Reviews by User: JoshR-Backcountry.com (62)

I've tried a couple of the other 'freeride' oriented AT boots out there and Crispi has hit the nail on the head with this one and blown the others out of the water. Well, you have to qualify that statement of course: every boot is only right for the foot that it fits. Performance: I've taken these on two short day tours, both involving 2-3 hours of climbing followed by a long big-mountain style descent. The Diablos have an exceptionally comfortable walk mode. Tons of flex and they just feel great. They are lightweight for a 'freeride' boot and while not as light as some, they are much lighter than any alpine boot. Lock these things forward into the most-aggressive forward lean position, snap down the ski mode, and you've got a serious boot that contends with alpine boots for stability and confidence while skiing. I felt confident making turns as big as I do at Snowbird's Upper Cirque on these things (i.e., 40m radius turns). Fit: Medium. The forefoot/toebox is pretty wide, but you can reduce the volume with the buckle over your arch. The heel pocket is nice and tight though. I have a narrow foot, so most AT boots are too wide for me, but this one has worked better than any I've tried (Garmont, Scarpa). The liner has a plush inner lining, and is super comfortable. It molds easily once heated. It does seem to pack out rather easily however.

Please note that the 184 and shorter lengths are totally different skis than the 189 and 194cm. The shorter lengths are great, versatile, do-all western skis with a moderate flex. The 189 (which I own) and 194 are big mountain monsters. They are super stiff and will kick your ass if you are not on the ball. But in the right conditions, and with the right pilot, these are the best big mountain rippers I've ever been on. Absolutely sick.

Just picked up a pair of the Java GTX's last week. First test 'drive' was a 9-mile, 2,500-vertical foot grueling hike, and the Java performed flawlessly! I'm definitely stoked--I have a narrow, low-volume foot and it's hard for me to find shoes that fit right. The 'tongue-less' lining is great--didn't get a single pebble inside the shoe the whole hike. The soles are amazingly supportive and provide excellent traction. I did manage to roll my heel once--but that's to be expected with a low-cut shoe--more my fault than anything. This if the first true hiking shoe (as opposed to boot) I've owned--and I'm already sold! Highly recommended!

I bought the DAKINE Nomad a couple of weeks ago, and let it sit around the house for a few days before deciding to actually remove the tags--I was worried it was a bit too big. I've ridden with a Camelbak Mule for about 7 years, and the DAKINE was a big step up in size. However, I was lucky enough to test it out in Moab, UT this weekend and man did this thing shine. I got a flat riding Porcupine Rim trail and was able to fix it in record time because all my tools, spare tubes, etc., were organized so well. The only problem I had was a kink in the hydration tube, which reduced/shut off water flow. Once I figured out I could change the angle that the tube attached to the reservoir (duh), the problem was immediately solved. All I can say is, this pack is definitely worth the extra weight. Incredibly well-designed and thought-out!

I've got last year's model, which is the same as this year's - but I like the black topsheet this year better. It's not the biggest gun in my quiver, but this thing can handle 99% of what I want to do on the mountain. Moderately softish flex, such that it can handle speed but also turn easily through the trees and tighter spots. Basically this is an incredibly versatile, easy-to-ski ride in something as fat and long as its dimensions. Fischer doesn't market their equipment well and this is definitely one of the least-known ripping skis out there - if it had the marketing backing of say Rossi or K2, you'd see these all over the hill guaranteed.

Well, I've never actually 'tasted' the Touryak, but it's a fun boat on the water! Fairly stable for a newcomer to the sport and totally maneuverable--tracks great and easy to paddle. I was stoked to rip around on this thing for a while. Can't wait to try it on an overnighter.

I hate to make superlative comments like the title of this review, but in this case I can't help it. With the hitch version of this rack, you can load 45lb DH bikes without throwing out your back, and do it in under 10 seconds. Plus the rack is rock solid stable, no bike sway while driving. Even off-road this thing is amazingly stable. Just get one. Trust me.

