by Seth Levy
Congratulations to community member leadbelly2550 (aka Andrew Friedman). Andrew's Killer Review of the Sazzi Decimal minimalist sport sandals was voted one of August's most helpful reviews. In five years as a member of Trailspace, Andrew has shared 75 reviews of his gear with the community.
Thank you, Andrew, who wins a goodie pack of gear from Trailspace, CamelBak, and GU for his most recent effort.*
Write your own helpful gear review and you could be next month's most helpful reviewer.
Meet leadbelly2550 (Andrew)
Andrew with his wife, Julie, and kids, Caleb, Lily, and Mia at Arenal Volcano in central Costa Rica. Notice the Trailspace cap in hand!
How did you get started exploring outdoors?
My mom and dad introduced my siblings and me to the outdoors. We started out day hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter in New Hampshire and Vermont, then graduated to longer trips in the White Mountains.
What do you enjoy doing outdoors?
I love hiking — both winter and summer — canoeing, and cycling. I also love hiking with our family, trying to give my kids the opportunity I had to spend time outdoors.
Why did you want to review the Sazzi Decimal, which you did as a member of Trailspace's Review Corps?
I was interested in the Decimal for the Trailspace Review Corps because I am very interested in the concept of minimalist footwear and whether they are truly a healthy alternative to heavier, more protective hiking boots and shoes.
Andrew with his wife, Julie, in the Tetons.
I became interested in this topic after reviewing a pair of Vibram Fivefinger Treksports for Trailspace last year. (Editor's Note: That was Andrew's first Killer Review.)
What are your favorite pieces of outdoor equipment? Why?
I like my Limmer boots. I got them for hiking on rocky, jagged trails with heavy backpacks, but they have turned out to be one of the most comfortable pair of shoes I own.
Tell us about your favorite outdoor destinations.
Locally, my favorite hike is Old Rag in Virginia. It is in Shenandoah National Park. I love the views and the rock scrambling on the ridge. It is a great long day hike.
My favorite longer hikes that are still on the East Coast are in the High Peaks of the Adirondacks and the Northern Presidentials in the White Mountains.
I also love hiking and skiing in the Tetons.
Anything else you'd like to share with the Trailspace community?
I found Trailspace by accident a number of years ago when I was looking for gear reviews. I am grateful for the knowledge I have gained from Trailspace's reviews and forums. It has turned out to be an exceptional resource for me.
Great job, Andrew/leadbelly2550!
*Besides Trailspace glory and appreciation, Andrew gets a goodie pack with a Trailspace Trail Runner Cap, a Trailspace pint glass (for après-backcountry use), a glass CamelBak eddy water bottle (new for fall 2012), a selection of GU Electrolyte Brew Tablets and GU Recovery Brew Drink, and Trailspace stickers.
Wondering how you can be as lucky as Andrew? Write a great gear review of your own. Next month the Trailspace community will recognize another reviewer (who'll win prizes), and it could be you and your gear review.
Please, help recognize the best reviews on Trailspace by clicking that up arrow whenever you read a truly helpful review. You'll not only recognize good reviewers, you'll help highlight the best reviews of products for other members looking for outdoor equipment.
