to love!? I decided…
reviewed by TheRambler
January 9, 2013
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Arc'teryx Atom LT Jacket
Superlight, super packable jacket perfect for mild weather and an excellent mid or stand alone jacket for the cool days. Over the past week… 
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Gregory Baltoro 65
Would definitely recommend this pack to anyone looking for a large pack thats is all around great. Its suspension system is amazing making even… 
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The North Face Denali Jacket
Functional features and durability outshine the peculiar trendiness of this workhorse fleece. The ubiquitous TNF Denali is a workhorse 300 weight…
reviewed by alexdesvagues
January 8, 2013
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Mountain Hardwear Lightpath 2
I have had this tent for a month and could not be more impressed. The Light Path Two is a semi lightweight, two-pole tent that requires four…
reviewed by Gavin Clarke
January 8, 2013
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2 comments
Vargo Titanium BOT Bottle Pot
Vargo’s Bot gracefully combines a functional 1-liter titanium pot with a screw-on titanium lid to create a versatile object capable of both…
reviewed by pillowthread
January 8, 2013
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Aquamira Frontier Pro Filter
Lightweight water filter that can be used with virtually any disposable or Platypus brand small mouth bottles. I have owned this product for…
reviewed by mangus7175
January 8, 2013
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MSR Lightning Ascent
MSR Lightning Ascent 30” snowshoes, a very good snowshoe with some unique features. MSR Lightning Ascent 30" snowshoes Period of use: 1½… 
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VonZipper Fishbowl Goggle
For massive field of vision goggles, pretty good. Overall, decent. Somehow scored these for $20 on one of Backcountry's one deal at a time sites,… 
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Deuter Guide 45+
Excellent pack for its intended use, which is multiday ski touring and mountaineering. I would recommend this pack to anyone doing similar activities. 
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Oakley A Frame
Best goggle I've used, incredible optics, no fog. I love these goggles. I've worn 10+ different goggles over the last few years, whether I've… 
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PowerBar ProteinPlus Bite
Not too great, gets the job done. Tried both varieties of these from steepandcheap. I like the PowerBar take on protein, the triple threat stuff,… 
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Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews
Taste great, seem to do the trick for energy. These are as good as energy chews get. I've tried the Clif energy block things and some Gatorade… 