Bought one of these in black for my fiance--she's a big trail runner, so it's perfect for that. I couldn't believe how nice and stylish the watch is when we got it! She's also in medical school, and it's perfect for her 15-hour days in the hospital; patients' bodily fluids can't get past the waterproof exterior ;)

First of all, could these dimensions be any more perfect? I really couldn't dream up anything better for skiing medium-to-big mountains in the West. Plus it's obvious the Wateas are built tough with near-vertical sidewalls and a bomber base. Despite how big these skis may seem, they have a decent sized tail rise and are really easy to vary your turn shape. The tip is just big enough to allow easy turn initiation while still allowing you to decide how to ski the terrain in front of you. It's got a pretty mellow flex, but torsionally it is solid. This thing can straightline Snowbird's upper Cirque with the best of them. If you are looking for a worth big mountain ski that won't turn your legs into Jello at the end of the day, this is your ski. Highly recommended.

This is a really cool hybrid casual/approach/sport shoe. The Italians tried to emulate American skate-shoe style...they got close but not quite. Kinda funny. But these are still nice-looking shoes you can kick around in all day. And they have sticky rubber; thus I've been using them when riding my DH mountain bike with flat pedals - they work great. Good for just tooling around on mellow trails too. Can't complain at all. Fit wise, I've got a narrow foot and these seem to be a good medium-width foot that can accommodate a narrower foot no problem.

I keep one of these in my day pack all the time, as a 'just-in-case' jacket. I live in Utah so I'd only used it a handful of times in light showers, where it was fine. This summer I took it to Portland and got poured on while hiking a trail. It helped, but I still got soaked. Don't expect this thing to protect you from a downpour - it's more of a rain resistant light piece. Great for what it is, just don't but it as your only rain jacket.

These are super comfortable basic summer sandals. The leather has a nice cool feel to it, but it's a little slippery. So if you drive a vehicle with manual transmission, you might want some regular shoes for a more confident feel on the clutch. And they're stylie enough to wear with dress pants (sorta!)

Bought this about a year ago and am loving it. Totally warm for the coldest weather we get here in the Wasatch--I can't count how many times I was taking my ski gear off at the truck last winter and just been freezing, then throw on the Puff and warmed right up. Great, comfortable jacket. And it's nice and light so it can be used for cool summer nights camping.

I love the design of the new Slider. The side-release lenses are far easier to remove than the older Slider designs, and lens scratches seem far less likely. The frame is SUPER light and comfortable to wear. The only drawback I've seen so far is the rubber grip on the ear pieces are so small to be pretty much useless.

The Barracuda is a bit tippy side-to-side for a rank novice like myself, but once you get the feel for it, this thing is a freakin' torpedo! Smooth paddling, and fun to slice through the waves on such a narrow profile.

Snagged a pair of these because I loved my regular Methods so much. The photochromic lens is very very light. It's almost a clubbing lens. But that's why I got these - I've been spending a bunch of time in Ohio where you spend a lot of time on the trails (hike, bike, or run) in deep forests. They're so dark you just can't normally wear sunglasses without super light lenses. These are perfect for that. But not recommended in really sunny bright areas.

This is a solid mid-sized hydration pack. I prefer mine more for hiking than biking, but it does both well. Compartmentalization is a bit confusing and difficult to access. My hydration hose likes to crimp and seal off my water supply. Otherwise it's a great pack - love the airy back panel and the mesh pocket on the back for quick access.

These glasses define quality. They are a bit heavy, so they’re probably not the best for sports, but they are cool as hell. The nosepieces are a little too sticky but the optics and style on these things are unbeatable.

Wow! This thing turned the inside of my kayak into a humid hotbox! Of course, it was around 75 degrees outside; I can only imagine how nice this Pocket System Neo spray skirt would be in colder, inclement weather.

Easy installation, and I love that it doesn't touch the car's paint at all. Seems bomber!

I don't know much about kayaks but I paddled this around some finger canyons in Lake Powell - what a blast. It's amazingly light for dealing with loading on roof racks, etc. Put it in the water and it's expectedly unstable side-to-side but man it's fast. Just an easy paddle and you are just cruising. Really fun to use...kinda like a road bike on the water. Fast fast fast.

One of the more comfortable lids I've worn over the years. I'm a long-time helmet user when skiing (8+ years). The audio is great; I can get the volume to where I can comfortably hear it in the tram or on the chair, but once I'm skiing the wind drowns it out and I can hear what's going on around me. I wish they still made helmets with hard ear covers though, these tend to smash my ears and cause some discomfort. Otherwise great helmet.

When I got this pack I was worried it'd be too big. After a couple years of owning it though it has become my daily go-to mountain bike pack. The internal organization is superb - way better than CamelBak or The North Face hydration packs I've tried. Bladder and hose are great, don't kink, don't stink. I use the armor carry features all the time and they work great. Five stars.

Usually evaluating a sunglass is based on fit and lens clarity. With the Scoop though, I just have to say these are the most comfortable sunglasses I've ever worn. The thick rubberized earpieces are flexible, comfortable, hold onto your head well, but don't rip your hair out when taking them off. The nosepiece sits lightly and comfortably on your face. And they are supa stylin'...love em.

Thing rack is so money. It ratchets down on your bike in literally less than 10 seconds. It's ridiculously easy to use and super secure, there’s no bike sway—even on dirt roads. The only negative I can think of: if you have a tall car (e.g., SUV), hoisting your bike up top is going to be a royal pain, especially because you have to balance the bike while raising the arm over the front wheel. But that's really true for any roof bike mount. Otherwise, tee it up and snag one of these puppies; you won't regret it.

Ordered these, hoping for a good fit. I wear a size 12 street shoe and the 46 was the right length...but these shoes are gigantor wide. I have a narrow foot but I was floating in these things, they must be at least an E width shoe. Really nice quality shoe though, just not my fit.

Thou art like a cool summer breeze. Thou wrap my foot in comfort, Yet bitchslap the snow beneath. Thy power transmission is smoov. At first you seem weak and soft Yet underway you respond and tilt and drive. The biggest skis are tamed by your graceful Synergy of tact and tenacity Power and feel. Why oh why did I ever leave you? To find a boot more modern, more powerful? It was just a sham. Now I am home. Though your name has changed, You've welcomed me there.

It does the job, but let's the bike wobble around a lot. I've known friends who own this rack and have the same problem. The Thule Sidearm is a much better design.

The material is really cool, it's smoother than your typical fleece. I dig it...nice and versatile. The fit could be a little better - it's pretty long on me but I have a short torso. Otherwise great!

Just a quick follow up to my earlier review. I agree with another reviewer who said it'd be nice to have some sort of pour spout; it tends to dribble down the sides when pouring. Also, it is really easy to forget the plastic covering on the bottom of the pot that protects the heat ring. I melted the plastic once, and even after that almost forgot two more times. Just beware, otherwise this thing is great and after more use I really can see the speed advantage.

What a difference a nice light paddle makes. This thing is a blast to use. Doesn't take much effort at all to get going or to change direction. And my shoulders weren't aching after 15 minutes. Sweet.

I've had a pair of these for years - they're still my favorite biking glasses. And recently really enjoyed them at Lake Powell with some polarized lenses. Light, durable, lots of lens choices...one of the most versatile sport sunglasses in existence. A modern classic for sure.

I actually have a pair of Chongs, the predecessor of the Zong. Have had them over 3 years now and they just won't die. Bomber sandals...and still one of my favorites. The only time I have issues with sliding out the back is if its a bit wet, etc. I almost lost them in knee-deep mud hiking a slot canyon recently, which is a situation it would've been nice to have the backs on, but I honestly prefer the ease and comfort of the backless sandals. Five stars.

What can I say? I've had a Mule for over 6 years and it's still one of my favorites. This is THE classic Camelbak. Always comfortable, just the right size, and totes everything you need.

These shorts are super comfortable, cool, and functional. I love the extra leg length so I don't have to be 'that guy' in the runner short-shorts. But as my wife often complains on the trail, they are noisy! (swish-swish-swish-swish)

At the office. I bought these online and they are far more comfortable and stylish than I expected. Nice to get stoked on a pair of shorts you haven't seen in person before. The angled cargo pockets are good looking and functional (keeps junk in your pocket from getting caught under your leg when you sit down). Sizing is right on.

This little ripper is one of the most fun all-around skis I've ever been on...and I've ridden a LOT of skis (including reviewing skis for national magazines). A nice forward balance for jibbering around on anything; goes from arcing huge pow turns to practicing hucks to pow off little 5-foot rocks...and bigger if you can handle it. Straight hucks are good but you gotta keep your weight back b/c of the forward binding position or they'll send you over the bars. Just a great little ski. Sick!

Like the last reviewer said, the Fire lenses are a little bright for the highest intensity light conditions. My eyes got a little fatigued while driving thru the desert on a really sunny day--lots of reflection off the light colored sand and road meant a LOT of bright light. However, I threw on some of my older really nice brown lenses without the reflective mirror (they were Smith's, which are great too), and the light intensity was MUCH stronger without that reflective iridium coating! Great all around lens, I really like the Fire. Cool look too, of course.

Like baby marsupials everywhere, the Half Jackets grab your head and don't want to let go. This attribute makes them absolutely sick for mountain biking, running, or any other high speed/high impact sport. The only downfall is they kinda hurt to take off sometimes, grabbing your hair and all. And you just can't beat the interchangeable lens system on these things!

These glasses rock--cool squared-off styling with a wrap-around frame. The grey lens is great for everything but the darkest shadows. I had trouble with the earpieces digging into my head for a couple days--it hurt enough after wearing them a while that I considered returning them. Then I realized they have the adjustable wire core temples--just bend out the ear pieces a little and now they fit perfect! Great sunglasses from Smith, as usual.

I love the design of the new Slider. The side-release lenses are far easier to remove than the older Slider designs, and lens scratches seem far less likely. The frame is SUPER light and comfortable to wear. The only drawback I've seen so far is the rubber grip on the ear pieces are so small to be pretty much useless. The DB12 lens is SICK! The blue mirror looks awesome, and the tint really is incredibly accurate to true color.

I pretty much don't like backpacking, but have gotten car camping to an art. I'm all about the base camp for mountain biking/hiking/climbing/whatever. Anyway, this thing is pretty sweet - love the easy click start and the flame is contained and not really a flame. Seems to cook pretty fast, although not blindingly faster than a normal stove. I'm sure the real difference is in windy environments, etc. But yeah - great little stove when you don't want to break out the full-on double burner, etc.

Hands-down the most comfortable pads I've ever worn. I don't even notice them when wearing them. I've put a knee down a few times and they've stayed in place and done their job, although no super high speed crashes (yet). The stitching however ripped right out as soon as the pad hit dirt. Not sure what to do about that, I left it and they are holding together, for now. Kinda disappointing that a $110 pad should start falling apart on the first impact.

Love this watch. It's a bit big but the style is much better-looking than online. Great altimeter, very accurate. Nice lighting options and tons of data. Love it. Only negative is the buttons have a grippy 'grated' metal that's easy to use, but scratches my wife sometimes...she hates it. Otherwise it rules.

One of my all-time favorite hiking boots. I have a narrow foot and while these are still a touch wide at the toes, I love them. Nice heel pocket, super comfortable, and just bomber. Of course hiking boots are all about what fits you best - so put these on the top of your list to check out.

I don't really backpack anymore (ever), so this thing fits the bill. I know there are more plush ones out there but it's the right combo of reasonable price and superb comfort when car-accessed tent camping. I dig it.

I'd pretty much echo what others have said. Cons: lots of condensation, definitely not a 3-person tent unless you're really friendly with 2 other people (preferably of the opposite sex). Pros: stable, light, easy setup, good vestibule storage space, overall a nice little tent.